Published 16/12/2013
This month I would like to introduce one of my patients, Lexi Brasell, who has just completed Year 12 at Kings Christian College. As you can see from the photo, Lexi looked absolutely beautiful for her formal, which was held at the Arundel Golf Club in October. Looking at this picture it is so hard to believe that Lexi has been battling Epstein Barr virus for months as well as successfully completing her year 12 exams.
The senior years of high school are notoriously busy for young adults as they juggle their studies, social lives and sports. The stress involved often activates this serious virus that is so much part of the “Chronic Fatigue Syndrome” . Many become hypoglycaemic and lose energy and concentration very quickly during the day especially at around 3 pm.
This virus is capable of having long lasting effects especially if it presents during puberty , as hormones are already in a state of change . This virus may affect every hormone , gland and lymph node in the body . The exhaustion that it causes is paramount. The Gold Coast Bulletin has stated that 80% of Australians may carry the virus. Epstein Barr is known as the “Kissing Disease” contracted by contact.
Many of the Tropical diseases are spread through mosquito bites, diseases like Barmah Forest, Ross River Virus and dengue Fever. Be aware if you are entertaining outside of the danger of small pools of water where mosquitoes may breed. Neem trees may be planted around the Barbeque areas to help with this problem and there are many recipes that we may make that are chemical free to put onto our skin to prevent being bitten.
NO MOZZIE BITES 2 teaspoons of lemon scented tea-tree oil 1 teaspoon of cedar wood oil 1 teaspoon patchouli oil ½ teaspoon of Manuka oil Mix all the oils in a 50ml bottle add 2 teaspoons of witch hazel extract and fill with almond oil. Shake well before rubbing on to skin.
We need to take an active role in looking after our own health. Many Australians are realising this fact and are simplifying their lives by growing their own herbs and vegetables, even on balconies in Unit blocks, no large plots of land are needed for this exercise. It is wonderful to see Community gardens springing up all over the country , not only is this for health and financial gain for those involved but it brings cultures and neighbours together as friends allowing each to learn about the different ways of life and customs. They exchange cooking skills experiencing new fruits and vegetables that are not common to this country, so it is a win – win for all as it is capable of healing the loneliness that is often part of big city life.
I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year.
Barbara