Did you know that inflammation is an underlying factor in all disease? It is. From allergies to heart disease, and the autoimmune diseases rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, inflammation has a role. But inflammation is also an important part of the natural immune system response that keeps us healthy. Without inflammation we couldn’t heal […]
herbs
Migraine and nausea
Migraine headaches are very common and affect around 14% of people. With recurrent, moderate to severe headaches that last between 4 to 72 hours each time this health problem can have a devastating effect on quality of life. But it is not just the headache that disrupts day to day life. Migraineurs often have to […]
Rosehips improve osteoarthritis symptoms
Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disorder in the world. It causes destruction of the cartilage and other parts of the joints, mainly in the hands, knees, hips or the spine. The damage leads to the osteoarthritis symptoms of joint pain and stiffness, which impair joint function and inevitably impact on quality of life. Non-steroidal […]
Why I have a food first approach to optimum health
People that know me well know that good food is essential to me. I even chose my daughters’ school based on the food they offered. It is the same with my patients. My patients know that I am very interested in what they are eating. I have a food first approach when it comes to […]
Sniffing out Alzheimer’s disease
Scientists have discovered that one of the earliest symptoms related to the development of Alzheimer’s disease is a problem with the sense of smell. The number of people with Alzheimer’s disease, the most common cause of dementia, is increasing rapidly. It is one of the most dreaded of diseases and yet modern medicine seems […]
An intro on adaptogens for stress
Modern life is inherently stressful. The funny thing is that we don’t all respond to stress in the same way. Of course there are situations that we all might struggle to cope with, like the death of a loved one. But in the day to day hurdles of life, it is often the case that […]
Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by bacteria
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic arthritic condition of the joints. Like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis causes joint pain, swelling and stiffness. Yet, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are very different conditions. While osteoarthritis is thought of as a disease of wear and tear, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. This means that instead of protecting the body, […]
Simple strategies for preventing a common cold
Are you one of the lucky ones that never seems to catch a cold? If not then you might want to read on. This article is for those people who want to know about some evidence based strategies for preventing a common cold. Of course there are plenty of remedies for reducing the symptoms and […]
Is a daily low dose aspirin a good idea?
A daily, low dose aspirin tablet is a popular option among people hoping to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease. In fact, studies support the prophylactic use of aspirin as a simple and cheap way to prevent recurrent heart attacks and stroke. But, does that mean everyone should take a daily low dose aspirin? Findings […]
Does ginger protect against stomach ulcers?
Ginger is a well known pungent, culinary spice, but it also has remarkable health-promoting properties. For instance, I’ve previously written about the use of ginger for easing painful periods and preventing menstrual migraines. But, ginger offers much more than pain relief. In this scientific review in the Royal Society of Chemistry Journal: Food and Function, […]
Peppermint and recurrent cold sore infections
Cold sores are a common skin and mucous membrane condition caused by the herpes simplex virus 1. This virus is easily passed between people on contact. In fact, many people may be infected without realising. After the initial viral invasion, whether it shows on the skin or not, the virus remains in the body. It […]
How to soothe irritable bowel syndrome with a hot oil poultice
A 2015 German study tested the use of hot oil poultices on people with irritable bowel syndrome. They found that using a hot oil poultice appeared to be a safe and effective method of reducing pain related to IBS. The researchers also reported that although the most benefit was likely to due to the application […]
Experts confirm herbal medicines may protect against drug-resistant infection
My mother often speaks of the father that she adored. A man that I never met. He died long before I was born of tuberculosis (TB). Only a short time before the release of the antibiotics that his family believed could have cured his disease. The discovery of antibiotics heralded a new era. One in […]
Herbal remedies to reduce menopausal hot flashes
Hot flashes are one of the most common problems of menopause. That periodic, sudden rush of heat and resultant drenching sweat can be most troublesome. Though many ladies turn to hormone therapy to help them through this time, there are concerns about how safe these medications are in the longer term. Which is why complementary […]
How to get rid of bloating
This is the second part in a series of posts. The first article covered What causes bloating, and this one follows up with how to get rid of bloating. Though relieving the symptom of bloating is important, as with many chronic health concerns to make a permanent improvement, it is necessary to find the underlying […]
Things to ask your herbalist
Who can be a herbalist? In the UK currently, there is no statutory regulation of herbalists. Anyone can call themselves a herbalist. In other words, some ‘herbalists’ have no qualifications, training or experience. Mmmmm that doesn’t sound too good! How would you know if the therapist could help you? For instance, it is all too […]
Complementary therapies for chronic neck pain
This is the fourth and last article in this series of articles about complementary therapies for chronic pain. The series is mostly based on the British Medical Journal article that discusses the available scientific evidence for various therapies including acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, and mind-body techniques. This particular article will focus on therapies for neck […]
Which therapies work for low back pain?
This is the third article in a series of posts about complementary therapies for chronic pain conditions. See the research in this review in the British Medical Journal. Read the first two posts of the series here:Which therapies for chronic pain?Which therapy – chronic pain and rheumatoid arthritis This third article is about the efficacy of complementary […]
Which therapy – chronic pain and rheumatoid arthritis
This is the second post in a series of posts about the potential benefits of complementary therapies for people living with chronic pain. In case you missed it, you can find the first post here. This post focuses on research related to several complementary therapies and rheumatoid arthritis. As reported in a review article in […]
Which therapies for chronic pain?
Chronic pain is a leading reason that people will use complementary therapies. As an acupuncturist and medical herbalist people living with pain often seek my help. Commonly expressing a desire to reduce pain-relieving medications. Especially in relation to any side effects that they might experience. Yet, how can you choose a complementary therapy to help […]
