Natural solutions for smoky air

Are there natural solutions to help your body cope with the terrible air quality that we are currently experiencing in the Bay Area as a result of the Napa fires?

The answer is: yes, but it may not be through homeopathy UNLESS you have clear symptoms that are due to the smoky air.  My personal view (based on my experience and how I was trained) is that it is really only possible to select a similar remedy (the basis of homeopathy) when you have some identifiable symptoms.  If you are experiencing troublesome symptoms from the poor air quality (coughs, headaches, eye irritation, etc), please contact me - I may be able to help.

Try the following approaches to help protect yourself and your family from the effects of the smoke:

Common sense measures:

• Stay indoors as much as possible
• Keep windows closed
• Don't burn incense or sage "to clear the air" - it will only add more smoke
• Don't vacuum, as this can stir up dust particles and make the air worse
• If you have to be outside, masks may help IF they are of the correct quality. Air purifying respirators such as an N95 respirator or a P100 filter on a reusable facepiece will remove the fine particulate found in wildland fire smoke. However, they will not filter gases such as carbon monoxide.

Nutritional suggestions:

• Eat at least 5 servings (and ideally 7-9) of colorful vegetables and fruits (this provides anti-oxidants, vitamin C, carotenes and fiber, along with some minerals).  This will help your body to deal with the toxins in the smoky air.
• Make sure you are getting enough vitamin A, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids.  Cod liver oil is a great source for these.  This can help your respiratory system and immune system to combat the effects of the smoke.  Omega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory, so will help to reduce the inflammation and allergic symptoms from polluted air.
• It's even more important that you eat whole, nutrient dense foods at this time.  Avoid junk foods and products made with refined grains, vegetables oils and sugar. These "food-like products" are highly inflammatory to your body.
• Eat healthy fats, such as grass-fed ghee, butter, olive oil or coconut oil.
• Drink plenty of water.  Hot teas, or warm drinks with honey and lemon juice may help to soothe irritated throats.
• Call me if you want more advice on food choices, or nutritional supplements - 650 557 2160.

When these measures are insufficient and symptoms appear, or if you are especially sensitive, then you might need a homeopathic remedy based on the symptoms.  There are times when remedies can be used prophylactically, such as in epidemics, when the epidemic remedy has been identified (based on the prevalent typical symptoms of the illness).  Natrum arsenicosum 30c is often used as a homeopathic remedy for smoke exposure with fairly non-specific symptoms.  As with all homeopathic dosing, if the remedy hasn’t helped after 3-4 doses, it is not the right choice and you should stop taking it and look for a better match for your symptoms. If you are currently receiving homeopathic treatment for a chronic condition, please call me before taking any other homeopathic remedy, as it may interfere with your long-term treatment. Call me for homeopathic advice - 650 557 2160.

Gemmotherapy extracts (made from plant buds, rootlets or shoots - a bit like plant stem cells) can be helpful in this situation. I would suggest Common Alder (Alnus glutinosa) which reduces inflammation and aids healing, Dog Rose (Rosa canina) which reduces inflammation in mucous membranes and enhances immune response, and Black currant (Ribes nigrum), which reduces inflammation and allergic response, enhances immune response and supports adrenal function.  Be careful with Black currant, as it can be overstimulating to some people.  Buy gemmo extracts at www.vitalextract.com.

You might like this useful article:  http://kivasenchantments.com/smoke.html