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Wednesday, May 25, 2011

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

 

Good Morning, Paul.

Thank you for your post.

I would love to tell you YES, there is one magic pill that works best and this is what you should take........

Unfortunately, there is no such remedy.

1. A short answer may be 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. (The dosage was based on the prescribed dosage on the bottle).Don't forget the truly natural and proven methods for battling osteoarthritis, lose excess weight and exercise.

2. Fish oil is my other favorite. 1,000 mg twice a day for a total fo 2,000 mg per day. The health benefits of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) have been discussed for years. So it is important to know when you are shopping for omega 3 in fish oil form that you look at the EPA and DHA numbers on the label. Your goal is to find a fish oil that is close to this 1,000 mg number as this is the omega 3 number. I have seen fish oils on the shelf that are 1,000 mg per pill yet they only have less that 400 omega 3's (EPA and DHA). So even if your fish oils is 1,000 mg per pill, you must look at the combined numbers of the EPA and DHA to come as close as you can to this 1,000 mg.

The long answer

Herbal and vitamin supplementation is ONLY A PART of how you should treat your arthritis.

Understand what KIND of arthritis you have... is it osteo, psoriatic, rheumatoid...

Proper nutrition is EXTREMELY important in the long term management of your arthritis

If weight is contributing to your condition it is essential to lose excess weight.

Exercise is another EXCEPTIONAL approach to strengthening, engaging and moving stiff joints and increase blood circulation and flow.

As far as treatments:

Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture look at arthritis in particular PATTERNS. Two patients can present with osteo arthritis, yet they may have two completely different patterns. This is the wonderful and exceptional way this medicine treats disease. So I would also consider getting acupuncture (and finding an acupuncturist certified in herbs) who can treat your pattern disorder.

Massage can be wonderful for increasing blood circulation and movement.

Hydrotherapy can assist in soothing pain, relaxing the muscles that grip the joints and destressing the one thing that aggravates ANY health condition........... STRESS

As far as herbs and supplements.... not every well researched herb or supplement may help everyone... this is why experimenting with an herb or combination of herbs and/or supplements is going to be your goal at discovering what works best for YOU!

I try my best to offer broad strokes of information on disorders in order to help those suffering to find their best healing protocol.

I hope this helps.

In happiness,

Andrew

--- In AlternativeAnswers@yahoogroups.com, "Paul" <pdlortz@...> wrote:
>
>
> 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
> >
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

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