Natural Health

Many FReepers have knowledge to share about improving and maintaining health and would like to share it and learn from others; and others may not know much yet but want to learn. Some of us don't have much money for good insurance or doctors, some want to try other methods besides prescription meds, and some have experience in treating and solving health problems.

More and more "regular" doctors have accepted treatment methods such as the benefits of acupuncture, massage for many conditions, better diet, use of herbs and so on. There are limits, and often side effects, to some standard medical efforts.

My field is Ayurvedic herbalism and related measures, and have a lot of information I can post when I have time. I have seen herbs and sometimes dietary changes help people (including myself) with issues such as rheumatoid arthritis, high BP, gallstones, kidneystones, repeated boils, UTIs, prostate problems, insomnia, allergies, urinary incontinence, and many more. I hope to learn a lot from others with their knowledge and experience.

There are many "old fashioned" home care methods that were in common use a few generations ago that actually work and are cheap, such as castor oil packs, fomentations using alternating hot and cold water, and the like, which are easy to do. I am sure there is a lot of knowledge here on Free Republic that can be shared.

I would like this thread to stay civil without distruption, so my request is that people who think natural health methods are bunkum, make your own thread.

Pinging the list, hat tip to Conservative Mind. [freepmail to get on/off list]

Yet another reason to exercise! I’m demented enough as it is.

https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-05-significant-impact-immune-cells-brain.html

Research finds exercise has a significant impact on immune cells that support brain function

New research published in Aging Cell provides insights into how exercise may help to prevent or slow cognitive decline during aging.

For the study, investigators assessed the expression of genes in individual cells in the brains of mice. The team found that exercise has a significant impact on gene expression in microglia, the immune cells of the central nervous system that support brain function. Specifically, the group found that exercise reverts the gene expression patterns of aged microglia to patterns seen in young microglia.

Treatments that depleted microglia revealed that these cells are required for the stimulatory effects of exercise on the formation of new neurons in the brain’s hippocampus, a region involved in memory, learning, and emotion.

The scientists also found that allowing mice access to a running wheel prevented and/or reduced the presence of T cells in the hippocampus during aging. These immune cells are not typically found in the brain during youth, but they increase with age.

“We were both surprised and excited about the extent to which physical activity rejuvenates and transforms the composition of immune cells within the brain, in particular the way in which it was able to reverse the negative impacts of aging,” said co-corresponding author Jana Vukovic, Ph.D., of The University of Queensland, in Australia.

“It highlights the importance of normalizing and facilitating access to tailored exercise programs. Our findings should help different industries to design interventions for elderly individuals who are looking to maintain or improve both their physical and mental capabilities.”

Pinging the list to an article about Ivermectin’s neuroprotective properties

https://expose-news.com/2024/07/10/ivermectin-is-neuroprotective/

Ivermectin is anti-cancer, anti-viral, anti-parasitic and now neuroprotective
Ivermectin may not just be the anti-parasitic, anti-cancer, anti-viral repurposed drug we recognise but may have multiple other neuroprotective benefits for humanity in an era where we all may be subjected to neurotoxins – some apparent like vaccines and others invisible like electromagnetic frequencies (“EMFs”).

We all should know that ivermectin is effective not only against river blindness but can be repurposed against many different types of cancer, even against metastatic disease.

During the 2020 pandemic, ivermectin saved many lives worldwide, and not just in the Intensive Care Unit. Ivermectin has also been used to treat long covid and long vaxxed patients by eminent physicians like Dr. Pierre Kory. Some people, like yours truly take ivermectin weekly for its protective or preventative effects.

When you consider the broad spectrum of its anti-disease activity in combination with its vast safety profile, why would you not?

Ivermectin is not only anti-parasitic, but it is anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-cancer. But today we know there is more and much more.

Dr. William Makis recently wrote about how ivermectin has properties of promoting remyelination in demyelinating diseases like multiple sclerosis. However, ivermectin has long been known to have potential effectiveness against motor neuron disorders like ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Ivermectin has shown such great promise against ALS, a patent application was filed by Belgian scientists in 2007.

“Use of ivermectin and derivates thereof for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis’ (Publication No.: WO/2008/034202A3), to cover the use of ivermectin and analogues, to prevent, retard and ameliorate a motor neuron disease such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and the associated motor neuron degeneration.”

There is emerging evidence that ivermectin may be effective not just against ALS, but against a variety of neurological disorders including Parkinsonism, a disease that many link with the mRNA injections.

[much more at link]

Pinging the list to info about H.Pylori, in case anyone has this problem or knows someone who does. This is info is copied, I have no experience or knowledge on this bacterial infection. I have a bit of info about other gastric problems but not this one. Drinking aloe gel or juice never is the wrong thing to do, as long as it’s Lakewood brand, available on Amazon, all organic, no preservatives.

https://draxe.com/health/h-pylori/
H. Pylori: What It Is + 9 Natural Treatments
1. Probiotics
Since H. pylori is an unwanted or “bad bacteria” in the gut, it makes total sense that probiotics (the “good bacteria”) can help naturally fight this type of infection.
A 2012 placebo-controlled pilot study published in the journal Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets looked at the effects of probiotics on people with dyspepsia who tested positive for pylori bacteria. Researchers found that following treatment with an eight-strain probiotic supplement, 13 of the 40 patients had a complete eradication of their H. pylori.

Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus brevis are three specifics strains of probiotics that have been highlighted in scientific research for their ability to fight H. pylori bacteria.
2. Black Seed (Nigella Sativa)

Black seed has many proven benefits, including successfully fighting H. pylori infections. Research from 2010 found that giving H. pylori patients two grams of ground black seeds daily along with omeprazole (an acid blocker) was more effective at treating H. pylori than the standard conventional “triple therapy” of an acid blocker plus two different antibiotics.

Doses of black seed at one or three grams daily were less effective. The study concluded that “N. sativa seeds possess clinically useful anti-H. pylori activity, comparable to triple therapy.” Black seeds also have acid-reducing and gastro-protective abilities.

3. Broccoli Sprouts
Broccoli sprouts are broccoli plants that are only a few days old. They contain extremely high levels of a sulfur-containing chemical called sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is known for its antioxidant and detoxifying benefits.
Broccoli sprouts are used to make broccoli seed oil for external use as well as supplements for internal use.
Research published in Digestive Diseases and Sciences found that 78 percent (seven out of nine) of the subjects who consumed broccoli sprouts (either 14, 28 or 56 grams) two times per day for a week tested negative for Helicobacter pylori at the end of the seven days, and six of the subjects still tested negative at day 35 of the study.

Most recently, 2017 research published in the journal Current Pharmaceutical Design demonstrates that not only can the sulforaphane in broccoli sprouts fight against H. pylori and the gastritis it can cause, but it can also help protect against gastrointestinal damage commonly caused by dangerous NSAIDs.

4. Green Tea
Green tea isn’t just a popular beverage whether hot or cold. It’s also been shown to inhibit the growth of Helicobacter pylori bacteria.

In vitro studies have shown “profound growth effects of green tea against Helicobacter and importantly, demonstrate that green tea consumption can prevent gastric mucosal inflammation if ingested prior to exposure to Helicobacter infection.” Researchers conclude that green tea is natural substance that can be used to prevent as well as treat gastritis caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria.
Other studies reveal that the catechins, especially epigallocatechin gallate, in green tea hold powerful antibacterial powers when it comes to fighting off H. pylori bacteria.

Green tea is an excellent source of catechins. Catechins have also been associated with antioxidant, antiviral, antiplaque-forming and anti-cancer health effects.

5. Garlic
Garlic is a natural anti-inflammatory and even has natural antibiotic properties. Consuming both cooked and raw garlic may help to kill off Helicobacter pylori bacteria.
A 2016 study found that people with Helicobacter pylori who consumed two medium-sized cloves of garlic (about three grams) with their lunch at noon and dinner in the evening had a significant reduction in Helicobacter pylori bacteria. This demonstrates that garlic has antibacterial effects specifically toward H. pylori.

6. Propolis
Propolis is a resinous mixture collected by honeybees from a variety of plant sources used to keep the hive structurally sound. Scientists looking at the exact chemical composition of propolis have found that it actually contains over 300 natural compounds. These compounds include amino acids, coumarins, phenolic aldehydes, polyphenols, sequiterpene quinines and steroids.

Multiple studies have found that propolis extract, which is available as a supplement, is able to inhibit the growth of H. pylori bacteria thanks to its high content of phenolic compounds.

https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/journal/successful-eradication-helicobacter-pylori-over-counter-products
Successful Eradication of Helicobacter pylori With Over-the-counter Products

An observational study of 39 patients treated with 3 nonprescription remedies
[Very long article, snipped]

Our nonprescription treatment consisted of the following supplements taken simultaneously:
mastic gum (Jarrow Formulas, Los Angeles, California ): 500 mg, 1 capsule 3 times daily;
emulsified oil of oregano in A.D.P. 50 mg (Biotics Research Corporation, Rosenberg, Texas): 1 tablet 3 times daily;
Pepto-Bismol: 4 to 6 tablets daily in divided doses between meals;

Vital 10 (Klaire Laboratories, Reno, Nevada) a broad-spectrum probiotic containing 5 billion colony forming units of 10 probiotic strains: 1 capsule twice daily; and
Herbulk (Metagenics, Gig Harbor, Washington) a 5:2 blend of soluble-to-insoluble fiber: 14 g per day (10 g of soluble, 4 g insoluble fiber) mixed in water.

Results
Of 314 patients found to test positive for H pylori by PCR stool testing, 39 proceeded with our nonprescription treatment protocol and were tested a second time following treatment. All 39 patients completed a 2-week course of treatment incorporating mastic gum, oil of oregano, and bismuth.

Some words on 'Helicobacter pylori' - H. pylori...

First, about H. pylori the literature states: Infection of the stomach with H. pylori is not the cause of illness itself; over half of the global population is infected but most are asymptomatic...

The upstart of this is - some natural control of the invasive gastric pathogen is good practice. lj has outlined some natural remedies to bear in mind. For example, a regular regimen of probiotics makes sense. It is known, but not universally practiced in the medical profession, that disease that requires heavy doses of antibiotics - such as sepsis or cellulitis - can wipe out normal intestinal bacteria needed for digestion and absorption of nourishment; the result is diarrhea or irregular stools BUT more importantly, it often gives rise to clostridioides difficile - C diff - and that can turn problematic or even fatal.

Many hospitals and medical practices urge patients on antibiotic therapy to maintain a daily regimen of regular OTC probiotics - to fight the C diff and maintain reasonable bowel functioning. Many do not urge supplementation. In my city such supplements are encouraged with antibiotic therapy but 70 miles west of here they actually discourage supplementation. A dear FReeper friend of mine was lost at least partly to C diff due to this oversight.

Also a non bacterial (plant, or 'floral' based) probiotic is a valid consideration since antibiotics don't affect plant based supplements. The best known probiotic of this type that is available in most drug stores is called Florastor; it may be cheaper in a vitamin shop as Saccharomyces boulardi (sp?).

The lesson here is that one way to fight digestive bacterial infection is to maintain a daily regimen of regular probiotics.

However, H. pylori is a pathogen prone to mutations and some mutant strains are considered virulent and potentially dangerous. So, while I agree to regular natural controls with probiotics and dietary supplements, I would caution that virulent resistant mutant strains of H. pylori that survive the probiotic should be treated with an antibiotic, specifically Flagyl (metronidazole.) While on the antibiotic continue with regular daily probiotic dosing, even increase it for the time.

One interesting side effect of the Flagyl for me when I took it was that a 25 year misery of rosacea, which was getting worse by the year, was wonderfully cleared up and has not returned for well over a decade. 😎 I have tried to get the info out to the medical profession that, instead of treating rosacea with ongoing antibiotic therapies - to which the body builds up resistance as well as various pathogens - try a standard gastric dosing of metronidazole for 10 days to two weeks. I do believe the idea is catching hold!

First of several herbs that can help with inflammatory skin conditions. As usual, herbs almost always have more than one benefit. First is Red Clover. I could have used it when I had cancer but I had no access to fresh clover and couldn’t find organic dried, so went for other herbs.

Red Clover

Parts Used: Blossoms and leaves
Tissues: plasma, blood, bone, reproductive
Systems: circulatory, lymphatic, reproductive
Properties: alterative, antispasmodic, expectorant, anti-tumor, diuretic

Indications: skin eruptions, coughs, colds, congestion, bronchitis, cancer, infections, degenerative disorders
Precautions: Hemophiliacs or people with thin blood should not use red clover on a regular basis because of the presence in coumarins in the plan, which have blood thinning properties.

Dosage: 6-15 grams of herb made into tea, 30-60 drops of tincture, per day

Red Clover is rich in nitrogen and minerals, including calcium, iron, potassium, chromium, and manganese, as well as phosphorus, and vitamins like niacin, thiamine, and C. it is a gentle and effective blood tonic and purifier. It is helpful for treating pitta (hot) related skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and boils. It can safely be taken by children and sensitive or weak individuals that may benefit from a blood cleansing herb.

It has proven to be a valuable herb in the treatment of breast cancer and fibrocystic breast changes, and is used o soften and reduce cysts, tumors, and cancerous growths. It is the leading herb in the Western herbal compound known as Hoxsey’s formula, which is held in high regard for supporting the treatment of breast cancer. It can be taken internall and also be applied as a warm fomentation.

I think I’ve posted on Nettle before, but I’ll just do it again! Above is info about Red Clover.

Nettle
Use as infusion (tea), or tincture, use dried herb. (unless you’re lucky enough to have it growing close by, it is tasty and nutritious cooked as greens).
Dosage: 6-30 grams a day

Parts used: aerial parts
Tissues: plasma, blood, bone, nerve and marrow
Systems: digestive, nervous, respiratory, urinary
Properties: digestive bitter, diuretci, alterative, astringent, anti-inflammatory, homeostatic, tonic

Indications: skin diseases, gout, bleeding disorders, arthritis, allergies, hay fever, uterine bleeding, eczema, psoriasis, asthma, nervous tension, hemorrhoids, digestive complaints, edema, obesity

Nettle is a nutrient rich herb that may be as beneficial as many of the more costly green food supplements found on the market. Its bitter and slightly astirngent taste helps to reduce excess kapha (water/fat) and can be used to treat edema, respiratory congestion, and mucus accumulation in the stomach or colon. It stimulates the secretion and removal of uric acid from the system and is extremely useful in treating gout and arthritic and rheumatic conditions.

It works well for pitta related skin conditions (hot, itchy or burning, red) such as excema and psoriasis, especially to calm itching brought on by stress, anxiety and worry. It also helps to treat bleeding disorders as nosebleeds, rectal spotting, bleeding hemorrhoids, and uterine bleeding.

Nettle helps to remove ama (toxins) caused by poorly digested food, as well as from exposure to substances such as mold, dust, pollens, and chemicals, which can lead to environmental or food allergies.

Drinking the tea of fresh leaves (wish I had...I use dried) in the springtime is a gentle and effective way to renew the system by helping to cleanse excess kapha and ama (water/mucus/fat/toxins) accumulated during the cold, damp winter months.

Nettle is a good blood and bone building tonic rich in iron, calcium, potassium, zinc, magnesium, and silica, as well as a variety of other vitamins and minerals. for indigestion caused by overindulgence in rich food, nettle can be mixed with other digestive herbs such as ginger, peppermint, or chamomile.

For cleansing the blood, liver and skin it can also be mixed with burdock and neem.

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