Daily Archives: June 5, 2022

click to enlarge

Amplified Digital Agency

OB/GYN Allison Walsh is founder of Women's Lifestyle Solutions

St. Louis doctor Allison Walsh believes there's truth behind that adage.

"I think women in traditional medicine are often second-class citizens," says Walsh, an OB/GYN and the founder of Women's Lifestyle Solutions, a practice focused on women's health and wellness that combines plant-based solutions with conventional medicine. "The medical cannabis space ... is providing avenues for a more female-centric growth and approach."

Walsh says that medical cannabis can be an effective and low-side-effect, alternative pain-management treatment for conditions that impact women, such as endometriosis, perimenopause, decreased sexual desire and pain with intercourse. That's why she incorporates its use in her practice, which employs a holistic approach to health, with a focus on weight management and hormone balancing as well as conditions that can be treated with cannabis.

Medical-cannabis research is still in its early stages, Walsh says. But the theory is that its use taps into the body's endocannabinoid system and the CB1 and CB2 receptors that exist in the visceral organs, such as the reproductive system, and which respond to naturally produced cannabinoids as well as those made by the cannabis plant.

"When you have a relative deficiency of cannabinoids, replacing that with phytocannabinoids, like CBD and THC, might restore our cannabinoid balance and improve health and sexual function and might also provide pain control for conditions like endometriosis," Walsh says of the theory.

The key, she says, is that the medical use of cannabis is relatively safe compared to conventional medicines, making experimentation possible.

She points to the example of a woman experiencing pelvic pain and cramping because of endometriosis. The normal course of treatment involves medicines with mind-altering effects beyond that of cannabis. There are also localized treatments, such as vaginal suppositories, that patients can try.

"In patients who cannot use those other traditional pharmaceuticals for one reason or another, or patients who choose not to use those traditional pharmaceuticals for one reason or another, medical cannabis offers a potentially life-altering alternative in terms of pain management with minimal side effects," she says.

Treatment plans with medical cannabis need to be fine-tuned to each patient's needs, Walsh says, and St. Louis residents shouldn't think that they can get the same results without a physician and a certified medical dispensary, which offers dosage guidance and consistent access to products.

Walsh came to practice in the medical-cannabis space in 2019. Working in a private practice, she had begun to spend an increasing amount of her time focusing on weight loss and hormone balancing. As she was confronted with more patients with these conditions, she began to see early literature about the effectiveness of medical cannabis.

Simultaneously, Missouri had recently legalized medical cannabis, and it was starting to become more available.

"There was a lot more being written about it, a lot more discussion around it than there had been previously," Walsh says. "I think it was sort of in front of me at an opportune time."

View post:

St. Louis OB/GYN Employs Cannabis as Alternative to Conventional Medicine - Riverfront Times

By Dr Sandeep Vohra

What exactly are panic attacks?

A panic attack occurs because of sudden, brief feelings of fear and strong physical reactions in response to ordinary, non-threatening situations. These can include a racing heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, trembling and muscle tension. Panic attacks occur frequently and unexpectedly and are often not related to any external threat. They also occur in people with other psychiatric disorders (such as depression). Some panic attacks occur in response to a specific situation.

Who is susceptible to panic attacks?

The age of onset for panic attacks is frequently observed between late adolescence and early adulthood. Even though panic attacks typically develop between the ages of 18 and 35 years, it is still possible to occur any time throughout the lifespan.

Panic attacks are nearly two times more common in women than in men. Women are also more likely to have it with agoraphobia. It is most likely to appear in those 20-29 years old. But, it can start as early as the teen years or as late as 30 to 40 years old.

What are the triggers?

Panic attacks are often a very frightening experience. They are not life-threatening. However, they can damage ones quality of life and cause excessive stress. Panic attacks can have many triggers, including:

*Life stressors

*A traumatic situation

*Dramatic life changes

*Caffeine

*Alcohol

When should one seek medical attention in a panic attack?

Panic attacks typically begin suddenly, without warning. The fear of having another panic attack can interfere with the normal functioning of life. It may cause the person to avoid events or places, and /or isolate from people. They can strike at any timewhen driving a car, while asleep or in the middle of a business meeting. Panic attacks have many variations, but symptoms usually peak within minutes. It can cause rapid pounding heart rate, sweating, shortness of breath or tightness in the throat, hot flashes, nausea, dizziness, etc. It can be so severe that the patient feels as if he/she is going to die leading to immediate rushing to nearest hospital though many people who have panic attacks dont seek medical care because of embarrassment. They fear seeking medical attention or fear taking medicine. However, it is very important to seek medical care and discuss your problem with the doctor. After being evaluated, the doctor /psychiatrist will be able to tell the cause of panic attacks.

What lifestyle changes benefit such patients?

Making lifestyle changes will help to control problems that can lead to panic attacks.

A) Make habits healthy

It is important to avoid

*Caffeine, which is found in coffee, tea, chocolate and soft drinks and more

*Limit the consumption of alcohol to minimum possible or no alcohol at all

*Quit smoking

*Avoid consuming certain prescription medicines which may cause panic

B) Get plenty of rest: Sleep is important for maintaining overall health. A good nights sleep can decrease the stress levels and minimise the chance of panic attack.

D) Get regular exercise: Exercise has many benefits. A regular routine will help to reduce stress and manage panic attacks

Are alternative therapies beneficial?

In complementary or alternative treatments to psychotherapy and/or medication your doctor psychiatrist may prescribe several natural methods and herbal remedies for panic attacks.

Exercising regularly and practice relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga to relieve anxiety panic disorder. The routine should include cardiovascular exercise, which burns lactic acid, produces mood-enhancing chemicals called endorphins, and causes the body to use oxygen more efficiently. Controlled breathing techniques can also help ease a panic attack.

(Dr Sandeep Vohra is a senior consultant, mental health and psychiatry, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi)

Follow this link:

Check the panic: All you need to know about panic attacks - The Financial Express

The human virome is made up of an estimated 380 trillion viruses, some of which harm the body and others that may benefit the body by coexisting within it. As much as half the stuff in your body, such as viruses and bacteria, may not be your own biological matter. From birth, viral infections serve an important part in human disease and survival.

A 2006 workshop at the National Institutes of Health analyzed the impact of globalization on infectious disease emergence. It notes that plague epidemics in colonial African cities were closely tied to the advent of the steamship and increased travel and trade. Similarly, we live in a fast-paced technological age with a high population density with shifting commodities, food and capital moving across political borders. Pathogens can easily hitch global rides, as evidenced by the spread of the coronavirus.

Can our immune systems keep up with the speed with which we live our lives? Recent viral outbreaks following the advent of globalization and modern travel also means that we must shift our attention to newer ways of safeguarding public health. Sometimes, that means returning to older ways. Here are six impressive herbs with antiviral activity to include in your diet and home remedies.

Sage is a part of the mint family and often used in traditional medicine to treat viral infections. A 2014 review published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine discusses the therapeutic potential of the sage species which may provide natural solutions for the relief or cure of life-threatening diseases like dementia, lupus, heart disease and cancer. Sage also can be used to treat common illnesses.

Aqueous extracts from sage, peppermint and lemon balm present significant anti-HIV-1 activity by raising the virion density, according to 2008 findings published in Springer Natures Retrovirology. HIV-1 was severely impaired once treated with Lamiaceae extracts (from the mint plant family).

The antiviral activity of sage is linked with safficinolide and sage one which are found in the stem and leaves of the plant, according to a 2017 analysis of the pharmacological properties of sage. These findings were published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine.

Oregano is also a plant with antiviral properties, thanks to the chemical compound carvacrol that belongs to the mint family. Both oregano oil and carvacrol decreased the activity of murine norovirus (MNV) within 15 minutes of exposure to the virus. MNV is extremely contagious and a main cause of stomach flu. These results were published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology in 2014.

Oregano oil and carvacrol also reveal antiviral activity when it comes to the herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and rotavirus. The findings were published in the Brazilian Journal of Microbiology in 2011.

Fennel is a member of the carrot family that tastes like licorice. Studies show it demonstrates antiviral activity against certain viruses.

A 2014 test-tube study revealed that fennel extract presents potent antiviral activity against parainfluenza type 3 (PI-3) and herpes viruses. PI-3 contributes to respiratory infections in cattle. The findings were published in Biomedical Research International.

Fennel essential oil contains the chemical constituent trans-anethole, which also presents antiviral effects against herpes, according to an article published in Evidenced-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2011.

The Korean Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology reports animal research conducted in 2015 demonstrates the potential of fennel to decrease inflammation and boost the immune system, thereby fighting off viral infections.

Garlic is a member of the Allium family and related to shallots, chives, leeks and onions. Its a popular remedy for many conditions, such as viral infections.

An older study published in the International Journal of Dermatology analyzed the efficacy of garlic extract applied to warts caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) twice daily. All 23 participants found that their warts were eliminated in just one to two weeks.

A review on the therapeutic effects of garlic conducted in 2014 suggests that garlic presents antiviral activity against viral pneumonia, influenza A and B, HIV, HSV-1 and rhinovirus. The results were published in Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine.

Garlic also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that stimulate an immune system response which could protect the body against viral infections, according to findings published in the Journal of Immunology Research. However, these results were based on animal and test-tube studies, not human trials.

Lemon balm is a part of the mint family known for its lemony zest and taste. Its commonly usedin dressings, seasonings and teas. It also contains potent medicinal qualities, including plant compounds that benefit the body through antiviral activity. These compounds have shown efficacy against the influenza A virus, according to 2016 findings published in Virusdisease.

Additionally, test-tube studies have revealed the antiviral activity of lemon balm against herpes, HIV-1, enterovirus 71 and bird flu. These results were published in the Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry in 2021.

Particular varieties of basil, especially holy and sweet basil, could effectively combat viral infections.

Holy basil is also commonly known as tulsi and may improve immune response to viral infections, inhibiting the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 Spike S1 and ACE2. The compound eugenol is responsible for augmenting the immune system in this study, according to findings published in the 2021 Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology.

Sweet basil extracts, that include the compounds ursolic acid and apigenin, have been shown to exhibit powerful antiviral effects against hepatitis B, herpes and enterovirus. These results were reported in an older comparative study published in Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology & Physiology.

A clinical four-week study found that those who supplemented with 300 milligrams of tulsi extract experienced raised levels of natural killer and helper T cells. These are immune cells that defend the body against viral infections. The systematic review was published in 2017 in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Much progress has been made in drug development and immunization, but antiviral therapies that match the pace of human evolution are lacking in our fast-paced global society. The discovery and development of novel antiviral drugs, especially from natural herbal sources, is a vital next step in pharmacology.

Continued here:

6 Herbs With Impressive Antiviral Activity - EcoWatch

I have a routine for when I get home from work:

Crack each toe, then my ankles, both knees, pelvic bone (a particularly good one), twist-crack my lower back, both shoulders, my wrists, then each and every joint in my hands. As you might imagine, some people find this unbearable to be around, while others squeal with jealousy, craving the same satisfaction.

The latter group is larger than you might think: up to 54 percent of people are thought to regularly crack their fingers. The noise itself is caused by a process called cavitation within the joint, which is where gas bubbles form in the viscous, synovial fluid between the bones. Pulling the joint apart, as you do when you hyperflex a joint to make it crack, causes a decrease in the pressure in the synovial fluid, triggering any gases dissolved in the fluid to come out of the solution and coalesce into a bubble, or cavity. This bubble formation is what makes the cracking noise.

Does cracking your joints actually cause long-term damage?Shutterstock

The tale is as old as time: cracking your joints is BAD FOR YOU! Growing up, my parents would tell me off for constantly cracking all my bones, saying that it would give me arthritis. Of course, I carried on cracking away, because my short-term satisfaction will always outweigh long-term health issues. But does cracking your joints actually cause long-term damage?

According to Dr. Kira Capozzolo, a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic and health expert, no it doesnt.

Cracking joints is not bad for you unless done in a harmful way, Capozzolo tells Inverse. Cracking knuckles is rarely harmful, but on occasion, even a knuckle crack can be done wrong and lead to pain and inflammation and maybe even need a correction. Any links between joint cracking and conditions like arthritis are old wives' tales. There were some very basic studies done years ago, but they were not well done and have been generally disproven since.

At the very least, cracking doesnt lead to arthritis.Shutterstock

In fact, one study actually found an increased thickness of cartilage in the hand knuckle joints of those who cracked their knuckles, compared with those that did not crack their knuckles. Arthritis and other joint conditions are generally associated with the deterioration of cartilage, which is what causes pain in the joints, so these results suggest that at the very least, cracking doesnt lead to arthritis.

This might be a testament to the levels of excitement I regularly experience, but cracking my joints is the highlight of my day. There is something so intensely satisfying about it; theres almost a sense of massive achievement when you crack a joint that hasnt been cracked for a while or find a new movement that cracks a new joint. But what is it about twisting our bones in weird directions until they snap that is so enjoyable?

Often, it is ASMR or habit, says Dr. Capozzolo. Often, it is a way of stretching. People will crack their knuckles by outstretching their arms and stretching their fingers. It is a nice stretch when working, others simply crack knuckles out of habit. There are a lot of behaviors people do that have little application to practicality. I think of cracking knuckles as sort of like flinging hair. The biggest benefit is as a simple stress reliever. Like getting up and pacing, cracking knuckles is similar.

I regularly have people come to me who can't turn their head or even are getting headaches that started with a friend thinking they could crack their neck for them.Shutterstock

As anyone who spends unhealthy amounts of time on YouTube will know, the internet also finds joint cracking very satisfying to watch. There are hoards of channels dedicated to watching chiropractors do their thing, and millions of people across the world flock to watch hot women in gym leggings have their bones cracked. These videos have a very ASMR-like quality to them, with the soft-spoken health chat and lo-fi white noise making for a relaxing and satisfying watch. However, the practice of chiropractic is somewhat controversial in the scientific community, with the legitimacy of its medical uses of being called into question.

Dr. Capozzolo, who is a chiropractor herself, says that chiropractic is only harmful if its performed by someone who hasnt had the relevant training.

When not done properly, it can be dangerous. Cracking a back or neck, when done wrong can lead to a lot of pain, damage and inflammation. I regularly have people come to me who can't turn their head or even are getting headaches that started with a friend thinking they could crack their neck for them.

Many doctors take umbrage with chiropractic medicine and chiropractors, as they arent qualified M.D.s, and while they do undergo a lengthy period of study before becoming licensed, they are technically classified as practicing alternative medicine.

Dr. Joshua Carothers, the Chief Medical Officer at VIP StarNetwork, warns of the potential dangers that come with going to a chiropractor.

Most patients that seek chiropractic care and maintenance treatments do so without incident or complication. There are, however, known complications that can arise from chiropractic manipulation of the spine and other areas of the body. Additionally, chiropractic training is not the same as that received by physicians in standard medical schools and residency training programs. This can lead to attempts to treat conditions with chiropractic care that would not be responsive to that care and which can lead to misdiagnosis and delays in treatment.

Dont go putting your whole spine in someone elses hands.Shutterstock

Often, chiropractor influencers online combine their joint adjustment treatments with elements of other, more pseudoscientific medicine: alkaline diets, detoxing, herbal medicine, and even adjusting the spines of newborn babies potentially seriously injuring them.

So, while the occasional homegrown joint cracking is probably absolutely harmless, dont go putting your whole spine in someone elses hands and let them knead you like bread dough without asking a qualified medical professional first. While those videos of neck cracking look like bliss, I wont be letting just anyone twist my head around like Superman in that one film just in case my legs spontaneously stop working. Nobody will ever stop me from cracking my own knuckles, however.

So if youre ever on a plane and hear a cacophony of joints snapping, sorry in advance.

The rest is here:

Is cracking your knuckles bad for you? The science of your joints, explained - Inverse

Ujjain, President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday called upon Ayurveda experts to promote research in the field, saying there is no alternative to this traditional Indian system of medicine so far in rural parts of the country.

"Ayurveda is the science of life," he said at a function after inaugurating the 59th meet of the All India Ayurveda Conference, and dedicated a government Ayurveda College here to the people.

India is a country of villages and has the traditional medicine system - Ayurveda. No alternative medical system has taken its place yet, Kovind said.

"It is time to understand the knowledge of Ayurveda more deeply. Scientists should meet the challenge because the need of the hour is to deliver techniques to the world. This is a big challenge for all of us. I am hopeful that all of you take it (challenge) up and progress," he added.

"It is a matter of pride that research in Ayurveda is being done in around 20 countries of the world, including Mauritius," the president said.

People's inclination towards Ayurveda grew during the testing times of COVID-19 pandemic, when it saved many lives, he noted.

"It is expected from the people associated with research to make Ayurveda more effective and popular to treat diseases and pandemics. There are many systems of medicines in the world, but Ayurveda is different from them," he added.

The word pathy is attached to different systems of medicines (allopathy, homeopathy) in the world. Pathy means a system for treatment of diseases. But Ayurveda provides health care - treatment with stress on disease prevention, he said, adding, "Efforts are made to figure out the root cause of the disease and eliminate it. We all are privileged to have such a rich traditional knowledge of Ayurveda."

Madhya Pradesh should strive to become an Ayurveda destination in the country, he said, adding that CM Chouhan has been showing keen interest in this medical system.

"If MP turns into an Ayurveda centre in the country, the credit for it will go to the public and the government,'' Kovind said.

He said that the creation of Ministry of Ayush (which stands for Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy) in 2014 has given a fillip to the traditional Indian medicine.

After the programme, the president along with his wife Savita Kovind and daughter Swati Kovind offered prayers to Lord Mahakal at the famous Mahakaleshwar temple here, officials said.

A group of priests conducted the puja rituals. Apart from the governor and the chief minister, state Culture and Tourism Minister Usha Thakur was also present, they said.

See the rest here:

Ayurveda is science of life, no alternative to it in rural India, says Prez; calls for boosting research - ETHealthWorld