Home / complementary and alternative medicine
Showing posts with label complementary and alternative medicine. Show all posts
Showing posts with label complementary and alternative medicine. Show all posts

Friday, November 15, 2019

Humidifier soothes Dry eyes

Humidifier soothes dry eyes @healthbiztips
Humidifier soothes dry eyes

Humidifier for Dry eye Relief -- Healthbiztips


@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan -- health blog

Excessive screen time, dry climate, hot and cold temperature are notorious environmental culprits that can cause or exacerbate dry eyes as they hasten the rate at which tears evaporate from the surface of the eyes. This is why restoring moisture in the air proves beneficial to control the symptoms of dry eyes.

Humidifier is a device that intoduces moisture into the air. It comes in various sizes that can cater a small area or an entire household. Not to be confused with diffuser which is use on essential oil, although certain types can also serve as humidifier.

In todays modern society, the incorporation of humidifier in households and offices is a practical solution to ease the eye strain brought about by spending too much time checking one's phone or working on a computer. A humidifier sitting on a desk while you fixate on your laptop is soothing.

Generally, an individual involuntarily blinks about 15 to 20 times every minute as a protective mechanism to continually spread a thin film of tears on the surface of the cornea to keep it moist and lubricated, however, substantial amount of screen time significantly lessens this crucial reflex.

Living in arid areas, the onset of summer or winter, or staying in an airconditionsd room can leave the eye dried-up.   Cases such as these can gain relief through the utilization of a humidifier indoors.

Another wonderful health benefit of humidifier is the prevention of common cold and flu, as well as improvement of breathing difficulty in asthma. Furthermore, since humidifier boosts humidity, it can be use to manage dry skin, dry hair, chapped lips, dry cough, and sore throat.

Indeed, eye drop is usually what comes into mind as a first line of dry eye treatment, but it is equally worthwhile to consider the positive effect of humidifier to abate the impact created by the lack of moisture in the air we breath.

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

Ketogenic diet for Drug-resistant Epilepsy

Ketogenic diet for Drug-resistant Epilepsy | healthbiztips
Ketogenic diet for Drug-resistant Epilepsy | healthbiztips

Keto diet, an Alternative Option for Drug-resistant Seizure


@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

Ketogenic diet has become an alternative treatment for epileptic people when conventional antiseizure medicine fail to prevent an episode, but how can such a dietary regimen alleviate a serious medical condition?

The utilization of ketogenic diet for drug-resistant epilepsy is predominantly utilized in children, although it is not recommended for adults.

The Epilepsy Foundation claimed that:
  • Over half of children who go on the diet have at least a 50% reduction in the number of their seizures.
  • Some children, usually 10-15%, even become seizure-free.

According to this agency, keto diet proves helpful in medical conditions such as:
  • infantile spasms
  • Rett syndrome
  • tuberous sclerosis complex
  • Dravet syndrome
  • Doose syndrome
  • GLUT-1 deficiency

Studies by Rogawski and colleagues sheds some light into this topic:

Although the exact mechanism of ketogenic diet's success in averting seizure episode is hard to point out, it is known that keto diet's fundamental principle of mimicking the state of starvation induced by fasting is a key factor. However, do note that this diet does not withhold food intake, Instead, it drastically cuts down the portion of carbohydrate a person eats and replaces this main energy source with fat.

Without enough glucose to break down from the scanty carbohydrate, the body switches to fat as it's fuel. Fat is broken down and the liver produces ketone to serve as energy source. At this state, the person is said to be under the state of ketosis in which these ketone bodies floods the bloodstream.

The presence of ketone bodies have several metabolic effects that greatly benefit epileptic people:
  • increase in the production of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter
  • decrease in the production of glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter
  • Increase production of adenosine, an inhibitory neurotransmitter
  • Increase in the mitochondrial biogenesis in the hippocampus
  • Increase in reduced gutathione (GSH)


Since each patient has varying medical case and history, it is worth knowing that keto diet is not effective for all people so make it a point to consult your health care provider before starting it.


Resources:

Rogawski, M. A., Löscher, W., & Rho, J. M. (2016). Mechanisms of Action of Antiseizure Drugs and the Ketogenic Diet. Cold Spring Harbor perspectives in medicine, 6(5), a022780. doi:10.1101/cshperspect.a022780

Epilepsy Foundation. Ketogenic Diet. https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy/dietary-therapies/ketogenic-diet

Thursday, July 11, 2019

Does Alkaline Water Treatment effectively Cures Cancer?

Does Alkaline Water Treatment effectively Cures Cancer | Healthbiztips
Does Alkaline Water Treatment effectively Cures Cancer | Healthbiztips
photo credit: mrjn Photography @_mrjn_esf @unsplash

Does Alkaline Water Treatment effectively Cures Cancer | Healthbiztips


@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

The notion that drinking alkaline water efficiently kills cancer lies in the fact that cancer cells do not thrive in an alkaline environment. However, there is no scientific evidence that backs up this claim.

The effectiveness of alkaline water as an alternative natural treatment for cancer remains shrouded in controversy. While cancer cell can not thrive in a environment with high levels of alkalinity, so is the human body.

The normal blood pH level, which ranges from 7.35 - 7.45, is in fact alkaline. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, in which 7 is considered the neutral pH. pH level above 7 is alkaline, while ranges below 7 is acidic.

When blood pH level increase in alkalinity in which it's range exceeds 7.45, disruptions in the bodily processes occurs which can manifest as symptoms that includes nausea, vomiting, dizziness, muscle spasm, confusion, difficulty of breathing, and can progress to coma and even death.


What is alkaline water?

Unlike normal water which has a neutral pH, alkaline water has a pH range of 8 to 9. Even so, since the human body has an internal mechanism of keeping blood pH level within normal range, under normal condition, drinking alkaline water does not affect the pH of the blood.

You have to understand that keeping the blood pH level within normal range is critical to survival. Any deviation from the normal range can prove disruptive and deadly.


In conclusion, if you'd like to purchase alkaline water, it's relatively safe to drink, but not a proven effective treatment to heal cancer.

Monday, July 8, 2019

Extreme Yoga poses Injures Osteoporotic bone

Extreme Yoga poses Injures Osteoporotic bone | Healthbiztips
Extreme Yoga poses Injures Osteoporotic bone | Healthbiztips
photo credit: Form @theformfitness @unsplash

Is yoga an ideal exercise for people with osteoporosis? | Healthbiztips


@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

While yoga, as a form of physical exercise, is a great way to improve mobility and strength in people with osteoporosis, research reveals that yoga poses that exerts great pressure on the spine can cause injury and fracture.

Individuals with osteoporosis have reduce bone density which makes their bones weak and vulnerable to pressure. Therefore, they should avoid physical activity that puts extreme pressure and stress on their bones.

Yoga is considered a low to medium intensity exercise which many people find appealing because of it's simplicity and incredible health benefits. It is undeniable that doing yoga does grant individuals with several health advantages such as increase joint mobility, improve muscle strength, and reduce weight.

It is worth knowing that yoga takes various forms. Yoga can incorporate meditation, breathing exercise, and physical poses in varying pacing and intensity. While there are strenuous poses, there are low impact yoga poses that does not compromise the spine which people with osteoarthritis can safely practice in general.

It is recommended that those afflicted with osteoporosis consult with their health care provider or physical therapist to create a suitable exercise regimen that is customized to their physical ability and health needs.

Osteoporosis causes the bone to become fragile so it is crucial to avoid too much exertion on it. It's not just extreme yoga poses that osteoporotic individual should be wary of. Any physical activity that puts intense weight, or flexes or extends the spine excessively can have serious repercussion.


Resource:

Mayo Clinic. "People with osteoporosis should avoid spinal poses in yoga, study says." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 21 February 2019. https://www.sciencedaily.com/

Monday, April 8, 2019

7 Hydrotherapy Benefits - Healthbiztips

7 Hydrotherapy Benefits


Hydrotherapy is an alternative treatment that utilizes water to treat various health problems such as body pain and limitations of movement. This technique is proven safe and effective.

7 Hydrotherapy Benefits - Healthbiztips
7 Hydrotherapy Benefits - Healthbiztips
photo credit: @erdaest Erda Estremera @unsplash 
@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan

The use of water to heal bodily afflictions is an age-old knowledge that dates back to the ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman.

Hydrotherapy is also called "water cure".

Hydrotherapy usually involves the use of warm water with temperature range of 33 to 36 ºC, which can be combined with various form of exercises that can be individualized to meet the health needs of a person.

This alternative medicine is used to treat various health problems involving body pain and movement limitation like in the case of back pain, shoulder pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatic disease, and cerebral palsy. It's usually available in a hospital's physiotherapy department.

Hydrotherapy have several benefits to the body.


1. Pain relief
Chronic pain is a limitation that's a huge setback on people suffering from it. Instead of conventional pain relieve medication, the use of water to treat pain offers a natural and drug-free alternative to alleviate pain.


2. Less pressure on joints and back

Being in water relieves pressure on weight-bearing joints and reduces compression on the back bone which helps relieve joint pain and back pain. Since pain a great hindrance when performing physical activity, hydrotherapy can encourage a person to initiate physical movement.


3. Improves circulation

Being submerged in warm water dilates blood vessels which improves blood circulation. Hydrotherapy soothes the body, diminish muscle tension and body aches.


4. Builds muscle strength

In hydrotherapy, the use of water as a resistance to train against helps a person build muscle strength. Individuals with joint problems may find exercising in warm water more bearable than exercising on land.


5. Improves mobility

With the health benefit of alleviating pain, inflammation, and soreness, a person's range of motion can be enhanced by engaging in exercises customized for them. Through time, as they repeatedly engage in physical activity, range of motion of joints can be enhanced.


6. Improves balance

Individuals with movement limitations who find it difficult to do physical activity on land can benefit greatly from hydrotherapy because exerting effort in water is easier and less painful. This method is an effective and proven treatment to yield balance and movement coordination.


7. Reduces stress and anxiety

It can be really tough to deal with health problems when they're accompanied by stress. Hydrotherapy is beneficial to both the physical and mental well-being of an individual. It soothes and calms the nerves.

Sunday, March 17, 2019

12 Home Remedies for Warts

12 Home Remedies for Warts

12 Home Remedies for Warts


Most warts disappear without any intervention, but it can take a lot of time. But, if you'd like to take care of those warts at a faster, cheaper, and economical way, then there are alternative home remedies that you can give a try.

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan

Warts are skin growth that appear when the top layer of the skin gets infected by human papilloma virus (HPV). It's a common dermatological problem that can resolve on it's own or not at all. Warts are contagious so you can spread it to other parts of your body. How about we get rid of this nasty viral skin growth with these amazing home remedies:


1. Apple cider vinegar


Apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial property. It's safe and effective against warts. To use it, simply dip a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar then use a band-aid to hold it in place over the wart. Let it soak into the warts for about 1 to 2 hours per day. Do this everyday for over 1 to 2 week until the wart falls off. If you'd like a faster result, leave the apple cider vinegar soaked cotton ball overnight over the wart.


2. Aloe vera


Aloe vera is soothing and healing. Apply aloe vera gel into the warts several times a day for 1 to 2 weeks.


3. Castor oil


Apply castor oil into the warts several times a day, everyday for over 2 weeks until you get rid of the wart.


4. Tea tree oil


Apply tea tree oil directly into the warts several times a day for 1 to 2 weeks to shrink or completely destroy the warts.


5. Garlic


We'll need fresh crushed garlic for those hideous warts. Put it over your warts and let it stay for about 15 to 30 minutes everyday. Do this for the next 2 to 3 weeks.


6. Potato


Who says potato is only for making fries? It's a good home remedy for warts as well. Cut off a thin fresh raw potato slice then gently massage it into the wart. Repeat this everyday for over 2 weeks.


7. Banana peel


Gently rub the inside of the banana peel into the wart. Banana peel contains enzyme which is effective in removing warts. Do this everyday for about 2 weeks to shed off your warts.



8. Honey


Soak a cotton ball in honey, then place it over the wart and secure it with band-aid. Leave it overnight. Do this every night for 1 to 2 weeks or until the wart disappears.


9. Baking soda


To use baking soda as a home remedy for warts, you'll first have to activate it by combining it with a acid like vinegar or lemon juice. Combine equal parts baking soda and vinegar to make a paste, then apply the paste over your warts everyday for 1 to 2 weeks.


10. Pineapple juice


Pineapple's natural acidity is key to eradicate warts. Apply pineapple juice into your warts 2 to 3 times a day. Do this for 1 to 2 weeks.


11. Lemon juice


Apply freshly squeezed lemon juice on the wart 2 times a day for 1 to 2 weeks.


12. Duct tape


Cut out a small portion of duct tape enough to cover the entire wart. Now, place this over the wart and only remove it when you have to replace it with another duct tape. Do this for over 2 weeks. At time, it can take up to 2 months for this method to work.


Monday, November 19, 2018

Honey and Lemon for Cough

The combo of honey and lemon as a home remedy for cough is popular for good reasons. Honey is a demulcent, which means that it forms a protective layer on the mucous membrane of the mouth and throat to soothe and prevent abrasion. In addition, honey acts a natural cough suppressant.

Lemon, a citrus fruit, is rich in Vitamin C which is advantageous to the immune system.

Honey and Lemon for Cough
Honey and Lemon for Cough

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan

Who doesn't hate a bout of cough? Although it's a natural reflex to help expel pledge and secretions from the airways, there are times when it's doing more annoyance. Here's a classic twist of honey and lemon you should try to ease your cough.

Ingredients:
  •     1 cup or 8 ounce warm water
  •     1 piece fresh lemon
  •     2 teaspoon honey
  •     juicer

Instruction:
  1.     To obtain more juice from a lemon, soak it in warm water for about 15 minutes before you juice it.
  2.     Pour 1 cup or 8 ounce warm water in a mug
  3.     Cut a lemon in half
  4.     Use a juicer to juice the lemon, strain it and pour it into the mug
  5.     Add 2 tsp honey
  6.     Stir and Enjoy!

Do note that honey and lemon is safe for children above 1 years old. Children less than 1 year old shouldn't be given honey because of risk of botulism.

Friday, November 9, 2018

What? Kill Cancer with Measles Virus?

Breakthrough: Measles virus hold potential for cancer treatment.

Have you read the news? Measles Virus Kills Cancer

What? Kill Cancer with Measles Virus?
What? Kill Cancer with Measles Virus?

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan

Cancer is hard to battle. In search for better ways to kill this deadly disease, let's talk about viruses, particularly measles.

A normal person will definitely dread the idea of contracting measles, but recent breakthrough reveals it can offer an effective way to fight cancer.

This may sound horrifying, but the potential of using virus for cancer treatment became evident when tumor growth progression deteriorated among some cancer patients who contracted viral illness.

One success story of using measles virus against cancer is the case of Stacy Erholtz who had a remission of multiple myeloma after she received a single dose containing massive amounts of attenuated measles virus courtesy of Mayo Clinic. Do note that the measles virus she received were laboratory engineered to be weaker.


How do measles virus kill cancer?

Attenuated measles virus' success against cancer cells lies in their preference for CD46 which is abundant in tumor cells.


Why choose Measles virus?

Among other virus, measles virus was selected for cancer treatment because it's strain is less volatile, which means it is less likely to create new strain.

You'll get a better picture of how stable measles virus is when you compare it to influenza virus. Influenza virus easily develops new strain so we are unable to gain a foolproof immunity against it, which is the reason people get their flue shot every single year.

It is crucial that the strain of virus used for cancer treatment do not cause a widespread infection. The risk of measles outbreak is lessened by the fact that a huge portion of the population is immune against this disease owing to successful vaccination. In addition, a person can develop a lifelong immunity after naturally acquiring this disease.

This oncolytic virus sounds promising but it's still at clinical trial.
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)