Ageing Gracefully

Quite frankly, it is difficult doing a story on longevity in Nigeria because of a dearth of official records. But that does not take away the fact that we have men and women who are clearly above 70, 80, 90 and even 100 years, who, despite the infirmities of old age, can still live for a couple of years, or even more.

So, what are the secrets of their longevity? The question becomes imperative because of prevailing circumstances: rural and urban poverty; poor access to medicare; unemployment; stress; social excesses; environmental pollution, and more.

Views propounded by the elderly are similar: moderation as a rule of life; good nutrition; moderate exercises; adequate rest; a disciplined social lifestyle; and a pollution-free environment. Instructively, the continuous use of herbal medicine by some of the elderly people, which most of them claimed, is a way of life picked up from their parents, was also mentioned as a contributory factor. The Cover Story, titled: “Secrets of Long Life Unveiled”, is anchored by Editor Nath Omame, Jr. Editor-in Chief, Fr. Anselm Adodo, OSB, writes on “Healing With Carrot”. He specifically asked readers to make friend with carrot for it will help their vision, nails, tone their skin, help in the production of blood and anti-bodies as well as help to prevent kidney stones and gall bladder stones.

Presenting a keynote address on  “The Role of African Traditional Medicine In Poverty Alleviation In Nigeria”, at the 4th Pax Herbal 2008 International Congress at Owerri, Pharm. Dave Amonu, observed that: “cancer, prostrate problems, diabetes, epilepsy, asthma, bone-setting, delivery of babies, who present bridge without caesarian section, safe contraceptive device, erectile dysfunction, convulsion, insanity, etc, which have beaten the conventional medical system find easy and cheap solution in the traditional medicine system. 

Our Special Feature written by Alan Cuthber, explains “Why Metals Are Found In Our Body”. He posited that three-quarters of all the hundred-odd elements that exist in the environment are found in our body as trace elements, vital for some body function.
This edition is specially packaged for all those who desire long life with all the healing that carrot can offer including the metallic elements required to keep the body strong, young and healthy.