Energy medicine is founded on the idea that all physical and emotional problems stem from energy imbalances within our bodies, commonly referred to as Qi (Chi), Prana, Vital fluid or Innate Intelligence.
Energy healing modalities engage the subtle energy system to balance and stimulate your body’s natural ability to heal itself. They are noninvasive and safe.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an herb that can boost energy and provide an overall sense of well-being, while strengthening immunity against stress, aging and disease. Ashwagandha contains active compounds called withanolides which may assist with anxiety disorders or depression; its roots and leaves have long been used as medicine, including for anxiety disorders and depression treatment. Ashwagandha can also have a calming effect on nervous systems which helps with sleep as it enhances endurance while increasing oxygen intake; making it a great caffeine alternative that won’t give jitters or insomnia associated with energy drinks!
An innovative 60-day, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial demonstrated that a standardized extract of ashwagandha reduced self-reported levels of stress while increasing hormones that promote sleep in healthy adults. Study participants either took either 240 mg of this extract or its placebo daily for the duration of the study, with all parameters (hemoglobin, white blood cell count, platelet count etc.) remaining within normal range at study’s conclusion.
Ashwagandha contains withanolides, an ingredient which inhibits cancer cell activity and tumor growth by stimulating cell repair processes and increasing chemotherapy drug effectiveness, in addition to offering antioxidant protection and decreasing inflammation. Ashwagandha can be useful against breast, colon, lung and prostate cancer as well as neurodegenerative disorders and autoimmune conditions.
There isn’t enough data on ashwagandha to assess its safety for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. Ashwagandha may reduce effectiveness of some antihyperglycemic and blood pressure-lowering medicines; additionally it might make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and environmental hazards and could increase testosterone levels for men with hormone-sensitive prostate cancer – for more advice and to prevent unnecessary risk talk to one of Banner Health’s specialists before taking ashwagandha or any other supplement.
Citrulline
Citrulline, a non-protein amino acid that can be converted to arginine and then into nitric oxide to increase blood flow, occurs naturally within our bodies as well as being present in various foods like watermelon. Evidence indicates that supplementation has helped improve glucose metabolism for those living with type II diabetes and increase beta-oxidation – the process by which fat is turned into energy – as well as stimulating protein synthesis in muscles – something which may prove helpful to those suffering from malnutrition. Citrulline may help enhance exercise performance by increasing blood flow and nitric oxide production, while also decreasing ammonia buildup during long sessions of physical activity. Citrulline supplements are available. Citrulline comes in two forms, both readily absorbed by the body; one gram of citrulline malate provides about half as much citrulline than its free-form equivalent; however, its benefits still make an impactful statement about how your health should improve over time.
Some studies indicate that L-citrulline may reduce blood pressure, although larger and longer-term studies are needed to validate these claims. Other research has demonstrated how citrulline malate can increase muscle mass while simultaneously decreasing fat weight; as well as increase strength and power in trained athletes. Some research also indicates its potential use in treating erectile dysfunction.
Even though supplements can have many potential advantages, it is wise to consult a physician prior to taking them. This is particularly important if taking blood pressure medication; supplements could cause an unexpected drop in your blood pressure when combined with certain medicines. Furthermore, supplements aren’t advised for people suffering from digestive conditions or cardiovascular diseases and pregnant women should steer clear.
Energy medicine is a form of complementary and alternative medicine based on the belief that there exist energy fields around and within our bodies which can be harnessed to heal ourselves. Originating in ancient healing traditions, modern conventional physicians now include it as part of integrative care plans as an aid against chronic conditions such as heart disease and obesity.
