#aluvia family

[theloveandthedead]

Aluvia Christmas Drabble: I Saw Daddy Kissing Santa Claus

A/N: This holiday drabble connects with my Easter One. Happy Holidays, everyone! Please be healthy and well! And may 2025 be good to us!

T’was the night before Christmas and all throughout the cottage something was stirring.

A special someone actually.

Yes, old Saint Nick was crouched in front of the family tree, gently placing presents underneath while munching on the cookies the children had baked for him. 

Once the final present was in its place, he stood up tall and admired his work with pride.

Then, just as he was about to make an exit, a light flickered on behind him followed by a deep, husky voice.

“Well, well, well,” Santa whirled around to find the father of the house–the great No Life King himself–lounging back in his chair, legs crossed and hands clasped on his lap. “Santa Claus, what a pleasant surprise. I trust you’ve been well this past year?”

And Santa Claus, the great spirit of Christmas himself, did not react with shock or fear. 

No, he(?) placed his hands on his hips and heaved an annoyed sigh.

“I thought I told you to stay in bed. What if the children see you and the magic is ruined?”

“I think your cotton ball beard will dispel the magic first, my love.” Alucard teased.

“Hey, I worked very hard on this!” Olivia pulled her beard down with puffed cheeks. “It is an improvement from my Easter Bunny costume at least!”

“You scold me about waking the children yet your tone is liable to wake them first.”

“....That’s it. I’m taking your presents back.” Olivia scooped up a third of the presents and began to shove them back into her sack when a pair of arms curled around her waist and she was pulled back into a sturdy chest. 

“But I’ve been such a good boy this year, ‘Santa’.” Alucard whined, kissing her neck and smirked as her pulse jumped. “Is there anything I can do to stay off the naughty list?”

“You can start by keeping such thoughts to yourself, ‘young’ man.” Olivia scolded, turning around with a harsh glare before pulling him down by his collar so they were face-to-face. “But I suppose a kiss will suffice. Cookies and milk are nice but I think I need something a little more filling after a night of traveling across the world.”

“Oh~! Well, as a thank you for all your hard work, allow me to return the favor then.” And he swung Olivia around and dipped her back as their lips met in a loving kiss.

And the two were so lost in each other, they failed to notice the wide-eyed duo gaping at them from the banister. 

“Papa is kissing Santa Claus!” Zaharia gasped, hands flying to his cheeks. “How can this be?!”

“I don’t know!” Vasilissa whispered-shouted back, equally shocked as their kiss grew more intense. “....Although…..Santa does look a lot like Mama….”

“....Hey, you’re right! Do you know what this means?!”

The twins looked at each other before back at their parents with stars in their eyes.

“Mama is the Easter Bunny AND Santa Claus! So cool!”

[acuguy]

COVID-19 What you Should Know.

By: Emmanuel Arroyo, LAc                                                           3 March 2020 8:22 PM EST

Queens, New York

What is a Coronavirus?

Coronavirus, discovered in 1960,[1] is a positive-sense RNA virus that mainly targets the upper respiratory tract except for SARS which causes upper and lower tract infections and gastroenteritis. A positive-sense RNA is also known as positive-strand RNA virus[2]. The name is given due to its single strand of RNA while positive refers to genetic information carried for replication. Coronavirus causes the common cold, except for SARS and MERS, and now COVID-19.

Coronavirus (CoV) belong to the order of Nidovirales, which includes Coronaviridae, Arteriviridae, and Roniviridae families. CoV is divided into two subfamilies, CoV and the second subfamily Torovirinae. CoV has a cap (let’s call it head) which carries all the information needed for replication, while the tail has all the information related with structure and functions. The tail contains four important structures, S (spike), M (membrane), E (envelope), and N (nucleocapsid) proteins. The S structure is the one that attaches to the host cell receptors. The M structure gives the shape/form. The E structure is important for assembly and release of the virus; some virus need the M structure for pathogenesis. Structure N facilitates binding and affinity to viral or non-viral RNA. Both N and M work synergistically and facilitate replication and diffusion of the virus in the host.[3]

For binding, CoV mainly uses aminopeptidase as receptors except SARS and NL63 that use angiotensin-converting enzyme and MERS uses dipeptidyl-peptidase-4.

The Wuhan-coronavirus is new and is identified as 2019-nCoV, also known as COVID-19. COVID-19 stands for COronaVIrus Disease and is the full blown manifestation of SARS-COV2. SARS-CoV2 is a mutated coronavirus where the S structure attaches to Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) and it contains two subunits attaching to furin which makes it similar to Ebola, HIV, and avian influenza virus.[4] Furin is a protease found inside a cell and is known as Proprotein Convertase (PC) which develops the synthesis of prohormones, neurotrophic factors, serum proteins, regulation of hair, teeth, sweat glands, embryogenesis, calcium, pH, and interesting enough it also determines how virulent or infectious a bacteria or virus will be. It determines cancer aggressiveness and creates amyloid which are a key of Alzheimer’s.[5] Furin also regulates Insulin Growth Factor in upper respiratory tract and colon.

SARS-CoV2 Spike structure is genetically similar to the Spike structure to a Guangdong pangolin, while its genetic sequence is similar to a bat betacoronavirus of the genus sarbecovirus and is namedRaTG13. SARS-CoV2 has an ancestor which has been labeled Type-S. This ancestor is less aggressive and propagates slower. The aggressive SARS-CoV2 is dubbed Type-L and it is unknown if the Type-S mutation to Type-L occurred in the animal or in the human. 

How many human coronaviruses are known?[6],[7]

In the past CoV was classified according to the immune reaction, hence the Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Gamma nomenclature. 

There are seven known human coronaviruses:

1.       Alpha coronavirus:

a.       229E (1960) – causes common cold

b.       NL63 (2004) – causes croup hence it targets kids. Similar genome to 229E. Uses angiotensin converting enzyme. Is a recombination of PEDV. Hast two variants.

2.       Beta coronavirus:

a.       OC43 (1960) – causes common cold. It is believed it evolved from bovine CoV.

b.       HKU1(2005)

c.       SARS-CoV (2003) uses angiotensin converting enzyme 2.

d.       MERS-CoV (2012)

3.       SARS-COV2 - uses Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2, the Spike structure has subunits attaching to furin.

There is no vaccine for any, the only vaccine created was for SARS and it was an attenuated virus.

China has been using a drug produced in Cuba known as Alpha Interferon which intention was for HIV, Human Papilloma Virus, Hepatitis B and C, and some cancers. This medication has been used successfully and China claims that it has cured 1,500 cases as of February.[8] China uses Kaletra or Aluvia (liponavir and ritonavir) with Rivabirin which are medications for HIV and Hepatitis. The use of HIV meds and Tamiflu is another cocktail in use. The medication for malaria, Cloquonine, is also used for COVID-19. Another medication added to the cocktail is Thymosin, a medication that assists in the maturation of T-cells.

Do Animals get Coronavirus?

Yes, animals do get infected with coronavirus, but it is difficult for getting infected with HUMAN coronaviruses. Some of the coronaviruses in animal are the following:

·       Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PDEV)

·       Porcine Transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV)

·       Porcine Haemagglutinating encephalomyelitis virus (PHEV)

·       Feline infectious peritonitis virus (FIPV)

·       Canine coronavirus

·       Mouse hepatitis virus (MHV)

·       Bovine coronavirus

·       Bat SARS

·       AvianCoV

Which Disinfecting Wipes?[9]

·       Lysol claims it product kills[10]

o   Virus: Herpes simplex virus type 1, Human coronavirus, influenza A virus

o   Bacteria: Streptococcus pyogenes (Strep), Staplylococcus aureus (Staph), Escherichia coli O157: H7 (E. coli), Methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Salmonella enterica (Salmonella)

·       Clorox Healthcare®Bleach Germicidal Disinfectants and Clorox Healthcare® Bleach Germicidal Wipes[11]

o   Virus: Adenovirus Type 2, Avian influenza A, Canine parvovirus, Enterovirus D68, Feline Panleukopenia, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Herpes simplex type 2, Human coronavirus, Human immunodeficiency virus type 1, Influenza A, Influenza B, Measles, MERS-CoV, Norovirus, Poliovirus type 1, Respiratory syncytial (RSV), Rhinovirus, Rotavirus, SARS-CoV.

It is important to point that CoV killed by Clorox are SARS, MERS and that H-CoV mentioned by Lysol® and Clorox®are the ones that cause common cold. [12]

China and SARS, A Lesson on How to Treat

When SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) hit China the treatment response was multifactorial; China used an integrated approach of Chinese medicine and Western medicine. This integrated approach consisted on nutritional support, Chinese herbal medicine, and a regime of oxygen supplementation, corticosteroids (methylprednisolone), antibiotics (azithromycin, cefotaxime, amoxycillin-clavulanic acid, ciprofloxacin, demethylvancomycin), immunoglobulin, and thymosin. The medications used were according to severity and symptomatology. From the western approach we can determine that healthy eating habits are important. The use of antibacterial, corticosteroids, and thymosin is evidence that herbal, vitamins, mineral, and amino acid supplementation with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, immunomodulatory properties are paramount as prophylactic measures.

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective SARS was diagnosed as Wen Yi Bing or Warm Pestilential Disease.[13] The differential diagnosis used was Four Divisions (Wei-Qi, Ying-Qi, Xue, Yuan) and the Triple Heater or San Jiao. The aim of the Chinese herbal formulas was to expel pathogen, clear heat, and dissolve dampness therefore the herbal formulas used back in 2003 for SARS were the following:

·       San Ren Tang (Three-Nut decoction) + Shen Jiang San (Ascending-Descending Powder)

o   Ingredients: Xing Ren (Semen Pruni Armeniacae), Bai Dou Kou (Fructus Cardamomi Rotundi), Sheng Yi Yi Ren (Semen Coicis), Hua Shi (Talcum), Tong Cao (Medulla Tetrapanacis Papyriferi), Zhu Ye, (Herba Lophateri Gracilis), Hou Po Hua (Flos Magnolia Officinalis), Fa Ban Xia (Rhizoma Pinelliae Ternatae), Jiang Can (Bombyx Batricatus), Chan Yi or Chan Tui (Periostracum Cicadae), Pian Jiang Huang (Rhizoma Curcuma Longae), Cang Zhu (Rhizoma Atractylodis), Huang Qin (Radix Scutellariae Baicalensis).

 ·       Yin Qiao San (Honeysuckle and Forsythia Powder) + Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang (Ephedra, Apricot Kernel, Gypsum, and Licorice Decoction) + Sheng Jiang San (Ascending-Descending Powder).

o   Ingredients: Sheng Ma Huang (Herba Ephedrae), Xing Ren (Semen Pruni Armeniacae), Sheng Shi Gao (Gypsum), Zhi Gan Cao (Radix Glycyrrhizae Praeparatae) Jiang Can (Bombyx Batrycarius), Chan Yi or Chan Tui (Periostracum Cicadae), Bo He (Herba Menthae), Lian Qiao (Fructus Forsythiae Suspensae), Jin Yin Hua (Flos Lonicerae), Huang Qin (Radix Scutellariae Baicallensis), Lu Gen (Rhizoma Phragmitis Communis) Shen yi Yi Ren (Semen Coicis), Pain Jiang Huang (Rhizoma Curcumae Longae).

 ·       Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan (Sweet Dew Special Pill to Eliminate Toxin)

o   Ingredients: Sheng Shi Gao (Gypsum), Xing Ren (Semen Prunus Armeniacae), Hua Shi (Talcum), Huang Qin (Radix Scutellariae Baicallensis), Chai Hu (Radix Bupleuri), Yin Chen Hao (Herba Atemisae Capillaris), Shi Chang Pu (Rhizima Acori Graminei), Fa Ban Xia (Rhizoma Pinelliae Ternatae), Hu Zhang (Radix et Rhizoma Polygoni Cuspidati), Bai Dou Kou (Frucuts Cardamomi Rotundi), Jiang Can (Bombyx Batricatus), Chan Yi or Chan Tui (Periostracum Cicadae), Cang Zhu (Rhizoma Atractylodis), Jiang Huang (Rhizoma Curcuma Longae).

 ·       Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang (Artemisia Annua and Scutellaria Decoction to Clear Gallbladder)

o   Ingredients: Qing Hao (Herba Artemisiae Apiaceae), Zhu Ye (Herba Lophateri Gracilis), Fa Ban Xia (Rhizoma Pinealliae Ternatae), Chi Fu Ling (Sclerotium Poriae Cocos Rubrae), Huang Qin (Radix Scutellaria Baicalensis), Chen Pi (Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae), Xing Ren (Semen Pruni Armeniacae), Sheng yi Yi ren (Semen Coicis), Hua Shi (Talcum), Qing Dai (Indigo Pulverata Levis), Cang Zhu (Rhizoma Atractylodis), Yu Jin (Tuber Curcumae).

 ·       Wu Hu Tang (Five Tiger Decoction) + Ting Li Da Zao Xie Fei Tang (Descurainia and Jujuba Decoction to Drain the Lungs) + Lian Po Yin (Coptis and Magnolia Bark Decoction)

o   Ingredients: Zhi Ma huang (Herba Ephedrae), Sheng Shi Gao (Gypsum), Xing Ren (Semen Pruni Armeniacae), Zhi Gan Cao (Radix Glycyrrhizae Praeparatae), Lu Cha (Folium Thea Sinensis), Ting Li Zi (Semen Tinglizi), Chuan Lian Zi (Fructus Meliae Toosendan), Hou Po or Chuan Po (Cortex Magnolia Officinalis), Zhi Shi (Fructus Aurantii Immaturus), Shan Zhi Zi (Fructus Gardenia Jasminoidis), Dan Dou Chi (Semen Sojae Praeparatum), Shi Chang Pu (Rhizoma Acori Graminei), Lu Gen (Rhizoma Phragmitis Communis), Fa Ban Xia (Rhizoma Pineallia Ternatae), Jie Geng (Radix Platycodonis).

·       Qing Ying Tang (Clear the Nutritive level Decoction) + Sheng Mai Yin (Generate the Pulse Decoction)

o   Ingredients: Shui Niu Jiao (Cornu Bubali), Sheng Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae Glutinosae), Xuan Shen (Radix Scrophulariae Ningpoensis), Jin Yin Hua (Flos Lonicerae Japonica), Xi Yang Shen (Radix Panacis Quinquifolii), Mai Men Dong (Tuber Ophiopogonis Japonici), Shan Yu Rou (Fructus Corni Officinalis)

It is important to remind the aforementioned formulas are used according to pattern discrimination, but a quick analysis of the herbs used will show some herbs or classification of herbs are used frequently in all the formulas. They are herbs that clear heat, drain dampness, transform phlegm, and regulate Lung Qi. The most used herbs in these formulas are Huang Qin, Pian Jiang Huang, Bai Dou Kou, Jin Yin Hua, Lu Gen, Ban Lan Gen, Fa Ban Xia, Chan yi or Chan Tui, Yi Yi Ren, Xing Ren, Shi Gao, and Hua Shi. Once heat passes to the Ying or Xue level damage to Qi and Yin has taken place manifesting as diarrhea, headaches, and/or shaking/tremors. From a six-division perspective Tai Yin, Yang Ming, Jue Yin damage has taken place once the pathogen surpasses the Tai Yang level. The SARS is a Phlegm-Heat pathogen that causes shortness of breath, fatigue, and can cause delirium, collapse or fainting, and bleeding which are quite like the presentation of COVID-19. This experience provides us with a diagnosis of a Wen Bing Phlegm-Damp-Heat pathogen for COVID-19.

CoVid-2019 Signs and Symptoms[14]

Some of the signs and symptoms reported are:

Flu like presentation:

·       Runny nose

·       Nasal congestion

·       Low grade fever

·       Body aches

Pneumonia presentation:

·       Shortness of breath

·       Chest tightness

·       Wheezing

·       Cough

·       Fatigue

·       High fever

·       Dry mouth

·       Bitter taste

Signs and Symptoms, Chinese Medicine and CoVid-19

In China, COVID-19 is diagnosed as phlegm-damp heat pestilential qi. The tongue has a thick yellow fur and a red and wet body. The signs and symptoms are runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, fever, and difficulty breathing leading, wheezing, chest tightness, fatigue, dry mouth, bitter taste, and diarrhea.[15],[16],[17] The main feature is difficulty breathing and x-ray or CT-Scan showing bilateral lung ‘infiltrates' or 'ground-glass opacities.' These opacities are pockets filled with thick mucus which prevents breathing. It takes 2 to 14 days to show any sign and symptoms, but it has been reported cases were takes longer to show any sign and symptoms. COVID-19 starts as common cold, then switches to flu like symptoms and then pneumonia. It is calculated that 2 people can infect 2.5 people a day, the infection increase rate is 53% per day.[18] The mortality rate is low but has a high infection rate. In the Hubei Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine COVID-19 has been divided into 4 Stages: Prevention (this stage is common cold), Influenza, Pneumonia, and Recovery Stage. Each Stage has a set of herbal formulas and pattern discrimination. Below I have summarized their recommendations, for detail information please read How COVID-19 (2019-nCoV) is Currently Treated in China with TCM by John K Chen.

·       Prevention Stage: Diagnosis is damp cold in the Lung and the recommended formula is a modified Yu Pi Feng San.

·       Influenza Stage: The diagnosis is Exterior Wind-Cold invasion, Toxic heat invading the Lung, or Damp Cold in the Lung,  The formulas recommended are Ge Gen Tang (Kudzu Decoction), Chai Ge Jie Ji Tang (Bupleurum and Kudzu Decoction), Huo Xiang Zhen Qi San, Yin Qiao San (Honey Suckle and Forsythia Powder), Qing Wei Bai Du San (Clear Epidemics and Overcome Pathogenic Influences Powder).

·       Pneumonia Stage: Is diagnosed as Shao Yang Syndrome with Damp, Damp-Heat Distressing the Lung, Toxic Stagnation Hampering the Lung or Hot Type Closed Disorder with Devastated Yang. The formulas recommended are Xiao Chai Hu Tang (Minor Bupleurum Decoction), San Ren Tang (Three-Nut Decoction), Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan (Sweet Dew Special Pill to Eliminate Toxins), Ma Xing Yi Gan Tang (Ephedra, Apricot Kernel, Coicis, and Licorice Decoction), Xiao Xian Xiong Tang (Minor Sinking into the Chest Decoction), Cao Guo Zhi Mu Tang (Tsaoko and Anemarrhena Decoction), Bai Hu Jia Ren Shen Tang (White Tiger plus Ginseng Decoction), Si Tu Tang (Four Wild Decoction), Si Ni Jia Ren Shen Tang (Frigid Extremities Decoction Plus Ginseng), An Gong Niu Huang Wan (Calm the Palace Pill with Cattle Gallstone), Zi Xue San (Purple Snow Powder).

·       Recovery Stage: Qi and Yin Deficiency with closed collaterals. Recommended formula is Sha Shen Mai Dong Tang (Glehnia and Ophiopogonis Decoction).

  The herbs that were used the most were Huang Qin, Huang Lian, Ma Huang, Bai Zhu, Bai Dou Kou, Jin Yin Hua, Chen Pi, Fa Ban Xia, Yi Yi Ren, Xing Ren, Gua Lou, Sheng Jiang, Dan Zhu Ye, and Zhi Mu. An analysis of these herbs shows Heat-Pathogen invading the Lung and damaging fluids causing phlegm, chest tightness and shortness of breath which in normal parlance is pneumonia. The heat damages the Spleen which generate dampness and disturbs digestion; during this stage the pathogen causes what we know as enteritis leading to diarrhea. As the Heat-Pathogen advances, the person collapses. Is during this state that the person has entered the Jue Yin level, has damaged Shao Yin and a diagnosis of Closed Heat-Type Collapse with Devastated Yang is given or as John Chen calls it Closed Interior and Abandoned Exterior. Heat shuts the orifices (consciousness) and enters the Pericardium/Heart. The formulas have the purpose of eliminating the pathogen. Plants bioactive compounds are their antigen, their immune system developed to fight pests and it is theses bioactive compounds that have healing properties.

Herbs that are effective against the CoV are rich in triterpene glycosides such as saikosaponins A, B2,C, and D or phenolic compounds. The herbs are the followings:[19],[20]

·       Radix Bupleurum (Chai hu) – early stage infection of 229E

·       Radix Scrophularia (Xuan shen) -early stage infection of 229E

·       Lycoris Radiata (Shi Suan) – SARS

·       Herba Artemisia annua (Huang hua hao or Qing hao) - SARS

·       Folium Pyrrosia lingua (Shi wei) – SARS

·       Radix Lindera aggregata (Wu yao) – SARS

·       Isatidis indigotica (Ban lan gen, Cao da qing, Ma lan) – SARS

·       Torreya nucifera or Semen Torreyae (Fei zi) – SARS

·       Radix Dioscorea spp – SARS

As precaution you might use Gan mao ling and Yu Ping Feng San. The ingredients in Gan mao ling are gang mei geng or wan dian jin (Radix Iicis asprellae), wu zhu he (Folium Evodia), shan pu he or wu zhi gan (Folium viticis) ban lan gen (Radix Isatidis), ju hua (Flos Chrysanthemum), jin Yinn hua (Flos Lonicerae), and bo he (Herba Mentha). This formula clears heat, toxins, and opens the chest. Ban lan gen and jin Yinn hua have immunomodulatory properties.[21]

As reported by R. K. Ganjhu et al:

Also, if we glance through the different plant preparations reported in this review, we will notice that most of them represent extracts made of more than one plant species. That draws our attention to the uniqueness of each plant species and their constituents, which together with other plants make a formulation effective in treating a plethora of viral infections. An in-depth analysis of such formulations along with a bio-activity guided isolation of active components shall definitely give a better idea about the active principles responsible for a varied antiviral action. Research in this direction is in progress as collated from different papers. There are ample reports revealing immunomodulatory properties of many plant extracts mediated through induction and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-6 and IL-12. IL-12, produced by activated monocytes/macrophages and dendritic cells, stimulate cell-mediated immunity to release IFN-c, promote Th-1 responses, and enhance CD8 + cytotoxic T cell activity, thereby playing a pivotal role in controlling viral replication. There also exist evidence on IL-6 production by macrophages in response to virus infections, in addition to reports justifying its role in clearing viral infection from the physiological system.[22]

I would like to quote John Chen:

From the Western Han Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty, at least 321 large-scale plagues occurred in China. Chinese medicine has served to wage life-and-death battles against various plague consistently through time and has successfully contained the spread of epidemics in a limited area and time. There has never been a similar tragedy in China’s history, such as the Spanish flu or the Black Death in Europe.  These are examples of global plagues that killed tens of millions of people.

In the Chinese history, whenever a plague is rampant, Chinese medicine practitioners are always on the front lines to battle the disease. Many survived with the help of Chinese Medicine; so in this fight with the insidious and novel Coronavirus, Chinese Medicine once again should take a primary role in effective treatment and must not be absent in action!

  Essential Oils and Viruses

Hinokitiol is an essential oil of from the wood of Cupressacea trees. This oil, when it enters in contact with zinc it elicits the interchange of zinc ions and stops viral replication, in this instance SARS-CoV, and inhibits lung cancer cell growth.[23] Cupressacea trees refers to Cypress, it has 30 genera and 133 varieties.[24] It includes the following trees: Fitzroya, Pilgerodendron spp, Arbovitae spp, Austrocedrus, Cupressus spp, Callitris, Widdringtonian spp,Tetraclinis, Thujopsis, Chamaecyparis spp, Calocedrus, Juniperus spp, Athrotaxis, Cryptomeria, Cunninghamia, Sequoiadendrum, Sequoia, Metasequoia, Taxodium.

Essential oils with antiviral or antiseptic or immunomodulatory properties according to Schnaubelt, PhD are:[25]

·       Cinnamon (Cinnamomum ceylanicum) – antiseptic. From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective is warms Kidney yang (bark) and regulates the coronary arteries. Rou gui and Gui zhi are the Pin Yin for cinnamon in Chinese medicine.

·       Clove (Eugenia caryophyllata) – antiseptic, “broad spectrum of action against bacteria; antiviral, strengthening.” (sic)

·       Eucalyptus radiata – expectorant, antiviral. In TCM terms it strengthens Lung qi, opens the chest and transforms phlegm.

·       Eucalyptus globulus and polybractea – expectorant. From a TCM perspective it tonifies Lung-Tai Yin Qi, regulates qi in the chest, and transforms phlegm.

·       Frankincense (Boswellia carteri) – anti-asthmatic, strengthens the immune system. For Chinese medicine savvy readers Frankincense expands the chest and boost Wei-qi or Defensive qi.

·       Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis var decumbens) – strong antiviral effects and antiasthmatic. In TCM terms hyssop tonifies Lung-Tai Yin Qi and Wei-Qi therefore it treats shortness of breath, fatigue, and boost immune system.

·       Laurel (Laurus nobilis) – is anti-infective (sic), it enhances the qualities of the other antiviral and antibacterial oils. In TCM, it is said that laurel moves qi and transforms phlegm.

·       Myrrh (Commiphora molmol) – antiviral, anti-inflammatory (sic). TCM view on myrrh is that it strengthens the Spleen-Tai Yin meridian and drains dampness.

·       Palmarosa (Cymbopogon martini) – effective against bacterial and viral illnesses of throat and lungs (sic). In Chinese medicine parlance it nourishes Yin and clears heat.

·       Ravensare (Ravensare aromatica) – expectorant and antiviral (sic).

·       Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) – anti-infective agent with very broad spectrum of action (sic). It tonifies Lung qi and Wei-Qi therefore boosting the immune system functions and treating fatigue, or lethargy.

·       Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanoides) – strengthens a weakened immune system. In TCM words, vetiver nourishes Yin and clears heat.

Note: previous essential oils information are direct quotes from Schnaubelt, PhD.

An excellent way of prevention is diffusing essential oil of Eucalyptus radiata, E. globulus, E. citriodora, Laurel, Tea tree, Hyssop, and Palmarosa.[26] A synergy of Eucalyptus spp, Tea tree, Laurel, Hyssop, and Palmarosa with Jojoba oil as a carrier and applied to acupuncture points Lung 1, Lung 5, and Lung 9 (See Diag 1, Diag 2 and Diag 3).

You can make your own synergy. You need the essential oils previously mentioned (7 in total), a 10 ml bottle and jojoba oil. The synergy’s dilution would be 10%. The ratio depends on how you want to do the blend but keep in mind that 1 ml is approximately 20 drops hence 10 ml bottle fits 200 drops and a 10% dilution yields a total of 20 drops. These 20 drops must be divided between Eucalyptus spp, Laurel, Tea tree, Palmarosa, and Hyssop. In theory, you can pour 2 to 3 drops of each essential oil.

Where you can obtain your essential oils? I get my oils from one of these 3 sources: Ananda Apothecary in Colorado, Enfleurage 237 West 13th Street New York, NY, and New York Institute of Aromatherapy in New York City at 530 E 13th Street, New York, NY 10009. Another good source of essential oils is Floracopeia. All are reliable sources who are committed to quality.

Diag 1 Lung 1

Diag 2 Lung 5 on elbow’s crease lateral to bicep tendon.

Diag 3 Lung 9

Supplements and The Immune System

Supplements can assist regulating, harmonizing, and boosting the immune system. My favorite combination is taking a multivitamin and mineral, adding an extra dose of 25 mg of zinc, selenium, and manganese while adding 1,500 mg of L-Carnitine. L-Carnitine is converted to L-Acetylcarnitine[27],[28],[29] which has immunomodulator, sedative, and analgesic effects. It regulates dopamine, serotonin, and GABA and has an affinity for the hippocampus and hypothalamus. Zinc, selenium, and manganese are the minerals needed to produce super oxidase dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, two antioxidants produced by the human; L-Glutamine[30], an amino acid, is involved in the production of glutathione peroxidase as well.

When zinc ions[31] enter in contact with other substances such as hinokitiol, Pyrrolidine DioThioCarbamate (PDTC),[32] and zinc pyrithione (PT) it exerts a dynamic response which promotes antioxidant, anticancer, and antiviral response.

DPTC[33] is a metal chelating agent that passes through the blood brain barrier and stimulates astrocytes, regulates production of glutathione, increases copper at a cellular level, and regulates nitric oxide synthetase. DPTC targets the hippocampus as well. DPTC has been shown to reduce effects of Alzheimer and stop viral replication of SARS-CoV. PT is zinc pyrithhione and has been noticed that in combination with zinc2+, hinokitiol, and PDTC it inhibits replication of SARS-CoV. It can be assumed that a regime involving vitamin/mineral supplementation, a good diet and hygiene, plenty of rest, and use of essential oils can be our best allies in staying healthy.

Nature’s Sunshine® offers an ample selection on supplements to support lung functions, regulate the immune system and fight viruses. My recommendation as a prophylactic measure is ALJ® and Enviro-Detox®. ALJ® enhances lung functions, cleanses the lung, and aids with allergies while Enviro-Detox® has antiviral properties.

  Precautionary Approaches

  Wash your hands thoroughly. Hand washing dislodges any bacteria, virus or any other pathogen from our hands. If you use Lysol or Clorox wipes you can add ethanol to them. Ethanol and HCL have shown strong antiviral activity. Avoid shaking hands, cover your mouth when sneezing. Stay home if you are sick. Drink ginger tea[34], studies show that ginger tea has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces inflammation markers including Nuclear Factor. Fresh ginger enhances catalase, superoxidase dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase.[35] Ginger treats even common cold.[36] Last, always gargle.

    Biography:

 Emmanuel Arroyo is a Licensed Acupuncturist in the State of NY, Certified in Iridology and Aromatherapy. Has a Master degree in Oriental Medicine and is Member of NCCAOM and ASNY.

If you are interested in having an essential oil synergy with antiviral and antibacterial properties or need a immune booster acupuncture treatment you can reach me at:

Dr.agujas@gmail.com

www.arroyosacupuncture.com

References:

[1] Division of Disease Surveillance. Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention. Accessed 28 January 2020. https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/infectious-disease/epi/airborne/coronavirus.shtml

[2] Shiel, William C, MD, FACP, FACR. Medical Definition of Positive-strand RNA virus. Accessed 28 January 2020. https://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=22952

[3] Fehr, Anthony R, Perlman, Stanley. Coronaviruses: An Overview of Their Replication and Pathogenesis. Methods Mol Biol 2015; 1282:1-23. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4369385/

[4] Karlis, Nicole. Why COVID-19 is more insidious than other coronaviruses. Salon. February 28, 2020 12:35 AM (UTC) Accessed March 3, 2020. https://www.salon.com/2020/02/27/why-covid-19-is-more-insidious-than-other-coronaviruses/

[5] Thomas, Gary. Furin At The Cutting Edge: From Protein Traffic to Embryogenisis And Disease. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol.2002 Oct; 3(10):753-766.

[6] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed 28 January 2010. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/types.html

[7] Coronavirus. Wikipedia. Accessed 28 January 2020. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coronavirus

[8] Interfero de Cuba Cura Coronavirus. 2 March 2020, accessed March 3, 2020. http://espanol.almayadeen.net/news/politics/1383512/interferón-de-cuba-cura-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR2jTX-e17__mC4OAoULX4cxjKipG6xFN4jytWKU-YHDhCHUs3RCYB3Jq_I

[9] https://prudentreviews.com/clorox-vs-lysol/

[10] Lysol https://www.lysol.com/products/disinfecting-wipes/lysol-disinfecting-wipes-crisp-linen/

[11] Clorox Healthcare®Bleach Germicidal https://www.cloroxpro.com/products/clorox-healthcare/bleach-germicidal-disinfectants/?msclkid=a9f5e73eb84d1e1935abb90e42b76ef2&gclid=CNCi0pTup-cCFUPrswod6fIAlw&gclsrc=ds

[12] Virus and Bacteria that Clorox kills http://www.apex-reps.com/assets/site/uploads/cIoZUYBLIG.pdf

[13] Lin Lin, De-ping He, Yun Han, Ju-yin Xu, Zhi-xiu Lin. Treating Severe Acute Respiratory Sydrome with Integrated Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine – A Report on 103 Hospitalised Cases at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Universit of Chinese Medicine, China. Journal of Chinese Medicine Number 72 June 2003.

[14] Harvard Health Publishing. Harvard Medical School. Coronavirus Resource Center. Accessed March 3, 2020. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/coronavirus-resource-center

[15] https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov accessed 29 January 2020

[16] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed 28 January 2020. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/symptoms.html

  [17] World health Organization. Accessed 28 January 2020. https://www.who.int/ith/2020-24-01-outbreak-of-Pneumonia-caused-by-new-coronavirus/en/

[18] Coronavirus Geometric Progression Suggests 100,000 in a Week. Accessed 29 January 2020. https://moneymaven.io/mishtalk/economics/coronavirus-geometric-progression-suggests-100-000-infections-in-a-week-jzcZTq6Je0GpmioumMXSyg

[19] Liang-Tzung Lin, Wen-Cha Hsu, Chun-Ching Lin. Antiviral Natural Products and Herbal Medicines. Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine. 4(1):24-35.

[20] Chen K John. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry: Art of Medicine Press, Inc. 2004.

[21] Chen K John. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry: Art of Medicine Press, Inc. 2004.

[22] Rajesh Kumar, Ganjhu et al. Herbal plants and plant preparations as remedial approach for viral diseases. Virus Dis. (October-December 2015) 26(4):225-236.

[23] Li L-H, Wu P, Lee J-Y, Li P-R, Hsieh W-Y, et al. (2014) Hinokitiol Induces DNA Damage and Autophagy followed by Cell Cycle Arrest and Senescence in Gefitinib-Resistant Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells. PLoS ONE 9(8): e104203. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0104203

[24] Cupressacea. Britannica. Accessed 29 January 2020. https://www.britannica.com/plant/Cupressaceae

  [25] Schnaubelt, PhD. Advanced Aromatherapy. Rochester: Healing Arts Press. 1995.

  [26] Schnaubelt, PhD. Advanced Aromatherapy. Rochester: Healing Arts Press. 1995.

[27] Santina Chiechio, Pier Luigi Canonico, and Mariagrazia Grilli.L-Acetylcarnitine: A Mechanistically Distinctive and Potentially Rapid-Acting Antidepressant Drug. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2018, 19:11.

[28] Acetl-L-carnitine deficiency in patients with major depressive disorder. Carla Nasca, et al. PNAS. August 2018. Vol. 115, No. 34 pp 8627-8632.

[29] Null, Gary PhD. The Clinician’s Handbook of Natural Healing. New York: Kensington Publishing Corp. 1997.

[30] YU Jian-Chun, JIANG Zhu-Ming and LI De-Min. Glutamine: a precursor of glutathione and its effect

on liver. WJG, World Journal of Gastroenterology. 1999. April; 5(2):143-146.

[31] te Velthuis AJW, van den Worm SHE, Sims AC, Baric RS, Snijder EJ, et al. (2010) Zn2+ Inhibits Coronavirus and Arterivirus RNA Polymerase Activity In Vitro and Zinc Ionophores Block the Replication of These Viruses in Cell Culture. PLoS Pathog 6(11): e1001176. doi:10.1371/journal.ppat.1001176

[32] Liddell et al. Pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate activates the Nrf2 pathway in astrocytes. Journal of Neuroinflammation (2016) 13:49

[33] Jin-dong Qin, Zhi-hong Cao, Xue-feng Li, Xiao-lin Kang, Yan Xue, Yue-ling Li, Dong Zhang, Xin-Yuan Liu, and Yong-zhi Xue. Effect of ammonium pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) on NF-jB activation and CYP2E1 content of rats with immunological liver injury. Pharmaceutical Biology, 2014; 52(11):1460-1466.

[34] Chen, John K, and Chen, Tina T. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry: Art of Medicine Press. 2001.

[35] Nur Fatin Nabilah Mohd Sahardi and Suzana Makpol. Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) in the Prevention of Ageing and Degenerative Diseases: Review of Current Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Vol 2019, Article ID 5054395, 13 pages.

Https://www.elotus.org/article/how-covid-19-2019-ncov-currently-treated-china-tcm

[36] Nuñez Meléndez, Esteban PhD. Plantas Medicinales de Puerto Rico. San Juan: Editorial de la Universidad de Puerto Rico. 1982.

Https://www.lifeextension.com/protocols/infections/2019-novel-coronavirus-sars-cov2-covid-19?utm

Https://emcrit.or/pulmcrit/lopanivir

Http://www.salon.com/2020/02/27/why-covid-19-is-more-insidiuos-than-other-coronaviruses/

Https://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/2020/02/10/delaware-companys-disinfectant-equipment-headed-china-fight-coronavirus/4690454002

https://news.sky.com/story/coronavirus-what-x-rays-and-ct-scans-reveal-about-how-covid-19-kills-11955988

[meryableblog]

Coronavirus (COVID-19): How It All Began ?

The new coronavirus disease, called COVID-19, has appeared and spread extremely quickly, making its thanks to over 100 countries since its December 2019 discovery in China. This particular sort of respiratory illness is caused by an epidemic called SARS-CoV-2. It’s a part of a bigger family of coronaviruses, the bulk of which causes only the cold.

More dangerous sorts of coronavirus include the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS-CoV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV). Like these more serious strains, COVID-19 can cause anything from mild respiratory problems to pneumonia or death.

Citing a death rate of three .4%, the planet Health Organization has declared COVID-19 a public health emergency.1

Symptoms Symptoms of COVID-19, which range from mild to severe, may appear 1 to 14 days after initial exposure. They include:2

Fever Cough Shortness of breath

How Many People Have Coronavirus? As of March 16, 2020, the planet Health Organization has confirmed 167,515 cases of COVID-19 worldwide.3

Cases in China: 81,077 Cases outside of China: 86,438 Cases within the United States: 1,678 Countries affected: 150 The interactive map below shows the numbers of confirmed cases from each country affected, also as what percentage people have recovered from those cases thus far.

How Did It Start? The World Health Organization (WHO) was first alerted to many cases of pneumonia in Wuhuan, a city within the Chinese province of Hubei, on New Year's Eve, 2019. consistent with the primary WHO situation report on the coronavirus disease, the cases of pneumonia had no known cause, and totaled 44 by January 3.4

China’s National Health Commission originally traced exposure to a seafood market in Wuhan, but later reports indicate that the market was unlikely to be the sole source of the virus.5 By January 7, the precise strain—a new sort of coronavirus—was identified, and initially named 2019-nCoV.

First Deaths A 61-year-old Chinese man was the primary known person to die from a coronavirus-related illness; he was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome.6 Media began reporting his death on January 10, adding he was a daily customer at the Wuhan seafood market. By January 31, there have been 213 deaths and 9,720 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in China.7

First Spread Outside of China Thailand reported its first case of COVID-19 on January 13. The infected individual had traveled there from Wuhan.4 Japan reported its first case on January 15, also during a one that had visited Wuhan.

Spread to us On January 21, Washington State reported the primary case of the new coronavirus within us during a man who had returned from Wuhan, China.8

Person-to-Person Spread The first instance of an individual transmitting COVID-19 to a different person while within us was reported in Chicago, Illinois, on January 30.9 a lady in her 60s contracted the virus while caring for her father in China, passing it to her husband when she returned home.

Community Spread The early cases of COVID-19 within the U.S. were limited to people that had traveled from China and people they interacted closely with. But on February 26, the CDC confirmed a case in California with no reported travel connection to China or exposure to a different person with COVID-19.10 This marked the primary possible instance of community spread—the spread of illness with an unknown source of infection.

As of St Patrick's Day, 2020, the CDC reported 4,226 cases of COVID-19 across the U.S. the bulk of diagnoses are located in Washington state, California, and NY.11 See the complete breakdown of reported cases across the country below.

Deaths On leap day, the CDC announced a 54-year-old man from Washington State was the primary person within the U.S. to die of COVID-19-related illness.12 consistent with Harborview center in Seattle, where he was treated, the person had underlying medical conditions.

Since then, 67 other deaths have occurred within the U.S.

WHO Declares Global Health Emergency In a January 31 situation report listing 9,826 confirmed cases globally, the planet Health Organization declared COVID-19 “a public health emergency of international concern.” At this point, 19 countries outside of China were affected.7 On March 11, after confirming over 118,000 cases in 114 countries, WHO elevated the status to an epidemic .5

The Philippines reported the primary COVID-19-related death on Groundhog Day, marking the primary fatality outside of China.13 The patient, a 44-year-old man, had been in close contact with another COVID-19 patient. Iran announced its first two COVID-19 cases—and deaths—on February 19.14 The source is unknown. As of March 3, Iranian cases had reached over 2,300, including 77 deaths. Italy experienced an explosion of COVID-19 cases within the matter of a weekend, jumping from three incidents on Friday, February 21 to 229 by the time of WHO’s February 25 situation report.15

By March 9, with the number of cases surpassing 6,000, Italy imposed a nationwide lockdown. Germany closed its borders on March 16 to travelers without a legitimate reason to enter the country.16 Treatments ongoing While there's currently no recommended treatment, vaccine, or antiviral medication for COVID-19, pharmaceutical companies are racing for solutions.

AbbVie donated a supply of Kaletra/Aluvia, an HIV treatment, to Chinese authorities in January for experimental COVID-19 use. Johnson & Johnson announced vaccine research on January 29. Sanofi announced vaccine research on February 18 in partnership with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. GSK announced vaccine research on February 24. Moderna shipped experimental vaccines to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases on February 24. Gilead announced late-stage antiviral studies on February 26. Pfizer announced antiviral compound research on Texas Independence Day. Regeneron announced vaccine research on March 3.

[awesomebeinfoodus]

How to prepare Bella with vegetables, too, cowardly,

Method of preparing mixed Beila of vegetables and chicken.

unca we become weary of the works of art, so this time we go to the pith of paellas. A rice that exploited everything that was accessible. That is the reason it is the most widely recognized of paellas. The blended paella of vegetables and chicken.

Starting point of the formula 

As dependably we have discussed paella or fideuá, the first formula has its root among the tenants of the Albufera of Valencia. Initially utilized fixings that could be found in the range, chicken, duck, rabbit, snails and vegetables from the garden. With the expansion of saffron this formula enhanced its thought. 

In this manner, the first blended paella wound up plainly famous and seeming diverse forms, for example, fish paella, rice abanda, fideuás, .. That is the reason it is at present one of the symbols of Spanish food. 

Elements of a blended vegetable and chicken paella 

• High-ingestion round grain rice 

• 1 huge onion 

• 2 cloves of garlic 

• A couple of carrots��

• 1 green pepper 

• 1 red pepper 

• 300 grams of green beans or level aluvias 

• 2 or 3 crisp tomatoes 

• 1 or 2 slashed chicken legs 

• Liter and a half vegetable juices; better if it's hand crafted 

• Saffron (or sustenance shading) 

• Extra virgin olive oil 

• Fine salt 

Step by step instructions to set up a blended vegetable and chicken paella 

1.- As usual, a great paella has its mystery in keeping the circumstances, to make a decent juices that contributes season and to include the fixings from which less water discharges, towards the individuals who more. To do this we will slash the vegetables that we are going to pochar. Onion, garlic, red pepper and beans. 

2.- We will broil these vegetables in a paella in which we should warm olive oil. 

3.- When they start to pochar the vegetables, we will hack the chicken. The perfect from our perspective is to utilize thighs and antimissile, as opposed to a bosoms, which are drier or a few wings that have more bones. We will broil them together with the vegetables until the surface starts to darker. 

4.- While the principal vegetables are being poached and the chicken is Dora, we can peel and cleave a few tomatoes. Tomatoes are not included with whatever remains of vegetables since they discharge considerably more water than if it were not evacuated. 

5.- Let the sauce be made on medium warmth, we would prefer not to come up short on fluid. Additionally, alternatively and in light of the fact that we had it close by, we included a couple of bits of new chorizo ​​something fiery. 

6.- When we see that everything is pretty much broiled, we can include the rice. Before including the soup, we can likewise include saffron or a nourishment shading. Blend everything to homogenize the paella, and keeping in mind that the warmth in part shuts the pores of rice. This makes it more troublesome for you to experience. 

7.- When the blend is prepared, of rice and the sofrito, we will include the vegetable juices. For our situation we had a stock officially made. If not it is best to set one up in light of vegetables. Including a vegetable juices is not a terrible thought either. It gives a considerable measure of flavor. 

8.- We will include juices, which will keep it warm, so as not to break the cooking, as it is expended; until the point that the rice grain is cooked at its point. When we see that it is as of now, it is best to put out the fire and let the paella rest for no less than 5 minutes. 

9.- While resting, it might be a decent time to brighten the blended chicken and vegetable paella. For our situation, we cooked two or three eggs and cut ​​them. We likewise played with the shading with some cooked peppers. In the middle, a lemon. It is not as principal as in the fish paella or the nautical, however it doesn't look terrible and is outwardly extremely appealing. 

Introduction and matching of this blended chicken and vegetable paella 

We as of now have the paella prepared to take to the table. The paella is set apart by custom as a family feast or between companions that is shared. To blend with this paella, we decide on another work of art. A white wine verdejo. 

For this situation, we appreciate a great verdejo, Los Navales, from the Martur (Nieva) winery in Segovia. With an extremely fruity touch, it fits splendidly with rice like this blended paella where the meat utilized is chicken.

from Blogger http://ift.tt/2w5vlGs via IFTTT Foods

[kriseldagray]

New Post has been published on http://swns.us/2uMZlac

Book Review: Dragon Redeemer by Amy Bearce

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received a copy of this book at no cost from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

The third – and, I believe, final – book in the “World of Aluvia” series wraps up the stories of our six heroes – Sierra, Micah, Phoebe, Tristan, Nell and Corbin – quite nicely. While all six are involved, though, this is truly Nell’s story.

In Fairy Keeper and Mer-Charmer (the first two books in the series) we are initially introduced to Nell as an enforcer for the ruthless gang of drug-dealing alchemists who was doing what she had to for her family’s safety, and saw her grow into a new role as the host of a mysterious voice which spoke through her to the people of Aluvia about the need to rebalance magic in the world and maintain that balance so the world won’t be destroyed.

By the time of “Dragon Redeemer,” Nell has gotten somewhat used to the voice taking over whenever it decided a message need to be relayed, but she wasn’t entirely at peace with it, nor with having given up her identity as a warrior to learn how to be a healer instead. While her boyfriend Corbin is thrilled with her transition into a peaceful way of life, Nell feels like she’s setting aside an integral part of who she is.

This conflict – both within herself and between her and Corbin – comes into sharp focus when the group learns that a magic-user calling himself The Dragon plans to take over the world and declare all magical creatures – such as fairies, mer-folk, fauns and dragons – as subservient to humans, who can use them and their magical abilities however they want. To stop him, Nell will have to learn more about the voice that has chosen her as its vessel and find a way to reconcile her healing and warrior sides.

Much of this book, like Fairy Keeper, is taken up by a trek through unknown lands searching for something Nell needs to help her defeat The Dragon. Quest stories aren’t always my favorite, but this one was better than many I’ve read, with a minimum of the side distractions that usually only serve to slow the heroes – and the story – down. And the last part of the book, after they’ve reached their objective is really good. Author Amy Bearce’s descriptions of what is happening and how Nell is reacting are vivid and, in some ways, I almost felt like I could see it unfolding on a screen in front of me.

Nell is probably my favorite of the six main characters in this series. She’s the most complex, and I find her quite relatable – and very likable, too. This isn’t to say that the other characters aren’t relatable or likable – they are – but there’s just something about Nell that makes her stand out even more, at least to me.

I’ve noticed with a few series in the last couple of years that sometimes the author keeps escalating things until they become so big and out-of-control that by the last book (or books, in longer series) the situation has gotten so preposterous that I don’t even want to finish it. That is most certainly *not* the case here. Bearce has done a great job over the three books of raising the stakes enough to keep things interesting and make the adventures important, without turning it into a metaphysical Gordian Knot that makes you want to turn your brain inside out to see if that helps it make more sense, and for that, I heartily thank her.

View all my reviews

[theloveandthedead]

Aluvia Easter 2024

A/N: A little Aluvia family Easter drabble.

Please enjoy! <3

“Papa, why are we outside so early?”

“And where is Mama? She always comes to wake us up.”

Alucard gazed down at the twins clinging to his legs, their sleepy expressions and unkempt bedhead bringing a smile to his face. 

“I am confused as well. Mama just gave me orders to take you both outside before she left.”

“Mama left?!” The twins exclaimed in unison, tears bubbling up in their big, doe eyes. “Why?!”

“Worry not, little ones,” Alucard knelt down to wipe their tears. “Mama is not far. She is just–.”

There was rustling from the bushes before a figure hopped into sight with a basket and a beaming smile.

“Hello, Vasilissa and Zaharia! Don’t worry about your mama, she was helping me with a surprise! For I, the Easter Bunny, have come–!”

“Mama, why are you wearing a bunny onesie?” Vasilissa giggled, pointing at Olivia while Zaharia laughed beside her.

“And why do you have squiggles on your face, Mama?”

“I-I told you two, I am the Easter Bunny! And these aren’t squiggles, they are my whiskers!” Olivia scrambled to convince them, shooting Alucard–who had angled his head away with shaking shoulders–a venomous glare. “Now, I have hidden eggs across the cottage grounds! And if you find them all, there will be a very delicious treat waiting for you both!”

The twins’ laughter was immediately replaced with cheers as they scrambled off to find the eggs.

Once they were out of sight, Olivia bonked Alucard on the head with the basket.

“Don’t laugh at me, I was up all night sewing this together and painting eggs!”

“And I offered my assistance time and time again,” Alucard retorted, standing tall with an amused grin. “But you ordered me to “let you have your fun” so what could I do but obey?”

“Still….” Olivia huffed with puffed cheeks, eyes averted as she fiddled with a floppy ear. “Do I look silly? I know I’m not the best at crafts, but I thought it was a decent job.”

“You look absolutely ravishing.” Alucard inched closer, his voice a low purr and his fangs poking from his lips. “While our children hunt for eggs, I think I will hunt for rabbits. And my~my~aren’t you mouthwatering?”

Olivia’s face flushed neon red, ears listening for the twins’ laughter in the distance. 

But then, a sly smile crossed her face and she made a ‘come hither’ motion that drew a moan from Alucard.

“You think you can catch the Easter Bunny? Let’s see what you got.”

And she was off, thus beginning the hunt.

—-------------

“Zaharia, look!” Vasilissa waddled up to her brother, using her dress skirt as a basket. “I found some!”

“Me too!” He gestured to the pile in his arms. “This is great! Where should we look next?”

“Hmm, how about the–?”

Squeals and laughter interrupted them, and the twins turned to find their mama–i mean, the Easter Bunny–dashing into the woods with their papa in hot pursuit. 

“Ah, Mama and Papa are playing tag again.” 

“That’s their favorite game. I never know who wins though because both are always happy when they come home.”

“Maybe they take turns seeking? So they both win?” Zaharia offered, to which Vasilissa nodded.

“I guess so. Well, let’s keep looking and wait for them to get back.”

And the two wandered off to continue hunting for eggs while their parents took part in their own hunt.

[theloveandthedead]

A commission art of Olivia with Vasilissa and Zaharia by the beautiful  PonuryGrajek! Look at them! You can clearly see both the Olivia and Vlad genes in those babies! 

Thank you so much again! And please give that artist love and support!

(Now, who wants to enjoy imagining this photo sits beside Alucard’s throne and he gazes at it fondly while drinking wine? :D) 

[theloveandthedead]

Olivia: When I was a kid—

Vasilissa and Zaharia: *imagines medieval town*

Olivia: Wrong parent

[theloveandthedead]

(On a nature hike)

Zaharia: It's beautiful out here.

Vasilissa: And quiet.

Zaharia: Too quiet.

Vasilissa: Did we lose someone?

(Cut to Alucard and Olivia fighting a bear)

[theloveandthedead]

ABCs with Aluvia: A

A/N: I’m going to start a little ABCs series with Aluvia. Please send in a prompt for the other letters of the alphabet! I want to write some happy Aluvia <3 Thank you very much! I love you all!

--------------

A is for Attention

While they resembled her more in appearance, Vasilissa and Zaharia’s personalities were mirror images of their father.

One such example was their constant need for her attention.

From the moment the twins took their first lung full of air, they constantly whined and fussed if Olivia dared to focus on anything but them.

She wanted to read her favorite book? Too bad, it was promoted to a teething ring.

Oh, her favorite show was on? But, Mommy, we want to play peek-a-boo!

It was cuddle time with Papa? Not if we squeeze between you two!

Olivia found their behavior endearing and cooed at her little bunniculas while Alucard huffed and playfully scolded the twins for stealing her away.

“Never thought I would have to duel with my own children to spend time with you.” He reached for Olivia’s hand, only for Vasilissa to smack it away and Zaharia to nip at it with his only tooth. “See? Such cruelty!”

“Like father, like children,” She leaned over to kiss his forehead, giggling as the twins whined in protest and shot chubby cheeked scowls at their papa. “And if anyone is being ‘attacked’, it is me. I am surrounded by all sides without a chance for respite!” Olivia proceeded to fake cry, causing the twins to immediately latch onto her and pepper her cheeks with kisses.

“Ah, it looks like my foes and I are in agreement! We can’t have our daffodil wilt!” Alucard tugged her onto his lap and joined their children in adorning her with affection. “Even if those tears are fake, we will bring this world to ruin to put the smile back on your face. Right, my little dragons?”

Vasilissa and Zaharia babbled in agreement, pumping their fists and making stabbing motions.

“Oh boy…” Olivia laughed under her breath, settling back against Alucard’s chest and watching her babies and her love draw up their battle plans. “I don’t know if I should be worried or honored.”

[theloveandthedead]

Vasilissa and Zaharia: Can we have a piece of cake from the fridge?

Anderson: What's the rule?

Vasilissa and Zaharia *sighs*: No cake before dinner.

Anderson: That's Olivia and the Heathen's rule, my rule is you have to bring me a slice too.

[theloveandthedead]

Alucard: *kicks the door open, looking panicked, while carrying Vasilissa and Zaharia *

Olivia: What did you do?

Alucard: NOBODY DIED.

Olivia: WHAT KIND OF ANSWER IS THAT?

[theloveandthedead]

Snippet of Labyrinth AU

@holographicsneakers @definitelynotabird @lunarwolf14

I know I promised Labyrinth AU years ago, but it keeps getting pushed back by the actual fic and other things. 

So, here is a (horribly unedited) little snippet of the WIP because I feel SHAME for making you wait so long. But remember SNIPPET is the key word here lol. This is my favorite scene from the movie (and everyone else too apparently lol). Please enjoy! :D

The half-eaten peach fell from Olivia’s hand as she collapsed against the tree trunk, her surroundings swirling around her like a mad carousel.

“What have you done to me?” Her vision was a blur, and she could no longer hear Baskerville, Sir Hellsing, and Penwood’s voices.

Instead, Olivia heard music.

Squinting her eyes, she gazed up and found a barrage of bubbles floating around her—beckoning her with their beauty and song.

Suddenly, all thoughts of finding Walter and escaping the labyrinth were silenced and Olivia reached out to the largest bubble to find the ballerina from her music box dancing within. One by one, as the bubble swirled around her, Olivia saw people dancing joyfully and she found herself swaying to the enchanting melody.

“So….beautiful….” Olivia whispered, placing her hand on the bubble as the music drowned out her senses. “So beautiful…..”

In his throne room, Alucard held four crystal balls close to his face, inspecting each for something—or someone—of great importance. When he found what he was searching for, Alucard snatched the chosen crystal up before banishing the rest with a wave of his hand.

There she was, a white rose among a briar of red blooms. Olivia’s gown was silver with puffed sleeves and diamonds sewn into the skirt, giving the impression that her gown was made of pure starlight. A mother of pearl necklace adorned her neck, and her long black hair was braided with strings of pearls and leaves of silver. She was the picture of innocence with her wide eyes as she descended further into the dragon’s lair, urgently searching for someone as masked dancers waltzed around her to a beautifully ominous melody.

“Come find me, Little Princess.” Alucard closed his eyes and kissed the bubble with a grin. “Find me and let me bring your dreams into reality.”

The opulent ballroom was the epitome of a child’s fairytale dream. Long chandeliers with jeweled stalactites and strings of pearls hung between ornate cornices, and the walls were adorned with beautiful silks that tempted passerbys to trace their hands over the fabric.

Even the dancers were exquisite and fairytale-like.

Silken shirts open to the waist; velvet breeches, plumed hats paired with capes and staffs; magnificent gowns that exposed the wearer’s neck and dove low between their breasts; hair coiffed high;  long white gloves, and intricate masks.

Despite their variations in apparel, every single dancer wore a mask resembling a mythical creature.

Olivia felt their eyes burn into her skin as she moved through the ring of dancers, each one grinning and laughing at a secret only they were privy to.

Then, from across the room, Olivia locked eyes with Alucard and her breath stilled for a moment.

He was a resplendent image standing in an ivory archway with a fanged mask on a stick that he slowly lowered until his face was laid bare. He wore a midnight blue frock coat with a white cravat and diamante at his neck and cuffs. A belt woven of gold rested on his waist and on his legs he wore ebony breeches tucked into matching boots that shone like onyx in the ballroom’s ethereal glow. His long hair was partially pined back with a silver brooch that mirror the one in her hair, and his ruby eyes were like magnets that drew her in.

Olivia reached out to him, only for him to disappear behind a waltzing couple.

She didn’t understand why she was here or what this ball was for, but all Olivia knew was that she needed to find Alucard. What she would say or do was lost to her, but what mattered was having him in arm’s reach.

With a look of desperation, Olivia weaved her way through the mysterious ballroom as the dancers continued to laugh at her, catching sparse glimpses of Alucard in reflections or in the arms of another.

‘I’m waiting for you, Little Princess.’ Alucard chuckled as she unknowingly brushed past him, his eyes never leaving her figure for a moment. ‘Hurry and come find me.’

Around and around she went, guided by the magnetic tug on her heart, until she found herself face to face with a large fan made of feathers.

The pull on her heart had become unbearable and, without a moment’s hesitation, Olivia parted the feathers and found Alucard staring back at her.

“You found me, my princess.” He held a hand out to her and she took it with a star struck expression.

Immediately, Alucard gathered her into his arms and they joined the other couples in a hypnotizing waltz.

Olivia felt like she was floating on a cloud as Alucard spun her across the floor before pulling her back in again. He smiled at her—and her alone—like she was the most beautiful person he had ever seen, and she blushed when he placed his lips against her ear and told her so.

“I…I can’t believe this!” Olivia beamed, shivers tickling her spine at the sensation of his hands on her body.  “I feel like I am in a dream, yet I cannot remember dreaming of something like this!”

“Yet here you are. So why don’t you stay?” Alucard dipped her back and caressed her cheek. “Stay in this dream. If you want to be free and have your heart’s every desire, stay here and never look back.”

Mesmerized, Olivia nodded as she reached up to caress his face in return. Alucard was so handsome, and the pure endearment in his eyes made her never want to leave his arms. “

“Do you trust me?” His breath tickled her lips, and she nodded in anticipation as her eyes fluttered shut.

He was going to kiss her, and it would be beautiful. A prince who would grant her heart’s desire and hold her close until—.

Olivia’s eyes shot open as she felt a change sweep over the room.

The music had stopped.

The dancers had become like stone as they watched them in barely concealed joy, pointing and nudging each other like spectators at a zoo.

‘No, this isn’t right.’ Olivia sharply turned her head away from Alucard’s yet his grip tightened as he insistently sought her lips with his. The dancers cackled and applauded at her struggles until Olivia finally wrenched herself free and tore her way through the crowd.

The dancers jeered and clawed at her, throwing her off balance yet she shoved them away and raced to the end of the ballroom where the shimmering membrane of a grand bubble awaited her.

Her eyes locked onto a small chair, and she hurled it at the membrane with all her might.

The chair shattered the bubble like fine glass, and Olivia was dragged out as the ballroom collapsed and crumbled to rubbish.  Strange objects whirled around her with increasing speed until it became a maelstrom of untuned music.

Then finally….it stopped and Olivia found herself on the ground in her own clothes again. In her left hand rested the half eaten peach, rotten and covered in maggots.

With a cry of disgust, Olivia flung the peach away as shouts from Sir Hellsing, Penwood, and Baskerville echoed in the distance.

This scene will be stretched out a little more in the final edit, but I cannot give you everything right now because where is the fun in that~? And I did say this was horribly unedited but it is a taste of what is to come~which will be better~:D

[theloveandthedead]

Aluvia Holiday Drabble

Here is a little holiday ramble for all you lovely people!

The next chapter will be out soon (hopefully!) but I wanted to give you all something as a thank you for all your patience and love!

Some fluffy Aluvia! Please enjoy!

“And what are you doing?”

Olivia peered up to find Alucard looming above her, his massive silhouette illuminated by the fullmoon. 

“Oh, did I wake you up?” Puffs of air escaped her lips as she brushed away stray snowflakes from her eyes. “Sorry if I was making too much noise.”

“It was your absence that roused me, and you didn’t answer my question,” Alucard took in Olivia squatting in the snow, bundled up in a clashing mishmash of layers with an odd contraption in her mitten covered hands, “what are you doing?”

“Oh, I found this when I was cleaning out the attic!” She waved the contraption–something that resembled pliers with two molds at one end–with a pleased grin. “Watch this!” She packed handfuls of snow into the two molds and clamped them together before pulling them apart once more. “Behold~!” Olivia dropped the contraption and held up her creation. “My grand masterpiece.” 

“.....It’s a duck, Olivia.”

“A snow duck!” She giggled, her smile a ray of spring in a winter wonderland. “Isn’t he cute?”

Alucard just stared at her, taking in her rosy cheeks and the snowflakes sprinkled across her hair like starlight. Time and time again, he had bestowed her with gifts ranging from the rarest gems to the heads of her enemies. 

Yet, it was a tiny duck made of snow that pleased her the most. 

“You are a strange woman, you know that?”

“So I have been told!” She laughed, making grabby hands at him. “Join me! Help me make three more!”

“Why three?” He inquired, taking a seat and gathering her into his arms. 

“Well, because this one is you,” Olivia held the duck up once more. “One will be me and two,” She took Alucard’s hand and placed it on the swell of her belly, “will be our little ducklings!” 

And at the sight of her smile and the sensation of their growing children kicking beneath his palm, what else could the notorious No Life King do but pull his heart in for a kiss and help her craft their snow duck family of four.

[theloveandthedead]

Old commission by @onisnow that has been deleted from the blog for some reason 

Olivia and Walter’s relationship is very dear to me. Like, I’m ride-or-die for Aluvia but their (familial/platonic/what-might-have-been) relationship is something very special to me. 

[imagineauplots]

Wednesday!au what if...

What if there is a nother set of murderous outcast family at Nevermore?

Let me introduce you to the Fowley's family

The Fowley family has been around for hundreds and thousands of years, notorious amongst the outcasts for their wealth, powers and strength. Despite being a member of the higher broad of Nevermore and one of the biggest sponsors of the school, the Fowley has never sent their children to the school as they loath the history of the land.

Only few people know how their wealth stays around for generations after generation, though there are numerous speculation about it, one of which is them involving in multiple dirty businesses with the mafia.

It's not difficult to find a Fowley in the crowd. The family is blessed (some even say cursed) with their unique golden eyes.

Melvin Fowley

The patriach of the house. The cold-hearted man of many mysteries. One thing that is sure about Melvin is his cruelty. Rumors has it that he murdered his own brother and father to inherit the family dynasty.

It's hard to say of he loves his children or not though it's clear that the man will never win any "best-father-of-the-year" award. He is notorious in his circle for his harsh punishments on his children.

After the death of his wife, Leanne, Melvin refused to remarry.

Elliot Fowley

Melvin's oldest son and also the rightful heir to his dynasty, which also means he has received some of his father's horrendous punishment.

Melvin is determined to trained Elliot young but also paranoid that he might one-day die at the hand of his son as history might repeat itself.

Elliot is notorious amongst his peers for having no mercy what so ever towards his opponents, his cruelty and his temper. Elliot blames his father for his mother's death and therefore despites the man as a result.

Elliot relationship with the rest of his siblings are tumultuous to say the least, though it is safe to say that they care for each other.

Elliot was born with the ability to produce and control fire. His power could be incredibly destructive when his emotion is high and once it got lose there is no way back from there.

Viego Fowley

The second oldest, Melvin's son with his long time mistress Beatrice Green. After Viego being born, Melvin locked Beatrice in a mental hospital in Italia and kept her there till a fire wrecked the hospital and killed Beatrice in the process.

Growing up, Viego is the forgotten child in the family and experienced neglect from his father. He somewhat built a relationship with the the twins as they also experience the lost of their mother at a young age.

Viego is a mystery, though he refuses to have anything to do with his father's business, instead started his career as a scholar, it's clear as day that he is not someone to mess with.

Viego power is certainly a booster for his career as the man can summon, control and manipulate plants and vegetation.

Aluvia Fowley

The only Fowley girl for the last century and the older half of the Fowley twins.

Aluvia looks so much like her ancestor, the last Fowley woman, Meriette Fowley, that she appears almost identical to Meriette's portrait.

Aluvia inherits the distrustful and paranoid nature from her father, though not as serious. She masters the act of a helpless innocent little girl, which she uses quite often to get what she wants. In all truthfulness, Aluvia is calculative and would stop at nothing to gain what she deems herself deserves.

Aluvia share a set of skills with her brother (both are teleporter and telekinesis) Aluvia get her way with mind magic, another similarity between her and her ancestor.

Aidan Fowley

The youngest of the family. He is about half an hour younger than Aluvia.

Though he was considered the younger brother, Aidan makes it his responsibility to be Aluvia's protector besides partner in crime.

Aidan shows himself to be scarily intelligent, fiercely independent and incredibly prideful. He also isn't fazed from neither his father or from Elliot. After the death of Leanne, Aidan started developing hatred for his father.

Despite being impulsive from time to time, Aidan proves himself to be a ruthless and efficient killer, who enjoys killing to a certain extent

Aside from the power that he shares with his twin sister, Aidan is also a shape shifter, something that he inherits directly from his mother's line.