AVISO IMPORTANTE


A partir del día 14 de junio de 2015, domingo, este blog dejará de ser actualizado como se ha venido haciendo hasta la fecha. La primera idea fue la de cerrar el blog, pero el deseo que que cuanto aquí se ha publicado pueda seguir siendo útil en el futuro, nos hace que mantengamos abierto el blog. Si tuviera alguna duda o quisiera hacer algún comentario, no tema hacerlo: seguiremos publicando cuantos comentarios se hagan y seguiremos contestando a las dudas que puedan surgir.
Gracias y hasta siempre.
Andrés Guerrero Serrano
-Homeópata-

martes, 27 de marzo de 2012

Medicinal plants and dementia therapy: herbal hopes for brain aging?

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

CNS Neurosci Ther. 2011 Dec;17(6):683-98. doi: 10.1111/j.1755-5949.2010.00202.x. Epub 2010 Oct 18.

Perry E, Howes MJ.

Source

Institute of Ageing and Health, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 6BE, UK.

Abstract

An escalating "epidemic" of diseases like Alzheimer's has not yet been met by effective symptomatic treatments or preventative strategies. Among a few current prescription drugs are cholinesterase inhibitors including galantamine, originating from the snowdrop. Research into ethnobotanicals for memory or cognition has burgeoned in recent years. Based on a multi-faceted review of medicinal plants or phytochemicals, including traditional uses, relevant bioactivities, psychological and clinical evidence on efficacy and safety, this overview focuses on those for which there is promising clinical trial evidence in people with dementia, together with at least one other of these lines of supporting evidence. With respect to cognitive function, such plants reviewed include sage, Ginkgo biloba, and complex mixtures of other traditional remedies. Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) challenge carers and lead to institutionalization. Symptoms can be alleviated by some plant species (e.g., lemon balm and lavender alleviate agitation in people with dementia; St John's wort treats depression in the normal population). The ultimate goal of disease prevention is considered from the perspective of limited epidemiological and clinical trial evidence to date. The potential value of numerous plant extracts or chemicals (e.g., curcumin) with neuroprotective but as yet no clinical data are reviewed. Given intense clinical need and carer concerns, which lead to exploration of such alternatives as herbal medicines, the following research priorities are indicated: investigating botanical agents which enhance cognition in populations with mild memory impairment or at earliest disease stages, and those for BPSD in people with dementia at more advanced stages; establishing an ongoing authoritative database on herbal medicine for dementia; and further epidemiological and follow up studies of promising phytopharmaceuticals or related nutraceuticals for disease prevention.

© 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

PMID:
22070157
[PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

[Therapeutic use Hibiscus sabadariffa extract in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. A randomized clinical trial].

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

Rev Med Inst Mex Seguro Soc. 2011 Sep-Oct;49(5):469-80.

[Article in Spanish]

Hernández-Pérez F, Herrera-Arellano A.

Source

Departamento de Educación e Investigación en Salud, Hospital General de Zona 1-A Venados, Distrito Federal, México. turco168@hotmail.com

Abstract
OBJECTIVE:

to compare the effectiveness, safety and tolerability of Hibiscus sabadariffa extract (SHE) versus pravastatin in hypercholesterolemia.

METHODS:

double blind and controlled clinical trial. Men and women with hypercholesterolemia ≥ 220 mg/dL, and over 30 years without previous treatment were included. Treatments: Experimental I, SHE standardized 10 mg of anthocyanins, control, 20 mg of pravastatin; Experimental II, extract of H. sabdariffa, standardized to 20 mg of anthocyanins for 12 weeks. SHE Data analysis with Anova and χ(2) tests were used.

RESULTS:

we included 104 patients, at baseline there were no significant differences in age, weight, BMI, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL or triglycerides. At the end of the study, the experimental I group reduced triglycerides (p ≤0.0001), the control treatment reduced triglycerides, total cholesterol and its fractions (p = 0.02), and finally, the experimental treatment II reduced triglycerides (p = 0.0001). The three treatments showed high percentages (> 96) of safety and tolerability, without showing significant differences (p ≥ 0.57).

CONCLUSIONS:

the treatments, with 10 and 20 mg of anthocyanins reduce triglycerides. The control treatment showed the greatest effect on lowering total cholesterol and fractions compared to experimental treatments.

PMID:
22185846
[PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

domingo, 25 de marzo de 2012

Homeopathy Vindicated as Cost-Effective by Swiss Government

(Extraído de huffingtonpost.com)

by Dana Ullman

In a story akin to "the mouse that roared," the Swiss government has determined that the very small doses commonly used in homeopathic medicine are both effective and cost-effective. Despite the impressive technological prowess of conventional medicine today, the Swiss government has determined that homeopathy is considerably more cost effective.

My previous article highlighted a remarkable report on homeopathic medicine conducted by and for the government of Switzerland. This previous article described the significant body of evidence from multiple sources that verify the efficacy of homeopathic medicines, while this new article focuses on another body of evidence reviewed for the Swiss government that investigated the cost-effectiveness of homeopathic treatment.

In this day and age of economically-challenging times for both individuals and governments, this report from the Swiss government has confirmed the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of homeopathic treatment. The fact that homeopathy is also widely recognized as one of the safest methods of medicine is but one additional special benefit for this natural medicine.

Ultimately, the Swiss government's report was the most comprehensive review to date of any governmental body on the scientific evidence on homeopathic medicine. The Swiss' "Health Technology Assessment" was a thorough analysis of a wide variety of clinical studies and laboratory research.(1) The report also reviewed the body of evidence on cost-effectiveness research for homeopathic care, and it even conducted its own cost-effectiveness study among Swiss physicians and patients.

Drawing cost data of participating physicians from Swiss health insurers, this review included all expenditures covered from consultation costs (diagnostic and therapeutic procedures), costs for medication (directly dispensed or prescriptions), costs for external laboratory analyses, and costs for physiotherapy.

The Swiss report found that total practice costs for physicians who specialized in homeopathic medicine had an overall 15.4 percent reduction in overall health care costs associated with their practice, as compared with physicians who practiced conventional medicine as well as those physicians who practice other "complementary and alternative medicine" treatments (but not homeopathic medicine). (2) The significant reduction in health care costs from homeopathic treatment represents a potential savings in hundreds of millions of dollars or more in many countries.

The authors of the Swiss report noted patients seeking homeopathic and alternative health care treatment tended to have more chronic illness (greater than three months) and more serious illness, factors that would usually lead to higher health care costs, but it was also discovered that the homeopathic patients tended to be younger, which would usually lead to lower health care costs.

This significant 15 percent saving from homeopathic care confirmed from an independent Dutch study that analyzed claims from a major health insurer which also found a 15 percent reduction in health care costs associated with alternative medical care by physicians who were trained in homeopathic medicine, acupuncture, or anthrosophical medicine (Kooreman, Baars, 2011). The health economists who conducted this research concluded that the lower costs resulted from fewer hospital stays and fewer expensive prescription drugs. It is of further importance to note that the authors also found that patients who go to physicians who practice complementary and alternative medicine live longer lives too.

The Swiss government's report on homeopathy also referenced numerous studies that evaluated the cost-effectiveness of homeopathic vs. conventional medical care for people suffering from specific health problems, including female fertility, rheumatoid arthritis, otitis media, respiratory allergies, and dyspepsia. Of special significance was the truly substantial difference between the costs of homeopathic treatment of women experiencing fertility problems as compared with women seeking conventional medical care. A study of children with upper respiratory tract infections found that children who received homeopathic treatment had fewer recurrences and lower antibiotic consumption than children using conventional treatment. Further, an economic assessment of 569 patients with rheumatic disorders found that 29 percent could stop taking their conventional medications, 33 percent could reduce their dependence on drugs, and only 6 percent chose to increase their medication once homeopathic treatment began.

A report from the German government was also cited in this Swiss study because it compared hospitalization rates of female patients who sought care from conventional physicians as compared with those females who from homeopathic physicians. This study found that female patients were six times more hospitalizations from conventional physicians as from homeopathic physicians.

In addition to reduced health care costs from homeopathic treatment, the report also noted reductions in various indirect costs, including some studies showing reduced days off from sickness in those patients under homeopathic care.

The Swiss report further discovered that patients reported better quality of the patient-physician relationship and fewer adverse side effects with physicians who practiced CAM, thus, leading the report to conclude higher cost-effectiveness for this type of medical practices.

The "appropriateness" of homeopathy as a health care option was also evaluated in the Swiss report, which the authors have divided into two sections: demand/use and safety. Based on the high demand of the Swiss population for homeopathy and the high levels of safety that is widely known about homeopathy, the Swiss report asserts that there is substantial appropriateness for homeopathy for the Swiss public. Surveys estimate that 57 percent of the Swiss population uses complementary and alternative medicine, and about 40 percent of all medical practitioners in Switzerland prescribed alternative and complementary medicine treatments and 62.5 percent were "in favor of CAM" (Rist and Schwabl, 2009).

The Swiss government also funded a study of more than 3,000 people that compared "patient satisfaction" from those who sought care from a homeopathic physician vs. those who sought care from a conventional medical doctor (Marian, Joost, Saini, et al, 2008). Patients of homeopathic physicians were significantly more often "completely satisfied" (53 percent vs. 43 percent) with their treatment than patients of conventional doctors, without significant differences in the fulfillment of their treatment related expectations. This study also discovered that patients who sought treatment from a conventional doctor had almost four times as many serious side effects as those who sought homeopathic treatment.

Besides finding reducing costs to homeopathic treatment, the Swiss report referenced a significant number of randomized double-blind clinical studies showing efficacy of treatment from homeopathic care. Of greater significance, they found that 20 of 22 systematic reviews (meta-analyses) detected at least a trend in favor of homeopathy, with at least five reviews yielding results indicating clear evidence for homeopathic therapy. Although the Swiss report is not available online, interested readers with an interest in research published in peer-review medical journals will benefit from reading the numerous articles that I have published at this website in the past.

The Swiss report acknowledged that some clinical studies do not show positive results for homeopathy, though the authors of this governmental report note that most of these studies were conducted in a way that ignored some important principles of homeopathy, setting themselves up for a negative outcome and thereby creating a false-negative result. Skeptics of homeopathy commonly refer to a select group of seemingly high-quality studies that show that homeopathic medicines did not work, but these skeptics ignore the fact that many of these studies did not use the correct medicine for the condition. For instance, one study used a homeopathic dose of a medicine for weight-loss when it is well-known that there is no one remedy that will work for everyone who wishes to lose weight.

The bottom line is that large numbers of the Swiss population use homeopathic medicines and select other natural therapies. After a nationwide referendum in May 2009 that found a two-thirds majority (!) favoring the integration of CAM into the Swiss health system, the Swiss Minister of Health approved reimbursement by the government's health program for five leading natural therapies, including anthroposophic medicine, homeopathy, neural therapy, phytotherapy/herbal medicine, and traditional Chinese medicine, for a test period until 2018.

The Swiss report noted that one of the first health economic studies to compare homeopathic and conventional medical treatment was conducted in 1900 (Bradford, 1900). This book, simply entitled The Logic of Figures, compared the morbidity (disease) and mortality (death) rates in homeopathic vs. conventional medical hospitals, as well as these rates in mental institutions and penitentiaries in which either homeopathic OR conventional medical services were provided. Much to the surprise of conventional medicine, the death rates were typically two to eight times higher in those patients who received conventional medical care as compared with those who received homeopathic treatment (literally hundreds of hospitals' records were compared). Of special interest were the impressive results that patients received from homeopathic medicines in the treatment of the many feared infectious diseases, including cholera, typhoid, yellow fever, scarlet fever, pneumonia, and influenza.

In addition to the above research conducted for the Swiss government, other researchers in North America have found efficacy and cost-effectiveness of various "integrative health practices" (Guarneri, Horrigan, Pechura 2010). Data supporting the efficacy and cost effectiveness of an integrative approach to healthcare comes from three sources: medical research conducted at universities, studies carried out by corporations developing employee wellness programs, and pilot projects run by insurance companies.

The most famous words from Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine, were "First, do no harm." In the light of the fact that homeopathic and various integrative health practices being so much safer than conventional medical strategies, it may be time for governments and insurers to follow the lead of the government and people of Switzerland.

FOOTNOTES:

(1) Although this Swiss government report was just published in book form in 2011, the report was finalized in 2006. In light of this date, the authors evaluated systematic reviews and meta-analyses on homeopathic research up until June 2003.

(2) The researchers of this cost-effectiveness study provided statistical adjustment for seven cofactors that would lead one treatment to have an economic advantage over the others, such as when a population of patients is younger or older than another groups.

REFERENCES:

Bornhoft, Gudrun, and Matthiessen, Peter F. Homeopathy in Healthcare: Effectiveness, Appropriateness, Safety, Costs. Goslar, Germany: Springer, 2011. http://rd.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-642-20638-2/page/1

Bornhöft G, Wolf U, von Ammon K, Righetti M, Maxion-Bergemann S, Baumgartner S, Thurneysen AE, Matthiessen PF. Effectiveness, safety and cost-effectiveness of homeopathy in general practice - summarized health technology assessment. Forschende Komplementärmedizin (2006);13 Suppl 2:19-29. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16883077

Bradford T. The Logic of Figures or comparative results of homoeopathic and other treatments. Philadelphia: Boericke and Tafel, 1900. http://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015020118058

Guarneri, Erminia (Mimi); Horrigan Bonnie J; Pechura Constance M. The Efficacy and Cost Effectiveness of Integrative Medicine: A Review of the Medical and Corporate Literature. Explore: The Journal of Science and Healing - September 2010 (Vol. 6, Issue 5, Pages 308-312, DOI: 10.1016/j http://www.explorejournal.com/article/S1550-8307(10)00144-8/abstract; full article: http://www.bravewell.org/content/IM_E_CE_Final.pdf

Kooreman P, Baars E: Patients whose GP knows complementary medicine have lower costs and live longer. Eur J Health Econ 2011; DOI: 10.1007/s10198-011-0330-2. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0415641211002062

Marian F, Joost K, Saini KD, von Ammon K, Thurneysen A, Busato A. Patient satisfaction and side effects in primary care: an observational study comparing homeopathy and conventional medicine. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2008 Sep 18;8:52. http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/8/52

Rist L, Schwabl H: Komplementärmedizin im politischen Prozess. Schweizer Bevölkerungstimmt über Verfassungsartikel «Zukunft mit Komplementärmedizin» ab. Forsch Komplementmed 2009, doi 10.1159/000203073. (Translation: Complementary medicine in the political process: The Swiss population votes on the Constitutional Articlehttp://www.ayurveda-association.eu/files/swiss_referendum_on_cam_-_forschkomplementmed_2009.pdf

martes, 20 de marzo de 2012

Applications of the phytomedicine Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) in infectious diseases.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

J Biomed Biotechnol. 2012;2012:769896. Epub 2011 Oct 26.

Hudson JB.

Source

Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada V5Z 3J5. jbhudson@interchange.ubc.ca

Abstract

Extracts of Echinacea purpurea (EP, purple coneflower) have been used traditionally in North America for the treatment of various types of infections and wounds, and they have become very popular herbal medicines globally. Recent studies have revealed that certain standardized preparations contain potent and selective antiviral and antimicrobial activities. In addition, they display multiple immune-modulatory activities, comprising stimulation of certain immune functions such as phagocytic activity of macrophages and suppression of the proinflammatory responses of epithelial cells to viruses and bacteria, which are manifested as alterations in secretion of various cytokines and chemokines. These immune modulations result from upregulation or downregulation of the relevant genes and their transcription factors. All these bioactivities can be demonstrated at noncytotoxic concentrations of extract and appear to be due to multiple components rather than the individual chemical compounds that characterize Echinacea extracts. Potential applications of the bioactive extracts may go beyond their traditional uses.

PMID:
22131823
[PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
PMCID:
PMC3205674
Free PMC Article

domingo, 18 de marzo de 2012

Immunomodulatory effects of saffron: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

Phytother Res. 2011 Dec;25(12):1801-5. doi: 10.1002/ptr.3484. Epub 2011 Apr 8.

Kianbakht S, Ghazavi A.

Source

Department of Pharmacology and Applied Medicine, Research Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR, Karaj, Iran. skianbakht@yahoo.com

Abstract

Saffron is the dried stigmata of the flowers of saffron (Crocus sativus L.). Saffron is rich in carotenoids and carotenoids affect immunity. Thus, in this randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial with healthy men aged 21.4 ± 0.8 years (mean ± SE), the effects of taking one 100 mg saffron tablet daily for 6 weeks on the blood serum levels of IgG, IgM, IgA, C(3) and C(4) complements, counts and percentages of white blood cells, platelets, neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes and monocytes, levels of some hematological parameters and levels of creatinine, SGOT and SGPT were evaluated in 45 subjects and compared with the placebo group (n = 44). After 3 weeks, saffron increased the IgG level and decreased the IgM level compared with the baseline and placebo (p < 0.01), decreased the percentage of basophils and the count of platelets compared with baseline, but increased the percentage of monocytes compared with placebo (p < 0.05). However, these parameters returned to the baseline levels after 6 weeks. Saffron did not have any significant effects on the other parameters. No adverse effects were reported. The results suggest that the sub-chronic daily use of 100 mg saffron has temporary immunomodulatory activities without any adverse effects.

Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

PMID:
21480412
[PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Antihyperlipidemic effects of Salvia officinalis L. leaf extract in patients with hyperlipidemia: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

Phytother Res. 2011 Dec;25(12):1849-53. doi: 10.1002/ptr.3506. Epub 2011 Apr 19.

Kianbakht S, Abasi B, Perham M, Hashem Dabaghian F.

Source

Department of Pharmacology and Applied Medicine, Research Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR, Karaj, Iran. skianbakht@yahoo.com. skianbakht@yahoo.com

Abstract

Hyperlipidemia is a common metabolic disorder contributing to morbidities and mortalities due to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Conventional antihyperlipidemic drugs have limited efficacies and important side effects, so that alternative lipid lowering agents are needed. Salvia officinalis L. (sage) leaves have PPAR γ agonistic, pancreatic lipase and lipid absorption inhibitory, antioxidant, lipid peroxidation inhibitory and antiinflammatory effects. Thus, in this randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial with 67 hyperlipidemic (hypercholesterolemic and/or hypertriglyceridemic) patients aged 56.4 ± 30.3 years (mean ± SD), the effects of taking sage leaf extract (one 500 mg capsule every 8 h for 2 months) on fasting blood levels of lipids, creatinine and liver enzymes including SGOT and SGPT were evaluated in 34 patients and compared with the placebo group (n = 33). The extract lowered the blood levels of total cholesterol (p < 0.001), triglyceride (p = 0.001), LDL (p = 0.004) and VLDL (p = 0.001), but increased the blood HDL levels (p < 0.001) without any significant effects on the blood levels of SGOT, SGPT and creatinine (p > 0.05) compared with the placebo group at the endpoint. No adverse effects were reported. The results suggest that sage may be effective and safe in the treatment of hyperlipidemia.

Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

PMID:
21506190
[PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

martes, 13 de marzo de 2012

Anticancer potentials of root extract of Polygala senega against benzo[a]pyrene-induced lung cancer in mice.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Xue Bao. 2011 Mar;9(3):320-7.

Paul S, Bhattacharyya SS, Samaddar A, Boujedaini N, Khuda-Bukhsh AR.

Source

Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani 741235, India.

Abstract
OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate anticancer potentials of Polygala senega on lung cancer induced by benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) in mice.

METHODS:

Swiss albino mice were divided into five groups with each containing six animals. Group 1 served as control, and the animals received olive oil as vehicle. Group 2 animals were treated with B[a]P (50 mg/kg body weight dissolved in olive oil) orally twice a week for four consecutive weeks. Group 3 animals were fed B[a]P as in group 2 and 48% alcohol (since the vehicle of the remedy was alcohol). Group 4 animals were B[a]P-intoxicated mice (as in group 2) which were additionally fed ethanolic extract of Polygala senega (EEPS) daily for 16 weeks. EEPS treatment started after the first dose of B[a]P. Group 5 animals were treated with EEPS alone for 16 weeks to test cytotoxicity of EEPS if any. Mice were sacrificed after 16 weeks and the following parameters were assessed: the anti-oxidant activity measured by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical assay, tumor incidence, lung weight and body weight, DNA damage evaluation by comet assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA); toxicity biomarkers like catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, lipid peroxidation (LPO) and total thiol content were also detected.

RESULTS:

Treatment with EEPS increased the final body weight and significantly decreased the lung weight in group 4 mice (P<0.01) compared with group 3 mice. Comet assay showed that EEPS-treated mice in group 4 presented a decrease of DNA damage significantly (P<0.01) in lung tissues. There was a significant increase observed in the level of p53 in group 4 as compared with group 3 (P<0.01) detected by ELISA. A highly significant increase in tissue LPO with concomitant decrease in the activity of anti-oxidants was observed in group 2 and group 3 mice (P<0.05) compared with the control mice. These adverse changes were reversed significantly in group 4 mice (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION:

Chemopreventive potentials of Polygala senega against chemically induced lung cancer in mice are confirmed.

PMID:
21419086
[PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
Free full text

An initial report on the efficacy of a millesimal potency Arsenicum Album LM 0/3 in ameliorating arsenic toxicity in humans living in a high-risk arsenic village.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Xue Bao. 2011 Jun;9(6):596-604.

 

Khuda-Bukhsh AR, Banerjee A, Biswas SJ, Karmakar SR, Banerjee P, Pathak S, Guha B, Haque S, Das D, De A, Das D, Boujedaini N.

Source

Department of Zoology, Laboratory of Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani 741235, India. prof_arkb@yahoo.co.in

Abstract
BACKGROUND:

Millions of people are at risk of groundwater arsenic contamination, and there is no known remedy that can effectively remove the symptoms of prolonged arsenic poisoning. A potentized homeopathic drug, Arsenicum Album LM 0/3 (Ars Alb LM 0/3), is claimed in homeopathic literature to have the ability to treat symptoms similar to that of arsenic poisoning.

OBJECTIVE:

This study examines whether Ars Alb LM 0/3 could provide some degree of amelioration for the victims living in an arsenic-affected village where no arsenic-free drinking water is available. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS AND INTERVENTIONS: This study was carried out on volunteers living in an arsenic-affected village where no arsenic-free drinking water is available. Twenty-eight volunteers from the village of Dasdiya, in Haringhata block under Nadia District, West Bengal, India, an arsenic-contaminated village where wells contain 55 to 95 μg/L arsenic, were selected to undertake a double-blind and placebo-controlled trial. The subjects provided samples of blood and urine before and after 2 months of taking either "verum" or "placebo". Another 18 subjects living in an arsenic-free village, served as the negative controls.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Samples of blood and urine from the subjects were assayed for arsenic content, according to various toxicity biomarkers and pathophysiological parameters. Results: Out of the original 28 subjects, only 14 subjects provided samples while the other 14 dropped out. There were elevated levels of arsenic in the blood and urine, alkaline and acid phosphatases, lipid peroxidation, and glutathione activities and increased blood glucose, triacylglycerol, cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol contents, whereas there were decreased levels of aspartate and alanine aminotransferases, gamma glutamyl transferase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase contents, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and packed cell volume in the subjects. After 2 months of homeopathic remedy administration, the verum-fed subjects showed positive modulations within these parameters with slight lowering of matrix metalloproteinase activity as compared with the placebo group.

CONCLUSION:

Ars Alb LM 0/3 shows potential for use in high-risk arsenic villages as an interim treatment for amelioration of arsenic toxicity until more extensive medical treatment and facilities can be provided to the numerous victims of arsenic poisoning.

PMID:
21669162
[PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
Free full text

Potentized homeopathic drug Arsenicum Album 30C positively modulates protein biomarkers and gene expressions in Saccharomyces cerevisae exposed to arsenate.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Xue Bao. 2011 Jul;9(7):752-60.

 

Das D, De A, Dutta S, Biswas R, Boujedaini N, Khuda-Bukhsh AR.

Source

Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani 741235, India.

Abstract
OBJECTIVE:

This study examines if homeopathic drug Arsenicum Album 30C (Ars Alb 30C) can elicit ameliorative responses in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) exposed to arsenate.

METHODS:

The yeast S. cerevisiae 699 was cultured in a standard yeast extract peptone dextrose broth medium. It was exposed to the final concentration of 0.15 mmol/L arsenate for two intervals, 1 h and 2 h, respectively. The cell viability was determined along with the assessment of several toxicity biomarkers such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), total thiol (GSH) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH), lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation and DNA damage. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, expressions of relevant stress transcription activators like Yap-1 and Msn 2, and mRNA expression of yeast caspase-1 (Yca-1) were also measured.

RESULTS:

Treatment of arsenate increased lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation, DNA damage, ROS accumulation and expressions of Yap-1, Msn 2 and Yca-1 and decreased GSH, G6PDH, CAT and SOD. Ars Alb 30C administration decreased lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation, DNA damage, ROS formation and Msn 2 and Yca-1 expressions and increased cell viability, GSH, G6PDH, CAT and SOD significantly (P<0.05), except for a slight increase in Yap-1 expression.

CONCLUSION:

Ars Alb 30C triggers ameliorative responses in S. cerevisiae exposed to arsenate.

PMID:
21749826
[PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
Free full text

«A veces, la homeopatía es la única forma de curarse»

(Extraído de elcomercio.es)

Una de las charlas ofrecidas en la segunda edición del Salón del Niño tuvo como protagonista al doctor Guillermo Basauri, de laboratorios Boiron, quien explicó los beneficios de la homeopatía para potenciar la salud de los niños. «La homeopatía no solo es una alternativa. A veces, es la única forma que existe para curarse», señaló Basauri, quien también indicó que este método sirve «para muchas más cosas que curar cositas poco graves».

En este sentido, el facultativo desgranó las ventajas de utilizar esta alternativa medicinal, «que tiene los mismos efectos o incluso mejores que los antibióticos», así como la eficacia de este método en diferentes dolencias. «Vale para procesos virales, para problemas estomacales o respiratorios. Es eficaz porque van más allá de una mera medida que nos haga sentir mejor durante la enfermedad, es un método paliativo que, en algunos casos, no existe en la medicina tradicional».

Sobre el tipo de pacientes que recurren a estos tratamientos, Basauri reconocía que el perfil de los pacientes suele ser el de uno «complicado», consecuencia de la falta de soluciones encontradas en el método tradicional. Además, la escasa existencia de efectos secundarios e interacciones permite al enfermo combinar diferentes tratamientos, homeopáticos o no.

INTRODUCCIÓN A LA KINESIOLOGÍA HOLÍSTICA. APRENDE A TESTAR.

Mi amigo Tomás Fernández me pide que dé publicidad a este cursillo de kinesiología. Espero que sea de vuestro interés. Saludos A.G.

TÍTULO: INTRODUCCIÓN A LA KINESIOLOGÍA HOLÍSTICA. APRENDE A TESTAR.
Conoce que Alimentos te van mejor, que Medicamentos son mas adecuados etc.
-FECHAS:28-29 ABRIL DE 2012.
-HORARIO:
28 sábado: de 10 a 14 y de 16 a 20 Horas.
29 domingo de 10 a 14 Horas.
-LUGAR: C..C. Teodoro Sánchez Punter. Plaza Mayor de S. José nº2. Zaragoza.
-PRECIO: 95 euros.
-INSCRIPCIONES: Colegio Oficial de Enfermería de Zaragoza. C/ Bretón 48, ppal D.
Tel: 976-356492/437376.
-INFORMACIÓN: 976-437376 Mail: tomasnaturista@gmail.com
-TEMARIO:
*¿Qué es y en qué se basa la Kinesiología?
*Orígenes de la Kinesiología
*Kinesiología aplicada y Kinesiología Holística
*Concepto Holístico de la Salud
* Los tests musculares. Taller práctico
*Taller práctico de kinesiología aplicada. Rueda de músculos. Reflejos neurovasculares, neurolinfáticos y puntos de alarma
*Regulación inicial en kinesiología holística. Concepto de Propiocepción. Modos de caminar. Adaptaciones
*Regulaciones básicas. Los 6 bloques fundamentales de trabajo en kinesiología holística: físico, químico, emocional, energético, sutil y chacras
*Test de intolerancias alimentarias
-IMPARTE:
Dña. Silvia Galindo Llatas. Experta en Kinesiología Holítica, I Ching, Licenciada en Ciéncisas Biológicas, Geobióloga y Naturista.
COORDINA: Tomás, Fernández Fortún. Enfermero, Postgrado en Medicina Naturista.
http://www.redaragon.com/blogs/vidanatural/

jueves, 8 de marzo de 2012

Usage of alternative medical systems, acupuncture, homeopathy and anthroposophic medicine, by older German adults.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Xue Bao. 2011 Aug;9(8):847-56.

Büssing A, Ostermann T, Heusser P, Matthiessen PF.

Source

Quality of Life, Spirituality and Coping, Center for Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Witten/Herdecke, Gerhard-Kienle-Weg 4, 58313 Herdecke, Germany. arndt.buessing@uni-wh.de

Abstract
OBJECTIVE:

The manifold studies on the usage of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) indicate that its utilization differs with respect to socio-cultural background, gender, age and underlying disease. This study intended to analyze the usage of specific CAM practices among a population of older German adults with health insurance coverage.

METHODS:

Data of 5 830 older individuals who participated in an anonymous cross sectional survey among German insurance beneficiaries were analyzed with respect to usage of CAM treatments applied by medical doctors or non-medical practitioners within the last 5 years.

RESULTS:

The most frequently used approaches were acupuncture/traditional Chinese medicine (21%), homeopathy (21%), movement therapies/physical exercises (19%), osteopathy/chiropractic (12%), herbs/phytotherapy (7%), diets/specific food recommendations (6%) and foot reflexology (5%). Anthroposophic medicine was used only to a minor degree. Acupuncture and homeopathy users were likely to choose more than one CAM treatment simultaneously, particularly the combination of homeopathy and acupuncture. Moreover, this study can confirm significant differences between women and men in the use of the main relevant CAM interventions.

CONCLUSION:

The relative proportion of acupuncture usage was similar to homeopathy, which is an alternative whole medical system originating from Western Europe. This means that an Eastern alternative system is established also in Germany. In several cases not only one CAM treatment was used but distinct combinations existed (particularly homeopathy and acupuncture); thus one should be cautious to draw predictive conclusions from studies with broad and unspecific CAM categories, for among them there are several therapies which should not be regarded as CAM.

http://www.jcimjournal.com/en/showAbstrPage.aspx?articleid=jcim20110806

Analysis of the capability of ultra-highly diluted glucose to increase glucose uptake in arsenite-stressed bacteria Escherichia coli.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Xue Bao. 2011 Aug;9(8):901-12.

Khuda-Bukhsh AR, De A, Das D, Dutta S, Boujedaini N.

Source

Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani 741235, India. prof_arkb@yahoo.co.in

Abstract
OBJECTIVE:

Whether ultra-highly diluted homeopathic remedies can affect living systems is questionable. Therefore, this study sees value in the analysis of whether homeopathically diluted glucose 30C has any effect on Escherichia coli exposed to arsenite stress.

METHODS:

E. coli were cultured to their log phase in standard Luria-Bertani medium and then treated with either 1 mmol/L or 2 mmol/L sodium arsenite, with or without supplementation of either 1% or 3% glucose, an ultra-highly diluted and agitated ethanolic solution (70%) of glucose (diluted 10(60) times), glucose 30C or 70% ethanol (placebo) in the medium. Glucose uptake, specific activities of hexokinase and glucokinase, membrane potential, intracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and expression of glucose permease in E. coli were analyzed at two different time intervals. Arsenic content in E. coli (intracellular) and in the spent medium (extracellular) was also determined.

RESULTS:

In arsenite-exposed E. coli, the glucose uptake increased along with decreases in the specific activities of hexokinase and glucokinase, intracellular ATP and membrane potential and an increase in the gene expression level of glucose permease. Glucose uptake increased further by addition of 1%, 3% or ultra-highly diluted glucose in the medium, but not by the placebo.

CONCLUSION:

The results demonstrated the efficacy of the ultra-highly diluted and agitated glucose in mimicking the action of actual glucose supplementation and its ability to modulate expressions of hexokinase and glucokinase enzymes and glucose permease genes, thereby validating the efficacy of ultra-high dilutions used in homeopathy.

http://www.jcimjournal.com/en/showAbstrPage.aspx?articleid=jcim20110813

domingo, 4 de marzo de 2012

Alternativas a los antibióticos, otra manera de sanar

(Extraído de hoymujer.com)

Una ligera infección... y recurrimos a ellos. Un error que hemos cometido demasiadas veces y está poniendo en riesgo nuestra salud y la de nuestros hijos. Pero hay solución. Con información y terapias naturales también nos podemos curar.

MUJERHOY - E. Pantoja

Los primeros cinco años de vida son el periodo más expuesto al uso innecesario de medicamentos. Un problema que se hereda en la edad adulta; aproximadamente 25.000 personas mueren cada año en Europa debido a infecciones por bacterias resistentes a los antibióticos, unos fármacos que están dejando de funcionar por culpa de su uso indiscriminado. Catarros, otitis, dolores de garganta… no siempre requieren que recurramos a ellos. De hecho, la receta para luchar contra estos males se compone, generalmente, de tiempo, paciencia y algunos remedios para aliviar las molestias. El dr. Miguel Ángel Hernández Rodríguez, coordinador del Grupo de Utilización de Fármacos de la Sociedad Española de Medicina Familiar y Comunitaria, y el homeópata Julio Brazales, nos ofrecen alternativas para no volver a fallar.
CATARRO

  • ¿Qué es? El resfriado común es una infección leve de las vías respiratorias causada por virus. Produce mocos, taponamiento nasal, dolor de cabeza y de garganta, lagrimeo, tos y fiebre.
  • ¿Hacen falta antibióticos? No. Los antibióticos no son eficaces contra los virus.
  • ¿Qué podemos hacer? Para el dolor de cabeza o la fiebre puedes tomar paracetamol. Conviene también beber agua e infusiones a menudo, ya que alivian el dolor de garganta y la tos seca; y hacer vahos que ayudarán a reblanceder los mocos. También puedes aplicar suero fisiológico o agua con sal en la nariz (se prepara 1 l de agua y una cucharadita de sal y se administra por la nariz con una jeringa o aspirando con cuidado). Evita toser y carraspear si no es para sacar mocos, porque al hacerlo puede aumentar la irritación y la tos (chupa caramelos sin azúcar para aliviarla). En tu farmacia o parafarmacia encontrarás la gama Resp Ok, de Puressentiel, en espray o bálsamo, que combina 19 aceites esenciales con propiedades antisépticas y calmantes que combaten los síntomas más molestos, como el taponamiento nasal, el goteo y los estornudos. También puedes recurrir a la homeopatía que posee remedios como Allium cepa, Dulcamara o Hepar sulphur (tu homeópata sabrá ajustar la dosis a tu caso específico). Y en niños, se puede emplear Gelsemium sempervivens (dos gránulos de dos a tres veces al día).
  • ¿Cuándo ir al médico? Si se sufre alguna enfermedad bronquial; si aparece algún síntoma diferente a los descritos, si el resfriado dura más de 10 días o la fiebre es muy alta.

CONJUNTIVITIS

  • ¿Qué es? Es la inflamación de la conjuntiva, una capa muy fina que cubre la parte blanca de los ojos y el interior de los párpados. Los síntomas son escozor o quemazón, sensación de arenilla, molestias al mirar a la luz, enrojecimiento y lagrimeo.
  • ¿Hacen falta antibióticos? Solo se usan antibióticos en las conjuntivitis de tipo bacteriano. Las virales se curan por sí solas en una o dos semanas y las de tipo alérgico se tratan con antihistamínicos en colirio.
  • ¿Qué podemos hacer? Limpia las secreciones del ojo con suero salino fisiológico y ponte compresas de agua fría (o un antifaz de gel frío) sobre los ojos cerrados para aliviar las molestias. A pesar de la cultura popular, no te laves los ojos con agua de manzanilla ya que suele contener polvo y partículas de suciedad. Pero sí puedes usar otros remedios naturales. Por ejemplo, en estos casos resulta muy efectivo tomar unas ampollas de Infoligo B, un preprarado que posee oligoelementos de efecto antiséptico, y el medicamento homeopático Fitovial 10, aunque el homeópata Julio Brazales se decanta por las propiedades de Euphrasia (también apta para niños) o Ruta. Si el niño presenta secreciones legañosas de color amarillo es mejor usar Pulsatilla.
  • ¿Cuándo ir a médico? Si los síntomas persisten más de tres o cuatro días; si te molesta mucho mirar a la luz; si el ojo cada vez duele más y en caso de que aparezcan vesículas en la piel cercana al ojo afectado o notes que no ves con claridad.

ANGINAS

  • ¿Qué son? Conviene diferenciar entre dolor de garganta y anginas. El primero, habitualmente, está provocado por virus y va acompañado de mucosidad, tos y fiebre. Se cura solos. Pero la amigdalitis o faringoamigdalitis aguda (las famosas 'anginas') sí está producida por una bacteria. Además del dolor, provoca fiebre alta, cefalea y molestia al tragar.
  • ¿Hacen falta antibióticos? En el caso de los dolores de garganta de origen vírico, el tratamiento está encaminado a paliar los síntomas. Sin embargo, en la faringoamigdalitis aguda sí se puede recurrir a ellos.
  • ¿Qué hacemos entonces? Se puede usar paracetamol para la fiebre o el dolor. También funcionan los remedios de la abuela como hacer gárgaras con agua con sal (una cucharadita de sal por vaso de agua) o con una infusión a base de malvavisco, nogal, agrimonia o tomillo. Tomar abundante líquido y chupar caramelos sin azúcar también ayuda, así como tomar propóleo rojo. La homeopatía te puede echar una mano con Belladona, Mercurius solubilis o Barita carbonica. En niños, si el dolor de garganta va acompañado de afonía, puedes usar Aconitum napellus y si los ganglios del cuello están hinchados, Mercurius corrosivus.
  • ¿Cuándo ir a médico? Si sufres fiebre superior a 38,5 °C, pus en la garganta, ganglios dolorosos, dolor intenso o erupciones en la piel, la visita al médico es ineludible. En niños, conviene consultar con el pediatra si sufre 'anginas' más de cuatro veces en un año.
OTITIS (DOLOR DE OÍDO)
  • ¿Qué es? El oído se divide en tres partes: externo (oreja y conducto auditivo hasta el tímpano), medio (o caja timpánica) e interno (donde se encuentran los receptores nerviosos). Cuando una de estas partes se inflama se llama otitis. El síntoma más habitual de la otitis externa es un dolor local que empeora cuando se toca o se mueve el lóbulo de la oreja. Si la inflamación es de todo el conducto externo, suele haber una supuración e incluso aparecen unas décimas de fiebre. La otitis media aguda también produce dolor y los síntomas son parecidos. Suele aparecer durante o después de infecciones respiratorias agudas. La otitis media serosa consiste en la acumulación de moco detrás del tímpano. Aparece también durante o después de un resfriado y el síntoma principal suele ser la sordera.
  • ¿Hacen falta antibióticos? El 80-90% de las otitis medias agudas están causadas por virus y se curan espontáneamente.
  • ¿Qué hacemos entonces? Si tienes dolor, puedes usar analgésicos como el paracetamol. En la otitis externa aguda o si presenta dolor o supuración de oído, evita la entrada de agua. En la otitis media aguda o serosa, no fumes (es un riesgo para ti y los que te rodean: los hijos de fumadores padecen más frecuentemente otitis medias agudas y otitis serosas). Mantén la nariz destapada con lavados frecuentes con agua con sal o suero fisiológico y mastica chicle sin azúcar ya que favorece la ventilación del oído medio, la eliminación del moco y disminuye la presión en dicha cavidad. En cuanto a los remedios homeopáticos, en las otitis la Pulsatilla o el Ferrum phosphoricum son muy efices. En el caso de los niños, si el pequeño se queja de dolor en el oído y es muy sensible al ruido prueba con Belladonna; y si siente punzadas de dolor que le hacen llorar súbitamente y presenta una secreción amarillenta, Hepar sulphur 30CH le irá bien, pero cuidado con la dilución, porque hay riesgo de perforar el tímpano. En bebés muy pequeños, el remedio más eficaz es Chamomilla.
  • ¿Cuándo ir al médico? Si el dolor es intenso o la fiebre alta. Además, si has sufrido otitis repetidas, te supura o notas pérdida de audición.

BRONQUITIS

  • ¿Qué es? La bronquitis aguda es una infección del árbol bronquial, compuesto por los conductos que llevan aire a los pulmones. Cuando estos se infectan, se hinchan y se forma mucosidad en su interior. Esta infección, casi siempre, es provocada por virus o por exposición a sustancias irritantes como el humo o la contaminación.
  • ¿Hacen falta antibióticos? Los antibióticos no son de ayuda en la mayoría de los casos. Sin embargo, si el médico considera que la bronquitis es provocada por una bacteria, es posible que los recete.
  • ¿Qué hacemos entonces? En la mayoría de los casos, la bronquitis desaparecerá por sí sola sin complicaciones, aunque la tos puede durar tres o cuatro semanas. Como en el caso de los resfriados, se recomienda evitar el frío y el tabaco, lavarse las manos con frecuencia, beber mucha cantidad de líquidos sin cafeína y sin alcohol y aumentar la humedad del ambiente. Para el dolor o la fiebre se puede tomar paracetamol. Recuerda que la tos es un mecanismo de defensa que ayuda a expulsar la mucosidad y a limpiar el árbol bronquial de forma más rápida, por lo que es mejor no inhibirla, tose sin vergüenza. El preparado de cápsulas Reishinua caps, rico en hongo reishi, un potente inmunomodulador y antihistamínico, puede ayudarte a acortar la duración de la infección. Los remedios homeopáticos Bryonia o Kali carbonicum también son efi caces. El Antimonium tartaricum es ideal para los niños. Y no dudes en recurrir a los vahos, si les añades el poder de la aromaterapia con cuatro gotas de aceite esencial de saro, alivirás tus vías respiratorias.
  • ¿Cuándo ir al médico? Si notas 'pitos' en el pecho; si tienes tos que produce sangre; si te sientes muy indispuesto y débil, hay fiebre alta y/o notas falta de aire (puede ser que estés desarrollando una neumonía).

CISTITIS

  • ¿Qué es? Esta infección es relativamente común en las mujeres porque el conducto por el que se vacía la orina de la vejiga al exterior (uretra) es más corto en ellas, lo que facilita que los gérmenes puedan llegar hasta la vejiga y producir una infección. Se puede infectar cualquier parte del sistema urinario, desde la uretra a los riñones, pero es más habitual que la infección se localice en la vejiga. La cistitis suele producir dolor al orinar, sensación de ardor o quemazón al orinar, necesidad de ir al baño con más frecuencia de lo normal, sentir ganas de orinar y no poder hacerlo, pequeñas pérdidas de orina, orina turbia o con mal olor.
  • ¿Hacen falta antibióticos? La mayor parte de las cistitis están provocadas por bacterias. Si el médico confirma el diagnóstico, te indicará un tratamiento antibiótico. Su duración depende del tipo de fármaco utilizado, de los síntomas y los antecedentes.
  • ¿Qué hacemos entonces? Aunque no podemos evitar el antibiótico, sí podemos ayudar al organismo a curarse más rápido con algunas medidas. Por ejemplo, toma por las mañanas, en ayunas, un vaso caliente de agua con zumo de limón e incluye en tus 2,5 l de líquidos diarios infusiones con arándano rojo (un vasito en ayunas y otro antes de dormir). También puedes tomar gayuba (40 gotas, tres veces al día antes de las comidas), una planta que posee efecto antiséptico y reduce los riesgos de renfección. La homeopatía recomienda en estos casos Cantharis (también muy útil con los niños) o Staphisagria. Y para calmar la molestias lávate con 10 gotas homeopáticas de caléndula diluidas en un vaso de agua.
  • ¿Cuándo ir al médico? Si las molestias persisten 48 horas, a pesar del tratamiento. Si sufres náuseas, dolor en la espalda, fiebre o sangre en la orina.

viernes, 2 de marzo de 2012

Specific Dietary Patterns May Help Prevent Cognitive Decline in Older People

(Extraído de nccam.nih.gov)

A recent study examining the influence of blood markers of dietary intake (nutrient biomarkers) on brain health showed that specific dietary patterns may help prevent cognitive decline in older people. Previous research has examined only one or a few nutrients, or has relied on food frequency questionnaires, which have identified that higher intakes of green, leafy and cruciferous vegetables, fish, and fruit, but lower intakes of meats, high fat dairy, butter, and trans fatty acids were beneficial for cognitive health. This study, however, examined the blood concentrations of 30 nutrient biomarkers, in specific patterns, to determine the collective effect of nutrient biomarkers on cognitive function. The study was funded in part by NCCAM and published in the journal Neurology.

The researchers examined blood nutrient biomarkers in 104 relatively healthy adults aged 65 years and older (average age was 87 years) who were at risk for dementia. Participants did not have vascular disease, hypertension, or diabetes. Researchers administered several cognitive tests (executive function, memory, attention, language, processing, global function, depression) in all participants and performed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans in 42 participants to determine brain volume in various regions. One goal of the study was to define dietary patterns that promote cognitive health in elders, similar to how scientists have defined dietary patterns that promote cardiovascular health in adults.

The researchers found that participants who had higher circulating concentrations of vitamins (C, D, E, and specific B vitamins) scored higher on cognitive function tests and had less total brain shrinkage (measured by MRI) than those with lower concentrations. Likewise, participants with higher circulating omega-3 fatty acid concentrations had better executive function than those with lower concentrations. However, participants who had higher plasma trans fatty acids (found in some margarines, commercial baked goods, and other foods made with or fried in partially hydrogenated oil) had worse cognitive function overall than those with lower concentrations.

Despite these findings, the researchers noted that they cannot claim a causal association between nutrient biomarkers and cognitive health at this time. Provided these findings are confirmed, they point to the need for future studies to determine nutrient combinations that will predict cognitive and brain volume changes in susceptible individuals.

References

Gastroprotective activity of methanol extract and marrubiin obtained from leaves of Marrubium vulgare L. (Lamiaceae).

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

J Pharm Pharmacol. 2011 Sep;63(9):1230-7. doi: 10.1111/j.2042-7158.2011.01321.x. Epub 2011 Jul 7.

Paula de Oliveira A, Santin JR, Lemos M, Klein Júnior LC, Couto AG, Meyre da Silva Bittencourt C, Filho VC, Faloni de Andrade S.

Source

Programa de Mestrado em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Núcleo de Investigações Químico-Farmacêuticas (NIQFAR), Universidade do Vale do Itajaí (UNIVALI), Itajaí, Santa Catarina, Brazil.

Abstract
OBJECTIVES:

The purpose of this study was to assess the gastroprotective properties of the methanol extract and the diterpene marrubiin obtained from the leaves of M. vulgare.

METHODS:

  Assays were performed using different protocols in mice. Studies focusing on mechanisms of gastroprotection were also undertaken.

KEY FINDINGS:

In the model of ethanol-induced ulcers, we observed a significant reduction in all the parameters analysed; the curative ratios obtained were 49.31±0.57, 74.31±0.91 and 79.86±0.59 for the groups treated with 50 and 100mg/kg of extract of M. vulgare and omeprazole (30mg/kg), respectively. For indomethacin-induced ulcers, the percentages of ulcer inhibition were 50.32±5.60, 66.24±4.30, 82.17±04.09 and 67.52±4.38, for the groups treated with 25, 50 and 100mg/kg M. vulgare and positive control (cimetidine), respectively. In both models, the marrubiin (25mg/kg) produced a significant reduction in all the parameters when compared with the control group (P<0.01). There was also a significant increase in pH and mucus production in the groups treated with M. vulgare extract and marubiin. The results also demonstrated that the gastroprotection induced by the extract and marubiin is related to the activity of nitric oxide and endogenous sulfhydryls, which are important gastroprotective factors.

CONCLUSIONS:

The results of this study show that the extract of M. vulgare and marrubiin displays antiulcer activity and that this effect can be partly attributed to the isolated diterpene.

© 2011 The Authors. JPP © 2011 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

Employee use and perceived benefit of a complementary and alternative medicine wellness clinic at a major military hospital: evaluation of a pilot program.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

J Altern Complement Med. 2011 Sep;17(9):809-15. Epub 2011 Aug 11.

Duncan AD, Liechty JM, Miller C, Chinoy G, Ricciardi R.

Source

HealingWorks: Restoring & Renewing Military Families, Silver Spring, MD, USA. alaine_duncan@yahoo.com

Abstract
OBJECTIVES:

The objectives of this study were to examine the feasibility of a weekly on-site complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) wellness clinic for staff at a military hospital, and to describe employees' perceptions of program effectiveness.

SETTING:

The study setting was the Restore & Renew(®) Wellness Clinic at a United States Department of Defense hospital.

SUBJECTS:

The subjects were hospital nurses, physicians, clinicians, support staff, and administrators.

INTERVENTIONS:

The walk-in wellness clinic was open 8:00 am-2:00 pm 1 day a week. Participants selected one or more modalities each visit: ear acupuncture, clinical acupressure, and Zero Balancing.(®)

OUTCOME MEASURES:

A self-report survey was done after each clinic visit to evaluate clinic features and perceived impact on stress-related symptoms, compassion for patients, sleep, and workplace or personal relationships.

RESULTS:

Surveys completed after first-time and repeat visits (n=2,756 surveys) indicated that most participants agreed or strongly agreed they felt more relaxed after sessions (97.9%), less stress (94.5%), more energy (84.3%), and less pain (78.8%). Ninety-seven percent (97%) would recommend it to a co-worker. Among surveys completed after five or more visits, more than half (59%-85%) strongly agreed experiencing increased compassion with patients, better sleep, improved mood, and more ease in relations with co-workers. Perceived benefits were sustained and enhanced by number of visits. The most frequently reported health habit changes were related to exercise, stress reduction, diet/nutrition, and weight loss.

CONCLUSIONS:

This evaluation suggests that a hospital-based wellness clinic based on CAM principles and modalities is feasible, well-utilized, and perceived by most participants to have positive health benefits related to stress reduction at work, improved mood and sleep, and lifestyle.

Antimicrobial activity of Calendula officinalis, Camellia sinensis and chlorhexidine against the adherence of microorganisms to sutures after extraction of unerupted third molars.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

J Appl Oral Sci. 2011 Oct;19(5):476-82.

Faria RL, Cardoso LM, Akisue G, Pereira CA, Junqueira JC, Jorge AO, Santos Júnior PV.

Source

São José dos Campos Dental School, Univ. Estadual Paulista, São José dos Campos, SP.

Abstract
OBJECTIVE:

The objective of this study was to compare the antimicrobial effect of mouthwashes containing Calendula officinalis L., Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze and 0.12% chlorhexidine digluconate on the adherence of microorganisms to suture materials after extraction of unerupted third molars.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

Eighteen patients with unerupted maxillary third molars indicated for extraction were selected (n=6 per mouthwash). First, the patients were subjected to extraction of the left tooth and instructed not to use any type of antiseptic solution at the site of surgery (control group). After 15 days, the right tooth was extracted and the patients were instructed to use the Calendula officinalis, Camellia sinensis or chlorhexidine mouthwash during 1 week (experimental group). For each surgery, the sutures were removed on postoperative day 7 and placed in sterile phosphate-buffered saline. Next, serial dilutions were prepared and seeded onto different culture media for the growth of the following microorganisms: blood agar for total microorganism growth; Mitis Salivarius bacitracin sucrose agar for mutans group streptococci; mannitol agar for Staphylococcus spp.; MacConkey agar for enterobacteria and Pseudomonas spp., and Sabouraud dextrose agar containing chloramphenicol for Candida spp. The plates were incubated during 24-48 h at 37ºC for microorganism count (CFU/mL).

RESULTS:

The three mouthwashes tested reduced the number of microorganisms adhered to the sutures compared to the control group. However, significant differences between the control and experimental groups were only observed for the mouthwash containing 0.12% chlorhexidine digluconate.

CONCLUSIONS:

Calendula officinalis L. and Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze presented antimicrobial activity against the adherence of microorganisms to sutures but were not as efficient as chlorhexidine digluconate.

The placebo response: an attachment strategy that counteracts the effects of stress-related dysfunction.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

Perspect Biol Med. 2011 Autumn;54(4):438-54.

Kradin R.

Source

Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA. rkradin@partners.org

Abstract

The placebo response represents an enigmatic element of therapeutics. The potency of placebo effects is highlighted by the fact that the current gold standard for determining therapeutic efficacy, the randomized controlled clinical trial, is based on identifying treatment responses that are statistically superior to those elicited by a placebo. Although much has been written concerning the phenomenology of placebos, little is known concerning how they are elicited, although recent research has demonstrated that placebo effects are mediated via objective physiological pathways. I have previously argued that the placebo response is a developmental achievement, rooted in implicit procedural memories that are linked to background affects of well-being evoked by a relational dynamic with a caregiver. This article develops this idea further, suggesting that placebo response represents a nervous-system response aimed at countering the dysphoric effects attributable to chronic stress, and that it is dependent on developmental attachment dynamics. A range of behaviors by caregivers that mimic those achieved during secure attachment are suggested to promote placebo responses.

Alternative therapies for Helicobacter pylori: probiotics and phytomedicine.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

FEMS Immunol Med Microbiol. 2011 Nov;63(2):153-64. doi: 10.1111/j.1574-695X.2011.00865.x.

Vítor JM, Vale FF.

Source

Research Institute for Medicines and Pharmaceutical Sciences (iMed.UL), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.

Abstract

Helicobacter pylori is a common human pathogen infecting about 30% of children and 60% of adults worldwide and is responsible for diseases such as gastritis, peptic ulcer and gastric cancer. Treatment against H. pylori is based on the use of antibiotics, but therapy failure can be higher than 20% and is essentially due to an increase in the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which has led to the search for alternative therapies. In this review, we discuss alternative therapies for H. pylori, mainly phytotherapy and probiotics. Probiotics are live organisms or produced substances that are orally administrated, usually in addition to conventional antibiotic therapy. They may modulate the human microbiota and promote health, prevent antibiotic side effects, stimulate the immune response and directly compete with pathogenic bacteria. Phytomedicine consists of the use of plant extracts as medicines or health-promoting agents, but in most cases the molecular mode of action of the active ingredients of these herbal extracts is unknown. Possible mechanisms include inhibition of H. pylori urease enzyme, disruption of bacterial cell membrane, and modulation of the host immune system. Other alternative therapies are also reviewed.

© 2011 Federation of European Microbiological Societies. Published by Blackwell Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.

Taking an integrated approach: managing women with phytoestrogens.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

Climacteric. 2011 Dec;14 Suppl 2:2-7.

Panay N.

Source

Queen Charlotte's & Chelsea and Chelsea & Westminster Hospitals and Honorary Senior Lecturer, Imperial College London, London, UK.

Abstract

An integrated approach can be employed when counselling women about menopausal management options, where lifestyle, complementary therapies and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are discussed. Women might opt to use an alternative approach to HRT for a variety of reasons, e.g. fear of side-effects and risks or contraindications to HRT. There are many choices of dietary and herbal approaches for menopausal symptoms, which essentially divide into food supplements and herbal medicines. The choice can often be overwhelming and confusing for the woman. Of concern, the evidence for efficacy and safety of some of these complementary therapies can be extremely limited or non-existent. In order to enable women to make a fully informed choice, it is important that, when a recommendation is made regarding a specific complementary therapy, it should focus on preparations for which a significant dataset exists for efficacy and safety and in which there is ongoing research and development. One of the most extensively studied food supplements has been the phytoestrogenic preparation containing red clover isoflavones. There have been six randomized trials thus far studying the impact on vasomotor symptoms, three of which have shown a significant benefit compared to placebo. There are also data from small randomized and observational trials showing positive outcomes for surrogate markers of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. A recent study using validated depression scales has shown that women using red clover isoflavones may also derive psychological benefits. Safety data are reassuring for the endometrium and breast, although further studies would be welcome, particularly in women with significant medical risks.

Antihyperglycemic potentials of a threatened plant, Helonias dioica: antioxidative stress responses and the signaling cascade.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

Exp Biol Med (Maywood). 2012 Jan 1;237(1):64-76. Epub 2011 Dec 14.

Chakraborty D, Samadder A, Dutta S, Khuda-Bukhsh AR.

Source

Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani 741235, India.

Abstract

Helonias dioica (HD) is a threatened species of herb growing in North America. It is used as a traditional medicine for treating various ailments particularly related to reproductive issues. The root is reported to contain approximately 10% of a saponin (chamaelirin; C(36)H(62)O(18)) apart from certain other fatty acids. As saponins are known to have hypoglycemic effects, we suspected its possible antihyperglycemic potentials. We injected intraperitoneally alloxan (ALX) at the dose of 200 mg/kg body weight (bw) to induce hyperglycemia in mice and tested possible hypoglycemic effects of HD in vivo by deploying two doses (100 and 200 mg/kg bw, respectively). We also tested its effects on the isolated pancreatic islets cells in vitro. We used various standard protocols like reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and DNA damage, activities of biomarkers like catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), lipid peroxidase (LPO), reduced glutathione (GSH) of the pancreas tissue and glucokinase and glycogen content of the liver of hyperglycemic mice. With a mechanistic approach, we also tracked down the possible signaling pathway involved. We found an elevated level of ROS generation, LPO and overexpression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), p38 Map kinase (p38 MAPK), nuclear factor (NF)-κβ, interferon gamma (IFN-γ), cytochrome c, caspase 3, poly [ADP ribose] polymerase (PARP) and cyclo oxygenase 2 (COX2) in ALX-induced diabetic mouse. Treatment of hyperglycemic mice with both the doses of HD showed a significant decrease with respect to all these parameters of study. Thus, our results suggest that HD prevents ALX-induced islet cell damage and possesses antihyperglycemic and antioxidative potentials.

Antihyperlipidaemic effects of Eugenia jambolana fruit in diet induced hyperlipidaemic rats.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

J Pak Med Assoc. 2011 May;61(5):433-7.

Bilal R, Zakaria M, Usman A, Aftab S, Zia A.

Source

Department of Pharmacology, CMH Lahore Medical College, Lahore.

Abstract
OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the antihyperlipidaemic effects of Eugenia jambolana fruit pulp in diet induced hyperlipidaemic rats and to compare them with Simvastatin.

METHODS:

An experimental randomised control study was conducted on seventy five male albino rats, divided into five groups labelled A, B, C, D and E with fifteen rats in each group. Group A was kept as normal control, groups B, C, D and E were given hyperlipidaemic diet for six weeks. In group B no further intervention was done, group C and group D were given ethanolic extract of Eugenia Jambolana and Simvastatin respectively for eight weeks. Group E was given combination of both for same duration. Serum total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides were measured at zero, six and fourteen weeks.

RESULTS:

At fourteenth week significant reductions in total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides and a rise in high density lipoprotein cholesterol was observed in interventional groups C, D and E as compared to experimental hyperlipidaemic control group B (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference at baseline (zero weeks) serum total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides of groups A, B, C, D & E; p > 0.24, p > 0.37, p > 0.89, p > 0.2, respectively. On sixth week, there was no significant difference between groups B, C, D and E (p > 0.05). However, 15 rats of group A had significant lower levels of cholesterol, high density lipoproteins, low density lipoproteins and triglycerides when compared to 60 rats of groups B, C, D and E (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

In male albino rats ethanolic extract of Eugenia Jambolana fruit pulp was as effective as simvastatin in lowering serum total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides and increasing high density lipoprotein cholesterol.

Characterization of essential oil and effects on growth of Verbena gratissima plants treated with homeopathic phosphorus.

(Extraído de PubMed.gov)

Nat Prod Commun. 2011 Oct;6(10):1499-504.

Santos FM, Monfort LE, Castro DM, Pinto JE, Leonardi M, Pistelli L.

Source

Department of Agriculture, Federal University of Lavras, P.O. Box 3037, Lavras/MG, BR 37200-000, Brazil. fulvia.maria@gmail.com

Abstract

Plant models offer a method to examine the efficacy of homeopathic solutions. Homeopathic Phosphorus (P) dynamizations were evaluated on the linear growth and dry biomass of Verbena gratissima, a plant native to Brazil. The yields and chemical characterization of the essential oil are also given. Plants exhibited phenotypic plasticity after the homeopathic Phosphorus treatments. The dynamization 9CH, in particular, interfered with plant growth, height, diameter of stems and total dry mass. 9CH treatment showed the highest yield of essential oil. The essential oil composition of V. gratissima varied according to the different dynamization used. Homeopathic Phosphorus provided the greatest amount of beta-pinene, trans-pinocarveol, trans-pinocamphone and trans-pinocarvyl acetate in comparison with controls.

jueves, 1 de marzo de 2012

Candidiasis: propuesta de tratamiento natural.

(Extraído de quieromedicinanatural.com)

Ya hemos comentado que la candidiasis es una patología con frecuencia mal diagnosticada y persistente en evitar su eliminación. Además las cándidas, cuando son destruidas, liberan una gran cantidad de toxinas que pueden saturar y alterar nuestro organismo. Es importante no sólo eliminar las cándidas sino también evitar las recidivas o reinfecciones. Así en muchas ocasiones un tratamiento contra candidiasis que tenga una acción de choque puede provocar un shock tóxico en nuestro organismo. Esto es lo que se conoce como síndrome de Herxheimer, donde los restos metabólicos y las toxinas provocadas durante el ataque a las levaduras puede provocar síntomas no deseados: malestar general, nauseas, dolor articular, depresión, alteraciones en la piel. Para paliar estos síntomas, que indican que el tratamiento antifúngico está funcionando aunque no sea de la forma menos lesiva para nuestro cuerpo, es importante facilitar la eliminación de toxinas ingiriendo muchos líquidos e infusiones o caldos depurativos. En el tratamiento de la candidiasis encontramos diversas fases que nos aseguran la eliminación de las levaduras y de sus efectos nocivos, así como una restauración de nuestras funciones vitales equilibradas:

1. Preparación de nuestro organismo para facilitar la destrucción de las levaduras y la eliminación de las toxinas que se generen cuando se destruyan las levaduras. En esta fase es fundamental el apoyo de la dieta para evitar el aporte nutriente a las levaduras y por tanto frenar su desarrollo. Es importante eliminar de la dieta los hidratos de carbono y azúcares (principal fuente de alimento para las cándidas), fruta, la leche y todos los derivados lácteos, levaduras (frescas o secas), hortalizas ricas en hidratos (patatas, boniatos, calabaza), setas y champiñones, frutos secos, harinas refinadas, productos fermentados. Podemos ayudar a nuestro organismo a facilitar la depuración mediante fitoterapia, utilizando productos drenadores hepático biliares que estimulen la desintoxicación, como es el caso de la alcachofa o el cardo mariano, que facilitan la secreción biliar hacia la luz intestinal y la regeneración hepática. Además podemos utilizar enzimas digestivas que faciliten la digestión de los alimentos y la mejor absorción de nutrientes, evitando además la sensación de pesadez que podemos encontrar en esta primera fase. Para facilitar la limpieza intestinal, tanto de restos tóxicos como de exceso de bacterias no beneficiosas, debemos asegurarnos de ingerir una cantidad suficiente de fibra en la dieta, para lo que podemos utilizar alimentos integrales, salvados, etc. Aunque en estos casos lo mejor es recurrir a preparados con fibras y fructooligosacáridos que limpien y preparen nuestro intestino. Podemos utilizar pectinas, psyllium, fibras de avena y guisante (muy indicada para intestinos más sensibles), pero nunca se deben utilizar laxantes o purgantes más drásticos (sen, cáscara sagrada, salvado de trigo). Fundamental ingerir liquido abundantes, y si además conseguimos que sea un líquido alcalino que evite la acidificación de nuestro organismo, como es el caso del agua de coral, evitaremos la acidosis tan promotora de estados patológicos. Esta fase puede durar entre 2 y 4 semanas.

2. Eliminación de las cándidas: una vez que nuestro organismo está preparado para liberarse de las tóxinas liberadas en el tratamiento podemos comenzar con el ataque a las levaduras. La fitoterapia nos presenta algunas alternativas antifúngicas que pueden ser muy útiles en el tratamiento de la cándida. Encontramos entre otros: aceite de ajo, extracto de semilla de pomelo, pau d’Arco, aceite de orégano, tomillo, etc. Además encontramos otros principios activos como vitaminas y minerales que mejoran la actividad antifúngica de estos fitoterápicos: ácido caprílico, zinc, vitamina C, vitmaina B6, betacarotenos. Los mejores resultados se obtienen al combinar y alternar los antifúngicos. Debemos también, en los casos que tengamos respuestas de nuestro organismo a los excesos de toxinas liberadas por la destrucción de la levadura, que facilitar la desintoxicación, para lo que podemos utilizar chlorella o molibdeno, junto con la ingesta de abundante líquido para facilitar el drenaje de las toxinas. Esta fase puede durar de 3 a 9 semanas, siendo siempre mejor pasarnos de precavidos, que no destruir todas las cándidas.

3. Reequilibrio del sistema: una vez que hemos eliminado tanto las levaduras como sus restos necesitamos devolver a nuestro organismo su estado ideal. Para ello podemos utilizar sustancias como los probióticos, que se encargan de repoblar nuestro sistema digestivo y nos otorgan una gran barrera defensiva, los ácidos grasos esenciales omega 3, que evitan la acción de sustancias proinflamatorias y favorecen la circulación de nutrientes por el torrente sanguíneo, mejorando además la permeabilidad de las membranas celulares¸ y por la pérdida de nutrientes de las fases anteriores es necesario un complejo multivitamínico y multimineral. En el caso de las candidiasis vaginales es importante además repoblar la flora vaginal beneficiosa para lo que podemos utilizar óvulos y comprimidos vaginales a base de probióticos. Si existen muchas molestias en la zona como picor e irritación es muy útil emplear lavados con agua con bicarbonato, y utilizar tres gotas de aceite esencial de árbol del té. Esta fase dura entre 4 y 6 semanas.

4. Reparación de los daños causados: estos procesos patológicos provocan gran cantidad de daños que necesitamos reparar, como es el caso de la mucosa intestinal, que podemos restructurar con vitamina A, incluso mejora alteraciones dermatológicas, ácidos grasos esenciales, omega 3 y 6, e incluso el omega 7 si los daños dermatológicos son más marcados. Para esta etapa, según los daños provocados por la candidiasis, podemos emplearla unas 4 semanas. Además de los principios activos dirigidos sobre nuestro organismo y su respuesta a la infección, o hacia el agente patógeno podemos seguir una serie de recomendaciones que nos faciliten el tratamiento y evite la recidiva:

• Dieta antifúngica: debemos seguir una dieta que evite aportar los nutrientes a las levaduras, y una vez superada la enfermedad, incorporar de forma paulatina y con seguimiento alimentos como frutas y verduras, para controlar que su ingesta no nos provoca reinfecciones.

Ejercicio diario: mantiene nuestro sistema inmune alerta para evitar las infecciones.

Higiene íntima adecuada: no es recomendable el uso de compresas y tampones de materiales sintéticos. Como tampoco lo es utilizar jabones, jabones íntimos, geles, toallitas higiénicas, en el lavado de los genitales. Siempre es mejor utilizar agua hervida con bicarbonato, que además de regular el pH vaginal, sirve como higienizante.

Cómo aliviar el cólico nefrítico con la homeopatía

(Extraído de guiadelahomeopatia.com)

El cólico nefrítico es causado por un cálculo situado en los riñones o en el canal urinario que interfiere con la evacuación de la orina. Para curar eficazmente y reforzar el organismo de la persona afectada conviene recurrir a la homeopatía.

Los cólicos nefríticos son dolores que se experimentan a nivel de los riñones a raíz de la formación de un cálculo en los canales urinarios. Como la función de los riñones es filtrar los residuos orgánicos en la orina, puede suceder que estas sustancias indeseables formen una piedra de cristales compuesta de calcio, sodio y/o de potasio que bloqueará los canales conductores de la orina. Los cólicos nefríticos pueden sin embargo tratarse con homeopatía, como medida de emergencia o a largo plazo para evitar que se forman nuevas piedras luego de una evacuación por micción.

Los síntomas del cólico nefrítico

Se reconoce un cólico nefrítico por el dolor de espalda que provoca, que además es tan repentino que el enfermo no tiene tiempo de reaccionar en consecuencia. Este dolor se debe a la presión de la orina ejercida sobre el riñón, que intenta evacuarla hacia el exterior. Puede suceder que las piedras se formen en el espacio de algunas horas, pero también pueden desarrollarse lentamente y no causar dolores tan fuertes como cuando son bastante grandes.

Una orina teñida de sangre y dificultad al orinar son otros signos precursores de la presencia de un cálculo renal, y por lo tanto de un cólico  nefrítico. Si el cálculo ya está presente, el cólico nefrítico aparecerá inevitablemente si la persona da un paseo en caballo o en motocicleta, ya que ello favorece la penetración de la piedra en las vías urinarias. Una aflicción muy dolorosa se propagará entonces en el aparato reproductor hasta la parte superior de los muslos y puede ocurrir en algunos casos que el paciente no logre ni caminar.

Prevención del cólico nefrítico con homeopatía

Si el paciente sabe que su organismo es un medio favorable a la formación de una piedra, puede tratarse con homeopatía con el fin de prevenir los cólicos nefríticos. Los medicamentos homeopáticos para aliviar los cólicos nefríticos no son eficaces en el momento del dolor, pero si resultan de una gran eficacia si se toman como tratamiento de terreno.

Para luchar contra los cálculos compuestos principalmente por fosfatos y oxalatos, debidos a la acumulación de sustancias oxálicas, es aconsejable tomar Oxalicum Acidum 5 CH por la mañana, a razón de 3 gránulos 3 veces al día.

Si el paciente tiene dificultades para orinar o si se siente una irritación dolorosa a nivel de su aparato urinario durante la micción, será conveniente administrarle Sarsaparilla 5 CH. El tratamiento debe consistir en tres gránulos, tres veces al día.

Berberis Vulgaris, por su parte, está indicado en el caso de cólicos nefríticos crónicos que se caractericen por micciones de cantidad sumamente irregular. El enfermo siente también dolor en la espalda, que alcanzan la vejiga y la uretra. Para remediarlo, es necesario administrar Berberis Vulgaris 3 veces al día, a razón de tres gránulos por dosis.

Algunas personas enfermas de cálculos renales presentan a veces una tasa de albúmina elevada en la orina. La mayoría del tiempo se trata de pacientes con artritis y ácido úrico, y se les recomienda adoptarFormica Rufa 5 CH tres veces al día, a razón de 3 gránulos por toma.

Para anticipar los cólicos nefríticos y los espasmos de las vías urinarias es posible mezclar Belladonna, Lycopodium, Berberis Vulgaris y Pareira brava, todos en una dilución de 5CH, preferentemente en una botella de agua desmineralizada.

Tratamiento homeopático del cólico nefrítico

Una vez que las piedras hayan sido evacuadas a través de la micción, el paciente puede seguir un tratamiento homeopático para impedir que otras litiasis se formen. Estos remedios homeopáticos deben ser tomados fuera de las crisis de dolor en una dilución de 200 K. La dosis será de 5 gránulos cada día.

Los pacientes que presenten un terreno favorable para la formación de cálculos de ácido úrico estarán mejor inmunizados con un tratamiento a largo plazo a base de Collubrina, Calcarea Carbonica y Lycopodium. En caso de cálculo fosfático, Calcarea phosphoricum o Phosphoricum acidum son los medicamentos homeopáticos mejor adaptados.

Cuándo consultar a un médico

En caso de trastornos de la micción o en presencia de una orina nauseabunda o sanguinolenta, hay que consultar a un médico sin demora. Tras los análisis, se podrá prescribir el tratamiento homeopático convienente, en asociación o no con la medicina. Si a pesar de los tratamientos de fondo y los remedios para después de las crisis, los cólicos nefríticos persisten, la consulta médica es obligatoria.

Tratamientos y patologías asociados al cólico nefrítico

Tratamientos asociados‎

  • Belladonna
  • Berberis Vulgaris
  • Calcarea Carbonica
  • Collubrina
  • Formica Rufa
  • Lycopodium
  • Oxalicum Acidum
  • Pareira Brava
  • Phosphoricum Acidum
  • Sarsaparilla

Importante El cólico nefrítico puede ser tratado y anticipado a través de medicamentos homeopáticos.  Para evitar la reaparición de un cálculo de ácido oxálico, el enfermo puede tomar Oxalicum Acidum. Sin embargo, conviene respetar las dosis para que los remedios sean efectivos.