Category Archives: Alternative Medicine

Butterfly Ayurvedas range of immunity boosters are some of its innovations that help enhance immunity, improve respiratory and overall health.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought into perspective the fragility of our existing healthcare ecosystem. While the healthcare industry is soughting answers to make it more inclusive, holistic, and affordable in the post-pandemic world, Ayurveda has been playing a significant role in shaping the discourse around the new-age healthcare system. The current crisis is a powerful reminder of the need for more sustainable healthcare solutions, and Ayurveda is the saving grace weve all been looking for. Before we proceed, lets delve a little deeper into the science of life.

INTRODUCTION TO AYURVEDA

Ayurveda is an age-old science that has prevailed in India since the pre-Buddhist era. It comprises a holistic understanding of health and caters to the whole body-mind-spirit complex. It is a life science that throws light upon corrective diet and lifestyle measures, with somatic practices like Yoga and meditation, use of herbal remedies and medicine, and rejuvenation therapies like panchakarma, self-massages, etc. It seeks to eliminate the root cause of health issues and caters to every individuals unique body constitution.

AYURVEDA, AN EVIDENCE-BASED SCIENCE

Many believe that Ayurveda has gained a broad perception of being mostly belief-based. However, a close study of the Vedic texts and interactions with learned Ayurvedic practitioners say otherwise. Ayurveda is established on the principles of an evidence-based, rationalistic, and holistic approach. The ancient texts show that Ayurveda has a unique, well-elaborated, and documented pharmacology, pharmacognosy, anatomy, and detailed understanding of disease pathogenesis.

In the words of Sushruta Samdosha samagnischasamdhatu malkriya. Prasanna aatma indriya manaswastha iti abhidhiyate. This roughly translates to: Optimum health in Ayurveda is a state of equilibrium between the doshas, metabolic fire, bodily tissues, excretory products combined with a cheerful mind, high intellect, and keen senses. Disturbance in this equilibrium leads to a diseased state.

BAS CORE IDEOLOGY Herbal healthcare manufacturers like Butterfly Ayurveda, an emerging health and wellness brand of India, have played a vital role in educating the masses about Ayurvedic herbs and their use in everyday life with products like Ayurvedic teas, herbal powders, supplements, tonics, and immunity boosters.

Butterfly Ayurveda is an organization engaged in the research, development, manufacturing, and marketing of Ayurvedic products. Be it healthy snacks, calming teas, nourishing kadhas, or clinically evaluated medicines, BA offers a whole new spectrum of modern, yet authentic, Ayurvedic products that help integrate the power of Ayurveda into our everyday lives. BAs R&D department is the backbone of the organization. The departments approach could be termed as, Validation of Divine Ayurvedic Wisdom through Scientific Knowledge in the Current Era. Dedicated to providing qualitative and effective herbal solutions, the R&D department is committed to product development, quality control, and standardization which offers their customers safe and efficacious Ayurvedic medicines and food products.SOME OF BAS BEST-SELLERS ARE

Ratri Chai, a nighttime tea that helps unwind and restore energy levels at the end of the day.Pancreofly, an Ayurvedic medicine that helps regulate blood sugar levels and lowers cholesterol.

Diabe Choice Cookies, a diabetes-friendly cookie made with coconut palm sugar that is full of flavor, fiber, antioxidants & anti-inflammatory properties.

Suprabhat Chai, a cognition-enhancing good morning tea that helps balance Kapha dosha.

IMMUNITY BOOSTERS

I-Immune, Ayurvedic capsules that help expedite recovery, and increase platelet and white blood cell count.

Bronchiofly, an Ayurvedic cough syrup that helps clear respiratory tracts, protects the lungs and throat against infections

Vita-M, an Ayurvedic medicine designed for men that helps rejuvenate and restore the bodys strength, improves stamina, and increases vigor and vitality.

While these supplements soon became crowd favorites, BA understood the alarming need of the hour and redirected its resources towards developing herbal hand sanitizers, Hello Aloe and Tulsi Neem. Effective and gentle, these sanitizers became a common favorite with the running clinics and nursing practitioners.

DEVELOPMENT OF COVIFLY

BA soon recognized the need for an Ayurvedic medicine that not only boosts immunity but helps treat the symptoms of Covid-19. After thorough research, the R&D team at BA developed an Ayurvedic formulation made with a blend of potent herbal extracts that helps boost immunity against COVID-19, treats flu-like symptoms, and has a broad-spectrum antiviral action. Coronafly/COVIFLY is Butterfly Ayurvedas contribution to the world in the fight against Covid-19. This Ayurvedic formulation helps people recover and alleviates symptoms like high fever, sore throat, dry cough, shortness of breath, body pain, and weakness.

BAS SUSTAINABILITY PLEDGE

Raw Material Sourcing

From the sourcing of raw materials to designing the packaging, they ensure eco-friendly practices are followed throughout. All their raw materials are sourced from the most reliable vendors, who either own certified farms or do contract farming with farmers, ensuring the use of sustainable methods for cultivation and harvesting. The tea leaves used in the teas are procured primarily from the Glenburn tea estate in Darjeeling and Khongea tea estate in Assam. All their raw materials are tested for quality and are given a certificate of analysis before being considered for production.

Packaging

The vibrant packaging represents the vitality of life, while BAs conscious efforts to zero down plastic packaging and use materials locally available such as the wonderful jute string to carry the tea pouches. Another such example is their biodegradable tea bags made of corn and wheat starch. BA ensures that all the ingredients and certifications are listed on the product packaging itself. They believe that transparency empowers the customers to embrace Ayurveda evermore readily and help them make a better choice.

Manufacturing

Blending the wisdom of traditional Ayurvedic methods with modern science, BA develops exciting products while maintaining the purity of ingredients, safety and efficacy of the formulations, and adhering to pharmacopoeial quality standards. All their products are manufactured in GMP-certified units and are licensed by the State Dept. of AYUSH, or by FSSAI. BA has also collaborated with several renowned manufacturing units like Charak Pharma, Blue Star Laboratories, etc. for new product development and large-scale production.

THE ROAD AHEAD

BA aims to harness the growing market potential to become an Ayurvedic wellness hub and generate awareness about the benefits of infusing the goodness of Ayurveda into peoples everyday life.

In its humble endeavor to offer the natural preventive and curative benefits of Ayurveda, BA introduced a holistic range of infusions: Heart Strong infusion, Diabe infusion, and Love your body infusion. These herbal infusions are a delight to drink and help support a healthy heart, manage blood sugar, aid weight management. All of BAs products are targeted to help with lifestyle-related disorders.

Akshi, founder and CEO of BA says, Ayurveda is the future of global healthcare, as it helps treat the root cause of a health issue, not merely the symptoms. Moreover, it focuses on rejuvenation therapies that promote the whole body-mind-spirit complex.

THE TURNING TIDE

The healthcare industry is witnessing a new trend. People are now turning to alternative medicines for prolonged relief and Ayurveda is at the top of the list. The resurgence of public interest in herbal remedies led to a substantial demand shift to herbal products in the last couple of years. In 2019, the Indian market for herbal products stood at INR 4.2 billion and by 2026, that number is expected to increase at a CAGR of 38.5%[1]. Similarly, Indias nutraceutical market is poised to be a global leader with a growth rate of 22% every year. Preventive healthcare has become an important line of defense during the pandemic, proving the nutraceuticals sector to be a strong economic partner to the people. This boom in the industry serves as the perfect opportunity for BA to explore strategic partnerships with nutraceutical companies on the lookout for herbal product manufacturers.

[1] https://www.ibef.org/blogs/high-demand-for-medicinal-plants-in-india#:~:text=The%20market%20for%20medical%20plants,assessed%20at%20US%24%20120%20billion.

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Ayurveda, The Future of Global Healthcare - Outlook India

Partner Content

By Sauce Staff // January 7, 2022

The New Year is always a great time to set your intentions for the future. Whether youre looking for some delicious, nutrient-rich food and drinks, a healthy medicine alternative or some self-care at a spa, these local businesses will help you reach your goals.

Fresh Thyme Market at City Foundry STLGet a fresh start to your year at Fresh Thyme Market! Proudly located at City Foundry STL, Fresh Thyme is your new neighborhood grocery store. Theyre focused on bringing fresh, affordable and local products to Midtown St. Louis and beyond. Youll love the full grocery selection, meat and deli counters, as well as the extensive natural and organic options. Be sure to visit the in-store caf, home to Iron Drop, which features artisanal scratch-made biscuits and carefully curated craft roasted coffee menus, and Ace Sushi with delicious sushi made fresh daily, hot food options and boba tea. Check out the $5 sushi rolls every Thursday.Fresh Thymes food doesnt only look, smell and taste good its also good for you. Get all the nutrients you need and all the flavors you crave while supporting trusted partners, brands and farmers. Shop confidently and let your appetite guide the way knowing that every item in the store has been hand-selected with care.Stop by the natural living section this January for a sale on vitamins and body care, when you can get 30% off all those items in the store from Jan. 5 to 11, 2022 take advantage of this amazing deal!3701 Foundry Way, Suite 201, St. Louis, 314.597.4400, freshthymefoundry.com

Fresh Gatherings Cafe + Farm at Saint Louis UniversityFresh Gatherings Cafe + Farm is a student-run cafe operated by the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics that is open to the public and located on SLU's Medical Campus. The cafe sources from its organic urban farm on campus and from local farmers and growers in Missouri and Illinois. It is open for breakfast and lunch with a full-service coffee bar. Fan favorites include oat milk lattes, breakfast burritos and croissants, but there are also daily hot lunch specials, grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, soups and baked goods. Fresh Gatherings Cafe + Farm exemplifies SLUs Jesuit principles in support of development of the whole person. They believe in the value of good food to nourish the mind, body and spirit. The leading program in nutrition and culinary arts allows students to combine their two passions into a career.3404 Rutger St., St. Louis, freshgatheringscafe.com, @freshgatherings, @slunutrition1818

Fulfill Food & BeveragesDr. Angela Zengs belief that food is better medicine prompted her to develop a line of great tasting, functional juices and smoothies using whole plant ingredients. She hopes to inspire customers' awareness of the possibilities of integrative and holistic medicine. From her delicious Karuna smoothies to her Karviva ACE Sport drinks and new Karviva Unwined alcohol-free wine alternative, each beverage is inspired by ancient wisdom and backed by modern science. The companys wellness beverages offer a vast array of product benefits ranging from restoration of digestive and immune health with prebiotics and antioxidants to delivering clean protein and providing sustained energy. The drinks can be found in local stores including Schnucks, Whole Foods Market, Dierbergs, Straubs and Fresh Thyme. mykaruna.com

Indigo Massage & WellnessAt Indigo Massage & Wellness, a soothing experience starts as soon as you walk in the door. Clients often tout how relaxing the space is with its gorgeous blue and green dcor, defused lighting and pleasant aromas, as well as the comfortable seating and the professionalism of the staff. Choose from a range of services, from therapeutic massages, CBD facials and acupuncture to body wraps and reflexology. Join the Indigo wellness program for a monthly credit for a discounted therapeutic massage; this membership can even be shared with your partner. Plan ahead for Valentine's Day and book a massage or get a couples massage gift card. In addition, all staff members at Indigo are fully vaccinated to help put your worried mind at ease.1901 Arsenal St., St. Louis; 7200 Manchester Road, Maplewood, 314.276.9882, indigomassagetherapy.com

Jane DispensaryJane Dispensary is a medical cannabis boutique on the Delmar Loop that provides a sophisticated experience while educating the public and helping to remove the stigma of cannabis, which can be an integral part of a healthy lifestyle. Marijuana has a plethora of health benefits and particularly helps with inflammation both in the general population and for those with inflammatory autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease and many more. When aiming to reduce inflammation with cannabis, its imperative to choose a product with a high CBD to THC ratio as CBD is the most effective anti-inflammatory cannabinoid. Stop by the Jane storefront to speak with a cannabis consultant to find the best products to meet your needs.6662 Delmar Blvd., University City, janedispensary.com

Lonas Lil Eats If you enjoy Asian soul food with a flare but want to indulge in a healthy manner, Lonas Lil Eats homestyle meals are light yet satisfying and keep your body fueled all day long. There are plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, and customization is encouraged. Sauces which range from sweet or savory to sour or spicy provide full-bodied flavors, and any entree can be made into a salad if youre trying to work more veggies into your diet. Plus, everything is made fresh with no preservatives or MSG. To up your antioxidant intake, complete your meal with the vast selection of teas, from green and white to oolong and black.2199 California Ave., St. Louis, 314.925.1888, lonaslileats.com

RootberryInstead of setting impossible goals loaded with sacrifice and compromise, how about you just eat more plants more often? Rootberry is St. Louis new plant-powered food company that features a rotating menu of chef- and nutritionist-developed entrees, shareables and desserts that are ready to eat or heat in minutes. Get well with these restaurant-quality, nutrient dense meals such as Rootberrys shepherd's pie, winter squash risotto, Aztec enchiladas, tikka masala and more. And, while Rootberry offers salads, they are totally unexpected like Spring Roll In A Bowl or the soy-ginger superfood salad. The best part? Rootberry is available for delivery to your home or office. Visit their website, choose what sounds good to you, select your delivery day and time, and enjoy. (No subscription required, BTW.) You can also find it in the prepared foods section in the deli of all Dierbergs Markets. Rootberry is a local company making delicious food thats not just good for you its good for the planet too. So dont worry about being vegan, vegetarian or flexitarian this year simply enjoy eating great food that just happens to be 100% plant-based. St. Louis, rootberry.com

Source JuiceryFinding healthy options outside the city can sometimes be a challenge, but Source Juicery lets you enjoy the convenience of clean eating on the go. And with the pandemic still surging, theres never been a better time to focus on staying healthy. Source offers a plethora of nutritious grab-and-go options, from cold-pressed juice and wellness shots to nut milks, smoothies, salads and breakfast staples like oats and parfaits. Try a one- to three-day juice cleanse with the option to add meal packs or protein packs like grilled chicken and power bites. All items are gluten-free, and there are many vegan options too. Source offers an easy online ordering system with curbside pickup or contactless home delivery to the Edwardsville area. Walk-in ordering is also welcome.228 N. Main St., Edwardsville, 618.650.9080, sourcejuicery.com

TerrabisTerrabis is a medical cannabis dispensary in OFallon, Hazelwood, Creve Coeur, Springfield and Kansas City. Did you know a research study on cannabis and physical activity was published in Frontiers in Public Health? It found that 80% of cannabis consumers mix cannabis and exercise. 78% say it increases enjoyment. 70% say it boosts recovery, and 52% say it motivates them to exercise. Healthy living and supporting an active lifestyle is everything were about. The name Terrabis combines the word Terra, which stands for Planet Earth, and the word Bis, which are the last three letters of their favorite plant, cannabis. Together, Terrabis stands for a healthy planet and represents their adventurous spirit. They encourage you to #ExploreMore of the outdoors, as well as their products, to live a healthier and happier life.Multiple locations. terrabis.co, @terrabis_hq

The Healing HamsaWhen it comes to healthy lifestyles, self-care is a vital aspect that should not fall to the wayside. The Healing Hamsa is a place where medical aesthetics meet magical experiences with treatments ranging from a variety of facials and chemical peels to microneedling and beyond. Wellness weekends, private events and couples experiences are also available, and the Healing Hamsa is extremely proud to be inclusive and prides itself on the continuing education to serve clients of all ethnic backgrounds. In addition, the spa provides robes, cozy slippers and bottomless beverages while you wait for your treatment(s) to begin. So next time youre needing a little extra self-care, come check out this business built on high-end experiences and an emphasis on being able to retreat and relax. 4400 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, 314.450.8399, healinghamsa.com

The Pasta House Co.The Pasta House Co. has long been synonymous with Italian food in St. Louis as its celebrating 48 years in business, but did you know the home of the golden toasted ravioli also has a variety of healthy options? From an assortment of salads and vegetable-forward dishes like eggplant parmigiano to an entire gluten-free menu, Pasta House aims to offer something for everyone. Try a family meal starting at just $29.99 and includes pasta, their famous salad, toasted ravioli and bread and butter. At Pasta House, you can dine in, order takeout for curbside pickup, or even get delivery. For larger parties, inquire about catering options.Multiple locations, pastahouse.com

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11 St. Louis businesses that focus on self-care for a fresh start to the new year - Sauce Magazine

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Asian Pac J Cancer Prev. 2021 Dec 1;22(12):3977-3983. doi: 10.31557/APJCP.2021.22.12.3977.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) is widely used among cancer patients worldwide. This prospective observational study aimed to show the effect of CAM use on chemotherapy delivery in Thai patients.

METHODS: During March 2014 to February 2015, the patients with breast, lung or colorectal cancer receiving first cycle chemotherapy at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital were enrolled. The correlation between CAM using and chemotherapy schedule delay and dose reduction, dose intensity, quality of life and adverse event rates were analyzed.

RESULTS: There were 80 (44.20%) patients using CAM among 181 enrolled patients. Seventy six CAM users and 97 non-CAM users receiving 2nd cycle of chemotherapy were included for primary analysis. The chemotherapy schedules were delayed and/or reduced in 40 (52.6%) and 48 (49.5%) in CAM users and non-CAM users, respectively, p =0.681. The mean relative dose intensity (RDI) were 92.4% and 94.1% in CAM and non-CAM users, respectively, p=0.244. However, there were significantly more CAM users receiving chemotherapy less than 90% RDI (34.8% vs 19.8%, p=0.033). As compared to first cycle, at third cycle, the mean QOL score changes were -4.63 (95% CI -2.49-9.27) and -8.02 (-2.36- 9.142) in CAM user and non-CAM user, respectively (p=0.255). There were significantly higher rates of grade 3 or 4 anemia (5.1% vs 0%, p=0.024), and grade 2 malaise (19.0% vs 5.1%, p=0.004) in CAM users.

CONCLUSIONS: There were similar overall rates of chemotherapy schedule delay and dose reduction between CAM- and non-CAM users. However, there were less CAM-users achieving 90% chemotherapy RDI.

PMID:34967579 | DOI:10.31557/APJCP.2021.22.12.3977

Link:

Effects of Complementary and Alternative Medicine on Chemotherapy Delivery in Thai Patients - DocWire News

Gurbakhash Kaur, MD, discusses the use of bispecific T-cell engagers as an alternative to chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy for the treatment of multiple myeloma.

Gurbakhash Kaur, MD, an assistant professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, discusses the use of bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs) as an alternative to chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy for the treatment of multiple myeloma.

According to Kaur, BiTEs provide an off-the-shelf approach for patients. CAR T cells require lymphodepletion, after which the cells need to be engineered. For patients in crisis, they may not be able to wait for CAR T cells to be manufactured. According to Kaur, both CAR T cells and BiTE therapies will have a major role in the treatment of multiple myeloma.

0:08 | BiTEs, especially with AMG 420, are also BCMA-targeted agents, but that will be an off-the-shelf type of approach, whereas with CAR T cells you need to give lymphodepletion and wait a couple of weeks for the cells to be engineered. Many patients, when they are in crisis and they run out of options, dont have the time to wait for a CAR T-cell to be manufactured. Both of these therapies, CAR T cells and BiTE therapies, will have a major role to play in multiple myeloma treatment.

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BiTE Therapy as a CAR T Alternative for Multiple Myeloma Treatment - Targeted Oncology

The health benefits of Holy Basil and how to use it.Thats coming up on This Land of Ours.

Holy basil, also known as tulsi in Hindu, or queen of the herbs, is part of themint familyand is a traditional medicinal herbnative to tropicalSoutheast Asia.

This aromatic plant has pale greenleaves, hair stems, and small purple or white tubular flowers. Itis considered to be atonicfor the body andis widely used in alternative medicine. It is most often consumed as an herbal tea, has a strong, pungent flavor, and can be used in cooking to intensify some dishes.

Holy basil is anadaptogen, which can help the body adapt tostressand treatinflammation. Holy basil has a whole variety of health benefits. Itsa great source of antioxidants, it is high in vitamin A, K and C, calcium, zinc, iron, Manganese, and chlorophyll. It has a history of treating disease, and reducing stress and anxiety, and isbeneficial for digestivesupport and brain function!

As always, make sure to consult with your doctor before consuming holy basil or any other supplement into your diet.

Listen to Cathy Isoms This Land of Ours program here.

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Health Benefits of Holy Basil and How to Use It - AgNet West

Indiana has received nearly 7,000 coursesof new medications designed to treat COVID-19, state leaders announced Wednesday, while cautioning that vaccination remains the primary defense against the ongoing pandemic.

During a news conference,Dr. Lindsay Weaver, chief medical officer of the Indiana State Department of Health, broke down the current distribution of new medicines, all of which requirea prescription and which remain in "extremely limited supply."

More: What we learned from Gov. Eric Holcomb at Indiana's first COVID update in months

More: This is why COVID-19 rapid tests have been hard to find at Indiana state testing sites

Although treatment options have increased, Weaver warnedagainst relying on therapeutics and stressed the continued importance of vaccination.

"It's important to remember that there's simply not enough medicine to go around right now and do not bank on being able to get the therapeutic needed."

More: Indiana Gov. Holcomb extends public health emergency... again

"Vaccination remains our number one defense for preventing severe illness," Weaver said."Please get vaccinated get your booster shot."

Merck Molnupiravir

4,880 courses allocated to CVS and Walgreens pharmacies.

The antiviral pills, taken four at a time twice perday for five days, treat mild to moderate COVID-19 for adults at high risk of severe complications from the virus and for whom alternative treatment options are not available or clinically appropriate. They work best within five days of first symptomsand reduce the risk of severe complications by 30 percent.

1,060 courses allocated to hospitals

These pills -- three tablets taken twice perday for five days -- treat mild to moderate virus cases for those over 12 years old at high risk of severe COVID-19. The treatment works best within five days of first symptoms and reduce the risk of hospitalization or death by 89 percent.

984 courses allocated to transplant centers and, eventually, cancer centers

Two injections designed to preventCOVID-19 cases in patients 12 and older with compromised immune systems due to a medical condition or medication, or ahistory of adverse reactions to vaccines. Treatment is only for people who do not have and have not been recently exposed to COVID-19.

Weaver also discussedthree existing treatments:

Gilead Veklury Remdesivir -An antiviral IV infusion used to treat patients 12 and older and available to health care providers through typical supply chains. Studies show a three-day course cuts hospitalization rates and death by 87 percent, the presentation said.

GlaxoSmithKline Sotrovimab -A monoclonal antibody IV infusion used to treat mild to moderate cases in patients 12 and older who are at risk of severe complications. It is not authorized for use on hospitalized patients or those receiving oxygen. The health department allocates courses to hospitals and clinics.

Eli Lilly Bamlanivimab and Etesevimab -A monoclonal antibody IV infusion used to treat mild to moderate cases in anyone at risk of severe COVID. It is authorized for both treatment and post-exposure prevention, but it is not effective against the Omicron variant. The Heath Department allocates courses to hospitals and clinics, but the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will stop shipping the drug tostates on Monday.

Rory Appleton is the pop culture reporter at IndyStar. Contact him at 317-552-9044 andrappleton@indystar.com, or follow him on Twitter at @RoryDoesPhonics.

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This is the current supply of Pfizer, Merck COVID pill therapeutics in Indiana - IndyStar

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This is the time of year when many of us find ourselves at social gatherings. Often times those parties include indulging, sometimes overindulging, in a cocktail or two and feeling the aftereffects the next morning. No one likes to have a hangover, but there are new products on the market that claim to give the same buzz as booze without the alcohol that can leave us feeling like garbage the next day. The idea is intriguing, but is it really a safe alternative?

These alcohol alternatives blend nootropics, adaptogens, and botanics that are purported to give the calming effect of alcohol. One such product is Kin Euphorics. According to Bulletproof, This alcohol alternative claims to help you achieve a blissed-out state without sacrificing brain cells or performance the next day.

So what is a nootropic? WebMD gives us a bit of insight: The term nootropics first referred to chemicals that met very specific criteria. But now its used to refer to any natural or synthetic substance that may have a positive impact on mental skills. In general, nootropics fall into three general categories:dietary supplements, synthetic compounds, andprescription drugs.

Are they safe? They can be, but just like anything else, they need to be used in moderation.

I would be reluctant to recommend something that is so new. These are chemicals, and their impact is not clear. I do not have enough information to know what is a safe amount, or what is the potential for dependence, said Dr. Matthew Reuter, a BJC Medical Group internist at Missouri Baptist Medical Center.

And although there is a possibility that you can get the same boozy feelings sans booze, there are certainly questions about whether or not they are a safe alternative to alcohol. Dr. Reuter isnt the only medical professional who agrees that we should proceed with caution. Dr. Anna Lembke, medical director of addiction medicine at Stanford University School of Medicine and author of Dopamine Nation, told Time, Theres always the promise of some new molecule thats going to do exactly what the old molecule did but not have the harmful effects. Every single time, that has not panned out.

We have seen this before with things like E-cigarettes. They were lauded as a safer alternative to smoking, but that has proven to be untrue and an increasing number of people are heading straight to the vape and skipping cigarettes altogether. Are nootropics the same? Perhaps, but they are big business right now, and production doesnt seem to be slowing down.

Grand View Research reports that nootropics were valued at $9.7 billion in 2020. That accounts for all forms of nootropics, not just alcohol alternatives. But the drinks are gaining popularity the quickest.

The drinks segment is projected to register the fastest CAGR of 16.0% from 2021 to 2028. Nootropics ingredients are being incorporated into RTD drinks and shots to help improve functions such as focus and memory. Nootropics in drinks form are gaining popularity due to their ability to be digested more quickly than food, allowing them to boost the brain instantly, Grand View Research states.

What about those who have given up drinking or are in recovery; could this be a gateway? Dr. Reuter said that it is not a good idea. My gut is these should be avoided. Patients with addiction to alcohol need to abstain entirely from alcohol to minimize risk of relapse. This makes sense, as it could certainly be a gateway back to alcohol, as it can mimic that euphoric feeling.

Some nootropics are not only marketed to replace alcohol, they are also being touted as brain boosters. They are said to give a bit of mental clarity and increase focus. They can also up your energy. There is not a lot of research to back up whether nootropics can really help cognitive function or make give you a euphoric feeling, but many swear by them.

Interestingly, a lot of us are consuming a nootropic on the daily and may not even realize it. Caffeine falls into the category of nootropic. And as we know, it can definitely give us a boost of energy and make our cognitive function a bit better. Having said that, the nootropic compound in caffeine is much smaller than that in many of the nootropic drinks on the market today, so dont think that you will be getting the same effect. Think alcohol proof: The higher the proof, the stronger your reaction. The same is true with nootropics.

There is no clear conclusion about alcohol alternative nootropics and whether you should give them a try or not. There is little risk of dependency, and they dont cause the negative hangover side effects, but Dr. Reuter still thinks we should play it safe. I would consider real alternatives such as water, tea, lemonade or even soda. We seek alcohol in social settings or to relax. It can be dangerous in and of itself. I would be very skeptical thinking there is a safe alternative that impersonates alcohol.

So, proceed with caution. Know your limits and listen to your body. If it feels off, it probably is, and you should put the glass down and grab a bottle of water. Just to be safe.

Excerpt from:

Nootropics Are Alcohol Alternatives, But Are They A Good Idea? - Scary Mommy

WASHINGTON (December 28) Breast cancer patients treated at hospitals and health systems that educate patients and provide integrative health services have a better chance of survival compared to those treated at institutions with few of these resources, according to a new study published in the Journal of Oncology. Integrative health services include complementary and lifestyle therapies, such as nutrition and exercise counseling, in addition to medical cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and surgery.

Access to basic integrative healthcare services in cancer care not only supports a higher quality of life, but this study also shows that these services increase a patients chance of survival, said Wayne Jonas, MD, co-author of the study and executive director for Integrative Health Programs at the Samueli Foundation. These findings serve as a call to action for hospitals and oncologists to support a whole-person approach to cancer care.

For the study, researchers analyzed claims data for 4,815 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients who were treated in 2013 and 2014. Treating oncologists were surveyed about their institutions efforts to educate patients and to support 12 complementary and lifestyle approaches to treatment. Responses were received from 103 oncologists at 103 institutions involved in the treatment of 173 patients.

Scoring physician responses, the study identified institutions with low, low-mid, mid-high, or high levels of education and support for complementary and lifestyle therapies. Researchers found that patients treated at institutions that had crossed the threshold above the low integrative score into a low-mid score or higher were up to three times more likely to survive over the five-year period, compared to patients treated at institutions with a low score.

Institutional ratings were based on support for 12 types of complementary and lifestyle therapy consultations, programs, or services, including nutrition, exercise, patient support groups, spiritual services, psycho-oncology support, massage therapy, meditation or mindfulness, yoga, acupuncture or acupressure, music and art therapy, Reiki or healing touch, and tai chi or qi gong. All patients in the study also received conventional medical treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.

Institutions with higher levels of investment commonly offered a core set of six therapies: nutrition consultation, exercise consultation, patient support groups, spiritual services, meditation/ mindfulness, and psycho-oncology support.

Patients can play an active role in their cancer treatment and outcomes but they are much more likely to do it with approval and help from their health system, said Terri Crudup, lead author of the study and senior principal of Primary Intelligence at the global research and technology firm IQVIA. Oncologists and institutions that treat these patients need to consider providing education, support, and funding for these complementary and lifestyle therapies.

The study authors enumerated ways that health care institutions can cross the threshold from low into higher integrative health involvement:

The authors noted that their study is limited due to patient variables that can affect treatment outcomes that were not included in this study. Researchers also suggest the study should be replicated with a larger sample size, and additional research should validate the scoring system for integrative health care that was used.

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About Samueli Foundation

Samueli Foundations Integrative Health Programs are dedicated to the promotion of personal health and well-being with the support of health teams dedicated to all proven approaches, including conventional, complementary and self-care. Dr. Wayne Jonas, the former director of the NIH Office of Alternative Medicine and the former director of a World Health Organization Center for Traditional Medicine, is clinical professor of Family Medicine at the Uniformed Services University and at Georgetown University School of Medicine.

About IQVIA

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Journal of Oncology

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Survival odds higher for breast cancer patients with access to integrative therapies - EurekAlert

Dr. Oz admitted to the senators that his claims often dont have the scientific muster to present as fact. A study he had cited about green-coffee bean extract was later retracted and described by federal regulators as hopelessly flawed. The supplier of the extract paid $3.5 million to settle charges by the Federal Trade Commission.

Dr. David Gorski, a surgery professor at Wayne State University and longtime critic of alternative medicine, said Dr. Ozs emergence as a Fox News authority on the coronavirus was no surprise.

He could have gone the route of trying to be more reasonable and careful, vetting information, trying to reassure people where the science was still unsettled, Dr. Gorski said. But of course, that wouldnt be Dr. Ozs brand.

Early in the pandemic, on March 20, 2020, Dr. Oz appeared on several Fox News shows trumpeting what he called massive, massive news a small study by a divisive French researcher, Dr. Didier Raoult, who claimed a 100 percent cure rate after treating coronavirus patients with hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin, or Z-Pak.

At the time, with Covid-19 cases and deaths rising rapidly, hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malarial treatment, was being studied in multiple countries and adopted by hospitals without much evidence. Mr. Trump hyped it repeatedly at White House news conferences as part of his effort to minimize the crisis. Dr. Oz communicated with Trump advisers about speeding the drugs approval to treat Covid. On March 28, the F.D.A. authorized its emergency use.

On Fox, Dr. Oz noted that the Raoult study, with just 36 participants, was not a clinical trial, but his enthusiasm overran his caution. The study was the most impressive bit of news on this entire pandemic front, he gushed.

On April 1, as Dr. Oz called on Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York to lift restrictions on hydroxychloroquine, a public health expert, Dr. Ashish Jha of Brown University, cautioned Fox viewers that the facts are just not in on the drug.

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Magic Weight-Loss Pills and Covid Cures: Dr. Oz Under the Microscope - The New York Times

Chamomile tea is quite known as a healthy alternative to caffeine, but did you know it also offers several health benefits? Here are the health benefits of chamomile you should know.

Written by Arushi Bidhuri | Published : December 30, 2021 4:55 PM IST

Chamomile is a herb that derives from the Asteraceae plant family's daisy-like blossoms. It's been used as a natural cure for a variety of ailments for millennia. The flowers are dried and then infused into hot water to make chamomile tea. Chamomile tea is popular as a caffeine-free alternative to black or green tea, as well as for its earthy, somewhat sweet flavour. Furthermore, chamomile tea is high in antioxidants, which may help to reduce your risk of a variety of ailments.

Chamomile tea is a popular beverage that offers several health benefits, including:

According to preliminary research, chamomile may help promote improved digestion by lowering the risk of certain gastrointestinal diseases. Chamomile extract has been shown to protect against diarrhoea due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Chamomile tea calms the stomach that helps treat a variety of digestive issues, including nausea and gas.

Chamomile contains properties that may help induce sleep and improve its quality. Studies have found that it contains an antioxidant called apigenin that promotes sleepiness and reduces the risk of insomnia. A study published in the BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies found that people who took 270 mg of chamomile extract twice a day for 28 days woke up 1/3 less at night and went asleep 15 minutes faster than those who did not take the extract.

Chamomile tea contains antioxidants that have been linked to a lower risk of some cancers. Apigenin is an antioxidant found in chamomile. Apigenin has been demonstrated to destroy cancer cells in test tubes, particularly those from the breast, digestive tract, skin, prostate, and uterus. According to a study of 537 adults published in the European Journal of Public Health, those who drank chamomile tea 2 6 times per week had a considerably lower risk of thyroid cancer than those who did not.

The health of the pancreas is critical because it generates insulin, the hormone responsible for eliminating sugar from your blood. In a study of 64 diabetics published in the Journal of Endocrinological Investigation, those who drank chamomile tea daily with meals for eight weeks had significantly lower average blood sugar levels than those who drank water, according to a study of 64 diabetics. Research has found that anti-inflammatory properties in chamomile may protect the cells of your pancreas from damage caused by chronically high blood sugar levels.

Heart diseases are often referred to as the number one killer across the world as it affects millions every year. While there are many factors required to lower your chances, chamomile tea may also help reduce the risk. Studies have shown that it contains a type of antioxidant called flavones, which helps reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, both of which are important to mitigate heart disease risk.

A study published in the Iranian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research found that using chamomile mouthwash may help reduce the chances of gingivitis and plaque due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities.

The majority of specialists agree that chamomile is harmless. It can make you drowsy and make you vomit if you take too much of it. It also has the potential to cause allergic reactions in persons, however, chamomile allergies are quite rare. If you're allergic to chamomile, ragweed, daisies, marigolds, or chrysanthemums, don't use it. Chamomile skin products can irritate the eyes and cause allergic eczema. The long-term effects of chamomile usage are unknown. Chamomile includes a little quantity of coumarin, which can have very modest blood-thinning effects if taken in high dosages for a long time.

Note: If you have any health concerns or you take medication, see your doctor before using chamomile.

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