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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpel Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is an illness that first manifests its symptoms as a minor pain in the wrist and eventually works its way up to the hands. With the use of computers and typing skills becoming more routine in everyday events, the risk for CTS is much higher than it was ten years ago. According to many studies, women are more susceptible to Carpel Tunnel Syndrome than men. CTS is known by many other names such as Occupational Neuritis, Writer’s Cramp, Median Neuritis and Partial Thenar Atrophy.
Carpal Tunnel Remedies

Causes of CTS

There are several different causes of this annoying condition. Knowing the causes will help in the prevention of CTS. First of all, it’s important to know the definitions of the words Carpel Tunnel and Median Nerve.

Carpel Tunnel: A tunnel in the wrist that is formed by bones and tissues. The Carpel Tunnel protects the Median Nerve.

Median Nerve: This is the nerve that connects the thumb and the first three fingers on the hand. It helps with movement and feeling on those fingers.

A combination of conditions give birth to CTS because they put pressure on the Median Nerve as it passes through the Carpel Tunnel of the wrist: hence the name Carpel Tunnel Syndrome. The constant pressure causes parts of the hand to go numb, and as a result, the hand gets weak and sometimes hurts. Basically, any activities that decrease the space in the Carpel Tunnel, or increases the use of the Median Nerve will eventually lead to CTS.

Here is a list of different factors that can cause Carpel Tunnel Syndrome.

  • Conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Gout, Diabetes, and Obesity can cause CTS because of the swelling in the joints and reduced blood flow that are brought on by these diseases.
  • Continuous movements of the hand and wrist are another cause of CTS as they cause surrounding tendons to swell.
  • Any previous broken bones can leave spurs that make their home in the Carpel Tunnel and will eventually put pressure on the Median Nerve.
  • Any fluid build-up can cause pressure to be put on the Median Nerve will lead to CTS. This can occur from pregnancy, or as mentioned above, diabetes and arthritis
  • Any work that involves forced and repeated hand movements, vibrations in the arm, or long periods of work in an awkward position can lead to CTS..
  • Smoking can reduce the blood flow to the Median Nerve and contribute to CTS.

Symptoms

These are several early warning signs fo Carpel Tunnel Syndrome. These early signs will quickly become worse if they are not treated in a timely manner. The symptoms include:

  • Tingling and numbness in the hands; in every finger except the little one. This often occurs while holding a phone, gripping a steering wheel, or after sleeping. During the early stages these symptoms will not last more than a few minutes at a time, but the condition will grow with time.
  • Intense pain that radiates from the wrist and all the way up and down the arm, especially after long use. This normally occurs on the palm side of the forearm.
  • Spasms when the hand goes weak and causes a person to randomly drop items.

Keep in mind that not all pains and/or numbness in the forearms and wrist are due to CTS. It is advised to seek the expertise of a physician if there is a problem as CTS can cause nerve damage if it’s not treated in a timely manner.

Risk Factors

Carpel Tunnel Syndrome comes from the overuse and strain due to certain jobs that require awkward and repetitive use of the hands. Below are several types of risk factors for CTS.

  • Using power tools such as grinders, chain saws, or jackhammers can lead to CTS symptoms.
  • Working on an assembly line such as a manufacturing plant is another repetative strain on the hands. As a result, it can lead to CTS.
  • Smoking, as mentioned above, is a risk factor that can cause CTS to occur.
  • Routinely driving long distances because the longevity of gripping the steering wheel.
  • Women are three-times more likely to develop CTS than men.

There are many other factors that will put certain people at high risk of CTS. But far too many exist to list every single one; however, the warning signs are numbness in the hands and/or sharp pains through the forearm that shoot all the way to the shoulder.

When to Contact a Doctor

Home remedies can be used to treat mild symptoms of hand and wrist numbness or pain. More on Home Remedies are discussed later. However, if the symptoms are severe then a trip to the doctor is required. Remember that CTS can lead to permanent nerve damage if not treated.

Several early warning signs exist that will require a doctor’s visit. Do not hesitate to call a doctor if symptoms like the ones listed below are displayed.

  • If the minor symptoms have not gone away after 2 weeks of treatments.
  • Numbness in the fingers that have gradually built up over time.
  • Accidentally start dropping things because of spasms in the hand.
  • If the pinch between the index finger and thumb is very weak.
  • Pain in the fingers and hand gets worse.

Exams

The first thing a doctor will do is review all of the symptoms to try and determine if Carpel Tunnels Syndrome is a factor. One clue is that CTS doesn’t cause anything to happen to the little finger, so if that finger is part of the problem then CTS is not a factor. Timing of the symptoms is another clue. For example, the optimal times that people experience CTS are while they are holding a phone or newspaper; or even while driving down the road gripping the steering wheel.

Once a doctor establishes that CTS is most likely the problem, they will perform the following tests in order to verify it.

  • Electromyogram , ; This test measures electrical discharges in muscles and is mainly used to determine if there is any muscle damage.
  • Nerve Condition Study , ; An electric signal is sent along the Median Nerve to test whether it slows when it travels through the Carpel Tunnel.
  • X-Rays , ; This is to test for previous bone breaks or other factors that can contribute to CTS.
  • MRI , ; Used to find swelling in the Median Nerve.
  • Blood Tests- These can be used to diagnose other medical conditions that can cause CTS.

Treatments

There are a number of treatments for Carpel Tunnels Syndrome. These can be broke down into three categories: Home Remedies, Non-Surgical, and Surgical. The seriousness of the condition determines which path to follow.

Home Remedies

If the symptoms are in their initial stages and are still mild, home remedies can be used before going to the doctor. However, it’s important to note that if the symptoms get severe or do not go away within two weeks, then it is imperative to contact a trained physician because permanent nerve damage can occur from Carpel Tunnels Syndrome.
Treatment for Carpal tunnel
Home remedies usually involve over the counter medicines such as aspirin to relieve the symptoms. Also, wearing a wrist splint can help reduce the motion in the wrist and can sometimes allow the Median Nerve to heal by reducing swelling. Here are some other home remedies that can be used.

  • Ice the wrist 15 minutes everyday. This can reduce swelling through the Carpel Tunnel.
  • Immediately stop any activities that are responsible for the symptoms.

Non-surgical Treatments

If the symptoms are not too severe, the doctor will at first recommend non-surgical treatments to see if the symptoms improve. This may include:

  • The doctor will look at the patient’s medical history to see if any other medical conditions are responsible for CTS. If so, then they will change the treatment for those particular conditions to see if that helps relieve the CTS symptoms.
  • Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drugs may be used to reduce the inflammation of the Carpel Tunnel and the Median Nerve.
  • Steroids may be injected into the Carpel Tunnel to reduce inflammation if the previous attempts are not successful.

Surgical Treatments

The majority of individuals with Carpel Tunnel Syndrome are treated without surgery. Only a small minority require surgery to relieve the symptoms. However, surgery will be considered if:

  • There is an apparent sign of nerve damage.
  • Non-surgical treatments do not work after a year.
  • Symptoms become so severe that daily activities cannot be performed.

Surgery is used to release the pressure on the Median Nerve and is done by cutting ligaments that form the top of the tunnel. Any tumors or such that is causing pressure to the Median Nerve will also be removed during surgery.

The two Carpel Tunnel Release Surgeries are Open and Endoscopic.

  • Open Carpel Tunnel Release Surgery , ; Requires an incision from the palm of the hand to the wrist. This type of surgery allows the doctor to see more of the inner workings. Since this is a rather sizeable incision, it requires more recovery time.
  • Endoscopic Carpel Tunnel Release Surgery , ; This type doesn’t require a large incision, only a the wrist and palm. A camera is used to allow the surgeon to see inside of the Carpel Tunnel and relieve the pressure on the Median Nerve. Since the incision is small, the recovery time is minimal.

Alternative Treatments

Many time-honored treatments exist for a number of conditions and CTS is no different. Some use yoga as a way of relaxing and helping cope with pain that comes from some muscle conditions. Since yoga encourages strength, stretching, and balance, it is a great alternative method for preventing CTS.

Some take daily vitamins to help prevent any abnormal conditions from occurring. B-6 is a great supplement for preventing and even relieving symptoms of CTS.

Tips for preventing carpel tunnel syndrome

The easiest for if treatment for any condition is preventing it in the first place. As with anything else, there are several steps that can be followed that will help prevent Carpel Tunnel Syndrome.

  • Relax the hand’s grip on objects. People tend to use way more force than what’s necessary to perform many actions.
  • Give the hands and wrist frequent breaks from extended work.
  • Practice bending the wrist properly instead of all the way up or down.
  • Posture can have a major impact on the nerves in the neck. Practice good posture.
  • Hands that are cold are more likely to become stiff and form pain. Keep them warm at all times.
  • Lower salt intake as it can cause the body to retain more water; remember that fluids are a cause of CTS.
  • Stop smoking.
Antioxidants

Rasagiline

Rasagiline is a synthetic compound that is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. It is a relatively new drug and was approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) on May 16, 2006. Rasagiline is considered one of the primary monoamine oxidase inhibitors.

History

Rasagiline was developed in the very early 2000s by Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. under the direction of Professor Moussa Youdim. Youdim first presented the drug to the FDA in 2004. In 2006, after extensive research was done to prove the safety of the drug, rasagiline was approved. It is now one of the most common Parkinson’s medications in the world.

Usage

Rasagiline is used solely for treating the symptoms and slowing the progression of Parkinson’s disease. The symptoms of Parkinson’s disease occur when dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps with cognition and motor skills, is not able to reach the brain. There are several factors and/or causes that can block dopamine. One of these causes is the presence of monoamine oxidase enzymes in the brain.

Every person’s brain has a certain amount of monoamine oxidase A and monoamine oxidase B (often shortened to MAO-A and MAO-B). One of the adverse effects of these enzymes is that they can metabolize (breakdown) dopamine before it can do the person any good. The main culprit is MAO-B. Although MAO-A does metabolize dopamine, it also metabolizes serotonin and several other chemicals and enzymes and, therefore, cannot do as much damage to one single substance. MAO-B on the other hand, only metabolizes dopamine. Also, MAO-B is always much more prevalent than MAO-A.
Side Effects of Rasagiline
Some of the common drugs that treat Parkinson’s disease are called monoamine oxidase inhibitors. MAO inhibitors stop the production of the MAO enzymes, particularly the MAO-B, and, therefore, allow dopamine to function properly. The most common MAO inhibitor is rasagiline.

Although rasagiline is prescribed for patients at all stages of Parkinson’s disease, it is most commonly given to patients at the early stage. Although the drug’s long term effects have not yet been established, it has been proven to help slow the progression of the disease. Rasagiline can also be prescribed solely to help control the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

Recommended Dosage

Rasagiline is often taken in conjunction with other medications; the most common of which is levodopa. When rasagiline is combined with another drug, often referred to as adjunctive therapy, it is recommended to only take 0.5 mg per day. If the drug is taken on its own, often called monotherapy, the patient can take up to 1 mg per day. In some cases, 1 mg per day is prescribed for adjunctive therapy. However, a patient should never exceed more than 1 mg per day. The drug is always taken orally.

Rasagiline can be taken on an empty stomach. Never “double dose” because the drug can be fatal if taken in large amounts. Signs of rasagiline overdose include extreme irritability, sweating, changes in heart rate and/or breathing patterns, convulsions, and even seizures. If an overdose is suspected, medical help should be sought at once. If necessary, call a poison control center.

There is absolutely no risk of developing a dependency on this drug.

Legal Status

Rasagiline has been approved by the FDA but is available only with a prescription. Rasagiline is not illegal in any other country and, in Canada for example, is sometimes available without a prescription. The drug is very popular in Europe partly because it was promoted by the drug company Lundbeck.

Availability and Cost

Azilect

Rasagiline is commonly referred to by its brand name Azilect. In fact, when Youdim presented his drug to the FDA, he presented it as Azilect. In the USA, Azilect is available by prescription only. One month’s supply usually costs around $250. Azilect ordered online, from Canadian pharmacies for example, is usually slightly cheaper. In cases like this, one month’s supply usually costs anywhere from $150 to $200 (USD). So far, Azilect is the only brand name version of the rasagiline drug.

Generic

There are several, cheaper, generic brands of the drug. Generics are usually just called rasagiline (similar to the fact that generic Tussin is called Tussin while the brand name is Robitussin). Both the generic and the brand name forms of the drug should be covered by most medical insurances. Rasagiline/Azilect is always taken in tablet form.

Adverse Effects

Although rasagiline has been proven effective, it can cause some very serious side effects. Patients should not drive until they are certain they are reacting well to the drug. Also, most monoamine oxidase inhibitors do not react well with other pharmaceuticals and/or over-the-counter medications (see below). Be sure to speak with a qualified professional before beginning use of this drug.

Mild side effects

Some of the more mild, and common, side effects of rasagiline include headache, drowsiness, joint pain, and dizziness. Some people experience an allergic reaction, similar to a food allergy, that can cause hives, airway constriction, and swelling of the throat, tongue, or eyes. Rasagiline may also cause intestinal problems such as vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation; it may also cause mild vertigo, hallucinations, and sensory impairment. Ever since rasagiline was presented to the FDA, there has been a concern that the drug may cause skin cancer. However, it has been decided that, although the risk is present, it is not, by any means, serious.

Severe Side Effects

Some of the more severe, but thankfully rare, side effects of rasagiline include changes in heart rate, lung fibroses, emphysema, and, possibly, manic and/or paranoid reactions. There is a slight chance that patients taking rasagiline may develop bacterial or viral infections. However, these infections can usually be cleared up with common antibiotics. In some extremely rare cases, rasagiline has caused acute kidney failure, retinal hemorrhage, and jaundice.

Rasagiline may cause sexual and/or reproductive problems. Men may experience abnormal ejaculation, epididymitis (inflammation and/or swelling of the epididymis), and, rarely, pariapism (persistent erection without sexual desire). Women sometimes experience vaginal hemorrhage, loss of sexual desire, and amenorrhea (absence or severe disruption of the normal menstrual cycle).

Drug Interactions

Over-the-counter medications

Rasagiline does not react well with guaifenesin and dextromethorphan, two common ingredients in over-the-counter cough medicines. The combination of these drugs may cause temporary psychosis. A similar reaction can be caused by the combination of rasagiline and most common allergy medications.
Benefits of Rasagilin
Also, rasagiline should never be mixed with painkillers such as meperidine and acetaminophen (Tylenol). Rasagiline mixed with these drugs can cause fatal reactions.

Natural supplements

Although it is highly unlikely, rasagiline may not react well with vitamins, herbs, and other natural dietary supplements. A patient should tell a qualified professional about all supplements and medications he or she is taking regardless of whether they are natural or chemical.

Antidepressants

Rasagiline does not react well with any antidepressant medications. However, the main ones to avoid are duloxetine (Cymbalta), desipramine (Norpramin), fluoxetine (Prozac), and amitriptyline (Vanatrip).

Other Information

Diet Restrictions

When rasagiline was first approved by the FDA, it was thought that severe diet restrictions were necessary to help the drug work properly. It used to be that patients taking the drug would have to avoid the amino acid tyramine. Tyramine acts as a releasing agent for dopamine and it was thought that, since rasagiline inhibits the development of the MAO enzymes, it might also cause a buildup of tyramine which can also have adverse effects.

Tyramine occurs naturally in many foods including cheese, avocados, aged meats, soy products, pineapples, raspberries, peanuts, Brazil nuts, walnuts, yeast, and chocolate. Tyramine is also present in unpasteurized beers and red wines.

In the early days of rasagiline, patients would have to go on a strict diet to avoid ingesting tyramine. However, in 2009, the FDA decided that tyramine restrictions were only necessary for patients with extreme sensitivity to the amino acid. However, some medical doctors still recommend that the diet be followed simply as a precaution.

When Not To Take It

Rasagiline should never be taken by those who have or have ever had any kind of kidney or liver disease. The drug should not be taken by people who suffer from a pheochromocytoma (a small neuroendocrine tumor that affects the adrenal glands).

The drug is not recommended for children. It is not yet known if rasagiline is safe for pregnant mothers. The drug is not, however, recommended for women who are nursing because it may slow the production of breast milk.

A person taking rasagiline should cease using it at least 2 weeks before undergoing any form of elective surgery or even simple outpatient procedures or dental operations.

Although use of the drug in these cases is not forbidden, caution should be used when rasagiline is taken by patients with high blood pressure. The patient and his or her health care provider will need to constantly monitor the effects of the drug. Extremely high blood pressure that develops after the patient has begun use of the drug may be a sign of serious drug interactions. If this occurs, use of rasagiline should be stopped and the patient should seek medical help immediately.

Resources

MedicineNet.Com
MayoClinic.Com

Vitamins

Menadione

Menadione / Vitamin K3

Vitamins are a type of compound that is necessary for people to have for health purposes and to grow. However, they are usually only needed in relatively small amounts and can usually be found in foods that are eaten all the time. Vitamin K is a type of compound that is required in order to make sure the blood clots as it normally should.

Some of the foods can vitamin K can be found in include dairy products, meat and green leafy vegetables, such as spinach. All of the vitamin K that is necessary to have in a day can be found provided a person regularly eats a balanced diet that includes those foods in it. Vitamin K does not significantly die out when foods are cooked ordinarily.
Menadione Side Effects
In the event that a person is taking a blood thinner, or an anticoagulant medication, the amount of vitamin K that is present in the diet may have a tendency to affect how well the medications function for their served purpose. For this reason, the doctor may wish to change the course of the diet so that the medicines may work better or more effectively.

It is rare for a person to experience a lack of vitamin K, but in the event that a person does, they will likely experience problems with the clotting of their blood and they will likely experience more bleeding. For the purposes of treatment in this case, the doctor may prescribe that vitamin K be taken. The medicine is only available in this way, by way of a prescription from a doctor. It is also only available in either a capsule form or a tablet form. Sometimes, vitamin K will often be given to a newborn infant so that they do not experience any kind of problems with bleeding.

US Brand Names

Mephyton is a well known US brand name.

Before Using

Anybody who is presently taking a dietary supplement and does not have a prescription for it would do well to carefully read the precautions on the label and follow them to the fullest extent. For such supplements, all of the following should be kept in mind:

Allergies

Make sure to tell the doctor in the event that there has ever been any kind of allergic or unusual reaction to the medicines that are labeled in the group or to any other kind of medicine. Make sure to tell the qualified health care professional if any other kinds of allergies exist as well, such as to animals, preservatives, foods or dyes. Always read the package ingredients and the label on a non-prescription product with the utmost care.

Pediatric

Children are prone to being especially sensitive to vitamin K and its potential effects, particularly having high dosages of phytonadione or menadiol. Because of this, there is the possibility of a higher risk of side effects during a treatment of vitamin K. Likewise, newborns, and especially babies that were born prematurely, are likely to be even more sensitive to the effects of vitamin K than children that are older are.

Geriatric

There are numerous medications that have not fully been tested, if at all, in elderly people. For this reason, it is not necessarily known that the medications will work in the same fashion as they do in adults of a younger age, or if they may cause a different kind of side effect or any other problems in those who are of an older age. There is currently no specific information with regards to using vitamin K for the elderly.

Pregnancy

There have been no reports involving vitamin K with relation to birth defects or any other problems found in humans. However, it has been reported to cause some troubles for a baby, such as jaundice, so it is not recommend for women who are pregnant to take any kind of supplementation for vitamin K throughout the duration of their pregnancy.

Breastfeeding

There have been no reports of nursed babies being affected by vitamin K supplements being taken by a breastfeeding mother. It is important to discuss how to give a child supplements if they are being given a formula that is unfortified. In these cases, the baby is required to obtain their vitamins in another way.

Drug interactions

There are some medicines that should not be use during or near the time that a person eats food or eats a certain kind of food due to the potential interactions that may occur. It is also possible for interactions with medicines to occur when taking them with alcohol or tobacco. The interactions as described below are selected for their believed level of significance, though it is important to keep in mind that this section is not necessarily all-inclusive.

The presence of pre-existing medical conditions may cause the way a person uses dietary supplements to vary. If any of the medical conditions below apply, make sure to tell the doctor, or if any other medical problems may apply that might affect the supplementation.

Cystic fibrosis or any other similar diseases that affect the pancreas.

Gallbladder Disease

Intestinal problems, which have a tendency to interfere with the way a person can absorb vitamin K when it is taken in a oral manner, in which case they may either require a higher dosage or require that the medication is injected into them

Deficienty in G6PD, or glucode-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, the side effects of which may increase in the likelihood of occurrence, especially when combined with menadiol

Liver disease, the unwanted effects of which may increase in the likelihood of occurrence.

Proper use

It is important that this kind of medicine is only use as it is directed by the doctor. In no way should any more or less be taken of it, nor should it be used for any longer than was ordered by the physician. Failing to adhere to the strict orders that the physician provided could prove to have potentially serious effects, including problems with blood clotting.

Dosing

The required dosage for each individual will differ in between patients with different conditions. It is important to follow the orders as provided by the physician on the label. The information as provided in this section is merely what the average doses among all cases generally seem to be for these medications. Do not change the dosage if it is different than described here. Only change the dosage if ordered to by the doctor.

The amount of medication that a person is required to take will depend on how strong the medication is per tablet or capsule. It will also vary how often a person is required to take a dosage per day, how much time must be in between each dosage, and how long the person is required to take the dosage, depending on why the medicine is being taken in the first place.

Typical Dosage

For issues with regards to increased bleeding or blood clotting, or for supplementation of vitamins:

Adults / Children – Five to ten milligrams on a daily basis are generally recommended.

For the injection form of dosage:

For issues with regards to increased bleeding or blood clotting, or for supplementation of vitamins:

Adults / Teenagers – Five to fifteen milligrams on a daily basis are generally recommended, injected beneath the skin or into a muscle either once or twice per day.

Children – The typical usage for children is to take five to ten milligrams injected beneath the skin or into a muscle either once or twice per day.

For Phytonadione: Oral dosage type (tablets):

For issues with regards to increased bleeding or blood clotting:

Adults / Teenagers – It is generally recommended to take between 2.5 and 25 milligrams per day, though it is rarely recommended they go up to 50 milligrams. It may be necessary to repeat the dosage.

Children – It is not recommended that children take this kind of dosage.

For the injection form of dosage:

For issues with regards to increased bleeding or blood clotting:

Adults / Teenagers – It is generally recommended to take between 2.5 and 25 milligrams per day, and it is usually injected beneath the skin. It may be necessary to repeat the dosage.

In order to prevent bleeding from occurring in newborns:

It is usually recommended that 0.5 – 1 milligram is to be injected beneath the skin or into a muscle immediately after the delivery of the baby. It may be necessary to repeat this dosage after another six to eight hours.

Missed Dose

In the event that a dosage of the medication is missed, it is important to take it as soon as a person remember that the dosage was missed. However, this rule will not apply if a person remembers that another dosage needs to have been taken around the time of the next dosage. In this case, it is important to not double the dosage but to just skip the dosage that was missed, effectively returning to the regularly scheduled dosages as ordered. However, make sure to let the doctor know about any dosages that might have been missed.
Menadione & Vitamin K

Storage

Make sure to keep all medications out of the reach of children. Make sure to store the medication in a closed container and away from any moisture, heat, or direct light. Keep it at room temperature and make sure it does not freeze. Do not store any medication that is no longer needed or is outdated.

Precautions

Every time a person who is taking this kind of medication goes to a medical doctor or a dentist, they should inform them about usage of the medicine. Always make sure to consult a physician before taking any other kind of medication or stopping the current one. This rule applies for any over the counter, nonprescription medications as well, especially aspirin. Third party medications may alter the way that the current medication affects the body and how it works.

Regular trips to the doctor should be made so that the progress may be determined. There will be regularly blood tests in order to determine how quickly the blood is forming clots, which will ultimately determine how much medication will be necessary.

Side Effects

There may be some undesired effects outside of the necessary effects that a medication may produce. Though this is not necessarily going to occur in everybody who takes this kind of medication, it is important to seek medical assistance if any of them do.

Make sure to check with the doctor at once should any of the side effects as listed below should occur after taking this medication:

Less Common Effects

  • Decreased appetite
  • Decreased activity of movement
  • Difficulty with breathing
  • Enlarged liver
  • General swelling of the body
  • Irritability
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Paleness or
  • Yellow skin or eyes.
  • Rare
  • Difficulty with swallowing
  • Irregular or fast breathing
  • Lightheadedness or fainting
  • Shortness of breath
  • Skin rash, itching and/or hives
  • Swelling of lips, eyelids or face
  • Tightness in chest or trouble with breathing and/or wheezing
  • Rarer
  • Blue color, or a redness of the skin, or a flushing of the skin
  • Dizziness
  • Weak and/or fast heartbeat
  • Increased sweating or Temporarily low blood pressure

Some side effects may potentially occur but may not necessarily require any medical attention. These kinds of side effects will likely subside throughout the course of treatment while the body becomes more well adjusted to the medication.

A health care professional might be able to discuss ways to either prevent or reduce the severity of the side effects. Make sure to check with the health care professional in the event that any of the following side effects resume after awhile or are bothersome or even if there are any questions about them:

There may be other side effects that may occur in other patients as not described here. If this should occur, contact a physician whenever they arise rather than waiting for them to get worse over a period of time.

Vitamins

Tocophersolan

Overview

Tocofersolan is a synthetic form of vitamin E that is also water soluble. Natural forms of Vitamin E are fat soluble instead of water soluble. Chemically, tocofersolan, is a polyethylene glycol. The product is derived from an alpha-tocopehrol. The synthetic form of vitamin E, Tocofersolan, is available for people who cannot absorb fats as result of a particular disease. Some of these diseases include cholestatic liver and short bowel syndrome. Individuals who possess a healthy, normal diet typically do not need a vitamin E supplement. However, in some instances the supplement is necessary.

This form of vitamin E supplement was introduced in July of 2009 under the name, Vedrop. The 50 milligram per milliliter solution was introduced to alleviate vitamin E deficiency in infants who suffer from malabsorption. Alternatively, it was also for patients suffering from congenital or chronic cholestasis. Most of these conditions originate from birth. Some conditions begin in adolescence when the teenager is between 16 and 18 years old. Age groups may vary depending upon the region.
Tocophersolan Safety
When physicians refer to vitamin E, they are describing a family of eight antioxidants. There are four tocopherols and four tocotrienols that comprise the family. Each of the groups contains an alpha, beta, gamma, and delta version of the antioxidant. Alpha-tocopherol is the most common form of vitamin E found in the body and thus, is the most widely researched discussed. When smoke or pollutants enter the body and form free radicals, alpha-tocopherals are the primary antioxidant that intercepts the free radicals to avoid damage in the body.

Problems in Nervous System

Vitamin E deficiencies can cause problems in the nervous system. These problems manifests as numbness, loss of balance, and tingling. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects the body’s cells from damage. Because tocofersolan is an antioxidant, this water soluble version of vitamin E is often found in cosmetics or pharmaceuticals.

Alpha-tocopherol protects the cellular membrane from oxidation. The antioxidant accomplishes this goal through a “lipid peroxidation chain reaction.” This process removes damaging free radicals and prevents further oxidation that may damage the cells. After this process is complete, antioxidants, retinol, ascorbate, or ubiquinol, may transform the alpha-tocopheroxyl radicals back into their oxidized state.

Scientists have not proven why vitamin E is vitally important in a person’s diets. Some speculate that its importance is related to its healing antioxidant properties. Some research also suggests that vitamin E functions as a signaling molecule as opposed to playing a role in antioxidant metabolism. However, this has not been proven conclusively.

Different Forms

Vitamin E comes in several different forms. Each form has the same basic function with a few unique qualities. Gamma-tocopherol is an example of a nucleophile that interacts with “electrophilic mutagens” in the body. Most research conducted is related to alpha-tocopherols. Much of the research relates to the heart disease and the efficacy of vitamin E in preventing heart disease. The studies are not conclusive.

According to a 2007 study, none of the research could conclusively prove the effects of vitamin E. Additionally, tocopherols are studied more than tocotrienols in relation to vitamin E. Although, this is one of the lesser known versions of vitamin E, more research is being conducted in order to prove the efficacy of this form in the daily diet.

Experts are suggesting however, that the main role of tocotrienols is to protect the neurons from damage and to reduce cholesterol. This version of vitamin E is also thought to protect against strokes and brain damage that is associated with strokes. More studies must be conducted to prove these findings conclusively.

Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA)

Physicians instruct individuals to take no more than 400 units of vitamin E per day to avoid unpleasant side effects. The Recommended Daily Allowances are determined by Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) and the Food and Nutrition Board (FNB). The Recommended Daily Allowances provided below refer to alpha-tocopherol and not to gamma and delta-tocopherol. For reference purposes: 1 milligram of alpha-tocopherol is equal to 2.22 IU and 1 IU of alpha-tocopherol is equal to 0.45 milligrams of the synthetic form of vitamin E. The Recommended Daily Allowances are listed below:

Birth to 6 months

Males and Females: 4 mg or 6 IU

7 to 12 months

Males and Females: 5 mg or 7.5 IU

1 to 3 years

Males and Females: 6 mg or 9 IU

4 to 8 years

Males and Females: 7 mg or 10.4 IU

9 to 13 years

Males and Females: 11 mg or 16.4 IU

14 years and older

Males and Females: 15 mg and 22.4 IU

Pregnant Females: 15 mg and 22.4 IU

Lactation: 19 mg and 28.4 IU

Take vitamin E as instructed by your physician or as instructed on the label. Most forms of vitamin E are ingested orally. However, there are topical forms of vitamin E as well. If your experience tingling or numbing in the feet, then you may have a serious medical problem and you should seek the advisement of a physician.

Sources of Tocofersolan

Although, tocofersolan refers to water soluble synthetic forms of vitamin E, food sources that contain vitamin E sources are listed below for the sake of knowledge. The foods listed below have very high levels of vitamin E:

  • Asparagus
  • Avocado
  • Egg
  • Milk
  • Nuts (Almonds, Hazelnuts)
  • Seeds
  • Spinach
  • Wheat Germ
  • Whole Grain Foods
  • Unheated Vegetable Oils

Other sources include:

  • Sunflower seeds: 1 ounce contains 7.4 mg of vitamin E which equates to 40 percent of the Daily Value (DV) of vitamin E.
  • Wheat germ oil: 1 tablespoon contains 20.3 mg of vitamin E which equates to 100 percent of the Daily Value (DV) of vitamin E.
  • Sunflower oil: 1 ounce contains 6 mg of vitamin E which equates to 30 percent of the Daily Value (DV) of vitamin E.
  • Safflower oil: 1 tablespoon contains 4.6 mg of vitamin E which equates to 25 percent of the Daily Value (DV) of vitamin E.
  • Hazelnuts: 1 ounce contains 4.3 mg of vitamin E which equates to 22 percent of the Daily Value (DV) of vitamin E.
  • Peanut Butter: 2 tablespoons contains 2.9 mg of vitamin E which equates to 15 percent of the Daily Value (DV) of vitamin E.
  • Spinach: 0.5 cup contains 1.9 mg of vitamin E which equates to 10 percent of the Daily Value (DV) of vitamin E.
  • Broccoli: 0.5 ounce contains 1.2 mg of vitamin E which equates to 6 percent of the Daily Value (DV) of vitamin E.
  • Kiwi: 1 medium kiwi contains 1.1 mg of vitamin E which equates to 6 percent of the Daily Value (DV) of vitamin E.
  • Tomato: 1 medium contains 0.8 mg of vitamin E which equates to 4 percent of the Daily Value (DV) of vitamin E.
  • Mango: 0.5 cup contains 0.9 mg of vitamin E which equates to 5 percent of the Daily Value (DV) of vitamin E.

Health Benefits

Vitamin E may prove to be effective in treating or preventing any of the following health conditions:

  • Cystic Fibrosis
  • Thalassemia
  • Sickle Cell Anemia
  • Disease of the Retina of the Eye in Premature Infants
  • Blockage of Normal Bile Flow
  • Hemorrhage into a Part of the Brain of a Newborn Infant
  • Abnormal Development of Bronchopulmonary Tissue in Newborn
  • Anemia in Low Birthweight Infants
  • Abetalipoproteinemia

Other studies have shown that selenium taken with vitamin E may reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Experts speculate that the disease may be reduced by as much as 30 percent. Other studies have shown that Vitamin E did not prevent prostate cancer. Thirty-five thousand men participated in the study. The studies are inconclusive and further research must be conducted to prove these findings.

Ailments from Vitamin E (tocofersolan) Deficiencies

Vitamin E deficiencies are rare. Symptoms rarely manifest in people who have not obtained vitamin E from their diets. Premature infants may suffer from a deficiency in vitamin E. These deficiencies may promote infections of the retina and other parts of the body.

Those individuals who possess absorption problems related to fat are more likely to develop a deficiency in vitamin E than those who can absorb fat through food. People who possess fat-malabsorption problems have difficulties because the digestive tract requires fat to absorb natural fat-soluble vitamin E. Tocofersolan was developed in order aid people with fat absorption disorders. Tocofersolan should be used in the same manner that vitamin E would be used in the body.

People who have symptoms of deficiency may experience:

  • Peripheral neuropathy
  • Ataxia
  • Skeletal Myopathy
  • Retinopathy
  • Immune Response Impairment

Crohn’s disease, Cystic fibrosis, and other Liver Conditions

People with Crohn’s disease, cystic fibrosis, or who have problems with their livers secreting bile may require a water soluble form of vitamin E, tocofersolan. People with bile problems may experience chronic diarrhea or stools that contain grease.

Abetalipoproteinemia

People with abetalipoproteinemia also have a problem absorbing fat from natural foods. These individuals may also require a water soluble supplement. Most of these patients require as much as 100 mg per day of this substance. This rare disorder is a result of a genetic inheritance and cannot be prevented. Abetalipoproteinemia causes muscle weakness, poor nerve impulse transmissions, and retinal degradation. In some instances, the retinal degradation may lead to blindness.
Tocophersolan Information

Ataxia

Ataxia is another rare disorder that is the result of a defective gene. This particular disorder is a result of the absence of the transfer protein, alpha-tocopherol. People with this disease lose their ability to walk or develop nerve damage.

Negative effects of Vitamin E

Congenital heart defects

Some studies have found that vitamin E was recommended for pregnant mothers. However, one study conducted in the Netherlands suggested that high quantities of vitamin E supplements during pregnancy may contribute to congenital heart defects. The National Health Service in the United Kingdom suggests that pregnant women should not take supplemental vitamin E tablets. More studies should be conducted in order to determine the efficacy of this particular supplement.

Vitamin E, strokes and heart attacks

While studies have shown in that vitamin E may have some benefits for stroke victims, new studies indicate that vitamin E supplements may actually increase the risk of a stroke. A Finnish group of scientists found this to be true in their particular study. The study was published by The Alpha-Tocopherol Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention Study Group. In a 2005 study conducted by the Journal of American Medical Association, vitamin E supplements were shown to increase the risk of heart failure. Nearly 7000 people participated in this particular trial. The findings are inconclusive and more studies should be conducted to prove this conclusively.

Another study published in the Stroke Journal in 2005 showed that tocotrienol administered to hypertensive rats did protect against strokes. This form of vitamin E was administered orally to the rats. The supplement also showed improvements in neurodegeneration. Tocopherols were also studied. However, this particular form of vitamin E was only found effective at higher concentrates.

Additional Study Conclusions

Other studies conducted by Wayne State University and Ohio State University Medical Center showed that tocotrienol offered health benefits to various organs in the body. Previous studies concluded that tocotrienols did not travel effectively as a synthetic supplement in the blood stream. This is because the transfer protein is less attracted to tocotrienols than tocopherols. This study was also conducted in 2005. People with fat malabsorption problems will be more likely to benefit from tocofersolan, which is water based. However, this synthetic form focuses primarily on the alpha-tocopherol aspect of vitamin E.

By contrast, in a small study of men who had previously undergone coronary artery bypass surgery, the studies found that these men saw a reduction in the instances of atherosclerosis. Physicians measured this by using an angiography. These men consumed 100 IU per day of alpha-tocopherol to achieve these results. While the vitamin did alleviate some of the symptoms associated with heart disease, vitamin E alone did not reduce the number of total deaths from heart disease. However, the vitamin did reduce the number of non-fatal heart attacks by 77 percent. This trial took place in Great Britain.

Vitamin E and Cancer

Studies are being conducted to prove the efficacy of vitamin E in various types of cancers. Experts speculate that many cancers result from damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that assists in the protection against cancer causing free radicals. Nitrosamines are also known carcinogens that are formed in the stomach. Vitamin E may also fight or block these carcinogens. Trials, associated with vitamin E and cancer, have not provided any conclusive results to positively and concretely solidify these results. Most of the studies involved human subjects.

Breast cancer studies have also been conducted. One such study involved over 83,000 women to study the effects of vitamin E for 14 years. This study showed that vitamin E reduced the chance of breast cancer by 43 percent in those patients who consumed the highest amount of vitamin E. Women with the family history of breast cancer enjoyed the greatest benefits. Women with no family history only experienced a 16 percent reduction in the risk for breast cancer.

Tocotrienols have been cited in research studies as possessing cancer eliminating effects. Most of these studies were conducted in conjunction with breast cancer. University of Louisiana at Monroe demonstrated that statins and tocotrienols were effective in treating breast cancer in women. This form of vitamin E killed cancer cells while avoiding myotoxicity. Gamma-tocotrienol has been proven to be most effective in killing cancer cells. This phenomenon of killing cancer cells was not only proven effective in breast cancer, but also prostate cancer and other melanomas.

Peyronie’s Disease

Some urologists may prescribe vitamin E for Peyronie’s disease. This disease describes the treatment for males who possess abnormal curvature in their penises due to inflammation. While the studies are not conclusive, scientists are constantly researching to determine the benefits of vitamin in this disease.

Neuromuscular Problems

Vitamin E deficiencies have been known to contribute to neurological problems. Some of the neuromuscular problems include spincerbellar ataxia and myopathies. Anemia may also result from vitamin E deficiencies due to red blood cell damage caused by oxidation.

Cognitive Decline

Excessive exposure of nerves to free radicals may result in damage over time. This damage may contribute to memory loss and other neurodegenerative diseases. Alzheimer’s disease is one such disease that may evolve as a result of free radical damage.

Experts suggest that consumption of a vitamin E supplement, such as tocofersolan may provide protection against the disease. Research studies involving over 300 Alzheimer’s patients found less deterioration over time. Each patient was administered 2000 IU per day. Less of these patients needed institutionalizing due to memory problems. However, these patients did experience more falls due to balance problems.

Another study involved patients between 65 and 102 year of age who were given vitamin E. Over a 3 year time period, these patients experienced less cognitive decline than similar patients who were not receiving vitamin E. Some groups did not show any improvements after being administered 2000 IU per day. Therefore, more studies should be conducted to determine the efficacy of vitamin E supplements in patients who may be healthy or suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.

Precautions when Taking Tocofersolan

Before beginning a tocofersolan regimen, consult with a physician. Inform the physician of all known allergies and other health problems. The physician will recommend a dosage to meet the patient’s particular needs. Patients who are suffering from the following conditions should exercise extra caution before starting a vitamin E regimen:

  • Blood Clotting/Bleeding Problems
  • Stomach Ulcers
  • Hemophilia
  • Low Platelets
  • Stroke
  • Liver Disease

Patients, who may undergo surgery, should consult with the surgeon prior to the procedure. The doctor may recommend that patients cease their vitamin E regimen until the surgery is complete. Also, discuss any potential risks of consuming vitamin E during pregnancy with your physician. This will avoid any unpredictable side effects that may be associated.

Drug Interactions

Before beginning a vitamin E regimen, inform the physician of any medications you are taking. The physician will make informed recommendations regarding dosage and other interactions that may occur. Some common drug interactions may include the following:

  • Amprenavir
  • Antiplatet Drugs, such as aspirin, clopidogrel, and ticlopidine
  • Blood Thinners, such as warfarin
  • Herbal Products, such as garlic or gingko
  • Cyclosporine
  • Fat-soluble supplements, such as vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, and coenzyme Q
  • Iron supplements
  • Selenium
  • Vitamin C
  • Beta-Carotene

The list of all possible interactions is not exhaustive. Keep both the physician and pharmacist informed of each medication to avoid unpleasant side effects. Make note of other products containing vitamin E. This will aid in avoiding over consumption of vitamin E and causing adverse effects.

Vitamin E may also interact with Simvastin or Zocor and Niacin. The two used in conjunction with one another appear to lower high density lipoproteint (HDL) cholesterol levels. Oncologists cite risks of using any antioxidant supplement, including vitamin E, tocofersolan, with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Oncologists suspect that the antioxidant may decrease the effectiveness of the treatment. The effectiveness may be lowered if the cellular oxidative damage is inhibited in cancer cells. Further studies are being conducted to evaluate the benefits of vitamin E supplements in cancer therapy.

Allergies and Side Effects

Individuals who consume vitamin E in the recommended doses typically do not experience side effects. Those who take vitamin E in high doses over a long period of time may begin to experience side effects. A large dose would consist of a dose over 400 units per day. Side effects may include the following:

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach Cramps
  • Tiredness
  • Blurred Vision
  • Headache
  • Rash
  • Itching
  • Swelling of face, tongue or throat
  • Dizziness
  • Wheezing
  • Trouble Breathing

Miscellaneous

Individuals who miss a dose of vitamin E should take the dose on the next scheduled time. Store vitamin E in an airtight container. Keep the product away from heat, light, and moisture. To dispose of the product do not flush the product down the drain. Inquire to find out the proper disposal of the product.

Herbs

Kaffir Lime

The kaffir lime is a citrus fruit which hails from Laos, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. The kaffir lime is popularly used in Southeast Asian cooking, such as Thai, Indonesian and Cambodian cuisine. However, it can also be grown throughout the world as a backyard shrub.

Names by Which the Kaffir Lime is Known

The kaffir lime is known by many names, including “kieffer lime” and “limau perut”. It is also sometimes referred to as “Thai limes” or “wild limes”. The leaves, zest and juice of the kaffir lime are all used in Southeast Asian cooking.

“Kaffir” comes from the German word “Kafer”, which means “bug”. This fruit is so named due to the fact that it slightly resembles an insect. Some controversy surrounds the use of the “kaffir” name for this fruit because this word is used by white Afrikaners as a pejorative for black people, meaning “infidel”. This usage derives from the Arabic word “kafir”, which was used by Portugese explorers to describe native Africans. This word is considered a derogatory term that remains in use today, and as such, alternative names such as Thai, Makrut, Asian, or Wild lime are preferred to ensure no one is offended.

The Kaffir Lime’s Appearance and How it Grows

Kaffir Lime Leaves
The kaffir lime does not resemble most of the limes that we are used to seeing. This Southeast Asian lime has a rough, warty green exterior. It grows on a thorny bush and its leaves are very aromatic. The kaffir lime leaves are also quite distinctive in that its leaves are “doubled”. The kaffir lime is easily identifiable with its small size and bumpy exterior. It is dark green in color. The kaffir lime is comparable in size to a Western lime. This fruit is very suitable for growing in containers. As mentioned above, although this fruit is native to many Southeast Asian countries, it can be grown anywhere as a shrub.

Traditional and Current Uses of the Kaffir Lime

Southeast Asian Cuisine

There are many different ways that the kaffir lime is used in Southeast Asian cooking. The rind, or zest, is often used as a curry paste in Lao and Thai cooking. This usage provides an aromatic and astringent flavor.

In fact, this fruit is so commonly used to impart flavor in Thai cooking that if a dish calls for the use of citrus leaves, it can be assumed that it means kaffir lime leaves. Kaffir leaves are the only citrus fruit leaves that are used on a regular basis in a large number of Thai dishes.

The leaves exude an aromatic perfume and provide a striking and distinguishable flavor that is virtually impossible to substitute. The zest of this fruit also adds a piquant flavor to such mouth-watering favorites as fried fish cakes and “jungle soup”, or “gkaeng bpah”. The zest of the kaffir lime can also be found in creole cuisine. Additionally, the zest of this fruit is often used to add flavor to “arranged” rums that are made in Madagascar and the Reunion Island.

Flavor

The zest or rind of the kaffir lime has such a strong flavor that it can overpower a dish’s other, more subtly flavored ingredients. As such, the rind is to be used sparingly. The rind should be grated or chopped very finely and then further reduced in a mortar along with the other paste ingredients until it become indistinguishable. This promises a recipe containing a proper balance of ingredients and flavors.

The whole kaffir lime leaves themselves, which have a somewhat hourglass shape creating the appearance of a double leaf and have a glossy sheen, are commonly used in Lao, Thai and Cambodian cuisine. The kaffir lime leaf contains two parts. There is a top leaflet which has a slight point at the tip. Attached to that is another leaflet at the bottom which is broader on the upper portion. The size of kaffir leaves can vary in size, from several inches long to less than an inch. The bigger the leaf, typically the darker its color. Because of the variations in size, it is often best to specify in recipes the number of leaves based upon size so that one does not use too much or too little.

Thai Cooking

The leaves of the kaffir lime are used in a wide variety of dishes, especially in Thai cooking. They are often used in soups, salads, curries, and stir-fried dishes. These leaves are also used in other cuisines, such as the cuisines of Laos, Cambodia and Indonesia. An example of Laotian cuisine in which these leaves are used include the Lao dish known as Tom Yum. They are also used in Cambodian cuisine as the paste base in Krueng. In Indonesian cooking, especially the cuisines in Bali and Java, the kaffir lime leaves are used in such dishes as Sayur Asam. The kaffir leaf is also commonly used in addition to the Indonesian bay leaf to cook chicken and fish dishes. The cuisines of Malaysia and Burma also make use of the kaffir lime leaf.

Preparation

The kaffir lime leaf can be used whole or finely chopped. The best way to finely slice this leaf for use in cooking is to stack three or four that are similar in size and then slice them into very thin pieces using a sharp knife. Cutting diagonally is faster and easier. This task becomes easier with practice and you will enjoy the amazing aroma that rises from the leaves as you continue to cut them. The leaves can also be cut using scissors, but this practice is much slower and may not result in the fine slivers you get through chopping with a sharp knife.

It is important that the leaves be cut into fine slivers, as mincing or chopping can impact the flavor of the leaf, thus causing them to overwhelm the flavors of the other ingredients in the dish. Cutting large slivers can have the same result. As such, using fine slivers that are approximately one inch long are the preferred method for creating a balance of flavors. The kaffir lime leaf is very versatile and can be used either fresh or dried. It can also be frozen and stored for future use. The juice of the kaffir lime itself is regarded as generally far too acidic to use in cooking.

Medicinal Uses

The juice and rind of the kaffir lime is also used in traditional Indonesian medicine. As such, in Indonesia the kaffir lime is referred to as “asjeruk obat”, which translates to “medicine citrus”. The juice of the kaffir lime is also used in Southeast Asian folk medicine, where it is touted as promoting gum health.

As such, this culture recommends using the lime juice to brush the teeth and gums. The fruit has essential oils which are incorporated into various ointments as well. The rind itself serves as an ingredient in many medicinal tonics which are believed to be beneficial for the blood. Just like galangal and lemon grass, the rind of the lime is also said to be beneficial for digestion.
Using Kaffir Lime Leaves
The oil from the lime’s rind also contains strong insecticide properties.

Household Uses

The juice of the fruit can also be used as a detergent for clothing. In fact, it is known as being a very effective cleanser. Some use it as a natural bleach for the removal of tough stains. It is also used as a shampoo to clean hair.

Not only does it leave the hair nice and squeaky clean, but it also invigorates the scalp. Many believe that use of the kaffir lime in this manner will refresh a person’s mental outlook and also keep away evil spirits. Moreover, this lime is a natural deodorizer with a wonderful scent of citrus blossoms.

Every time the zest is scratched, it emits a refreshing and inviting perfume. These uses are mainly found in Thailand, where almost every countryside home has a kaffir lime tree in the yard. For those living in rural villages, just one kaffir tree will supply enough limes to keep the entire house and the family clean, thus making the kaffir lime also an inexpensive household cleanser and detergent.

Where to Find Kaffir Limes

Kaffir limes are not very easy to find, especially if you do not live in Southeast Asia. As such, if you are truly interested in using this as an ingredient in dishes or for its many other uses, it may be best to grown your own kaffir lime bush. You can visit a local nursery and request they order one for you. You can also find many vendors online who can ship the kaffir lime bush directly to you.

When growing and maintaining a kaffir lime bush, you will want to give the bush plenty of water during the warm summer months. Also make sure it gets citrus fertilizer and plenty of sunshine. Prune it to maintain its bushy shape. If you live in a frost-free area, you can keep your lime bush outdoors year round. However, if your area drops to freezing temperatures, you will need to bring your bush indoors during the cold winter months. Harvest the leaves during the summer. Seal the limes and their leaves in a plastic bag and freeze them, as they will keep this way for at least a year, and thus, can be used over time.

Kaffir lime trees can be found online for around $40 to $50. In addition, you can purchase Thai kaffir lime leaf powder online for about $7.00 for half an ounce.

Herbs

Konjac

Konjac is a perennial plant of the genus Amorphophallus that grows in tropical and subtropical regions of eastern Asia, from Indonesia to India, Japan and China. It is known primarily for its starchy corm, a tuber-like structure that is actually part of the plants stem, but which grows underground and acts as a storage organ for the plant.

Konjac is also known as elephant yam, presumably for the resemblance of its corm to that of the true yam, but the plants are not closely related. Other colloquial names for Konjac are konjaku, devils tongue, snake palm and voodoo lily.

Konjac is primarily used as a source of glucomannan, a dietary fiber that makes up about 40% of the plants corm. Glucomannan is used as a food additive for its thickening and emulsifying properties, and as a nutritional supplement for the treatment of obesity, constipation, high cholesterol, diabetes and acne. It provides a rich source of soluble fiber, considered to be of general benefit to the digestive system, while containing almost no calories.
Konjac Benefits

Where it Come From

Konjac is cultivated in China, India, Japan and Korea. In nature, the plant grows best in tropical or subtropical conditions that provide moderate rainfall and a soil structure that combines a somewhat sandy top layer with a lower layer of mud that can retain water. In Japan and China, it is often cultivated in hilly terrain that is not conducive to traditional agriculture, and each plant requires very little room to get started.

Plants are typically transplanted and more widely spaced in their second and third years, at which time they reach maximum levels of glucomannan content. They are then dug out of the ground for cleaning and processing.

Processing

Traditional processing after the harvest is a very labor intensive operation. The corms are separated from the rest of the plant and washed and peeled by hand before being sliced and dried in the sun. Modern processing incorporates machinery and accelerates the drying process with air heated by burning coal. Regardless of the process used, the goal is to produce a product that is dry enough to be stored and to achieve greater concentrations of glucomannan.

The extent to which konjac is processed depends on whether its intended use is as a food, food additive or nutritional supplement.

Konjac flour is made by grinding the dry corms and separating the lighter components from the heavier flour. What is left contains approximately 70% glucomannan, and is suitable for use in noodles and other dishes. The flour can be further processed to achieve 80% glucomannan content, yielding konjac jelly or gum for use as a thickener or gelling agent, or purified as part of a final stage that produces the soluble fiber used as a nutritional supplement.

History and Origin

Konjac is regularly mentioned in historical Chinese treatises and histories, both as a medicine and, particularly in times of famine, as a food. The earliest known use of konjac as a medicinal herb dates back to the Han Dynasty in China, some two thousand years ago, where it was recommended as a treatment for asthma, infection, cough and skin disorders. Its use continued through subsequent dynasties and has been essentially uninterrupted through the present day.

Konjac, in both flour and jelly form, has a long culinary history in China and Japan. In Chinas Sichuan province, the jelly is used as a tofu substitute and called konjac tofu.In Japan, where it is called konyaku konjac flour is mixed with water and limewater and boiled. Once it solidifies, it can be cut into various shapes. Cut into thin wafers, it can take the place of tofu or thinly sliced raw fish. It is perhaps best known, however, when cut into strips and takes the place of noodles in several stew-like dishes, where it is appreciated for its unique texture. Konjac itself has little or no taste.

Western interest in konjac and glucomannan has grown over the past two decades as the health benefits of dietary fiber have become better understood. Research has focused on its potential for controlling cholesterol and blood glucose, as an aid to losing weight and as a general benefit to digestive health. Results of those studies have been promising. The broader therapeutic claims of traditional Chinese medicine have not been subjected to the same scrutiny and remain unproven.

Uses and Benefits of Konjac

Today, konjac is used for two distinct but related purposes: losing weight and supplementing dietary fiber. Both uses find support in the medical literature, but konjac has also been the subject of unproven claims that have resulted in government intervention.

Weight Loss

The efficacy of konjac for weight loss relies on its ability to absorb up to twenty times its own weight in water. The glucomannan expands after ingestion, and this tends to promote a feeling of fullness as it travels through the digestive tract. To achieve this result, konjac is generally taken with water before meals. An alternative, if less popular, approach is to sprinkle granules of glucomannan directly on food.

Recommended doses for weight loss purposes range from one to four grams of glucomannan taken with eight ounces of water one hour before each meal.

Fiber Supplementation

The American Dietary Association recommends that adults should consume at least 20 to 35 grams of fiber each day. The typical American diet provides between 12 and 18 grams. While oat bran, at 14% soluble fiber content, offers the most concentrated sources of soluble fiber among those catalogued by the ADA, glucomannan comprises at least 40% of konjac by dry weight, making konjac the richest source of soluble fiber in nature.

Clinical studies specific to glucomannan supplementation have shown positive results in the treatment of a number of conditions, including:

Constipation

Soluble fiber absorbs water, softens digestive contents and increases stool volume.

Hyperglycemia and Hypoglycemia

Glucomannan attracts water in the digestive system and becomes a gel, slowing digestive processes and trapping carbohydrates so that blood sugar levels are stabilized.

Diabetes

One benefit of the ability to regulate blood sugar levels is seen in Type 2 Diabetes, where glucomannan has shown potential to reduce blood glucose, insulin and serum lipid levels after meals, an effect that seems to be enhanced by glucomannans relatively high viscosity compared to other soluble fibers.

High Cholesterol

By attaching itself to bile acids in the digestive system and moving them out of the body, glucomannan supplements can help lower cholesterol and reduce the amount of fat present in the blood.

High Blood Pressure

As a corollary to glucomannans beneficial effect on cholesterol levels, one study has demonstrated a decrease in systolic blood pressure in healthy men after a four week course of glucomannan supplements.
Using Konjac
While all of the above benefits are supported by medical research on human test subjects, the clinical studies themselves have uniformly involved relatively small groups of people and short periods of time. It is unclear, then, if the beneficial effects of konjac supplements can be counted on to persist over the long term.

In addition, some studies, even those not looking specifically at glucomannan as a weight loss product, have limited their subjects to people who are obese, making it unclear if konjacs benefits extend to people who are not overweight.

However, soluble fiber in general has been studied extensively, with a great deal of attention to the fact that it produces short-chain fatty acids as it is digested. These acids, in turn, provide a number of health benefits, including:

  • Decreasing synthesis of cholesterol by the liver
  • Regulation of insulin release by the pancreas
  • Regulation of glucose absorption by affecting glucose transporters in the intestinal mucosa
  • Discouraging the formation of polyps by raising the acidity level of the colon
  • Enhancing the absorption of minerals, especially calcium, in the digestive system
  • Increasing the production of a variety of cells and antibodies involved in the immune system
  • Decreasing the ability of irritants to adhere to the mucosal layer of the colon

Konjac has itself been claimed to be something of an antidote to food poisoning. This claim originates from a single laboratory study in which 18 different food products were subjected to exposure to bacteria, including E. Coli and Salmonella, which were allowed to bind themselves to the products.

When the levels of bound bacteria were measured, the largest quantity were bound by sesame seed extract and konjac gum, leading to the tentative conclusion that konjac may help to prevent bacteria from entering host cells. This claim awaits further confirmation, as the effect has not been studied in a clinical setting to date.

Unproven Claims

A number of companies have been sanctioned for making false or misleading claims about the benefits of konjac and glucomannan. The sanctions have generally resulted from the companies exaggeration of the benefits conferred by konjac, from false claims of research support for those exaggerated benefits and from the use of expert endorsers whose expertise and qualifications are similarly exaggerated.

A typical example involves two products called FiberThin and Propolene, which were advertised via infomercials that claimed they would cause rapid and substantial weight loss without any need to exercise and regardless of what the consumer ate. The Federal Trade Commission required the companies involved to pay $1.5 million in settlement of the claims. They were also barred from making unsubstantiated claims for dietary supplements and from misrepresenting scientific studies in their marketing.

A different unproven claim may have its origin in the recommendations found in ancient Chinese herbal texts that list konjac as a treatment for acne and other skin conditions. Today, konjac can be found in several cosmetics and beauty treatments, which typically characterize it as a component that increases the effectiveness of other ingredients. There does not appear to be any research, pro or con, involving these claims.

Side Effects and Cautions

Konjac is not known to have undesirable side effects when used in food preparation or when taken as directed as a nutritional supplement, and its negligible calorie content make it particularly suitable as an aid to weight loss.

This is not to say that it is absolutely safe. Dangers associated with glucomannan stem from its ability to increase in volume by absorbing large quantities of water. These dangers have led to government intervention of two varieties:

Warnings

Products containing glucomannan have been required to include information warning consumers of dangers if the product is not consumed as instructed. For example, Health Canada issued a warning in 2010 that glucomannan in tablet, capsule or powder form should always be taken with at least eight ounces of water and that it should be entirely avoided immediately before bed. Products containing glucomannan are required to carry those instructions and to note the risk of choking and/or blockage of the throat, esophagus or intestine if the product is taken without sufficient liquid.

Bans

In 2001, several deaths and near-deaths of children and the elderly from suffocation while eating a certain type of konjac fruit jelly candy were reported in California. Unlike jellies that melt on contact with saliva, konjac jellies require chewing and, if unchewed, can be inadvertently sucked into the throat. As the jelly expands, breathing can be cut off. The Food and Drug Administration banned sale of the candies in the United States in 2001, a ban followed soon thereafter by the European Union, Canada and Australia. The candies are still available in parts of Asia, but are sold with warning labels and manufactured in larger sizes and in formulations that dissolve more easily.

Dosage, Administration and Cost

As a nutritional supplement, konjac is available in tablet, capsule and powder form. Dosage consists of the equivalent of 500 to 1500 milligrams taken before meals with at plenty of water. If using the powder, it should be stirred briskly in water and it is important to drink the solution before it has a chance to gel.

Konjac can be readily found online or at retail drugstores and nutrition stores like GNC. It is most commonly sold in capsules containing approximately 700 milligrams of glucomannan. Prices are extremely variable, ranging from under $3.00 to almost $20.00 for 100 capsules. Konjac powder can be a cost-effective alternative, but with similar pricing variability. At the extremes, a 500 gram bag of powder can be purchased for $18.00, while buying 500 grams in 100 gram bottles can cost at least five times as much.

Konjac is also found in multi-ingredient supplements, where it is frequently combined with other fiber sources or with ingredients claimed to be effective in losing weight.

Additional Availability

Konjac is also available as a food product, most often as noodles in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some brands have added flavoring, as konjac imparts little or no flavor on its own. Prepared noodles can be found online or at Asian grocery stores and are typically sold packed in water in plastic bags. They can be stored at room temperature and have a shelf life of approximately one year.

For the truly determined, konjac powder can be mixed with water and pickling lime in order to make konjac noodles from scratch. The mixture is boiled for three minutes and allowed to cool. Once cooled, it forms a stable, non-reversible gel which can then be cut into whatever shape is desired.

Antioxidants

Gallic Acid

Gallic acid is an organic acid found in a variety of foods and herbs that are well known as powerful antioxidants. Foods and herbs such as blueberries, walnuts, apples, flax seed and tea all contain Gallic acid. Gallic acid is also found in gall nuts, sumac, witch hazel, watercress, oak bark, and a variety of other plants and herbs. Gallic acid is also found as part of tannins, which are astringent, bitter plant polyphenols.

To obtain Gallic acid in a pure form, one must obtain it through an extraction process from gall nuts. First, finely-powdered nut galls are obtained. The powdered galls are mixed with distilled water to make a thin paste. The paste is then exposed to air, allowing it to stand in a warm place for about 4 weeks, ensuring that it has enough water at all times to maintain a pasty consistency.
Gallic Acid Definition
The paste is in a porcelain or glass container, avoiding the use of iron since iron or the presence of iron salts gives the product a color that is difficult to remove. After exposing the mixture to air for the required time, the paste is expressed and the residue is boiled with distilled water for a short time.

The boiled water and paste is filtered through charcoal while hot. When cooled, crystals of Gallic acid are formed. Sometimes further purification is necessary and the crystals are dissolved, treated with charcoal and re-crystallized.

Past Uses of Gallic Acid

Many of the foods containing Gallic acid have been used for years as natural remedies, and were relied upon by various cultures for their medicinal properties. Blueberries, for example, were used by Native Americans and the early American settlers.

Native Americans used blueberries to make an aromatic tea that was used as a relaxant during child birth—a popular usage for berries (rich in Gallic acid) that continued to be used by women of the early American settlers. Tea from blueberry leaves was also believed to be a good tonic for purifying the blood.

Another plant (also rich in Gallic acid) that has long been used for its medicinal properties is witch hazel. Native American tribes made balms out of the bark of witch hazel, and made tea from its leaves. The balm and tea were applied to cuts and wounds to prevent infection, and the tea alone was used to treat menstrual problems, colds and other illnesses.

The list could continue for each of the foods where Gallic acid is present, for ancient cultures quickly learned of the beneficial properties of the plants and herbs that surrounded them, and many herbs and healthy foods contain Gallic acid. The ancient cultures may not have understood the role of Gallic acid, or even that Gallic acid existed, in the foods and herbs they used for medicinal purposes. They did, however, believe that their medicines worked.

Efficacy of Ancient Use of Gallic Acid

Ancient cultures often believed in remedies and medicines that have later been proved to have been ineffective. For example, it was once believed that withdrawing large amounts of blood would cure or prevent illness. We know now, however, that removing large quantities of blood actually weakens an individual and facilitates illness.

However, the usage of foods and herbs rich in Gallic acid in ancient cultures was not entirely inaccurate. In actuality, these medicines and treatments using foods and herbs rich in Gallic acid often did work (though not with 100% accuracy).

Witch hazel, for example, does prevent wounds from being infected and does work as an astringent to constrict tissues and stop bleeding, therefore making the use of the plant effective in the ways in which the Native Americans were applying it.

However, witch hazel has now been determined unsafe for pregnancy, proving that while ancient medicine using items rich in Gallic acid may have been correct in some cases, it was not correct in all. Though ancient cultures were likely not aware of the properties in the foods and herbs that made their usage effective, we know now that the presence of Gallic acid played a significant role in the efficacy of such treatments and medicines.

Modern Use of Gallic Acid

Today, Gallic acid is believed to have health benefits that are of particular note to those at risk for certain forms of cancer or neural disorders. Studies have shown that Gallic acid is effective in inhibiting neuronal death. Studies have also shows that Gallic acid has anti-cancer properties against leukemia, certain prostate, colon and lung cancer cells.

Gallic acid has been shown to prevent cellular mutations and to be toxic to cancer cells, while having no negative effect on healthy cells. This, of course, means that Gallic acid may prove to be an effective treatment for certain forms of cancer, and that increasing the amount of Gallic acid consumed may help those suffering from cancer in their fight against the disease.

In addition to the health benefits for people at risk for certain forms of cancer or neural disorders, Gallic acid also has anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. It is a powerful antioxidant that helps to prevent oxidative damage. Gallic acid also has therapeutic applications for inflammatory allergic diseases, such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis due to its ability to inhibit histamine release and the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine.

Finally, Gallic acid can be used as a remote astringent, as it works to constrict tissues and stop bleeding. Administered internally, Gallic acid has shown to be an effective astringent that is beneficial in the treatment of uterine, pulmonary, and nephritic hemorrhages, as well as all hemorrhages of a passive character.

As a remote astringent, Gallic acid has also proved to be effective in the treatment of regular, unusually heavy and prolonged menstrual periods (also known as Menorrhagia). In fact, Gallic acid has shown to cease the occurrence of Menorrhagia when the individual takes 5 grains of Gallic acid in pill-form 3 – 4 times per day during the flow.

Modern Forms of Gallic Acid

Because Gallic acid has been shown to be so beneficial to overall health, it is important to know how we can increase our intake of the antioxidant. There are not supplements specifically of Gallic acid. However, there are plenty of readily available vitamin and nutritional supplements that contain Gallic acid and will help to give the benefits associated with Gallic acid. Most of these supplements are specifically designed to be rich in antioxidants.

Some examples of pill form supplements that include Gallic acid are Grape seed extract, Rooibos Tea Extract, Amla and Livotide, among others. It is also possible to increase intake of Gallic acid through natural juices, such as pomegranate, blueberry and grape juice, or through consuming foods naturally rich in Gallic acid.

Vitamin supplements containing Gallic acid in pill form are available at local nutritional and health stores, as well as through various online retailers. Prices vary depending on the brand purchased and the retailer where the product is purchased. However, different supplements containing Gallic acid can be found for prices ranging from $6 to almost $100.

It is important to note that many of these supplements include a variety of other vitamins and herbs that are thought to beneficial to health. The price of the product purchased will also be affected by the other ingredients included in the supplement, as well as the amount of capsules in each bottle. Obviously, bottles that hold hundreds of pills are going to be more expensive than small bottles holding less than one hundred.

When taking supplements, or any medication, it is important to follow the directions given by a medical professional or on the label of the medication or supplement. It is believed that Gallic acid is safe in any dosage. However, Gallic acid is most often found in supplements containing other ingredients. Therefore, the instructions on the bottle must be followed carefully.

Side Effects of Gallic Acid

In animal studies, Gallic acid has triggered contractile responses and inhibited the decrease of vascular pressure in the thoracic aorta. Gallic acid has also been shown to interfere with medications taken for high blood pressure. Therefore, if you are taking medications for high blood pressure or are at risk for heart problems, a medical doctor should be consulted before increasing your consumption of Gallic acid through the use of nutritional supplements.
Side Effects of Gallic Acid
Gallic acid has been shown to have immense health benefits, and may prove to be an effective treatment for certain cancers and neural disorders.

Its use as an antioxidant helps to ensure overall and continued health, and can be taken as a supplement to increase the levels of this beneficial antioxidant in your life. However, as with all nutritional supplements, it is not a substitute for an overall healthy lifestyle through a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Also, as with all exercise and nutritional plans, you should talk to your doctor or naturopath regarding supplementing your diet. This not only ensures the proper ingestion of the supplement, but will also ensure that there is no conflict between medicines being taken and the supplement.

Resources

CDC.Gov
MedicineNet.Com

Conditions

Freckles

Freckles are flat, circular tan spots of concentrated melanin often visible on individuals with fair skin. Also known as ephelides, the word freckle comes from the Middle English term freken which descends from the Old Norse term freknur meaning freckled.Those with freckles may have numerous spots on areas such as the cheeks, nose, forehead, chest, shoulders or arms, or may just have a few scattered in various places on the body.

Freckles can be of multiple colors including brown, light brown, reddish or even black. Not everyone is a fan of their freckles and therefore use home remedies, over the counter medications, prescription treatments or even professional chemical peels to reduce their appearance. Learning about effective cures and remedies for freckles can help to increase your skin care knowledge and benefit your skin.

Symptoms

There are two basic types of freckles, ephelides and lentigines. Ephelides are the most common type which results in flat, circular red or brown colored spots that typically occur darker in the summer and lighter in the winter. Lentigines are smaller in size and can appear brown, tan or black. These types of spots are usually darker than ephelides and stay dark through the summer and winter.
What are Freckles
Lentigines, often called ˜liver spots are commonly found in older people after years of exposure to the sun. Freckles typically appear in areas that are exposed to sunlight. While most people are able to spot a freckle simply from sight, there are various other symptoms associated with the spots.

Symptoms of Freckles Include:

  • Darkening or change of the affected area of the skin
  • Freckles caused by sunlight can sometimes be accompanied by diarrhea
  • Affected areas of the skin can be transformed into moles
  • Abdominal pain that can vary in intensity
  • Weight loss can accompany new freckles
  • Passing off bloody stools or stools coated with mucus
  • New or unusually shaped freckles can be a warning sign of cancer
  • Brown, tan or red spots that become darker when exposed to the sun
  • Spots that occur after a period of sun exposure
  • Red hair and green eyes are most common traits for those with freckles
  • The spots can appear as pin-size spots or be larger with smooth or ragged edges

Causes

Exposure to sunlight and genetics are the two leading factors in the creation of freckles. Depending on the type of freckles you have, they may fade or darken depending on the amount and intensity of sunlight on exposed areas of the skin.

Freckles can also be heredity and therefore be passed down by a mother, father, grandparent or other close relative. This is because some individuals carry special cells in the skin that produce excess amounts of melanin. Hormone abnormalities can also be accounted for as an over-stimulation of estrogen in the body can cause the pigment cells to generate excess color when exposed to sunlight.

Causes of freckles include:

  • Over-exposure of bare skin to sunlight
  • Accumulated melanin build-up in a certain area of the body
  • Heredity and genetics can play a role in freckle production
  • Hormonal imbalance or excess estrogen in the body
  • Fair skinned individuals are most at risk as they absorb more ultraviolet rays
  • Those who tan both outside or in a tanning bed can get freckles
  • Skin cancer patients can develop freckles in colors such as black, pink or red with irregular shapes
  • Caused by the dominant MC1R melanocortin receptor gene

Risk Factors

Many find freckles very attractive, especially when scattered across the cheek. Since freckles, pose no danger to our general health, those with freckles can enjoy their appearance and give a splash of color to their fair skin. The only threat detected by the appearance of freckles is when they mistaken for other skin conditions or diseases. If you have a new or unique freckle or freckles, its best to get them evaluated by a professional dermatologist to rule out potential harmful conditions.

Possible risk factors include:

  • Excess exposure to sunlight in bare areas such as face, arms, back and shoulders
  • Genetics plays as a factor so individuals with freckled family members or relatives
  • Fair skinned individuals are more at risk, especially if they work or spend large amounts of time outdoors
  • Those who tan on a regular basis outdoors or at a tanning salon are more at risk

Prevention Tips

When trying to prevent freckles from becoming darker or when trying to reduce the appearance of your freckles, you will need to engage in a few preventative measures.

The main goal is to stay protected while still being able to enjoy time in the sunlight. These preventative measures will also help reduce the risk of skin related conditions and diseases such as skin cancer. The younger you begin preventing the appearance of freckles; the chance of getting them in the future will be greatly reduced. Try the following prevention tips for sun safety and prevention of freckles.

How to prevent freckles:

  • Avoid exposure to the sun whenever possible. Sit under a shaded tree or porch while outdoors.
  • While outdoors, wear clothing that will help ward off the sunlight such as hats and t-shirts to cover your shoulder and back in warm weather.
  • Keep your face and skin safe by wearing a thin layer of SPF make-up, face powder or simply sun screen alone.
  • Products such as umbrellas, visors and sun hats can help keep the sun from direct contact with your skin.
  • Increase your Vitamin C intake to prevent the occurrence of freckles
  • Use a sun screen that blocks both UVB and UVA rays and contain at least one of the following active ingredients: titanium dioxide and zinc oxide
  • Reapply sun screen after excess sweating or after swimming
  • Avoid peak sun hours, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun is the highest and most intense
  • Avoid using tanning beds as this gives direct UV radiation to the skin

    • Check any medications you take for skin sensitivity side effects

Test and Diagnosis Considerations

While freckles are not harmless to the individual who possesses them, some may still want a physician advice and proper diagnosis. Freckles can be diagnosed simply through appearance alone. Your dermatologist will know what to look for to distinguish a freckle from any other type of lesion based on the appearance of the skin.
Preventing Freckles
Future testing may be needed if the freckles are abnormal in shape or color or if a separate skin condition or disease is suspected such as melanoma. If your doctors expect skin cancer after analyzing new or unusual freckles, a biopsy (skin sample) may be taken and assessed by a lab to properly diagnose and treat the skin disease. This procedure is typically done in your dermatologists office under local anesthesia.

Treatment Options

Freckles do not have to be removed for medical reasons but many prefer them lightened for cosmetic reasons. There are numerous treatments available for freckles including creams, oils, facial masks, lotions, topical prescriptions, as well as several in-office laser and chemical options. Here you will find various treatment options to fit your needs.

Herbal and Home Cures & Remedies Include

Natural remedies and cures used for freckles are extremely safe and present mild or no side effects in most cases. Irritation of the skin may occur with frequent use. Herbal and home cures may also take longer to see results as they gradually lighten skin over time. Cost of these home remedies are low as they can be found in your own home or purchased from a super market for just a few dollars.

  • Apply fresh lemon juice to the freckles twice a day
  • Apply sour cream and leave on as a mask, do not rinse
  • Use fruit or vegetable masks (includes: strawberries, cucumbers, apricots and red currant)
  • Wash your face with sour milk to gently peel off top layers of skin
  • Apply microwave heated honey to face and rinse with warm water
  • Horseradish vinegar or juice applied to the face can lighten freckles
  • Apply castor oil before going to bed
  • Use parsley juice mixed with equal amounts of orange, lemon or red currant juice.
  • Apply grinned yellow mustard mixed with milk and allow to sit overnight
  • Wash your face with buttermilk
  • Rub a slice of red onion on the freckles twice a day
  • Mix sesame seeds with turmeric seeds, mix with water and apply
  • Use grains of the inside of a watermelon to scrub face
  • Mix unpasteurized honey with unripe currants and leave on face for half hour before rinsing

Pharmaceutical Cures & Remedies Include:

Pharmaceutical treatment options can vary from over the counter creams to prescription medications advised from your dermatologist. These types of freckle treatment options can present side effects such as reddening of the skin, irritation, headaches, acne, skin discoloration (temporary or permanent), rashes, chemical burns and oily or dry skin. Pharmaceutical methods for freckles do not work for everyone. Costs of these treatment methods can vary and in some cases, health insurance may cover the costs of prescription medications.

Bleaching creams containing kojic acid or high concentrations of hydroquinone. Beware of certain bleaching creams that can permanently discolor or damage skin.

Tretinoin can be used in conjunction with bleaching creams

  • Alpha hydroxyl acids used on a regular basis
  • Over the counter or prescription medications containing glycolic acid
  • Prescription-strength retinoid applied daily over a period of time
  • Prescription medications containing tazortene (Tazorac) or adapalene (Differin)
  • Larger freckles may react to treatment methods made for the lightening of age spots

Surgery Cures & Remedies Include:

There are several ways to reduce or even hide the appearance of freckles almost instantly through treatments provided by a dermatologist. These options are very effective but may take numerous treatment appointments to fully lighten the freckles. The effectiveness, cost and time it takes to reduce the appearance of the freckles will depend on the type of freckles, how many you have, where on the body they located and how dark they are.

Laser resurfacing removes the top layers of skin with a laser and provides long-lasting results. Typically takes 1 to 2 weeks to complete and costs approximately $2,250.

Chemical peels are also effective in getting rid of freckles by using intense chemicals to peel away layers of skin. Only 1 treatment is usually need and the approximate cost is $800.

Liquid Nitrogen

Liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy) treatment is used to the freckle directly by forming a blister that lifts the freckle from the skin. Multiple sessions may be needed for this somewhat painful procedure and the approximate cost is $3,000.

Also known as angel kisses or beauty marks freckles can give a person a unique look. It’s not probable that everyone with freckles are going to like the way they look which is why there are thousands of freckle lightening and removal products on the market.

Many of these freckle treatment methods are permanent so it best to give the idea some thought and consideration before making a definite choice on whether or not you want to be freckle-free. Try wearing make-up to cover up your freckles for a few weeks to see what you look and feel will like without them.

Stick With It

It’s important to stay consistent when using any of the above cures and remedies for freckles as most take time to work. You will usually begin to see a gradual lightening of the freckles after two to three weeks of time. After six months, a visible change in the appearance of the skin should be noticed by yourself and others.

The removal of freckles from the skin can help one self confidence by providing freckle-free, healthy skin. If you interested in finding cures and remedies for freckles, use this guide to aid you in your quest to clear skin.

Conditions

Gout

Alternative names

  • Hyperuricemia
  • Asymptomatic Gout
  • Acute Gout or Gouty Arthritis
  • Interval and Intercritical Gout
  • Chronic Tophaccous Gout

Symptoms

Gout.

There are two different types of gout, primary gout and secondary gout. Primary gout is inherited, which consists of the over production of the uric acid in the blood, a decrease of uric acid in the urine, or both.

Secondary gout occurs when the medication causes the increase of uric acid in the blood. Diuretics can cause this. Kidney failure or the increased destruction of cells, such as cancer patients going through chemotherapy, are also attributed to secondary gout.

You will have redness of the joint accompanied by stiffness, inflammation, and extreme pain. Many will suffer from podagra, a condition where gout forms in the big toe, but you can also contract gout in other joints such as ankles, wrist, fingers, or elbows. 75 percent of first attacks start in the big toe.Gout Remedies

Any type of pressure on the affected area hurts. Something as light as a bed sheet or your sock can cause extreme pain. Gout attacks can get better within a few days, even without treatment.

Four Stages With Different Symptoms:

  • Asymptomatic (without symptoms) Hyperuricemia are elevated levels of uric acid in the blood with no symptoms.
  • Acute Gout or Gouty Arthritis is when deposits of uric acid crystals form in the joint spaces. Sudden onsets of pain will follow, along with swelling, heat, and tenderness.
  • Interval or Intercritical Gout is the period in between attacks where there are no symptoms.
  • Chronic Tophaccous Gout is the most severe and disabling of all stages of gout. It develops over years, causing permanent damage to any of the joints that are affected, and in some cases, the kidneys.

Causes

If there an increased production in uric acid and your kidneys are doing what they need to do to eliminate the acid, it will build up in the blood, a condition called Hyperuricemia. The uric acid forms tiny crystals the size of the point on a needle in the joints or soft tissue. The crystals can also form into kidney stones.

Risk factors

  • Genetics makes up about 20% of all people who suffer from gout.
  • Gender and Age: Gout is more common in adult men between the ages of 40 and 50, with a peak age of 75,
    are more likely to contract gout than woman, children, and young adults.
  • Weight: Being overweight increases the risk contracting gout. The more you weigh, the more frequent the attacks. Having the extra weight makes it harder for the body to do its job. Losing the weight gradually willbe a benefit to those who have high levels of uric acid, even though being on a diet can trigger an attack.
  • Alcohol: People that drink too much alcohol can contract gout as well. The more alcohol you drink, the more the blood is not able to remove the uric acid, the rest crystallizes. Gout attacks happen because the major consumption of alcohol impairs the kidney function.
  • Lead: Some studies have concluded that there’s a strong connection between gout and lead poisoning.
  • Other risk factors that can cause gout are certain foods such as anchovies, asparagus, beef kidneys, dried bean or peas, game meats, gravy, liver. There are so many others, but these are definitely the foods that gout sufferers should watch out for.
  • The kidneys that possess an inability to eliminate waste products.
  • People that suffer from high blood pressure.
  • People who have had organ transplants.
  • Hypothyroidism, or under active thyroid.

Prevention tips

  • Medications: Non steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, help with the pain and inflammation, oral
  • Colchicine in small does to prevent future attacks. Zyloprim and Benemid are medications that are used for the treatment of Hyperuricemia.
  • Zyloprim can help in the management of uric acid, but it won’t stop an acute attack of gout that is already present. It can, however, reduce your symptoms when taken over the course of several months.
  • People that use medication for high blood pressure and high blood triglycerides find that these meds can be used for the treatment of gout. Cozaar, a high blood pressure medication, and Tricor, a triglyceride lowering medication, are the two that have been found to help aid in the treatment of this condition.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Controlling your weight keeps the body from having to work harder break down the bodily waste.
  • Drinking large amounts of water removes uric acid from the body.
  • Avoid diets that have a low-carbohydrate intake. When you’re not taking in a substantial amount of carbohydrates, the body can’t burn fat completely.
  • Eating foods that are purine free is key to reducing the frequency of gout attacks. Purine free means that foods that don’t have a nucleus such as an egg. The yolk is the nucleus. They can’t be avoided completely because purines are released when the body recycles dead cells. These foods are egg whites milk and milk products like cottage cheese mozzarell and whey protein, and pulp-free fruit juices.
  • When you have an attack, it is important to avoid excessive exercise, don’t starve yourself, and don’t reduce you calorie intake. The body will continue to break down body tissue and not getting the proper intake of calories per day, the body will compensate by accelerating the breaking down process.

Test and diagnosis considerations

To confirm a diagnosis, a doctor will inject a needle into the inflamed joint and pull a sample of the liquid that lubricates the joint called synovial fluid to analyze. If there are uric acid crystal found in the joint spaces, then you have gout. X-rays don’t work in the early stages of gout, only when the disease is in its later stage, will you see parts of the joint that have been worn away or eroded.
Treat Gout Naturally
Patients will often seek medical attention thinking that finding the gout in its early stages will prevent it from getting worse later. Sometimes symptoms of gout can be confused with another form of arthritis. One form is called pseudogout. It resembles all the symptoms of gout, but instead of having uric acid crystals that form in the joint spaces, it calcium phosphate. In this case, pseudogout.

Treatment options

1. Home treatments

  • Warming the joints with a foot bath and heating pad can help relieve joint pain.
  • Increasing the amount of water that you drink will increase your urination, which decreases the amount of
    uric acid in your blood. According to the Institute of Medicine, men should drink approximately 13 cups of
    water per day, women should drink approximately nine cups, whether it’s in food or drink.
  • NSAIDs, with the help of other prescribed drugs, are used to treat gout. Aspirin should not be taken
    because it can aggravate the condition.
  • Corticosteroids can relieve pain and inflammation of gout in the joint by injecting it right into the joint if
    the pain medication that you have at home doesn’t work.
  • Doctors have been advising patients who suffer from gout to take Vitamin E, B-complex, and folic acid to
    replenish the body’s supply.

This should be done under supervision of a physician, but a solution of half of a teaspoon of baking soda dissolved into a glass of water on an empty stomach. If the stomach is full, the combination of the stomach acid and the water/baking soda solution will turn the water into carbon dioxide gas.

The gas will increase stomach pressure, causing injury. Do not exceed more than seven 1/2 teaspoons or three 1/2 teaspoons if you’re over 60, in a 24 hour period. Don’t exceed the maximum dosage for more than two weeks.

Herbal Remedies

In folk medicine, eating or drinking cherries in various forms has shown to reduce the inflammation caused by gout. They have been promoted to the preventing or treating of the condition.

Other herbal remedies that people tend to use instead of conventional medicine are things like celery seed
oil, cherries or cherry extract, turmeric, artichoke extract, garlic, and various Chinese herbs.

Some people have found that swallowing a teaspoon of celery seed oil gives relief for people suffering from gout. It has been used as a herbal remedy to help with conditions where inflammation is a symptom and rheumatism. Turmeric is known in many countries for its health benefits. In Pakistan, it is used as an anti-inflammatory.

The herbal remedy Flamasil, which is turmeric based, it helps with the degeneration of cells, which is 70 percent of all uric acid production, enhances liver and kidney function, and blocks the enzyme that produces uric acid. With any home remedy or experimental drug, there will be opinions and criticisms about how well or if it works.

Side Effects

The side effects of oral colchicine is usually nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, or diarrhea. These side effects make it difficult for the patient to continue using the drug. Corticosteroids cannot be used for every attack you have. If used over time, it can cause deterioration of the joints. It can also decrease the ability for the body to fight off infection and may make these infections harder to treat. You might also notice an increase or decrease in appetite, nervousness, restlessness, problems sleeping, and indigestion.

If you’re using a corticosteroid, via inhalant, you’re more likely to suffer from dry throat as well as headaches, nausea, bruising and/or thinning of the skin, unpleasant sense of taste. Nasal sprays can also irritate the throat, and ointments or gels can cause skin irritation.

Probenicid, or Benemid, is not a good medication to treat acute gout attacks. They can aggravate the inflammation if used in the beginning stages of the attack. It can also cause kidney issues such as renal colic and increased levels of uric acid that can turn into uric acid stones, or kidney stones. Zyloprim side effects are included, but not limited to, an acute attack of gout, nausea, diarrhea, and certain skin reactions such as a rash.

All gout medications have side effects that range from nausea to stomach cramps. Although, there are new medications being developed in clinical trials that will substantially increase the elimination of uric acid and the lowering of uric acid in the blood stream. Researchers are also working on medications that will stop chemical messages that are causing the gout inflammation.

Chinese Research

In China, researchers have invented a medicine that compliments, the Weicao Capsule, that helps relieve gout, therapeutically. This is still in its trial phase, but it has been shown in a study that the capsule has increased urination, which lowers high levels of uric acid and improves kidney function.

Gout can become extremely serious if not treated in it’s earliest stages. There are some people that will dismiss the condition, but gout is very serious and has the capability of interfering with the simplest of everyday things.

Resources

National Institute of Health
Cdc.Gov
MedicineNet.Com

Vitamins

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a broad-term that commonly refers to a group of eight fat-soluble compounds with antioxidant activity. Vitamin E works in the body by preventing oxidation and damage to cells caused by free radicals. When free radicals react with oxygen the body naturally produces reactive oxygen species that damage cells.

Not only is vitamin E a powerful antioxidant, it also protects essential fatty acids and Vitamins A and K. Vitamin E was discovered in the 1920s and synthesized for the first time several years later. Although vitamin E is an antioxidant it seems deeply connected with regeneration and the health of cells. Vitamin E is broken into two groups, tocopherols, which are more common, and tocotrienols, which were discovered later and are different from tocopherols in their isometric construction.
Vitamin E Pills
Vitamin E is naturally present in vegetables, fruits, seeds, grains, and nuts. Due to the fat-soluble nature of vitamin E, foods rich in these vitamins are often have a high fat content, like avocados or wheat germ. Vitamin E includes four tocopherols and four tocotrienols both with four sub-classifications Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta.

The body uses vitamin E by absorbing it in the small intestines. The liver then processes the vitamin E and selectively secretes only alpha tocopherol, using a special protein. Since alpha tocopherol is the only form of vitamin E retained in the body and present in blood it has been studied more than any other.

List of E vitamins

Tocopherols

  • Tocopherol (Alpha tocopherol)
  • Tocopherol (Beta tocopherol)
  • Tocopherol (Gamma tocopherol)
  • Tocopherol (Delta tocopherol)

Tocotrienols

  • Tocotrienol (Alpha tocotrienol)
  • Tocotrienol (Beta tocotrienol)
  • Tocotrienol (Gamma tocotrienol)
  • Tocotrienol (Delta tocotrienol)

Functions and Health Benefits

In vitro cell studies have shown vitamin E prevents blood from adhering to artery walls, dilates blood vessels, and prevents platelets from sticking and forming clots.

  • Vitamin E helps the body to use vitamin K more effectively.
  • Red blood cells are formed with the help of vitamin E.
  • Vitamin E in involved in the function of a healthy immune system.
  • Although less than 1% of vitamin E studies are on tocotrienols, there is evidence they may specialize in protecting nerve cells and neurons.

Deficiency

Symptoms of vitamin E deficiency can include anemia, muscle weakness, loss of muscle mass, loss of muscle tone, problems transmitting nerve impulses, issues with stability and balance, degeneration of the retina, problems seeing, and difficulty controlling eye movement.

Vitamin E deficiency is very rare in healthy adults with an average caloric intake. People with serious medical conditions that effect fat absorption are most likely to suffer from a vitamin E deficiency. Medical conditions that affect fat-absorption in the intestines include Crohns disease, cystic fibrosis, problems with the pancreas, chronic diarrhea, and greasy stools.

There are also severe very rare medical conditions that prevent-fat absorption, including a genetic condition called abetalipoproteinemia, which requires massive doses of Vitamin E for ever pound of body weight and AVED Ataxia and Vitamin E Deficiency is genetic condition where the protein in the liver that secretes vitamin E is totally absent. People with these rare conditions need to take vitamin E supplements to prevent the symptoms of deficiency from occurring.

Premature babies with a very low birth weights are at an increased risk for vitamin E deficiencies, adding a vitamin E supplement could help eye health but may increase the risk for infections. Talk with your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of a vitamin supplements for newborns. The Recommended Dietary Allowance for children under six months of age is 4 milligrams or 6 international units.

Dietary Sources

Vitamin E is naturally found in eggs, fish, dark leafy greens, bright orange vegetables, seeds, nuts, and grains. Fruits and vegetables rich in fat also contain vitamin E. In the US fortified cereals are supplemented with vitamin E, mainly in the form gamma tocopherol. In vitro and animal studies have recently indicated gamma tocopherol may be a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Population studies are currently being conducted on the effective of gamma tocopherol on cardiovascular disease and cancer risk.

  • Proteins, fats, and oils
  • Eggs
  • Fish
  • Crustaceans
  • Sardines
  • Herring
  • Margarine
  • Vegetable oil
  • Canola oil
  • Peanut oil
  • Corn oil

Fruits and Vegetables

  • Green and orange fruits and vegetables are particularly high in vitamin E.
  • Mango
  • Papaya
  • Oranges/orange juice
  • Tomato
  • Sweet potato
  • Sweet Red Peppers
  • Carrots
  • Apricots
  • Peaches
  • Raspberries
  • Blackberries
  • Asparagus
  • Spinach
  • Avocado
  • Turnip Greens
  • Dandelion Greens
  • Collards

Seeds, Nuts, and oils

  • Roasted sunflower seeds are extremely high in vitamin E.
  • Almonds
  • Brazil Nuts
  • Peanuts
  • Peanut butter
  • Wheat bran contains 100% of the daily vitamin E requirement in one tablespoon.
    • 0 to 6 months: 4 mg/day
    • 7 to 12 months: 5 mg/day
    • Children
    • 1 to 3 years: 6 mg/day
    • 4 to 8 years: 7 mg/day
    • 9 to 13 years: 11 mg/day
    • Adolescents and Adults
    • 14 and older: 15 mg/day
    • Antidepressants
    • Antipsychotics
    • Blood pressure medications that use beta-blockers
    • Cancer and chemotherapy drugs
    • Statin drugs for high cholesterol, including Zocor, Lipitor, and Crestor
    • Bile acid sequestrants used to treat high cholesterol.
    • Vitamin E may counteract the side effect of the HIV/AIDS medication AZT.
    • The weight loss medication Alli prevents vitamin E from being absorbed.

Health benefits and Effectiveness

Due to correlations between certain medical conditions and low Vitamin E blood serum levels alpha tocopherol has been studied for its effectiveness of everything from cancer to Alzheimers and sun sensitivity. Unfortunately, vitamin E has not proven to be consistently effective in preventing these health conditions in long term population studies, lasting four to eight years.

Heart Disease

Population studies have shown patients with lower risk of heart disease were found to have higher levels of vitamin E. Leading scientists hypothesize that vitamin E was responsible for the correlation; studies have not been so conclusive. One of the largest studies on vitamin E and heart health the Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation (HOPE) trial showed that daily consumption of 400 IU of vitamin E did not lower the risk of heart disease-related deaths in men and women who were at a high risk.
Vitamin E Deficiency
Likewise, the Physicians’ Health Study II tracked more than 14,000 male doctors at a low risk for heart disease and proved that consuming 400 IU of vitamin E every other day for eight years did not reduce the risk of cardiovascular attacks.

One study with positive results showed that postmenopausal women who consumed foods rich in vitamin E lowered their risk for stroke-related deaths. However, the same study showed that vitamin E supplements were not an effective preventative strategy.

Congenital Heart Defects

According to studies in the Netherlands and the National Health Service in the UK, mothers with high vitamin E diets and those who consumed vitamin E supplements, while pregnant and before conception, have a nine-fold increased for delivering a child with congenital heart defects (CHD.)

The data in this study was limited because mothers were questioned about their diet when children were already 16 months old, so its not a good indication of the diet before or during pregnancy.

Officials in the UK warn against taking vitamin E supplements during pregnancy, saying consumption equal to 75% of the daily allowance could be too much vitamin E, leading to an increase rick for congenital heart defects in newborns.

Cancer

Although there have been studies showing a deceased risk for prostate cancer in patients with high vitamin E levels, this has not been backed up in large population studies. Despite a study on vitamin E showing a 30% reduction in prostate cancer, a clinical trial SELECT (Selenium Vitamin E Cancer Prevention Trial) carried out on 35,000 men for four years was subsequently cancelled after an independent panel showed no reduction in prostate cancer risk with vitamin E alone or a combination of selenium and vitamin E.

Another large population study on 29,000 male smokers showed lower prostate cancer risk and fewer deaths in patients who took 50 mg of vitamin E daily. One large eight-year study of men who took 400 mg of vitamin E every other day showed no reduction in overall cancer risk. Vitamin E in the form alpha tocopherol has not been proven to reduce breast cancer risk, or prevent lung or pancreatic cancer. Additionally, taking vitamin E supplements after diagnosis with cancer doesnt improve treatment, in fact, antioxidants may interfere with chemotherapy drugs. Talk to your medical provider before taking any vitamin E supplements if you are undergoing chemotherapy.

Vitamin E has also been studied on colorectal cancer, but hasnt been proven to reduce risk in women or diabetics. However, there is evidence that vitamin E in combination with vitamin A and vitamin C may protect people with benign tumors, considered a precursor to colon cancer.

Alzheimers Disease

Scientists have linked oxidation with the incidence of Alzheimers, unfortunately vitamin E has not proven to be consistently effective in slowing the onset of Alzheimers symptoms.

Once study, comparing vitamin E to placebo, showed these patients developed Alzheimers at the same rate, while another study on 340 patients, comparing vitamin E to placebo and a pharmaceutical Alzheimers medication selegiline showed that patients given 2,000 IU of vitamin E slowed the onset of the disease by 200 days, compared to placebo, but selegiline was more effective.

Eye Health

Vitamin E has been proven to play a critical role in eye health. A combination 400 IU of vitamin E, 80 mg of zinc, 15 mg beta-carotene, and 500 mg vitamin C benefits patients with advanced macular degeneration–the leading cause of blindness in people over 55. People with advanced macular degeneration had the greatest benefit from this treatment. Further research is needed to see if this treatment works to prevent AMD and if it is effective on less advanced cases.

A combination of vitamin E and vitamin C is also proven to help uveitis, an inflammatory condition affecting uvea a layer of the eye between the white part and the retina. Patients with uveitis who took vitamin E supplements had consistently clearer vision that those on placebo.

Recommended Daily Intake

The following is a recommended daily intake of vitamin E based on age, according to The Food and Nutrition Board at the Institute of Medicine. The recommended value depends on age, sex, and other medical factors. Always talk to your doctor before taking a vitamin E supplement.

Infants

Considerations

In 2004 the American Heart Association warned that high doses of vitamin E may be harmful, taking more than 400 IU of vitamin E per day may increase the risk of death. Small doses of vitamin E, like those found in multivitamins, have not been proven to be harmful.

Due to the complex nature of the immune system and antioxidant defense system supplements of vitamin E may not have the same effect as vitamin E found naturally in foods. Vitamin E in foods naturally contains many forms of tocopherols and tocotrienols. For best results eat a well balanced diet including all of the food groups.

Vitamin E supplements are available in soft gels, tablets, capsules, and topical oils. Vitamin E is naturally fat-soluble, meaning it is most commonly an oil, however, special water-soluble forms of vitamin E are available, these especially important to people who cant absorb fat.

Vitamin E is available in natural and synthetic forms. Natural vitamin E is sold as d-alpha-tocopherol and the synthetic form is always labeled dl-alpha-tocopherol.

Applying Vitamin E oil is one of the most popular home remedies for lessening the appearance of stretch marks, scars, and burns. Despite its popularity vitamin E is not proven effective at improving the appearance, size, or thickness if scars. Not only was vitamin E not effective but about one third of people in the study developed contact dermatitis from the topical application. Always test vitamin E oil on the inside on your arm before using.

Drug Interactions

Always check with your doctor before taking a vitamin E supplement, vitamin E reacts with many popular prescriptions. Do not take vitamin E if you are on any blood thinning medications, like aspirin, Warfarin and Coumadin, as it can increase the risk for bleeding.

Sources:

  • Healing Daily, Vitamin E Healing Daily.
  • Natural Standard Patient Monograph, Vitamin E MayoClinic.com.
  • National Institutes of Health, Vitamin E Office of Dietary Supplements NIH.
  • University of Maryland Medical Center, Vitamin E UMM.edu.
  • U.S. Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health, Vitamin E MedlinePlus.
  • Dr. George Obikoya, Free Radicals and Vitamin E The Vitamins and Nutrition Center.
  • Dietrich M, Traber MG, Jacques PF, Cross CE, Hu Y, Block G., Gamma Tocopherol PubMed.gov.
  • USDA, USDA National Nutrient Database USDA.gov.
  • National Health Service, Babies at risk from Vitamin E NHS Choices.
  • Anahad O’Connor, The Claim: Vitamin E helps Remove Scars New York Times.