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Cayce Comprehensive Symptom Inventory (CCSI)
  Workbook and Manual
Version 1.0

LESSON 3: OVERVIEW OF THE BLOOD SUPPLY
 

PURPOSE

    The purpose of this lesson is to help you understand and appreciate the role of the blood supply as described by Edgar Cayce with regard to maintaining health and healing illness.
 

OBJECTIVES

    By studying and applying the information in this lesson, you will be able to:

  • identify the blood supply section of a typical physical reading,
  • recognize several specific components and factors of the blood supply as emphasized by Edgar Cayce,
  • become aware of the circulatory system, especially the deep (hepatic) and superficial aspects of circulation,
  • understand some of the major pathological patterns that can manifest in the blood supply and circulation and the treatments Edgar Cayce recommended for them.
  • become more aware of your own blood supply and circulatory system.


OVERVIEW

    After the introduction section, Edgar Cayce usually focused on the blood supply.  Blood is associated with life and vitality.  The average adult human body has about five liters of blood coursing through its vessels, delivering essential nutrients, and removing harmful wastes.  Blood transports oxygen from the lungs to body tissue and carbon dioxide from body tissue to the lungs.  Blood transports nourishment from the digestive system and hormones from glands throughout the body.  Blood transports disease fighting substances to the tissue and waste to the kidneys.  Blood cells are produced in the bone marrow, the space inside the bones.

    In a typical physical reading, the blood supply section deals with two major aspects:

  • blood factors,
  • the circulation of the blood.
     Blood factors are represented by the various categories measured in a blood test.  Here we are dealing with the microscopic level of the body by examining cells, blood elements, and cellular processes which we all need to be healthy.  The list which follows contains several of the most common blood factors emphasized by Edgar Cayce:     In addition to the microscopic analysis of the blood, the readings sometimes considered the patterns of circulation throughout the body.  In general, there are two primary circulatory patterns:     Either or both of these two circulatory patterns can be over or underactive.  When one pattern is overactive to the detriment of the other, a form of incoordination can be said to exist between the deep and superficial circulation.  Usually, such an incoordination also means that the eliminating systems are out of coordination resulting in symptoms of systemic toxicity.


RED BLOOD

    A single drop of blood contains millions of red blood cells which are constantly traveling through your body delivering oxygen and removing waste.  Red blood cells are red only because they contain a protein chemical called hemoglobin.  Hemoglobin is a protein that has iron associated with it - a lack of iron in your diet may lead to anemia.  Iron is an excellent vehicle for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide.  Over time, the red blood cells get worn out and eventually die.  The spleen is the primary organ responsible for removing worn or damaged blood cells from the circulation.  The average life cycle of a red blood cell is 120 days. Your bones are continually producing new blood cells, replenishing your supply.

    Edgar Cayce sometimes provided an assessment of the quantity and quality of the red blood:

    These then are conditions as we find them with this body.  First, in the blood supply - this we find deficient in the quantity more than quality.  Yet the tendency is to the excess of the white blood corpuscles; the red being deficient in count nearly 1 1/2 million.   (4794-1)

    Note that Edgar Cayce has assessed the red blood "count" for this individual.  In medical terminology, this would be equivalent to a hemocrit test.  A hemocrit test tells how many red cells there are in a unit of blood in comparison to other blood cells.   An average hemocrit is about 4.2 - 5.9 million red cells per microliter of blood.  In other words, a normal person has about 5 million red blood cells in a speck of blood the size of a pinhead.  If reading 4794-1 was correct, this woman would probably have had a hemocrit of about 3 and 1/2 million red blood cells per microliter.  In other words, she would likely have been anemic.  Scale 21 addresses anemia.



WHITE BLOOD

    White blood cells, or leucocytes, are another primary component of the blood supply.  Normally, the white blood cells are outnumbered by red blood cells by about 600 to 1.  According to Cayce, whereas red blood is primarily a rebuilder and replenisher of the system (via its ability to transport nutrients and remove wastes), white blood cells form the resistive forces identified with the immune system defenses of the body.  As Cayce put it in one reading, "the white blood, or white blood corpuscles, or leukocytes, in the system (nature's warriors) ..." (4760-1)  Reading 386-3 discusses the role of the white blood (leucocytes) in maintaining resistance against infectious conditions such as colds.

(Q)  How can I prevent from having colds all the time?
(A)  It would require volumes to give that which would prevent anyone from having colds!  for all those conditions that produce colds would have to be considered; diet, eliminations, drafts, changes of temperature, and everything of the kind.  But if a body is sufficiently balanced as to make for resistance, there will be sufficient leucocytes in the blood supply to choke a cold to death immediately!  But to keep such a resistance is to keep a body normally balanced, and to be mindful of those things that we have given.  For, colds are plasmas that find their reaction in the blood supply itself, and FEED upon the white more than upon the red blood, until they have become some form of the strept nature.  Then they work through to the organs in the system.  See?  They first begin with the lymph, or the water and white blood, and get hold upon the system unless the supply of leucocytes or warriors is present in the system to choke them to death.  A cold can't make headway when the warriors are sufficient, or the leucocytes!   (386-3)

    The white blood is closely allied to the lymphatic system, since certain forms of leucocytes are produced or stored in lymph nodes or glands.  Also, lymphathic vessels are the primary route by which white blood cells are transported from the body's tissues to the heart for recirculation throughout the system.

    Edgar Cayce often discussed the balance between the red and white blood.  The readings describe the red blood as a replenishing force while the white blood produces resistance.  So, for example, if infection calls for more resistive (immune) response, the balance can shift to an excess of white blood to meet the needs of the body.  If the imbalance is chronic, the decreased red blood may be inadequate in its replenishing role.  Edgar Cayce described this form of imbalance in numerous readings:

    In the white blood and the cellular force giving in this portion of the blood supply the resistive force ... For, with the replenishing forces as given for blood supply, more has been given for resistive forces to be builded in the resistance needed other than in that to replenish the forces in the elements of the red blood itself.  So, we find the body then emaciated or lean in force to meet the resistance, or to store resistance or reserve force in the system.  The body meets the needs from cycle to cycle.  Hence we find at various stages the time when the body seems to suffer from changes of the conditions within the system, see?   (3761-1)

    IN THE BLOOD SUPPLY, we find the blood forces in the system are below the normal in their replenishing forces, and much of the blood of the red blood cell forces seems turned to that force necessary in the white and lymphatic force to meet the needs in the extremities ... In the white blood over abundant, especially of the cell forces given in that of lymphatics in its circulation.  Hence, the tingling sensation or as of needles and pins in portions of the body in the circulation.  (4815)

    IN THE BLOOD SUPPLY, while we find this very good, yet there is that element in the system that prevents the blood from giving the best rebuilding forces in the system.  That is, in the assimilation of those properties that go to make up the rebuilding forces in the blood supply, much is turned to white in the condition to meet the needs that should give rebuilding forces in the body.  In the balance between the red and white blood supply, then, we find lack of number of rebuilding cells in red, and in excess at times in the white.  (583-2)

    In the case of reading 596-1, the imbalance between red and white blood resulted in cardiovascular symptoms:

    The BLOOD SUPPLY shows the lack of sufficient red blood, owing to the system producing such quantities of the leucocyte and white blood (lymph and the urea in same) to form coagulation; yet this has tended to make for a double or quickening in the pulsation - which is an ordinary indication that tumorous conditions exist in the system.  Instead of there being the skipping of a beat, it is at times as a DOUBLE beat - even more than is discernable in conditions where pregnancy has brought about such an activity, or until a period of three to four months - or gestation has begun.  This is the CHARACTER; though, to be sure, it is of a different beat, but is an indication of the condition - and  of the LOCATION of conditions that disturb the better condition of the body.   (596-1)

    The quantity of white blood cells is normally increased when the system is stressed by infection or other healing crisis.  Both red and white blood cells are produced in the bone marrow, especially the marrow of the skull, ribs, and spine.  Lymph nodes are also important in the production of certain types of white blood cells.  Therefore, when more white blood cells are required, the increased production typically results in aching bones and sore throat (from the swelling of the lymph nodes).  With the priority shift from red to white blood cell production during illness, the balance between red and white cells is also affected.  Later in this lesson, you will be provided with an assignment (readings 1401-1 and 1401-2) that investigates these processes.



COAGULATION

        From a traditional medical perspective, coagulation refers to blood clotting with respect to wound healing.  Lack of coagulation results in excessive bleeding (hemophilia is the most extreme example) and poor wound healing.

    Edgar Cayce's perspective of coagulation (while including blood clotting and wound healing) is more expansive in considering the systemic aspects of this process.  For example, coagulation is an essential step in the immune response.  Infectious forces and pathological processes (such as virus, bacteria, cancer) are surrounded and "separated" from the body.  Edgar Cayce liked the term "segregation" when discussing this aspect of coagulation.  The formation of  cysts and tumors are the result.  Thus, the lymphatic system (i.e., white blood cells - leukocytes - "warriors" of the immune system) are activated in the body's attempt to fight off invading forces.

    Apart from pathology, coagulation is an important component in the maintenance of health.  At a microscopic level, the body is constantly eliminating wastes and rebuilding tissue.  Coagulation is the process by which the body "encases" wastes and toxic substances for elimination from the body.  Furthermore, there is a constant wear and tear on the organs of the body from normal processes that takes place at a cellular level.  Coagulation provides a protective "coating" to worn tissues within the body so that rebuilding, replenishing, and rejuvenation can take place.  Maintenance of the walls of
the blood vessels is an example of this type of coagulation.

    Of course, if the internal damage is severe (from an accident or surgery), coagulation is more extensive and notable in the formation of adhesions and scar tissue during the initial stages of healing.  Monitoring and improving the coagulative factor (when necessary) helps to ensure that recovery from surgery will be optimal.

    In summary, the Cayce perspective of coagulation includes various processes and factors including wound healing, resistance to illness, and maintenance of health and vitality.  The coagulation scale (Scale 11) included in this assessment evaluates these various aspects of coagulation and provides options for improving poor coagulation.

    The following excerpts exemplify the various aspects of coagulation as discussed by Edgar Cayce:

COAGULATION AND "USED TISSUE"

    IN THE BLOOD SUPPLY, in this we find there is the lack of proper coordination through the replenishing in cellular force, or as is called coagulation in used tissue, or in the system eliminating used tissue, and in this destruction, especially in blood cells, the organs of the elimination suffer. (4271-1)

    IN THE BLOOD SUPPLY, we find the body is very good.  There is at present a lack of an equilibrium between the red blood and the white blood supply, yet coagulation takes place, and the renewing in used tissue is very good, save when hindered by conditions that affect the nerve branches supplying such at certain cycles. (340-2)

    These are effects, then, of these toxic forces as distributed in the blood, acting upon the vital forces in the body itself.  This naturally creates a lack of the leucocyte or the warriors in the blood supply.
    Hence we have a very poor coagulation; that is, where used tissue or the activity of the body causes the effect of a taxation to the system.  Walking, thinking, working, or any activity that requires energies - which are as used forces in the system, as would be from the use of fuel in a fire - this produces an ash or refuse forces that must be eliminated.  Then this elimination being very poor produces the effects as described in portions of the body.  (1055-1)

COAGULATION AND BLOOD VESSELS

    While there may not be a great deal of interference, with the applications that are being administered, we find that suggestions may be made to those administering to the needs of the body as to the proper basis of the disturbance, - which presents the symptoms manifested through congestions in the body, and the leakages or hemorrhages occurring internally.
    We find that this is due to the lack of ability for coagulation, and a form of anemia which has impoverished the walls of the arterial circulation.
    Hence it is necessary that this as the basis be considered, in minstering for the needs of the body in the present, - and that something be done to assist in the coagulation.  (2206-1)

    This lack of proper coagulation, or the thinning of the walls of the blood vessels, of courses of same specifically in the superficial circulation, shows the lack of the correct - or the balanced - chemical forces that go to make up the fibrin in the veins and arteries themselves.  Thus there is produced that which allows the blood, through any pressure, to easily pass through the walls of same; which is indicated in the superficial circulation in those blotches, spots, bruises or the like.   (2935-1)

    The blood pressure is below normal.  The heat of the blood is little above normal, especially do we find this in the morning.  The blood through the hepatic is sluggish.  The number of leukocyte forces in the blood are very efficient but very deficient at the present time, there being a smaller number than necessary to meet the condition, presenting themselves through these lacerated conditions so prevent coagulation, producing thin walls in the veins themselves, causing the oozing of the leukocytes.  This is not all the time.   (3354-1)

COAGULATION AND "SEPARATIONS/SEGREGATIONS"

(Q)  Is there need of an operation and if so where may it best be done?
(A)  In the condition and in the mental attitude and in the condition of the blood as well as of the body, would not be well for operation.  Keep the drainage best and keep the segregations (separations) best, and keep the activities of the body as regarding the coagulation, or keep the leukocyte forces most active. (325-32)

(Q)  What precaution should be taken in preparation for operative measures?
(A)  That coagulation is good in the blood stream, giving the body plenty of plasm and of those activities to cause perfect coagulation, or better coagulation than is naturally existent in the present conditions of body.
(Q)  Are my ovaries or any of my other organs affected?
(A)  As just indicated all the organs of the pelvis are affected.  The tumor as we find, is upon the tubes. (4010-1)

325-58
    Plantain application ABOUT the area where the distress or inflammation arises.
    Keep the drainages of the tumor itself.
    Keep the body quiet.
    Keep as much of the body-building foods as possible; and, naturally, those things that make for the coagulation in the system; as:
    Cod Liver Oil (preferably in the White's Cod Liver Oil Tablets); beef juices or the liver extract (preferably Valentine's); and things of such nature.  (325-58)

COAGULATION AND SURGERY

(Q)  If decided the operation is necessary, what preparation should I make?
(A)  The tests as to the better coagulation of the blood forces themselves.  Be sure this is in that ratio that coagulation will take place normally. (337-27)

(Q)  If operation becomes necessary, what treatment would you advise to bring about complete healing?
(A)  Plenty of the vitamins that cause coagulation; and these we have advised for the body, to prevent these accumulations. (2536-1)

    At the second lumbar vertebrae we, also, find some trouble, which should be corrected.  This patient needs an operation, by skilled surgeon, but she is not able to stand it now; her reactive powers are too low or too weak, as the white corpuscles or white matter in the blood is deficient and coagulation would be tardy, consequently, an operation would be very hazardous. (3866-1)

    As we find in the present, conditions are such that if there is the proper preparation for the body a few days beforehand, operative measures may remove the lymph cyst, - which from its formation has begun to gather those forces from the glandular activity of the system, and thus necessitates removal; else it would cause a greater disturbance and faster growth.
    The preparation would be for the better coagulation, and there should NOT be the operation until the test of the blood shows sufficient of the element to cause proper Coagulation.
    Then, with care and attention afterward, we should have much better conditions - after a few months - for the body.
    Ready for questions.
(Q)  Is the growth of a sarcoma nature?
(A)  As has been indicated, it is a lymph cyst, - with a center that might become anything!  It is not sarcoma in its nature, as we find, in the present.  (2089-2)

(Q)  Are the doctors correct in their diagnosis?
(A)  As given, these vary from that we have outlined.  These conditions are in the early stages of such conditions. [Cancer - See 372-8, Par. R1.]  Hence, they are not correct in their diagnosis - AS YET; though, if the condition is allowed to continue, then it must become what the doctors have given!
(Q)  Would an operation be of any help to this body?
(A)  It wouldn't stand it!  There's not sufficient physical resistance; neither is there sufficient of the hormones in the blood supply to produce proper coagulation.  (372-8)

(Q)  How soon should the operation be performed?  Is it advised immediately?
(A)  As soon as the body is prepared for same, so that the coagulation of the blood supply is sufficient.  For, this growth will continue, - and is getting to be more and more disturbing to the whole system.  Do not let it become such as to attach itself too much to other portions, or in its reaction become of a destructive nature.  Watch the temperature and the pulse. (2292-1)

    Now, these conditions, as we find in this body, need that attention as has been given, for with the removal of these affected portions, see (in the pelvic organs here), we will find the body will, when builded to the responding condition in the rebuilding of the blood supply, be bettered, coagulation will take place normally, and the body, then, will function more normal.
    Then, we would perform this operation, as has been given for same.  Do that.  (5700-7)



UREA

   Urea is a substance produced by the liver and transported to the kidneys to be excreted from the
body in the urine.  From a medical perspective, urea is simply a poison containing nitrogen which
must be eliminated from the body.  Edgar Cayce recognized that urea in excess is toxic to the body
but asserted that a certain amount of urea was necessary in the blood to assist with various functions
such as coagulation and wound healing.  The readings contain numerous examples of both kinds of
urea imbalance, low and high.  Scale 12 (High Urea) addresses the clinical and therapeutics aspects high urea.

    Edgar Cayce often associated urea with the white blood (leucocytes) and the process of coagulation.

    In the BLOOD SUPPLY we find a deficiency in the numbers of the red blood, near normalcy in the urea, and low supply in the white blood.  Yet coagulation, as from the leucocyte or urea in same, is often very good.  (536-1)

    As an example of low urea, here are a couple of selections which link low urea with poor coagulation:

    First, as to the BLOOD SUPPLY, we find this has become impoverished by the lack of those necessary forces being assimilated by disturbances in the body as to produce a perfect coordination or balance in the red blood, the white blood, and the urea or lymph that makes for proper coagulation.   (532-1)

    As to the elements of the blood itself, these we find in their divisions - if they are separated - show the lack of that urea that makes for the creating of coagulation where used tissue has been eliminated for or from the system.   (434-1)

    In general, the symptoms associated with low urea closely parallel poor coagulation as described in Scale 11.  The treatment recommendations were also similar.

    In several readings, Edgar Cayce also linked urea levels with glucose levels.  Glucose is a simple sugar (actually the primary sugar) in the blood supply.  The readings emphasize the importance of maintaining a balance between urea and glucose:

    IN THE BLOOD SUPPLY, this we find shows an uneven balance.  Not that the pressure is so abnormal, though THIS we find somewhat below normal.  The divisions in the constituents or elements of the blood supply show a distress in the system's attempting to adjust self to those disorders or pressures as exist in system, that prevent the PROPER circulation.  Hence the urea, the glucose, are unbalanced, making for some change in the CELL count in the blood supply also.   (4661-1)

    Then, in the lower PORTION of the hepatic [liver and kidney] circulation, and especially as related to the capsule above the kidney [adrenal gland] - which keeps the equilibrium in the system, adding to or taking from that as is created in the blood supply through the glucose and urea - that is so necessary in the proper coagulations - these becoming unbalanced at times, the glucose being short, the urea being of an abundant quantity, produces too much of the FLUIDS in the system and, as it were, the FEELING as of rocking the boat.   (378-1)

    Interestingly, medical science does not recognize the value of urea in the blood nor a relationship with glucose.  The Cayce physical readings are full of such fascinating ideas about how the body works.  Perhaps future medical research will address these issues.

    One area that medical science has researched extensively is the effects of high urea in the blood.
The Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) test is a standard medical assessment for abnormal urea levels.
According to the medical literature, a normal BUN score ranges from 8 - 20.  In the last reading that Edgar Cayce gave (which was for himself on September 17, 1944), he was asked to assess his own urea level:

    The urea of the blood itself is not below the normal for this body, measuring in the present a count of 13 to 15...
(Q)  Should Dr. Slate's instructions be followed, for giving glucose followed by S.U.P. 36?
(A)  This, as we find, would not be necessary - unless there is a deficiency in the urea in the blood supply.  (294-212)

    When urea levels become excessive, the body suffer from a condition called uremia.  Seventy-one Cayce readings are indexed as uremia or uremia tendencies.  Some of these cases were relatively
mild (perhaps subclinical).  Other cases were more severe and even life-threatening.  Here are a couple of examples of uremia in which significant discomfort is apparent:

    The BLOOD SUPPLY, from the organic reactions, would appear to be very good; yet it will be seen that there are times when the activities from the kidneys are indicated in the blood stream - or a uremia that is produced by pressures in the lumbar and sacral area, and also to the 11th and 12th dorsal center, but lumbar and sacral areas specifically.  These pressures are of such a nature that with the circulation to the extremities there is produced a poor return or venous circulation to the body from the lower extremities.  Hence an irritation is produced, a swelling, a very UNPLEASANT reaction and an easy irritation to the burses of the feet; these are as drosses, or a poor circulation.   (793-1)

    The BLOOD SUPPLY indicates a disturbance in the circulatory system, and poisons - toxic forces; both from a poor circulation in the alimentary canal and toxic forces of a more severe nature that arise from poor eliminations and a disturbed activating force in the kidneys.  Hence a uremia of a nature that makes areas of irritation in the superficial or capillary circulation, even to the exterior portions of the body.  The attempt of the circulation in this portion to remove poisons; yet making for the tired, unsatisfactory feelings, headaches, nausea somewhat, at times bearing down pains through the pelvis, the lymphs and feet at times giving trouble, cold in the extremities at times while at others
there is an undue circulation - and the taste in the mouth at times is unsatisfactory, dull headaches resulting; tiredness in arms and lower limbs, pains especially through the right side of the torso or body.   (629-2)



TOXICITY

    Systemic toxicity is one of the most common etiological factors in the Cayce readings.  The readings often used the expression poor eliminations when discussing systemic toxicity.

(Q)  What causes moles, pigments and freckles?
(A)  Get rid of these by creating better eliminations and normal coordination between all of the organs of eliminations:  alimentary canal, kidneys, lungs, respiratory and perspiratory system.   (5271-1)

    We find that poisons, excesses of any nature, or drosses, are eliminated either through the alimentary canal, the activity of the kidneys and bladder, or are thrown off in the respiratory or perspiratory system.  (3109-1)

    Of the four primary processes of elimination (defecation, urination, respiration, and perspiration), the readings observed that 85% of the toxins are normally eliminated through the bowel.  When the bowel becomes deficient in this activity (i.e., constipation), the other channels of elimination must increase their activity to cleanse the body of toxins.  Failure of any of the other eliminating processes will lead to some degree of systemic toxicity (Scale 9).

    Systemic toxicity can be exacerbated by autointoxication.  Autointoxication is an ancient theory based on the belief that intestinal toxins can enter the circulation and poison the body.  The concept probably originated in Egypt or Greece.  The Greek version recognized a broad range of pathological agents including residues of food, bile and phelgm as portrayed in the humoral theory of disease.  Until the early 20th century, autointoxication was widely accepted and various therapies (such as colonic irrigation) were commonly used for a variety of systemic disorders.  In recent decades, the autointoxication concept fell out of favor.  However, a growing body of information linking intestinal disease, excessive intestinal permeability, and systemic illness has revived the theory.

    Edgar Cayce sometimes cited autointoxication as a factor in cases involving systemic toxicity.  For example, reading 4283-1 noted that constipation and infectious agents contributed to systemic toxicity produced by chronic dental problems.

    The toxins are not from the teeth entirely, see, these only add to the other toxins. It was first produced by that streptococci bacilli and that as is known in this plane as "flu".  The reaction is from that and bacilli comes from autointoxication from the intestinal tract where the system has been allowed to gather from those portions that which should be eliminated from the system.  Hence the body, you see, at times suffers from constipation, see.  Do this as we have given, if we would keep and correct the conditions for the betterment of this body.  Do that, we are through.   (4283-1)

    Sytemic toxicity is expressed in a wide variety of signs and symptoms, such as skin blemishes, aches and pains, headaches, disturbed sleep, nervousness, etc.  Here is an example of some of these systemic symptoms in a case involving systemic toxicity:

    First, we find that the BLOOD SUPPLY in itself is fairly good.  However, as indicated by specific conditions that exist from time to time, there are carried activities in the superficial circulation - and eliminations through the perspiratory or respiratory system - that should be carried through other eliminating channels.  Thus large pores are produced, or the opening for blotches or spots on portions of the body, especially in exposed parts of the body.  And AT TIMES there are the indications in the emunctory centers of such conditions being under the skin; as under arm, in groin, about scrotum.  Gradually they are being eliminated through these channels, forming at times irritations...
(Q)  I seem to have a subconscious nervousness -
(A)  (Interrupting)  This, as indicated, is from not exactly a subluxation but rather a hindrance in the dorsal area ... for with these corrections there will be brought about the normal coordination between the eliminating channels.  For we eliminate through the respiratory system, through the breathing, through the lung, through the perspiratory system, as WELL as through the alimentary canal and through the kidneys.  Now these, as indicated, where poisons should have been carried through other channels, are expressing themselves through the vegetative nerve forces.
(Q)  I seem to require an abnormal amount of sleep -
(A)  (Interrupting)  As indicated, this comes from the auto - intoxication by the slow distribution of poisons to the various portions of the eliminating system.  (877-3)



CALCIUM

    Calcium is an essential element important for maintaining the structural integrity of the body.  Deficiencies in calcium result in bone problems, especially with the teeth and nails.  Edgar Cayce also linked calcium deficiency with circulatory problems (low blood pressure and poor superficial circulation), fatigue, lowered resistance to disease, and anxiety.  Scale 10 addresses low calcium.



ACID/ALKALINE BALANCE

    Edgar Cayce consistently emphasized the importance of maintaining a proper acid/alkaline balance in the body.  Commonly referred to as "pH" (potential for hydrogen), the acid/alkaline continuum ranges from 0 - 14 with 7 as neutral.  The lower end of the scale (below 7) is acid and above 7 is alkaline. Generally speaking, the Cayce readings maintain that a balanced pH with a slight alkaline tendency would be beneficial for most individuals.

    Edgar Cayce noted that high systemic acidity either causes or contributes to many health problems.  The items on Scale 5 are based on 133 readings which mention "superacidity" as an etiological factor.  High systemic acidity (Scale 5) is often caused by eating a diet containing too much acid producing foods such as sweets and meats.  Stress is another factor which can increase acidity.  Improper food combinations (such as eating grains and citrus at the same meal) can result in high acidity.

    Alkalinity can be increased by consuming less meat and sweets and more vegetables and fruits.  Although eating fruit to increase alkalinity may seem to be a contradiction because some fruits (especially citrus) are acidic outside the body, digestion uses up their acidic components, leaving an alkaline residue (ash).  Thus the net effect is alkaline-producing within the system.  For most individuals, Cayce noted that  "a normal diet is about twenty percent acid to eighty percent alkaline-producing."   Appendix F contains an acid/alkaline table that lists the Ph of common foods.

    According to Cayce, numerous factors can increase acidity including negative emotional states, inadequate mastication of food, and poor eliminations.  Perhaps the most common factor cited by Cayce is diet.  Eating acid-producing foods or combining foods improperly (even akaline-producing foods) is said to lead to hyperacidity, even to "superacidity" in some instances.

    Cayce sometimes observed that infectious agents (such as virus and bacteria) do not thrive in an alkaline environment: "cold CANNOT - DOES NOT - exist in alkalines." Thus, consuming alkaline-producing foods (such as orange juice and lemon juice) was recommended to prevent colds.

    The antimicrobial influence of alkalinity  is supported by research on goldenseal, a well-known antibacterial herb.  Berberine sulfate, the most active antibacterial alkaloid in goldenseal, is more effective in an alkaline than an acid environment.  At a pH of 8.0 (alkaline), its antimicrobial activity in vitro is about 2 to 4 times greater than at 7.0 (neutral).  At an acid pH of 6.0, the antimicrobial activity is only 1/4 as strong as at a neutral pH.

    Acid/alkaline balance is extremely important to normal physiology.  For example, the blood will maintain a slightly alkaline range of 7.35 to 7.45.  Extended pH imbalances of any kind are not well tolerated by the body.  The management of the pH factor is so important that the body has developed strict accounting procedures to monitor acid-alkaline balances in every cell and system.  The fundamental regulatory systems of the body (including breathing, circulation, elimination, etc.) affect pH balance.

    Edgar Cayce insisted that acid/alkaline balance could be easily checked.  Numerous readings encourage the measurement of pH balance in saliva and urine as an objective means of monitoring this crucial aspect of physiology.



DEEP CIRCULATION

     The deep circulation involves the blood flow through the primary organs of the torso, that is, the liver, kidneys, heart, and lungs, and digestive system.  The readings sometimes referred to the deep circulation as the "hepatic" circulation, recognizing the primary role of the liver.

    When the hepatic circulation was sluggish, slow or reduced in volume, Edgar Cayce sometimes used the expression "cold hepatic circulation" (Scale 2) to describe the condition.

    In the hepatic circulation, this rather cold and low - that is, below normal in the quantity or in the state, for it should be above that of the normal pulsation.  Hence called a cold hepatic circulation - that is, the circulation between the liver and the kidneys of this body is below normal.  Hence there are times felt by the body when there are pains, or bearing down pains throughout the right, and then changing to the left side, when the reaction or reality of pain is a nerve contraction by the lack of the proper incentive to nerve supply.   (3721-1)

    An extremely active hepatic circulation was called "high hepatic circulation" (Scale 20).  In essence, a high hepatic circulation (also referred to as the internal or deep circulation) indicates increased blood flow through the liver and other organs of the hepatic system:

    Liver being engorged by over-taxation from the high hepatic circulation, or intense internal circulation ...  (4319-1)

    Reaction to infectious forces can trigger the liver and hepatic circulation into a higher level of activity:

    IN THE BLOOD SUPPLY, we find that bacilli carried in the system of the formation that gives the forces inflammation and prevents the perfect coagulation in portions of the system, and causes the condition that produces the distress through the pelvic region, and the high hepatic circulation with the blood pressure, and with the forces that prevent the perfect elimination in the system giving distress to the organs at times that function through the emunctory forces, especially those in the liver and kidneys.   (4306-1)

    IN THE BLOOD SUPPLY, this shows some streptococci in the blood, produced by auto-infection.... Hence the infection in blood and the condition as exists in the various portions of the body as are affected through this condition.  High hepatic circulation.  Temperature at times.  Low resistance throughout the system.  Disturbances and nausea of the stomach.  Improper functioning of the organs of the pelvis.  Headaches.  Pains to the top of the head.  Aching across the lower portion of the hips.  (4620-1)

    A torpid liver, may trigger an increased hepatic circulation to throw off toxins via the kidneys.  Thus, the kidneys are often stressed by a high hepatic circulation:

    The liver is torpid in its functioning, producing a high hepatic circulation.  The kidneys, with high circulation, the excess of poisons to be eliminated, the body across the lower lumbars to knees, suffers from taxation to these portions of the body, from the inability of the system to throw off the toxins; not wholly uric acid, but rather toxins in the system.   (159-1)

    In the liver, where high hepatic circulation is produced, is where discomfiture comes to the body from the torpidity of the organ.  The seat, or beginning, was first from the nervous forces to the body.  The trouble has come from the body being depleted by over-taxation.  The kidneys give rise to the condition as produced by high or over-taxed hepatic circulation.  At times we find the acids over-charged being carried back to the system by the plethora in the circulation in the hepatics.  Then we find that the emunctories of the kidneys produce a reaction from the condition in the system.   (4127-1)

    Nerve pressures in the hypogastric nerve plexus that governs the circulation to the liver was sometimes cited as a contributory cause of high hepatic circulation.

    IN THE BLOOD SUPPLY, we find a high hepatic circulation from conditions existing in and through the digestion and intestinal tract, yet a low supply of the red blood forces and a lack of the vitality necessary to store energy.... In the liver the hepatic, high hepatic circulation is produced by condition in the hypogastric centers, shows how this condition affects the liver direct, though not organically, for both excretory and secretive system is worked above normal, though the system does not assimilate properly.  The reflex condition from hypogastric plexus and from the taxing of the system through the condition in pancreas overtaxes the kidneys in their elimination and the emunctories all are engorged, as is the spleen.   (2229-1)

    Egdar Cayce often described interesting and complex relationships between the various aspects of the blood supply.  For example, reading 5473-6 suggests a link between high hepatic circulation, low blood pressure and increased white blood cells.

(Q)  Would laxatives be beneficial?
(A)  Laxatives would be beneficial in their proper place.  These must come after we have REMOVED some of those obstructions and accumulations from the condition existent.  These, of course, have made for the high HEPATIC circulation, and the low blood pressure.  Naturally, with the low blood pressure, there comes the unbalancing in the white and red blood supply; the leucocytes becoming, or that character of leucocyte becoming, numerous - and red deficient.   (5473-4)

    To better understand problems with the hepatic circulation, it may be helpful to consider a brief overview of the "hepatic system" and its patterns of circulation.  The organs of the hepatic system are:

  • Liver
    • Positive pole of body's battery,
    • Excretory functioning - emunctory/cleansing through hepatic circulation,
    • Secretive functioning - through gallbladder/bile/intestines,
  • Gallbladder,
  • Kidneys,
    • Negative pole of body's battery,
    • Excretory  functioning (although the readings mention both excretion and secretion from this organ),
  • Pancreas,
  • Spleen.
    Edgar Cayce used the expression "hepatic circulation" in a variety of ways to described circulatory patterns between the organs of the hepatic system listed above.  Here are a few examples of different aspects of the hepatic circulation as discussed in the Cayce readings:
  • The hepatic circulation is the "deep circulation" and corresponds to cerebrospinal nervous system as distinguished from superficial circulation (surface of body - sympathetic nervous system).
  • The hepatic circulation can also be more narrowly defined as circulation between liver and kidneys.
  • The upper hepatic circulation refers to the circulation between liver, heart and lungs - the upper body.
  • The lower hepatic circulation refers to the circulation between the kidneys and urinary system - the lower body.
  • The hepatic portal system refers to the circulation from the intestinal tract to the liver.
  • Edgar Cayce also sometimes spoke of a day/night cycle in which the patterns of circulation alternated between the lower and upper hepatic circulation and the deep and superficial circulation.
DYSFUNCTIONS OF HEPATIC SYSTEM

    The Cayce readings recognize several pathophysiological patters associated with hepatic dysfunction, including:

  • Torpid (sluggish) liver,
  • Cold (low) hepatic circulation,
  • High (hot) hepatic circulation,
  • Incoordination between deep and superficial circulation,
  • Day/night or upper/lower circulation (e.g., nightsweats).


SUPERFICIAL CIRCULATION

    The superficial circulation is carried by blood vessels relatively near the surface of the body as distinguished from the deep circulation (also called the "hepatic circulation").  In the Edgar Cayce readings, the superficial circulation has several distinct associations:

  • The superficial circulation is linked to the sympathetic nervous system whereas the deep (hepatic) circulation is associated with the cerebrospinal nervous system.
  • The superficial circulation is associated more with the venous and lymphatic (return) circulation whereas the arterial flow is associated more with the deep circulation.
  • The superficial circulation is associated with eliminations through the skin (perspiration) whereas the deep circulation is associated with the other prime channels of elimination (defecation and urination).
    Within the CCSI, Scale 1 addresses poor superfical circulation.  Skin problems are common when the coordination between the superficial and deep circulation is disturbed, resulting in toxins being thrown off through the skin ("respiratory system").

    The blood supply indicates the form of toxic conditions arising, while the nerve pressures that are produced indicate the sources and the effects - as in the headaches, the irregularity at times with the kidneys, the blemishes on the skin or through the superficial circulation, with the various spots or blotches that occur on face, hands, arms, limbs at times.  These indicate how the disturbance is affecting the coordination between superficial and deeper circulation, the lack of the proper coordination of the eliminating channels of the body.  Hence the effect produced in the respiratory system and the perspiratory system, the flushes that occur at times.   (3358-1)

    The superficial circulation, being associated more with the venous and lymph circulation, represents the return route of blood to the heart.  Incoordination in the balance between deep (arterial) and superficial (venous) can thus affect blood pressure.  Reading 4345-1 describes a slow superficial circulation which backs up the blood, increasing blood pressure:

    First, in the BLOOD supply, this we find shows in its elementals the nature or cause of the disturbance, in the manner in which the circulation takes place; it being rather of the superficial circulation, or slower in its action in the return to the heart than in its flow from the heart to portions of the system.  Hence producing in the heart's action itself a high pressure in the conditions of the system.  This makes for the inability of the full or complete activities that might be experienced were there a normal coordination between the arterial and venous circulation.   (4345-1)

    When the deep circulation is overactive at the expense of the superficial, uncomfortable sensations in the sensory organs:

     The impoverishment to the superficial circulation, owing to the heaviness in the deeper circulation, makes for some drying effect - as it were - to the ear; the burning sensations that occur around the eye; those changes or fullnesses that come in the throat, through the sense of the activity through the vocal reactions, to the general feelings as without through the sensory system.  These are only of the
nature that they are APPARENT at times with the body; and consequently they are a reflex condition, and with the clearing up of the system should make for a correction through these portions of the body that would be most effective.   (859-1)

    A feeling of depersonalization (and even anxiety) may occur when the superficial and deep circulations are completely dissociated.  Reading 440-2 noted that such an incoordination of circulation may also be linked to paranormal (out of body?) experiences:

    Throat, bronchi, lungs, larynx, show the effect of the poor circulation, or the conditions that have been described of there being a deep circulation well cared for but the lymph and the superficial circulation in the outer portion of the system being slow.  Hence the conditions that arise often for there to be a tendency of portions of the body in the extremities to appear or have the feeling of being SEPARATED from the rest of the body.  And also those influences that make for the periods when vision or dream or experiences are as if the body were SEPARATING itself from its physical being while the mental activities VISION that going on.  These are very well if controlled, for it shows the activity of the PSYCHIC forces and psychic influences in the body being able to operate either with or separate from the physical being.  Yet, as a unit, as a whole, in the physical being, should the body be able to FUNCTION the better.   (440-2)



 ASSIGNMENT

    Study readings 1401-1 and 1401-2in Appendix D.

1.  Look closely at the blood supply factors discussed in this lesson.  Pay particular attention to the balance of red and white blood and the therapies intended to address the depleted blood supply.

2.  Also note the consistent patterns of Ph imbalance with a tendency toward "superacidity."  Think about the various ways that acid/alkaline imbalance can manifest in the body.
 

APPLICATION

    Complete the various scales of the CCSI listed in this lesson.  How is your blood supply?  Are there any therapeutic recommendations for these scales which may be helpful for you?

Click here for Lesson 4.
 

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