Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale) can be very beneficial for our health.However, sometimes their presence can be a nuisance. It is hard to appreciate their joyful colour when in bloom, especially if we are sensitive to their pollen. Botanically we can use their leaves and roots which contain Vitamins A, B, C and E, Potassium, Calcium, Sodium, Phosphorus, Iron, Nickel, Cobalt, Tin, Copper and Zinc. They also contain taraxerol, choline, levulin, inulin and pectin. Administer morning to evening for best results. A few key medicinal properties are:
- Dandelion root is well known for its liver strengthening, water-removing (diuretic), and detoxifying properties;
- Inulin (up to 25%) makes it very helpful to the kidneys and pancreas;
- They have been used when jaundice and gallstones are present;
- The phosphorus helps to improve the enamel of the teeth;
- Dandelion can also be used to lower blood pressure;
- The raw juice from a broken stem, if applied to a wart and allowed to dry four times a day for two to three days it will dry up the wart. It can also be used on corns, acne and blisters.
Summer Schedule
Just to add to my bionic parts, starting with a knee replacement last July, I was scheduled for a hip replacement in May of this year. Since that is “elective” surgery I was bumped and now have a confirmed date of July 8th so I will need at least two weeks off to initiate my recovery. Those of you who use my online booking calendar will notice July 8 –21st are blocked off. My apologies for any inconvenience.
ICBC Coverage (Finally)
After several years of negotiating ICBC has finally recognized Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture as a bona fide medical treatment. In addition, we can now direct bill for treatments so that if you have the misfortune of being injured in a vehicle accident, you can choose acupuncture as a primary modality for treatment. The initial coverage is for ten treatments and if the severity of your injuries requires more, we can get an extension. The best part is that you won’t be financially burdened or be forced to hire a lawyer to receive your choice of treatments. Previously we were classified as a discretionary modality that could only be obtained through the services of a lawyer and receiving a settlement for your claim could require months, if not years of delay.
Rate Increase
We are all aware that the cost of services continues to go up and although I have delayed raising my fees as long as possible, I have made a slight fee increase effective July 1, 2019. My senior rates remain unchanged and the other new rates are listed on my online calendar. In case you missed my announcement I’m now able to direct bill for most extended health plans. You just cover any portion not covered by your plan. Make sure your bring your card with you so we can process the online payment.
Sunshine and Vitamin D
Summer is a great time to replenish our vitamin D stores and enjoy its many health benefits. It does require us to use a safe exposure to sunlight and use an appropriate form of protection. Our natural metabolizing reaction that occurs on our skin does require process time so avoid showering for at least an hour after sunshine exposure to allow this natural process to occur. Research has shown that approximately 80% of North Americans may be vitamin D deficient. An internet search will reveal that current research has implicated a vitamin D deficiency in many varieties of cancer as well as a plethora of other pathologies. If your lifestyle prevents you from getting a healthy level of sunlight exposure, I highly recommend that you protect your metabolism with a good quality supplement. Make sure that it is vitamin D3, since the synthetic D2 (ergocalciferol) is not as effective. Shaklee’s scientifically proven vitamin D3 is an excellent choice. A good rule of thumb to follow is once your shadow gets longer than you are tall, it’s time to start or increase your vitamin D3 supplementation.
Good health and enjoy your summer,
Dr. Bill