SOHMA Integrative Medicine

We offer the best of Eastern & Western medicine without using drugs or surgery

Myer’s Cocktail and Asthma Attacks

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IV Therapy being administered

IV Therapy for Asthma

During the changes of the weather, from summer to fall. Many people begin to feel, well… under the weather. The cold air can cause constriction of the bronchial in the lungs The constriction of the airways has been used in lab settings to help with asthma diagnosis. There is not much you can do about the cold air itself but you can protect yourself by layering up or visiting SOHMA Integrative Health Center.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a disease of the lungs in which they become inflamed, making it difficult to breathe. Usually the cause is inflammation of the lung’s airways. This causes a number of symptoms including coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and most notably wheezing when breathing. Depending on the constitution of the person, asthma attacks can be triggered easier at night, during colder seasons, during exercise or other physically strenuous events.

The life saving rescue inhaler should always be available if you suffer from asthma. Although there is no substitute for rescue inhalers during an asthma attack, it is not without its downsides. Long term use and more importantly, over use of a rescue inhaler can lead to infections like thrush, and lower bone mineral density in later life.

Asthma Triggers

Unfortunately there is no known cure for asthma. But it is treatable, and symptoms can be prevented by avoiding triggers such as:

  • Allergens
  • Cold Air
  • Mold 
  • Tobacco Smoke
  • Outdoor Air Pollution
  • Pests
  • Some Medication
  • Fragrances

In large cities outdoor air pollution is unavoidable to a certain extent. Pollution can come from many different sources including cars, factories and smoke from fires. Smoke from wildfires is made up of a mix of small particulates and harmful gasses, these can trigger an asthma attack.

The best way to avoid these triggers is to pay attention to air quality index on either television or online, and plan your activities accordingly. 

Pests such as cockroaches, mice and dust mites, often found where food is eaten and crumbs or leftovers are left behind produce many triggers. As a matter of fact cockroaches are one of the leading causes of asthma symptoms in children. As they are particularly sensitive to the shed carapace, droppings and saliva which contain strong allergen proteins. If left unchecked every component of the cockroach can become part of household dust making it easier to trigger asthma symptoms.

There are many types of mold that grow worldwide, and they can trigger asthma attacks whether you are allergic to them or not. Mold tends to grow in damp areas, usually in bathrooms or kitchens but can just as easily grow under carpets after a spill of a drink on a rug. It is best to run exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to minimize residual moisture, and even replace absorbent materials like carpets and curtains if mold is present. The use of an air conditioner or dehumidifier can also help keep indoor humidity low. 

Myer’s Cocktail and Asthma

In the 60’s Dr. John Myers Developed the myer’s cocktail, his intention was to make a non-prescription IV solution of minerals and vitamins that could be used as an overall wellness remedy. The idea behind this IV therapy was to bypass the digestive system making supplements available for immediate use. Meaning you can absorb higher concentrations of vitamins more efficiently, feel and see results far quicker.

Simply put, Myer’s cocktail is a blend of nutrients given to the patient intravenously. SOHMA Integrative Medicine Centers in both Long Beach and Lakewood California now can provide IV therapy featuring Myer’s cocktail. A blend of vitamin C, B complex, magnesium and calcium.

Myers cocktail has been found to be effective at relieving symptoms from common asthma triggers like seasonal allergies, upper respiratory tract infections, chronic sinusitis, as well as being effective against acute asthma attacks. The vitamin C has anti-inflammatory as well as antioxidant properties, which can reduce the oxidative stress on the bronchi and may reduce hypersensitivity to common asthma triggers.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach and Lakewood, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

Platelet Rich Plasma and Your Health

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Platelet Rich Plasma vials

How Platelet Rich Plasma Can Help You

What are Platelets?

Platelets are cells that circulate within your blood that help our body form clots, stop bleeding and other necessary growth and healing functions.

What is platelet rich plasma?

Platelet rich plasma, is plasma rich protein concentrated with platelets, derived from whole blood after separated with the use of centrifugal force to remove the red blood cells. Plasma is the liquid portion of blood, this is mainly composed of proteins and water. The plasma used is taken from the patient, processed then injected back into the affected area, platelet rich plasma injections have been used for a multitude of treatments and procedures such as:

  • Musculoskeletal Pain and Injury
  • Cosmetic Procedures
  • Tendonitis 
  • Hair Loss
  • Post Surgical Healing
  • Osteoarthritis

Tendonitis

Tendonitis is a condition where the connective soft tissue connecting muscle to bone has become swollen and inflamed. Usually caused by overuse of the muscle and joint due to repetitive motion, or from sudden injury. Tendons are the tough, thick bands of elastic tissue connecting bone to muscle. Unfortunately after injury they are notoriously slow to heal.

Platelet rich plasma injections have been used by doctors to treat chronic tendon problems such as tennis elbow, achilles tendonitis, jumper’s knee, and swimmer’s shoulder. All which cause pain in their respective joints, affected tendons and muscles.

Hair Loss

Commonly seen in males, patterns of baldness affect both male and females. Though they differ in patterns they both have a common genetic cause. Male pattern baldness typically occurs on the front or real of the head. While with female pattern baldness, thinning happens on the crown of the head. Thinning in women often starts in the center but usually leaves the front hairline unaffected.

Doctors have injected the scalp with platelet rich plasma to prevent hair loss, as well as promote growth. After a hair transplant platelet rich plasma can also be used to stimulate the scalp to grow new hair.

Osteoarthritis

The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis which affects millions of people around the world wide. This type of arthritis happens when the cartilage around the end of bones wears down. As this soft cartilage wears down you may feel stiffness, pain, tenderness and loss of flexibility. In some cases you may feel a grinding sensation when moving your joints or see bone spurs, which are extra bits of bone that can form around the affected joints. This can affect any joints in the body but most commonly affects the hands, neck, lower back, hips and knees.

Although there is no cure for the damage caused by osteoarthritis, platelet rich plasma injections have been used directly in the affected joint in order to reduce pain, improve joint function and possibly slow or halt the damage to the joint.

Post Surgical Repair

Surgeries are often the final option when all other alternative choices have been exhausted. Not only are they expensive treatments, the time it takes to recover from them can be days, weeks or in some cases, months. 

As well as being used in care for injuries and cosmetics, doctors have been using platelet rich plasma injections to help patients heal faster after surgeries. In some cases taking days or weeks off tof recovery times. By increasing the level of platelets in the affected area, this releases growth factors that reduce swelling and begin to repair tissues. This may also signal the body to send more platelets which can increase healing allowing for shorter recovery periods, and getting back to your normal life sooner.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us if we are right for you. Located in Long Beach and Lakewood, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

Herbal Pharmacies and How They Can Help Your Health Routine

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What Are Herbal Pharmacies?

Herbs and herbal medicine have been used for thousands of years to not only treat ancient illnesses and injuries, but in recent ones as well. In modern times pharmaceuticals have become the more common choice for most people, but herbal remedies have been used by others looking for alternative medicine.

Maintaining a healthy routine is one of the most difficult aspects of living a healthy life. Herbal pharmacies are another tool you can use to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Although you can go to dedicated herbal pharmacies like the one at SOHMA Integrative Medicine Center, you can also buy many herbs at your local supermarket. Many common herbs can be added to your health routine in order to elevate your lifestyle.

Elevate Your Lifestyle With Common Herbs

Having a poor diet is very common in our extremely busy lives. Poor eating habits can include both over and under eating, basically not having enough healthy foods required for a balanced diet, or consuming foods with low fibre and high in fat and or sugar. Poor diets can impair your daily wellbeing, health, and reduce your ability to lead an active and enjoyable life. Stress, exhaustion and capacity to work long term can be short term issues poor nutrition can cause. It can also lead to other illnesses and health problems like:

  • Eating Disorders
  • Depression
  • Cancers
  • Diabetes
  • Heart Disease
  • High Blood Pressure
  • High Cholesterol
  • Tooth Decay

A simple way of elevating your lifestyle to be more healthy is by including common herbs that can be store bought at a local supermarket in your everyday meal. Herbs like chives and garlic have been positively linked with cancer prevention. Studies have shown that compounds in garlic help DNA repair itself, not only slowing the growth of cancer cells but also decreasing inflammation. While ginger and dandelion are great for maintaining a healthy digestive system due to its ability to help neutralize and disperse the build up of oxidative cases that can cause stomach pains and cramps. Cinnamon can help regulate your blood sugar by imitating the effects of insulin to increase glucose transport into cells. Rosemary and parsley are not only delicious flavors, but also help with keeping your heart healthy.

Modern and Traditional Medicine

Herbalists should not replace a health professional or doctor, but may be used as a complementary treatment. Sometimes you may visit a herbalist for non medicinal treatments like consultation about lifestyle habits to reduce stress, pain, or help with your sleeping habits which is an important part of overall body recovery.

Modern pharmaceuticals and traditional herbal therapy have many commonalities. Over half of modern medicine was either inspired or derived from traditional herbal remedies.

Although most herbs bought in local stores are regarded as safe, they are not usually the same for everyone. Depending on your condition, physic, constitution and overall health, a consultation with a trained herbalist is recommended.

Before you make a consultation we recommend you first get a diagnosis from your primary care provider. A problem well stated is a problem half solved. Meaning that knowing what the root of the problem is, is equally as important as the treatment itself.

Once the root of the issue is found, consult with a professional herbalist who understands the contradictions of herbs and any adverse reactions that can occur when crossing herbs and the medications.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach and Lakewood, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

5 Reasons To Take Up IV Therapy

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IV Therapy Session

How Can IV Therapy Help You?

In the 1960’s Dr John Myer developed a non-prescription IV solution with vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Though originally marketed as an overall wellness remedy and hangover cure, today the Myers cocktail is used thousands of times a week for a variety of reasons, as well as the original wellness remedy and hangover cure.

Intravenous therapy, IV therapy for short, is a delivery method of fluids, vitamins, and/or medications. Ingesting supplements conventionally means the digestive system needs to metabolize the nutrients which significantly reduces the amount of said nutrients that end up in the bloodstream, and at a much slower rate. As you age, the body reduces its ability to absorb crucial nutrients due to the change in your metabolism. By administering fluids directly through an IV while bypassing the digestive system IV drips ensure the most efficient absorption of the nutrients for maximum effect, with minimal waste. Therefore IV therapy  can administer a much higher, more concentrated dose of fluids, nutrients, and medications that could be taken orally. There are many reasons to take up IV therapy some include:

  • Detoxification
  • Increasing Energy Levels 
  • Respiratory Problems
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  • Hydration
  • Migraines
  • Promotes Faster Weight Loss
  • Promotes Cardiovascular Health
  • Promotes Relaxation and Eases Anxiety

Often used by athletes, In modern times more and more people have shown interest in this type of therapy.

Detoxification

For people who live in major cities, your body is regularly being exposed to toxins such as pollution, cigarette smoke, pesticides, heavy metals, alcohol and more. Having too many toxins in your body can leave you feeling sluggish and low on energy. It is very important for people trying to avoid an unhealthy lifestyle to consider a Myers Cocktail for detoxification.

Increased Energy Levels

IV vitamin therapy provides your body with a natural boost of energy, with amino acids, calcium, magnesium, vitamins c and b complex. A Myers cocktail blend can help prevent you from constantly reaching out for heavily caffeinated energy drinks or soda that could otherwise flood your body with unwanted chemicals and sugars.

Respiratory Problems

Living in densely populated cities has an increased probability of having breathing issues like bronchitis and asthma due to pollution. Although IV therapy can not cure these conditions, Myers cocktails infusion of vitamins and minerals has been found to be effective against acute asthma attacks. Vitamin C has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it can reduce the oxidative stress on the bronchi which may reduce hypersensitivity to common asthma triggers.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Many people suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome, which usually happens when people are overloaded mentally, physically or emotionally. Some people experience recurring pain like sore throat, headaches, muscle and joint pain. Although the cause of these symptoms is unclear, they can be managed. A few research studies show a lack of magnesium in either the red blood cells or the bloodstream despite normal blood levels. With direct access to the blood steam the Myers Cocktail can deliver the necessary vitamins and minerals to help ease symptoms and boost your energy levels.

Hydration

Your body needs to be hydrated to function properly, dehydration can lead to loss of strength and stamina, feeling dizzy or lightheaded or generally feeling tired. Excessive heat, long periods of exercise or even a long night of drinking can all show symptoms of dehydration. Saline which is what delivers the nutrients to your body replenishes the electrolytes and fluids lost while sweating. The B vitamins in Myers cocktail gives you a boost of energy and relieve dizziness and nausea.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach and Lakewood, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

Herbalists And How They Can Be Part Of Your Treatment

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What is a herbalist?

People have turned to herbs for thousands of years, using powdered supplements, teas, tinctures and creams to aid in treatment of everything from skin rashes to mild depression. Herbal medicine often referred to as herbalism is the study of plants for medicinal purposes. Many different historic and modern cultures have used herbalism in treatments to aid recovery and assist bodily functions.

What does a herbalist do?

Herbalists attempt to find herbs based on your symptoms or pattern of ailments described during consultation. The herbalist may recommend the use of one herbal treatment of a combination of herbal supplements. Common forms of treatment include:

  • Teas
  • Liquid or Powdered Herb Capsules
  • Creams and Ointments
  • Essential Oils

Herbalists should not replace a mental health professional or doctor, but may be used as a complementary treatment. Occasionally you may visit a herbalist for non medical treatments like advice about lifestyle habits to reduce stress, pain, or help with your sleeping habits; Which is an important part of overall body recovery.

Many people suffer with mobility challenges and pain that can limit their lifestyles. Combining your treatment with herbalism can accelerate your body’s natural healing especially if you use common oils like chamomile, lavender and caraway.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy has been passed down for generations  to help the body release tension. By manipulating the soft tissues like muscles and tendons you can help heal the body from most of your chronic pains. If the massage itself seems to be lacking in reducing pain, ask about incorporating essential oils and creams to your massage specialist. There are thousands of different combinations of herbs that can be used to help with loosening and relaxing your muscles, or ease muscle pain and support immune system function. 

Caraway, also known as persian cumin or meridian fennel is a great herb used to help with many symptoms. This herb is used to alleviate symptoms from the common cold, reduce stress, and anxiety. A massage with carray oils can also ease muscle pain and support immune system functions.

Chamomile is a soothing flower mainly used in teas to help relax and aid in sleep. Traditionally it has been used to help treat muscle and joint pain caused by inflammation, cramps, muscle spasms and rheumatic pains. This herb is great for patients experiencing stress to do physical pain.

Besides its amazing scent lavender has, it contains anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Most commonly known for its relaxing benefits, lavender is a surprisingly versatile herb. It can be used topically for cuts, bruises and other surface irritations. In massages lavender is used to relieve pain and promote relaxation.

Insomnia

Nothing is more important to physical recovery, relief of stress and anxiety than sleep. Although you feel as if you are doing nothing during the period of time you sleep, your body is very active repairing itself at the cellular level. A proper sleep cycle also helps with overall mental health. Lifestyle changes may be needed in order to properly get the rest desired for recovery, a simple way to start is with herbal teas.

Chamomile is by far the most common and readily available tea, it has been used for thousands of years as a natural remedy to reduce anxiety and treat insomnia. Often regarded as a mild tranquilizer for sleep inducers, its calming effects may help with initiating sleep.

Lemon Balm is an herb from the mint family, and can be used to soothe symptoms of stress in order to help you relax. When combined with valerian root can help reduce restlessness and promote a healthier sleep pattern.

Made from the purple bud of Lavender flower, lavender tea has been used for years to settle nerves, calm anxiousness, reduce stress and aid in sleep. This herbal tea has made a recent resurgence due to modern stresses that tend to overwhelm one’s sense of stability.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us if we are right for you. Located in Long Beach and Lakewood, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

What Is An Herbal Pharmacy And Why You Need To Know

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What is an herbal pharmacy?

An herbal pharmacy is a place where traditional medicine practitioners create herbal formulas based on traditional recipes that date back thousands of years. Often stocked with raw fresh or dried herbs, spices, seeds and roots.

Herbal medicine is rooted in ancient Chinese medicines used and practiced before other alternative medicines like acupuncture or cupping. Before the invention of pharmaceuticals, herbal formulas and remedies were used to treat ailments of their time.

While in modern times pharmaceuticals have surpassed the use of herbal remedies, they are steadily on the rise now that people are recognizing and searching for alternative and natural forms of healing.

There is a large range of traditional and modern formulas as well as combinations of herbs that may be used to establish a baseline and produce individualised formulas. These can be adjusted according to changes in your body. The formula can be changed or modified to parallel these changes.

There are many ways in which herbal remedies can be applied. The most common of which is a liquid form, consumed in the form of an herbal tea or tincture. Another form is topical applications in the form of essential oils.
At SOHMA we have our own herbal pharmacy. This allows our patients to make the best choice for them while they are searching for alternative methods to improve their physical condition.

Herbal Teas and Tinctures

Possibly the most common way to consume herbal remedies is by drinking it in the form of a tea. Some teas can be used to help unwind, boost the immune system and even reduce pain and soreness. Many of the same herbs used in teas are used in their oil forms, for the same benefits as well.

To help unwind after a hard day of school or work, have some chamomile or peppermint tea, chamomile is a favorite to help calm and soothe the mind, helping you relax and even aid in falling asleep. Peppermint contains menthol which is a natural occurring muscle relaxant.

To Boost your immune system consider dandelion, ginseng or cayenne tea. Dandelions are most commonly associated as a garden weed, it is not only edible but used in herbal teas as it contains high levels of antioxidants that help eliminate toxins and assist the immune system against infections. 

Ginseng tea is used in Asia to increase overall health producing more white blood cells and even shortening the common cold.

Commonly used to spice up food dishes in the kitchen, cayenne tea is surprisingly a good choice for sore throats. The capsaicin in the pepper helps thin out the mucus irritating your throat.

Turmeric tea can be used to help reduce swelling as it is a natural anti-inflammatory. It can soothe some pain from arthritis, migraines as well as muscle pain from a workout.

Some people may not be familiar with what tinctures are. But tinctures have been around for thousands of years as well. Usually a tincture is a concentrated extract from herbs, spices, seeds or barks. Unlike teas, tinctures use alcohol or vinegar instead of water. The alcohol or vinegar pulls the active ingredient from the plant parts making it much stronger than tea. Inexpensive and easy to make, tinctures can be prepared at home.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy works through skin absorption, and the sense of smell using:

  • Diffusers
  • Inhalers
  • Bath salts
  • Oils 
  • Creams
  • Lotions for Massages

These can be used alone or in any combination and can help reduce pains, improve sleep quality, reduce stress, soothe joints and boost immunity among other benefits. Fortunately there are many different oils in the market.

Essential Oil Massages and Baths

Combining essential oils during a massage is also very common. Your body can absorb the oils through the skin to gain their relaxing and healing properties. Many of the essential oils derived from herbal teas can also be used here as well with the same benefits. You can do the massages yourself just pick your favorite oil and warm it in your hands before you begin massaging the affected area.

Consider using essential oils in the bath. Not only will the warm water relax your body, the smell of the oils can aid with relaxing the mind. The body can also absorb the oils infused in the water to help ease tension or soreness depending on the oil used.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us if we are right for you. Located in Long Beach and Lakewood, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

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