Category Archives: Alternative Medicine

Patients Suffering From Neuroblastoma May Benefit From Bridge Therapy

Written by Kinkini Gupta | Updated : June 9, 2022 12:31 PM IST

Neuroblastoma, a pediatric cancer that arises from immature nerve cells has a very high risk of recurrence among approximately half of the children who are already suffering from cancer. With ever-advancing medicine and technology, researchers however have discovered a new therapy called the 'bridge therapy.' A study conducted and published the journal Cancer states that patients suffering from neuroblastoma may benefit from this therapy between induction and consolidation treatments. Neuroblastoma can often be cured by surgical removal of tumors followed by chemotherapy. These patients often receive induction therapy composed of various drugs used to carry out chemotherapy and surgery. This is followed by consolidation therapy, which involves a high-dose chemotherapy and stem cell transplants. Unfortunately, these treatments, which are currently in use, have not been successful in many children.

This newly discovered therapy will include immunotherapy drugs that have demonstrated anti-neuroblastoma activity in combination with chemotherapy, radiolabeled MBIG or combinations of chemotherapeutic agents. Research suggests that this therapy could offer some benefit to cancer patients. To examine the effectiveness of this therapy, a study including the data from 201 patients diagnosed with neuroblastoma at various hospitals from 2008-2018 were taken into consideration. Some patients were treated in three groups with different approaches based on physician, institutional or family preferences. The three steps were:

This study was especially done to find out if patients are responding well to bridge therapy prior to consolidation with stem cell transplant. They found out that the following results with patients who directly underwent consolidation:

Response to induction therapy is known to increase survival rate, and the study suggests that bridge therapy prior to consolidation therapy benefits patients with high-risk neuroblastoma with a poor response to induction. Also, response to bridge therapy prior to consolidation therapy is associated with outcome, and patients with less than a partial response may benefit from alternative treatment approaches. An accompanying editorial discusses the findings and agrees that future studies of bridge therapy for patients who do not experience a favorable response following standard induction therapy are needed.

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Bridge Therapy For Neuroblastoma: A Game-Changing Paediatric Cancer Treatment | TheHealthSite.com - TheHealthSite

Diabetic neuropathy, also referred to as peripheral neuropathy, is a condition that encompasses a wide range of clinical pathologies stemming from peripheral nervous system dysfunction in diabetic patients [1]. The most prevalent presenting symptoms include numbness, tingling, and burning in the extremities, with estimates suggesting a prevalence ranging between 6% and 51% among adult patients with diabetes [2]. Although the exact cause of diabetic peripheral neuropathy is not known, several studies have proposed underlying pathophysiologies, including metabolic, neurovascular, and autoimmune mechanisms. The most widely accepted theory is the induction of oxidative stress in the mitochondria caused by hyperglycemia, which results in hyperglycemic damage. This, in turn, causes damage to the endothelial and neuronal cells, compromising oxygen and nutrient supply to the nerves [3].

Neuropathic pain is a challenge to treat, with most standard analgesics not providing sufficient pain alleviation. The management of diabetic neuropathy, therefore, is divided into four pillars and primarily focuses on addressing underlying risk factors for diabetic neuropathy: (a) pathogenetically orientated therapy, (b) symptomatic therapy, (c) near-normoglycemia, and (d) avoidance of risk factors [4], with near-normoglycemia being the primary aim of treatment. The medication route of treatment mainly incorporates antidepressants, antiepileptics, and opioids, with the first-line therapies being tricyclic antidepressants, serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors, and anticonvulsants that target calcium channels. Topical agents, including capsaicin and lidocaine, may also be considered [5]. More recently, antioxidants, including flavonoids and alpha-lipoic acid (-lipoic acid) have been proposed as effective interventions in treating diabetic neuropathy [6].

Given the growing body of evidence concerning the role of -lipoic acid in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy, this systematic review aims to evaluate the current literature and make recommendations for further research. The focus is on symptom reduction and the incidence of adverse events following administration of -lipoic acid in this population.

Study Design

The primary objective of this systematic review is to assess the effect of -lipoic acid in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. Several secondary objectives are also evaluated, including the incidence of adverse effects following -lipoic acid administration.

Search Strategy

This systematic review was carried out in line with the latest Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines [7], adhering to the 27-point framework of recommended steps [8]. The literature databases PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched on March 3, 2022, to extract a list of relevant literature for this review. The search terms (alpha-lipoic acid) AND (diabetic neuropathy) AND (treatment) were used, alongside their relevant synonyms. Table 1 presents the search terms used in the search strategy, as identified by the Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome (PICO) framework (Table 1).

For study selection, the following inclusion criteria set the parameters for eligibility: (1) a study population composed of diabetes mellitus patients with neuropathic pain, (2) randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating -lipoic acid, (3) and an appropriate comparison was made in the study. Studies were excluded if they were published in a non-English language. Studies were independently identified to be included in the review by a thorough evaluation of the titles and abstracts of the results from the database searches. The final decision to include a study, however, was based on an assessment of the articles full text. The reference list of the included literature was also reviewed to discover any additional eligible trials for review. Unpublished studies, gray literature, and conference proceedings were excluded (Table 2).

Data Extraction

A data extraction form was formulated in line with the PRISMA recommendations [7]. This permitted the extraction of all relevant data from the literature included in this review. This included author(s), year of publication, patient population, intervention, comparison, study period, outcome measures, results, and any conclusions deduced based on the evidence provided regarding the administration of -lipoic acid among diabetic patients with symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.

Quality Assessment

The authors independently evaluated the quality of each trial using the evaluation form for RCTs developed by the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) (http://casp-uk.net). The level of evidence and recommendation for use grades were deduced in line with the Oxford Centre of Evidence-Based Medicine version 2009 (http://cebm.net). The quality of evidence was downgraded if there was a strong risk of bias, imprecision in data collection methods, inconsistency in the findings, indirectness, or publication bias [9].

Identification of the Literature

Incorporation of the search strategy resulted in 759 studies deemed relevant to the objectives of this systematic review, of which eight articles met the inclusion criteria for eligibility. Figure 1 summarizes the flow of literature at each stage of the screening process, with a total of 68 full-text articles being assessed for eligibility once duplicate studies were removed and the citations were screened against the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Data Extraction

Eight studies comprising 1,500 diabetic patients were evaluated in this systematic review. All studies followed an RCT design. An overview of the data extraction process is presented in the Appendices.

Population

The populations included in the RCTs had diabetes mellitus. Four studies (50%) exclusively investigated the implications of -lipoic acid on type 2 diabetic patients with neuropathic pain, one trial (12.5%) solely included type 1 diabetic patients, and three trials (37.5%) included both type 1 and 2 diabetic patients.

Intervention and Comparison

All trials investigated symptom reduction in diabetic patients with neuropathic pain following the prescription of -lipoic acid; however, the dosage and method of administration varied between studies. Four trials (50%) administered the intervention intravenously (IV), three trials (37.5%) administered the intervention orally, and one trial (12.5%) adopted a combination of both administration methods. The dosages of -lipoic acid administered ranged from 600 to 1,800 mg/day. The most prevalent dosage administered was 600 mg/day, with this approach being adopted in five trials (62.5%). Two trials (25%) had more than one intervention group, with each division receiving a different dose of -lipoic acid, varying from 100 to 1,200 mg/day. All trials used an inert placebo as the comparison.

Outcome

The findings observed were inconsistent with each other concerning the effectiveness of -lipoic acid in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. Three trials (37.5%) observed a significant improvement in symptoms, including a reduction in the total symptom score (TSS), a reduction in the symptoms of autonomic neuropathy, and improvements in measures of nerve conduction. The remaining five trials (62.5%), in contrast, did not observe any notable results when compared to the baseline or the control group. Moreover, the lack of consistent data collection methods prevented a thorough comparison of the reported outcomes. All studies found -lipoic acid to be a safe and tolerable intervention, with no reported adverse effects.

Risk of Bias

The Oxford Centre of Evidence-Based Medicine risk of bias assessment is presented in Table 3, with all trials presenting high-quality evidence and moderate recommendations for use given the nature of their design. The CASP tool did not identify any areas for concern, with a low risk of bias being observed across all included studies. This represents the overall strength of this systematic review and its findings.

This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of -lipoic acid in the treatment of neuropathic pain in diabetic patients. We observed that the administration of -lipoic acid offers an alternative intervention for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy and is a safe and tolerable approach. However, significant findings were only observed in three trials included in this review, with the remaining literature failing to present any notable evidence. Hence, further trials are warranted to corroborate or contradict the hypothesis that -lipoic acid is an effective intervention for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy.

A review by Vallianou et al. proposed that -lipoic acid achieves its symptom alleviation by delaying or reversing peripheral diabetic neuropathy using its antioxidant properties. In particular, -lipoic acid increases glutathione, an endogenous antioxidant involved in antioxidant defense, nutrient metabolism, and the regulation of cellular events [18,19]. Moreover, the literature highlights that glutathione deficiency contributes to oxidative stress, which plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy [20]. However, the literature does suggest that the effect of -lipoic acid is greater when used with conventional treatment. A trial by Karalis et al. investigating the effect of -lipoic acid as a combination treatment on diabetic peripheral neuropathy in 148 type 2 diabetics provided evidence in this respect. The peripheral neuropathy development score significantly decreased among all participants following the administration of a combination of treatments, including -lipoic acid at 600 mg/day, gliclazide, sodium-glucose-linked transporter 2 inhibitors, metformin, and glucagon-like peptide 1 analogs. Treatment was monitored over eight months. Collectively, these findings highlight the beneficial impact of -lipoic acid when used as part of a combination regime in patients with type 2 diabetes experiencing neuropathic pain [21].

Han et al. conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs that investigated nerve conduction in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy. The findings of this review supported and corroborated the evidence presented in our review, observing significant improvements in only a handful of the included studies. Moreover, this review also reported on the lack of consistent methodologies and poor methodological quality, which resulted in weak evidence being presented [22].

Despite the strengths of this review, such as only including RCTs, there were several limitations that must be considered. First, we exclusively investigated the implications of -lipoic acid as a standalone treatment for diabetic neuropathy, excluding any trial that incorporated this intervention as a combination treatment. This may provide a rationale for the limited evidence observed concerning the sole beneficial effect of -lipoic acid on neuropathic pain. Previous trials, such as that of Wang et al., found significant improvements in diabetic peripheral neuropathy symptoms when -lipoic acid was combined with epalrestat [23]. Future reviews should consider this limitation and compare the patient outcomes of -lipoic acid alone and in combination with current treatments for diabetic neuropathy. Second, the lack of consistent data collection methods across the included trials negated a meta-analysis from being conducted; hence, we were unable to quantitively evaluate the effect of -lipoic acid on the occurrence of diabetic neuropathy.

Based on the majority of evidence from this systematic review, we conclude that the use of-lipoic acid alone provides no significant improvement in the treatment of neuropathic pain among diabetic patients. However, it is considered a safe and tolerable treatment option that may result in some neuropathic symptomatic reduction. Further future trials could incorporate this intervention as a combination with current treatments for diabetic neuropathy considering its notable efficacy and good safety profile.

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Effect of Alpha-Lipoic Acid in the Treatment of Diabetic Neuropathy: A Systematic Review - Cureus

The largest event in the UK to focus on the benefits of a healthcare system that combines conventional medical treatment with integrative complementary methods attracts world-renowned speakers and doctors, therapists and complementary health practitioners from around the globe.

London is to host the inaugural Integrative and Personalised Medicine (IPM) 2022 congress, the largest event in the UK focusing on the benefits of a patient-centred approach to healthcare that combines conventional treatment with integrative, functional, lifestyle, holistic and complementary methods, resulting in better patient outcomes.

Taking place in-person at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre, London, from 16th to 18th June 2022, the IPM congress features an impressive line-up of speakers including BBC presenter and author, Dr Rangan Chatterjee; scientist and author, Prof Tim Spector; and neurologist Dr David Perlmutter, recognised as one of the USAs most influential physicians.

The three-day event combines a world-class international exhibition and three conferences: the already established College of Medicines Food on Prescription conference, a new Whole-Person Health conference and an Integrative Mental Health conference. It brings together medical and health practitioners from a variety of different fields to encourage the building of a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare where all practitioners involved work together as a team.

IPM 2022 congress Chair and Chair of the College of Medicine, Dr Michael Dixon believes that, post Covid, there is a growing recognition that we need to look at a new way of approaching healthcare. He states:

Medicine, as we know it, is no longer affordable or sustainable, nor is it able to curb the increase in obesity, mental health problems, and most long-term diseases. It is now time for Integrative Care to take centre stage. Combining the best of our current medicine with an approach that enhances our natural abilities to self-heal and stay healthy using lifestyle and a wider range of therapies.

It enables us to reconnect with ourselves, our patients and within our communities, and to recognise the potential of our social and physical environment to heal and enable us to live healthier and happier lives. This conference is a clarion call for Integrative and Personalised Medicine, and marks the dawn of a new era of Post Modern Medicine.

Research evidence into the health benefits of integrating different types of medical, lifestyle, holistic and complementary interventions is growing. In September 2021, the UK Government published a report on the findings of Former Chief Pharmaceutical Officer for England, Dr Keith Ridge, on over-prescribing in England. The report found that 10 percent of prescription items dispensed through primary care are either inappropriate for patients needs or that they could be better served with alternative treatments. As a consequence the College of Medicine launched its Beyond Pills initiative to reduce unnecessary drug prescribing, expand social prescribing, benefit patients' health, support patient empowerment and save money. It also benefits medical professionals, many of whom may have entered medicine to help patients recover but often find themselves in a position of symptom management that is dependent upon the culture of pills. An integrative and personalised approach to medicine provides them with additional treatment options to help their patients. The campaign will be explored in more detail during a panel discussion on day one of the conference.

Another key session of the IPMs Whole-Person Health Conference on day one, focuses on ways to enable our doctors and nurses to flourish. The Whole-Person Health Conference will be chaired by Dr Elizabeth Thomson, CEO of the National Centre for Integrative Medicine, and this session includes some of the leading names in integrative, personalised, functional and holistic medicine, such as Prof Dame Clare Gerada, President of the Royal College of General Practitioners, Dame Donna Kinnair, previous Director General of the Royal College of Nursing and Vice Chair of the College of Medicine, Dr Susanna Petche, Functional Medicine Doctor and GP, and Dr Ally Jaffee, NHS Junior Dr, Co-founder Nutritank, NHS Clinical Entrepreneur & 2021 Diana Award recipient. Together they will leave Prof Dame Gerada and Dame Kinnair will lead a discussion on keeping medical professionals themselves healthy to enable them to provide quality healthcare to others. Traditionally, the medical field has faced a culture where sacrifice is prioritised over self-care, leading to severe risk of burnout, but an integrative and personalised approach to medicine, with an emphasis on self-care and wellbeing, can also support the practitioners themselves.

During the Integrative Mental Health Conference on day two, the evidence and impact of integrative medicine on mental health is explored. The event will highlight the benefits of this growing approach to mental illness management that combines nutrition, social prescribing, psychotherapy, cannabinoids, psychedelics and a range of evidence-based complementary therapies to help address the worlds growing mental health crisis.

The Food on Prescription Conference takes place on day three of the congress, marking the fourth year for the College of Medicine's annual one-day conference. It is the leading UK event on food, lifestyle and medicine, and is a must attend for all healthcare professionals, who want to know how to create a healthier future for patients and the wider community.

The incredible line-up of speakers over the three days draws on experts from the conventional and integrative fields of healthcare from around the world. In addition to the aforementioned speakers, the event welcomes Dr Dean Ornish, Doctor, Author, Researcher and Advisor and Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco; Prof Robert Thomas, consultant Oncologist at Addenbrookes and Bedford Hospital; Dr William Li, world-renowned physician, scientist and author of EAT TO BEAT DISEASE The New Science of How Your Body Can Heal Itself and Dr Aseem Malhotra, Consultant Cardiologist, best-selling author & Chair, Public Health Collaboration. The event also includes free exhibitions and workshops.

The tide change towards a more holistic approach to restoring and maintaining health is growing, particularly among younger doctors and newly trained GPs, according to Dr Dixon:

"They have a new attitude towards healthcare. They are not interested in whether something is viewed as conventional, complementary, functional or lifestyle, they are just looking at what works for their patients. Through this conference, we aim to capture that sense of hope, open-mindedness, and patient-centred care. By sharing clinical experience, knowledge and ideas, we will see the start of a new revolution that strips away the labels and focuses on whole-person, patient centred care. This congress will bring together some of the best talents, so we can pool our knowledge and resources and leave re-invigorated and inspired.

For further information and to register, visit: http://www.ipmcongress.com

The full line up of speakers can be found at http://www.ipmcongress.com/conference/speakers

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World-renowned Health Experts to gather in London at Integrative and Personalised Medicine 2022 Congress - Pressat

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OB/GYN Allison Walsh is founder of Women's Lifestyle Solutions

St. Louis doctor Allison Walsh believes there's truth behind that adage.

"I think women in traditional medicine are often second-class citizens," says Walsh, an OB/GYN and the founder of Women's Lifestyle Solutions, a practice focused on women's health and wellness that combines plant-based solutions with conventional medicine. "The medical cannabis space ... is providing avenues for a more female-centric growth and approach."

Walsh says that medical cannabis can be an effective and low-side-effect, alternative pain-management treatment for conditions that impact women, such as endometriosis, perimenopause, decreased sexual desire and pain with intercourse. That's why she incorporates its use in her practice, which employs a holistic approach to health, with a focus on weight management and hormone balancing as well as conditions that can be treated with cannabis.

Medical-cannabis research is still in its early stages, Walsh says. But the theory is that its use taps into the body's endocannabinoid system and the CB1 and CB2 receptors that exist in the visceral organs, such as the reproductive system, and which respond to naturally produced cannabinoids as well as those made by the cannabis plant.

"When you have a relative deficiency of cannabinoids, replacing that with phytocannabinoids, like CBD and THC, might restore our cannabinoid balance and improve health and sexual function and might also provide pain control for conditions like endometriosis," Walsh says of the theory.

The key, she says, is that the medical use of cannabis is relatively safe compared to conventional medicines, making experimentation possible.

She points to the example of a woman experiencing pelvic pain and cramping because of endometriosis. The normal course of treatment involves medicines with mind-altering effects beyond that of cannabis. There are also localized treatments, such as vaginal suppositories, that patients can try.

"In patients who cannot use those other traditional pharmaceuticals for one reason or another, or patients who choose not to use those traditional pharmaceuticals for one reason or another, medical cannabis offers a potentially life-altering alternative in terms of pain management with minimal side effects," she says.

Treatment plans with medical cannabis need to be fine-tuned to each patient's needs, Walsh says, and St. Louis residents shouldn't think that they can get the same results without a physician and a certified medical dispensary, which offers dosage guidance and consistent access to products.

Walsh came to practice in the medical-cannabis space in 2019. Working in a private practice, she had begun to spend an increasing amount of her time focusing on weight loss and hormone balancing. As she was confronted with more patients with these conditions, she began to see early literature about the effectiveness of medical cannabis.

Simultaneously, Missouri had recently legalized medical cannabis, and it was starting to become more available.

"There was a lot more being written about it, a lot more discussion around it than there had been previously," Walsh says. "I think it was sort of in front of me at an opportune time."

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St. Louis OB/GYN Employs Cannabis as Alternative to Conventional Medicine - Riverfront Times

By Dr Sandeep Vohra

What exactly are panic attacks?

A panic attack occurs because of sudden, brief feelings of fear and strong physical reactions in response to ordinary, non-threatening situations. These can include a racing heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, trembling and muscle tension. Panic attacks occur frequently and unexpectedly and are often not related to any external threat. They also occur in people with other psychiatric disorders (such as depression). Some panic attacks occur in response to a specific situation.

Who is susceptible to panic attacks?

The age of onset for panic attacks is frequently observed between late adolescence and early adulthood. Even though panic attacks typically develop between the ages of 18 and 35 years, it is still possible to occur any time throughout the lifespan.

Panic attacks are nearly two times more common in women than in men. Women are also more likely to have it with agoraphobia. It is most likely to appear in those 20-29 years old. But, it can start as early as the teen years or as late as 30 to 40 years old.

What are the triggers?

Panic attacks are often a very frightening experience. They are not life-threatening. However, they can damage ones quality of life and cause excessive stress. Panic attacks can have many triggers, including:

*Life stressors

*A traumatic situation

*Dramatic life changes

*Caffeine

*Alcohol

When should one seek medical attention in a panic attack?

Panic attacks typically begin suddenly, without warning. The fear of having another panic attack can interfere with the normal functioning of life. It may cause the person to avoid events or places, and /or isolate from people. They can strike at any timewhen driving a car, while asleep or in the middle of a business meeting. Panic attacks have many variations, but symptoms usually peak within minutes. It can cause rapid pounding heart rate, sweating, shortness of breath or tightness in the throat, hot flashes, nausea, dizziness, etc. It can be so severe that the patient feels as if he/she is going to die leading to immediate rushing to nearest hospital though many people who have panic attacks dont seek medical care because of embarrassment. They fear seeking medical attention or fear taking medicine. However, it is very important to seek medical care and discuss your problem with the doctor. After being evaluated, the doctor /psychiatrist will be able to tell the cause of panic attacks.

What lifestyle changes benefit such patients?

Making lifestyle changes will help to control problems that can lead to panic attacks.

A) Make habits healthy

It is important to avoid

*Caffeine, which is found in coffee, tea, chocolate and soft drinks and more

*Limit the consumption of alcohol to minimum possible or no alcohol at all

*Quit smoking

*Avoid consuming certain prescription medicines which may cause panic

B) Get plenty of rest: Sleep is important for maintaining overall health. A good nights sleep can decrease the stress levels and minimise the chance of panic attack.

D) Get regular exercise: Exercise has many benefits. A regular routine will help to reduce stress and manage panic attacks

Are alternative therapies beneficial?

In complementary or alternative treatments to psychotherapy and/or medication your doctor psychiatrist may prescribe several natural methods and herbal remedies for panic attacks.

Exercising regularly and practice relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga to relieve anxiety panic disorder. The routine should include cardiovascular exercise, which burns lactic acid, produces mood-enhancing chemicals called endorphins, and causes the body to use oxygen more efficiently. Controlled breathing techniques can also help ease a panic attack.

(Dr Sandeep Vohra is a senior consultant, mental health and psychiatry, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi)

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Check the panic: All you need to know about panic attacks - The Financial Express

The human virome is made up of an estimated 380 trillion viruses, some of which harm the body and others that may benefit the body by coexisting within it. As much as half the stuff in your body, such as viruses and bacteria, may not be your own biological matter. From birth, viral infections serve an important part in human disease and survival.

A 2006 workshop at the National Institutes of Health analyzed the impact of globalization on infectious disease emergence. It notes that plague epidemics in colonial African cities were closely tied to the advent of the steamship and increased travel and trade. Similarly, we live in a fast-paced technological age with a high population density with shifting commodities, food and capital moving across political borders. Pathogens can easily hitch global rides, as evidenced by the spread of the coronavirus.

Can our immune systems keep up with the speed with which we live our lives? Recent viral outbreaks following the advent of globalization and modern travel also means that we must shift our attention to newer ways of safeguarding public health. Sometimes, that means returning to older ways. Here are six impressive herbs with antiviral activity to include in your diet and home remedies.

Sage is a part of the mint family and often used in traditional medicine to treat viral infections. A 2014 review published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine discusses the therapeutic potential of the sage species which may provide natural solutions for the relief or cure of life-threatening diseases like dementia, lupus, heart disease and cancer. Sage also can be used to treat common illnesses.

Aqueous extracts from sage, peppermint and lemon balm present significant anti-HIV-1 activity by raising the virion density, according to 2008 findings published in Springer Natures Retrovirology. HIV-1 was severely impaired once treated with Lamiaceae extracts (from the mint plant family).

The antiviral activity of sage is linked with safficinolide and sage one which are found in the stem and leaves of the plant, according to a 2017 analysis of the pharmacological properties of sage. These findings were published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine.

Oregano is also a plant with antiviral properties, thanks to the chemical compound carvacrol that belongs to the mint family. Both oregano oil and carvacrol decreased the activity of murine norovirus (MNV) within 15 minutes of exposure to the virus. MNV is extremely contagious and a main cause of stomach flu. These results were published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology in 2014.

Oregano oil and carvacrol also reveal antiviral activity when it comes to the herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and rotavirus. The findings were published in the Brazilian Journal of Microbiology in 2011.

Fennel is a member of the carrot family that tastes like licorice. Studies show it demonstrates antiviral activity against certain viruses.

A 2014 test-tube study revealed that fennel extract presents potent antiviral activity against parainfluenza type 3 (PI-3) and herpes viruses. PI-3 contributes to respiratory infections in cattle. The findings were published in Biomedical Research International.

Fennel essential oil contains the chemical constituent trans-anethole, which also presents antiviral effects against herpes, according to an article published in Evidenced-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2011.

The Korean Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology reports animal research conducted in 2015 demonstrates the potential of fennel to decrease inflammation and boost the immune system, thereby fighting off viral infections.

Garlic is a member of the Allium family and related to shallots, chives, leeks and onions. Its a popular remedy for many conditions, such as viral infections.

An older study published in the International Journal of Dermatology analyzed the efficacy of garlic extract applied to warts caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) twice daily. All 23 participants found that their warts were eliminated in just one to two weeks.

A review on the therapeutic effects of garlic conducted in 2014 suggests that garlic presents antiviral activity against viral pneumonia, influenza A and B, HIV, HSV-1 and rhinovirus. The results were published in Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine.

Garlic also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that stimulate an immune system response which could protect the body against viral infections, according to findings published in the Journal of Immunology Research. However, these results were based on animal and test-tube studies, not human trials.

Lemon balm is a part of the mint family known for its lemony zest and taste. Its commonly usedin dressings, seasonings and teas. It also contains potent medicinal qualities, including plant compounds that benefit the body through antiviral activity. These compounds have shown efficacy against the influenza A virus, according to 2016 findings published in Virusdisease.

Additionally, test-tube studies have revealed the antiviral activity of lemon balm against herpes, HIV-1, enterovirus 71 and bird flu. These results were published in the Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry in 2021.

Particular varieties of basil, especially holy and sweet basil, could effectively combat viral infections.

Holy basil is also commonly known as tulsi and may improve immune response to viral infections, inhibiting the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 Spike S1 and ACE2. The compound eugenol is responsible for augmenting the immune system in this study, according to findings published in the 2021 Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology.

Sweet basil extracts, that include the compounds ursolic acid and apigenin, have been shown to exhibit powerful antiviral effects against hepatitis B, herpes and enterovirus. These results were reported in an older comparative study published in Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology & Physiology.

A clinical four-week study found that those who supplemented with 300 milligrams of tulsi extract experienced raised levels of natural killer and helper T cells. These are immune cells that defend the body against viral infections. The systematic review was published in 2017 in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Much progress has been made in drug development and immunization, but antiviral therapies that match the pace of human evolution are lacking in our fast-paced global society. The discovery and development of novel antiviral drugs, especially from natural herbal sources, is a vital next step in pharmacology.

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6 Herbs With Impressive Antiviral Activity - EcoWatch

I have a routine for when I get home from work:

Crack each toe, then my ankles, both knees, pelvic bone (a particularly good one), twist-crack my lower back, both shoulders, my wrists, then each and every joint in my hands. As you might imagine, some people find this unbearable to be around, while others squeal with jealousy, craving the same satisfaction.

The latter group is larger than you might think: up to 54 percent of people are thought to regularly crack their fingers. The noise itself is caused by a process called cavitation within the joint, which is where gas bubbles form in the viscous, synovial fluid between the bones. Pulling the joint apart, as you do when you hyperflex a joint to make it crack, causes a decrease in the pressure in the synovial fluid, triggering any gases dissolved in the fluid to come out of the solution and coalesce into a bubble, or cavity. This bubble formation is what makes the cracking noise.

Does cracking your joints actually cause long-term damage?Shutterstock

The tale is as old as time: cracking your joints is BAD FOR YOU! Growing up, my parents would tell me off for constantly cracking all my bones, saying that it would give me arthritis. Of course, I carried on cracking away, because my short-term satisfaction will always outweigh long-term health issues. But does cracking your joints actually cause long-term damage?

According to Dr. Kira Capozzolo, a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic and health expert, no it doesnt.

Cracking joints is not bad for you unless done in a harmful way, Capozzolo tells Inverse. Cracking knuckles is rarely harmful, but on occasion, even a knuckle crack can be done wrong and lead to pain and inflammation and maybe even need a correction. Any links between joint cracking and conditions like arthritis are old wives' tales. There were some very basic studies done years ago, but they were not well done and have been generally disproven since.

At the very least, cracking doesnt lead to arthritis.Shutterstock

In fact, one study actually found an increased thickness of cartilage in the hand knuckle joints of those who cracked their knuckles, compared with those that did not crack their knuckles. Arthritis and other joint conditions are generally associated with the deterioration of cartilage, which is what causes pain in the joints, so these results suggest that at the very least, cracking doesnt lead to arthritis.

This might be a testament to the levels of excitement I regularly experience, but cracking my joints is the highlight of my day. There is something so intensely satisfying about it; theres almost a sense of massive achievement when you crack a joint that hasnt been cracked for a while or find a new movement that cracks a new joint. But what is it about twisting our bones in weird directions until they snap that is so enjoyable?

Often, it is ASMR or habit, says Dr. Capozzolo. Often, it is a way of stretching. People will crack their knuckles by outstretching their arms and stretching their fingers. It is a nice stretch when working, others simply crack knuckles out of habit. There are a lot of behaviors people do that have little application to practicality. I think of cracking knuckles as sort of like flinging hair. The biggest benefit is as a simple stress reliever. Like getting up and pacing, cracking knuckles is similar.

I regularly have people come to me who can't turn their head or even are getting headaches that started with a friend thinking they could crack their neck for them.Shutterstock

As anyone who spends unhealthy amounts of time on YouTube will know, the internet also finds joint cracking very satisfying to watch. There are hoards of channels dedicated to watching chiropractors do their thing, and millions of people across the world flock to watch hot women in gym leggings have their bones cracked. These videos have a very ASMR-like quality to them, with the soft-spoken health chat and lo-fi white noise making for a relaxing and satisfying watch. However, the practice of chiropractic is somewhat controversial in the scientific community, with the legitimacy of its medical uses of being called into question.

Dr. Capozzolo, who is a chiropractor herself, says that chiropractic is only harmful if its performed by someone who hasnt had the relevant training.

When not done properly, it can be dangerous. Cracking a back or neck, when done wrong can lead to a lot of pain, damage and inflammation. I regularly have people come to me who can't turn their head or even are getting headaches that started with a friend thinking they could crack their neck for them.

Many doctors take umbrage with chiropractic medicine and chiropractors, as they arent qualified M.D.s, and while they do undergo a lengthy period of study before becoming licensed, they are technically classified as practicing alternative medicine.

Dr. Joshua Carothers, the Chief Medical Officer at VIP StarNetwork, warns of the potential dangers that come with going to a chiropractor.

Most patients that seek chiropractic care and maintenance treatments do so without incident or complication. There are, however, known complications that can arise from chiropractic manipulation of the spine and other areas of the body. Additionally, chiropractic training is not the same as that received by physicians in standard medical schools and residency training programs. This can lead to attempts to treat conditions with chiropractic care that would not be responsive to that care and which can lead to misdiagnosis and delays in treatment.

Dont go putting your whole spine in someone elses hands.Shutterstock

Often, chiropractor influencers online combine their joint adjustment treatments with elements of other, more pseudoscientific medicine: alkaline diets, detoxing, herbal medicine, and even adjusting the spines of newborn babies potentially seriously injuring them.

So, while the occasional homegrown joint cracking is probably absolutely harmless, dont go putting your whole spine in someone elses hands and let them knead you like bread dough without asking a qualified medical professional first. While those videos of neck cracking look like bliss, I wont be letting just anyone twist my head around like Superman in that one film just in case my legs spontaneously stop working. Nobody will ever stop me from cracking my own knuckles, however.

So if youre ever on a plane and hear a cacophony of joints snapping, sorry in advance.

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Is cracking your knuckles bad for you? The science of your joints, explained - Inverse

Ujjain, President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday called upon Ayurveda experts to promote research in the field, saying there is no alternative to this traditional Indian system of medicine so far in rural parts of the country.

"Ayurveda is the science of life," he said at a function after inaugurating the 59th meet of the All India Ayurveda Conference, and dedicated a government Ayurveda College here to the people.

India is a country of villages and has the traditional medicine system - Ayurveda. No alternative medical system has taken its place yet, Kovind said.

"It is time to understand the knowledge of Ayurveda more deeply. Scientists should meet the challenge because the need of the hour is to deliver techniques to the world. This is a big challenge for all of us. I am hopeful that all of you take it (challenge) up and progress," he added.

"It is a matter of pride that research in Ayurveda is being done in around 20 countries of the world, including Mauritius," the president said.

People's inclination towards Ayurveda grew during the testing times of COVID-19 pandemic, when it saved many lives, he noted.

"It is expected from the people associated with research to make Ayurveda more effective and popular to treat diseases and pandemics. There are many systems of medicines in the world, but Ayurveda is different from them," he added.

The word pathy is attached to different systems of medicines (allopathy, homeopathy) in the world. Pathy means a system for treatment of diseases. But Ayurveda provides health care - treatment with stress on disease prevention, he said, adding, "Efforts are made to figure out the root cause of the disease and eliminate it. We all are privileged to have such a rich traditional knowledge of Ayurveda."

Madhya Pradesh should strive to become an Ayurveda destination in the country, he said, adding that CM Chouhan has been showing keen interest in this medical system.

"If MP turns into an Ayurveda centre in the country, the credit for it will go to the public and the government,'' Kovind said.

He said that the creation of Ministry of Ayush (which stands for Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy) in 2014 has given a fillip to the traditional Indian medicine.

After the programme, the president along with his wife Savita Kovind and daughter Swati Kovind offered prayers to Lord Mahakal at the famous Mahakaleshwar temple here, officials said.

A group of priests conducted the puja rituals. Apart from the governor and the chief minister, state Culture and Tourism Minister Usha Thakur was also present, they said.

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Ayurveda is science of life, no alternative to it in rural India, says Prez; calls for boosting research - ETHealthWorld

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., June 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cytokinetics, Incorporated (Nasdaq: CYTK) today announced that additional results from a new analysis from REDWOOD-HCM (Randomized Evaluation of Dosing With CK-274 in Obstructive Outflow Disease in HCM) relating to the effect of treatment with aficamten on measures of cardiac structure and function will be presented in a poster presentation at the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) 33rd Annual Scientific Sessions, taking place in person in Seattle and online from June 10, 2022 June 13, 2022. A recording of the presentation will be available on-demand for registered attendees starting July 11, 2022 at 10:00 AM ET.

Title: Early Cardiac Structural and Functional Reverse Remodeling in Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy After 10 Weeks of Aficamten Therapy: Analyses from REDWOOD-HCMPresenter: Theodore Abraham, M.D., FACC, FASE, Professor of Medicine, Department of Cardiology, University of California, San Francisco; Co-director, UCSF HCM Center of Excellence; Director, UCSF Adult Cardiac Echocardiography LaboratoryDate: June 11, 2022Topic: Echocardiography in Myocardial Disease (HCM, Amyloidosis, Sarcoidosis, Chagas)Session Title: Presidents Circle Poster Session Session Time: 4:00-6:00 PM PTLocation: Echo Expo

About Cytokinetics

Cytokinetics is a late-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing and commercializing first-in-class muscle activators and next-in-class muscle inhibitors as potential treatments for debilitating diseases in which muscle performance is compromised. As a leader in muscle biology and the mechanics of muscle performance, the company is developing small molecule drug candidates specifically engineered to impact muscle function and contractility. Cytokinetics is readying for the potential commercialization of omecamtiv mecarbil, its cardiac muscle activator, following positive results from GALACTIC-HF, a large, international Phase 3 clinical trial in patients with heart failure. Cytokinetics is also developing aficamten, a next-generation cardiac myosin inhibitor, currently the subject of SEQUOIA-HCM, the Phase 3 clinical trial of aficamten in patients with symptomatic obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Aficamten is also being evaluated in non-obstructive HCM in Cohort 4 of the Phase 2 clinical trial, REDWOOD-HCM. Cytokinetics is also developing reldesemtiv, an investigational fast skeletal muscle troponin activator, currently the subject of COURAGE-ALS, a Phase 3 clinical trial in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Cytokinetics continues its over 20-year history of pioneering innovation in muscle biology and related pharmacology focused to diseases of muscle dysfunction and conditions of muscle weakness.

For additional information aboutCytokinetics, visitwww.cytokinetics.com and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements for purposes of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the "Act"). Cytokinetics disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements and claims the protection of the Act's Safe Harbor for forward-looking statements. Examples of such statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to any of our other clinical trials, statements relating to the potential benefits of omecamtiv mecarbil, aficamten, or any of our other drug candidates. Cytokinetics' research and development activities; the design, timing, results, significance and utility of preclinical and clinical results; and the properties and potential benefits of Cytokinetics' other drug candidates. Such statements are based on management's current expectations, but actual results may differ materially due to various risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, potential difficulties or delays in the development, testing, regulatory approvals for trial commencement, progression or product sale or manufacturing, or production of Cytokinetics' drug candidates that could slow or prevent clinical development or product approval; Cytokinetics' drug candidates may have adverse side effects or inadequate therapeutic efficacy; the FDA or foreign regulatory agencies may delay or limit Cytokinetics' ability to conduct clinical trials; Cytokinetics may be unable to obtain or maintain patent or trade secret protection for its intellectual property; standards of care may change, rendering Cytokinetics' drug candidates obsolete; and competitive products or alternative therapies may be developed by others for the treatment of indications Cytokinetics' drug candidates and potential drug candidates may target. For further information regarding these and other risks related to Cytokinetics' business, investors should consult Cytokinetics' filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

CYTOKINETICS and the CYTOKINETICS and C-shaped logo are registered trademarks of Cytokinetics in the U.S. and certain other countries.

Contact:Cytokinetics Diane WeiserSenior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Investor Relations(650) 624-3071

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Cytokinetics Announces Additional Results From REDWOOD-HCM to Be Presented at the American Society of Echocardiography 33rd Annual Scientific Sessions...

Alternative Medicine often referred to as integrative, or complementary medicine, including a wide range of medical treatments, products, practices, and health care systems that are not a part of standard/ conventional medical care. Alternative medicine is categorized together with complementary medicine and called complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Worldwide a significant number of people irrespective of their education, age, and status rely on various forms of alternative medicine to treat or ameliorate disease. Alternative Medicine which follows whole body care approach are generally less expensive and uses natural products such as oils, herbs, metals, and minerals.

As per the study conducted by John A. Astin, education and poorer health status may predict alternative medical use. Sometimes people refer to alternatives healthcare as these medicines are more identical and coinciding with their own values, beliefs, and philosophical orientations toward health and life. The people with poorer health status refer to alternative medical use if the traditional healthcare system is unable to address their present healthcare need adequately, Similarly the lack of pathophysiological explanation for some disease, higher costs and number of tests and visiting different practitioners, often leads people to seek out Alternative Medicine as a treatment option.

As per the study conducted by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) , about 38 percent of U.S. adults and about 12 percent of children are using some form of alternative medicine. Alternative medicines encompass a wide range of medicines practices, some of the most commonly used Alternative Medicine includes:

Developed in the late 18th century by Samuel Hahnemann, Homeopathy is an alternative medical system that is based on the belief that the body can cure itself. In Homeopathy the patient uses a dilute amount of natural substances, like plants and minerals to treat various ailments. It is most common in European countries. As per the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) (2012), in Americans, an estimated 5 million adults and 1 million children used homeopathy in the previous year.

Homeopathy believes in like cures like treatment concept that suggests that a disease can be treated or cured by a substance that produces similar symptoms in healthy people. Homeopathy is in use for a wide range of health conditions such as dermatitis, depression, migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, hay fever, rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure, allergies, and many others.

However, there are some issues pertaining to the use of Homeopathy products. Homeopathy products lack scientific evidence and efficacy. In the past few years, certain European countries and the US have raised certain questions about the effectiveness and risk associated with Homeopathy products on their citizens health.

Naturopathy evolved as Alternative medicine in Europe during the 19th century. Naturopathy/ naturopathic medicine is a combination of traditional practices and health care approaches based on vitalism, folk medicine, the healing power of nature, and many others.

The Naturopathy consists of a wide range of non-invasive techniques such as herbal medicine (Herbalism), hydrotherapy (water therapy), physical therapies (which includes massage, bowen, and acupressure), nutrition and dietary modifications, homeopathic medicine, kinesiology, hygiene therapy, and nature cure. Naturopathy also employs other practices such as meditation, stress management, and relaxation. Today Naturopathy is practiced in many countries and is regulated by the government and authorities.

Originated in India about more than 3,000 years ago, Ayurveda (Indian medical system) is a natural system of medicine that relies on a natural or holistic approach to physical, mental, and spiritual well being. Ayurveda as a treatment is a combination of products derived from plants, animals, metals, minerals, or other materials along with maintaining diet, exercise, and a better lifestyle.

The Ayurvedic approaches are used for the treatment of diseases and conditions such as pain, rheumatoid arthritis, type 2 diabetes, ulcerative colitis, and many others. In some recently conducted studies, Ayurvedic medicine is found effective in relieving cancer symptoms.

Ayurvedic medicine is mainly practiced in countries such as India, Nepal, and Sri Lankan. The main research and development activities related to Ayurvedic medicine is limited to these countries only. Outside the Indian subcontinent, Ayurvedic medicine has very little popularity.

Unani medicine is an alternative medicine system, originated in Greece about 2500 years back, presently practiced in the Middle- East and South-Asian countries. Unani Medicine considers the human body as a single unit and aimed at treating the body, mind, and soul.

Unani medicine follows various practices to deal with health and disease using herbal remedies, dietary practices, and various alternative therapies. Among all the practices the main focus of Unani medicine on the diet and the state of digestion. Unani medicine offers treatment options to all the systems and organs of the human body such as musculoskeletal, skin, liver, and immunology. Some recent studies on animals have suggested that Unani medicine is beneficial for Brain Health, Arthritis, and Cataracts.

Acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese medicine practice, which focuses on stimulating specific points on the human body, most often thin needles are inserted through the skin.

Studies have suggested that acupuncture is helpful in relieving pain such as neck pain, headache, back pain, and knee pain. Apart from controlling pain Acupuncture is helpful in treating illnesses and ailments such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, hot flashes, xerostomia, neuropathy, anxiety, depression, and sleeping problems.Acupuncture is beneficial as it has very limited side effects, and it is also safe (provided performed correctly). However, in certain cases, Acupuncture can cause complications and effects on the human body such as infections, bleeding, bruising, injury to the organ and central nervous system.

Countries follow different laws and regulations for acupuncture practices. In some countries like the USA acupuncture needles are considered as medical devices, and in some insurance providers have started covering acupuncture as medical treatment.

Apart from these Siddha, some other most common Types of Alternative Medicine include chiropractic, aromatherapy, meditation, and others. Besides healing disease and illness, the Alternative Medicines are helpful in providing relaxation, increasing the energy levels of the body, improvement in posture and balance, treating some eating disorders, relieving stress and anxiety, pain relief, strengthening the immune system, and overall health & wellbeing. These Alternative Medicines are followed and practiced worldwide. However, the use of Alternative medicines is surrounded by several challenges and issues.

Alternative medicine consists of diverse theories and practices, which lack scientific evidence and outcomes. The standard/ conventional medical system is based on clinical trials and research methods that aim to provide safe and effective medical care, while alternative treatments lack solid research for its use and practice.

Sometimes the use of alternative medicine can be dangerous and life-threatening as all of these are not 100 percent proven treatments, also these therapies lack the standard guideline, potential side effects, and dosage intake. Similarly, in some countries due to issues regarding safety and efficacy, Alternative therapies are not approved by their health and regulatory authorities.

To combat the issues and challenges in Alternative medicine use, several steps are being taken. Worldwide, many doctors, scientists, and researchers are studying the method and use of Different Types of Alternative Medicine, which is helping them in gaining knowledge and understanding about these medicines. Some of the Alternative Medicines such as acupuncture, homeopathy, and Ayurveda are gaining popularity in western countries, more and more people are looking for these medicines for some diseases and illnesses such as back pain.

The Different Types of Alternative Medicine have different benefits and drawbacks, but all of them have the same goal that is to attain good health and wellbeing. The choice of Alternative Medicine may vary from person to person, his knowledge, and also the type of disease or illness he is suffering from. With the rising awareness, the demand for Alternative Medicine is expected to grow in newer geographies. In the USA, Accredited Naturopathic colleges and universities are offering courses and medical training in alternative medicine. While in some countries like India, several alternative systems of medicines have been approved and regulated by the government for the past few decades. These medical practices are co-existing and integrated into the healthcare system of the country over the years and providing benefits to a large number of people.

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Alternative Medicine | Different Types Of Alternative Medicines