30/3/2013
Ok, so I've been taking homeopathic medicine for about 5 months. I still suffer daily symptoms, however, symptoms have seemed to lesson a little. Having said that that may not have been the result of taking the homeopathic medicine. It could be a combination of good diet, rest, vitamin and mineral supplements, some conventional medicine and time.
Initially when I saw the homeopath he said the treatment will take three months. Five months later and there wasn't much improvement. To me that is an indication that the treatment is not working and it's time to move on.
30/10/2012
Ok, so along with Iberogast I decided to also start homeopathy, which I started on 9th September. I started Iberogast mid August, but after a month I didn't really feel much different so I thought adding homeopathy to the mix wouldn't hurt. I already knew that homeopathy was safe from research. First I'll give you a little explanation of what homeopathy is and then mention the additional things I have been doing recommended by the homeopath.
Homeopathy
Reference: http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Homeopathy
Homeopathy (or homoeopathy) is a holistic system of medicine based on the theory of treating ‘like with like’. It claims to stimulate the body’s own healing response to disease, using specially prepared, highly dilute preparations. Homeopathy claims to treat the symptoms of a wide range of illnesses including allergies, asthma, eczema, hay fever, headaches, stress and respiratory infections.
The cornerstone of homeopathic philosophy is the ‘Law of similars’. This law or principle is based on a long-held belief (by ancient healers like Paracelsus) that substances that produce symptoms in a healthy individual can be used to treat similar symptoms in a sick person. Modern homeopathy was founded in the 18th century by a German physician, Dr Samuel Hahnemann.
An example of this principle is coffee. Coffee can aggravate some people who are sensitive to its stimulating effects. These people may experience increased mental and physical alertness, along with an exaggerated response to stimuli. People who present at a homeopathic clinic with symptoms of insomnia, headache, irritability and an overstimulated nervous system may be prescribed a dose of Coffea cruda,which has been prepared according to homeopathic principles. Practitioners believe that this will settle the symptoms of insomnia in these people.
Homeopathic medicines are made from a variety of sources, such as plants, animals and minerals. They are prepared according to strict guidelines set out in international pharmacopoeias. Homeopathic medicines are considered safe and free from serious adverse reactions.
Sometimes symptoms may temporarily get worse before they get better. This ‘aggravation’ of symptoms can be part of the homeopathic treatment. However, you should tell your homeopath if you have these reactions. Your homeopath may refer you to a doctor or other healthcare practitioner if necessary.
Additional
In addition to taking the homeopathy I am still taking Iberogast three times a day. I was also told to take fresh coconut water daily. I drink about half a coconut a day because I am quite petite and read that too much coconut water can have a laxative effect, something I really want to avoid.
The homeopath also told me to eat some raw carrot after dinner every night. This is meant to help improve the enzymes in my stomach somehow. I don't understand the specifics.
He mentioned to eat alfalfa sprouts daily, which I do not do. I should, but it is all just a bit too much for me.
He mentioned to not eat too much protein, which makes sense because red meat is hard to digest. Well for me it is. I've always found it a bit tough to eat too much red meat so I am currently avoiding red meat and have reduced drinking Sustegen daily to two to three times a week.
I'm not allowed to drink large amounts of liquid (inc. water) during or just after a meal. Not sure why. Maybe to reduce bloating? I'll ask the homeopath next time I see him.
He also mentioned to avoid onions and garlic, which is also mentioned in the FODMAP Diet.
Light exercise is recommended, not heavy exercise. For example, something like yoga.
I am also still taking Activia every day, which he has encouraged. It also doesn't hurt to eat foods rich in folic acid (folate), such as spinach, broccoli, papaya, corn, etc. Research has shown that folic acid has a role in the prevention of colon cancer. Patients with the inflammatory bowel condition ulcerative colitis are particularly at risk for colon cancer, and folic acid may play an even greater role of protection for this group. Cervical cancer prevention can also substantially benefit from folic acid supplementation. The vitamin can also prevent esophageal, stomach and pancreatic cancer.
Refer to http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/folic-acid-foods/ for details on foods with folic acid.
Hmmm, what else? That's all I can think of at the moment. The homeopath said it would take about three months of treatment to fix me up. I am both hopeful and skeptical because I do not want to keep my hopes up too high. I am tempted to give an update of my progress but I want to give it another month.
Tuesday, 30 October 2012
Thursday, 27 September 2012
How to Understand Someone With Chronic Pain
So I came across this article in wikiHow and I thought that it pretty much hit the nail on the head. It explains what a chronic pain sufferer is going through very well and says the things that I find difficult to say to family and friends.
http://www.wikihow.com/Understand-Someone-With-Chronic-Pain
I would definitely recommend to read it if you are a chronic pain sufferer, like myself, and to also share it with those near and dear to you.
http://www.wikihow.com/Understand-Someone-With-Chronic-Pain
I would definitely recommend to read it if you are a chronic pain sufferer, like myself, and to also share it with those near and dear to you.
Sunday, 19 August 2012
Iberogast
FUTURE UPDATE 5/3/2015
I changed to a different naturopath. Please go to: http://shikzblog.blogspot.com.au/2014/02/leaky-gut-syndrome-damaged-microvilli.html. The current Naturopath I am seeing is more experienced and her remedies are helping more than the previous naturopath. It might also help to check out http://shikzblog.blogspot.com.au/2014/06/dothep-dothiepin-imovane.html and http://shikzblog.blogspot.com.au/2015/03/light-at-end-of-tunnel.html for a complete treatment plan for severe IBS.
FUTURE UPDATE 23/4/2013
I've just recently started to see a naturopath. Because she has given me some herbal remedies I feel it is unnecessary to continue with Iberogast, especially considering that it did not really have an impact on me. Refer to post "Naturopathy" for further information.
Don't forget to check out www.ibs-experiement.com for a complete online database of information relating to IBS. Everything from this blog plus additional information. It also includes a support forum where you can write and ask questions relating to IBS anonymously.
Future update (1/3/2013)
Ok, so I've been taking Iberogast for 6 months now, and unfortunately I still have daily symptoms. Perhaps my case is too severe for Iberogast to have much of an impact. I will still continue to take it, it can't hurt, but it does not appear to be helping much in my situation.
Posted 19/8/2012
Hey guys,
So my bf's mum came across this product called Iberogast which is meant to assist in the treatment of IBS and dyspepsia. I've taken it for about a week now with not much of a change, but I believe to get the full benefits you probably need to take it for at least 2 - 3 months. For some people, maybe even longer. But the good thing about this product is that it isn't too expensive and no known side effects, so it's safe to take long term.
There does seem to be quite a few good reviews on this product on Amazon.com. Lots of people seem to be happy so I am a little hopeful. Fingers crossed. Please please please work.
Here are some details:
http://www.flordis.com.au/pages/products/iberogast.php
I changed to a different naturopath. Please go to: http://shikzblog.blogspot.com.au/2014/02/leaky-gut-syndrome-damaged-microvilli.html. The current Naturopath I am seeing is more experienced and her remedies are helping more than the previous naturopath. It might also help to check out http://shikzblog.blogspot.com.au/2014/06/dothep-dothiepin-imovane.html and http://shikzblog.blogspot.com.au/2015/03/light-at-end-of-tunnel.html for a complete treatment plan for severe IBS.
FUTURE UPDATE 23/4/2013
I've just recently started to see a naturopath. Because she has given me some herbal remedies I feel it is unnecessary to continue with Iberogast, especially considering that it did not really have an impact on me. Refer to post "Naturopathy" for further information.
Don't forget to check out www.ibs-experiement.com for a complete online database of information relating to IBS. Everything from this blog plus additional information. It also includes a support forum where you can write and ask questions relating to IBS anonymously.
Future update (1/3/2013)
Ok, so I've been taking Iberogast for 6 months now, and unfortunately I still have daily symptoms. Perhaps my case is too severe for Iberogast to have much of an impact. I will still continue to take it, it can't hurt, but it does not appear to be helping much in my situation.
Posted 19/8/2012
Hey guys,
So my bf's mum came across this product called Iberogast which is meant to assist in the treatment of IBS and dyspepsia. I've taken it for about a week now with not much of a change, but I believe to get the full benefits you probably need to take it for at least 2 - 3 months. For some people, maybe even longer. But the good thing about this product is that it isn't too expensive and no known side effects, so it's safe to take long term.
There does seem to be quite a few good reviews on this product on Amazon.com. Lots of people seem to be happy so I am a little hopeful. Fingers crossed. Please please please work.
Here are some details:
http://www.flordis.com.au/pages/products/iberogast.php
What is Iberogast?
Iberogast® (STW 5) is specifically clinically proven for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) symptoms and dyspepsia (heartburn and indigestion). It is a liquid formulation of 9 herbal extracts and has demonstrated proven efficacy in 19 clinical trials. Iberogast has been used for over 50 years by 25 million patients worldwide, in 17 countries. In Germany where Iberogast was developed, there are over 6 million bottles sold each year.
What is Iberogast used for?
Iberogast is a specifically clinically proven natural medicine which
- may assist in the management of non-specific dyspepsia e.g. heartburn, nausea, bloating, stomach pain and cramping
- assists in the management of symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) such as irregular bowel function, bloating, abdominal pain and cramping.
Iberogast offers all-round relief for:
- Heartburn/acid reflux
- Stomach pain/cramping
- Indigestion
- Bloating, gas
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Fullness
- Early Satiety
- Nausea
Taking Iberogast
Iberogast has been shown to be very well tolerated in numerous clinical trials and post marketing surveillance including over 42,000 children under the age of 12. There are no special warnings or precautions required for the use of Iberogast.
- No known side effects
- No known interactions between Iberogast and other medications
- No known contraindications and no documented cases of overdose
Unless advised by a health care professional, Iberogast should not be taken during pregnancy or by breastfeeding mothers due to lack of clinical evidence in these patient groups. However, many years of therapeutic experience has shown no harmful effects for mothers or their children.
Dosage and Directions for Use
Iberogast is taken 3 times a day before or with meals, in a small amount of warm water (or mixed with another drink of your choice, preferably not chilled). Shake the bottle before use.
Adults and children over 12 years - 20 drops
Children 6 to 12 years - 15 drops
Children 3 to 6 years - 10 drops
Children 3 months to 3 years - 8 drops
Babies under 3 months - 6 drops
A dropper is already in place within the neck of the bottle for your convenience.
Flordis encourages you to discuss your health needs with your doctor, natural healthcare practitioner or pharmacist.
Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist, patients should consult their healthcare professional.
FAQ
Is Iberogast tolerated by infants and children?
Yes. It can be taken mixed in with water or juice, preferably not chilled and applied with a pipette for small children.
Does Iberogast contain alcohol?
Yes, Iberogast contains alcohol and as such patients with illnesses related to alcohol should avoid Iberogast. It should be noted however that there is more alcohol in a glass of apple juice than in 4 times the adult dose of Iberogast.
Can Iberogast be used in coeliac disease?
Yes. Iberogast is gluten free.
Is Iberogast safe for long-term use?
Yes.
If you go to the Find A Practitioner tab above and follow the instructions, you will be able to find a list of practitioners in your state who either stock Iberogast or will know how to order Iberogast.
Does Iberogast affect the ability to drive and use machines?
Iberogast has no known adverse effects in these situations.
Can Iberogast be used for ‘Spastic Colon’?
Yes. ‘Spastic colon’ is another way of referring to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
General information on gut health
Gastrointestinal problems are common and are often associated with a wide variety of symptoms. Iberogast has a very broad range of actions so it provides a comprehensive and holistic approach, offering all-round relief. Iberogast is a liquid product which makes it easy for the whole family to use, including children. Evidence from numerous clinical studies supports Iberogast’s safe and effective use.
A lack of dietary fibre can also contribute to some of these gastrointestinal symptoms. To increase fibre intake some people take dietary fibre supplements, but some of these products can increase feelings of bloating and other symptoms. The insoluble fibre in Agiofibe and Agiolax is a convenient and simple way to increase dietary fibre and helps improve gut health without causing bloating. These products are also available from Flordis.
If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional.
The Australian public can access the Patient Support Programme, "Natural Relief for Irritable Bowel Syndrome”, through an Australia-wide network of leading natural health practitioners. Interested people can enrol by calling the Patient Support Line on 1300 633 635 or by enrolling online at www.ibsnatural.info
Iberogast Storage Information
Iberogast should only be used if the neck seal on the bottle is intact and it should not be used after the expiry date. Iberogast should be stored in a cool place that stays below 25°C. Please note, if Iberogast appears cloudy this will not affect the efficacy or safety of the product.
Manufacturer
Iberogast is made in Germany by Steigerwald Arzneimittelwerk GmbH, one of the world's leading herbal medicine companies. Iberogast is marketed in Australia and New Zealand by Flordis Natural Medicines.
Saturday, 4 August 2012
Endep Withdrawal
Ok, so I've stopped taking Endep for 3 to 4 days now and OMG I did not expect withdrawal. No one told me that I had to come off that stuff gradually. So nausea came back full throttle, bad headaches, can't sleep well and heavy fatigue. WTF!
That's it! No more drugs! Same thing happened to me when I took Nexium and Somac. I'm not even sure if Endep did anything apart from making me sleep more. From now on I'm just sticking with good old fashion recovery:
- Healthy diet
- Sleep and rest
- A bit of regular exercise
- Herbal supplements
That's it! No more drugs! Same thing happened to me when I took Nexium and Somac. I'm not even sure if Endep did anything apart from making me sleep more. From now on I'm just sticking with good old fashion recovery:
- Healthy diet
- Sleep and rest
- A bit of regular exercise
- Herbal supplements
Monday, 30 July 2012
On the Mend: Status 3
Ok so I have just eaten my last VSL #3 sachet. I am also near the end of my second Endep course. I am still pretty close to following the FODMAP diet. Kind of have become lazy in taking Vitamin D everyday. I know, not wise, but I'm just getting sick of it all. Still drink Sustegen everyday. Trying to keep the exercise up, but don't usually during menstruation because of cramping. Stopped seeing the psychologist. I do not believe that it was really helping. Started to paint, write and sketch, and still from time to time play the piano.
Here are the current symptoms:
- I still have pain every morning and night. More so at night.
- I still have excess flatulence which at times is intolerable and embarrassing.
- My symptoms worsen during menstruation. Ahh the joys of womanhood. I have discovered that Ibuprofen 200 mg seems to work better than Panadol because it also assist with inflammation.
- I have gained a few kilos which is excellent, but must gain at least 4-5 more kilos. Believe it or not but this is very hard to achieve when you are not allowed to eat junk, on a limited diet and experience pain everyday.
- Still have a little nausea every morning and other times but it is tolerable.
Next action plan:
I no longer want to take Endep. Not exactly sure if it is helping in any way so will see how I go without taking it for a few weeks.
I have started to drink Aloe Vera juice. 40ml every morning before breakfast. It is recommended 40ml twice a day but I want to ease into it.
I might even try homeopathy.
Shikz
Here are the current symptoms:
- I still have pain every morning and night. More so at night.
- I still have excess flatulence which at times is intolerable and embarrassing.
- My symptoms worsen during menstruation. Ahh the joys of womanhood. I have discovered that Ibuprofen 200 mg seems to work better than Panadol because it also assist with inflammation.
- I have gained a few kilos which is excellent, but must gain at least 4-5 more kilos. Believe it or not but this is very hard to achieve when you are not allowed to eat junk, on a limited diet and experience pain everyday.
- Still have a little nausea every morning and other times but it is tolerable.
Next action plan:
I no longer want to take Endep. Not exactly sure if it is helping in any way so will see how I go without taking it for a few weeks.
I have started to drink Aloe Vera juice. 40ml every morning before breakfast. It is recommended 40ml twice a day but I want to ease into it.
I might even try homeopathy.
Shikz
Sunday, 24 June 2012
Benefits of Aloe Vera Juice/Gel
30/3/2013
If you have a severe case of IBS taking Aloe Vera is unlikely to help. I tried taking it for a few months and it did nothing.
24/6/2012
Aloe vera has been cultivated for several thousand years throughout the tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Its first medical use is not recorded, but the ancient Chinese, Egyptians, Greeks, Indians and Romans all used it extensively as a laxative when taken internally and as an astringent when applied topically.
The following information was gathered from http://www.naturalnews.com/021858.html
Benefits include:
• Halts the growth of cancer tumors.
• Lowers high cholesterol.
• Repairs "sludge blood" and reverses "sticky blood".
• Boosts the oxygenation of your blood.
• Eases inflammation and soothes arthritis pain.
• Protects the body from oxidative stress.
• Prevents kidney stones and protects the body from oxalates in coffee and tea.
• Alkalizes the body, helping to balance overly acidic dietary habits.
• Cures ulcers, IBS, Crohn's disease and other digestive disorders.
• Reduces high blood pressure natural, by treating the cause, not just the symptoms.
• Nourishes the body with minerals, vitamins, enzymes and glyconutrients.
• Accelerates healing from physical burns and radiation burns.
• Replaces dozens of first aid products, makes bandages and antibacterial sprays obsolete.
• Halts colon cancer, heals the intestines and lubricates the digestive tract.
• Ends constipation.
• Stabilizes blood sugar and reduces triglycerides in diabetics.
• Prevents and treats candida infections.
• Protects the kidneys from disease.
• Functions as nature's own "sports drink" for electrolyte balance, making common sports drinks obsolete.
• Boosts cardiovascular performance and physical endurance.
• Speeds recovery from injury or physical exertion.
• Hydrates the skin, accelerates skin repair
There is a lot of information on the website I referred to. I just put up a summary of benefits. So I would advise to actually check out the website.
Now I'm not quite sure which is better, aloe vera gel or juice. It would appear that the gel straight from the plant is quite bitter so some people have recommended adding it to a smoothie. Also, aloe vera from stores can actually contain a lot of chemicals, so you might want to check the labels to avoid the chemicals.
Now I am one to believe that you can't trust everything you read on the internet because I'm not sure how much research has really gone into the topic. So I looked up Aloe Vera on 'The Complete Guide to Herbal Medicines' by Charles W. Fetrow, Pharm.D., and Juan R. Avila, Pharm.D. The book I have was printed in the year 2000. I thought that the information here was important to share.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aloe
Aloe has a long history of popular use. It comes from the aloe vera plant (also called Aloe barbadensis, A. vulgarise hybrids, A. africana, A. ferox, A. perryi, and A. spicata). The plant's large, blade like leaves are a source of aloe gel. Aloe preparations for oral use contain either the colourless juice that comes from plant's top layer or a solid yellow latex obtained by evaporating the juice.
Aloe comes as both topical and oral preparations. Topical preparations contain the colourless aloe gel or aloe vera gel (sometimes mistakenly called "aloe juice"). Aloe gel can be prepared by various methods. Some people prefer to obtain fresh gel directly from the aloe vera plant.
Why people use the herb
- Acne
- AIDS
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Bleeding
- Blindness
- Bursitis
- Cancer
- Common cold
- Colitis (inflammation of the large intestine)
- Constipation
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Glaucoma
- Hemorrhoids
- Lack of menstruation
- Seizures
- Skin conditions (abrasions, cuts, irritations, minor burns, frostbite, sunburn, and wounds)
- Stomach ulcers
- Varicose veins
Side effects
- Delayed healing of deep wounds (with topical forms)
- Dehydration (with frequent use)
- Intestinal spasms
- Reddish urine (with frequent use)
- Skin irritation (from direct contact)
Aloe can also cause:
- Blood build up in the pelvis (with large does)
- Low blood potassium, resulting in irregular heartbeats, weakness, and flaccid muscles
- Severe diarrhoea, kidney damage, and possible death (from overdose)
- Spontaneous abortion or premature birth if taken during late pregnancy
Interactions
Combining herbs with certain drugs may alter their action or produce unwanted side effects. Don't use aloe internally if you're taking:
- Digoxin (Lanoxin)
- Drugs that cause potassium loss, such as Bumex, Demadex, Edecrin, Lasix, and Sodium Edecrin
- Diuretics
- Drugs for irregular heartbeats
- Steroids
Important points to remember
- Don't use external aloe preparations if you're allergic to aloe of plants in the Liliaceae family (garlic, onions, and tulips)
- Don't take aloe internally if you're pregnant, breast-feeding, or menstruating
- Don't give aloe to children
- Avoid aloe if you have kidney disease or heart disease
- Don't use aloe gel or aloe vera juice internally. You may experience severe stomach discomfort and serious problems from body salt imbalances
- Be aware that four people have died after receiving aloe vera injections for cancer. Injecting aloe vera isn't recommended
What the research shows
Studies show that topical aloe gel application eases acute inflammation and itching, promotes wound healing, and reduces pain. Fresh aloe may have value in treating burns and minor tissue injury, although studies aren't well documented. The Food and Drug Administration considers topical aloe to be generally safe, although it doesn't recommend aloe for any specific condition.
No studies support internal consumption of aloe juice. Aloe laxatives that contain anthraquinone have dramatic effects, and most experts recommend less toxic laxatives.
A recent study found that aloe can alter the body's DNA. This finding may lead to research investigating aloe's possible role in treating cancer.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here are some other useful sites relating to aloe vera:
http://www.earthclinic.com/Remedies/aloe_vera.html - A lot of individuals have replied on this site to inform others of the effects they had when taking aloe vera. Most replies are positive.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2068245_take-aloe-vera-health.html - Typical average intake is about 30 ml one to three times a day. I personally would start small to see how it reacts with your body. You don't want to make things worse.
http://www.aloelife.com/aloeverapages/aloedigestive.html - Another interesting site relating to IBS and Aloe Vera. Recommended dose is 1 tablespoon before each meal to assist with repairing damaged cells.
Shikz
If you have a severe case of IBS taking Aloe Vera is unlikely to help. I tried taking it for a few months and it did nothing.
24/6/2012
Aloe vera has been cultivated for several thousand years throughout the tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Its first medical use is not recorded, but the ancient Chinese, Egyptians, Greeks, Indians and Romans all used it extensively as a laxative when taken internally and as an astringent when applied topically.
The following information was gathered from http://www.naturalnews.com/021858.html
Benefits include:
• Halts the growth of cancer tumors.
• Lowers high cholesterol.
• Repairs "sludge blood" and reverses "sticky blood".
• Boosts the oxygenation of your blood.
• Eases inflammation and soothes arthritis pain.
• Protects the body from oxidative stress.
• Prevents kidney stones and protects the body from oxalates in coffee and tea.
• Alkalizes the body, helping to balance overly acidic dietary habits.
• Cures ulcers, IBS, Crohn's disease and other digestive disorders.
• Reduces high blood pressure natural, by treating the cause, not just the symptoms.
• Nourishes the body with minerals, vitamins, enzymes and glyconutrients.
• Accelerates healing from physical burns and radiation burns.
• Replaces dozens of first aid products, makes bandages and antibacterial sprays obsolete.
• Halts colon cancer, heals the intestines and lubricates the digestive tract.
• Ends constipation.
• Stabilizes blood sugar and reduces triglycerides in diabetics.
• Prevents and treats candida infections.
• Protects the kidneys from disease.
• Functions as nature's own "sports drink" for electrolyte balance, making common sports drinks obsolete.
• Boosts cardiovascular performance and physical endurance.
• Speeds recovery from injury or physical exertion.
• Hydrates the skin, accelerates skin repair
There is a lot of information on the website I referred to. I just put up a summary of benefits. So I would advise to actually check out the website.
Now I'm not quite sure which is better, aloe vera gel or juice. It would appear that the gel straight from the plant is quite bitter so some people have recommended adding it to a smoothie. Also, aloe vera from stores can actually contain a lot of chemicals, so you might want to check the labels to avoid the chemicals.
Now I am one to believe that you can't trust everything you read on the internet because I'm not sure how much research has really gone into the topic. So I looked up Aloe Vera on 'The Complete Guide to Herbal Medicines' by Charles W. Fetrow, Pharm.D., and Juan R. Avila, Pharm.D. The book I have was printed in the year 2000. I thought that the information here was important to share.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aloe
Aloe has a long history of popular use. It comes from the aloe vera plant (also called Aloe barbadensis, A. vulgarise hybrids, A. africana, A. ferox, A. perryi, and A. spicata). The plant's large, blade like leaves are a source of aloe gel. Aloe preparations for oral use contain either the colourless juice that comes from plant's top layer or a solid yellow latex obtained by evaporating the juice.
Aloe comes as both topical and oral preparations. Topical preparations contain the colourless aloe gel or aloe vera gel (sometimes mistakenly called "aloe juice"). Aloe gel can be prepared by various methods. Some people prefer to obtain fresh gel directly from the aloe vera plant.
Why people use the herb
- Acne
- AIDS
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Bleeding
- Blindness
- Bursitis
- Cancer
- Common cold
- Colitis (inflammation of the large intestine)
- Constipation
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Glaucoma
- Hemorrhoids
- Lack of menstruation
- Seizures
- Skin conditions (abrasions, cuts, irritations, minor burns, frostbite, sunburn, and wounds)
- Stomach ulcers
- Varicose veins
Side effects
- Delayed healing of deep wounds (with topical forms)
- Dehydration (with frequent use)
- Intestinal spasms
- Reddish urine (with frequent use)
- Skin irritation (from direct contact)
Aloe can also cause:
- Blood build up in the pelvis (with large does)
- Low blood potassium, resulting in irregular heartbeats, weakness, and flaccid muscles
- Severe diarrhoea, kidney damage, and possible death (from overdose)
- Spontaneous abortion or premature birth if taken during late pregnancy
Interactions
Combining herbs with certain drugs may alter their action or produce unwanted side effects. Don't use aloe internally if you're taking:
- Digoxin (Lanoxin)
- Drugs that cause potassium loss, such as Bumex, Demadex, Edecrin, Lasix, and Sodium Edecrin
- Diuretics
- Drugs for irregular heartbeats
- Steroids
Important points to remember
- Don't use external aloe preparations if you're allergic to aloe of plants in the Liliaceae family (garlic, onions, and tulips)
- Don't take aloe internally if you're pregnant, breast-feeding, or menstruating
- Don't give aloe to children
- Avoid aloe if you have kidney disease or heart disease
- Don't use aloe gel or aloe vera juice internally. You may experience severe stomach discomfort and serious problems from body salt imbalances
- Be aware that four people have died after receiving aloe vera injections for cancer. Injecting aloe vera isn't recommended
What the research shows
Studies show that topical aloe gel application eases acute inflammation and itching, promotes wound healing, and reduces pain. Fresh aloe may have value in treating burns and minor tissue injury, although studies aren't well documented. The Food and Drug Administration considers topical aloe to be generally safe, although it doesn't recommend aloe for any specific condition.
No studies support internal consumption of aloe juice. Aloe laxatives that contain anthraquinone have dramatic effects, and most experts recommend less toxic laxatives.
A recent study found that aloe can alter the body's DNA. This finding may lead to research investigating aloe's possible role in treating cancer.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here are some other useful sites relating to aloe vera:
http://www.earthclinic.com/Remedies/aloe_vera.html - A lot of individuals have replied on this site to inform others of the effects they had when taking aloe vera. Most replies are positive.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2068245_take-aloe-vera-health.html - Typical average intake is about 30 ml one to three times a day. I personally would start small to see how it reacts with your body. You don't want to make things worse.
http://www.aloelife.com/aloeverapages/aloedigestive.html - Another interesting site relating to IBS and Aloe Vera. Recommended dose is 1 tablespoon before each meal to assist with repairing damaged cells.
Shikz
Saturday, 23 June 2012
Benefits of Cabbage Juice
From researching the internet I came across quite a few sites claiming that cabbage juice has medicinal qualities. It can assist with health in a number of areas, such as reflux and ulcers.
The following information was gathered from Wiki Answers:
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_are_the_benefits_of_cabbage_juice
Cabbage contain phytonutrients, works to protect the body from free radicals that can damage the cell membranes. Phytonutrients also signal our genes to increase its production of enzymes involved in detoxification. Cabbage may lower the incidence of cancer, especially in the lung, stomach and colon prostate. Cabbage is a muscle builder, blood cleanser and eye strengthener. The juice of fresh raw cabbage has been proven to heal stomach ulcer. Cabbage is rich in iron and sulfur.
Juice of fresh cabbage is effective in treating fungus infection(due to it sulfur content). Cabbage can lower serum cholesterol. Cabbage contain Sulforaphane, a substance that can increase the production of antioxidant and detoxification enzymes. Sulforaphane works by stimulating the production of glutathione, the body's most important internally produced antioxidant which plays a role in liver detoxification.
Red Cabbage has more phytonutrients than the green cabbage. The vitamin C content of red cabbage is 6-8 times higher than that of the green cabbage. Red cabbage contain anthocyanin (red pigment/color) is an antioxidant that can help protect brain cells, thus can help prevent Alzheimer's disease.
It has the capacity to cure cancer and this is the known fact. There is a big history behind this vegetable if you look back to those Roman and Greeks; they used to drink white fresh cabbage to relive sore or infection eyes. They used to drink to prevent intoxication.
Cabbage acts as to disinfect colon since it contains lactic acid. It also reduces your headache. People suffering from cancer should increase the intake of cabbage as it has got anti-cancer properties to heal. This is good for your skin as well. You can eat cabbage as a cooked vegetable or in the form of salad and you can take it in the form of juice.
You can drink cabbage juice 25-50 ml everyday to treat headache, asthma, bronchitis and other digestion problems. You can also dab white cabbage juice on your mouth to cure ulcer and they say it heals faster.
Cabbage contain phytonutrients, works to protect the body from free radicals that can damage the cell membranes. Phytonutrients also signal our genes to increase its production of enzymes involved in detoxification. Cabbage may lower the incidence of cancer, especially in the lung, stomach and colon prostate. Cabbage is a muscle builder, blood cleanser and eye strengthener. The juice of fresh raw cabbage has been proven to heal stomach ulcer. Cabbage is rich in iron and sulfur.
Juice of fresh cabbage is effective in treating fungus infection(due to it sulfur content). Cabbage can lower serum cholesterol. Cabbage contain Sulforaphane, a substance that can increase the production of antioxidant and detoxification enzymes. Sulforaphane works by stimulating the production of glutathione, the body's most important internally produced antioxidant which plays a role in liver detoxification.
Red Cabbage has more phytonutrients than the green cabbage. The vitamin C content of red cabbage is 6-8 times higher than that of the green cabbage. Red cabbage contain anthocyanin (red pigment/color) is an antioxidant that can help protect brain cells, thus can help prevent Alzheimer's disease.
It has the capacity to cure cancer and this is the known fact. There is a big history behind this vegetable if you look back to those Roman and Greeks; they used to drink white fresh cabbage to relive sore or infection eyes. They used to drink to prevent intoxication.
Cabbage acts as to disinfect colon since it contains lactic acid. It also reduces your headache. People suffering from cancer should increase the intake of cabbage as it has got anti-cancer properties to heal. This is good for your skin as well. You can eat cabbage as a cooked vegetable or in the form of salad and you can take it in the form of juice.
You can drink cabbage juice 25-50 ml everyday to treat headache, asthma, bronchitis and other digestion problems. You can also dab white cabbage juice on your mouth to cure ulcer and they say it heals faster.
The following information was gathered from Healthy-Juicing.com:
Cabbage juice helps to:
- Prevent cancer
- Slow ageing
- Prevent cataracts
- Lowers the risk of babies being born with Spina Bifida
- Heal ulcers
- Lower serum cholesterol
- Reduce risk of heart disease and stroke
- Lose weight
- Clear skin
- Prevent Alzheimer's
- Boost immune function
- Prevent cell damage
- Promote strength
- Relieve muscle soreness
- Treat fungal infections
- Boost energy
- And more
Nutrition includes:
Vitamins and Minerals
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin B12
- Folic Acid
- Niacin
- Riboflavin
- Thiamin
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- Calcium
- Copper
- Iron
- Manganese
- Magnesium
- Phosphorus
- Potassium
- Selenium
- Zinc
- Sodium
Shikz
Vitamins and Minerals
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin B12
- Folic Acid
- Niacin
- Riboflavin
- Thiamin
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- Calcium
- Copper
- Iron
- Manganese
- Magnesium
- Phosphorus
- Potassium
- Selenium
- Zinc
- Sodium
Shikz
FUTURE NOTE:
I wrote the above in June 2012. It is now February 2013. After trying cabbage juice I believe that this was not helpful in relieving IBS symptoms.
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