Dr. Kirk Slagel-

Backcountry First Aid Class

admin — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 20:59:47 +0000

Backcountry First Aid is a two-day, hands-on practical application first aid class for those people venturing into remote locations. The information and skills presented in this class are relevant to the paddler, hiker, climber, cyclist, sailor, motorcyclist, skier, or the individual heading for the weekend mountain retreat. This class was developed by drawing on statistical relevance of what problems have occurred in the backcountry. Thus, class components are oriented toward creating improvised, long-term patient care for commonly experienced problems, not “What-if” concerns.

Imbalances of the Skin and the ever-beneficial Pleo SANUM Remedies

admin — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 04:18:29 +0000

By Dr. Kirk Slagel, N.M.D., M.Ed.

The skin is our largest and perhaps most complex organ. It consists of three primary layers:

The Epidermis- approximately 1.5mm thick. Practically speaking, the primary purpose of the epidermis is to provide protection.
The Dermis- approximately 3mm thick. The dermis would be considered the more active layer. It is the interface site with a multitude of different nerve fibers, capillaries, sebaceous and apocrine glands and hair follicles.
The subcutaneous or fatty layer- thickness varies significantly from individual to individual. The site of large vessels and connective tissue, this layer also provides for insulation and temperature regulation.

Our body surface area is but a few square meters, however it offers a magnitude of anatomical and physiological functions in its half a centimeter of depth. The skin represents our appearance and emotions, sometimes revealing more than we might like; protects us from bumps and bruises, pathological microbes and abrupt temperature changes; is the interface between the external and internal world; protects against dehydration, stores fuel as fat, and serves as a site for the synthesis of vitamins. It acts as the receptor for touch, pressure, pain, heat and cold; is an excretory mechanism of wastes and is the integration site for the matrix- the body wide connective tissue system that interfaces and communicates with all other organ systems.

Many conditions of the skin are seen as various diseases or microbial infections. However, while I acknowledge the presence of these conditions for diagnostic purposes, I generally view them as superficial or deep milieu disturbances, which may also have associations with opportunistic microbes.
It is important to remember several factors:

The skin is one of the four emunctories and therefore, is involved in the elimination of metabolic debris. Imbalanced metabolism may show as skin issues, i.e. a dysbiosis in the skin milieu along with what may inhabit this area.
The skin is often associated with, and a representative of, digestive efficiency. Poor digestion often reveals itself with skin issues.

All internal and external surfaces of our bodies, the internal and external skin, if you will, are exposed to the outside environment. This is either directly or by us transporting material into these areas, i.e. food entering the gastrointestinal tract. As such, these ‘exposed’ skin surfaces house a barrier protection of beneficial microbes that resist the presence of non-beneficial microbes. Although we may not appreciate the context, bacteria and fungi exist on and in us for our own protection! So, when there are milieu imbalances they are usually associated with microbial imbalances. Also, skin dysfunction and the presence of non-beneficial flora represent a need to look further than ‘skin deep’.
In treating patients with skin issues I have found the SANUM remedies to be instrumental in rebalancing the microbial population and altered milieu. The following are some common ailments and the treatments that I have used successfully.

Tonsils
Acne
Eczema
Seborrheic dermatitis
Athlete’s foot/groin rash

The Tonsils- first site of imbalance
Prior to detailing the treatment for these conditions, I think it is important to assess and most likely treat, the origin of many gastrointestinal and skin conditions, i.e. the tonsils. The tonsils are primary lymphatic tissue, histologically very similar to the Peyer’s patches of the small intestine. They are located superiorly and inferiorly at the lateral aspects of the posterior oropharynx. As the initial point of immune/lymphatic protection, allergic reactions seem to first be obvious here. When a patient presents with a sore throat of any sort, I keep in mind that this may be an immune challenge in the digestive tract.

Often this challenge originated from infancy, such as an allergenic food component that made its way into the breast milk via an immune reaction from mom. Or, if the infant wasn’t breast fed, then adult foods were introduced prior to proper development of the immune system within the gastro-intestinal tract. This causes irritation to the mucosa, decreased sIgA and beneficial flora; and creates the long-standing possibility of leaky gut syndromes.

Interestingly, when infants have digestive immune challenges, skin lesions are commonly found as well. This could be in the form of rashes, particularly in the groin, eczema, Seborrheic dermatitis and/or erythema about the mouth or anus. I have recommended that parents be alert to the redness about the anus when diaper changing as a sign of possible food or other allergies.

Many people with skin issues had throat and/or sinus issues, i.e. sore throats, sinusitis, tonsillitis or Strep throat. Often, there was a deficiency of duration or complete lack of breastfeeding, which sets the stage for an improper immune response since birth. As such, the digestive tract and immune system, including the tonsils, have been reactive or hyper-reactive since that time as well. One needs to calm this reaction by removing present day antigenic foods/substances, treating the tonsils, and support G.I. healing and restoration.

Tonsil Treatment
I recommend that healthcare practitioners that are licensed to do so, to inject the tonsils with several of the Pleo SANUM remedies and either procaine or lidocaine, depending upon your preference. The remedies indicated in the ampule form are:

Pleo Not- 1 ml
Pleo San Strep or Pleo San Staph- 1 ml- depending upon the nature and history of throat ailments.
Procaine- 1 ml
Inject with a 27g X 1 1/4in needle ¼ of the volume in each of the four locations: R/L Sup/Inf.

I generally, recommend that patients return 1X/week X 3 weeks for this treatment. If you are not able to inject, then have the patient chew the Pleo Not Suppository daily, the base consisting of palm kernel/coconut oil and use the Pleo San Staph or San Strep in the dropper bottle form at 10 drops 2-3X/day X10 days for both.

This treatment is usually a very effective for existing and past throat issues, as well as to potentially unblock the hypersensitivity response in this area.
The following are several other skin conditions and suggested treatments, which have responded well to the Pleo SANUM remedies. Remember to include the typical natural healthy components as much as possible:

For all conditions…

Rebalance the skin areas, i.e. eliminate chemical use; use natural soaps and shampoos, clothing detergents, etc.
Support digestion and detoxification with HCl, enzymes and probiotics Treat usually for some weeks to many months depending upon the duration of imbalances. Likely a basic regimen for many months to years of a few of these suggestions. Typical healthy diet/lifestyle/stress management suggestions.
Treat usually for some weeks to many months depending upon the duration of imbalances. Likely a basic regimen for many months to years of a few of these suggestions.
Typical healthy diet/lifestyle/stress management suggestions.

Acne
Common in adolescents. Skin diseases caused by changes to the pilosebaceous units = skin structure of hair follicle and sebaceous gland. Inflammation often associated with skin bacteria: Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus aureus.

Challenges:

Hormonal changes
Stress- difficult to manage however may be able to offer some basic meditative calming techniques.
Diet- try to adjust to the best of what s/he will do.
Hygiene practices- excessive or deficient cleansing of the effected areas and often with detergent soaps, chemicals.
Cologne and perfume use
Shaving habits and substances used for facial lubrication

Treatment

Pleo San Acne drops- 10 drops applied to the effected areas 2X/day
Pleo San Staph- 10 drops applied to the effected areas 2X/day
Pleo Not drops- 10 drops applied to the effected areas 2X/day
Pleo Fort drops- 10 drops orally 2X/day
Pleo Chryso- 1 ampule either injected I.M. in the gluteus or sipped orally 1X/week.

Eczema
I think eczema is a true digestive issue. Many infants and children with food allergies develop eczema. Frequently seen in infants and children and some adults

Challenges:

Lack of breast feeding
Early introduction of adult foods and often grains, eggs in grains, i.e. baked goods, before fruits and veggies.
Stress- may be emotional stress in the household or with parents. Babies add challenges to life despite the overwhelming love we have for them.
Diet- try to encourage breastfeeding/breast pumping up to a year or more. Introduce neutral veggies and fruits, then grains and meats.
Hygiene practices- excessive or deficient cleansing of the effected areas and often with detergent soaps, chemicals.
Cologne and perfume use

Treatment

Step I

Pleo Not drops- 10 drops in 2 ounces of distilled water, succussed 100X. Apply a few drops, rubbed into the effected areas 2-3X/day.
Pleo Fort drops- 10 drops orally 2X/day
Pleo San Staph and/or Pleo San Acne- 10 2X/day. If you use both remedies then use 10 drops of each 1X/day
Pleo Alkala powder- ¼ - ½ scoop 2X/day between meals in warm water
Pleo Citro drops- ½ teaspoon 2X/day orally

Step II

Do the above until the Sx’s begin to obviously shift. Then use a more concentrated Pleo Not drop solution or switch to the Pleo Not ointment for topical use for another 10 days or so. (More clearing of Sx’s).

Step III

When the Sx’s show more obvious clearing, stop the Pleo Not and Pleo Fort. Continue with the Pleo Alkala and Pleo Citro.
Then, add the Pleo Sancom drops- 5 drops 3X/day Monday through Friday.
Use the Pleo Not and Pleo Fort undiluted on Saturday and Sunday 10 drops 2X/day

Seborrheic dermatitis
A skin condition that usually affects the scalp, face, and trunk causing scaly, flaky, itchy, red skin. It particularly affects the sebum-gland rich areas of skin. Known as cradle cap in children.

Challenges

Common in infants- difficult to know cause; may be allergen in breast milk. Best for mom to evaluate diet and/or environmental toxins.
Can be food/environmental allergen in older children, teens, adults.
Live detoxification challenges
On scalp- can cause temporary hair loss
Add A and B vitamins

Treatment

Step I

Pleo Citro drops- ½ teaspoon 2X/day orally
Pleo Not drops 10 drops 2X/topically daily and Pleo Not ointment topically nightly- until skin begins to shift, i.e., no flakiness, decreased erythema.
Pleo San Staph 10 drops divided- 5 drops topically and 5 drops orally

Step II

When the Sx’s improve, Switch to:

Pleo Muc 10 drops 2X daily and Pleo Muc ointment topically applied to the affected areas nightly.
Continue with the San Staph

Step III
With further improvement and for maintenance treatment:

Pleo Sancom 10 drops orally and topically in the a.m. and Pleo Muc 10 drops topically in the p.m.
Continue with the San Staph

Other considerations- Depending upon patient’s current lifestyle, nutritional intake, etc.

Add B-complex supplement
Add Professional multi-vitamin/mineral
Obtain Food allergy/environmental toxin profile

Athlete’s foot/groin rash
Topical infections- rashes are generally caused by a weakened immune response combined with the right local milieu, i.e. moist, dark and warm and opportunistic yeast or fungi. A couple examples include: feet in wet sneakers or boots- Tinea pedis-athlete’s foot; or wearing a wet/sweaty swimsuit, climbing tights or cycling shorts for long periods of time- Tinea corpus or cruris. The result can be topical rashes, itching, burning and scaly skin, or with females, internal genital infections.

Challenges

May need some perseverance to boost the immune system and the Tinea are hardy, opportunistic pathogens
Diet/lifestyle may be effecting ease of treatment and or adding stress

Treatment:

Keep the area dry as best as possible.
Remove the wet clothing.
Topically apply the ointment from one of the Candida remedies- Pleo Alb, Pleo Pef or the softened, Pleo Ex suppositories two or more times per day to the effected area(s).
I typically use the Pleo Ex because it contains Pleo Alb, Pleo Pef and Pleo Fort and therefore, is more comprehensive.
Also, Pleo Not drops, ointment or softened suppositories may be used or added for the imbalance in the bacterial population.

Anecdotal treatment for nail fungus, from a colleague in Canada, includes soaking the effected part in white, distilled vinegar X 30 days. You may need to start with a diluted solution in the beginning, as the acidic vinegar can be irritating on excoriated skin. I would add Pleo San Trich and Pleo Alb topically and orally at 10 drops 2X/day of each.

Dr. Kirk Slagel is a licensed naturopathic physician, former wilderness guide, wilderness emergency medicine instructor, writer and lecturer. He has traveled extensively throughout North America instructing SANUM Therapy, wilderness medicine and other wellness classes.

The Healer

admin — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:02:27 +0000

~ As the healer heals, the healer heals ~

Saperae

PleoSANUM Remedies and the Musculoskeletal system: Some conditions and select remedies of choice for first aid and chronic cases. January 2009

admin — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:00:01 +0000

As many of you know, the PleoSANUM Remedies have been used for all types of conditions from head to toe, inside and out. Routine beneficial therapies include treatment for issues of digestion, circulation, respiratory ailments, genito-urinary complaints, skin disorders, oral and dental concerns, just to name a few. However, you may not be accustomed to thinking of using the remedies for acute and chronic musculoskeletal issues. It is important and recommended that one seek qualified assessment and diagnosis of these various conditions to rule out a possible, more severe condition.

The musculoskeletal system is generally comprised of:

Muscles – provide movement.

Tendons- connect muscle to bone.

Ligaments- connect bone to bone.

Bones- provide structure and support.

Meniscus- provide cushion/structure/connection for bone to bone contact

Synovial fluid- lubricant.

Bursa- fluid filled sacs that provide cushion between bones and tendons and/or muscles.

In addition to these primary structures, there are other tissues and systems that we may think of initially, also associated with the musculoskeletal system including the connective tissue, the nervous system, and the vascular, hematopoietic and integumentary system. However, in the understood holistic perspective, all systems are intertwined, connected via the intricate network of chemistry, physics, energy and concentration gradients.

While the actual musculoskeletal structures provide movement as we generally think of, it is the inter-relationship between all systems that serves the physiological and metabolic needs. The bones serve as a means of production and storage of blood cells; storage of minerals such as, calcium and phosphorous; protection of vital organs; attachment points and support for much of the soft tissue structures.

The musculoskeletal system is our method of movement and locomotion. We move, extend, contract, walk, run, dance and play through movement, fast and slow, jerky and smooth. When this system becomes impaired from illness or injury we find ourselves unable to function as usual and need to make daily modifications, even for the slightest ‘turned’ ankle. Sometimes we take for granted the fluidic grace of a simple breath, perhaps not realizing that it is the expansion of our thoracic cavity including- ribs, vertebrae and sternum, clavicles, humeri, scapula and abdomen, encompassing structures to numerous to count and physiology nearly beyond comprehension. Our rigid bones within the contrast of our mass of soft tissue, offers the dynamic range of fluidic grace of the ballerina or structured marching cadence of the military cadet.

When things go wrong

The typical problems usually associated with the musculoskeletal system include contusions, strains, sprains and dislocations. These are often acute in occurrence, but may develop over time, as is the case with stress fractures and some strains. In addition, various disease conditions may directly or indirectly affect the skeletal system including metabolic disorders, heavy metal toxicity, nutritional deficiencies, neoplasms, endocrine imbalances and infectious diseases. Stress and trauma, either immediate, acute, or over a prolonged period of time, chronic, may also affect the musculoskeletal system. Inflammation and tissue impediment often underlie many musculoskeletal issues. Along with these changes come localized milieu alterations from the vascular and interstitial congestion, protein accumulation and likely microbial imbalances.

The goal obviously is to treat the underlying problem, promote healing and prevent further injury to the tissues. There are a variety of allopathic drugs that can assist with this process; however their usual mechanism of action is to interfere with the normal physiological responses, which will thus delay healing. Therefore, the holistic treatment includes therapies that will promote doing the same without the impediment to normal physiology.

So, let’s review a number of these conditions and the use of the PleoSANUM remedies in respect to supporting the body’s own methods of healing.

Conditions

Contusions- contusions are generally referred to as a bruise. The mechanism of injury is blunt trauma from something striking the body or the body striking something, causing damage to the epithelial tissue, including the vasculature and surrounding tissue, lymphatic structures and nerves.

Strains- nearly always involve the extension of muscle tissue beyond the normal range of movement. The fibers are stretched and thus, torn. There are rapid onset strains, generally referred to as a pulled muscle; and slow onset strains often from overuse

Sprains-are categorized by degree. They primarily involve the over stretching of the structural joint ligaments and often the tendons, muscles, and perhaps the bones, as indicated below.

· The first degree is only a minor tear or stretch of a ligament.

· The second degree is a tear of a ligament, which is usually followed by pain or swelling.

· The third degree is a complete rupture.

· The fourth degree is the most severe and actually breaks the ligament, along with some small bones if severe enough, and requires surgery to repair.

Dislocations- include partial and full separation of the joint. Partial dislocations will relocate at the time of the injury and usually result in a sprain due to the extent of over stretched trauma. Full dislocations will need to be relocated and may often result in a fourth degree sprain.

Fractures- are open, where the bone has torn through the skin, or closed, where it has not. There are many different types of fractures, depending upon the extent of breakage. Open fractures may become infected due to the skin being open.

In general, a number of the above conditions can be treated similarly with the PleoSANUM Remedies that follow. However, I’ll summarize the remedies below and then offer some treatment guidelines for the above conditions.

MILIEU MODULATORS

Pleo Alkala- is an alkalinizing powder used for affecting acidic conditions, common in most illness or injury.

Pleo Citro- is a potency accord of homeopathic citric acid. In a manner similar to Pleo Sanuvis, Pleo Citro supports the Citric acid cycle to boosts cellular metabolism.

Pleo Sanuvis- is a potency accord, i.e. a blend of multiple potencies of the same remedy, as a single remedy. Pleo Sanuvis is homeopathic lactic acid, beneficial for boosting mitochondria and affecting lactic acid accumulations.

FUNGAL REMEDIES

Pleo Nig- Derived from Aspergillus niger, is a fungal remedy indicated for numerous tissue disorders.

Pleo Muc- Is made from Mucor racemosus and is indicated for circulatory disorders.

Pleo Not- Made from Penicillium chrysogenum, is indicated for treating various bacterial conditions. In the event that any of the conditions described below have an open injury associated with the lesion, apply Pleo Not drops directly to the wound 2-4X/day.

BACTERIAL REMEDIES

Pleo Rec- one of the bacterial remedies, as an immune modulator, affects the mucous membranes. Research on Bacillus firmus, an organism commonly found in the soil and associated with the large grouping of Bacilli, has been shown to be a positive immune modulator within the mucous membranes of humans. The joint spaces are categorized as mucous membranes due to the presence of synovial fluid and the type of associated tissue.

Pleo Art “A”- Pleo Art “A” is produced from Propionibacterium acnes, which is one of the organisms that has been found in diseased teeth. This remedy is often used for dental conditions, however is also suggested for all forms of musculoskeletal concerns. Interestingly, Propionibacterium have been used to synthesize amino acids, regularly prescribed as nutrient supplements.

Pleo Ut- Another one of the Bacilli organisms, Bacillus subtilis, Pleo Ut is indicated for tuberculinic conditions, including rheumatic issues.

GLANDULAR REMEDIES

Pleo Chrys- A specialized glandular remedy, homeopathic human placenta, is used for many conditions, where rejuvenation and regeneration are necessary. Pleo Chrys may used in any or all of the conditions, as a supportive adjunct to the rehabilitation process.

TREATMENT OPTIONS-

In general, musculoskeletal issues may be treated with a consistent few remedies on a daily basis.

General Indications- Basic Therapy

Due to inactivity and the injury/inflammation response, pH, i.e. acidity is always a concern, as the body, in a deficient state, often has metabolic acidosis. Therefore, the pH modulators are of benefit in keeping the body alkaline, which will expedite healing. Be consistent with the home treatments and include enzyme therapy, castor oil packs, Epsom salt soaks, etc. with the PleoSANUM remedies to decrease inflammation. All musculoskeletal injuries, excluding slow onset/overuse strains, are best treated with cold compresses, on for 20 minutes off for 20 minutes for the first 24-72 hours, or until the swelling diminishes. Then, one could alternately apply cold and heat compresses on for 20 minutes each, then nothing for 20 minutes, about every hour or as often as possible throughout the day. Slow onset/overuse strains are usually best treated with warm saline and/or Epson salt soaks.

Pleo Alkala- Check urinary pH, best if between 6.5 – 6.8, and during illness closer to 7.0 – 7.2. If below 6.5 start with ¼ scoop of Pleo Alkala in warm water 2X/day between meals and keep adjusting dosage until the pH becomes more alkaline, i.e. around 6.8 or above.

Pleo Sanuvis- Wonderful for boosting the mitochondria, and thus energy production for healing. Also beneficial for decreasing excess lactic acid production, which occurs with trauma. I would dose higher than usual at up 1 teaspoon 3X/day during the acute phase, the first 24 – 72 hours, then 1 teaspoon/day during the recovery phase, likely 2-6 weeks or as the condition improves.

Pleo Citro- along with the Pleo Sanuvis, Pleo Citro is beneficial for the affect on the cellular energy production. I would suggest a dosage of the same as the Pleo Sanuvis for the first 24-72 hours, then to a routine dose for the recovery phase of 1 teaspoon/day.

Pleo Muc- topically apply Pleo Muc ointment 3 – 4X/day to the affected area. May be used more often, although most likely, not necessary.

Pleo Rec- I would suggest using a softened Pleo Rec suppository (supp), topically applied to the affected area every other day. May use ½ supp 2X/day. Just cut the supp in ½, soften and apply. I suggest softening the supps by placing them, still in the plastic, in a cup of hot water for a few minutes; usually adequate for melting the supp. Then, apply. After it is opened, one may soften the suppository in the hand, as they melt at body temperature.

CONDITIONS AND REMEDIES RECOMMENDED:

Contusions- Use the general indications remedies detailed above, plus the Epsom salt soaks, but in cool water instead of hot. The Pleo Muc ointment topically applied 3-4X/day is highly recommended.

Strains- Rapid onset strains- Cold compresses and the general indications remedies, plus softened Pleo Nig suppositories topically applied to the affected area 2-3X/day during the acute phase. So, for example, apply Pleo Muc in the morning and then Pleo Nig at night. Also, topically apply and alternate Pleo Ut supps with the Pleo Rec supps every 3-4 days. Slow onset/overuse strains may also benefit from the application of Pleo Muc ointment 3-4X/day and the Pleo Sanuvis drops.

Sprains- Sprains, even minor ones, seem to take weeks to months to heal. Use the general indications remedies, plus Pleo Nig ointment or suppositories topically applied to the affected area 2-3X/day during the acute phase. So, for example, apply Pleo Muc in the morning and then Pleo Nig at night. Alternate Pleo Ut with the Pleo Rec every 3-4 days. Add Pleo Art “A” drops 5 drops 2X/day, rubbed into the affected area. I would also include Pleo Chrys, for rejuvenation support at one oral sip every three or four days.

Dislocations- should be treated as a sprain.

Fractures- in some respects may be treated as a sprain, except the challenge is the likely presence of a cast. Therefore, using the remedies orally can still be of benefit, with topical application as close to the affected area as possible.

Given the therapeutic benefit of natural remedies, especially concerning pH, it is highly recommended to incorporate them into the treatment and rehabilitation process of all musculoskeletal conditions. Please feel free to contact me should you need further suggestions for treatment.

Sanukehl Therapy: a homeopathic immune support for possible stealth pathogens. July 2003

admin — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 23:51:02 +0000

In the last two issues of the Pleomorphic Products Newsletter we have detailed two of the three categories of the homeopathic immunomodulating bacterial remedies produced and distributed worldwide by SANUM-Kehlbeck. In this issue we will discuss the third category, the ever so unique Sanukehl polysaccharide hapten remedies. The action of these homeopathically produced products must be one of the most applicable and advanced product lines on the market today. Yet, their action and use are still quite unknown and perhaps misunderstood.

In utilizing SANUM Therapy, it is helpful for one to consider the various categories and intent of application of the SANUM products in the spectrum of natural healing modalities available. As is mentioned frequently in SANUM classes and in various writings, I wish to again state that SANUM is only one aspect in the complete range of natural therapeutics, albeit with the nine product categories available, may at times be utilized as a comprehensive therapy in and of itself. But for the sake of wellness, let us consider that SANUM as one piece of the expansive therapeutic puzzle, as with all other modalities, must adhere to the laws of nature in respect to the various macroscopic and microscopic healing aspects of nature.

Given this premise however, it becomes the responsibility of the doctor/healthcare practitioner to broadly understand the intent and interaction of the various modalities with the person and the natural world. For example, as some of you may know I have often mentioned in my SANUM therapy classes, that there are more microbes in and on our bodies than there are body cells. When we effect our milieu from foods, toxins, home or work cleaning products, etc., we effect what may live there. Our microbial balance is suppoted by this milieu. And, in the spectrum of the many microbes that abound on this earth we understand so very little about the full interaction of these minute symbiotic associates and ourselves beyond the few known helpful ones and seemingly ever so plenty pathogenic ones.

Certainly, as our technology expands we seem to know more about what exists and how it relates to the living and non-living components of this world. This is the case with the use of the Sanukehl products, which will be detailed later. Their homeopathic action is intended toward the relatively newly discovered and barely understood microbe: the mycoplasma or cell wall deficient (CWD) microbe and in general, the pathological action of microbial toxins. However, to offer some relative distinction to the term ‘current’, according to research provided in Dr. Lida Mattman’s book “Cell Wall Deficient Forms- Stealth Pathogens”, aberrant microbial forms have been found throughout the last 100 years by various researchers around the world. Yet, it really was not until ‘modern’ science developed testing techniques such as, Polymerase Chain Reactions (PCR) that enabled us to identify certain organisms. According to Stedman’s Medical Dictionary, “PCR is an enzymatic method for the repeated copying of the two strands of DNA of a particular gene sequence. It is widely used to amplify minute quantities of biological material so as to provide adequate specimens for laboratory study.” This assessment method I might add is also not always able to detect mycoplasma even though the patient is presenting with an unusual infection or disease condition.

These mysterious organisms, which lack the usual external cell wall, apparently have been in existence for quite some time. We also know that they may be induced by the use of antibiotics and perhaps other medications and chemicals as well. However, it was not until certain microbiological researchers, either by accident or intent, began searching outside the normal microbial arena utilizing different slide fixing procedures and different staining materials, that they noticed these multifaceted organisms. Not only did they find them in quite an abundant quantity, but also found that they were seemingly abstract forms of typical bacterial microbes with which we are in constant interaction.

Mycoplasma and CWD’s can exist in numerous forms and beyond the various possible disease associations remain quite a mystery. It is know that the typical bacteria and some yeasts that exist as normal flora on and in the body may also exist as a CWD. Whether this is a pleomorphic shift or another form of the same organism remains to be seen. However, there is relative clinical evidence that patients with persisting conditions who have had previous treatments of antibiotics and/or other medications have received benefit from the use of the Sanukehl products and other SANUM remedies. The Sanukehls act on the CWD in an interesting manner homeopathically. The eight other SANUM therapy categories affect the more obvious milieu and pathological organisms.

At present there are 13 Sanukehl products. Each product is homeopathically prepared according to the standard German homeopathic law and Hahnemanian homeopathic requirements. The remedy is a unique material however, consisting of the polysaccharide component of the indicated microbe and used as a hapten. Extracting the polysaccharide is a unique process through which to develop a homeopathic remedy. The polysaccharide is used as a hapten that binds to the CWD and homeopathically stimulates a pathogenic response.

A hapten according to Stedman’s Medical dictionary is defined as: “A molecule that is incapable, alone, of causing the production of antibodies but can, however, combine with a larger antigenic molecule called a carrier. A hapten-carrier complex can stimulate production of antibodies, some of which combine with the hapten portion of the complex. See Also: hapten inhibition of precipitation. Syn: incomplete antigen, partial antigen.” In this case the carrier is the CWD, which when coming in contact with the polysaccharide, now becomes “visible” to the body’s immune cells.

In this manner, there is a homeopathic and physical induction of the antigenic process to enable the body to create antibodies to the now visible antigen once the hapten has been combined with the antigen. As a now visible entity the body’s immune system may now recognize the antigen and stimulate the elimination an antibody production process.

The Sanukehls are typically used in either the symptom approach of therapy or the sequential approach. In the symptom approach the doctor/healthcare practitioner would review the indications of the various remedies and select the remedy that corresponds to the disease condition. In the sequential approach the appropriate Sanukehl(s) is/are used after the first 7 – 14 days of milieu and Isopathic/homeopathic therapy.

The general uses include oral or topical administration. Published information states to use the remedies for some months then stop the treatment for several weeks and then resume therapy. However, several doctors have found no problems in continuing the therapy for some months without the suggested interval. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the doctor/healthcare practitioner to be monitoring the patient for any changes in her/his progress. It is always recommended to be cautious and conservative than to look for the ‘quick fix’. Therefore, the treatment guideline recommended by the author consists of ‘less is more’ for the young, elderly, sensitive, chronic or debilitated patient. In most cases the author begins all Isopathic/homeopathic therapy slowly to allow the body to shift the milieu and adapt to the new homeopathic stimulation. In nearly all cases, the therapy has progressed without aggravation of symptoms. In the few cases where an aggravation occurred, the therapy was simply reduced to topical administration with much success.

The three different homeopathic immunomodulating bacterial product lines can be summarized in the following manner:

1. The standard homeopathic immunomodulating bacterials activate a general/specific immune response.

2. The homeopathic Polysan antigens activate an immune response to a hereditary antigen(s).

3. The homeopathic Sanukehls activate an immune response to CWD’s and microbial toxins.

There are two methods available for their use:

Symptom > Remedy Approach
The Sequential Approach after the first 7 – 14 days of Milieu and Isopathic/Homeopathic treatment.

Neither method is necessarily more effective than the other. It can be a matter of choice, sensitivity of the patient, an intuitive ‘hit’ on the part of the doctor, or some form of assessment such as EAV, AK, intuition, clinical information, etc.

The 13 Sanukehls are detailed below in the various forms in which they are available and their respective potency. The indications following the abbreviated product list are from the English translated German Isopathic/Homeopathic Materia Medica. Please refer to the Materia Medica for complete details of each product.

German name U.S. name Type of preparation Form and Potency

Sanukehl Acne Pleo San Acne (bacterial preparation: haptens) Drops 6X, Sips. 5X

Sanukehl Brucel Pleo San Brucel (bacterial preparation: haptens) Drops 6X, Sips. 6X

Sanukehl Cand Pleo San Cand (fungal preparation: haptens) Drops 6X, Sips. 5X

Sanukehl Coli Pleo San Coli (bacterial preparation: haptens) Drops 6X, Sips. 7X

Sanukehl Klebs Pleo San Klebs (bacterial preparation: haptens) Drops 6X, Sips. 6X

Sanukehl Myc Pleo San Myc (bacterial preparation: haptens) Drops 6X, Sips. 5X

Sanukehl Prot Pleo San Prot (bacterial preparation: haptens) Drops 6X, Sips. 7X

Sanukehl Pseu Pleo San Pseu (bacterial preparation: haptens) Drops 6X, Sips. 5X

Sanukehl Salm Pleo San Salm (bacterial preparation: haptens) Drops 6X, Sips. 6X

Sanukehl Serra Pleo San Serra (bacterial preparation: haptens) Drops 6X, Sips. 5X

Sanukehl Staph Pleo San Staph (bacterial preparation: haptens) Drops 6X, Sips. 5X

Sanukehl Strep Pleo San Strep (bacterial preparation: haptens) Drops 6X, Sips. 5X

Sanukehl Trich Pleo San Trich (fungal preparation: haptens) Drops 6X, Sips. 5X

Sanukehl® Acne Active ingredient: Propionibacterium acnes

Indications: Homeopathic remedy: To be used according to standard homeopathic indications. Acne conglobata, rheumatoid arthritis.

Application: Unless otherwise prescribed: For oral intake: In case of acute conditions: 5-10 drops every 12-24 hours. In case of chronic forms: 10 drops every 48 hours. For rubbing in: Every 1-2 days, use 5-10 drops at the location of the disease or into the bend of the elbow. After two months treatment the therapy should be interrupted for several months.

Sanukehl® Brucel Active ingredient: Brucella melitensis

Indications: Homeopathic remedy: To be used according to standard homeopathic indications. Dysmenorrhoea, intermittent fever with influenza symptoms, myalgia, subacute polyarthitis.

Sanukehl® Cand Active ingredient: Candida albicans

Indications: Homeopathic remedy: To be used according to standard homeopathic indications. For diseases of the mouth, like stomatitis, gingivitis, perleche, aphthae, spasmodic, painful colitis of the small and large intestine, obstipation after treatment with antibiotics, allergic asthma, vulvitis, vulvo vaginitis, kraurosis, rectilinear fissural eczema of wrinkles or mucosa, interdigital eczema of hands or feet, dermatosis after treatment with antibiotics.

Sanukehl® Coli Active ingredient: Escherichia coli

Indications: Homeopathic remedy: To be used according to standard homeopathic indications. Cholangitis, cholecystitis, gastro-enteritis, colitis, pyelonephritis, spermatocystitis, epididymitis, cystitis, prostatitis, salpingitis, metritis, colpitis.

Sanukehl® Klebs Active ingredient: Klebsiella pneumoniae

Indications: Homeopathic remedy: To be used according to standard homeopathic indications. As a supporting therapy during or after Friedländer’s pneumonia, for silicosis, pneumoconiosis, bronchiectasis, bronchial asthma, as an adjuvant for acute influenza, pleurisy, pneumonia, for side-effects caused by a therapy with antibiotics.

Sanukehl® Myc Active ingredient: Mycobacterium bovis

Indications: Homeopathic remedy: To be used according to standard homeopathic indications. Bronchial asthma, pleurisy, rhinitis, arthritis, osteochondrosis, acne juvenilis, eczema with fissures, psoriasis, lupus erythematosus, urticaria, conjunctivitis, hordeolum, keratitis, ventricular and duodenal ulcer, enterocolitis, aphonia, laryngeal ulceration, arrhythmia, cardialgia, nephritis, cystitis, cholecystitis, otitis, headache, metritis, hydrocele.

Sanukehl® Prot Active ingredient: Proteus vulgaris

Indications: Homeopathic remedy: To be used according to standard homeopathic indications. Gastro-enteritis (especially diarrhea of infants), peritonitis, cystopyelitis, puerperal sepsis, otitis, gangrenous pulmonary involvement, osteomyelitis, intestinal dysbiosis after treatment with antibiotics, disturbed peripheral circulation, ventricular and duodenal ulcer, haematemesis, angioneurotic oedemas, Menière’s disease, herpes.

Sanukehl® Pseu Active ingredient: Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Indications: Homeopathic remedy: To be used according to standard homeopathic indications. Infectious and allergic dermatitis, pruritus, angio neurotic oedema, collagenosis, fibrositis arthropathica, ulcus cruris, keloids, burns, asthma bronchiale, sinusitis, pharyngitis, chronic bronchitis, hay-fever, otitis, autoimmune diseases, treatment of complaints caused by an immunosuppressive treatment.

Sanukehl® Salm Active ingredient: Salmonella enteriditis

Indications: Homeopathic remedy: To be used according to standard homeopathic indications. Impaired development, malnutrition of children, chronic pancreatitis, enterobiasis (oxyuriasis), chronic gastro-enteritis, coeliac disease, furunculosis, rheumatic fever.

Sanukehl® Serra Active ingredient: Serratia marcescens

Indications: Homeopathic remedy: To be used according to standard homeopathic indications. For nosocomial infections with Serratia marcescens.

Sanukehl® Staph Active ingredient: Staphylococcus aureus

Indications: Homeopathic remedy: To be used according to standard homeopathic indications. Folliculosis, furunculosis, impetigo, acne conglobata/ necrotica, blepharitis, hordeolum, chalazion, pleuropneumonia, sinusitis, angina, nephritis, urogenital infections by staphylococci, endocarditis, meningitis, osteomyelitis, otitis, mastoiditis, anthrax.

Sanukehl® Strep Active ingredient: Streptococcus pyogenes

Indications: Homeopathic remedy: To be used according to standard homeopathic indications. Alopecia, eczema, empyema, phlegmona, cardialgia, endo-, myo- and pericarditis, primary chronic polyarthritis, osteomyelitis, angina tonsillaris, migraine, otitis media, mastitis puerpuralis.

Sanukehl® Trich Active ingredient: Trichophyton verrucosum

Indications: Homeopathic remedy: To be used according to standard homeopathic indications. Mycosis of the hair, skin, nails, tinea, trichophytosis; impairment of skin function, hair loss.

For further information on the uses of the Sanukehl products please contact Dr. Slagel.

SANUM Therapy in the treatment of Pneumonia

admin — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 20:35:40 +0000

This is a case illustrating the effective and powerful action that SANUM Remedies provided to a female patient who arrived at my office in Glendale, AZ in April of 2003.

A 75 yo female presented to my office with a pre-diagnosed condition by her M.D., Primary Care Physician (PCP) of pulmonary pneumonia. The diagnosis was via thoracic radiograph and his clinical assessment. The radiograph showed a positive mass of the left lower lobe. As far as I was informed there was no sputum sample assessed for microbial growth. Her PCP prescribed antibiotics and instructed her to check into the hospital due to the severity of her condition and her age. The patient refused and decided to look for a physician who practiced medicine using natural therapeutics as her former physician had.

The patient consulted this long-time family doctor who had provided natural therapeutics in the past, including SANUM Remedies. He had moved out of the state and obviously being unavailable, referred the patient to me because of my experience with SANUM.

In taking the case, the patient stated that the condition began as an upper respiratory, allergy-like response that moved down into her thoracic area to the left lung. The patient stated that she was expectorating green phlegm, urinating brownish-colored urine with a strong odor and coughing throughout the entire 24 hour day: waking and sleeping hours. She had been experiencing increased cough with pleural congestion over the last 12 days. The patient had presented to her general primary care physician one day prior to arriving to my office.

The patient had obvious respiratory congestion that was audible during the intake without auscultation. Her cough exacerbated the gurgling rales and she indeed, expectorated this phlegm from the cough.

The patient, besides the present condition, was in generally good health. She had a very good, primarily vegetarian diet. She stated that she did not consume meat as it made her nauseated. She had a past history of allergies and had pneumonia 30 years ago; 16 amalgams removed in 1980, no root canals and no cavitations in which she was aware. She had a complete hysterectomy in 1975, appendectomy in the 1960’s, and a right breast lumpectomy that was a benign neoplasm.

Regarding the present condition, the patient denied dyspnea, although deep breathing would sometimes bring on the cough. Lung sounds ironically revealed no crackles or wheezing. Bronchophony was positive; heart rate 88bpm, strong and regular; respiratory rate 20bpm and slightly labored.

I also, for the record, recommended that the patient go to the hospital, but again she refused.

The patient appeared to have a bacterial condition of the lung. As the lung, being an eliminatory organ, is associated with the GI tract, I felt there was much disharmony with the lung/large intestine association. Therefore, my objective goals were to treat the presenting lung condition, but also the likely source of the imbalance, the GI tract.

I recommended the following protocol:

Diet: primarily steamed vegetables, broths, soups.

Water intake: 1/2 weight in ounces, minimum.

No grains, dairy, or other associated allergenic foods.

On Day 1

To treat the higher pathological/opportunistic microbes:

Pleo Not (fungal remedy to affect the bacterial inflammation) 5 gtt BID X 2 days.

Increase to TID on the third day.

Pleo Fort (fungal remedy to affect the GI tract) same dosage as the Pleo Not

To treat the milieu:

Pleo Citro (lungs are associated with the TUBERCULINIC Miasm and

T.B. is part of the Aspergillus fungi cyclode. Aspergillus produces citric acid, therefore one aspect of the Pleo Citro correlation is the connection with the T.B./Aspergillus cyclode. Also, Pleo Citro affects cellular respiration in a positive manner stimulating an anabolic state over that of

the catabolic tuberculinic condition presented.

Pleo Sanuvis 1 teaspoon BID (Sanuvis has been shown to stimulate mitochondrial

respiration and the removal of lactic acid. In this catabolic condition of

pneumonia with likely decreased respiratory intake and perfusion of RBC’s, it is indicated to support the removal of lactic acid and stimulate the cellular respiration.

Pleo Alkala 1/2 scoop in warm water between meals BID. Alkala is beneficial to

offset the likely respiratory and metabolic acidosis from the decrease in

perfusion and as a general acid/alkaline regulation in GI support.

Recommended for her to start on Day 3

Pleo Rec 3 drops topically applied to the inner bend of the elbow and 2 drops

topically applied to lower left lung area QD. Pleo Rec is a

immunomodulating bacterial remedy. I typically would use it at about 10 to 14 days into a therapy, but with an acute case, I brought it in earlier. Pleo Rec has general indications for the mucous membranes of the body.

Biotics brand- GSH-Plus- 1 cap BID. Reduced Glutathione, N-Acetyl-Cysteine,

Glycine- general mucous membrane support and NAC has shown to help

break up mucous.

When I called the patient on day three she stated that she had only had mild relief. I decided to increase the Pleo Rec to 5 gtt to the inner elbow and maintain the 2 drops to the lung area. I was still concerned and wanted to be sure there was a positive reaction to the therapy as I was going out of town for over a week on the coming Tuesday.

On April 4^th, Friday, I asked the patient to return to the office for a follow-up visit. The patient stated that on a scale of 1 – 10, 10 being the best, she was feeling a 6/10 on that day as compared to a 2/10 on the day she first saw me.

The patient’s vital signs and physical assessment were near the same as the first visit two days prior, although as she had stated, there was improvement in her overall affect. I took this a positive sign, but obviously there was still improvement of the condition desired.

I prescribe the following remedies/treatments on this day:

Pleo Thym, Pleo Cerivi and Pleo Reb sips: Administered that day and a second

dose for the next day. Pleo Thym and Pleo Reb are glandular remedies. Thym is

thymus gland, while Reb is glandular of aggregated lymphoid nodules of the small intestine. Cerivi is a botanical remedy made from Cetraria islandica. It is indicated for: diseases of the respiratory system, sinusitis, laryngitis, bronchitis,

dry cough, lack of appetite.

Pleo Ut “S”- immunomodulating bacterial remedy associated with the

tuberculinic condition with specificity to the lungs

Hydrotherapy: Alternating hot/cold footbath. Hydrotherapy is a powerful

immune modulator. In this application the idea is to not only stimulate the autonomic nervous system, but also to create a circulatory pumping action in the body. This would promote elimination at the cellular level by decreasing stasis of circulation, which is prevalent when people are ill and immobile. Also, Warming Socks Treatment. This hydrotherapy technique has been shown to stimulate the immune system and improve sleep, and thus support the healing response of the parasympathetic nervous system. One uses a pair of cotton socks, wets them thoroughly, wring them out and place in the refrigerator. Just before bedtime, put on the socks and then place a pair of dry, wool socks over them. The cold wet socks stimulate the autonomic nervous system with an association with the sacral plexus, which relays a response to the spinal cord. There is an additional stimulus to the circulatory system to bring warm blood to the cold area of the body. The wet socks will be dry by morning if there is a good response present. If they are still damp, frequent use will sharpen the two regulatory responses previously described.

On Monday the patient returned to the office for a follow-up assessment. The patient stated that she feels a 7/10 today. On Saturday she had a hard time staying warm. Still coughing up the green phlegm. She said she has been doing very light exercise- walking, and during the day time, sitting in the hot car, heated by the sun. The cough is no longer sporadic. Lung sounds were clear. The patient was instructed to stay with the protocol as improvement was obviously noted. She was given a B12 injection IM as she stated that B12 had seemed to help her in the past.

On Tuesday I left for my trip out of state. I called the patient on Wednesday evening. She stated that she felt significantly better, the cough was gone and her energy was up. She said for all practical purposes she felt fine considering what she felt like the previous week. I called the patient a couple of days later and she stated that she still felt great! She had just slight fatigue on occasion and rarely a mild cough.

Upon my return one week later, I made contact with the patient and found no further treatment was needed. She had recovered completely and stated that she was back to her normal routine.

I found this to be a significant example of the power of the SANUM Remedies and basic nature cure, immune modulating processes. Had she taken the antibiotics, she would have had a further disrupted GI tract, modulated microbes to become more pathogenic and likely promoted the cell-wall deficient forms or mycoplasma, and suppressed her natural immune response to the presenting condition.

Understanding the various roles of the SANUM remedies in the treatment sequence is very beneficial for promoting down regulation of the offending microbes, a clearing of the milieu and modulation of the immune response. I encourage all practitioners of the SANUM Remedies to seek understanding of the various categories of remedies and the individual indications of the remedies within each category. This applies specifically to the Isopathic/homeopathic fungals and the immunomodulating bacterial remedies.

In respect to the influenza process that is being spread throughout the U.S., the greatest advantage one can have is to lead a healthy lifestyle. This offers the year-round immune regulation for general optimal body performance. However, even the healthy have their days, so there are a number of SANUM Remedies that may provide benefit if a virus sets up shop in your house.

Milieu Regulation

A healthy diet and lifestyle with nutritious, untainted food, pure water with trace minerals, moderate and proportionately vigorous exercise is paramount to optimal body function and milieu regulation. Other factors that can contribute to stress and thus, tax our reserves should also be reviewed and evaluated.

Supportive SANUM Remedies include:

Pleo Alkala, Pleo Citro and Pleo Sanuvis for the purposes mentioned in the

previous article. Pleo Quent and Pleo Grif are the initial remedies to reach for if a

virus is suspected. Grif is Grifola frondosa, a.k.a. Maitake mushroom, but prepared through a process similar as with the other Isopathic/homeopathic fungal remedies. It is beneficial for general viruses, but also has shown effectiveness in treating Herpes.

Immune modulation would be very helpful of course, and may be supported through the use of Pleo Rec and Pleo Ut “S”, again as previously described. But also Pleo Ut and Lat may be helpful. Pleo Ut is a general overall immune modulator with respect to mild to moderate conditions of the tuberculinic miasm. Pleo Lat is somewhat in the category of immune response of Pleo Ut “S”, however with its indications being the more severe, or chronic conditions of the tubercular miasm, whereas Pleo Ut ”S”, has specificity to the lungs.

In many respects it may be advisable to alternate these four bacterial remedies weekly to modulate the immune system in a broad manner. This may be accomplished through the use of a single dose of a single remedy 1X/week. For example, one might take a single Pleo Rec capsule one week, the next week use a Pleo Ut capsule, followed by the third week with Pleo Lat and the fourth week being Pleo Ut “S”.

Another method would be to use a proportionate amount of drops, depending upon the age, vital force, type of illness, chronicity, etc. on a daily basis and possibly alternating days or weeks. For example, one might use Pleo Rec 4 – 5 drops topically applied to the inner bend of the elbow one day followed by Pleo Ut then next. These remedies would then be used in this alternating manner for a specified duration. I will often use the bacterials for immune modulation Monday through Friday, along with the Pleo Sancom, when I use the remedies in a sequential format over some weeks.

Another remedy that may be helpful is the Polysan “G”. The “G” stands for Grippe, which is the term used from the middle of the last century and back for many years to describe the flu. It consists of: 1 ml Spengler colloid G 9X according to Dr. Carl Spengler, with antigens from Virus influenzae Spengler, Bacillus influenzae Pfeiffer, Bacterium pneumoniae as well as with the respective antitoxins from the blood of highly immunized rabbit.

The Polysans, based upon the work of the 19^th century physician Dr. Carl Spengler, are used topically to stimulate an immune response to the respective antigens in the homeopathic remedy. They are what one might call a homeopathic vaccination of sorts, although clearly not like the modern in vivo vaccinations. However, I would think the Polysan “G” in particular to be of possible benefit for general immune modulation to influenza.

By Dr. Kirk R. Slagel, N.M.D., M.Ed.

This is a case illustrating the effective and powerful action that SANUM Remedies provided to a female patient who arrived at my office in Glendale, AZ in April of 2003.

I also, for the record, recommended that the patient go to the hospital, but again she refused.

I recommended the following protocol:

Diet: primarily steamed vegetables, broths, soups.

Water intake: 1/2 weight in ounces, minimum.

No grains, dairy, or other associated allergenic foods.

On Day 1

To treat the higher pathological/opportunistic microbes:

Pleo Not (fungal remedy to affect the bacterial inflammation) 5 gtt BID X 2 days.

Increase to TID on the third day.

Pleo Fort (fungal remedy to affect the GI tract) same dosage as the Pleo Not

To treat the milieu:

Pleo Citro (lungs are associated with the TUBERCULINIC Miasm and

the catabolic tuberculinic condition presented.

Pleo Sanuvis 1 teaspoon BID (Sanuvis has been shown to stimulate mitochondrial

respiration and the removal of lactic acid. In this catabolic condition of

pneumonia with likely decreased respiratory intake and perfusion of RBC’s, it is indicated to support the removal of lactic acid and stimulate the cellular respiration.

Pleo Alkala 1/2 scoop in warm water between meals BID. Alkala is beneficial to

offset the likely respiratory and metabolic acidosis from the decrease in

perfusion and as a general acid/alkaline regulation in GI support.

Recommended for her to start on Day 3

Pleo Rec 3 drops topically applied to the inner bend of the elbow and 2 drops

topically applied to lower left lung area QD. Pleo Rec is a

Biotics brand- GSH-Plus- 1 cap BID. Reduced Glutathione, N-Acetyl-Cysteine,

Glycine- general mucous membrane support and NAC has shown to help

break up mucous.

I prescribe the following remedies/treatments on this day:

Pleo Thym, Pleo Cerivi and Pleo Reb sips: Administered that day and a second

dose for the next day. Pleo Thym and Pleo Reb are glandular remedies. Thym is

dry cough, lack of appetite.

Pleo Ut “S”- immunomodulating bacterial remedy associated with the

tuberculinic condition with specificity to the lungs

Hydrotherapy: Alternating hot/cold footbath. Hydrotherapy is a powerful

Upon my return one week later, I made contact with the patient and found no further treatment was needed. She had recovered completely and stated that she was back to her normal routine.

Milieu Regulation

Supportive SANUM Remedies include:

Pleo Alkala, Pleo Citro and Pleo Sanuvis for the purposes mentioned in the

previous article. Pleo Quent and Pleo Grif are the initial remedies to reach for if a

Pleo Muc Eye Drops: a product worthy of a second look! June 2001

admin — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 20:30:27 +0000

By Dr. Kirk Slagel, N.M.D., M.Ed.

Reviewed by:

Dr. James McNair,

Ophthalmologist

The power of sight is a most remarkable sense. Given the immense complexity of the eye and its many structures, this is one area of the body that requires the utmost in attentive healthcare. Maintaining overall health can go a long way to prolong our visual abilities and decrease the effects of aging on our vision. However, if an injury or medical condition occurs it is very important to seek competent medical care immediately.

Generally, most people can maintain their vision for many years of their life through awareness and prevention. And, of course prevention is always the preferred type of healthcare. However, one of the SANUM products, Pleo Muc Eye Drops may provide such benefit for both prevention and at times treatment of various eye conditions.

Anatomically speaking the eye consists of three layers, or Coats: the outer coat is the combined Sclera and Cornea, the mid-coat is the Uvea, and the inner coat is the Retina.

The Sclera and Cornea serve as the protective external coat covering the eye. The Sclera is a tough white, fibrous, opaque tissue that is the “white” of the eye. It begins at the external posterior aspect where it is pierced by the optic nerve, ciliary arteries and nerves, and associated veins. It proceeds anteriorly covering the spherical surface of the eye where it meets the Cornea.

The Cornea is the anterior covering of the eye. It is a transparent membrane that consists of five sub-layers. The cornea is largely responsible for the refraction of light that enters the eye. The sclera and cornea also have a protective function for the sensitive inner coats.

The mid layer is the Uvea, also referred to as the Vascular Pigmented Coat. It consists of the choroid, ciliary body and iris. The choroid consists of blood vessels and connective tissue, which gives the blood supply to the outer two-thirds of the retina.

The inner coat is the Retina. The retina receives the image that is transmitted through the cornea and lens and acts like the film of a camera. This is the image transmitted to the optic center of the brain.

Medical conditions may be associated with any of these various coats. Simple airborne dust and debris may irritate or even scratch the cornea, while serious conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, a detached retina, or lens changes that result in vision disturbances affect the middle and inner coats.

The various conditions that affect the eye may also be viewed in a different light. In the five-element theory of traditional Chinese Medicine the organs of the body correspond to the various senses. For example, one of the five elements is Wood. Wood is associated with the liver, a solid organ with a Yin quality. The gallbladder is the hollow organ, Yang quality, in the Wood element. The Wood sense organ is the eye with sight being the expressed sense. The Liver rules the tendons and the eyes in the five-element system.

When qi energy and fluid in the body are deficient then the eyes can become swollen and inflamed, or pulled out of focus by the muscles and tendons that control them. Since the Liver acupuncture meridian passes through the tissues of the eyes, then according to this system, the liver directly affects the eyes. The various eye problems experienced: cataracts, glaucoma, inflamed, red or dry eyes, night blindness, excessive tearing, and general visual abnormalities basically mirror the condition of the liver.

The patient seeking eye care will most likely benefit from a combination of therapies. General treatment from a qualified ophthalmologist and/or optometrist, combined with a plan for overall wellness, liver support and eye care will be the best mode of treatment. Some conditions are quite severe and may threaten the person’s sight. Other conditions may simply require gentle rinsing of the eye with no serious consequences. And, still others may benefit from a diet and lifestyle modification program.

However, a physician may consider a possible addition to the eye maintenance program and that is the use of Pleo Muc Eye Drops as an adjunct therapy.

Pleo Muc Eye Drops consist of the Enderlein based SANUM remedy Mucokehl, called Pleo Muc in the U.S., and isotonic sodium chloride. Mucokehl is generally used as a body-wide balancing remedy, which also supports circulation. It benefits the circulation by reducing congestion and promoting flow. This will facilitate the blood qi to move more freely and thus, provide all of the many benefits of increased blood and blood qi to the body. This increased circulation would then benefit the liver in a similar manner, by promoting blood qi and flow to this ruling organ.

Pleo Muc Eye Drops may locally affect the eye in a comparable manner that Pleo Muc affects the overall body. It may support increased circulation of the eye, and thus indirectly the liver.

Pleo Muc Eye Drops are beneficial for the basic dry, irritated eyes as experienced from stress, dust, wind and glare. Some patients have reported with long-term daily use of Pleo Muc Eye Drops increased benefits to their vision. While this is not a claim of the product it would reason that soothing the eye by reducing some of the stressors on these sensitive tissues would decrease some of the detrimental affects of the various factors that may affect the eye.

Pleo Muc Eye Drops may be used as a daily regimen for general eye care. They may also benefit certain relatively benign conditions once more serious concerns have been ruled out.

Several cases may exemplify this point.

CASE #1 One week old male infant with simple bacterial, non-Gonoccocal, non-Chlamydial conjunctivitis. Pleo Muc Eye Drops, one drop per eye was administered. The discharge cleared, but returned 48 hours later. A second drop per eye was administered. Discharge cleared and has not returned in the last six months since birth.

CASE #2 28 year old male, was riding a motorcycle wearing a full-face helmet on a northern Arizona state road when a large brittle tumbleweed approximately 36 inches in diameter blew across the roadway and into his path. The patient was en route to Phoenix, Arizona to visit a doctor friend. The patient was unable to steer clear of the tumbleweed and struck it head on. The patient stated that the tumbleweed literally exploded from the impact. In some manner a small piece ended up under his helmet and struck his left eye.

The patient complained of no pain, and no visual disturbances, only a dry, irritated feeling, although the medial cornea was completely erythematous three days after the event. One drop of Pleo Muc Eye Drops was administered in the p.m. to sooth the overall irritation in the affected eye of which the patient complained. By the next morning the medial cornea was barely pink in color. The patient stated to the Doctor that his eye also felt much better, lacking the dry, irritated sensation. A second drop was administered in the affected eye. By the early evening of that day the erythema had completely resolved.

CASE #3 A 63 year old male had begun wearing glasses at the age of 47. Two years ago at the age of 61 he began using Pleo Muc Eye Drops, one drop BID in each eye as a general soothing and preventative treatment.

One day in January of 2001 he was reading his daily Wall Street Journal. It was brought to his attention that he was not wearing his glasses. He stated that it was the first time in 16 years that he had noticed that he was able to read without his glasses. He stated that a number of health improvement modalities had been incorporated into his lifestyle, including the Pleo Muc Eye Drops.

In summary, be sure to look for the right solution to your eye problems with a qualified ophthalmologist or optometrist. Pleo Muc Eye Drops may benefit the day-to-day dry, irritated feeling that many people experience, however take no chances and always seek qualified medical care.

And, being open to the empirical medical wisdom of the East may offer some insights into your overall health regimen that you might not otherwise have noticed.

Treating the common cold or flu through understanding our biological association with nature, SANUM Therapy and Ayurvedic concepts.

admin — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 20:26:53 +0000

Well, as the saying goes, its getting to be cold and flu season, again. And, with the recent reduction in flu vaccines due to contamination, Americans will be eager to look for alternatives to the treatment of this annual influence. SANUM Therapy offers a number of supportive remedies for these so-called viral conditions, such as colds and the flu, however it is important to pay attention to lifestyle and seasonal shifts, as well. The General remedies that will be discussed in detail later in the article are the following:

Milieu	Isopathic/Homeopathic Fungal	Homeopathic Bacterial Immune Modulator
Pleo Alkala	Pleo Fort	Pleo Rec
Pleo Citro	Pleo Grif	Pleo Ut
Pleo Sanuvis	Pleo Quent
	Pleo Rub

Botanical Remedy- Immune/GI support/Anti-viral	Glandular- immune organ stimulation
Pleo Relivora	Pleo Thym
Pleo Cerivi	Pleo Reb

What exactly is cold and flu season? I don’t really consider that there is an actual season for colds and flu amidst the four wonderful seasons already in place. However, when one considers the cyclic shifts in weather and lifestyle, then we now have a time of year when colds and the flu become more prevalent. But a season…I have to wonder.

Some aspects of getting a cold or flu are related to early concepts of nature cure and the cyclic processes through which all living organisms exist. I believe these nature cure considerations are still accurate today, however humans in their acceptance of the modern concepts of illness have overlooked these natural biological processes. Over the course of a day, a month or a year, human beings’ functional bio-dynamics shift with the external influence of the local weather patterns and some believe the entire planetary system. This is quite obvious with children as they are most often completely in-sync with the natural rhythms of the day and seasons.

A child will tend to eat, play, be quiet and fall asleep at certain times of the day and be in bed in the evening right around sunset or within a couple of hours after the sun sets. They arise nearly at the same time as the sun, even on the weekends, much to the dismay of their parents. Our “internal biological clock” which may easily be seen in the lifestyle habits of children, usually becomes altered as one moves into the teenage years. This is so from the human-made influences such as, lights, television, restaurants, graveyard shift work schedules and any other influences that will promote one bypassing the natural biorhythms. Thus, we tend to overlook some of these gradual changes that have occurred within the first 10 to 15 years of life as a normal process of the societal needs of maturing.

However, the body continues to fluctuate with the natural biorhythms, which when ignored adds to the other stressors of our physiology. It is common to feel increased energy at certain points in the day, and during certain aspects of the different seasons. For example, in the spring and certain parts of the day in the summer we feel increased vitality and often yearn for exercise and exploration. In the heat of summer, or cold, wet, rainy fall and spring, and certainly in the winter, one tends to feel more sluggish and the desire to rest more is quite strong. The times of year between summer and winter, and winter and summer are transitional and create biological and physiological changes. These times are also congestive times of year. Body systems are transitioning from one season of intensity to the next with the interim season in between. Biologically, cold, wet climates tend to create accumulation of metabolic debris as these transitions occur. Therefore, the transitional seasons of spring and fall are the times of year when people experience more illnesses that relate to this accumulation.

General wellness is also a pattern associated with these cyclic rhythms. Our bodies have their own internal knowing, which according to the naturopathic tenants is “Vis Medicatrix Naturae” or ‘to act in harmony with the healing power of nature’, that enable us to keep well as we move through the various seasons. If we pay attention to these natural processes, we can develop a whole new aspect of awareness that involves sleep, work, eating habits and general well being. Some of these shifts are so commonplace that it just seems typical to feel like you want to sleep all day when it gets cold or rainy. The same is true when it gets quite hot and/or humid.

These natural tendencies are the body’s ways of conserving energy and resources. As predominantly mesomorphs, human beings have a much greater adaptation response capacity to cold than we do to heat. We can add multiple layers of clothing, build shelters, and produce heat sources, however we are limited when it comes to avoiding heat. But, we still have to adapt to these temperatures through conservation of resources and elimination of accumulated debris.

In Ayurvedic medicine, which is the oldest know system of medicine on earth, there is recognition of six seasons, rather than four and in respect to these six there are two likely times of the year when cold and flu-like symptoms are possible. Interestingly enough, they correspond to the general times of year when people tend to exhibit the cold and flu symptoms. These vary depending upon the country and geographical location within the country.

Cool-Dewy (Shishira)	Mid- January to Mid- March
Spring (Vasant)	Mid-March to Mid-May
Summer (Grishma)	Mid-May to Mid-July
Rainy (Varsha)	Mid-July to Mid-September
Autumn (Sharat)	Mid-September to Mid- November
Winter (Hemanta)	Mid-November to Mid-January

However, based upon the environmental influences of which Ayurvedic medicine consists, there is a correlation between the seasons and the three doshas, or constitutions, including lifestyle, foods eaten, sleep, etc. There is much more data to discuss here than we have space for, however, we can review a brief aspect of these constitutions to get an idea of the environmental correlations and functions.

Vata- nerve force, electro-motor, physical activity or that which is responsible for motion, often called “AIR”. The root ‘va’ means to spread. In Western terms, it is the electricity setting the organism in motion, maintaining the equilibrium between Pitta and Kapha, the two other doshas.

Pitta- relates to internal fire, bile, body heat, digestive enzymes, physio-chemical, biological, metabolic and endocrine systems. It is responsible for digesting the chyle into a protoplasmic substance like sperm and ovum.

Kapha- fills the intercellular spaces of the body as connective tissue. Examples of these

includes mucus, synovial fluid, and tendons. Kapha is responsible for the gross structure of the body (solid and liquid).

Each person is made up of a combination of these elements or doshas, which are responsible for catabolic and anabolic metabolism.

The book “The Ayurvedic Encyclopedia” by Swami Sada Shiva Tirtha explains the above information as such:

“The first three seasons above are considered weakening because the sun takes away one’s strength during the Northern Solstice. The sun and wind create cooling, drying and heating influence by removing the (nurturing) cool qualities of the earth, while the bitter, astringent, and pungent qualities develop. Thus, the tastes (qualities of the elements) of sharpness, dryness, and heat (Pitta or agni) gain predominance during this half of the year. It is the sun that burns up the soma (spiritual nectar) that weakens people. The tastes of bitter, astringent, and pungent are depleting in nature, so it is advised to eat foods having sweet, sour and salty tastes to counteract the depleting effect.

The latter three are considered a strength-giving time. The moon becomes more powerful, causing the sun to transfer its strength to the lunar orb. Heat is relieved by the moist and cool elements. In this Southern Solstice, where the moon predominates, the sour element is active during the rainy Varsha season; salt prevails in autumn and the sweet element grows in winter. These tastes gradually tone, or give strength to, humans. During Varshs-Hemanta (Rainy to Autumn) the winds die down and the moon’s cool rays produce soma, or nectar, that nourishes the spiritual energies of the people (and animals and nature). In these seasons, it is advised to eat foods of pungent, bitter and astringent tastes to counterbalance the predominating tastes due to environmental effects.”

A basic overview of some of these seasons and foods includes the flowing:

Winter: one avoids Vata-increasing, light foods, wind, cold drinks and eats more steamed meals and dresses warmly. The digestive fire is much higher during this season, making heavier foods more easily digestible. According to this concept cane sugar, rice, oils, hot water and milk products promote longevity, raw honey; sour and salty tastes are also suggested.

Cool/Dewy: follow a program similar to winter. It is important to note that Kapha accumulates in this season due to the cold and dampness of wind, clouds, and rain. (I think we’re getting close to the cold and flu season!)

*Spring: is when the Kapha from the two previous seasons begins to melt or liquefy- this creates many Kapha diseases. (Aha, I knew it was here!) Heavy, sour, fatty and sweet diets are avoided as they increase Kapha.

Summer: Kapha is normalized and Vata accumulates due to the dry, or dehydrating effects of the heat. One should eat more raw and lightly steamed vegetables, drink cool juices, have more sweet things, ghee (clarified butter), milk and rice. Sour, salted, pungent and hot foods are to be avoided.

*Rainy: The Agni fire, weakened from the dryness of the summer, is further diminished in the rainy season. During this season, the clouds are full of water; it is cold, windy and in some places, snowy. These conditions aggravate all three doshas. Thus, this is the season that the three doshas irritate each other causing many diseases of all three doshas. (More cold and flu opportunities!) Depending upon the weather one needs to adjust the diet and lifestyle from day to day. Generally, avoid cold drinks. Foods and drinks are mixed with honey. Salty, sour and fatty foods are eaten on rainy, cool, windy days.

Autumn: the aggravated Pitta from the rainy season worsens as a result of the sudden warmth of the sun’s rays, much like the Indian Summer in the U.S.

In accepting these various environmental influences on the body, we have the capacity to alter our general lifestyle to accommodate these changes to lessen the degree of accumulated debris and irritation of the doshas. While initially it reasons to adopt a more relaxed lifestyle as one proceeds through the transitional seasons, few Americans consciously adapt to these changing seasons.

In the larger biodynamic picture, the body milieu (internal terrain) is in constant fluctuation accommodating these external influences along with the lifestyle habits of the person; the latter of which are not often maintained to the full benefit of the former. Dietary changes according to the above can be very beneficial to allow the body the opportunity to metabolize foods more efficiently and eliminate metabolic debris easily. However, when the milieu becomes altered it involves much more than just eating more veggies! As you will note below, we are affecting the very essence of biological and physiological functioning of the body.

SANUM THERAPY

SANUM Therapy, as a modality of biological medicine, is completely compatible with these natural rhythms as it is such a wonderful system of functional medicine in and of itself. The significance of the milieu, the microbe and factors of daily life that influence these has a tremendous influence on our general well being and health. It is no simple feat maintaining a human being against the deleterious influences of the average American lifestyle. Stress, lack of rest, fast food, external toxins, lack of interaction with nature, genetically altered foods further affected with preservatives and colorings and so much more, are constantly challenging this thriving bio-diversity of internal terrain. Behind all of this vital physiology is a lowly creature, of little known importance and with general apparent insignificance, except to those who understand biological medicine and the role that SANUM therapy plays in these processes. This lowly creature is the microbe!

WHY THIS IS SO IMPORTANT

The average human adult has an interface with the external environment via the mucous membranes of the body and the skin surface area. While the skin surface area is usually 1 – 2 square meters depending upon body size, the internal interface via the lungs, genito-urinary tract and the gastro-intestinal (GI) mucous membranes is over 300 square meters! The GI tract alone averages over 220 square meters of interactive surface area.

What is significant to consider about this is that the external genito-urinary mucous membranes and the gastro-intestinal tract are also inhabited by millions of microbes. In fact, it is estimated that there are human cells in the number of 10¹³, with the microbes numbering 10¹⁴. This indicates over 10 times more microbes that human cells! These microbes, well over 400 different species, are biologically vital to the proper functioning of the human being. They provide numerous benefits as described below:

Mechanical: Mucin films, glycocalyxes, ciliary action & peristalsis.

Biochemical: pH phenomena, partial oxygen tension, redox potential, enzymes,

peptides, fatty acids, gases, etc.

Microbial: Type and quantity of the local and transit microorganisms.

Immunological: Activities of the immune system associated with the mucous membranes.

Barrier protection: Occupation of ecological niches. Phenomena of antagonism and

continuous “training” of immune responses.

Metabolic functions of microbes:

Ø Production of enzymes, substrates, and metabolic products

Ø Important functions in the macroorganism’s metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

Ø Biosynthesis of vitamins and conversion of steroid compounds.

Ø Regulation of energy by means of the oxidation and glycolysis of foods.

Ø Detoxification of ammonia, phenol, cresol, nitrosamines, N-hydroxyacetylaminofluorines and N2-fixation.

Ø Synthesis of microbicidal and microbiostatic products against non-autochthonous yeasts, fungi and bacteria.

Ø Reduction of hydrogen ion concentration (lactic, butyric, acetic, formic, and propionic acids).

This interface, as indicated above, is the biologically active site within the body. It is the site of milieu management. When the milieu becomes altered from these basic deleterious influences we humans have adopted, we profoundly alter a microscopically thriving environmental milieu that is at its very essence the proper basic functioning of the human being. No other living creature takes for granted the significance of this interface by exposing itself to the artificial factors that humans have. It is also no less amazing that we maintain the quality of health we do despite these adapted influences.

The daily, monthly and seasonal cycles, as mentioned previously, are nearly disregarded except for the festive events of the various seasons. And, even these do not usually support the necessary biological functioning of the gastro-intestinal tract. So, even with our not-so-supportive lifestyles, the internal terrain continues to muster the vital force necessary for some level of wellness.

When we look at the seasons and getting a cold or the flu from the Ayurvedic and nature curists perspective, we are merely relieving a saturated metabolic system that has established a milieu that is hospitable for the influence of the various virus and bacteria that prefer such terrain.

Therefore, through SANUM Therapy it makes sense to affect the biology and physiology of oneself while making dietary and environmental adjustments in advance of such possibilities. One can also promote elimination of accumulated debris through enemas, sweating, deep breathing, etc. However, it is perhaps the uniqueness of the SANUM Remedies that make them a perfect choice for treating the microbiological interface.

FOR THE MILIEU

In supporting the milieu for general wellness and thus prevention, it is helpful to use Pleo Alkala to modulate the acid/alkaline arena. Proper pH is critical for enzyme reactions, hormone functions and all other biochemical reactions. Acidification of the GI tract, which is so common on the Standard American Diet, can be buffered with this mineral support. Simply begin with a 1/4 to 1/2 scoop in warm water 2 – 3X/day away from food, so as not to neutralize the hydrochloric acid from the stomach’s parietal cells. One may assess urinary pH as often as possible to determine the quantity of Alkala needed to keep the level in the approximate 6.8 range.

Pleo Citro (homeopathic citric acid) and Pleo Sanuvis (homeopathic lactic acid) are wonderful remedies to actively support and stimulate cellular and mitochondrial function. Bolstering cellular function has the ability to facilitate elimination of some of this accumulated metabolic debris and thus, shift the congestive milieu. Both of these remedies are Potency Accords, multiple potencies of the same remedy in the same container. The multiple potencies allow the influence of both acute and chronic reactions in the body. One may use up to 60 drops, or more 3X/day. However, 60 drops or less 3X/day can be quite adequate in stimulating cellular activity. These remedies may be used in children at a dosage of 10 – 15 drops several times a day.

Pleo Citro is often used to support Pleo Nig, as the fungi Aspergillus niger produces this organic acid in its milieu. Pleo Nig is associated with the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis and thus all of the tuberculinic tissues such as the GI tract, sinuses, skin, organs, etc. that can be affected by a cold or flu can benefit from Pleo Citro.

Pleo Sanuvis has been shown to increase mitochondrial respiration, which supports cellular metabolism and elimination of metabolic debris. It can be very beneficial for the lethargic episodes when one feels that influence of inactivity, but obviously prevention is the preference.

FOR VIRAL CONDITIONS

One of the most important aspects of preventing the colds and flues is a healthy functioning GI tract. Not only does good stomach and intestinal fire burn the foods, it also maintains a healthy mucous membrane at the microbial interface. This is important for the production of mucous itself, but also for the milieu of barrier producing healthy microbes and the production of the immunoglobulin ‘A’. IgA is the primary immunoglobulin for GI antigens including bacteria and virus.

Pleo Fort has proven itself as one of the most beneficial isopathic remedies for the gut. Made form Penicillium roquefortii this remedy can be supportive for all types of general GI wellness. Maintaining the healthy GI tract will support the production of the secretory IgA and thus, have available immunoglobulins for the invading bacteria and virus. One may use up to 10 drops 2X/day, or 1 tablet daily. The capsules and suppositories may also be used according to the indications of the English translated German Isopathic/Homeopathic Materia Medica.

Pleo Grif, made from Grifola frondosa, is another important anti-viral remedy. Grifola frondosa is commonly known as Maitake mushroom. However, in this instance the remedy is produced in the manner according to Dr. Enderlein, which results in the colloidal form of the fungi that can affect the immune system. Pleo Grif may also be used preventively as well as symptomatically.

Pleo Quent, made from Penicillium glabrum, is the isopathic remedy usually indicated for viral conditions. This from the Dr. Enderlein perspective is the colloidal remedy responsible for the degradation of the viral form to its basic lower valence, non-pathogenic form. Use as with the Pleo Fort, which may be used simultaneously.

Pleo Rub, made from Aspergillus ruber, is commonly used for all types of chronic diseases of the upper and lower respiration tract such as rhinitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, conjunctivitis (red, itching eyes). This remedy has also been used for various allergic reactions that may be seasonally induced from the flowering of certain plants to the reactivity of the mucous membranes to various antigens.

FOR IMMUNE MODULATION

Obviously if the bacteria or virus are capable of bypassing the mucous membranes then the next phase of the immune response reacts to the invading pathogen. In this respect, one needs to have an actively functioning immune system to enable the immune cells to seek out and destroy the invader. Many of Americans have had suppressive medicine much of their lives and therefore, are perhaps less responsive to invading microbes as one who has not had a the immune responses suppressed. This would include the use of fever reducers, antibiotics, or steroids, as well as other possible medications that suppress reactions in the body.

Pleo Rec and Pleo Ut are the first choice of the homeopathic immune modulators. Pleo Rec is indicated for all issues involving the mucous membranes, which obviously in cases of the cold or flu is all of the above. Pleo Ut is used a general immune modulator for the less serious tuberculinic conditions. Once again, this involves the mucous membranes and the skin.

The idea of the immune modulation is to provoke, or activate the immune cells to prepare them for the possible invasion of the pathogen. These may be used prophylactically as with the above remedies to support a healthy milieu prior to such a microbial influence.

BOTANICALS FOR IMMUNE SUPPORT

Pleo Relivora is a remedy made from Echinacea, Drosera, and Juglans. These botanicals are well indicated for supporting endogenic defensive capacities, in feverish processes, inflammatory processes of the pulmonary tract (hard, dry cough), bronchitis, and whooping cough. This blended remedy offers a diverse application for cold and flu symptoms.

Pleo Cerivi is derived from Cetraria islandica (Icelandic Moss), and is indicated for diseases of the respiratory paths, sinusitis, laryngitis, bronchitis, dry cough, lack of appetite. Pleo Cerivi has mild anti-microbial properties and is well suited for anti-microbial therapy.

GLANDULARS FOR IMMUNE SUPPORT

There are two glandular remedies that offer immune support via stimulation of the various tissues involved in immune activation. These are Pleo Reb and Pleo Thym.

Pleo Reb, is a glandular made from the Peyer’s patches of the small intestine. These tissues comprise 60% – 80% of the immune system of the body and it is of no coincidence that they are located in the abdominal cavity around the small intestine. As the entry point for various antigens it is obvious that the body has specific antigenic tissues in that region. Pleo Reb has also been shown to encourage the formation of humoral antibodies by stimulating the T-helper cells.

Pleo Thym, a remedy made from thymus gland is used as with Pleo Reb, to activate the immune response in a deficient immune system. The thymus gland is the site of activation of the T-lymphocytes. The T-lymphocytes are instrumental in attacking antigens, specifically viruses and malignant cells.

As you can tell, understanding our relationship with the natural world is paramount to maintaining health and wellness. The SANUM Remedies offer much in the way of affecting the various components of the body that can become altered through the modern lifestyle and conscious or unconscious disregard of our natural heritage in biological functioning. Perhaps it only reasons that these biological remedies provide a natural support structure that addresses the very biological disharmonies that promote conditions of ill health.

Trees

admin — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 19:06:29 +0000

To be a giant and keep quiet about it,

To stay in one’s own place;

To stand for the constant presence of process

And always to seem the same;

To be steady as a rock and always trembling,

Having the hard appearance of death

With the soft, fluent nature of growth,

One’s own being deceptively armored,

One’s Becoming deceptively vulnerable;

To be so tough, and take the light so well,

Freely providing forbidden knowledge

Of so many things about heaven and earth

For which we should otherwise have no word-

Poems or people are so rarely so lovely,

And even when they have great qualities

They tend to tell you rather than exemplify

What they believe themselves to be about,

While from the moving silence of trees,

Whether in storm or calm, in leaf and naked,

Night or day, we draw conclusions of own,

Sustaining and unnoticed as our breath,

And perilous also – though there has never been

A critical tree – about the nature of things.

Howard Nemerov

Natural Therapies for the Backcountry: What’s in a First Aid Kit? Venturing outside the box of typical first aid items in backcountry situations.

admin — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 18:58:56 +0000

I was a Wilderness Guide, Outdoor Skill Instructor and finally a Wilderness Emergency Medicine Instructor for a combination of over 20 years prior to becoming a Licensed Naturopathic Doctor. In these roles I lead hundreds of outdoor instructional classes and trips in nearly every avenue of beginner to intermediate outdoor adventures including canoeing- flat and whitewater, backpacking, rock climbing, spelunking, winter camping, bicycle touring, outdoor leadership training, cross-country skiing, and sailing and instructed well over 50 wilderness Backcountry First Aid, Wilderness First Responder and Wilderness EMT courses.

The many outdoor skill and trip participants and wilderness medicine courses included weekend outdoor enthusiasts, professional trip leaders and outdoor skill instructors, seasoned wilderness guides and professional, soon-to-be ambulance attendants and rescue professionals, and special forces personnel of the various military branches.

Throughout all of these experiences with all of the many participants there was basically one common theme: safety! What can one know, prepare for and do to maintain safety in all of the various arenas of these adventures, or for the military personnel, the various conflicts they may encounter? The ever present challenge in these situations includes the different levels of experience of the participants, the widely varied natural environment, the limited space for resources and access to outside assistance.

As a wilderness medicine instructor a common axiom was ‘the best first aid kit one has is in one’s head’. And, the second best was the modest bundle of bandages, gauze and topical treatments one placed in the small nylon pack in one’s gear. The premise being that the capacity to think and reason outweighed the host of tools one might bring with oneself or the group. This of course is very true!

A significant emphasis in wilderness medicine training is one’s ability to be creative and improvise with whatever resources are on hand. If the actual first aid kit in fact, contained a few worthwhile ingredients for the emergency, then that is even better. In principle one must make the best out of a challenging situation with limited resources and certainly limited medicines and then evacuate the ill/injured person to the waiting ambulance at the trailhead. Medicines that are appropriate, safe, therapeutically effective and easy to use for the average person with wilderness medicine training are generally thought to not be available.

However, there exists a field of medicine called homeopathy that dates back over 200 years, which offers much promise in these challenging situations. Samuel H. Hahnemann, M.D., Germany is considered the father of homeopathic medicine. The basic premise of homeopathy is “the Law of Similars”. This means that if a concentrated amount of a substance will cause harm, then taking a minute amount of that medicine that has been diluted and succussed (shaken) should relieve that harm. For example, if one was hiking a favorite trail in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and was sensitive to and came into contact with poison ivy, Rhus toxicondrum, then one would develop the characteristic rash, oozing vesicles and “drive-you-crazy” itch from the irritating oil. The homeopathic treatment of such a condition would be to take orally a diluted and succussed medicine made from the Poison Ivy plant, a homeopathic Rhus tox. The homeopathic medicine would then stimulate a healing response to the skin irritation.

However, not all cases are this easily determined. The Law of Similars states that the presenting characteristics of the condition need only have similar symptoms, as those that correlate to the treatment by the homeopathic medicine. So, if one were to develop a skin irritation, which was ‘similar to’ the type of rash one would get from Poison Ivy, then Rhus Tox would be a likely homeopathic choice for treating this condition as well. Homeopathy also works in more complicated cases whereby a full patient history including the various aspects of a person such as her/his spiritual-psycho-emotional-physical well-being is assessed. In wilderness medicine, this extensive case assessment would not be necessary, or applicable, as most conditions are acute in presentation and stem from the immediate situation. This is not to say that homeopathy would not be applicable for the trip participant that might experience a common flu, cold or sore throat while on a trip. Indeed, quite the opposite would be true! But generally, this is not a long-standing condition requiring a thorough medical case assessment.

As it is said, had I known then what I know now about the application of natural medicines, as a wilderness guide I could have utilized a very different type of first aid kit for the backcountry. The use of a few natural homeopathic products would have supported me and the victim’s condition further, with broader application and diversity, than the various creams and ointments I used to carry. Not only that, but I would also have had a solution for situations untouched by typical first aid supplies.

There are many types of homeopathic medicines on the market today. For the first installment of the Natural Remedies for the Backcountry, I would like to review one of the most unique forms of homeopathy, which I have become aware as a naturopathic physician, the Isopathic/Homeopathic SANUM Remedies.

The SANUM Remedies are produced in Germany by the SANUM-Kehlbeck Company. They are distributed in over 27 countries, used by thousands of doctors and healthcare practitioners and have along history of clinical use extending back to the early thirties for some products. In addition, with their German source they come from a country with solid standards regarding the production and distribution of homeopathic and natural medicines. Pleomorphic SANUM, located in Glendale, AZ, distributes the products in the U.S. They are only available through doctors and healthcare practitioners. However, you may contact the company directly to find a practitioner nearest you. See the contact information at the end of the article.

I have reviewed and included the products that are most applicable to the conditions that I and many other leaders experienced, on our trips.

The SANUM products may be used therapeutically for a wide variety of acute and chronic conditions normally encountered in one’s medical office. However, I would highly recommend that, with a healthcare practitioner’s prescription, one should keep them in their backcountry first aid kit and certainly in the home medicine cabinet, or travel kit. The following are a number of remedies that I would suggest.

REMEDIES

Pleo Ex suppositories

Pleo Fort drops and tablets

Pleo Muc Eye Drops

Pleo Muc Ointment

Pleo Muc Suppositories

Pleo Not drops and suppositories

Pleo Oku drops

The product contents of the SANUM medicines are completely natural and safe, even for the young, old, or debilitated person. Thus, they are great for the bulk of outdoor enthusiasts! The suppositories are made from lactose, as with other homeopathic medicines and coconut fat. They are, in my opinion, the most versatile product as they may be used rectally, vaginally, topically and orally. The tablets consist of lactose as with other homeopathic medicines. The drops are made of purified water and/or water and ethanol as with the Pleo Oku and some of the other botanical products from the company.

PLEO EX

Pleo Ex suppositories are a combination of three different products: Pleo Fort, Pleo Alb, and Pleo Pef. Pleo Alb and Pef are two strains of Candida that are used to treat various mycotic conditions. Pleo Fort is used for many GI conditions. The Pleo Ex suppositories are used for vaginal candida, skin conditions and some GI complaints that involve candida. However, for the first aid kit Pleo Ex is also good for skin rash of the groin from bicycling or sitting in a wet swimsuit too long, athlete’s foot, and other fungal skin conditions.

PLEO FORT

Pleo Fort is a good remedy to bring on the trip where the possibility of GI problems exists. Pleo Fort, made from the fungus Penicillium roquefortii, like the other Penicilliums, does not cause, or trigger a person’s allergic response to the antibiotic Penicillin. Penicillin is an acid produced from various Penicillium fungi and it is also synthetically produced. Whereas, the Isopathic/Homeopathic Penicillium remedies are made from the actual fungus. There is a possibility of what is called a “degradation response” where the body is stimulated to eliminate pathogenic microbial forms from the use of the Penicillium homeopathics, but one only needs to reduce the quantity of the treatment with the usual benefits of reducing the degradation response within the body.

PLEO MUC

Pleo Muc is great for many types of circulatory ailments. It is recommended for the temporary relief of the bruises, sprains, strains, etc. Basically, I would recommend Pleo Muc for all types of musculoskeletal and some soft tissue injuries. It is also very beneficial in the treatment of hemorrhoids. One suppository will often provide a rapid dissipation of the affected tissue.

PLEO MUC EYE DROPS

There are numerous situations in the backcountry where a soothing eye drop would be appreciated. Whether one is climbing, hiking, paddling, camping, cycling or skiing, dust and debris, direct sun exposure and reflection off of ice and water, wind irritation and general eye strain can cause discomfort without the means of therapeutic treatment. However, Pleo Muc Isopathic/Homeopathic eye drops offer the backcountry traveler a simple solution to soothe irritated eyes. Available in a handy 5ml dropper bottle, it is lightweight and convenient enough for even the discriminating rock climber to carry. The suppositories would be a convenient ways to carry this product. They come in individual plastic wrappers and offer the options of treating topically or rectally.

PLEO NOT

Pleo Not is another versatile product. Made from Penicillium chrysogenum, one of the predominant fungi that yield the antibiotic Penicillin, Pleo Not is indicated for the temporary relief of coughs, fever and congestion due to colds and minor respiratory infections. It has been found in clinical applications to work like a natural antibiotic, although, like the Pleo Fort, there is no real antibiotic action of which we generally think. In backcountry settings it would be beneficial for all types of injuries or illness where one would be concerned about bacterial infections. The drops and the suppositories offer the greatest versatility in dosing and application.

PLEO OKU DROPS

This homeopathic product has been used to provide temporary relief from acute and chronic diarrhea or GI toxicity. It is made from a West African tree, Okoubaka aubrevillei. It is said that the tribal chief’s food tasters would keep this remedy handy should they happen upon a tainted meal intended for the group’s leader. If they found they became ill from the food they would administer this remedy to alleviate the toxic symptoms. Also, Okoubaka is considered a sacred tree. No metal blade from a machete may touch this tree. Only a special wooden batten may be used to harvest the bark. It can be used in acute conditions at a dosage of 5 drops every 30 minutes.