What is Fracture?

A fracture is the medical term for a broken bone. Bone fractures are typical; the normal individual has two while in a life-time. They happen when the physical force applied on the bone is more powerful than the bone by itself. Your risk of fracture relies upon, in part, on your age. Fractured bones are very typical in childhood, though children at hospital with bone injuries are generally less complicated than fractures in adults. As you get older, your bones come to be more brittle and you are more likely to suffer bone injuries from falls that would not occur when you were young.


These are the some types of fractures, but the main types are:
1. displayed
2.non-displaced
3.open
4.closed

Displaced and non-displaced fractures pertain to the way of the bone breaks. In a displaced fracture, the bone snaps into two or more parts and moves so that the two ends are not lined up straight. If the bone is in many pieces, it is called a comminuted fracture. In a non-displaced fracture, the bone cracks either part or all of the way through, but does move and keep its proper alignment.


- Closed-fracture is when the bone damage but there is no cut or openwound in the skin.
- Open fracture is one in which the bone damage by the skin; it may then diminish back into the wound and not be seen through the skin. This is an significant distinction from a closed fracture because with an open fracture there is a possibility of a deep bone infections.


Greenstick fracture -  an incomplete fracture in which the bone is curved. This type occurs most often in children.

Transverse fracture - a break at a right position to the bone's axis.
Oblique fracture - a break in which the crack has a curved or sloped pattern.
Comminuted fracture - a fracture in which the bone pieces into several bits.

Impacted fracture - is one where ends are pushed into each other. This is generally seen in arm fractures in kids and is often known as a buckle fracture. Other varieties of fracture are pathologic fracture, induced by a disease that deteriorates the bones, and stress fracture a hairline crack.
some other types of fracture are pathologic fracture, induced by a disease that deteriorates the bones, and stress fracture.

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Dyspeptic Syndrome Natural Treatment

Clinical Considerations
➤ General comments
– Dyspeptic syndrome is the generic term for all types of upper abdominal and retrosternal pain, abdominal discomfort, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal symptoms.
– It is characterized by prolonged upper abdominal problems due to an underlying functional disorder with or without an additional psychovegetative component. The symptoms occur in the intestinal lumen without significant intestinal wall involvement. The following types can be distinguished:
• Epigastric meteorism with distended abdomen (most common type): The stomach and intestine are often jointly involved.
• Arteriosclerosis of gastrointestinal arteries: Characterized by deficient absorption of intestinal gases and flatulence.
• Cholecystopathies (latent or manifest), food intolerance, the characteristic symptoms of which are distension of the stomachal region with bloating and belching.
• Dysmotility type: Abdominal distension and bloating, premature feeling of satiation, diffuse abdominal pain in daytime only, nausea, food intolerance, vomiting, aversion to food, and constant discomfort.

➤ Herbal treatment measures
– Herbal remedies can be used for trial treatment (for 14 days) or symptomatic treatment.
– Symptomatic herbal therapy
• Dyspepsia with motor disorders: Bitters can be used to counteract motor disorders of the upper gastrointestinal tract, e. g., a large flaccid stomach or motor disorders related to bile and pancreatic juice secretion. If the problem is already long-standing, treatment must usually be continued for several weeks before the preparations become effective. A high-fiber diet is also recommended.
• Meteorism: Carminatives are used to treat meteorism (see below). They are sometimes combined with bitters, antiphlogistics, and/or tannincontaining herbs, depending on the symptoms involved.

➤ Clinical value of herbal medicine
– Herbal remedies permit differentiated treatment according to the type and severity of the predominant symptoms.
– Synthetic drugs and chemical remedies (e. g., prokinetic drugs) are used when there is positive evidence of organic disease or if the patient fails to respond to trial herbal therapy.

Recommended Herbal Remedies (Overview)
Carminatives
➤ Caraway seed (Carvi fructus); fennel seed (Foeniculi fructus); aniseed (Anisi fructus).
– Action: When taken orally, carminatives induce a feeling of warmth and facilitate eructation and the passage of gas after meals. They contain essential oils that either induce spasmolysis or promote bowel motility and probably
also have antibacterial effects. They are not as potent as the specific anti-biotics or antispasmodics. The most potent carminative is caraway, followed by fennel and aniseed.
– Contraindications: Patients with gallstones should not use carminatives unless directed by a physician.
– Side effects: Carminatives reduce the pressure in the esophageal sphincter and can therefore cause heartburn. Bitters
➤ Wormwood (Absinthii herba); angelica root (Angelicae radix); gentian root (Gentianae radix); chicory herb and root (Cichorii herba et radix); bogbean leaf (Menyanthidis folium); dandelion root and herb (Taraxaci radix cum herba); blessed thistle (Cnici benedicti herba); yarrow herb (Millefolii herba).
– Action: Stimulate gastrointestinal motility.
– Contraindications: (cf. Anorexia):
• Patients prone to gallstones should not use bitters unless directed by a physician.
• Gentian root: Ulcer-related dyspepsia, acute gastritis.
• Yarrow: Known allergy to composite plants.
• Dandelion: Biliary tract obstruction, gallbladder empyema.
• Wormwood: Pregnancy.
– Side effects: See Anorexia.

Aromatic Herbs
➤ Aniseed (Anisi fructus); calamus root (Calami rhizoma); caraway seed and oil (Carvi fructus et aetheroleum); cinnamon bark (Cinnamomi cassiae cortex, C. zeylanici cortex); turmeric root (Curcumae longae rhizoma, C. xanthorrizae rhizoma); bitter orange peel (Aurantii pericarpium); coriander (Coriandri fructus); fennel seed (Foeniculi fructus); chamomile flower (Matricariae flos); balm leaf (Melissae folium); peppermint leaf (Menthae piperitae folium); rosemary leaf (Rosmarini folium).
– Action: Antispasmodic and antibacterial; increases peristalsis.
– Contraindications
• Turmeric: Should not be used by patients with biliary tract occlusion or gallstones.
• Anise: Known allergy to anise or anethole.
• Calamus: Should not be used by children under 12 years of age or during pregnancy or breast feeding.
• Chamomile: Known allergy to chamomile.
• Menthol: Biliary tract obstruction, gallstones, gallbladder inflammation, severe liver damage.
– Side effects: (Cf. Anorexia):
• Anise: Although rare, allergic reactions of the skin, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal tract may occur.
• Turmeric: May irritate the gastric mucosa if used for extended periods or overdosed.

Other Herbs for Dyspeptic Syndrome
➤ Galangal root (Galangae rhizoma); papaya peel (Caricae papayae fructus); pineapple (Ananas comosus); artichoke leaf (Cynarae folium).
– Action: Used to treat enzyme deficiencies. Galangal bark stimulates the secretion of pancreatic enzymes. Papaya and pineapple contain digestive enzymes.

Range of Applications in Bloating and Meteorism
Mild Pain and Meteorism
➤ Caraway; aniseed; fennel; balm; peppermint; wormwood.
– Dosage and administration
• Tea Rx: Carvi fructus, Foeniculi fructus, aa 20.0; Menthae piperitae folium, Melissae folium, aa 30.0. Steep 1 teaspoon in 1 cup of boiled water for 15 minutes. Take 1 cup of the tea while hot, 3 to 6 times a day.
• Tincture Rx: Ol. Carvi 5.0, Tinct. Absinthii, Tinct. Foeniculi Compos., aa 20.0. Take 20 to 30 drops in water, 3 times a day.
• Aniseed: Pour 1 cup of boiled water onto 1 heaped teaspoon of the freshly crushed or coarsely powdered herb, then cover and steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Take 1 cup, 3 to 5 times a day.
• Anise oil: 3 drops on a cube of sugar, several times a day.
• Commercial products: Take as directed on the product label.
– Clinical value: All of these remedies are generally recognized in Europe as safe and effective. Hence, they can be selected according to the taste preference of the patient.

Mild Gastrointestinal Pain, Bloating, and Meteorism
➤ Caraway; fennel; wormwood; yarrow.
– Dosage and administration
• Tea Rx: Carvi fructus, Foeniculi fructus, Absinthii herba, Millefolii herba, aa 25.0. Steep 1 teaspoon in 1 cup of boiled water for 15 minutes. Take 1 cup of the hot tea before each meal.
– Clinical value: Effective and well-recommended tea formulation, owing to inclusion of wormwood, the duration of application should be limited.

Severely Distended and Painful Stomach
➤ Caraway; olive oil; fennel; aniseed.
– External remedies: Dosage and administration
• Liniment Rx: Ol. Carvi 10.0, Ol. Olivinarum ad 100.0. Apply 10 to 15 drops onto the stomach in a circular pattern, 2 to 3 times a day. Can also be used in small children.
– Internal remedies: Dosage and administration
• Tea Rx: Carvi fructus (crushed), Foeniculi fructus (crushed), Anisi fructus (crushed), aa 20.0. Steep 1 teaspoon in 1 cup of boiled water for 20 minutes. Drink a cup of the warm tea after each meal.
• Caraway oil: 2 to 3 drops in a small amount of water at meal time.
• Caraway seed: Pour 1 cup of boiled water onto 1 teaspoon of the freshly crushed seeds, then cover and steep for 5 minutes. Take 1 cup at or after meals.

– Clinical value: These herbal remedies, especially caraway oil, have good effects in this indication according to clinical experience in Europe. Postprandial Bloating and Meteorism
➤ Caraway; fennel; wormwood herb (see p. 129); yarrow herb; turmeric root; artichoke leaf.
– Dosage and administration
• Tea Rx: Carvi fructus, Foeniculi fructus, Absinthii herba, Millefolii herba, aa 25.0. Pour 1 cup of boiled water onto 1 teaspoon of the tea mixture, then cover and steep for 15 minutes. Take 1 cup of the hot tea before each meal.
• Turmeric root, artichoke leaf: Use commercially available preparations Meteorism and Cramping with Inflammation and Diarrhea

➤ Caraway; fennel; chamomile.
– Dosage and administration
• Tea Rx: Carvi fructus, Foeniculi fructus, aa 20.0; Matricariae flos, ad 100.0. Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons in 1 cup of boiled water for 10 minutes and sip slowly while hot.
– Clinical value: Effective and well-tolerated remedies. Bloating and Meteorism with Cramplike Gallbladder Pain

➤ Gentian root; wormwood herb; peppermint leaf; belladonna.
– Dosage and administration
• Tincture Rx 1: Tinct. Gentianae, Tinct. Absinthii, aa 20.0; Tinct. Menthae Piperitae 10.0. Take 30 drops in a glass of water, shortly before meals,
3 times a day.
• Tincture Rx 2: Tinct. Belladonnae 2.0, Tinct. Menthae Piperitae 10.0; Tinct. Gentianae 20.0. Take 10 to 15 drops in a glass of water shortly before meals, 3 times a day.
Note: Pharmacists are required to standardize belladonna tincture with respect to its alkaloid content. The use of belladonna tincture for more than 3 weeks is not recommended.
– Clinical value: Effective and safe for short-term use.

More Severe Colics and Meteorism
➤ Peppermint leaf; aniseed; calamus root; blessed thistle; wormwood.
– Dosage and administration
• Tea Rx 1: Menthae piperitae folium, Anisi fructus, Calami rhizoma, aa 20.0. Steep 1 tablespoon in 1 liter of water for 1 hour. Warm and drink 1 cup before each meal.
• Tea Rx 2: Cnici benedicti herba, Absinthii herba (see p. 129), Melissae folium, aa 20.0. Steep 1 teaspoon in 1 cup of boiled water for 20 minutes. Take 1 cup, 3 times a day.
– Clinical value: Large interindividual differences in the effects of these remedies can be observed.

Range of Applications in Functional Epigastric Complaints Spastic Functional Epigastric Syndrome
➤ Peppermint leaf; belladonna; wormwood; caraway seed; valerian root.
– Dosage and administration
• Peppermint leaf: Pour 1 cup of hot, not boiling water onto 1 to 2 teaspoons of the herb, then cover and steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Take 1 cup after or between meals. The tea should be drunk slowly while warm.
• Peppermint tincture: 5 drops in half a glass of water. Gives two doses daily. Preferably used for acute symptoms only.
• Tincture Rx: Ol. Carvi 3.0, Tinct. Belladonnae, Tinct. Absinthii, Tinct. Carminativa, aa 10.0; Tinct. Valerian. Aeth., ad 50.0. Take 30 drops in water, after meals, 3 times a day.

Warning: The latter formulation contains belladonna and should not be used for more than 3 weeks.
Note: Antacids can dissolve the enteric coating of some tablets, leading to stomach upset.
– Clinical value: Large interindividual differences in the effects of these remedies can be observed.

Roemheld’s Complex
(Spastic Functional Epigastric Syndrome with Severe Meteorism)

➤ Galangal root.
– Dosage and administration
• Dried herb: Pour 1 cup of boiled water onto 1 teaspoon of the finely chopped or coarsely powdered herb, then cover and steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Take 1 cup, 15 to 30 minutes before each meal.
• Tincture (1 : 10): Take 10 drops in lukewarm water, 15 minutes before meals, 3 times a day.
– Clinical value: Large interindividual differences in the effects of these remedies can be observed.

Roemheld’s Complex with Poor Evacuation of the Bowels
➤ Caraway; fennel; senna leaf.
– Dosage and administration
• Tea Rx: Carvi fructus, Foeniculi fructus, aa 20.0; Menthae piperitae folium, Sennae folium, aa 30.0. Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons in 1 cup of boiling water for 20 minutes. Take 1 cup in the morning and evening.
Warning: This formulation contains senna and should not be used for more than one month at a time.
– Clinical value: Effective, but duration of use is restricted.

Dyspepsia Associated with Enzyme Deficiencies
➤ Papaya peel; pineapple, or their derivatives, papain and bromelain.
– Dosage and administration
• Papain, bromelain, pancreatin, trypsin, chymotrypsin: Commercial tablets are widely used.
Warning: Allergic reactions, ranging from mild reactions to anaphylactic shock, can occur. Bloating, flatulence and occasional nausea can occur when administered at high doses.
Warning: Bromelain can increase the potency of antibiotics and anticoagulants. Other side effects include harmless changes in the consistency, color, and smell of stools.
– Contraindications: Severe congenital or acquired coagulopathies, known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients. Should not be used before surgery.
– Clinical value: Large interindividual differences in the effects of these remedies can be observed.

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What is Reflux disease, Gastritis, Gastroduodenal Ulcers, Dyspepsia Clinical Considerations?

What is Reflux disease?
-is acknowledged by the symptomatic in reverse movement of the stomach contents (particularly gastric acid) into the esophagus due to weakness or inadequacy of the gastroesophageal sphincter.

How do you get a stomach ache? (acute gastritis)
-can be induced by a variety of factors, like simple overeating, stress, alcohol, medications, acids, alkaline substances, and bacterial infections. Acute stomach diseases can become chronic. The superior layers of the gastric mucosa are affected.
– Indications: Upper abdominal pain, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, bleeding.
– Gastroduodenal ulcers develop when there is an imbalance of protective and aggressive factors. Erosions extending into the deep layers of the stomach wall can be found on the mucous membrane of the stomach and or duodenum.
– Functional stomach disorders (diagnosis of exclusion) play a very essential role, as they are found in 30–50 % of all patients with upper abdominal complaints.
– Nervous disorders are suspected if no natural variations can be discovered. It is hard to recognize nerve-related problems from typical upper abdominal problems pursuing meals (dyspeptic syndrome). The stomach and duodenum (nausea, belching, upper abdominal discomfort) as well as the small and large intestine (flatulence, cramplike abdominal pain, diarrhea) can be involved.
-Ulcer-like dyspepsia - Nocturnal pain, episodic pain, pinpoint pain.
-Dysmotility dyspepsia - Nausea or vomiting, premature satiation, belching, gas, upper abdominal tension, flatulence.
– Reflux dyspepsia or Heartburn.
– Aerophagia or Flatulence and belching

Clinical value of herbal medicine and herbal treatment measures
– Reflux: Herbal remedies are used for adjunctive treatment only.
– Gastritis
• The effectiveness of herbal remedies for autoimmune gastritis (type A) is still unclear.
• Treatment for Helicobacter pylori-related gastritis (type B) consists of eradicating the pathogen by way of acid blockade and antibiotic treatment.

Herbal remedies can be prescribed as adjuvant measures.
• Drug-induced gastritis (type C) caused by salicylates, nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs, and other medications responds well to mucoprotective herbal remedies. Their use is, however, limited to adjuvant therapy.
– Ulcers: Antacids, mucoprotective drugs, and antisecretory drugs (e. g., H2-antagonists and proton pump inhibitors) are normally used. In this case, herbal remedies are limited to adjuvant therapy.
– Non-ulcer-related dyspepsia: A variety of herbal remedies are used to treat
dyspeptic syndrome.

Recommended Herbal Remedies

Antiphlogistics
➤ Chamomile flower (Matricariae flos); peppermint leaf (Menthae piperitae folium); balm leaf (Melissae folium); licorice
root (Liquiritiae radix); fennel seed (Foeniculi fructus).
– Action: Anti-inflammatory. Aromatic herbs also have bacteriostatic effects and increase the local blood circulation.
• Chamomile flower: Chamomile alone is not a very effective ulcer treatment. Because of its general efficacy and virtual lack of side effects, it is still commonly recommended for adjunctive treatment at the onset of and during acute ulcer episodes. The greatest strength of chamomile lies in prevention.
• Licorice root: Because of its antiphlogistic effects, the herb is mainly prescribed for treating ulcer-related conditions, but is also indicated in gastritis and dyspeptic syndrome.
– Contraindications
• Licorice root: Cholestatic liver diseases, cirrhosis of the liver, hypertension, hypokalemia, severe liver failure, and pregnancy.
• Chamomile flower, dried and in alcoholic extracts: Known allergy to chamomile.
• Peppermint leaf and its preparations: Reflux.
– Dosage and administration: Licorice preparations should not be used for more than 4–6 weeks at a time unless directed by a physician. Standardized licorice root extracts made with diluted ethanol and containing no less than 4.0 % and no more than 6.0 % glycyrrhizin should preferably be used.
• Deglycyrrhinated licorice extract (DGL) is very commonly recommended and available in capsules or tablets in North America. The preparation is nearly as effective as whole licorice, but with fewer side effects. The daily dosage is based on the equivalent to 200–600 mg glycyrrhizin.
– Side effects: Undesirable mineralocorticoid effects occur after a weekly dose of ≥3.5 g glycyrrhizin (from licorice root). Rare cases of myoglobinuria have also been reported.

Demulcents
➤ Flaxseed (Lini semen).
– Action: Soothing.
– Contraindications: Bowel obstruction.
Important: Flaxseed may impair the absorption of other drugs. The patient using flaxseed should drink plenty of fluids, at least 150 ml after taking the herb.
Anticholinergics
➤ Belladonna (Atropa belladonna).
– Action: Parasympatholytic. Alkaloids of the atropine group inhibit vagus nerve activity, reduce gastric juice secretion, and diminish intestinal motility. They are therefore used to relieve spasms, gastrointestinal colic, and gallbladder colic.
– Contraindications: Narrow-angle glaucoma, mechanical gastrointestinal tract stenosis, benign prostatic hypertrophy with residual urine formation, acute pulmonary edema, and tachycardiac arrhythmias.
– Dosage and administration
• Belladonnae radix: Single dose 0.05 g; maximum single dose 0.1 g (equivalent to 0.5 mg total alkaloids). Maximum daily dose 0.3 g, equivalent to 1.5 mg total alkaloids calculated as L-hyoscyamin.
– Belladonna extract: Single dose 0.01 g; maximum single dose 0.05 g, equivalent to 0.73 mg total alkaloids calculated as L-hyoscyamin.

Note: Belladonna is dispensed by prescription only.
– Side effects: Dose-dependent side effects, such as dry mouth, blurring of vision, micturition disorders, headaches, and stupor.

Range of Applications in Acute Clinical Pictures
Acute Gastritis and Esophagitis (in viral infection)
➤ Chamomile.
– Dosage and administration
• Special chamomile therapy: The patient should drink 2 to 3 cups of fresh, hot chamomile tea (see p. 47), then lie on the back, left side, stomach, and right side for 5 minutes each. As an alternative to the tea, this therapy can also be performed using 30 to 50 drops of chamomile fluid extract or an appropriate commercial preparation, taken in a glass of hot water. The tea or diluted extract should be taken on an empty stomach in the morning.

Important
• This therapy should be continued for a few days after the symptoms have ceased.
• Recovering alcoholics should not use chamomile extract because it contains alcohol.
– Clinical value: Useful and effective treatment measure without side effects. Ulcers with Nocturnal Pain and Localized Epigastric Hunger Pain
➤ Chamomile; licorice root.
– Dosage and administration
• Chamomile: see Acute Gastritis and Esophagitis.
• Licorice root fluid extract (with 4–6 % glycyrrhizinic acid): 1 teaspoon diluted in a small quantity of water, up to 4 times daily.
• Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) chewable tablets. Take 2 to 4 380 mg chewable tablets before meals for acute symptoms, 1 to 2 tablets as a maintenance dose.
Note: Should be taken under medical supervision and for no more than a few weeks.
– Clinical value: For adjunctive treatment.

Gastric Colic (Ulcerlike Pain without an Organic Finding)
➤ Belladonna (Atropa belladonna).
– Dosage and administration
• Tincture Rx: Tinct. Belladonnae with 0.02–0.03 % total alkaloid content, Tinct. Valerianae, Spir. Menthae pip., aa ad 30.0. Take 8 to 10 drops in water, 3 times a day.
– Clinical value: Useful for alleviating pain. Range of Applications in Chronic Esophageal and Gastric Diseases Chronic Esophagitis
➤ Flaxseed.
– Dosage and administration: Grind flaxseed before use. Place 2 tablespoons of flax seed in 1⁄2 liter of water and bring to a boil. Strain and drink the liquid. The use of commercial products is recommended. Take 3 to 4 sips of the gruel, several times a day.
– Clinical value: For adjunctive treatment.

Chronic Gastritis
➤ Fennel seed; peppermint leaf; lemon balm leaf; calamus rhizome (Calami rhizoma).
➤ Tea Rx: Foeniculi fructus, Menthae piperitae folium, Melissae folium, Calami rhizoma, aa 20.0.
➤ Flaxseed (see p. 66).
– Dosage and administration
• Tea mixture: Steep 1 teaspoon in a cup of boiled water for 10 minutes. Take 1 cup, 2 to 3 times a day. Sip slowly while hot.
• Flaxseed gruel: Soak 1 to 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed (daily portion) in 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 liter of water overnight in the refrigerator. Drink lukewarm before breakfast or in portions distributed throughout the day.
– Clinical value: For adjunctive treatment.

Chronic Gastritis in Very Underweight or Weak Patients
➤ Olive oil; flaxseed.
– Dosage and administration
• Olive oil: Sip 1 tablespoon slowly each morning.
• Flaxseed: see above
– Clinical value: For adjunctive treatment. Non-Ulcer-Related Dyspepsia (cf. Dyspeptic Symptom Complex)
➤ Licorice root.
– Dosage and administration
• Dried licorice root: Chop and steep 1⁄2 teaspoon in 1 cup boiled water for 15 minutes. Take 1 cup, 3 to 4 times a day. Can be taken for several months because the glycyrrhizinic acid content is very low.
• Licorice fluid extract (4–6 % glycyrrhizinic acid): 1 teaspoon in 1 cup water, 3 to 4 times a day.
• Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) chewable tablets: take 1–2 before meals.
Note: The use of licorice fluid extract and commercial licorice products should be medically supervised. These preparations should not be taken for more than a few weeks at a time.
– Clinical value: For adjunctive treatment.

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Anorexia Nervosa Natural Treatments

Anorexia Nervosa Natural Treatments

Clinical Considerations of anorexia nervosa

Report General Comments

– Appetite is defined as an natural desire for food. It has a unique control mechanism that is mostly localized in the hypothalamus and an unspecific manage mechanism in the limbic system. Hence, appetite is basically subject to psychological command.

– The gustatory nerves (vagus nerve) in the mouth induce the production of saliva and gastric juices.

Herbal and general treatment measures: Pleasant-tasting bitters can be used to induce the appetite and the production of gastrointestinal juices. The patients usually become comfortable to the approved herbs or herb formulations within a few weeks, so the herbal remedies soon lose their initial efficiency. This makes it necessary to periodically replace to various natural formulations to keep treatment effectively.

➤ Medical benefit of natural treatment: Bitters used to activate the appetite are a best example of the effectiveness of natural and organic treatments simply because, in this case, no comparable man-made solutions are out there.

Natural Appetite Suppresant

Distinction: Bitters are separated into the following four groups: tonic bitters (tonic substances), astringent bitters (tannins), aromatic bitters (essential oils), and acrid bitters (pungent substances).

➤ Tonic bitters (amara tonica): Centaury leaf (Centaurii herba); artichoke leaf (Cynarae folium); cinchona bark; gentian root (Gentianae radix); horehound herb (Marrubii herba); bogbean leaf (Menyanthidis folium); dandelion root and herb (Taraxaci radix cum herba); chicory leaf and root (Cichorii herba et radix).

➤ Astringent bitters (amara adstringentia): Condurango bark (Condurango cortex—use only in combination with other herbal remedies); cinchona bark (Cinchona cortex).

➤ Aromatic bitters (amara aromatica): Wormwood herb (Absinthii herba); bitter orange peel (Aurantii pericarpium—use only in combination with other herbal remedies); calamus root (Calami rhizoma); angelica root (Angelicae radix); blessed thistle (Cnici benedicti herba); yarrow herb and flower (Millefolii herba et flos).

➤ Acrid bitters (amara acria): Cinnamon bark (Cinnamomi cassiae or ceylanicicortex); galangal root (Galangae rhizoma); ginger root (Zingiberis rhizoma).

➤ Contraindication to natural treatment

– Gentian: Must not be employed by persons with gastric or duodenal ulcers.

– Wormwood: Should not be used while in maternity.

– Calamus (sweetflag): Should not be used for the duration of maternity or by youngsters below 12 years old.

➤ Measures

– Bitters initially induce the release of saliva. Once they reach the stomach, they stimulate the release of gastrin, thus enhancing upper gastrointestinal mobility. Bitters also stimulate the release of bile, pancreatic juices, and pepsinogen.

– Bitters stimulate the appetite of patients who lack gastric juices (achylia) owing, for example, to chronic atrophic gastritis.

– Bitters do not stimulate the appetite of healthy individuals.

– Overdosage can lead to a digestion-suppressive effect.

– Bitters are usually not effective in treating cancer-related anorexia. However, one should try the different formulations.

➤ Adverse reactions

– Although rare, head aches may happen in vulnerable persons.

– Angelica root can trigger photosensitivity. Persons using it should prevent extensive sun exposure.

➤ Dosage and administration

– Bitters should be taken 15 to 30 minutes just before meals and implemented at doses large enough to be efficient.

– Bitters should be temporarily retained in the mouth before ingesting.

Variety of Applications

To Stimulate the Appetite in Useful Achylia (lack of gastric juices) Secondary to an Acute Infection

➤ Gentian root; centaury herb; bogbean.

– Dosage and administration

• Gentian root: Steep 1 teaspoon of the carefully sliced natural herb in 1 cup of water for 5 minutes.

• Centaury herb: Steep 1 to 2 tsp in 1 cup of boiled water for 15 minutes.

• Tea Rx: Centaurii herba, Menyanthidis folium, Calami rhizoma, aa 20.0. Simmer 1 tbsp in 1 litre of water for 15 mins. Single dose: 1 cupful. Heat before use.

• Gentian extract: 0.5–2.0 g herbal preparation , 2 times a day, e. g., in pill form.

• Centaury extract: 1–2 g, several times a day, e. g., in pill form.

• Bogbean leaf tincture: 20 to 40 drops in 1⁄2 glass of water; sip slowly.

• Gentian tincture: 20 to 40 drops in 1 glass of water before each meal (very potent).

Note: Bitter teas, extracts, and tinctures should be taken before each meal.

– Medical benefit: There are no man-made drugs with similar results. Bogbean tea has an particularly effective result. Swallowing bitter preparations in capsules is less efficient than use of preparations where the bitter taste is tasted in the mouth.

Anorexia in General Tiredness or Exhaustion

➤ Additional sign: For common roborant and stimulant effects after medical procedures.

– Tincture Rx: Tinct. Cinchonae comp. Tinct. Rhei vinosae, aa 25.0.

– Dosage and administration: 1 teaspoon, 30 minutes before meals, 3 times a day.

– Medical advantage: Comparably pleasant tastes, low-potency solution.

Anorexia in Vegetative and Constitutional Weakness

➤ Combined Cinchona Tincture containing 6 parts cinchona bark, 2 parts bitter orange peel, 2 parts gentian root, and 1 part cinnamon.

– Dosage and administration: 20 drops in a glass of lukewarm water, 30 minutes before each meal. Long-term use is recommended.

– Clinical value: Easy to use, comparatively good taste. Gastric Anacidity, Achylia, and Anorexia (in the elderly)

➤ Tea Rx: Absinthii herba, Menthae piperitae folium, aa 30.0.

– Dosage and administration: Steep 1 teaspoon in 1 cup of water for 10 minutes and strain. Take 1 cup, just before meals, 2 times a day. Sip slowly and gradually.

– Medical benefit: This is an alternatively efficient solution, but is soon rejected by many patients due to the fact of its bitter taste. Anorexia (early stages)

➤ Yarrow herb; peppermint leaf; centaury herb; calamus root.

– Dosage and administration: Take 30 mins just before meals.

– Tea Rx: Centaurii herba, Millefolii herba, Menthae piperitae folium, aa 20.0. Steep 1 tsp . in 1 cup of boiled water. Take in, cold or lukewarm, just before meals.

– Calamus tincture: 5 to 10 drops in a glass of water, thrice a day.

– Medical benefit: The efficiency of these uses has not been recorded in medical studies. Calamus tincture should not be administered to youngsters, or while in maternity. Lack of Appetite and Functional Upper Abdominal Problems (in situations where carminative, cholagogue, and mild antispasmodic results are desired.

Lack of Appetite and Insufficient Peristalsis

➤ Ginger root

– Dosage and administration: Ginger tea or tincture should be taken 15 to 30 mins just before meals.

– Dried ginger root: Pour 1 cup of hot water onto 1 tsp . of the coarsely powdered herb, then cover and steep for 5 to 10 mins.

– Ginger tincture (1 : 5): 10 to 20 drops in 1⁄2 to 1 glass of water. 

Helpful substitute solution.

Medical benefit: Instead of well accepted. Big inter individual differences in the effectiveness of these treatments can be noticed. Anorexia in Severe Organic Diseases (Cancer)

➤ Calamus root.

– Dosage and administration: Calamus tincture: 20 to 30 drops in a glass of water, 15 to 30 minutes before meals, 3 times a day.

– Clinical value: Herbs that induce the appetite are not very efficient for this sign.

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Diseases of the Mouth and Throat Natural Remedies

Clinical Considerations
➤ General comments: Mouth and throat diseases can be caused by bacteria, (e. g., Streptococcus or Staphylococcus species), viruses, mycoses (e. g., Candida albicans), allergies, pseudoallergies, and autoimmune diseases.
➤ Herbal and general treatment measures: Mouth washes and gargles are mechanical measures for cleansing the mouth and increasing the blood flow in the oral mucous membranes. Depending on which secondary herbal substances they contain, they can also relieve pain and speed up the healing process.
➤ Clinical value of herbal medicine
– Herbal preparations are effective in counteracting bacterial, viral or nonspecific mouth and throat diseases. They can be used alone or for adjunctive treatment parallel to established synthetic drugs.
– There are no known herbal remedies for fungal diseases of the mouth and throat.
– Astringents help to clear up drug-related oral eruptions, and bitters are used to counteract dryness of the mouth.

Diseases of the Mouth and Throat Recommended Herbal Remedies (Overview)
Demulcents
➤ Marshmallow root (Althaeae radix); mallow leaf (Malvae folium); ribwort plantain (Plantaginis lanceolatae folium); sage leaf (Salviae folium).
– Action: Antitussive.
– Contraindications: None known.
– Side effects: None known.

Astringents
➤ Myrrh (Myrrhae); dried bilberries (Myrtilli fructus); silverweed (Potentillae anserinae herba); rhatany root (Rhataniae radix); sage
leaf (Salviae officinalis folium); tormentil root (Tormentillae rhizoma).
– Action: Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, promotes wound healing.
– Side effects: None known.
Aromatic Herbs
➤ Clove oil (Caryophylli aetheroleum); chamomile flower (Matricariae flos) myrrh; lemon balm leaf (Melissae folium).
– Action: Bacteriostatic, bactericidal, virustatic. Some are antiphlogistic.
– Contraindications: Chamomile: Known allergy to chamomile.
– Side effects: None known.
Bitters
➤ Centaury herb (Centaurii herba); bogbean leaf (Menyanthidis folium); gentian root (Gentianae radix).
– Action: Increases the flow of saliva by stimulating bitter receptors on the tongue.
– Contraindications: Individuals with gastric or duodenal ulcers should not use gentian root.
– Side effects: Although rare, headaches may occur.

Range of Applications in Acute Mouth and Throat Diseases
Acute Stomatitis (with less severe pain)
➤ Mallow leaf, marshmallow root, and sage leaf, either alone or using equal parts of each, as an infusion.
– Dosage and administration: Use as a mouthwash or gargle, 3 to 6 times a day.
– Clinical value: Herbal treatment alone is usually sufficient in mild cases. Otherwise, the herbal remedies can be applied for adjunctive treatment. Acute Stomatitis (painful)
➤ Chamomile flower and sage leaf (1 : 1) for infusions.
– Alternative: Clove oil 5 % in water base.
– Suggested combination: Commercial slippery elm bark (Ulmus rubra) preparations.
– Dosage and administration: Place herbs in water, bring to a boil, then cover and steep for 14 minutes. Rinse mouth or gargle with 1 tablespoon infusion in a cup of warm milk, 3 to 10 times a day as needed.
– Clinical value: Can be used alone to treat mild or moderate disorders. Also combines well with synthetic drugs and chemical remedies (e. g., lidocaine or tetracaine). Isolated Mouth and Throat Ulcers (Aphthae)
➤ Myrrh tincture; sage leaf.
– Dosage and administration
• Apply a few drops of myrrh tincture 1 : 5 to the affected sites, 2 to 3 times a day.
• Gargle: Briefly boil sage leaves in water (1:1) and steep for 14 minutes.
– Clinical value: The effects of these herbs are comparable to those of their active constituents’ synthetic counterparts. Pharyngitis with Dry Cough and Problems in Swallowing
➤ Mallow leaf; sage leaf; marshmallow root.
– Dosage and administration: Prepare an infusion using one or more of these herbs. Gargle with the infusion several times a day.
– Clinical value: The effects of these herbs are comparable to those of their active constituents’ synthetic counterparts. Clinical studies to confirm this are, however, not available. Acute Glossitis and Aphthous Stomatitis
➤ Dried bilberry.
– Dosage and administration: Steep 1 to 3 tablespoons of dried bilberries in 1 liter of water for around 15 minutes. Gargle with the infusion several times a day.
– Clinical value: Studies comparing bilberry to its active constituents’ synthetic counterparts are not available.
• Bitters: Centaury herb, bogbean, and gentian root. Prepare an infusion using one or more of these herbs. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of the tea mixture to 1 liter of water.
– Clinical value: Comparable treatment regimens with synthetic drugs do not exist. The elimination of harmful factors (e. g., cigarette smoking) can greatly improve the symptoms. Chronic Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease
➤ Undiluted rhatany (Krameria spp.) tincture.
– Tincture Rx: Tinct. Krameriae, Tinct. Arnicae, aa 20.0.
– Dosage and administration: Dilute 1 teaspoon in 1 glass of water and rinse or apply undiluted tincture to gums, 2 to 3 times a day.
– Clinical value: Useful alternative to synthetic drugs. No comparative studies are available. Inflammation and Mild Suppuration of the Gums
➤ Tincture Rx: Tinct. Sanguinariae 3.0,, Tinct. Myrrhae, 20.0.
– Dosage and administration: Apply 1 tsp of the mixture diluted in 4 ounces of water to the gums, 2 to 3 times a day.
– Clinical value: Good alternative to synthetic drugs. Persistent “Lump” in the Throat or Need to Clear the Throat
➤ Centaury herb, bogbean, and gentian root. Prepare an infusion using one or more (equal parts) of these herbal remedies, or use the following tincture. Tincture Rx: Tinct. Resina myrrhae 10.0.
– Dosage and administration: Add 1 teaspoon tincture to a glass of water, or
1 to 2 teaspoons tea mixture to 1 liter of water. Rinse the mouth or gargle, several times a day.
– Clinical value: Comparable treatment regimens with synthetic drugs and/ or chemical remedies do not exist. Dryness of the Mouth and Sicca Syndrome
➤ Same as for lump in throat sensation (above).
– Action: Bitters stimulate the remaining intact mucous glands.
– Clinical value: Alternative to artificial saliva. Herpes Simplex Labialis
➤ Apply externally on the lesions either lemon balm leaf dry extract in creme base, or St. John's wort oil.
– Dosage and administration
• Apply 10–20 mg of the creme per cm2 of affected skin, 2 to 4 times of day.
• St. John's wort oil: Apply 1–2 ml of the oil to the affected area, several times daily.
– Clinical value: Useful alternatives to the synthetic counterparts; however, no convincing clinical studies to test this have been published.
– St. John's wort oil has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties and may help reduce pain and inflammation.
Note: It is important to start treatment early, that is, as soon as the first signs appear.

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