43 Natural Alternatives for Cystic Fibrosis

43 Natural Alternatives for Cystic Fibrosis

Many individuals with cystic fibrosis have difficulty with lung infections developing into pneumonia, especially Pseudomonas. Many plant materials are being researched for their therapeutic value for our immune and lung health. Here are 43 natural substances that have been researched to possibly improve the lung status of people with cystic fibrosis.

38 Natural Alternatives for HIV

38 Natural Alternatives for HIV

Fortunately, natural substances are being researched for their therapeutic value for our immune health. "Superbugs" develop due to repeated, frequent and multiple different antibiotic prescriptions. Plant products have historically been consumed and utilized for their anti-microbial and holistic benefits. Here are 38 natural substances which indicate potential benefit for people with HIV.

36 Natural Alternatives for Infection

36 Natural Alternatives for Infection

Most people have issues with bacterial or viral infections from time to time. Unnecessary antibiotics ARE dangerous! Antibiotics damage the integrity of the microbial balance in the gut. The healthy gut microflora is 70-80% of the immune system. Impaired immune systems are less effective at healing the body.

Plant products have historically been consumed and utilized for their anti-microbial and health boosting benefits. Many plant materials are being researched for their therapeutic value for our immune health.

Here are 36 natural substances which have been studied to help to support our body's immune system to heal itself!

  1. Manuka honey fights serious infection caused by MRSA
  2. The inhalation of tea catechin appears to suppress MRSA infection in the elderly.
  3. Tea tree topical preparations are superior to standard topical regimen for the clearance of MRSA colonization.
  4. Garlic and tea have antibacterial activity against Klebsiella, as well as drug resistant strains of Saphylococci, Enterococci and Psedomonas aeruginosa.
  5. Water extract of garlic has antimicrobical activity against multidrug-resistant bacteria and Candida species, and many other microbials.
  6. The compound found within garlic known as allicin has antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
  7. Probiotic therapy has therapeutic value in treating Klebsiella infection in children.
  8. Susceptibility to ear disease in children may be a result of deficiencies of zinc and vitamin A.
  9. Topical nanocrystalline silver dressing may provide an alternative treatment for MRSA infected wounds to oral antimicrobials.
  10. Cranberry may reduce the risk of urinary tract infections by inhibiting biofilms in the bladder.
  11. Probiotic strains from breast milk are superior to antibiotics in the treatment of infectious mastitis.
  12. Honey may have a therapeutic role in treating refractory chronic rhinosinusitus.
  13. Honeydew and manuka honey has strong antimicrobial activity against multi-drug resistant pathogens.
  14. Cinnamon verum bark has the highest antimicrobial activity, particularly against antibiotic resistant strains, of 13 essential oils tested.
  15. A number of plant oil extracts inhibit multi-resistant strains of bacteria and yeast.
  16. Clove, guava and lemongrass exhibit the highest synergism rate with antimicrobial drugs.
  17. Thyme and Eucalyptus oil have antibacterial activity against MRSA isolates.
  18. Compounds isolated from Bay leaf have anti-MRSA activity.
  19. The essential oil of dill and peppermint enhances the antimicrobial activity of nitrofurantoin against enterobacteria.
  20. Grape seed extract has bactericidal effects on MRSA.
  21. A combination of Citricidal (grapefruit seed extract) and geranium oil showed the greatest anti-bacterial effects against MRSA.
  22. Rosemary has activity against drug-resistant bacterial and fungal pathogens.
  23. Propolis exhibits antimicrobial effects on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus strains resistant to various antibiotics and some microorganisms.
  24. Cumin essential oil exhibits anti-Klebsiella activity.
  25. Green tea exhibits anti-MRSA activity.
  26. Mango seed kernel extract may potentially be useful as an alternative therapeutic agent or an adjunctive therapy along with penicillin G in the treatment of MRSA infections.
  27. Wormwood, tarragon and eucalyptus contain the compound pipertone which reduces antibiotic resistance against Enterobacter cloacae.
  28. Alpinia galanga contains a compound with activity against multi-drug resistant bacteria.
  29. Elecampane (Inula helenium) has potent antisaphylococcal activity, including against MRSA.
  30. Lavender oil has antimicrobial activity against methicillin-sensitive and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
  31. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG inhibits invasion of cultured human respiratory cells by macrolide-resistant group A streptococci.
  32. Lime has potent antibacterial activity against multiple drug resistant E. coli.
  33. Nigella sativa has anti-bacterial activity against clinical isolates of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
  34. Nutmeg contains a compound with potent anti-biofilm activity against oral bacteria.
  35. Olive leaf extract demonstrates antimicrobial activity against Campylobacter jejuni, Helicobacter pylori and Staphylococcus aureus [including meticillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA)].
  36. Cinnamon and Oregano, containing cinnamaldehyde and carvacrol, respectively, exhibit powerful antimicrobial activity against antibiotic-resistant strains of Campylobacter jejuni isolates.

23 Natural Alternatives for Depression

23 Natural Alternatives for Depression

 

Many people have struggled with feelings of depression, feelings of general sadness, or intense sorrow and grief. Plant products have historically been consumed and utilized for their nutritive and holistic benefits. Many plant materials are being researched for their therapeutic value for our mental health. Here are 23 natural substances which can help to optimize our biochemistry, neurotransmitters and address nutrient deficiencies.

What is Candida?

What Is Candida?

Candida (Yeast) is a late sign of impaired gut health.

Candida is associated with craving simple carbs (white foods--pasta, bread, rice, and all sugars) which feed the yeast. Candida develops for many reasons. Basically, it is a 'helper' attempting to create balance in the gut, generally due to antibiotics, preservatives, heavy metal toxins and sterile foods.

We can make candida obsolete and unnecessary by rebalancing gut microbials. Antibiotics for mother or baby during pregnancy and birth (intrapartum antibiotics) are the most common sources of microbial imbalance leading to candida in children (and mother). The mother's exposures to mercury through (silver) amalgam fillings and vaccinations herself, and HER mother's mercury toxin exposures are other variables leading to candida overgrowth.

Allergies 101

Allergies 101

What Is An Allergy?

  • An allergy is an exaggerated immune response or reaction to substances that are generally not harmful. Allergies occur when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance such as pollen, bee venom or pet dander.
  • In a person with allergies, the immune response is oversensitive. When it recognizes an allergen, it releases chemicals such as histamines, which fight off the allergen. This causes allergy symptoms.
  • Your immune system produces substances known as antibodies. Some of these antibodies protect you from unwanted invaders that could make you sick or cause an infection, such as bacteria and viruses.
  • When you have allergies, your immune system makes antibodies that identify your particular allergen as something harmful, even though it isn't.
  • When you come into contact with the allergen, your immune system's reaction inflames your skin, sinuses, airways or digestive system.
  • People who have allergies often are sensitive to more than one thing. Milk allergies and wheat intolerance are very common culprits for chronic health issues.

Symptoms of Allergies Include

  • Abdominal pain
  • Anaphylaxis
  • Asthma
  • Bloating
  • Burning, tearing, itchy eyes
  • Colic
  • Coughing
  • Dermatitis
  • Diarrhea
  • Ear infections
  • Eczema
  • Fatigue
  • Hay fever
  • Headache
  • Hives
  • Increased colds/flus
  • Itchy throat
  • Mucus production
  • Night-wakening
  • Rash
  • Red, itchy anus
  • Red swollen eyes
  • Reflux
  • Runny nose
  • Shortness of breath
  • Skin rash
  • Sinus infections
  • Sneezing
  • Stomach cramps
  • Stuffy nose
  • Swollen tongue/throat
  • Throat clearing
  • Vomiting
  • Wheezing

Hygiene Hypothesis is based upon finding that in a "too sterile" environment, without exposure to common bacteria and microbials, the body becomes hyper-sensitive and triggered by harmless substances. Increased eczema, asthma, and autoimmune issues develop due to antibiotics, antimicrobial products, and C-section births.

Antibiotics in the first year of life are associated with increased allergies.

Common allergens

  • Drugs
  • Dust Mites
  • Foods
  • Insect Bites
  • Mold
  • Pet Dander
  • Seasonal Pollens
  • Environmental Triggers

A "Food Journal" is the gold standard for identifyingallergytriggers and symptoms. The best way to reduce symptoms is to avoid what causes your allergies, especially food intolerances. Read labels as dairy is hidden by many names.

Allergens to Avoid

  • Antibiotics
  • Artificial Colors
  • Aspirin
  • Chemical Additives
  • Eggs
  • Latex (cross-reactive with banana, avocado and kiwi)
  • Milk (all dairy)
  • Peanuts
  • Seeds (sesame, poppy) (and their oils)
  • Shellfish
  • Soy (and oils)
  • Tree Nuts
  • Wheat (gluten)

Common remedies to decrease the allergy symptoms

Additional allergy research can be found on the GreenMedInfo.com allergy research page.

26 Natural Alternatives for Allergies

26 Natural Alternatives for Allergies

  1. Butterbur exhibits protection against chemically-induced nasal responsiveness in seasonal allergic rhinitis.
  2. Lactobacillus acidophilus can alleviate the symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis.
  3. A high intake of soy and isoflavones may be associated with a reduced prevalence of allergic rhinitis.
  4. Intake of eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acids (DHA) from fish may be associated with a reduced prevalence of allergic rhinitis.
  5. Black cumin alleviates symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
  6. Peppermint may be clinically effective in alleviating the nasal symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
  7. High dietary intake of seaweed, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus may be associated with a decreased prevalence of allergic rhinitis.
  8. Raw milk consumption (relative to boiled) is inversely associated to asthma, atopy and hay fever.
  9. Rose extract exhibits anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and pain-killing activities.
  10. Propolis may be effective in the relief of symptoms of allergic rhinitis through inhibition of histamine release.
  11. An extract of the medicinal mushroom Agaricus blazei Murill can protect against allergy through reducing Th2 relative to Th1 cytokine levels.
  12. Homeopathic treatment has value in the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis.
  13. Lactobacillus casei modulates immune response in allergic rhinitis and may help to alleviate symptoms.
  14. Supplementation of mothers and their babies with the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri reduces IgE-associated eczema and may reduce respiratory allergic disease later in life.
  15. Pycnogenol improves allergic rhinitis symptoms when supplementation is started at least 5 weeks before the onset of the allergy season.
  16. Beta-glucan improves symptoms and the Th1/Th2 balance in patients with allergic rhinitis.
  17. Bifidobacterium longum relieves clinical symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
  18. Curcumin attenuates the development of allergic airway inflammation and hyper-responsiveness.
  19. Vitamin D deficiency is higher among children with asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, acute urticaria, and food allergy.
  20. A traditional Korean fermented soybean food exhibits anti-inflammatory activity which may have therapeutic value in allergic conditions such as asthma and atopic dermatitis.
  21. Loquat leaves have anti-allergic properties.
  22. Onion exhibits anti-allergic, antihistaminic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
  23. Indian Oyster mushroom may be effective in the relief of symptoms of allergic rhinitis through inhibition of histamine release.
  24. Peach extract inhibits mast cell-derived allergic inflammation.
  25. Spirulina consumption significantly improves the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
  26. Exclusive breastfeeding during the first 3 months after birth protects against allergic rhinitis in children, both with and without a family history of atopy.

 

Omega-3 and Vascular Disease

Omega 3 and Vascular Disease

36 Immune Benefits of Probiotics

36 Immune Benefits of Probiotics

  1. Saccharomyces boulardii has therapeutic value in treating Clostridium difficile infection.
  2. Supplementation of mothers and their babies with the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri reduces igE-associated eczema and may reduce respiratory allergic disease later in life.
  3. Lactobacillus reuteri and Bifidobacterium lactis supplementation of children fed formula reduces adverse events, e.g. antibioic use, diarrhea, etc.
  4. Long term use of probiotics and synbiotics reduce the incidence and severity of respiratory diseases during the cold season.
  5. Probiotic bacteria reduce the duration and severity of common cold episodes.
  6. Postnatal probiotic and prebiotic treatment is safe and increases resistance to respiratory infections during the first 2 years of life.
  7. Probiotic therapy has therapeutic value in treating Klebsiella infection in children.
  8. Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri reduce the duration of diarrhea in children with mild gastroenteritis.
  9. Lactobacillus acidophilus can alleviate the symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis.
  10. Acute non- inflammatory gastroenteritis improvement is accelerated by probiotic yogurt consumption.
  11. Lactobacillus reuteri significantly shortens the duration of watery diarrhea associated with rotavirus gastroenteritis in children between 6 and 36 months.
  12. The probiotics Bifidobacterium breve and Lactobacillus casei reduce complications in patients with SIRS.
  13. Probiotics demonstrate immunomodulatory effects in atopic pediatric patients by increasing the TH1 immune response which counterbalances the dominant TH2 immune response.
  14. Lactobacillus plantarum reduces the negative effects of antibiotic treatment with Clostridium difficile.
  15. Probiotics may have a preventive and therapeutic role in antibiotic-associated diarrhea subsequent to treatment for Clostridium difficile.
  16. A combination of lactobacillus reuteri and lactobacillus rhamnosus were helpful in vaginosis and bacterial vaginitis treatment.
  17. Saccharomyces boulardii inhibits Escherichia colia infection in children.
  18. Probiotic strains from breast milk are superior to antibiotics in the treatment of infectious mastitits.
  19. Human breast milk contains Lactobacillius strains which are effective in the treatment of mastitis during lactation.
  20. Probiotics prophylaxis was as effective as antibiotic prophylaxis in children with persistent primary vesicoureteral reflux.
  21. Supplemental Lactobacillus plantarum is effective in reducing pancreatic sepsis in patients with acute pancreatitis.
  22. Probiotics appear to have a role in preventing recurrent urinary tract infections in women.
  23. The consumption of fermented milk with Lactobacillus casei in lactating mothers has a positive effect on the mother and offspring's immunological status.
  24. Probiotics prevent IgE-associated allergy until age 5 years in cesarean-delivered children.
  25. Probiotics may reduce postoperative infections after abdominal surgery.
  26. Probiotics have a favorable effect on immune status in multiple sclerosis patients.
  27. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Bifidobacterium lactis are safe and effective in reducing early otitis media and antibiotic use and the risk of respiratory infections during the first year of life.
  28. Saccharomyces Boulardii diminishes bacterial infections and offers health benefits in the therapy of acute necrotizing pancreatitis.
  29. Postnatal probiotic and prebiotic treatment is safe and increases resistance to respiratory infections during the first 2 years of life.
  30. Lactobacillus reuteri may have therapeutic potential in the treatment of allergic airway disease.
  31. Consumption of a fermented dairy product containing the probiotic Lactobacillus casei reduces the duration of respiratory infections in the elderly.
  32. Specific strains of lactobacilli isolated from kimchi can effectively suppress airway hyper-responsiveness.
  33. Probiotics manifest anti-influenza and ant-herpes activity.
  34. Probiotics may contribute to a reversal of colitis through modulating the intestinal barrier properties.
  35. Cow milk allergy symptoms are reduced in mice fed dietary synbiotics during oral sensitization with whey.
  36. Gluten induces coeliac-like disease in sensitized mice that is prevented by probiotics.

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61 Health Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

61 Health Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

  1. There is strong evidence that omega-3 fatty acids have a beneficial effect in bipolar disorder.
  2. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation is associated with reduced mania and depression in juvenile bipolar disorder.
  3. Clinical studies have reported that oral fish oil supplementation has beneficial effects in rheumatoid arthritis and among some asthmatics.
  4. Fish oil improves tubular dysfunction, lipid profiles and oxidative stress in patients with IgA nephropathy.
  5. Dietary supplementation with flaxseed oil lowers blood pressure in dyslipidaemic patients.
  6. Omega 3 fatty acids improve the cardiovascular risk profile of subjects with metabolic syndrome, including markers of inflammation and auto-immunity.
  7. Omega-3 in modest doses reduces cardiac deaths, and in high doses reduces nonfatal cardiovascular events.
  8. Dietary supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids reduces the incidence of sudden cardiac death in patients with myocardial infarction.
  9. Omega-3 fatty acid reduce the total mortality and sudden death in patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction.
  10. Raising blood levels of omega-3 fatty acid levels may be 8 times effective than distributing automated external defibrillators (AEDs), and 2 times more effective than implanting implanting cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) in preventing sudden death.
  11. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation reduces total mortality and sudden death in patients who have already had a heart attack.
  12. Consuming small quantities of fish is associated with a reduction in coronary heart disease.
  13. Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D supplementation results in a substantial reduction in coronary calcium scores and slowed plaque growth.
  14. Omega-3 fatty acids prevent atrial fibrillation after coronary artery bypass surgery.
  15. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation has a therapeutic effect in children with ADHD.
  16. A combination of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids as well as magnesium and zinc consumption provide a beneficial effect on attentional, behavioural, and emotional problems of children and adolescents.
  17. Fish oil supplementation has a significant therapeutic effect on children with autism.
  18. Omega-3 fatty acids appear to be an effective treatment for children with autism.
  19. The consumption of omega-3 fatty acid supplements decreases homocysteine levels in diabetic patients.
  20. Omega-3 fatty acids improve macro- and microvascular function in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
  21. In patients with stable coronary artery disease, an independent and inverse association exists between n-3 fatty acid levels and inflammatory biomarkers.
  22. Omega-3 fatty acids improve endothelial function in peripheral arterial disease.
  23. Fish oil has a beneficial effect on blood viscosity in peripheral vascular disease.
  24. Fish oil supplementation improves walking distance in peripheral arterial disease.
  25. The omega-3 fatty acid docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) reduces the risk of peripheral arterial diseaseassociated with smoking.
  26. An 8-month treatment with omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) has a positive effects, such as decreasing inflammation, in patients with cystic fibrosis.
  27. Omega-3 fatty acids may have a protective effect against mucus over-production caused by pulmonary bacterial colonization in cystic fibrosis.
  28. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation reduces inflammatory biomarkers, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and interleukin-8 concentrations in cystic fibrosis patients.
  29. DHA increases resistance to Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection.
  30. EPA supplementation has therapeutic value in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C patients.
  31. EPA and DHA have therapeutic value in the treatment of systemic lupus erythmeatosus.
  32. Omega-3 fish oil reduces the severity of symptoms in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.
  33. Fish and long-chain omega-3 fatty acid intake reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and total mortalityin diabetic women.
  34. Higher plasma concentrations of EPA and DPA are associated with a lower risk of nonfatal myocardial infarction among women.
  35. Omega-3 fatty acid consumption is inversely associated with incidence of hypertension.
  36. Fish oil, but not flaxseed oil, decreases inflammation and prevents pressure overload-induced cardiac dysfunction.
  37. The consumption of fish reduces the risk of ischemic stroke in elderly individuals.
  38. A moderate intake of EPA and DHA may postpone cognitive decline in elderly men.
  39. Omega-3 fatty acids may have a therapeutic effect on postpartum depression.
  40. Omega-3 fatty acids may have therapeutic value in the treatment of dry eye syndrome.
  41. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation exhibits therapeutic value in the treatment of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptomatology.
  42. Fish consumption reduces the risk of ischemic stroke in men.
  43. Omega-3 Fatty acids supplementation prevents and reverses insulin resistance.
  44. Omega-3 fatty acids prevent the formation of urinary calcium oxalate stone formation.
  45. Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for children with bronchial asthma.
  46. Omega 3 fatty acid supplementation may contribute to the prevention of early preterm birth in both low-risk and high-risk pregnancies.
  47. Fish consumption is associated with a 63% reduction in prostate cancer-specific mortality.
  48. Omega 3 fatty acids decrease the severity of autoimmune disorders.
  49. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) may have a therapeutic role in attenuating pulmonary hypertension.
  50. Omega-3 fatty acids resulted in an improvement in weight bearing in dogs with osteoarthritis.
  51. Primary open-angle glaucoma patients have reduced blood levels of DHA and EPA.
  52. Omega-3 fatty acids alleviate insulin resistance and fatty liver in obese mice.
  53. Intake of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids from fish may be associated with a reduced prevalence of allergic rhinitis.
  54. Cod liver oil (omega-3 Fatty Acids) reduces the need for NSAIDs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
  55. Omega-3 Fatty Acids has significant therapeutic benefits and drug sparing activity in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
  56. Diets containing EPA and DHA have an inhibitory effect on breast cancer growth and metastasis.
  57. Dietary Omega-3 fatty acids may protect smokers against chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
  58. Omega-3 fatty acids were shown to be more effective than placebo for depression in both adults and children in small controlled studies and in an open study of bipolar depression.
  59. The omega-3 fatty acid EPA is as effective as fluoxetine (Prozac) in treating major depressive disorder.
  60. A diet low in trans-unsaturated fat and rich in omega-3 fatty acids and olive oil may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
  61. Higher intake of omega 3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of pneumonia.

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