Noni juice is made from the fruit of the noni tree and has been used as traditional medicine for many years in the islands of the south and central pacific. The native Polynesians were the first to use noni as part of their medicinal healing, traditional uses include use as a painkiller, anti-inflammatory, skin treatment, treatment of burns, intestinal problems, food poisoning treatment, treatment for bowel problems, and to combat bites from insects.

Today, noni juice is taken as a daily tonic by people worldwide, although most of the production is still concentrated in the Pacific.

Noni juice has been approved by the FSA, providing proof that use of noni juice is safe and non-addictive.

Children can experience the benefits of noni juice as well as adults, although they require a slightly smaller dose (there is no overdose potential, don’t worry!). As a supplement noni juice can have many health benefits for children, if you think noni has the potential to help your child you should read more about noni juice.

Parvo Virus B19 in Humans is best known as fifth disease, a childhood exanthem (a widespread viral rash). Fifth disease is also sometimes known as ‘slapped cheek syndrome’. Fifth disease is most prevalent in children aged 6 to 10, although it can affect people of any age.

Once infected there is an incubation period of 4 to 14 days. During this period the virus can be spread via droplets in the air from the mouth or nose of the infeced person in a similar way to the common cold. Initial symptoms are fever and malaise followed by the widespread rash. Once the rash appears the infectious period has generally passed.

Parovirus in pregnant women can be dangerous, with an increased risk of miscarriage or stillbirth, especially if infection occurs before week 20 of the pregnancy. Treatment is possible with blood transfusions. The good news is that once the child is born, there is no evidence to show that the parovirus infection during pregnancy leads to developmental abnormalities after birth.

More info on Parvoviruses and The Fifth Disease.

Castor oil has been used for many years to clear constipation (it is very effective). The usual recommended dose is one tablespoon for adults, or one teaspoon for children, to be taken orally (ie. swallowed). Castor oil has a foul taste, but you can expect your system to be cleansed within 6 hours or so.

Some less commonly know uses for castor oil include using as a massage oil, and topical applications in either castol oil packs or direct application to the skin. Some conditions that can be treated by the direct application of castor oil include itchy skin, muscle and ligament strains and sprains, warts and cysts and fungal and bacterial infections. Learn about castor oil packs and their uses.

Castor oil may also be used to help adolescent children fight acne. Although there are many chemical/antibiotic ‘cures’ available for acne, none of them are perfect, and many may have side effects. Castor oil is often overlooked as a simple treatment due to heavy advertising of expensive modern medicines.

Article derived from information found at Health Salon.

Taijiquan, sometimes known as Tai Chi Chuan, is a Chinese martial art known for its health and spiritual benefits. Regular taijiquan practise leads to an increased conscious control of ones body. Taijiquan theory is based on relaxation of muscle to create power rather than tension, this makes the sport one of the more gentle martial arts.

Taijiquan practise has many health benefits, both for body and mind. In children, taijiquan has been shown to reduce problems such as hyperactivity and ADD through its relaxation and control techniques. Improvements are made to the cardiovascular health, and, as with any physical activity, a healthy weight is easier to achieve and maintain. Other benefits for children include improved sleep patterns and a decreased susceptibility to depression, anxiety and mental illness.

Taijiquan can be practiced by the young and old, and is an excellent family activity. Why not make it your New Year’s resolution to join a Taijiquan club for the good of your families health?

Read more about Asian Culture.

At the start of a New Year our minds often turn to health and weight loss. Helping your overweight child to make changes in their life at this time of year requires a little forethought.

Encouraging your child to eat a more healthy diet and take more exercise should be done in a way that promotes the physical advantages of good health, and does not consider appearance issues. Discussing cosmetic issues with a child can lead to problems with self confidence and also possibly eating disorders. Tell a child that vegetables will help them grow strong rather than lose weight.

Exercise, of course, is an important part of keeping a lean and healthy physique. Try and include your child in any physical activities you may do, and try and encourage some time away from TV and video games. Joining a club in the new year is a great idea, be it swimming, hiking, or whatever sport you prefer.

Read more about helping your overweight child and parenting issues.