The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Understanding

  • Understanding Osogbo’s flash flood

    Eid El Kabir holiday on Tuesday September 13 was marred by the torrential rainfall and the flash flooding recorded in parts of Osogbo that fateful day.

    Actually, it was the culmination of the downpour that had commenced few days earlier in fits and spasms of drizzles and short bursts of heavy rain interspersed with occasional deceptive sunshine lasting for few minutes, that soon gave way to clouds and then rain.

    However, after a scorching noonday sun gave the false impression of a hot day, the sun soon retreated as the cloud spread its dark blanket over the sky, and for four hours or thereabout, it rained heavily and non-stop with increasing intensity. The aftermath was the flash flooding recorded in some parts of the capital city like Rasco, Gbonmi, Oke Onitea and Testing Ground. As is the nature of flash floods, the water receded about two hours after the rain. This regrettably was not until after wreaking havoc. At Oke-Onitea, a middle-aged man, Elder Ebenezer Olabode, was swept away by the monstrous water. This, according to The Nation and other media accounts, was due to his insistence on wading through the water with his car, against all entreaties to turn back, before running into a ditch, and in the effort to escape from his vehicle, was washed away by the waters. Well, the circumstances of his death are academic now. Every life is precious. May God grant his family the fortitude to bear the loss and repose his soul.

    Many property (and thankfully no lives) were lost at other places that witnessed the flash flood, especially at Rasco and Gbonmi.

    However, the torrential rain of Tuesday September 13, as terrifying as it sounds, was only partly responsible for the flood. Before that Tuesday, Asa Dam in Kwara State had opened its valves which water flowed into Eko Ende and Eko Ajala in Ifelodun Local Government before emptying into Owala Dam in Okinni, in Egbedore Local Government, all in Osun. When Owala could not hold the water, it was then opened to Osogbo waterways. The water from Owala Dam had not receded before the heavens opened and it was the combination of the two waters that overwhelmed the drainage system in Osogbo and caused the flooding.

    Rain is one of the acts of God that humans have little or no control over beyond anticipating its consequences and evacuating humans and valuables on the path of the flood it brings. For instance, Lagos and parts of Ogun, being below sea level, is beyond question they will experience flooding every year during the raining season.

    Even advanced countries are not spared the impact of flooding. I shudder to remember the 2005 Hurricane Katrina which submerged not less than 80 per cent of New Orleans with water as high as 15 metres and which killed nearly 1,500 people. This was after more than 90 per cent of the city had been evacuated before the water came.

    In 2013, more than 100,000 people were displaced in Europe when the Elbe River overflowed its bank after heavy rainfall. The New York Times also reported on June 2 this year that following heavy downpour, flooding surged through Europe in which thousands were displaced and not less than nine persons killed between France and Germany.

    But the flash flood in Osogbo could have been worse. Before the coming of the Aregbesola administration, flooding in Osogbo and other parts of the state was an annual ritual. But the administration has since 2011 been dredging and desilting the rivers, streams, rivulets and waterways in the state.

    The continuous effort had seen the government clear a cumulative total of 270 kilometres of waterways and removed 4.3 million metric tonnes of sand and debris so far. This also includes clearing gutters and road islands of sand and particles. The project has so far cost the government N2.6 billion of its meagre resources, out of which N1.2 billion is still owed contractors.

    The years 2011 and 2013 were particularly eventful in that not a single incident of flooding was recorded in Osun even when Oyo, Ogun and Lagos States had the worst flooding in recent times. Even the heavy rains that had brought serious flooding to Ogun and Lagos states earlier this year had spared Osun and the residents of the flood prone areas in Osogbo had taken it for granted before Tuesday’s deluge.

    The government’s response to flooding has not been restricted to just clearing waterways. As part of the general environmental and urban renewal policy of the state, some buildings on waterways have been taken out. Others were earmarked for same. The lining of the waterways is also in the works. This is estimated to cost N44 billion. It is my sincere hope that the Federal Government will come to the aid of the state on this.

    Beyond remedial measures, we need also to look at the man-made aspect of the tragedy. Dumping refuse on waterways, stacking building materials, especially sand, and erecting buildings on waterways and floodplains are clear invitation to flooding. Flood will naturally occur when there is obstruction to free flow of water.

    From the pictures – motion and still – projected in the media, it is evident that all the buildings flooded, especially at Rasco and Gbonmi in Osogbo were either built on flood plain or too close to the bank of moving waters. This is the fruit of the physical planning failure of the past. We won’t be talking of flooding of houses and destruction of property if the regulation on planning had been followed. The government is deemed to be wiser than the people and should save them from their self-destructive acts. Therefore, it must summon the political will to do the needful once and for all and prevent future occurrence.

    While we are still grappling with the aftermath of the flash flood, it is most disheartening that the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) went to town to celebrate the disaster in a ‘we-now-have-something-against-Aregbesola’ false triumphalism. What kind of people make political capital out of a natural disaster that befell the people? In civilised societies, politics are put aside and everyone begins to lend a helping hand.

    Then they falsely allege, as is their usual practice, that the state government collected ecological funds from the Federal Government and misappropriated it. But the truth is that the Aregbesola’s administration never got a dime of ecological funds from the PDP Federal Government in its nearly six years. As things stand, the N12 billion outstanding ecological funds owed Osun has received approval for payment from the Buhari administration, but this is yet to be cash backed.

    I will like to appeal again to the Federal Government to release this sum to the state, for it to be able to pay its contractors and continue the good works it has done so far. As we speak, earth moving machines have been deployed to the waterways and clearing the sand and other materials impeding free flow of water.

    The flood notwithstanding, environmental sanitation and flood control has been one of the success stories of the Aregbesola administration.

     

    • Fasure lives in Osogbo

  • Understanding the dynamics of real estate sector

    Is it possible to ask for the price of a Bentley in exchange of the quality of a Toyota? Impossible! Any sane person knows that. While many will consider this outrageous, it is indeed a stark reminder of the realities experienced in Nigeria’s real estate industry.

     As an avid property enthusiast, developer or an observer, you must have noticed the surge in the number of empty apartments in Ikoyi over the last few years. This disturbing phenomenon must have prompted the well-informed and educative research publication of economy watch, Financial Derivatives Company Limited, last week, which pointed out that “the number of vacant properties in the upper class real estate neighbourhoods of Lekki, Victoria Island and Ikoyi has risen by 72 percent over the last 18 months”.

    The padded cost of construction. Buyer Beware! This has become a motto on a whole new level for perceptive investors, who seek the much-deserved value for money. I can’t stress enough, the fact that the era of monkey dey work, baboon dey chop is long gone. To avoid drawing hasty conclusions and to guide our investment choices, investors should only listen to industry experts and verifiable perspectives as seen in the FDC research, and avoid the bandwagon of those listening to jaundiced opinions, which are quite popular.  For example, the fact that former UK Prime Minister David Cameron said Nigeria was ‘fantastically corrupt’, did not in fact mean each and every Nigerian was. Also, the fact that a few celebrities find themselves enmeshed in marital problems does not always mean that the marital life of every Nigerian is in danger. To put this more clearly, apartments that should not cost more than N100 million are costing investors N400 million to construct.  Therefore owners have no other choice than to let out the apartment at N40 million, transferring the padded cost of construction to tenants.

    ‘What’s the difference between the locally fried plantain bits sold in remote areas and its counterpart, the plantain chips sold in urban areas? Have you ever wondered why a good meal prepared in Ijebu Ode would cost less than one sold in Lagos? An estimated rental for an apartment in Ikoyi is about $80,000. The same apartment in Lekki would cost $30,000. What do you think makes the difference? VALUE – price, quality and location put together in the same place! If location is a fundamental principle in real estate, how much more luxury real estate?

    A developer who compromises on the quality of materials, no matter how highbrow the property’s location, has no right to place an exorbitant price on it. Thus, the argument for demand exceeding supply, as far as empty apartments in Ikoyi go, is unfounded.

    Luxury apartments are in high demand. Poorly finished buildings with exorbitant prices constitute the pile of empty apartments constantly being alluded to.

    During my interview on CNBC Africa, I once pointed out that luxury is not expensive. It is the intention to deliver luxury that is expensive. While the cost of a nice three-bedroom apartment in Johannesburg would go for about $350,000 the same apartment in Ikoyi would want $1M. If the cost of construction materials is the same all over the world, the price of marble, granite, cement, tiles, kitchen, doors paints etc, why is cost in Nigeria about 300% higher?

    A delicious meal requires a lot of money. You cannot offer a Toyota for the price of a Bentley. One might argue that both cars will eventually ply the same road but the efficiency and prestige of a Bentley speaks for itself. Luxury sells itself.   When you sell luxury, you sell peace of mind, you have not only sold something that would last for generations, but you win the heart of your client who now becomes your evangelist.

    With the oil price plummet and downtrend of major economies across the world, individuals and organizations no longer have loose money to throw around. And with the current downsizing by companies, prospective tenants demand full value for their hard-earned money.

    Nigerian developers must realise that times have changed. The ‘quick fix – quick gain’ syndrome has ended. Real estate developers who fail to understand that the current investors and real estate enthusiasts are upbeat about quality and finishing after having seen same from their travels around the world will soon fade away.

    If we desire to be the best and want to compete with foreign developers such as the Germans, Lebanese and Italians that have spent decades mastering their craft, we will need to raise our standards in the Nigerian construction market.  Or else, one day we would wake up to find all our apartments empty.

     

    • Ogundele, a real estate practitioner writes from Lagos.

  • Fuel Price: Appeal for understanding

    SIR: Finally, the Federal Government of PMB bites the bullet over a realistic price regime for fuel products in Nigeria. After an initial glitch and prevarication which though understandable, government finally pegged the price at N145 per litre of PMS. Normally and ordinarily, one expects labour to match out ferociously against the move, much more so that a similar move by the previous administration of Goodluck Jonathan was greeted by same economic shut-down compelling the government then to beat tactical retreat. Labour may therefore appear hypocritical and unsurefooted if mum is the word this time around. This may loosely give some justification for Labour’s planned nation -wide industrial disharmony in Nigeria.

    However, bearing in mind the enormous goodwill and trust upon which this government rode to power, one may want to call for understanding, mutual trust and perseverance . One more chance Labour has is to revert back to its original plan if government proves insincere with the lofty promises :there is always a second chance so goes the saying. People calling for calm have always predicated and premised optimism on promises made by government if the hike is allowed to stay.   Hopes of job opportunities, renewed infrastructure, products availability, economic growth and social -life change-over are too attractive, beneficial and beautiful for anyone to ignore. These are in addition to the expectation of delectable economic environment that will magnetize foreign investment and liberalize business potentialities in the oil sector. So, rejecting the hike without a heart for these promised opportunities, no matter how forlorn they look, seems mindless ,utopian and merely throwing away the child with the bathwater. Optimists in the present game of price increase may therefore be seen not to have placed their enthusiasm on false hope.

    Lastly, global trends tend to tilt in the direction of inevitable subsidy removal. Aside humongous sums for maintaining subsidy, which in actual fact is hard to find, most of the oil -producing nations even more economically stable and diversified than Nigeria, have yielded to more sterner measures as a natural sensitivity to hopelessly nose -diving oil income. These countries include the United States of America, China, Iran, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Venezuela ,Kuwait, Iraq and even the octopus oil producers, Saudi Arabia and Russia. If these countries with combined capacity of supplying 64 per cent of world energy requirements have had their various doses of economic readjustment prompted by declining oil income, it would be foolhardy for Nigeria to sit -by and whine endlessly over inclement economic situation back home. Nigeria occupies the 13th position out of 118 nations of the world powering the planet earth with petroleum, biofuel,liquids derived from coal and oil shale according to a 2013 statistics released by CIA World Factbook and International Energy Agency (IEA). Against this background, it looks dystopian and rash and even economically unsustainable to retain payment of phantom subsidy in the face of overly economic adversity. A passionate appeal is therefore made for some understanding and trust. Government too must not willingly or inadvertently bungle the goodwill which it has been enjoying from inception till now. In fullness of time, national interest will be the better for it. The time for understanding and collaboration by all stakeholders cannot be grimmer and riper than now.

     

    • Femi Y. Y. Oyedemi

    Hillsboro, Oregon, USA

  • Muslims, we have to critically review our understanding of Islam

    Word fall short to truly express my deep sadness and revolt in the face of the carnage perpetrated by terrorist groups such as the so-called Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).

    I share profound frustration with a billion-and-a-half Muslims around the world at the fact that such groups commit terrorism while dressing up their perverted ideologies as religion. We Muslims have a special responsibility to not only join hands with fellow human beings to save our world from the scourge of terrorism and violent extremism, but also to help repair the tarnished image of our faith.

    It is easy to proclaim a certain identity in the abstract with words and symbols. The sincerity of such claims, however, can only be measured by comparing our actions with the core values of our self-proclaimed identities. The true test of belief is not slogans or dressing up in a certain way; the true test of our beliefs is in living up to core principles shared by all major world faiths such as upholding the sanctity of life and respecting the dignity of all humans.

    We must categorically condemn the ideology propagated by terrorists and instead promote a pluralistic mindset with clarity and confidence. After all, before our ethnic, national or religious identity comes our common humanity, which suffers a setback each time a barbaric act is committed. French citizens who lost their lives in Paris, Shiite Muslim Lebanese citizens who lost their lives in Beirut a day earlier and scores of Sunni Muslims in Iraq who lost their lives at the hands of the same terrorists are first and foremost human beings. Our civilization will not progress until we treat the suffering of humans regardless of their religious or ethnic identity as equally tragic in our empathy and respond with the same determination.

    Muslims must also reject and avoid conspiracy theories, which have so far only helped us avoid facing our social problems. Instead, we must tackle the real questions: Do our communities provide recruitment grounds for groups with totalitarian mindsets due to unrecognized authoritarianism within ourselves, domestic physical abuse, neglect of youth and lack of balanced education? Did our failure to establish basic human rights and freedoms, supremacy of the rule of law and pluralist mindsets in our communities lead those who are struggling to seek alternative paths?

    The recent tragedy in Paris is yet another reminder for both theologians and ordinary Muslims to strongly reject and condemn barbaric acts perpetrated in the name of our religion. However, at this juncture, rejection and condemnation are not enough; terrorist recruitment within Muslim communities must be fought and countered by an effective collaboration of state authorities, religious leaders and civil society actors. We must organize community-wide efforts to address all factors that aid terrorist recruitment.

    Ways of expressing support and dissent within democratic means

    We need to work with our community to set up the necessary framework for identifying at-risk youth, preventing them from seeking self-destructive paths, assisting families with counseling and other support services. We must promote a proactive, positive government engagement so that engaged Muslim citizens can sit at the table where counterterrorism measures are planned and share their ideas. Our youth should be taught ways of expressing support and dissent within democratic means. Incorporating democratic values into school curricula early on is crucial for inculcating a culture of democracy in young minds.

    In the aftermath of such tragedies, historically strong reactions have surfaced. Anti-Muslim and anti-religious sentiment as well as security-driven treatment of Muslim citizens by governments would be counter-productive. The Muslim citizens of Europe want to live in peace and tranquility. Despite the negative climate, they should strive to engage more with their local and national governments to help work toward more inclusive policies that better integrate their community into the larger society.

    It is also important for us Muslims to critically review our understanding and practice of Islam in light of the conditions and requirements of our age and the clarifications provided by our collective historic experiences. This does not mean a rupture from the cumulative Islamic tradition but rather, an intelligent questioning so we can confirm the true teachings of the Quran and the Prophetic tradition that our Muslim predecessors attempted to reveal.

    We must proactively marginalize decontextualized reading of our religious sources that have been employed in the service of perverted ideologies. Muslim thinkers and intellectuals should encourage a holistic approach and reconsider jurisprudential verdicts of the Middle Ages that were issued under perpetual conflict where religious affiliation often coincided with political affiliation. Having core beliefs should be distinguished from dogmatism. It is possible, indeed absolutely necessary, to revive the spirit of freedom of thought that gave birth to a renaissance of Islam while staying true to the ethos of the religion. Only in such an atmosphere can Muslims effectively combat incivility and violent extremism.

    In the aftermath of the recent events I am witnessing, with chagrin, the revival of the thesis of the clash of civilizations. I do not know whether those who first put out such a hypothesis did so out of vision or desire. What is certain is that today, the revival of this rhetoric simply serves the recruitment efforts of the terrorist networks. I want to state clearly that what we are witnessing is not a clash of civilizations but rather the clash of humanity with barbarity in our common civilization.

    Our responsibility as Muslim citizens is to be part of the solution despite our grievances. If we want to defend the life and civil liberties of Muslims around the world and the peace and tranquility of every human regardless of their faith, we must act now to tackle the violent extremism problem in all its dimensions: political, economic, social and religious. By setting virtuous examples through our lives, by discrediting and marginalizing the extremist interpretations of religious sources, by staying vigilant toward their impact on our youth, and by incorporating democratic values early in education, we can counter violence and terrorism as well as totalitarian ideologies that lead to them.

     

    • This article by Turkish Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen was first published in Le Monde
  • Majidun: Assembly reaches understanding with military

    Majidun: Assembly reaches understanding with military

    The Lagos State House of Assembly has  reached an understanding with the military to help restore economic activities to Majidun area in Ikorodu which has been in coma due to the activities of pipe line vandals.

    The Ad-Hoc Committee set up by the Assembly to investigate the activities of military officers currently occupying  Majidun community as a result of the activities of the vandals struck the agreement with the military on behalf of the Assembly.

    Members of the committee led by ýts Chairman, Chief Whip of the House, Hon. Rotýmý Abýru, yesterday embarked on assessment and fact finding visit to the community having earlier invited the commander of the Joint Military Task Force to the Assembly following the petition sent to the Assembly by residents of the community,  alleging that the  military officers  sacked some of the residents from their homes, harass them constantly, rape and block the of only entrance to the community, thereby paralysing economic activities ýn the community, thereby subjecting residents to hardship.

    However, the lawmakers were able to get the military and the community leaders to agree to a round table to work out the best ways to relax security in some parts of the community with a view to helping restore economic life in the community which is being currently distrupted since the military moved in to stop those using the community as a transit point for illegal oil bunkering.

    Speaking with the community leaders at the palace of the baale, Chief Jethro Abejoye with other leaders including Chairman of the Community, Prince Oloyole Megbedofo, Community Secretary, Chief Segun Omoyele and former Councilor representing the community, Hon Dairo Bolarinwa, Abiru assured the community that it would do all within its powers to make life easy for them.

    Abýru promised to do everything possible to bring reprieve to them pending when the House of Assembly will take a decision on the report of the committee.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • The Past for the Present: Understanding Historical Effectivity in Africa

    This write-up is a direct response to the article written by Mr. Segun Ayobolu on Dr. Dapo Thomas’ contribution at the recently held international conference on African Studies at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria.  Dr. Thomas of the Department of History and International Studies, Lagos State University presented a paper at this conference.  I was not able to attend this great meeting of eggheads due to some pressing academic matters.  So I missed the chance to express my views and understanding of facets of African History and Culture in general within the context of local, regional and transoceanic transfers and exchanges.  However, I’m seizing this opportunity to open up a discourse in this connection, not as a mere academic exercise but rather as an attempt to correct in my own opinion, the wrong impression that the past has no relevance to the present, let alone the future in a colonially and neo-colonially ravaged and barbarised nation like Nigeria.

    It is a truism that all disciplines must from time to time modify or overhaul their curricula to mesh with societal needs, aspirations, problems and challenges which are of course, not a fixity.  Therefore, it is absolutely normal to rework the content and morphology of the grammar of each discipline whenever the need to do so arises.  History including all other historical sciences like Linguistics is not and cannot be an exception.  However, greater critical thinking has to be put on the front burner of our methodology and appraisal of the nature and dynamics of the past.  To do otherwise, is to risk the charge of retrogressive scholarship – an anathema to the improvement of the human condition.

    Contrary to Dr. Dapo Thomas’ thesis as reported on the back page of the Nation on Saturday, October 31, 2015, the past is not dead or irrelevant afterall!  As a matter of fact, Nigerians need the past more than ever before given the myriad of crises such as ethnic violence, communal clashes, Boko Haram insurgency, material poverty and endemic corruption that are being currently faced.  The past is the bedrock of our cultural identities in Africa despite the traumatic effects of European entanglements with the continent about 500 years ago or thereabouts.

    There is no doubt that a disconnect has been created in certain key areas of African life and living, and that this is a devil to wrestle with up to now, by post-colonial Africa.  For example, most of Africa’s indigenous knowledge systems and their underlying ideologies and/or systemic regularities like iron metallurgy, cloth weaving, bark cloth making and medicinal practices were substantially crippled and consigned to obscurity by Europe.  Most of these ruins – the tangible dimension of the above heritages are etched on Africa’s cultural landscapes.  They have to be deciphered, studied and even re-studied as well as interpreted for their practical lessons since history is about accessibility and functionality.  However, most of these relics are in the belly of the earth, obviously outside the domain of the “conventional” historian.

    The above scenario underscores the reason why the principles of networking with allied historical sciences cannot be glossed over in the scheme of things.  History is an intellectual engagement concerned with the re-enactment of a story about a people and their actions as well as general behaviours through time and space.  It is about the successes and failings of our ancestors in the context of their physical and social environments.  But the authentic African/Nigerian History and Culture lie beneath the ground waiting for exhumation/ excavation by specialists.  It is not possible to re-create or re-enact the past in its entirety due to a wide range of conceptual, methodological and epistemological weaknesses inherent with the historical record.  Thus, for example, no one can separate in a neat way, the historian from the set of data at his disposal.  These weaknesses notwithstanding, some glimmers of light can still be shed on the past as the historian dives into the record on the wings of science aided by appropriate epistemologies.

    Therefore, history is not a moribund subject or an engagement centred on trivialities.  History does not need some magical life jackets to keep it afloat the stream of modern education.  The life jackets in this regard, are International Relations and Strategic Studies among others.  This new development in some Nigerian universities is nothing but an aberration arising from a poor understanding of how to make history market-oriented today.  It has to be discouraged before it begins to spread like an Ebola virus to all other institutions of higher learning in the country.  Nigeria needs its past now more than hitherto.  Barbarisation of history is one facet of the machinations of the Western intellectual oligarchy to separate Africans from their roots so that the contemporary culture of taking handouts from Europe, North America and parts of Asia can continue unabated.  Such a situation is capable of keeping Africa and Africans in a state of permanent underdevelopment and monumental poverty.

    It is a deceit to claim that Nigeria is a developing nation despite the politically orchestrated story of its macro-economic buoyancy.  The so-called macro-economic progress is yet to be translated into better conditions of living for the generality of Nigerians as the political leaders continue with their culture of hedonism and self-indulgence.  It beggars belief that Nigeria with its El-Dorado status is in this sorry state.

    Nigeria and indeed, Africa generally have not been able to break pragmatically with the vicious circle of dependence and exploitation – the hallmark of economic and cultural imperialism.  History if properly packaged and taught has the capacity to reveal our hidden past glories before the coming of Europe.  Aside from an overhauled curriculum, the pedagogy must also change.  Networking has to occupy centre stage in the scheme of things.  History eminently straddles the spheres of knowledge productions and effectivity or knowledge applications (wisdom).  Professors J.F. Ade Ajayi, Obaro Ikime and Bassey Andah (of blessed memory) in their heydays at the University of Ibadan were extremely focal in defending the effectivity of history.  All their efforts were to produce profound scholarship and thereby set the stage for national development on a sustainable scale.  Younger scholars today can only begin to build on these solid academic foundations instead of bastardising the heritage under the guise of relevance.

    My thesis here, is not that all scholars of history of differing social, racial and economic persuasions must go the same direction in pursuing the “truth” about Nigeria’s collective memories including materialities.  However, the centrality of history to the spiritual and material abundance of a people or nation cannot be contested without running into some deep crises.  Man is in actuality, a historical animal.  It is a big tragedy that in the 21st century, educational policy formulators at all levels have failed to appreciate let alone appropriate the usefulness of history or the past to our contemporary society.  This ignorance had led them to the removing of history from the secondary school curriculum in the country.  It is a pity also that things are falling apart so rapidly in our universities with a special emphasis on the curriculum and teaching of history.  As noted above, the Nigerian/African historical record has several enormous gaps that need to be filled in by African themselves through the lenses of appropriate historiography.  This is one way of firing the imagination of young Nigerians from the secondary school level, so that they can study History later in tertiary institutions.

    Africa has a robust heritage of science and technology as well as arts.  It is the cradle of humanity both biologically and culturally.  Humans originated from this continent since 4 million years ago or thereabouts.  Africans authored the earliest known technologies about 2.5 million years before present.  The earliest known evidence of mathematical operations was got from the northeastern region of Zaire.  This site was dated to about 25,000 years ago.  The oldest known book on Mathematics in the world was authored by an African known as Imhotep as far back in time as about 4000 years ago in Egypt.

    The Nok Valley region in Plateau State of Nigeria has produced evidence of iron metallurgy dated to at least 500 B.C.  This was when much of Europe was still using stone implements for all kinds of socio-economic activities.  It means that by this time, most European regions were still at the lower level of civilisation.  This revelation is hard to believe by most people today.  The peoples living in the broad territory later called Nigeria in 1914 were already ahead of Europe in the domains of science and technology before the latter came to Africa to eclipse the unparalleled glories.  These are elements of the continent’s collective past that remain buried so that the descendants of our colonisers could continue the the oppression of Africans and exploitation of their wealth which is no doubt enormous and varied in character.  The historical record despite its incomplete nature has shown that outsiders were not the central shapers of the directions of key storylines in Nigeria in the past.  This truth must be broadcast for educational purposes and national development.

    Consequently, Eurocentric theories orchestrated by Spencer, Morgan, Marx and Smith among other scholars are a desperate attempt to re-colonise the African mind.  These theories include Evolutionism and Diffusionism.  In summary, contrary to the claim of all the pseudo-theories by most Western scholars and their sponsors, ancient Nigeria had scientific and technological breakthroughs of uncommon profoundity.  These are elements of the past or key storylines that historical scientists and relevant government bodies/agencies have to use to package sustainable development-driven curricula at all levels of education.  This is “Nigerian Revolution by Education”.

     

    • Professor Ogundele is of the Department of Archaeology and Anthropology, University of Ibadan.

  • Understanding and erasing stretch marks from skin 1

    Diamonds are said to be a woman’s best friends. But I doubt if there is any woman who would like to have them in exchange for stretch marks. These anti-beauty marks which may appear on the breasts, arms, abdomen, thighs and buttocks easily make women lose their sex appeal and self-esteem as they put off many men.In many parts of Nigeria, women employ different methods to fight abdominal stretch marks, especially immediately after child birth. In some places, mothers, friends or relations of these women heat their abdomens with hot towels or clothto improve circulation in this region, disband accumulation of fat and other unwanted dross which may cause undulations in the abdominal topography associated with sagged skin and the ugliness of stretch marks.In the eastern parts of Nigeria, new mothers are given special soups which perform the same functions. In addition, many women place hot water bottles on their abdomen. TODAY, however, the skyline of this health challenge would appear to have changed. A growing epidemic of stretch marks among women is evident, and it is not confined to women who have just stepped out of the labour room. It affects also, those women who have hung their boots due to menopause or aging and who perhaps, are no longer producing enough estrogen, the dominant female hormone, are becoming or have become obese. Young girls, too, are not left out of the net. And if men think stretch marks are none of their business, they make a mistake.So, what are stretch marks which no one appears to have immunity against.

    Stretch marks

    WHAT happens when we hold a leaf at both endsat both ends and pull it in opposite directions beyond its tensile strength? It tears.Of course! That’s what happens in stretch marks! The skin is overstretched beyond its capacity to withstand the stress, and it tears. But the part of the skin which tears is not only the visible, outermost layer called the epidermis.It involves, also, the middle of  three layers which make up our skin. These three layers of the skin are:

    • The epidermis (outermost layer)
    • Dermis (middle layer)
    • Hypodermis (innermost layer)

    The dermis consists of dead cells that are consistently shed. The dermis houses nerve endings, sebaceous glands which oil the skin, sweat glands, connective tissue, and hair follicles. Beneath the dermis is the hypodermis, also called the subcutaneous or fat tissue. All these subsections of the skin perform different functions in skin life and health. To be healthy, and function properly they must be well fed and protected against the wear and tear of stress, free radical damage, infections, heavy metals and poor blood circulation, to mention some of the challenges the skin often faces, especially such a disturbances they may subject it to tearing or stretch marks.

    We need Vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids (EFAs), collagen, elastin, to mention a few nutrients, to maintain this structure. But we hardly do.

    ccording to HannanNichois in Medilexicon international limited: “The body goes through rapid growth cycles during puberty which can cause the development of stretch marks on boy’s shoulders and backs, and girls lips, thighs and breasts. Stretch marks can become apparent if weight is gained over a short period or if body builders and athletes increase muscle mass. Medical conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome can cause stretch marks by the over production of the hormone Cortisol,andMarfan Syndrome weakens the body’s tissue and elasticity due to a faulty gene. Ehlers – Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a rare inherited condition that disrupts the integrity of structural proteins in the skin which can also cause stretch marks. Sometimes, prolonged or inappropriate use of cortisol steroid creams and lotions that are used to treat eczema can cause stretch marks by decreasing the amount of collagen in the skin. Shape faded stretch marks are a type of scar characterized by a loss of collagen, a type of protein fiber found throughout the body, producing strength and cushioning to many different areas, including the skin, and elastic fibers in the dermis.

    “The dermis is the layer of sensitive connective tissue of the skin located below the epidermis, containing nerve endings, sweat and sebaceous glands and blood and lymph vessels. Stretch marks form in the dermis when the connective tissue is ‘stretch’ beyond the power of its elasticity due to rapid expansion or contraction of the skin from sudden growth or weight gain. Stretch marks are caused when the dermis is stretched so rapidly it tears. The abrupt stretching causes the dermis to tear which allows deeper skin layers to show through, forming the stretch marks. Usually, as the body grows, the strong connective fibers in the dermis slowly stretch. However, with rapid growth, the fibers overstretch and break. Stretch marks are red or purple initially due to blood vessels showing through the tears in the dermis. Stretch marks eventually fade to a silvery, white or glossy appearance due to the blood vessel contracting and the pale fat underneath the skin becoming visible instead.Stretch marks have a more extreme appearance with an increase in cortisone, produced by the adrenal glands. Cortisone weakens elastic fibers in the skin.

     

    Solutions

    In the search for solutions to stretch marks, almost no stone has been left unturned by researchers. Study after study have found natural recipes useful in some skin types and not so useful in others. In many cases, trying to find a cure can be a frustrating experience, but a jubilant discovery in others.

    MNT News reports, for example, while cocoa butter, olive oil, Bitter Almond Oil may work for some and not for others, Tretinoin (Retinoic acid) “improved the clinical appearance of early stretch marks” In one study, it is reported to reduce stretch mark length by 14 percent and the width by eight percent. Another study reported a 20 percent decrease in stretch mark length. This product is contra-indicated for pregnant and nursing women. Tretinoin is said to help to rebuild collagen ‘which makes stretch marks look like normal skin.’

    While checking a literature review of research of stretch mark management, I was interested in Silica. Traditionally, silica – containing herbs and supplements have been used to improve skin, nail and hair strength and health. Among these herbs are Stinging Nettle and Horsetail. As this column reported last Thursday, DIATOM has joined the league. Known more as Diatomaceus Health, the proprietary Diatom is between 92 and 96 percent Silica. It has been found to alkalize the blood, heal ulcers, cut high blood sugar and high blood cholesterol, improve digestion and calcium absorbtion, kill germs and remove heavy metals from the system apart from strengthening connective tissue which is at risk of breaking or tearing when the skin is over stretched beyond its tensile capacity. So, what does MNT News say about silica?

    “A study of 20 volunteers who massaged Silicon and placebo gels into separate sites of the abdomen daily for six weeks showed that the application of Silicon gels increased collagen levels and reduced pigmentation compared with a placebo. This finding would provide preliminary evidence of the use oftopical gels in the clinicalManagement of stretch marks”

    To me from the foregoing, it seems to one that skins likely to suffer from stretch marks may be laden with weak collagen matrix and “vegetable” connective tissue. Otherwise, why do some women not have stretch marks and others do? My sister has four children and has no abdominal stretch marks. Proudly, she exhibits her abdomen to women of her age whose abdomen would sicken any man.

    Diet, therefore, should be the first post of call for any woman who wishes to avert stretch marks or overcome them. The diet should provide nurture for not only collagen and connective tissue but also antioxidants and antimicrobials.For under the skin, especially the one which itches often, may be resident a large population of candida which ravages collagen and connective tissue, making the skin prone to stretch marks on little exertion. The liver should be treated along with the skin in the treatment of skin eruptions and other skin conditions.

    he skin is the largest organ for the excretion of wastes, although the liver is the chief excretory organ. if the liver is weak or sick, the skin, like the kidneys, receives an extra workload. More toxins and heavy metals, germs and parasites, may also find their ways to the skin. Natural remedies should be deployed against them. This column often mentions Amazon skin AP for such conditions. There is also Help for skin Disorders from the stable of Bell life style.  This help comes from the product Help for skin Disorders.The contents are extracts of Oregon grape root, Bitter sweet, Juniper Berries, Sarsaparilla and Neem.

    As herbal remedies.com describes Bitter or sweet: Herbalist use… as a sedative, pain reliever and diuretic. The yellow berries are used for treating convulsive disorders and menstrual problems. This herb is also used to relieve asthma, chronic bronchitis, thematic conditions and gouts. Bitter sweet is used internally or externally for skin diseases such as eczema, itchiness ‘psonasis, and warts, and as a treatment for swellings. A decoction of the twigs as a wash lessens the severity of skin conditions. It also works well in treating hives, ring worm, and itchy, crusty eruptions on the scalp and face. Recent research has shown Bitter sweet contains, the anti-tumour agent, Beta-Solar marine, which may have some effect in treating cancer”.

    ‘According to Natural life Energy: Sarsaparilla detoxifies the body Herbalists have used Sarsaparilla’s anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and toxin-binding properties to purify the blood and treat skin conditions. Sasaparilla is also nutritious and contain Vitamin A, B complex, C and D, and minerals iron, manganese, Sodium, Silicon, Sulfur, Copper, Zinc and Iodine. Sarsaparilla has been used in traditional medicine to treat skin conditions like psoriasis and leprosy, rhemathoid arthritis (RA) and joint pain, headaches, cold and sexual impotence. Scientific studies done in Sarsaparilla have isolated compounds responsible for its medicinal properties. Sarsaparilla binds with toxins and detoxifies the blood we learn from the baseline of Health Foundation in Jonbarron.org:

    Oregon grape root is known among herbalist for its ability to stimulate liver function, improve the flow of bile and for blood cleansing, Oregon grape root uses have traditionally included treating liver congestions and infectious conditions of both the stomach and intestines. Another benefit of Oregon grape root is its functioning as an antimicrobial. For these reasons, you would find it in Jon Baron’s Liver flush tincture and blood support formulas. When used on the skin, Oregon grape has been found to combat certain skin irritations.

    Studies have concluded that herbal remedies are often more effective on dermatological conditions than pharmaceutical, and the Oregon grape power to sleep fight psoriasis and atopic dermatitis would seem to support that claim.

    “Jane Cronin speaks elaborately about Zinc in www.clinicians.com. Zinc found in the skin as antioxidant properties that provide UV protection. Due to its importance in the production of collagen, it is important for wound healing and makes it important for dry and allergic skin conditions. It is very beneficial in the treatment of aching. This is due to its role in the oil glands and also because of its anti-inflammatory actions in the skin. If you think of teenage boys, needing lots of Zinc for growth and sexual development, with aching, Zinc is perfect.

    Many other authorities offer valuable suggestions about how to prevent or treat stretch marks. One of the suggestions is hydration, that is we should drink water, about five liters of it a day. The skin is ripped, causing stretch marks if it is dry and lacks elasticity.

    ack of collagen and elastin are linked to stretch marks. Both provide the skin with support structure. Cocoa butter and Vitamin E are suggested for overcoming these deficiencies. Some people add Collagen, elastin and Vitamin E to the Cocoa butter they use as massage cream.

    Says Mark Raineri: “The keys in fading and preventing future stretch marks is consuming mega dosages of the  right Vitamins and minerals (Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Zinc), they are the important micronutrients which affects the skin directly. Vitamin A is very important for the growth of skin and maintaining healthy bones, nails and hair. It helps to repair injured skin and improve dry, scaly skin. It is absorbed through the skin and helps the skin remain soft and plump. When Vitamin A is topically applied, it stimulates the skin mitotically and metabolically, therefore maintaining the skin in a youthful condition. Experiments have shown that Vitamin A applied topically keeps the epidemics saturated with the vitamin. Vitamin A also stimulates the renewal process of the epidermal cells which causes thickening of the epidemics. At the same time, Collagen content in the skin was increased and improvement in skin elasticity could be observed (very important). One of the most important roles of Vitamin C is to help heal wounds and scar tissue. It is required for the synthesis of collagen, and acts as a cementing substance between skin cells. The most important role of collagen is to provide barrier for infections and diseases and to promote healing of wounds. Vitamin C loses its potency very quickly which can make it worthless unless used immediately. It also oxidizes very quickly when exposed to air and light.

    “Another very important Vitamin when trying to prevent stretch marks, Vitamin E is needed for the maintenance of normal body metabolism and in the protection and healing of body tissue and skin. For skin care, Vitamin E is most beneficial as an antioxidant in preserving the health of skin tissues and membranes. There are two ways to take Vitamin E orally and topically, applying Vitamin E topically on the stretch marks or taking Vitamin E pills.

    “Zinc, the most important quite possibly, the essential supplement to take in the prevention of stretch marks. The most important property of Zinc is the production of Collagen. Collagen holds the bodies skin tissues together.

    “It is the most abundant structural protein and makes up 80 percent of all connective tissue. In fact 75 percent of the dermis consist of Collagen and it makes up 90 percent of its volume. When a person has enough Collagen.It is near impossible to get stretch marks, Collagen is not available in food, so it is very essential to supplement with Zinc.”

    We cannot ignore other therapies such as the massage of stretch marks with a mixture of sugar and Olive oil. An antioxidant supplements I adds to skin formulas, following the example of Dr. Ray strand and Dr. Don Colbert, is Grape seed extract (GSE). It is more potent as an antioxidant than Vitamin C and Vitamin E, and it protect them against oxidation. It helps to clear skin blemishes such as dark spots on the skin and those white blotches of Vitiligo caused by free radical activity in the skin.

  • Understanding Saraki’s misunderstandings

    When understanding collides with misunderstanding, the collision needs to be understood.  Is Senate President Bukola Saraki misunderstood?  In other words, is he a victim of misunderstanding? Or is he the one who needs to demonstrate understanding? Does he have the understanding needed to avoid misunderstanding his situation?

    Where is this train of thought going? Or where is it coming from? Well, Saraki prompted a contemplation of understanding and misunderstanding by his word choice on September 22 when he was docked by the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT). In an unexpected and unprocedural seizure of the moment, Saraki reportedly said to Tribunal Chairman Justice Danladi Umar: “Mr. Chairman, I just want to make this point for you to understand that, as a layman, I am puzzled why I should be before the tribunal.” Saraki continued: “We are all before the world and not just before Nigeria and we ought to be seen how we conform to due process.”

    It is puzzling that Saraki claimed to be puzzled. Even more puzzling was a statement signed by him after his performance in the dock. He said: “I reiterate my belief that the only reason why I am going through this is because I am Senate President. If I were to be just a Senator, I doubt if anybody will be interested in the assets declaration form I filled over twelve years ago.”

    It is not understandable: Saraki doesn’t understand that it is precisely because of his status as Senate President that he deserves whatever he is going through. The country certainly doesn’t deserve a legislative commander that not only emerged controversially, but whose emergence was also coloured by a colourless subversion of his party’s position.

    Only a dysfunctional decoding of the concept of party supremacy could have encouraged the circumstances that brought him to the helm of affairs at the Senate, an ascendancy he actualised through an unapologetic defiance of his party’s desire and decision. It is noteworthy that the same warped twist resulted in a queer combination and cohabitation at the helm of the Senate: Saraki of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a party elected to power on the premise of progressivism, and Deputy Senate President Ike Enweremadu of the unprogressive Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Saraki made matters worse by subsequently rubbishing his party’s list for Senate leadership posts.

    It is understandable that a functional interpretation of party supremacy must be informed by the logic of supremacy. Supremacy is supreme. For the purpose of clarification, supremacy doesn’t mean infallibility. So the party can err. It does not guarantee fairness. So the party can be unfair. The essence of party supremacy is its conclusive collective voice.

    Saraki is a figure that emerged without an understanding of party supremacy, a development that has helped to fuel a crisis of individualism in the APC. In his rise to the preeminent legislative position, he demonstrated a misunderstanding of the party’s “due process”, and he did so without any care whether a watching world understood his lack of understanding. It is not understandable: Saraki now wants the public to understand so-called conformity to due process only in the context of his ongoing troubles. Obviously, he brought trouble upon himself and should understand that it may be harvest time for him.

    It should be understood that this political drama is taking place on the stage of realpolitik. Saraki’s anti-party manoeuvres that gave him the Senate crown were guided by realpolitik. His defenders and supporters have attributed his tribunal trial to the power and influence of alleged political antagonists, without understanding that Saraki doesn’t have a monopoly on realpolitik.

    Perhaps unfortunately for Saraki, there may be evidence of minuses exploitable by the opposing side. Considering the internal logic of party supremacy, it is understandable that   internal politicking in a political party may give an advantage to certain interests such that they enjoy leadership influence. But this is no reason for the disadvantaged to bellyache to the point of belligerence and centrifugal conduct as manifested by Saraki in the pursuit of his desperate ambition to lead the Senate.

    Clearly, Saraki wants his party to accept his contentious crowning as a fait accompli, which is not understandable. In building scenarios following his untidy enthronement, it would appear that Saraki didn’t understand that APC supremos were likely to make moves to  save party supremacy, and that  they were likely to find their own way of doing so. He probably didn’t understand the consequences of his rebellion and how far the party may be prepared to go in exploring a plurality of possibilities to checkmate him.

    Saraki didn’t understand that the early sign of his disruptive behaviour was likely to be seen as a danger to party supremacy by party hierarchs particularly. He didn’t understand that his party would not encourage him to perform even more daring stunts to disgrace party supremacy by allowing him to get away with his initial misbehaviour.  It is understandable if the party decides to follow the path that leads to restoration and reinforcement of party supremacy based on party discipline, party cohesion and party integrity.

    The conflict is nothing short of a domestic war of sorts. It is not for the faint-hearted. On Saraki’s side in particular, he will need a capacity to endure a war of attrition. Saraki must understand that in attrition warfare, the fundamental strategy is “to win a war by wearing down the enemy to the point of collapse through continuous losses”. He should understand what he is facing, or perhaps more aptly, the force of the forces ranged against him: “one can be said to pursue a strategy of attrition when one makes it the main goal to cause gradual attrition to the opponent eventually amounting to unacceptable or unsustainable levels for the opponent while limiting one’s own gradual losses to acceptable and sustainable levels.”

    There is no doubt that Saraki has only himself to blame for being on the receiving end of attritional methods, and not without reasonable justification. When will Saraki understand that he is fighting a losing battle?

  • Understanding and treating bad breath (Halitosis)…5

    For now, the curtain falls today on this series begun five weeks ago. Today’s column arose from the request of a reader of this column to have his doubt about Eclipta alba clarified. This herb is one of many subjected in this series to heal digestive system insufficiency, one of many possible causes of bad breath or month odour as already explained. This gentle man is a regular business visitor to India. When he arrived there two weeks ago, he went to a health food store to buy eclipta alba. But he became confused when many of the brands he sighted were promoted on their labels as hair growers. Who wouldn’t be? He called me immediately, and I explained to him why the producer of those brands may be marketing them as hair tonics.

    The explanation is as followed…

    Eclipta alba is used in the traditional medicine of many countries for the different needs of particular societies, and each society brands it accordingly. That is why in India, where women cultivate long hair which falls up to their hips, Eclipta alba is well known for hair beauty and growth. In China, this plant enjoys wide spread user as a liver and kidney supplement.

    It is used, also, for strengthening the gum and teeth in old people and for improving vision. In China and Brazil, it is used as anti-venom for scorpion and snake bite. Skin challenges, including athlete’s foot, are said to yield to Elipta alba. In some blinded experiments which did not set out to evaluate the impact of this herb on vision, conclusions have been reached about improvements in eye health and function. Some of the researchers allude that this may be due to the high content of beta carotene in Eclpta alba. I hold nothing against this view as a consumer of beta carotene- rich foods and food supplements to improve night vision the trouble is that some people, including hypothyrodics (people suffering from low thyroid function) do not easily or efficiently convert Beta carotene to Vitamin A, which improves vision, among other health benefits. If, indeed, Eclipta alba improves vision this come as a by product of its improvement of liver and kidney functions. In Eastern medicine philosophy which western hemisphere countries have begun to appreciate, beginning with the reality of acupuncture and acupressure as effective forms of medicine, the eyes are believed to be governed by meridians (channels of energy flow) which also govern the liver and the kidneys. Thus, if the liver or the kidney are sick, their illnesses would impact negatively on the eyes as well. One of the pointer s to this in western medicine is pregnancy–related to eye problems. Where pregnancy piles pressure on the kidney(s) or bladder, blurry vision may occur which may clear when the baby is born.

    Nevertheless, the importance of beta carotene to good vision. And general health cannot be underestimated. Beta carotene is the most studied and perhaps the most important to human health of the 600-member or so carotenoid family.

    Beta carotene is a fat-soluble precursor of vitamin A which plays crucial function in eye health.To understand the support of beta carotene for radiant health, one must appreciate the roles vitamin A plays in it as well. There are two types of vitamin A… Retinol , from animal sources (preform vitamin A) and pro- vitamin A, beta carotene, which convert into vitamin A in the intestine and is store in the liver as retinol, which is converted to active vitamin A when this vitamin runs short in the body. About 250,000 to 500,000 children are reported to go blind in developing countries every year because of vitamin A deficiency.

    In the eye, as vitamin A, beta carotene protect the cornea against dryness, thereby preventing “dry eye” syndrome, which may caused cloudiness and may be corrected with vitamin A eye drops. It participates in the body’s conversion of light energy into nerve impulses in the retina, the light sensitive area of the eye. The retina’s cells comprise rhodopsin pigment molecules which absorb light to cause retina changes and nerve impulses which take the light impressions to the brain.

    Thus, it is obvious that beta carotene, as vitamin A, is crucial for eye health and function. But vitamin A cannot be well absorbed in the absence of zinc, another antioxidant and antiaging substance, and zinc needs copper to function well. Beyond these, vitamin A has been found to work better still in the eye in the presence of such wonderful allies as vitamin C, lutein and zezanthin, selenium and Alpha Lipoice Acid (ALA) thus, about 33 nutrients are reported to be important for eye health. It is possible many of these are present in Eclipta alba to make researchers believe it has hands in vision improvement. They stumbled upon this finding in their investigation of other factors.

    According to Dr. Shashidhara, of the Department of Pharmacognosy, Government College of Pharmacy, Bengalore, in a review of the phytochemical constituents and, pharmacological activities of Eclipa alba: “…Eclipta alba has been used in the regions like south American, Asia, Africa… it is an active ingredient of many herbal formulations prescribed for liver ailments and shows effects on liver cell regeneration. It is used as a tonic and diuretic in hepatic (liver) and spleen enlargement. It is also used in catarrhal and jaundice and for skin diseases.

    The alcohol extract of the plant has shown anti-viral activity against ranuchet disease virus. The plant is commonly used in hair oil all over India for healthy long and black hair. The fresh juice of leaves is used for increasing appetite, improving digestion and as a mild bowel regulator. It is commonly used in viral hepatitis to promote bile flow and protect the parenchyma and properly used to enhance memory and learning. The plant has a reputation as an anti-aging agent in ayurveda. It is used as a general tonic for debility. Externally, it is used for inflammation, minor cuts and burns and the fresh leaf juice is considered very effective in stopping bleeding. Leaf juice mixed with honey is also used for children with upper respiratory infections and also used in eye and ear infections. It is a source of coumestans type compounds used in phytopharmaceutical formulations of medicines prescribed for treatment of cirrhosis of the liver and infectious hepatitis.

    It is widely used in India as a chologuage and deobstruent in hepatic enlargement, for jaundice and other ailments of the liver and gall bladder. The water extract of Eclipta prostratra (whole plant) exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity against HIV-1 integrase (HIV-1 IN). Vedic guard, a poly herbal formation, is a synagetic combination of 16 medicinal plant extracts which contains Eclipta alba as a major ingredient. Charaka advises taking the juice of Eclipta alba with honey to prevent the onset of senility, and its oil as the best medicated massage oil for rejuvenation therapies.

    I have detoured, somewhat, to attempt to answer the enquiry of the gentleman who traveled to indai and encourage the use of Eclipta alba for eye health by another reader of this column in benin. This reader was like many people who discover only during a visit to their ophthalmologist that they had lost some peripheral (side) vision, gone almost blind in one eye, or had begun to suffer from macular degeneration which may consider to be age related. There are many other authorities who do not agree that these conditions are age related. And their arguments are persuasive. For why would some old people suffer from these ailments and some other old people would not? if these degenerative diseases are age related. The knowledge of free radicals and antioxidants advises us now that they occur when our bodies are ravaged by free radicals and we do not produce or consume enough antioxidants to “kill” these free radicals before they harm us.

    According to Gary Heiting, OD in www.allabout- vision.com/nutrition/vi…:

    “Because vitamin A helps protect the surface of the eye of the eye cornea, it is essential for good vision. Studies show vitamin A eye drops are effective for the treatment of dry eyes. In fact, one study found that over- the- counter lubricating eye drops containing vitamin A were as effective for the treatment of dry eye syndrome as more expensive eye drops formulated for dry eye relief. Vitamin A eye drops also have been shown effective for the treatment of a specific type of eye inflammation called superior Limbic Keratojunctivitis. Vitamin A, at least when in combination with other antioxidant vitamins, also appears to play a role in decreasing the risks of macular degeneration (MD). In the landmark age related eye disease study(AREDS) sponsored by the national eye institute, people at high risk for the disease who took a daily multiple vitamin that included vitamin A (beta carotene), vitamin C vitamin E, Zinc and copper had a 25 per cent reduced risk of advanced AMD during a six-year period.

    It also appears that a combination of vitamin A and
    Lutein may prolong resistance in people suffering from
    retinitis pigmentosa     (RP). A recent four-year-study conducted by researchers from Harvard medical school and other prominent universities found that individuals with retinitis pigmentosa who took daily supplements of vitamin A (15,000 i.u) and Lutein (12mg) had a slower loss of peripheral vision  than those who did not take the combined supplements. Because beta carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body, it is likely beta carotene (pro vitamin A) offers similar eye benefits as the preformed retinol type of vitamin A, though more researchers are needed to confirm this “In early 2011, researchers at Columbia university medical centre (New York) found that the synthetic form of vitamin A might be able to slow the progression of stargardt’s disease, an inherited eye disease that causes severe vision loss in young people.

    When given to mice with the same genetic defect as humans with stargardt’s disease, (also called juvenile macular degeneration), the modified vitamin A inhibited the growth of clump-like deposits in the retina called “ vitamin A dimmers” that are associated with degenerative changes and vision loss. The national eye institute has awarded the researchers a $1.25 million grant to further investigate the link between vitamin A dimmers and various retinal generations, which could lead to new approaches to treat these to treat these diseases?.

    Whenever he may be, thanks to Heinrich Wilhelm Ferdinand Wackenroder who, in 1831, discovered a chemical substance in the root of carrot and named it beta carotene. Thanks, also, to Paul Karrer, an analytical chemist who in 1930s discovered the structure of beta carotene and won a Nobel prize for that. Today, we know that the juice of two medium carrots provides 28 mg of beta carotene, almost enough for a whole day, whereas eating both carrots provides only one gram. The difference is because must of the beta carotene is in the fiber of the carrot and is released into the juice but trapped in the fiber. This column often suggests spirulina, one of the richest plant sources of beta carotene. It seems to me that, because of the power behind the eye- friendly action of Eclipta alba, it may be combined with spirulina in eye care efforts.

    As a final statement on Eclipta alba today, I wish to introduce the views of HAN LIAN CAO. On the many health benefits of Eclpta alba…

    Modern pharmacological actions pf Eclipta herb      

    1. “it improves the human body’s non-specific immune function”
    2. “it eliminate oxygen free radicals to inhibit 5-lipoxy genase”
    3. “it protects the chromosomes”
    4. “it shows remarkable hepatoprotective activity”
    5. “it promotes the regeneration of liver cells”
    6. “it increases coronary flow”
    7. “it prolong the survival time of mice under the normal pressure and hypoxia”
    8. “it improves the survival rate of mice under the reduced pressure and hypoxia”
    9. “it is good antioxidant”
    10. “sit promotes hair growth and make hair darker”
    11. “it has antimicrobial, sedative, analgesic, styptic, anti-amoeba, and anti-cancer effects.”

    Also WELLNESS AND HOME REMEDIES BLOG reviews on Eclipta alba as the following :

    “Health benefit for cough and lung infection

    It is good for throat and lung infection. This formular works well for coughs. Take equal quantities of the juice of the yellow eclpta alba and sesame oil. Boil over a low flame till the water evaporates strain and drink about half to one spoonful of the liquid morning and night. Gargling using the juice of the leaves strengthens teeth and gums and clears coating of the tongue.”

    ‘’Effective natural remedies for the eyes

    The herb is said to protect against blindness and other eye disease probably because of its high carotene content. This may be one of the reasons why traditionally kohl (kajal) was made by using the juice of these leaves. When the leaves are fried in ghee (clarified butter) and consumed regularly, the vision improves.”

    “Home remedies with Eclipta alba prostrate

    “Gargling, using the juice of the leaves strengthens teeth and gums and clears coating opf the tongue.”

    “Eating five fresh leaves in the morning cures constipation”

    “Our ancestors believed that this plant prevent aging.”

    • “It reduces appetite and aids digestion. It helps expel fecal matter from the large intestines.”

    “It heals ulcers, cleanse the liver and encourages excretion of bile.”

    “One ounce of the juice (15 ml) of Eclipta alba and cows milk 20 ml boiled and then cooled, when mixed and taken first thing in the” morning is said to regulate the blood pressure.”

  • Understanding and treating bad breath (Halitosis)…4

    Understanding and treating bad breath (Halitosis)…4

    When I reviewed Dr. Robert o. young’s book, pH Miracle, in this column about 10 years ago, one of the articles was published under the title THE PIT TOILET INSIDE ALL OF US.

    Many of the Features of a Pit toilet are present in an unkempt digestive system tract or alimentary canal… that is, the mouth, stomach and intestine (big and small), and they are partly responsible for bad breath or mouth adour. As it has been shown in the first three parts of this series, bad breath may not respond favourably to a good toothpaste or mouth wash if its roots lie deep in the digestive tracts. As I hinted last week, another Chart has been included in this part of the series to provide a better comparison of a normal colon (big intestine) and several abnormal variants. Many people, men and women alike, walk about like “walking corpses” with severely paralised colons without recognising the danger this poses to their lives. For it is not for nothing that surgeons in England, for example,   coined the warning: Death begin slowly but surely in the intestine.

     

    Friendly bacteria

     For some people, a dying intestine may be helped if the situation is not beyond  remedy. And one of the major life – lines may be friendly bacteria or probiotic.

     Naturally, a reasonable person who has heard about the germ theory and of the  havocs which bacteria can unleash on health will not wish to add bacteria to their  diet, friendly or not. The truth, however, is that friendly bacteria are one of the  designs of Mother Nature to keep unfriendly bacteria out of our bodies, especially the intestine. One evidence of this is a Nobel Prize Award for a study by Russian Professor Ileja Iljitsh mechnikov which explained why Bulgarians were the longest living people on earth by 1908 despite the under development of their country.

    Bulgarians drank a lot of yoghurt with every meal. And Prof. Mechnikov found that a specie of friendly bacteria named Lactobacillus Acidophilus present in the yoghurt was the miracle worker. Lactobacillus converts milk sugar to lactic acid and lactic acid, in the intestine, makes the intestinal environment inhospitable for unfriendly bacteria. Lactic acid does not kill the bacteria but simply makes them unable to live and to prosper or flourish. On the basis of this information, I do not consume Nigerian- made yoghurt. Largely, many of the brands are purely milk powder mixed with lime, which provides some lactic acid. Many of them have little or no culture of friendly bacteria in them. That is why they taste too sweet. Yet, other than fermenting milk sugar to lactic acid, friendly bacteria carry out other functions in the intestine which improve overall health status. Some of these other functions which many Nigerian yoghurt brands may, therefore, not oblige, include

    (1) Manufacture of vitamin A

    (2) Manufacture of vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, K and Biotin.

    (3) Manufacture of essential fatty acids (EFAs), such as Omega-3 fatty acids,

    (4) Purification of the colon

    (5) Improvement of digestion (milk sugar and protein)

    (6) Production of anti bacteria and antifungal chemicals against unfriendly bacteria and fungi in the intestine

    (7) Supporting regular bowel motion

    (8) Reduction of cholesterol and triglyceride blood levels to normal status

    (9) Helping to normalise blood sugar levels.  In some experiments, friendly bacteria have been reported in some peer- reviewed scientific journals to inhibit tumor growth in animals by promoting apoptosis. Apoptosis is the process by which an abnormal  cell commits “suicide” by activating its P. 53 gene which nature provides every cell for this purpose. Many researchers believe cancerous cells continue to grow only because they are too weak to pull the trigger of the P.53 gene and, in the search of a cancer cure, have been investigating foods and herbs which may help them do so. In their belief that friendly bacteria can do this, they suggest the feeding of this bacteria to enhance their cancer- fighting potential. A dietary supports for them, as suggested by researchers, are fructooligosacharides. Also called FOS, there are sugar molecules so tightly linked together that the body cannot digest them.

    That is why they are often preferred as sweetners where simple sugars cannot be consumed without detrimental effects as diabetes. In the intestine, friendly bacteria consume the FOS to grow their population. Besides their role in the nutrition of friendly bacteria, FOS help to reduce excess blood cholesterol and sugar levels, improve regular bowel motion. When friendly bacteria are well fed, they may constitute viable support for the elevation of mood and smashing of depression. For in their activities, friendly bacteria are known to produce tryptophan, an amino acid which improves mood and helps to subdue depression. It is possible some people with an overgrowth of unfriendly bacteria, mold, fungi and viruses suffer from mood swings and depression because they do not have enough friendly bacteria in their intestine to help them overcome their enemies and produce enough tryptophan, an anti- depressant. There is a lot more to say about friendly bacteria and why many brands of sugar- laden Nigerian yoghurt are not recommendable on account of their poor rating in friendly bacteria. One of the points I would like to add is the research finding published in the British medical journal which suggests that lactobacillus relieved atopic allergic eczema and acute respiratory infections in children.

    Dr Mayur Joshi, medical adviser of probiotic international Ltd.

    Explains:  “In a recent trial, infants were given traditional tropical skin care for their eczema and then given either the probiotic mixture or placebo, which they add to milk, water, or yoghurt. The probiotic group showed a greater improvement in the severity of their symptoms than the placebo group, indicating that probiotics could be an effective therapy alongside standard treatment for asthma”.

    Clinical pharmacist Mike Wakeman Says:  “A paper published in the international journal of sports science and sports medicine in 2012 concluded that athletes who took probiotic suffered fewer symptoms of illness and recovered sooner than does who did not”.

    Gastroenterologist professor Ingvar Bjarnason who led a placebo- controlled experiment at kings college Hospital to see if probiotics had any positive effect on Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is reported by Sadie Nicholas as saying: “we designed the trial using a probiotic drink called SYMPROVE which contains four strains of bacteria, where many probiotics contain just one. During the trial, 186 patients with moderate to severe IBS took a daily dose of SYMPROVE or a matching placebo liquid for 12 weeks. By week 12 there was a significant improvement in the stomach pain in the symprove group.”

    In the battle between friendly bacteria and unfriendly bacteria in our bodies, we stand, again, before the
    Law of Balance.     This is a law of nature which demands that everything which interacts does so in ratios with each other. Thus, Zinc and Copper relate in 4: 1 ratio, calcium and magnesium in 2:1 ratio. Potassium and sodium, like estrogen and progesterone and prolactin, have their own relationships. So do work and rest. Antibiotics, a modern feature of medicine, destroys the good and bad bacteria alike while simple sugars increase bacteria growth. That is why a course of antiprobiotic medication is better followed by a course of probiotic to repopulate the friendly bacteria flora and restore the balance. The need to remember probiotic always is driven home to me by the information that there are more bacteria in every- one of us than there are human beings on this earth. In fact, one study suggests one billion bacteria cells in every milliliter (of fifth of a teaspoon) of colon fluid. People whose bad breadth stems from oral questions may empty one or two capsules of probiotic into the mouth before retiring to bed and paste the contents on the gums, teeth and tongue. The contents of one of these capsules may be diluted with small water and allowed to trickle down the throat. Women who suffer from vagina issues profit a lot from inserting a capsule deep into the vagina overnight and holding it up with a menstrual pad. The heat of the secret place melts the capsule and billions of friendly bacteria are released to scavenge and destroy unfriendly bacteria. Sometimes the treatment may involve a three- course or four- course therapy. In the first, Golden Seal Root is used, as just explained, followed by two shots (one on each day) of Alove female hygiene from nature’s gift for life. The probiotic course (oral and insertion) concludes the therapy. Some women may wish, before the probiotic segment, to try Gufeibao (sold as Happy Woman in England). It is inserted and left on for four or five days from the second day after the end of menstruation. It drags out lots of debris. Probiotics may then cap the therapy.

    So much today on bad breadth.