Greetings of health Jackie (and everybody :) --

First, some general information from Dr. Christopher's writings on migraines (the first section is from "Every Woman's Herbal" which was compiled after his death - so there is information from other authors included).  You may want to 'note' the relationship of colon health & migraines/headaches - there's MUCH more on that after these Dr. Christopher excerpts :)

Headaches can stem from several sources.  Very common is the constipation headache, where compressed fecal matter presses on the nerves that affect the head.  We have seen severe migraine headaches cured by taking a catnip enema.  For longer-term relief, the lower bowel formula can heal the bowel so that there is no constipation.

Food allergies are another very common cause of headache.  The worst culprit is sugar; I have experienced sugar headaches, which are sort of a withdrawal; you eat the sugar, and then as the body is trying to eliminate the toxic substance, your head pounds.  Cheese commonly causes headaches, probably the worst of the dairy products for this, although allergies to any of them may cause the pain.  Meats and eggs are also common allergens.

As for other foods, Dr. Christopher used to say that no wholesome food causes an allergic reaction, and if we seem to be allergic to citrus, corn, wheat or whatever, it may be because we have toxins in our systems that react with the foods, for which the cure is the elimination diet.  It also may be that we are not chewing our foods properly; the undigested particles irritate the system and cause an allergy-like reaction.  The easiest way to check if we are experiencing allergy headaches is to go on the three-day cleanse.  Then add one food at a time, and when you get the allergic reaction, you can know you're allergic to that food.

Stress brings on many headaches in women.  When we cannot deal with the feelings we have, our heads can pound.  Before trying to deal with the deeper issues, there are some remedies that we can apply for immediate relief.  Often our bodies are depleted and need immediate nourishment.  My favorite headache/stress remedy is blending a banana into a cup of pineapple juice, adding a bit of nutmilk, and mixing in one to two tablespoons of brewer's yeast, blending briefly.[Nutritional yeast is a good equivalent to brewer's yeast and is MUCH more palatable]  In fifteen minutes I am calm and ready to deal with the problems that cause the stress.

Peppermint tea is an old favorite for dealing with headache.  Sweeten it with honey if desired.  Camomile, thyme, and ginger tea are traditional too.  You can put ginger into a bath and soak to eliminate the tension and pain.  Rub your feet against the tap for a crude but effective reflexology treatment.  Valerian tea is a sedative and pain reliever. [Ginger is also an effective anti-inflammatory and good for muscle pain, as well as tension:http://www.naturalnews.com/029986_ginger_muscle_pain.html ] 

A thorough reflexology treatment on the feet, working out sore spots as much as possible, can be a good remedy for a headache if the body is in decent shape.  Recently I worked on a woman's feet with so many sore spots that she thought I was sadistically pressing hard.  She needed a complete cleanse before the accupressure would relieve the terrible headaches she suffered.

For a really severe migraine headache, apply cold packs to the neck and head while the patient soaks in a very hot tub or whirlpool.  Be sure to drink lots of feverfew tea and water, take copious amounts of Calc tea [this is the same blend as the Herbal Calcium Tincture] and try to enjoy the bath.

My husband gets severe migraines occasionally, presumably because he does high-stress academic work.  These headaches can keep him sitting up all night because they hurt too much for him to lie down.  Once when he was suffering from one of these I thoroughly rubbed his back with Professor Cayenne's Ointment [this is the same as the Deep Tissue Repair Oil], rubbing out the tense places as much as I could.  Soon he was asleep and slept all night.

You can do physical therapy with a person, adjusting or moving him until he reaches a point where it doesn't hurt, and holding that until he is released.

Be sure that you get regular outdoor exercise.  Sometimes people exercise and then stop, so the toxins build up in their bodies and cause headaches.  Just being outdoors and moving strongly can clear up a headache.

It may take some time meditating, praying, and talking with the people involved to work out the causes of stress, but if you combine prayer with action you will be surprised how problems can really be solved.  If your body and mind are clear enough to work through the conflicts, you will be able to handle them.

Other herbs used to treat headaches are birch, clematis, false Solomon's seal, pennyroyal, poplar, self heal, willow, valerian, lady's slipper, wild lettuce, balm of gilead.

***

At one time, Dr. Christopher offered these two products:

NoMo Migraine Formula #1.  A calming pain relieving extract consisting of fresh organic feverfew, lady's slipper root and valerian root.

NoMo Migraine Formula #2.  A pain relieving and corrective formula which supplies necessary trace minerals.  Feverfew, horsetail, comfrey, oatstraw, and lobelia.

I doubt that either one of them are strong/effective enough to knock out the type of migraines you report experiencing.  Feverfew is an herb I don't have any experience with (it's not a "pain reliever" per se, but I've read it can be effective for preventing migraines).  The Lady's Slipper, Valerian & Lobelia are all sedative/relaxing herbs; the Horsetail, Comfrey & Oatstraw would be for the minerals (all three are in the Herbal Calcium tincture)

***

Dr. Christopher mentioned the use of Kelp as a thyroid healer and as a weight loss aid.  However, other researchers have had dramatic results with the use of Kelp.  Dr. Eric F. W. Powell relates several cases.  One lady was suffering from severe headaches.  Her nerves, digestive organs, kidney and all other organs appeared to be healthy.  She slept well generally, except when her headaches were very severe.  At times she was almost frantic with the pain, which was located at the base of the skull and often extended to the neck.  The doctor recommended Kelp, which was given in a homeopathic potency for two weeks.  The pain vanished.  The doctor said that crude Kelp could also have been used, though the cure would have taken longer.  A young man came to this same doctor suffering from malnutrition and nightly headaches which he said nearly drove him crazy.  The pains were accompanied by intense throbbing at the top of the head.  The doctor noted that the man was very debilitated, thin, nervous, and exhausted.  He recommended that the young man sprinkle a half a spoonful of powdered Kelp over two of his meals, breakfast and lunch, every day.  Additionally, the doctor corrected his diet and had him take deep breathing exercises each morning and to take a quick cold friction bath each day.  Slowly the headaches subsided and he was soon sleeping well.  He also began to put on weight, became less nervous and was conscious of more vitality.  He became more interested in his work and was a far more happy individual.

Dr. Powell also had a woman come to him with a severe case of dyspepsia which would not respond to the usual treatment.  Kelp proved to be an efficacious remedy in this case.  Another lady had suffered from digestive trouble for many years, suffering pain from even the smallest meal, vomiting frequently.  She had spasm of the pylorus as soon as food entered her stomach.  After prolonged treatment and constant failure with various remedies, the doctor tried Kelp.  She experienced gradual relief and is now in a fair state of health.  A lady fifty years old came to Dr. Powell with pain in the ascending colon.  She was also constipated, was subject to sick headaches and always felt very weary.  The painful colon kept her awake at night.  Before the doctor placed her on his usual remedies, he decided to try Kelp, taken three times daily for two weeks.  There was no noticeable effect for about ten days, and then, surprisingly, she began to experience much less pain and was not so constipated.  Her headaches were about the same, due no doubt to the accumulated toxic state.  Within a month, however, the headaches had cleared and she required no further treatment.  Dr. Powell exclaimed what a simple treatment it was, yet so effective!

As mentioned above, Kelp has helped in many cases of headaches.  Neck pain and congestion comes from various causes, but whatever the case, Dr. Powell found it unusual to locate a case in which Kelp could not be helpful.  This also applies in cases of migraine.

***

Mistletoe is said to cure stubborn headache, even migraine.  The extract is also used in headaches which are accompanied by dizziness, in spells of vertigo when there is a tendency to fall backwards, in people whose gait is wavering, who are afraid of open places, get attacks of "pins and needles" in the limbs and suffer from cold feet.

***

Migraine headaches are sometimes cured with equal parts of Rosemary, scullcap, vervain and wood betony made into an infusion.  One woman reported permanent relief from her frequent migraines after several weeks' use of this formula

***

Major Areas of Concern Regarding Chocolate

According to Dr. Joseph H. Fries, M.D., writing in the Annals of Allergy, chocolate is the third most criticized food by researchers in the medical and related professions.  The first two are milk and sugar.  A chocolate bar contains all three.  Fries notes the major areas of concern regarding chocolate:

            Allergy

            Headaches (Migraine)

            Dental Caries

            Acne

            Obesity--Cholesterol--Lipids

            Lower Esophagal Reflux

            Xanthines--Breast Milk Transmission

            Miscellaneous

                        (Fries, 1978, p.  196)

***

The migraine-type headache that people often experience is due to the impaction of the transverse colon.  Headache can often be alleviated by taking some tincture of wild lettuce and valerian or nervine herbs for pain.

****************End Dr. Christopher excerpts*****************

I am not sure what triggers the pain. I think it can be different at times. For example if I am on the computer sitting in my chair for too long I can get pain in my left shoulder/neck area. It is a throbbing/aching pain. It is constant and will last until I take something or stop. Usually by the next day it will go away on its own but I can still be sensitive in that area. I also sometimes wake up with pain in my neck. Like the other day I woke up and could hardly turn my head. I bought a temperpedic bed awhile back so I could adjust my head when sleeping and for pain. It did help but I still often get pain. Mainly the pain is in my shoulders and neck. It is usually a throbbing and achy pain, or it can just be tight muscles. That is why often the muscle relaxers will help. At times it can always be there. Like right now I have had it for about 4 days.  I think that is why the massages helped so much when I was able to get them frequently. I think my muscles are always tight and bunched no matter what I do. The massages seem to release that tension. I think I mentioned before but besides the migraines I get tension headaches. In addition I have been diagnosed with occipital neuralgia. Basically my occipital bone/area is very tender almost always. It is even worse when I get migraines. This is why I used to go for nerve blocks. They were helpful in that pain and would, at times, lessen the migraine attacks.

Occipital

Bone forming the back and back part of the base of the cranium, the part of the skull that encloses the brain. It has a large oval opening, the foramen magnum, through which the medulla oblongata passes, linking the spinal cord and brain. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/occipital

 The medulla oblongata is the lower half of the brainstem.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medulla_oblongata

The medulla oblongata? Is the base of the brain stem - in the back of your head where it becomes your neck...think "occipital".

*****

Basically, whatever affects the medulla can affect  the occipital bone/nerves, and vice-versa.

Here is some very compelling information that strongly correlates "occipital neuralgia" and the medulla oblongata to migraines (and light-headed-ness/dizziness via low bp), to a congested colon...which we know you have. This is from the book "Timeless Secrets of Health & Rejuvenation" by Andreas Moritz.

For example, if the middle part of your transverse colon is chronically congested and weakened, you are likely to develop sinusitis. If someone has accumulated toxic waste in the bent area of his ascending/transverse colon, the functions of his right lung are subdued. When this same part of the bowel becomes constricted or spastic, the shoulders become rounded, the sex impulse diminishes and migraines may occur. Many people, women in particular, suffer from migraines without ever realizing where they come from. When irritating substances are present in the nearby area of the medulla-colon reflex point, nerve impulses pass to the medulla oblongata at the base of the head, stimulating its vital centers. One of the centers controls constriction and dilation of blood vessels. Initial pain causes constriction of blood vessels, whereas severe pain causes blood vessel dilation, a fall in blood pressure and fainting. This results in poor circulation, especially in the hands and feet. Up to 80% of women in the Industrialized World suffer from mild or severe forms of migraine.

You can read more of that book excerpt here: http://tinyurl.com/24pvhld

So, now we understand more specifically why colon cleansing can be SO beneficial for eliminating migraines -- the 'irritating substances' (or various congestion/weakness) presses on a reflex point that can negatively impact the medulla (base of head) causing constriction and/or dilation of the blood vessel/s...constriction causing pain/migraine, dilation causing a drop in blood pressure (symptoms: dizziness & light-headed-ness).  And this also accounts for why they'd 'diagnose' occipital neuralgia.

But where does the nausea fit in?  Boombo-bango-bingo!  When the medulla is compromised (particularly swollen or stimulated), nausea is VERY common!  Here's a general Google search on "medulla + nausea": http://tinyurl.com/2u7249r

Why would Cayenne help?  It regulates circulation, hence bringing the blood vessels back to a more normal state (lessens the constriction that causes the pain; lessens the dilation which causes low bp - light-headed-dizziness.).

So with the deep colon cleansing and the Cayenne (and/or Brain Formula), we've got the best herbs for the situation (if this theory is correct).  But to speed the cleansing along AND provide additional relief, we definitely want add foot reflexology...and look how close the reflex points for your tense/aching neck & shoulders are to the medulla-colon points:

http://curezone.com/upload/_N_Forums/Natural_Heali/BowelReflexPoints.jpg

When doing foot reflexology, of course you want to work the typical points where you're feeling the pain & tension (head, neck, shoulders)...but you'll definitely want to work the colon points  particularly the medulla-reflex/transverse colon points, and the shoulder/neck areas).  Here are foot reflexology charts that show where you want to 'dig in' and rub DEEP & HARD (don't be surprised if you find the points that correlate with your pain are very sensitive):

Reflexology foot map - Dorling Kindersley

Foot Reflexology Chart

Not 100% sure what causes the nausea. At times it is certainly the migraines. OR, the same thing that causes the migraines is what causes the nausea, too.  Medical science is sometimes SO wrong about the 'chicken or the egg' thing -  they always assume that because two things are correlated, that one of them actually causes the other...and they're so "compartmentalized & specialized" that they don't even consider that something going on in your head or  your stomach could be caused by something in another area of the body.  Other times I can for no reason just start feeling queasy. It is not a crampy type, just queasy like I might throw up type of feeling. No difference that I notice in my bowels but I have never checked. This is sounding more & more like 'colon migraines' & nausea. Nausea has so many different causes & triggers (for me it's "fumes" and not having 'my feet on solid ground' - which has absolutely nothing to do with my 'stomach' or the foods I eat).

I'm not saying I'm 100% sure about the colon/bowel-migraine theory, but I do want to point out that when we've been compromised with a certain issue for years/decades, often we have no idea how compromised we truly are...and it takes a major 'ultra compromised' for us to sense anything is wrong at all (because we're so used to being compromised).  If this IS centered in colon issues (and the colon is already compromised), then even the tiniest little movement of debris --that you likely couldn't sense-- could trigger the migraine/nausea/dizziness.---> Sometimes there is dizziness and lightheadadeness with it. No other symptoms and I have never vomited from it, just feel like I could.

Besides my normal nausea issues you also answer in response to one of my questions that some of this protocol may make me nauseous. With my history I think it would be best to be prepared to have several things on hand so that I can try and stay away from the phenergan and the zofran.That's the spirit! I really admire & appreciate you understanding (and wanting) to stay as far away from the meds as possible!  I know we discussed ginger which I will keep on hand. Can you make suggestions on what I might keep on hand for this type nausea in addition to what I get on occasion and the nausea from my migraines? Perhaps several things I might try? The herbs below are typically for 'typical nausea' and it doesn't exactly sound 'typical' to me.   If the trigger point is the medulla, then reducing inflammation/tension there would reduce the nausea (foot reflexology - on both the actual base of skull/neck/head and the colon points associated with them), hot/cold compresses to the base of the skull, Deep Tissue Oil, and perhaps a 'colon relaxing enema' (like catnip).  Of course, the 'traditional' anti-nausea herbs should be very soothing  (particularly the ginger, as it doubles as an anti-inflammatory, and likely the mints would be beneficial, too).  If your 'nausea triggers' aren't food, then the liver flushing may not be all that bothersome (sure, it makes almost everybody a bit 'urpy-burpy', but for many it's not 'extreme' at all).  From all you've mentioned so far, my guess is (other than a typical migraine/nausea trigger), that loosening up the mucoid plaque and impacted fecal matter might be more of a trigger/issue.  Many times we see people post something like: "argh, today I feel like a nauseous, bloated watermelon with gas - what's going on? help!" and within a few hours or the next day...?..."you should see what just came out of me! sheesh, how many years has this stuff been in me? and how could there be so much of it?".

You'd use any of the herbs above as a tea...my second choices (after ginger root) would be peppermint or spearmint, raspberry leaf and peach (can be the flesh, doesn't have to be the leaf). 

You mention above making teas from the above herbs. Can you give me instructions and where I would buy them?

Generally, 1 heaping tablespoon of dried herbs to a pint of pure water is what we use for a tea.  If it's a "soft herb" (like a flower or leaf), then boil the water and pour it over the herb, turn off the heat/cover and let it steep for 15-20 minutes.  If it's a "hard herb" (like a root or seed), the mix the herb with the water, bring it to a boil, cover & simmer for 15-20 minutes.  Then strain through a stainless mesh sieve and enjoy :)  Sources below.

Do you know how fast these type things work? If the herb/tea (or therapy) you're using is one that hits the bullseye, relief can be immediate, or with 10-15  minutes. Also is there anything I could carry with me? Sometimes it happens when I am out. I always have my migraine meds on me and anti-nauesa pills. It would be great if there was something I could carry with me in case I get nauseous while I am out.

I did see you mention a tip that said “Always have a ginger in your hand; fresh ginger root that you can chew on when you feel any waves of nausea coming.”  How long will unpeeled ginger last just wondering if that is anything I could carry?

Well, since it's looking more and more like your nausea & migraines might have the same/similar trigger (the dizzy-light-headedness AND nausea are also associated with the medulla...which relates directly back to the colon (from above), the Cayenne Tincture or Brain Formula might also bring relief.

Ginger-to-go? :) Crystallized ginger is available in almost every supermarket, and you can always just slice a ginger root and lay the pieces on a cookie sheet in a low-oven and dehydrate them (put 'em in a baggie and chew on a piece 'whenever').  Ooh, and I just remembered, even though we don't have it listed in our Storefront, we have ginger root tincture (that's something you can easily make yourself - just grab a quart jar, chop up a cup or two of ginger root, fill the jar with100 proof vodka, whiz it in the Vita-Mix, put in back in the jar (shake it several times daily), and in a few days it will be very effective (sure, it'd be 'more-better-effective' if it tinctured for weeks; but fresh/juicy roots like ginger make a quick/fast tincture). So be sure to get a 'sample size' if you wanna try it out  :)

I realize you can't just sit down, take of your shoes and start rubbing your feet in the middle of the grocery store, but you can rub your hands, so here's the hand reflexology chart:

Reflexology hand map - Dorling Kindersley

I realize rubbing certain spots on your hands & feet likely sounds pretty crazy...I know it seemed like there was no WAY it could possibly be effective when I first heard about it.  In fact, I basically 'dismissed it' as a "minor therapy" for years :(  Then one night I was having some gallbladder twinges, rolled my eyes, grabbed my stethoscope, hopped on the bed and yelled at Rocky to come in and "rub my liver/gallbladder point" while I listened.  I couldn't BELIEVE what I heard & felt.  My liver started making major sounds (very similar to a really good coffee enema or a liver flush!), and the relief was immediate.  I was flabbergasted (and seriously po'd with myself for disregarding something that I'd always known Christopher/Schulze utilized effectively).  So work the points that correlate with your head/neck and your colon (particularly transverse)...and you might find you get substantial relief quickly. 

By the way, with food/hand reflexology, the left side of our body is on the left hand/foot, and the right side is on the right/hand foot.  The top of the head is the tip of the toes and the base of the heels are the lower back/buttocks.  So when working the lower colon...the ascending colon will be on the left hand/foot, the transverse on both, and the descending/sigmoid will on the right.

I'd say you'll definitely wanna get some catnip to add to your Coffee Enemas (this is to relax the muscular of the colon and make them easier to retain).  Just add a tablespoon to the 4 cups of solution when you turn it down to simmer.

Mountain Rose sells organic & wildcrafted herbs in 1/4, 1/2 & full pounds, so they're the most popular.  Try to source herbs from North America whenever possible: Mountain Rose Herbs  

I am sure that anything grown on Pacific Botanicals' farm is superior to any other supplier, but they don't sell in 1/4 or 1/2 pound sizes, only full pounds:  Pacific Botanicals - Welcome  (the only thing I don't recommend from Pacific is their Ashwagandha) - I don't know 'what it is' but PB's  is deep brown/grey in color when the other are cream/taupe.  Ashwagandha root (powder is what you want) is never a pleasant tasting herb, but what I got from PB was SO strong I absolutely could not ingest it...however, the person I gave it to thought it was better than that from M/R or Starwest (she & I always had totally different 'taste sensation reactions").

Starwest Botanicals also has a great selection of organic herbs: Bulk Organic Herbs - Starwest Botanicals  You can also get a 'garlic twister' there (and other gizmos and fun stuff) - here's what I use most often for foot-reflexology: http://www.starwest-botanicals.com/product/1-7-suribachi-wooden-pestle.html

As far as drinking fish oil I have had things like the carslons and such before and it was not bad but I usually take pills. I will continue to use what I have and when that is done I will check into others.  That'll work - Carlson's is as good as any (until you get into the ultra-pricey stuff).

Have you had anyone experience tiredness from the St. John’s Wort? I read some people take it before bed because of that issue. If it does make me tired can I take  it all at one time instead of spread thru the day?  I've never heard of anyone experiencing "tiredness" from SJW...hmmm.  Yes, you could 'take it all' at night, rather than spread throughout the day.

Problem is I won’t know when I will get a migraine unless I wake with one. Guess I am just going to have to test it out. Hopefully I will not need to take the imitrex.  Reach for the Cayenne Tincture and/or Brain Formula first - but don't beat yourself up if you need the Imitrex.

(Ashwagandha) I take 1-3 Tablespoons daily (mixed with water or juice). I'd start with 1T and work up to 3T (if I need it). Does this get taken on an empty stomach? Perhaps ½ before meals?  If I am juice fasting I do not think it matters since it is taken with juice. You can take it any time you'd like.  Everything always assimilates quicker on an empty stomach, but it's going to assimilate eventually.  When juice-fasting, just add some to the end of a jar of juice, shake to mix and drink.

Also, how will I know if I need to increase? With so much going on with my physically and taking so much I am not sure how to judge my need to increase certain things. I do not know if I start to feel better how I will know what to attribute it to. Hopefully that makes sense.  Of course it makes sense :)  I think you'll be surprised to find how quickly you & your doctor within grasp what's happening and 'how much of what' your body wants.  You know when you need a bigger dose or a different pharmaceutical, right?  Well, this is even easier because we 'interact' with the herbs via taste & smell...and because they're natural to our body.  If you're coming down with the flu and you feel hungry but don't know what you want, just LOOKING at something and imaging it tells you quite clearly whether or not your body 'wants some' or 'definitely doesn't'.  We know when we're craving something - and we know when we've had enough (or too much). This really isn't all that much different!  You've been reading and learning a LOT, and you've got a basic idea what the purpose is of the herbs you'll be taking. After taking just a few doses of each herb, you'll have a great idea if it's something you feel immediately/quickly (Cayenne/Lobelia and the Cayenne in the Brain Formula) or something you don't "feel" much at all when you take them (Herbal Calcium; Kidney Tincture), or some that have an effect you can feel, but not for 10-30 minutes after taking them (like the calming/sedative herbs).  The first time I took Ashwagandha, I felt it 'quite clearly' in 15 minutes or so (it felt like a ton of 'bad nervous stress energy' had totally disappeared - it was crazy-amazing); but it seemed every time afterwards I "felt it" less and less.  Now I don't actually 'feel' anything at all (unless I don't take it, and then I feel that 'stress thing' creeping back..."oh yeah, I haven't had any Ashwagandha yet today").  You're not going to be able to figure this out until you have the herbs and start using them (anymore than you can look at a picture of something you've never tasted before and know whether or not you're going to like it).  You're going to LOVE making friends with God's/Nature's healing foods & herbs - it's much more like a 'healing buffet & spa' than it is some kind of a 'sterile clinical/pharmaceutical study'.  And you're going to find that YOU are a better doctor for you than anybody else ever could be :)

(Lady's Slipper) I guess I will have to see how this effects me. Not sure right now that I need any more calming in my life, I could use a little less…lol! But I do think it is worth a try.  It's the herb most likely to ensure a sound sleep.  I feel a bit 'calmer' the mornings after I take it, but NOT more "tired". Other than inducing sleep, one of it's 'claims to fame'  is that it stops/lessens "racy brain & thoughts"...and that's why I feel a wee bit calmer in the mornings after I take it (my brain is only going ten thousand miles an hour instead of ten million).

If I am calculating correct a 2 oz bottle would be 84 drpfl which is about 21 teaspoon doses, right?  Maybe I should start with a sample? I think the ½ ounce sample would 5 teaspoon doses, right?  It looks like Willowley helped you out with this.  Maybe this data will help you with the bigger bottles:

1 teaspoon = 5 ml (milliliter)

2 fluid oz = 59.147 ml, so 11.82 teaspoons

4 fluid oz = 118.294 ml, so 23.65 teaspoons

1/2 oz = 14.78, so almost 3 teaspoons

The thing you have to remember is that every "kitchen size teaspoon" is VERY different.  Willowley's spoon measured 3 teaspoons plus a smidgeon, but yours may measure a bit over 2 1/2 teaspoons.  The important thing is how much is right for you...not how much it measures. It is truly rare that someone is going to be able to discern the difference between 1/4 of a teaspoon and a 1/2 teaspoon (although I do know one man that is highly sensitive to herbs and 1/4 of a teaspoon does make a difference to him...but this is extremely unusual).

Is there anything wrong with using Melatonin as a sleep aide (such as the side affects you mentioned to me with my other medications) or is it the issue with supplements as a whole? Or are you saying that I could wean off as the need becomes less because I will be able to sleep on my own without anything? I am just curious in case the lady’s slipper does not work for me. The melatonin does work better than anything I have taken before but sometimes I do get crazy dreams and also as I said before I do not sleep uninterrupted.

The issue with "supplements" (those that are a substance that is not in it's natural form), is that hese substances may indeed  be a "natural" chemical (rather than something synthetic or laboratory created)  but they are unnatural because they've been chemically extracted from all the other chemicals, phyto-chemicals & co-factors with which they are naturally found.  A quick example is St. John's Wort, which is commonly manipulated to have a certain percentage of the plant chemical they think is effective - a standardized extract of SJW can/will cause sensitivity to sunlight (and cause us to sunburn easily) - but this has never (to my knowledge) happened with a whole SJW capsule, tea or tincture.  By manipulating the natural herb, they've caused something to happen in our body that makes us sunburn easily...so we're doing more than regulating our mood or assisting our muscles to heal, or killing a virus...something is now happening that IS truly unnatural & negative for the body. 

From here: http://www.melatoninfaq.com/

What is Melatonin?

       Melatonin is also known as 5-methoxy-N-acetyltryptamine. This is a hormone that is found in all biological organisms. The level of melatonin inside an organism varies in a predefined cycle and is affected by the amount of light the body receives. Melatonin on humans is produced by the pineal gland which resides inside the brain. It helps the body know when it’s time to sleep or when it’s time to wake up. Melatonin is released at night or in the dark and sort of instructs the body that it is time to sleep. Hmmm, I didn't realize it was produced by the pineal gland - fluoride

Young and middle-aged adults usually produce about 5 to 25 micrograms of melatonin per night. This level declines as a person ages and this is reported to be the reason why older persons have difficulty sleeping. Two forms of melatonin exist on the market, the natural form which comes from the pineal gland of animals and the synthetic form which is made from reacting certain chemical compounds. Natural melatonin may pose a risk to humans because it can be contaminated with animal viruses. Synthetic melatonin is safer to use because it is free from biological contaminants.

Melatonin Side-Effects

       The most common Melatonin side-effect is headache and/or an altered sleep pattern. Mental or mood changes may also occur as well as itching, fast heartbeat or heavy headedness. Melatonin may cause lowering of the body temperature. Vivid dream is also associated with melatonin use. Melatonin side-effects are usually temporary and can be relieved by reducing the melatonin dosage.

What are the precautions when using Melatonin?

       If you have immune system disorder, diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, stroke or depression you should consult first your doctor before taking melatonin supplements. You should limit alcohol consumption because it may aggravate some of the side effects of this medicine. Extra caution is advised when you are performing tasks that require alertness such as driving. It is not recommended to take melatonin if you are planning to have pregnancy. Melatonin is not recommended for persons under 20 years old.

1. Melatonin Sleep Aid and for Vivid Dreams - Melatonin is a natural sleeping aid.  Seriously?  NATURAL?

From here: http://www.herbal-supplements-guide.com/melatonin-side-effects.html

Melatonin Side Effects

As with all hormonal supplements, there are many different potential melatonin side effects to contend with which may make this a unwise choice for your condition, unless you find a quality supplement with recommended dosages.

Hopefully there will be more adequate clinical trials to prove the saftety of melatonin supplements.

Reported melatonin side effects include headaches, nausea, depression, nightmares and vivid dreams, irritability, abdominal cramps and dizziness.

Melatonin facts also point to negative effects on the reproductive system as well as decreased sex drive in both men and women.

Since melatonin is a hormone, it can affect many internal body processes. Melatonin facts show that those with depression might experience worsening symptoms. Others at a higher risk of developing melatonin side effects are people with liver disease, seizure disorders and high blood pressure.

Whew, that's a pretty ugly list, eh?  A hormone...synthetic or derived from animals :(

I understand how essential sleep is (and how stressful and 'anti-healing' it is to be without it...I really, Really, REALLY DO!).  But I also understand that in order for our body's natural healing schematics to work, we have to stop chemically forcing the body into actions that aren't normal & natural for it.  Because before our body can truly heal itself, it first has to get back to it's normal homeostasis - balance & harmony.  That normal balance is what we're accomplishing with all the hard work & expense of the cleansing & juicing.  So we view these "supplements" like chemical drugs (because that's really what they are)...we don't "yank them away" from our body, but rather do our best to minimize how often we use them (hopefully we can find a natural herb to use until our body regulates & heals itself) - as as we need it less, we take it less.  Anytime you can avoid taking it you'll be that much closer to actually obtaining that balance and healing you're working so hard to achieve. 

Melatonin is created by the pineal gland using serotonin...and guess where over 90-95% of the serotonin in our body is created?  Yep, the bowel/intestines!  There are many different serotonin receptors & sites and some say that serotonin produced in the gut don't cross the blood/brain barrier...but I've known several people (including me) that got substantial relief from depression after my first colon cleanse (and I've read of MANY more).  The St. John's Wort is also likely to be extremely beneficial here.  Also, we need Tryptophan to create serotonin...spirulina (in the Superfood) and parsley (which you can juice) are two very good sources (also good are asparagus, watercress, sunflower seeds, spinach, cauliflower, bok-choy, kale, most beans/peas/legumes (including mung beans)...all kinds of good things for sprouting & juicing :)

Here's more reading on the "standardized herbs" and how isolated "natural" chemicals differ from the natural chemicals when ingested with all their natural co-factors:

Isolated/Standardized Extracts of plants & herbs

Unknown Dangers of Vitamin C

Ascorbic Acid Is Not Vitamin C

(magnesium) Again great info! I will not continue with the supplement. Now this may be my supplement brainwashing but I do believe there is a need for us to have magnesium, correct? But my guess is as I go more raw and juice that I would get my need filled from greens like spinach, nuts etc and also the superfoods formula, correct?  Correct!  If/whenever you feel like you're low on a nutrient, go here: http://nutritiondata.self.com/  find out what 'juiceable' or other foods are high in the nutrient you want more of, and juice/munch away :)

(Female Formula) I think I will wait since we are trying so much now. If I continue to have symptoms then I can try it  That'd be my choice, too.

(Brain Formula) I am trying to decide if I should just try this now for my migraines only and then I can see after I do some of the cleanses and such if I still need to take this daily for my memory? As we have discussed I do not want to start too many things in the hope that I will not need them after some of the cleanses are done. It might be best to start with the 2oz size which would give me about 16 of the 5 droppersfuls l doses for migraines.  I agree, the 2oz size would be great to see if it's effective for the migraines.  Whether or not it is, if you want to continue using it as a memory aid and for 'brain fog', that's something you can decide later.

I did notice on the link you sent me about it that it states “Ginkgo Biloba has been proven effective for Depression…”. What are your thoughts on this in regards to depression and compared to St. John’s Wort?  St. John's Wort first for depression...always! (unless there's some type of contraindication, of course) Ginkgo increases oxygenation/circulation to the brain (amongst it's myriad of other benefits) and can be very beneficial for depression...but in my experience, the fastest relief comes from St. John's Wort.

When I have an actual migraine would I use additional brain formula as he instructs (6-10 Dropperfuls at ONCE) and also the cayenne tincture? I realize some of this may be trial and error to see what works at that time. Is there any problem with using them at the same time? For example if I had a “killer migraine” and I tried the brain formula and it did not relieve it could I then try the cayenne tincture?   Yes, 'trial & error' (or better yet, "trial & success") is something we usually need to do to learn how our body responds. If it were me, this is what I'd do with the migraine issues you report (after I had acclimated to Cayenne tincture doses at the 2-3 droppersful level): 

What did you mean by “(after I had acclimated to Cayenne tincture doses at the 2-3 droppersful level):” I know with the powder you have me starting “with 1/8 teaspoon as a dose and work up to at least 1/2 teaspoon per dose” but I did not see any plan with the cayenne tincture? I thought I was starting with 2 droppersfuls of Cayenne Tincture #1 3-5x daily (separate from the ACV Bombs) but then I was lowering the Cayenne Tincture as I increased the Cayenne Powder? I do not see daily that I would get up to 2-3 dropperfulls?

Also when you say “after I had acclimated to Cayenne tincture doses at the 2-3 droppersful level “ do you mean that I would not start the plan you have given me below ( taking the 5 droppersful etc) until after I had acclimated to Cayenne tincture doses at the 2-3 droppersful level? I am confused by this because I thought this is what I would do starting immediately when I get a migraine?All I meant was that you don't want to open your parcel (having never taken any really "hot" cayenne), sense a migraine coming on and grab the bottle of Cayenne and take 10 droppersful before you'd had a chance to acclimate to it a bit.

Upon sensing a migraine 'coming on', I would immediately take 5 droppersful of Cayenne tincture and take another 5 if needed (as I explained before). If that didn't work (or only worked partially), I'd take 5 of the Brain Formula (and another 5 in the same manner as the Cayenne). (Note: caffeine can have a positive OR negative effect on migraines...typically positive, but not always. So be SURE to "test" the Brain Formula before taking 5 droppersful. I'd start with 1/2 a dropperful, which is approximately 15 drops - then if that didn't have a negative effect, make my next dose a full dropperful, then my next 1 1/2 droppersful, then 2, etc).  Definitely test the Lobelia in the same manner - sometimes 15 drops of Lobelia is all it takes (and our Lobelia is very potent). 

Thank you for giving me a “plan” you know how much I like that! It sounds like a great one. Caffeine usually has a positive effect on my migraines. But it can have a negative effect when I have it too many days in a row. Sometimes it can cause headaches. I guess I need to see what the Kola Nut will be like, if I will have effects from it.  EXACTLY!  The Brain Formula is only 1 part Kola Nut, so it's not like taking straight Kola Nut as far as the 'caffeine level'...but it does have enough caffeine that I was able to withdraw from coffee without experiencing 'caffeine withdrawal headaches'

(Lobelia) I wonder if this would be helpful with my muscle spasms and pain? Pain that is not from migarines?   Yes, it's very possible.  Lobelia has been used as a muscle relaxant (both topically and internally) and it has anti-inflammatory properties.  Here's a ton of great information on it's historical and current uses:  Lobelia - DJRC Herbal Legacy Lobelia is an extremely valuable herb and it's a serious "multi-tasker" (it was Dr. Christopher's favorite).  He used to say, "When in doubt...?...LOBELIA!"  The only caution is that using too much induces nausea (but using only a little can reduce nausea - via relaxation!).   

So I believe you are suggesting the 30 Day colon -100 IF#1 -30oz IF#2 Ground Flax for the first 30 days, correct? Then we can touch base and see what I should do for the next 30 days.  Exactly.  Since you'll be starting at less than 1 heaping teaspoon, '30 days worth' will likely last you longer.  If all goes as planned, you'll likely want to take bigger doses the 2nd 30 days (so '30 days worth' would last less than 30 days).

(adding psyllium to IF#1) Yes I had that wrong. I think they said that it was a little too powdery so they added the husk. I think I will leave things as is and see how it goes!  Agreed.

Got it! Take the first dose of the IF#2 one hour after whatever I am drinking in the am. I think that even when I am not juice-fasting I will have a smoothie of some sort in the am. That'll work.

We discussed me starting the juice-fasting when I am “regulated to 3+ bms daily”. S if I am correct when I regulate to 3 bm’s daily I (1) Begin IF#2 and continue #1 and #2 for 30 days (2) Begin Juice Fast (3) Start my parasite cleanse with the “UnyWorm dry herbs (to mix into 3 of the 5 doses of IF#2)” and continue parasite cleanse for 30 days

When I begin IF#2 I take the IF#1 as usual “but increase your regular dosage by 1 additional pill, or more if necessary to have sufficient bowel movements.” correct? Perfect!

That does seem like a lot each day!. With just a gallon of juice it is 16 cups already, I think that will be plenty no need for extra fruit! When you say “actual fruit” I am guessing you mean blended instead of juiced? We discussed using fruit in the juices I would be drinking each day. Yep, it's a lot, for sure. And yes on the 'actual fruit' (being not juiced).   Some folks (me included) use a banana in their Superfood smoothie...I usually have that even when juice fasting.  Sure if I wanted to be a "juice-fasting purist", I'd  leave it out - but even Schulze suggests a "treat" of frozen fruits put through the juicer on extended juice-fasts.

What's important is that you get 4-6T of Superfood in you every day...it doesn't really matter 'how' you get it in you. Some people like to add it to Potassium Broth http://healingtools.tripod.com/thn8.html#potbroth (or any type of veggie broth, which you can have on a juice-fast, too) Btw, ignore that part at the end of the Potassium Broth recipe about "it must be taken by sick people only" - it's just a veggie broth that's strong on the potassium side (our sodium/potassium balance is usually WAY too high in sodium, and sodium 'feeds' cancer). If you choose to make it (or any kind of veggie broth), this is your opportunity to 'bolster' a particular vitamin, nutrient, or mineral you want to 'supplement'. This site is GREAT for finding 'what food = what nutrient'': http://nutritiondata.self.com/tools/nutrient-search

That is a great idea, to “'bolster' a particular vitamin, nutrient, or mineral” especially for me right now. I had not thought of that at all, to try and figure out what I might need and get it in my juice or a broth during that fasting time. I had not thought of being intentional during the fasting time with what I juice/make broth. I had thought I would juice the basic vegetables and fruits that I knew were healthy (such as the ones from Gerson I listed) and decide a lot by the flavor.  I really need to adjust my brain to the fact that my juice fast is for healing instead of thinking of it as part of my eating plan. How would I know what vitamin, nutrient, or mineral I need to bolster? Are there ways to figure it out or suggestions you might have? (as if you have not done enough!).

I do see later you did let me know that I needed to “juice high calcium/silica fruits & veggies and whenever possible add high calcium/silica herbs” and to check this site for it “ You're probably going to be getting more vitamins, minerals & enzymes daily while juice-fasting with Superfood & mineral/potassium broth than your body has ever gotten in a whole week in the last 30 years!  Dr. Schulze: "it's not what we take, it's what we assimilate!" - and we assimilate mega amounts from juices, Superfood & broth.  If you have symptoms of a vitamin/mineral deficiency, by all means, add what you know you need (in your case, the plant-based calcium/silica to restore your bones) - but you'll be getting more than you ever have before with the juices/broth/Superfood and the Herbal Calcium tincture.

In regards to the broth it is just the peels for the carrot and potatoes, the outer layers, correct? I saw this post and it seemed to be more detailed than Dr. Schultze’s : http://curezone.com/forums/fm.asp?i=1414814#i  That's a great description of how it's done.  BUT, organic potatoes can be pricey (and non organic potatoes are VERY heavy in pesticides, particularly the skins :(  So if you have to leave them out (or only use a few), then that's okay.  And always feel free to add "other".  High potassium/low sodium is essential for cancer issues (which is 'basically' why this is "the" broth for the Incurables Program).  Most folks are imbalanced (cancer or not) with too much sodium and too little potassium...but when we ditch the salt and do all the cleansing/juicing (and kidney work), this typically takes care of itself.  So, please don't stress yourself over this broth! :::wink:::

I think this answers a question that I had which was when I get to 3 bm’s daily how many days at 3 bm’s should I wait before beginning IF#2? I think from what you are saying I could start IF#2 the next day I do not need to wait to “make absolutely 'persnickety sure' that you can continue having 3bms daily”, correct?  Correct!  And since you're going to be starting with 1/2 doses of the IF#2 (heaping 1/2 teaspoons instead of heaping full teaspoons), you should have any problems at all...if you do, then just take more IF#1.  Some folks 'increase' bowel activity when taking natural fiber, other people become more constipated.  Typically this is something that's easy to see & adjust :)

 Think of it like "scrubbing bubbles that have magnets"...every time you take a dose of IF#2, the psyllium and mucilaginous herbs 'swell a bit' and become sticky-slimey and gently stick to the junk (or lining) of your colon (doing a little 'scrubbing')...and the bentonite/charcoal 'pulls out' toxins. Then it gently pulls away...taking a tiny bit of the top layer of crud with it, and pulling at the deep chunks & pockets. We want this gentle action to happen again and again and again throughout the day...stick to the crud, pull away from the crud (taking a little bit with it) while tugging at the bigger pieces of plaque (and what is in the diverticuli pockets). The more times per day this action happens, the faster and more effective the cleanse will be. 

Sounds like great stuff!

Since I want “the formula in your colon at all times, and not sporadically.” If I am going to be out for a portion of the day I need to take it with me, correct?

The link I have suggests that you start “One hour after your morning nutritional drink …. Do the same ½ hour before lunch, between lunch and dinner, ½ hour before dinner and 1 hour before bed, so that you are consuming a total of 5 heaping teaspoons each day." I think I could add my 6th dose (in the beginning) between dinner and bed, right? Five doses daily works out to a dose about every 3 hours (give or take 15-30 minutes).  6 doses was once recommended, now we all consider it 'optional'...the more IF#2, the better and more thorough the cleanse.  I think I've mentioned before, I take heaping tablespoon doses, 5-6x daily.  Sometimes I forget to set my timer and end up taking doses very close together - it's just psyllium, fantastic herbs in very low doses and a pinch of clay & charcoal.  The worst thing it can do is clog you a little bit (but that's unlikely if you achieve 3bms before you start and you're paying even the slightest bit of attention to your body).  Just be sure to drink at least 8-16 oz of water after each dose.  Once I've been on the IF#2 a couple-three days (especially when I'm juice-fasting), I don't need the extra water...but then, I always drink more than a gallon daily and sometimes over 1 1/2 gallons.  Me n/me body luvs water :)

I think I will be cutting down meat pretty quickly. I plan to try and start raw until dinner next hopefully this week or next at the latest. So maybe I need to do 42 oz of the original and 14oz of the special to be safe? If my calculations are correct 14oz is 60T total so it is 10 days worth at 6T/day and 42oz is 180T total which is 30 days at 6T/day. :::grinning, sighing and patting your hand::: ("just to be safe").  I know this seems so complicated and I appreciate your desire to 'get it right', but it's not a "safe" issue at all.  In fact, up until we created it the Special Blend, Dr. Schulzes Superfood was all the same (all 1/2 nutritional yeast) - he made no "special blend" for those that were still eating meat & dairy.  We did that (made the Special Blend with less yeast, hence a bit less B vitamins and protein) because we know meat/dairy eaters are getting B's & protein from the meat & dairy (and typically need more 'green nutrition') - so the Special Blend has less yeast and more of the other ingredients. I agree with your calculations :)

I am going to be taking 6T/day. Is it better to take it all at once in your am drink or to split it into two doses and have a 2nd drink later in the day? I take 4T in the am, and another 2T if I feel like taking it, whenever I feel like taking it. Some people take 6T all at once - others mix a little in with each juice...whatever works for ya!  Just consider it highly nutritional food (that may give you a lil 'energy boost' within an hour or so).

When I do the Kidney and Liver Cleanses my guess is that I would consume the superfoods at another time of the day besides the morning since I will be drinking other things during those cleanses in the am, is that correct?  When doing the Kidney Cleanse, you have 8oz of water upon waking, soon afterward the lemon-lime drink and soon after than a couple of cups of the tea (with the tincture in it) - that should all be on an empty stomach.  Then after that, whatever you wanna do with the Superfood...?...works fine :)

I have no allergies so the blackstrap would be fine for me! I see Azure sells Wholesome Molasses, Blackstrap, Organic for $6.85 for 32 ozs. I think is my calculations are right this would last about 3 weeks? In ACV bomb I use 3T/day which is 21T/week. 1 liquid oz is supposed to equal 2T, so a 32oz bottle should contain approximately 64T which is basically enough for 3 weeks? The other sizes Azure sells I think are just way too large for me.  That sounds right to me!

So it is 1-3 minced cloves of organic garlic and if I do not use organic than I would adjust up as you said, correct? Right.  Most  organic garlic has MUCH bigger cloves than typical garlic (at least the cloves around the outside of the bulbs), so I generally suggest 2 of the smaller ones = 1 of the bigger/organic ones.  Remember - 3-9 cloves of garlic of ANY size or type is 100% better/more that you're giving your body than you did when you weren't having ANY raw garlic.  You really can't "mess this up" enough when you're first getting into the groove of it all to 'cause harm' or delay your healing...you'll be giving your body SO much more TLC, easily assimilated nutrition and loving maintenance than you ever have, that your body IS going to respond beautifully.  And that is true even if you have an organic banana split for breakfast before your lemon-lime drink when doing the kidney cleanse!  (lol)  Jackie, I know you're just trying to do your best to 'do it right' (and I seriously respect and applaud that).  I realize (I really do) that modern medicine and pharmaceuticals aren't "intuitive" and require very persnickety guidelines and protocols for usage - and that being our OWN doctor is serious business (and sometimes seems really scary or worrisome when we start).  Yet "stress less" is better than "stress more"...especially when it comes to healing.  So please don't think I'm "making fun of you" or laughing AT you - I'm just wanting (so badly) for you to be able to by-pass this lil' learning curve so that you can enjoy (relish even) this wonderfully exciting (and fun, and empowering...) healing journey you're about to start!  I'm off for a lil' nap and then I'll likely have the rest finished this afternoon/evening :)  Uny