Herbal Medicines For Psoriasis

By Ricky Hussey

Psoriasis is a common skin condition that is characterized by patches of well-defined plaques covered by silvery scaling. These patches occur on the knees, elbows, trunk, scalp and hairline, but do not affect the face. The patches may show pinpoint bleeding spots when scratched. Skin may be generally dry and in severe cases the nails are pitted. Severe cases may be accompanied by a form of arthritis that affects the fingers, knees, ankles, and spine, but this is rare.

Attacks of psoriasis are normally triggered by mess, illness, and damage to the skin. It is not itchy, but it can be lery painful when cracks appear across the skin. Psoriasis can be very embarrassing for the sufferer because it is unsightly and still misunderstood. Psoriasis is never contagious and usually appears in the late teens and early twenties, although random cases occur in children and the elderly. It runs in families and recurs at intervals, usually throughout life.

There are four types of psoriasis: flexural, which covers the moist areas of the body; pustule psoriasis, which is characterized by small pustules, usually on the palms or soles; plaque psoriasis, which is the most common type, affecting most areas of the body and frequently the nails; and guttate psoriasis, which appears in children, usually following a throat infection.

Treatment

Naturopathy Sunlight improves psoriasis, which is usually worse during the winter months in the Northern Hemisphere.

Diet and Nutrition Avoid meats, fried foods, sugar, and dairy produce; increase your intake of both fruit and vegetables. Take evening primrose oil and mineral supplements.

Consult a qualified practitioner/ therapist for:

Herbal Medicine A herbalist will prescribe for the individual case, but may suggest the following: dandelion and burdock to cleanse the system, nettle to improve the circulation, and echinacea as a general skin tonic.

Homeopathy Use Sulfur for attacks with itching, Petroleum for dryness, and Graphites for oozing plaques.

Acupuncture This claims good results in toning down symptoms, if not eliminating the problem, provided it is used in conjunction with additional suggestions, which may include dietary modification and learning techniques to deal with stress. The same applies to homeopathy.

Read out for herbal medicines. Check out herbal supplements and skin disorders

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Detailed Information on High Blood Pressure

By Juliet Cohen

Blood pressure is determined by the amount of blood your heart pumps and the amount of resistance to blood flow in your arteries. The more blood your heart pumps and the narrower your arteries, the higher your blood pressure.High blood pressure is also called hypertension. High blood pressure is a blood pressure reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher. Nearly 1 in 3 American adults has high blood pressure. Once high blood pressure develops, it usually lasts a lifetime. Hypertension can be classified as either essential (primary) or secondary. Essential hypertension indicates that no specific medical cause can be found to explain a patient's condition. Secondary hypertension indicates that the high blood pressure is a result of another condition, such as kidney disease or certain tumors.

People with hypertension had greater declines in all three functional measures than those with normal blood pressure. High blood pressure might also be caused by another medical problem. Regardless of race, age, or gender, anyone can develop high blood pressure. At severely high pressures, defined as mean arterial pressures 50% or more above average. Sodium is an environmental factor that has received the greatest attention. Hypertension is one of the most common complex disorders, with genetic heritability averaging 30%. Approximately 60% of the essential hypertension population is responsive to sodium intake. Sleep apnea is a common, under-recognized cause of hypertension. Another claimed cause of hypertension is the misalignment of vertebrae within the spinal column.

Certain medications including birth control pills, cold remedies, decongestants also may cause secondary hypertension. You can control high blood pressure through healthy lifestyle habits and taking medicines. Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) keep calcium from entering the muscle cells of your heart and blood vessels. Nervous system inhibitors relax blood vessels by controlling nerve impulses from the brain. Vasodilators open blood vessels by directly relaxing the muscle in the vessel walls, causing blood pressure to go down. Reducing sodium (salt) diet is proven very effective. Weight reduction and regular aerobic exercise (e.g. jogging) are recommended as the first steps in treating mild to moderate hypertension. Avoid tobacco smoking and alcohol drinking has been shown to lower blood pressure.

High Blood Pressure Treatment and Prevention Tips

1. Beta blockers medications reduce the workload on your heart.

2. Reducing sodium (salt) diet is proven very effective.

3. Nervous system inhibitors relax blood vessels by controlling nerve impulses from the brain.

4. Thiazide diuretics medications act on your kidneys to help your body eliminate sodium and water.

5. Angiotensin II receptor blockers medications help relax blood vessels by blocking the action.

6. Weight reduction and regular aerobic exercise (e.g. jogging) are recommended.

7. Avoid tobacco smoking and alcohol drinking has been shown to lower blood pressure.

Juliet Cohen writes articles for Diseases. She also writes articles for Makeup and Hairstyles.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Herbal Medicines For AIDS

By Ricky Hussey

Hiv is the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, which damages the immune system to the extent that it can no longer fight off infection. Most experts believe that HIV is responsible for Aids, but there is some evidence that not all people who contract HIV go on to have full-blown Aids (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). Infection by the HIV is followed two to six weeks later by the development of antibodies to the virus. This process may be accompanied by one or more systemic illnesses. Symptoms include

heavy night sweats and fevers
lethargy, fatigue, and exhaustion
weight loss
diarrhea, thrush, and herpes infections
mouth ulcers and bleeding gums.

Complete recovery is the norm immediately after this illness, but thereafter the person will test positive for antibodies to HIV (they will be HIV positive) but otherwise appear healthy. Several years typically elapse between the acquisition of the virus and development of full-blown Aids.

Aids is generally believed to be caused by HIV. It is suggested that Aids may be an autoimmune disease (where the immune system turns against itself), but it is now clear that the immune system itself is attacked, especially the "helper" T-cells, so that the body cannot fight infection.

There is, at present, no known cure for the disease, which, once it develops, is usually fatal. However a wide range of "natural" therapies have been, be effective in treating symptoms of the disease, successfully slowing its progress in many case, and sometimes even reversing it.

Aids can appear in many forms, but around sufferers experience pneumonia (pneumocystis carinii) and a third Kaposi sarcoma, a form of skin cancer. Others suffer from a range of secondary infections as a result of their weakened immune system. Most suffer from fatigue and malaise, as well as stress and anxiety.

Treatment

The alternative treatment for Aids depends on individual symptoms, put is based on four main aims.

to inhibit the virus
to prevent and treat secondary infections
to boost the immune system
to treat the patient holistically.

Many patients benefit from a combination of several of the following approaches, with or without conventional medicine. Emotional support is essential since. Aids is a disease in which physical and mental integration is particularly necessary for good results in treatment.

Consult a qualified practitioner/therapist for:

Counseling And Hypnotherrapy These are valuable for helping to deal with stress and depression. The power of the mind over the body is particularly evident in Aids sufferers. Considerable research has shown that a positive state of mind toward the disease and survival has actually helped to raise the T-cell count in some patients and reduced their symptoms.

Visualization And Meditation These can be used to encourage the body to heal itself.

Traditional Chinese Medicine A variety of Chinese treatments has been found extremely effective, including chi kung and the use of Chinese herbs, particularly astragalus, which inhibits the spread of the virus. Chinese dietary therapy is based on the idea that foods are hot or cold, dry or lubricating (by nature, not literally). Those with skin problems are advised to avoid "hot" and spicy foods, while those with diarrhea, for example, should not eat cucumbers or dairy products, which are" cold."Acupuncture This has been found to be beneficial.

Aromatherapy Oils to use for massage and in baths include tea tree (which is antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial), eucalyptus, lavender, juniper, myrrh, fennel, and sage. Oils can be taken by mouth, but only under the supervision of a therapist qualified in clinical or medical aromatherapy.

Herbal Medicine Remedies believed to be of value include golden seal and garlic. Golden seal contains berberine, another anti¬bacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agent. It is particularly effective against diarrhea. Garlic increases "killer" T-cells.

Homeopathy

Some patients may find homeopathy beneficial.

Massage and Reflexology These can provide stress relief and relaxation. Lymphatic drainage massage ¬which stimulates the flow of the lymph carrying waste products away from the blood - may also help.

Yoga, T'ai Chi, and Chi Kung These movement therapies are said to be beneficial.

Read out for home remedies. Check out pregnancy and homeopathic remedies

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Treating Arthritis and Related Conditions

By Keith T Tennent

According to medical records, the first ever case of arthritis was recorded during 4500 BC. Arthritis can be defined as the condition wherein the joints of the human body get damaged, which is often related to the natural aging process.

The word "Arthritis" is believed to have been derived from the Greek language. Arthritis literally means joint inflammation: "Arth" refers to the joints and "itis" refers to inflammation. Arthritis is not a single disease.

There are several different types of Arthritis, each of which has a specific cause. Of these Rheumatoid Arthritis and Psoriatic Arthritis are considered to be autoimmune diseases wherein the human body is self attacked. Joint contamination leads to Septic Arthritis while Gouty Arthritis is often caused due to accretion of crystals of uric acid within the joints, followed by inflammation. Osteoarthritis is believed to be the most common type of Arthritis which is generally caused following injury of the joints due to some infection or the natural aging process.

In terms of seriousness and physical effect, the medical sciences have identified Arthritis as a disease which is second only to heart disease and associated diseases. Self-diagnosis of Arthritis is often problematic, owing to the fact that there are over a hundred different types of Arthritis. This disorder can also be found in juveniles under the age of 15 years.

Whilst Arthritis mainly affects the joints, in some cases it has also been found to affect certain other body parts. These affected body parts develop often intense pain and inflammation and will often leave the suffer incapacitated. It has been observed that women are more prone to Arthritis than men.

One of the causes of Arthritis is insufficient lubrication of the joints which in turn may lead to heightened levels of stress on the body part. The initial symptoms of arthritis include severe pain and stiffness around the joint which happens gradually within a period of time. Arthritis symptoms could easily be avoided or prevented through various physical exercises or activities. Obesity is supposed to be one of the major causes of the Arthritis complaints due to intensive stress generated on the limbs and joints. Heavier body weights damage muscles and joints more over a period of time than lighter body parts. Arthritis is usually more painful during winter or damp weather conditions. Hence during these periods, the affected body parts should be covered with some woolen cloth or kept warm - this would reduce the discomfort significantly.

In some cases of Arthritis the patients may become completely physically disabled and be forced to remain bed-ridden for an extended period of time., though thankfully these cases are much less frequent than other effects of Arthritis

There are several remedial medications approved by the FDA for various Arthritis disorders which do help relieving the problem to varying degrees of success. It is essential that you consult a physician for proper diagnosis of the precise type of Arthritis before undertaking any treatment plan. Such treatment will often involve some physical and occupational therapy, with arthroplasty being offered as the preferred option for medicinal therapy.

In some extreme cases doctors also recommend artificial joint replacement therapy as an option which is considered to be highly effective and successful. Just over 90% of the patients who are severely affected by arthritis symptoms, will report relief with these types of treatments.

Keith Tennent has over 10 years experience in the healthcare industry and now provides free online information, http://www.arthritiskneepain.co.uk advice and guidance. http://www.arthritiskneepain.co.uk was developed in response to an ever growing interest that arthritis knee pain sufferers have in researching their own conditions and taking a more proactive approach to health care.

Click here At http://www.arthritiskneepain.co.uk the goal is to give knee pain sufferers an accurate source to research information that will help educate them on their particular condition.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_T_Tennent

The Best Method Of Common Cold Prevention

By Loo Puay Kiong

People often wonder what the best method of common cold prevention is. Many mistakenly assume that they have to buy a whole slew of drugs and antibiotics to treat the malady a foolish premise, since antibiotics serve to kill bacteria, not viruses, and no drug has ever been proven to cure the common cold.

Others think that common cold prevention requires something more extreme, such as a complete lifestyle overhaul. And while no one in their right mind will deny that eating well and sleeping right can do wonders for overall health and well-being, it's far from the easiest method of prevention out there.

But is there a way to fight the common cold that is both easy and effective?
Short answer: Yes.

Long answer: read below.

One of the best ways to prevent the common cold that people tend to overlook is avoiding contact with those who suffer from the virus. Why do you think the common cold is more prevalent in people who spend most of their time in close quarters with one another? It's because the chances are much greater that these people will somehow pass the cold virus back and forth to each other once one of them becomes infected.

You can relax, though. This doesn't mean you have to avoid cold sufferers (much less healthy people) like a plague, so you don't have to run and duck for cover whenever your sick friend comes within 10 feet of you to say hello. All this means is that you have to be a bit more conscious when you're around those who are infected. That's the number one step to common cold prevention.

So what do you have to do when you're around them? For starters, you can ask them to carry a tissue or handkerchief along with them to avoid spreading germs, so that you don't have to carry on a conversation at a safe distance. You can easily inhale the cold virus after your friend coughs or sneezes, so he'd better have something to block his spray.

Also, think twice before sharing anything with him food, drinks, or that handkerchief he sneezed in since they are sure to be covered with germs that may put you on the fast track to infection. Washing your hands frequently would be a good idea as well, since the cold virus can be transferred through hand contact. And even if you refrain from touching your friend's hand, who's to say you won't get the virus on yours when he passes you your keys or he hands over the money he owes you?

This is also why you should keep your hands away from your nose, mouth, and eyes. These areas are most vulnerable to the cold virus, so infection becomes more and more likely with each scratch (nose), pick (teeth), and rub (eye).

And finally, never underestimate the common cold. Exposure to incredibly small doses of the virus is enough to cause infection. Stay vigilant!

While evasion may not be the best method of common cold prevention (that probably still belongs to building a strong immune system through living a healthy lifestyle), it's still one of the most effective ways to prevent the common cold. And compared to others, it's relatively easy too.

Visit my Blog for the latest update. Hope you like my Article :)

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Loo_Puay_Kiong

How To Effectively Manage Your Hemorrhoid Problem

By Benjamin Wise

Did you know that about 50 percent of the world's population will be affected by hemorrhoids by the time they reach 50 years of age. However among that 50 percent only a small number will seek medical assistance.

To effectively manage your hemorrhoid problem you are going to need to address a number of issues on numerous fronts. Although at this very moment your main objective will be to alleviate the immediate problem it is wise to tackle this condition on a broader scale.

For immediate relief start to take warm baths both in the morning and evening. Make sure after your bath that you clean that area thoroughly. After you are done with your warm bath drink a cup of chamomile tea and do this a few times during the day.

Drink plenty of water as much as eight glasses a day. Go to the pharmacy and pick up vitamin E capsules. When you get home puncture the capsule with a clean pin then rub its contents on the affected area. This will provide some soothing relief.

As soon as you get up in the morning drink some warm water and add a cut of lemon. Then get some fresh fruit and cut it up, like oranges and grapefruit. Vary your fruit, you can eat pairs and apples. Eat fruit that you like so that you don't have to force yourself.

Pick up some whole grain cereal like steel cut oats. This has lots of fiber. Fiber along with good fruit will help to soften your stools hence preventing you from having to strain during potty time.

Once you have figured out your diet add natural herbal supplements with ingredients such as horse chestnut. This will help improve the health of your veins. Do not sit down too much and if you have to sit get a special cushion that does not irritate the affected area.

Select any of the links provided to get rid of hemorrhoids starting today. Hemorrhoid Treatment.

Learn how to Get Rid Of External Hemorrhoids

Learn How To Get Rid Of Bleeding Hemorrhoids

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Benjamin_Wise

Home Remedies for Cold Sores That Actually Work

By Amelia Kimberly

If you suffer from cold sore outbreaks, you may be getting very tired of having to run off to the store every time you feel a cold sore coming on. Fortunately there are some home remedies for cold sores that you can use without having to make a store run.

These remedies have different advantages, one of them being that you don't need to get a prescription first. You also don't have to waste valuable time deciding on a product to buy. Whenever you feel a cold sore coming, you can take action quickly just by using home remedies for cold sores. This will help reduce the amount of time you'll have to put up with the cold sore.

A lot of the better home remedied for cold sores typically include taking vitamins and other supplements, as well as changing your overall diet. You can also use ice packs or try applying different juices or powders directly to the sore.

Actually, you'll find that a lot of the silliest-sounding remedies work so much better than more traditional solutions. Not all of the ideas in this article are bizarre, but they're definitely novel compared to the average product you'd buy at a local drug store or pharmacy.

Applying an ice pack ever 5 to 10 minutes of each hour once you feel a cold sore coming on is one of the best home remedies for cold sores. Ice can help slow down the metabolism in the area, which in turn slows down the cold sore's growth.

This also has the added benefit of keeping the sore much smaller than it would be and stopping the virus from spreading to other areas. You'll also help reduce the pain by keep ice or ice packs pressed to the affected area.

Applying aloe vera, damp tea bags, and lemon balm extract are other common home remedies for cold sores. You can also help reduce cold sore outbreaks by limiting the amount of coffee you drink.

If you apply a damp tea bag to the area in the same way you would an ice pack, this will do a lot to relieve your cold sore symptoms. The tannic acid found in most teas has antiviral properties.

Home remedies are great because they are so effective in healing cold sores. They don't cost much and aren't hard to find.

Most of these home remedies for cold sores will do a lot to relieve your pain and promote faster healing, especially if you start before the cold sore fully emerges as a blister.

Visit http://www.getridofcoldsores.net get rid of cold sores to discover even more quick and easy http://www.getridofcoldsores.net/cold-sore-remedies.html cold sore remedies and http://www.getridofcoldsores.net/cold-sore-medication.html cold sore medication reviews.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amelia_Kimberly

Causes Of Kidney Stones You Should Know

By Mc Raflesia

Causes of kidney stones are necessary things to know, particularly to avoid them. While certain foods may promote stone formation in people who are susceptible, scientists do not believe that eating any specific food is one of causes.

In relation to causes, a person with a family history of kidney stones may be more likely to develop stones. Urinary tract infections, kidney disorders such as cystic kidney diseases, and certain metabolic disorders such as hyperparathyroidism are also linked to stone formation.

Cystinuria and hyperoxaluria are two other rare, inherited metabolic disorders that often become a cause. When the urine contains more oxalate than can be dissolved, the crystals settle out and form stones.

Causes were also found when there is a decrease in urine volume or an excess of stone-forming substances in the urine. The most common type of kidney stone contains calcium in combination to either oxalate or phosphate. Other chemical compounds that can cause stones in the urinary tract include uric acid and the amino acid cystine.

Another cause is dehydration. It through reduced fluid intake or strenuous exercise without adequate fluid replacement increases the risk of kidney stones. Kidney stones can also result from infection in the urinary tract; these are known as struvite or infection stones.

However, treatment depends on the type and cause of the stone. Most stones can be treated with no surgical procedure. Drinking lots of water and staying physically active are commonly enough to move stones smaller than about five millimeters out of your body.

If you want to get some excellent resources on kidney, please visit at 1st-on-kidney.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mc_Raflesia

Don't Suffer Needlessly From Chronic Pain

By Robert Gould

As a chronic pain sufferer myself, being diagnosed with a herniated disc in my lower back, along with bone disc degenerative disease, I have learned a lot about how chronic pain is treated, or I should say undertreated. It's a sad fact for a variety of reasons, that chronic pain goes grossly undertreated. Too many americans are needlessly suffering in pain. After years and years of my pain going undertreated, I have learned a few things that I would like to share.

First of all, theres a stigma associated with patients seeking treatment for chronic pain. Physicians are hesitant about what kind of treatment is best. From physical therapy, bio-feedback, muscle relaxers, steroids, anti-inflammatory, over the counter medications, to narcotic pain medication. Particularly when using narcotic pain medication, it seems physicians do whats best in the interests for themselves, not whats in the best interest of the patient. This has occured due to government regulations, narcotic abuse, diversion, patient addiction & physicians who just dont understand pain.

Obviously if someone doesn't have a diagnosis of chronic pain, and other treatment is better suited, that should be the course of action. But on the other hand, if every other treatment has been tried, chronic pain sufferers should have every right to narcotic pain medicine. Before I found a physician who finally understood my pain, I felt like a drug addict, I felt like I was disbelieved by the medical community when I told them I was in pain. Pain sufferers are discriminated against tremendously. I am dedicated to informing as many as possible that people are truly suffering in pain needlessly, and dedicated to helping those who suffer.

For more information go to: www.rxscripts4u.com

Author Bio: Author is a chronic pain sufferer dedicated to helping other chronic pain sufferers for a better quality of life. For more information, please visit: www.rxscripts4u.com

Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content

Herbal Medicines For Common Breathing Problems

By Ricky Hussey

Breathing problems are becoming more common as air becomes more polluted. Many alternative therapies, especially herbal medicine and homeopathy, can help in many of the more common conditions that affect the respiratory system.
Coughs

Coughing is the body's natural way of clearing irritation and congestion from the lungs and airways. A dry cough is reacting to an irritant, a productive cough helps to expel congested phlegm. A common cold or influenza is usually accompanied by a cough. But coughs can be a sign of other respiratory problems (a hoarse cough may indicate laryngitis in an adult and croup or whooping cough in a child), or more serious breathing disorders (see Pleurisy, Pneumonia, Tuberculosis, Emphysema, and Asthma).

Treatment

Herbal Medicine Make infusions of the following:

for most coughs white horehound is effective

for a hard cough use mullein

for an irritating cough in adults use wild lettuce, and in children wild cherry bark (a mild sedative)

for a cough with a fever use yarrow or angelica

for a catarrhal cough use elecampane or elderflower.

Diet and Nutrition Biochemic tissue salts, taken in tablet form:

for a hard, dry cough with fever - Ferrum phos.

for a cough with thick, white phlegm - Kali mur.

for a cough with yellow phlegm that is worse at night - Kali sulf.

for a spasmodic painful cough - Magnesia phos.

for a loose, rattling cough with watery phlegm ?Calcarea, alternating with Ferrum phos.

Aromatherapy Massage chest and back with essential oils-eucalyptus, sandalwood, frankincense, and myrrh are recommended. Add essential oils to hot water and inhale to help expel phyegm. For a dry, hard cough, try cypress, hyssop, bergamot, or cammomile oil used as steam inhalations.

Consult a qualified practitioner/therapist for:

Acupressure Coughing spasms in the upper back can be relieved by pressure on the point between the shoulder blade and spine, at heart level.

Acupuncture An imbalance in the flow of energy to the lungs can be treated by inserting needles into the Lung meridian on the arms, or into the meridian of another organ with a related rhythm.

Bronchitis/wheezing

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the airways that connect the windpipe to the lungs (bronchi). Acute bronchitis lasts up to two weeks and is caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria. It can be dangerous in the elderly and those with heart disease. Chronic bronchitis is more serious and can last for months, getting progressively worse. It is usually caused by breathing polluted air or smoking. Coal miners and construction workers, for example, are particularly susceptible.

Symptoms of bronchitis include a persistent cough producing phlegm, breathlessness, chest pains, fever, and headache.

Treatment

Aromatherapy Take deep inhalations of eucalyptus and sweet thyme.

Herbal Medicine A cupful of elecampane infusion, three times daily, can be helpful in clearing mucus and easing a bronchial cough. And taking garlic capsules every night in winter and herbal teas cold twice daily may help prevent a recurrence of acute bronchitis.

Consult a qualified practitioner/therapist for:

Homeopathy Remedies will be prescribed for the individual case but may include the following: Aconite 6c for fever, tight chest, tickly cough, and thirst might be recommended; Kali bich. 6c when there is loose white sputum, a rattling cough, and irritability; Phosphorus 6c for voice loss, burning throat, cough, and thirst; Pulsatilla for dry cough at night when lying down, lack of thirst, and loose green sputum in the morning.

Traditional Chinese Medicine This treatment aims to improve lung energy with remedies such as plantain seed, balloon flower root, honeysuckle flowers, or gardenia fruit.

Read out for Herbal medicines. Check out hoodia diet pills and constipation

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

History of Diabetes

By: Juliet Cohen

Diabetes is not a newly born disease, it has been with human race from long back, but we came to knew about it in 1552 B.C. During First Century A.D diabetes described by Arateus as 'the melting down of flesh and limbs into urine. Diabetes was given its name by the Greek Physician Aretaeus (30-90CE). He recorded a disease with symptoms such as constant thirst (polydipsia), excessive urination (polyuria) and loss of weight. Nearly 5,000 years ago in India, the physician Susruta described a disease "brought on by gluttonous overindulgence in rice, flour, and sugar," in which urine is "like an elephant's in quantity. 11th Century Diabetes commonly diagnosed by 'water tasters,' who drank the urine of those suspected of having diabetes; the urine of people with diabetes was thought to be sweet-tasting.

Early 19th Century first chemical tests developed to indicate and measure the presence of sugar in the urine. Diabetic diet was formulated with inclusion of milk, oats and other fibre containing foods in 1900-1915. Function of insulin, its nature, along with its use had taken time from 1920 -1923, discovered by Dr Banting, Prof. Macleod and Dr.Collip, who were awarded a Noble prize. In the decade of 1940, it had been discovered that different organs like kidney and skin are also affected if diabetes is creeping from a long term. January 23, 1922 Dr. Collip's insulin extracts first tested on a human being, a 14-year-old boy named Leonard Thompson, in Toronto; treatment considered a success by the end of the following February.

Helen Free test was invented. In the mid-1940s, Alfred Free and Helen Murray were both chemists working together in the biochemistry research group at Miles Laboratories. In the 1960's, a muffin was a small breakfast treat, usually home baked. A homemade blueberry muffin, using a regular-sized muffin tin, is about 100 calories and 6 grams of fat, depending on the recipe. It's about the size of a tennis ball. During 1970 Blood glucose meters and insulin pumps are developed. Laser therapy is used to help slow or prevent blindness in some people with diabetes. When 1983 came introduced first biosynthetic human insulin. 75th Anniversary of the discovery of insulin celebrated around the world in1996. 50th Anniversary of the Canadian Diabetes Association in 2003.

Juliet Cohen writes articles for fitness tips and weight loss tips. She also writes articles on home remedies.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

How to Stop a Cold Sore Virus

How To Save Money On Prescription Medications

By Matthew Keegan

If you are a regular user of prescription medications, you know that these drugs can be costly to purchase. Cutting back on drugs can be dangerous to your health, but if you are on a fixed income your choices can seem limited. Let's look at some cost effective ways for you to slash your prescription costs. If you are a regular user of prescription medications, you know that these drugs can be costly to purchase. Cutting back on drugs can be dangerous to your health, but if you are on a fixed income your choices can seem limited. Let's look at some cost effective ways for you to slash your prescription costs.

1. Go generic. Many medications prescribed are for name brand drugs. Ask your doctor if he or she can substitute a generic drug which can lower your costs significantly.

2. Split the pill. If you have been prescribed 40 mg of a drug and only need 20 mg consider investing in a pill splitter. You can reduce your costs significantly especially if the price difference between the two strengths is minimal; check with your pharmacist to make sure that the drug will not lose effectiveness if it is split.

3. Shop in Canada. Regulated pharmacies based in Canada tout their lower prescription costs to American consumers via the internet. Not all drugs are lower, especially when including shipping and handling cost, however.

4. Assistance programs. Many pharmaceutical companies offer drug assistance programs for users of their products. Contact the maker of your medication directly for assistance.

5. Go big. Purchasing a two month supply can be much more cost effective than purchasing a one month supply. Check to see if your insurance company permits this practice.

6. Shop around. Compare prices between pharmacies including online providers.

7. Government assistance. You may be eligible for special assistance through government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid.

8. Coupons. Occasionally, companies give away free samples of their products or will give you money saving coupons. Check with your doctor about getting free samples too.

You can save money on prescription drugs with a little bit of pluck and with plenty of determination. Shop wisely and you will be certain to save money in this day of ever spiraling health costs.

Matthew Keegan is The Article Writer who writes on just about any and every issue imaginable. You can preview samples from his high performing site at http://www.thearticlewriter.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Keegan

Heart Attack: Are You At Risk?

By Ray Kelly

If you're male and you lead an inactive lifestyle you probably have at least 3 risk factors associated with heart disease. If you're male and you lead an inactive lifestyle you probably have at least 3 risk factors associated with heart disease.

I know, I know, you feel fine but so do most people before they have a heart attack. Unfortunately, most people find out they have heart disease the day they are admitted in to hospital, and they are the lucky ones!

Ladies, don't think this is just something for men to worry about (as it has been in the past). Women, as well as men, are more likely to die of heart disease than of any type of cancer.

This is because of our modern lifestyle. We are working longer hours, so we eat fast food, and there's no time for exercise. To make matters worse, machines are taking the 'work' out of work. We are less active and it's killing us!

So what are the risk factors for heart disease?

Firstly, there are two types of risk factors: those that can be changed, and those that can't be changed. It's important to know that you only need to have 3 of these to be at risk. Each extra risk factor that you have increases your chance of having a heart attack substantially.

Risk factors that can't be changed:

Heredity: You are at greater risk if your parents, grandparents, brothers, or sisters, have heart disease.

Gender: Men are at greater risk than women, though the risk for women increases after menopause.

Age: As you increase in age, so do your chances of having a heart attack. Once you reach 40 you should have regular check-ups.

Risk factors that can be changed:

Smoking: A smoker is twice as likely than a non-smoker to have a heart attack. It not only places extra strain on the heart and lungs but also makes blood cholesterol stickier, making it easier to block arteries.

High Blood Cholesterol: Cholesterol is produced naturally by the body and is essential to our health. The problem comes when we consume too much in our diet.

High Blood Pressure: Just like with high cholesterol there are no early symptoms. The first most people learn they have this is when it's at a dangerous level.

Physical Inactivity: If you are inactive, you are more likely to have a heart attack. Even a 10 minute walk each day can make all the difference.

Obesity: If you are obese, you are placing your heart under a great deal of strain even at rest.

I might be at risk, what should I do?

If you think you could be at risk, the first thing you should do is visit your doctor. Secondly, you need to modify your lifestyle. Exercise for at least 10 minutes per day (30 minutes is better but anything is better than nothing!). You also need to eat foods that are low in fat. If you smoke you need to give up.

Even if you don't have many risk factors it's a good idea to visit your doctor each year. Some risk factors can change within a short period of time and getting on to them early can make all the difference.

Ray Kelly has a degree in Exercise Science and has worked in the fitness industry for 15 years. For more information on health and fitness, go to: Fitness, Weight Loss, and Heart Attacks!

Article Source: http://articles-hub.com

Blood Pressure Medications: A Concise Guide

By Ray Kelly

High blood pressure is unfortunately something that most people have to deal with as they age. This is especially true for the average person in the western part of the world. The national average for high blood pressure is approximately 24% in the United States with most other Western countries within close proximity of that number. High blood pressure is unfortunately something that most people have to deal with as they age. This is especially true for the average person in the western part of the world. The national average for high blood pressure is approximately 24% in the United States with most other Western countries within close proximity of that number.

Medication is the most frequent form of treatment outside of individual lifestyle choices. However, there are a wide variety of drug types used to treat high blood pressure and they each approach the problem in a unique fashion. A physician will prescribe the type of drug best suited for the needs of the individual patient.

DIURETICS

A diuretic is a medication that reduces the amount of water and sodium in the blood. The reduction in water helps to reduce the overall pressure on the walls of the blood vessels and as a result lower the overall blood pressure. A diuretic is usually prescribed in addition to another type of medication as opposed to being used a sole treatment by itself. Diuretics are often called "water pills" and the physician may refer to them as such.

BETA BLOCKERS

Beta blocks work to reduce the heart rate and lower the blood pressure by inhibiting the bodies "fight / flight" response. Essentially a beta-blocker blocks the ability of epinephrine and norepinephrine to stimulate the sympathetic nervous system. This action prevents the increased heart rate and high blood pressure, which is a direct result of that stimulation. The beta-blockers prescribed for high blood pressure have a calming effect and give the person a greater tolerance for stress.

ACE INHIBITORS

Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, or ACE Inhibitors, as they are commonly known helped to reduce blood pressure by preventing the hormone Angiotensin II from forming. Angiontensin II normally constricts the blood vessels as well as acting on the brain to increase the need for salt and hydration.

ANGIOTENSIN ANTAGONIST

Angiontensin antagonists target the same hormone as ACE inhibitors, described above. However, rather than inhibiting the production of Angiotensin II it blocks its effect on the cells of the heart and blood vessels. These medications are also referred to as ARB's, which stands for angiotensin receptor blockers. This is a newer type of medication which helps to modulate the renin-angiotensin system which has a big role in maintaining the bodies overall blood pressure and the volume of blood in the body.

CALCIUM CHANNEL BLOCKERS

This class of medications reduce the overall level of calcium in the heart which in turn reduces the blood pressure since the level of calcium dictates the force with which the heart pumps blood. Individuals with a weak heart (cardiomyopathy) are advised to not take a calcium channel blocker.

ALPHA BLOCKERS

Alpha-blockers bring blood pressure lower by limiting the nerve impulses sent to the blood vessels, which allows the blood to pass more freely. Whereas the beta-blockers affect the heart to decrease blood pressure, the Alpha-blockers affect the blood vessels.

ALPHA-BETA BLOCKERS

The Alpha-Beta class of drugs combines the effects of both the Alpha-blockers and the Beta-blockers, and thereby bring about lower blood pressure. See the descriptions for both to understand how they work.

NERVOUS SYSTEM INHIBITORS

Nervous system inhibitors work at the level of the brain as opposed to the circulatory system. Essentially this class of drugs reduces the nerve impulses sent the blood vessels thereby allowing them to be more relaxed which results in lower blood pressure.

VASODILATORS

A vasodilator works similar to many of the other drugs by relaxing the blood vessels and as a result lowering blood vessels. However, these medicines do not target the hormones or the heart directly. There are a large variety of these types of drugs and they act in different ways.

Ray Kelly has a degree in Exercise Science and has worked in the fitness industry for 15 years. For more information on health and fitness, go to: Fitness, Weight Loss, and Heart Attacks!

Article Source: http://articles-hub.com/

Natural Effective Remedies For Hemorrhoids

By Benjamin Wise

Along with a natural remedies, you may want to try ice to reduce swelling. A sitz bath is a small basin filled with hot water that you soak the hemorrhoids in. Herbs can be added to the water to aid in healing. Sit on a doughnut shaped cushion... this will keep some of the stress off the affected area, reducing irritation.

When emptying your bowels, don't strain. Breathe out when passing stools. Don't remain sitting on the toilet after you are done, as this can apply strain to the anal region.

Drink a lot of water every day, and eat fruits and vegetables to get enough fiber in your diet. Fiber will move wastes more efficiently through the bowels, reducing the need to strain.

Some people choose to take a warm bath first thing in the morning to sooth the irritation before they start their day. What you must also realize when it comes to treating hemorrhoids is that what you put into your body is what you will get out.

A good diet is essential. You cannot treat your body like a toxic dump. Often when conditions arise with our body it is to inform us that we are not taking care of ourselves. These are natural indicators.

So to kick things off you want to start you day eating fruit, Fruit contains fiber and it natural and quickly runs through your body enabling you to pass waste more easily. This prevents strain and as a result pain.

Eat more greens and whole grains. Have a slice of whole wheat toast in the morning with some honey. Along with improving your diet add some herbal supplements that have ingredients such as vitamin E and horse chestnut.

For more information on how to get rid of hemorrhoids naturally click on the links provided here;
Hemorrhoid Treatment.
Learn how to Get Rid Of External Hemorrhoids
Learn How To Get Rid Of Bleeding Hemorrhoids

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Benjamin_Wise

Avandia Increases Cardiac Related Deaths by 64%

By Nick Johnson

You may be one of 6 million patients worldwide who have been diagnosed with Type II diabetes and prescribed Avandia to help control your blood sugar. Avandia was approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1999 and has now been recently required to carry a "black-box" warning. This is the most serious warning for a prescription drug. Avandia symptoms increase risk of heart attack or myocardial infraction, especially if the patient has had previous underlying heart disease.

Type II diabetes, also known as non-insulin dependent diabetes, is the most common form of the condition. Diabetes is a serious disease and occurs in people of all ages and races, but some have a higher risk for developing diabetes than others. Therefore, you may notice that any Avandia symptoms you contract are also more severe. Diabetes is more common in African-American, Latino, American Indian, and Asian populations. Some 20 million children and adults in the United States have diabetes. Type II diabetes accounts for up to 95% of all diabetes cases.

More than 6 million diabetic patients worldwide are taking the prescription Avandia. The New England Journal of Medicine, issued in June 2007, stated that Avandia symptoms of cardiovascular-related problems increased by 43% and cardiac death by 64%.

GlaxoSmithKline, the drug manufacturer, continues to stand on the safety of Avandia. This is only a fraction of the $3.2 billion annual sales worldwide from the prescription drug. Glaxo issued a stricter warning label and news release to defend itself, saying it was much too soon to establish a relation between Avandia and cardiovascular problems in Type II diabetic patients.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) conducted its own safety review on Avandia symptoms of cardiovascular heart problems. They concluded that Avandia cannot afford the same margin of safety as other drugs. Therefore, they chose not to prescribe Avandia to their patients. Based on this decision, it is estimated that Avandia prescriptions fell by 60%. In fact, Glaxo has also gained a bad reputation for dishonesty.

Some Avandia symptoms to look for include rapid heartbeat, anemia, swelling, inexplicable rapid weight gain, breathing problems, unusual fatigue, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin, persistent nausea/vomiting, pain in the abdominal area, worsened hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia, vision problems, pulmonary edema, pleural effusion, and in worse cases heart attack, heart failure or stroke. Avandia symptoms that may indicate an allergic reaction are rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, and breathing problems.

If you or a loved one have suffered any such Avandia symptoms, contact an expert Avandia lawyer to help give you the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering. Your lawyer is expected to charge contingency fees, which will help lighten your overall burden in that this is a cost that depends on the success of the case.

About the Author: Nick Johnson is lead counsel with Johnson Law Group. Johnson represents plaintiffs in many states and focuses on injury cases involving Fen-Phen and PPH, Paxil, Mesothelioma, and Avandia. Call Nick Johnson at 1-888-311-5522 or visit http://www.johnsonlawgroup.com

An Overview of Laser Eye Surgery

In past generations, as soon as an eyesight specialist discovered that you had bad eyesight there was no way of getting rid of it - in modern times this is no longer true. Looking for a way to get rid of glasses, eye doctors searched for a way to fix poor eyesight - and eventually created LASIK.

LASIK stands for Laser Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis, which is a form of refractive eye surgery. While contact lenses can be used, LASIK solves the hassle completely.

In the past, metal blades were used to make the corneal flap, nowadays a laser is used- speeding up the process. In modern times, the excimer laser is used; invented by Dr. Bhaumik in May, 1973. As soon as the ultraviolet excimer laser was discovered capable of remodeling tissue while leaving no heat damage to the surrounding area, scientific discoveries in the use of the excimer laser for eye surgeries were made, meaning today's procedures are a lot less complicated than those of the past. While problems existed in the past, these have since been solved and minimal problems today are had with LASIK eye surgery.

Even though LASIK is a procedure that fixes poor eyesight by altering the cornea, it is not as difficult as other forms of surgery. LASIK is done in two parts; and as it does not hurt much it can be performed while the patient is awake (although a sedative is often used). In the first part, a corneal flap of tissue is made using a special laser, and for the second part, the cornea is altered in order to fix poor eyesight. Due to a laser being used, the cornea is "deceived"; it does not know it has been operated upon and thus many of the mishaps of old eye surgery (such as corneal haze) are removed.

The total procedure takes less than 30 minutes. The laser system includes a large machine with a microscope and an attached computer screen. The laser is used to remove corneal tissue based on measurements taken at your initial evaluation. After the procedure your vision may be hazy or blurry. This will improve considerably within the first few days. Plan on taking a few days from work until symptoms are gone. A follow up visit is scheduled within the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery to test your vision and examine your eyes and regular scheduled interval check ups for at least six months.

After Lasik laser or refractive surgery your vision will stabilize within one or two weeks. But it may take a several months to continue to improve. You may experience glare and night blindness may during this time. Risks with Lasik laser eye surgery are visual aberrations especially in low light, over or under-corrected and additional surgery enhancement may be needed, regressive in the treatment this is uncommon, dry eye symptom which may require medication for tear production, in rare cases vision may worsen that cannot be corrected. You should contact your eye doctor immediately if any of these conditions occur or worsen.

About the Author: At the International EyeCare Laser Center, our doctors practice LASIK only - we are specialists. Dr. Charles Moore is instrumental in the design and development of LASIK diagnostic and surgical equipment. For more information visit our site: http://www.texaslasik.com/

Alternatives to Cough Syrup

By James Junior

Even though there are billions of dollars spent every year in the US on over-the-counter cough syrups, most such medicines do little if anything to relieve coughs say the ACCP (American College of Chest Physicians). According to the nation's chest physicians, cough syrups generally contain drugs in too low a dose to be effective, or contain combinations of drugs that have never been proven to treat coughs. Some over-the-counter cough syrups do contain two drugs that have been shown to help relieve coughs caused by colds - codeine and dextromethorphan - but again the doses are too small to be effective. For adults fighting a cough and runny nose, the best option is probably an antihistamine with a decongestant, such as Dimetapp Cold and Allergy Elixir, Robitussin Allergy and Cough Liquid, or Vicks NyQuil. For children between 2 and 14, here are two alternatives to using over-the-counter cough medicines.

Chocolate

Researchers at the National Heart and Lung Institute have found that a component in chocolate called theobromine, may be more effective in treating coughs than traditional treatments. The chemical was found to work directly on the vagus nerve, which is responsible for triggering coughing. In the study, 10 healthy, non-smokers received theobromine, followed by capsaicin, a cough stimulant. The effect of theobromine was compared to a placebo - and also to codeine, which is used in traditional cough remedies. It was found to be more effective than both in treating the cough. As a cough medicine, codeine (mostly known as a painkiller) had nominal success compared to the placebo, but theobromine was 33 percent more effective than codeine to stop coughing.
Theobromine has diuretic, stimulant and relaxing effects similar to caffeine, but about 10 times weaker. Unlike caffeine, it does not affect the central nervous system. Theobromine can lower blood pressure because it can dilate blood vessels and also relax bronchi muscles in the lungs. Dark chocolate contains 450 mg of theobromine per ounce which is four times more found in milk chocolate. The quantity of dark chocolate that should be eaten to stop coughing--about two ounces for an adult and about half as much for a child--is not enough to get children wound up, or for the minimal amount to cause sleep disturbances. Remember, chocolate is an anti-depressant and also contains flavonoids and other anti-oxidants, which help maintain a healthy heart, keep your blood circulation working well, and reduce the blood clotting which can cause heart attacks and strokes.

Honey

A teaspoon of honey before bed seems to calm children's coughs and help them sleep better, according to a new study that relied on parents' reports of their children's symptoms. The folk remedy did better than cough medicine or no treatment in a three-way comparison. For the research, researchers recruited 105 children with upper respiratory infections from a clinic in Pennsylvania. The study found that honey was more effective than dextromathorphan for treating nighttime coughs in kids ages 2-11. The dosages used in the test were equivalent to the cough syrup: half a teaspoon for kids 2-5, a full teaspoon for kids 6-11. It is noted that honey should not be given to children under age 1 because it might cause a type of food poisoning known as botulism.

For coughs and sore throats, it may be the stickiness and viscosity of honey that makes it work well. Honey is also generally less expensive than over-the-counter medications and brings none of the side effects like dizziness or sleepiness. Honey also has antimicrobial effects with darker honeys having more antioxidants than lighter honeys.

So the next time you find yourself having to treat your cough or your child's cough, think about using one or even both of these alternatives. These remedies are suggested in moderation since they also contain higher amounts of sugar compared to over-the-counter medicines.

James Junior is a freelance writer and web programmer for http://www.healthservicesinc.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Junior

Surgery - Is it Really a Necessity For Healing Your Body and Gaining Health?

By Arvind G

Surgery has its own place in the process of healing. It is useful for broken bones/accidents and for conditions beyond the power of a beginner to resolve. Under such conditions, it may be easier to have the surgery and then shift our focus of healing to ensuring the situation which caused the surgery is not recreated again.

As the years go by, there are more and more people in the medical profession who are truly dedicated to helping mankind. Its good to know that as we move into the 21st Century more and more doctors are turning to holistic ways of healing i.e. treating the whole person instead of just the symptoms of the illness. It is quite saddening to know that most doctors still do not address the cause of an illness.

Doctors treat symptoms of in one of two ways: Either they will poison you or mutilate you. If you go to a surgeon, he will tell you that to cure you he'll have to cut you up. Do not if you make the decision for surgery, please prepare yourself for the experience so it will go through smoothly and accelerate the healing process.

If possible, try to get the surgeon and staff to cooperate with you on this. They are usually unaware that even if a patient is sedated by anesthesia, he or she is still hearing things on a subconscious level. With my own clients, I always suggest that they affirm repeatedly before going into surgery : "The hand that touches me in surgery is one that is full of love and healing power. I am comfortable and relaxed. The surgery will go through quickly and smoothly."

Another tip is to make a cassette of positive affirmations and soothing music (preferably the kind of CDs you find at a new age store on meditation, nature sounds etc.) and play these while you rest and recuperate after the operation.
Remember, the universe and its Creator is a wonderful place and the all knowing. It knows what is best for us and we just have to trust its wisdom and intelligence to aid in our healing process.

Arvind Gawade is a serial entrepreneur with a serious obsession for fast cars and a strong passion to help make this world a better place for all of mankind by educating people. He runs his own IT firm and on a part time basis he runs his two Internet websites to serve and help more people. Visit his sites to read more about his work:
http://theultimatemachines.blogspot.com
http://centurysurvivor.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Arvind_G

Common Blood Pressure Medications For Stage 1 Hypertension

By Alvin Hopkinson

The National High Blood Pressure Education Program is an association that consist of professional, public, voluntary and federal agencies. This association has established guidelines with regards with the type of common blood pressure medication to be used to control your high blood pressure.

There a huge number of drugs available that are used as common blood pressure medications (Antihypertensives). Each of the different medication has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Below are the association guidelines for common blood pressure medications to be used. Bear in mind that the actual drug that your doctor prescribed might be different due to the complexity of individual situations.

If you have stage 1 high blood pressure (140/90 to 159/99)

If your systolic pressure (top number) ranges from 140 to 159 or your diastolic pressure (bottom number) ranges from 90 to 99, or both your top and bottom numbers are in this range; you have stage 1 hypertension.

Diuretics might be the first type of medication that your doctor might ask you to take. Diuretics are also called water pills. This drug works by getting rid of excess water and sodium from your body. This will effectively lower your blood pressure. This drug together with a move to a healthier lifestyle might be sufficient to control your blood pressure.

There are mainly three types of Diuretics available in the market. One of the first choices among the three is usually a thiazide diuretic. Thiazide diuretics are chosen over the other two as they usually have fewer side effects as compared. Moreover, they are able to prevent other conditions such as stroke and heart failure to a certain extent. High blood pressure can often result in such undesirable conditions.

Diuretic could be the only common blood medication that you need to take. However, under certain conditions, your doctor might recommend taking another medication. Complement your medication together with a healthy lifestyle in order to effectively control your high blood pressure.

Some of these choices include:

Calcium channel blockers: Stops calcium from entering both the heart and blood vessel muscle cells. This allows the cells to relax and thus lowering blood pressure.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors: These works by eliminating the production of a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict. Thus, they keep the blood vessels relaxed.

Angiotensin II receptor blockers: Enlarges blood vessels by preventing a hormone called Angiotensin from affecting vessels.

Beta blockers: Lowers blood pressure by lowering the total amount of nerve signals going from the heart to the blood vessels.

Complementing one of the medications from the above list with Diuretic might be helpful in lowering your blood pressure at a faster rate. Thus, probability of developing complications from high blood pressure is lowered.

Another point is that by taking two medications instead of one might allow you to consume a lesser amount of each drug. This might work to reduce the side effects experience and could possibly allow you to lower costs. The choice of medication used in the combination depends on individual condition.

Alvin Hopkinson is a leading and avid researcher of various high blood pressure treatments. He runs an informational website that provides free tips to lower your hypertension and unbiased reviews on medications such as Altace. To grab your FREE report on how to prevent and treat high blood pressure, make sure you visit Alvin's site at http://www.minusbloodpressure.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alvin_Hopkinson

Does What Your Medical Doctor Tell You Make Sense And Is There More To The Story?

By Carol Bjork

Have you ever gone to the doctor because something just is not right and you were told it was in your head? Did you ever have a rash all over your face and you were told by a doctor that it was contact dermatitis and given some cream and sent home? Or are you a woman in her 30s trying to conceive a child and having trouble? Are you happy with what the answers you are given by your M.D.? If you are satisfied then this article is most likely not for you. If you are intrigued or frustrated enough to find out the solution to a problem and not just the symptom, then keep reading.

Choices. Isn't America about choices? That should extend to our medical care beyond that major decision made for us in the 70s. Medical doctors go to school to heal people, right? So why don't they go after the problem and not the symptom?

Alternative medicine has a different philosophy than traditional or modern medicine. Alternative medicine has just as many good doctors as traditional medicine. They also have just as many bad doctors. It is still up to you to choose what is best for you. Don't let yourself be a victim. Take an active role in your personal health care. If you have a red rash that is unexplained to go to the traditional doctor, it makes sense. What does not make sense is when you are told you have "contact dermatitis". Do you know what that literally means? Something you came in contact with caused swelling of the skin (dermis). The suffix "itis" means swelling or inflammation. Did you really need to spend $150 for a doctor to tell you that your skin was inflamed because of something you came in contact with? Consider that alternative medicine can help you find out what it is that is causing it, not just treat the inflammation.

A lot of women in their 30s are having difficulties conceiving children these days. There are a ton of theories as to why and this article will not address those theories. This article will encourage you to look beyond what traditional medicine has to offer, drugs, drugs and more drugs. The first drugs are to prevent pregnancy or to treat rough cycles, which we take for years. Then the next drugs are to force our bodies into creating more eggs which had put on suspension and we end up with multiple pregnancies if the fertility drugs work. If they don't work, then what? Research, which traditional medicine relies so heavily on to cite cases, has not been thoroughly developed yet so we don't know what the long term ramifications are so we get pushed into taking these. Then, when menopause hits we are given more drugs to get over the symptoms of hot flashes and moodiness or encouraged to remove the organs that are showing the symptoms and problems. Then when we get into our golden years we end up with cancers that are "unexplained". Really? Is anyone really paying attention?

Alternative medicine can treat the symptoms from the beginning too but the difference is that more tests can be done to get a real health analysis using tests traditional medicine does not use. But it goes that one more vital step that traditional medicine does not. Alternative medicine can be a very useful tool in learning what allergies exist, what potential future problems could arise and how to treat them with a natural healthy ingredient.

Often proponents of traditional medicine say that even bad stuff can be natural, which is true. Anything misused can be bad for you and that includes chemical medicine. This article is to encourage the reader to explore the alternative world enough to give natural medicine a fair shot. Educate yourself and make an appointment to see a naturopath to get your answers to your questions.

Take charge of your own life. Be educated in your decisions about your health care. Don't just accept what the doctor says because of the white coat. Ask questions. Stand up for yourself. Explore the alternative world of medicine!

Carol Bjork has years of experience in marketing and sales. Entrepreneurship has been a valued part of her life for more than 10 years. As a skin care consultant she works with people to choose products that are good for them and the environment.

For more information go to http://www.agelessbodycare.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carol_Bjork

Zeolites - How Do They Affect Cancer?

By: John Gaydon

If you look around the internet, you will find many references to Activated Liquid Zeolite and its use with Cancer. This article discusses some of the information, and attempts to take a rational viewpoint of the material with regard to what Zeolite actually does in the human body.

Recently, while in Las Vegas, I was told that preliminary research has been done taking Zeolite with a chemotherapy drug, Cyclophosphamine. Apparently this drug causes a toxin called "acrolene" when ingested which has toxic side effects. When the Activated Liquid Zeolite is taken in conjunction with the drug, the toxic effects are eliminated. This is preliminary research and it will be many years before this connection is proven by published scientific papers. It may explain why some people have less side effects from treatment when they are taking the Activated Liquid Zeolite as well.

First there is Jonathan Campbell, who asserts that activated liquid Zeolite can cause cancer. There is no evidence to back this claim. Mr Campbell sells an alternate cancer cure and has a vested interest in discrediting other products. Furthermore there are 3 classes of Zeolite. One includes asbestos, which definitely causes lung cancer. The sheath like Zeolites, of which Clinoptilolite, the Zeolite used in activated zeolite products, has been certified as GRAS (generally recognised as safe) status by the FDA in the US. This is the highest level of safety possible. Who do you trust, the FDA, or Mr Campbell?

Now, let's look at some of the research done with regards to Cancer and Zeolite.
In an article titled "Natural zeolite clinoptilolite: new adjuvant in anticancer therapy" published in the Journal of Molecular Medicine Volume 78, Number 12 / February 2001, research is detailed with Mice, Dogs and Rats, indicating the use of Zeolite reduces skin cancer tumour growth.

It states, "In vitro tissue culture studies showed that finely ground clinoptilolite inhibits protein kinase B (c-Akt), induces expression of p21WAF1/CIP1 and p27KIP1 tumor suppressor proteins, and blocks cell growth in several cancer cell lines. These data indicate that clinoptilolite treatment might affect cancer growth by attenuating survival signals and inducing tumor suppressor genes in treated cells".

While this is not a study on humans, it does indicate that the use of Zeolite has some function at least in animals in tumour suppression. The p21 gene is known by scientists to suppress tumours and one of the great scientific debates is how to trigger this gene in cancer patients.

The following information is quoted on many websites. To my knowledge, it has not been substantiated or published, and the study was done by Lifelink Pharmaceuticals, of which Rik Deitsch is a director. It therefore must be taken with a grain of salt!

Although only one small human trial has been conducted, the results were intriguing: 78% full remission for stage 4 cancer patients (with various types of cancer). The study was an open-label trial conducted by the researchers at LifeLink Pharmaceuticals in Ohio. Although one small study is not grounds for leaping to solid conclusions about cancer, this result is promising enough to warrant additional investigation. Any anti-cancer effect is probably due to NCD's ability to induce tumor suppressor genes that cause the body to not only halt the growth of tumor cells, but actually destroy such tumors.

Now, you must make up your own mind whether animal studies can be applied to humans, or whether Lifelink's study is fact or fiction. All we can do is to quote the information available.

There are some other areas where Natural Cellular Defense could definitely help with many disease states. One is the area of body pH. Studies done invitro (in a test tube) indicate that with a pH of 7.4 or higher, cancer cells become dormant. This would indicate that if the body's pH can be raised to this level, it is possible that it could slow down or even stop the spread of cancer.

Dr. William Kelley, in an article titled, "Cancer - Self Treatment", suggests that "There is research indicating that cancer grows slowly in a highly acid environment (because the acids cause it to partially destroy itself) and may actually grow more quickly as your body becomes more alkaline prior to reaching the healthy pH slightly above 7.4 where the cancer becomes dormant. Therefore, you will want to get your pH above 7.4 as quickly as possible by every means available."

This would indicate that when raising pH, it is important that it is done as quickly as possible and that as pH rises, cancer activity can increase for a while. So, one would have to be really convinced that a pH of 7.4 does effectively stop the spread of the disease before considering this action.

Often there is a challenge with Natural Remedies in that sometimes indications get worse before they normalise. This leads many physicians to recommend against the use of such products, because they see any worsening of the situation as alarming. Again, you will have to make your own mind up about this. The question then is to research alternate pathways and decide the likely outcome in each case!

Natural Cellular Defense, taken regularly, will raise pH into the 7.4 zone and keep it there, which I think is a good thing!

Vic Shayne, PhD in an article called' "Ignoring the Link Between Toxins and Cancer" states, "With all of the cancer information and disinformation broadcasted continually through the major news media, rarely do we hear a mention of the greatest threat to our health - and the most prevalent cause of cancer: toxins."

More evidence is emerging every day that there is a relationship between environmental toxins and cancer. A recent article in the Vancouver Sun stated, " Banned pesticides and other toxic chemicals lingering in the environment put people at an increased risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma, according to a B.C. Cancer Agency study".

We are rapidly approaching a point where there is little doubt that toxins are affecting our health in a negative way. In 1907 there were less than 7% of deaths from cancer. At that time no chemicals were used in agriculture. Today the death rate from cancer is over 30% and of course we have thousands of toxic substances in our food, water and air. Is this a coincidence? You decide!

Natural Cellular Defense, or Zeolite, is effective in removing toxins, particularly heavy metals and organic chemicals such as dioxin, deildrin and benzene. We have done hair analysis tests before and after using the product, and although this is not a scientific controlled study, the results are documented by lab reports and are quite impressive.

Research was published in an article titled, "Zeolite Binds to Benzene" (Active Crystallography 1996). This shows how in a laboratory, the Zeolite molecules combine with benzene to remove it from the body.

Conclusion. In summary, we know that Activated liquid Zeolite increases heavy metal secretion by 8-20 times baseline. We know that it increases pH to the 7.4 range. We know that it removes toxins and heavy metals from the body.

This doesn't necessarily mean that the product will give results with any particular medical condition. We suggest you do your research. If an out of balance pH or toxic overload are likely causes of a condition, adding activated liquid zeolite to your regime won't do any harm, and it just might work. You have very little to lose and possibly much to gain.

John Gaydon has been researching Natural Health for the last 25 years. Starting with Colon Cleansing, John believes that environmental toxins are a major cause of illness in our modern society. If you wish to know more about this amazing technology, you can find more articles on Activated Liquid Zeolite on John's blog at http://www.detoxzeolite.com/blog or contact John direct on john@detoxzeolite.com

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Home Remedies for Constipation – Constipation Relief Tips

By: Dr Anne

Irregularity amounts to constipation. Constipation is related to the digestive system. It is a condition that affects the individual by a hardening of feces, which experience biological difficulty in egesting. Extreme discomfort and outright pain is inflicted upon the afflicted. If not treated, in its early stages by home remedies for constipation bowel obstruction can develop. Dietary, hormonal, anatomical, side effects of medications, illnesses or disorder are the major causes of constipation.

Amid the process of considerations towards home remedies for constipation is for the ailing individual to initially identify the circumstances of their respective condition. Defining constipation is realized through the following determinations inconsistent movement of the bowels, as in three or less fecal evacuations within a week; complications upon defecation, involving considerable straining or pushing, at a minimum of higher intensity of twenty-five percent, associated with a internal sensing of hardened stools; upon the process of defecation, an insufficient evacuation of the bowels. Hence, as the afflicted has ascertained the intensity of the constipation, a better judgment can be implored in a treatment within home remedies for constipation.

Detecting the cause of an individual's constipation is quite significant, in both alleviating and avoiding a reoccurrence of the condition within the digestive system. Such self-analysis will significantly aid in the choice of home remedies for constipation. The more common contributors to bouts of constipation include inadequate chewing of food; lack of ample ingest of fluids in creating dehydration; excessive mineral intakes of aluminum, calcium and iron; limited or decreased locomotion in physical activity; onset of hypothyroidism, in decreasing the actions of the thyroid glands; hypokalemia; injury to the anus and sphincter; prescriptions, to include codeine, loperamide, morphine, and particular antidepressants of a tricyclic composition; underlying illnesses; inherent and acute porphyria; unintentional poisoning through lead; suppressed defecation, clinically termed as dyschezia; intestinal or rectal constrictions, which impede the passage of feces; Strictures, clinically referred to as stenosis; diverticula, whereas certain food particles become trapped within various pockets of the digestive system; tissues involving the areas of the bowels in the development of tumors; a foreign matter of embodiment, termed as a bezoar; anxiety or unfamiliarity with environment, clinically referred to as psychosomatic constipation; irritable bowel syndrome, that is associated with constipation of a predominant circumstance, to include intense abdominal pain and discomfort; cessation of the smoking of tobacco; surgery to the abdomen; and childbirth. Some form of home remedies for constipation can aid all of the proceeding maladies.

For those individuals who are not presenting complex medical problems, though are suffering from constipation, can greatly benefit from a number of practical and dietary consumables as home remedies for constipation. In such proven argument against over-the-counter and non-prescribed usage of retail laxatives, as these forms of relief from constipation can lead to an issue, whereas the action of the chronically afflicted individual's bowels develop a co-dependency upon increased use of such formulations. Therefore, in normal case scenarios, home remedies for constipation are the options preferred by general consensus. Such forms of natural intervention, in the alleviation of constipation, include the afflicted individual's adequate intake of liquids, mainly good quality water, along with fibers from a dietary source. The fiber options are merely the inclusion of ample vegetables, fruits and whole grain breads, to incorporate a better balance in the daily diet, along with such considerations in supplementing the diet of the ailing with linseeds, all, to encourage the natural approach towards home remedies for constipation.

Other approaches in the relieving of constipation, from an alternative and practical mode, which supports physical or mechanical home remedies for constipation include such supportive treatments as colonic irrigation; enemas of naturally-based composition; adequate exercise; diet budgeting, as to balance intake, as appropriate; and certain herbs.

Focusing on exercise as to one of the natural relievers in pursuit of home remedies for constipation, is, perhaps, more of a preventative measure towards the avoidance in the progressive development of undesirable constipation. Exercising, among home remedies for constipation can be tailored to suit any or most individuals' lifestyles to some level or degree.

In conclusion, barring other medical issues that may possibly contribute or complicate, where constipation is an issue, home remedies for constipation is among the optimal choices.

Dr John Anne is a herbal specialist with years of experience in the field of Alternative Health Care. Read more Home Remedies for Constipation at Home Remedies. Also read about User recommended Home Remedies for Constipation

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Finding Cures for IBS - What Actually Causes IBS?

By: Matthew Helmsford

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (or IBS) is a 20th century disease that causes people to suffer with inconsistent bowel movements. With IBS, you cycle from having diarrhea to being constipated. This constant back and forth is harmful to your digestive system and difficult to endure. Cures for IBS seem few and far between, but there is one method that gets to the cause of digestive problems.
IBS is actually quite common; although many people are unaware they have it. It can go undiagnosed and without treatment for years. This is possibly due to the lack of awareness about IBS. It affects men, women and children, although it is seen slightly more in female patients. It’s the number one diagnosis made by most gastroenterologists (doctors who deal with the digestive system). However, even with this prevalence cures for IBS are hard to find.

IBS sufferers not only deal with bloating and cramps, but a variety of other symptoms. These include mucous in the stool, fatigue, changes in bowel habits and feel very full even after having a small amount of food. Instead of putting a band aid over these problems, a cure for IBS must provide relief for people.

Experiencing nausea, bloating, cramps and gas have become part of everyday life for many IBS sufferers. The problem is that the causes of IBS are hard to pinpoint. There are many different possible causes and it can be hard to determine exactly what is causing IBS in a certain person. People have theorized that IBS is caused by food intolerances, deficiency in enzymes, an imbalance of bacteria in the intestines, stress and irritation of the digestive tract walls. An effective cure for IBS must treat all of the symptoms and get to the root of the problem.

There are some prescription medicines for IBS, however these aren’t actual cures for IBS. In addition, they have a lot of harmful side effects that can make you feel even worse. Laxatives can often do more harm then good because of the way they work. Most laxatives are very harsh on your digestive system and leave your nerves weaker than they were before. This can lead to even more constipation, creating a dependency on laxatives.

IBS disrupts a lot of people’s lives but it doesn’t have to. There is a reliable, safe and gentle cure for IBS and other intestinal problems. This solution can provide the relief that so many people are looking for.

Discover the incredible constipation cure the medical industry doesn't want you to know about at http://www.GoodbyeConstipation.com These little known secrets discovered by Matthew Helmsford have already helped hundreds of constipation sufferers to treat constipation without expensive prescription drugs, laxatives, or enemas. Find out the constipation treatment that truly works by visiting Goodbye Constipation today.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Ichthyosis Treatment Tips

By: Juliet Cohen

Ichthyosis is a rare genetic skin disorder. Ichthyosis refers to a relatively uncommon and characterized by the presence of excessive amounts of dry surface scales. Ichthyosis is characterised by persistently dry, thickened, rough, fish scale skin. There are at least 20 varieties of ichthyosis, including inherited and acquired forms.

It is affecting 1 in 6,000 males in the United States. It does not predominate in any specific ethnic background. It affects primarily males, although a few rare cases were reported in females. Symptoms include drying and scaling of the skin in the neck, upper trunk and scalp. The face takes on a "dirty-face" appearance splotchy dirty yellow or dark brown color with dark scales. Ichthyosis can develop at any age due to a number of medical problems, such as kidney disease.

Symptoms usually worsen or are more pronounced in cold, dry environments and tend to improve or even resolve in warm, humid environments. In general, all races may be affected in the inherited and acquired forms of ichthyosis. Treatments for ichthyosis often take the form of topical application of creams and emollient oils, in an attempt to hydrate the skin. Retinoids are also used for some conditions. Exposure to sunlight may improve or worsen the condition. Do not take hot baths or showers, they dry out the skin. Use warm to cool water. Soap should not be used on your skin because it irritates and dries the skin. Do not rub the skin dry after you bathe. Blot your skin gently then apply an Alpha hydroxyacid lotions. Neostrata 15 AHA Body/Face Lotion is a very effective treatment for ichthyosis.

Ichthyosis Treatment and Prevention Tips

1. Use warm to cool water.

2. Do not take hot baths or showers, they dry out the skin.

3. Soap should not be used on your skin because it irritates and dries the skin.

4. Do not rub the skin dry after you bathe.

5. Blot your skin gently then apply an Alpha hydroxyacid lotions.

6. Neostrata 15 AHA Body/Face Lotion is a very effective treatment for ichthyosis.

7. Exposure to sunlight may improve or worsen the condition.

8. Lanolin creams and lactic acid and other alpha hydroxy acids may help to exfoliate and moisturise skin.

Juliet Cohen writes articles for skin care and hair care. She also writes articles for celebrities hairstyles.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Constipation Causes and Treatment – How to Prevent Constipation

By Dr John Anne

Bowel movement is a daily routine for most people. But what about if you have a difficulty releasing those bowels because you are constipated, how could you go on? Constipation causes a lot of unease and heavy feeling to a person.

Constipation is not a disease. It is rather a symptom to a disease in the digestive system. However, most of the time, this isn't a serious problem. It is usually cause by poor dietary or food intake that helps in the easy digestion process.

Know If You Are Constipated

As written above, to most people bowel movement is regular part of everyday. When you are having difficulty in moving or the daily routine becomes fewer in week. When you have constipation, your stools are usually hard, dry, and small in size but are difficult to eliminate. It seems that you are about to move but you just can not move those stools out. Many people find this condition painful because of staining, bloating and cuts in the anus.

Constipation do not exclude any age. Almost all people from a baby to an adult experience such difficulty once in their lives. However, this feeling of unease can be prevented and treated for immediate and longer relief.

Causes of Constipation

The causes of constipation begin from the food we choose to eat to the digestion to the elimination. The food we eat contains substances that are difficult for the stomach to digest and for the digestive fluids to break down. Understanding how the large intestine works in the digestion also helps. From the stomach, undigested food and food contents will be transported to the colon where the water is absorbed and the stools and waste products are formed. That is the reason why the stool is almost dry and solid when it reaches the rectum because the water is already absorbed. The peristalsis movement or muscle contractions in the colon push the waste products to rectum. That is the time you feel like eliminating something from inside the body.

Constipation occurs when the colon functions abnormally or improperly. There are times that the colon absorbs too much water that makes the waste products so dry. Because of lack of physical activity, the colon sometimes contracts too slow that makes the stool stays more time in it and becomes hard.

Common cause of constipation is the lack of fiber in the diet. These fibers help in the digestion by acting as sweepers of fats in the food. They also make the food easier to breakdown. When a person lacks exercise or other physical activity especially for people with old age, this also causes constipation. The body parts seem to be all resting, which makes the process of digestion more difficult for the stomach. Medications and abuse of laxatives could also affect food processing. Furthermore, lack of water intake or dehydration also causes constipation.

On the other hand, emotional and physical stress is also proven to cause malfunction is the digestive process and may cause constipation.

Treatment and Prevention

Two of the best treatment of constipation is eating high fiber food and increase in water or liquid intake. Fibers are naturally found in fruits and vegetables. Less likely that people who eat such kind of diet that they result to constipation. Low fiber food or high fatty foods like cheese, eggs and meats should be lesser intake. The bulk and soft texture of fiber especially insoluble fiber that passes through the intestine almost unchanged moisten the waste products and prevent them to become hard and dry so it could easily eliminated.

For foods that are difficult to digest, it is recommended that they are to be chewed well into small pieces before swallowing. When constipation is recurring, medical practitioners advise the use of laxatives. This medication helps in easier bowel movement. It has substances that break down the bulk stools. Live a healthy lifestyle and do away with the difficult and uneasy constipation.

Dr John Anne is a herbal specialist with years of experience in the field of Alternative Health Care. For more information visit Home Remedies for Constipation at Natural Remedies website. Also read about Constipation Cure in detail.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

The American Tradition

By: Ricky Hussey

The tradition of herbal medicine has always been strong in North America, thanks to the pooling of European and Native American skills during the 18th and 19th centuries. Friendly Native American tribes shared their profound knowledge of healing with the first European settlers and introduced to them countless hitherto unknown medicinal and culinary herbs. Many herbs are particularly useful for women's problems, notably squaw vine and blue cohosh, both uterine tonics.

The settlers in their turn brought with them the seeds and roots of their most valuable herbs, which took hold and flourished in their new environment. The religious sect called the Shakers lived by agriculture and were also the first white Americans to grow and sell herbs in commercial quantities.

The Native Americans of Canada, the United States, and Mexico based their concept of natural medicine on the Great Spirit, and on the Medicine Wheel, within which we are all born and travel on life's journey. The Wheel is made up of the Four Directions, each with its particular qualities and energies. Herbs are thought both to guide and to assist in healing.

The Native Americans of the northeast recognized herbs to cure sore eyes, skin problems, abdominal complaints, and lung disorders, among other ailments. When they gathered the woodland herbs in high summer, the medicine men would begin by offering tobacco to the Four Directions of the Wheel and to the sky and earth. Herbs were gathered after ritual prayers and promises not to take more than was needed.

The Cherokee of the southeast recognized more than 100 types of medicinal herb. Some were used because they resembled the causative agent of the disease or because they looked like the part of the body affected. This compares with the medieval Western Doctrine of Signatures, where plants are named for their resemblance to body parts and used in remedies for that part. We know more about Cherokee medicine and herbal repertoire than any other Native American traditions because their great chief Sequoia developed a form of written language that was used to record rituals, prayers, and medicinal remedy recipes. The Cherokee believed that illness was caused by the spirits of dead animals, revenging themselves on human hunters, or by malcontented spirits or ghosts. Diseases were named for their causes not their symptoms. Illnesses were cured by rubbing boiled herbs into the patient's skin or blowing dried herbs over them through a cane pipe. Singing and ritual formulas were also important.

Much of Native American healing centered around purification, not just of the body but also of the spirit. Heat was considered a great purifier, and "hot" herbs were often administered to induce violent vomiting. Sweating out toxins in the "sweat lodge ceremony" was central to curing disease and maintaining health, and also purified the body in preparation for enlightenment. Fresh or dried herbs were burned during the ceremony and the smoke was considered to provide a link with the spirit world. Sage was a particularly important herb, and was believed to be especially sacred.

For modern Native Americans who live on reservations, the use of herbs and other traditional methods of healing remains vitally important and is still preferred to conventional medicine.

Read out for Massage therapy. Check out home remedies and herbs for high blood pressure

Article Source: http://www.articlebiz.com/