Vitamins

Retinol

Walk into any pharmacy or beauty department and you will find products with retinol. It is praised for its anti-aging abilities, and the positive benefits it has to offer your skin. Here is everything you need to know to understand retinol, its benefits and its uses.

What is Retinol?

Retinol is the animal form of vitamin A. It is fat-soluble and helps keep vision sharp and bones strong. Other forms of vitamin A include retinal, retinoic acid and retinyl esters, but retinol is the most usable. All version of vitamin A together are known as retinoids.
Retinol represents the vitamin A molecule in its complete state.

More on Fat-Soluble

Fat-soluble vitamins will be absorbed into the body through the intestinal tract. They are absorbed in the same manner as fats, so any condition or medication that interferes with the absorption of fats will also interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. These vitamins are stored in the body, most often in the liver.

Where it’s Found

Retinol can be produced synthetically. It is typically ingested through natural sources including liver, eggs, kidney, and dairy produce. Vitamin A is also found in plants with high levels of beta-carotene like dark or yellow vegetables and in carrots.

Specifically; cod liver oil, butter, margarine, eggs, cheese and milk all contain retinoids. The level is typically 0.15 mg of retinoids for every 1.75 to 7 ounces.

How it’s Measured

Retinol is measured in International Units (IU). These refer to biological activity and so each compound will have a slightly different IU measurement. One IU of retinol will be equal to roughly 0.3 microgram, or 300 nanograms.

What it Does

Retinol helps epithelial cells function properly. Glycoprotein synthesis requires certain levels of vitamin A to take place. Vitamin A is also an important ingredient that is needed by our immune systems.

Most notably, the positive effects of vitamin A are seen in vision, night vision, tooth and bone development and strength, reproduction and healthy skin.

How it Affects Skin

Retinol is most commonly known for playing an important role in successful skin care. Retinol is used to help slow the effects of aging that are shown in the skin. Retinol helps to resurface and rejuvenate the skin, leaving users with skin that is more vibrant, clear and youthful.

Retinol has an extremely small molecular structure. This tiny structure is what enables retinol to penetrate deep into skin and go to work smoothing wrinkles and improving skin. Vitamin A in this form has the ability to improve the elasticity of the skin, smooth wrinkles and lines and increase moisture. The complexion is left, smooth, glowing and the damage that is done from age and the environment is greatly minimized and even reduced.

As the body ages, skin cells can gradually take on a misshapen and altered shape. However, these same cells have receptor sites that will quickly accept retinoic acid. As the retinoic acid is absorbed, the cell begins to function normally and will resume cell generation that is normal. Retinol contains this necessary and highly beneficial retinoic acid.

Controlling Acne

Retinol has also been used to help control acne and keratosis pilaris by adding it to topical creams. Not only does vitamin A help the skin regenerate and look more youthful, it also has an exfoliating feature that can help unclog pores and clear acne.

Research also shows that retinol can stimulate the production of new collagen, another critical ingredient in maintaining youthful, healthy skin.

People with very dry skin may find that they initially see some light flaking when they first begin using products with retinol. This stage, known as the retinoid effect, is nothing more than the skin acclimating to the vitamin. It will typically pass quickly and with no ill side effects.

The use of retinol products can make you more sensitive to the sun, so be sure to use a good sunscreen.

Vitamin A Deficiency

Night Blindness is a common symptom of a vitamin A deficiency. If the deficiency persists, other symptoms can include dry eye and Bitot’s spot, where keratin debris can build up in the conjunctiva.

Other symptoms of vitamin A deficiency include a poor ability to adapt to darkness (nyctalopia), dry hair and skin, fingernails that break easily, and corneal perforation. Pruritis, or itching, can occur. Keratomalacia is a condition where the cornea can become very dry. Xerophthalmia is another form of dry eye that can occur when the body is not receiving enough vitamin A.

The immune system can be compromised by a vitamin A deficiency. Vitamin A has been used to treat children with measles that have a vitamin A deficiency. Supplementing their diet with vitamin A has been found to shorten the duration and severity of the illness. Side effects to watch for include diarrhea and pneumonia.

When vitamin A levels are too low, the body can not perform glycoprotein synthesis. This inability can lead to corneal ulcers or even liquefaction.

Retinoid Overdose

When too much vitamin A is received in retinoid form, hypervitaminosis A can occur. When levels in excess of 25,000 IU/ day are taken, overdose can occur. Toxic overdose can occur at two different levels: acute and chronic. Acute toxicity can occur within a few hours or a few days of a large overdose. Chronic toxicity takes place when the increased levels are consumed over a longer period of time.

Symptoms to watch for include nausea, blurred vision, fatigue, weight-loss and menstrual abnormalities.

Pregnant women consuming an increased level of vitamin A early in the pregnancy are also at risk for birth defects. The FDA recommends that pregnant women should not consume more than 5,000 IU of preformed vitamin A in any given day. Because vitamin A is carried in fat cells, pregnant women should take care that they are not adding too much vitamin A to their diet.

Retin-A, Renova and Alpha Hydroxy’s

Retin-A and Renova are both derived from a synthetic derivative of vitamin A, are considered pharmaceuticals and are only available with a prescription.

Alpha Hydroxy’s are used to exfoliate the skin, revealing the fresh, clear skin just under the surface. Retinols are used to actually regenerate skin growth on a much deeper level.

Cosmetic Uses for Retinol

Retinol creams – these are used to help moisturize and condition the skin. They are known to improve blemishes, acne, wrinkles and abnormal pigmentations. They are thick without being oily. They are typically used at night as part of a daily skin care routine. Look for Retinol Cream 15 by BioMedic or Time Arrest Cream by Dr. Brandt. The BioMedic cream can be found on Amazon. The cost is roughly $45 for one fluid ounce. Dr. Brandt’s website offers the Time Arrest cream. This product runs about $100 for 1.7 fluid ounces.

Retinol Lotions – these are not as thick as creams, they are a more liquid product. These are used to keep the skin moisturized. They can be used at any time of the day but will prove most beneficial when used after showering or bathing. They can make skin appear more youthful and help to reverse the damages of the sun. It can be carried with you and applied anytime your skin feels dehydrated, itchy or irritated. Afirm 3x BY Afirm can be found at Afirmskincare.com and will cost about $48 for just over one fluid ounce. Retinol Cream 60 by BioMedicare is available at the Dermstore online and will cost about $58 for one fluid ounce.

Retinol Serums – Like creams, they should only be applied once a day, preferably before bedtime. They have a greater ability to penetrate the skin, providing greater benefits to the skin. Serums are recommended for combating deep wrinkles, photo damage and any other signs of premature aging. Retinol Smoothing Serum 2x by Replenix is also available at the Dermstore online. The package size is 1.0 fluid ounce and will cost roughly $50.

Retinol Oils can be used instead of lotions or creams. Oils are a good choice for fighting the damage caused by environmental factors. Timeless Caviar Repair Cream by Pevonia Botanica. This treatment will also help increase oxygenation to your skin. 1.7 fluid ounces of this oil will cost about $171 through shoppevonia.com.

Retinol Eye Treatments – these are designed specifically for use on the sensitive area around the eyes. These treatments will effectively smooth crowsfeet, wrinkles and other fine lines. Skin Rejuvenation Eye Cream by MD Forte will run $60 for ½ fluid ounce through the Dermstore online.

Retinol Hand Treatments – your hands receive rough treatment every single day. They are constantly being washed with soap and water, as well as being exposed to the elements, cleaning detergents and environmental pollutants. The skin can become dry, brittle and even cracked. Using retinol hand treatments will bring healthy, smooth skin back to your hands, as well as strengthening your nails. Multivitamin Hand & Nail Treatment by Dermalogica can be found for as little as $24 for 2.5 fluid ounces through Amazon.

Retinol Lip Treatments – The lips are exposed to extreme air temperatures, and food temperatures, as well as other environmental dangers. The lips can gradually thin out, become drier and crack. A moisturizer that contains retinol can help plump your lips back up, making them healthier and smoother. PlumpLips Lip Plumper and Gloss by Freeze 24/7 can also be found through Amazon for as little $16.00.

Retinol Acne Treatments – Acne occurs when skin’s pores are blocked. The bacteria in the skin release a chemical to unclog the pores, and pimples result. Retinol has been proven to not only heal existing outbreaks, but also to reduce scars from past outbreaks and prevent future outbreaks. Acne Complex Kit by Murad, Exfoliating Acne Treatment Gel and Moisturing Acne Treatment Gel are all products produced by Murad to fight acne. At the Murad website you can get the entire acne treatment system for only $30.

Vitamins

B3

B3 (Niacin, Nicotinamide)

B3 is a vitamin that is made up of nicotinic acid, or niacin, and niacinamide, its amide. Vitamin B3 is typically found in a number of different foods, including fish, meat, eggs, yeast, cereal grains or green vegetables. Niacin can also be converted within the body through dietary tryptophan. Typically, the vitamin B3 can be found in a B complex with other vitamins in its family, such as folic acid, thiamine, pantothenic acid, riboflavin pyridoxine and cyanocobalamin.

Evidence

The following uses as described below have either been tested in humans or in animals. However, neither the safety nor the effectiveness have always been proven. A qualified healthcare professional should make the evaluations for some of these conditions because they are potentially serious.

B3 Benefits

High Cholesterol (Niacin)

Vitamin B3 is a very well accepted treatment in those who have high levels of cholesterol. Several studies have confirmed that niacin, though not niacinamide, has had benefits of significant levels with regards to HDL, which is good, high density cholesterol.

Though less dramatic, there also seem to be benefits associated with the levels of LDL, which is bad, low density cholesterol.

Including niacin to another drug, such as a statin, may help with increasing the effects that is has on lipoproteins with low density.

Using niacin in order to treat dyslipidemia that has occurred due to type 2 diabetes has always been a controversial issue because it runs the risk of worsening a person’s glyemic control. Before beginning niacin, patients should consult their physician or local pharmacist.

Pellagra (Niacin)

The United States Food and Drug Administration have approved the usage of niacin in those who are deficient in niacin. Pellagra is the nutritional disease that occurs when a person have an insufficient dietary level of the vitamin B3 in their body, or of tryptophan, the chemical from which it is made. Symptoms of pellagra include dementia, depression, skin disease and diarrhea.

Atherosclerosis (Niacin)

Niacin effectively reduces the levels of lipoprotein and cholesterol in the blood system, which might reduce the risk of the arteries hardening, or atherosclerosis. However, niacin is also known to increase the levels of homocysteine, which might have the opposite effect. Evidence from multiple studies support the usage of niacin, but only in combination with other drugs that serve to decrease cholesterol and to gradually decrease atherosclerosis. Before a firm conclusion may be drawn, it is necessary to first obtain more research.

Prevention of a Second Heart Attack (Niacin)

Because niacin is known to lessen the levels of fibrinogen, lipoprotein and cholesterol, it may be useful in lessening the risk for having a second heart attack. However, because niacin is known to increase levels of homocysteine, it may also increase the risk. Several studies, many of which pertained to studying the effects of the vitamin alone and with other drugs, have been performed to see how well it prevents heart diseases and fatal heart attacks. The research suggests that niacin is beneficial in conjunction with other drugs that lower cholesterol.

Age Related Macular Degeneration

The choroidal blood vessels may benefit from niacin. These blood vessels are beneath the retina, in an area called the macula. When macular degeneration occurs, the blood flow in these vessels may become interrupted, and it is believed that niacin might be able to help treat it. However, more research is necessary.

Alzheimer’s Disease / Cognitive Decline

When a person undergoes a severe deficiency of niacin, dementia may occur. However, it is currently unclear whether niacin in the diet can lead to Alzheimer’s disease or a neurodegenerative decline. More research is necessary.

Diabetes Type 1 / Diabetes Type 2

Niacinamide is thought to be able to delay a person’s need for insulin or to prevent diabetes. However, it is necessary to conduct more research about using niacinamide to prevent or delay the onset of dependence of insulin in those who have developed type 1 diabetes. Niacin has previously been used in order to treat the instance of dyslipidmeia that develops from type 2 diabetes. Patients should seek consultation from a physician prior to beginning any kind of new therapy, including niacin.

Uses Based on Tradition or Theory

The uses as described below are based upon tradition of theories. Often, they have yet to be thoroughly tested within humans, so the effectiveness and the safety have not fully been proven. Consult a physician prior to beginning a new therapy.

  • Anemia
  • Angina
  • Anti-aging
  • Antioxidant
  • Arrhythmia
  • Arthritis
  • Bell’s palsy
  • Bone marrow suppression
  • Brain damage
  • Breast cancer
  • Bursitis
  • Cancer prevention
  • Cataract prevention
  • Choleric diarrhea
  • Chronic diarrhea
  • Circulation improvement
  • Confusion
  • Coronary heart disease
  • Cosmetic uses
  • Deafness
  • Dementia
  • Depression
  • Dermatitis
  • Diagnostic testing purposes for schizophrenia
  • Drug overdose causing hallucinations
  • Encephalopathy
  • Growth
  • Hearing loss
  • High blood pressure
  • HIV prevention
  • Hyperactivity
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Inflammation of the tongue
  • Insomnia
  • Ischemia reperfusion injury
  • Itching
  • Leprosy
  • Liver cancer
  • Liver disease
  • Low blood sugar
  • Lupus
  • Memory enhancement
  • Motion sickness
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Nutrition supplementation
  • Obesity
  • Orgasm improvement
  • Pain
  • Painful menstruation
  • Pancreatitis
  • Parasites
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Peripheral vascular disease
  • Platelet aggregation
  • Pregnancy problems
  • Premenstrual headache
  • Premenstrual syndrome
  • Prostate cancer
  • Psoriasis
  • Psychosis
  • Scleroderma
  • Sedative
  • Seizure
  • Sleep quality
  • Smoking cessation
  • Stroke
  • Swelling
  • Taste disturbances, whether distorted or diminished
  • Thyroid disease
  • Tinnitus
  • Tuberculosis
  • Tumor detection
  • Ulcer
  • Vascular spasm
  • Vertigo
  • Wound healing

Allergies

Rarely, it has been reported that oral or intravenous niacin therapy has resulted in a severe allergic reaction, or anaphylactic shock.

Side Effects and Warnings

The majority of people who decide to take niacin will likely experience a warm sensation and the flushing of the skin, especially in the area of the neck, ears and face, upon increasing a dose or beginning treatment. This is typically a mild reaction, though some people have experienced enough of an intolerable level, such at up to half of the participants in a study have ceased taking the therapy. It is also common to feel itching and experience dry skin. To reduce the flushing, a person may consider taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, such as aspirin, naproxen, ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, others) or indomethacin.

Additionally, it may be beneficial to take an antihistamine about fifteen minutes prior to taking a dosage of niacin. When taking niacin products that are slow to release, there may be fewer instances of skin flushing than that of a niacin preparation with regular release schedules, or it may only delay the instance of the flushing appearance. After two weeks of therapy have gone by, the flushing response appears to decrease without any outside interference. When beginning therapy with niacin, patients may experience nausea, vomiting, mild stomach upset and diarrhea, though these symptoms generally seem to resolve themselves with regular, continued usage.

More Serious Side Effects

Some of the more serious side effects that may occur from using niacin include the worsening of stomach ulcers, liver toxicity, and altered insulin levels or blood levels, or uric acid concentrations. There have been numerous reports of increased liver enzymes in the blood, liver toxicity, fluid in the abdomen, jaundice or liver failure. Because of the nature of these side effects, it is recommended that liver blood tests are conducted and that the liver is monitored while taking niacin. Though there may be less skin flushing associated with niacin products that are slow to release, this might worsen the side effect for the stomach and the liver. Low blood pressure may also result from taking high doses of niacin.

Studies have also seen reports of muscle cell damage, lactic acidosis and the increase of creatine kinase, which is a marker damage to the muscles, in the blood.

Other side effects occurring after the use of niacin have included circulatory collapse upon injecting through the veins, abnormal heart rhythms and heart palpitations. There are risks of increased levels of homocysteine in the blood when taking niacin either alone or with colestipol, as proven by certain research in humans. Having a high amount of homocysteine may increase the risk of a person developing heart disease.

When taking sustained release niacin, there have been reports of experiencing problems with blood clotting. Other reports included having a slight increase in blood eosinophils, as well as a low number of white blood cells, or leucopenia.

Side effects that have also been reported, though rare, include tooth or gum pain, dry eye, headache, breathing difficulty, dizziness, increased anxiety, rash, panic attacks, in addition to decreased thyroid function. Other published accounts of side effects, which were temporary, of the eyes exist, including toxic amblyopia, blurred vision and macular swelling. These side effects resolved themselves with the absence of niacin.

Vitamins

B7

Everything you Need to Know About Biotin

Biotin is also known as vitamin B7, but you might hear it referred to as Coenzyme R, D-Biotin, W Factor, and Vitamin H. It is a water soluble B vitamin and is used in many different ways within the body but is essential for all people. For instance, during pregnancy this vitamin is thought to be beneficial in the proper formation of the fetus and to help prevent birth defects.

It is also thought that Biotin can be used to prevent rapid weight loss, as well as to help prevent malnutrition which can often occur with any type of tube feeding. It is most commonly used to help supplement and prevent brittle nails, thinning hair and skin problems and has also been used to treat mild forms of depression.
vitamin b7
It is also thought that Biotin can help to reduce blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes and can even help with certain digestive problems, such as Crohn’s disease.

Early Study Results

Preliminary studies have found that Biotin can help to reduce insulin resistance and improve overall glucose tolerance. Some studies suggest that vitamin B7 can be an effective treatment for everything from cancer, to hair loss, to Parkinson’s disease and certain types of dermatitis, to other neurological problems.

It is thought that since a deficiency in Biotin can be a contributing factor in whether a person suffers from these conditions, it can be helpful in treating them.

Like other essential B vitamins, Biotin can help to increase a person’s energy levels and improves the way the body metabolizes the food that people eat. Biotin helps the digestive system to properly break down and use all of the carbohydrates and fats that people consume, whether bad or good, so it is an essential enzyme in the body.

While it is generally easy to get plenty of it in the foods most people eat daily, a lack of it can wreak havoc on the body. There are even some studies which suggest that a person who has a prolonged Biotin deficiency can be at risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes, as well as digestive disorders and problems with the nervous system.

How it’s Used

Biotin, or vitamin B7 aids in the proper break down of fats and carbohydrates. It provides the digestive system with essential enzymes and when a person has a Biotin deficiency, it is thought that they cannot properly break down and use the essential benefits that come from fats and carbs, such as energy and the healthy hair, skin and nail benefits that many good fats provide to the body.

The inability to properly break down these nutrients may cause a lack of energy and inhibit the ability for parts of the body such as hair and nails to stay strong. In addition to the hair, nails and skin suffering when a person is deficient in vitamin B7, the nervous system and digestive system can also wind up with problems due to not having enough of this nutrient. Some health care professionals are even suggesting that not having enough Biotin in the body can lead to heart problems, since healthy fats help the cardiovascular system.

Biotin is often used in cases where a person might be suffering from a deficiency of the nutrient, but since there are no tests to definitely determine that a person is lacking in this essential vitamin, usually symptoms are used as a guideline in diagnosing this problem. Symptoms that a person might be lacking Biotin often include hair loss and color of hair, hair breakage, red, scaly rash around the nose and mouth, mild depression, feeling lethargic, brittle nails and sore muscles, as well as intestinal disorders or problems with the nervous system, such as tingling limbs.

How common is Biotin Deficiency?

Diagnosable Biotin deficiency is fairly rare, but that doesn’t mean you couldn’t use a little bit more in your diet. It is thought that an average healthy person who maintains a healthy diet won’t be too at risk of a deficiency, since it is found in a wide variety of foods, however, if a person is dieting to extremes, is on a feeding tube or is pregnant, the need for this nutrient might be greater. High levels of panthothenic acid and certain anti-seizure medications can also affect the levels of Biotin in the body. It is also thought that smoking can deplete a person of Bitoin. These are all factors that can contribut to the body not getting the nutrition it needs from food due to extrenal factors and can contribute to a person’s lack of vitamin B7.

As people age they need more Biotin in their bodies due to the way that more of it is required to help their bodies properly digest the many carbohydrates and fats we consume. This includes good fats, such as Omega-3’s and complex carbohydrates, which have excellent benefits for the whole body. In addition to age, it is thought that if a person eats egg whites for long periods of time, takes oral antibioitcs for extended periods or takes certain other medications might also be at risk for this condition.

How Can People Get Enough of It?

In addition to taking Biotin supplements, a person can ensure that they get enough B7 in their diet by eating less processed foods and focusing on maintaining an overall healthy, well rounded diet. Whole, unprocessed veggies, whole grains and egg yolks are rich sources for this vitamin, as well as foods such as chicken, cheese, fish, nuts, pork, potatoes, spinach and legumes. A good rule of thumb when eating to maintain Biotin levels is to avoid processed foods, as they tend to be lacking in this essential vitamin.

You may also find that a good B vitamin complex which includes Thiamine, B12 and Riboflavin also contains a high amount of vitamin B7 to meet your general needs. It’s a good idea to check for Biotin in your daily multivitamin and if you take a B complex vitamin, it will likely be in there, as well. This can help to ensure that a person is getting plenty of this nutrient, especially if they have any of the risk factors of being deficient in it.

Is it safe?

It is generally thought that Biotin is safe for most people when used as directed. Most often, this supplement is taken orally. In fact, pregnant and breast feeding women might also be able to take this supplement as well, but should check with their health care provider before doing so. It is also thought that people who are recieving kidney dialysis should consider taking this vitamin, as they may be deficient in it. Also, if you feel that you may be in a high risk group for developing a deficiency of B7 or you just want to ensure that you get enough of this essential nutrient, you will likely find that you get plenty of it in your diet and with the use of supplements which you can take.
vitamin b7
There is no data to suggest that Biotin will prove toxic when too much is taken, however, it is thought that since this is a water soluble vitamin, there aren’t really negative side effects from taking or consuming too much of this nutrient.

When vitamins are water soluble it means that the unused portions of the vitamin are flushed from the body as waste daily, and this can dramatically increase the overall safety of Biotin.

Despite the safety of this vitamin, it is always recommended that people not exceed the daily recommended dosage by too much unless recommended by a physician.

Other facts

While it is known that the body needs Biotin to properly break down fats and carbohydrates, there really isn’t much known on the subject. It is thought to be generally safe when taken orally and according to the directions, and preliminary studies suggest that this is a nutrient which is very well utilized within the body.

However, there are no studies that clearly find that it will be beneficial in helping to prevent or repair thinning hair and brittle nails, which is one of the more common uses of this nutrient. There is also no research that clearly finds that it is not beneficial in these, or other areas.

Current studies do offer some guidelines on how much people of all ages should have. For instance, infants and small children generally don’t need more than 8 micrograms per day and infants younger than seven months have the lowest need at 5 micrograms daily. Adult men and women who are 70 or older require much more of this nutrient and should have as much as 30 micrograms daily.

Although much of this higher dosage can be obtained from food, it may be necessary to take supplements of some kind to ensure a person is getting enough and some health care professionals will recommend more, depending on your individual needs and symptoms. If you think you might be suffering from a Biotin deficiency, you may want to seek the advice of your health care provider.

Sources:

http://www.webmd.com/

http://health.msn.com/

Conditions

Foxglove

Introduction to Foxglove (Digitalis Purpurea)

In the millennia that mankind has been on earth, uncounted millions of people have died from heart ailments. One type of malfunction is now called congestive heart failure, but once it was called dropsy. Some, but not all, of the symptoms of this problem are: fatigue, edema of the abdomen, legs and ankles, inability to sleep, shortness of breath, increased urination and nausea.
foxgove definition
It is interesting that some medications are derived from plants that grow naturally in the environment. These medications can be called natural remedies, because they grow in nature and are also effective in treating ailments. One such plant is foxglove.

The foxglove plant is covered with large blossoms, often in shades of purple or pink. It is a beautiful plant that has some unusual characteristics, including being poisonous when it is eaten.

Foxglove is native to both western and eastern Europe, but it can now be found in all parts of the world. It grows in the wild, often in mountainous and forested areas and also along roadsides. While it grows in the wild, it is now also grown and harvested as a crop so it can be processed for medical purposes.

The History of Foxglove

Foxglove has been called by many different names in different times and at different places. Some of the more common names applied to foxglove include: deadmen’s bells, common foxglove, fairy’s glove, witch’s bell, purple foxglove, folk’s glove, virgin’s glove, bloody fingers and fairy’s caps. It can be noted that all of these names refer to the appearance, size, shape and color of the blossoms. People have long admired this plant because of its long, beautiful, purplish or pinkish bell-shaped blossoms that grow up and down long, slender stalks. The plants can be from three feet to six feet high. The fact that it is poisonous also tends to get people’s attention.

Modern medicine owes a great debt of gratitude to the early doctors and researchers who studied and learned the healing properties of so many herbal natural remedies, including foxglove. The first time that foxglove is mentioned in relation to being used as a medication was in the 13th century. It was first used and written about in Ireland and then later in Scotland. It was utilized in the attempt to treat a number of unrelated illnesses.

The credit for developing foxglove into an effective medication goes to Dr. William Withering. He was a British physician, who lived from 1741 to 1799. Dr. Withering became aware that people were using foxglove to treat what was then called dropsy and that it was an effective treatment for that condition. No one understood the “why” of the healing properties of this plant, so he made it his life’s work to discover why it worked and how to use foxglove more effectively. In 1785, he published his findings.

Dr. Withering discovered digitalis, an active ingredient in foxglove. After isolating and identifying this substance, he continued to study and learn the properties of this medication that has been such a boon to mankind. On a personal note, Dr. Withering was a genuinely good man. Each year, he treated 2000 to 3000 poor patients who could not afford to pay him. This limited his income to about 1000 British pounds per year, while his peers were earning about 5000 British pounds per year. After years of suffering from tuberculosis, he died in 1799 at the age of 58.

Myths that Relate to Foxglove

Foxglove has been associated with magic and mystery for centuries. Perhaps the fact that even though it is the source of a powerful, beneficial medication, it is also highly poisonous when eaten is a reason for the interest shown in it. One legend says that fairies used to give the blossoms to foxes to use as gloves.

This enabled them to move quietly, so they would not be caught stealing a farmer’s chickens. Connecting the foxglove flowers and foxes made sense, because foxgloves grow on the forested hillsides where foxes have their dens. Another story says that medieval witches cultivated foxglove to use as an ingredient in potions created to cast spells on people. These plants were sometimes grown in medieval gardens and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Those were appropriately called “virgin’s glove.” Even today, some who practice paganism and similar religions use foxglove in some rituals.

Digitalis, Called Digoxin, Is Extracted from Foxglove

Digitalis, more often called digoxin, is a purified cardiac glycoside used to treat a variety of heart conditions, including: atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter and sometimes even heart failure. It can be effective when other medications are not. Lanoxin, Digitek and Lanoxicaps are names under which digoxin is commonly marketed.

It is usually administered by mouth but can be injected in critical situations. When conditions exist for digoxin to be used in the treatment process, myocardial efficiency improves, because hemodynamics and the ventricular function curve both improve. Digoxin is available only with a doctor’s prescription. It is primarily eliminated in the kidneys, so dosage must be reduced for those with a kidney problem.

Growing Digitalis Purpurea Commercially and Producing Digoxin

The process used today to produce digoxin is very similar to that used by Dr. Withering in the 18th century. Approximately 1000 kg of dried foxglove leaves are required to make 1 kg of pure digoxin. The process of extracting relatively small amounts of digoxin is not complicated, but it is expensive.

Commercial farming of foxglove to obtain digitalis in the USA began during World War II, when it was not possible to secure a sufficient amount from Europe. The plant grows best in the northern part of the United States and in Canada. At first, there was sufficient wild foxglove to meet the demand, but greater amounts than what could be harvested from plants growing wild were soon required.

Early efforts to grow foxglove commercially were unsuccessful. In the area where foxglove grows best, the roots of the plants had to be removed from the soil in the fall and stored through the winter. That was an expensive process. Also, the seeds of the foxglove plant are very small and sometimes are not viable.

The best method for growing foxglove plants involves the plants spending the first few weeks in a greenhouse. That is not economically feasible, because labor costs are so high in the United States. The result of all this is that, even now, most digitalis purpurea is imported.
foxglove risks

Side Effects with the Use of Digoxin

In adults, every medicine can cause side effects, but no common side effects have been discovered due to usage of this drug. However, a person should seek medical help right away if he experiences a severe allergic reaction including: difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, hives, fever, irregular heart beat or swelling in or around the mouth.

Digoxin and Children

Digoxin is also an effective medication for use in infants and children with slight to moderate congestive heart failure or irregular heartbeat due to atrial fibrillation. As with adults, dosage must be determined by careful clinical assessment of the individual and monitored carefully.

The daily dose for children should usually be divided, not given all at once in one dose. Once past the immediate newborn stage, children under 10 years of age usually need doses that are proportionally larger than those given to adults, but adjusted according to their body weight or surface area.

Children over 10 years of age need to be given adult dosages, but, again, the doses must be in proportion to the child’s body weight.

Pets Can Also Develop Congestive Heart Failure

Not only humans, but also their pets, can develop the symptoms of congestive heart failure. For the person who dearly loves his dog or cat and considers it part of the family, this is a vexing problem. When this kind of illness affects a dog or cat, it is for basically the same reasons that humans develop this disease.

The key to helping your pet is to take him to a veterinarian. The vet will use all the same techniques to diagnose and treat your furry little friend that are used with humans. If you want to learn more about congestive heart failure in animals, you can learn a lot by reading about heart disease in humans.

It may be encouraging to pet owners to know that the drugs used to treat pets are also approved by the FDA. It will be helpful financially if the pet owner has purchased pet health insurance before such a dire event occurs in his pet’s life.

What Should Treatment for Congestive Heart Failure Include Besides Medication?

The one who suffers from congestive heart failure should receive prescriptions for the proper medication, but there are other considerations to properly treat this condition. The first, and perhaps most important, is lifestyle modification. There are seemingly small changes that the patient must make. Sodium causes more fluids to accumulate in body tissue. Limiting the amount of both sodium and fluids consumed is very important. The slogan about drinking eight classes of water per day is certainly not intended for those suffering from congestive heart failure.

Aerobic exercise is now considered beneficial in helping a patient to function physically and have a higher quality of life. Sometime surgery is required to restore an adequate flow of blood through the heart. A doctor will often have other suggested changes for his patients’ lifestyle.

What Causes Congestive Heart Failure?

Congestive heart failure is an ailment in which the heart is unable to pump sufficient oxygen-rich blood to allow the body to function in a normal way. The condition can be caused by 1) diseases that increase a body’s demand for oxygen, 2) diseases that adversely affect the heart muscles, or 3) diseases that stiffen heart muscles. Any disease that inhibits the heart’s pumping by limiting the pumping action of the ventricles is a basic cause for congestive heart failure. Diseases such as hemochromatosis or amyloidosis can do that.

Users of Digoxin Can Experience Digoxin Toxicity

Physicians have long been aware of a potential problem that can arise when digoxin is prescribed. It is a complex reaction called “digoxin toxicity.” This syndrome was originally described by Dr. Withering in 1785. Approximately 0.4% of those admitted to hospitals, 1.1% of those not hospitalized, and 10 – 18% of nursing home residents who receive digoxin develop this toxicity.

In 2006, 2610 cases of toxic digitalis exposure were reported by the American Association of Poison Control Centers. The number of cases reported is declining because of increased awareness of dangerous drug interactions and for other reasons, including a decreased use of digoxin. Internationally, 2.17% of those on digoxin, who are hospitalized, develop digoxin toxicity.

The Cost of Digoxin

The national average cost of digoxin for a 250 mcg (0.25 mg) Tab is $7.00. Many people buy from online and Canadian pharmacies, as well as in local drugstores.

Tips for Helping Digoxin Work as Effectively as Possible

Here are some things the person who takes digoxin can do to help this medication work as effectively as possible:

  • Some foods may prevent the absorption of digoxin. It is helpful to take this medicine either one hour before eating or two hours afterward.
  • Do not take any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, without checking with your doctor first. Many medicines should be avoided because of possible drug interaction.
  • There is no standard amount of digoxin that should be prescribed. Your doctor will need to determine what amount is best based on body weight, other prescribed medicines and how well you respond to this drug.
  • A patient should take digoxin at the same time each day and drink a full glass of water with it.
  • It is important for the patient to keep all scheduled appointments, both with his doctor and for lab work.
  • In the event of an accidental overdose of digoxin, emergency treatment must be sought immediately.
  • If you miss a regular dose, do not take an extra dose to make up for it if it is less than 12 hours until time for your next dose.

The Danger of Drug Interactions

Other prescription drugs, such as verapamil, guanidine, itraconazole, spironolactone and indomethasin can increase digoxin levels. This brings the danger of toxicity. There are other drugs that can cause a serious slowing of heart rate when taken with digoxin.

Digoxin Recalls

On March 31, 2009, there was a major recall of Caraco brand digoxin. This Class 1 Recall was made, because tablets were made and sold that differed in size and in the amount of digoxin they contained.

About a month later, in late April of 2009, all digoxin pills with the Digitek brand name were found to contain twice as much digoxin as they should. There were lawsuits filed for personal injury and wrongful death against Mylan Pharmaceuticals as a result.

On May 11, 2009, there was still another recall of digoxin by a company that repackages Caraco tablets. There have been numerous other recalls of this product through the years. The person who takes this medication should try to stay abreast, as much as possible, with whatever recalls are taking place.

The Value of Digitalis

A quotation concerning this medication, found on the web page here, tells the extent of the value of digitalis:

“Digitalis” is without question the most valuable cardiac drug ever discovered and one of the most valuable drugs in the entire pharmacopoeia. The introduction of digitalis was one of the landmarks in the history of cardiac disease.”(1)

This quotation is written here exactly as it is found on the website. Even though the (1) implies a footnote to give the credit for the quotation, there is no such footnote or other reference given.

Herbs

Liquorice

History and Origin

Natural liquorice/licorice is derived from the root of the plant glycyrrhiza glabra, a legume that is native to Asia and southern Europe. The plant grows to about three feet in height with leaves that are about three to six inches. It also contains tiny pale purple or blue flowers that are about 1/2 inch in size. The specific part of the liquorice plant used for sweet flavoring of products, herbal remedies and ailment cures is the root.

Liquorice grows most efficiently in deep, fertile, and well drained soil. It is harvested in the autumn after absorbing the sun throughout most of the summer, and is ready to be picked about 2-3 years after it is first planted.

Uses

Liquorice extract is most commonly produced by boiling the root and evaporating most of the water to create the desired substance. Sometimes liquorice will be boiled until it turns into a thick syrupy consistency, while other times it will still be processed and sold as a solid in the more natural state. The syrup is commonly used in Europe to create liquorice flavored candies, although most candies are produced with artificial flavoring and contain a very small amount of real liquorice.
liquorice uses
Liquorice is popularly known as a sweet candy in many countries, but the strong flavor of the root is typically mixed with heavy sugar in order to create a sweeter, more confectionery taste.

In the Netherlands, liquorice candy is one of the most popular sweets. There are many forms of it that are sold and created, as it can be mixed with mint, menthol, laurel or even ammonium chloride in order to give it a unique flavor.

The natural form of liquorice is popular in Spain and Italy. It is commonly used in these countries as a mouth freshener or way to calm the pain of a sore throat.

The root will be dug up, washed and chewed in order to create fresh breath or a pleasant taste after a meal. When the root is chewed it may cause numbing in the mouth, which is an effective and natural way to ease a sore throat.

Liquorice root is also commonly used in soft drinks, herbal teas or medicines as a natural sweetener that provides a pleasant aftertaste. Dutch children add drops of liquorice sweetener, which is primarily made up of natural liquorice root, to water and shake it up to make a sweet frothy beverage similar to a soft drink.

Variations

Liquorice is derived from the genus glycyrrhiza, which has over 20 species spread throughout North and South America, Australia, Europe, and Asia.

European liquorice is the plant with the most significant historical tradition. It grows in fertile, dry and open habitats in the eastern and southern regions. It was discovered in European regions as it grew naturally, and liquorice stick grown in these regions is what many people would chew in order to extract the sweet flavor. Liquorice stick grown in these regions is suggested to be what turned Napoleon’s teeth black.

Over time, European countries began growing the liquorice themselves and discovered it was effective in treating dry cough, asthma, and other lung diseases and disorders.

Chinese liquorice is grown in dry, grassy plains in northern China and and western Asian steppes. It is one of the most popular herbal drugs in these regions. It is typically used in a combination with 3 or 4 other herbs in order to create prescription medication for various ailments.

Liquorice is rarely used as the main drug in a prescription, but instead acts as a guide or “minister” drug to aid the other main ingredients and increase their absorption within the body. In some cases, liquorice is added to drugs simply to improve the flavor, particularly to add a natural sweetener to children’s medication.

Liquorice grown in North and South America is less prominent within crops. There are scattered plains throughout the west that grow liquorice, particularly throughout Washington, Oregon, Texas, Missouri and Mexico. It is most commonly found in prairies and meadows. Chewing the root of liquorice grown in these regions is commonly used to cure toothaches or calm the pain. Old Texas traditions used liquorice as a tea to be given to women after childbirth in order to help lower their body temperature and smoothly expel the placenta.

Remedies

Liquorice is used for more than just it’s sweet flavor. It is also used as an herbal remedy to cure several types of ailments. The rich juices have a significant effect on cell production, inflamed or irritated body parts and several ailments. When taken in moderation, liquorice can provide several health benefits and cure painful illnesses or injuries that cause serious displeasure.

The acid compound found in liquorice is used in Japan as a treatment for chronic viral hepatitis, as it is well known to have a transaminase (enzyme contributing to hepatitis) lowering effect. There has not been an official study in the United States to determine whether or not liquorice is an effective treatment for hepatitis, but it is used by people containing the virus to help calm their body and prevent flare ups that cause pain or discomfort.

One of the most common uses today is as an anti inflammatory for sore throats or swollen joints. Rubbing the liquorice root on a swollen ankle or chewing a piece for a sore throat will help significantly calm pain and reduce swelling. Many parents have their children chew liquorice root as a natural, sweet tasting remedy for a sore throat.

Liquorice root is also popular today as a cure or treatment for peptic and gastric ulcers. Dropping the root into water will cause it to fizz and foam, which works as an antacid to help calm acid production and increase the production of cells that produce stomach lining. The main ingredient in liquorice, glycyrrhiza glabra, is responsible for increased cell production and the calming of acid that causes ulcers.

This active ingredient is also responsible for the treatment of other auto-immune illnesses including asthma and various chronic diseases. It may also help with fatigue and allergies if taken in small doses.

Liquorice Products

Liquorice is most commonly used in raw form by chewing on the root or dehydrating it and adding it to tea as a powder. Various supplements and pills are also available on the market for those who wish to add liquorice to their daily vitamin and mineral routine.

Liquorice tea is one of the most popular ways to consume liquorice as an herbal remedy. Liquorice tea is naturally sweet and a preferred way to drink tea since it adds flavor without the use of excessive sugar. Liquorice tea will help speed the healing of stomach ulcers, soothe liver inflammation that appeared as a result of viral infections, calm headaches, soothe sore throats, and prevent diarrhea as a result of dehydration. Liquorice tea is also an excellent remedy for dehydration, as most of these ailments come about as a result of dehydration.
receipes for licquorice
Liquorice supplements and pills are frequently taken by people who suffer from ulcers or excessive production of gastric and peptic acid. Taking supplements as part of a daily vitamin routine helps regulate cell regeneration to efficiently line the stomach and calm irritation caused by excessive acid.

Dosage and Usage Requirements

For adults, the recommended daily dosage of liquorice is no more than 5 ounces daily. This is about 3 pieces of raw liquorice root or 2-3 cups of liquorice herbal tea. Children who chew liquorice root as a treatment for sore throats may chew 1-3 ounces of liquorice up to 3 times per day.

Excessive amounts of liquorice can pose serious and potentially dangerous side effects if it is not recommended by a doctor. Anyone adding liquorice to part of their daily regimen is encouraged to consult their doctor to make sure they are staying within a suggested amount of liquorice intake.

Potential Side Effects

Excessive liquorice intake can have potentially dangerous side effects. The main ingredient in liquorice, glycyrrhizin, may cause an increase in blood pressure or hypertension if consumed in large quantities. Most hypertension resulted from liquorice was due to patients consuming excessively large amounts of liquorice sweetened candy.

Excessive amounts of glycyrrhizin may also cause headaches, fatigue, swelling of the joints and even lower testosterone levels in men. There have been cases in European countries where women have been hospitalized due to muscle failure caused by liquorice overdose. Liquorice intake should be monitored and kept to no more than 5 ounces a day.

Where to Buy

Liquorice supplements and herbal tea can be found in most vitamin, health and drug stores. A bottle of pure liquorice root supplements is relatively inexpensive, costing approximately $6-$11 per bottle. Liquorice tea is also an inexpensive product, running about $5-12 for a box of tea bags.

Popular vitamin companies such as General Nutrition Center (http://www.gnc.com) sell a variety of supplements and tea variations that focus on specific ailments or illnesses. Many consumers find the best variety of liquorice products on Amazon (http://www.amazon.com) , which sells products that local nutrition stores may not carry. Amazon is also known to have the cheapest prices on products that would cost significantly more in a chain store.

Many liquorice teas and supplements are available without glycyrrhizin. These products are called deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL). They have been developed by manufacturers and are just as effective as natural liquorice in calming or treating ailments without the risk of increasing blood pressure or causing uncomfortable muscle problems. DGL liquorice products can also be found at most health and nutrition stores as well as through Internet manufacturers and wholesalers.

In conclusion, it is clear that liquorice can be very effective when taken as an herbal supplement or remedy for an illness. It is also a natural and tasteful way to add sweetener to food or beverages without adding excessive amounts of sugar or high fructose corn syrup. However, liquorice consumption should also be moderated or monitored by a health care professional to make sure it does not cause other more harmful effects. Talking to a physician will help guide patients in knowing what amount and variation of liquorice root is best for their lifestyle.

Herbs

Garlic

Garlic, today’s super food, has enjoyed a long and colorful history grounded in myth and folklore. Ancient Egyptians use of garlic has been found etched into walls of temples, and written on papyrus, as well as clay sculptures of the herb dating back to 3200 B.C. Although the Egyptians believed strongly in it’s healing powers , they considered garlic, sometimes referred to as “The Stinking Rose”, too pungent too eat. However, they so revered garlic for its mystical healing powers that they often tried to take it with them to the after life.

Dried garlic was found in King Tutankhamen’s tomb along with other treasured herbs and spices. Indeed, Garlic did not become popular in America until the 19th century, when immigrants flooded in from other countries. However, it is the very powerful smell of Garlic that inspired the myth and superstitions that have surrounded it for centuries.
garlic health benefits
Throughout the ages, and in all parts of the world, Garlic has been revered for it’s healing abilities, and used as a talisman against evil spirits. Everyone is familiar with the old legend of garlic as a vampire repellent, but the folklore concerning this versatile herb does not stop there. You may be surprised to to find what other Old Wives tales there are referring to garlic.

Myths, Truisms, and Fun facts About Garlic

  • In the Middle Ages garlic was thought to ward off vampires, evil eye, and witches. Families would string it together and hang it in the archways of their doors to prevent evil spirits from entering their house.
  • During The Black Plague, people ate raw garlic daily to ward off the disease.
  • In Balkan countries, Garlic juice was rubbed on to doorknobs and window frames in an effort to keep vampires out as well.
  • In Korea, Six Clove Black Garlic was given to women in the hopes of endowing them with supernatural powers and immortality.
  • In colonial times, garlic was tied to the feet of Small Pox victims in an effort to ward off death.
  • In 17th century England, it was considered unfit for a Lady, or any gentleman courting her, to eat garlic.
  • There is a proverb that says “Garlic makes men wink, and drink, and stink”
  • Greek Battalions were given garlic to give them courage and promise of victory.
  • In ancient Greece and Rome, garlic was used to repel scorpions, and to treat dog bites, leprosy and asthma. Garlic has been proven to have anti fungal, antiviral, anti bacterial and anti parasitic properties.
  • In World War 2 Garlic solutions were used by the British to heal wounds when they ran out of sulfur.
  • Garlic was often used to cure the common cold. Recipes can still be found explaining how to make garlic and onion soup, as well as garlic cough syrup.
  • There are still Old Wives Tales circulating about garlic’s ability to ward off evil spirits and ailments, such as tie a clove of garlic around your neck to ward off a cold.
  • Garlic is still used today for wart removal. It is recommended that a raw clove of garlic should be sliced and applied to the wart. After being bandaged for 24 hours, the wart will supposedly dry out and fall off in a few days.
  • Garlic has also been said to cure ear infections. Actually, the home remedy calls for 100% pure garlic oil dropped into the affected ear. After lying still for 15-30 minutes, it said that you will feel your ear start to itch, which is the garlic drying up the infection. Within 24 hours, the infection will have gone away.

The folklore surrounding garlic is endless, as are the types of ailments it is said to cure, both proven and UN proven. The uses of garlic not only span thousands of years, but they also span thousands of miles around the world. From Ancient Arab herbalists who said that garlic gives strength, and beatifies the complexion, to Louis Pasteur, who documented that one millimeter of garlic juice is equivalent to 60 milligrams of Penicillin in 1885, to recent studies that have shown garlic as a remedy for hypertension, the uses of its “super food” are endless.

While some people still find this herb pungent and repulsive, hence the name “The stinking Rose”, you may be surprised to hear some of the other names that garlic is referred to around the world.

Other Names For Garlic

  • Alho
  • Knoblauch
  • Bawang
  • Ail
  • Aglio
  • Katiem
  • Chesnok
  • Gartenlauch
  • Bronx vanilla
  • Italian Perfume
  • Camphor of The Poor
  • Nectar of The Gods
  • Poor Mans Treacle

So, what it is about garlic that has made it such a subject of myth and fantasy? It is the compound Allicin, contained in garlic, which gives it such a strong smell, and provides this herb with all of its healing qualities. It contains enzymes, flavenoids, calcium, copper, iron, manganese, phosphorus, potassium and selenium.

It is the selenium that really gives this herb it’s punch as this antioxidant alone has the power to boost the other vitamins containing Garlic, which include Vitamin A (Thiamin). Vitamin B2( Riboflavin), along with Vitamin and B6. With all of these essential vitamins and minerals packed into one small clove of garlic, it is no wonder that the benefits of this herb are known far and wide around the world.

So what has been proven to be true about the healing properties of garlic and what belongs restricted to the ream of myth and folklore? While many people will continue to believe in Grandma’s garlic and onion soup for a cold, or the old wives tale of stringing a clove of Garlic around you neck to ward off a cold, studies have actually been done to prove whether garlic is efficient as a medicine in this area, and exactly how much you should take.

The Truth About Garlic

  • Garlic has been proven to reduce high blood pressure, and reduce heart attacks by actually lowering the levels of blood fats including tryglicerides and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, while raising the levels of HDL (“good”) cholesteral. In Germany, garlic supplements are licensed a prescription drugs for the treatment of arteriosclerosis.
  • Several studies have also indicated that garlic can boost immunity levels, and that it is the second only to Echinacea as the most common herbal supplent bought on the market today
  • Garlic has also been shown to be a helpful supplement to those who suffer from Diabetes as it balances the blood sugar. The main compound Allicin combines with Vitamin B to stimulate the pancreas to release insulin.
  • Because of garlic’s anti- fungal properties, scientists have proven that garlic functions as an anti parasitic to get rid of intestinal worms, as well as other fungal infections, such as thrush.
  • Studies dating back to the 1960’s have shown garlic’s benefits in treating cancer patients. New research, such as a study put out in 2002 by The Journal of the national Cancer Institute suggests that men who eat plenty of garlic and onions could have a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. Inter
  • Stutudies have shown that garlic, because of its value as a natural blood thinner, to be very useful in the treatment of varicose veins, and blood clots. However, people should also be advised that eating large amounts of Garlic prior to surgery or dental procedures could cause heavy or spontaneous bleeding. Also people taking Warfarin, Coumadin, or any drugs meant to treat HIV/AIDS virus should consult with their doctors before taking any type of garlic supplement, as it can be contraindicated with these drugs. .
  • People suffering from Intermittent claudication (poor circulation of the legs) have also found this her b useful.
  • Studies published in the American Journal of Hypertension have shown that when volunteers took garlic supplements on a regular basis, their blood pressure was reduced by 1-5%.
  • Because of the antioxidant properties of garlic, it has also been shown garlic is also useful for slowing down the aging of the liver, and combating the harmful effects of smoking.
  • It has been proven that garlic, indeed, is suitable for treatment of the common cold. Because of the potency of this herb, the body is stimulated to perspire when garlic is consumed, which means that eating garlic during a cold will speed up recovery by making you sweat the toxins and bacteria out of your body.
  • Ayervedic herbalists suggest rubbing a slice of raw garlic on pimples as a cure for acne. They say that removing pimples this way will not result in scars.

With the benefits of garlic so far and widespread throughout the body, it is no wonder that the sale of garlic supplements is one of the top 5 in America. Many questions remain, however, as to what dosage of garlic is required to benefit from this herbs healing effects. Also, as much as this herb has crossed cultural lines in Cuisine for Italian to meditterean to Chinese, many people benefit from the herb my simply using it as a spice in cooking. The question remains, however, is taking supplements the same as eating cooked garlic? And to take it a step further, is eating cooked garlic as beneficial as eating it raw? Many health excerpts have confirmed that eating raw garlic is more beneficial to eating cooked garlic or supplements.
using garlic for health

Allicin Released

The crushing and chewing of garlic release the compound Allicin, which gives garlic its healing properties. However, many people are unable to eat garlic raw at first because when not used it, consuming large amounts of raw garlic can be very irritating to the stomach.

It is suggested to start off slow, and chew one clove of garlic a day. For people who cannot stomach the taste of garlic raw or cooked, there is the option so supplements, some of which include the compound Allicin.

A ratio of powdered supplement to raw garlic equates to an average dose of 1500mg of powdered garlic to ½ clove of fresh garlic.

In order to fight infection 3-4 chopped, crushed, or chewed cloves should be consumed per day, or in supplement form 600-900miligarams a day 2-3 times a day. Read labels of specific supplement for more precise dosing.

Another aspect of the benefits of garlic is its helpfulness to the home gardener. Garlic oil has been shown to repel slugs and snails when a barrier of it is put up around favorite plants and vegetables. Also garlic’s benefit as a companion plant has been utilized for hundreds of years as well. It is a well-known fact that planted in between roses; garlic will provide you with beautiful healthy roses for years to come.

Companion planting comes from the notion that if the proper plants and herbs are grown together, natural pest control will occur. Garlic, when planted alongside cabbage and lettuce repels and kills Aphids, Spider mites, and white flies, all dangerous pests to your plants. Growing garlic is not difficult, and is actually a good way to get kids involved in gardening.

How To Grow and Harvest Garlic

  • Plant a clove, not a bulb, in the dirt, about an inc below the surface in an upright position. Garlic can be sown in rows of 18 cloves, or simply pushed in the dirt of plants you would like to protect.
  • Keep it watered well, but not over watered.
  • One clove of garlic will produce one plant, which will produce one whole bulb of garlic.
  • It is time to harvest your garlic when the plants foliage starts to turn brown and looks dead.
  • When taking garlic from the ground, do not yank it out by the stem. Gently loosen the dirt around the bulb, and then remove it from the ground.
  • Garlic must be dried properly if it is going to be of any good use. Hang the bulbs upside down by the stems in a cool dry place such as a gardening shed or barn. The curing process takes about two weeks. Large bundles of garlic can be braided together and hung upside down as a bunch. It is suggested to wait until the garlic is completely dry until trimming the stems off. Once they have dried, they can also be strung together with flowers, dried grasses and ribbon and used as a decorative piece for your kitchen.
  • Garlic should be stored at room temperature. It can either be hung in the kitchen pantry, or kept in a brown paper bag on your pantry shelf.

As you can see, garlic is one versatile herb! Straight from the garden to tour belly, this herb will benefit you for years to come. Whether eaten raw, cooked, or taken in supplement form garlic is rated high on the list of foods to eat for longetivity and well being. The possibilities are endless as to what you can do with this herb. Whether using it for hypertension or as a slug repellant in the garden, the uses of garlic still abound. Remember, however, that as good as garlic is for the body to always check with your physician before starting to take large amounts of garlic, especially if you take medication for blood thinners on a regular basis.

Herbs

Yarrow

Where Does Yarrow Come From?

Achillea millefolium, or yarrow, is also called milfoil, sanguinary, or stanchgrass, among a long list of other names. It is capable of surviving in most soils under most situations, however, it prefers well-drained soil in direct sunlight. These plants are capable of tolerating lime, shade, and lack of water. As a matter of fact, not only do yarrow plants live longer in poor soil, but they also improve soil fertility.

Very often the health of plants growing nearby are improved and their essential oil content is enhanced, which, in turn, protects them from insects that would otherwise destroy them. Although native to Europe and Asia, yarrow became naturalized in North America as well as other countries worldwide. Throughout the eastern and central United States and Canada, yarrow is commonly found along roadsides, in old fields, pastures, and meadows.
yarrow benefits

History

In ancient folklore, yarrow, which was considered to be dedicated to the Evil One, also inherited the nicknames Devil’s Nettle, Devil’s Plaything, and Badman’s Plaything.

At one point in history, Achilles, a Greek hero of the Trojan War, used this plant to heal his soldiers, which explains why it is also referred to as Soldier’s Woundwart. It is said that he learned this remedy from his mentor, Chiron the Centaur.

After Achilles introduced this herb to the battlefield, it was used constantly up until the time of the Civil War. During this time period, the plant was crushed and applied to bullet and shrapnel wounds. Yarrow was supposed to be extremely effective in healing wounds, especially those that were caused by iron weapons. Some believed they could be protected from evil by burning yarrow on the eve of St. John’s Day.

Others believed that good health in the coming year would be guaranteed if a bundle of yarrow was tied together and hung over a doorway or over an infant’s cradle on Midsummer’s Eve. Druids used the stems to assist in foretelling the weather and the Chinese used the stems to see into the future. Many young girls burned yarrow and chanted, “Good morning, good morning, good yarrow, and thrice good morning to thee.

Tell me, before this time tomorrow, who my true love is to be,” in hopes of discovering the identity of their future husband. The importance of yarrow in ancient history can especially be seen with the discovery of a 40- to 60,000-year-old Neanderthal whose remains were found holding yarrow among other herbs.

What Is Yarrow Used For Today?

Bloodwort, another name for yarrow, is known to be a fever reducer, to have the capability to lower blood pressure, to tone blood vessels, and to be a urinary antiseptic. It is also popular for its ability to repel beetles ants, and flies. The yarrow leaves have been used to cleanse cosmetics from greasy skin and the flowers have helped to provide yellow and green dyes.

Most importantly are the compounds found in the essential oil of the yarrow plant and what healing properties they have:

  • Matricine is anti-allergic, anti-infection, soothing, and slighty narcotic.
  • Alpha-pinene is a powerful anti-inflammatory.
  • Thujone is a narcotic, but is an epileptic in high doses.
  • Achillene, Stachydrine, Marrubine is used for fevers, non-lesion bound intestinal and stomach problems,
    and is an anti-anorexic.
  • Tannins and Flavonoids are strongly anti-cancer, are HIV inhibiting, and enhance Vitamin C absorption.
  • Inuline is anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-bronchitis, anti-HIV, and anti-tuberculosis. It is also a
    bronchodilator and an immune stimulator.
  • Coumarin in low doses help build blood, but it is also a narcotic and in high doses it can have an
    anti-Vitamin K effect.

Yarrow also carries along with it a broad spectrum of specific medicinal usages such as:

  • Fever -Antiseptic
  • Eye Infections -Wide spectrum antibiotic
  • Regulates menstrual cycle -Toughening footsoles
  • Gynaecological regulator -Obstetric
  • Post-birth tiredness and depression -Hemorrhoids
  • Promotes secretions of pancreas, gut, and liver -Wounds
  • Anti-diarrhea -Anti-dysentery
  • Ulcers in stomach and duodenum -Crohn’s disease
  • Involuntary loss of urine -Rheumatism, arthritis
  • Powerful spasmolytic for cramps -Nipple-care at lactation
  • Recovery of spine surgery -Paralysis without nerve section

The healing properties of yarrow don’t even stop at this list. The leaves of the yarrow plant are often smoked as a substitute for tobacco. The fresh leaves are chewed in order to relieve the pain of a toothache. In Sweden and Africa, yarrow is used to brew beer instead of hops due to the fact that yarrow is more intoxicating.

Yarrow oil is even used in most shampoos. It can also be used to open up the pores of the skin, thus helping obstructed perspiration. It is good for kidney disorders and is recommended in children when beginning symptoms of colds or the measles are present. The essence of yarrow flowers, especially the pink flowers, is good for people that need to release emotional energies that they have picked up from the environment, family, friends, and work.

Purposes That Have Been Proven Effective

It has been scientifically proven that yarrow oil is an effective anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial. It is proven to be a diaphoretic, which means it increases the temperature of the body thus opening pores in order to help produce perspiration which, in turn, eliminates toxins through the skin. Yarrow can prevent or stop the growth of microorganisms, which makes it an antiseptic. It has also proven to be an antispasmodic and an astringent.

Yarrow is an emmenagogue, meaning it promotes menstrual discharge. It helps open blood vessels and is very useful in healing wounds. It has been determined to exhibit anti-tumor properties.

It is known to decrease cholesterol and to increase bile flow. It is even often used against gastrointestinal disorders and hepatobiliary disorders, or disorders which effect the liver and/or biliary tract. It has been determined to be good at healing yeast infections and boils, also. On the other hand, there is little evidence to support the fact the yarrow is an effective treatment of the common cold.

Dosages

There is no regular set of dosing standards for yarrow because it depends on how it is being used and what it is being used for. If a supplement in capsule form is being taken, most likely the dosage is to take two capsules two times a day with water at mealtimes. A handful of dried yarrow can be used to make a cup of tea in order to relieve a fever.

If equal parts of Urtica Leaf tincture, Taraxacum Root and Leaf tincture, Yarrow tincture, and Angelica tincture are combined, children can be given a maximum of ten drops (maximum dose for adults is 50 drops) up to five times a day to help relieve a fever.

For menstrual cycle regulation use 20 drops of the tincture, which can be purchased in that form, two times per day from the beginning of menses and for the life of two full cycles.

If yarrow is combined with Petroselinum Crispum and red wine, it can prevent female and male sterility. Simply used 20 drops two times dailty for two or three months. For pregnant persons hoping for a more simple labor, drink two cups of yarrow tea per day starting approximately a week before labor. To make this tea, use one handful of yarrow and two spoonfuls of Rubus idaeus. For postpartum tiredness and depression combine yarrow tincture with Cannibus sativa tincture and hops tincture. Hemorrhoids can be treated by using yarrow internally and externally.
yarrow health remedies
For internal use, take 20 drops a day. For external use, use a poultice or cream but add five grams of Calendula and one gram of Bryony tincture.

For ulcers in the stomach and duodenum, a complex regimen is needed so an herbalist is to be consulted for appropriate dosing, diet, and other herbs that may be necessary.

An herbalist also must be consulted for the treatment of Crohn’s disease and arthritis.

There is a cream made with yarrow for wounds and abrasions. For eye infections, use compresses made of yarrow, but they must be very well filtered so as to not scratch the eye.

Side Effects and Warnings

Caution should be exercised when using yarrow if the person has an allergy to ragweed. Avoid use if there are gallstones present. An allergic skin rash or skin sensitivity to light may be caused by extended use of yarrow whether it is being used medicinally or in the diet.

Using yarrow while pregnant may lead to reduced fetal weight and increased placental weight. Yarrow use may also alter estrogen activity. Women who experience heavy periods or who have pelvic inflammatory disease should not use yarrow. Even though yarrow is used to treat wounds, it still should not be used to treat large, deep, or infected wounds. The actual leaves of the yarrow plant should never be used alone internally.

Processes for Consumption

If fresh yarrow is not being used, then it must be dried. Take the whole yarrow plant, as it is all beneficial, and hang it upside down away from the sun, moisture, and dust for a few days. If the interest is for fresh yarrow, the plant flowers from May to June. Many different species of yarrow have different colored flowers, but it is best to use the white native species because the others are cultivated for their smell and color, not medicinal purposes.

The quality of yarrow can be judged simply by its smell. When making the tincture, the yarrow used can be fresh or dried. For oils and salves fresh yarrow can be used because this plant has a low water content and will not liquify the oil. Dried yarrow should be used for teas and fresh yarrow leaves should be used for poultices. The bitter taste of this plant can be covered up by cooking it into a cough syrup using something sweet such as honey.

Additional Information

Yarrow is uncontrolled in the United States. U.S. Supplement Laws regulate the sale of yarrow if it is in the form of a supplement. If it is in the form of a food or a drug, sales are regulated by the FDA, or Food and Drug Administration, and will be labeled as GRAS, or generally recognized as safe.

When shopping for yarrow, the USP, or United States Pharmacopeia, symbol guarantee safety and quality in those brands. Some popular brands of yarrow supplements include Nature’s Way, Solaray, and Nature’s Answer. Yarrow can be found throughout the internet and herbal websites as well as in local herbal stores and even some big name grocery stores that have a natural section. Prices are as low as $2.50 and simply depend on the purity and quality of what is being purchased.

Conditions

Constipation

The health condition known as constipation can also be called “costiveness,” “dyschezia,” or “dyssynergic defaecation.” It is a topic many people have difficulty discussing. However, almost everyone experiences constipation at least once during his or her lifetime. It is a common gastrointestinal problem that can be both painful and frustrating. However, with some time, effort, and little cost, you can effectively treat your constipation.

Symptoms

Constipation is characterized by the presence of four key symptoms:

1) Infrequent bowel movements – You may be experiencing constipation if you have three or less bowel movements per week.
2) Difficulty passing bowels – more specifically, if you strain during 25% or more of your bowel movements, you may be constipated.
3) Feeling like you didn’t completely evacuate your bowels.
4) Hard stools.
constipation problems
Constipation can also include abdominal pain, vomiting, and a swollen abdomen. Most of these symptoms are not serious and do not require you to see a doctor. Most people deal with minor constipation on their own. However, you should seek the help of your doctor if you exhibit any of these more serious symptoms:

  • Blood in your stool
  • Your constipation alternates with diarrhea
  • Pencil-shaped, thin stools
  • Your constipation continues, regardless of corrective changes in your diet and exercise
  • Intense abdominal pain
  • Unexplained onset of constipation
  • Constipation symptoms persist longer than three weeks

Causes

Constipation occurs in your body when your colon, or large intestine, contracts too slowly to propel your stool through. Your colon may also absorb too much water, causing your stool to become hard and dry. This bowel dysfunction in the body can be caused by many different factors. They include:

  • Not drinking enough water, or dehydration
  • Not eating enough fiber
  • Constipation is common in newborn babies after switching from breast milk to formula, or from formula to solid foods.
  • Eating too much dairy
  • Side effect of medications, which include diuretics, codeine, morphine, and others containing iron, calcium, or aluminum. Some antidepressants can also lead to constipation.
  • Psychological causes—some children fear that their stools will be painful, so they withhold them deliberately. Others may feel embarrassed or shy about having a bowel movement.
  • Metabolic causes—certain metabolic and endocrine problems can lead to constipation, including hyperglycemia, diabetes mellitus, and hypothyroidism.
  • Structural problems in the body, including pelvic floor dysfunction, colon cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and spinal cord lesions.
  • Frequent use of laxatives
  • Lack of exercise
  • Hormonal imbalance
  • Changes in routine, including pregnancy, travel, or aging

Risk Factors

Although the majority of people will experience constipation in their lifetime, certain risk factors increase the likelihood you will have it. You are more prone to constipation if you:

  • Are elderly
  • Don’t get enough exercise
  • Are confined to your bed
  • Don’t eat enough fiber
  • Don’t drink enough water
  • Take certain medications, including anti-depressants, sedatives, narcotics, or medications to treat Parkinson’s disease.
  • Are undergoing chemotherapy

Constipation in Children

Constipation is a common problem in children. There are several reasons your children may be experiencing constipation.

Make sure your child is eating enough fiber. If she consumes primarily fatty foods and foods high in sugar, she probably isn’t taking in enough fiber. Try getting her to eat healing foods, like barn cereal, prune juice, and other fruits and vegetables to promote bowel movements.

Children typically experience some constipation when switching from breast milk to cow’s milk, then again when switching from baby food to solid food. Symptoms are usually temporary during these periods.

Your child’s constipation symptoms may worsen, if she resists the urge to pass her bowels. Often, children will fear the next bowel movement because it will hurt. Avoid this harmful cycle by encouraging bowel movements and offer positive reinforcement when your child has successful bowel movements.

If changes in diet aren’t effective in treating your child’s constipation, you doctor might recommend a laxative. Consult with him to determine which type to use and the proper dosage amount for you child.

Prevention Tips

There are many effective strategies to prevent constipation, most of which are completely natural. Following a few simple tips on a daily basis can keep your gastrointestinal system moving as it should.

Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can lead to constipation, so drink six to eight glasses of water each day. You need fluid to move waste matter through the colon properly. Eat plenty of fiber. Fiber helps promote healthy digestion in your body. Foods that are rich in fiber include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Avoid dehydration by reducing your intake of dehydrating beverages, such as soda, coffee, and tea. Limit your consumption of alcohol and dairy products, as they can also dehydrate you.

Exercise on a regular basis. Research suggests that regular exercise helps prevent constipation. Walking after dinner can be especially beneficial. Natural remedy solutions to prevent constipation are available at your health food store. Natural Moves is one such product, which helps to relax your bowel, ease tension, and promote regular bowel movements.

Tests & Diagnosis

Doctors usually diagnose constipation based on a patient’s description of symptoms, including difficulty passing a bowel movement, hard stools, and a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowels. You doctor will also inquire about your habits, such as dietary intake of fiber and level of daily physical activity. He will consider which medications you are taking, since some drugs can contribute to constipation. In certain cases, however, your doctor may conduct further testing. These procedures can include:

Physical examination. Your doctor examines your abdomen, feeling for substantial lumps of stool in the colon. Rectal examination so your doctor assesses the tone of the anal sphincter and checks for stool in the lower rectum.

Constipation itself is relatively simple to diagnosis, but your doctor may conduct further testing to determine the underlying cause of your constipation and to rule out a more serious condition. These can include:
herbal constipation remedies
Blood tests to see if a hormone imbalance is contributing to your constipation. Barium testing, during which your doctor coats the intestine with a dye so that he can clearly see your colon on an X-ray.

With this test, your doctor can tell if you have a more serious bowel obstruction.

Colonoscopy will be done to look for any obstruction in the colon. Your doctor examines the colon with a long, flexible tube equipped with a camera.

This procedure allows him to look for obstructions, tumors, or other abnormalities. You are typically put to sleep under general anesthesia during this procedure.

Anorectal manometry is when your doctor inserts a flexible tube into your rectum that has a small balloon on its tip. He then inflates the balloon and pulls the device back through the sphincter muscle. Your sphincter is the muscle you use during bowel movements, and this procedure enables your doctor to measure its coordination.

Doctors find that patients suffering from constipation usually exhibit one of two conditions:

  • Colonic Inertia is a physical condition in which your colon doesn’t contract properly, retaining stool.
  • Obstructed defecation is a condition in which you strain more than you need to during a bowel movement.

If you experience chronic constipation and pain for several days each month, lasting three or more months, your doctor will typically diagnosis your condition as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

Treatment Options

Most people can relieve their constipation with simple changes in diet and lifestyle. The following options should be the first step in treating your constipation. They are the least expensive methods, carry no risks or side effects, and are completely natural. These changes include:

  • Increasing your fiber intake. Eat more high-fiber foods like grains, fruits, vegetables, and beans. Limit your intake of foods low in fiber, such as meat, dairy, and processed foods.
  • Exercising. Regular physical activity will promote a healthy intestinal system.
  • Allowing time for bowel movement. Give yourself the time for undisturbed trips to the restroom, and don’t ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
  • Drinking more water. Adequate fluid intake will help keep your stools soft.

Another natural option for the treatment of your constipation includes a variety of alternative approaches. These treatments have not been tested extensively by the medical community, but you might find them worth a try. They include:

  • Homeopathic remedies. A holistic doctor might recommend using the herb bryonia to soften your stools or sulfur for difficult or painful bowel movements. Other herbs that may help with constipation include euphorbia kansui, castor oil plant, morning glory seeds, and cistanche.
  • Healing supplements, which include sodium sulfate, agar, and Irish moss.
  • Acupuncture. It’s a traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting needles into various parts of the body. Some say it helps stimulate the colon and relieve pain caused by constipation.
  • Massage. Manipulating and rubbing the abdominal area can help relax the muscles around the intestines and help promote healthy bowel movements.

You could also use over-the-counter laxatives to help treat your constipation. Be careful, though, because they can be habit-forming. There are several different types of laxatives.

  • Fiber supplements are your safest option for laxatives. Start with them, and if they don’t work, move on to other types of laxatives. Examples include FiberCon, Metamucil, and Citrucel.
  • Saline laxatives should be your next option. They are relatively safe and carry a lower cost than other laxatives. Examples include milk of magnesia and Haley’s M-O.
  • Stool softeners do just that—soften your stool. Examples include Colace or Surfak.
  • Osmotics help move fluid through your colon. Examples include Cephulac and Miralax.
  • Stimulant laxatives cause contractions in your colon and include Dulcolax and Senokot. Use these only if necessary, since they can be very habit-forming and can aggravate your symptoms.

If lifestyle changes and over-the-counter laxatives aren’t relieving your constipation, your doctor might prescribe something more potent.

  • Chloride channel activators contain the ingredient lubiprostone, which increases the amount of fluid in your stool. Amitiza is one example.
  • Prucalopride is a 5-HT-4 agonist, which increases fluid secretion in your intestine and decreases transit time through the colon.

If medication still does not relieve your constipation, your doctor might use a physical intervention. He may use an enemaa or manual disimpaction, during which he would physically remove impacted stool from your colon using his hands.

If you are still suffering with constipation after medical treatment, your doctor might recommend surgery. He would remove part of your colon, including the parts of your rectum and anal sphincter that are causing the problems.

Medical professionals estimate that everyone will experience constipation at some point during his or her lifetime. It typically isn’t serious and can be treated with minimal cost, time, and effort. If you do experience significant constipation lasting several weeks or longer, be sure to consult with your doctor.

Conditions

Interstitial cystitis

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a disease that manifests as recurrent pain or discomfort in the bladder and the region of the pelvis that surrounds the bladder. The symptoms are usually different for every patient and one patient can have different symptoms with each flare up. Approximately 1 million people are affected by the condition – mostly women.

How severe the symptoms are may be different for each person as well. Some people with IC do have periods where it goes away as if in remission. Because of the differing symptoms and the fact that the symptoms are often more severe in some people than in others, it is thought that IC is actually several diseases.
internal cystitis symptoms
It may help to understand better how the bladder functions in order to fully understand what interstitial cystitis is. The bladder is a hollow organ in which the urine is stored until you are ready to empty your bladder.

When the bladder is full, signals are sent to the brain using the pelvic nerves indicating that it is time to empty. This is what produces the urge to urinate. With IC, these signals are confused and the patient may feel the need to urinate more often but smaller volumes of urine are actually emptied from the bladder.

Having interstitial cystitis can cause a number of complications:

  • It can make the walls of the bladder become stiffer, resulting in smaller capacity of the bladder.
  • Pain and the increased need to urinate can inhibit work, social activities, and other things in the patient’s daily life.
  • The constant need to urinate along with the pain can sometimes lead to emotional issues that can eventually lead to depression. Depression can worsen symptoms of any disease, including interstitial cystitis.

Alternative Names

Interstitial cystitis is sometimes called IC. It is more simply referred to as painful bladder syndrome (PBS). Scientists who research this condition also call it bladder pain syndrome (BPS). Depending on the symptoms a patient has, doctors may use the term IC/PBS. They normally do this for all cases of urinary pain that aren’t connected to any other issue like an infection of kidney stones.

Causes

There is really known definitive cause of interstitial cystitis. Much research is done and focuses mostly on the lining of the bladder (the epithelium). This layer is there to protect the wall of the bladder from toxins in the urine. According to the research, in 70 percent of patients with IC this lining contains leaks. This suggests that these leaks may be allowing substances like chemicals from beverages or food that are in the urine to enter the bladder. These substances may irritate the bladder wall, triggering the IC.

The lining of the bladder wall is made up of protective substances. Researchers who study IC also believe that some people with the condition may have lower levels of these substances. This can be another reason for the damage to the wall of the bladder found in so many cases of IC.

A substance called antiproliferative factor (APF) has also been discovered that may block the normal production of the cells that make up the lining of the bladder. Nearly all of the time that APF is found in the urine it is with people who have interstitial cystitis.

There is another theory that suggests that IC is an autoimmune disorder or that infection may be the cause of the symptoms and the bladder damage.

Symptoms

As mentioned earlier, the symptoms of interstitial cystitis may differ from patient to patient. Someone with IC may also discover that his or her symptoms change with time. The symptoms can come on or become worse with certain physical or emotional triggers like menstruation, allergies, sexual activity, or anxiety and stress.

The symptoms of IC include:

  • The continuous and pressing need to urinate.
  • Urinating frequently in small amounts. Those who have severe cases of IC may urinate as much as 60 times in a day.
  • Pelvic pain. In women the pain is between the vagina and the anus and in men it is between the scrotum and the anus.
  • Pelvic pain during intercourse.
  • Constant pain in the pelvis.

Some patients may have only the pain and others the urination symptoms. It is most common to have both the pain and the frequent urination.

Pain from interstitial cystitis can get worse if there is a urinary tract infection.

Risk Factors

There are a few factors that can put people at a higher risk of interstitial cystitis:

  • Sex – Women are diagnosed with IC considerably more often than men or children of either gender. Men can have similar symptoms that are normally associated with prostatitis.
  • Age – This disease most often occurs between the ages of 30 and 40.
  • Other chronic conditions – People who suffer from other chronic conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and fibromyalgia may be more prone to IC, however there is no known connection between these conditions.

Prevention

Any preventative measures that can be taken against a recurrence of interstitial cystitis are based on the theory that it is caused by the damage done to the bladder wall. The advice is to avoid any continuing irritation of the bladder. One way to do this is by boosting the immune system:

  1. Visit an integrative internist. These doctors focus on your overall health and the concept of preventing disease as well as treating chronic illnesses. This type of doctor will do an in-depth study of your health history. This is important since IC can occur after another serious illness like fatigue, stress, or some type of infection that may have required antibiotics.
  2. This doctor can give you suggestions for boosting your immune system. These doctors practice both traditional and alternative medicine and can give advice regarding the proper vitamins and other supplements to take for the immune system. Probiotics are often recommended.
  3. Diet is especially important. If you eat the types of food that support gastrointestinal health, this can lead to a stronger immune system. This type of diet should include plenty of proteins, vegetables, and foods that are high in fiber. Organic food is better that non-organic and processed foods.

Another way to prevent IC is to keep the pH level in the body balanced.

  1. You should have the pH in your body tested regularly. “Potential of Hydrogen” is the amount of acidity or alkalinity in any solution. By testing the body’s pH you will know if you are more alkaline or more acidic. If the pH is not balanced properly, the body is considered to be toxic. The cells in a body that is toxic are not capable of absorbing the nutrients from food or oxygen.
  2. Eat the foods that will provide a healthy pH balance. The foods you eat should be 75 percent alkaline and 25 percent acidic. Too much acidic food can make the entire body too acidic, which can cause inflammation, irritation, lower energy, weak immune systems, and interstitial cystitis.

Test and Diagnosis

Since the symptoms of interstitial cystitis are so similar to those of things like urinary tract infections, bladder cancer, endometriosis in women, and prostatitis in men, the first thing that doctors will usually do is tests to rule those things out. The diagnosis of IC is generally based on pain in the bladder combined with frequent urination and the absence of other diseases that have the same symptoms.

To rule out the other diseases, a doctor may do a urinalysis to look for the presence of bacteria; a culture of prostate secretions to determine if there is a prostate infection; or an exam to rule out bladder cancer that consists of taking a sample of the bladder and urethra for biopsy.

The doctor will also perform a complete pelvic exam and what is known as a potassium sensitivity test. In this test a solution of water and one of potassium chloride are placed into the bladder one at a time. The patient is asked to rate his or her pain and need to urinate after the placement of each solution. If the pain and urgency is significantly higher with the potassium chloride, the doctor may diagnose IC.
cystitis information

Treatment

There is no one treatment that works for interstitial cystitis in every patient. There are a number of treatments, including medications that can offer some relief but what works for one patient may not work for the next. This often results in trying several treatments before hitting on the one that is successful.

Herbal and Home Remedies

Besides following the dietary advice given in the section on Prevention, there are some other home remedies and herbal treatments that my help with interstitial cystitis.

1. Supplements and herbs

  • Calcium Citrate – Taking a calcium citrate supplement adds alkaline to urine. This can reduce the bladder irritation.
  • Gotu kola – This herb stimulates the production of the substances that make up the lining of the bladder.
  • Buchu – This is a diuretic and antiseptic for the bladder and should be taken as a tea.
  • Cornsilk – This also has diuretic properties and should be made into a tea.
  • Horsetail – This herb has properties that heal tissue as well as acting as a diuretic.

When used correctly, supplements and herbal treatments don’t usually have any side effects and can be purchased for reasonable prices at drug stores or health food stores.

2. Bladder training – This involves teaching yourself to urinate according to the time on the clock rather than when you feel the need. Start at certain intervals, like every 30 minutes whether you feel the need to or not. You can gradually up the time by 30-minute increments. This technique can help you reduce the frequency of urination.

3. Loose clothing – Don’t wear anything that put pressure on your stomach.

Pharmaceutical Remedies

There is only one prescription drug approved as a treatment for interstitial cystitis. This drug is Elmiron and it is not entirely understood how it works, but it is thought that the drug may restore the inner lining of the bladder. It can take anywhere from two to six months for you to notice a decrease in the frequency of urination. There are some minor side effects, which include slight gastrointestinal issues, and hair loss that stops when you are through taking the drug.

There are other oral medications that may help:

  1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can relieve the pain.
  2. Antihistamines may sometimes help with the urgency to urinate.
  3. Tricyclic antidepressants can aid with relaxing the bladder to block pain.

Any minor side effects of these drugs can be found on the labels.

Surgery and Non-Surgical Options

There are some non-surgical procedures that can be done to help relieve the pain of interstitial cystitis:

  1. Electrical Nerve Stimulation – With the use of special devices either attached to the skin by wires or inserted into the vagina, electrical pulses can be sent to stimulate the nerves that go the bladder. This is known as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and is used to treat chronic pain for many conditions. It is thought that the electrical pulses enhance the blood flow to the bladder as well as make the pelvic muscles stronger that control the bladder. This treatment may also signal the body to release substances that block pain.This procedure is not very costly and takes about three to four months to produce results. Most insurance providers cover the procedure.
  2. Bladder Instillation – This procedure is also called a bladder wash and involves filling the bladder with a solution of a prescription medication called dimethyl sulfoxide. A local anesthetic is sometimes mixed with the solution. The solution is left in the bladder for about 15 minutes and then it is expelled when the patient urinates. This treatment can reduce inflammation and may even stop the muscle contractions responsible for pain as well as urgency and frequency of urination.This procedure has one side effect and it is not serious. It can cause a garlicky taste in the mouth and odor on the skin for several hours. Most insurance providers cover the procedure.

Interstitial cystitis is very rarely treated with surgery because the procedures do not necessarily relieve pain. Some of the procedures are very invasive and most of them can have complications. Surgery is usually only the option when all other treatments have failed.

The options for surgery include:

  1. Bladder augmentation – The damaged portion of the bladder is removed and replaced with a section from the colon. This makes the bladder larger. The pain usually remains. Women may often need to use a catheter to empty the bladder several times a day. The IC can also reoccur on the section of the colon that was used to make the bladder larger.
  2. Cystectomy – This is a removal of the entire bladder. There are several different methods used to reroute the urine when this is done, one of which involves attaching the ureters to a piece of the colon and cutting an opening in the abdomen so that the urine can empty into a bag outside the body.
  3. Fulguration – This procedure uses lasers to burn away ulcers in the bladder that may be causing the IC.
  4. Resection – This is similar to fulguration, but the ulcers are cut out rather than burned with a laser.

Fulguration and resection don’t always work and have been known to make symptoms worse.

A cystectomy or bladder augmentation can cost between $6,500 and $11,000. The other procedures are less invasive and cost less.

Conditions

Respiratory Diseases

Respiratory Diseases are ailments and conditions that impair our respiratory system. The respiratory system is responsible for proper delivery of oxygen throughout the body, removal of carbon dioxide and toxic waste, ample regulation of the body temperature and the stabilization of the body’s pH level. Respiratory diseases are those that affect the lung, bronchial tubes, pleural cavity, trachea, upper respiratory tract and all muscles and nerves involved in the breathing process.

There are many reasons why respiratory diseases occur. They could result from an infection, accident or from inhaling some toxic products. It could also be genetic or a byproduct of unhealthy habits such as smoking. Genetics also play a part in contributing to the occurrence of respiratory diseases.

Types of Respiratory Diseases

There are several types of respiratory diseases. Let us briefly define them and look at some examples of each type.
respiratory disease symptoms
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Lung diseases that result from a severe obstruction of airflow Mto the lung are termed as a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD. These diseases would damage and narrow the airway and block airflow in the lungs.E.g.: Emphysema

Obstructive Lung Diseases

This is a form of lung disease that occurs when the airflow in the bronchial tubes get narrowed, restricting airflow to the lungs.

E.g.: Asthma, Silicosis

Restrictive Lung Diseases

Lung diseases of this form occur where there is a reduction in lung volume either because they cannot stretch enough to alter its volume according to the pressure applied, or due to diseases affecting the pleura or chest wall.

E.g.: asbestosis, Sarcoidosis and pulmonary fibrosis

Respiratory Tract Infections

Upper respiratory tract infection

Essentially, these are infections that occur to the upper portion of the respiratory system. Some examples are common cold, sinusitis, tonsillitis, otitis media, pharyngitis and laryngitis.

Lower respiratory tract infection

The most common example of an infection affecting the lower portion of the respiratory tract is pneumonia.

Respiratory Tumors

Respiratory tumors are either malignant or benign. While the benign ones such as pulmonary hamartoma rarely cause respiratory diseases, lung cancer caused by malignant tumors pose a significant health problem. Lung cancers accounts for 15% of all cancer reports and 29% of all deaths due to cancer.

Pleural Cavity Diseases

Pleural cavity diseases occur when fluid gathers in the pleural cavity during pleural effusion or when a hole in the pleura, called pneumothorax causes the affected lung to collapse.

E.g.: Emphysema and Mesothelioma

Pulmonary Vascular Diseases

Diseases are regarded as pulmonary vascular diseases when they impact the pulmonary circulatory system of our body. They could occur from a pulmonary embolism, pulmonary arterial hypertension, pulmonary edema and damage to the capillaries in the lung that results in blood leaking into the alveoli.

Symptoms

Respiratory diseases can be detected with some of these many symptoms. One should definitely seek medical consultation and help if they find themselves suffering from one or more of these symptoms.

  1. Shortness of Breath with or without exertion
  2. Breathing Difficulties or Dyspnea
  3. Rapid Breathing
  4. Dizziness and Fainting
  5. Chest Pains
  6. Accelerated Heart Rate of more than 100 beats per minute. This is also known as Tachycardia.
  7. Fatigue
  8. Loss of Appetite
  9. Weight Loss
  10. General uneasy feeling
  11. Bluish discoloration of the lips, tongue and/or fingers, also known as cyanosis.

Risk Factors

There are many factors that could contribute to the increase in occurrence of respiratory diseases. Constant exposure to these factors could increase the chances of respiratory diseases occurring.

  1. Tobacco smoke
  2. Indoor air pollutants such as those that could come from open stoves, mold, dust mites, and pollen.
  3. Outdoor air pollutants that can arise from exhaust fumes from cars and factories, smoke, dust and smog.
  4. Allergens that can comes from pets, pollen, dust mites, mold, smoke, formaldehyde and volatile organic Compounds (VOC).
  5. Occupational hazards such as exposure to toxic fumes, chemicals and harmful substances
  6. Unhealthy Lifestyle such as smoking.

Tests and Diagnosis

To determine if one is suffering from any type of respiratory disease and to determine which type, several tests could be ordered by the physician. The type of test that would be administered on a patient depends on their medical history, family history, symptoms and the diagnostic procedure physicians are expected to follow.

Some of the tests are

  1. 1. Chest X-Ray
  2. Chest X-ray is a radiograph projection of the chest that helps physicians analyze and diagnose respiratory diseases. It uses ionizing radiation to create images of the chest. X-rays are used to determine conditions that involve the chest wall, thorax bones, lungs and heart. The occurrence of pneumonia is commonly determined through an X-ray.

  3. Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs)
  4. The most common PFT that is used to measure lung function is spirometry or the measurement of breaths. This is a tool that is used to create pneumotachographs that can be used to determine respiratory conditions like asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

  5. Computed Tomography Scan
  6. Also known as a CT scan, this is a medical imaging procedure that uses tomography to create a three-dimensional image of the body part. High resolution computed tomography scan is used to diagnose respiratory diseases like emphysema and fibrosis. A general purpose image reconstruction technique is sufficient to check for pneumonia and cancer.

  7. Examination of microorganism cultures derived from secretions like sputum
  8. A microbiological culture is created when microbial organisms are allowed to multiply in a controlled environment and then tested to determine the cause of an infectious disease. In some cases, a chemical test is conducted on the culture to determine and eliminate certain causes of infection or diagnosis and could be vital information to determine the form of treatment that needs to be administered to the patient.

  9. Bronchoscopy
  10. This technique allows the insides of the airway to be viewed. Bronchoscopy also helps to provide therapeutic relief. The bronchoscope is inserted into the airway through the nose, mouth or a tracheostomy. It helps physicians analyze the airways for abnormalities like blood, tumors and inflammations.

  11. Biopsy of the lung or pleura
  12. This medical test involves the examination of cells or tissues that are removed from the patient. These are examined through a microscope by a pathologist and could be chemically analyzed.

  13. Ventilation/Perfusion Lung scan (V/Q lung scan)
  14. This form of medical imaging that uses scintigraphy to assess the blood and air circulation within the lungs. The ventilation part of the scan allows on to determine how air reaches all parts of the lung and the perfusion part assesses how blood circulates within the lungs.

  15. Ultrasound
  16. Ultrasounds are especially useful to determine the effect of pleural effusion. Pleural effusion occurs when excess fluid gathers in the pleural cavity of the ling. This could limit the expansion of the lungs and affect their breathing ability. The four types of fluid that could accumulate and cause pleural effusion are serous fluid, blood, chyle and pus.

    These tests would help determine the exact type of respiratory disease that has occurred and would allowed doctors to determine the type of treatment that needs to be administered.

Treatment Options

Many factors affect the type of treatment that would be administered for respiratory diseases. These factors are the type of respiratory disease, its intensity and the medical history of the patient in concern. Here are some possible treatment options that would be suggested to help manage one’s respiratory disease.

  1. Medication
  2. Patients could be prescribed with corticosteroids, bronchodilators, antibiotics, anticoagulants, cancer chemotherapy and immune suppressants to help them with their respiratory diseases.

    Side effects of these medications vary from one medicine to another. All patients must ensure that doctors know their full medical and family history to determine which form of medication is the safest and would be most suitable for them. Patients would also be warned of any specific side effect that could occur from the consumption of the medication and they should understand them clearly and comply as needed. Cost of these medications would vary based on the location, availability of medical facilities and how the insurance of the patient covers the medicinal cost.

  3. Physiotherapy
  4. Physiotherapy is most used when one has had a pulmonary surgery or has been diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, COPD or pulmonary fibrosis. Physiotherapy helps clear lung secretions and certainly help those who have suffered from respiratory diseases.
    herbal respiratory disease remedies

  5. Oxygen Therapy
  6. This is helpful when one is unable to inhale in sufficient oxygen due to the respiratory disease that their body is suffering from.

    This form of treatment is primarily administered when patients suffer from emphysema, pneumonia and any respiratory disorder that impacts the oxygen intake of the body.

    This form of treatment is flexible and can be administered in the hospital, at home and could be made portable as well.

  7. Mechanical Ventilation
  8. This process involves the mechanical replacement of the natural breathing process with ventilators. This method involved a ventilator and a trained individual who compresses the bag as required. This could be used as a short term measure during an operation or for chronic illnesses as well. Possible side effects are complications such as pneumothorax, injury of the airways and alveola, and ventilator associated pneumonia.

  9. Radiotherapy
  10. This process utilizes high energy rays to kill some or all cancer cells. In early stages of cancer, it could completely remove the cancer. In other cases, it can be supplemented with chemotherapy or surgery. In more advanced lung cancer, radiotherapy treatments could keep the illness under control by shrinking the cancer cells, providing some symptomatic relief for the patient.

  11. Surgery
  12. Surgical procedures like lobectomy and pneumonectomy could be performed to remove the cancer. Pleurodesis is a procedure that artificially eliminates the pleural space. Lung Volume Reduction Surgery where the damaged portions of the lung could help with COPD and emphysema patients. A patient’s damaged lung could be partially or completely replaced through lung transplantation. Surgery also allows for an artificial lung to be implanted into the body.

Home Remedies to Treat Respiratory Diseases

While there are many treatment options, there are some natural home remedies that one could take to control their respiratory diseases. These natural remedies could be consumed to provide relief from the symptoms of the respiratory diseases, cure the diseases to some extent and keep them in control. Needless to say, these natural remedies do not replace the doctor’s advice and prescription. When one intends to undergo a strict natural regimen, they should consult their doctor and do it as a supplement to the medications and treatments that is being administered to them.

Ginger

Ginger is a perennial herb that belongs to the rhizome family. The medicinal values possessed by gingers have been recognized for a long time by ancient Indians, Chinese and Greek physicians. Ginger is also used as a spice in many cultural dishes. The vitamins and minerals found in ginger are phosphorus, calcium, iron, carotene, thiamine, vitamin C, niacin and riboflavin. Ginger provides a great remedy for coughs and colds. When consumed with honey, ginger could provide relief from dry cough. Ginger tea is also a great remedy for colds and fever.

Fever resulting from influenza could be reduced from a mixture consisting of ginger juice, fenugreek and honey. It also works as an expectorant in asthma, bronchitis, whooping cough and tuberculosis.

Chicory

Chicory is a perennial herb that has long tap roots, round stems and several light or dark green leaves and pale blue flowers. This herb is native to the Mediterranean region and was known to the ancient Greeks and Romans. Its ability to create better skin was discovered a long time ago. Chicory is helpful for asthma and hay fever recovery. Juices of chicory, carrot and celery after eliminating starches and sugars help with these respiratory conditions. Powder derived from the dried chicory roots mixed in honey is a great remedy and expectorant for chronic bronchitis.

Celery

This salad plant consists of green leaves, stem and bulbous roots. The celery roots and seeds are popular in Unani and Ayurvedic treatment and medicines. The Chinese and English have used celery as a medicine since the fifth century B.C. Celery contains a well balanced proportion of nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Its antispasmodic properties help in treatment of respiratory diseases like asthma, bronchitis, tuberculosis and pleurisy.

Tumeric

Tumeric is a perennial herb that has short stems and raised branches. This rhizome has been used by those who practice Unani and Ayurvedic medicine since ancient times. The antiseptic properties of turmeric make it a good remedy to treat chronic cough and infected throats.

When fresh turmeric powder is mixed in warm milk, they make a good remedy concoction that would help increase the discharge from the nose and provide relief from cough and cold. It is also used as a great in house remedy for bronchial asthma.

Prevention Tips

One could prevent the occurrence of respiratory diseases by adhering to at least some of the prevention tips that are mentioned here. While these prevention tips may not entirely eliminate the chances of suffering from a respiratory disease, they would at least reduce the chances of respiratory diseases from occurring. It could also help with the healing process and ensure that the infectious respiratory diseases do not spread across the population. These measures are also good for general health of all within the family and society.

  1. Do not smoke. If you are, work on quitting soon. Smoking would damage your lungs and the lungs of those surrounding you, especially close family and friends. Smoking is the primary cause for many respiratory diseases and you and your loved ones are succumbed to.
  2. Educate the young children about the hazards of smoking. It would be better to educate them at an early age to ensure that they can stay protected from this unhealthy habit and protect their lung health.
  3. Avoid inhaling second-hand smoke. Being a passive smoker by inhaling smoke also affects your lungs and increases your chances of being affected by a respiratory disease.
  4. Be more proactive and protect your family from passive smoking. You could divert from smokers who are in your way. You could also instruct visitors to your home that smoking would not be tolerated.
  5. Always be clean and thoroughly wash your hands. Fight germs by maintaining your hygiene. The spread of infection reduces when everyone does their part to remain clean and germ free.
  6. Cover your coughs and sneezes to prevent the spread of flu, cold and other lung diseases.
  7. Contribute to limiting outdoor air pollution. Do your part to ensure that everyone breathes in cleaner air.
  8. Find out how you could reduce the amount of indoor air pollutants within your house.
  9. Ensure that you exercise regularly to build stronger lungs and immune system.
  10. Avoid occupational hazards such as inhaling toxic fumes from chemicals, paints and other solvents. If needed wear a protective mask and ensure that good air quality is maintained at your work place at all times.
  11. Ensure that you have taken the necessary vaccinations to protect yourself from respiratory diseases that are prevalent in your area.

Conclusion

Respiratory diseases come in many forms and severities. Learning more about them, how they occur, how they can be treated and prevented would certainly help us manage our lung health better. This is vital information whether you or a loved one is currently managing a respiratory disease.