We sat down with Dr. Briant Burke, who happens to have an MD, a graduate degree from Yale in molecular biology, and is the holder of 2 US patents to discuss health and the creator of Heel Aid. We chatted natural medicine, essential oils you need and his #1 health tip. Read on:
What 3 Essential Oils should everyone have at home or while traveling?
Ignoring all of the hype and hoop-la out there about essential oils these days, there is, in fact a body of scientific studies showing the benefit of selected oils. I have published several such studies over the years. The descriptions below suggest just one of many uses for each oil. My three finalists (drum roll please….)
- Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) – medical studies beginning in 1920 have shown its potent action against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Great topical antiseptic and fabulous for burns, insect bites, itching.
- Lavender– has been used to reduce anxiety/promote relaxation in cancer chemo patients in a hospital setting in numerous studies. Can also help with a good nights’ sleep in a hotel room!
- Oregano oil – strong antiviral effects. Can be taken safely internally as well. Can take as a preventive measure before getting on an airplane where the air is re-circulated and we all breath any respiratory virus any person on that plane has!
How did you get into Natural Medicine?
Traditional medicine is fantastic for trauma and surgical interventions but often seems to have little to offer for those patients with chronic medical problems. It was very frustrating for me as a physician to shepherd these patients through the system without any meaningful improvement. Natural medicine, those aspects that are validated to work, offers an I expensive, noninvasive modality for treatment. It’s also more in alignment with my spiritual practice. Mainstream medicine makes advances but at greater and greater cost and helping fewer and fewer people.
What are some ways to take care of yourself that Americans May be Overlooking?
Basic maintenance for our bodies doesn’t take much. Walking for half hr a day, clean water, less processed food. Theses are all things we hear about frequently. I would say the value of meditation in reducing stress, improving sleep.
What is your #1 Health tip?
Laugh more. It reduces stress, increases endorphins, lowers blood pressure, and a whole host of other beneficial things. And breathe deep and often! Most of us are chronically oxygen deprived at a low level from restricted breathing.
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
1)Love people and use things, not the other way around.
2)Wear life like a loose garment because you’re just passing through.
3)Don’t take yourself so seriously.
4) Don’t believe everything you hear, eat all that you want, or spend all that you have.
5) keep an open mind.
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