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Wednesday, May 25, 2011

[AlternativeAnswers] Re: Arthritis Awareness Month: Supplements and Herbal Remedies

 


Ok Andrew,

I'm facinated by all the "supplements/herbs listed below, but do have a
question that I think many others on group might want to know:

Without having to take a pile of pills everyday, is there a good or
better than good Supplement out there at retail that can be taken for
all the benifits that you list below? Also, you don't list many ot the
quanities of the supplements to be taken. As you list all these
different ones throughout the month, could you please list how much of
each is to be taken, when during the day is the best time to take them
and where to get them, OTHER THAN from the obligority "Health Stores"
[GNC and the like]?

Paul

--- In AlternativeAnswers@yahoogroups.com, "Andrew Pacholyk"
<yogiguruji@...> wrote:
>
> Good Morning!
>
> Arthritis Awareness Month: Supplements and Herbal Remedies
>
> May is Arthritis Awareness Month. Arthritis,: which means "joint
inflammation" is a general term for over 100 different joint disorders
with symptoms ranging from mild aches and pains to severe swelling and
crippling pain. Alternative answers for arthritis include a acupuncture,
effective exercise, dietary changes and controlling emotional stress.
>
> Taking additional vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements can help
to supplement major deficiencies. Touch therapies and hydrotherapy have
also shown to be very beneficial. Learn more about how to improve your
arthritis and get it under control, naturally. I will be featuring
alternative answers for treating arthritis throughout the month.
>
> Supplements
>
> Acidophilus: The normal, healthy colon contains "friendly" bacteria
(85% lactobacillus and 15% coliform bacteria). It is the friendly
bacterial flora found in yogurt and is essential to the digestive
system. When these bacteria are not in balance, then the person may
experience bloating, flatulence, constipation, and malabsorption of
nutrients. Acidophilus taken as a dietary supplement may help to
detoxify and to rebuild a balanced intestinal flora. It is used for the
prevention of Candida as well as for treatment. Acidophilus aids the
digestion and helps to replace the "friendly" intestinal flora.
>
> Baikal Skullcap: Flavonoid compounds of baikal skullcap display
significant antioxidant effects and promote a healthy inflammation
response. Baikal skullcap modulatates both COX and LOX pathways,
encourages healthy cardiovascular function, and promotes normal cell
growth.* As an antioxidant, it is superior to vitamins C and E.
Moreover, baikal skullcap provides immune support, non-sedating
anxiolytic effects, modulates histamine release, and supports the health
of cells during oxidative treatments.
>
> Calcium and Magnesium can be effective for pain associated with muscle
spasms. Take 500 mgs of each, two-three times per day.
>
> A diet that includes Flaxseed, flaxseed oil and fish oils contain
omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and decrease pain. Omega-3 fatty
acids help lower cholesterol, may help reduce the risk of irregular
heart rhythms and may also improve certain factors, like high blood
pressure.
>
> Probiotic A probiotic will fortify your intestinal flora, which are
essential for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. This is key to
good health and a strong immune system. Studies have shown that patients
who begin a course of probiotics with fiber a few days prior to surgery
are less likely to pick up a post-operative infection during their
hospital stays. This demonstrates a strong connection between intestinal
flora and immune function. The fiber, which provides the friendly
bacteria both food and sanctuary, can be as simple as an apple or
banana.
>
> Magnesium is essential for forming synovial fluid which is the joint
cushion. Magnesium is important for cell replication, energy production,
the transmission of nerve impulses and hormonal activity. Magnesium can
be found in brown rice, soy beans, nuts, brewer's yeast, whole wheat
flour and legumes. Consider supplementing magnesium with a recommended
daily dose of 200 - 400 mg daily. Caution: Magnesium is toxic to people
with renal (kidney) problems or AV (atrioventricular) blocks.
>
> Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause fatigue. In one trial, 2,500 -5,000
mcg of vitamin B12 given by injection every two to three days, led to
improvement in 50-80% of a group of people with arthritis; most
improvement appeared after several weeks of B12 shots. While the
research in this area remains preliminary, people with arthritis
considering a trial of vitamin B12 injections should consult a
nutritional doctor. Oral or sublingual B12 supplements are unlikely to
obtain the same results as injectable B12 because the body’s
ability to absorb large amounts is relatively poor.
>
> Vitamins B6,: Foods rich in the B vitamins, which help regulate
metabolism, are also beneficial, as diets high in sugar tend to burn
these vitamins at a faster rate. These foods include wheat germ, yogurt,
and liver.
>
> Vitamin C acts primarily in cellular fluid. Vitamin C scavenges free
radicals and cleans up waste products. In addition to its anti-oxidative
activities, vitamin C benefits many other body functions. Vitamin C is
necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which is an important component
in the structural make up of blood vessels, tendons, ligaments, and
bone. Vitamin C also plays an important role in the synthesis of the
neurotransmitters and norepinephrine. Neurotransmitters are critical to
brain function and are known to affect mood. Vitamin C, even in small
amounts, can protect molecules in the body, such as proteins, lipids,
carbohydrates, and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) from damage by free
radicals. Vitamin C helps in the fight against free-radical formation
caused by pollution and cigarette smoke and also helps return vitamin E
to its active form. Take 2,000 - 8,000 mg in divided dosage per day,
depending on bowel tolerance.
>
> Herbal Remedies
>
> The medicinal benefits of herbs have been recorded for centuries.
Herbs were extensively used to cure practically every known illness and
has been documented by Egyptian, Roman, Native American, Persians and
Hebrews alike. Many herbs contain powerful ingredients that, if used
correctly, can help heal the body. By using herbs in their complete
form, the body's healing process utilizes a balance of the ingredients
provided by nature.
>
> Herbs and herbal formulas can be taken in a variety of ways.
>
> *You may steep herbs as teas in order to release their healing
properties.
>
> * Herbal supplements in pills and capsules are another form. These are
herbs ground into powder. Herbal formulas tend to be created for a
single problem or nest of related problems and their specific pattern of
disharmony.
>
> * Tinctures. Herbal remedies are also prescribed in tincture form and
are the previously fresh herb in well preserved, highly concentrated
form. This liquid, as well as, concentrated forms of extracted herbs are
preserved in their freshest form.
>
> * Steam distillation or cold pressing results in herbs as essential
oils.
>
> * Plasters are ingredients such as oils, herbs and other pain
relieving herbs combined into an easy to use stick on strip or patch.
>
> * Poultice are macerated or chopped herbs that are placed directly on
the skin and a hot, moist bandage is applied.
>
> * Infusions are used when you are working with the most delicate part
of the herb-the leaves flowers, fruits and seeds.
>
> * Decoction is used to extract the tougher part of the herb-bark,
berries and roots.
>
>
> It is also important to note that since herbs contain active
ingredients, be aware that some elements may interact negatively with
prescribed medications! Therefore, your healthcare professional must be
notified if you have any questions about safety. As a general rule: most
of the bitter tasting herbs are medicinal herbs and the pleasant tasting
herbs are less toxic and can be used more often. Also, some herbs in any
form, should not be taken for more than seven days at a time. Others
herbs are more beneficial with time. The fresh leaves, bark, and roots
of herbs can be used in their natural form or can be found in dried form
and used in capsules, tablets, tinctures, essential oils, powders,
creams, lotions, and salves.
>
> Herbal medicine is a wonderful solution for pain and pain management.
Complications can arise when taking herbal medicine and allopathic drugs
internally, which your doctor has prescribed. Great caution should be
used especially if you are on blood thinners, diuretics or heart related
medication. Consult your doctor with any questions you may have, before
taking additional herbs or supplements, internally.
>
>
> Arnica Suave is a rich blend of quartz silica, amber resin and the
pain-relieving power of arnica in a special massage-in suave designed by
Andrew for his practice and is a part of his new "Crystal Inspirations"
product line.
>
> Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus) may decrease the progression of
arthritis. This dark brown seaweed is a soothing and nourishing tonic.
Caution: avoid in overactive (hyper) thyroid conditions.
>
> Bromelain is a plant-enzyme. Bromelain is not actually a single
substance, but a group of protein-digesting enzymes found in pineapple
juice and in the stem of pineapple plants. Local swelling is the
releasing of histamines in a localized area causes the vasodilation and
increased permeability of blood vessels. Bromelain has an
anti-inflammatory effect and is a very effective treatment for
fibromyalgia. It is recommend taking 200 to 400 milligrams three times a
day on an empty stomach at least ninety minutes before or three hours
after eating. Discontinue use if you develop any itching or rash.
>
> Cats Claw Bark (Uncaria tomentosa): A great anti-inflammatory herb.
Also called Una de Gato, the root and bark of this herb, which has
cat-like horns or claws, has been used by since the Inca civilization to
treat a variety of health problems, including osteoarthritis and
rheumatoid arthritis, stomach ulcers, many inflammatory disorders,
dysentery, and fevers.
>
> Cayenne Pepper (Capsaicin): In liquid tincture form is used internally
as an ayurvedic remedy for joint pain, especially when affected by cold
and dampness. Consider our topical Arthritis Remedy Blend for decreasing
pain and inflammation.
>
> Dandelion Root (Taraxacum Officinale): is recommended for degenerative
arthritis. This infamous liver tonic is a safe diuretic herb used for
all types of liver problems, promotes good digestion and plays a crucial
role in detoxification. This is helpful for chronic and wasting
diseases.
>
> Devils Claw: An analgesic and anti-inflammatory. This tuber is used to
treat all kinds of arthritis. Dosage: one to two grams, three times
daily.
>
> Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium): is very helpful as an
anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and emmenagogue reknowned for the
treatment of both migraines and arthritis. The dosage is 1 teaspoon of
tincture, 20-30 drops at the onset of a migraine. Repeat after 2 hours
as needed. For repeated attacks and as a treatment for arhtritis, take
one teaspoon every morning.
>
> Ginger: An anti-inflammatory. Ginger has been used in Ayurvedic and
Chinese medicine as an anti-inflammatory. Taking 6â€"50 grams of
fresh, liquid tincture or powdered ginger per day indicated that ginger
might be helpful. Suggested Dosage: 0.5 to 1 mg of powdered ginger daily
>
> Ginger Tonic: Ginger supports healthy digestion, promotes a healthy
inflammation response, promotes platelet health and cardiovascular
function, and increases the absorption and utilization of other herbs
and nutrients.
>
> Ginseng, Siberian: (Eleuthero senticosus) is beneficial especially for
rheumatoid arthritis. This famous wonder of the world root is widely
used and increase vital energy, works as an adaptogen herb, strengthens
the immune system, helps the body cope with side effects from
chemotherapy and is a great jet lag tonic. Caution: use for short
durations only. May aggravate anxiety, irritability and high blood
pressure.
>
> Glucosamine sulfate (GS), a nutrient derived from sea shells, contains
a building block needed for the repair of joint cartilage. GS has
significantly reduced symptoms of osteoarthritis. All published clinical
investigations on the effects of GS in people with osteoarthritis report
statistically significant improvement. Most research trials use 500 mg
GS taken three times per day. Benefits from GS generally become evident
after three to eight weeks of treatment. Avoid if you have any allergic
reactions to shell fish.
>
> Glucosamine stimulates the production of the specific elements of
cartilage and protects them. It helps your body repair worn cartilage,
reduce pain and improve function. Chondroitin attracts fluids into
proteoglycans, the molecules dispersed through out the cartilage that
give the tissue its shock-absorber quality, and protects the cartilage
against breakdown. These are substances the body already produces for
itself in small amounts.
>
> Glucosamine is found in almost all tissue; it has a role in the repair
and maintenance of joint cartilage. Chondroitin sulfate is a major
component of cartilage and is thought to inhibit the enzymes that
contribute to the breakdown of cartilage.
>
> Horsetail (Equisetum arvense): attributes its healing power to its
high content of silica and zinc. This common weed works well for
arthritis, particularly in synergy with dandelion root.
>
> S-adenosyl methionine (SAMe) possesses anti-inflammatory,
pain-relieving, and tissue-healing properties that may help protect the
health of joints.SAM-e is derived from methionine, an essential amino
acid; it may promote cartilage formation and repair. Glucosamine and
chondroitin sulfate are usually sold together. In clinical studies, the
supplements had to be taken for several weeks before providing any pain
relief. Don't forget the truly natural and proven methods for battling
osteoarthritis, lose excess weight and exercise.
>
> Turmeric: Turmeric is a traditional ayurvedic remedyand medicine that
has been researched for its ability to promote a healthy inflammation
response, support cardiovascular health, and support normal cell growth.
An effective anti-inflammatory. Dosage: 400 mg three times daily; take
on an empty stomach and combine with 1,000 mg of bromelain
>
> Wild Yam Root (Dioscorea villosa): is very beneficial in the treatment
of rheumatoid arthritis. This dried root is known for its
anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. This root works in
wonderful synergy with White Willow Bark.
>
> White Willow Bark: Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. White
Willow bark has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. Extracts
providing 60â€"120 mg salicin per day are approved for people with
rheumatoid arthritis. Although the analgesic actions of willow are
typically slow-acting, they last longer than aspirin.
>
>
> Andrew Pacholyk, MS. L.Ac
> http://peacefulmind.com/arthritis.htm
> Therapies for healing
> mind, body, spirit
>

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