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Herbs

Back Clinic Herbs Functional Medicine Team. A medication prepared from plants, including most of the world’s traditional remedies for disease. Most think of herbal remedies as products sold over the counter as “supplements,” such as saw palmetto extract or some ointment. However, many over-the-counter and prescription drugs are based on ingredients derived from plants, including aspirin and digoxin. Lab tests show that some herbal remedies are effective against illness. An Individual should use these drugs as carefully as prescription medicines, using caution to avoid overdose, interactions with other medications, and misuse.

Herbal medicines are one type of dietary supplement. They are sold as tablets, capsules, powders, teas, extracts, and fresh or dried plants. People use herbal medicines to maintain or improve health. Many believe that products labeled “natural” are safe to use. This is not true, as herbal medicines do not have to go through the testing that drugs do. Some herbs, such as comfrey and ephedra, can cause serious harm. In addition, certain herbs interaction with a prescription or over-the-counter medicines can work well with other medicines and be dangerous. Before using herbal medicines, first, get information from reliable sources and tell your health care provider about any herbal medicines you are taking.

6 Ways Turmeric Essential Oil Supports a Healthy Body

by Dr Alex Jimenez | Turmeric

Turmeric, the bright-orange root so frequently used�in the cuisine of India and Asia, has been a revered cooking ingredient for centuries. Modern research, however, is also delving into its incredible array of health-promoting benefits. According to National Institutes of Health, �Today, turmeric is used as a dietary supplement for inflammation; arthritis; stomach, skin, liver, and gallbladder problems; cancer; and other conditions.��¹

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Zingiberaceae family, the same plant family as ginger. The word �turmeric� comes from the Latin �terra merita� meaning meritorious or sacred earth. The aroma of turmeric essential oil is very much like the freshly cut root ? rather spicy, a little sweet, with undertones of earthy and woodsy.�Turmeric essential oil is many times more concentrated than the powdered herb. It�s made�from the plant�s underground roots, called rhizomes, and is extracted from the rhizome by steam distillation.

Both powdered�turmeric spice and turmeric essential oil are a bright yellow or orange in color due to the pigment curcumin. Curcumin is one of the principal healthy components of turmeric and is what gives the color to curries and mustard and is even used for dyeing fabric. You�ll sometimes hear the terms �curcumin� and �turmeric� used interchangeably, but keep in mind that curcumin is only one of many compounds found in the turmeric plant.

The Phytochemical Profile of Turmeric Essential Oil

The phytochemical (plant-based, all natural components) content of turmeric essential oil is surprisingly complex. Over 300 phytochemicals contribute to making turmeric essential oil an excellent choice for supporting overall good health.

The major phytochemicals in turmeric oil are ar-turmerone (20-25 percent), alpha-turmerone (18 percent), beta-turmerone (12-13 percent) and curcumin (2-5 percent). The first three are classed as sesquiterpenes ? molecules which help to carry oxygen in the body.

Other special phytochemicals found in turmeric oil include zingiberene (sesquiterpene), beta-caryophyllene (sesquiterpene), eucalyptol (a monoterpene, which helps to reprogram DNA), alpha-phellandrene (monoterpene), beta-sesquiphellandrene (sesquiterpene) and curcumenol.�² There may well be many other phytochemicals in turmeric essential oil which have yet to be identified and studied.

Historical Use of Turmeric

Turmeric has been used for millennia in ancient healing traditions. In Indian Ayurvedic medicine it has been used traditionally to warm and strengthen the entire body, as a blood purifier, digestive aid, to eliminate worms, improve intestinal flora, and relieve gas. It is also used in India as a liver and gallbladder cleanser and strengthener, to normalize menstruation, to relieve arthritis and joint swelling, for sprains, burns, bruises, cuts and insect bites, for soothing coughs, easing asthma symptoms, as an antibacterial and antifungal agent.

In traditional Chinese medicine turmeric has been used for indigestion, sore throats and colds, liver ailments, and for wound healing.

6�Ways Turmeric Can Support�Good Health

While there are a myriad of traditional uses for turmeric, here are six�ways that turmeric and/or turmeric essential oil can be used to support general health and wellbeing:

#1. Promotes Clear, Unblemished Skin

The antiseptic and antioxidant properties of turmeric essential oil make it a wonderful acne fighter. It is also known to reduce facial hair, and combined with lemon juice, helps to naturally lighten hyperpigmentation of the skin.

A study published in the Dec 2011 issue of the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that skin creams with Curcuma longa extract have photoprotective effects, which means protection against effects of the sun. According to the study, �Ultraviolet radiations generate reactive oxygen species, leading to adverse effects on skin properties. Botanical extracts are multifunctional in nature having various properties like photoprotection, anti-aging, moisturizing, antioxidant, astringent, anti-irritant, and antimicrobial activity.��³

The researchers reported their results as being that: �The photoprotective properties of the constituents of C. longa extract and hydrant, moisturizing lipid components of nano vesicles with better skin penetration resulted in improvement in skin properties like skin hydration and sebum content.��⁴

Tip for Use for Acne: Do a patch test in a small inconspicuous place on your inner arm prior to trying this to ensure you don�t have a sensitivity to turmeric essential oil. In a glass mixing bowl combine two drops turmeric essential oil with one to two tablespoons organic raw honey. Mix well and apply to face as a mask. Leave on for 15 minutes and then wash off. While you wait, wash anything the paste came into contact with as it can stain (be sure to protect your clothes!).

A quality turmeric oil mixed with raw honey is gentle, nourishing, and helps promote smooth, unblemished skin. The honey should also help to keep the turmeric from staining the skin, although it�s a good idea to also test the paste first on the inside of your wrist before applying to your face. For best results use the mask no more than 1-2 times per week.

#2. Supports Well-Functioning Joints

Doctors from Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic traditions have used turmeric to address joint issues for centuries. Many recent studies have investigated turmeric�s ability to impact�the pain, stiffness, and inflammation associated with both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

One study of note�published in the Journal of Medicinal Food in August 2016 was a joint effort by Korean and American researchers. These researchers analyzed all of the randomized clinical trials that had been done to the date of the article. The researchers stated that the results of the trials �provide scientific evidence that supports the efficacy of turmeric extract (about 1000 mg/day of curcumin) in the treatment of arthritis.��⁵

It�s important to note that the researchers also stated that �more rigorous and larger studies are needed to confirm the therapeutic efficacy of turmeric for arthritis.��⁶

#3. Improves Mood and Sense of Wellbeing

Turmeric essential oil has a long tradition of use for its relaxing and mood balancing properties. Try diffusing some turmeric essential oil into the air while praying, meditating, reading, at bedtime, or anytime you want to feel more calm and relaxed.

Research has shown that consuming curcumin (the key compound in turmeric) may also be beneficial for improving mood and happiness levels in those suffering with depression and anxiety. In a 2014 study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, researchers �hypothesised that curcumin would be effective for the treatment of depressive symptoms in individuals with major depressive disorder.��⁷

Here�s the methodology the researchers used: �In a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 56 individuals with major depressive disorder were treated with curcumin (500 mg twice daily) or placebo for 8 weeks. The primary measure was the Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology self-rated version (IDS-SR30). Secondary outcomes included IDS-SR30 factor scores and the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI).��⁸

After the 8-week study was completed, they reported the following results: �From baseline to week 4, both curcumin and placebo were associated with improvements in IDS-SR30 total score and most secondary outcome measures. From weeks 4 to 8, curcumin was significantly more effective than placebo in improving several mood-related symptoms � Greater efficacy from curcumin treatment was identified in a subgroup of individuals with atypical depression.��⁹

#4. Helps With Digestive Issues

Turmeric is considered to be exceptionally helpful with digestive problems. It has been used to help relieve gas, and promote healthy digestion and elimination.

#5. Supports�a Healthy Liver

Turmeric is highly esteemed in holistic medicine for its ability to support liver health. Since the liver is the main organ of detoxification, keeping it in tip-top shape is vital for good health.

#6. Supports Oral Health

Porphyromonas gingivalis (P.gingivalis) is a pathogen in the mouth that�s believed to be associated with the progression of�periodontal disease. The aim of a 2016 study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research �was to substantiate the antimicrobial activity of various essential oils; eucalyptus oil, chamomile oil, tea tree oil and turmeric oil against P. gingivalis.��¹⁰

After testing various concentrations of the essential oils against P. gingivalis, the researchers concluded that �At 100% concentration all the tested oils possess antimicrobial activity against P.gingivalis with eucalyptus oil being most effective followed by tea tree oil, chamomile oil and turmeric oil.��¹¹

Precautions When Using Essential Oils

Only Use Quality Oils: The quality of essential oils available on the market is widely varied. Always ensure you are using high quality essential oils, preferably organic. It is important to discover whether the maker of an essential oil uses organic growing methods, knows how to distill the oils so that they contain the essential phytochemicals, and avoids the use of toxic chemicals when growing the plants and extracting the oils. Always purchase essential oils from a trusted source. Cheaper is not always better.

Dilute: It is recommended to use an organic carrier oil like olive, jojoba, almond, coconut, hemp, or argan to dilute prior to putting any essential oil on the body. Using a carrier oil�aids in absorption, does not affect the potency of the essential oil, and increases the cost-effectiveness of using essential oils for health.

Keep Oils Away From Sensitive Areas: Never apply essential oils anywhere near eyes, inside ears, or too close to sensitive regions of the body. If this happens by accident, use a carrier oil to dilute ? water will not help!

Do a Patch Test Before Using an Oil for the First Time: Before applying any essential oil, perform a patch test on a small area of skin such as the inside of the elbow. This is important for anyone, but especially critical if you have sensitive skin. If a reaction occurs, dilute essential oils heavily with an organic carrier oil like olive oil, jojoba, almond, coconut, hemp, or argan oils and test again.

For Babies and Children: Be very cautious when using essential oils with babies and children. They have delicate skin and their bodies are much smaller than adults. Always dilute heavily and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare practitioner before using.

In Pregnancy: Some essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy. Low doses of turmeric are considered to be safe during�pregnancy, but caution should be exercised when using full-strength turmeric oil. One or two studies showed that consumption of turmeric might stimulate the uterus (the worry being that could possibly increase the risk of premature birth or miscarriage). However, other studies have demonstrated that curcuminoids actually have a relaxing effect on uterine muscle. While contradictory, what is known is that millions of pregnant women in India and Asia have taken small amounts of turmeric in their daily diet for centuries, without any adverse effects being reported.

Always remember that essential oils are much more concentrated than the whole plant materials they�re extracted from. Therefore always exercise caution when using them ? especially when pregnant. Dilute heavily and work with an experienced healthcare�provider.

Turmeric essential oil is one of 3�ingredients (along with frankincense and myrrh essential oils) of Magi-Complex blend from Epigenetic Labs.�This breakthrough supplement is the first of its kind to incorporate three of the world�s best nutritional ingredients that support a healthy immune response � the Magi�s gifts to Jesus � all under one cap.

Sources:

The top 10 Health Benefits of Turmeric

by Dr Alex Jimenez | Turmeric

Turmeric contains a wide range of antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anticarcinogenic, antimutagenic and anti-inflammatory properties.
It is also loaded with many healthy nutrients such as protein, dietary fiber, niacin, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, potassium, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium and zinc.

1. Prevents Cancer

Turmeric can help prevent prostate cancer, stop the growth of existing prostate cancer and even destroy cancer cells. Multiple researchers have found that the active components in turmeric makes it one of the best protectors against radiation-induced tumors. It also has a preventive effect against tumor cells such as T-cell leukemia, colon carcinomas and breast carcinomas.

2.Relieves Arthritis

The anti-inflammatory properties in turmeric are great for treating both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, turmeric�s antioxidant property destroys free radicals in the body that damage body cells. It has been found that those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis who consume turmeric on a regular basis experience much relief from the moderate to mild joint pains as well as joint inflammation.

3. Controls Diabetes

Turmeric can be used in the treatment of diabetes by helping to moderate insulin levels. It also improves glucose control and increases the effect of medications used to treat diabetes. Another significant benefit is turmeric�s effectiveness in helping reduce insulin resistance, which may prevent the onset of Type-2 diabetes. However, when combined with strong medications, turmeric can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It is best to consult a healthcare professional before taking turmeric capsules.

4. Reduces Cholesterol Level

Research has proven that simply using turmeric as a food seasoning can reduce serum cholesterol levels. It is a known fact that high cholesterol can lead to other serious health problems. Maintaining a proper cholesterol level can prevent many cardiovascular diseases.

5. Immunity Booster

Turmeric contains a substance known as lipopolysaccharide, which helps stimulate the body�s immune system. Its antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal agents also help strengthen the immune system. A strong immune system lessens the chance of suffering from colds, flu and coughs. If you do get a cold, a cough or the flu, you can feel better sooner by mixing one teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of warm milk and drinking it once daily.

6. Heals Wound

Turmeric is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent and can be used as an effective disinfectant. If you have a cut or burn, you can sprinkle turmeric powder on the affected area to speed up the healing process. Turmeric also helps repair damaged skin and may be used to treat psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.

7. Weight Management

Turmeric powder can be very helpful in maintaining an ideal body weight. A component present in turmeric helps increase the flow of bile, an important component in the breakdown of dietary fat. Those who wish to lose weight or treat obesity and other associated diseases can benefit from having one teaspoon of turmeric powder with every meal.

8. Prevents Alzheimer�s Disease

Brain inflammation is suspected to be one of the leading causes of cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer�s disease. Turmeric supports overall brain health by aiding in the removal of plaque build-up in the brain and improving the flow of oxygen. This can also prevent or slow down the progression of Alzheimer�s disease.

9. Improves Digestion

Many key components in turmeric stimulate the gallbladder to produce bile, which then improves digestion and reduces symptoms of bloating and gas. Also, turmeric is helpful in treating most forms of inflammatory bowel disease including ulcerative colitis. However it is important to bear in mind that people suffering from any kind of gallbladder disease should not take turmeric as a dietary supplement as it may worsen the condition. It is best to consume turmeric in raw form when suffering from a digestive problem.. Prevents Liver Disease

Turmeric is a kind of natural liver detoxifier. The liver detoxifies the blood through the production of enzymes and turmeric increases production of these vital enzymes. These vital enzymes break down and reduce toxins in the body. Turmeric also is believed to invigorate and improve blood circulation. All of these factors support good liver health.

Questions About Herbal Meds For Heart Problems

by Dr Alex Jimenez | Chiropractic, Herbs

While there’s scant evidence that herbal medications are safe or effective to treat heart conditions, they remain popular among people with heart disease, a new review suggests.

“Physicians should improve their knowledge of herbal medications in order to adequately weigh the clinical implications related to their use,” said senior review author Dr. Graziano Onder.

Onder, of the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Rome, Italy, is an assistant professor in the department of geriatrics, neurosciences and orthopedics.

Physicians Should Explain That Natural Does Not Always Mean Safe

Onder�said in a news release from the American College of Cardiology.

In the United States, herbal medications can be sold without being tested in clinical trials. As a result, there’s little evidence of their safety or effectiveness, the review authors explained.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration can only determine that an herbal medication is unsafe after it has already hurt someone. However, this hasn’t stopped many people with heart disease from taking herbal treatments to improve their heart health, the researchers said.

To explore the issue, the investigators looked at 42 herbal medications that have been identified as a possible treatment for one or more heart conditions, including high blood pressure, heart failure and hardening of the arteries.

Onder’s team found there isn’t enough evidence to determine if herbal remedies are causing potential complications.

Many people don’t tell their doctor they are taking herbal medications, probably because they don’t view these as treatments that could cause serious side effects, the study authors said.

Complicating matters even further, many people taking herbal medications don’t follow through on their treatment plan and fail to take the medication prescribed by their doctor properly, the findings showed.

Doctors Should Talk To Their Patients About Potential Risks Of Using Herbal Medications

researchers concluded.

“Communicating with the patient is a crucial component of the process,” Onder said. “The pros and cons of specific herbal medications should be explained and their risk-benefit profile properly discussed.”

The review was published Feb. 27 in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

SOURCE: American College of Cardiology, news release, Feb. 27, 2017

News stories are written and provided by HealthDay and do not reflect federal policy, the views of MedlinePlus, the National Library of Medicine, the National Institutes of Health, or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

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Herbal Treatment for Neuropathy

by Dr Alex Jimenez | Chiropractic, Conditions Treated, Herbs

Neuropathy means damage to the nerves, which transmit messages from the spinal cord to the brain. Neuropathy often causes numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, called peripheral neuropathy. Physical injury or trauma to nerves most often causes neuropathy; between 60 to 70 percent of diabetics also have neuropathy, ranging from mild to severe, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. A number of diseases, acute infections and toxins can also cause neuropathy. Many people turn to herbs for relief — but do not take herbs for neuropathy without your doctor�s approval.

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, a topical pain reliever that can help reduce discomfort from neuropathy. Capsaicin works by depleting substance P, a pain-causing chemical, from nerve receptors. Applying cayenne pepper in a topical solution initially stimulates the release of substance P but then depletes it, which decreases pain. Several over-the-counter topical pain relievers containing cayenne pepper approved for use by United States Food and Drug Administration are available. They appear to help at least some people with neuropathies from shingles; trigeminal neuralgia, which causes facial neuropathy; and diabetic retinopathy, the Diabetes Self-Management website reports. In some cases, topical application of this herb can worsen pain. Wright State University pharmacy suggests starting with the weakest concentration of the herb and increasing over time. It can take one to two months to work up to the strongest dose.

A systematic review of studies conducted by the University of Oxford reported on study findings in the April 24, 2004 issue of the �British Medical Journal.� L. Mason and colleagues, of the Pain Research and Nuffield Department of Anaesthetics, reported that capsaicin had poor to moderate effectiveness overall in six separate studies.

Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil, also called EPO, contains an omega-6 essential fatty acid, gamma-linolenic acid. In some studies, EPO showed benefit for use in diabetic retinopathy. A 2003 article published in �The Journal of the American Board of Family Practice� by Kathleen M. Halat and pharmacist Cathi E. Dennehy of the University of California�San Francisco reviewed studies done on the effectiveness of EPO in treating diabetic neuropathy without causing adverse effects on blood glucose levels. The authors concluded that EPO may have benefit in treating mild diabetic neuropathy, but that patient compliance with the number of pills required, 8 to 12 per day, might be problematic.

St. John’s Wort

Antidepressants are often used as treatment for polyneuropathy, neuropathy that affects number of areas rather than just one. St. John�s wort, an herb that has antidepressant properties, is also used to treat neuropathy in some patients. A 2001 study reported in �Pain� by Soren Sindrup, M.D., of the University of Southern Denmark found no improvement of polyneuropathy in patients given St. John�s wort compared to placebo.

Ginkgo Biloba

In an animal study reported by Yee Suk Kim, M.D., and colleagues of the Catholic University of Seoul and published in the June 2009 issue of �Anesthesia and Analgesia,� ginkgo biloba was found to decrease neuropathic pain in rats. Ginkgo may also prove valuable for use in humans, the study concluded.

Sourced through Scoop.it from: www.livestrong.com

Characterized by pain, tingling sensations and numbness, damage or injury to the nerves can alter the function of the nervous system. Neuropathy can interrupt the communication of the nerves between the brain, spinal cord and the central nervous system. Several treatments have been found to improve the symptoms of neuropathy and a herbal treatment containing several specific herbs can help improve the condition.

Vaccines Revealed and Exposed on Episode #6

As a healthcare provider, Dr. Patrick Gentempo has been searching for the truth behind the effects of vaccines on the general population. When making critical decisions about you and your children�s health, it�s essential to have the correct knowledge of all medical procedures you�re being involved in, including the administration of mandatory vaccines, among others.

All Episodes of �Vaccines Revealed�

For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .�

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