Colitis Treatment Information

There are many alternative treatments for Crohn's disease; aloe vera isn't the only remedy out there. In fact, one of the latest studies showing promise for Crohn's disease sufferers is an alternative treatment known as helminthic therapy.

Helminthic therapy is an alternative treatment that uses Trichiuruis suis (pig whipworm) to combat symptoms of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. During therapy, a patient is given eggs of the pig whipworm. The eggs hatch within the body, grow and colonize for a limited time and then disappear, so no harm is done.

It may sound bizarre and disgusting to treat Crohn's by causing an infestation of pig whipworm in the intestines, after all, shouldn't we in Western civilization be celebrating that we've eradicated these pests from our systems with our sanitized culture? We're the first people in history to be worm free, so where's the logic behind this therapy? As ridiculous as it seems, when you learn all the facts behind helminthic therapy, you'll find that it's not as crazy as it sounds.

You see, Crohn's disease occurs when the small intestine becomes inflamed. It is believed by many medical researchers that this inflammation is the result of the immune system's improper response to regular gut flora. Thus, by introducing pig worms to the body, the immune system is provided with an actual target and will stop its assault on the natural gut flora in Crohn's sufferers. In short, worms help to regulate the immune system.

It is interesting to note, that many medical researchers believe that there is a link between Crohn's disease and lack of worms within the system. Crohn's is a disease of the 20th century, and primarily develops in people who live in Western industrialized countries were sanitation is high and worms no longer exist. Therefore, it is possible that the lack of worms within the body may be partly or totally responsible for bowel disorders such as Crohn's disease.

Medical studies are being conducted to find out what happens when worms are introduced back into people's bodies. The hope is that worms will re-instruct the immune system on proper response to inflammation and eradicate the disease.

Most Crohn's patients who participate in helminthic therapy studies are given the pig whipworm eggs, which are dissolved in a drink they ingest. As was previously mentioned, the whipworms hatch, develop and colonize, but they only live for a short time period.

So far, the success rate of these studies has been high, as more than two thirds of the patients who participated in the study for a 6 month period, experienced remission, while others who didn't go into remission still found the treatment helpful. Furthermore, researchers are finding that even those who unsuccessfully responded to conventional treatment for Crohn's, are benefiting from helminthic therapy

There appears to be no side effects or complications with this treatment as none have been reported. However, research and studies are still being conducted on pig whipworm infestation as a therapy. Only time will tell if the re-infestation of worms is the cure for Crohn's disease. Nonetheless, the future certainly looks promising.

Ginseng is a perennial herb that starts flowering in its fourth year. It grows in the United States, Canada, & the mountainous forests of eastern Asia. The translucent, yellowish brown roots are harvested when plants reach between 3 & 6 years of age. This herb has been used in the Orient for 5000 years as a tonic. According to traditional Chinese medicine's philosophy of opposites, American ginseng is a cool or yin tonic used to treat hot symptoms such as stress, insomnia, palpitations, & headache.

In parallel, Asian ginseng is hot or yang & is used to treat cold diseases. In the Orient, ginseng is considered a cure all. This stems from the Doctrine of Signatures, because the root is said to resemble a man's appearance & is therefore useful to treat all of man's ailments. Throughout history, the root has been used as a treatment for asthenia, atherosclerosis, blood & bleeding disorders, colitis, & relief of symptoms associated with aging, cancer, & senility. Ginseng is also widely believed to be an aphrodisiac.

Ginseng is classified as an 'adaptogen', helping the body to adapt to stress, improving stamina & concentration & providing a normalizing & restorative effect. It is also widely promoted as an aphrodisiac. The Korean root is highly prized & the most expensive. Long term use of ginseng can lead to symptoms similar to those of corticosteroid poisoning, including hypertension, nervousness & sleeplessness in some subjects, yet hypotension & tranquillizing effects in others. The benefits of ginseng treatment are by no means confirmed at the pharmacological level.

One promising example of cancer preventive effects that are not specific to any organ is Panax ginseng, an herb with a long medicinal history. The genus name of ginseng, Panax, is derived from the Greek pan (all) akos (cure), meaning cure-all. No single herb can be considered a panacea, but ginseng comes close to it. Ginseng is a tonic herb that helps to improve overall health & restore the body to balance, & helps the body to heal by itself. Its protective influence against cancer has been shown by extensive preclinical & epidemiological studies.

Ginseng is a very slow growing perennial herb, reaching about 2 ft in height. The older the root, the greater is the concentration of ginsenosides, the active chemical compounds; thus the ginseng becomes more potent with time. More than 28 ginsenosides have been extracted from ginseng, & might be associated with a wide range of therapeutic actions in the central nervous system, cardiovascular, endocrine systems. Indeed, ginseng promotes immune function, metabolism, possesses antistress & anti-aging activities. Several ginsenosides were proven to be nonorgan-specific tumor suppressors & to improve learning & memory in patients with Alzheimer's disease.

Consumer Reports revealed that the amount of ginsenosides in Ginsana®, the ginseng market leader in the United States, is well standardized. The manufacturer claims that each Ginsana capsule contains 100 mg of standardized, concentrated ginseng. A study of the Swedish Ginsana product revealed consistency in ginsenoside content between batches. Ginsana is available in the United States in soft gel capsules & chewy squares. The capsules are green because chlorophyll is added. Other forms of ginseng are most commonly available in capsule or tablet form & are usually brown. Dosage strengths normally range between 50 mg & 300 mg of Panax ginseng extract per capsule or tablet. Also, several combination products are available. For example, Ginkogin® is a combination of Panax ginseng, Ginkgo biloba, & garlic. There are other types of ginseng on the market including Siberian, Brazilian, & Indian ginseng. These are not of the genus Panax & do not contain ginsenosides.

However, two studies have also suggested that administration of ginseng and ginkgo biloba has no effect on cognition or mood. Hartley and colleagues evaluated the effects of a 6 or 12 week course of a ginkgo & ginseng combination product (Gincosan®) on the mood and cognition of postmenopausal women. Subjects were administered a battery of mood, somatic anxiety, sleepiness, and menopausal symptom tests.

No improvement in memory performance evaluated by eight separate tests was noted in either the group receiving ginseng or the group receiving ginkgo biloba. Thus, it appears that conflicting results still exist as to the ability of ginseng to improve memory and cognition; however, even in those studies demonstrating a positive effect, the enhancement was generally small in magnitude.

If ginseng are being over consume or overused symptoms of toxicity such as hypertension, shortness of breath, dizziness, inability to concentrate, a loud palpable fourth heart sound, thrusting apical pulse, and hypertensive changes on examination were reported in a 39-year-old man who had taken various ginseng products for 3 years. His blood pressure measured 140/100 mmHg on three occasions over 6 weeks, and when referred for management of his hypertension it was 154/106 mmHg. He was advised to discontinue the ginseng products and 3-month later, his symptoms had resolved.

In addition, A 72-year-old woman experienced vaginal bleeding after taking 200 mg daily of a Swiss-Austrian geriatric formulation of ginseng (Geriatric Pharmaton, Bernardgrass, Austria) for an unspecified time. In a similar case, a 62-year-old woman had undergone a total hysterectomy 14 years previously and had been taking Rumanian ginseng alternating with Gerovital® every 2 weeks for 1 year. The patient derived a marked estrogenic effect from the product based on microscopy of vaginal smears as well as the gross appearance of the vaginal and cervical epithelium.

So the bottom line is ginseng comes pretty close as one of the best natural remedy that promotes various healthy well being. It is a fantastic option for longevity but just be aware that too much of a good thing might not give you desirable result. Use ginseng in moderation & you will enjoy the great benefit of this ancient perennial herb.

Prostate - Is a vital organ, which is often called the second heart of man. Inflammation of the prostate gland is the most frequent and very common urological disease, which often takes place hidden and leads to violations of sexual function and spermatogenesis, that is, the process of formation in the testes of male germ cells. By some accounts, a prostatitis suffer about 70% of men aged 40 years.

Prostatitis is one of the most common diseases of the genital organs of men. Often it develops in parallel with vesiculitis, ie inflammation of seminal vesicles. Drivers, knowledge workers, sat all day in offices, and other people with sedentary occupations, are subject prostatitis more often than people who are constantly in motion.

Prostatitis often occurs because of variations in sexual life. Also cause the disease can become an infection caused by the bacteria staphylococcus, streptococcus, E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, enterococci and specific micro-organisms - Chlamydia, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Trichomonas vaginalis, mycoplasmas, microscopic fungi, viruses. Infection often enters the body from the urethra of the excretory ducts of the prostate.

Microflora in the urethra of a healthy person may be different, without causing pathological changes.

Often prostatitis occurs in men after urethritis, ie inflammation of the urethra. But for the presence of an inflammatory process agent is not always a sufficient condition. Importance is the state of the protective mechanisms of the organism, which can be weakened by alcohol, hypothermia, overexertion and other harmful effects. Sometimes the infection comes because of the casual sexual relations, and the woman may not be visible to the inflammation of the sexual sphere. The frequent change of sexual partner violates the balance of microorganisms and is the cause of infection in a man.

Venereal diseases, such as trichomoniasis and gonorrhea, have become sluggish and cause chronic prostatitis with the lack of effective treatment. Trichomonas prostatitis is almost impossible to treat and often recurs, as sources of disease are usually both partners.

Bacteria are often caught with the blood in the prostate of other foci of inflammation, such as cystitis, proctitis, colitis. Also, the agent of infection in the prostate gland can be entered and from distant sources, such as tonsillitis, caries teeth, diseased ears and nose, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, etc. Often doctors track the interaction. Contact prostate disease of the colon. Effective treatment of prostatitis in such cases requires the simultaneous detection and treatment of opportunistic diseases.

Development of inflammation in the prostate gland is often dependent on the complex and local predisposing factors, as well as violations of metabolism and blood circulation, the presence of stagnation in the body. The latter are the most important and often combined with vascular pathology, ie, hemorrhoids, varicose veins of the spermatic cord, the lower extremities. Also, the stagnation in the prostate gland contribute to chronic diseases such as arthritis, osteochondrosis, pathology of the cardiovascular system, etc.

One of the causes of prostatitis is stagnant secretions and blood in the veins of the prostate gland, which primarily related to an abnormal sexual life, that is interrupted intercourse, lack of regularity and stability of the rhythm of sexual life, sexual excesses, masturbation abuse, long-term sexual abstinence, defective ejaculation due to stress during sexual intercourse, etc., as well as venous congestion may occur at a constant sedentary work, while working in a sitting position, in the case of frequent constipation with hemorrhoids, colds, alcohol abuse.

Contribute to the emergence of prostatitis particularly prostate cancer. Iron - is unpaired body, which provides a secret part of the sperm, located in the front bottom of the pelvis below the bladder to the urogenital diaphragm. A prostate is an initial division of urethra and ejaculatory ducts. In form it resembles somewhat thickened chestnut or human heart.

Highlighting this resemblance to the human heart, and important role of the prostate gland in the body, many scientists call it the second man's heart. His front part of the prostate gland is addressed to the pubic symphysis, ie to the anterior fusion of pelvic bones, and the posterior part adjacent to the ampule of the rectum, through which can probe the prostate and make her a massage. The surface of cancer is addressed to the muscle, elevating the anus, so when you pull the anus and prostate gland is massaged.

The prostate is the fabric, which consists of numerous grouped in glandular separated by septa. Comprise 30 to 50 lobes, which are surrounded by shells contributing to wring secret channels. The transverse size of the prostate reaches 4 cm longitudinal equal to 3 cm, its thickness is about 2 cm mass of iron about 20-25 g.

In the prostate gland are three shares: two sides - right and left, which are separated by a shallow groove, and the front portion, which is the isthmus. Blood supply of the prostate gland is provided by numerous small arterial branches. Options are governed by its complex nervous apparatus.

Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that results in the swelling of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It affects the lower part of the small intestine, the ileum. The swelling, which extends deep into the lining of the affected organ, can cause pain and make the intestines empty frequently, leading to diarrhea. As the symptoms of Crohn's disease are like other intestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis, it is difficult to diagnose.

Crohn's disease affects men and women equally and seems to run in some families. Occurring in people of all age groups, the disease is more often diagnosed in people between the ages of 20 and 35. Abdominal pain, often in the lower right area and chronic diarrhea are the early symptoms. Rectal bleeding, fever, weight loss, loss of appetite, arthritis, and skin problems may also occur. Bleeding may be severe and constant, leading to anemia. Children with Crohn's disease may suffer delayed development and stunted growth and fatigue resulting from anemia.

Obstruction or blockage of the intestine due to swelling and the formation of scar tissue is a general health problem related to the disease. Crohn's disease may also cause sores, or ulcers, that tunnel through the affected area into surrounding tissues, such as the bladder, vagina, or skin. The tunnels, called fistulas, often become infected. Sometimes fistulas can be treated with medicine, but in certain cases surgery is essential. About one third of the people who develop Crohn's disease, have problems around the anus. Small cracks called fissures may also progress in the lining of the mucus membrane of the anus.

Nutritional health problems such as deficiencies of proteins, calories, and vitamins are common. These deficiencies may be caused by inadequate dietary intake, loss of protein, or malabsorption. Other health problems associated with Crohn?s disease include inflammation in the eyes, mouth or spine; reddish skin nodules, kidney stones, gallstones, and diseases of the liver and the biliary system. Medical science has not yet discovered a cause or cure for Crohn's disease, but many drugs are available to control the symptoms.

Yes it can be extremely annoying and embarrassing having a scalp condition like dandruff, eczema, scalp infections or a nasty itchy red rash on your scalp.

If you are suffering from:

itchy scalp, sore scalp or do you have a flaky dry scalp with redness and rashes that drive you crazy?

scalp picking - do you constantly find yourself picking at & scratching?

oily scalp and limp hair leaving you feeling less than your best

embarrassing dandruff falling on your clothes

or even a fungal infection of your scalp...that can lead to lesions or scalp sores.

Hair falling out & patches on your scalp

Your instinct might be to pick up a product from the store shelf or your doctor. Most of these scalp treatments that promise relief from dry scalp conditions sound very attractive until you start reading the fine print.

Sodium Laureth/Lauryl Sulphate (SLS)? What's that? Why do you have to call a Poison Control Center if you accidentally swallow shampoo? And what are those warning labels on the back all about? What does it do to your head if it's that toxic?

Stop! What you must know is that several chemicals, especially SLS, strip the natural oils from the skin and even corrode it, along with your eye membranes. Have you also noticed that your hair has been thinning? Well hair follicle damage is another little known but very common symptom of these chemicals.

Actually, most commercial shampoos & scalp treatments are designed to meet people's "sensory" expectations...offering instant gratification and the illusion that they are doing their job. So therein lies the problem. For example adding silicone to conditioner induces an artificial shine but in truth can create problems long term including sensitivities.

Most people expect a shampoo to:

Foam up nicely

Smell good

Take all the so-called "nasty" oiliness out of their hair

Make their hair feel squeaky-clean

And that's a reasonable ask - think about it...if your shampoo didn't foam up, smell good, or leave your hair feeling squeaky-clean, would you trust it? Well, here's the thing: 90% of commercial shampoos achieve the foaming effect using the equivalent of engine degreasers to strip off not only dirt and grime but also valuable natural oils that your scalp needs.

Yes --your scalp needs natural oils. Without them, your body has no natural defence - those oils are there for a reason! Your scalp needs to maintain a natural PH balance that if disturbed - can develop into a dry, itchy irritated scalp. The good news is that there are many natural remedies you can use with moisturising oils and natural powerful alternatives to heal & reverse any scalp problem by restoring balance safely. You can easily repair follicle and damage - even boost hair growth and use your own home remedy for scalp cell regeneration. There are also the artificial aromas that are added - its alarming the huge percentage of people who are mildly to severely averse or allergic to artificial scents - resulting in itchy scalp, skin rashes etc and we don't even know it.

So what non toxic itchy scalp treatments and natural remedies can help? Well there are many non toxic shampoos which are nourishing and conditioning while still giving you're the "foam effect", they smell devine with the addition of the natural oils they contain. So you do have a choice and it does NOT have to cost you more - in fact most of them are less - you just have to know what to look for.

So lets have a look at natural oils for treating your scalp...

Here are some of my favorite natural oils you can use for hair & scalp treatments.

Zinc Pyrithione: Wonderful stuff for dandruff & itchy scalp conditions. First synthesized in the 1930's, this is the most widely used active ingredient from a natural source. It's used to treat dandruff, seborrheic dermatitus, psoriasis, eczema and numerous other skin and scalp disorders. It has strong anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties.

Jojoba: Is excellent as a scalp moisturiser and helps to rebalance sebum.

Tea Tree: Oily hair ... Treatment for dry scalp, dandruff, lice, and underactive sebaceous glands, enlivens the scalp and brings the cells & follicles to attention

Basil: Oily hair ... promotes growth

Chamomile: Fine to normal hair ... gives golden highlights

Clary sage: All types of hair ... dandruff treatment

Lavender: Normal hair ... Scalp treatment for itchiness, dandruff, and even lice!

Lemon: Oily hair ... Gives golden highlights; treatment for dry scalp, dandruff, lice, and underactive sebaceous glands

Myrrh: Dry hair ... Treatment for dry scalp, dandruff, lice, and underactive sebaceous glands

Patchouli: Oily hair ... Dandruff treatment

Peppermint: Dry hair ... Promotes hair growth

Rose: Fine hair ... Soothes scalp

Unrefined Virgin Coconut Oil: Itchy Scalp, Dry Scalp Excellent for itchy scalp, dry scalp and dandruff

Rosemary: Oily hair ... Dandruff treatment; promotes hair growth

Tea tree: Oily hair ... Treatment for dry scalp, dandruff, lice, and underactive sebaceous glands

Ylang-ylang: Oily hair ... Dandruff treatment

Neem: ... a wonder oil from India. Neem is amazing for all of the wonderful "stuff" it does. It's also derived from a type of tree bark. Neem is an effective fungicide and insecticide (great for head lice when used with geranium, rosemary, lavender and eucalyptus oils). In clinical studies Neem extracts and oil were found to be as effective as coal tar and cortisone in treating psoriasis with none of the usual side effects accompanying the use of Neem as there was with Coal tar and cortisone. Neem extracts and oil removes redness and itching when applied directly to your scalp...and it's a great skin conditioner. Best of all its excellent for relieving itching fast.

The best part of knowing that there are alternatives is that you can have mix these into super powerful blends like a super moisture boosting home remedy for dry scalp, or soothing itchy scalp treatments. Dry itchy scalp can be dealt with fast and permanently without spending a ton on traditional scalp med products.

Here's just one easy remedy you can make today:

Home remedy for dry itchy scalp Take ¼ c oatmeal and soak in water for 20 mins. Mix well and then strain the liquid adding it to a cup. Add 5 drops lavender oil (or lavender stalks steeped in ¼ cup hot water. Add 5 drops rosemary (or rosemary stalks steeped in ¼ cup hot water. Allow to cool until tepid.

Mix the liquids together and dab on your scalp...leave in for 10 mins to soothe the itch. This a good temporary soother for itching. Chamomile tea is also soothing!

There are hundreds of ideas that are excellent scalp treatments from dandruff to scalp infections like scalp sores & psoriasis. These remedies combined with the knowledge of what causes itchy scalp and other scalp conditions will enable you to be free from itching, dryness and allow you to grow fabulously thick, shiny beautiful hair also.....so have fun experimenting and "luxuriating" by giving your hair a treat using the many natural gifts from nature that are right under our noses! There are also many natural shampoos that so not use these ingredients and do wonders for your hair such as Akin shampoo, and Thursday Plantation which is fantastic as an effective anti-dandruff shampoo.

I have included a few more remedies and uses for oils below. There are many many more in "Beautiful Hair & Healthy Scalp Secrets & Remedies " and a list of shampoos that are not toxic. They are nourishing & repairing for your scalp & hair.

SOOTHING & HEALING ANTIFLAMMATORY REMEDY: Apply a mixture of 1 teaspoon of Neem oil (antifungal & antiitching) 1 teaspoon Teatree or Manuka (also antifungal) which much stronger than teatree, one teaspoon of Rosemary oil and one teaspoon of Lavender oil together in 3 tablespoons of carrier oils such as Olive or Almond oil (Wheatgerm and Macadamia carrier oils closely match your natural sebum) and apply to your scalp daily.

Alternatively add the oils together minus the olive/almond oil to one cup if water in spray bottle and shake vigorously then spray on your roots. If you can get a teaspoon of hemp oil add that to the mix as well.

GARDEN REMEDY: Go to your garden and get 3 sprigs of Rosemary, and chop up and add to 3 tea bags of Chamomile tea. Boil gently, let cool, strain and rinse your hair with this liquid for a calming antiflammatory effect.

As with all remedies please patch test first and use at your own risk. And but only non toxic shampoos without ingredients that cause your head to react, flake itch and burn....plus more remedies in "Beautiful Hair & Healthy Scalp Secrets & Remedies "

Heres a little about the oils above which can be mixed to create various formulas to treat different conditions and add condition to your hair found in my eBook "Beautiful Hair & Healthy Scalp Secrets & Remedies ".

Neem Oil: Derived from a type of tree bark it is an effective fungicide and insecticide (great for head lice when used with geranium, rosemary, lavender and eucalyptus oils). It has a very strong odor which can overpower other fragrances but its effectiveness is proven:

In clinical studies Neem extracts and oil were found to be as effective as coal tar and cortisone in treating psoriasis with none of the usual side effects accompanying the use of Neem as there was with Coal tar and cortisone.

When applied to the skin, Neem extracts and oil removes redness and itching while improving the condition of the skin while being treated. In the case of eczema clinical studies demonstrate that even the application of weaker Neem leaf extracts effectively cured acute conditions of eczema with the fresh cold pressed oil with its high concentration of active ingredients.

Neem effectively kills the bacteria that cause Acne and studies prove that Neem will reduce inflammation caused by acne and other bacterial infections.

Its also good for other skin conditions such as Dry Skin, Wrinkles, Dandruff, Itchy Scalp, Skin Ulcers and Warts which can be effectively remedied with soaps and other products containing Neem oil.

Lavender Oil: Lavender is known for its calming properties both emotional and physical. There are different varieties of lavender and certain ones are favored more than others for medicinal treatments. Lavender is effective to soothe itching from skin and sore scalp inflammations such as burning red itchy scalp, and dandruff to insect bites as well as having a powerful calming effect to treat scalp itching and irritated scalp as well as relax you and help you nod off to sleep.

In one study of 86 people with alopecia areata (a disease of unknown cause characterized by significant hair loss, generally in patches), those who massaged their scalps with lavender and other essential oils daily for 7 months experienced significant hair re-growth compared to those who massaged their scalps without the essential oils. It is not entirely clear from this study whether lavender (or a combination of lavender and other essential oils) was responsible for the beneficial effects. Scalp massage is also highly beneficial to stimulate follicles and blood supply to the skin's surface.

Aromatherapists also use lavender as a tonic in inhalation therapy to treat headaches, nervous disorders, and exhaustion. Herbalists treat skin ailments, such as fungal infections (like candidiasis), dandruff, eczema of the scalp, wounds, scalp acne, with lavender oil. It is also used externally in a healing bath for circulatory disorders and as a rub for rheumatic ailments (conditions affecting the muscles and joints).

Tea Tree Oil: One of the strongest known natural antiseptics. Also has punative skin penetrating capacity as an anti-inflamatory, anti-bacterial, germicide and fungicide. The scientific name for it is Melaleuca Alternifolia.

Rosemary Oil: Rosemary oil has a pronounced action on the brain and the central nervous system and is wonderful for clearing the mind and mental awareness, while having excellent brain stimulant properties, as well as improving memory.

It helps with headaches, migraines, neuralgia, mental fatigue and nervous exhaustion and the antiseptic action of rosemary oil is especially suitable for intestinal infections and diarrhea, easing colitis, dyspepsia, flatulence, hepatic disorders and jaundice and relieving pain associated with itchy flaky scalp, rheumatism, arthritis, muscular pain and gout. It also helps for arteriosclerosis, palpitations, poor circulation and varicose veins.

The diuretic properties of rosemary oil are useful with reducing water retention during menstruation, and also with obesity and cellulite.

On the respiratory system, it is effective for asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, sinus and whooping cough. Because of its astringent action, it is also effective for countering sagging skin. Its stimulating action benefits scalp disorders and encourages hair growth.

On the skin, it helps to ease congestion, puffiness and swelling and can also be used for acne, dry inflamed scalp, dermatitis and eczema, but a very popular use of this oil is the use in hair care products, as it has a pronounced positive effect on the health of the hair and scalp. It increases the circulation to the scalpand is therefore also effective for promoting hair growth after having conditions such as dandruff or scalp sores causing hair loss, scalp itching and scratching.

Rosemary oil is effective for mental fatigue, circulation problems, pain relief for the muscular system, decongests the respiratory tract and is a skin and hair booster.

This root's name is pronounced "yoo-ka," not "yucca," and is appreciated by nearly half of the world. It's definitely worth trying. If tapioca is a favorite, the yuca root will be, too. The flesh of this root, known as manioc or cassava, is used as a base for this pudding. Yuca is not Yucca, a genus of the bayonet-leaved showy plants of the Agave family.

An excellent source of iron, yuca root provides some niacin and calcium. One-half cup of cooked yuca contains about 40 calories. Eating five daily servings of fruits and vegetables lowers the chances of cancer. A recent study found that eating nine or ten daily servings of fruits and vegetables, combined with three servings of low-fat dairy products, were effective in lowering blood pressure.

You can use yucca in various ways including:

1. Eat Yucca root (Cassava), as if it were a potato. Cook the root into the oven and place the potatoes in the recipes to increase your intake of vitamin C, B and A as well as calcium, phosphorus, potassium and iron.

2. Use its powder, the pure dry root of yucca contains, by mixing with water, yogurt, smoothies or juice as you protein powder. The powder from its root contains saponins, which are effective as anti-inflammatory agents, muscle spasms, reduce pain, provide relief from arthritis.

3. Its roots' extracts in the form of tablets, joint pain, arthritis, bursitis, colitis, and treatment of osteoporosis. This supplement is also known that you extra energy, too.

4. Cassava Drinking tea, cleanse blood and purify the intestines.

5. Apply the root: Shampoo your hair soft. You can get shampoo of roots of the Yucca from many natural and healthy food or stores Buy online or make shampoo. Its roots were used by Indian tribes for years to get out, hair loss and dandruff, while preventing the hair shiny and beautiful.

6. It acts like a cleanser and food for your joints. It is excellent for those who have had limited mobility due to age. It contains steroidal saponins that promote working as a cleaner and nutrition for joints, so that there is less risk of future damage. Fill your diet with yucca for a healthier and more flexible!

Scientific Names: Yucca spp. Family: Agavaceae

Common Names: Yucca, Manioc, Cassava, Mojave (Mohave) Yucca, Spanish Bayonet, Our Lord's Candle, Joshua Tree, Datil, Adam's-Needle, Mole, Soap Weed, Whipple Plant, or Dagger Plant

Nowadays, peptic ulcer affects more than 10% of the Americans. It is mostly caused by a bacterium (H. Pylori) and by inadequate use of medication. Peptic ulcer causes an injury upon the stomach or duodenum lining, known as gastric ulcers or duodenum ulcers.

Because of this erosion, abdominal pain and burning might occur during the night, when the stomach is empty, or two-three hours after eating. Also, nausea, vomiting, belching and indigestion might occur. These are the general symptoms of a peptic ulcer.

If you vomit blood, or see that your stool is bloody or black, call for a doctor immediately, because a complication of the peptic ulcer might have occurred. Also, an increased abdominal pain is urgency.

Peptic ulcer occurs when inside your stomach and duodenum increased levels of acid are produced. This acid injures the line of stomach and duodenum and so ulcer appears.

The level of acid inside the stomach increases because some factors interfere within its production. For example, following a treatment with NSAIDs for a long time could increase the level of produced acid inside your stomach. To prevent ulcer from occurring your current doctor will prescribe some antacids, inhibitors of the proton pump (Omeprazole, Lansoprazole, and Pantoprazole), and H2-Receptor antagonists (Famotidine, Cimetidine, Nizatidine, and Ranitidine).

Another factor that leads to ulcer is a bacterium (H. Pylori). This bacterium weakens the natural barrier that protects the lining of your stomach against the acid's action. A lot of people possess this bacterium inside their stomach but not all of them develop ulcer. This is quite an interesting thing for scientists and is still studied.

People who suffer of Zollinger - Ellison Syndrome might develop ulcer because they have tumors in the pancreas that produce a hormone called gastrin, which increases the acid production in the stomach.

Alcohol, smoking, intensive stress, radiation therapy and other direct physical injuries can also lead to an ulcer. Ulcer has even a genetic predisposition.

People who have a weakened immune system and live in unsanitary conditions are exposed to H. Pylori.

In order to diagnose the ulcer, the doctor will ask you about your symptoms, will want to know for how long have you been having them, and will inquire about your lifestyle and diet.

After that the doctor will perform a physical exam to see if there are any signs of bleeding. A blood test is also required to see if you are anemic.

If the doctor suspects a peptic ulcer has occurred he will prescribe you antacid drugs.

But if you continue to feel abdominal pain and burnings even after treatment the doctor will have to perform other investigations like: endoscopy and an upper gastrointestinal test with barium.

These tests are quite accurate in detecting H. Pylori, the bacterium which could have caused your peptic ulcer. In this case antibiotic drugs are recommended, alongside with antacid medication.

Nutrient (substances that provide energy) deficiencies are common in people suffering from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) particularly Crohn's disease. These deficiencies are more common in kids than in adults and can lead to failure to grow and gain weight in children.

This article will focus problem in adults only. Common deficiencies include water soluble and fat-soluble vitamins, minerals like zinc, calcium and iron and proteins. People with these disorders have reduced intake of food secondary to decreased appetite and worsening of symptoms with meals a lot of times. Because of diarrhea there is poor absorption of food. Their energy requirements are higher because of chronic disease (inflammation). Some patients will need resection of part of their intestines, which can lead to poor absorption of specific nutrients.

Commonly seen nutritional deficiency in people with ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's Disease include:

繚 Hypoalbuminemia (low albumin) 25 - 80% of patients
繚 Vitamin D deficiency 75% of patients
繚 Anemia 60 - 80% of patients
繚 Iron deficiency 39 - 81% of patients
繚 Vitamin B12 deficiency 20 - 60% of patients
繚 Folic acid deficiency 36 - 54 % of patients
繚 Zinc deficiency 40 - 50 of patients
繚 Calcium deficiency 13 of patients
繚 Magnesium deficiency 14 - 33% of patients

People with their disease under control should be able to eat a normal healthy diet and should have the minimal need for any additional supplements outside the daily requirements of nutrients. There are no specific restrictions for people with inflammatory bowel disease. Individuals however may be not able to tolerate certain specific foods and should avoid those items. In general it is a good idea to avoid fried food, red meat as well as excessive oil and cheese containing food.

1. Because vitamin deficiencies are prevalent in patients with IBD, multivitamin supplementation is suggested.

2. Iron deficiency is common and most common cause for anemia in patients with IBD. Patients need to be periodically checked for iron levels particularly if their blood counts are low. Supplements can be given orally or intravenously.

3. Folic acid is usually given to most patients with IBD as supplement.

4. Serum levels of vitamin B12 should be monitored in patients and if needed it can be given as a monthly injection.

5. The recommended intake of vitamin D is 400 to 800 IU daily for adults, the same as for healthy individuals. People with chronic diarrhea may require higher doses of Vitamin D.

6. High dose vitamin E supplementation is not recommended.

7. There is no need for supplementing vitamins A & K.

8. Vitamin A & E excess can cause serious side effects.

9. Zinc supplement with 10-15 mg of elemental zinc daily is recommended. Higher doses have not proven to be beneficial.

10. Negative calcium balance is one of several factors contributing to bone disease in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. The recommended intake of elemental calcium for adults with IBD is 1500 mg daily. Patient requiring steroids frequently or with extensive disease of small bowel may need higher doses.

Your doctors should be periodically checking you for above deficiencies and suggesting appropriate treatment. For more details, discuss with your healthcare providers. For more information go to Dr. Jain's Blog

The term "colon infection" can be used in various ways to include a number of different colon disorders and conditions.

When used by doctors, however, it usually refers to a disorder caused by the Clostridium difficile bacteria - more commonly known as C. difficile or simply C diff.

Most C. diff colon infections are experienced by older adults who are in a hospital or living in a nursing home or other long term care facility. The reason they get these infections is the fact that they're taking antibiotics to cope with some other health problem.

The problem occurs because antibiotics not only kill bacteria that cause sickness - they also kill bacteria in our intestines which help us digest our food properly. Without enough of this beneficial bacteria, C. diff takes over and grows rapidly. Once C. diff gets established, it causes an infection by producing a toxic substance that attacks the lining of the cells and intestines. The resulting inflammation causes abdominal pain and discomfort.

If your colon infection is fairly mild, it will probably go away when you stop taking the antibiotic. However, in cases in which the colon infection is more severe, an entirely different type of antibiotic may be needed to kill C. diff.

There are several kinds of antibiotics that seem to produce more colon infections from Clostridium difficile than others. These include fluoroquinolones, cephalosporins, penicillin and clindamycin.

C difficile bacteria is common in nature. It can be found in abundance in dirt and water, and also on plants. This bacteria, which is also found in the feces of humans and animals, tends to spread quickly in places where sanitation is poor. It floats easily in the air and can settle on surfaces where it can be transmitted to hands.

Avoiding C. diff bacteria can be done the same way you protect yourself from germs of all kinds: keep surfaces at home clean and wash your hands a lot. C diff produces spores that spread readily and can live on surfaces for months. Touching a surface where these germs have landed, and then touching your lips or mouth, could give them entrance to your digestive tract. This could start a chain of events that ends with a colon infection.

The fact that you have C. diff germs in your digestive tract doesn't always mean your going to get sick. But individuals who have C.. diff can certainly spread them to other people who will then develop a colon infection in turn.

In the last few decades, an increasing number of colon infections caused by C. difficile have been reported. A new form of Clostridium difficile bacterium has mutated which is even more aggressive. This type resists medications that were effective before, resulting in several serious outbreaks in the last ten years or so.

Symptoms of a colon infection can take a long time to appear after C. diff germs get into your system. It can be months. When colon infection symptoms do appear, they may include those detailed below.

* Mild abdomen pain and tenderness, or stomach cramps.
* Very watery bowel movements and diarrhea that lasts at least two days.
* A type of severe colon inflammation known as colitis.
* The most disconcerting symptom may be raw tissue, blood, and pus that you'll notice in bowel movements..
* Fever and nausea.
* Loss of appetite followed by loss of weight..
* Signs of dehydration

It's time to call a doctor if you have these symptoms for 2-3 days or more.

Once it's been established that your colon infection has been caused by Clostridium difficile, your doctor will probably tell you to discontinue the antibiotic you've been taking. Even though your colon infection symptoms will probably improve, there are other treatment steps that may still be required.

The good news is this. There are other antibiotics you can take that will kill Clostridium difficile without destroying the helpful bacteria in your system. The most frequently prescribed among these are known as metronidazole and vancomycin. Side effects like nausea are possible with both, and they may also leave a bitter taste. It's especially important not to drink alcoholic beverages when taking metronidazole.

There are a number of probiotics which be beneficial in restoring your intestinal tract Saccharomyces boulardii, a variety of yeast, has been effective for some patients when combined with medications.

Surgery is not usually performed, but may be done in severe cases.

Not all the treatments for a colon infection recommended above will work every time. When a colon infection returns, it's usually because the Clostridium difficile bacteria was not completely removed in the initial treatment. It can also come back because the individual has been exposed to a different strain.

When it comes to diseases of twenty first century, we all think that syndrome X comprising of diabetes, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia is the topmost disorder. Well, it's not false but here is another disease that is increasing in its incidence, pertaining to instant foods and irregular eating habits of people. Yes, I am talking about piles, which are technically termed as hemorrhoids.

In the simplest terms, we can say that hemorrhoids are the varicose veins of rectum and anal canal. The engorged veins in the rectum lead to piles, which may be external or internal. External piles are covered by skin while the internal ones are covered with mucus membrane.

Causes of hemorrhoids:

(1) Heredity: However we blame the eating habits, the first culprit lies in our genetic make up. Congenital weakness of blood vessel walls is found in families, which are prone to hemorrhoids. Also in some families, very large arterial supply to hemorrhoidal plexus is found. This may be called as a non-modifiable factor; however, with apt precautions and treatment, this tendency can be curbed positively.

(2) Pregnancy: Due to straining during childbirth, many women suffer from post-partum hemorrhoids. Sometimes they occur lately also. Due to lax pelvic floor muscles and ligaments, venous walls get loosened too, because of which protrusion of hemorrhoids may occur.

(3) Chronic constipation: This is by far the commonest cause of hemorrhoids. If the wrong eating habits are left uncorrected, patient suffers from chronic constipation. Also drinking less water, too spicy food, lack of exercise, etc account for exciting factors for aggravating latent hemorrhoids.

(4) Colitis, dysenteries, diarrheas, and enteritis etc may lead to hemorrhoids if left untreated for long.

(5) Serious diseases: In some serious health conditions like systemic or portal hypertension, inferior vena caval congestion, cardiac or pulmonary disease, cancer of rectum, etc.

Signs and Symptoms of hemorrhoids:

Bleeding per anus is the commonest symptom of hemorrhoids. Bright red blood oozing during stools is usually the first symptom experienced by many patients. Protrusion of hemorrhoids palpable per anus is usually the late sign. Internal hemorrhoids however may not lead to bleeds, but develop acute pain while defecation. The pain is usually excruciating and may remain even after stool in form of dull ache. Mucus discharge may accompany prolapsed hemorrhoids. Complications like profuse hemorrhage, thrombosis, strangulation of piles, ulceration, and rarely gangrene can occur if hemorrhoids are left untreated for long.

Treatment of hemorrhoids and homeopathic approach:

Conventional treatment of hemorrhoids most of the times is surgical intervention. Hemorrhoidectomy is performed under general or local anesthesia. But we certainly have homeopathy as the best weapon to treat hemorrhoids and cure them completely. According to homeopathy, hemorrhoids occur in people with venous constitution usually. This tendency can be curbed by utilizing aptly chosen constitutional medicine, which is selected by considering the totality of symptoms. Numerous locally acting medicines may be used at times to lessen bleeding, pain and/or mucus. But remember these local medicines have to be backed with constitutional and miasmatic remedy for perfect cure.

Several homeopathic medicines have to be thought of while treating hemorrhoids. Aloe socotrina, Nux vomica, Aesculus, Hamamelis, Collinsonia, Pulsatilla, Graphites, Calcarea carb, etc are some of the homeopathic remedies, which can alleviate the pain and bleeding.

Auxiliary line of treatment:

Well, as for any other disease, some preventive aspects are very important in hemorrhoidal cases. Here is the list-

• Regularize your eating habits (crucially important)


• Eat food rich in fiber


• Avoid too much fatty stuff and spices,


• Drink lot of water,


• Exercise regularly


• Seek medical help immediately upon any type of intestinal problems


• Avoid frequent use of laxatives and purgatives