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Month: May 2022

How safe is adding Valerian in your diet?

How safe is adding Valerian in your diet?

Valerian Interaction

Interaction of a substance generally refers to potential risk that could develop inside the body when two or more drugs, products, or medical conditions interact with one another in a negative manner causing certain unwanted health conditions. Taking valerian medicine of several categories could cause several symptoms such as:

  • slowed breathing
  • more dizziness
  • more drowsiness
  • sleepiness

Interaction of Valerian with Drugs

Valerian is a kind of substance that consists of sedative effects. It generally associates interaction with several medication of sleeping aid, antidepressants, CNS depressants, Anticonvulsants, Antifungals, Glucuronidated, Antihistamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, etc, categories with mild to moderate effects namely:

  • Alcohol 
  • Alprazolam (Xanax)
  • phenobarbital
  • Valium
  • secobarbital
  • Ativan
  • phenytoin (Dilantin)
  • valproic acid (Depakote)
  • California poppy
  • Jamaican dogwood
  • melatonin
  • hydroxytryptophan and many more.

Precautions associated with Valerian

Before medicating with valerian, an individual must discuss with a doctor regarding all the allergies to valerian, any of its ingredients, and medicine that a person must be using for the same or different reason.

Avoid the use of Valerian during pregnancy. It is not considered safe when valerian is used during pregnancy. The substance may alter a certain mineral level and could harm the unborn child.

Avoid use of Valerian while breastfeeding. Valerian is not generally recommended during pregnancy. The substance may let certain toxins get passed on into the breastfeeding causing harmful effects to the feeding baby. 

Children younger than 3 years must not consume valerian as it may cause unusual side effects.

Is Valerian Safe?

Valerian is a kind of substance that is used to treat several medical conditions and due to its natural occurrence, it is generally considered safe. However, there are several side effects associated with valerian usage such as:

  • Sleeplessness
  • vivid dreams
  • stomach problems
  • dry mouth
  • heart palpitations
  • mental fogginess
  • headache
  • difficulty breathing
  • facial swelling
  • liver problems

Inform a health professional or a doctor if any of these side effects persist or get worse although short term medication with valerian is generally safe.

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What are the top benefits of using Valerian?

What are the top benefits of using Valerian?

What is Valerian and its use?

Valerian is an everlasting plant which is scientifically referred as Valeriana officinalis. The plant is widely grown and found in grassland areas of Asia, Europe, and North America. This plant is expected to produce flowers in summer with colors such as white, pink, and purple. This plant can grow over 6 feet tall from the ground and consist of a strong odor. The preparation for herbal medicines are mainly extracted from the rootlet of valerian plants.

There are nearly 250 different kinds of Valerian plant species out of which Valeriana officinalis is the most commonly used that has mild sedative properties. Back in history, Valerian was used to treat several medical conditions such as nervousness, headache, palpitations, trembling, insomnia, fatigue, stomach cramps, etc. 

In today’s time, apart from all those medical conditions, valerian is also used to treat anxiety, premenstrual syndrome, depression, menopause symptoms, etc. However, there is no proof regarding efficacy of valerian to treat anxiety and insomnia. It is generally thought to improve the level of a certain chemical in the brain called Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GAMA). The chemical GAMA plays a role in calming effect for the body.

Benefits of Valerian

For centuries, Valerian is used to treat a number of medical conditions. It consist of many useful medical properties that provides several benefits in a body human body such as:

Necessary amount of Valerian intake for a human body

  • Although being a naturally occurring plant, the amount of valerian used is generally based on an individual’s medical condition. It is very well tolerated in most of the cases. The amount and its frequency of doses with respect to the medical condition that is to be treated with different course periods of medication.
  • Ideally, 300-600mg of valerian medication is considered safe and effective when taken for several weeks or months. 
  • To treat anxiety, an individual can take 120-200mg three times of valerian dose daily.
  • to treat insomnia, the doses are comparably lesser than that to treat anxiety.

An individual must discuss with the doctor regarding the medical dose required to treat a medical condition that results in a beneficiary with valerian.

Natural sources of Valerian

Valerian is a kind of substance that is not found in any category of food sources be it plant, animal, fish, nuts, etc. However, as mentioned before, there are nearly 250 different species of valerian plant out of which roots of few of them are harnessed to get valerian. Some of the most common species are:

  • Officinalis Valerian – Valerian found in the United States which is commonly used in commercial products.
  • Wallichii Valerian – valerian found in Indian
  • Edulis Valerian – Valerian found in Mexico

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What are the special benefits of turmeric for your skin?

What are the special benefits of turmeric for your skin?

Turmeric Supplement

Turmeric supplements is a synthetic medication which is used as an alternative to turmeric properties generally used by the people who could not receive enough turmeric in their diet or by the people who need to get the multi benefits of this substance to treat certain medical conditions. 

In today’s world, turmeric is not only used as a typical spies but also is promoted as a dietary supplement for a number of different health conditions that include:

A Beneficial Turmeric supplement must be determined based on several parameters such as curcumin concentration, ingredients that boost absorption rate, etc. Out of all the different forms of turmeric supplements available, liquid form of this supplement such as in a drink or liquid shot is considered as the most effective one. 

Does Turmeric carry any potential benefits for skin?

Apart from a number of benefits that are associated with turmeric in any form, studies suggested that it also carries defensive effects against environmental pollutants and chemicals that could damage the skin. Turmeric generally protect the skin from free radicals and helps in the following conditions:

  • Scleroderma – It is a condition in which the immune system attacks which probably results in scarring that occurs under the skin around the internal organs and blood vessels. The effects of curcumin are generally thought to manage effects of such conditions.
  • Acne – A common skin condition called acne, consisting of pustules, blackhead, and white head, could be helped by curcumin properties. It has the potential to regulate sebum production in skin
  • Psoriasis – Psoriasis is a chronic skin and bone disease. Turmeric reduces the immune passage that is the cause of psoriasis.
  • Vitiligo – Vitiligo is a skin condition that causes white patches in skin due to depigmentation. Curcumin may prevent oxidative stress in such skin cells.
  • Skin Cancer – Melanoma is a condition in which cells that give color to the skin become cancerous. Curcumin is thought to clean-up cellular disorders and prevent the growth of such cells.

Risks associated with Turmeric

Turmeric and its active component Curcumin are considered safe and effective for use and consumption by the Food and Drug Administration. However, such medical ingredients could result in allergic side effects and might react with other medical herbs, medicines, or therapy. There are several conditions in which turmeric or its active ingredient curcumin must not be used with medicines that treat several condition without consulting with the doctor such as:

  • Blood thinner
  • Diabetes
  • Stomach Acid

If a person wants to consume supplements of turmeric for any reason, it is advisable to first discuss it with a health professional to avoid any negative interaction or side effects with any other medicines or medical conditions.

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How can you Treat Osteoporosis using Turmeric?

How can you Treat Osteoporosis using Turmeric?

What is Turmeric and its use?

Turmeric is a shiny yellow color fragrant powder that is obtained from creeping rootstalk of one of the plants that belongs to the Ginger family. It is also called Indian saffron or Golden spice. Turmeric was historically termed as a traditional medicine which was used in Ayurveda. 

The primary component through which turmeric gets its yellow color is curcumin. Activities of turmeric are general attributes to curcumin and closely related substances. Turmeric is a general spice and major ingredient in curry powder. It has a mild, bitter taste that is routinely used to color or flavor mustards, cheese, butter, and curry powder. Turmeric is used in different forms depending upon its application. The best way of turmeric intake is considered as a liquid form or could be blended in a smoothie or drink.

Apart from the variety of its application in foods, people also generally use turmeric to treat a number of medical conditions such as:

  • hay fever
  • skin disorders
  • digestive system
  • liver disease
  • itching
  • upper respiratory tract
  • Osteoarthritis
  • depression
  • fat build-up
  • relieves pain
  • inflammation.

Nutrients in Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice that could be considered as the most effective multi nutrition supplement. There are various essential nutrients and minerals involved with this spice that includes:

  • protein
  • manganese
  • carbohydrates
  • potassium
  • fiber
  • phosphorus
  • vitamin C
  • Vitamin B6
  • iron
  • calcium

Benefits of using Turmeric

Turmeric is associated with a number of health benefits due to its multi-nutrient properties. Some of the most important health benefits of turmeric along with curcumin or other agents include:

  • treats Osteoporosis
  • anti-inflammatory compound
  • improves brain derived neurotrophic factor
  • helps in preventing cancer
  • improve certain arthritis
  • helps in fighting age chronic diseases
  • beneficial against depression
  • useful for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease
  • reduces risk of heart disease
  • increases body’s antioxidant properties
  • consist of bioactive compounds
  • improves liver functions
  • improves digestion
  • may help in eye inflammation
  • reduces the risk of diabetes
  • reduces gum disease
  • prevents prostate cancer

Necessary amount of Turmeric intake for Humans

  • Turmeric is a beneficial substance generally used as a spice in typical Indian food. According to the reports, on average, an Indian diet provides 2000-2500mg of turmeric per day i.e. approximately 60-100 mg of curcumin daily. A typical extract in the same amount could provide 1900-2375 mg of curcumin. 

There is no conventional consensus on beneficial turmeric or curcumin doses as per age or gender. however, there are several standard doses specifically calculated for certain medical conditions which are classified as:

  • To treat Osteoarthritis – A turmeric extract dose of 500mg twice daily for 2-3 months is beneficial for osteoarthritis.
  • Relieve Itchy skin – A two month course of 500mg turmeric extract three times daily could relieve itchy skin.
  • To treat high Cholesterol – A turmeric extract course of 700 mg twice daily for 3 months can help against high cholesterol.
  • Treats Ulcers –  Turmeric dose between 3000-6000 mg per day is effective for the treatment of ulcers.
  • To treat MDD(Major Depressive Disorder) – An 8 week course of 500mg turmeric twice daily is recommended for the treatment of MDD.

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How bad is Ginger toxicity for your body?

How bad is Ginger toxicity for your body?

Ginger Supplements

Ginger supplements is a synthetic herbal medicine. It is used as an alternative to ginger generally used by the people who could not receive enough ginger in their diet or who needs to get the multi benefits of ginger to treat certain medical conditions. 

Ginger supplements are available in different forms such as juiced, pickled, dried, crystallized, raw, preserved, etc. Capsule form of ginger supplements are considered as the best form of ginger supplements according to few health professionals. 

These supplements are used as an alternative medicine to treat a number of medical conditions such a post surgery vomiting and nausea, morning sickness prevention, menstrual pain, dizziness, arthritis, prevention of seasickness and morning sickness.

What are the side effects of Ginger overdosed/long term use?

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Although Ginger is generally considered safe, there could be the possibility of certain side effects involved when administered. Such effects could be independent or be based on certain medical conditions. When used orally or topically, long term use or high doses of ginger more than 4mg daily can increase the risk of side effects such as:

Does Ginger interact with any drug?

Interaction generally refers to a potential risk that could develop inside the body when two or more drugs, products, or medical conditions interact with one another in a negative manner. A health professional or a doctor usually goes through every medicine and drug that you may be taking before providing Ginger supplement to avoid any kind of interaction. It is advisable to not stop, add, or change any medication without your doctor’s consultancy. 

Below are some of the many drugs that could interact with ginger dose i.e. mild in nature.

  • anagrelide
  • Cilostazol
  • danshen
  • dipyridamole
  • green tea
  • ticlopidine
  • abciximab
  • anamu
  • Clopidogrel
  • eptifibatide
  • prasugrel
  • tirofiban

Precautions and warning

There are certain medical conditions in which use of ginger or any of its form must be avoided such as:

  • Use of ginger may increase the risk of gallbladder disease and hypersensitivity. Also avoid it if you have any of these medical conditions.
  • avoid ginger or its medications if you are allergic to it, any of its type, or any of its ingredients. 
  • low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • high blood pressure (Hypertension)
  • cardiac disease
  • diabetes mellitus
  • bleeding disorder

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What are the top benefits of using Ginger?

What are the top benefits of using Ginger?

What is Ginger and its use?

Ginger is known as a flowering plant that is listed as a spice as well as a herb. The scientific name for ginger is Zingiber officinale. The plant is expected to grow 3 feet above the ground level which produces bundles of flowers. The underground part of this plant is the actual ginger that is used as a spice or sometimes as a general people medicine for several conditions.

It is harvested by pulling the plant out of the soil and extracting the root from leaves attached. The plant belongs to the family of Zingiberaceae and has a close biological relation with cardamom, turmeric, and ganangal. It is a common ingredient in recipes and also has a wide application in cosmetics and processed foods. 

Ginger not only associates delicious food but also consists of multinutrient properties. There are many different traditions worldwide that use ginger for a wide variety of applications that includes medicines, foods, ointment, etc.

Ginger consists of chemical properties that generally help in reducing cold, swelling, and nausea. The chemicals are expected to work in the stomach and intestine but also assist the nervous system and brain to manage nausea. In Asian region, ginger is associated with a number of medical reasons such as cold and flu symptoms, skin burns, muscle and joint pain, stomach pain, upset stomach, etc. 

Vitamins and nutrients in Ginger

There are a number of vitamins and minerals available in a pure ginger root or ginger that includes:

  • Iron
  • Vitamin C
  • Phosphorus
  • Folate
  • Niacin
  • Vitamin B3
  • potassium
  • Vitamin B6
  • Magnesium
  • Zinc
  • Riboflavin

Benefits of using Ginger:

Ginger and its various forms consist of many chemical and nutritional properties that is wide used to get most of its beneficial health effects such as:

  • antioxidants properties
  • assist cardiovascular health
  • relieves muscle pain 
  • reduces dysmenorrhea pain
  • beneficial antiplatelet properties
  • relieves inflammation
  • attenuates morning sickness and nausea
  • helps to lower the risk of cancer 
  • improves digestion 
  • reduces formation of gas
  • eases symptoms of cold and flu
  • may control blood sugar level of type 2 diabetes
  • helps in losing weight
  • helps in treating osteoarthritis

Beneficial Ginger intake for humans

The amount of ginger intake for every age group for an individual is not classified. However, few standard information for ginger intake listed as:

  • Children below 2 years of age must not consume ginger
  • Rest individuals can consume ginger but not more than 3-4 grams of ginger daily
  • Pregnant women must not consume more than 1gm of ginger or 950ml of ginger tea per day.
  • Ginger is generally considered safe for breastfeeding women however, the research for its safety is considerably less.

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