Does aurum metallicum helps to cure infertility?

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Herbs As Infertility Treatment


If you're someone facing the difficult diagnosis of infertility, you may be ready to start undergoing all the painful and expensive treatments and invasive surgeries that your doctor has recommended. But is this your only option? What about trying some natural herbs for infertility — do these work? If so, what are they? Does aurum metallicum helps to cure infertility? And are there any other natural supplements that one can at least try first, before undergoing all those unpleasant procedures?

Vitamins and Minerals for Treatment


When thinking about what herbs for infertility actually work, you may want to consider what some experts are saying about natural treatments, including vitamins and other such substances. In a new study cited in OBGYN News, a group of Harvard researchers found that 79% of infertile couples had a lower-than-average intake of foods high in antioxidants — like fruits and vegetables.

In one study published in the Annals of the New York Academy of Medicine, doctors found that after one week of daily doses of 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C, sperm counts rose by some 140%. If you're thinking of trying some herbs for infertility, consider something with a vitamin C supplement.

More recently, a study published in the Archives of Andrology showed the antioxidants vitamin E and selenium improved the ability of sperm to swim: a skill necessary to reach the egg.

Homeopathic Herbs for Infertility


There are some great homeopathic remedies that include herbs for infertility, and some are actually catching the attention of traditional doctors. «In research published in the journal Reproductive Biomedicine Online, a group of German doctors show that some natural remedies may work for men. The authors show that sperm quality and function improved with the intake of complementary food supplementation using either a combination of zinc and folic acid, the antioxidant Astacarox, or an energy-providing combination containing (actyl)-carnitine (Proxeed). The latter two also boosted the success of intrauterine insemination and spontaneous pregnancy rates.» These substances are common in homeopathic herbs for infertility.

Moreover, in the journal Fertility and Sterility doctors reported that men with fertility problems who took a daily dose of 66 milligrams of zinc and 5 milligrams of folic acid for nearly six months saw a 74% increase in their sperm counts.

Even more recently, studies published in the journal Fertility and Sterility revealed that both L-carnitine and L-acetyl carnitine improved sperm in a number of areas key to fertilization.

The following remedies are considered potent herbs for infertility in women:


  • Aurum metallicum (Gold leaf): used when lack of sex drive and depression are thought to be the cause of infertility
  • Sepia (Cuttlefish ink) 6c: used to treat irregular or absent ovulation
  • Juniperus sabina (Savin Juniper or Savin) 6c: recommended for women who have suffered recurrent miscarriage
  • Silica (Flint or Flintstone): this remedy is used to boost a woman's weakened immune system
  • Phosphorus: used to treat stress as well as emotional anxiety that can accompany infertility

The following remedies are considered potent herbs for infertility in men:

  • Sepia 6c: used to treat low sex drive
  • Medorrhinum (Remedy made from gonorrheal discharge): this homeopathy treatment is believed to help treat impotence

A 6c dilution means the original material diluted by a factor of 100−6=10−12.

[By Leokadia Angela]
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Brazilian Bikini Wax and Bikini Wax

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Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow



Hair where hair oughtn't be, according to the current dictates of American fashion, raises many an eyebrow. And so, for cosmetic reasons, millions of women, and a growing number of men, spend millions of dollars each year on

Brazilian Wax

and

Brazilian Bikini Waxing

services that promise smooth, silky skin free of "unsightly," "excessive" body hair. Both males and females have unwanted hair on their body.

Body Waxing

from the hands, legs, arms, underarms,

bikini

area, face, and eyebrows is commonly practiced these days. Everybody wishes to be fresh, energetic and sexy.  Brazilian Bikini Wax and Bikini Wax

Bikini Waxing

can be done in a many number of ways according the level of hair on the body. It is found that around 80% of the women and around 50% of the men are going for hair removal in some form or the other. Facial hair removal is more popular among men than women. There are reports that hair removal salons are getting more and more men customers for removing hair.


Removing Unwanted Body Hair



Body Waxing

is a method of hair removal in which wax is applied over the unwanted hair and then a

muslin strip

is pressed into wax in the direction of the hair growth. Then the

cotton muslin strip

is removed in the opposite direction of the hair growth for removal of the hair.

Body Waxing

removes the hair from the roots and hence the re-growth of hair in the removed area takes between 6 to 8 weeks. After hair is removed through

body waxing

the hair will eventually grow back but it is thinner and sparser in that area. After waxing, men and women are advised to use

growth inhibitor

to prevent hair growth or to slow down the growth of new hair.

What is a Brazilian Bikini Wax?


We have all recently learned of a new wax procedure that women have dreamed of, but thought that it was totally impossible. How could we ever do this to ourselves, and who would ever do it for you? The

Brazilian Bikini Wax

didn't exist until our

Brazilian

sisters started wearing those teeny tiny, itty bitty dental floss

bikini

thongs to the beach. We only thought they were naturally smooth, and we envied them. But now we have learned their secret, and it's spreading worldwide. It's done on your behind, front, and all the Netherlands in between. The

Brazilian Bikini wax

is the cutting edge

bikini waxing

that women have longed for. It gives you the smoothest tush, labia majora, and mons pubis that you can get. It is a lot better than shaving this sensitive area and when the hair grows back it's softer, less stubbly, and less itchy. Some women say it just makes them feel cleaner. Many women request a

Brazilian Bikini wax

because it gives a clean smooth feel, and the freedom to wear even the most revealing swimwear and lingerie.

What happens when you get a Brazilian Bikini Wax?



Expect to be waxed to the max if you visit a salon or spa for a

Brazilian Bikini wax

treatment. For women, the

Brazilian Bikini Wax

mainly involves the buttocks, pubic area and just about everything else save for what some describe as a "landing strip" about an inch long just above the vaginal area. For men... you can use your imagination .. and then some. A disposable thong may be offered to you, but most likely, you'll be in the buff. First the hair is snipped with scissors so the wax can reach the follicles. Then, using

edge applicators

, a technician places warm wax on the area to be removed. As with regular

bikini wax

,

natural muslin strips

are placed over the hot wax and are pulled away in the opposite direction of the hair growth. If there are any stray hairs after waxing, the technician may also tweeze the area. The key to allowing wax to penetrate into the follicles (and provide the closest possible waxing) is for you to relax. Many women claim the treatment is not nearly as painful as it sounds. After

bikini waxing

or shaving, there may be a possibility of little bumps and the area may itch when it starts to grow back. Getting

bikini waxed

is also like getting a haircut. You need a few days to get used the sensation. Using

wax soothing topical analgesic cream

will help relieve bumps, ingrown hairs, redness, or other discomforts resulting from the hair removal procedure.

Brazilian Bikini Waxing Defined...

There is some confusion as to exactly what the

Brazilian Waxing

is and isn't.

Technically speaking
there are four types of

bikini waxes

.

The Bikini Wax

- Hair is removed from outside the panty line.

The Brazilian Bikini Wax

- Leaves a vertical stripe in front, two to three fingers in width. Hair is not removed from the labia. Hair is removed from the tush. Hair may be removed from the butt crack if woman wishes.

The Playboy Bikini Wax

- All hair is removed from the labia, all hair is removed from the butt, including the butt crack and only a very narrow "Landing Strip" is left in the front. Named after Playboy magazine because that's what you see on the models in Playboy.

The Full Bikini Wax

- All hair is removed. Everywhere. Everything. Bald.

The Brazilian Bikini Wax

method is currently very popular and is offered in many salons and skincare clinics. If you are considering waxing as a do-it-yourself project, a consultation with a professional is advised beforehand. We strongly recommend doing as much research as possible to determine if this method should be attempted at home. We are not suggesting that a "Playboy Bikini Wax" job can be done on one's own body nor are we recommending that one even attempt this procedure.

While some estheticians still use

soft wax

for hair removal, most are learning about and using

hard wax

. It is said that

hard wax

diminishes pain by 70 percent because it pulls only the hair and not the skin. Some estheticians don't know about the

hard wax

or how to use it. (see below for usage instructions) After waxing, it is recommended that the esthetician use products that prevent ingrown hair and relieves discomfort.

FDA on Bikini

Wax Methods

and More

For do-it-yourselfers, a variety of home-use hair removal products are available over the counter. These include shaving creams, foams, and gels; waxes; chemical depilatories; and electrolysis devices. Professionals at beauty and skin care salons and in dermatologists' offices provide waxing and, electrolysis, and, most recently, laser treatments to remove hair. On April 3, 1995, FDA cleared the first laser for this use.

The cost, safety, effectiveness, and ease of use of the various methods, as well as the area and amount of hair growth to be treated, are some factors to weigh in choosing a method and deciding whether to go to a professional. Often, different methods are better suited for different areas.

FDA's

Office of Cosmetics and Colors in the

Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition

regulates chemical depilatories, waxes, and shaving creams and gels. (

The Consumer Product Safety Commission regulates razors

.) These products, says John E. Bailey Jr., Ph.D., acting director of the office, are classified as cosmetics, defined as substances applied to the body to alter the appearance, promote attractiveness, cleanse, or beautify.

The agency's

Center for Devices and Radiological Health

regulates electrolysis equipment and lasers.

Depilatories: Basic facts



Description:

A chemical that dissolves hair at the skin's surface.

Depilatories act like a chemical razor blade. Available in gel, cream, lotion, aerosol, and roll-on forms, they contain a highly alkaline chemical--usually calcium thioglycolate--that dissolves the protein structure of the hair, causing it to separate easily from the skin surface.

Advantages:

Inexpensive, fast, sometimes painless, can be done at home, available almost anywhere.

Disadvantages:

Some consumers find the caustic ingredients may cause skin irritation or even chemical burns. The effect lasts a short time -- anywhere from a few hours to several days. Dark-haired users may have visible "shadow" of dark hair under skin. These products often require usage every two or three days.

Epilatories:

While depilatories remove hair at the skin's surface, "epilatories," such as tweezers and waxes, pluck hairs from below the surface. Waxing and tweezing may be more painful than using a depilatory, but the results are longer lasting. Because the hair is plucked at the root, new growth is not visible for several weeks after treatment.

Tweezing is impractical for large areas, however, because it is such a slow process.

Women mostly use tweezers for shaping eyebrows and removing facial hair.

Epilatory waxes are also available over the counter for home use. They contain combinations of waxes, such as paraffin and beeswax, oils or fats, and a resin that makes the wax adhere to the skin. There are "hot" and "cold" waxes.

With hot waxing, a thin layer of heated wax is applied to the skin in the direction of the hair growth. The hair becomes embedded in the wax as it cools and hardens. The wax is then pulled off quickly in the opposite direction of the hair growth, taking the uprooted hair with it.

Cold waxes work similarly. Strips pre-coated with wax are pressed on the skin in the direction of the hair growth and pulled off in the opposite direction. The strips come in different sizes for use on the eyebrows, upper lip, chin, and bikini area.

There are several accepted methods of hair removal but many women return to two trusted, tried and true methods when it comes to facial hair - tweezing and

body waxing

. The reason? Probably one of the biggest reasons is a fear of doing some major damage to the face, but there are some other considerations as well. Whether you've tried other methods of hair removal or not, the fact remains that tweezing and

body waxing

have some real advantages.

One of those advantages is that the removal is not permanent. While that may seem like a contradiction, there are actually times when it's a good thing that hair will grow back. Consider the plucking of the eyebrows. While your eyebrows may be bushy and it may very well be a constant battle to stay on top of the situation, you at least have the opportunity to reshape every few months. If you use one of the more permanent methods of hair removal, a misshapen eyebrow may mock you every time you look in the mirror for months. You can also more easily experiment with shaping, deciding what looks best for your face.

Another advantage is that there are no chemicals involved with tweezing and little fear of a chemical reaction with

body waxing

. The person who waxes or tweezes the eyebrows will have a swollen area that is red for a few hours, but there's little or no danger that you'll have a reaction to some chemical in the solution you're using that will leave you with hives, sores or some other reaction.

Finally, a major advantage for some people is the cost of

bikini waxing

and tweezing. A pair of quality tweezers cost only a few dollars and will last for years.

Bikini Waxing

is slightly more expensive but is typically less expensive than many methods of hair removal, especially when talking about the more permanent hair removal methods.

In the end, it's up to your discretion whether to use one of these very traditional methods of hair removal or to try one of the newer methods on the market. Consider the alternatives before you make your decision.

Body Waxing ... Hair Removal: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions:



How does hair waxing work?

A wax combination is spread thinly over the skin. A cloth strip is pressed on the top and then ripped off with a quick movement removing the wax along with the hair and dead skin cells leaving the skin smooth.

What's the difference between hot waxes and cold waxes?

Good hot waxes melt just above body temperature so they can be easily spread thinly over the skin. As they harden they trap the hair in the wax so it is removed by the roots when the wax is pulled off. Cold waxes are available in precoated strips which can be pressed directly onto the skin. The hair sticks to the wax and is then removed with the quick pull back action. (Cold waxing is also known as Persian waxing)

What is the effect on the skin?

As dead skin cells are removed in this process the skin can feel quite smooth afterwards. The hair waxing action does cause the skin to sting and many find a soothing skin healing cream to be helpful afterwards. Some persons find the skin reacts with redness and bumps which disappear after a few hours.

Are there any health precautions to keep in mind with hair waxing?

Some physicians do not recommend

body waxing

for persons suffering from diabetes or who have varicose veins or poor circulation as they are more susceptible to infection.

Users of Retin-A, Renova, Differin or Accutane are advised not to use

bikini waxing

on the face as these medications tend to weaken the skin and tearing of the skin may occur when the wax is removed.

Bikini waxing

should not be done on areas of skin affected by warts, pimples, moles or rashes or on skin that is irritated, chapped or suffering from sunburn. Never apply

bikini wax

to peeling, broken skin or varicose veins. Never apply

bikini wax

to the nipples when removing hair from the breast area.

On what body areas can Bikini waxing be used?

It is wise to test a small area first but generally

Bikini waxing

can be used on most parts of the body. The exceptions are the male genitals, nipples, inside the ears and nose, eyelashes.

How long before hair reappears?

Generally between 3 and 8 weeks. Less hair re-grows and it is generally finer. Eventually some hair never re-grows.

Recommendation:

To make

bikini waxing

hair removal much easier and less frequent, always apply a hair inhibitor after each

bikini waxing

session.

Bikini Waxing Hair Removal - Tips For Best Results



To avoid the skin appearing darker after

bikini waxing

, be careful not to expose the treated area to the sun for 48 hours after treatment.

Alternatively use a good sun blocker cream on newly treated areas.

Be sure to test a small area of skin first to make sure there is no acute sensitivity or allergic reaction to the process.

Hair should be at least 1/8 inch long. If it isn't wait until it reaches this length.

Be sure to wash the skin thoroughly and dry it well beforehand to remove any lotions or oils which may prevent the wax from adhering closely to the skin.

Heat the wax carefully so as not to overheat and thus burn the skin when applying. Test on a small area first.

The consistency should be soft rather than runny.

If pain and discomfort is a main concern use a pain reducing gel or cream available from

Bikiniwaxing.net

. These solutions should be applied 30 to 60 minutes before waxing so the skin is numbed beforehand.

Apply a thin layer of wax in the direction of the hair growth, preferably holding the

edge treatment applicator

at a 45 degree angle as you spread the wax.

When applying the

cotton muslin strip

over the wax, rub in the same direction as the hair growth leaving about 1/3 of the strip free to allow for a firm grip for a fast back pulling action. Pull the skin taut before pulling the

cotton muslin strip

away.

Pull back with a rapid movement close to the skin. Do not pull up or out, rather pull back. One fast, smooth, pull back is much more effective than a series of light pulls which only increase the pain and leave patchy areas.

Clean the skin with a warm moist towel afterwards to remove excess wax.

It removes all traces of wax from the skin. It is enriched with aloe vera and essential oils to moisturize as it cleans.

It leaves the skin soft and silky.

Avoid showering and making the hair wet prior to hair waxing. Hair absorbs the water making it soft and less likely to adhere well to the wax. Tough hair is easier to pull off.

Avoid wearing tight clothing over freshly waxed areas to minimize the risk of irritation and ingrown hairs.

After 24-48 hours exfoliate the skin (with a Loofa sponge for example) to prevent the dead skin from accumulating in areas that can become ingrown such as the bikini line, upper thighs, underarms and calves.

If acne is a problem, wait until the skin has healed before hair waxing to avoid further irritating this sensitive condition.

Extra Tips For Facial Hair



For facial hair use wax at a lower temperature than the rest of the body.

Use one hand to hold the skin taught.

Spread the wax very thinly using

edge treatment applicators.

.

Only treat small areas at a time.

Recommendation:

To make waxing hair removal much easier and less frequent, always apply a

hair inhibitor

after each waxing session.

Prevent Ingrown Hairs When Shaving Or Waxing



When Shaving...



Shave after the hair has been wet for at least 5 minutes. Hair that is wet and full of moisture can be cut easily. Hair that is not well saturated can be very strong and tough. As the razor passes over, the hair is pulled up from the follicle. After it is cut it retracts below the skin surface with the resultant risk of it growing into surrounding tissue.

Shave in the direction of the hair growth. Cutting with the grain not against it will prevent hair being cut too short.

Prevent ingrown hairs by avoiding repeat strokes over the same area. Repeated strokes can also result in hair being cut too short.

Shave with the skin in a relaxed condition. Do not stretch the skin too taught. A little pressure may be necessary but excessive stretching can again result in hair being cut too short.

Use Tea Tree Oil twice a day in conjunction with a loofah bath or shower. Tea Tree Oil has a bacterial ability to kill infection and prevent pustules forming. (Avoid the eye area)

When Waxing...



To pull out the hair cleanly without breaking it follow these recommendations: Apply a thin layer of wax in the direction of the hair growth, preferably holding the

edge treatment applicator

at a 45 degree angle as you spread the wax.

When applying the

cotton muslin strip

over the wax, rub in the same direction as the hair growth leaving about 1/3 of the strip free to allow for a firm grip for a fast back pulling action.

Pull the skin taut before pulling the cotton strip away.

Pull back with a rapid movement close to the skin. Do not pull up or out, rather pull back.

One fast, smooth, pull back is much more effective than a series of light pulls which only increase the pain and leave patchy areas.

After 24-48 hours exfoliate the skin (with a Loofa sponge for example) to prevent the dead skin from accumulating in areas that can become ingrown such as the bikini line, upper thighs, underarms and calves.

Prevent ingrown hairs by not wearing tight clothing over freshly waxed areas to minimize the risk of irritation and ingrown hairs.

Recommendation:

Prevent and/or eliminate discomforts resulting from any type of hair removal use

bikini soothing cream.

It is a topical analgesic cream that relieves bumps, ingrown hairs, redness, or other discomforts resulting from any type of hair removal procedure. The rich emollients and tropical oils in bikini soothing cream soothes and moisturizes the freshly treated skin. Bikini Soothing Cream also removes wax residue leaving skin clean, smooth, and silky.

Labeling of over-the-counter waxes cautions that these products should not be used by people with diabetes and circulatory problems, who are particularly susceptible to infection.

Body Waxing

--and tweezing as well--can leave the skin sore and open to infection.

Body Waxing

should not be used over varicose veins, moles, or warts. They should not be used on the eyelashes, inside the nose or ears, on the nipples or genital areas, or on irritated, chapped, sunburned, or cut skin. A small area should be tested for sensitivity or allergic reaction before

Body Waxing

the entire area. Some hair removal experts recommend professional

Body waxing

for the best results.

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Calcarea 30c increases sperm count: Homeopathy for Infertility

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Homeopathy is a growing field for infertility problems. More and more people everyday is looking for infertility help in homeopathy clinics. In New York the number of homeopathy clinics that work with infertile patients is increasing every month. And the reason for it is an increasing demand for homeopathic treatment among women looking to get pregnant.


Homeopathy for Infertility in New York
According to the data from one survey in New York 64% of women prefer to see a homeopath or other natural health practitioner for their infertility problem first before they see a Gynecologist.

This data shows that women in New York have a lot of trust in homeopathic treatment regarding infertility concerns. They prefer to try alternative and natural treatment first and only if it does not work, they go for the more invasive treatment offered by modern medical practitioners.

So, what do women get when they go to homeopathic clinics? What kind of treatment do they offer? Is it helpful for specific forms of infertility only or many different causes?

After talking on the phone with one of a New York Homeopath I found out that homeopathy can be used for the treatment of a variety of infertility causes and it can be helpful for male and female types of infertility.

Homeopathy is an alternative form of infertility treatment and it is effective because it improves overall health, including reproductive health.

For female infertility, for example, the following remedies proved to be the most helpful:
  • Sepia 6c

    - this remedy is helpful to treat irregular or absent ovulation.
  • Aurum

    - this one is used when low sex drive and depression are the cause of infertility.
  • Sabina 6c

    -is helpful to treat recurrent miscarriage.
  • Phosphorus

    - for relieving anxiety and stress, which contribute to infertility problem.
  • Lycopodium

    - might be of help to women suffering from dry vagina or tenderness in their lower abdomen.
  • Silica

    - is good for improving overall health to increase your chances to get pregnant. Also it improves immune system for people who often get sick.
  • Viburnum opulus (30C)

    - can be very good for women with endometriosis to help them get pregnant.


Alternatively, you can use homeopathy for treatment of male infertility. The well known remedies are:
  • Medorrhinum

    - is used to treat impotence.
  • Sepia 6c

    - is used to improve low sex drive in men.
  • Agnus castus

    - is helpful if problems with impotence develop after a period of intense sexual activity for many years. Men who need agnus castus are normally very anxious about their health and loss of sexual abilities.
  • Calcarea 30c

    - helps to increase sperm count.
  • Lycopodium

    - helps with erection problems especially for men who worry a lot and have lack of self-confidence.


These are only a few homeopathic remedies which can be used for problems related to infertility. But it shows that homeopathy looks at the whole person and considers the cause of conception difficulties and treats that cause. It often removes the blocks to conception and leads the way to a healthy, natural pregnancy.

Homeopathic clinics in New York offer a great range of alternative treatments for infertility problems. Homeopathic remedies appeared to be very helpful and suit most people. The rule in homeopathy is to prescribe by symptoms rather than conditions, as each case of a particular illness can manifest differently in different people. This makes homeopathy stand out from all other infertility treatments and make it very popular amongst New York women.

Dr Irina Webster is the Director of Women Health Issues Program which covers different areas of Women Health.

Dr Irina Webster has a wholistic approach to medicine and her favorite area is to discover natural treatments for Women health problems and share these treatments and methods with other people.

Dr Irina Webster believes that the majority of women health problems can be treated naturally without drugs or surgical treatment.

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The Many Benefits of Tea Tree Oil

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Humans have long enjoyed aromatic oils. Greeks, Egyptians, and other ancient cultures were well versed with the properties of certain scents to enhance mood and nurture emotional well-being.


Yet one essential oil made from the Australian tea tree Melaleuca alternifolia is a substance that goes far beyond a sensual experience. Tea tree oil boasts a variety of uses.

The Many Benefits of Tea Tree OilHerbalist Jeanne Rose, known for her extensive study of essential oils, said of tea tree in her publication, "The Aromatherapy Book—Applications and Inhalations," "This is one oil that most definitely will get lots of use in your medicine chest and should positively be part of the home first-aid kit." First used by Australian aborigines who applied the crushed leaves to wounds and scrapes, the tea tree has no actual relation to the plant from which tea, the beverage, is made— Camellia sinesis. The name tea tree originated in 1770 when British explorer James Cook made a drink from this long-leaved herb found only in the coastal wetlands of Australia. While Cook realized that this new found herb could treat scurvy, only recently have the myriad of health benefits from tea tree oil been discovered.

In the early 1920's Australian chemist, Dr. A.R. Penfold conducted the initial research on tea tree leaves. The health benefits he revealed prompted several subsequent studies from other British and Australian scientists. During WWII it was considered so beneficial it was included in the first-aid kits of Australian soldiers during the war.

"Tea tree oil can be used on any area of the skin that's inflamed or itchy," explains Mary Helen Lee, Chicago acupuncturist and a professional member of the American Herbalist Guild. Lee mentions insect bites, acne, mouth ulcers, cuts, and scrapes as several conditions that call for tea tree oil.

"It's an antiseptic, but it also has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties," says Lee adding that ailments ranging from ringworm to toe nail fungus can also benefit from its application.

Using tea tree directly on the skin makes this oil unique. Many essential oils are so caustic and can cause painful burns when applied topically, but external use of tea tree oil is generally quite safe. However, it should never be applied to eczematous skin.

Using the steam-distilled oil, tea tree medicines take many forms for a variety of conditions—from shampoos and conditioners for dandruff and itchy scalp to toothpaste, deodorant, and soap. Lee also mentions another product by Thursday Plantation, a highly regarded tea tree oil manufacturer, that utilizes the benefits of tea tree in a cocoa butter suppository for yeast infections. "It's really helpful to women so they don't have to use those chemical anti-fungal suppositories," she notes.

Small amounts of tea tree oil are added to supplements to be taken internally for Candida yeast overgrowth or to a mouthwash for inflamed gums, but Lee warns that ingesting too much can be dangerous. "It can be used internally, but only under the supervision of a licensed health care practitioner," she warns, "and be careful of the mucus membranes." Usually, remedies containing tea tree for internal use include merely one or two drops of the potent oil mixed in a formula with other herbs.

This caution should also be exercised when treating pets with tea tree. While some find the oil effective for fleas or inflamed skin patches on animals, one needs to be careful that a pet does not ingest too much oil as they lick the treated area.

Still, for a generally safe medicine that treats such a wide range of issues, it might be surprising to note that tea tree oil is also an effective cleaning solvent. While commercial cleaning preparations using the oil are available, making a solution at home is pretty easy.

Environmental health researcher, Sharon Delia, writes, "Tea tree oil has many uses for housekeeping.
You can prove to yourself how well it works to kill mold and mildew with this simple test: Put two teaspoons of Australian tea tree oil in a spray bottle with two cups of water. Spray the mixture on something musty. Let the smell dissipate (it will take a few days). The smell of mold and must will be gone, too, never to return as long as the source of moisture has been removed."

While tea tree oil has a strong scent, it's an effective and safe alternative to several commercial cleaning projects. Besides its ability to kill germs, tea tree works wonders with cleaning projects that would otherwise be a drudgery. That gummy stuff clinging to bottles after the labels has been torn off removes effortlessly with a little tea tree oil.

With so many uses from healing to cleaning, it pays to become familiar with this multipurpose and relatively inexpensive essential oil from Down Under—tea tree.

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Auricularia against Cancer: Drugs from the Sea

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While marine animals and plants are most commonly used as food sources, they contain a wide variety of chemical compounds that can be turned into products with beneficial medical and industrial uses. Thousands of new biochemicals have been discovered in marine organisms such as sponges, mollusks, algae and even bacteria.


"We view the ocean as a potential treasure trove for new compounds," Robert Bidigare, Ph.D., from the University of Hawaii in Honolulu, said.

Auricularia against Cancer: Drugs from the SeaAccording to him, the research is needed.

"Over 99 percent of the microbes in the ocean are not represented in our culture collections. Most of the existing drugs on the market are losing their effectiveness. Many of these are derived from soil bacteria. So we feel that the ocean is a new place to look for miracle drugs," he said.

It's a great place for exploration too.


"The ocean accounts for about 70 percent of the surface of the earth. The ocean is pretty much unknown. In every drop of water, there are millions and millions of bacteria... that's an ecosystem to these organisms," Bidigare said.

According to Bidigare, there are currently about 30 marine-derived pharmaceuticals in various stages of clinical trials. The following highlights some of the chemicals and biological materials isolated from marine organisms that are already in use or are being developed:

Pharmaceuticals

  • Anti-viral drugs - Sponge, Cryptotethya crypta - Commercially available
  • Anti-cancer drug - Bryozoan, Bugula neritina - Phase II trials
  • Anti-cancer drug - Sea hare, Dolabella auricularia - Phase I trials
  • Anti-cancer drug - Tunicate, Ecteinascidia turbinata - Phase III trials
  • Anti-cancer drug - Gastropod, Elysia rubefescens - Advanced pre-clinical trials
  • Anti-inflammatory agent - Marine fungus - In development
  • Anti-fungal agent - Sponge, Trachycladus - In development
  • Anti-tuberculosis agent - Sea whip, Pseudopterogorgia - In development
  • Anti-HIV agent - Ascidian (tunicate) - In development


~Source: U.S. Commission on OCEAN POLICY

Bidigare said another interesting aspect of this research is the ability to detect harm from different marine organisms.

"Recently, we've detected a brand new neurotoxin that's present in many strains of cyanobacteria, and it's been shown in previous studies that this neurotoxin actually produces an ALS syndrome (Lou Gehrig's disease) in humans and it could be affecting marine mammals as well. It would be exposed to humans, through the diet," He said.

Michael Rapeй, Ph.D., from the University of Hawaii in Honolulu, said many people hear the word “bacteria” and think it's harmful.

"Those are the bacteria that the public hear about -- the ones that are making people sick and the ones that are causing disease. That's unfortunate... because they are such a tiny minority of the bacteria on earth. Most of the bacteria on earth are doing good things to keep us alive. We depend on them for every breath we take," He said.


He emphasizes that many of these "good" bacteria researchers find in the oceans could have a life-saving effect on people worldwide.

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NAC: pregnancy in forties and other bebefits

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Women who have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and use the nutritional supplement NAC (n-acetyl-cysteine) may benefit in several ways, according to medical studies:
  • Reduction of undesirable insulin resistance.
  • Reduction of undesirable homcystieine.
  • Increase effectiveness of fertility drug.
  • As an antioxidant, it may provide reproductive support and improve egg quality.

What is NAC?



NAC: pregnancy in forties and other bebefitsNAC (n-acetyl-cysteine) is a stable derivative of the amino acid cysteine, which has antioxidant properties and is required for the body's production of glutathione. Glutathione, along with NAC, are powerful antioxidants. Adequate antioxidants are essential for protecting your cells from damanage. NAC is also very good at helping you get rid of toxins in your body.

NAC is not found in the diet but is available as a nutritional supplement. It is also available as a FDA-approved prescription drug.

NAC is commonly used for these health problems: liver toxicity, acetaminophen poisoning, chemotherapy, detoxification, respiratory problems, heart disease, gallstones, and excess mucus production.

However, NAC also has some value for polycystic ovarian syndrome.

NAC Improves Insulin Sensitivity in Women with PCOS



Insulin resistance, the inability to efficiently utilize the hormone insulin, is thought to be a primary cause of polycystic ovary syndrome. Although not every woman with PCOS has an insulin problem, the majority probably do. Therefore, anything that helps to normalize insulin is worth considering.

A recent study evaluated the effect of NAC on insulin secretion and insulin resistance in 6 lean and 31 obese women women with polycystic ovary syndrome. They took 1.8 grams of NAC daily for 5-6 weeks. A dose of 3 grams per day was arbitrarily chosen for the massively obese. Six of the 31 obese patients were treated with placebo.

Those treated with NAC had a reduction of their insulin resistance and a significant fall in testosterone levels.

Although this is a small study, it suggests that NAC can play a role in improving your insulin sensitivity. Many of you are taking metformin for the same purpose. Improved insulin sensitivity is crucial to reversing PCOS.

Homocysteine and NAC



Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome are often prescribed the drug metformin (Glucophage) to deal with their insulin problems. One of the problems with metformin is that it has a tendency to increase homocysteine levels. And, in general, PCOS women have higher homocysteine levels than normal women.

Homocysteine is an amino acid in the blood. A normal amount is OK. But an elevated level means that your metabolic processes are not working properly. Elevated homocysteine is associated with coronary artery disease, heart attack, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, cognitive impairment, and cervical cancer.

Another medical study showed that people taking NAC for two months had a significant decrease in homocysteine levels. Higher doses were more effective than lower doses.

NAC May Improve Fertility



If you are having fertility problems, your doctor may have prescribed a the drug clomiphene or "Clomid" in order to induce ovulation. However, some women are "resistant" to Clomid and it does not work.

A very interesting study of 150 Clomid-resistant women with PCOS has shown that NAC appears to make Clomid more effective. The women were dividied into two groups. One group took Clomid and NAC. The other group took Clomid and a placebo.

In the NAC group, 49.3% ovulated and 1.3% became pregnant. In contrast, in the placebo group, only 21.% ovulated and there were no pregnancies.

In another study of 573 women with polycystic ovary syndrome, Clomid plus NAC was used in one group, and Clomid alone was used in another group.

The ovulation rate improved significantly after the addition of NAC. In the group taking Clomid plus NAC, 52% ovulated whereas in the Clomid alone group 18% ovulated.

The study's authors concluded: "N-Acetyl cysteine is proved effective in inducing or augmenting ovulation in polycystic ovary patients."

NAC Provides Antioxidant Protection



NAC is a well-known antioxidant, meaning it protects cells from being damaged by free radical molecules.

An increasing body of evidence indicates that women with polycystic ovarian syndrome have greater oxidant stress and lower antioxidant levels, thus reducing their ability to control inflammation and prevent cell damage.

Chronic inflammation and oxidant stress make PCOS symptoms worse and tend to reduce fertility.

NAC and Pregnancy Problems



We hope you are not exposed to second hand cigarette smoke or other pollutants that could harm your unborn child. If you think you may be exposed to any kind of environmental toxins or pollution, consider taking NAC.

The are a number of animal studies showing the NAC protects the unborn fetus from damage from toxins. For example, a study from Kocaeli University in Turkey exposed pregnant rats to cigarette smoke. One group was given NAC and one group was not. In the mother rats not protected by NAC, the fetuses had significant lung damage whereas much of this damage was prevented in the fetuses of the NAC-treated rats.

We also hope that you do not take unnecessary drugs or take excessive dosages of drugs during pregnancy. For example, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is the most common drug overdose in pregnancy. NAC has been shown to reduce the toxicity of such overdoses.

Safety



NAC is considered safe.

Although NAC has not been shown to have any adverse effect on the fetus, you should check with your doctor before taking NAC if you are pregnant. Do not take NAC while also taking nitroglycerin.

Before taking NAC in combination with metformin, check with your doctor. If you are taking a substantial dose of NAC, you may need to reduce the dosage of metformin.

Very high doses of NAC may cause some nausea or gastrointestinal problems in a few people.

How Much Should You Take?



We do not recommend that you start using NAC at the 1.8-3 gram (1,800 - 3,000 milligrams) dose range cited in one of the studies above. However, up to 600 milligrams per day would be a starting point.

Consult with a qualified physician as to whether a higher dose is appropriate for you, especially if you are taking metformin.

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Uterine Cancer Screening and Prevention

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Overview



Information about the prevention of cancer and the science of screening appropriate individuals at high-risk of developing cancer is gaining interest. Physicians and individuals alike recognize that the best "treatment" of cancer is preventing its occurrence in the first place or detecting it early when it may be most treatable.


Uterine (endometrial) cancer is the most common invasive gynecologic cancer in women, with 36,100 new cases each year. This incidence would be higher if it weren’t for the relatively large number of hysterectomies performed for non-cancerous reasons. It is estimated that approximately 6,500 women will die of

uterine cancer

in the United States each year. The lifetime risk of developing

uterine cancer

for an American woman is 2%.

Uterine Cancer Screening and PreventionThere has been an increase in the incidence of, but not mortality from,

uterine cancer

since the mid 1970s, which has been attributed to the use of hormone replacement therapy for treatment of menopausal symptoms. Studies show that the most common type of

uterine cancer

, endometroid adenocarcinoma, develops from the overgrowth of cells lining the uterus in the setting of excessive or prolonged exposure to the female hormone estrogen. Other less common

uterine cancers

, such as serous carcinoma, do not seem to be related to estrogen levels in the body.

The chance of an individual developing cancer depends on both genetic and non-genetic factors. A genetic factor is an inherited, unchangeable trait, while a non-genetic factor is a variable in a person’s environment, which can often be changed. Non-genetic factors may include diet, exercise, or exposure to other substances present in our surroundings. These non-genetic factors are often referred to as environmental factors. Some non-genetic factors play a role in facilitating the process of healthy cells turning cancerous (i.e. the correlation between smoking and lung cancer) while other cancers have no known environmental correlation but are known to have a genetic predisposition, meaning a person may be at higher risk for a certain cancer if a family member has that type of cancer.

Heredity or Genetic Factors



Women with a family history of

uterine cancer

are twice as likely to develop

uterine cancer

than women without a family history. Women who have a family history of hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC) have an increased risk for carrying the HNPCC genetic abnormality. Studies suggest that women who carry this genetic abnormality have a 10-fold increased risk of

uterine cancer

and a 20% incidence of

uterine cancer

by the age of 70. Women with a family history of

uterine cancer

may wish to discuss genetic testing with their physician.

Environmental or Non-Genetic Factors



Factors associated with an increased risk of developing

uterine cancer

include obesity, a high-fat diet and a prolonged exposure to the female hormone, estrogen. Women who begin to menstruate early in life, experience a late menopause and/or have no children have the longest exposure to estrogen, and are thus, at the highest risk. Completion of at least one pregnancy appears to lower the risk of

uterine cancer

by 50%, as after the birth of the first child, the risk of developing

uterine cancer

appears to decrease with increasing age. The risk also decreases in proportion to the number of induced abortions. Women who take oral contraceptives also appear to have a reduction in the incidence of

uterine cancer

.

Hormone Replacement and uterine cancer:

Women who take estrogen replacement therapy to control menopausal symptoms have a 4 to 8-fold increase in the risk of developing

uterine cancer

. This risk increases with the duration of use. For example, after 5 or more years of estrogen use, the risk of developing

uterine cancer

increases to 10 to 30-fold. The risk appears to last for 10 years or more after discontinuation of estrogen replacement therapy. When this information was made public, there was a decline in the use of estrogen replacement and a decline in the incidence of

uterine cancer

. However, women need to consider all risks and benefits before discontinuing hormone replacement for treatment of menopause because the benefits of hormone replacement therapy may outweigh the risk of cancer.


There is some evidence that adding progesterone to estrogen for the treatment of menopausal symptoms can decrease the risk of

uterine cancer

that is presented by estrogen; however, there is also evidence that this strategy increases the risk of breast cancer. The main issue for women taking hormone replacement is to have periodic gynecologic evaluations to detect early

uterine cancer

. With this strategy, women can both achieve the benefits of hormone therapy and detect

uterine cancer

early when it is small and curable.

Tamoxifen and Uterine Cancer:

Tamoxifen is a chemopreventive drug that blocks estrogen from entering the cells. Tamoxifen and other anti-estrogens are commonly used in the treatment of breast cancer, but have also proven successful in the prevention of breast cancer in women at high-risk.

One uncommon complication of tamoxifen therapy is

uterine cancer

. Several clinical studies around the world have evaluated the risks and benefits of tamoxifen. The results of the National Cancer Institute clinical study evaluating tamoxifen were presented in 1998. During this study, 13,388 women at high risk of developing breast cancer were treated with either tamoxifen or placebo for 5 years. While the results indicated a 45% reduction in the development of breast cancer, they also showed an increase in the risk of

uterine cancer

, as 33 women treated with tamoxifen developed

uterine cancer

, compared with only 14 women in the placebo group. All of the

uterine cancers

occurring in the tamoxifen group were early stage I cancers.

Since the majority of

uterine cancers

will be detected at an early stage when they are highly curable, the overall benefit of anti-estrogen treatment in breast cancer patients probably outweighs the risk of

uterine cancer

. All women who have a uterus and are receiving anti-estrogen therapy should undergo regular gynecologic examinations.

Furthermore, in response to the risks posed by tamoxifen, newer anti-estrogens have emerged. Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERM) are believed to have positive effects on bones as well as anti-estrogen effects on breast cancer without increasing the risk of

uterine cancer

. For more information, please refer to the section Hormonal Therapy.

Prevention of Uterine Cancer



Cancer is largely a preventable illness. Two-thirds of cancer deaths in the U.S. can be linked to tobacco use, poor diet, obesity, and lack of exercise. All of these factors can be modified. Nevertheless, an awareness of the opportunity to prevent cancer through changes in lifestyle is still under-appreciated.

Decreasing body weight and reducing exposure to estrogen may decrease the risk of developing

uterine cancer

. The addition of progesterone to estrogen may also decrease the risk of developing

uterine cancer

in women taking hormone replacement for menopausal symptoms. There is evidence to suggest that the use of combined hormone therapy in the form of oral contraceptives can also reduce the risk of

uterine cancer

by up to 40% if used for at least a year.

Diet:

Diet is a fertile area for immediate individual and societal intervention to decrease the risk of developing certain cancers. Numerous studies have provided a wealth of often-contradictory information about the detrimental and protective factors of different foods.

There is convincing evidence that excess body fat substantially increases the risk for many types of cancer. While much of the cancer-related nutrition information cautions against a high-fat diet, the real culprit may be an excess of calories. Studies indicate that there is little, if any, relationship between body fat and fat composition of the diet. These studies show that excessive caloric intake from both fats and carbohydrates lead to the same result of excess body fat. The ideal way to avoid excess body fat is to limit caloric intake and/or balance caloric intake with ample exercise.

It is still important, however, to limit fat intake, as evidence still supports a relationship between cancer and polyunsaturated, saturated and animal fats. Specifically, studies show that high consumption of red meat and dairy products can increase the risk of certain cancers. One strategy for positive dietary change is to replace red meat with chicken, fish, nuts and legumes.

High fruit and vegetable consumption has been associated with a reduced risk for developing at least 10 different cancers. This may be a result of potentially protective factors such as carotenoids, folic acid, vitamin C, flavonoids, phytoestrogens and isothiocyanates. These are often referred to as antioxidants.

There is strong evidence that moderate to high alcohol consumption also increases the risk of certain cancers. One reason for this relationship may be that alcohol interferes with the availability of folic acid. Alcohol in combination with tobacco creates an even greater risk of certain types of cancer.

Exercise:

Higher levels of physical activity may reduce the incidence of some cancers. According to researchers at Harvard, if the entire population increased their level of physical activity by 30 minutes of brisk walking per day (or the equivalent energy expenditure in other activities), we would observe a 15% reduction in the incidence of colon cancer. The association between exercise and

uterine cancer

is not as well defined.

Screening and Early Detection of Uterine Cancer



For many types of cancer, progress in the areas of cancer screening and treatment has offered promise for earlier detection and higher cure rates. The term screening refers to the regular use of certain examinations or tests in persons who do not have any symptoms of a cancer but are at high-risk for that cancer. When individuals are at high-risk for a type of cancer, this means that they have certain characteristics or exposures, called risk factors that make them more likely to develop that type of cancer than those who do not have these risk factors. The risk factors are different for different types of cancer. An awareness of these risk factors is important because 1) some risk factors can be changed (such as smoking or dietary intake), thus decreasing the risk for developing the associated cancer; and 2) persons who are at high-risk for developing a cancer can often undergo regular screening measures that are recommended for that cancer type. Researchers continue to study which characteristics or exposures are associated with an increased risk for various cancers, allowing for the use of more effective prevention, early detection, and treatment strategies.

Periodic gynecologic evaluation is crucial for the early detection of

uterine cancer

. All women should undergo regular physical examinations and patients on hormone replacement therapy or tamoxifen might consider monitoring with transvaginal sonography (ultrasound examination) and hysteroscopy (endoscopic evaluation of the uterus). The ability to detect abnormalities in the uterus may be improved with a test called sonohysterograpy, where a salt-water solution is infused into the uterus before the transvaginal sonography is performed. This is a safe and inexpensive improvement over conventional ultrasound examinations.

For women taking tamoxifen, annual examinations beginning 2-3 years after the start of treatment are currently advised. Abnormal bleeding or undiagnosed postmenopausal bleeding warrants immediate evaluation with endometrial biopsy. Ultrasound performed through the vagina for the evaluation of bleeding can also be used in some patients instead of immediate biopsy.

Strategies to Improve Screening and Prevention



The potential for earlier detection and higher cure rates increases with the advent of more refined screening techniques. In an effort to provide more screening options and perhaps more effective prevention strategies, researchers continue to explore new techniques for the screening and early detection of cancer.

Predictive Genetic Testing:

The identification of the cancer susceptibility genes has led to predictive genetic testing for these genes. Since most

uterine cancers

are not the result of known inherited mutations, not all women would benefit from genetic testing. However, women who have a family history of hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC) have an increased risk for carrying the HNPCC genetic abnormality. These women may benefit from undergoing a test to determine if they do carry the HNPCC genetic abnormality. An accurate genetic test can reveal a genetic mutation, but cannot guarantee that cancer will or will not develop. At this point, genetic tests are used to identify individuals who are at an increased risk of developing cancer, so that these individuals may have the option of taking preventive measures.

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