5 reasons to consider a vaginal steam

The Vaginal steam or V-steam, consists of sitting naked on an open-seated chair, over a boiling pot of herbal steam for 20 to 30 minutes. Inspired by a similar remedy long used in some Asian cultures, vaginal steaming is taking American women by storm, with spas and holistic health centers offering the service for between $35 and $75.

Hormones can be absorbed by the vagina... why not herbs?

The highly aromatic medicinal herbs quickly absorb into the bloodstream and circulate directly to every tissue of the body, delivering their therapeutic powers to each and every cell. Herbal steam simultaneously cleanses the body from the inside and the outside, providing a doubly detoxifying effect as well as a very relaxing, soothing experience.

Other cultures have been using vaginal steaming. In Sudan, for example, in the days leading up to their wedding, brides-to-be sit on a hole in the ground that emits perfumed smoke, in the belief that the embers smooth and tighten their skin. Women in Korea, where they refer to the vaginal steam bath as 'chai-yok', often do it after their monthly periods. And in parts of South America, women call the intimate steam cleanses 'bajos'.


 

1. Fertility
The therapeutic effects of thermotherapy and aromatherapy contribute to the effectiveness of this treatment. Overall the bath aids as a uterine lavage or internal cleanse of the membranes that often accumulate incompletely flushed debris/fluids from cycle to cycle. In addition, the bath introduces healing warmth and softens and nourishes internal membranes. The baths can safely be combined with either natural cycles or any cycle involving assisted reproductive technology such as IUI or IVF. Consider adding vaginal steam baths to your self care routine if you experience painful periods, dark blood at the beginning or ending of your menstrual cycle, irregular periods, fibroids, cysts, endometriosis, cervical stenosis, vaginal dryness or painful intercourse.

2. Hemorrhoids
The steam can be very soothing for hemorrhoids and fissures of the rectum.

3. Recurrent vaginal infections
One of the herbs used in the steam baths is mugwort, which contains natural antifungal properties, and anti-viral wormwood

 4. Ease menstrual cramps
Heat is a useful tool for managing muscular pain. Taking a herbal steam bath is an excellent method of speeding up the healing process of hurt tissues and muscles. Heat allows the blood vessels to enlarge which boosts the blood circulation, letting increased oxygen arrive at injured parts of the body. This has the twofold effect of pain reduction and accelerating the bodies healing response. 

5. Fibroids and endometriosis
If toxins are at the root cause for fibroids and endometriosis, the herbal steam is a great way to combat these conditions.





 Directions:

 Obtain vaginal steam bath herbs from Natural Womens Care (call 832-237-4200).
 The contents of one bag of herbs is enough for 2-3 vaginal steam baths.
In a large pot containing about a gallon of water, place the herbs.
 Bring to a soft boil for 5 minutes then steep for 10 minutes with the lid on.
Place the pot of water/herbs under a slatted chair, lawn chair, or even in your toilet.
 Sit over the pot without underwear.
Be careful to make sure the water/herbs have cooled enough so that you do not burn yourself!!
Drape yourself with a blanket from your waist down to the floor so that no cold air is introduced.
Sit over your pot of herbal steam for approximately 20 minutes.
The side effects of a steam may include a temporary increase in menstrual flow (more dark fluids, debris) and/or menses may start earlier that usual due to a cleansing effect.

 *Vaginal steam baths are contraindicated during pregnancy!

Seven Ways to manage Hidradenitis suppurativa

Seven Ideas to manage Hidradenitis Supperativa 
you can also use these suggestions for boils and cysts under your arms or in the genital area

Hidradenitis is a chronic disease of the apocrine glands (sweat glands found on certain parts of the body) and hair follicles. These glands become plugged or clogged. The condition causes chronic scarring and pus formation in the underarm, groin and/or inner thigh areas. In women it can also occur under the breasts. Hidradenitis begins with a red, tender swelling in the groin or armpit. Over time the lesions enlarge and burst open at the surface, draining clear to yellow fluid. The poorly understood disease is under-reported by those who suffer from it. However, there is some research suggesting changes in diet, warm compresses and baths, and some supplements can relieve symptoms, bring about remission, and/or minimize recurrence.

 If you or anyone in your family suffer from recurrent "boils" or "abscesses", it is possible that you or they have Hidradenitis Suppurativa.

 Treatment of Hidradenitis Suppurativa remains a challenge.

Therapeutic options for Hidradenitis Suppurativa are the use of local disinfectants and systemic antibiotics, as well as repeated incisions and drainage, which produce only short-term benefits. Medical management is recommended in early stages, whereas surgery should be performed as early as possible after the formation of abscesses, fistulas, scars and sinus tracts.

1. Vitamin C and Fish Oil are contained in Octovite- it also contains vitamins A and E.  All of these supplements are great for skin healing. 

 2. Turmeric- apply topically as a paste or take capsules. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) has been used for 4,000 years to treat a variety of ailments. Test tube and animal studies suggest turmeric may have antibacterial and antiviral properties, but whether it would be effective in humans is unclear.  It is also used for its anti inflammatory properties. 
It is also found in Privita (see below)

 3. Hormones- Combined treatment of antiandrogen, cyproterone acetate, and estradiol have been shown to be of benefit to women with long standing Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Treatment with antiandrogen cyproterone acetate in combination with estrogen ethinyl estradiol in combination with low-dose progestin norgestrel may significantly improve disease activity, especially in patients with mild forms of Hidradenitis Suppurativa, but many conditions fail to respond to theses treatments.
Naturally Balance Hormone levels with Privita, it can naturally balance estrogen levels.
 Estrogen Dominance Quiz 

 4. Herbs with antibacterial and antifungal activity-  Octocleanse
Yeast or bacteria can be a catalyst in the lesions.  There are herbal cleanses that can provide support for both agents and can help remove the offending agent, that often cannot be identified.

 5.  Vitagreen
Definitely consider if your body pH may be altered, as this makes many people prone to acne, cysts and infections, in addition to reducing your sugar consumption, this supplement contains many ingredients like chlorella and wheatgrass, that help alkalinize the body.
Probiotics are also contained in this supplement to help restore and rebalance skin flora.

Vaginal Maintainence, Chronic Yeast, Bacterial Vag...

 6. Get your vitamin D levels tested. 
Low vitamin D appears to be linked with many autoimmune conditions and recurrent infections. 

• Vitamin D supplements liquid, topical, repletion i...

 7. You can also try applying organic virgin coconut oil to the skin. It has powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agents and is very good for the skin and more (see more coconut oil benefits). Tea tree is also helpful also, but may burn if used full strength. Look for Sexibalm which combines Coconut oil, tea tree oil, green tea, and many other ingredients that are beneficial for managing skin bacteria. 



 The above suggestions should not be construed as a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or health care provider before taking any home remedies or supplements or following any treatment suggested by anyone on this site. Only your health care provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.

8.  C-Tox

Natural Hemorrhoid relief

A hemorrhoid is a swollen or inflamed vein in the rectum and anus. They are similar to varicose veins you might see on a person's legs.

Hemorrhoids are typically caused by an increase of pressure in the veins of the lower rectum.

Types Of Hemorrhoids

There are two types of hemorrhoids that you should be aware of, they are...

Internal hemorrhoids are characterized by the bulging out of veins from the anus and by a bloodstained stool.
External hemorrhoids are characterized by an abnormal growth around the rectal region. This growth may be accompanied by irritation, itching and a burning sensation around the affected area - and sometimes blood alongside the stool.
Hemorrhoid Causes

Here are some of the most common causes of hemorrhoids...

Standing or sitting for long periods of time
Straining with bowel movements - Usually caused by constipation or hard stools
Sitting on the toilet for a long time
Diarrhea
Heavy Lifting
Insufficient intake of fluids
Severe coughing
Pregnancy or childbirth
Obesity
Genetics
Hemorrhoid Symptoms

Recognizing the symptoms of hemorrhoids is the first step towards properly treating and preventing them. Here are some of the most common symptoms of hemorrhoids...

Irritation and/or itching in the rectal area
Swelling in the anus or internal anal area
Difficulty or obstruction in passing stool
Formation of blood clots inside the anus
Lumps hanging from the anus - Noticed in more advanced stages of hemorrhoids
Prevention Of Hemorrhoids

There are several preventive steps you can take to help relieve some of the pain and discomfort you may be experiencing. By following these steps, you will find relief from existing hemorrhoids - and help prevent future hemorrhoids from occurring.

When you have the urge for a bowel movement, do not delay - Go immediately
Follow a high fiber diet - Take fiber supplements if needed
Increase fluid intake - Drink plenty of pure drinking water to help soften the stool
Perform a colon cleansing program to help empty the large intestines and regulate your bowel movements
Exercise on a regular basis - This will help regulate bowel movements
Keep your anal area dry and clean
Following these preventive steps will help reduce and prevent the build up of waste materials in the large intestine. By doing this, you are reducing your chances of becoming constipated or straining to have bowel movements.

Treating Hemorrhoids

When treating hemorrhoids, the main objective is to relieve the pain and discomfort. Typically, one or more of the following treatments should be used, depending on the severity of the hemorrhoids.

Sitz Bath - Soaking the rectal area in hot water
Pain medications, creams, ointments and suppositories (Tucks, Dermoplast, Preparation H, ProctofoamAnusol) Topical medications are used to help shrink the hemorrhoids
Cleansing the entire rectal area with warm water after each bowel movement
Fiber supplements or laxatives to help soften the stool
If you suffer from hemorrhoids and are experiencing the symptoms listed earlier, these treatment recommendations should help you tremendously. It is always recommended to consult with your medical practitioner first.

Colon Cleansing To Prevent Hemorrhoids

The hemorrhoid information I mentioned in the prevention section, shows that performing a colon cleansing program is an effective way to prevent hemorrhoids.

Colon cleansing is a process of clearing out all of the accumulated fecal matter, toxins and other impurities from inside the colon. This accumulated waste material often leads to serious health conditions and diseases - including hemorrhoids.

By combining colon cleansing with the prevention tips listed above, you will be taking safe and effective steps towards preventing and treating your hemorrhoids.




















Topical essential oils are also useful with soothing hemorrhoids.

Sexibalm

The safest and most effective home remedies for painful hemorrhoids are the natural oils or essential oils. As opposed to dry herbs, which require more preparations before they can be used as cold compress or poultice, natural oils are easier and less messy to apply on the affected parts.

Tea tree oil which comes abundantly from Australia is one of the most traditionally proven as effective treatment for inflammations or swelling common to burns, acne and painful hemorrhoids. Studies have shown that its efficiency as natural treatment comes from its antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial ingredients that help strengthen the immune system and thus, prevent infection. It also has mild antiseptic ingredients that can cure the inflamed anal area.

Apply generous amounts of the coconut oil with aromatherapy (Sexibalm) to the affected area at least twice daily for at least 3 days. Whenever you use the bathroom (or at least twice daily), reapply the oil to make sure the area is covered. You should see substantial shrinking (if not the disappearance) of your hemorrhoids within the 3 days.

I have lavender and tea tree with coconut oil available in a topical balm (Sexibalm) and suppositories in the office. Applying essential oils directly to an inflamed area without a carrier substance can be painful and is not recommended.

You could also put lavender and tea tree oils in a Sitz Bath . You could also use herbs.

Chai Yok We have an herbal vaginal detox steam in the office that can also be used for hemorrhoids. The concoction of herbs used in the steam bath could be the main reason why most women experience its health benefits. Mugwort is brewed with other herbs like wormwood. Mugwort helps in detoxification and an antiseptic. It has also an ability to stimulate hormones and keep the uterus healthy. It’s also used for nausea, fatigue and headaches.

Wormwood, on the other hand, helps in treating bladder infections, constipation, fever and induces uterine contractions. The combination of these two powerful herbs will help ease hemorrhoid symptoms like inflammation and pain.

All of the herbs in the tea are antifungal and antibacterial. They help rid your body of toxins and pesticides, fight infections and even help clear up hemorrhoids. There are also some cases where people use the steam bath before they undergo hemorrhoid surgery.  You could also buy the herbs and put them in a Sitz Bath.  Call 832-237-4200 to purchase.




 FDA Disclaimer The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA (U.S. Food & Drug Administration). Products are not intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. If a condition persists, please contact your physician. The information provided by myself or this website is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with your physician, and should not be construed as individual medical advice. The testimonials on this website are individual cases and do not guarantee that you will get the same results.