Sprains – Healthy.net

ALTERNATIVES:SPORTS INJURIES (LAST OF TWO PARTS)

What Doctors Don't Tell You — Sun, 02 Jul 2006 10:49:15 +0000

Minor strains are caused when there is muscle fibre damage, but the muscle sheaths remain undamaged. (Medium strains involve a partial rupture of sheaths.) Although major strains require hospital treatment, minor strains can be treated at home by immediately applying cold packs, which reduce pain and aid in constricting blood vessels. Follow with a compress of nettle spirit (made from both Urtica urens and dioica, or a moist dressing of Arnica (15 ml mother tincture to 500 ml cold water). Onion compresses (finely chopped onion mixed with water and a little salt) are also highly useful for pain relief (R F Weiss, Herbal Medicine, Gothenberg: ab Arnacum, 1988: 345).

Medium strains need professional strapping or splinting, which provides physical support for the injured part, limits pain, resists harmful movements and allows the injured area to come into graduated use. Controlled, early mobilisation is also helpful.

Sprains, on the other hand, are overstretched injuries to ligaments and tendons. Complete ruptures, which are often surprisingly pain free, require surgical repair. It is partial tears which cause excruciating pain. The best treatments are those for minor sprains, and rest best achieved with a splint for a fortnight is essential.

You can diagnose heat collapse in any sports enthusiast because they feel unwell or collapse during vigorous exercise. (The rectal temperature is more than 38û C, or 100.4û F.) The best remedies are to sponge down the victim with tepid water, and have him drink fluids and elevate his legs (J Appl Physiol, 1997; 82: 799-806).

Eating a meal, in addition to drinking water, can be more effective than a sports drink alone in restoring the body’s water balance (Eur J Appl Physiol, 1996; 73: 317-25).

Suspect the opposite problem, hypothermia, or a dangerous lowering of body temperature, when the sports person slows in pace or stumbles, has cramps, and later has a kind of euphoric confusion (particularly when mountaineering). (With hypothermia, the rectal temperature is below 35û C, or 95û F.) In this instance, the person needs immediate shelter from the wind and cold, and needs to be warmed up, say, by sharing a sleeping bag. A good first aid remedy is Camphora 1DH, three doses, given at 15 minute intervals (J H Clarke. The Prescriber: A Dictionary of New Therapeutics, Rustington, Sussex: Health Science Press, 1972: 134). Once safety is reached, a hot bath will quickly restore body temperature. However, if the person has suffered some frostbite without gangrene, the affected parts should be slowly rewarmed and dressed with cotton wool dressing. (Gangrenous parts will require amputation.)

For septic conditions: Give Echinacea tincture, 20 drops, every two hours and also larger doses used locally as a cleansing and antiseptic wash (Zeitschrift fuer Phytotherapie, 1981; 5: 166). Homoeopathically, you may also give Pyrogenium (Pyrexin) 6CH every four hours.

For shock: Increase blood flow by raising the foot of the bed or sofa where the patient should be lying undisturbed and give fluids by mouth when possible. Offer Hypericum1DH four hourly (Arzneitmittel/Forschung, 1971; 21: 1999).

For blisters and haematomas, if aseptically aspirated, leave the roof intact to allow healing to occur more rapidly (Arch Dermatol, 1968; 97: 717-21). For haematoma, to avoid reaccumulation of blood, apply a protective compress (made of 15 ml mother tincture of Digitalis purpurea to 500 mg of water, or 10 g fresh Digitalis leaves to 1 litre of water) (Med Klinik, 1965; 60: 2028). Hypericum ointment can be applied to the blistered area to reduce discomfort and aid healing.

!AHarald Gaier

Harald Gaier is a registered naturopath, homoeopath and osteopath.

Sports injuries:Taking the strain out of exercise

What Doctors Don't Tell You — Sat, 24 Jun 2006 03:51:58 +0000

Exercising is one of the most important things people can do to promote ongoing physical and mental health. Some of us exercise regularly, some erratically; some of us ‘go for the burn’ while others prefer gentle stretching. However you do it, exercising not only helps weight loss, controls food cravings, and reduces the risk of diabetes, and heart and circulatory disease, but it also prompts the body to release feel-good chemicals called endorphins, fostering a positive mental outlook on life that continues long after the exercise is finished.

Unfortunately, as more and more health-conscious people increase their levels of regular activity, so are sports-related injuries becoming increasingly more common. Around 11 per cent of all injury-related visits to emergency departments are sports-related (Ann Emerg Med, 2001; 37: 301-8). Injury can occur to anyone of any age and of any level of fitness, and the problem is becoming so extreme that some authorities believe that the cost – in terms of medical treatments as well as loss of mobility and productivity – may negate any benefits gained from the exercise (Inj Prev, 2003; 9: 99-100, 100-2). In the US, for example, sports-related injuries are now more common than automobile accidents (Inj Prev, 2003; 9: 117-23).

Most sports injuries involve cuts, abrasions, blisters or bruising. But strains – that is, injuries to muscles or to the places where muscles become tendons – and sprains – that is, injuries to ligaments, but sometimes to other connective tissues such as tendons and the capsules surrounding joints – are also very common, accounting for 31 per cent of all injuries.

Mild or minimal sprains, with no tearing of the ligament, usually produce a mild tenderness and some swelling. Moderate sprains, where the ligament has been partially ruptured, will produce obvious swelling, bruising, significant tenderness and functional difficulties, such as walking or lifting, depending on the location. Severe sprains, such as when the ligament is completely torn from the bone (known as ‘avulsion’), will make walking impossible and produce marked swelling, internal bleeding and joint instability.

In almost all cases, the treatment of minor sprains and strains will usually follow the tried-and-tested method known as RICE:

* Rest – reduce or stop using the injured area for 48 hours. If you have a leg injury, you may need to stay off it completely

* Ice – put an icepack on the injured area for 20 minutes at a time, and do this four to eight times per day. Use a coldpack, icebag or a plastic bag filled with crushed ice, wrapped in a towel

* Compression – of an injured ankle, knee or wrist can help to reduce the swelling. This can be done using bandages such as elastic wraps, special boots, air casts and splints

* Elevation – keep the injured area raised to above the level of the heart, using a pillow to help elevate an injured limb.

But what happens next, particularly your choice of pain-reliever, is key in terms of whether you will heal slowly or quickly.

Conventional approaches
Typically, a doctor might prescribe a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) – such as aspirin or ibuprofen – for sports- and exercise-related injuries, particularly when inflammation is present. NSAIDs can provide quick temporary relief from pain and inflammation, and they are generally safe to use for up to a few days at a time. However, when used chronically, these medications can bring on many complications. For example, NSAIDs are irritating to the stomach and, based on extensive clinical evidence, can cause microscopic gastrointestinal bleeding in virtually everyone after a relatively short period of use. These bleeds can progress and cause ulcerations and other gastro-intestinal problems when used over extended periods of time.

Moreover, the metabolism of the cartilage may be impaired and the degenerative process accelerated with the use of drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen.

Other conventional approaches include topical rubs containing menthol, which produce a temporary and paradoxical hot-and-cold sensation that helps to relieve the pain of muscle strain. For severe pain, prescription medications, such as paracetamol (acetaminophen) combined with codeine or with hydrocodone may be recommended. Strains may also be treated with muscle relaxants such as cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril), carisoprodol (Soma) and baclofen (Lioresal).

However, some of these approaches may not reduce the inflammation or get rid of the problem. They may lessen or even deaden the pain, but this doesn’t mean the injury has healed. Continuing to exercise a muscle that is injured can make the problem worse.

Pain is an important mechanism as it lets us know when something is wrong in our body. It makes much more sense to repair the damage rather than to simply ignore the injury that is present.

Aspirin vs enzymes
In this respect, more than any other branch of medicine, sports medicine has been quick to adopt the concepts of holistic healing. The need to get athletes back on their feet as quickly and in as good a shape as possible has meant that sports physicians have been driven to embrace the idea of working with the body, and not against it.

A good example of this is the increasingly widespread and popular use of proteolytic enzymes – substances that digest protein – to prevent and also heal athletic injuries.

Enzymes control the chemical reactions that take place in all organisms; they build new proteins, cells, tissues and organs. They also act as catalysts, working in a ‘lock-and-key’ fashion to change the structure of molecules by splitting them or combining them. More than 3000 different enzymes have, so far, been identified in the human body.

All living material contains enzymes, and supplements derived from a variety of sources can mimic some of the body’s own enzymatic activities. Enzymes such as bromelain and papain are derived from pineapple and papaya (paw-paw), respectively. Other enzymes, such as amylase and lipase, are derived from bacteria whereas others, including trypsin, chymotrypsin and pancreatin, are taken from animal, usually porcine, sources.

Though not a feature of conventional treatment, the therapeutic effectiveness of enzymes is so well understood in sports medicine that Olympic athletes in many countries rely on them to aid stamina and healing.

Research into enzymes stretches back 40 years or more (Clin Med, 1968; 75: 35-42). Supplemental proteolytic enzymes have been shown to support and accelerate the natural inflammatory process without letting it get out of control. By using enzymes such as bromelain, papain, trypsin and chymotrypsin, athletes can reduce inflammatory damage, and speed the healing of bruises, swelling and other injuries (Am J Physiol, 1997; 273: G139-46; Fortschr Med, 1995; 113: 303-6; Med Sci Sports Exerc, 1992; 24: 20-5). Specifically, enzymes can:

* break down proteins in the blood that cause inflammation, and facilitate their removal via the bloodstream and lymphatic system
* remove fibrin, the clotting material that prolongs inflammation
* clear away oedema (excess water retention) in the areas of inflammation
* counteract chronic, recurrent inflammation, a primary cause of chronic degenerative joint diseases.

Proteolytic enzymes are also of interest because of their ability to support, enhance, and regulate the circulatory and immune systems – factors that help to optimise performance during sports.

Nevertheless, for years, enzyme use fell out of popularity, due in part to the fact that many are natural substances that pharmaceutical companies cannot patent and, therefore, profit from. However, new formulations now involve patented combinations of several types of enzymes that deliver standardised levels of activity (see box, page 2) so, once again, this kind of treatment has become fashionable.

Over the years, several trials have reported faster recovery from athletic injuries, including sprains and strains, and an earlier return to activity using trypsin/chymotrypsin (Penn Med J, 1965; Oct: 35-7; Br J Clin Pract, 1970; 24: 375-7; S Afr Med J, 1971; 45: 181-3), papain (Curr Ther Res, 1969; 11: 621-4) and bromelain (Practitioner, 1967; 198: 547), or a combination of these enzymes.

Even better, enzymes compare very favourably to NSAIDs – often besting them in clinical trials. One double-blind study compared an oral preparation containing bromelain, trypsin and rutin with an NSAID (diclofenac) in 73 patients suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee (Clin Drug Invest, 2000; 19: 15-23). After three weeks, it was found that the enzyme mixture was as effective as the NSAID in significantly reducing pain – by around 80 per cent. This decrease in pain was sustained for four weeks after the treatment had ended. Enzyme therapy also produced fewer adverse effects.

Another study comparing the same combination of enzymes with various NSAIDs found similarly positive results (J Assoc Phys Ind, 2001; 49: 617-21).

Finger on the trigger
Other alternative measures have plenty to offer active men and women who sustain musculoskeletal injuries during sports or exercise. Chiropractic, hyperbaric oxygen and massage, among others, can help get athletes off the NSAID treadmill and back into action (see box, page 3). Acupuncture, however, appears to work most closely with natural body processes to relieve pain and encourage healing.

Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese healing practice, involves inserting hair-thin needles into specific anatomical points to redirect the body’s flow of energy, or qi (pronounced ‘chee’). Since 1997, acupuncture has been recognised by the US NIH (National Institutes of Health) as a valid treatment for a range of painful conditions, including tennis elbow, fibromyalgia, low-back pain and carpal tunnel syndrome (JAMA, 1998; 280: 1518-24). The technique appears to activate the body’s natural painkillers by causing the release of the morphine-like endorphins (Life Sci, 1979; 25: 1957-62).

The good news is that acupuncture doesn’t just cover up pain. Numerous studies have documented its effects on circulating hormones such as ACTH, cortisol and growth hormone (Lancet, 1979; 2: 535-6; Int J Neurosci, 1980; 10: 95-7; Life Sci, 1983; 32: 1705-9), thereby affecting inflammation and tissue healing.

Acupuncture now encompasses the Western discipline ‘trigger-point therapy’, commonly used in sports medicine.

Trigger points are irritated points in muscles that often refer pain to other parts of the body. In some ways, trigger points are the muscle equivalent of a stress fracture in bone.

A good example is tennis elbow, where trigger points in the forearm muscles cause the problem. Chronic spasm of these muscles puts tension on the elbow tendons, leading to pain and inflammation. If these particular trigger points are not treated, the tennis elbow will not get better, or will return as soon as the patient returns to regular activity.

In general, trigger points respond to traditional massage, but practitioners have found correlations between trigger points and acupoints used in traditional Chinese medicine (J Alt Complement Med, 2003; 9: 91-103). In trigger-point acupuncture, the practitioner palpates the muscles to find tender areas, then inserts the needle there. While this may seem like a Western corruption of a traditional practice, in fact, the Chinese also have a name for these points – ah shi, which translates to ‘that’s it’.

For low-back pain, needling these trigger points works just as well as injecting steroids, with much less post-injection soreness (Spine, 1989; 14: 962-4). Similarly, it is effective for neck and knee pain, too (Pain, 2002; 99: 83-9; Acupunct Med, 2003; 21: 32-5).

Sports medicine is not traditionally known for it’s holistic attitude towards its patients. More often than not, sports medicine has involved a ‘patch ‘em up and send ‘em back out on the field’ attitude.

Professional athletes, looking for cures that work with, not against, their bodies are leading the way in exploring gentler more effective alternative treatments.

What holistic medicine brings to the arena of sports injuries is the notion that the body is always striving towards wellness. A gentle nudge – for instance, from enzymes or trigger-point acupuncture – may be all that is needed to set it off on the road to recovery.

Pat Thomas

First Aid with Homeopathic Medicines

Dana Ullman MPH — Wed, 06 Dec 2000 13:28:52 +0000

It is initially startling but ultimately logical to learn that homeopaths use stinging nettle (Urtica urens) to treat people with first or second degree burns. Of course, a homeopath would not recommend actually touching a stinging nettle plant to the burned area. Instead, a homeopath would give a specially prepared, non-toxic dose of stinging nettle. Since stinging nettle causes a burn when exposed to it in toxic dose, it also helps heal burns when taken in small non-toxic dose.

The basic principle of homeopathic medicine is that a small dose of a substance will help cure that which it causes in overdose. Although this principle may be a bit confusing at first, it actually makes a lot of sense. Modern day physiology and biology are confirming a basic premise of homeopathy which recognizes that symptoms are efforts of the organism to adapt to stress or infection. Symptoms are therefore understood as the way the “bodymind” is trying, although not always successfully, to re-establish homeostasis or balance. Since symptoms are the best efforts of the organism to attempt to heal itself, it is best to avoid treating or suppressing specific symptoms, and it is preferred to aid and stimulate the body’s defense and immune processes.

The homeopathic medicines are able to stimulate the defense system, since they, like conventional immunizations and allergy treatments, give small doses of what causes a condition in order to stimulate the immune system. Homeopathic medicines, however, are distinctively different from immunizations and allergy treatment, since the homeopathic medicines are more individually prescribed to people, given in much smaller and less toxic doses, and used for both prevention and treatment of a person.

Homeopathic medicine developed much of its popularity in the United States and Europe because of its success in treating people with cholera, scarlet fever, yellow fever and other infectious diseases that were ravaging populations. More recently homeopathic medicine has developed a reputation of suc-cessfully treating people with various chronic complaints. What many people do not know about homeopathy is that it also provides many valuable medicines in treating people who suffer from accidents and injuries. When these medicines are used in conjunction with conventional first aid procedures, the risk of long-term damage from an injury can be significantly decreased and the healing process can be noticeably enhanced.

One must study homeopathic medicine for many years in order to learn how to prescribe the correct medicine for people with chronic conditions. One can, however, learn to use the medicines for first aid very easily. Whereas treatment of a person’s acute or chronic disease requires strict individualization of the person’s total physical and psychological state, treatment for accidents and injuries does not require such individualized presciption. The reason for this difference is that people with acute or chronic diseases have distinct or subtlely different symptoms and causes of their condition, and thus need a different medicine to begin their curative process. People with injuries tend to experience very similar symptoms and usually need a similar metabolic stimulus to heal their complaint. Basically, when different people cut themselves, get burned, break a leg or injure themselves in some other way, they all tend to need a similar stimulus to heal their injury.

Homeopathic medicines for first aid and sports injuries are very easy to prescribe and are usually very effective in reducing pain of the injury and speeding the healing process. It is thus no wonder that many superstar athletes have heard about homeopathy and have begun to benefit from its use. Football superstar O.J. Simpson, tennis player Boris Becker, New York Knick coach Pat Riley, ex-Yankee pitcher Jim Bouton, and pro golfer Sally Little are but some of the athletes who spell relief with H-O-M-E-O-P-A-T-H-Y.

The following medicines are used to treat people in first aid situations. There are other homeopathic medicines that can also used, but these are the most commonly used medicines for the conditions described.

NOTE: Homeopaths use the latin names for their medicines since a similar nomenclature is needed to converse with homeopaths throughout the world.

ARNICA (mountain daisy)

ARNICA is mentioned first because it is a medicine par excellence for the shock or trauma of any injury. It is necessary to treat an injured person for shock first unless the injury is very mild or unless the person is bleeding so profusely that stopping the bleeding should be attended to immediately. Since ARNICA is the first medicine prescribed in numerous types of injuries, it is the most common medicine used in first aid. It helps reduce shock, relieve pain, diminish swelling, and begin healing. ARNICA is a great medicine for injuries to muscles, especially when there is pain from overexertion.

ARNICA is also an excellent medicine before or after surgery since the body experiences a state of shock from these medical procedures. It is used as well before and after dental surgery, and before, during, and after labor to help the mother and infant deal with the shock and stress of birth.

Common conditions for use: Shock or trauma of injury; surgical shock; muscle injuries.

HYPERICUM (St. John’s Wort)

HYPERICUM is an excellent medicine for injuries to nerves or to injured parts of the body which are richly supplied with nerves (fingers, toes, the spine). Generally, such injuries have sharp or shooting pains, and the injured part is very sensitive to touch. HYPERICUM is also good for old injuries to nerves which still seem to both the person.

King George VI of England was so impressed by the effectiveness of HYPERICUM that he named his prize racehorse after it.

Common conditions for use: Injuries to nerves.

URTICA URENS (Stinging Nettle)

As you might have predicted from learning about the law of similars, URTICA URENS is the medicine of choice for burns (stinging nettle, as you may know, causes a burn upon contact with the spine of the plant). URTICA URENS in external application is also helpful in diminishing the pain of the burn and in promoting healing. Such application should be diluted approximately one part of URTICA URENS with ten parts water.

Common conditions for use: burns.

LEDUM (Marsh Tea)

LEDUM is the best medicine for puncture wounds, whether it be from a needle, a nail, or other sharp object. Deep punctures or punctures from rusty nail should receive medical attention, but this should not delay you from taking LEDUM which has no side-effects and which can be helpful in healing wounds and preventing tetanus. LEDUM is also commonly prescribed for insect stings and animal bites. It’s applicable as well to people with severe bruising (black eyes or blows from firm objects), especially if the affected part feels cold and yet feels relieved by cold applications.

Common conditions for use: puncture wounds; insect bites.

RHUS TOX (Poison Ivy)

Although some people cringe when they even hear someone mention poison ivy, it is an obten prescribed homeopathic medicine (in non-toxic homeopathically prepared dose!). It is a great medicine for certain types of skin conditions (since it causes them!) as well as for numerous other conditions which homeopaths have found it causes in overdose. One of the conditions it causes in overdose is the rupturing of ligaments and tendons. Because of this, it is the most common medicine prescribed for sprains and strains, especially the type of sprain and strain that is worse upon initial motion but that is better upon continued motion. It is also a medicine given for dislocated joints. ARNICA is another medicine to condition for dislocations.

Common condition for use: Sprains or strains.

RUTA (Rue)

RUTA is the medicine given for severe sprains where the person has a torn or wrenched tendon, split ligament, or bruised periosteum (bone covering). It is also the most common medicine prescribed for recent or old injuries to the knee or elbow. As such, it is one of the medicine prescribed for “tennis elbow.”

Common conditions for use: Severe sprain; injury to the bone.

SYMPHYTUM (Comfrey)

Homeopaths, like herbalists, use SYMPHYTUM for fractures. Homeopaths, however, give their medicine in potentized dose rather than in teas and poultices as done by herbalists. Although one must go to a physician to have the fracture re-set and placed in a cast, SYMPHYTUM will relieve pain and promote rapid healing of the fracture. Besides its application in fractures, SYMPHYTUM is a great medicine for injuries to the eyeball, bones around the eyes, and the cheekbones.

Common conditions for use: Fractures; facial injuries.

External Applications

Some homeopathic medicines are used externally,* including:

CALENDULA (Marigold)

CALENDULA TINCTURE (in an alcohol base), GEL, SPRAY, and OINTMENT are invaluable external applications in treating cuts and abrasions. CALENDULA is known to have antiseptic properties due to its organic iodine content. CALENDULA helps stop bleeding, inhibits infection, and promotes granulation of tissues to help heal wounds and burns. CALENDULA TINCTURE should not be applied directly on a cut since its alcohol content causes stinging pain. It is best to dilute this tincture with a little water. If you’d like to avoid this effort, you can instead directly apply CALENDULA GEL, SPRAY, or OINTMENT.

Note: CALENDULA works so rapidly in healing the skin that it is not recommended for use in deep cuts. In deep cuts CALENDULA sometimes can close and heal the outside skin before the tissue underneath is completely healed.

Common conditions for use: Cuts, abrasions, burns.

HYPERICUM (St. John’s Wort)

HYPERICUM TINCTURE is recommended as an external application in treating deep cuts since it helps heal internal structures as well as the skin. It also has the ability to close open wounds and thus sometimes prevents the need for stitches. HYPERICUM is also used for septic (infected) wounds (CALENDULA, in comparison, is primarily good for clean uninfected cuts). HYPERICUM TINCTURE, like other external applications which have an alcohol base, should be diluted prior to application.

Common conditions for use: Deep cuts, infected cuts.

General Rules for Determining Dosage

People who are beginners in homeopathy should primarily use the 6th potency (written on the bottom as “6x” or “6c”) or the 30th potency (“30x” or “30c”). The 6x is a dose of the medicine that has been diluted 1:10 six times with vigorous shaking between each dilution, while the 6c has been diluted 1:100 six times. Only homeopathic practitioners who have a great deal more knowledge of homeopathy should use the higher potencies (200x, 1000x, or higher). It is important to remember that homeopathic medicines are more powerful the more they experience “potentization”–the pharmaceutical process of dilution and shaking. Higher potencies thus should be used with great care.

Homeopaths have found that injured people tend to need more frequent repetition of doses shortly after injury. One may need to prescribe a medicine every 30 to 60 minutes immediately after severe injury. After a couple of hours, the frequency of doses can diminish to every other hour or every fourth hour, depending upon the severity of pain. Doses every four hours or four times a day are common when a person has a non-severe injury. A person will generally not need to take a medicine for more than two to four days, except in fractures or severe sprains where one to three doses daily for five to seven days are common.

The basic principle of how to determine dosage is: The more severe the condition, the more often will its repetition be necessary.

It is important to remember that a medicine should only be taken as long as the person experiences pain. Do not continue taking the medicine unless there are still symptoms. The basic idea is to take as little of the medicine as possible and yet enough to lessen pain and stimulate one’s healing powers.

Administration of the Medicine

The medicine should be taken into a “clean mouth.” Food, drink, tobacco, toothpaste, and other substances should not be put into the mouth for at least 15 minutes before or after the dose. It is generally best to place the medicine underneath the tongue.

Homeopaths have found that some substances can neutralize the effects of the homeopathic medicines. Although there is some controversy around which substances are implicated more than others, it is best to avoid the following substances for at least 48 hours after taking the final dose: coffee, camphorated products (including lip balm, counter-irritant muscle relaxing cremes, Tiger’s balm), strong herbal teas, mentholated products, cough drops, and mouthwash.

Care and Storage of Homeopathic Medicines

Special handling and storage of the homeopathic medicines are needed in order to avoid possible contamination. When the medicines are correctly handled and stored, homeopaths have found that they can last for several generations. Since it is very difficult to determine if the medicines have been contaminated, one should take the following precautions to prevent potential problems.

–The medicines should be kept away fraom strong light, from temperatures higher than 100 degrees, and from exposure to strong odors like camphor, menthol, mothballs, or perfumes.

–The medicines should always be kept in the container in which they were supplied and never transferred to any other bottle which has contained other substances.

–The medicine shold be opened for administration of the medicine for the minimum time possible. One should be careful not to contaminate the cap or cork before replacement.

–If, by accident, more pills than the number specified in the prescribed dose are shaken out of the bottle, do not return them to the container; throw the excess away to avoid possible contamination.

How do I Learn More About Homeopathy?

The best source of homeopathic books, tapes, home medicine kits, and software is:

Homeopathic Educational Services

2124B Kittredge St.

Berkeley, CA 94704

(510) 649-0294

(510) 649-1955 (fax)

Ten Common Homeopathic Medicines

Dana Ullman MPH — Wed, 06 Dec 2000 13:28:52 +0000

If you wish to experiment with homeopathic medicines, here are ten medicines that are used for common ailments.

These medicines should be taken in the 6th or 30th potency. Generally, if there is minor pain or discomfort, you should take the medicine three times a day, stopping once health has been restored. If there is more severe the pain, you can consider taking the medicine every one to three hours, decreasing the doses as symptoms are reduced. If you do not observe some improvement after 24 hours in an acute condition, the medicine is probably not the correct one. If symptoms persist, consider another medicine or seek professional homeopathic care.

It is generally recommended that people treat themselves for non-threatening acute conditions only and obtain professional care for chronic or potential dangerous health conditions. Dr. Stephen Cummings and Dana Ullman’s Everybody’s Guide to Homeopathic Medicines (Tarcher/Perigee, 1991) provides detailed protocols for helping to determine when symptoms are beyond self-care.

Allium cepa (onion): Because it is known to cause tearing of the eyes and dripping of the nose, it is a frequent remedy for the common cold and hay fever, especially when there is a thin, watery, and burning nasal discharge that irritates the nostrils. Typically, the person’s symptoms are worse in a warm room and are relieved in a cool room or in the open air.

Arnica (mountain daisy): This is the #1 remedy in sports medicine and first aid. It is used for shock and trauma from injury. It also helps to reduce pain from injury and to speed the healing process. Whether you’re into competitive sports or exercise regularly or if you simply don’t like to feel the pain of an injury, Arnica is the place to start.

Chamomilla (chamomille): Many parents owe their sleep to homeopathy, not because it helps them directly, but because it is so good for their infant. Chamomilla is THE remedy for the irritable infant, especially from teething or colic. The infant cries incessantly, and nothing seems to provide any relief, except carrying them, and even then, the crying begins recurs as soon as the parent puts the child down.

Hypericum (St. John’s wort): This remedy is the first medicine to consider for injuries to the nerves or to parts of the body rich with them, including the fingers, toes, and back. Any injury with shooting pains should be given this remedy.

Ignatia (St. Ignatius bean): One day this remedy will be used by the majority of psychiatrists. It is one of the leading homeopathic medicines for acute grief, anxiety, and depression, especially after a death or separation from a loved one. The person sighs frequently, has a lump in the throat, and may tremble.

Magnesia phosphorica (phosphate of magnesia): This is the most effective remedy for cramps, including menstrual cramps. It has helped prevent many women turn from Dr. Jekkyl into Ms. Hyde as a result of menstrual cramps. It is particularly indicated when a woman’s cramps cause her to bend over and when they experience some relief from warm applications.

Nux vomica (poison nut): This is the premier medicine for ailments exacerbated by conventional or recreational drugs. It is also a common remedy for treating symptoms of overeating or from drinking too much alcohol. Considering how many people have these vices, this is an all too frequent medicine today.

Pulsatilla (windflower): Perhaps the most commommon remedy given to both children and women, this medicine is not indicated for a specific disease but for a specific pattern of physical symptoms and psychological characteristics. Physically, these people are warm-blooded: they wear less clothes than others, prefer open air, and don’t feel as well in the heat. Psychologically, they are a gentle, mind, and yielding person, with a quickly changing emotional state and a strong tendency to want to please others.

Rhus tox (poison ivy): This medicine is the most common remedy for sprains and strains. It is especially indicated when a person experiences a “rusty gate” syndrome, that is, pain on initial motion which is reduced the more the person continues to move. It is also often given to people with the flu or arthritis who experience this similar rusty gate syndrome.

Homeopathic Medicines for Sports Injuries

Dana Ullman MPH — Wed, 06 Dec 2000 13:28:52 +0000

A growing number of professional athletes and weekend warriors are spelling relief H-O-M-E-O-P-A-T-H-Y. Although homeopathic medicines have a reputation of helping people who are suffering from chronic diseases, these natural medicines are wonderfully effective in treating common sports injuries.

In fact, using homeopathic medicines for injuries is considerably easier than treating common diseases because treatment for injuries does not require a high degree of individualizing of remedies that is typical in treating diseases. When two people have sprained ankles, they each need a similar homeopathic remedy to heal them, while two people suffering from arthritis generally require different remedies which are individualized to their unique pattern of symptoms.

Homeopathic medicine should be taken in conjunction with, not in replacement of, conventional first aid measures.

The chart of this page summarizes key homeopathic medicines for common injuries. However, for greater detail and further information on the homeopathic treatment of sports injuries, see the three books listed at the bottom of the page.

Single Remedies and Formulas

Homeopathic medicines are available as single remedies or as formulas of two or more remedies mixed together. Formulas are a more user-friendly way to use homeopathic medicines since the indications for their use are extremely clear. The use of several remedies in a formulas provide a more broad spectrum effect not available in a single remedy. Because injuries sometimes involve muscle, nerve, and bone tissue, it sometimes makes sense to use formulas to help to heal the various tissues involved.

Single remedies are more recommended for injuries when you know the correct medicine to give and when you wish to give a higher potency of a remedy than is available in formulas. Formula products usually contain remedies in the 3, 6, or 12th potencies, while people with severe pain may receive more rapid benefit from the 30th potency.

The “x” after the potency number (as in 6x) refers to the number of times in which a medicine is diluted 1:10, while the “c” after the potency number (6c) is diluted 1:100 (it will be easy to remember the difference between “x” and “c” by simply remember their meaning as Roman numerals). Two hundred years of homeopathic clinical experience has found that the higher the potency, the more powerful and faster the medicine acts. However, the higher the potency used, the more accurate the remedy must be for the injured or sick person. Because of this, it is recommended to use the 30th potency when the user is very confident that the remedy used is the correct one. When one is not as confident, the 6th or 12th potency is indicated, or one can consider using a homeopathic formula.

Frequency of Dose

When taking homeopathic medicines it is recommended to take as few doses as necessary but as many as are required when experiencing pain. At first when there is the greatest amount of pain and discomfort, you may need to take the remedy every hour. Usually after four doses, you can reduce the frequency to every other hour, and as the intensity of pain diminishes, taking a dose every four hours is common.

If no improvement is noticeable after one or two days, it is not recommended to take further doses.

External Applications

Although most homeopathic remedies are in pill form for internal consumption, there are a select number of homeopathic medicines which are available in external applications. Some external applications are in ointments, gels, or sprays. Although they have a similar degree of efficacy, each has certain benefits and detriments.

Ointments are made from a petroleum base which doesn’t allow the skin to breath as well, but they tend to work well because they are not easily washed or wiped off. Gels and sprays allow the skin the breath more, but they are more easily washed or wiped off. Gels are my personal favorite because they are not as easily washed off.

INDICATION MEDICINE DOSE

Shock and trauma of injury Arnica 6,12,30

30 preferred

Injury to the soft tissue/muscle Arnica 6,12,30

Arnica external

Formula external

Injury to nerves or parts of Hypericum

the body rich with nerves (feet, Hypericum external
fingers, back);
injuries with Formula external
shooting pains
6,12,30

Sprains/strains Arnica (immediately
after injury)
6,12,30

Rhus tox* 6,12,30

Bryonia** 6,12,30

Ledum (for easily
sprained ankles)
6,12,30

Arnica external Injury Formula external

Tendonitis Rhus tox* 6,12,30

Bryonia** 6,12,30

Arnica external

Injury Formula external

Severe sprains (wrenched tendons, Rhus tox* 12,30

split ligaments) Bryonia**
12,30

Ruta (if Rhus tox or Bryonia aren’t effective) 12,30

Bellis perennis (when
cold applications cannot be tolerated)
12,30

Dislocation Arnica 12,30

Hypericum (if
shooting pains)
12,30

Injuries to periosteum (bone-covering) Ruta 6,12,30

Arnica external

Injury Formula external

Injuries to knee or elbow Ruta 6,12,30

(includes shin splints) Rhus tox* 6,12,30

Arnica external

Injury Formula external

Fracture Symphytum

(Take Arnica for shock of injury)
6,12,30

Arnica external

Injury Formula external

Head injury (immediately after injury) Arnica 12,30

Old head injury Natrum sulphicum 12,30

Slow repair of fractures Calcarea phos.
6,12

Bruises/Contusions Arnica 6,12,30

(no break in the skin) Arnica external

Injury Formula external

Bleeding Arnica 12,30

Nosebleeds Phosphorus
12,30

Blisters Calendula external

Cuts Calendula external

Lacerations (deep cuts) Hypericum external (1st)

Calendula external (after deep cut begins to heal)

Staphysagria 12,30

* Rhus tox is indicated when the person experiences the “rusty gate” syndrome: there is great pain upon initial motion but some relief on continued motion.

** Bryonia is indicated when the person experiences increased pain and discomfort the more motion they do.

Useful Books

Stephen Cummings, M.D., and Dana Ullman, M.P.H., Everybody’s Guide to Homeopathic Medicine, Los Angeles: Jeremy Tarcher, 1991.

Steven Subotnick, D.P.M., Sports and Exercise Injuries: Conventional, Homeopathic and Alternative Treatments, Berkeley: North Atlantic, 1991.

Dana Ullman, M.P.H., Discovering Homeopathy, Berkeley: North Atlantic, 1991.

Herbal Primer Using the Healing Herbs

Christopher Hobbs LAc AHG — Wed, 06 Dec 2000 13:28:02 +0000

Introduction

The use of medicinal plants for the relief of the common ailments to which
the flesh is “heir” is of very ancient origin. In fact many of
the herbs we use so casually today, such as ginger, garlic and cardamon,
were recommended by physicians, and used by common people, for many of the
same health imbalances that we use them for today–over 5,000 years ago!
This safe history of use is reassuring in an age where dozens of new synthetic
drugs are coming on the market every year. Although a few of these drugs
may be of some use, and are thoroughly tested for safety, many herbalists
believe they are not energetically oriented to our human constitution, and
may later cause further imbalances, as well as use up vital energy–which
our body uses for its repair and healing process.

Today’s herbalism is an exciting re-discovery of our heritage of long acquaintance
with mother earth’s remedies. The energy of the chemical compounds in these
plants may be imbedded in our very DNA, for it is likely that we co-evolved
with them over many thousands of years. The use of medicinal herbs is also
prominently mentioned in most spiritual works throughout the world, such
as the Bible and the Rig Vedas. This is an indication that
herbs are not just a collection of active chemical compounds that simply
affect the dynamic biochemical balance of the body, but they can also play
an important part in our spiritual and emotional well-being as well. This
aspect of herbalism is often emphasized by today’s herbalist, who honors
the blessings of the herbal “green people.”

Today, herbalism is in the process of rediscovering its “roots.”
A new world herbalism is evolving from the various healing cultures, especially
Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Traditional European Medicine
(TEM).

The following herbal prescriber comes from over 20 years and 3 generations
experience with herbs, and drawing on the collective experience of many
North American and European herbalists, which I honor as my teachers and
family members.

All the herbs mentioned can be found in natural food stores or herb stores
throughout the country, either in bulk form, liquid extract, extract tablets
or capsules or in powder form.

The common ailments mentioned are grouped according to body systems to make
the information more accessible.

Upper Respiratory Tract Conditions and their Complications

Colds

Colds are a natural part of the human life cycle and offer us valuable protection.
They are mediated by a number of viruses, such as Rhinovirus. The
average person has 2.4 colds/year in the U.S.–which adds up to a whopping
3/4 of a billion cold cases overall, throughout the country. Despite the
transitory misery, colds have a strong positive side–they increase elimination,
both by sweat and through the copious discharge of mucus from the nose;
they reduce our feeling of well-being, encouraging us to rest; and they
activate and exercise many immune functions–like a fire drill. Colds are
not considered serious in systems of traditional healing–for instance,
in Chinese Medicine they are considered “surface” phenomenon.
If we rest and drink cleansing teas and immune activators, the miserable
feelings should be minimal. In fact, our opportunity is to feel better after
the cold because of the excellent healing and environmental “adjustments”
our bodies have accomplished.

Colds are often characterized by an early-warning signal in the form of
a slight sore throat and can often be bypassed entirely by immediately taking
full dropper doses of echinacea tincture every two hours (if the sore throat
is particularly severe, a half dropperful of propolis or usnea tincture
should be added as well.) The echinacea is known to accomplish some of the
same beneficial activities as the cold itself, such as activation of our
phagocytes, or “garbage elimination” system.

Where runny noses are involved, golden seal is known to be useful for easing
excess secretions. A classic soothing tea for colds which aids the release
of heat from the body, and supports the body’s desire to eliminate accumulated
toxins, can be made by mixing equal parts of peppermint leaf, yarrow flowering
tops, and elder flowers. Use one teaspoonful per cup of the mixture and
steep 20 minutes. Drink several cups of the mixture throughout the day and
get plenty of rest. Further herbal remedies for this common ailment can
be found under Fevers, Coughs, Sore Throats and Sinus Infections.

Fevers

Besides the peppermint, yarrow, elder tea for reducing heat in the body,
try adding 4 drops of lavender oil to a bowl of tepid water and sponging
the hands, feet, and forehead with the mixture. Another excellent remedy:
steep common honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) flowers (or fresh or
dried elder flowers) in hot water for 20 minutes, let cool, add the juice
of one-half lemon and a teaspoon of honey. Let the mixture cool and drink
several cups of it as needed.

Coughs

Coughs that produce white or clear sputum, especially when chronic, usually
result from a colder condition than yellow or green mucus which means there
is more heat.

For coughs accompanied by heat, to soothe and relax the upper respiratory
tract, make a tea of the following herbs: plantain leaves (1 part), coltsfoot
(1 part), thyme (1/2 part), marshmallow root (1/4 part), and licorice (1/4
part). Drink freely throughout the day. Full dropper doses of echinacea
can be taken in addition, every 2 hours, to activate macrophages in the
bronchial area.

My favorite cough remedy is a tea of 2 parts organic lemon peels, 1 part
garden sage (Salvia officinalis) and 1/2 part thyme. Add the herbs
to boiling water, remove from the heat, cover and steep for 15 minutes.
Add the juice of 1/2 lemon, 1 tsp honey and drink 2 or 3 cups during the
day as needed. Over the years, I have found this blend to be delicious and
effective.

For coughs due to coldness, or for chronic coughs of long-standing, expectorant
herbs are generally recommended. A good expectorant tincture product might
include herbs such as grindelia, yerba santa and balm of gilead. This mixture
can be used also be used as a tea, adding some of the herbs for coughs due
to heat above, as needed.

Sore throats

For painful sore throats, the natural antibiotic, usnea, works well either
singly or in formulations, both as a gargle and internally in tincture form–40
drops mixed with water. White sage tea, 1 teaspoon in 1 cup water steeped
for one minute, and mixed with lemon juice and honey, is very antiseptic.
Green tea is another option, as it contains tannins (polyphenols) which
are antibacterial and astringent, helping to eliminate mucus and reduce
the infection. Herbal immune activators and antiseptic herbs such as echinacea
or propolis are sometimes added, as well as soothing antiinflammatory herbs
such as licorice or marshmallow root tea. Antibiotic tinctures can be added
to this soothing tea base.

Flu

Influenza is a viral-based elimination syndrome that is more severe than
a cold–but it is often difficult to tell the two apart.

The aches and pains, fevers, and congestion which accompany flu are all
addressed in the following blend of herbs–boneset (2 parts), elder (1 part),
peppermint (1 part), echinacea (1 part), and yerba mansa (1 part). Drink
it warm and freely.

Other known flu herbs are garlic, which I sometimes take by cutting up a
clove or two into pill-size pieces and swallowing with tea, and anti-viral
herbs such as lemon balm, St. John’s wort, baptisia or thuja.

If digestive symptoms, such as diarrhea and abdominal tension or soreness
occur, add marshmallow root, lemon balm or black walnut in tincture or tea
form. If there is fever and nervousness, add lemon balm or blue vervain
in tea form.

Sinus Infections

For reducing heat and infection in the sinuses, echinacea (3 parts), usnea
(1 part) and golden seal (1 part) work well in combination, either in capsule
(2 every 4 hours) or tincture (40 drops of echinacea, 15 drops of usnea
and 15 drops of golden seal every 4 hours). A mild golden seal tea used
as a nasal wash can speed up the process. To help relieve stuffiness and
promote drainage, put 4 drops of eucalyptus oil in a bowl of boiled water,
put a towel over your head, lean over the bowl, and inhale for a few minutes.

Bronchitis

When mild upper respiratory tract ailments, such as colds or sinustis are
not treated and accompanied by rest, the infection may go deeper, leading
to bronchitis. At this stage, it is essential to rest, eat light, nourishing
food, and follow full courses of herbal treatment for at least a week. Usnea,
grindelia, yerba santa and echinacea are especially indicated.

Asthma

Teas or extracts of the following herbs can help alleviate the frightening
symptoms of breathlessness and wheezing common to asthma sufferers: grindelia
and yerba santa are more appropriate for asthma accompanied by heavy white
sputum, for their expectorant and antispasmodic effects on the bronchi;
coltsfoot, marshmallow root, mullein and licorice are better for dry types
of asthma for their soothing and moisturizing qualities, and ma huang (use
cautiously) for its brocho-dilating effects. It is sometimes beneficial
to eliminate dairy products for several months when one is experiencing
symptoms of asthma, and regular aerobic exercise is surprisingly effective.

Besides hereditary influence, asthma has emotional, immune, and stress components.
Emotional upset and depression is aided by St. John’s wort standardized
extract (1 tablet as needed), and anxiety by passion flower, California
poppy, and valerian (use the fresh plant tincture or extract). For immune
weakness, use an astragalus and reishi mixture and for stress, eleuthero
and licorice is helpful.

Women’s Imbalances

PMS

To help balance hormones, strengthen the generative organs, and lessen monthly
emotional ups and downs, any of the following herbs may be used in tea,
extract, or capsule form, though because of the strong taste, most people
usually prefer to take an extract or powder in tablet or capsule form: Vitex
(essential), black cohosh, false unicorn root, skullcap, and Dandelion.
Begin taking the herbs twice daily 10-12 days before the onset of menstruation
and continue until 3 days after. Because the health of the liver is considered
an important factor in PMS, dandelion root (tea or tincture) and milk thistle
(standardized extract or tincture) can be added for additional support.
In particularly difficult cases, the herbs should be taken as a tonic for
several months or until the condition improves.

Menopause

One dropperful of vitex (chaste tree) tincture taken each morning is the
most frequently prescribed natural remedy in Europe to relieve hot flashes,
night sweats, emotional swings, and other symptoms of menopause. Vitex works
through the pituitary gland to balance all the reproductive hormones. Dong
Quai, though not hormonal, is also considered an important herb for menopause.
It is the premier builder for any blood-deficient condition, and is especially
recommended for anemia, or as an addition to other female tonic herbs.

Vaginal Yeast Infections

Many women have found near-miraculous relief from the burning and itching
of yeast infections by taking 1/2 teaspoon of tea tree oil, adding it to
a quart of water and douching. Experience shows that this mixture does not
cause further irritation. Some women have found it helpful to use capsules
of acidophilus as vaginal suppositories, and research clearly documents
the benefits of oral supplementation with a good probiotic formula, which
usually includes Lactobacillus acidophilus or other beneficial bacteria.

If the condition is chronic and difficult to heal, it is very important
to strictly avoid hot, spicy foods and caffeine-containing or refined sugar
products.

Men’s Imbalances

Prostatitis

As men pass the age of 50 or 55, testosterone levels start to decline, which
can lead to an irritation or enlargement of the prostate gland, as well
as lowered sex drive.

Inflammation of the prostate gland can be treated by drinking a tea 3 times
daily made with equal parts of the following herbs: saw palmetto (tonifies
bladder and prostate), echinacea, nettle and horsetail (antiinflammatory,
diuretic), buchu (urinary antiseptic and tonic), and corn silk (soothing
diuretic and tonic). A new herb, Pygeum africanum, is gaining in
popularity as more clinical experience and scientific support accumulates.
This herb is taken in extract form (follow the instructions on the product
label.

Pumpkin seeds, which are rich in zinc, are usually added to the diet, to
accompany the herbal program.

Low sexual drive

A lack of sexual energy can sometimes be addressed by tonifying the body
with these herbs–damiana, a stimulating nerve tonic, ginger, a popular
herb for increasing warmth and circulation, ginseng, probably the most documented
herb (by a long history of use and much laboratory work) for stimulating
the production of testosterone in the body, saw palmetto, a nourishing tonic
for the sex organs, and wild oats, an excellent nerve tonic, especially
recommended for supporting sexual energy. Eleuthero is highly beneficial
for supporting the adrenal system and increasing overall energy production
in the body. Make a tea of equal parts of the herbs and drink 2 cups per
day. A number of commercial products which contain some or all of these
herbs are widely available in natural food stores.

Note: a number of herbs are often sold as sexual tonics and testosterone
stimulants, including damiana, saw palmetto, sarsaparilla, and wild yam.
These herbs, though they have their place in herbal therapy, are not
documented either by history of use or scientific testing, to replace testosterone
or increase the production of testosterone in the body. Yohimbe, the African
plant widely known as an aphrodisiac has been documented medically for its
ability to relieve certain types of functional impotence, and yohimbine
hydrochloride, an alkaloid derivative from the plant, is prescribed by doctors
for this condition. Although yohimbe extract and powder can be purchased
in natural food stores, it should be noted that the herb is a central nervous
system stimulant and in its concentrated extract form can cause such side-effects
as nervousness, anxiety and sleeplessness. Use the herb cautiously.

Digestive Disorders

Stomach Ache

Stomach aches brought on by nervous tension or overeating can often be relieved
by drinking a cup of tea made from 1 part chamomile, 1 part catnip, 1/4
part ginger, and 1/4 part licorice. For a fast kitchen medicine remedy,
fill one 00 capsule with ginger powder, one with cinnamon powder, and a
third with golden seal powder in the larger part of the capsule and cayenne
in the smaller part and take with tea or other suitable liquid.

Other important digestive herbs, many of which are best taken in tea form,
are fennel, caraway, peppermint, artichoke leaves, and gentian. A little
experimentation will determine which herbs and combinations work best for
you.

Nausea

Nausea, whether caused by overeating, motion sickness, hormonal imbalances,
overindulgence in alcoholic beverages, or other factors, can by relieved
by a combination of ginger (either 2 capsules or 1 dropperful of the tincture
in a little water) and 2 drops of lavender oil in a cup of water. Great
things have been said about a combination of kudzu and umeboshi plum. Mix
1/2 teaspoon of kudzu in a little cool water, then add the mixture to 1
cup of warm water to which an umeboshi plum has been added.

Constipation

This is often a chronic condition brought on by a combination of heredity,
nervousness and stress, overwork, lack of vigorous physical activity and
lack of fiber in the diet. Herbal laxatives, such as senna or aloe, which
add more moisture to the stools or stimulate peristalsis are popular, but
should not be depended on for long-term use. This can lead to habituation
and further dissipation of vital energy in the bowels.

Even the most intractable constipation is easy to remedy when a high-fiber
diet is followed, along with a good program of physical exercise, coupled
with stress-relief techniques. It is also wise to massage the abdominal
area with a little flax seed oil (or castor oil if more stimulation is desired)
in a clockwise direction for 10 minutes, morning and evening. Go in deep
and try to work out any tender spots. Give the intestines a rest by not
eating past 7 pm or in the morning until one is active for at least 30-60
minutes.

Safe herbal bowel tonics that can be used for up to a month or two, in tea,
powder or extract form, include the following, (in order of potency from
least to most potent):

dandelion

burdock

yellow dock

cascara sagrada

Chinese rhubarb (caution, use small amounts, for not more than 2 weeks)

Intestinal Gas (Flatulence)

A very effective, practical and fast-acting remedy is 1-3 drops of peppermint
oil added to a cup of water–or take 1/2-1 teaspoon of fennel or anise seeds,
chew them up thoroughly and swallow with water or tea, a little at a time.
A useful tea blend can be made using 1 part chamomile, 1/2 part ginger,
1/2 part wild yam, and 1/4 part lavender. A strong tea of chamomile flowers
is the universal remedy for bowel irritation and colic, with or without
gas, both in children and adults.

Sluggish liver, poor fat digestion

The liver is a vital organ for proper immune and digestive function, and
plays a crucial role in energy storage and supply, as well as being the
major organ of detoxification.

To help the liver function more efficiently, make a tea or take an extract
of one or more of the following herbs, chosen for their bitter, tonifying
and bile-promoting properties: milk thistle (extract only), dandelion, skullcap,
artichoke leaf, oregon grape, gentian, cardamon, orange peel or ginger.
Drink a cup of the tea or 30 drops of the extract in water fifteen minutes
to 1/2 hour before each meal. Many commercial preparations of these herbs
are available under the general name “bitters.” They promote proper
liver function and help restore weakened digestive power.

Cardiovascular Problems

High cholesterol

Blood cholesterol is considered an important risk factor for heart attacks,
stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. While a few important herbs are
considered useful for lowering blood cholesterol, they work slowly and must
be persisted in over a period of months or years, and ideally, are coupled
with a low-fat, high fiber diet and proper vigorous exercise.

Garlic is by far the most widely-documented and clinically useful herb and
home remedy for lowering blood cholesterol. Cook with it, eat it raw (if
you don’t mind the odor) and take garlic supplements, many of which offer
high quality and potency, thanks to modern analytical methods.

Other useful herbs include green tea extract, dandelion root (unroasted)
taken daily as a tea or extract, alfalfa powder, shepherd’s purse, the Chinese
herb eucommia, and the “medicinal high-fiber foods,” oat bran
and wheat bran.

Bruising

A combination of arnica, calendula and St. John’s wort oils is very effective
for bruising. Apply the preparation as soon as possible to increase its
effectiveness.

Immune Disorders

Hay Fever

To effectively combat the common symptoms of hay fever–itchy eyes, runny
nose and sneezing–it is important to begin herb treatment at least a month
before the allergy season begins in earnest. The following Chinese herb
blend for symptomatic relief of hay fever has turned many allergy sufferers
into believers: 1/2 oz pinelia, 1/2 oz astragalus, 1/4 oz ma huang, 1/4
oz licorice, and 1/8 oz ginger. Simmer the herbs gently in 4 cups of water
for 45 minutes; drink one cup morning and evening. Because ma huang contains
the stimulating alkaloid, ephedrine, it is not recommended for those with
high blood pressure or weak digestion.

Other excellent hay fever herbs include stinging nettles (antiinflammatory,
antihistamine activity), eyebright (mild antihistamine), dong quai (immune
modulator), and golden seal (antiinflammatory, mucous membrane tonic).

When one has extremely severe allergies, it is good to add adaptogenic herbs,
such as Siberian ginseng, licorice, reishi or schizandra, to help support
the adrenals, a weakness of which is often associated with hay fever. Avoiding
dairy products, and possibly wheat, during these times of seasonal discomfort
can also be helpful.

Candidiasis

This common ailment is best treated by herbs that support immune function,
retard the growth of Candida albicans, support proper digestion,
and that support the adrenal-vital energy functions of the body. Proper
rest, diet and how stress is handled makes a major difference, in my experience.
I have found the most effective herbal program to include astragalus and
reishi for the immune system, eleuthero and rehmannia for the adrenals,
pau d’arco, garlic, black walnut and usnea for inhibiting the growth of
Candida albicans, and ginger powder or tea or bitter tonics to aid
digestion and assimilation of nutrients.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

This increasingly common ailment is probably a non-specific viral syndrome
brought on by environmental and emotional stress and aggravated by poor
nutrition, overwork, too much headwork, and lack of proper exercise. It
is often a disease of mismanagement of our personal vital energy resources.
Use the same herbs as for candidiasis, but add licorice, St. John’s wort,
lemon balm and Lomatium as anti-virals.

Kidney bladder imbalances

Bladder infections (Cystitis)

To soothe the burning sensation which accompanies bladder infections, make
a cold-water infusion of marshmallow root by soaking 4 teaspoons of the
herb in a quart of water and letting it sit overnight. Drink the preparation
freely. One or more of the tinctures of usnea, sandalwood, golden seal,
or echinacea can be added in severe cases, for their antiseptic and antibiotic
qualities. Where there is suppressed urination, pipsissewa, dandelion leaf,
and parsley root tea should be added.

Bladder infections are another instance where one should avoid cold drinks,
spicy foods, products containing refined sugar, caffeine, and alcohol. Soothing
sitz baths are helpful for bladder infections, as they bring blood to the
area and help flush out the infection. Alternate the bath by sitting in
hot water for three minutes, followed by one minute of cold water. Do three
rounds in the evening.

Unsweetened cranberry juice powder or liquid is a classic remedy to accompany
the herbal treatments, and is even recommended by doctors, recently being
written up in the American Medical Journal.

Skin Ailments

Poison Oak

Grindelia tincture used externally and internally is very helpful for stopping
the itching and burning of poison oak. This sticky plant contains resins
and when applied externally, reduces the irritation and can keep the rash
from spreading to other parts of the body. If one gets poison oak around
the eyes, it is good to use aloe vera in this sensitive area for cooling
and drying up the rash.

One of the best-tested and near-miraculous remedies I’ve ever found (I usually
throw caution to the winds, wading through poison oak in the fall looking
for edible mushrooms) is the following mixture. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt
in 1/2 cup of water, blending in 2 or 3 teaspoons of a fine cosmetic clay
(preferably skin-colored). When the consistency is that of a thick paste,
but is still spreadable, beat in 5-15 drops of peppermint oil. The salt
and clay draw and dry and the peppermint oil (due to its menthol) lowers
inflammation and cools by stimulating the skin’s “cool” receptors.

Burns

Keeping peppermint or lavender oil in a handy place in the kitchen is excellent
burn insurance. Both of these oils, when applied promptly, work quickly
to alleviate the pain of burns and facilitate healing. With any first or
second-degree burn of localized extent, it is essential to immerse the affected
area (where possible) in cool water for 10-20 minutes. For more serious
burns, it is often necessary to seek medical support.

Another tried and true remedy for burns is the application of oils or salves
containing St. John’s wort or calendula, the latter for its strong antiinflammatory
and immune-activating virtues and the former for its antiinflammatory effect
on the skin.

Cuts, Bites, Stings

Small cuts can be easily cared for by washing the area with an herbal soap
(containing echinacea or calendula) and then applying moist compresses of
echinacea tincture, which can accelerate wound healing and protect healthy
cells from invasion by bacteria or fungus. Tea tree oil, a strong antiseptic,
also works well and does not sting when applied. For more serious cuts,
apply cayenne or yarrow leaf powder directly to the wound to staunch bleeding;
this sounds like “heroic” herbalism, but the cayenne does not
cause burning when used in this way.

The most time-honored remedy recommended by herbalists for cuts, as well
as any kind of spider bites or bee stings is plantain. Plantain is always
available as a garden weed or waste-lot plant. There are two methods for
its preparation: the blender method or the saliva method. Use the saliva
method by chewing one leaf up thoroughly to make a mucilaginous paste and
apply to the spot. This method is excellent for kids (who love the attention),
for oneself or family members. The blender method works for the more fastidious,
but it takes longer and requires more equipment. I recently watched a plantain
“poultice” heal a severe staph infection, where the whole forearm
was swollen bright red. The whole program consisted of a plantain poultice
on the focal point of the infection (in this case, the knuckle), with the
addition of 20 drops of echinacea tincture and 10 drops of usnea tincture.
The poultice was changed every few hours and usnea and echinacea was taken
internally, 1 dropperful of each every 3 hours. By the next day, the swelling
and redness had mostly subsided, and antibiotics were avoided.

The use of fresh plantain for any kind of infection has been supported by
the discovery in its leaves of the antibiotic substance aucubin.

Sports Herbs

Strains, sprains

Sprains are best treated initially with cold water, followed by arnica compresses
(30 drops of liquid extract in a bowl of water) to help reduce inflammation.
(Caution: Do not use arnica if the skin is broken.) Repeat every 2 hours.
After the first 24 hours, warm arnica compresses should be used. Arnica,
in homeopathic doses, can be used internally, taken as directed.

Energy

Herbs known for their potential energizing effects include damiana, Panax
ginseng, eleuthero, wild oats, and rosemary (in either tea or extract
form). These herbs are safe, do not contain stimulating alkaloids (such
as caffeine or ephedrine) and can be taken as needed, though ginseng might
be too stimulating for some people and should be used moderately.

Herbs that are stimulating to the nervous system, but are known to have
side-effects such as nervousness, restlessness possibly raising the blood-pressure,
include coffee, black tea, guarana, kola nut, chocolate, and ma huang (Ephedra
sinensis). Although the latest figures show that over 120 million people
drink coffee in this country, this and the other stimulant drugs should
be used cautiously, as they are possible risk factors for heart disease
and nervous disorders, at the very least.

Nervous System

Stress relief

Stress is apt to weaken or imbalance our nervous system, leading to symptoms
such as anxiety, tension or depression. It can also impact our immune and
hormonal systems (which work together closely), accompanied by such symptoms
as lowered resistance to infections, or eventually, such ailments as Chronic
Fatigue Syndrome or Candidiasis. Constant or long-term stress can also affect
our digestion, leading to ulcers, constipation or irritable bowel syndromes.

For helping to relax a tense mind or body, a flavorful, relaxing tea can
be made by steeping one part each of chamomile, lavender, linden, and lemon
balm and 1/2 part orange peel. This stress-reducing tea is excellent after
dinner and has the added benefit of aiding digestion. For extra-strength
stress relief, add equal parts of valerian (tincture or powdered extract
from the fresh plant is best, in my experience), passion flower and California
poppy to the above mixture–or take in capsule or extract form, as the taste
is not as pleasant.

For adrenal weakness, herbs such as euleuthero, licorice, rehmannia and
reishi can be found in many commercial preparations.

For immune weakness, astragalus, ligustrum, reishi and shiitake are widely
recommended for their powerful deep immune supportive properties. The bulk
herbs can be purchased in Chinese herb stores or many natural food stores.
These can be added to soups and stews. My recipe for “Wei Qi”
(protective vitality) soup:

**Recipe**

Fill a soup pot with water (about 1 gallon) and add 5-10 sticks of astragalus,
1-2 medium sized reishi mushrooms, one quarter cup of ligustrum fruits and
5-8 small to medium shiitake mushrooms (available from most markets). Simmer
the herbs for 30 minutes, then add an assortment of your favorite vegetables
(such as carrots, beets, potatoes, yams, parsley and celery). The addition
of a quarter cup of barley will make the soup thicker, and is very strengthening
and soothing to the digestion. When the soup is done, drink the broth and
eat the vegetables. Store in the refrigerator for several day’s use. The
more fibrous herbs such as astragalus are too tough to eat, so simply put
them aside. The shiitake mushrooms are delicious and fine-textured, however.

Sleep disturbances

Drinking a cup of the following herb mixture can often ensure a restful
night’s sleep–passion flower, skullcap, valerian, hops, and California
poppy. Steep 2 teaspoons of the mixture in one cup of water. These herbs
can also be taken in extract form, 1 dropperful 1/2 hour before bedtime.
For children who don’t sleep well at night, try giving them a bath before
bedtime to which a handful of linden tied up in a muslin bag has been added.

Anxiety

A combination of hops, California poppy and hawthorn, either in tea or tincture
form, effectively allays anxiety, having a quieting effect on the central
nervous system.

Depression

Herbs which can help lift depression include St. John’s wort, rosemary,
lavender, wild oats, and damiana. Steep 2 teaspoons of the mixture in a
cup of water and drink 3 times daily. An mood-elevating bath can be made
by adding a few drops of lavender, rose, or orange oil to the water. The
same oils can be added to sweet almond or apricot kernel oil to be used
for massage. St. John’s wort is the most commonly prescribed natural remedy
in Europe for mild depression. Take 1-2 tablets of the standardized extract
as needed, but not more than 4 in a day.

Addiction

For symptoms of drug withdrawal, whether from nicotine or alcohol, wild
oats have been shown to be useful for their strengthening effect on the
nervous system, as well as their anti-addictive properties. A tea can be
made, steeping 1 teaspoon of herb in 1 cup of water, or a liquid extract
can be used–40 drops 3 times per day.

Headaches

For headaches, try this “aspirin replacement” herbal blend (no
side-effects)–passion flower, periwinkle herb (Vinca major), wood
betony, white willow bark (1 part each), and lavender (1/2 part). Steep
2 teaspoons of the mixture in 1 cup of water and drink 1 cup as needed.
Various commercial preparations are available which contain one or more
of these herbs.

For migraine headaches, feverfew is the herb of choice, and it has 2 double-blind
studies demonstrating its effectiveness to its credit. Take 1-2 tablets
of the powder, or 1-2 dropperfuls of the tincture morning and evening. Experience
shows that it may take up to 3-6 months before its full effects are felt.
Some people have experienced relief where nothing else has worked. The herb
must be taken on an on-going basis.

Smart Herbs: memory and brain herbs

Ginkgo has a positive effect on cerebral circulation, glucose metabolism,
and neurotransmitter balance, all of which can have a strengthening effect
on the memory, as well as improving mental vigor. Take 1-2 tablets (of the
standardized extract) or dropperfuls of the tincture morning and evening.
The traditional Ayurvedic herb, gotu kola, is also recommended by herbalists,
especially as a fresh plant tincture, for maintaining strong mental vigor.

Herbs for Daily Use

Arnica, oil–One of the best-known trauma herbs, used externally as an oil
or liniment. Use homeopathic product for internal use.

Astragalus–The premier deep toning immune herb, used as a tea, tincture
or powdered extract.

Calendula oil–An excellent skin remedy, applied locally for burns, bites,
stings and other trauma.

California poppy–The extract (tincture or tablet form) is helpful for relieving
tension, sleeplessness and anxiety; safe for children.

Chamomile–A world-renowned digestive and relaxing herb for colic, bowel
irritation, relaxation; safe for children.

Echinacea–One of the best studied and clinically proven herbs for immune
stimulation. Best taken in up to three 10-day cycles, then discontinued.
Use only when needed in large amounts (1-2 droppersful several times daily).
Small doses (5-15 drops daily) can be useful as a mild immune tonic for
longer-tern use.

Elder Flowers–The flowering tops of blue or black elders makes an excellent
tea for reducing fevers and increasing elimination of wastes for colds and
flus.

Eleuthero–The best-researched “adaptogen,” which helps us to
adapt to stress by supporting adrenal function, and increasing energy efficiency.
Often used by weight-trainers and other sports enthusiasts.

Eucalyptus oil–The oil has strong antiseptic properties and is useful in
steams for sinus problems to relieve congestion.

Ginger–The best herb for supporting digestion, relieving nausea (from any
cause) and generally stimulating circulation. Taken as a tea, extract or
as a powder in capsules.

Ginkgo–One of the most interesting herbs of the last few years. Improves
brain function, including memory and alertness. Protects blood vessels,
improves circulation and is a powerful antioxidant. Best herb for ringing
in the ears (tinnitis).

Ginseng–The panacea herb of ancient China. Excellent for people over 50,
to improve vital energy, sexual energy and enhance digestive powers. Often
blended with other herbs in formulas.

Golden Seal–This North American native herb is widely known and used for
colds, flus and sinus infections. Lowers inflammation, helps cool infections
of the mucous membranes. Useful when blended with echinacea (1:3).

Gotu kola–The ancient Ayurvedic herb, thought to improve memory and mental
vigor and act as an adaptogen. Preliminary research supports this view.
The herb should be used fresh, as the dried herb rapidly loses its potency.

Grindelia–A native of North America, this sticky yellow-flowered plant
from the daisy family was a favorite Native American remedy for poison oak
and other rashes. It was official in the United States Pharmacopoeia as
an internal remedy for asthma, bronchitis and other upper respiratory tract
ailments.

Hawthorn–The extract is well-researched and has a long history of use as
the herb of choice for strengthening and protecting the cardiovascular system,
especially the heart. To be used in extract form long-term, even over a
number of years.

Hops–One of the major flavor components of beer. An excellent digestive
bitter herb which has good relaxing properties.

Lavender oil–The distilled oil from lavender is used in aromatherapy and
as an internal medicine to lift the spirits and allay nausea.

Licorice–Licorice root is an important herb for flavoring and harmonizing
herbal blends. It has proven anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties
and is commonly used for upper respiratory tract, digestive tract and urinary
tract irritation or infections. The herb has also shown benefit for healing
ulcers and is considered an important adrenal support herb.

Marshmallow root–This mucilaginous herb is used as a tea or liquid extract
to soothe mucous membranes in the digestive, upper respiratory and urinary
tracts. Marshmallow has recently shown some immune-stimulating properties.

Milk Thistle–The great liver protector and healer. Well-researched and
clinically-proven for hepatitis, cirrhosis or for extra nutritional support
for people who drink alcoholic beverages or use pharmaceutical or recreational
drugs.

Nettles–An excellent nutrient herb which has also shown anti-allergic properties
for hay fever, and antiinflammatory activity for enlarged or irritated prostate
glands.

Peppermint, oil–One of the best home remedies for relieving intestinal
gas, bowel inflammation or irritation. A tea of the leaf is also widely
used.

Plantain–The ubiquitous weed that every herbalist loves. It has a high
percentage of mucilage to soothe, allantoin to speed wound-healing and aucubin
as a strong anti-microbial substance to prevent infections. Use fresh
as a poultice, tea, or tincture, or the fresh juice internally or externally.

Reishi–An herb renowned for its powerful deep immune-strengthening activity.
It has also shown blood-sugar regulating properties and may help lower cholesterol.
Use as a tea, tincture or powdered extract.

Rosemary–This common garden herb contains natural camphor, which helps
energize the nervous system, without over-stimulating. It also contains
powerful natural anti-oxidant properties and is a good digestive herb.

Shiitake–This common mushroom is as delicious as it is medicinal. One of
its active constituents, lentinan, has shown anti-tumor, anti-viral and
immune-strengthening properties. It is used in soups, stews, stir-frys and
as a tea or extract.

St. John’s wort extract, oil–The extract of this common European and American
weedy plant shows great promise as an anti-viral (against the AIDS virus),
anti-inflammatory and remedy for mild depression. The standardized extract
is used internally, and the oil is applied externally for burns and nerve
pain or trauma due to tension or accidents.

Tea Tree oil–An Australian import emerging as an important herb for fungal
infections of the skin or nails, vaginal yeast infections and gum inflammation
or sores.

Usnea–Called the herbal antibiotic, this common lichen has shown powerful
inhibitory activity against strep, staph and pneumonia infections. Excellent
in combination with echinacea for strep throat or staph infections (such
as impetigo).

Valerian–A traditional herb with a wealth of clinical evidence to support
its use as a sleep-aid, nerve tonic and relaxing herb.

Vitex–One of the best-known women’s herbs, it was recommended by Hippocrates
(450 B.C.) for the same purposes as today: menstrual imbalances, hormonal
difficulties (PMS, menopause), and to bring on mother’s milk.

Herbal Contraindications

A Note of Caution

Although the charge is often made that herbalists say that all herbs are
safe, no responsible herbalist would ever make such a claim.

Herbs are often very safe–usually much safer than synthetic drugs, both
on the person taking them and on our environment and energy resources. But
they are complex mixtures of chemical compounds that can heal, change different
body processes, and sometimes cause side-effects, especially when overused
or used unconsciously.

Below is a list of the best-documented possible side-effects of the herbs
mentioned in this article. Contraindications can be further researched in
the books listed in the resource section.

Arnica–taking the herb, tea or tincture internally may lead to severe gastrointestinal
irritation. Using the tincture or oil on open wounds or scrapes might increase
inflammation. Arnica in homeopathic dilution is not toxic.

Essential oils (lavender, tea tree, peppermint, eucalyptus)–these plant
essences are highly concentrated and should be used cautiously–reduce dose
if any irritation develops, either externally or internally.

Golden seal–People with weak, cold digestion should use this herb sparingly.
Do not use continuously for more than 10 days or 2 weeks–large doses (more
than 2 “00” caps 3 x daily) is not recommended. Because it stimulates
the uterus, it is not to be taken during pregnancy.

Laxatives (aloe, senna, cascara, rhubarb)–long-term use (over 2 weeks)
might lead to dependency, loss of bowel tone and intestinal irritation.

Licorice–for people with high blood pressure, edema or electrolyte imbalance:
long-term use of licorice root or its products (more than 2 weeks) can lead
to sodium retention, excessive potassium excretion, and water retention.
Moderate use is not considered problematic.

Red Clover–it contains small amounts of coumarin derivatives, which, when
taken in excessive amounts, might potentiate blood-thinning drugs, such
as warfarin. Red clover may be mildly estrogenic.

St. John’s wort–large amounts might make the skin more sensitive to sunlight.
For people whose skin is already sensitive, take extra precautions when
using the herb therapeutically.

Valerian–very large amounts of the tea (over 2 cups at a time) or powdered
extract might cause headaches in some people. Some people who take valerian
are stimulated rather than calmed by the herb, but this paradoxical effect
is rare with the fresh plant tincture, tea or extract.

Vitex–Not to be taken concurrently with birth-control pills.

**Sidebar**

The Shelf Life of Herbs and Herb Products

The overall effectiveness of any herb or herb product is determined not
only by the quality of the herbs that went into them, but how long they
have been sitting on the shelf. Most herbs are best stored in their whole
form, kept in amber glass jars packed as close to the top as possible, and
stored in a cool place out of direct sunlight. Under normal circumstances,
most powdered herbs will only retain their full potency for a matter of
2 or 3 months. If they are encapsulated and in plastic bottles, as many
herb products are, one should not count on any more than a one-year shelf-life.
Whole herbs, if stored correctly may retain a fair quality for up to 3 years.
Tinctures, according to recent studies, may hold much of their activity
for up to 3 years, if stored in a cool, dark place. Extracts in tablet or
capsule form will last longer in amber glass jars than in plastic bottles,
which will allow oxygen and moisture to enter.

Sidebar
The Importance of Herb Quality and Organic Herbs

All herbalists agree that herb quality is a number one priority. We are
not satisfied with the quality when herbs are poorly grown, improperly harvested,
dried or stored. Fortunately, the proper techniques for insuring the highest
quality herbs are becoming better known and more closely followed. However,
there are still some very good quality and some very poor quality herbs
and products on the market. National organizations like the American Herbal
Products Association (AHPA) and the American Herbalists Guild (AHG) are
working hard to educate manufacturers and consumers about the importance
of herb quality. For more information, write and support the efforts of
these organizations by becoming a member of the AHG, or ask your manufacturer
if they are a member of AHPA–if not, encourage them to join.

The best assurance today that you are getting the very best quality herbs
is to look for “certified organic” products. When a company cares
enough to pay more for these herbs, it will usually take more trouble in
the manufacturing process. Of special concern is the rapidly dwindling resources
of some native plants, such as echinacea and golden seal. We cannot afford
to take these plants from the wild for much longer–so support organically
cultivated herb products and insure the continuation of our wild heritage.

Sprains & Strains

American Institute for Preventive Medicine — Wed, 06 Dec 2000 13:28:02 +0000

Common causes for sprains and strains are falls, twisting a limb, sports injuries, and over-exertion. A sprain results from overstretching or tearing a ligament (fibrous tissue that connects bones), a tendon (tissue that attaches a muscle to a bone) or a muscle. A strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is overstretched or over-exerted. Both sprains and strains result in pain and swelling. The amount of pain and swelling depends on the extent of damage.

Prevention

Common sense can prevent many sprains and strains.

General safety measures to prevent slips and falls:

Clear porches and walkways of ice in winter weather.
Wear shoes and boots with non-skid soles.
Install sturdy hand rails on both sides of stairways.
Use rubber mats or adhesive-backed strips in bathtubs and shower stalls. Installing a support bar is also recommended.
Make sure light switches are located near all room entrances inside of the house and to entrances outside.
Use a night light between the bedroom and bathroom or in the hallway at night.
Keep stairways and foot traffic areas clear of shoes, toys, tools, and other clutter.
Floor coverings should be kept skid-proof. Vinyl floors should be cleaned with non-skid wax. Carpeting should be secured to the floor. Area rugs should have non-skid backing.
Be careful whenever you use a ladder. Make sure it is steady and long enough to reach the job without standing on the top three steps.

To prevent sprains and strains from sports injuries:

Ease into any exercise program. Start off with activities of low intensity, frequency, and duration and build up gradually.
Do warm-up exercises such as those that stretch the muscles before your activity, not only for vigorous activities, such as running, but even for less vigorous ones, such as golf. Don’t bounce.
Don’t overdo it. If muscles or joints start to hurt, ease up.
In vigorous activities, go through a cool-down period. Spend five minutes doing the activity at a slower pace. For example, after a run, walk or stroll for five minutes so your pulse comes down gradually.
Wear proper-fitting shoes that provide shock absorption and stability. Wear shoes designed for the sports activity you are doing.

Also, see the do’s and don’ts of proper lifting in the section, “Backaches,” on page 101.

Treatment for sprains and strains will depend on the extent of damage done to the muscle, ligament, tendon, etc. Self-help measures may be all that are needed for mild injuries. Severe sprains may require medical treatment. Some sprains require a cast. Others may need surgery if the tissue affected is torn.

Self-Care Tips

Stop what you’re doing. Then use R.I.C.E. (See R.I.C.E. under Self-Care Tips for Sports Injuries on page 109).
Take aspirin or ibuprofen every four hours for pain and inflammation. (Take with food or milk to prevent stomach irritation). [Note: Do not give aspirin or any medication containing salicylates to anyone 19 years of age or younger unless directed by a physician, due to its association with Reye’s Syndrome, a potentially fatal condition.]

Also note, for specific areas of the body:

Remove rings immediately if you have sprained a finger or other part of your hand. (If swelling occurs, the rings may have to be cut off).
Use crutches to speed the healing process for a badly sprained ankle. They will help you avoid putting weight on the ankle which could cause further damage.

Call your doctor if the sprain or strain does not improve after four days of self-care tips.

Questions to Ask

Did the strain or sprain occur with great force from a vehicle accident or fall from a high place?

Do you have any of these signs? A bone sticking out or bones in the injured part make a grating sound The injured body part looks crooked or the wrong shape A loss of feeling in the injured body part You can’t move the injured body part or put weight on it

Does the skin around the injury turn blue and/or feel cold and numb?

Do you have any of these signs? There is bad pain and swelling or the pain is getting worse It hurts to press along the bone

Sprains

George T. Lewith MA MRCGP MRCP — Wed, 06 Dec 2000 13:28:02 +0000

Sudden injury or sprains usually respond well to acupuncture. The pain resulting from a sprained shoulder will often continue for some days or weeks after the initial injury. Once a clear diagnosis has been made acupuncture can usually be used to relieve this type of pain. Many of these ‘acute pains’ represent a self-limiting disease process; for instance a small burn is usually excruciatingly painful for a few days and then settles. If acupuncture is used as a form of pain relief for burns then its ‘pain relieving’ effect is only required for a few days. Because of the natural history of the pain it is therefore difficult to produce a clear picture of the effect of acupuncture on this type of ‘short-lived pain’. In China, acupuncture is usually given for acute pain, but in the West acupuncture is not generally available for ‘short-lived pain’ as there are not enough acupuncturists to provide this service.

The experience of a variety of acupuncturists, myself included, shows that, of the people treated for differing acutely painful conditions, about 70 per cent obtain swift and significant pain relief. If a fracture of the bone is present then the pain relief gained from acupuncture is less effective than if the injury is due to a strain or tear of the muscles, tendons or ligaments. The main advantage of treating these acute pains with acupuncture is that chronic pain can be avoided. A sudden shoulder injury may produce pain and immobility for many months, sometimes years, but if acupuncture is used when the pain occurs then it seems that chronic pain may be avoided. These ‘impressions’ about the use of acupuncture in acute pain are consistently quoted, both in the West and China, but until adequate statistical research is completed the effectiveness of acupuncture in ‘acute pain’ will remain no more than a clinical impression.