• The book highlights vitamin A's effectiveness in treating acne, from moderate doses for mild cases to synthetic forms (e.g., 13-cis retinoic acid) for severe acne, despite potential side effects like dry eyes and toxicity risks at high doses.
• Contrary to traditional views, dietary adjustments (e.g., reducing trigger foods like chocolate and fried foods) can aid acne management. Zinc deficiency worsens acne, and supplements can treat severe conditions like acrodermatitis enteropathica.
• Shiatsu, a Japanese pressure-point technique, relieves ailments like headaches and sore throats. Acupuncture, widely accepted in the U.S., treats conditions ranging from chronic pain to asthma, with emerging modern adaptations like laser stimulation.
• The book challenges diet's irrelevance in arthritis, citing low-fat diets and vitamin B6 for symptom relief. Exercise, ice water therapy and even sleeping bags for morning stiffness are recommended as holistic approaches.
• The encyclopedia advocates for natural healing, offering evidence-backed remedies (e.g., vitamin C for asthma, oat bran for cholesterol) to inspire decentralized, self-reliant health practices beyond pharmaceuticals.

In an era where holistic health is gaining traction, "The Practical Encyclopedia of Natural Healing" by Mark Bricklin emerges as a comprehensive guide, offering a treasure trove of insights into the world of natural remedies and therapies. The book's fascinating content reveals how it challenges conventional wisdom and provides practical solutions for everyday health issues.

One of the most intriguing sections of the book focuses on the role of vitamin A in combating acne. For decades, dermatologists have recognized the potential of vitamin A in various forms to transform skin health. For those with mild but persistent acne, moderate doses of supplemental vitamin A can be a game-changer. However, for severe cases, doctors often prescribe a synthetic form known as 13-cis retinoic acid. This powerful substance has demonstrated remarkable efficacy, with one study showing a 75 percent reduction in sebum production after just one month and significant improvements in acne conditions within four months.

While the benefits are undeniable, the synthetic form of vitamin A is not without side effects. Dry eyes and inflamed lips are common, but many patients find these manageable compared to the discomfort of severe acne. It is crucial to work closely with a healthcare provider, as high doses of vitamin A can lead to toxicity, causing headaches and nausea.

The book also challenges the traditional view that diet has no impact on acne. Many individuals have observed that certain foods, such as chocolate, nuts, coffee, fried foods and cola drinks, can exacerbate their acne. This suggests that dietary adjustments could be a valuable addition to acne management strategies.

Zinc, often overlooked, is highlighted as a crucial element in the fight against acne. A low-zinc diet may worsen or even trigger acne, particularly the pustular type. Research from the University of Nebraska indicates that high dietary fat can impair zinc utilization, potentially explaining why some people see improvements when they reduce fat intake.

Beyond acne, zinc plays a vital role in treating acrodermatitis enteropathica, a rare but serious inherited disorder. This condition causes severe skin lesions, disrupted bowel function, poor nutrient absorption and stunted growth. Without treatment, it can be fatal. However, zinc supplements have been shown to control the disease completely. In 1974, Dr. E. J. Moynahan reported that children with this condition experienced the disappearance of skin problems and complete normalization of bowel symptoms when given zinc supplements.

The book also explores shiatsu, a Japanese healing technique that combines acupuncture and massage. By applying firm pressure to specific body points, shiatsu is believed to improve blood flow, relieve tension, and alleviate ailments like headaches, migraines and sore throats. Jerry Teplitz, a former lawyer turned shiatsu practitioner, has witnessed its effectiveness even in unexpected places, such as prisons. His demonstrations have led to prisoners adopting shiatsu techniques among themselves, highlighting its accessibility and potential for self-application.

Acupuncture, rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, has gained acceptance among thousands of American doctors. Although the exact mechanism remains debated, studies suggest it may work by blocking pain signals or triggering endorphin release. One compelling story comes from a Canadian doctor who found relief from chronic back pain through acupuncture, prompting calls for more research into this ancient therapy.

Acupuncture is now used to treat a wide range of conditions, from asthma and arthritis to migraines and color blindness. Practitioners are also experimenting with electrical stimulation, laser beams and vitamin injections at acupuncture points.

The book delves into the potential of natural remedies for arthritis, challenging the notion that diet is irrelevant. Evidence suggests that a low-fat diet can arrest symptoms in some rheumatoid arthritis patients, while vitamin B6 supplements have been shown to alleviate carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.

Exercise is emphasized as a crucial component of arthritis management. For those with morning stiffness, sleeping in a sleeping bag might provide relief, as anecdotal evidence suggests. Ice water therapy is another promising approach, with studies showing significant pain relief when applied to arthritic knees.

"The Practical Encyclopedia of Natural Healing" is a guide to empowering individuals with knowledge and encouraging informed health choices. From vitamin C for asthma to oat bran for lowering cholesterol, the book offers a wealth of insights that challenge conventional wisdom and inspire a more holistic approach to health.

Watch this video about Mark Bricklin's book "The Practical Encyclopedia of Natural Healing."

This video is from the BrightLearn channel on Brighteon.com.

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