The 12 germiest places in your life

Soap up! - The 12 germiest places in your life

Sure, there are outbreaks of microbes and viruses across the country, but some of these germs are lurking where you least expect them. "Health" magazine senior editor Frances Largeman-Roth pinpoints the 12 germiest places you're likely to encounter during an average day and devises ways for you to keep clean. After all, the fight is in your hands. Literally. Eighty percent of infections are spread through hand contact. So wash up, people, and get ready to wage a bit of germ warfare of your own:

1. Your kitchen sink
Kitchen sinks are dirtier than most bathrooms. There are typically more than 500,000 bacteria per square inch in the drain alone. Plus your sponge, basin and faucet handles are crawling with bacteria as well.

Reduce the risk: Clean your kitchen counters and sink with an antibacterial product after preparing or cleansing food, especially raw fruits and vegetables, which carry lots of potential pathogens like salmonella, campylobacter and E. coli. Wash your hands as well with warm, soapy water for 20 seconds (long enough to sing "Happy Birthday"). Sanitize sponges by running them through the dishwasher's drying cycle, which will kill 99.9 percent of bacteria on them. As for the sink, clean it twice a week with a solution of one tablespoon of chlorine bleach and one quart of water. Scrub the basin, the pour solution down the drain.

2. Airplane bathrooms
It may not be a shock that there are a huge number of germs in most public bathrooms, but experts agree the cramped and overused ones on airplanes are the worst. There are often traces of E. coli or fecal bacteria on the faucets and door handles because it's hard to wash hands in the tiny sinks. And the volcanic flush of the commode tends to spew particles into the air, coating the floor and walls with whatever had been swirling around in it.

Reduce the risk: Toilet seats are surprisingly clean, but use the paper cover when available. After using the toilet, wash and dry your hands thoroughly, and use a paper towel to handle the toilet seat, lid, tap and doorknob. Put the lid down before you flush. If there's no lid, turn your back to the toilet while flushing and beat a hasty retreat.

3. A load of wet laundry
Any time you transfer underwear from the washer to the dryer, you're getting E. coli on your hands. Just one soiled undergarment can spread bacteria to the whole load and machine.

Reduce the risk: Run your washer at 150 degrees (you can check the temperature of your washing-machine water with a candy thermometer) and wash whites with bleach (not the color-safe type; it doesn't pack the same punch), which kills 99.9 percent of bugs. Transfer wet laundry to the dryer quickly so germs don't multiply, wash underwear separately (there's about a gram of feces in every pair of dirty underwear) and dry for at least 45 minutes. Wash your hands after laundering.

4. Public drinking fountains
Drinking fountains are bound to be germy, but school fountains are the worst, with anywhere from 62,000 to 2.7 million bacteria per square inch on the spigot.

Reduce the risk: Send your child to school with plenty of their own beverages and tell them to wash their hands throughout the day.

5. Shopping cart handles
Saliva, bacteria and fecal matter are just a few of the substances found on shopping cart handles. Cart handles rank high on the yuck scale because they're handled by dozens of people every day and, of course, raw food carries nasty pathogens.

Reduce the risk: Many stores have dispensers with disinfectant wipes near the carts. If your store doesn't, bring your own wipes and give the handle a quick swab. Or carry along a cart cover like the Grip-Guard or Healthy Handle.

6. ATM buttons
If you're not careful, you might pick up more than quick cash from your local ATM. These buttons have more gunk on them than most public-bathroom doorknobs! ATMs aren't frequently cleaned, and are regularly touched - a perfect combination for a lot of germs.

Reduce the risk: Carry an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with you and rub it on hands after visits. Also be sure to do it after you handle paper money, which actually carries quite a few germs, too.

7. Your handbag
Recent studies found that most women's purses had tens of thousands of bacteria on the bottom and a few were overrun with millions. Another study found bugs like pseudomonas (which can cause eye infections) and skin-infection-causing staphylococcus bacteria, as well as salmonella and E. coli.

Reduce the risk: Instead of slinging your bag on the floor, hang it on a hook whenever possible - especially in public bathrooms - and keep your bag off the kitchen counter. Stick with leather or vinyl purses, which are typically cleaner than cloth.

8. Playgrounds
There's just no way to put this delicately: Children tend to ooze bodily fluids and then spread them around. When researchers sampled playgrounds, they found blood, mucus, saliva and urine. Pair those findings with the fact that children put their fingers in their mouths and noses more than the rest of us, and it's easy to understand why Junior (and maybe his mom or dad) has the sniffles.

Reduce the risk: Carry alcohol wipes or hand-sanitizing gel in your purse, and clean everybody's hands a couple of times during a park visit, especially before snacking. Pick warm sunny days for outdoor play: The sun's ultraviolet light is actually a very effective disinfectant. Most bugs won't survive long on surfaces that are hot and dry.

9. Mats and machines at health clubs
Antibiotic-resistant staphylococcus has been found on yoga mats and cardio and resistance machines. At high schools, antibiotic-resistant-staph infections have been transmitted through wrestling mats. The same thing could happen at health clubs.

Reduce the risk: Wipe down machines with antibacterial wipes before working out. Bring your own yoga mat or cover a loaner with your towel. Shower after a workout and soap up your skin to rinse off any bacteria you may have been exposed to, as thorough washing gets rid of antibiotic-resistant staph.

10. Your bathtub
Shocking, but true: The place you go to get clean is quite dirty. A recent study found staphylococcus bacteria, a common cause of serious skin infections, in 26 percent of the tubs tested, as compared with just 6 percent of garbage cans. Tubs typically had more than 100,000 bacteria per square inch! You're washing germs and viruses off your body and the tub is a fairly moist environment, so bacteria can grow.

Reduce the risk: Once a week, apply a disinfecting cleaner to the tub and actually scrub. Then you need to wash the germs down the drain with water and dry the tub with a clean towel. If you leave the tub wet, germs are more likely to survive. If someone who uses the tub has a skin infection, scrub it afterward with a solution of two tablespoons bleach in one quart of water.

11. Your office phone
This is enough to make you dial 911: Office phones often have more than 25,000 germs per square inch, and your desk, computer keyboard and mouse aren't far behind. Phones, including cell phones, can be pretty gross because they get coated with germs from your mouth and hands.

Reduce the risk: Simply cleaning your desk, phone and keyboard with a disinfecting wipe once in the middle of the day will kill 99.99 percent of the bacteria and viruses.

12. The hotel-room remote control (and yes, specially in a cruise ship)
What's the first thing you do when you settle in at a hotel? You grab the remote control and switch on the TV - you, and the hundreds of other guests who've stayed there. How dirty is it? A recent study tested various surfaces for the cold virus after a group of sick people had stayed overnight and found the virus on the remote, door handles, light switches, pens and faucet handles.

Reduce the risk: Clean the remote control, phone, clock radio, door handles and light switches with germicidal wipes.

cooking instant noodles

WRONG way of cooking instant noodles!

Normally, we cook instant noodles by putting the noodles into a pot with water and throw the condiment powder then let it cook for 3 mins.

Boiling the ingredients of the condiment powder, which is heavily laden with MSG (monosodium glutamate or "vetsin") changes the molecular structures of the MSG causing it to be toxic.

Instant noodles are normally coated with wax to prevent it from sticking to each other. Once consumed, it will take around 4 to 5 days for the body to excrete the wax after you have eaten the instant noodles.


CORRECT method should be to cook the noodles this way:

1. Boil the noodles in a pot with water.

2. Once the noodles is cooked, take out the noodles, and throw away the water which contains wax.

3. Boil another pot of water till boiling and put the noodles into the hot boiling water and then shut the fire.

4. Only at this stage when the fire is off, and while the water is very hot, should you put the condiment powder into the water, to make the noodle soup.

5. However, if you need dry noodles, take out the noodles and add the ingredient with the powder and toss it to get dry noodles.

Ebola Reston Virus in Pigs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON EBOLA RESTON STRAIN

from www.doh.gov.ph

1. What is Ebola Reston strain?

Ebola virus has four subtypes, namely, Ebola Zaire, Ebola Sudan, Ebola Ivory Coast, and Ebola Reston.

Subtypes Zaire, Sudan and Ivory Coast can cause hemorrhagic symptoms, Reston does not.

Reston was previously found among Philippine monkeys in 1989, 1990, 1992, and 1996. The virus was found in sick pigs in the Philippines for the first time in 2008. It has not been found in any other country or animal.

2. Does it affect humans?

Unlike the three subtypes, there has been no evidence that Reston can cause significant illness in humans. When Reston was previously found in monkeys, few animal handlers were infected but only one had very mild symptoms.

3. Is it safe to eat pork?

Yes, if the meat is prepared safely and cooked thoroughly.

All meat should always be cooked properly until no pink meat and juices run clear and good kitchen hygiene should always be used when handling raw meat.

Proper cooking of meat inactivates viruses including Reston.

4. Is it safe to eat sick pigs?

Meat from sick pigs or pigs found dead should never be eaten. Sick and dead animals should be reported to the Bureau of Animal Industry and the National Meat Inspection Service of the Department of Agriculture.

5. How would we know if the pork being sold in the market is safe or not?

The public should buy meat only from meat stalls with certification from the National Meat Inspection Service of the Department of Agriculture.

6. What should be done when sick pigs are found?

Immediately report this to the nearest Provincial/ City/ Municipal Veterinary Officers. NMIS officers or Meat Inspectors shall not allow the slaughtering of any sick or dead pigs.

7. What is the government doing to address the issue?

DA and DOH are conducting simultaneous surveys to know the extent and public health implications of the finding of Reston in pigs.

Recent testing of healthy pigs in previously affected areas is now negative for the virus. No human has been infected.

DA continues to monitor occurrences of unusual pig illnesses and deaths.

DOH will also continue to monitor the situation. DOH will institute measures to reduce possible risks to human health as the DA reports unusual pig illnesses and deaths.

8. How can we keep food safe?

Keep clean
- Wash your hands before handling food and during food preparation
- Wash and sanitize all surfaces and equipment used for food preparation
- Protect kitchen areas and food from insects, pests and other animals

Separate raw food and cooked food
- Separate raw meat, poultry and seafood from cooked food
- Use separate equipment and utensils such as cutting boards for handling raw food
- Store food in containers to avoid contact between raw and prepared foods

Cook food thoroughly
- Cook food thoroughly especially meat, poultry, eggs and seafood
- Bring foods like soups and stews to boiling to make sure that they have reached 700C. Make sure that meat juices are clear, not pink.
- Reheat cooked food thoroughly

Keep food at safe temperatures
- Do not leave cooked food at room temperature for more than 2 hours
- Refrigerate promptly
- Do not store food too long even in refrigerator
- Do not thaw food frozen food at room temperature

Use safe water and raw materials

MGA MAHAHALAGANG IMPORMASYON TUNGKOL SA EBOLA RESTON STRAIN

1. Ano ang Ebola Reston strain?

Ang Ebola Reston strain ay isa sa limang uri ng Ebola virus. Ang ibang uri ay Ebola Zaire, Ebola Sudan, Ebola Ivory Coast at Ebola Bundibugyo. Ang apat na uri na ito ay nagmula sa Africa.

Ang mga virus na ito, Ebola Zaire, Sudan at Bundibugyo ay naisasalin sa tao at nagiging dahilan ng lubhang pagkakasakit at pagkamatay ng marami. Samantalang ang Reston ay hindi. Ang karaniwang sintomas nito ay lagnat.

Ang Reston strain ay nakita na sa mga unggoy sa Pilipinas noong 1989, 1990, 1992 at 1996. Sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon, ang virus na ito ay nakita sa mga baboy sa Pilipinas ngayong 2008. Wala pang nadiskubre na ganitong uri ng virus sa ibang bansa o sa ibang hayop man.

2. Nakakaepekto ba ito sa tao?

Wala pang naitalang tao na nagkasakit ng malubha dahil sa Reston strain. Noong matuklasan ang virus na ito sa mga unggoy, may mga ilang tagapag-alaga ng unggoy na naitalang naapektuhan subalit isa lamang ang kinakitaan ng bahagyang sintomas.

Negatibo naman ang resulta ng pagsusuri ginawa ng Research Institute for Tropical Medicine sa ilang tao na nag-alaga at nagkatay ng baboy kung saan natagpuan ang Reston strain.

3. Ligtas bang kumain ng baboy?

Oo, kung ang baboy ay hinanda ng maaayos at nilutong mabuti.

Ang lahat ng karne ay dapat na lutuing mabuti hanggang ito ay hindi na mamula-mula o kulay rosas o pink. Dapat din na ang katas nito ay malinaw na.

Ang tamang paghahanda at pagluluto ay nakapapatay ng mga virus kasama na ang Reston.

4. Ano ang dapat gawin sa mga baboy na may sakit?

Agad itong ipaalam or ireport sa pinakamalapit na Provincial/City/ Municipal Veterinary Officers.

Mahigpit na ipinagbabawal ng mga National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) officers o Meat Inspectors ang pagkatay ng may sakit o patay na baboy.

5. Ligtas bang kainin ang may sakit na baboy?

Hindi. Ang mga may sakit at namatay na baboy ay hindi ligtas kainin dahil maaari itong makaapekto sa kalusugan ng tao.

6. Paano malalaman kung ang baboy na mabibili sa palengke ay ligtas?

Pinapayuhan ang lahat na bumili lamang ng baboy sa mga tindahan na mayroong sertipikasyon mula sa National Meat Inspection Service ng Kagawaran ng Agrikultura.

7. Ano ang ginagawa ng pamahalaan sa problemang ito?

Patuloy na binabantayan ng mga Kagawaran ng Agrikultura at Kalusugan ang sitwasyon.

Sabay na nagsasagawa ng pag-aaral ang dalawang ahensya upang malaman ang epekto ng pagkakatuklas ng Reston strain sa baboy at sa tao.

Binabantayan ng Kagawaran ng Agrikultura kung may hindi karaniwang pagkakasakit at pagkamatay ng mga baboy.

Sakaling may ganitong sitwasyon, Ang Kagawaran ng Kalusugan naman ay magpapatupad ng mga hakbangin upang mapangalagaan ang kalusugan ng tao.

8. Paano mapananatiling ligtas ang pagkain?

• Panatilihin ang kalinisan

- Maghugas ng kamay bago humawak ng pagkain at sa paghahanda ng pagkain.
- Hugasan at linisin ang lugar ng paghahandaan ng pagkain at mga kagamitan sa pagluluto.
- Siguraduhing walang langaw, ipis, daga at iba pang mapinsalang hayop sa kusina at hapag kainan.

• Paghiwalayin ang luto at di-lutong pagkain

- Ihiwalay ang hilaw na baboy, manok at lamang dagat sa mga lutong pagkain.
- Gumamit ng mag-kaibang sangkalan (cutting board), kutsilyo at iba pang kagamitan para sa luto at hilaw na pagkain.
- Ilagay sa magkaibang lalagyan ang mga hilaw at lutong pagkain.

• Lutuing mabuti ang pagkain

- Lutuing mabuti ang pagkain lalo na ang mga karne, manok, itlog at lamang dagat
- Pakuluang mabuti ang mga sabaw at nilagang pagkain. Siguraduhing ang karne ay hindi na mamula-mula o kulay rosas o pink. Dapat din na ang katas nito ay malinaw na.
- Initin ng mabuti ang lutong pagkain

• Panatilihing nasa ligtas na temperatura ang pagkain

- Huwag iwanan ang lutong pagkain sa lamesa ng mahigit sa dalawang oras
- Kaagad itong ilagay sa refrigerator
- Huwag din itong hayaang magtagal sa refrigerator
- Palambutin o lusawin lamang ang frozen food mula sa freezer sa loob din ng refrigerator.

• Gumamit ng malinis at ligtas na tubig

Love Moon (Anion) Sanitary Napkins

Winalite Int'l (USA website) http://www.winalite4usa.com/about.php

Love Moon Sanitary Napkins enhance your health with "negative ions" strip embedded within every single napkin.
These strips release up to 5800 negative ions per cubic cm to protect you against genital diseases by eliminating harmful bacteria and odor.

7 Unique Characteristics http://www.winalite4usa.com/product_Characteristics.php
1. Enhanced air ventilation
2. Patented anionic padding
3. High absorbency prevents leakage
4. Strict compliance to international safety standards
5. Packaged in hygienic foil and individual packets
6. Hi-tech production facility meets highest quality standards
7. Vaginal inflammation self-test kit free w/ every foil pack
The product is ISO9001;2000 (Quality & Environment) Certified, Halal certified, approved by US FDA, registered with SEC, DTI & BIR, and covered with a 20-year global patent. Winalite is US NASDAQ (stock market) listed.

Health Benefits from negative ions:
•Increases energy level & stamina
•Enhances the immune system
•Improves body metabolism & blood circulation
•Helps to balance PH & hormones
•Improves sleep patterns
•Aids the body in detoxification
•Inactivates viruses, fungi & bacteria
•Helps prevent UTI & other common diseases/discomforts
•Relieves dysmenorrhea & migraine
•Relieves tension, joint stiffness & arthritis
•Reduces inflammation & common pains
•Anti-aging, anti-stress & anti-depressant
•The only highly-absorbent, 'breathable' & biodegradable sanitary pad with 7 layers

-----

Based on distributors and clients' testimonials:

Common Uses of Anion Strip
The Anion Strip when removed from the Love Moon Panty Liner can be safely placed and used in the following manner:

• Water pitcher - Use as ionized water for around (24) hours as recommended; the water can be refilled when almost consumed without changing the Anion strip within the recommended time frame. Benefits: 1) Instant energy booster & increased physical stamina -- GUARANTEED INSTANT EFFECT!; 2) Detoxicates; 3) Significantly reduces joint pain from arthritis; 4) Drastically eliminates hemorrhoid & urinary tract infection (UTI)
  
• Water pail or basin - Use for body and/or foot bath. Benefits: 1) Anti-dandruff; 2) Reduces wart; 3) Smoothes skin; 4) Relieves stress and fatigue
• Facial cleaner - Wet the pad with anion with cold water and wipe it in circular motion on the face every now and then instead of using handkerchief. Benefits: 1) Removes black/white heads; 2) Freshen your face; 3) Smoothens skin; 4) Eliminates pimples; 5) Reduces wart (Update!)
  
• Nebulizer - Benefits: When placed in its built-in water container and upon application, significantly reduces asthma and other respiratory-related illness
• The strip can be folded in smaller size (do not cut) so this can be easily chewed like a gum -- Anion strip is made of algae, a food grade material, and hence, safe to use. Benefits: 1) Energy booster and increased physical stamina - GUARANTEED INSTANT EFFECT!; 2) Eliminates bad breath; 3) Eliminates migraine; 4) Pain reliever; 5) Relieves stress and fatigue; 6) Eliminates mouth sore
  
• The strip can be placed in aircondition and electric fan units using an adhesive tape. Benefits: 1) Eliminates foul odor; 2) Improves sleep patterns
• The strip can be placed in a freezer and chiller and other places at home where foul odor usually develops -- e.g. shoe rack, comfort room, storage area, particularly underneath the sink, etc. Benefits: 1) Eliminates foul odor; 2) Extend fresh condition of fruits and vegetables

celebrities benefiting from anion:
1) Mr. & Mrs. "Erap" Estrada
2) Mr. & Mrs. Pilita Corales
3) German "Kuya Germs" Moreno
4) Vina Morales
5) Lucy Torres
6) Gretchen Barreto
7) Lorna Tolentino-Fernandez
8) Ding-dong Dantes
9) Rex Cortez
10) Alvin Patrimonio
11) Danny Ildefonso
12) Ogie Diaz
13) Daisy Reyes - Winalite Product Endorser
14) Roxanne Barcelo
15) Piolo Pascual

Are there harmful side-effects? There are none reported / monitored (as of today). The use of anion is popular in Japanese clothing, aircon, ref, car ionizer, air ionizer, water ionizer, detox foot spa, detox patches, and many other products. There are also anti-radiation cards and anion diapers that will be made locally available soon. You may research more about health benefits of anion and feel free to email about your findings.

warning about hold-up modus operandi

This repost warning about a hold-up modus operandi was received from an e-group citing the original sender as "mary ruth causing" dated Thursday, 9 October, 2008.

Dear friends,

I'd like to share a story of what happened to me last Monday, October 6, which appears to be a modus operandi done by people with criminal intentions. My purpose for sharing this with you is to forewarn you of such incidents so that you may keep yourselves safe.

At about a quarter to 7 in the evening, last Monday, I left the office and walked out of Tektite building towards San Miguel Avenue, Ortigas, to ride a cab. It was just right after a brief drizzle, so the roads were almost empty of cars and people, although it was still a bit early. I'm accustomed to going home by myself if I feel like it, and riding cabs without any problems for the longest time.

I was walking along Exchange Road in front of our building, and have already crossed Pearl Drive, when I saw a cab slowly cruising along Exchange Road from San Miguel Avenue. It was an old, a bit dilapidated, white (seemingly) Toyota Corolla, with a yellow-lighted "taxi" on the roof, with black scrawl of the taxi's "name" on the side (I didn't notice the name written there). It didn't have any passengers on board and I thought it a bit odd that a passenger-less cab would be coming from San Miguel Avenue towards Tektite at a time when taxis are supposedly full. I was more accustomed to seeing taxis with no passengers coming from Pearl Drive towards Tektite on its way out back towards EDSA or in the oppposite direction of C-5. But it didn't quite get to me. I was tired and needed to go home to rest. I just thought that the driver was trying to get passengers.

I flagged down the slow moving taxi and got in. I said I was going towards EDSA, so the cab went its usual familiar route of rounding the one-way Exchange Road, out to San Miguel Avenue, left to Megamall, and right towards EDSA. I normally would text Tony of the plate number of the taxi, but at that time, I didn't. I normally would check the locks of the car doors, but this time, I only locked the ones on the front and back passenger seats (right side, because I saw that the left side door was locked). Everything was normal, except that it was still going its slow pace. The driver was a slim-built, middle-aged man, with balding head (some hairs on the side), wore a baseball cap and a worn-out but decent white polo jacket.

Near the foot of the flyover towards Ortigas Avenue and EDSA, he requested me in a kindly manner to please move to the other end of the passenger seat because "ma-fla-flat na po yung gulong ko. Spare lang yan e." where I was sitting. I was sitting at the right side of the passenger seat at the back, and promptly moved to the left side. I was even able to converse with him, saying "a ganun ba? Hindi ba delikado yun na tumatakbo tayo sa EDSA na pa-flat na gulong n'yo?" "Hindi po, malapit lang naman po kayo, di ba? Kaya pa po yun," he smilingly said. And, all along, we were slowly moving across the flyover at EDSA. After the flyover, he slowly veered towards the inner side of the yellow lane, but I thought it was because "inaalalayan niya yung sasakyan."

When the taxi crossed the gate of Corinthian Gardens, it further slowed down, and I saw from afar two men seemingly waiting for a bus. When the taxi neared the two men, they gestured towards the taxi, and it suddenly dawned on me that this could be a hold-up. I initially tried getting the lock of the door to my side open, and was stricken by horror that it didn't budge. It seemed to be jammed (or perhaps child-locked, on hindsight). And the horror of horrors happened. The taxi stopped by the two men, and the driver announced, "'wag ka gagawa ng iskandalo, hold-up 'to," and promptly opened the locked doors on the right side doors of the front and back passenger seats. Everything went fast. The two men briskly went in, one at the front passenger seat, the other beside me on my right. I thought in horror "this can't be happening to me!" All I can scream was "ay! ay! Diyos ko! Diyos ko!" The driver said to the two men, "wag n'yong sasaktan 'yan, mabait si ma'am." And, to me, "pera lang ang kailangan namin. Hindi ka masasaktan kung susundin mo kami." One of the two men was also middle-aged, slim-built, with balding hair. The other was younger, about in his mid- to late-twenties, gaunt-looking, with high cheek bones, with a thick head of hair. He struck me as someone who was taking drugs.

The next two hours were a gruelling ordeal. They rummaged through my bag and got my money, ATM and credit cards, cellphones, and my jewelry, including my wedding ring. They gave back my bag and wallet, though, but without the money and the cards. We spent the hours going around EDSA from Kamuning to Quezon Avenue, stopping at banks where one of the men went to the ATM machines to try and get cash from my savings ATM and credit cards. They didn't let me out of the taxi to do the transactions. While one man did the transactions at the ATMs, the taxi kept going round and round the Kamuning and Quezon Avenue u-turns. They took away my glasses so that I can't see where we're going. But I was familiar with the places we passed - Timog Avenue, Agham Road, near the Napocor area, and back again to EDSA to go to the ATMs for transactions. They pressed me for the PIN of the credit cards, but I didn't memorize them, but gave them some numbers that I'm not even sure of.

Towards the end, they were pissed off because they couldn't get through the credit cards, and I was afraid that they'd do me in. But, in the end, they let me go, the driver warning me sternly, "wag kang lilingon sa kaliwa o kanan. Dire-direcho lang, kung hindi, babarilin talaga kita." They gave a 100 peso bill "pamasahe para makauwi." They dropped me off at Agham Road, near the Philippine Children's Medical Center (formerly Lungsod ng Kabataan) at about 9:30 p.m. There was no one in sight, another light drizzle has already passed. One of the men accompanied me out of the taxi, pushed me forward, and ran back to the taxi. That's when I ran and ran towards Quezon Avenue until I boarded a jeepney at a stop light. The kindly jeepney driver motioned me to a mobile police patrol when we passed by one, and I finally came to the police precinct at Kamuning EDSA to tell my tale. I didn't even get to see the taxi's plate number.

They informed me there that that has been a modus operandi of these criminal elements, plying the route of Quezon Avenue, Timog, Agham, even Kamuning areas. They also would give some money for "pamasahe." They would say it's for a sick wife, etc.

I have talked to some employees of a company in the Ortigas area who fell victim to the same modus operandi. Same taxi, same description of the driver, same alibi about a flat tire, requesting the passenger to move to the left side of the passenger seat, where the door's lock is jammed. Same giving of the 100 peso bill at the end of the hold-up. Last December, an employee rode the dubious taxi at SM Megamall at about 9 p.m. and the hold-up was announced when some men boarded the taxi at Star Mall. The person was held-up until 11 p.m. The other, with the person's 6-year old child, boarded the taxi at the Robinson's Galleria and was also held-up by men who went inside the taxi. I myself, boarded the taxi near where I work, imagine that. And, the security guards were just a few meters away.

Please be forewarned of this modus operandi. We're facing harder times, and December is nearing. Take extra care, friends. As for me, I believe it was the prayers that helped me. All throughout the ordeal, my Savior was there, guiding me in what to say or do so as not to aggravate the situation until freedom came. They didn't touch or harm me. Praise God!

God bless us,
Ruth

DOH releases list of other milk products tested by BFAD

Duque reveals second batch list of other milk products tested by BFAD

Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III today released the second batch list of milk and milk products tested by the Bureau of Food and Drugs. Of the 22 samples tested, only one product, JollyCow Slender High Calcium Low Fat Milk (more calcium and vitamin D) in a one liter package, tested positive for melamine.

The 21 milk products which were negative of melamine include: Anmum Materna Milk Powder (Chocolate Flavor) 400g, Bear Brand Choco 300g, Bear Brand Sterilized Milk 200ml, Cadbury Choclairs, Carnation Calcium Plus Non-Fat Milk Powder, Klim Instant Full Cream Milk Powder, Milo Chocolate Bar 40g, Monmilk Breakfast Milk Walnut Milk Beverage, Monmilk High Calcium Low Fat Milk 1 liter, Monmilk Deluxe Pure Milk, Nestle Chocolate-Flavored Ice Cream, Nestle Dairy Farm Pure Milk, Nestle Fresh Milk 1 liter, Nestle Kit Kat, Nestle Milk Chocolate 40g, Nestle Pops Ice Cream, Nestle Vanilla-Flavored Ice Cream, Nestogen 1 DHA(now Nestogen One), Nesvita Cereal Milk Drink, Nutri-Express Milk Drink (Green Apple Flavor) 500ml, and Prime Roast Instant Nutritious Cereal 28g.

What To Do To Prevent Rabies

1. When exposed or bitten by an animal (rabid or not), wash & flush the wound thoroughly with soap and water then seek medical attention for possible post exposure vaccination and wound care immediately.

2. Consult a veterinarian or trained personnel to observe your pet for 14 days for signs of rabies.

3. Be a Responsible Pet Owner by having your dog vaccinated for anti-rabies. Dog Control (leashing or confinement in the house) and proper care.

4. Consult for Rabies Diagnosis & Surveillance of the area.

5. Mobilize for Community Participation or Networking with all who can have an active involvement in the Rabies prevention and control program in the area. These include government institutions, non-government institutions, civic and religious organizations, schools, local government officials, media, and others (volunteers). From www.doh.gov.ph

Fire prevention tips

Fire prevention tips given by the Lapu-Lapu City Fire Safety Department.

1. Avoid electrical overloading.
2. Unplug all electrical appliances after every use.
3. Check all electrical installations regularly.
4. Check gas stoves and LPG tanks for leaks.
5. Keep children away from flammable liquids, lighters and matches.
6. Avoid smoking in bed.
7. Ensure you have a pre-fire plan at your residence or office.
8. Do not leave lighted mosquito coils unattended.
9. Always take extra precautions while cooking.
10. Never leave lighted candles unattended.
11. Do not throw lighted cigar or cigarette butts on dried leaves and garbage.
12. Strictly obey the no smoking signs.
13. Maintain proper housekeeping to eliminate fire hazards.
14. Check fire protection gadgets or devices of appliances and equipment regularly.
15. Be fire-safety conscious.

Be updated with the different emergency numbers and what stations to call for help in case of emergencies.

INSTILLING QUALITY AND PATIENT SAFETY IN THE SURGICAL RESIDENCY TRAINING PROGRAM

by Alejandro C. Dizon, MD, FPCS, FACS

The publication in 1999 of the Institute of Medicine report: To Err is Human: Building a Safer Health System has brought a realization that more people die directly or indirectly due to medical errors in hospitals compared deaths from motor vehicle and airline accidents. As much as 100,000 die in US hospitals because of medical errors and 15,000,000 experience harm or adverse events in healthcare facilities. The World Health Organization deduces that in developing countries, these figures may proportionally be bigger. Contrary to the promise of the medical profession “To do no harm”, unfortunately the hospital can be one of the most dangerous place in the world.

For these reasons, the thrust in many developed countries and organizations is to enforce many safety processes, procedures and initiatives that address quality and patient safety. We are currently monitoring surgical success on the basis of morbidities and mortalities and sometimes, surgical site infection but we lack the instruments and mechanism to accurately validate this and miss the “contribution” of errors or events chance in lessening if not preventing future adverse events or outcomes to patients. This understanding and awareness should be brought to the consciousness of everyone in the healthcare industry, which includes the training of residents in the various training programs.

The old and current model for training still is based upon the “Read one–See one- Do one” model (a “See one – Do one- Read during, again or later” may sadly occasionally happen). This would be ideal if there is full and complete oversight and supervision by the attending consultant. But in reality, how often does this actually happen and we allow trainees to be “independently” doing surgical procedures in the context of “training”. How often will a trainee be doing a surgical procedure on an actual patient for the first time “independently”?

With the present lack of a more objective measure for compliance to the requirements of a training program, we still currently utilize primarily the number or volume of cases performed by a trainee. More credit is given to independently done procedures versus supervised ones. But are there measures of quality that will show that the surgical procedures performed had favorable outcomes? Were the patients properly and adequately assessed and prepared pre-operatively, intra-operatively and post-operatively? More importantly, were the patients informed and educated properly with regards to the diagnosis, planned procedure(s) and the expected outcome of the intervention? What is the degree of supervision in a surgical procedure that will be performed by a trainee who will be doing the procedure for the first time? What is the expertise or competence level of the surgeon supervising? We have all been guilty of somehow losing the “PATIENT” in a system that promulgates “good” training that fails to consistently provide even minimum safeguards against patient harm.

The other issue that has a big impact on surgical training programs is the current system and culture in our heath care systems and institutions. What dominates is the hierarchal system of practice and training that discourages lower ranked individuals to correct or question the superiors. Many of the “scut” or daily work is delegated to the newest member of the team. This may limit direct supervision of “senior” over “junior” house staff members and overwhelms the most junior member of the residency staff with the floor calls and work. These include assessment and management of most of the surgical patients in the wards or out patient clinics. This system and tradition likewise promotes a “Train and blame” culture that focuses on and even highlights the errors and faults of the individual but fails to approach and analyze the problem from a systems perspective. Even problems occurring with private patients during a resident’s duty can be easily blamed on the “incompetence” of the resident. In the Philippine setting, the work of a floor resident is even made more difficult by the high nursing turnover that transfers to the resident many of the tasks or decision making that could have been done by a more experienced nurse.

These issues should be addressed in the residency training programs in the interest of quality health care delivery and patient safety. We should review the design of the surgical curriculum and implementation of training programs in the context of safety for the patient. The first is the appropriate and competent teaching and supervision of trainees. The “Read one - See one- Do one” or Apprenticeship Model in teaching is still very effective if done properly. The teaching and supervision is the responsibility of the consultant training staff should be the most competent (if not the expert) in the field and cannot be delegated to anyone else. How often does it happen that supervision is delegated to fellow residents or even more concerning, no supervision at all? Even the manner of promotion is based on the number of years and the minimum (!) number of procedures performed. We should look more not into the minimum numbers but the success and quality of surgeries performed, not determined by numbers. The basis for promotion may differ from person to person as every learner is different. (e.g one resident may require 2 cases while another resident –slow learner or less skillful- may require 10 cases before promoting). This may be a logistical nightmare in terms of maintaining the structure of a program but shouldn’t our patients deserve no less before we certify a surgeon from a training program as competent and qualified?

The trend now in developed countries is to utilize Simulators or Virtual Reality (VR) Training systems. This is a model currently used in the airline industry that require pilots to successfully complete hours in a flight simulator and training planes before they are certified to fly commercial flights. Programs who have adapted this require a minimum number of hours of exposure and successful outcomes in these medical simulator systems before the trainees are allowed to perform surgery on “real” patients. These training platforms may not come cheap but one can actually innovate to achieve similar outcomes of teaching procedures and developing surgical judgment.

Next is breaking down the traditional hierarchy in the surgical training programs. The teamwork concept should be put in place to include not only the resident staff but also all members of the healthcare team (interns, nurses, technicians and even consultants). We should likewise veer away from the traditional “train and blame” or culture of blame to what quality advocates term as a “culture of safety”. The culture of blame tends to pinpoint mistakes and errors to an individual and in turn leads individuals to hide or “bury” mistakes in the process, for fear of reprimands. A culture of safety likewise investigates mistakes and errors from a systems perspective by looking more as to defects in the process or systems that “allowed” a person to commit the mistake. Systems solutions provide a wider and broader scope in preventing the same errors from recurring.

Lastly we should incorporate the basic principles of quality and safety in the training programs. We currently look closely at outcomes and complications and often retrospectively, providing more of technical solutions. We have to teach the importance of proper and complete, documented assessments, care coordination with the other specialties, respecting patient and family rights, providing patient education and proper post-operative care monitoring and follow-up. We should also implement and emphasize importance of the “time-out” or universal protocol to ensure that a complete pre-operative assessment, pre-procedure briefing with the surgical team, determination of correct procedure/patient/operative site and post-operative debriefing is performed in all surgeries. Clinical quality and safety monitors should be done to measure compliance and guide improvement processes.

We have gone a long ways in teaching the science and skills necessary for good surgery. Now we have to revisit the basics of patient safety, specifically surgical safety, to ensure the delivery of quality healthcare, healthcare that is not only safe and effective, but also timely and patient-centered. This is our responsibility not only to our patients but also to our profession. We should remember that we have to teach our young surgeons well because the students and trainees of today will be those that will take care of US in the future.

Social Networking Sites: A Haven for Identity Thieves

by Lomit Patel


Social networking sites like MySpace.com and Facebook.com encourage members to meet new people, share pictures and information, and interact with others in online communities.

However, while social networking sites present many opportunities for members to connect with others on both a personal and business level, they also expose users to people who may have bad intentions, including identity thieves and other cybercriminals.

Bernadette Auert, a 34-year-old administrative assistant, says that she would never open links from spam e-mails or respond to offers in pop-up windows. She uses smart passwords and takes every precaution to protect her financial information when shopping and banking online.



But, like millions of other social networking users, she admits that she lets her guard down when she logs into MySpace.com.

Most people exercise great caution when it comes to revealing personal information in a public place or when surfing online, but don't think twice before posting all kinds of intimate information on social networking sites.

Research conducted by the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) reveals that a whopping 74 percent of social networking users divulge personal information, such as their e-mail address, name and birthday.

Not only do they reveal this potentially harmful information, but they also engage in other risky behaviors, such as downloading files and responding to unsolicited e-mails from fellow members.

NCSA research shows that 83 percent download unknown files from other people's profiles -- an action that could lead to identity theft, computer spyware, viruses and other risks.

Unfortunately, cybercriminals are counting on this lack of caution, as they target the millions of users that frequent social networking sites. Because people reveal personal information on these sites, it is easy for cybercriminals to look at user profiles and use the information they find to customize their attacks.

These targeted phishing attacks are known as "spear phishing", and social networking sites present unprecedented opportunities for these scams. For example, a spear phisher may pose as one of your social networking contacts or friends to create phony messages designed to trick you into revealing more personal data, such as your credit card or phone number.

Auert experienced such an attack when a phisher, posing as one of her friends, sent her a link to a photo. Without hesitation, she clicked on the link and was directed to a site that asked for her logon information and email address.

Fortunately, she noticed that the address bar did not read "MySpace.com" and closed it immediately. If she had provided this information, the phisher could have gained access to all kinds of information from her MySpace.com account.

According to Ron Texeria, executive director of NCSA, social networking users need to understand that sharing personal data may make them targets for online attacks. If a malicious person obtains your social security number, name and birthday, he or she may have enough information to hack into your financial records and compromise your personal information.

Using information that you offer about your home, hobbies, interests, and friends, a cybercriminal could impersonate a trusted friend or convince you that they have the authority to request personal or financial data.

Fortunately, you can minimize their risks of becoming victim by understanding the potential dangers of these sites. Here are a few simple rules to follow when socializing online:

• Beware of scammers. Criminals scan social networking sites to find potential victims for customized scams, from phony lotteries to illegitimate business opportunities to fake high school reunions. Consider restricting access to your page to a select group of people and setting your profile to private to prevent uninvited members from viewing your personal information.

• Exercise caution when clicking on links or downloading files. Scam artists often post links to infected ad banners in their profiles. Avoid opening links or downloads from strangers, and never enter your password or account number unless you've verified the site's authenticity. When in doubt, always call the site owner to confirm.

• Protect your personal information. Identity thieves can easily find enough photos and personal information on social networking sites to steal your identity. Avoid posting your full name, financial data, social security number, street address, birth date, and phone number.

• Be proactive in your efforts to thwart identity thieves. Adding a "Credit Freeze" or "Fraud Alert" on your credit report at the three major credit bureaus can help you avoid identity theft. This stops identity thieves in their tracks by locking your credit down and preventing lenders from offering new credit in your name unless they verify your identity via phone or e-mail. You can also conduct a free search on StolenID Search to see if your data has been compromised.

Social networking sites provide great opportunities for people to meet and share experiences. But with this freedom comes a level of risk and the need to exercise caution. By using your best judgment and following these safety tips, you'll enjoy the benefits of social networking and avoid the costly risks.

Be Street Wise

Tips for Philippine tourists

• Never hitchhike, it's not worth the risk.
• Be careful using ATMs at night or in unfamiliar surroundings.
• When walking, walk in the middle of the sidewalk and walk facing oncoming traffic.
• Try not to overload yourself with packages or other items. Keep hands as free as possible.
• Do not wear music headphones while walking or jogging.
• Do not read while walking or standing on a sidewalk.
• If you wear a purse with a shoulder strap, be prepared to let go if snatched. Other wise you could be knocked down and hurt.
• A good suggestion for men is to carry a second wallet containing a few dollar bills and old expired credit cards. If confronted at knife or gun point, give the suspect the second wallet and concentrate on a good physical description to help the police in making the arrest.
• Avoid being on the street alone if you are upset or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• If you carry a purse, carry it close to your body, preferably in front, Carry no more money or credit cards then you absolutely need.
• There are a number of ways to see the country: Escorted and hosted tours (our favorite), chauffeur-driven cars (the second-best way), frequent buses (basic but cheap) and rail service (almost totally inadequate). We don’t recommend renting a car and driving yourself — local “rules” on the road are generally ignored (if known by the drivers), and it can be extremely tricky and dangerous, as almost all of the drivers are extremely unpredictable for unaccustomed drivers (unaccustomed to the Philippine style of driving that is). If you are the victim of an accident, heaven help you—their laws are unique. Chances are, the driver who hit you will come back to finish the job: The fine for death is less than for (serious) injury (nothing personal, just financial).

Avoid traveling at night, and stay on national highways as much as possible; roads are often washed out or damaged during the rainy season (don't be surprised to see a big gaping hole just in front of a bridge, or trucks standing in the middle of the road, illuminated by 3 or 4 TINY candles). In the major cities, buses are neither safe nor comfortable, and there are no regular loading or unloading points. It’s far better to take a taxi. Don’t let drivers double the fare for air conditioning—pay only the metered amount (hotel bellmen copy down license numbers for complaints), unless it's getting late, then you can sometimes be asked to give 100 peso extra because of traffic jam problem (but then still complain to the hotel bellman, the taxi company or the police). There’s a fixed taxi rate from the airport to the hotels around. Be cautious if you take a “jeepney” (bus-like descendants of World War II jeeps). They’re a reasonable alternative to taxis, but they’re also commonly ridden by petty thieves looking for gullible tourists. Also, you'll have to know your way around to use these, as often it's unclear where you are, and where to get out, or what the route of the jeepney is.

Protect Yourself From Identity Theft

by Lomit Patel


Identity theft is one of the fastest-growing crimes in the United States. More than 100 million United States residents have had personal information stolen since early 2005, according to a Privacy Rights Clearinghouse (PRC) survey.

While not all data breaches result in identity theft, approximately ten million people fall victim to identity thieves every year. In 2007, identity theft will continue to grow unless consumers become more aware and proactive.

The good news is that there are many things you can do protect your identity in the New Year. Making and keeping our recommended resolutions will help ensure that 2007 will be a fraud-free year for you.





Resolution #1: Educate Yourself

While most people know the basic rules for protecting their physical well-being and possessions, too many do not know the basics of protecting their identity.

Identity theft occurs when a criminal uses your personal information-such as your name, Social Security number, bank account number-to commit fraud. With stolen information, identity thieves can obtain credit cards, utilities services, loans, medical services, and even jobs.

Identity thieves use many methods, including:

• dumpster diving
• stealing wallets
• posing as legitimate companies in e-mails and on phone calls to entice you into sharing sensitive data
• hacking into corporate databases

A thief can steal your identity with as little information as your name and social security number. Once you've been victimized, it can take years to restore your credit and name.

However, if you know what to look for and how it happens, you can detect identity theft before it happens, minimizing losses.

To find out if your personal information has been compromised, conduct a search on StolenID Search, a free service that scans more than two million pieces of compromised personal information. Your search results will tell you if your credit card, driver's license, Social Security, or bank account numbers have been used inappropriately.

Resolution #2: Check Your Credit

Checking your credit report regularly is the best way to detect new, unauthorized account activity. Resolve to keep an up-to-date watch on your credit throughout the year and report any suspicious activity as soon as you see it.

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires each of the nationwide consumer reporting companies -- Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion -- to provide you with a free copy of your credit report once every 12 months.

Since your credit report impacts everything from loans to job offers, take advantage of this opportunity to make sure your report is accurate.

Resolution #3: Exercise Your Right to Opt-Out

A significant amount of stolen personal information comes from "pre-approved" credit and insurance offers. Thieves often steal these applications to apply for credit in your name.

Exercise your right to "opt-out" of receiving these offers by calling (888) 5-OPT-OUT or opting out online at www.optoutprescreen.com.

Resolution #4: Transact Safely

Identity theft is often associated with online buying and unsecured Web sites that compromise your personal information. Even if shopping sites are secure, Web sites often leave personal information and financial data on a computer's hard drive after a purchase is made.

Viruses and spyware -- software that covertly gathers your information over the Internet connection without your knowledge -- can be used to steal passwords and account numbers from your computer.

Safeguard your online transactions by following these simple tips:

• Protect your computer with essential security software, including a software firewall and antivirus protection.

• Enable your browser's privacy settings.

• Never give out your personal information in response to an e-mail, a Web site you've come to through an external link, or a pop-up screen.

• Don't get pressured into providing personal information. Online scams often use scare tactics, and may threaten to disable an account until you update your account information. Be sure to contact the organization directly to confirm the authenticity of their request.

Resolution #5: Invest in Proactive Protection

The best way to avoid identity theft is to stop it before it happens. Adding a "Credit Freeze" or "Fraud Alert" on your credit report at the three major credit bureaus can help you avoid identity theft.

This stops identity thieves in their tracks by locking your credit down and preventing lenders from offering new credit in your name unless they verify your identity via phone or e-mail.

By knowing the basics of identity theft, you can go a long way towards fighting fraud. However, no matter how good your knowledge, maximum benefits will only be achieved if you make prevention a life-long habit.

Recognizing a Stroke

(Just a forwarded message. This needs verification.)

----- A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within 3

hours he can totally reverse the effects of a stroke...totally. He said the

trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed and getting to the patient

within 3 hours which is tough.

RECOGNIZING A STROKE

Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.

Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:

1. *Ask the individual to SMILE.

2. *Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.

3. *Ask the person to SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently) (i.e. . . It is sunny out today) If he or she has trouble with any of these tasks, call 9-1-1 immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

After discovering that a group of non-medical volunteers could identify facial weakness, arm weakness and speech problems, researchers urged the general public to learn the three questions. They presented their conclusions at the American Stroke Association's annual meeting last February. Widespread use of this test could result in prompt diagnosis and treatment of the stroke and prevent brain damage.

Personal Safety in a Car

• LOCK THE CAR. No matter if you're in it or not, driving or not, always lock the car, all doors.
• When you approach your parked vehicle, visually check the area around the vehicle for any suspicious persons or activity. If you observe anything suspicious walk to where there are other people and call the police.
• Always park in visible, well-lighted areas.
• When driving a car, attempt to avoid parking next to a larger pickup truck or van. The truck can be easy for any suspect to hide behind or in.
• Have your keys ready when approaching your vehicle to reduce the time needed to enter.
• When operating your vehicle, keep the doors locked and windows rolled up.
• Any valuables in your car should be placed in the trunk or otherwise kept out of sight.
• When stopped at traffic lights or in traffic, allow space between you and the vehicle in front of you so you can drive away if necessary.
• If someone approaches your vehicle and attempts to enter, blow your horn to attract attention and drive away.
• Consider a cellular phone, it is a good investment for safety.
• Do not pick up hitchhikers.
• Do not open your window if someone approaches your vehicle to ask for directions, the time , etc, Keep the doors locked.
• Never leave house keys attached to car keys at service stations or parking facilities.
• Do not stop for stranded motorist. Instead, go to the nearest telephone booth and call the police for assistance.
• Never let your gas indicator fall below 1/4 full.
• Criminals sometimes stage a motor vehicle accident known as a " bump and Rob" The motorist is robbed when they exit their vehicle. If you are involved in a minor accident under suspicious circumstances, stay in your vehicle with the doors locked and the windows up and await the police. If you believe you are in possible danger, write down the license plate of the other vehicle involved in the accident and drive to a safe location to report the accident to the police.
• Carry in you car: a flashlight, fix-a-flat, maps, comfortable warm clothing, a portable fire extinguisher, first aid kit, empty gas can, white cloth to tie to door handle or antenna to signal distress and a cellular phone.
• If you are driving somewhere you are not familiar with, plan your route and check a map before you start out.

About Ganoderma, The King Of Herbs

GANODERMA

Ganoderma lucidum, G. applanatum and related species - Family Basidiomycetes

Other names

Ling-zhi, Lingzhi, Reishi, Young-zhi, Biladi Top, The King Of Herbs

Description

This wood-decomposing fungi has a circular kidney-shaped cap divided by concentric growth rings, resembling a ram`s horn. The color is shiny, lacquered red to reddish-brown. The fruiting body is very woody, as is the stem. The spores are white to brown with age, but the spore print is brown.

Parts used

Fruiting body (top of mushroom), mycelium (root of mushroom).

Active Ingredients

There are many active ingredients found in this plant. The major groups are polysaccharides (gandelan A & B, and several glucans), lanostans, coumarin, ergosterol, triterpenes (ganoderic acids, ganodermadiol), adenosine, uridine, uracil, small amounts of germanium, organic acids and resins. (1)

Actions and Effects

Ganoderma has been examined extensively through both traditional and modern scientific methods. A more detailed review can be found in Doctor T. Willard's book, Reishi Mushroom; Herb of Spiritual Potency and Medical Wonder. (2) Both the ethanol and aqueous extracts have been found to inhibit the central nervous systems of mice and act additionally as expectorants. It has been used for nervous problems like insomnia and paranoid conditions in humans. (3) Ganoderma can be considered an antioxidant with justification. It is very likely that this feature contributed to its reputation as a longevity herb in Chinese medicine. More recently, it has been shown to be effective in scavenging hydroxyl radicals in blood plasma. (4)

For respiratory problems, it demonstrated a 60% recovery rate in allergy-related chronic bronchitis. In the same research, improvement was noted in 97.9% of the cases. Chinese studies have shown benefit for 87.5% of bronchial asthmatics with a cure rate of 48%. For sinus problems, the cure rate is over 50% with approximately 80% effectiveness. Reduction of asthma in guinea pigs, and contact dermatitis in mice, has been considered remarkable by Japanese researchers. (5) Ganoderma was shown to significantly inhibit histamine release and to be effective against Ig-E related allergies. (6,7)

Ganoderma protected mice from the effects of accumulated fatty acid and cholesterol when taken along with a fatty diet. The herb also showed significant results in lowering blood lipids and fatty deposits in the liver. In a small study done on 10 cholesterol patients, significant drops in cholesterol and triglyceride levels were noted after two months of taking ganoderma mushrooms.

Injection of the extract has lowered blood pressure in both dogs and rabbits, while increasing urine volume. In a study conducted on genetically hypertensive (high blood pressure) mice, blood pressure was lowered by 20% after consuming Ganoderma for two weeks. Another study, involving 10 patients with high blood pressure, found a 70% improvement in blood pressure (especially diastolic) after removal of medication and use of Ganoderma. A third study with 10 patients over 20 weeks produced significant improvement using ganoderma and pharmaceutical preparations compared with patients only using the pharmaceutical. In another study done on 53 patients, ganoderma was shown to reduce blood pressure and blood lipids, with no side efects. (8)

The active ingredient for circulation has been isolated. It is a triterpene which inhibits angiotensin converting enzyme (responsible for narrowing the arteries in high blood pressure). (9) Ganoderma inhibits excessive platelet accumulation and reinforces the outer membrane of the red corpuscle. (10) Ganoderma is known to stop thrombi formations (blood clots) (11). In China it was shown to be effective in 80% of myocardial infarction and angina cases while being curative in 25% (12). This fungi has antibacterial effects on Bacillus pneumonia, staphylococci and streptococci bacteria. It can be used as an antidote in mushroom poisoning. (13)

Studies completed in Japan have confirmed that Ganoderma can be responsible for arresting metastic cancer in laboratory mice. The Japanese Cancer Society has found Ganoderma effective against sarcomas. The active ingredients responsible for this are the polysaccharides. (14) Gandelan A & B are the known factors responsible for Ganoderma`s sugar-regulating ability. In the digestive tract, Ganoderma has shown an 80% cure rate for ulcers. Chronic hepatitis, a notoriously difficult viral infection, showed a 10% cure rate in 2 months with 40% reduction of symptoms. Ganoderma reduced the symptoms associated with hepatitis in carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic mice.

Therapeutic Action

Adaptogen, nervine, relaxant, stimulant, anti-allergenic.

Traditional Chinese

Ganoderma is listed as sweet, mild flavour with a warm property. Its action is nourishing, supplementing, tonifying. It removes toxins, disperses accumulation, and stops tightness in the chest. (15)

Folklore

The Ganoderma mushroom (known in China as ling zhi) has been considered the most valuable herb of the Orient, outpacing even the reputation of ginseng. The mystical qualities attributed to this herb might be explained by the rarity of this plant. Only 2 - 3 mushrooms are found for every 10,000 dead plum or hemlock logs. Sophisticated cultivation techniques such as the ones used on modern organic farms now make Ganoderma more available.

The nature of ganoderma is documented in Shen Nung Tsao Ching (56 B.C.). It is described as having the most extensive and effective healing powers. Since that time it has been considered number one amongst the higher herbs. Over the centuries it has gone by many names: Happy herb, herb of spiritual potency, Ten-thousand-year mushroom, Miraculous chi, Auspicious herb and Good omen plant. Folklore has it that the herb was considered so valuable that if a person found one they would not even tell their closest friends or relatives.

When one reads the list of ailments it is supposed to cure, there is an immediate impression of a "snake oil" product. A cure-all! It is tempting to consider the stories about Ganoderma as wives` tales along with lore such as: "...the gods planting it in the mountain, for only the special to find...". On the other hand, Nissan (one of the three largest conglomerates in Japan) has conducted extensive research on Ganoderma and is the major world supplier of the herb.

As noted above, the list of traditional uses is long. Cast in the terms of traditional Chinese medicine, it includes: nourishing, supplementing, toning, removing toxins, and dispersing accumulation. It is indicated for neurasthenia, nervousness, dizziness, insomnia, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, chronic hepatitis, cancer, AIDS/ARC, nephritis, bronchial asthma, allergies, pneumonia, stomach disease, coronary heart disease, diabetes, angina, mushroom poisoning, fatigue, and for enhancing longevity. Ganoderma is often classed as an adaptogen (a substance that aids the body in resistance against a wide range of physical, biological and environmental stresses, with no harmful side-effects and no deleterious drug interactions).

Dosage of typical modern-day ganoderma capsules

Start off with one pair (one fruiting body and one mycelium) per day for a week. Then step up to two pairs a day for a week, then three pairs a day for a week &tc... Typically, one might go as high as six pairs per day, then taper back down to two or three pairs per day. Serious health conditions might need a larger dosage, but you can take tremendous amounts of Ganoderma with no harm. Make sure you drink lots of water when taking ganoderma - as most likely you will be urinating more - this is an indication that the toxins are flushing out of your body and this effect will lessen as time goes by and your toxins are quickly eliminated.

Toxicity and Contraindications

The toxicity of this mushroom can be considered completely negligible with an LD50 of > 5,000 mg/K. No toxic effect at this level was noted after 30 days of consumption. This suggests that no toxic signs would be found in humans if they consumed 350 grams a day, 40 - 300 times the therapeutic dose.

During the initial period of intake, some people have observed dizziness, sore bones, itchy skin, increased bowel movements, hardened feces, and/or pimple-like eruptions. These can be considered normal signs of the ganoderma excreting body toxins. These disturbances vary from person to person and will disappear as intake continues - this is normal - it's just Ganoderma helping your body flush out toxins.

Recognition and Medical References

1. Willard T.; Reishi Mushroom: Herb of Spiritual Potency and Medical Wonder; Sylvan Press Issaquah Wa; 1990.
2. Willard T, Ibid
3. Gengtao L, Tiantong B, et al; Some Pharmacological actions of the spores of Ganoderma lucidum and the mycelium of Ganoderma capense cultivated submerged formation; Chen Med. J., 92 (7) 496-500 1979.
4. Wang, J., Zhang, J., Chen W; Study of the action of Ganoderma lucidum on Scavenging hydroxyl radical from blood plasma J. Trad. Chin. Med. 5 (1),1985, p. 55-60.
5. Nogam,i M., Ito, M., Kubo, M., et al; Study on Ganoderma lucidum VII. Anti allergic effect; Yakugak Zasshi 106 (7) 1986, p. 600-604.
6. Nogami M., Tsuji Y, et al; Studies on Ganoderma lucidum VI. Anti Allergic effect; Yakugaku Zasshi 106 (7) 1986, p. 594-599.
7. Koda H, Tokumoto W, et al; The Biologically active constituents of Ganoderma lucidum Histamine release-inhibitory triterpenes Chem. Pharm. Bull. (Tokyo 33(4) 1984, p. 1367-74.
8. Kanmatsuse K., Kajiwara N., Hayashi K., et al., Studies on Ganoderma lucidum. Efficacy against hypertension and side effects, Yakugo Zasshi, 1985, 105(10): p. 942-947.
9. Morigiwa A., Kitabatake K., Fujimoto Y. et al; Angiotensi converting enzyme-inhibition triterpenes from Ganoderma lucidum; Chem. Pharm. Bul. (Tokyo 34(7) 1986; p. 3025-3028.
10. Shimizu A., Yano T., Saito Y. et al; Isolation of an inhibitor of Platelet aggregation from a fungus Ganoderma lucidum; Chem. Pharm. Bul. (Tokyo) 33(7), 1985, p. 3012-3015.
11. Kubo M., Matsuda H., Nogami M.; et al; Ganoderma lucidum IV. Effects on Disseminated Intra Vascular Coagulation; Yakugaku Zasshi 103 (8) , 1983, p 871-877.
12. Fu, H., Wang, Z.; The Clinical effects of Ganoderma lucidum spore preparation in 10 cases of Atrophic Myotonia; J Tradit. Chin. Med. 2 (1), 1982, p. 63-65.
13. Hsu, H. Y., Chen, Y. P., et al; Oriental Materia Medica; a concise guide; Oriental Healing Arts Institute, 1986 p. 604-641.
14. Kampo, Iyaku Simbun, Becoming Healthy with Reishi III, Toyo-Igaku, Tokyo, 1988, p. 12-20.
15. Hsu, H.Y., Chen, Y.P., et al., Oriental Materia Medica: a concise guide, Oriental Healing Arts Institute, Long Beach, CA, 1986, p. 640-641.

FIRE SAFETY TIPS

1. Do not smoke in bed. Crush cigarette butts thoroughly before discarding them. Do not throw them into waster baskets.
2. Keep lighted candles, oil or gas lmaps away from curtain and other objects that easily catch fire.Do not store any flammable substances or any volative liquid in the kitchen and inside dwelling houses.keep matches and lighters away from children's reach.
3. Do not use open flamesfor decorations in the house.
4. Extinguish all live charcoals and embers after cooking in the kitchen. Make sure the kitchen is inspected before retiring for the night.
5. Kerosene and gas stones should be checked for leakage and regularly cleaned. It is best to invest in a qualify LPG tank.
6. Check regularly your electrical installations, and have all frayed wiring, damaged sockets, swithes and other defective electrical fistures changed or repaired promptly.All electrical installations, repairs and changes should be undertaken by licensed electricians.
7. Never run electrical cords under rugs. Cords of portable applicances should be as short as possible.
8. Do not overload your electrical circuits by profusely putting extra lights and appliances.
9. Combustible and other flimsy materials should not be placed near bulbs.