Horse Chestnut Extract -Varicose veins and other circulatory problems (chronic venous insufficiency)

Horse chestnut seed extract-
 The seeds, leaves, bark and flowers of this tree, which is native to Europe, have been used for centuries in herbal medicine.
Scientific evidence: Several studies now indicate that horse chestnut seed extract may be helpful for venous insufficiency, decreasing leg pain, fatigue, itchiness and swelling.
Caution: Horse chestnut may lower blood sugar and interfere with diabetes medication.
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What is it?

Horse chestnut is a plant. Its seed, bark, flower, and leaves are used to make medicine. Horse chestnut contains significant amounts of a poison called esculin and can cause death if eaten raw.

Be careful not to confuse aesculus hippocastanum (Horse chestnut) with aesculus californica (California buckeye) or aesculus glabra (Ohio buckeye). Some people call any of these plants horse chestnut. This information applies to aesculus hippocastanum.

Horse chestnut seed and leaf are used for treating varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and swollen veins (phlebitis).

Horse chestnut seed is used for diarrhea, fever, and enlarged prostate.

Horse chestnut seeds can be processed so that the active chemicals are separated out and concentrated. The resulting “extract” is used for treating a blood circulation problem called chronic venous insufficiency.

Horse chestnut leaf is used for eczema, menstrual pain, soft tissue swelling from bone fracture and sprains, cough, arthritis, and joint pain.

Horse chestnut branch bark is used for malaria and dysentery.

Some people apply horse chestnut branch bark to the skin for lupus and skin ulcers.

How effective is it?

Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate.

The effectiveness ratings for HORSE CHESTNUT are as follows:

Likely effective for...

• Varicose veins and other circulatory problems (chronic venous insufficiency). Taking horse chestnut seed extract can reduce some symptoms of poor blood circulation, such as varicose veins, pain, tiredness, swelling in the legs, itching, and water retention.

Insufficient evidence to rate effectiveness for...

• Hemorrhoids.
• Diarrhea.
• Fever.
• Cough.
• Enlarged prostate.
• Eczema.
• Menstrual pain.
• Soft tissue swelling from bone fracture and sprains, arthritis, joint pain, and other conditions.
• Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate horse chestnut for these uses.

How does it work?

Horse chestnut contains a substance that thins the blood. It also makes it harder for fluid to leak out of veins and capillaries and weakly promotes fluid loss through the urine to help prevent water retention (edema).

Are there safety concerns?

Horse chestnut is LIKELY SAFE for most people when a standardized seed extract product is used short-term. Standardized products have been tested to contain exact amounts of a verified chemical. Look for products which have had the toxic substance esculin removed. Horse chestnut products can sometimes cause side effects such as dizziness, headache, stomach upset, and itching.

Pollen from the horse chestnut flower can cause allergic reactions. Rectal (suppository) use of horse chestnut may cause inflammation and itching in the anal area.

Raw horse chestnut seed, bark, flower, and leaf are UNSAFE and can even cause death when taken by mouth. Signs of poisoning include stomach upset, kidney problems, muscle twitching, weakness, loss of coordination, enlarged eye pupils, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, paralysis, and stupor. Accidental ingestion of horse chestnut requires prompt medical attention. Children have been poisoned by drinking a tea made from the leaves and twigs or eating seeds.

Are there interactions with medications?

Moderate

Be cautious with this combination.

Lithium

Horse chestnut might have an effect like a water pill or "diuretic." Taking horse chestnut might decrease how well the body gets rid of lithium. This could increase how much lithium is in the body and result in serious side effects. Talk with your healthcare provider before using this product if you are taking lithium. Your lithium dose might need to be changed.

Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs)

Horse chestnut might decrease blood sugar. Diabetes medications are also used to lower blood sugar. Taking horse chestnut along with diabetes medications might cause your blood sugar to go too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely. The dose of your diabetes medication might need to be changed.

Some medications used for diabetes include glimepiride (Amaryl), glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase), insulin, pioglitazone (Actos), rosiglitazone (Avandia), chlorpropamide (Diabinese), glipizide (Glucotrol), tolbutamide (Orinase), and others.

Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs)

Horse chestnut seed might slow blood clotting. Taking horse chestnut seed along with medications that also slow clotting might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.

Some medications that slow blood clotting include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn, others), dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, warfarin (Coumadin), and others.

Are there interactions with herbs and supplements?

Herbs and supplements that might lower blood sugar

Horse chestnut might lower blood sugar. Taking it along with other herbs or supplements that also lower blood sugar might cause blood sugar to drop too low. Some of these herbs and supplements include alpha-lipoic acid, chromium, devil's claw, fenugreek, garlic, guar gum, Panax ginseng, psyllium, Siberian ginseng, and others.

Herbs and supplements that might slow blood clotting

Horse chestnut might slow blood clotting. Using it with other herbs that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding in some people. These herbs include angelica, clove, danshen, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, Panax ginseng, red clover, and others.

What dose is used?

The following dose has been studied in scientific research:

BY MOUTH:

• For poor blood circulation (chronic venous insufficiency): 300 mg of horse chestnut seed extract containing 50 mg of the active ingredient, aescin, twice daily.

ref/credit-   http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/1055.html

6 Natural Alternatives To Ibuprofen

6 Natural Alternatives To Ibuprofen
1. Boswellia: An anti-inflammatory remedy from the Boswellia Serrata tree that grows in India. It's boswellic acids are the source of it's effectivness. The acids improve blood flow to the joints and prevent inflammation in damaged tissue. The suggested daily dose is 450 to 750 mg.

2. Capsaicin: The active compound found within chili peppers. Capsaicin is often used topically for pain. It works by interfering with pain signals sent to the brain. It is typically available as a topical cream or gel. A recommended potency is 0.025% to 0.075% and is usually applied three to four times daily. Some individuals complain of stinging and burning upon their first few uses, however this typically subsides with use and is not common.

3. Cat’s claw: Uncaria tomentosa, also known as una de gato, grows in South America. It is an anti-inflammatory that blocks the production of inflammation and pain producing hormones. Daily doses are typically 250 to 1,000 mg one to three times daily.

4. Curcumin: Curcumin is a component of the herb turmeric and is a potent painkiller that stops inflammation as well as pain response. This substance is especially effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis. Take 400 to 600 mg of curcumin three times daily for pain and inflammation.

5. Omega-3 fatty acids: The omega 3 fatty acids are excellent anti-inflammatories that have proven beneficial for use against arthritis and other inflammatory joint and bowel conditions. Omega 3s also coat the cardiovascular system, healing the veins, arteries and heart, which reduces cardiovascular risk. Omega 3s are particularly helpful with rheumatoid arthritis, which carries an increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Omega-3 fatty acids taken via fish oil are best consumed at 1,000 mg daily for proper effectiveness. Larger doses are also helpful with hemp seed oil being even more effective and containing Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids. The usual 1,000mg also applies with hemp seed oil.

6. White willow bark: The predecessor of aspirin. White Willow Bark contains salicin. Salicin converts to salicylic acid in the stomach. Being much less irritating to the stomach than the synthetic drug aspirin, White Willow Bark is a more natural and health friendly pain, inflammation and fever reducer. Use 1 to 2 dropperfuls of white willow bark tincture daily until pain, inflammation or fever subside. Please note that those with aspirin allergies will also experience those same allergies when using white willow bark.

Natural Pain Relievers (Herbals too)

Natural Pain Relievers ( and related )

by Debbie Tapp (Notes) on Sunday, May 12, 2013 at 7:00pm

Homemade Pain Relieving Cream
http://herbalhealthcare-daw.blogspot.com/2013/02/homemade-pain-relieving-cream.html

Ingredients:

1/2 cup Coconut Oil you can also use Jojoba Oil
2 teaspoons Beeswax pellets
2 teaspoons Camphor crystals or 5 Drops Camphor oil
2 teaspoons Menthol crystals or 5 drops menthol oil
5 drops Peppermint oil
5 drops Eucalyptus oil

5 drops lavender essential oil
5 drops white willow bark essential oil
5 drops arnica essential oil

Melt the coconut oil and beeswax together. You can do this in the microwave, in a double boiler, or what I did was set a small saucepan on the stove for a minute or two and then turned the burner off and added the coconut oil and beeswax. Stir until melted.
Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes, then add the camphor crystals or oil , white willow bark oil, the menthol crystals or oil , arnica oil, and the eucalyptus oil.
Put in a container and allow to cool completely. When it is completely cooled it will be a solid rather than liquid…but the minute it hits your warm skin…it will liquify again. That’s what coconut oil does, which makes it perfect for massaging onto sore muscles and joints.





Before you start taking these herbs or any herbs for pain please research them and find out if you can take them or are allergic to them
Here is a list of Herbs that help with pain
you can add to the recipe above with these herbs

White Willow Bark
White willow bark contains several beneficial compounds that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and immunity-boosting effects. The main active component of white willow bark is salicin, a chemical that has an analgesic effect (painkiller). The body converts salicin into salicylic acid once its ingested. This chemical is what makes this bark similar to aspirin, which is why it's commonly used as a natural pain remedy.



Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus Oil has a number of benefits among which the most well known is that it a strong antiseptic and a perfect oil for aromatherapy. Eucalyptus Oil of Australia helps to clear the mind and focus it. It is also a natural remedy for many diseases because it prevents infections and is a natural vaso-dilator, opening your blood vessels and increasing circulation to promote the healing process of the body for natural pain relief.

Menthol

Menthol has a natural analgesic (pain reliever) attribute when used in lotion, gel, or cream form. As the lotion is applied, molecules called ligands attach themselves to receptors in your cell triggering a change. The menthol ligand attaches to the kappa Opioid receptor, which produces a numbing effect.
Menthol brings a wonderful cooling sensation by stimulating thermoreceptors in the skin cells which help your body recognize temperature changes. Your skin doesn’t actually change temperature. Instead, menthol causes a signal to be sent which your brain interprets as cold, relieving the uncomfortable heat of inflammation. That’s why many first aid products use menthol for cooling in place of ice.


Arnica
Arnica ,relieves osteoarthritic pain in the knee and pain following carpal-tunnel release surgery. It contains helenin, an analgesic, as well as anti-inflammatory chemicals

Boswellia
Boswellia contains anti-inflammatory and analgesic boswellic acids that can soothe pain



Devil's Claw
Devil's claw has been used for thousands of years in Africa for fever, rheumatoid arthritis, skin conditions, inflammation and pain and conditions involving the gallbladder, pancreas, stomach and kidneys.

Valerian Root
This hardy little plant is often referred to as "All-Heal". It is given this name because of how many uses it has. Not only does it treat Back pain, Sleeplessness and Stress, but this plant is also used for anxiety and depression. It has a natural muscle relaxing quality and naturally sooths the mind, bringing a calm and content feeling. This plant even has minor Sedation properties which is what makes it so useful for falling asleep.

Peppermint
Peppermint is used for the common cold, cough, inflammation of the mouth and throat, sinus infections, and respiratory infections. It is also used for digestive problems including heartburn, nausea, vomiting, morning sickness, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), cramps of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract and bile ducts, upset stomach, diarrhea, bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine, gas, menstrual problems, liver and gallbladder complaints, and as a stimulant.headache, muscle pain, nerve pain, toothache, inflammation of the mouth, joint conditions, itchiness, allergic rash, bacterial and viral infections, relaxing the colon during barium enemas, and for repelling mosquitoes.


Turmeric
Turmeric is a rust-colored spice, lighter in color than paprika. Turmeric has a slightly earthy taste, and is commonly used in east Asian and Hungarian dishes. This spice is known not just for its aroma and taste, but also for its medicinal properties. Turmeric,known as curcumin, reduces inflammation in the body, and recent medical studies indicate that men who eat turmeric consistently have lower levels of prostate cancer. Reducing inflammation in the body is a key component to good, long health, so learning how to use turmeric to reduce inflammation and pain in your life can have long-term health benefits that far exceed just using this spice as a food additive

Ginger
Ginger has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate digestive cramps and mild pain


Camphor

Camphor seems to stimulate nerve endings that relieve symptoms such as pain and itching when applied to the skin. Camphor is also active against fungi that cause infections in the toenails. Camphor is Effective against Joint pain, Backaches, Neuralgia, Rheumatic pain, can be treated with Camphor externally. It is an herbal counter-irritant and most often used as an analgesic for topical treatment. Camphor oil can act as an analgesic too. The physical pain associated with external bruises or sprains along with severe inflammation can be treated with Camphor oil.
Camphor is safe for most adults when applied to the skin in a cream or lotion. Camphor can cause some minor side effects such as skin redness and irritation. Don't use undiluted camphor products or products containing more than 11% camphor. These can be irritating and unsafe. Also, don't apply camphor containing products to broken or injured skin.



Lavender
Lavender is used for restlessness, insomnia, nervousness, and depression. It is also used for a variety of digestive complaints including meteorism (abdominal swelling from gas in the intestinal or peritoneal cavity), loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, intestinal gas (flatulence), upset stomach, painful conditions including migraine headaches, toothaches, sprains, nerve pain, sores, and joint pain. It is also used for acne and cancer, and to promote menstruation.


Bromelain
Bromelain is an enzyme extracted from pineapple stems, bromelain reduces levels of prostaglandins, which are hormones that induce inflammation. Bromelain may benefit people with arthritis and conditions marked by musculoskeletal tension (such as TMJ syndrome), as well as those suffering trauma-related inflammation. What's more, the enzyme may promote healing in muscles and connective tissues.

 

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NOTE: The information contained here is for educational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for seeking the advice of a qualified physician and/or naturopathic doctor, and the information given within is not meant to replace modern medicines or established medical treatments without the proper guidance of a qualified health practitioner. It is only meant for educational purposes.

Nutrition facts, calories in food, labels, nutritional information and analysis

For those of you interested in making sure you are eating foods that are high on the anti-inflammatory scale, this is a great website. 
It shows the inflammatory factor (and everything else you ever wanted to know!) of the foods you are interested in
http://nutritiondata.self.com/ 

Nutrition can help fight Inflammation

In addition to medication, nutrition can help fight inflammation-By Joy Bauer

According to the National Institutes of Health, arthritis affects about one in every five people in the United States. Arthritis is not a single disease, but a category that includes about a hundred disorders that involve joints (osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common). Most people probably don’t realize how much nutrition can improve the way they feel.
Because arthritis is a disease of inflammation, the most effective — and logical — treatment is anything that fights inflammation. Medical management of arthritis usually starts with ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatory medications, and nutritional care starts with anti-inflammatory foods.
Before we get into my food specifics, I urge you tolose weight if you’re overweight. Being overweight puts extra stress on the joints, which increases the risk of wear and tear. In fact, every one pound of weight you lose equates to four pounds less stress and pressure on your knees. But there is another reason why being overweight is a problem. Body fat is not just an inert substance, it is metabolically active, capable of producing hormones and chemicals that actually increase levels of inflammation. By losing weight — and avoiding excess calories that can cause weight gain — you’ll automatically reduce the level of inflammation in your body.
When it comes to specific foods you should eat, an anti-inflammatory diet involves avoiding foods that make inflammation worse (saturated fat, trans fat and simple refined carbohydrate)… and eating plenty of foods that reduce inflammation.  
These foods all help to reduce some aspect of inflammation:
Omega-3 fatty acids
The healthiest of fats for people with arthritis or other inflammatory disorders are omega-3 fatty acids, one of the polyunsaturated fats. While other foods increase levels of inflammation in the body, omega-3s actually work to decrease inflammation by suppressing the production of cytokines and enzymes that erode cartilage. More than a dozen studies have demonstrated that omega-3 fish oils can reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Study participants reported greater strength, less fatigue, reduced joint swelling and tenderness, less joint stiffness and less pain.
Although the evidence is less clear about how fish oil affects osteoarthritis, the anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3s are so potent that I recommend an omega-3-rich diet (and, in some instances, fish-oil supplements) to all my clients with arthritis. I’ve seen some amazing success stories. The best foods for omega-3 fatty acids: salmon (wild, fresh or canned), herring, mackerel (not king), sardines, anchovies, rainbow trout, Pacific oysters, omega-3-fortified eggs, flaxseed (ground and oil), and walnuts.
Extra-virgin olive oil
Olive oil contains the “good” monounsaturated fat, which protects the body against inflammation because it contains antioxidants called polyphenols. In animal studies, rats with arthritis were fed diets high in various kinds of oils. The researchers found that both fish oil and olive oil prevented (or helped reduce) arthritis-related inflammation. I recommend using olive oil when cooking, instead of vegetable oil or butter. Don’t load it on — just substitute one for the other in equal or lesser amounts.
Antioxidants—vitamin C, selenium, carotenes, bioflavonoidsInflammation produces free radicals, those cell-damaging molecules that are formed in response to toxins or natural body processes. The synovium is just as prone to this kind of damage as the skin, eyes, or any other body tissue. Antioxidants protect the body from the effects of free radicals, and are a critical part of an anti-inflammation diet. Research has demonstrated that certain antioxidants may help prevent arthritis, slow its progression and relieve pain.

• Vitamin C:  Vitamin C is one of the nutrients most responsible for the health of collagen, a major component of cartilage. In addition, research suggests that people who eat a diet low in vitamin C may have a greater risk of developing some kinds of arthritis. For those reasons, it is important to make vitamin C-rich foods an important part of your daily diet. However, researchers at Duke University found that long-term, high-dose vitamin C supplements may make osteoarthritis worse. I wouldn’t want you to risk your health with supplements, so if you have osteoarthritis, you should only get vitamin C from food sources — not from an individual supplement (100% of the Daily Value found in a standard multivitamin is fine, but avoid brands with larger amounts). Some of the best foods for vitamin C:guava, sweet peppers (yellow/red/green), oranges, grapefruit, strawberries, pineapple, kohlrabi, papayas, lemons, broccoli, kale, brussels sprouts, kidney beans, kiwi, cantaloupe, cauliflower, red cabbage, mangos, white potato (with skin) and mustard greens.
• Selenium: Low levels of the mineral selenium are related to osteoarthritis severity, and possibly to rheumatoid arthritis. In a study of more than 900 people, those who had low levels of selenium were more likely to have osteoarthritis of the knee. People who ate very few selenium-rich foods were nearly twice as likely to have severe arthritis compared with those who ate a selenium-rich diet.  Some of the best foods for selenium:Brazil nuts, tuna (to avoid mercury, buy canned light tuna), crab, oysters, tilapia, pasta (whole-wheat), lean beef, cod, shrimp, whole grains, turkey and wheat germ.
• Carotenes: The carotenoids are a group of powerful antioxidant nutrients found in many fruits and vegetables. The best known is beta carotene, but there are many others. When it comes to arthritis, the carotenoid called beta-cryptoxanthin may reduce the risk of developing inflammation-related disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers from the United Kingdom found that people who ate diets high in beta-cryptoxanthin were half as likely to develop a form of inflammatory arthritis as those who ate very few beta-cryptoxanthin foods. They found that adding just one additional serving each day of a food high in beta-cryptoxanthin helped reduce arthritis risk.
  
  Some of the best foods for beta carotene include: sweet potato, carrots, kale, butternut squash, turnip greens, pumpkin, mustard greens, cantaloupe, sweet red pepper, apricots and spinach.
  Some of the best foods for beta cryptoxanthin include: winter squash, pumpkin, persimmons, papaya, tangerines, red peppers, corn, oranges and apricots.
• Bioflavonoids — quercetin and anthocyanidins:  The bioflavonoids quercetin and anthocyanidins are both forms of antioxidants. The anti-inflammatory effects of quercetin may seem to be similar to those of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (such as aspirin and ibuprofen). For example, the synovial fluid in joints of people with rheumatoid arthritis contain highly inflammatory chemicals called tumor necrosis factor (TNF). In research, quercetin was able to limit the inflammatory effects of TNF. Some of the best foods for quercetin:onions (red, yellow, white), kale, leeks, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, blueberries, black currants, elderberries, lingonberries, cocoa powder, apricots and apples with skin (*Red Delicious).
  
  Anthocyanidins and proanthocyanidins are powerful antioxidants known to reduce inflammation. They seem to inhibit production of certain inflammatory chemicals, including cytokines and prostaglandins. They contribute to the health of connective tissue, and are more powerful than vitamin C for defusing dangerous free radicals that can irritate body tissues and cause inflammation. Some of the best foods for anthocyanidins: blackberries, black currants, blueberries, eggplant, elderberries, raspberries, cherries, boysenberries, red/black grapes, strawberries and plums

Spices—ginger and turmeric Most people don’t realize that spices are a part of nutrition. Like fruits and vegetables, spices come from plant sources, and they can have powerful effects on health. Certain spices seem to have anti-inflammatory effects, and therefore should be considered for arthritis treatment. Among the most promising are ginger and turmeric. Ginger contains chemicals that work similarly to some anti-inflammatory medications, so its effects on arthritis pain are not surprising. However, ginger can also act as a blood thinner, so anyone taking a blood-thinning medication should collaborate with their personal physician when adding foods and beverages seasoned with ginger. To incorporate more ginger into your diet, grate fresh ginger into stir-fries, enjoy ginger tea and bake low-fat ginger muffins.            
Turmeric, sometimes called curcumin, is a mustard-yellow spice from Asia. It is the main ingredient in yellow curry. Scientific studies have shown that turmeric may help arthritis by suppressing inflammatory body chemicals. Enjoy chicken curry and healthy recipes that call for this anti-inflammatory seasoning.
Joy Bauer is the author of “Food Cures.”  For more information on healthy eating, check out Joy’s Web site at www.joybauernutrition.com

MIXING GRAPEFRUITS AND MEDICATIONS

Grapefruit–medicine interactions: what we already know

Chemicals in grapefruit can affect how medicines work in the body

It has been known for some time that certain chemicals in grapefruit (known as furanocoumarins) can interfere with the way your body metabolises or processes many medicines in the intestine (gut) or liver before they reach your bloodstream. When this happens, more of a medicine may get into your body, making it work too strongly or causing unwanted side effects.
This happens because of their effect on ‘CYP3A4’ — an enzyme involved in metabolising many medicines. Medicines need to be taken orally (e.g. in the form of a tablet or liquid) to be affected by grapefruit because grapefruit mainly affects this enzyme in the gut.

Some other citrus fruits might have a similar effect

Bitter oranges (e.g. Seville oranges) and limes may also cause interactions with medicines. Other citrus fruits such as sweet oranges and lemons don’t have this same effect.

Many medicines are already known to interact with grapefruit

Several prescription, over-the-counter or complementary medicines (herbal, ‘natural’, vitamin and mineral) are known to interact, or potentially interact, with grapefruit. Common examples include some types of medicines for heart conditions, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, infections, epilepsy, depression, anxiety and sleep problems.

Side effects that are caused by these interactions

The exact side effects from interactions vary and depend on the medicine, but some are serious.Serious side effects have occurred when certain medicines are taken with grapefruit, including:

• complete heart block (resulting in a very slow heart beat)
• torsade de pointes (rapid heartbeats that can lead to sudden death)
• rhabdomyolysis (severe damage to skeletal muscle that can lead to kidney damage)
• nephrotoxicity (kidney damage)
• myelotoxicity (damage to bone marrow)
• respiratory depression (reduced or slowed breathing).

Consuming any part or form of grapefruit can cause an interaction

The whole fruit including the juice and peel contain furanocoumarins, the chemicals that can interact with medicines. For this reason, people who take medicines that may interact with grapefruit are usually advised not to eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice at all. People may also be advised to avoid other related fruits that could interact with medicines.

Interactions can result from just one serve of grapefruit

Even one glass of juice or one grapefruit can have an effect on a medicine, and an interaction can occur even when the grapefruit or juice is eaten or drunk at a different time. The severity of the interaction may also depend on how often you consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice.

What the review says

The review raised four key points about grapefruit–medicine interactions. Information was obtained by looking at existing published reviews and case reports of interactions, in addition to product monographs and prescribing information sheets for recently marketed medicines in Canada.

The number of medicines that interact with grapefruit is rising

The introduction of new medicines over the last few years has seen an increase in the number of potential grapefruit–medicine interactions.
The review indicates that between 2008 and 2012, the number of medicines that may interact with grapefruit to cause serious side effects has risen from 17 to 43.

Certain medicines are more likely to have serious interactions with grapefruit than others

Medicines that normally reach your bloodstream in very small to moderate amounts are more likely to have significant interactions with grapefruit. This is because the effect of grapefruit can cause much larger amounts of the medicine to get into your bloodstream and cause side effects.

Affected medicines should not taken with grapefruit at any time

An interaction is possible no matter when you ingest grapefruit during treatment.
You don’t need to consume large quantities of grapefruit either for problems to occur: eating a whole grapefruit or drinking 200–250 mL of juice can cause significant interactions, especially if you consume this repeatedly.
The review also suggests that another non-interacting medicine may need to be considered if you can’t avoid eating grapefruit.

Older people could be more vulnerable to serious interactions

The likelihood of people experiencing grapefruit interactions with medicines can vary — and some may be more at risk than others.
People over the age of 45 years appear to be most vulnerable as they are the main buyers of grapefruit and are more likely to receive prescriptions for medicines. People over the age of 70 years may be at particularly high risk of experiencing harmful effects from an interaction.

Which medicines can interact?

The review provided a risk ranking for 89 medicines that have, or could result in, interactions with grapefruit. The authors ranked medicines by assessing:

• How much more of the medicine is absorbed into the body than usual, because of grapefruit.
• How serious the side effects are that result from this increased amount of medicine.

The table below provides a list of medicines that were assessed as high risk. According to the review, people taking these medicines should avoid grapefruit and other potentially interacting citrus fruits (such as Seville oranges and limes) during treatment, or be prescribed an alternative medicine instead. Only medicines currently marketed in Australia have been included in the list.http://www.nps.org.au/publications/consumer/medicinewise-living/2012/mixing-grapefruit-with-medicines
go to the link for entire article and the list of current meds.

Black Cherry

Why do people take black cherry?

Cherries may have antioxidant properties. In lab studies, antioxidants appear to protect cells from damage that leads to disease, including the formation of plaques in arteries. However, it’s not clear yet if antioxidants have a health benefit in people.

One small study found that people who drank cherry juice -- from a blend of different cherries -- suffered less muscle damage as a result of exercise. More research is needed to confirm a benefit, though. Cherry juice blends may help with insomnia, possibly as well as valerian.

There’s some evidence that black cherry bark may work as a cough suppressant; interestingly, it may be the cyanogenic glycosides (see below) that both help decrease the cough mechanism while being toxic in high doses. This underscores the importance of using such botanical medicines under the guidance of a health professional. It’s a common ingredient in over-the-counter cough medicines. Black cherry bark also seems to have a sedative effect.

Black cherry bark has been used to treat many other conditions, including colds, digestive problems, and pain. For colds, the bark seems to work as an astringent, drying up secretions and mucus. For now, however, there’s no good evidence to support these uses.
How much black cherry should you take?

Since black cherry is an unproven treatment, there is no standard dose. Some people use five to 12 drops of black cherry bark liquid extract in water two to three times per day. Ask your doctor for advice.

This is taken from http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/lifestyle-guide-11/supplement-guide-black-cherry

Sugar Addiction

Devil’s claw

Devil’s claw is an herb. 

The botanical name, Harpagophytum, means “hook plant” in Greek. This plant, which is native to Africa, gets its name from the appearance of its fruit, which is covered with hooks meant to attach onto animals in order to spread the seeds. The roots and tubers of the plant are used to make medicine.

Devil’s claw is used for “hardening of the arteries" (atherosclerosis), arthritis, gout, muscle pain (myalgia), back pain, tendonitis, chest pain, gastrointestinal (GI) upset or heart burn, fever, and migraine headache. It is also used for difficulties in childbirth, menstrual problems, allergic reactions, loss of appetite, and kidney and bladder disease.

Some people apply devil’s claw to the skin for injuries and other skin conditions.

How effective is it?

Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate.

The effectiveness ratings for DEVIL'S CLAW are as follows:

Possibly effective for...

• Decreasing pain from a kind of arthritis called osteoarthritis. Taking devil’s claw alone or along with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) seems to help decrease osteoarthritis-related pain. Some evidence suggests that devil’s claw works about as well as diacerhein (a slow-acting drug for osteoarthritis that is not available in the U.S.) for improving osteoarthritis pain in the hip and knee after 16 weeks of treatment. Some people taking devil’s claw seem to be able to lower the dose of NSAIDs they need for pain relief. This evidence comes from a study that used a specific powdered devil’s claw root product (Harpadol, Arkopharma) containing 2% of the devil’s claw ingredient harpagoside (9.5 mg/capsule) and 3% total iridoid glycosides (14.5 mg per capsule). Another specific devil’s claw extract (Doloteffin, Ardeypharm) 2400 mg/day providing 60 mg/day of the harpagoside ingredient has also been used.
• Back pain. Taking devil’s claw orally seems to lessen low-back pain.

Insufficient evidence to rate effectiveness for...

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Early research suggests that taking devil’s claw extract by mouth might not improve RA.
• Upset stomach.
• Loss of appetite.
• High cholesterol.
• Gout.
• Muscle pain.
• Migraine headache.
• Skin injuries and conditions.
• Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate devil’s claw for these uses.

How does it work? 

Devil’s claw contains chemicals that might decrease inflammation and swelling and resulting pain.

Are there safety concerns?

Devil’s claw is POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults when taken by mouth in appropriate doses for up to a year. The most common side effect is diarrhea. About 8% of the people participating in one research study developed diarrhea. Other possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headaches, ringing in the ears, loss of appetite, and loss of taste. It can also cause allergic skin reactions, menstrual problems, and changes in blood pressure.

However, not enough is known about the safety of using devil’s claw long-term or applying it to the skin.
read more at  http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/984.html

Anti-Inflammatory Healing Tea

For Joint Inflammation and Pain Relief
Ingredients:

• 1 whole turmeric roots, peeled and cut in 1/4 inch slices OR 2 tsp ground tumeric
• 2 inches whole ginger root, peeled and cut in 1/2 inch slices (or just get one of the biggest and freshest whole roots available and use the whole thing) OR 1.5 tsp ground ginger
• 9 whole cloves OR 0.5 tsp ground cloves
• 1 medium beet, peeled and chopped
• 5-6 green tea bags or similar amount of whole leaf tea
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Organic honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil ~ 64 oz.(~2 L) water in a large pot.  Reduce to simmer.
2. Add WHOLE cloves, turmeric, ginger, and beets (if using ground spices, you’ll add them in at step #4).
3. Cover and allow to simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Add any ground spices, stir well.  Add Green tea (bags or loose leaf).  Remove from heat and allow to steep 2 minutes.
5. Strain (if needed) or remove bags, and add lemon juice and small amount of honey (optional), to taste.
6. Can keep extra tea in refrigerator up to 2 weeks and reheat as needed.

TOP 10 ANTI-INFLAMMATORY FOODS 
1. Wild Alaskan Salmon: Salmon contains anti-inflammatory omega-3s (wild is better than farmed) and has been known to help numerous ailments. Try and incorporate oily fish into your diet twice weekly. If you don't like fish, try a high quality fish supplement.
2. Kelp: High in fiber, this brown algae extract helps control liver and lung cancer, douses inflammation, and is anti-tumor and anti-oxidative. Kombu, wakame and arame are good sources.
3. Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The secret to longevity in Mediterranean culture, this oil provides a healthy dose of fats that fights inflammation, can help lower risks of asthma and arthritis, as well as protect the heart and blood vessels.
4. Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, brussel sprouts, kale and cauliflower are all loaded with antioxidants. Naturally detoxifying, they can help rid the body of possible harmful compounds.
5. Blueberries: Blueberries not only reduce inflammation, but they can protect the brain from aging and prevent diseases, such as cancer and dementia. Aim for organic berries, as pesticides are hard to wash away due to their size.
6. Turmeric: This powerful Asian spice contains a natural anti-inflammatory compound, curcumin, which is often found in curry blends. It is said to have the same effect as over-the counter pain relievers (but without their side effects).
 7. Ginger: Ginger contains a host of health benefits. Among them, it helps reduce inflammation and control blood sugar. Ginger tea is a great addition to any diet.
8. Garlic: Though a little more inconsistent (in terms of research), garlic can help reduce inflammation, regulate glucose and help your body fight infection.
9. Green Tea: Like produce, this tea contains anti-inflammatory flavonoids that may even help reduce the risks of certain cancers.
10. Sweet Potato: A great source of complex carbs, fiber, beta-carotene, manganese and vitamin B6 and C, these potatoes actually help heal inflammation in the body.

TOP 10 INFLAMMATORY FOODS 
These foods have been linked to obesity, increased risks of numerous diseases and even death in some cases.
1. Sugar: Sugar is everywhere. Try and limit processed foods, desserts and snacks with excess sugar. Opt for fruit instead.
2. Common Cooking Oils: Safflower, soy, sunflower, corn, and cottonseed. These oils promote inflammation and are made with cheaper ingredients. 3. Trans Fats: Trans fats increase bad cholesterol, promote inflammation, obesity and resistance to insulin. They are in fried foods, fast foods, commercially baked goods, such as peanut butter and items prepared with partially hydrogenated oil, margarine and vegetable oil.
4. Dairy: While kefir and some yogurts are acceptable, dairy is hard on the body. Milk is a common allergen that can trigger inflammation, stomach problems, skin rashes, hives and even breathing difficulties.
5. Feedlot-Raised Meat: Animals who are fed with grains like soy and corn contain high inflammation. These animals also gain excess fat and are injected with hormones and antibiotics. Always opt for organic, free-range meats who have been fed natural diets.
6. Red and Processed Meat: Red meat contains a molecule that humans don't naturally produce called Neu5GC. Once you ingest this compound, your body develops antibodies which may trigger constant inflammatory responses. Reduce red meat consumption and replace with poultry, fish and learn cuts of red meat, once a week at most.
7. Alcohol: Regular consumption of alcohol causes irritation and inflammation to numerous organs, which can lead to cancer.
8. Refined Grains: "Refined" products have no fiber and have a high glycemic index. They are everywhere: white rice, white flour, white bread, pasta, pastries... Try and replace with minimally processed grains.
9. Artificial Food Additives: Aspartame and MSG are two common food additives that can trigger inflammation responses. Try and omit completely from the diet.
10. Fill in the Blank: Do you constantly have headaches or feel tired? Sometimes, you may develop an allergy to a food and not even know it. Coffee, certain vegetables, cheese... there might be a trigger you aren't even aware of. Try and take a few foods out to see how you feel and slowly incorporate them back in to see if there might be a hidden culprit lurking in your diet!

anti inflammatory info

How Does Apple Cider Vinegar Relieve Joint Pain and Stiffness?
Potassium deficiency eventually causes joint stiffness and muscle cramps. The rich source of  potassium in ACV is an agent in removing toxins and acid crystals from the body, maintaining joint pliability. A build up of acid crystals lodge themselves in joint spaces causing pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Apple cider vinegar helps to put acid crystals into solution so they can be excreted from your body relieving stiffness and pain.
The best way to ingest apple cider vinegar:
Mix 1 tablespoon of ACV and 1 tablespoon of raw unfiltered honey in an 8oz glass of luke warm (not hot) water. Drink 1-3 times per day.
*Raw honey is also a rich source of potassium.
(I prefer the ACV tablets I get at Vitamin Shoppe)
Rosemary - Powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial culinary herb.
 Turmeric - Super anti-cancer herb, also known for enhancing joint health, ending arthritis pain and increasing muscle and tendon flexibility.
Ginger - One of the world's best-known tonic herbs. Boosts immune function and circulation, helping to remove metabolic toxins from the body's cells. Well known antibacterial and anti-viral properties.
Holy Basil - Also known as tulsi, holy basil is used in Ayurvedic medicine to combat arthritis, asthma, heart disease and many other conditions. It's also a well-documented anti-stress herb that been studied extensively for its stress-reduction properties.
Green Tea - A phenomenal healing herb, green tea exhibits strong anti-cancer benefits as well as anti-inflammatory properties. Hu Zhang - Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as an herb that invigorates the blood and eases inflammation of the lungs. The name for this herb is quite fascinating: The "Hu" means tiger, and "Zhang" means cane (like a walking cane). The "Hu" is used to denote strength, and the "Zhang" means "supportive." Hu Zhang dissolves phlegm and stops coughing, among its many other actions.
Chinese Goldthread - This is another Chinese herb that contains several bitter alkaloids. One of them is berberine, which is a phenomenal anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal nutrient. It has even been studied as a defense against MRSA superbug infections. Under ultraviolet light, berberine exhibits a natural fluorescence, meaning it exhibits a natural resonance with certain wavelengths of light.
Barberry - An herb used by ancient Egyptians (and still in use there today) for treating inflammatory fevers. It also aids in digestion and liver function. It's more of a support herb in this formula than the celebrity.
Oregano - Oregano is a very potent anti-parasite herb, but it's also used as a natural decongestant and anti-allergy herb. Highly-concentrated wildcrafted forms (like you find from North American Herb & Spice) will blow your mind. Baikal Skullcap - Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat intestinal inflammation, this world-renowned herb also relieves anxiety and insomnia. It also helps lower blood pressure and reduce tension throughout the body.
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Turmeric, ginger and green tea ingredients are powerful anti-cancer remedies all by themselves. Turmeric contains ingredients that halt the growth of cancer tumors by cutting off their blood supply. Ginger boosts circulation to extremities and greatly enhances immune function. Green tea offers powerful prevention for breast cancer and prostate cancer!
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Keep a food diary for one week. Yep, just write down every single thing you eat or drink for a week. Really. If you're like most people, the list will absolutely shock you.

The anti-inflammatory diet
The anti-inflammatory diet has a lot in common with the Mediterranean Diet. You've probably already heard about the many health benefits of the Mediterranean Diet, right? Among them are greatly reduced risks of heart attack, stroke and cancer. The reason for those benefits is simply that the Mediterranean Diet is anti-inflammatory!

Here are the basics of the anti-inflammatory diet:

• 90% plant-based foods (or more)
• Fresh produce at every meal
• No processed foods (made in a factory)
• No fried foods, no cheap oils
• Lots of cold-refined, extra virgin olive oil
• Lots of avocados, fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, etc.
• Drink fresh vegetable juice daily (juice it yourself!)
• The best anti-inflammatory juices are cucumber and celery
• Lots of superfoods (berries, sprouts, etc.)
• Green tea and water as your beverages
• Lots of raw walnuts, pecans and other nuts

If you switch to this kind of diet, you'll experience a complete reversal of inflammation in your body (that sounds like a bold, sweeping statement but it's really just cause and effect). And not just inflammation, but also cancer, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, depression, kidney stones, osteoporosis, allergies and many other degenerative health conditions. This is the diet of LIFE, and it's the mainstay of the raw foods community that's right now curing serious diseases by juicing raw vegetables and fruits on a daily basis.

5 truths about inflammation
1. Inflammation is the underlying cause of heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer's, diabetes and many other conditions.

2. Inflammation is NOT caused by bad luck. It's caused by a bad diet.

3. Inflammatory foods are meats, dairy, sodas, processed foods, fried foods and foods cooked at high temperatures. Keep a food diary if you want to discover just how many bad foods you're really eating.

4. Anti-inflammatory foods are fresh, raw, unprocessed fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, herbs and spices. Eat more of this good stuff!

5. Anti-inflammatory supplements like Zyflamend and astaxanthin are powerful modulators of inflammation, but don't use them as a way to avoid the responsibility of making serious changes to your diet. Use them to support your positive changes, and you'll see accelerated results!
http://www.newchapter.com/zyflamend/zyflamend-whole-body
Zyflamend can be purchased from Amazon also.

read this from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center also
http://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/herb/zyflamend

My arthritis in my hands cleared using
1) generic store brand of triple strength Glucosamine Chondroitin 2 pills a day (1500mg and 1200mg)
2) Apple Cider Vinegar tablets from Vitamin Shoppe as a result of search and research (600mg daily). These don't store up in the system but I instantly notice if I miss a day.

Google any of these and learn more :)

Please let me know if there is anything you would like me to find the info and share in a post.

.

PAPAYA Benefits

HAVE I MENTIONED PAPAYA BEFORE?
PAPAYA: Create radiant health with the medicinal advantages of PAPAYA.
Named the "Fruit of the Angels" by Christopher Columbus, papaya is enjoyed around the world as a sweet tropical delight. Every part of the papaya tree and its fruit lend great therapeutic value in maintaining health and correcting bodily imbalances. Indigenous people have known of the health promoting benefits of papaya for centuries, and now the knowledge has entered into the spotlight of modern medicine.

Papaya is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. The ripe fruit provides a bounty of vitamin C, E, and A along with folate and potassium. The shining star of papaya nutrition is papain, a formidable enzyme that helps digest protein and reduce inflammation. Papain is 3 times more abundant in green papaya than fully ripened fruit.
The Carica papaya, known as Pawpaw in Australia and New Zealand, is the most famous species for promoting excellent health and wellness. All parts of the plant and fruit have benefit. Fruit and seed extracts are found to be effective against the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, and Shigella flexneri. The seeds are also rich in highly digestible protein and contain the alkaloid carpaine.
Carpaine has a calming effect on the heart, bronchus, and muscles, making it ideal for lung ailments such as bronchitis and asthma. Natives of the south sea islands have long used papaya seeds for birth control and as an effective anti-parasitic. Papaya tree bark helps with toothache while the root can be cooked as a tea for jaundice, intestinal parasites, and bleeding disorders.
The leaves are considered the most powerful element of the plant, yet the skin of both unripe and ripe fruit is also remarkably bioactive. The leaves contain 15 times the digestible protein of fully ripened fruit and include high levels of papain. The skin of mature green papaya is also an abundant source of this potent enzyme.
Papaya has been shown to prevent and heal many health issues. Conditions like cancer, cardiovascular disease, macular degeneration, and arthritis are alleviated by papaya consumption. Digestive health is enhanced by the enzymes and fiber present in papaya. The fiber binds to cancer causing toxins which are then removed from the system, safeguarding healthy colon cells in the process.
The enzymes found in papaya also remove the thick fibrin coating on tumors which allows the killer T-cells to recognize and attack cancer cells.
Of the many health virtues of papaya, the ability to dissolve cancerous tumors has caught the attention of modern science. Believed to have been discovered by the Aboriginal tribes of Australia, papaya leaf tea is an effective remedy for cancer. A study at the University of Florida found that papaya slowed the growth of a wide variety of tumors, including those of the breast, lung, pancreas, cervix, and liver. Researchers used a concentrated tea made from dried papaya leaf. It was found that the larger the dose of papaya leaf tea used the more it reduced the tumor.
The dramatic healing properties of the tea were attributed to increased production of Th1-type cytokines, which are regulators of the immune system. With an increase of cytokines, the immune system is able to dissolve cancer cells. As an added benefit, consumption of papaya leaf tea is void of the harmful side effects of traditional therapies. However, those with a known latex allergy should not consume any part of the papaya tree including the fruit.
As a delicious food or potent medicine, the extraordinary papaya tree provides a wealth of healthy benefit.
Thank you, credit to:
http://www. naturalnews. com/031844_papaya_health_benefits.html#ixzz22oX5G75b

Add to your Smoothie garlic, turmeric, ginger-

Herbal remedies

What it’s good for: Reducing inflammation that may worsen pain What the experts say: The research is still equivocal, and anyone planning to take herbs and supplements should consult with their physician or a licensed naturopath. Still, many MDs find that their patients experience relief with omega-3 fish oil supplements and daily consumption of anti-inflammatory spices. “The three main supplements I use for pain are fish oils and turmeric, which are both anti-inflammatory, as well as vitamin D,” says Dr. Lipman. Some small studies have found that fish oil may reduce pain for people with rheumatoid arthritis, too. Dr. Miller is a proponent of turmeric for pain. “Take two teaspoons of turmeric and one teaspoon of grated ginger per day, with a little black pepper to help absorption; it works as a natural alternative to ibuprofen, and is great for achy joints. I make a smoothie in the morning with mango, turmeric and ginger,” says Dr. Miller.

Read more: http://www.prevention.com/health/health-concerns/pain-management-natural-remedies-ease-aches/8-herbal-remedies#ixzz24HxMG7VK

Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural reaction to injury or infection. The affected tissues swell, redden, become warm and tender, and may be painful. Things that can trigger inflammation include drug overuse, environmental toxins, free radical damage, infections, injury, trauma, and bacterial, fungal, or viral infection, to name a few. Unfortunately, it is often difficult to identify the sources of inflammation.
Eat a diet composed of 75 percent raw foods, and drink plenty of herbal teas and juices.
Eat foods high in flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants and useful for inflammation reduction. Spinach and blueberries are excellent sources of flavonoids. Strawberries contain smaller amounts. Quercetin, found in onions, is good for inflammation as well.
Consume half of a fresh pineapple or fresh papaya daily. Pineapple contains bromelain and papaya contains papain, both enzymes that reduce swelling and inflammation. It should reduce the pain and swelling in two to six days. Only fresh pineapple or papaya (not canned) is effective. Bromelain is also available in pill form.
Eat coldwater fish such as herring, mackerel, salmon, and sardines, as they are rich sources of essential fatty acids.
Limit saturated fats and salt.
Avoid cola, sugar, white flour products, and junk foods.
Any organ or tissue of the body, internal or external, can become inflamed. Internal inflammation is often caused by bacterial infection, but can also be caused by disorders such as allergies, arthritis, asthma, autoimmune diseases, Crohn's disease, inflammatory bowel disorders, osteoarthritis, peptic ulcer disease, or ulcerative colitis. External inflammation is most often the result of injury, but can also result from (or be aggravated by) allergies, infection, and other factors.
Alfalfa is a good source of minerals and chlorophyll.
Aloe vera juice is helpful for inflammation.
Bilberry contains flavonoids that reduce inflammation.
Boswellia and turmeric (curcumin) help to reduce inflammation.
Cat's claw is good for inflammation and healing.
Echinacea, ginger, goldenseal, pau d'arco, red clover, and yucca are all good for inflammation.

Turmeric

Many clinical studies agree that curcumin in turmeric has anti-inflammatory effects, including a significant beneficial effect in relieving rheumatoid arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome. Curcumin, which gives this spice its familiar yellow pigment, may also lower cholesterol. Turmeric is also packed with antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, and E, which have been shown to prevent cataracts. Turmeric should not be used by people with gallstones or bile obstruction. Though turmeric is often used by pregnant women, it is important to consult with a doctor before doing so as turmeric can be a uterine stimulant.