Category Archives: Alternative Medicine

It's a sobering statisticmore than 100,000 Americans died from a drug overdose in just one year's time. And the CDC says it's getting worse each year.

Kayla Pramik knows the struggle all too well.

"There's no face that goes with addiction. It can hit you, it could hit your closest family members," she said. "My entire life I have struggled with mental health, I've struggled with addiction. It wasn't a fun go for me for about 26 years of my life."

Pramik was introduced to alternative medicine and was able to overcome her battles. She now uses her experience to help inspire others to heal.

"I know what it's like to be in a very dark corner in life and really not having anybody who understood what I was going through. So it makes my heart feel so full it makes my heart explode that if I can help one person, even if it's just one person," she said.

Pramik is also a passionate advocate for those silently struggling because she's seen the other side of the disease. Her sister lost her battle.

"She ended up passing away in 2013. It was a fatal mixture of heroin, cocaine, and Klonopin. Ever since then I knew there was something had to be done," Pramik said.

She turned her pain into a plan and started lighting the way for others. She donates part of the proceeds of her homemade candles to help others.

Kayla wants them to know it can get better, just as it did for her.

"You're not alone, there's more of us that have gone through it not than have not, we will sit with you and listen to you and do everything in our power that we can to make sure that you make it out alive because that's the most important part,"Pramik said.

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Woman sells candles to help light the way for others struggling with drug addiction - 69News WFMZ-TV

As were aware, Asia is big on spa and wellness. From onsen to flotation therapy, here is a list of seven exotic spa and wellness treatments to explore in Asia.

Imagine sitting in a calm place while your mind and body are in sync with the surroundings. Doesnt that just feel relaxing? Such are the effects of aromatic wellness spa treatments that help you de-stress your body and mind to create one of the most serene and heavenly experiences.

Though a periodic trip to the spa or a wellness retreat is quite common these days, what adds to the whole experience is the luxurious and exotic way we get these spa therapies. Exclusive and tailor-made options, which were once available only at high-end treatment centres and wellness retreats, are becoming increasingly common.

The concept of a wellness sanctuary that sets customised wellness goals and promotes a healthy lifestyle is what many are looking for. Availing luxurious massages through holistic programmes by professional therapists, who not only provide beauty treatments but also aim at establishing emotional balance while appealing to all the senses, is what defines a modern-day luxurious spa.

While there is an array of services in many international markets, those found in Asia have become quite popular with their unique rejuvenation and spa treatments. While some of these might be new, others are ancient practices. From authentic hammams, Onsen and crystal massages to floatation and chocolate therapies, the endless options are as luxurious and exotic as they get.

The method of Toji bathing or the ancient Japanese practice of onsen is one of the most surreal experiences where you bathe in a hot spring. The term onsen literally translates into hot water cure and refers to the medicinal values involved in this balneotherapy.

Prolonged stay in a relaxing hot water spring at a ryokan, or a Japanese inn, enables the body to absorb the healing properties from the mineral-rich water. Medicinal benefits include relieving joint pains, relaxing tired muscles, improving skin quality and blood circulation as well as inducing better sleep.

In todays time, a ryokan setup consists of onsen, along with rooms for guests to stay and unwind for a couple of days.

Sound baths, or the use of your auditory senses, as a medium to stimulate or relax your mind and body is becoming extremely popular among urban dwellers. It may come across as a modern therapy, but reports suggest it goes back to over 2,000 years.

To answer the most basic question of whether there is water involved in the therapy, the answer is no. This is because a sound bath cleanses your mind using sound notes.

The soothing vibrations produced by instruments, like Tibetan singing bowls, gongs, windchimes and crystal bowls, will not only calm your senses but also enable better stress management.

As the sound waves and vibrations pass through the body, you will feel serene and completely relaxed. Sound bathing is also considered to be a wellness journey that has a lightening effect on the body.

Close your eyes and immerse yourself in the vibrations in the dimly lit relaxing studio and feel the stress leave your body and mind. You will be one with yourself and the environment.

Enjoy a sound bath individually or in a group, but consciously absorb all the goodness of the spa treatment. Typically, an individual session goes on for an hour, depending on the routine or session you opt for.

Medicinal benefits of this treatment include reduced stress and anxiety. According to a 2014 study published in the American Journal of Health Promotion, regular sound bathing can also reduce systolic blood pressure.

A sound and lightproof pod, floating without feeling the body weight and relaxing in complete silence, with very little light, make up this therapy. Although this might sound like something straight out of a sci-fi movie, floatation therapy is one of the most extravagant body treatments.

Float on your back on about 12-inches-high Epsom salt-saturated water inside a pod, which is set at a skin surface temperature, and feel the surroundings fade away. Feeling weightless and focusing on your heartbeat and breathing characterise this new-age wellness therapy.

The sauna-like feeling of floatation therapy is great for relieving stress, anxiety, hypertension, soothing your senses and relaxing your mind. It also helps in nervous stimulation, brain synchronisation and much more.

Experts are of the view that such a heightened state of total relaxation doesnt kick in until the first 30 minutes, but the effects can stay for over a day. Thus, Dr Justin Feinstein, clinical neuropsychologist and director of the Float Clinic and Research Center at the Laureate Institute for Brain Research, suggests this as a short term remedy for anxiety and depression.

Traditional Arabian style of cleansing the body, having deep tissue massages and taking your mind off in a humid sauna room sums up a typical hammam bath. Originating in the Middle East, the roots of this spa therapy can be traced to Turkey and Morocco where people visit local hammams for periodic cleansing.

In the steam sauna room or Hammam, a tellak or an attendant will first pour water on you before applying a black soap and exfoliating your skin with a kessa glove.

The treatment detans your skin and opens up the pores, releasing accumulated dirt. The massage exfoliates dead cells to give a healthy glow to your skin.

The nourishing elements of the exfoliator, often combined with a mud bath, enrich the body with minerals and the massage relieves joint pains and stressed muscles for an overall soothing effect.

Cannot resist the rich, decadent aroma of cocoa? Then this spa and wellness treatment is for you. Lathering rich cocoa butter and chocolate all over your body, a spa treatment couldnt get more delicious than this.

Soak in the rich essence of chocolate therapy and embrace its calming effect on your body and mind. With its rich exfoliating, deep nourishing and moisturising elements, chocolate and products infused with chocolate become the most sought-after choice for services like body massage, pedicure, manicure, facials and hair removal.

The immensely popular spa treatment is one of the most luxurious and premium wellness programmes.

Using crystals, precious and semi-precious stones help in attaining inner balance, as well as reducing stress and anxiety.

Although the practice of using crystals has been around for ages, its been gaining prominence again, with celebrities, like Victoria Beckham and Kate Hudson, speaking about them.

Solely targeted at mental well-being and providing tranquillity, crystals and gemstones promote healing energies when used to align various aspects of life. Placing crystals on pressure points and getting a deep massage relieves stress and joint pains.

Different kinds of crystals have various roles to play. For instance, rose quartz helps in promoting self-love, benevolence, happiness and compassion, while Lapis Lazuli is beneficial in truly knowing yourself and thereby feeling free, as well as improving immunity.

Those looking for a more holistic wellness approach to health and mental wellbeing may choose crystal healing.

This therapy finds its roots in ancient Chinese medicine. An alternative medical treatment, acupuncture helps to provide cranial relief and healing wounds by inserting thin needles into the area that needs to be treated.

Acupuncture experts examine the area and insert tiny needles into the skin, the number depending on the body part and the intensity of the pain. These pricked needles send a signal to the body that the area is affected and the immune cells must act upon it.

The wellness treatment has had several positive effects in helping those with chronic pain, insomnia and migraine, among other ailments.

However, it is advised to consult a licensed practitioner before choosing this treatment.

[Hero image credit: The Anam/ @theanamcxr/ Unsplash; featured image credit: RODNAE Productions/Pexels]

This story first appeared on Prestige Malaysia.

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7 Exotic Spa and Wellness Treatments to Explore in Asia - Prestige Online

Butterfly Ayurvedas range of immunity boosters are some of its innovations that help enhance immunity, improve respiratory and overall health.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought into perspective the fragility of our existing healthcare ecosystem. While the healthcare industry is soughting answers to make it more inclusive, holistic, and affordable in the post-pandemic world, Ayurveda has been playing a significant role in shaping the discourse around the new-age healthcare system. The current crisis is a powerful reminder of the need for more sustainable healthcare solutions, and Ayurveda is the saving grace weve all been looking for. Before we proceed, lets delve a little deeper into the science of life.

INTRODUCTION TO AYURVEDA

Ayurveda is an age-old science that has prevailed in India since the pre-Buddhist era. It comprises a holistic understanding of health and caters to the whole body-mind-spirit complex. It is a life science that throws light upon corrective diet and lifestyle measures, with somatic practices like Yoga and meditation, use of herbal remedies and medicine, and rejuvenation therapies like panchakarma, self-massages, etc. It seeks to eliminate the root cause of health issues and caters to every individuals unique body constitution.

AYURVEDA, AN EVIDENCE-BASED SCIENCE

Many believe that Ayurveda has gained a broad perception of being mostly belief-based. However, a close study of the Vedic texts and interactions with learned Ayurvedic practitioners say otherwise. Ayurveda is established on the principles of an evidence-based, rationalistic, and holistic approach. The ancient texts show that Ayurveda has a unique, well-elaborated, and documented pharmacology, pharmacognosy, anatomy, and detailed understanding of disease pathogenesis.

In the words of Sushruta Samdosha samagnischasamdhatu malkriya. Prasanna aatma indriya manaswastha iti abhidhiyate. This roughly translates to: Optimum health in Ayurveda is a state of equilibrium between the doshas, metabolic fire, bodily tissues, excretory products combined with a cheerful mind, high intellect, and keen senses. Disturbance in this equilibrium leads to a diseased state.

BAS CORE IDEOLOGY Herbal healthcare manufacturers like Butterfly Ayurveda, an emerging health and wellness brand of India, have played a vital role in educating the masses about Ayurvedic herbs and their use in everyday life with products like Ayurvedic teas, herbal powders, supplements, tonics, and immunity boosters.

Butterfly Ayurveda is an organization engaged in the research, development, manufacturing, and marketing of Ayurvedic products. Be it healthy snacks, calming teas, nourishing kadhas, or clinically evaluated medicines, BA offers a whole new spectrum of modern, yet authentic, Ayurvedic products that help integrate the power of Ayurveda into our everyday lives. BAs R&D department is the backbone of the organization. The departments approach could be termed as, Validation of Divine Ayurvedic Wisdom through Scientific Knowledge in the Current Era. Dedicated to providing qualitative and effective herbal solutions, the R&D department is committed to product development, quality control, and standardization which offers their customers safe and efficacious Ayurvedic medicines and food products.SOME OF BAS BEST-SELLERS ARE

Ratri Chai, a nighttime tea that helps unwind and restore energy levels at the end of the day.Pancreofly, an Ayurvedic medicine that helps regulate blood sugar levels and lowers cholesterol.

Diabe Choice Cookies, a diabetes-friendly cookie made with coconut palm sugar that is full of flavor, fiber, antioxidants & anti-inflammatory properties.

Suprabhat Chai, a cognition-enhancing good morning tea that helps balance Kapha dosha.

IMMUNITY BOOSTERS

I-Immune, Ayurvedic capsules that help expedite recovery, and increase platelet and white blood cell count.

Bronchiofly, an Ayurvedic cough syrup that helps clear respiratory tracts, protects the lungs and throat against infections

Vita-M, an Ayurvedic medicine designed for men that helps rejuvenate and restore the bodys strength, improves stamina, and increases vigor and vitality.

While these supplements soon became crowd favorites, BA understood the alarming need of the hour and redirected its resources towards developing herbal hand sanitizers, Hello Aloe and Tulsi Neem. Effective and gentle, these sanitizers became a common favorite with the running clinics and nursing practitioners.

DEVELOPMENT OF COVIFLY

BA soon recognized the need for an Ayurvedic medicine that not only boosts immunity but helps treat the symptoms of Covid-19. After thorough research, the R&D team at BA developed an Ayurvedic formulation made with a blend of potent herbal extracts that helps boost immunity against COVID-19, treats flu-like symptoms, and has a broad-spectrum antiviral action. Coronafly/COVIFLY is Butterfly Ayurvedas contribution to the world in the fight against Covid-19. This Ayurvedic formulation helps people recover and alleviates symptoms like high fever, sore throat, dry cough, shortness of breath, body pain, and weakness.

BAS SUSTAINABILITY PLEDGE

Raw Material Sourcing

From the sourcing of raw materials to designing the packaging, they ensure eco-friendly practices are followed throughout. All their raw materials are sourced from the most reliable vendors, who either own certified farms or do contract farming with farmers, ensuring the use of sustainable methods for cultivation and harvesting. The tea leaves used in the teas are procured primarily from the Glenburn tea estate in Darjeeling and Khongea tea estate in Assam. All their raw materials are tested for quality and are given a certificate of analysis before being considered for production.

Packaging

The vibrant packaging represents the vitality of life, while BAs conscious efforts to zero down plastic packaging and use materials locally available such as the wonderful jute string to carry the tea pouches. Another such example is their biodegradable tea bags made of corn and wheat starch. BA ensures that all the ingredients and certifications are listed on the product packaging itself. They believe that transparency empowers the customers to embrace Ayurveda evermore readily and help them make a better choice.

Manufacturing

Blending the wisdom of traditional Ayurvedic methods with modern science, BA develops exciting products while maintaining the purity of ingredients, safety and efficacy of the formulations, and adhering to pharmacopoeial quality standards. All their products are manufactured in GMP-certified units and are licensed by the State Dept. of AYUSH, or by FSSAI. BA has also collaborated with several renowned manufacturing units like Charak Pharma, Blue Star Laboratories, etc. for new product development and large-scale production.

THE ROAD AHEAD

BA aims to harness the growing market potential to become an Ayurvedic wellness hub and generate awareness about the benefits of infusing the goodness of Ayurveda into peoples everyday life.

In its humble endeavor to offer the natural preventive and curative benefits of Ayurveda, BA introduced a holistic range of infusions: Heart Strong infusion, Diabe infusion, and Love your body infusion. These herbal infusions are a delight to drink and help support a healthy heart, manage blood sugar, aid weight management. All of BAs products are targeted to help with lifestyle-related disorders.

Akshi, founder and CEO of BA says, Ayurveda is the future of global healthcare, as it helps treat the root cause of a health issue, not merely the symptoms. Moreover, it focuses on rejuvenation therapies that promote the whole body-mind-spirit complex.

THE TURNING TIDE

The healthcare industry is witnessing a new trend. People are now turning to alternative medicines for prolonged relief and Ayurveda is at the top of the list. The resurgence of public interest in herbal remedies led to a substantial demand shift to herbal products in the last couple of years. In 2019, the Indian market for herbal products stood at INR 4.2 billion and by 2026, that number is expected to increase at a CAGR of 38.5%[1]. Similarly, Indias nutraceutical market is poised to be a global leader with a growth rate of 22% every year. Preventive healthcare has become an important line of defense during the pandemic, proving the nutraceuticals sector to be a strong economic partner to the people. This boom in the industry serves as the perfect opportunity for BA to explore strategic partnerships with nutraceutical companies on the lookout for herbal product manufacturers.

[1] https://www.ibef.org/blogs/high-demand-for-medicinal-plants-in-india#:~:text=The%20market%20for%20medical%20plants,assessed%20at%20US%24%20120%20billion.

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Ayurveda, The Future of Global Healthcare - Outlook India

Partner Content

By Sauce Staff // January 7, 2022

The New Year is always a great time to set your intentions for the future. Whether youre looking for some delicious, nutrient-rich food and drinks, a healthy medicine alternative or some self-care at a spa, these local businesses will help you reach your goals.

Fresh Thyme Market at City Foundry STLGet a fresh start to your year at Fresh Thyme Market! Proudly located at City Foundry STL, Fresh Thyme is your new neighborhood grocery store. Theyre focused on bringing fresh, affordable and local products to Midtown St. Louis and beyond. Youll love the full grocery selection, meat and deli counters, as well as the extensive natural and organic options. Be sure to visit the in-store caf, home to Iron Drop, which features artisanal scratch-made biscuits and carefully curated craft roasted coffee menus, and Ace Sushi with delicious sushi made fresh daily, hot food options and boba tea. Check out the $5 sushi rolls every Thursday.Fresh Thymes food doesnt only look, smell and taste good its also good for you. Get all the nutrients you need and all the flavors you crave while supporting trusted partners, brands and farmers. Shop confidently and let your appetite guide the way knowing that every item in the store has been hand-selected with care.Stop by the natural living section this January for a sale on vitamins and body care, when you can get 30% off all those items in the store from Jan. 5 to 11, 2022 take advantage of this amazing deal!3701 Foundry Way, Suite 201, St. Louis, 314.597.4400, freshthymefoundry.com

Fresh Gatherings Cafe + Farm at Saint Louis UniversityFresh Gatherings Cafe + Farm is a student-run cafe operated by the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics that is open to the public and located on SLU's Medical Campus. The cafe sources from its organic urban farm on campus and from local farmers and growers in Missouri and Illinois. It is open for breakfast and lunch with a full-service coffee bar. Fan favorites include oat milk lattes, breakfast burritos and croissants, but there are also daily hot lunch specials, grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, soups and baked goods. Fresh Gatherings Cafe + Farm exemplifies SLUs Jesuit principles in support of development of the whole person. They believe in the value of good food to nourish the mind, body and spirit. The leading program in nutrition and culinary arts allows students to combine their two passions into a career.3404 Rutger St., St. Louis, freshgatheringscafe.com, @freshgatherings, @slunutrition1818

Fulfill Food & BeveragesDr. Angela Zengs belief that food is better medicine prompted her to develop a line of great tasting, functional juices and smoothies using whole plant ingredients. She hopes to inspire customers' awareness of the possibilities of integrative and holistic medicine. From her delicious Karuna smoothies to her Karviva ACE Sport drinks and new Karviva Unwined alcohol-free wine alternative, each beverage is inspired by ancient wisdom and backed by modern science. The companys wellness beverages offer a vast array of product benefits ranging from restoration of digestive and immune health with prebiotics and antioxidants to delivering clean protein and providing sustained energy. The drinks can be found in local stores including Schnucks, Whole Foods Market, Dierbergs, Straubs and Fresh Thyme. mykaruna.com

Indigo Massage & WellnessAt Indigo Massage & Wellness, a soothing experience starts as soon as you walk in the door. Clients often tout how relaxing the space is with its gorgeous blue and green dcor, defused lighting and pleasant aromas, as well as the comfortable seating and the professionalism of the staff. Choose from a range of services, from therapeutic massages, CBD facials and acupuncture to body wraps and reflexology. Join the Indigo wellness program for a monthly credit for a discounted therapeutic massage; this membership can even be shared with your partner. Plan ahead for Valentine's Day and book a massage or get a couples massage gift card. In addition, all staff members at Indigo are fully vaccinated to help put your worried mind at ease.1901 Arsenal St., St. Louis; 7200 Manchester Road, Maplewood, 314.276.9882, indigomassagetherapy.com

Jane DispensaryJane Dispensary is a medical cannabis boutique on the Delmar Loop that provides a sophisticated experience while educating the public and helping to remove the stigma of cannabis, which can be an integral part of a healthy lifestyle. Marijuana has a plethora of health benefits and particularly helps with inflammation both in the general population and for those with inflammatory autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease and many more. When aiming to reduce inflammation with cannabis, its imperative to choose a product with a high CBD to THC ratio as CBD is the most effective anti-inflammatory cannabinoid. Stop by the Jane storefront to speak with a cannabis consultant to find the best products to meet your needs.6662 Delmar Blvd., University City, janedispensary.com

Lonas Lil Eats If you enjoy Asian soul food with a flare but want to indulge in a healthy manner, Lonas Lil Eats homestyle meals are light yet satisfying and keep your body fueled all day long. There are plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, and customization is encouraged. Sauces which range from sweet or savory to sour or spicy provide full-bodied flavors, and any entree can be made into a salad if youre trying to work more veggies into your diet. Plus, everything is made fresh with no preservatives or MSG. To up your antioxidant intake, complete your meal with the vast selection of teas, from green and white to oolong and black.2199 California Ave., St. Louis, 314.925.1888, lonaslileats.com

RootberryInstead of setting impossible goals loaded with sacrifice and compromise, how about you just eat more plants more often? Rootberry is St. Louis new plant-powered food company that features a rotating menu of chef- and nutritionist-developed entrees, shareables and desserts that are ready to eat or heat in minutes. Get well with these restaurant-quality, nutrient dense meals such as Rootberrys shepherd's pie, winter squash risotto, Aztec enchiladas, tikka masala and more. And, while Rootberry offers salads, they are totally unexpected like Spring Roll In A Bowl or the soy-ginger superfood salad. The best part? Rootberry is available for delivery to your home or office. Visit their website, choose what sounds good to you, select your delivery day and time, and enjoy. (No subscription required, BTW.) You can also find it in the prepared foods section in the deli of all Dierbergs Markets. Rootberry is a local company making delicious food thats not just good for you its good for the planet too. So dont worry about being vegan, vegetarian or flexitarian this year simply enjoy eating great food that just happens to be 100% plant-based. St. Louis, rootberry.com

Source JuiceryFinding healthy options outside the city can sometimes be a challenge, but Source Juicery lets you enjoy the convenience of clean eating on the go. And with the pandemic still surging, theres never been a better time to focus on staying healthy. Source offers a plethora of nutritious grab-and-go options, from cold-pressed juice and wellness shots to nut milks, smoothies, salads and breakfast staples like oats and parfaits. Try a one- to three-day juice cleanse with the option to add meal packs or protein packs like grilled chicken and power bites. All items are gluten-free, and there are many vegan options too. Source offers an easy online ordering system with curbside pickup or contactless home delivery to the Edwardsville area. Walk-in ordering is also welcome.228 N. Main St., Edwardsville, 618.650.9080, sourcejuicery.com

TerrabisTerrabis is a medical cannabis dispensary in OFallon, Hazelwood, Creve Coeur, Springfield and Kansas City. Did you know a research study on cannabis and physical activity was published in Frontiers in Public Health? It found that 80% of cannabis consumers mix cannabis and exercise. 78% say it increases enjoyment. 70% say it boosts recovery, and 52% say it motivates them to exercise. Healthy living and supporting an active lifestyle is everything were about. The name Terrabis combines the word Terra, which stands for Planet Earth, and the word Bis, which are the last three letters of their favorite plant, cannabis. Together, Terrabis stands for a healthy planet and represents their adventurous spirit. They encourage you to #ExploreMore of the outdoors, as well as their products, to live a healthier and happier life.Multiple locations. terrabis.co, @terrabis_hq

The Healing HamsaWhen it comes to healthy lifestyles, self-care is a vital aspect that should not fall to the wayside. The Healing Hamsa is a place where medical aesthetics meet magical experiences with treatments ranging from a variety of facials and chemical peels to microneedling and beyond. Wellness weekends, private events and couples experiences are also available, and the Healing Hamsa is extremely proud to be inclusive and prides itself on the continuing education to serve clients of all ethnic backgrounds. In addition, the spa provides robes, cozy slippers and bottomless beverages while you wait for your treatment(s) to begin. So next time youre needing a little extra self-care, come check out this business built on high-end experiences and an emphasis on being able to retreat and relax. 4400 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, 314.450.8399, healinghamsa.com

The Pasta House Co.The Pasta House Co. has long been synonymous with Italian food in St. Louis as its celebrating 48 years in business, but did you know the home of the golden toasted ravioli also has a variety of healthy options? From an assortment of salads and vegetable-forward dishes like eggplant parmigiano to an entire gluten-free menu, Pasta House aims to offer something for everyone. Try a family meal starting at just $29.99 and includes pasta, their famous salad, toasted ravioli and bread and butter. At Pasta House, you can dine in, order takeout for curbside pickup, or even get delivery. For larger parties, inquire about catering options.Multiple locations, pastahouse.com

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11 St. Louis businesses that focus on self-care for a fresh start to the new year - Sauce Magazine

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Asian Pac J Cancer Prev. 2021 Dec 1;22(12):3977-3983. doi: 10.31557/APJCP.2021.22.12.3977.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) is widely used among cancer patients worldwide. This prospective observational study aimed to show the effect of CAM use on chemotherapy delivery in Thai patients.

METHODS: During March 2014 to February 2015, the patients with breast, lung or colorectal cancer receiving first cycle chemotherapy at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital were enrolled. The correlation between CAM using and chemotherapy schedule delay and dose reduction, dose intensity, quality of life and adverse event rates were analyzed.

RESULTS: There were 80 (44.20%) patients using CAM among 181 enrolled patients. Seventy six CAM users and 97 non-CAM users receiving 2nd cycle of chemotherapy were included for primary analysis. The chemotherapy schedules were delayed and/or reduced in 40 (52.6%) and 48 (49.5%) in CAM users and non-CAM users, respectively, p =0.681. The mean relative dose intensity (RDI) were 92.4% and 94.1% in CAM and non-CAM users, respectively, p=0.244. However, there were significantly more CAM users receiving chemotherapy less than 90% RDI (34.8% vs 19.8%, p=0.033). As compared to first cycle, at third cycle, the mean QOL score changes were -4.63 (95% CI -2.49-9.27) and -8.02 (-2.36- 9.142) in CAM user and non-CAM user, respectively (p=0.255). There were significantly higher rates of grade 3 or 4 anemia (5.1% vs 0%, p=0.024), and grade 2 malaise (19.0% vs 5.1%, p=0.004) in CAM users.

CONCLUSIONS: There were similar overall rates of chemotherapy schedule delay and dose reduction between CAM- and non-CAM users. However, there were less CAM-users achieving 90% chemotherapy RDI.

PMID:34967579 | DOI:10.31557/APJCP.2021.22.12.3977

Link:

Effects of Complementary and Alternative Medicine on Chemotherapy Delivery in Thai Patients - DocWire News

Gurbakhash Kaur, MD, discusses the use of bispecific T-cell engagers as an alternative to chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy for the treatment of multiple myeloma.

Gurbakhash Kaur, MD, an assistant professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, discusses the use of bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs) as an alternative to chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy for the treatment of multiple myeloma.

According to Kaur, BiTEs provide an off-the-shelf approach for patients. CAR T cells require lymphodepletion, after which the cells need to be engineered. For patients in crisis, they may not be able to wait for CAR T cells to be manufactured. According to Kaur, both CAR T cells and BiTE therapies will have a major role in the treatment of multiple myeloma.

0:08 | BiTEs, especially with AMG 420, are also BCMA-targeted agents, but that will be an off-the-shelf type of approach, whereas with CAR T cells you need to give lymphodepletion and wait a couple of weeks for the cells to be engineered. Many patients, when they are in crisis and they run out of options, dont have the time to wait for a CAR T-cell to be manufactured. Both of these therapies, CAR T cells and BiTE therapies, will have a major role to play in multiple myeloma treatment.

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BiTE Therapy as a CAR T Alternative for Multiple Myeloma Treatment - Targeted Oncology

The health benefits of Holy Basil and how to use it.Thats coming up on This Land of Ours.

Holy basil, also known as tulsi in Hindu, or queen of the herbs, is part of themint familyand is a traditional medicinal herbnative to tropicalSoutheast Asia.

This aromatic plant has pale greenleaves, hair stems, and small purple or white tubular flowers. Itis considered to be atonicfor the body andis widely used in alternative medicine. It is most often consumed as an herbal tea, has a strong, pungent flavor, and can be used in cooking to intensify some dishes.

Holy basil is anadaptogen, which can help the body adapt tostressand treatinflammation. Holy basil has a whole variety of health benefits. Itsa great source of antioxidants, it is high in vitamin A, K and C, calcium, zinc, iron, Manganese, and chlorophyll. It has a history of treating disease, and reducing stress and anxiety, and isbeneficial for digestivesupport and brain function!

As always, make sure to consult with your doctor before consuming holy basil or any other supplement into your diet.

Listen to Cathy Isoms This Land of Ours program here.

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Health Benefits of Holy Basil and How to Use It - AgNet West

Indiana has received nearly 7,000 coursesof new medications designed to treat COVID-19, state leaders announced Wednesday, while cautioning that vaccination remains the primary defense against the ongoing pandemic.

During a news conference,Dr. Lindsay Weaver, chief medical officer of the Indiana State Department of Health, broke down the current distribution of new medicines, all of which requirea prescription and which remain in "extremely limited supply."

More: What we learned from Gov. Eric Holcomb at Indiana's first COVID update in months

More: This is why COVID-19 rapid tests have been hard to find at Indiana state testing sites

Although treatment options have increased, Weaver warnedagainst relying on therapeutics and stressed the continued importance of vaccination.

"It's important to remember that there's simply not enough medicine to go around right now and do not bank on being able to get the therapeutic needed."

More: Indiana Gov. Holcomb extends public health emergency... again

"Vaccination remains our number one defense for preventing severe illness," Weaver said."Please get vaccinated get your booster shot."

Merck Molnupiravir

4,880 courses allocated to CVS and Walgreens pharmacies.

The antiviral pills, taken four at a time twice perday for five days, treat mild to moderate COVID-19 for adults at high risk of severe complications from the virus and for whom alternative treatment options are not available or clinically appropriate. They work best within five days of first symptomsand reduce the risk of severe complications by 30 percent.

1,060 courses allocated to hospitals

These pills -- three tablets taken twice perday for five days -- treat mild to moderate virus cases for those over 12 years old at high risk of severe COVID-19. The treatment works best within five days of first symptoms and reduce the risk of hospitalization or death by 89 percent.

984 courses allocated to transplant centers and, eventually, cancer centers

Two injections designed to preventCOVID-19 cases in patients 12 and older with compromised immune systems due to a medical condition or medication, or ahistory of adverse reactions to vaccines. Treatment is only for people who do not have and have not been recently exposed to COVID-19.

Weaver also discussedthree existing treatments:

Gilead Veklury Remdesivir -An antiviral IV infusion used to treat patients 12 and older and available to health care providers through typical supply chains. Studies show a three-day course cuts hospitalization rates and death by 87 percent, the presentation said.

GlaxoSmithKline Sotrovimab -A monoclonal antibody IV infusion used to treat mild to moderate cases in patients 12 and older who are at risk of severe complications. It is not authorized for use on hospitalized patients or those receiving oxygen. The health department allocates courses to hospitals and clinics.

Eli Lilly Bamlanivimab and Etesevimab -A monoclonal antibody IV infusion used to treat mild to moderate cases in anyone at risk of severe COVID. It is authorized for both treatment and post-exposure prevention, but it is not effective against the Omicron variant. The Heath Department allocates courses to hospitals and clinics, but the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will stop shipping the drug tostates on Monday.

Rory Appleton is the pop culture reporter at IndyStar. Contact him at 317-552-9044 andrappleton@indystar.com, or follow him on Twitter at @RoryDoesPhonics.

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This is the current supply of Pfizer, Merck COVID pill therapeutics in Indiana - IndyStar

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This is the time of year when many of us find ourselves at social gatherings. Often times those parties include indulging, sometimes overindulging, in a cocktail or two and feeling the aftereffects the next morning. No one likes to have a hangover, but there are new products on the market that claim to give the same buzz as booze without the alcohol that can leave us feeling like garbage the next day. The idea is intriguing, but is it really a safe alternative?

These alcohol alternatives blend nootropics, adaptogens, and botanics that are purported to give the calming effect of alcohol. One such product is Kin Euphorics. According to Bulletproof, This alcohol alternative claims to help you achieve a blissed-out state without sacrificing brain cells or performance the next day.

So what is a nootropic? WebMD gives us a bit of insight: The term nootropics first referred to chemicals that met very specific criteria. But now its used to refer to any natural or synthetic substance that may have a positive impact on mental skills. In general, nootropics fall into three general categories:dietary supplements, synthetic compounds, andprescription drugs.

Are they safe? They can be, but just like anything else, they need to be used in moderation.

I would be reluctant to recommend something that is so new. These are chemicals, and their impact is not clear. I do not have enough information to know what is a safe amount, or what is the potential for dependence, said Dr. Matthew Reuter, a BJC Medical Group internist at Missouri Baptist Medical Center.

And although there is a possibility that you can get the same boozy feelings sans booze, there are certainly questions about whether or not they are a safe alternative to alcohol. Dr. Reuter isnt the only medical professional who agrees that we should proceed with caution. Dr. Anna Lembke, medical director of addiction medicine at Stanford University School of Medicine and author of Dopamine Nation, told Time, Theres always the promise of some new molecule thats going to do exactly what the old molecule did but not have the harmful effects. Every single time, that has not panned out.

We have seen this before with things like E-cigarettes. They were lauded as a safer alternative to smoking, but that has proven to be untrue and an increasing number of people are heading straight to the vape and skipping cigarettes altogether. Are nootropics the same? Perhaps, but they are big business right now, and production doesnt seem to be slowing down.

Grand View Research reports that nootropics were valued at $9.7 billion in 2020. That accounts for all forms of nootropics, not just alcohol alternatives. But the drinks are gaining popularity the quickest.

The drinks segment is projected to register the fastest CAGR of 16.0% from 2021 to 2028. Nootropics ingredients are being incorporated into RTD drinks and shots to help improve functions such as focus and memory. Nootropics in drinks form are gaining popularity due to their ability to be digested more quickly than food, allowing them to boost the brain instantly, Grand View Research states.

What about those who have given up drinking or are in recovery; could this be a gateway? Dr. Reuter said that it is not a good idea. My gut is these should be avoided. Patients with addiction to alcohol need to abstain entirely from alcohol to minimize risk of relapse. This makes sense, as it could certainly be a gateway back to alcohol, as it can mimic that euphoric feeling.

Some nootropics are not only marketed to replace alcohol, they are also being touted as brain boosters. They are said to give a bit of mental clarity and increase focus. They can also up your energy. There is not a lot of research to back up whether nootropics can really help cognitive function or make give you a euphoric feeling, but many swear by them.

Interestingly, a lot of us are consuming a nootropic on the daily and may not even realize it. Caffeine falls into the category of nootropic. And as we know, it can definitely give us a boost of energy and make our cognitive function a bit better. Having said that, the nootropic compound in caffeine is much smaller than that in many of the nootropic drinks on the market today, so dont think that you will be getting the same effect. Think alcohol proof: The higher the proof, the stronger your reaction. The same is true with nootropics.

There is no clear conclusion about alcohol alternative nootropics and whether you should give them a try or not. There is little risk of dependency, and they dont cause the negative hangover side effects, but Dr. Reuter still thinks we should play it safe. I would consider real alternatives such as water, tea, lemonade or even soda. We seek alcohol in social settings or to relax. It can be dangerous in and of itself. I would be very skeptical thinking there is a safe alternative that impersonates alcohol.

So, proceed with caution. Know your limits and listen to your body. If it feels off, it probably is, and you should put the glass down and grab a bottle of water. Just to be safe.

Excerpt from:

Nootropics Are Alcohol Alternatives, But Are They A Good Idea? - Scary Mommy

WASHINGTON (December 28) Breast cancer patients treated at hospitals and health systems that educate patients and provide integrative health services have a better chance of survival compared to those treated at institutions with few of these resources, according to a new study published in the Journal of Oncology. Integrative health services include complementary and lifestyle therapies, such as nutrition and exercise counseling, in addition to medical cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and surgery.

Access to basic integrative healthcare services in cancer care not only supports a higher quality of life, but this study also shows that these services increase a patients chance of survival, said Wayne Jonas, MD, co-author of the study and executive director for Integrative Health Programs at the Samueli Foundation. These findings serve as a call to action for hospitals and oncologists to support a whole-person approach to cancer care.

For the study, researchers analyzed claims data for 4,815 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients who were treated in 2013 and 2014. Treating oncologists were surveyed about their institutions efforts to educate patients and to support 12 complementary and lifestyle approaches to treatment. Responses were received from 103 oncologists at 103 institutions involved in the treatment of 173 patients.

Scoring physician responses, the study identified institutions with low, low-mid, mid-high, or high levels of education and support for complementary and lifestyle therapies. Researchers found that patients treated at institutions that had crossed the threshold above the low integrative score into a low-mid score or higher were up to three times more likely to survive over the five-year period, compared to patients treated at institutions with a low score.

Institutional ratings were based on support for 12 types of complementary and lifestyle therapy consultations, programs, or services, including nutrition, exercise, patient support groups, spiritual services, psycho-oncology support, massage therapy, meditation or mindfulness, yoga, acupuncture or acupressure, music and art therapy, Reiki or healing touch, and tai chi or qi gong. All patients in the study also received conventional medical treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.

Institutions with higher levels of investment commonly offered a core set of six therapies: nutrition consultation, exercise consultation, patient support groups, spiritual services, meditation/ mindfulness, and psycho-oncology support.

Patients can play an active role in their cancer treatment and outcomes but they are much more likely to do it with approval and help from their health system, said Terri Crudup, lead author of the study and senior principal of Primary Intelligence at the global research and technology firm IQVIA. Oncologists and institutions that treat these patients need to consider providing education, support, and funding for these complementary and lifestyle therapies.

The study authors enumerated ways that health care institutions can cross the threshold from low into higher integrative health involvement:

The authors noted that their study is limited due to patient variables that can affect treatment outcomes that were not included in this study. Researchers also suggest the study should be replicated with a larger sample size, and additional research should validate the scoring system for integrative health care that was used.

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About Samueli Foundation

Samueli Foundations Integrative Health Programs are dedicated to the promotion of personal health and well-being with the support of health teams dedicated to all proven approaches, including conventional, complementary and self-care. Dr. Wayne Jonas, the former director of the NIH Office of Alternative Medicine and the former director of a World Health Organization Center for Traditional Medicine, is clinical professor of Family Medicine at the Uniformed Services University and at Georgetown University School of Medicine.

About IQVIA

IQVIA (NYSE:IQV) is a leading global provider of advanced analytics, technology solutions, and clinical research services to the life sciences industry. IQVIA creates intelligent connections across all aspects of healthcare through its analytics, transformative technology, big data resources and extensive domain expertise. IQVIA Connected Intelligence delivers powerful insights with speed and agility enabling customers to accelerate the clinical development and commercialization of innovative medical treatments that improve healthcare outcomes for patients. With approximately 77,000 employees, IQVIA conducts operations in more than 100 countries.

IQVIA is a global leader in protecting individual patient privacy. The company uses a wide variety of privacy-enhancing technologies and safeguards to protect individual privacy while generating and analyzing information on a scale that helps healthcare stakeholders identify disease patterns and correlate with the precise treatment path and therapy needed for better outcomes. IQVIAs insights and execution capabilities help biotech, medical device and pharmaceutical companies, medical researchers, government agencies, payers and other healthcare stakeholders tap into a deeper understanding of diseases, human behaviors and scientific advances, in an effort to advance their path toward cures. To learn more, visit http://www.iqvia.com.

Journal of Oncology

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Survival odds higher for breast cancer patients with access to integrative therapies - EurekAlert