With a growing demand for natural or alternative medication, more and more people are moving away from standard prescribed medication.

This is according to the Act of Random Kindness (ARK) Group that has members suffering from chronic illnesses that require regular dosages of medication that does not always ease the symptoms it is prescribed to treat.
Chairing the meeting; Mirriam Bessinger explained that natural or alternative medication became an option for people who could not use standard medication or want to supplement their current medical treatment.

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The use of natural / alternative medicines for pain management, blood pressure, nausea, blood building and other conditions was discussed.

“There are items in your kitchen and in a normal grocery store that could be used to treat your problem. Herbs, spices, fruit and vegetables, and even food by-products could be used,” explained Mrs Bessinger.

Essential oils like lavender, peppermint and rosemary are known for their pain management benefits, and to ease anxiety and inflammation. To control cholesterol, soya beans and milk, tofu, garlic, flaxseed and fibre were suggested.

Nausea and vomiting are symptoms that most members could identify with and were relieved to hear that ginger, lemon, fennel, cinnamon and even turmeric can be effective.

Controlling blood sugar is also an essential part of keeping healthy.

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“Ways to control your blood sugar include eating less carbohydrates, eating more protein and fibre, and exercise, even if it’s just a little every day,” advised Mrs Bessinger.

Those who suffer from insomnia were advised against drinking coffee or alcohol, or eating spicy or fatty foods before bedtime. Instead, reduce the lighting and sound an hour before bedtime, sleep with a mask and reduce noise to almost zero.

“Your health is the most important factor in living a happy and fruitful life. Many of us are not aware of the medical implications of the food we eat. With the use of simple things you have readily available in your kitchen, you can make a huge difference in the way you feel and the way you enjoy life,” concluded Mrs Bessinger.

Before the meeting officially closed, Mike Bessinger, who is a cancer survivor, gave a few words of motivation to the members and played a song he hoped would keep them inspired.

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