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Herbal Remedies for Warts

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Warts are dermal or skin structures that are manifestations of viral infections particularly of the human papillomavirus. Warts may look like skin protuberances, small crown like blisters or skin extensions that may occur singly or in groups. Lines of the skin avoid warts, not running through them but breaking off and resuming in another area. Warts may last for several weeks, but may frequently occur throughout a person’s life. Boosting one’s immune system could help prevent viral infections and prevent frequent wart outbreaks.

Wart removal can be done because of pain, chafing or aesthetic considerations. It should also be done when located in sensitive areas like near the eyes, mouth, anus and the genitals. There are numerous remedies that can remove warts:

Aloe vera can be used to remove warts. Application of several drops of aloe vera gel over the area every morning and evening may remove warts after a couple of days. Scraping off the fleshy white portion of the aloe vera plant and applying it to the warts would also work.

Potato extracts applied three times a day for several days can remove warts. Potato extract is made from squeezing the juice out of grated or crushed potatoes. Potato peelings can also be rubbed on the warts.

Citrus fruits are also effective in removing warts. Their peel can be used to scrape off, or soak warts for several days. Their acidic juice rich in vitamin C can kill off the HPV virus present in the area. Calamansi, oranges, and lemon fruits are highly effective wart removal agents.

Banana peel can be used by applying a piece over the warts and securing with tape or bandage. It can be changed daily, or every morning and evening.

Garlic is another great herbal remedy for warts. A garlic section can be applied overnight to an area with warts. It would lead to the blistering, which would remove the warts upon drying. Alternatively, obtaining the juice from garlic cloves and applying a cotton wad soaked from it over the wart area would also work.

Milkweed juice can also be applied to warts for effective relief.

Unripe black walnut juice is a highly effective wart herbal remedy. The juice can be obtained by slicing open a portion of the shell and squeezing the juice over the wart.

Radishes can also be used to remove warts. A thin slice can be used to cover the warts.

Grape seed extract is a remedy not only for warts but for other infections as well.

Dandelion sap is also an effective home remedy for warts.

A tincture derived from Thuja, containing thujanone can be used to remove warts. Simply apply a drop of this potent substance on the wart.

Papaya latex can be applied to warts for removal within a week.

Guava leaves, chewed and then applied to wart areas may hasten their removal. The same method could be done using cashew nuts. Rubbing the masticated plant parts into the warts would improve their removal.

Cabbage is a very effective herbal remedy. Simply cover or wrap a piece of cabbage over the area, for couple of minutes twice a day and wait for the wart to disappear after few days.

Castor oil can be applied to warts to facilitate their removal by either rubbing, soaking or puncturing the wart using a toothpick tipped with castor oil.

These are only among the numerous herbal remedies for warts.  Choosing what to use is determined on availability of the plant/herb, allergic reactions, and personal preference. Wart removal can be easily achieved by either using these remedies singly or trying a combination of them. However, warts can and do come back, so to prevent that, proper nutrition, rest, and exercise should be done to boost one’s immune system.

Reference

  • Sterling, J. C.; Handfield-Jones, S.; Hudson, P. M. (2001). Guidelines for the management of cutaneous warts. British Journal of Dermatology. British Association of Dermatologists.

The Pros and Cons of Genetic Testing

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Genetic testing is a boon for mankind but there is a need to exercise restraint and prevent its misuse.

DNA_animation
DNA animation (Wikimedia Image)

How come you have the same beaming smile as that of your mother or the same passion for music as that of your father? It’s amazing how we are so much like our blood relatives. The reason is the presence of genes that all our family members, old and new, share. However, despite this commonality every one of us is genetically unique with a genetic pattern which may resemble that of our relatives but is not exactly the same.

There are around 20,000 to 25,000 genes which define the strengths and weaknesses of our bodies. An alteration in their normal functioning can lead to various complications like putting us at risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes or birth defect. Genetic testing can predict these risk factors and help us take precautions but there are several side effects that also come along. The mapping of total human genetic structure has also paved the way for targeted medicinal use. It can be found out which medicines will get the best results depending on your genetic makeup. Read on to know more.

Pros of genetic testing

Medical science is making progress at a fast pace that there are now several genetic tests available to help you know about your body as well as about your yet-to-be born child. In fact, prenatal genetic testing is increasingly being recommended by doctors to avoid several birth disorders including thalassemia, haemophilia, and mental and physical retardation. Carrier testing of parents and screening of fetus and newborns is becoming increasingly common. However, prenatal genetic testing can also pose risks like miscarriages.

Besides detecting medical conditions, genetic testing is also turning out to be beneficial in forensic science. For instance, identification of criminals by putting a hair strand or blood found on the crime scene through genetic testing.

Genealogical genetic testing can also be done to find links between you and another person even if there is a difference of several generations.

Pros of genetic testing even extend to those at risk of several diseases, like cancer, heart disease and diabetes, to take precautions and delay the onset of these diseases. While cancer is known to be result of a gene mutation, heart disease and diabetes run in families for generations. If a person knows that he carries a gene for a certain disease, he will then take the necessary precautions to prevent or delay the development for such disease. For example, he can change his diet and lifestyle habits to delay or even prevent the development of the disease.

Genetic testing is particularly important in the emerging field of personalized medicine. You will be given the right treatment based on your genetic makeup. In this case, you and other patients may receive different drug and dosage for a particular illness.

Cons of Genetic Testing

While physical risks associated with genetic testing are not very significant, there are ethical, financial, and psychological issues that do get highlighted every now and then. It’s essential that those going for testing are given genetic counseling to prepare them for the outcomes.  There are also risks of genetic discrimination since insurance companies and employers can avoid offering services or jobs to those at risk of certain diseases. Thus, it’s essential that information from genetic testing is kept confidential at all costs to protect individuals from any kind of genetic discrimination.

Another addition in the list of cons of genetic testing is commercialization. With the high price of genetic testing, many cannot afford to avail the services of testing centers. In fact, genetic testing in some firms is overpriced but these firms are enjoying the profits they make every day. Genetic testing should be affordable to everyone whatever their economic conditions are.[ad#afterpost]

The Meaning of Low Platelet Count in Blood Test Result

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Red_White_Blood_cells
Scanning electron micrograph of blood cells. From left to right: human erythrocyte, activated thrombocyte (platelet), leukocyte. (Wikimedia Image)

Platelets are components of our blood that primarily aid in blood clotting. Blood clotting stops bleeding in cuts or wounds; without it any wound we incur would lead to massive hemorrhaging and eventually death. Platelets are the most numerous component of our blood, though they only account for only twenty percent of our total blood volume. Together with red blood cells and some white blood cells, platelets are formed in the bone marrow by cells called megakaryocytes. However, the platelet itself is not a cell but simply cell fragments. They do however contain proteins on their surface that do a variety of functions to limit bleeding. Some proteins found in platelets allow themselves to stick together and block breaks in blood vessels while other proteins call or attract more platelet fragments to help block the breach. Since platelets are the lightest component of blood, they are shuttered away from the center of blood vessels and instead move along the sides, making their job of sealing breaks in the blood vessel easier.

Thrombocytopenia or low platelet count is a symptom of many diseases. It can be detected by undergoing a complete blood count test. The normal platelet count for humans is in between 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter (µL) of blood. Lower than 150,000 platelets would signify thrombocytopenia while higher than 450,000 platelets means having a high blood platelet count or thrombocytosis. Extremely low platelet counts may lead to bleeding from gums, bruises, rashes, and skin irritation.

There are several meanings of a low platelet count. It could be an enlargement of the spleen. This small organ plays a role in cleaning the blood for old red blood cells, as well as for removing phagocytosed intruders. An enlargement of the spleen may be caused by infections and other factors that would lead platelets to be gravitated towards it, reducing the amount circulating in the blood.[ad#co-1]

A platelet usually has a lifespan of only 10 days. When platelet production is reduced, the amount of platelets available in the blood may run out after 10 days. Platelets are produced in the bone marrow, thus a multitude of diseases such as leukemia, AIDS, and anemia may limit the number of platelets produced. Aside from infections, the production of platelets can be hampered by toxic substances, radiation, and heavy alcohol consumption.

Another meaning of low platelet counts is that the body’s immune system may be consuming platelets. Platelets can be consumed or utilized by the body faster than it can be manufactured. Pregnancy in women lowers platelet counts. Bacterial infections may destroy platelets at a fast rate, lowering their numbers in the blood. Dengue fever causes drop in platelets due to hemorrhaging and the body’s attempt to cope with the disease. Another severe cause of low platelet count is thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura or TTP. It is a condition in which platelets attract one another, forming blood clots. Another condition is Ideophatic thrombocytopenic purpura. In this condition, the antibodies of a person attacks platelets, diminishing their numbers. Some drugs, particularly those used for chemotherapy or those that damage the bone marrow may also deplete platelet counts in the body.

The first step in treating low platelet counts is identifying the root cause. Usually, treatments are at a case to case basis, and if the cause is life threatening, other symptoms may be addressed first before treating low platelet counts. Some herbs like tawa-tawa, papaya leaves and Neem leaves are said to be able to augment the body’s platelet counts, particularly after dengue fever.  A healthy lifestyle is always the first defense against platelet disorders.[ad#afterpost]

Reference

  • Loscalzo, Joseph; Fauci, Anthony S.; Braunwald, Eugene; Dennis L. Kasper; Hauser, Stephen L; Longo, Dan L. (2008). Harrison’s principles of internal medicine. McGraw-Hill Medical

Health Benefits of Yohimbe

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Yohimbe bark
Yohimbe bark

Aphrodisiac, sexual performance booster, libido enhancer, these are just some of the touted health benefits of yohimbe. Yohimbe is the name of an evergreen perennial tree under the genus Rubiaceae. Formerly called Corynanthe yohimbe, Pausynistalia yohimbe is a tree whose bark is utilized by natives as a sexual performance booster. There are thirty two yohimbane alkaloids found in yohimbe, with one in particular, yohimbine which has many medicinal uses.

The tree can be found in Western Africa, particularly in Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon and Congo. Its bark is usually obtained on the onset of the rainy season, when the alkaloids present in it are at their maximum level. Obtaining the bark to get yohimbine would generally kill the tree, and with the high demand for sexual performance drugs, yohimbe tree numbers are experiencing a sharp decline.

Yohimbe has many health benefits. It has been touted as an aphrodisiac due to the potency of yohimbine and other alkaloids found on it. There are some clinical studies that verify yohimbine’s role in sexual performance. In fact, yohimbine hydrochloride is used to treat erectile dysfunction in the United States. It is effective in some but not to all who take it. However, if the person’s problem is non-physical, the effectiveness of yohimbine increases dramatically. It is also taken to enhance, increase and extend libido. Since it is such a promising drug and improvement of sexual performance is such a lucrative business, various studies have been performed with varying results. In animals, it has been shown to reduce after sex recovery time, improve the ability to perform again, and increase the semen load ejected. It has also been tested for its ability to cure orgasmic dysfunction.

The health benefits of yohimbe are said to include fat loss and displacement. It increases lipolysis rates, and it is sometimes applied topically to fat prone areas. However, there is lack of scientific studies to back this claim.

In Africa, yohimbe has been used as a treatment for depression as well as a hallucinogen. This uses have translated into modern times, with yohimbe being used to treat post traumatic stress disorder by aiding in recall of difficult memories. Yohimbe has a synergistic effect with the antidepressants fluoxetine and venlafaxine, improving their potency. However, taking yohimbe if you have depression and mental disorders may further aggravate your condition.

To achieve the health benefits of yohimbe, doses of 10 mg to 30 mg per day is recommended. The aphrodisiac properties of yohimbe are due to its role as a vasodilator.  However, it can have many side effects. Palpitations, seizures and kidney damage can be caused by large doses of yohimbe. Other associated side effects of taking yohimbe include dizziness, anxiety, insomnia, and increase in heartbeat rate and blood pressure. Due to the potency of its compounds, yohimbe should never be taken by children, pregnant women and the elderly. Additionally, those with heart, kidney and stomach problems should not take this drug too. Yohimbe can aggravate cases of mental instability. Taking yohimbine or yohimbe should be done under a doctor’s supervision or guidance since there is a narrow avenue between correct and over dosage.

Although it has a multitude of health benefits, the use of yohimbe should be dealt with carefully. Its potency as an aphrodisiac may also lead to several complications that would, needless to say, prematurely terminate any sexual situation. More studies should be performed on the components of yohimbe that bestow upon it such benefits. Proper extraction and purification methods should be researched to improve quality and dosage, so that someday, the health benefits of yohimbe would be enjoyable to all.___

How Many Calories Does Bikram Yoga Burn?

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The specific yoga postures done in a hot and humid room can bring you benefits of an aerobic workout.

Bikram yoga
Bikram yoga

One look at a yoga practitioner and you wish your body could also manage those difficult poses to attain flexibility and control. The age-old tradition from India has been so appealing that millions of practitioners across the globe dutifully get on to their yoga mats every day to seek wellness of both body and mind.

As several yoga masters moved from India to the West, the healing exercise also went along and the support it enjoyed from celebrities like Madonna, Meg Ryan and Ricky Martin turned yoga into a cult.

From Hatha Yoga to Iyengar Yoga, Viniyoga, and now famous Bikram Yoga and Hot Yoga, the original form has undergone several variations thus attracting so many followers. While some learn the poses for overall wellbeing, others see it as a means to lose weight.

Rigid form of yoga

Bikram yoga, developed by yoga guru Bikram Choudhury, originated from Hatha yoga which consists of different poses. It was developed by Bikram with the help of his master to recover from a debilitating knee injury. The successful recovery led to Choudhury opening schools of Bikram yoga all over India and in other countries.

Bikram yoga is much more rigid than any other form. It consists of a set of 26 particular poses to be done within 90 minutes in a room set at a temperature of 105 degrees and 40 per cent humidity level. In fact, even the classes are held in rooms which need to have specific interiors to the liking of Bikram Choudhury.

Warming up with a breathing exercise, the participants move on to 12 standing postures believed to be good for strengthening focus and concentration. Another 12 postures, this time done on the floor, are performed next before ending the session with another breathing exercise.

The postures have to be done only in this particular sequence within the time period of 90 minutes to reap maximum benefits of the stretching muscles and ligaments.

Students are supposed to avoid changing the sequence and use the mirror in front of them to maintain the correct posture. Despite being different in style, several of the poses being done in Bikram Yoga are common to other forms of yoga. Pranayam, eagle pose, cobra pose, triangle and tree poses are just some of these postures.

How the heat helps

The heat and humid atmosphere of the room allows the body to warm up quickly thus helping perform wide stretches and reducing the risk of injury. The profuse sweating also helps in aiding cleansing of harmful toxins from the body.

It is believed that combination of high temperature and yoga poses recreates the cardiovascular intensity as with any aerobic workout.

Participants of Bikram yoga are suggested 10 sessions within a month to get maximum benefits.

However, the calories burned by Bikram yoga would depend on the practitioner’s weight, fat to muscle ratio and the intensity of exercise. It can range from anywhere between 500 to 1,200 calories. In comparison, an hour and 15 minutes of running can burn 600 calories. This is the reason why Bikram yoga has turned out to be a good weight loss programme which, unlike running, does not impact the joints.

Besides helping you shed the pounds, Bikram yoga is also believed to be helpful in relieving joint pain and promoting flexibility, stamina, and strength besides offering the benefits of meditation.  In fact, many of the participants rely on Bikram yoga more as a healing exercise to keep ailments of the body and mind away with regular practice. That calories burned by Bikram yoga add up to a big number is a bonus for them.

The Health Benefits of Seaweed

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Nori
Nori, an edible seaweed

Seaweed is a generic term for a variety of marine plants that have played a vital role in human diet, civilization, and health throughout history. Seaweeds encompass members from many taxa of algae including brown algae (Phaeophyta), green algae (Chlorophyta), and red algae (Rhodophyta).  Most seaweed can be obtained along the coast, near estuaries or in shallow to deep water near coastlines and islands. Edible seaweed is either eaten raw, dried, or cooked usually by boiling and frying.

Seaweeds are rich in minerals derived from the sea. Iodine is a particularly abundant element in seaweeds. It prevents the occurrence of goiter in humans. It is responsible for thyroid maintenance, ensuring that hormone production remains unhampered. Calcium content of seaweeds is also very high. This mineral is responsible for maintaining bone health and other body functions. Iron and magnesium, two important minerals, are also found in seaweeds at significant amounts. These minerals increase red blood cell production.

Seaweeds have been known to protect against infection by viruses and bacteria.  Sufficient intake of seaweed can lower inflammation in certain body regions. Seaweed has sufficient amount of potassium chloride that can alleviate the symptoms of hay fever and other allergies.

Kelps (Laminaria digitalis and others)

These cold water plants are excellent sources of iodine. They are used as food and medicine in various countries. They are good dietary sources of B vitamins, particularly folate. They contain essential minerals like iron and magnesium. They also contain compounds that ease digestion while reducing fat absorption. Their high growth rate and large size make them easily harvestable, allowing many people to enjoy their health benefits. People in Scotland, Japan, China and Korea all have kelp in their respective cuisines.

Carrageenan or Irish moss (Chondrus crispus)

This plant has been heavily utilized by the food industry due to its capability to form gels. It is a prime component of gelatinous desserts. It is a favorite in western European cuisines, being made into blancmanges. It is a primary source of retinol, as well as iodine, magnesium, calcium, iron and other ions. It is utilized throughout the history of Western Europe as a treatment for tuberculosis, common cold, and urinary disorders. It has also been used to alleviate diarrhea and treat infections.

Dulse/ Dilisk/ Sol (Palmaria palmate)

 

Palmaria (Rhodomyna) palmata is known as dulse in Scotland, referred to as dilisk in Ireland, and named sol in Iceland. It is widely used as edible seaweed both for human and animal consumption. It contains a significant amount of protein as well as other vitamins and minerals. Of particular note is its beta-carotene content, the precursor of vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant that keeps the skin and eyes healthy. The seaweed is also a component of several facial products that invigorate the skin and limit wrinkles.

Nori (Porphyra)

Nori is an integral part of Eastern Asian cuisine. It is usually rolled into mats and served with rice and other ingredients to make sushi. Nori is particularly rich in potassium and vitamin A. It also contains vitamin C, magnesium, and riboflavin.

Conclusion

Throughout history, western and eastern cultures have recognized and enjoyed the health benefits of seaweed. Being the primary source of goiter treatments, seaweed has proven invaluable to civilization. The various health properties of seaweed are significant: it gives essential vitamins and minerals, reduces fat absorption, provides low fat, and treats human illnesses.  Humans from the past until the present have availed themselves of the health benefits of seaweed. Why not join them and experience the impact of seaweed on your health.

References

  • Chapman V.J. (1950) Seaweeds and their uses. London Methuen.
  • Smith, G.M. (1944). Marine Algae of the Monterey Peninsula, California. Stanford University., 2nd Edition.