Digestive Health Supplements

Overview

Your well being and health are two of the most vital things in your life. Feeling & looking your very best can make the difference among really living and just getting by.

If you’re like most individuals, you perhaps know lots about the things you should be doing to promote and keep your optimal-health, particularly the gastrointestinal tract. You know how significant plenty of sleep, regular exercise, and low stress levels are in order to look and feel your very best. You know your diet should be high in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, but low in fat and sugar.

Natural dietary supplements are not a replacement for a diet that is healthy. Choosing foods from all of the food groups and ingesting a wide variety of foods from those groups, is necessary to your health. Today’s contemporary world makes it nearly impossible to get all the nutrients the human body needs from the diet alone.

The following are several digestive supplements to help keep the GI system healthy and functional:

• Chamomile: More Than a Soothing Tea. Chamomile is commonly used for several illnesses. Naturalists have tried chamomile in an attempt to cure digestive problems such as colic, upset stomach, and nausea, in addition to anxiety and insomnia. Individuals with some plant allergies like ragweed, though, could supposedly have an allergic reaction to chamomile. Always talk about any supplement usage with your medical doctor.

• DGL (Licorice): Cooling Heartburn. Licorice has extensively been used to cure symptoms of indigestion like acid reflux and heartburn. Though, these uses are not supported by scientific evidence. In its unpurified form, it can too have side effects, contributing to high blood pressure in some individuals. DGL is a particular extract of licorice with a definite chemical removed — it doesn’t have those side effects. Still, expectant women should not take DGL — or any other health supplement without first consulting their general practitioner.

• Ginger: Stomach Comforter. Asian drug uses ginger to treat stomach-ache. In the West, ginger is utilized to alleviate nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Ginger is available as a powder, in tablets or capsules, or as newly cut root. It’s commonly considered safe when taken in small doses like 1 to 3 grams per day.

• L-Glutamine: The Intestinal Helper. Glutamine is a natural amino acid. It supports the performance of the intestines and other body organs. The supplement L-glutamine may help alleviate diarrhea induced by infections, surgery, or stress. It too enhances the nutrients absorption in some patients. That includes individuals with unwarranted amounts of unfriendly bacteria in their gastrointestinal tracts, individuals who are taking cancer drugs, and who have had part of their guts removed.

• Peppermint Oil: To relieve irritable bowel syndrome or IBS. While the jury’s still out, more than a few studies recommend that peppermint oil may decrease pain and bloating that comes with IBS. Enteric-coated capsules don’t liquefy in the stomach. They pass through to the small & large intestines, where the oil is being released. In small doses, peppermint oil appears to be harmless.

• Probiotics: Friendly Bacteria. Probiotics include living organisms — mostly bacteria and one sort of yeast. These resemble good bacteria in the intestine that promote good digestion. The health supplements are used to cure certain gastrointestinal problems and for common digestive health. Some sorts of probiotics may offer relief from diarrhea and may as well alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). You can add them to malted milk or yogurt.

“Radioactive fallout is defined as radioactive material that is carried by winds until it settles to earth. Under some circumstances you may see the fallout; under others you may not. The radioactivity it gives off cannot be seen. You can’t feel it. You can’t smell it, but fallout doesn’t come out of the sky like a gas and seep into everything. It can best be described as a fine to coarse sand carried by the winds. Because the wind direction varies at different heights above the ground, it is not possible to judge from the ground where the fallout will settle. It can settle in irregular patterns hundreds of miles.

Supplements to Start Taking Now

The following are supplements that I recommend that you start taking now to help your body prepare preemptively for radiation. They are relatively inexpensive and generally locally available: All of the following supplements in this first section except rutin can be found at Whole Foods and other natural food stores.

Herbal Remedies

Here is a list of medicinal herbs that I recommend you take for radiation exposure. You can take them as a tea, a tincture or as individual encapsulated herbs. You can get individual herbal tinctures online at Herb Pharm or get a custom combination tincture made at Farmacopia in Santa Rosa, CA.

Burdock Root (Arctium lappa)- removes radioactive isotopes from the body.
Recommended Dose – 1-4 ounces/300-120 grams of cooked fresh root, up to a pint of infusion daily, or several large spoonfuls of vinegar but only if made with fresh roots. Tincture – 15-20 drops 3 times a day. Contraindications – do not use Burdock during the first trimester of pregnancy

Cilantro Leaf (Coriandum sativum)- natural heavy metal chelator (i.e. plutonium and cesium are heavy metals.) Therefore, it helps to eliminate them out of the body. Recommended Dose – Take 1-3 dropperfuls daily of tincture or eat large amounts of fresh cilantro

Eleuthero/Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)- helps protect against the side effects of radiation exposure. Recommended Dose – 500-3000 mg. in capsule form. Tincture: 15-20 drops three times a day.

Holy Basil/Tulsi Aerial Parts (Ocimum sanctum)- preliminary research shows evidence that Holy Basil protects against radiation-induced peroxidation, thus helping to protect against the detrimental effects of low-level radiation. It also increases glutathione and superoxide dismutase which are important mediators in the liver in helping the body deal with radiation. Recommended Dose – Tincture: 40–60 drops, three times per day. Tea: add 1 tsp. dried leaf to 8 oz. hot water, steep, covered, 5–10 minutes. Take 4 oz. of tea up to three times per day.Capsules:various forms of capsulated products are available. These include extracts in gelcaps, dried or powdered herb in capsules, and standardized extracts (2 percent ursolic acid) in capsules. Contraindications – Holy Basil should not be taken while pregnant or nursing or for an extended period of time. Use caution if you have high blood pressure or rheumatic heart disease

Reishi Mushroom Fruiting Bodies (Ganoderma lucidum)- offers protection against ionizing radiation. Preventive Dose – 400 mg. take 2 caps or 1 dropperful of tincture up to 3 times per-day. Dose Upon Radiation Exposure – take the same dose up to 6 times per day
Contraindications – None

Other Supplements

Rutin-a bioflavonoid that can also be found in lower doses in vitamin C supplements containing bioflavonoids. Rutin is glucoside found in buckwheat that can help protect the body from the effects of radiation. Itstrengthens the capillary walls and reduces hemorrhaging caused by x-rays. In animal studies it was shown to reduce the death rate caused by excessive x-rays by 800 per cent.
Preventive Dose – 100 to 200 mg a day. Dose Upon Radiation Exposure – 800 mg. or more a day. Contraindications – none

Selenium – protects DNA from radiation damage and helps prevent damage to the skin surface, too. Get plenty of selenium by eating a daily dose of 2 cups/500 ml of nettle infusion, one-half ounce/15 g kelp, 2 ounces/60 g cooked burdock root, or 1 cup/250 ml organic yogurt daily. Shellfish, green and black teas, and garlic contain significant amounts of selenium, as do many mushrooms. The best sources however are nettles (2200 mcg per 100 grams), kelp (1700 mcg/100 g), Burdock (1400 mcg/100 g), Catnip (Nepeta cataria), American Ginseng, and Eleuthero which is also known as Siberian Ginseng and Astragalus.

Vitamin A- In 1974, researchers from India found that vitamin A, when taken internally by humans, hastened recovery from radiation. In 1984, Dr. Eli Seifter and a team of researchers for the Albert Einstein College of Medicine reported that vitamin A and beta-carotene counteracted both partial and total body gamma radiation. It also improved the healing of wounds; reduced weight loss, thymic and splenic atrophy, and adrenal enlargement; and prevented gastro-ulceration and an abnormal decrease in red and white blood cell formation. For therapeutic purposes, 25,000 to 35,000 IU is the recommended dose for adults. During emergencies or crisis situations, intensive exposure may warrant higher amounts.

Contraindications – can be toxic if taken too much over a long period of time. Vitamin A can also be toxic to pregnant woman and their babies.
Vitamin B-Complex- many B vitamins, especially pantothenic acid, help to decrease the effects of radiation. One of its many functions is that they normalize the red and white blood cell count because the destruction of white blood cells by radiation can last for extended periods of time. The various B vitamins have different effects and should be taken together.Take the dose recommended on the bottle.

Vitamin C with bioflavonoids- this is a VERY IMPORTANT supplement as it protects against intercellular damage from radiation. Preventive Dose: 2-5 grams per day. Dose Upon Radiation Exposure – 2-5 gram per day. Contraindications – when you start having diarrhea back off 500 mg until you reach bowel tolerance.

Vitamin E- can provide internal and external protection against Cesium-137 which is a common component of fallout and a reported component in the fallout from Japan. Vitamin E also helps prevent the destruction of vitamin A and fatty acids by massive doses of x-rays. If large doses of C, B and E are taken before exposure, the terrible symptoms of radiation sickness can be reduced or eliminated to a large degree. Preventive Dose – an adult weighting 155lbs should take 900 IU per day of Vitamin E as d-alpha-tocopherol.
Dose Upon Radiation Exposure – up to 1600 IU per day.

Additional Recommended Supplements That Are More Expensive and/or Difficult To Find

Laminaria Japonica- probably the most important seaweed in helping decrease radiation in our body. This seaweed was the secret weapon of Russian doctors that saved thousands of innocent people from disease after nuclear fallout from Chernobyl. It can be quite hard to find.
Recommended Dose – 1500 mg/day

Seaweeds are not only a great natural source of nutrients, they are very effective at removing radiation from the body as they contain sodium alginate. There are literally thousands of different types of seaweeds but some of the most popular seaweeds are arame, wakame, kombu, hijiki, bladderwrack, rockweed, sea lettuce, and dulse. You can find them in your local health food store and various oriental grocery stores in your neighborhood in their natural form, or in flakes, flat sheets, and powders. They can be mixed in soups and salads, or eaten by themselves. If you don’t like the taste of seaweeds, or you want something more convenient you can find various seaweed supplements in capsules or tablets. One high quality seaweed supplement made with four organic seaweeds in a capsule is 
Sea Treasure™by RegalLife™. It also contains organic alfalfa which is also found to be beneficial at removing radiation becomes of its rich chlorophyll content.

The Atomic Energy Commission recommends for maximum protection against radioactive poisoning for humans, taking a minimum of 2 to 3 ounces of sea vegetables a week or 10 grams (two tablespoons) a day of sodium alginate supplements. During or after exposure to radiation, the dose should be increased to two full tablespoons of alginate four times daily to insure that there is a continual supply in the GI or gastrointestinal tract. There may be a rare problem of constipation but this can be avoided if the sodium alginate is made into a fruit gelatin. Agar, derived from sodium alginate in kelp, is a safe, nontoxic substance that can be used as a thickening agent or gelatin. Sea vegetables are also high in natural iodine. However, I recommend sticking to potassium iodide as discussed below.

Beta-1,3 glucan- In a controlled study done at the US Armed Forces Radiobiology Institute, 70% of rats given a lethal dose of radiation were completely protected from radiation effects when given a dose of yeast beta glucan by mouth after the radiation exposure. Beta glucan is a free radical scavenger. It is able to protect blood macrophages from free radical attack during and after the radiation allowing these cells to continue to function in the irradiated body and release factors important to the restoration of normal bone marrow production. This supplement is very expensive, but worth it. Reishi mushroom is high in beta 1,3 glucan if you just want to take that.
Recommended Dose – 500 mg cap/1 time a day

Additional Recommendations Upon Exposure
Here are some additional recommendations if you think you have been exposed to radiation. First and foremost, don’t panic.

Potassium Iodide- take this as soon as you can once you know you have been exposed. This is a VERY IMPORTANT supplement that helps decrease the chance of plutonium or cesium being metabolized in your body as potassium and severely effecting the health of your thyroid. Because it is such an important supplement I recommend IOSAT only FDA approved potassium iodide that is in sealed containers. IOSAT is available online.

Potassium Iodide Recommended Dose from the FDA and the CDC:
According to the FDA, the following doses are appropriate to take after internal contamination with (or likely internal contamination with) radioactive iodine:
• Adults should take 130 mg (one 130 mg tablet OR two 65 mg tablets OR two ml of solution).
• Women who are breastfeeding should take the adult dose of 130 mg.
• Children between 3 and 18 years of age should take 65 mg (one 65 mg tablet OR 1 ml of solution).
Children who are adult size (greater than or equal to 150 pounds) should take the full adult dose regardless of their age.
• Infants and children between 1 month and 3 years of age should take 32 mg (½ of a 65 mg tablet or ½ ml of solution). This dose is for both nursing and non-nursing infants and children.
• Newborns from birth to 1 month of age should be given 16 mg (¼ of a 65 mg tablet or ¼ ml ofsolution). This dose is for both nursing and non-nursing
newborn infants.

Contraindications – do not take if you are not exposed and take as little as possible, i.e. only when you know that you have been exposed.
Oil- ½ cup of any cold pressed oil if you are exposed will help protect the cell membranes. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred.

Bentonite Clay- helps to eradicate toxins radiation/toxins. It is generally advisable to start with 1 tablespoon of bentonite clay daily, mixed with a small amount of juice. Pay attention to the results for a week and then gradually increase the dose to no more than 4 tablespoons daily in divided doses.Make sure you drink plenty of chlorine-free water throughout the day. You can also use other forms of edible clay such as French green clay.

Sea Salt and Baking SodaBaths- add 1 pound of sea salt and 1 pound of baking soda and soak in chlorine-free water for 20 minutes. Then rinse with cool water. You can also 1 pound of betonite, or other clay, to the sea salt and baking soda when soaking which increases the removal of radiation. Some specialists who work with radioactive isotopes use this method to remove radiation from their body. If you have been exposed to an abnormally high level of radiation you can use this method three times a week for one month.

Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO)- good for preventing cell nicking from ionizing radiation.
Recommended dose – 5-10 ml per day

Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)- helps the liver deal with the effects of toxicity of radiation poisoning.Recommended dose -1-3 dropperfuls of tincture per day
Melatonin- helps protect the brain against radiation
Recommended dose – 1-2 mg
Caution – only take Melatonin at night!

Lecithin- helps protect the cell membranes
Recommended dose – 2-3 tbsp. a day
Chlorophyll – a number of studies found that chlorophyll-rich foods can decrease radiation toxicity. Spirulina and chlorella are two micro-algae that are rich in this substance, as are leafy greens, celery, parsley, the sprouts of any grain or bean, the young shoots of any edible grass, such as wheat and barley, and sunflower greens. Chlorophyll is similar in structure to hemoglobin. Guinea pigs on a diet rich in chlorophyll showed increased resistance to lethal X-rays. Organic alfalfa is a good source of natural chlorophyll.

Miso- has been used to treat radiation sickness. It is a traditional Japanese seasoning produced by fermenting rice, barley and/or soybeans, with salt and the fungus kojikin, the most typical miso being made with soy. Miso is widely available in most natural food stores and many grocery stores.

Other Foods that help the body decrease the effects of radiation- garlic, onions, beets, kale, brewer’s yeast/nutritional yeast, green tea/black tea, brussel sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, watercress, apples, guavas, quince, plums, gooseberries, oranges and other citrus fruitspineapple, seaweed (see above).

In the light of the catastrophe at hand I invite us all to stay calm and focused, knowing that this too shall pass one way or another. May we use this opportunity to realize the beauty and fragility of life, as well as, to give thanks for what we have. And, may people finally awaken to the fact that nuclear power does NOT work in any form no matter what the benefits.

Important Disclaimer: The above supplements have been shown through research to be effective in decreasing the detrimental effects of radiation on the body. There is a lot of information here. If you only want to do a few supplements, I recommend sticking with the supplements in the first half of the document, since they have the most scientific evidence supporting their use. The doses given are what is determined as safe for an average adult. If you are breastfeeding, pregnant or want to give the supplements to a child, please do further research to see if they are safe for you or your child and what the specific dose would be. Also, if you are sensitive to medications or supplements, please stick to the lower dose. Lastly, some supplements are recommended in higher doses after exposure. If you choose to do this, please note that some side effects might occur with some of these supplements. Please do further research on what you are taking before you take the maximum dose. If you have any serious illnesses or are on medications please talk to your healthcare provider to get more detailed information to ensure these supplements are safe for you prior to taking them.”

References
www.livewellnaturally.com

www.rifeenergymedicine.com

Foods and Nutritional Supplements Capable of Neutralizing Effects of Radiation

Fortunately, the battle against radiation begins on the cell level. The electromagnetic field generated by modern living can be reduced but never eliminated. The universe is teeming with radiation. We cannot build barriers against outer space. The integrity of the immune system, however, must be our first and last line of defense. When the cells and tissues are saturated with nutrients, there is less opportunity for radioactive elements to dominate. Many foods and nutritional supplements can bolster the immune system and nourish the cell structure so effectively that radiation can be diminished in effect. Kelp and other sea-vegetables can strengthen the immune system and draw out radioactive elements from the body. Garlic and garlic extract tablets are reputed to have a detoxifying effect. Garlic and onions are also known to combat many strains of viruses. Beta-carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin C are proven antioxidants. When electrons are displaced from their orbit, dramatic changes occur in their biochemical properties. Free radicals are formed. The body normally keeps them under control, but exposure to radiation greatly accelerates their formation. The body produces free radical scavengers to counteract free radicals. The work of these free radical scavengers can be facilitated by the use of antioxidants. Selenium, a mineral that should be taken only in small quantities, is also an antioxidant. Zinc has been scientifically proven to enhance the immune system because of its effect on the thymus gland. Vitamin B6 is another nutrient known to fortify glandular functioning. The virtues of whole grain foods, fresh vegetables, a very low intake of sugar, the frequent use of unrefined carbohydrates and a moderate intake of protein foods (restricted to vegetable and grain proteins) believed to have protective value in pitting the immune system against the proliferation of the electromagnetic field

Bursitis

Bursitis is an inflammation of a bursa. Bursa is a saclike structure that cushion between the bones and skin or between muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments. These sacs normally contain adequate amount of fluid to facilitate movement during muscle contraction, reducing friction. Bursitis takes place when the synovial lining becomes thickened and produces excessive fluid. Known causes are as a result of repetitive use, trauma, arthritis, infection or systemic inflammatory disease.

There are 2 types of bursitis. It can be either acute that tends to develop of a sudden, or chronic that lasts for more than 3 months.

Humans have around 160 bursae in the body. Common sites affected are the shoulder, elbows, knees, hips and heels. A person with bursitis may manifest swelling, edema, erythema, localized tenderness and/or reduced movement.

Pain becomes worse during movement of the joint, tendon or both. However, it can be relieved with cold application alternate with hot compress, immobilizing the affected area, intrabursal medication and aspiration of the contents. Regular exercise is also advised to prevent further complication.

Nutritional Supplements:

• Vitamin B12—by intramuscular injection, relieves symptoms, prevents calcification in chronic bursitis.
• Niacin—by intramuscular injection, with vitamin B12, nicotinic acid form.
• Bromelain—250 mg three times a day between meals, from pineapple, has anti-inflammatory properties, reduces bruising, pain, and swelling, and promotes healing.
• Curcumin—250 to 500 mg, from turmeric, an anti-inflammatory, as effective as cortisone treatments.
• DMSO—apply on skin, 70% solution two or three times a day for 10 days, promotes healing of affected tissues.
• Bioflavonoids—500 to 100 mg two or three times daily, stabilizes collagen structures, have anti-inflammatory properties, an antioxidant preventing free radical damage.

Herbal Supplements:

• Ginger—tea or tincture, has anti-inflammatory properties, grate 1⁄2 tsp fresh, steep in one cup boiling water 15 minutes.
• Willow bark, Meadow sweet, Wintergreen—tea or tincture, have anti-inflammatory properties, contain salicylate, the precursor of aspirin.
• Turmeric—tea or tincture, has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Capsaicin—ointment, apply topically, compound from hot pepper, soothes and reduces pain.

Aromatherapy:

• Lavender—dilute with carrier oil, massage every day, soothes inflamed tissue and relieves pain.
  • German chamomile—has anti-inflammatory properties.

Ayurvedic Medicine:

• Boswellia—has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Barberry—as tea or compress, alleviates pain and inflammation.
• Calamus oil—improves circulation and facilitates drainage.
• Ginger
• Coriander
  • Aloe vera

Chinese Medicine:

• Pupleuri root, Licorice, Chinese skullcap—have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Acupuncture—relieves pain, increases mobility, promotes healing.

Homeopathy:

Take remedy according to symptoms:

• Apis
• Arnica montana
• Belladonna
• Bryonia
• Ferrum phosphoricum
• Kalmia latifolia
• Pulsatilla
• Rhus toxicodendron
• Ruta graveolens
• Sanguinaria canadensis
• Silicea
• Sticta
  • Sulfur

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the air passages to the lungs. Millions of cases usually occur each year. It can be either in acute or chronic form which means it may last extensively with recurrent episodes.

Acute bronchitis is usually followed by a viral respiratory infection. Initially, it affects your throat, sinuses and nose and then spreads throughout the lungs. Bronchitis commonly occurs among smoker, persons with lung and heart diseases, and in infant, young children and elderly.

On the other hand, chronic bronchitis is one type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD. It is an ongoing, serious health condition which can be triggered by infection, allergies and air pollution. People usually cough to get rid of excessive mucus, which aids ease of breathing. You must have a cough with mucus for at least 3 months to be diagnosed with chronic bronchitis.

Main signs and symptoms of bronchitis are coughing accompanied by mucus, low fever, chest pain, and wheezing. Diagnosis is mostly based on signs and symptoms. However, definitive test is done to accurately diagnose chronic bronchitis.

Treatments include rest, aspirin that is used for adults only, increase fluid intake, and avoiding triggering substances. Bronchodilator, mucolytic and cough suppressant may be prescribed to help open airways, expel mucus and keep you as healthy as possible.

Smoking is the primary cause of chronic bronchitis. Other known triggering factors are exposure to allergens and polluted air. The most important step to take in order to prevent its occurrence is to quit smoking or not to start smoking at all. Handwashing is the best means of protecting oneself against diseases particularly bacteria and viruses. You may also ask your doctor about getting flu shot every year and a pneumonia vaccine.

Eating foods that are spicy can liquefy the mucus and help keep air passages patent. Avoid dairy product if possible as they contain components that suppress fluid secretions resulting to thinner mucus in the respiratory tract. On the other hand, nothing beats an active and healthy lifestyle. If you observe preventive measures, then surely you can avoid getting bronchitis or any other diseases.

Nutritional Supplements:

• N-acetyl-cysteine—200 mg twice daily, liquefies mucus and protects lung tissue, an antioxidant.
• Vitamin A—25,000 IU, protects lung tissue.
• Beta carotene—an antioxidant.
• Vitamin C—300 to 500 mg, has mucus liquefying properties, neutralizes free radicals.
• Bioflavonoids—work synergistically with vitamin C.
• Vitamin E—with mixed tocopherols, protects lung tissue and increases oxygen supply.
• Carnitine—2 g twice daily, eases breathing during exercise.
• Magnesium—if deficient, deficiency may not be reflected in blood tests; needed for normal lung function.
• Bromelain—decreases bronchial secretions.

Herbal Supplements:

• Eucalyptus—steam inhalation or tea, an expectorant (loosens phlegm).
• Garlic—has antiviral and antibacterial properties.
• Mullein—tincture in steam or tea, an expectorant; soothes throat, helps inhibit coughing and has antibacterial activity; also for bacteria infected bronchitis.
• Stinging nettle—infusion with raw honey, relieves symptoms.
• Couchgrass—relieves symptoms of respiratory inflammation.
• Ginger—use as tea.
• Elecampane—an expectorant and antiseptic.
• Horehound, Wild cherry, yerba santa, lobelia— expectorants.
• Marshmallow—a demulcent and anti-inflammatory, soothes respiratory tract.

Aromatherapy:

• Cypress—an antibiotic, use at first sign of sore throat; can prevent progression of bronchitis; take one drop on tongue, repeat when soreness returns.
• Eucalyptus dives—liquefies mucus; mix with eucalyptus radiata to enhance affects.
• Thyme—contains antiviral properties.
• Marjoram—for acute bronchitis with accompanying cough.
• Oregano—1 to 2 drops, has high concentrations of carvacol, an antibacterial; for acute bacterial infection of the bronchi.
• Pine—use in diffusor, has strong antibacterial effect.
• Rosemary (verbenone type)—has mucolytic effect.
• Marjoram—has spasmolytic esters and the antiseptic terpinen-4-ol.

Ayurvedic Medicine:

Kapha type most susceptible to bronchitis.

Herbal mixture of the following, take one quarter tsp with raw honey twice a day after meals:

• Sitopaladi—500 mg
• Punarnava—300 mg
• Trikatu—100 mg
• Mahasudarshan—300 mg
• Ginger—grate root and add honey and lemon or lime juice.

Chinese Medicine:

Effective treatments prescribed.

• Honeysuckle, Forsythia, and Scullcap—lessens symptoms of cough, fever, and wheezing.
• Ephedra
• Fritillary bulb, Plantain seed, Balloon flower root—for acute conditions.
• Gardenia fruit, Honeysuckle flowers, Mulberry leaves—for chronic conditions.
• Acupuncture—dilates throat muscle walls.

Homeopathy:

Take remedy according to symptoms:

• Aconitum napellus
• Antimonium tartaricum
• Arsenicum album
• Bryonia
• Calcarea carbonica
• Calcarea phosphorica
• Causticum
• Ferrum phosphoricum
• Hepar sulphuris calcareum
• Kali bichromicum
• Phosphorus
• Pulsatilla
• Silicea
• Sulfur

Back Pain

Did you know that back pain is the 3^rd most expensive disorder after cancer and heart disease? Definitely it is!

Back Pain or otherwise called backache is one of the most common health problems, affecting around 8 out of 10 people in their entire life. At average, Americans spend around $15 billion yearly for health care and disability expenses. Back pain can be experienced as dull, continuous pain or even sudden, sharp pain. Back pain is classified into two types: acute back pain which occurs suddenly but only last for a few days or usually around 6 weeks while chronic pain last for more than three months. Acute pain can result from lifting heavy objects, from a misstep, sudden motion and falling while chronic back pain can develop from stress, viral infection, emotional problems, muscle tension, poor movement and posture, congenital defect and weak muscle due to certain health condition, or as a result of pregnancy.

Most back pain lasts for only a few days and usually goes away on its own. Taking over-the-counter analgesics and rest can help relieve the pain. But, be very careful not to bed rest for 1 to 2 days as it can worsen the condition. If you’ve done everything but nothing happens or no improvement was observed, then it is necessary to consult with your health care doctor for further lab test and proper medical treatment.

It has been associated that majority of cases that causes back pain are due to the muscles, bones and ligaments breakdown. Smokers often experience back pain as a result of Vitamin C deficiency which is destroyed by nicotine. Back pain sometimes indicates other diseases such as cancer. However, the brain can sometimes mistake signals from other parts of the body such as the uterus, prostate gland, kidney as originating from the back.

If you experienced numbness, tingling of the legs, pain shooting down a leg to the foot or knee, urinary incontinence, stomach cramps, chest pain, fever and inability to move legs and feet, you must right away call for help or consult with your doctor, as it signals more complications.

Prevention is the best means to protect against back pain by lifting correctly—always bend knees, develop good posture, lose extra weight, and strengthen the abdominal muscles and the extensor muscles of the back. Stretching promotes elasticity & flexibility along with back exercises is mostly beneficial.

Nutritional Supplements:

• Vitamin C—1 to 3 g, strengthens connective tissues.
• Bioflavonoids—function synergistically with vitamin C.
• Calcium, Magnesium—500 mg, relaxes body muscles.

Herbal Supplements:

• Willow bark—contains salicylate, the pain relieving substance from which aspirin is derived.
• German chamomile—has anti-inflammatory effect.
• Wintergreen oil—apply on skin, contains salicylate, and relieves pain.
• Capsaicin—cream or balm apply on skin, compound from hot peppers that relieves pain; crush hot pepper and apply directly to affected area or can be mixed in cream.
• Peppermint—contains menthol, eases muscle tightness.

Aromatherapy:

• Sage, Rosemary—add several drops to carrier oil and massage, contain compounds that relax muscles.
• Birch, Lavender, Clary sage—massage, help relieve pain; add lavender to warm bath.

Ayurvedic Medicine:

• Kaishore guggula—200 mg twice daily after meals.
• Dashamoola basti
• Mahanarayan oil—use as massage on affected area.
• Mustard oil—use as massage, reduces pain and aching.

Chinese Medicine:

• Teasel root, Ginseng, Acanthopanax—can relieve pain.
• Jing Jie, Pseudoginseng Root—helps relieve swelling and pain.
• Acupuncture—stimulates certain acupoints to relieve pain.

Homeopathy:

• Arnica montana—for acute muscle spasm; 30×potency—take four tablets every hour on the first day while awake, four tablets every two hours the second day, and four tablets four times a day for four to five days.

According to symptoms:

• Aconite napellus
• Aesculus hippocastanum
• Arsenicum album
• Bryonia
• Calcarea carbonica
• Calcarea phosphorica
• Cimicifuga
• Dulcamara
• Ignatia amara
• Kali carbonicum
• Natrum muriaticum
• Nux vomica
• Rhus toxicodendron
• Ruta graveolens
• Sulfur

Canker Sores

Canker sores or otherwise known as aphthous stomatitis are the most common causes of painful, open sore in the inner surface of the base of the gums, cheeks, lips, tongue, soft palate of the mouth. About 20-40% of the population has canker sores, at some point of their lives.

Canker sores appear like a white or yellow crate, surrounded by a bright red area. Take note that they are not contagious and tends to occur in women more often than men. This condition commonly occurs among people in adolescence and young adulthood. However, they became less frequent as we age.

Initial symptoms include tingling or burning sensation followed by painful, red spot that develops into an open ulcer accompanied by fever, swollen lymph nodes and general discomfort or uneasiness. Pain lessens in 7 to 10 days, and complete healing occurs in 1 to 3 weeks. Diagnosis can be made by your doctor by just looking at the sore. If canker sores recur more often, additional tests should be done to rule out other causes, such as erythema multiforme, herpes infection, drug allergies, bullous lichen planus, and other related disorders.

Canker sores may occur at any age groups, but may first appear at age 10-40. There has been no known cause of canker sores. However several factors have been associated with its occurrences. For instance, bacterial infection, hormonal disorders, trauma, heredity, stress, food allergies and sensitivities, drugs such as analgesic and beta blocker, and deficiency of folic acid, Vitamin B12 and iron. It tends to run in families as well. In several cases, the cause cannot be identified.

Acidophilus incorporated into the diet has been beneficial for some people who experience repeated episodes. Mouth rinsing with salt water is helpful and placing cold application on sore alleviates pain. In addition, Bee propolis has therapeutic and antiseptic properties.

Nutritional Supplements:

• Vitamin B complex—50 to 100 mg, if deficient.
• Iron—if deficient.

Herbal Supplements:

• Myrrh—tincture, extract, or powder as mouthwash; tannin component is an antiseptic with antibacterial and antiviral properties; place powder directly on sore.
• Goldenseal—as mouthwash, an antiseptic, heals wounds and infections; steep 2 tsp in one cup boiling water, cool and rinse mouth several times a day; 2 tsp powdered with 1⁄4 tsp salt in one cup warm water as mouthwash.
• Licorice—200 mg powdered DGL (glycyrrhizic acid) as mouthwash; contains the wound healing component, glycyrrhizic acid.
• Aloe vera—1 to 3 T as mouthwash.
• Echinacea—4 ml, swish in mouth 2 to 3 minutes then swallow three times daily, has antiviral and wound healing properties, supports immune system.
• Chamomile—tincture, swish in mouth, soothes mucous membranes.

Chinese Medicine:

• Watermelon Frost Powder

Homeopathy:

According to symptoms:

• Arsenicum album
• Borax
• Calcarea carbonica
• Hepar sulphuris calcareum
• Mercurius solubilis
• Natrum muriaticum
• Nux vomica
• Sulfur

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Did you know that carpal tunnel syndrome was the second longest average time an employee was away from work (28 days) among the major disabling diseases and illnesses in all private industries? But what exactly is a carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common peripheral disorder caused by pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, which can occur at any age. Common symptoms include numbness, pain, coldness, weakness in parts of the hand and tingling sensation. There have been no known causes how this condition evolves.

Carpal tunnel syndrome develops when the tissue around the median nerve engorge and press on the nerve. Often it is genetically acquired; also women have significantly higher risk than men do. Common health conditions that can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome include diabetes, hypothyroidism, obesity, pregnancy, arthritis, and trauma. Tendon inflammation resulting from repetitive work, such as incessant typing, can also cause carpal tunnel symptoms.

Treatment includes neutral angle splinting during night time, and local steroid injection. However, it is readily treatable if detected early. But eventually, the insulation on the nerves may wear away, and permanent nerve injury may develop. Osteopathic therapy may be beneficial. Carpal tunnel syndrome can be helped by reducing stress and massaging the affected areas.

Nutritional Supplements:

• Vitamin B6—80 to 100 mg two or three times daily, relieves symptoms,31 and may eliminate the need for surgery; in some individuals 300 mg taken for long periods of time may cause numbness and difficulty walking; discontinue use.
• Vitamin B complex—enhances effectiveness of B6.
• Bromelain—250 to 1500 mg between meals, an anti-inflammatory, from pineapple.

Herbal Supplements:

• Willow bark— relieves pain and inflammation, contains salicylate, precursor of aspirin.
• Meadowsweet, Wintergreen— pain relievers, contain salicylate.
• Chamomile—an anti-inflammatory.
• Capsaicin—ointment, relieves pain and inflammation, from red pepper.
• Comfrey—add 2 tsp powder to hand cream, relieves pain, inflammation, and swelling.
• Turmeric— an anti-inflammatory from the component, curcumin.
• Ginger, Cumin, Sage— have anti-inflammatory properties.

Aromatherapy:

Use as massage oil, mix several drops with carrier oil:

• Lavender— relieves pain, a relaxant.
• Chamomile, Yarrow, Lemon verbena—has anti-inflammatory properties.

Ayurvedic Medicine:

Chinese Medicine:

• Acupuncture—relieves pain and discomfort.

Homeopathy:

According to symptoms:

• Aconitum napellus
• Arnica montana
• Calcarea phosphorica
• Causticum
• Guaiacum
• Hypericum perforatum
• Rhus toxicodendron
• Ruta graveolens
• Viola odorata

Anemia

Anemia is an abnormally low red blood cells or hematocrit in the blood. Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to the tissues in the body. Before any treatment, the physician should make accurate diagnosis with the patient.

Anemia is most commonly a symptom of a disease rather than a disease itself. Anemia develops according to the following categories:

• Hemorrhaging or excessive blood loss (GI bleeding, ulcer, colon cancer)
• Deficiency of red blood cells (iron deficiency anemia, pregnancy, breastfeeding, frequent blood donation, lack of iron in the diet)
• Excessive red blood cell destruction (autoimmune)
• Both decrease production and excessive destruction of the red blood cells

However, anemia can also occur due to Vitamin B6, B12, copper, and folic acid deficiency. On the other hand, long term use of antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs and excessive alcohol intake has been associated with anemia.

Most common symptoms of anemia that each individual may experience as a result of decrease oxygen level in the blood or “hypoxia” are as follows:

• Dizziness, Lethargy or lack of energy, Fatigue, Pale skin, Weakness, Faintness, Poor concentration, Breathlessness or difficulty of breathing, Irritability, Headache, Recurrent infection, Loss of appetite, Severe: increase heart rate

There are several types of anemia, each diseases has a specific cause and treatment, including the following:

• iron-deficiency anemia
• megaloblastic (pernicious) anemia
• anemia of folate deficiency
• hemolytic anemia
• pernicious anemia- deficiency of Vitamin B12
• sickle cell anemia
• Cooley’s anemia (beta thalassemia)
• aplastic anemia

Anemia is frequently revealed during a medical examination through a routine blood test. In addition to a comprehensive medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for anemia may consist of additional blood tests and other evaluation procedures. Treatment for anemia depends on the cause of the disease. Black tea contains tannins that can interfere with the absorption of iron as can excessive amounts of dietary fiber.

Nutritional Supplements:

• Copper—2 mg, if deficient.
• Folic acid—0.5 to 1.5 mg, if deficient.
• Iron—follow physician advice.
• Vitamin A—10,000 IU, helps effectiveness of iron.
• Vitamin B12—20 to 100 mcg, injections or sublingual
• Vitamin B6—50 to 100 mg, if deficient.
• Vitamin C—100 to 500 mg, aids absorption of iron.

Herbal Supplements:

• Alfalfa, dandelion, nettle—contain iron.

Aromatherapy:

• Roman chamomile—as massage oil.

Chinese Medicine:

• Acupuncture—acupoints on back, arm, lower trunk, and legs are stimulated.
• Chinese Angelica
• Gui Pi Wan

Homeopathy:

Take remedy according to symptoms:

• Calcarea phosphorica
• Ferrum phosphoricum—helps assimilation ofiron in food.
• Natrum muriaticum
• Picric acid

Ayurvedic Medicine:

Anemia is due to an imbalance of pitta.

• Avipathi choorna
• Kalyaraka ghritha
• Kishor
• Pancha karma

Arthritis is otherwise known as joint inflammation. It is an inflammation of one or more joints that results in pain, swelling, limited movement and stiffness. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis. However, the two most common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Arthritis entails the breakdown of bone cartilage. Cartilage in general protects the joint, permitting for smooth movement. It also works as a shock absorber particularly when pressure is placed on the joint, like when you walk and run. Inadequate amount of cartilage makes the bones rub together, causing pain, swelling (inflammation), and stiffness.

There are several factors leading to arthritis. Arthritis can be a result of an autoimmune disease meaning the body itself attack its immune system as it mistakenly identify as a foreign matter. Another cause would be broken bone, wear and tear on joints and bacterial or viral infection.

Frequently, the inflammation goes away once the injury has healed, the infection is treated, or the illness has been cured. With some diseases and injuries, the inflammation doesn’t diminished or long term destruction result in pain and deformity. This is known as chronic arthritis. However, osteoarthritis mostly occurs in old age and common areas being affected are the hips, knees or fingers. Risk factors for osteoarthritis could be due to severe overweight, previous injury and even repetitive use of affected joint. The occupation that has a higher risk of developing arthritis is those construction worker, ballet dancer and baseball players.

Early diagnosis is necessary in the prevention of the long-term effects of the disease. The type of fat in the diet influences the symptoms. Omega-3- fatty acids help control hormone-like substances called eicosanoids that control swelling and tenderness. The fats in meat have the contrary effect by stimulating the production of inflammatory agents. Food allergies may play an important role in precipitating arthritis. Common allergens are refined sugar, milk products, citrus fruits, and nightshade vegetables such as potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and chili. It is suggested that these foods or any food alleged of causing an allergic reaction be eliminated from the diet for a period of 2 months and then be reintroduced to monitor the reaction. Moderate exercise is very helpful for arthritic individuals in improving circulation, relieving stress, and increasing mobility. An electrical nerve stimulating unit (TENS) can in fact reduce chronic pain. Always take note that arthritis chooses no one. It can occur of all ages both men and women.

Nutritional Supplements:

• Boron—3 to 6 mg, helps relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis, aids the retention of calcium in the bones.
• Bromelain—250 to 750 mg three times daily between meals, helps reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Chondroitin sulfate—400 mg two or three times a day, reduces pain, increases mobility and healing of joints, a major component of the lining of the joints.
• Copper—1 mg, has anti-inflammatory activity.
• DMSO—apply topically, alleviates pain.
• Evening primrose or black currant oil—for rheumatoid arthritis, if taking anti-inflammatory drugs, contains gamma linolenic acid which is a precursor to anti-inflammatory prostaglandins.
• Flaxseed oil—1 T, for rheumatoid arthritis.
• Glucosamine sulfate—500 mg three times a day, repairs joint cartilage, reduces symptoms of osteoarthritis.
• Niacinamide—250 mg four times a day, improves joint mobility, muscle strength and reduces fatigue.
• Pantothenic acid—1 mg, relieves symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
• SAMe—400 mg three times a day, reduces pain, stiffness, and swelling.
• Selenium—if deficient, take with vitamin E, for rheumatoid arthritis.
• Vitamin B6—100 mg twice a day, for osteoarthritis.
• Vitamin E—400 to 600 IU with mixed tocopherols, reduces symptoms.

Herbal Supplements:

• Burdock root—relieves pain in the joints.
• Cayenne—cream, capsaicin compound relieves pain.
• Devil’s claw—1 to 2 g root powder or 4 to 5 ml tincture three times daily, an anti-inflammatory and analgesic.
• Feverfew—1 to 2 capsules twice a day, prohibits the synthesis of inflammatory agents.
• Garlic—has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Ginger—1⁄6 oz fresh or 1⁄3 tsp powdered three times a day, an anti-inflammatory agent, relieves pain and increases mobility, superior to the NSAIDs with no side effects.
• Horsetail—silicon content strengthens connective tissue.
• Turmeric—400 mg curcumin three times daily for rheumatoid arthritis; has an anti-inflammatory effect due to the compound curcumin.
• White willow—containing 100 mg salicin daily, has anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties; slower acting but lasts longer than aspirin.
• Yucca—2 to 4 g three times daily, saponin content reduces symptoms.

Aromatherapy:

• Everlasting—high content of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons which are effective anti-inflammatory compounds relieves joint pain.
• Juniper berry, black pepper, Roman chamomile, lavender—mix together as massage oil with carrier oil, omit juniper berry if pregnant.
• Lavender, rose, eucalyptus, juniper berry—mix together as warm compress.
• Moroccan thyme—borneal content beneficial for autoimmune disease.
• Rosemary, chamomile—place 10 drops in bath water.
• Rosemary, lavender, marigold—mix together as massage oil.

Chinese Medicine: Herbal formulations prescribed for arthritis.

• Acupuncture—relieves pain; improves immune system functioning.
• Chinese throroughwax—2 to 4 g dried root or 5 to 10 ml tincture or 2 to 4 ml extract three times daily, contains the anti-inflammatory compounds saikosaponins, increases release of cortisone and other adrenal hormones, prevents adrenal gland atrophy caused by corticosteroids.
• Licorice and ginseng—2 to 4 g dried root or 10 to 20 ml tincture or 4 to 6 ml extract three times daily and 4 to 6 g or 500 mg extract, respectively, enhances effectiveness of thorough wax, have anti-inflammatory properties.

Homeopathy:

• Aconitum napellus
• Apis mellifica
• Arnica montana
• Aurum metallicum
• Belladonna
• Benzoicum acidum
• Bryonia
• Calcarea carbonica
• Calcarea fluorica
• Calcarea phosphorica
• Causticum
• Cimicifuga
• Colchicum
• Dulcamara
• Kali bichromicum
• Kali carbonicum
• Kalmia latifolia
• Ledum palustre
• Medorrhinum
• Pulsatilla
• Rhododendron
• Rhus toxicodendrum
• Ruta graveolens

Ayurvedic Medicine: Vata types are prone to arthritis.

• Boswellia—400 mg boswellic acids three times daily, prevents further damage of joints and increases mobility.
• Calmus oil—massage, improves circulation and drainage.
• Guggul—reduces swelling and pain.
• Sesame or mustard oil—whole body massage as well as specific joint areas; relieves pain.