Well, it's that time of year again. Back to school. Back to work. Time to get your get your life (and health) in order. If you do not take heed of what I am about to say, then I will be the first to say "I told you so" when cold and flu season hits. The CDC predicts that no fewer than 30-50% of the U.S. population will be hit by the H1N1 virus and that these flu sufferers could occupy a vast majority of ER and hospital waiting room space. My response? Bring It On! As I have been saying for years, Chinese  herbs are the only true line of defense against the flu. Tamilu doesn't work and neither does the flu shot. There. I said it.

So what are your options? If you want to prevent cold and flu, you have to exercise, eat well, and limit intake of soft drinks, sugar, refined foods, caffeine, and alcohol. Additionally, I suggest a combination of vitamins and my formula from FlyRight called Ground Support. More immune-depleted individuals will need my Immune Support Formula

If you do get sick, then you will need to take much yuckier-tasting herbs like my line of Cold & Flu Formulas, Bronchitis Formula, or Productive Cough Formula. They all taste bad, but are extremely effective. People that do not take these formulas end up with chronic sinus infections, bronchitis, and even pneumonia. So, if you have a cold, flu, or respiratory issue, get in here!

Frozen shoulder can be a frustrating condition. Stiffness and pain can stem from inflammation around the shoulder, and the ensuing lack of use can cause the muscles to atrophy, creating a vicious cycle that limits rehabilitation.

Acupuncture produces a two-tiered effect: 1) reduced inflammation to promote the healing process and 2) less pain, allowing for more stretching and exercise to strengthen the shoulder. In addition, acupuncture promotes circulation, helping out the restorative process by boosting white blood cell count.

A December 2001 controlled study by the Hong Kong Medical Journal found that frozen shoulder patients treated with acupuncture and exercise recovered much quicker than those relying solely on exercise therapy.

While there is still plenty of debate regarding ginkgo's affects on Alzheimer's disease or stroke recovery, I prefer to focus on the more proven aspects of ginkgo. Ginkgo contains terpene lactones -- compounds that stimulate circulation throughout the body and particularly towards the brain. This produces ginkgo's first direct benefit: an increase in overall circulation.

Because ginkgo increases circulation to the brain, its users often note an increase in mental clarity, memory, and focus. Think of it as a logical workflow -- the increased circulation allows the brain to work more effectively, thus leading to a sharper, more-aware mind. Additionally, I often prescribe ginkgo for tinnitus, as it has a direct impact on the cranial nerves related to hearing.

Ginkgo can be found on your local drug store shelf, but  I use a purer extract for better absorption and greater efficacy.