Shape and size In adults the heart is about the size and shape of a clenched ?st. One end of the heart is pointed (apex); the other is broad (base) and is deeply cleft at the division between the two atria. One groove running down the front and up the back shows the division between the two ventricles; a circular, deeper groove marks o? the atria above from the ventricles below. The capacity of each cavity is somewhere between 90 and 180 millilitres.
Structure The heart lies within a strong ?brous bag, known as the pericardium. Since the inner surface of this bag and the outer surface of the heart are both covered with a smooth, glistening membrane faced with ?at cells and lubricated by a little serous ?uid (around 20 ml), the movements of the heart are accomplished almost without friction. The main thickness of the heart wall consists of bundles of muscle ?bres, some of which run in circles right around the heart, and others in loops, ?rst round one cavity, then round the corresponding cavity of the other side. Within all the cavities is a smooth lining membrane, continuous with that lining the vessels which open into the heart. The investing smooth membrane is known as epicardium; the muscular substance as myocardium; and the smooth lining membrane as endocardium.
Important nerves regulate the heart’s action, especially via the vagus nerve and with the sympathetic system (see NERVOUS SYSTEM). In the near part of the atria lies a collection of nerve cells and connecting ?bres, known as the sinuatrial node or pacemaker, which forms the starting-point for the impulses that initiate the beats of the heart. In the groove between the ventricles and the atria lies another collection of similar nerve tissue, known as the atrioventricular node. Running down from there into the septum between the two ventricles is a band of special muscle ?bres, known as the atrioventricular bundle, or the bundle of His. This splits up into a right and a left branch for the two ventricles, and the ?bres of these distribute themselves throughout the muscular wall of the ventricles and control their contraction.
Openings There is no direct communication between the cavities on the right side and those on the left; but the right atrium opens into the right ventricle by a large circular opening, and similarly the left atrium into the left ventricle. Into the right atrium open two large veins, the superior and inferior venae cavae, with some smaller veins from the wall of the heart itself, and into the left atrium open two pulmonary veins from each lung. One opening leads out of each ventricle – to the aorta in the case of the left ventricle, to the pulmonary artery from the right.
Before birth, the FETUS’s heart has an opening (foramen ovale) from the right into the left atrium through which the blood passes; but when the child ?rst draws air into his or her lungs this opening closes and is represented in the adult only by a depression (fossa ovalis).
Valves The heart contains four valves. The mitral valve consists of two triangular cusps; the tricuspid valve of three smaller cusps. The aortic and pulmonary valves each consist of three semilunar-shaped segments. Two valves are placed at the openings leading from atrium into ventricle, the tricuspid valve on the right side, the mitral valve on the left, so as completely to prevent blood from running back into the atrium when the ventricle contracts. Two more, the pulmonary valve and the aortic valve, are at the entrance to these arteries, and prevent regurgitation into the ventricles of blood which has been driven from them into the arteries. The noises made by these valves in closing constitute the greater part of what are known as the heart sounds, and can be heard by anyone who applies his or her ear to the front of a person’s chest. Murmurs heard accompanying these sounds indicate defects in the valves, and may be a sign of heart disease (although many murmurs, especially in children, are ‘innocent’).
Action At each heartbeat the two atria contract and expel their contents into the ventricles, which at the same time they stimulate to contract together, so that the blood is driven into the arteries, to be returned again to the atria after having completed a circuit in about 15 seconds through the body or lungs as the case may be. The heart beats from 60 to 90 times a minute, the rate in any given healthy person being about four times that of the respirations. The heart is to some extent regulated by a nerve centre in the MEDULLA, closely connected with those centres which govern the lungs and stomach, and nerve ?bres pass to it in the vagus nerve. The heart rate and force can be diminished by some of these ?bres, by others increased, according to the needs of the various organs of the body. If this nerve centre is injured or poisoned – for example, by lack of oxygen – the heart stops beating in human beings; although in some of the lower animals (e.g. frogs, ?shes and reptiles) the heart may under favourable conditions go on beating for hours even after its entire removal from the body.... heart
Varieties Haemorrhoids are classi?ed into ?rst-, second- and third-degree, depending on how far they prolapse through the anal canal. First-degree ones do not protrude; second-degree piles protrude during defaecation; third-degree ones are trapped outside the anal margin, although they can be pushed back. Most haemorrhoids can be described as internal, since they are covered with glandular mucosa, but some large, long-term ones develop a covering of skin. Piles are usually found at the three, seven and eleven o’clock sites when viewed with the patient on his or her back.
Causes The veins in the anus tend to become distended because they have no valves; because they form the lowest part of the PORTAL SYSTEM and are apt to become over?lled when there is the least interference with the circulation through the portal vein; and partly because the muscular arrangements for keeping the rectum closed interfere with the circulation through the haemorrhoidal veins. An absence of ?bre from western diets is probably the most important cause. The result is that people often strain to defaecate hard stools, thus raising intra-abdominal pressure which slows the rate of venous return and engorges the network of veins in the anal mucosa. Pregnancy is an important contributory factor in women developing haemorrhoids. In some people, haemorrhoids are a symptom of disease higher up in the portal system, causing interference with the circulation. They are common in heart disease, liver complaints such as cirrhosis or congestion, and any disease affecting the bowels.
Symptoms Piles cause itching, pain and often bleeding, which may occur whenever the patient defaecates or only sometimes. The piles may prolapse permanently or intermittently. The patient may complain of aching discomfort which, with the pain, may be worsened.
Treatment Prevention is important; a high-?bre diet will help in this, and is also necessary after piles have developed. Patients should not spend a long time straining on the lavatory. Itching can be lessened if the PERINEUM is properly washed, dried and powdered. Prolapsed piles can be replaced with the ?nger. Local anaesthetic and steroid ointments can help to relieve symptoms when they are relatively mild, but do not remedy the underlying disorder. If conservative measures fail, then surgery may be required. Piles may be injected, stretched or excised according to the patient’s particular circumstances.
Where haemorrhoids are secondary to another disorder, such as cancer of the rectum or colon, the underlying condition must be treated – hence the importance of medical advice if piles persist.... haemorrhoids
Haemoglobin exists in two forms: simple haemoglobin, found in venous blood; and oxy-haemoglobin, which is a loose compound with oxygen, found in arterial blood after the blood has come into contact with the air in the lungs. This oxyhaemoglobin is again broken down as the blood passes through the tissues, which take up the oxygen for their own use. This is the main function of haemoglobin: to act as a carrier of oxygen from the lungs to all the tissues of the body. When the haemoglobin leaves the lungs, it is 97 per cent saturated with oxygen; when it comes back to the lungs in the venous blood, it is 70 per cent saturated. The oxygen content of 100 millilitres of blood leaving the lungs is 19·5 millilitres, and that of venous blood returning to the lungs, 14·5 millilitres. Thus, each 100 millilitres of blood delivers 5 millilitres of oxygen to the tissues of the body. Human male blood contains 13–18 grams of haemoglobin per 100 millilitres; in women, there are 12–16 grams per 100 millilitres. A man weighing 70 kilograms (154 pounds) has around 770 grams of haemoglobin circulating in his red blood corpuscles.... haemoglobin
Haemophilia affects approximately 1:4,000 of the UK population but only 1:20,000 is severely affected. Severity of the disease depends upon the percentage, compared with normal, of factor VIII activity present. Less than 1 per cent and there will be spontaneous bleeding into joints and muscles; 1–5 per cent and there will be occasional spontaneous bleeding and severe bleeding after minor injury; 5–25 per cent and there will only be severe bleeding after major injury. Before treatment was available, severe haemophiliacs suffered from acute pain and deformity from bleeds into joints and muscles. Bleeding also occurred into the gut, kidneys and brain, and few survived past adolescence.
Freeze-dried factor VIII may be kept in domestic refrigerators. Haemophiliacs can use it to abort minor bleeds by reconstituting it and injecting it intravenously. More major bleeding or preparation for surgery involves raising factor VIII levels to 30–100 per cent by giving cryoprecipitate.
With treatment, most haemophiliacs lead normal lives, although obviously dangerous or contact sports should be avoided. Before donors of blood were screened for HEPATITIS B and C or for HIV infection (see AIDS/HIV), some individuals with haemophilia receiving factor VIII were unwittingly infected with those diseases. Today’s screening procedures make such infections very unlikely.
There is a National Haemophilia Register and each registered sufferer carries a card with details about his or her condition. Information may also be obtained from NHS haemophilia centres and the Haemophilia Society.... haemophilia
Forming the ball of the thumb and that of the little ?nger, and ?lling up the gaps between the metacarpal bones, are other muscles, which act to separate and bring together the ?ngers, and to bend them at their ?rst joints (knuckles).... hand
Persistent heartburn may be a sign of more serious oesophageal disease and medical advice should be sought.... heartburn
The treatment of hirsutism is that of the primary cause. Idiopathic hirsutism must be managed by simple measures such as bleaching the hair and the use of depilatory waxes and creams. Coarse facial hairs can be removed by electrolysis, although this is time-consuming. Shaving is often the most e?ective remedy and neither increases the rate of hair growth nor causes the hairs to become coarser.... hirsutism
Habitat: Extensively farmed for the brewing industry, and is found growing wild in hedges and open woods.
Features ? Stem rough, very long, will twist round any adjacent support. Leaves in pairs, stalked, rough, serrate, cordate, three- or five-lobed. Flowers or catkins (more correctly called strobiles) consist of membranous scales, yellowish-green, roundish, reticulate-veined, nearly half-inch long, curving over each other. These are the fertile flowers which are used medicinally and industrially.Action: Tonic, diuretic.
As a tonic in prescriptions for debility, nervous dyspepsia, and general atony. Although usually given in combination with other herbs, the ounceto pint infusion of hops taken thrice daily makes quite a good tonic medicine for those feeling "run-down." Lying on a pillow stuffed with hops is an old-fashioned way of dealing with insomnia.... hops(iii) blockage of the circulation of CSF. Such disturbances in the circulation of the ?uid may be due to congenital reasons (most commonly associated with SPINA BIFIDA), to MENINGITIS, or to a tumour.
Symptoms In children, the chief symptoms observed are the gradual increase in size of the upper part of the head, out of all proportion to the face or the rest of the body. The head is globular, with a wide anterior FONTANELLE and separation of the bones at the sutures. The veins in the scalp are prominent, and there is a ‘crackpot’ note on percussion. The normal infant’s head should not grow more than 2·5 cm (1 inch) in each of the ?rst two months of life, and much more slowly subsequently; growth beyond this rate should arouse suspicions of hydrocephalus, so medical professionals caring for infants use centile charts for this purpose.
The cerebral ventricles are widely distended, and the convolutions of the brain ?attened, while occasionally the ?uid escapes into the cavity of the cranium, which it ?lls, pressing down the brain to the base of the skull. As a consequence of such changes, the functions of the brain are interfered with, and in general the mental condition of the patient is impaired. Untreated, the child is dull and listless, irritable and sometimes suffers from severe mental subnormality. The special senses become affected as the disease advances, especially vision, and sight is often lost, as is also hearing. Towards the end, paralysis is apt to occur.
Treatment Numerous ingenious operations have been devised for the treatment of hydrocephalus. The most satisfactory of these utilise unidirectional valves and shunts (tubes), whereby the cerebrospinal ?uid is bypassed from the brain into the right atrium of the heart or the peritoneal cavity. The shunt may have to be left in position inde?nitely.... hydrocephalus
Signs and symptoms A general malaise and depression are common, with generalised muscular weakness, anorexia and vomiting. Disturbed renal function causes increased urine output and thirst, with calcium deposits eventually leading to renal stones. Primary bone disease may cause pain and weakness, with an increased incidence of fractures, and there may be gritty deposits of calcium in the eyes. Severe hypercalcaemia produces ANURIA, with confusion and COMA leading to death.
Treatment The patient should be rehydrated and a diuretic (see DIURETICS) given. Attention should then be focused on the underlying cause – usually a parathyroid adenoma or bone tumour – and surgical removal should produce complete clinical cure, provided that advanced renal disease is not already present.... hypercalcaemia
Treatment Hypochondriacal patients may also develop physical illness, and any new symptoms must always be carefully evaluated. In most patients the condition is secondary, and treatment should be directed to the underlying depression or schizophrenia. In the rare cases of primary hypochondriasis, supportive measures are the mainstay of treatment.... hypochondriasis
Habitat: Cultivated in gardens.
Features ? Stem woody, to a height of about two feet. Leaves opposite, small, nearly sessile, lanceolate, hairy at margins. Flowers bluish-purple, in small axillary clusters on one side. Camphor-like odour.Part used ? Herb.Action: Stimulant, pectoral, carminative, diaphoretic, febrifuge.
In cough and cold prescriptions, particularly for whooping cough, and in other troubles of infancy. The 1 ounce to 1 pint infusion is given in wineglass doses, or according to age.... hyssopHabitat: This shrub, like the Alders and the Hazel, grows in bunches as high as eight or ten feet, and is found on high lands and the stony banks of streams.
Features ? The branches are flexuous and knotty, the bark smooth and grey with brown spots. The leaves are four to five inches long and about two inches broad, obovate; feather-veined, irregularly notched at the edges, smooth above and downy underneath. Yellow flowers appear in autumn, when the leaves are falling. Taste is astringent, and smell slight and agreeable.Part used ? Bark and leaves.Action: Astringent and tonic.
A decoction of the bark, which is more astringent than the leaves, checks external and internal hemorrhages, and this astringency, when in combination with the more specific principles of Pilewort, makes one of the most effective pile medicines known. The compound can be obtained in the form of both ointment and suppositories for external application. For varicose veins an extract of the fresh leaves and young twigs of Witch Hazel is applied on a lint bandage kept constantly moist.Both decoctions of the bark and infusions of the leaves are made in the proportion of 1 ounce to 1 pint boiling water (after simmering for ten minutes in the case of the bark decoction) and taken in wineglassful doses.... witch hazelFor many years growth hormone was extracted from human corpses and very rarely this caused CREUTZFELDT-JAKOB DISEASE (CJD) in the recipients. The hormone is now genetically engineered, so safe.... growth hormone
Treatment In severely affected fetuses, a fetal blood transfusion may be required and/or the baby may be delivered early for further treatment. Mild cases may need observation only, or the reduction of jaundice by phototherapy alone (treatment with light, involving the use of sunlight, non-visible ULTRAVIOLET light, visible blue light, or LASER).
Whatever the case, the infant’s serum BILIRUBIN – the bilirubin present in the blood – and its HAEMOGLOBIN concentration are plotted regularly so that treatment can be given before levels likely to cause brain damage occur. Safe bilirubin concentrations depend on the maturity and age of the baby, so reference charts are used.
High bilirubin concentrations may be treated with phototherapy; extra ?uid is given to prevent dehydration and to improve bilirubin excretion by shortening the gut transit time. Severe jaundice and anaemia may require exchange TRANSFUSION by removing the baby’s blood (usually 10 millilitres at a time) and replacing it with rhesus-negative fresh bank blood. Haemolytic disease of the newborn secondary to rhesus incompatibility has become less common since the introduction of anti-D (Rho) immunoglobulin. This antibody should be given to all rhesus-negative women at any risk of a fetomaternal transfusion, to prevent them from mounting an antibody response. Anti-D is given routinely to rhesus-negative mothers after the birth of a rhesus-positive baby, but doctors should also give it after threatened abortions, antepartum haemorrhages, miscarriages, and terminations of pregnancy.
Occasionally haemolytic disease is caused by ABO incompatibility or that of rarer blood groups.... haemolytic disease of the newborn
has no connection with foot and mouth disease in cattle, deer, pigs and sheep.... hand, foot and mouth disease
In hospital the possible need for urgent action is monitored by use of the GLASGOW COMA SCALE.
People suffering the results of such injuries and their relatives can obtain help and advice from Headway – the brain injury association.... head injury
Stress and anxiety are probably the most common causes of headache and, where possible, the reasons – overwork, family problems, unemployment, ?nancial diffculties, etc. – should be tackled. An unpleasant environment such as tra?c pollution or badly ventilated or overcrowded working conditions may provoke headaches in some people, as may excessive smoking or ca?eine intake. MIGRAINE is a characteristic and often disabling type of headache; high blood pressure may cause the condition (see HYPERTENSION); and, occasionally, refractive errors of the eyes (see EYE, DISORDERS OF) are associated with headaches. SINUS infections are often characterised by frontal headaches. Rheumatism in the muscles of the neck and scalp produce headaches; fever is commonly accompanied by a headache; and sunstroke and HEAT STROKE customarily result in headaches. Finally, diseases in the brain such as meningitis, tumours and HAEMORRHAGE may ?rst manifest themselves as persistent or recurrent headaches.
Treatment Obtaining a reliable diagnosis – with the help of further investigations, including CT (see COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY) or MRI scanning when indicated – should always be the initial aim; treatment in most cases should then be aimed at the underlying condition. Particular concerns include headache that worsens at night or in the early morning; ever-increasing headaches; those associated with abnormal neurological signs on examination; or those associated with ?ts (see FIT).
Whether the cause is physical or stress-induced, used sensibly and for a limited period a low dose of aspirin or paracetamol may be helpful. In many cases of stress-induced headache, however, the most e?ective treatment is relaxation. There are many speci?c treatments for migraine and hypertension. Sinusitis is treated with antibiotics and sometimes by surgery.... headache
– a group which includes morphine, codeine, pethidine and methadone. It is a powerful analgesic and cough suppressant, but its capacity to produce euphoria rapidly induces DEPENDENCE. Popular with addicts, its mostly pleasant effects soon produce TOLERANCE; the need to inject the drug, with associated risks of HIV infection, has affected its use by addicts. Withdrawal symptoms include restlessness, insomnia, muscle cramps, vomiting and diarrhoea; signs include dilated pupils, raised pulse rate, and disturbed temperature control. Although rarely life-threatening, the effects of withdrawal may cause great distress, and for this reason methadone, which has a slower and less severe withdrawal syndrome, is commonly used when weaning addicts o? heroin. Legally still available to doctors in the UK, heroin is normally only used in patients with severe pain, or to comfort the dying.... heroin
Symptoms Symptoms vary with the age of infection. In young infants, herpes simplex may cause a generalised infection which is sometimes fatal. In young children the infection is usually in the mouth, and this may be associated with enlargement of the glands in the neck, general irritability and fever. The condition usually settles in 7–10 days. In adults the vesicles may occur anywhere in the skin or mucous membranes: the more common sites are the lips, mouth and face, where they are known as cold sores. The vesicles may also appear on the genitalia (herpes genitalis) or in the conjunctiva or cornea of the EYE, and the brain may be infected, causing ENCEPHALITIS or MENINGITIS. The ?rst sign is the appearance of small painful swellings; these quickly develop into vesicles which contain clear ?uid and are surrounded by a reddened area of skin. Some people are particularly liable to recurrent attacks, and these often tend to be associated with some debilitating condition or infection, such as pneumonia.
Except in the case of herpes of the cornea, the eruption clears completely unless it becomes contaminated with some other organism. In the case of the cornea, there may be residual scarring, which may impair vision.
Treatment Aciclovir is e?ective both topically as cream or eye drops or orally. In severe systemic infections it can be given intravenously.... herpes simplex
Habitat: Indigenous to England and Eastern Europe.
Features ? Root whitish, cylindrical, about one foot long by three-quarters of an inch through. Taste and odour pungent, irritant, mustard-like.Part used ? Root.Action: Stimulant, diaphoretic, diuretic, emetic.
Used as a digestive. Its stimulant and diuretic properties are said to be of value in the treatment of dropsy, but it is rarely prescribed by modern herbalists.Coffin recommends:"Fresh Horseradish root, sliced 1 oz.Mustard seeds, bruised 1/2 oz. Boiling water 1 pint"Let it stand in a covered vessel for four hours, then strain. Dose, three tablespoonfuls three times a day. Diuretic and stimulant. Useful in dropsies, especially those occurring after scarlet fevers andintermittents."... horseradishHyacintha, Hyacinthe, Hycinth, Hycynth, Hyacinthia, Hyacinthea, Hyacinthie, Hyacynth, Hyacyntha... hyacinth
?udrocortisone (see ADRENAL GLANDS; CORTICOSTEROIDS).... hydrocortisone
Treatment There is evidence that therapy which lowers the lipid concentration reduces the progression of premature atheroma, particularly in those who suffer from the familial disorder. Treatment should include appropriate diets, usually food that is low in cholesterol and saturated fats. There are a number of drugs available for lowering the lipid content of the plasma, but these should be reserved for patients in whom severe hyperlipidaemia is inadequately controlled by weight reduction. Anion-exchange resins – clo?brate, beza?brate and gem?brozil, for example – and statins such as atorvastatin and simvastatin, as well as nicotinic acid, all lower plasma cholesterol and plasma triglyceride concentration through their e?ect on reducing the hepatic production of lipoproteins. Cholestyramine and colestipol, both of which are anion-exchange resins, bind bile salts in the gut and so decrease the absorption of the cholesterol that these bile salts contain – hence lowering plasma cholesterol concentrations. Probucol lowers plasma cholesterol concentrations by increasing the metabolism of low-density lipoproteins.
The statins (atorvastatin, cerivastatin, ?uvastatin, pravastatin and simvastatin) inhibit an enzyme involved in synthesising cholesterol, especially in the liver. They are more e?ective than anion-exchange resins in lowering LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol – a form of low-density cholesterol carried in the bloodstream, high levels of which are believed to be the main cause of atheroma. Statins are, however, less e?ective than the clo?brate group in reducing triglycerides and raising HDL (highdensity lipoprotein) cholesterol (high-density cholesterol).... hyperlipidaemia
Hyperventilation is a manifestation of chest and heart diseases which raise carbon dioxide tension or cause HYPOXIA (e.g. severe CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE (COPD) or PULMONARY OEDEMA). Mechanically ventilated patients may be hyperventilated to lower carbon dioxide tension in order to reduce INTRACRANIAL PRESSURE. (See also HYPOCAPNIA.)... hyperventilation
Indicated: German Chamomile, St John’s Wort, Balm, Valerian or Lobelia. In the form of tincture, tea, liquid extract or tablets. ... globus hystericus
Symptoms: numbness, nerves may swell like iron rods. Infected nerves kill all sensation. In endemic areas, pins and needles in hands may call attention to it. A disease of nerves rather than skin. NOTIFIABLE DISEASE.
Many laymen and practitioners will never have seen a case. In the absence of modern medicine some good can be achieved by traditional remedies. Ancient Hindu and Chinese records refer to the use of Gotu Kola (internally and externally). Dr C.D. de Granpre? (1888) refers. (Martindale 27; p.441)
Oil of Chaulmoogra was used up to one hundred years ago before introduction of modern drugs. It fell into dis-use until discovered by a Director of Health in the Philippine Islands during World War I when he used it successfully in combination with camphor. In South America, where the disease is still active, Sarsaparilla has a long traditional reputation. Walnut oil is used as a dressing, in China. An anti- staphylococcal fraction has been isolated from the seeds of Psoralea corylifolia for use in leprosy. (Indian Journal of Pharmacy 26: 141, 1964)
Tea. Gotu Kola. Half a teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Drink freely. Stronger infusions may be used externally to cleanse ulceration.
Decoction. Combine: Sarsaparilla 1; Gotu Kola 1; Echinacea 2. Half an ounce to 1 pint water gently simmered 20 minutes. Dose: Half a cup 3 times daily.
Formula. Echinacea 2; Sarsaparilla 1; Gotu Kola 2. Dose. Powders 500mg. Liquid Extracts 3-5ml. Tinctures 5-10ml. Thrice daily.
Note: Antibody-positive cases of AIDS are vulnerable to leprosy, both diseases being caused by a similar bacterium.
To be treated by infectious diseases specialist. ... hansen’s disease
Internal. Elderflower and Peppermint tea (catarrhal). Ginkgo tea.
Tablets/capsules. Ginkgo. Improvement reported in moderate loss.
Topical. Garlic oil. Injection of 3-4 drops at night.
Wax in the ear. Mixture: 30 drops oil Eucalyptus, 1 drop Tincture Capsicum (or 3 of Ginger), 1oz (30ml) Olive oil. Inject 4-5 drops, warm.
Black Cohosh Drops. It is claimed that John Christopher (USA) improved many cases of moderate hearing loss with topical use of 5-10 drops Liquid Extract in 1oz oil of Mullein (or Olive oil).
Pulsatilla Drops. Tincture Pulsatilla and glycerol 50/50. 2-3 drops injected at bedtime. Assists auditory nerve function. (Arthur Hyde)
Nerve deafness due to fibroma of the 8th cranial nerve, or after surgery – oral: Mistletoe tea for temporary relief. ... hearing loss
Causes: myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, coronary thrombosis or other heart disorder.
Symptoms: slow feeble heart beats down to 36 beats per minute with fainting and collapse, breathlessness, Stoke Adams syndrome.
Treatment. Intensive care. Until the doctor comes: 1-5 drops Oil of Camphor in honey on the tongue or taken in a liquid if patient is able to drink. Freely inhale the oil. On recovery: Motherwort tea, freely. OR, Formula of tinctures: Lily of the Valley 2; Cactus 1; Motherwort 2. Mix. Dose – 30-60 drops in water thrice daily. A fitted pace-maker may be necessary.
Spartiol. 20 drops thrice daily. (Klein) ... heart block
Symptoms: heavy sweating, failure of surface circulation, low blood pressure, weakness, cramps, rapid heartbeat, face is pale, cool and moist. Collapse. Recovery after treatment is rapid.
Alternatives. Cayenne pepper, or Tincture Capsicum, to promote peripheral circulation and sustain the heart. Prickly Ash bark restores vascular tone and stimulates capillary circulation. Bayberry offers a diffusive stimulant to promote blood flow, and Cayenne to increase arterial force.
Decoction. Combine equal parts Prickly Ash and Bayberry. 1 teaspoon to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half a cup (to which 3 drops Tincture Capsicum, or few grains red pepper is added). Dose: every 2 hours.
Tablets/capsules. Prickly Ash. Bayberry. Motherwort. Cayenne.
Tinctures. Formula. Prickly Ash 2; Horseradish 1; Bayberry 1. 15-30 drops in water every 2 hours. Traditional. Horseradish juice or grated root, in honey.
Life Drops. ... heat exhaustion
Symptoms: skin hot, dry and flushed. High temperature and high humidity dispose. Sweating mechanism disorganised. Delirium, headache, shock, dizziness, possible coma, nausea, profuse sweating followed by absence of sweat causing skin to become hot and dry; rapid rise in body temperature, muscle twitching, tachycardia, dehydration.
Treatment. Hospital emergency. Reduce temperature by immersion of victim in bath of cold water. Wrap in a cold wet sheet. Lobelia, to equalise the circulation. Feverfew to regulate sweating mechanism. Yarrow to reduce temperature. Give singly or in combination as available.
Alternatives. Tea. Lobelia 1; Feverfew 2; Yarrow 2. Mix. 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup freely. Vomiting to be regarded as favourable.
Tinctures. Combine: Lobelia 1; Pleurisy root 2; Valerian 1. Dose: 1-2 teaspoons in water every 2 hours. Decoction. Irish Moss; drink freely.
Practitioner. Tincture Gelsemium BPC (1973). Dose: 0.3ml (5 drops).
Alternate hot and cold compress to back of neck and forehead. Hot Chamomile footbath.
Diet. Irish Moss products. High salt. Abundant drinks of spring water.
Supplements. Kelp tablets, 2 thrice daily. Vitamin C (1g after meals thrice daily). Vitamin E (one 500iu capsule morning and evening).
Vitamin C for skin protection. Increasing Vitamin C after exposure to the sun should help protect against the sun’s ultra violet rays, as skin Vitamin C levels were shown to be severely depleted after exposure. (British Journal of Dermatology 127, 247-253) ... heatstroke
A lack of oestrogen induces hot flushes, night sweats, thinning of the bones (osteoporosis) with possible fractures, and a wide range of physical and emotional disorders.
HRT also prevents the increased frequency of coronary disease which may follow the menopause. With oestrogen only, HRT appears to increase the incidence of cancer of the uterine body. Use of oestrogen and progestogen avoids this.
HRT is available as a tablet, transdermal patch, implant or topical cream. Most women notice temporary improvement in their appearance and hot flushes as long as treatment is continued. HRT is not prescribed by the herbal practitioner. Soya and Hops are a mild alternative.
Side-effects of such treatment include blood pressure rise, weight gain and periods probably continue with a monthly bleed. Elderly women taking HRT for osteoporosis may develop bleeding problems, the risk of blood clot and gall bladder diseases.
Helonias has proved a useful alternative, effective in eliminating excess fluids, reducing hot flushes, and relieving that bloated feeling, thus helping the older woman to live a normal life.
Damiana. 1 heaped teaspoon leaves to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-10 minutes; strain. 1 cup 2-3 times daily for 3-6 weeks.
Sarsaparilla. 1oz (30g) root in 1 pint (500ml) water; simmer gently 20 minutes; strain. 1 cup 2-3 times daily for 3-6 weeks.
Supplementation. Daily. Vitamin E, 400iu. Vitamin B-complex (high potency). Evening Primrose oil capsules, 500mg morning and evening. Dolomite, for Calcium and Magnesium, 2 tablets morning and evening.
Note: An extensive study of breast cancer risks with HRT revealed a positive link between the risk of cancer and length of use. Risk of the disease increased with all types of women using HRT with every year of use. Pre-menstrual women were more than twice at risk. It would appear that oestrogens cannot be taken without risk. (Centre for Disease Control, Atlanta, USA) See: OESTROGENS. ... hormone replacement therapy (hrt)
Symptoms. Hard rubbery glands are general, chiefly detected under the arm and groin. Enlarged nodes may compress nearby structures to produce nerve pains. Weight loss. Accumulation of fluid in lungs and abdomen. Obstruction of bile duct leads to jaundice. Patient may be prone to shingles. High fever heralds approaching fatality. Blood count, bone marrow aspiration and node biopsy confirm. Tubercula glands may simulate Hodgkin’s disease.
Some success reported by the use of the Periwinkle plant. (vinca rosea – Vinchristine) Wm Boericke, M.D. refers to Figwort as a powerful agent in Hodgkin’s disease.
Alternatives. Although there is no known cure, emphasis on the cortex of the adrenal gland may reduce skin irritation and pain in the later stages (Gotu Kola, Liquorice, Sarsaparilla). To arrest wasting and constitutional weakness: Echinacea. Anti-pruritics, alteratives and lymphatics are indicated.
Tea. Formula. Equal parts, Nettles, Gotu Kola, Red Clover. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. 1 cup 3 or more times daily.
Decoction. Formula. Equal parts – Yellow Dock, Queen’s Delight, Echinacea. 1 teaspoon to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup 3 or more times daily.
Tablets/capsules. Poke root. Blue Flag root. Echinacea. Mistletoe.
Powders. Formula. Echinacea 2; Poke root 1; Bladderwrack 1. Dose: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one- third teaspoon) 3 or more times daily.
Tinctures. Mixture. Parts: Echinacea 2; Goldenseal quarter; Thuja quarter; Poke root half; Periwinkle 1. Dose: 1-2 teaspoons, 3 or more times daily. Where active inflammation is present – add Wild Yam 1. External. Castor oil packs to abdomen.
Treatment by a general medical practitioner or hospital specialist.
HOLISTIC MEDICINE. A school of thought which regards disease as a manifestation of an inner disturbance of the vital force, and not merely abnormality of certain groups of nerves, muscles, veins, or even the mind itself. Article 43 of Dr Samuel Hahnemann’s Organon of the Healing Art describes it:
“No organ, no tissue, no cell, no molecule is independent of the activities of the others but the life of each one of these elements is merged into the life of the whole. The unit of human life cannot be the organ, the tissue, the cell, the molecule, the atom, but the whole organism, the whole man.”
Holistic medicine relates disease to a patient’s personality, posture, diet, emotional life, and lifestyle. Treatment will be related to body, mind and spirit. It encourages a positive psychological response to the disease from which a patient suffers. For instance, its gentle approach to cancer embraces stress control, meditation, forms of visualisation and other life-enhancing skills.
Diet may be vegetarian, even vegan.... hodgkin’s disease
Supplementation. Vitamin B12.
HYDRAGOGUE. A herbal cathartic that causes watery evacuation and drastic purgation. White Bryony, American Mandrake. (Practitioner use only) ... hydatid disease
Prevention consists of minimising exposure to detergents and soapy water, and wearing rubber gloves for all routine household duties.... chapped hands
The death rate is 2–10 per cent and the majority of patients survive without renal failure. The longer the period of OLIGURIA, the greater the risk of chronic renal failure.
Treatment is supportive, with replacement of blood and clotting factors, control of HYPERTENSION, and careful observation of ?uid balance.... haemolytic uraemic syndrome
– all potentially fatal disesases.... haemophilus
Haemostatic preparations of gelatine and cellulose are used to stem bleeding from the skin and gums, or as a result of tooth extractions.... haemostatics
Electronic aids consist, essentially, of a microphone, an ampli?er, and an earphone. In postaural aids the microphone and ampli?er are contained in a small box worn behind the ear or attached to spectacles. The earphone is on a specially moulded earpiece. Some patients ?nd it di?cult to manipulate the controls of an aid worn behind the ear, and they may be better o? with a device worn on the body. Some hearing aids are worn entirely within the ear and are very discreet. They are particularly useful for people who have to wear protective headgear such as helmets.
The most sophisticated aids sit entirely within the ear canal so are virtually invisible. They may be tuned so that only the frequencies the wearer cannot hear are ampli?ed.
Many have a volume control and a special setting for use with telephone and in rooms ?tted with an inductive coupler that screens out background noise.
In making a choice therefore from the large range of e?ective hearing aids now available, the expert advice of an ear specialist must be obtained. The RNID (Royal National Institute for Deaf People) provides a list of clinics where such a specialist can be consulted. It also gives reliable advice concerning the purchase and use of hearing aids – a worthwhile function, as some aids are very expensive.... hearing aids
Heart transplant Replacement of a person’s unhealthy heart with a normal heart from a healthy donor. The donor’s heart needs to be removed immediately after death and kept chilled in saline before rapid transport to the recipient. Heart transplants are technically demanding operations used to treat patients with progressive untreatable heart disease but whose other body systems are in good shape. They usually have advanced coronary artery disease and damaged heart muscle (CARDIOMYOPATHY). Apart from the technical diffculties of the operation, preventing rejection of the transplanted heart by the recipient’s immune system requires complex drug treatment. But once the patient has passed the immediate postoperative phase, the chances of ?ve-year survival is as high as 80 per cent in some cardiac centres. A key di?culty in doing heart transplants is a serious shortage of donor organs.... heart surgery
Habitat: Cultivated fields.
Features ? Stem short, square, smooth, branched. Leaves ovate-lanceolate, crenate. Flowers in June, petals of differing sizes, usually wholly yellow but occasionally purple upper petals with dark stripes on lower; single, violet-like flower to each flower stalk. Three carpel fruit.Part used ? Herb.Action: Diaphoretic, diuretic.
The mildness of action makes it applicable in infantile skin eruptions, for which the ounce to pint infusion is given in doses according to age.It has been said that the medicine will ward off asthmatic and epileptic convulsions, but there would appear to be no reliable confirmation of this. The claim may have originated with Culpeper, who writes, concerning Heartsease ? "The spirit of it is excellently good for the convulsions in children, as also for falling sickness, and a gallant remedy for the inflammations of the lungs and breast, pleurisy, scabs, itch, etc."... heartseaseHibiskus, Hibyscus, Hibyskus, Hybiscus, Hybiskus, Hybyscus, Hybyskus... hibiscus
c.460 to 377 BC and who taught students at the medical school in Cos. Often called the ‘father of medicine’, he is renowned for drawing up the HIPPOCRATIC OATH, some of which may have been derived from the ancient oath of the Aesclepiads. Apart from his oath, Hippocrates has about 60 other medical works attributed to him, forming a corpus which was collected around 250 BC in the famous library of Alexandria in Egypt. Hippocratic medicine appealed ‘to reason rather than to rules or to supernatural forces’ is how the late Roy Porter, the English social historian, summed up its ethos in his medical history, The Greatest Bene?t to Mankind (Harper Collins, 1997). Porter also commended Hippocrates as being patient-centred rather than disease-orientated in his practice of medicine.... hippocrates
Action: Although more popular among the old herbalists than among those of to-day. Holy Thistle is still valued for its tonic, stimulant and diaphoretic properties.
Mainly used in digestive troubles, the 1 ounce to 1 pint infusion, given warm in wineglass doses several times daily, is also found capable of breaking up obstinate colds. As it is held to stimulate the mammary glands, the infusion has been given with the object of promoting the secretion of milk.Tilke is enthusiastic in his praise of the herb ? "I have found it such a clarifier of the blood, that by drinking an infusion once or twice a day, sweeted with honey, instead of tea, it would be a perfect cure for the headache, or what is commonly called the meagrims." The same writer recommends it as a salad "instead of watercresses."The medicinal use of Holy Thistle goes back far beyond the days of Tilke, or even Johnson. William Turner, Domestic Physician to the Lord Protector Somerset in the reign of King Edward VI, in his Herbal published 1568, agrees with Tilke that the herb is "very good for the headache and the megram."... holy thistleHonestey, Honesti, Honestie, Honestee, Honestea... honesty
The number of homosexual men and women in the UK is unknown. Re-analysis of the Kinsey report suggests that only 3 per cent of adult men have exclusively homosexual leanings and a further 3 per cent have extensive homosexual and heterosexual experience. Homosexuality among women (lesbianism) seems to be less common. Some homosexual men have high rates of sexual activity and multiple partners and, as with heterosexual men and women, this increases the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted diseases, unless appropriate precautionary measures are taken – for example, the use of condoms for penetrative sex, whether vaginal or anal. It was in homosexual males that the virus responsible for AIDS (see AIDS/HIV) was ?rst identi?ed, but the infection now occurs in both sexes.... homosexuality
Habitat: Horehound flourishes in dry, and particularly chalky waste ground.
Features ? It grows to a height of one and a half to two feet. The bluntly four-cornered stem sends out spreading branches covered with white, woolly hair. The leaves, also spread with the soft hair, are egg-shaped and deeply toothed, the lower ones stalked, those above sessile. The small, white flowers appear during July in thick rings just above the upper leaves.Part used ? The whole plant.Action: Aromatic and bitter, having expectorant and slight diuretic action.
Horehound is probably the best known of all herbal pectoral remedies, and is undoubtedly effective in coughs, colds and pulmonary complaints. The whole herb is infused in 1 ounce quantities to 1 pint of water, and taken frequently in wineglass doses.The refreshing and healthy Horehound Beer or Ale is brewed from this herb, and a Horehound candy is made which, when properly prepared, is one of the best of "cough sweets."Coffin speaks highly of the tonic and expectorant qualities of Horehound, and its latter virtue has certainly been known for nearly three hundred years, as Culpeper tells us that "it helpeth to expectorate tough phlegm from the chest."... horehoundHabitat: Hedgerows, waste ground.
Features ? Stem stiff, erect, freely branched, up to four feet high. Leaves greyish-green, upper ovate, lower cordate, in pairs, each pair pointing in opposite direction to next pair, crenate, hairy, stalked. Flowers (July and August) purplish, labiate, in rings just above leaves. Disagreeable odour.Part used ? Herb.Action: Stimulant, expectorant, diaphoretic, antispasmodic.
Coughs, colds and bronchial complaints generally. Hool prefers this herb to the white Horehound (Marrubium vulgare), and makes wide claims on its behalf. He recommends it in the treatment of consumption, various menstrual troubles, and parturition—in the last-named instance combined with Motherwort. "In chronic coughs, accompanied by spitting of blood," he tells us, "it will be found most excellent, either of itself or combined with other reliable remedies such as Lobelia, Marshmallow, Hyssop, etc."... horehound, blackCarried out as two separate exercises – one by a privately funded American team; another by an international joint venture between tax-funded American laboratories, a charitably funded British one and several other smaller research teams from around the world – the ?rst results were announced on 26 June 2000. In February 2001 the privately funded American group, known as Celera Genomics, announced that it had identi?ed 26,558 genes. At the same time the Human Genome Project consortium reported that it had identi?ed 31,000. Allowing for margins of error, this gives a ?gure much lower than the 100,000 or more human genes previously forecast by scientists. Interestingly, genes were found to make up only 3 per cent of the human genome. The remaining 97 per cent of the genome comprises non-coding DNA which, though not involved in producing the protein-initiating genetic activity, does have signi?cant roles in the structure, function and evolution of the genome.
One surprise from the Project so far is that the genetic di?erences between humans and other species seem much smaller than previously expected. For example, the Celera team found that people have only 300 genes that mice do not have; yet, the common ancestor of mice and men probably lived 100 million years or more in the past. Mice and humans, however, have around twice as many genes as the humble fruit ?y.
Cells die out when they become redundant during embryonic development: genes also die out during evolution, according to evidence from the Genome Project – a ?nding that supports the constant evolutionary changes apparent in living things; the Darwinian concept of survival of the ?ttest.
Apart from expanding our scienti?c knowledge, the new information – and promise of much more as the Genome Project continues – should enhance and expand the use of genetic engineering in the prevention and cure of disease. Studies are in progress on the gene for a receptor protein in the brain which will shed light on how the important neurotransmitter SEROTONIN in the brain works, and this, for example, should help the development of better drugs for the treatment of DEPRESSION. Another gene has been found that is relevant to the development of ASTHMA and yet another that is involved in the production of amyloid, a complex protein which is deposited in excessive amounts in both DOWN’S (DOWN) SYNDROME and ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE.... human genome
Air hunger is an instinctive craving for oxygen resulting in breathlessness, either when a person ascends to great heights where the pressure of air is low, or in some diseases such as pneumonia and DIABETES MELLITUS which affect the body’s METABOLISM and therefore its need for oxygen – an essential constituent in this process.... hunger
Treatment includes the full gamut of neonatal intensive care, as well as speci?c therapy with PULMONARY SURFACTANT.... hyaline membrane disease
(2) Muscles with abnormally increased tone
(e.g. following a STROKE).... hypertonic
If required in states of chronic distress, whether induced by disease or environment, it is especially important to limit the drugs to a short time to prevent undue reliance on them, and to prevent the use of hypnotics and sedatives from becoming a means of avoiding the patient’s real problem. In many cases, such as chronic depression, overwork, and alcohol abuse, hypnotics are quite inappropriate; some form of counselling and relaxation therapy is preferable.
Hypnotics should always be chosen and prescribed with care, bearing in mind the patient’s full circumstances. They are generally best avoided in the elderly (confusion is a common problem), and in children – apart from special cases. Barbiturates should not now be used as they tend to be addictive. The most commonly used hypnotics are the BENZODIAZEPINES such as nitrazepam and temazepam; chloral derivatives, while safer for the few children who merit them, are generally second choice and should be used in the lowest possible dose for the minimum period.
Side-effects include daytime drowsiness – which may interfere with driving and other skilled tasks – and insomnia following withdrawal, especially after prolonged use, is a hazard. Occasionally benzodiazepines will trigger hostility and aggression. Zolpidem and zopiclone are two drugs similar to the benzodiazepines, indicated for short-term treatment of insomnia in the elderly. Adverse effects include confusion, incoordination and unsteadiness, and falls have been reported.
FLUNITRAZEPAM is a tranquilliser/hypnotic that has been misused as a recreational drug.... hypnotics
Hypnosis is induced by various methods, but the basis of all is some rhythmic stimulus accompanied by the repetition of carefully worded suggestions. The most commonly used method is to ask the patient to ?x his or her eye on a given spot, or light, and then to keep on repeating, in a quiet and soothing voice, that the patient’s eyes will gradually become tired and that he or she will want to close them.
There are various levels of hypnosis, usually classi?ed as light, medium, and deep, and it has been estimated that 10 per cent of people cannot be hypnotised; 35 per cent can be taken into light hypnosis; 35 per cent into medium hypnosis; and 20 per cent into deep hypnosis.
Hypnosis can be used as a treatment for some psychiatric patients and in some people with psychosomatic conditions in which emotional or psychological disturbances precipitate physical disorders such as skin lesions or headaches. Hypnosis may help to relieve pain in childbirth; asthma may also respond to it. Some people may ?nd hypnosis to be of help in overcoming addictions to smoking, alcohol or gambling. The process has associated risks, and its use in treatment should be by doctors trained in the technique.... hypnotism
Anticoagulant therapy will also cause a fall in prothrombin levels.... hypoprothrombinaemia
(2) Muscles with abnormally reduced tone.... hypotonic
The drugs used in combination are:
The receptor antagonists, which reduce the output of gastric acid by histamine H2receptor blockade; they include CIMETIDINE, FAMOTIDINE and RANITIDINE.
ANTIBIOTICS to eradicate Helicobacter pylori infection, a major cause of peptic ulceration. They are usually used in combination with one of the PROTON-PUMP INHIBITORS and include clarithomycin, amoxacillin and metronidazole.
BISMUTH chelates.
The prostaglandin analogue misoprostol has antisecretory and protective properties.
Proton-pump inhibitors omeprazole, lansoprazole, pantaprazole and rabeprazole, all of which inhibit gastric-acid secretion by blocking the proton pump enzyme system.... ulcer healing drugs
Coronary thrombosis is more common in the West because of its preference for animal fats; whereas in the East fats usually take the form of vegetable oils – corn, sunflower seed, sesame, etc. Fatty deposits (atheroma) form in the wall of the coronary artery, obstructing blood-flow. Vessels narrowed by atheroma and by contact with calcium and other salts become hard and brittle (arterio-sclerosis) and are easily blocked. Robbed of oxygen and nutrients heart muscle dies and is replaced by inelastic fibrous (scar) tissue which robs the heart of its maximum performance.
Severe pain and collapse follow a blockage. Where only a small branch of the coronary arterial tree is affected recovery is possible. Cause of the pain is lack of oxygen (Vitamin E). Incidence is highest among women over 40 who smoke excessively and who take The Pill.
The first warning sign is breathlessness and anginal pain behind the breastbone which radiates to arms and neck. Sensation as if the chest is held in a vice. First-line agent to improve flow of blood – Cactus.
For cholesterol control target the liver. Coffee is a minor risk factor.
Measuring hair calcium levels is said to predict those at risk of coronary heart disease. Low hair concentrations may be linked with poor calcium metabolism, high aortic calcium build-up and the formation of plagues. (Dr Allan MacPherson, nutritionist, Scottish Agricultural College, Ayr, Scotland)
Evidence has been advanced that a diagonal ear lobe crease may be a predictor for coronary heart disease. (American Journal of Cardiology, Dec. 1992)
Tooth decay is linked to an increased risk of coronary heart disease and mortality, particularly in young men. (Dr Frank De Stefano, Marshfield Medical Research Foundation, Wisconsin, USA) Treatment. Urgency. Send for doctor or suitably qualified practitioner. Absolute bedrest for 3 weeks followed by 3 months convalescence. Thereafter: adapt lifestyle to slower tempo and avoid undue exertion. Stop smoking. Adequate exercise. Watch weight.
Cardiotonics: Motherwort, Hawthorn, Mistletoe, Rosemary. Ephedra, Lily of the Valley, Broom.
Cardiac vasodilators relax tension on the vessels by increasing capacity of the arteries to carry more blood. Others contain complex glycosides that stimulate or relax the heart at its work. Garlic is strongly recommended as a preventative of CHD.
Hawthorn, vasodilator and anti-hypertensive, is reputed to dissolve deposits in thickened and sclerotic arteries BHP (1983). It is believed to regulate the balance of lipids (body fats) one of which is cholesterol.
Serenity tea. Equal parts: Motherwort, Lemon Balm, Hawthorn leaves or flowers. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-15 minutes; 1 cup freely.
Decoction. Combine equal parts: Broom, Lily of the Valley, Hawthorn. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup freely.
Tablets/capsules. Hawthorn, Motherwort, Cactus, Mistletoe, Garlic.
Practitioner. Formula. Hawthorn 20ml; Lily of the Valley 10ml; Pulsatilla 5ml; Stone root 5ml; Barberry 5ml. Tincture Capsicum 1ml. Dose: Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Thrice daily in water or honey.
Prevention: Vitamin E – 400iu daily.
Diet. See: DIET – HEART AND CIRCULATION.
Supplements. Daily. Vitamin C, 2g. Vitamin E possesses anti-clotting properties, 400iu. Broad spectrum multivitamin and mineral including chromium, magnesium selenium, zinc, copper.
Acute condition. Strict bed-rest; regulate bowels; avoid excessive physical and mental exertion. Meditation and relaxation techniques dramatically reduce coronary risk. ... coronary heart disease
Symptoms. Dry mouth, thirst, increased output of urine, fatigue, irritability. Alcohol increases REM (rapid eye movement) during sleep. Brain cell excitability is followed by depression.
Potassium loss may be severe, as also loss of Vitamins B, B6 and C. Bananas are rich in potassium. Alternatives. Tea. 1-2 cups Chamomile tea. Ginger. Gin-and-tonic with juice of lemon, plus teaspoon honey.
Morning-after tea. Meadowsweet (antacid) 1; Centuary (bitter) 1; Black Horehound (antiemetic) 1; Gentian (tonic) quarter; Ginger (stomach settler) quarter. Mix. 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 10 minutes. Drink freely.
Diet. Honey for energy. Slippery Elm gruel. Avoid coffee.
Supplements. B-complex, C, E. Essential fatty acids. Potassium, Magnesium, Selenium, Zinc.
Note: Alcohol is a strong diuretic which drains the body and brain cells of vital fluids. Alcohol also contains congeners, the chemical by-products of fermentation which have a poisonous effect upon the body. The most important treatment is water – long drinks to rehydrate the body and brain. Water also helps the kidneys and liver to wash out the poisons. ... hangover
Alternatives. Treatment. Echinacea is the key remedy.
Others indicated: Red Clover flower, Blue Flag root, Horsetail, Poke root, Bladderwrack. May be taken singly, as available.
Tea: Combine Bladderwrack 2; Echinacea 2; Horsetail 1. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup thrice daily.
Tinctures. Combine: Bladderwrack 2; Echinacea 2; Horsetail 1. Dose: one to two 5ml teaspoons in water thrice daily.
Diet. Iodised salt. Avoid cabbage which contains a factor which depresses the thyroid gland. Supplementation. Vitamin A. B-complex. Kelp. ... hashimoto’s disease
Alternatives. To sustain.
Teas. Lime flowers, Motherwort, Buckwheat, Hawthorn.
Tablets/capsules. Hawthorn, Mistletoe, Motherwort.
Formula. Hawthorn 2; Lily of the Valley 1; Selenicereus grandiflorus 1. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. In water morning and evening. ... heart disease – congenital
Admission to hospital is necessary for investigation and treatment.
Ultrasound scanning is used to diagnose problems with the placenta.
If the bleeding is severe, the woman is given a blood transfusion, and the baby is delivered immediately by caesarean section.... antepartum haemorrhage
Symptoms: redness, soreness, itching followed by blisters on the penis or vulva. Blisters ulcerate before crusting over. Lesions on anus of homosexual men.
Treatment by general medical practitioner or hospital specialist.
Alternatives. Sarsaparilla, Echinacea, Chaparral and St John’s Wort often give dramatic relief to itching rash. See entry: ECHINACEA.
Tea. Formula. Equal parts: Clivers, Gotu Kola, Valerian. One heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-10 minutes. Dose: 1 cup thrice daily.
Decoction. Combine: Echinacea 2; Valerian 1; Jamaican Dogwood 1. One heaped teaspoon to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup thrice daily.
Tablets/capsules. Poke root. Valerian. Passion flower. St John’s Wort. Echinacea. Chaparral. Pulsatilla. Red Clover.
Powders. Formula. Echinacea 2; Valerian 1; Jamaica Dogwood 1. Dose: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one- third teaspoon) thrice daily.
Tinctures. Formula. Echinacea 2; Sarsaparilla 1; Thuja quarter; Liquorice quarter. Dose: 1-2 teaspoons thrice daily.
Topical. Apply any of the following 3, 4 or more times daily. Pulp or gel of Aloe Vera, Houseleek, Echinacea lotion. Garlic – apply slice of fresh corm as an antihistamine. Yoghurt compresses (improved by pinch of Goldenseal powder). Zinc and Castor oil (impressive record). Apply direct or on tampons. Diet. Porridge oats, or muesli oats.
Supplementation: same as for Shingles.
Prevention. Women should be advised to submit for an annual cytosmear. Information. Herpes Association, 41 North Road, London N7 9DP, UK. Send SAE. ... herpes, genital
The child usually becomes red or even blue in the face after a few seconds, and may faint.
Breathing quickly resumes as a natural reflex, ending the attack.
Attacks cause no damage and are usually outgrown.... breath-holding attacks
Hippocrates was aware of the universal law similia similibus curentur (like cures like). He taught that some diseases were cured by similars, and others by contraries. Stahl (1738) was also aware of this law of healing: “diseases will yield to and be cured by remedies that produce a similar affection”. But it was Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843) who proved to the world this doctrine held the key to the selection of specifically acting medicines. His early experiments with nux vomica, arnica, ignatia and veratrum showed how the medicine which cured produced a similar condition in healthy people.
While no one has yet discovered the ‘modus operandi’ of the science, it has grown up largely through empiric experience, especially during certain historical epidemics in different parts of the world. For example, in 1836 cholera raged through most of the cities of Austria. Orthodox medicine could do little.
Out of desperation, the Government commissioned the aid of homoeopathy. A crude hospital was hastily prepared and patients admitted. Results convinced the most hardened sceptics. Physician-in-charge, Dr Fleischman, lost only 33 per cent, whereas other treatments showed a death rate of over 70 per cent.
It is said that reduction of inflammatory fevers by homoeopathic Aconite, Gelsemium, Baptisia and Belladonna played no small part in reducing the practice of blood-letting in the early 19th century.
Since Hahneman, homoeopathy has been the object of intense professional bitterness by its opponents but since the 1968 Medicines Act (UK) provision has been made for homoeopathic treatment on the “National Health Service”. Conversion of medical opinion has been gradual and today many registered medical practitioners also use the therapy.
“It is the general theory that the process of dilution and succussion (a vigorous shaking by the hand or by a machine) “potentises” a remedy.
“To prepare. A remedy is first prepared in solution as a “mother tincture”. In the decimal system of dilution a small quantity is then diluted ten times by the addition of nine parts by volume of diluent – either alcohol or water and then shaken vigorously by hand or machine (succussion). A small quantity of this is then diluted to one tenth and succussed a second time; this process is repeated again and again, producing solutions identified as 3x, 6x, 30x according to the number of times diluted. It may even be continued a thousand times (1 M). The resulting solutions are adsorbed on to an inert tablet or granules, usually of lactose, and in this form it is claimed that they remain therapeutically active indefinitely.
“For higher dilutions the centesimal system is used, when each dilution is by 1 in 100. The resulting solutions or tablets are referred to as 3C, 6C, 12C etc according to the number of times diluted.
“When dealing with a remedy which is insoluble, e.g. Carbo Veg, the first three dilutions and succussions are done in powder form, i.e. to “3x” beyond which the remedy is sufficiently soluble for further dilutions to proceed in liquid form.
“In homoeopathy a remedy may in some cases be given in a dilution so great that no single molecule of the original substance remains. The concept of “memory laden” water implies that the effect lies in a pattern impressed on the water molecules and that this is carried over from one dilution to the next.” (John Cosh MD., FRCP)
Homoeopathic medicines can stand most tests for safety, since it is widely held that they are completely safe and non-addictive, with no side-effects. ... homoeopathy
GVH disease can usually be prevented by administration of immunosuppressant drugs. If the disease develops, it can be treated with corticosteroid drugs and immunosuppressant drugs such as ciclosporin In some cases, however, it can be difficult to control.... graft-versus-host disease
Examples of haemoglobinopathies include sickle cell anaemia and the thalassaemias.... haemoglobinopathy
The causes of are not fully understood, but the disorder often runs in families, which suggests that genetic factors may be involved. is not, as popularly believed, a result of poor parenting or abuse.
Symptoms develop in early childhood, usually between the ages of 3 and 7, and may include inability to finish tasks; short attention span; inability to concentrate in class; difficulty in following instructions; a tendency to talk excessively, frequently interrupting other people; difficulty in waiting or taking turns; inability to play quietly alone; and physical impulsiveness. Children with may have difficulty in forming friendships. Self-esteem is often low because an affected child is frequently scolded and criticized.
Treatment includes behaviour modification techniques, both at home and at school. In some children, avoidance of certain foods or food additives seems to reduce symptoms. In severe cases, stimulant drugs, usually methylphenidate, may be prescribed. Paradoxically, the use of stimulants in reduces hyperactivity and improves concentration. In general, the condition improves by adolescence but may be followed by antisocial behaviour and drug abuse or substance abuse.... attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Handedness is related to the division of the brain into 2 hemispheres, each of which controls movement and sensation on the opposite side of the body.
In most right-handed people the speech centre is in the left brain hemisphere.
Inheritance is probably the most important factor in determining handedness.... handedness
Left-sided heart failure may be caused by hypertension, anaemia, hyperthyroidism, a heart valve defect (such as aortic stenosis, aortic incompetence, or mitral incompetence), or a congenital heart defect (see heart disease, congenital). Other causes of left-sided heart failure include coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, cardiac arrhythmias, and cardiomyopathy.
The left side of the heart fails to empty completely with each contraction, or has difficulty in accepting blood that has been returned from the lungs. The retained blood creates a back pressure that causes the lungs to become congested with blood. This condition leads to pulmonary oedema.
Right-sided heart failure most often results from pulmonary hypertension, which is itself caused by left-sided failure or by lung disease (such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (see pulmonary disease, chronic obstructive). Right-sided failure can also be due to a valve defect, such as tricuspid incompetence, or a congenital heart defect.
There is back pressure in the circulation from the heart into the venous system, causing swollen neck veins, enlargement of the liver, and oedema, especially of the legs and ankles. The intestines may become congested, causing discomfort.
Immediate treatment consists of bed rest, with the patient sitting up. Diuretic drugs are given, and digitalis drugs and vasodilators, especially ACE inhibitors, may also be administered. Morphine and oxygen may be given as emergency treatment in acute left-sided failure.... heart failure
Abscesses develop beneath the skin, which becomes reddened and painful and may ooze pus.
The condition tends to be recurrent and can eventually cause scarring in the affected areas.
Antibiotic drugs may help to reduce the severity of an outbreak.... hidradenitis suppurativa
The disease is rare and tends to run in families. It occurs about 4 times more often in boys. Symptoms, which include constipation and bloating, usually develop in the first few weeks of life, but may become evident in infancy or early childhood. The child usually has a poor appetite and may fail to grow properly.
A barium X-ray examination can show the narrowed segment of the intestine.
A biopsy may be taken.
Treatment of Hirschsprung’s disease involves removing the narrowed segment and rejoining the normal intestine to the anus.... hirschsprung’s disease
There are over 50 strains of human papillomavirus.
Infection with some of these strains is thought to be a causative factor in cervical cancer and anal cancer.... human papillomavirus
The chorea usually affects the face, arms, and trunk, resulting in random grimaces and twitches, and clumsiness. Dementia takes the form of irritability, personality and behavioural changes, memory loss, and apathy.
At present, there is no cure for Huntington’s disease, and treatment is aimed at reducing symptoms with drugs.... huntington’s disease
Affected children may appear normal at birth but, at 6–12 months of age, they develop cardiac abnormalities, umbilical hernia, skeletal deformities, and enlargement of the tongue, liver, and spleen.
Growth is limited and mental development slows.
If the condition is diagnosed in early infancy, a bone marrow transplant may be curative.... hurler’s syndrome
Hydralazine may cause nausea, headache, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, loss of appetite, rash, and joint pain.
Taken long term in high doses it may cause lupus erythematosus.... hydralazine
Excessive sweating may be caused by hot weather, exercise, or anxiety. In some cases it is due to an infection, thyrotoxicosis, hypoglycaemia, or a nervous system disorder. Usually, the disorder has no known cause, and begins at puberty, disappearing by the mid-20s or early 30s.
If hyperhidrosis is persistent and cannot be controlled by antiperspirants, surgery may be considered to destroy the nerve centres that control sweating.... hyperhidrosis
Hypersplenism causes anaemia and thrombocytopenia, and there may be a decrease in resistance to infection.
Primary hypersplenism is treated with splenectomy.
Treatment of secondary hypersplenism aims to control the cause.... hypersplenism
Hypertonia causes episodes of continuous muscle spasm.
Persistent hypertonia in limb muscles following a stroke or head injury leads to spasticity.... hypertonia
hyperuricaemia An abnormally high level of uric acid in the blood. Hyperuricaemia may lead to gout due to the deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints; it may also cause kidney stones (see calculus, urinary tract) and tophus.
Hyperuricaemia may be caused by an inborn error of metabolism (see metabolism, inborn errors of), by the rapid destruction of cells in a disease such as leukaemia, or by medication that reduces the excretion of uric acid by the kidneys, such as diuretic drugs. Large amounts of purine in the diet may also cause hyperuricaemia.
Drugs such as allopurinol or sulfinpyrazone are prescribed for the duration of the patient’s life. Purine-rich foods should be avoided.... hypertrichosis
Initially, there may be blurred vision, but the blood usually disappears completely within a few days and vision is restored.... hyphaema
Some psychoanalysts induce a hypnotic state as a means of helping patients remember and come to terms with disturbing events.
More often, hypnosis is used to help patients to relax.
It may be useful in people suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, or phobias, or in those wishing to correct addictive habits.... hypnosis
Hypohidrosis is a feature of hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia, a rare, inherited, incurable condition that is characterized by reduced sweating and is accompanied by dry, wrinkled skin, sparse hair, small, brittle nails, and conical teeth.
Other causes of hypohidrosis include exfoliative dermatitis and some anticholinergic drugs.... hypohidrosis
Normally, a muscle that is not being used has a certain inbuilt tension, but in a number of disorders affecting the nervous system (such as Huntington’s disease) this natural tension is reduced.... hypotonia
Hypovitaminosis may be due to an inadequate dietary intake or a digestive disorder that causes malabsorption.... hypovitaminosis
Act (1983) details the rights of patients with mental illness and the grounds for detaining mentally ill people against their will. It also outlines forms of legal guardianship for such patients.
When a person is endangering his or her own or other people’s health or safety (for example, threatening harm or suicide) because of a recognized mental illness, he or she may be compulsorily taken into hospital to be given treatment.
If a person breaks the law because of a mental disorder, the courts may remand him or her to hospital.... mental health act
These abnormal red cells are readily broken up when blood passes through the spleen.
At times, the rate of red cell destruction exceeds the rate at which new cells can be made in the bone marrow, leading to symptoms of anaemia.
Other symptoms include jaundice and enlargement of the spleen.
Occasionally, crises occur (usually triggered by infection) in which all symptoms worsen.
Gallstones are a frequent complication.
Splenectomy usually leads to permanent improvement.... hereditary
Usually due to trauma, it can also be a sign of infective endocarditis.... splinter haemorrhage
Umbilical hernias sometimes develop in adults, especially in women after childbirth. Surgery may be necessary for a large, persistent, or disfiguring hernia.... umbilical hernia
The vitreous humour consists almost entirely of water.... vitreous humour
An international organization established in 1948 as an agency of the United Nations with responsibilities for international health matters and public health. The headquarters are in Geneva, Switzerland.
The has campaigned effectively against some infectious diseases, most
notably smallpox, tuberculosis, and malaria.
Other functions include sponsoring medical research programmes, organizing a network of collaborating national laboratories, and providing expert advice and specific targets to its 160 member states with regard to health matters.... world health organization
Habitat: The alpine Himalayas from Sikkim to Garhwal and Assam.
English: Indian Aconite, Wolfsbane, Monkshood.Ayurvedic: Vatsanaabha, Visha, Amrita, Vajraanga, Sthaavaravisha, Vatsanaagaka, Shrangikavisha, Garala.Unani: Bish, Bishnaag.Siddha/Tamil: Vasanaavi, Karunaab- hi.Folk: Bacchanaag, Bish, Mithaa Zahar, Telia Visha.Action: Narcotic, sedative, antilepro- tic, anti-inflammatory. Extremely poisonous. (Roots possess depressant activity, but after mitigation in cow's milk for 2-3 days, they exhibit stimulant activity.)
Key application: In neuralgia. (Aconitum napellus L. has been listed by German Commission E among unapproved herbs.)The root contains diterpenoid alkaloids, which act as a powerful poison that affects the heart and central nervous system. Aconitine has a shortlived cardiotonic action followed byHabitat: Cultivated at Manali and Rahla in Himachal Pradesh. Also found in northwestern Himalayas at altitudes ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 m.
English: Atis Root, Aconite.Ayurvedic: Ativishaa, Arunaa, Vishaa, Shuklakandaa, Bhanguraa, Ghunapriyaa, Ghunavallabhaa, Kaashmiraa, Shishubhaishajyaa (indicating its use in paediatrics), Vishwaa.Unani: Atees.Siddha/Tamil: Athividayam.Folk: Patis.Action: Often regarded as non- poisosnous, antiperiodic, anti- inflammatory, astringent (used in cough, diarrhoea, dyspepsia), tonic (used after fevers), febrifuge, antispasmodic (used in irritability of stomach and abdominal pains).
Along with other therapeutic applications, The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India indicates the use of the dried, tuberous root in emesis and helminthi- asis.The roots yield 0.79% of total alkaloids, of which atisin is 0.4%. Atisine is much less toxic than aconitine and pseudoaconitine. (The inert character of the plant is well known to the hill people, who often use it as a vegetable.) The plant possesses potent immuno- stimulant properties.Dosage: Root—0.6-2.08 g. (API Vol. I.)... aconitum heterophyllumHabitat: The western Ghats, Orissa and Sikkim up to 1,500 m.
Siddha/Tamil: Thali, Paratathali.Folk: Pisaa (Maharashtra).Action: Infusion of leaves—urinary tract disinfectant, antidiabetic, spasmolytic.
The leaves contain a very small amount of an amorphous alkaloid. They also contain beta-sitosterol, hen- triacontanone, hentriacontanol and quercetin-3-rhamnoside and hydrocarbons.The bark gives an alkaloid, actino- daphnine.The roots contain a flavanone glycoside.... actinodaphne hookeriHabitat: Endemic to the mountains of Balkan Peninsula and western Asia. Introduced into India; occasionally grown as an ornamental tree.
English: Horse Chestnut tree.Unani: Baloot. (Quercus incana and Q. infectoria have also been equated with Baloot in National Formulary in Unani Medicine.)Folk: Pu.Action: Anti-inflammatory, vasodilator, astringent (used for rheumatism, venous congestion, haemorrhoids), febrifuge. Leaf— used in whooping cough.
Key application: In chronic venous insufficiency, varicosis, nocturnal systremma (cramps in the calves) and swelling of the legs. (Non- invasive treatment measures should also be followed.) (German Commission E, ESCOP, The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)Horse Chestnut contains triterpe- noid saponins (especially aescin, a complex mixture composed of acylat- ed glycosides of protoaesigenin and barringtogenol-C, including hippo- caesculin), coumarins and flavonoids. Aescin has been shown to eliminate oedema and reduce exudation. It antagonizes the effect of bradykinin, although it is not a direct bradykinin antagonist. It causes an increase in plasma levels of ACTH, corticosterone and glucose in rats. Hippocaescu- lin and barringtogenol-C-21-angelate show antitumour activity in vitro.The hydroxycoumarin aesculin leads to increased bleeding time. (Roasting seems to destroy the toxins.) A few fruits can cause severe toxic symptoms. (Francis Brinker.) In some countries, an intravenous mixture containing aescin is used after surgery. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)... aesculus hippocastanumHabitat: Arabia, Palestine, Syria.
English: Jericho Rose.Unani: Kafemariyam, Kafe-aaishaa.Folk: Garbha-phool.Action: Used in difficult labour.... anastatica hierochuntica
Habitat: Native to Brazil, but widely grown for its pods in southern India, Maharashtra and Gujarat.
English: Groundnut, Peanut, Monkeynut.Ayurvedic: Mandapi, Tailamudga, Bhuumimudga.Unani: Moongphali.Siddha/Tamil: Nelakadalai, Verkadalai.Action: Kernels—contain protease inhibitors. Peanut skin— haemostatic.
There is a haemostatic principle in the peanut flour, which is said to improve the condition of haemophiliacs. The protease inhibitor acts on the fib- rinolytic system, primarily as an an- tiplasmin. It is reported to form complexes not only with the enzymes, but also with the corresponding zymogens.The peanut (red) skin contains bio- flavonoids, which possess vitamin- P activity; tannins; a lipoxidase and a protease inhibitor. Capric acid, obtained from the (red) skin, showed antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger.... arachis hypogaeaHabitat: Southern India, largely grown in gardens.
Ayurvedic: Panasagandhi, (Harit) Champaka.Siddha/Tamil: Manoranjidam.Folk: Haraa champaa (north), Kathari champaa; Hirvaa champaa (Maharashtra).Action: Cardiac stimulant, uterine stimulant, muscle relaxant.
The extract of the pericarp showed a positive ionotropic and chronotropic effect on all types of experimental animals. The cardiac stimulant and uterine stimulant activity is attributed to the glycosides, whereas the relaxant action on plain muscles and hypotensive effect, which could be partly choliner- gic and partly resulting from vasodila- tory action, are probably due to the presence of the volatile oil.The leaves are found to contain an antifertility principle. The root contains an antimalarial agent.... artabotrys hexapetalusHabitat: Found in the plains of Punjab.
English: Tonkin bean, Melilot, King's crown, King's clover.Unani: Naakhunaa, Ikil-ul-Malik. (It is also equated with Melilotus alba Desv. and Trigonela uncata Boiss. in National Formulary of Unani Medicine.)Action: Nervine tonic (used in nervous and catarrhal affections), antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory, emollient, diuretic, galactogenic.
The callus of the plant contains amino acids; roots contain saponins and sterols. The leaves yield 3-nitro- propionic acid.... astragalus hamosusHabitat: Cultivated largely in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan and Bihar.
English: Ash Gourd, White Gourd, Wax Gourd, White Pumpkin.Ayurvedic: Kuushmaanda, Kuush- maandaka, Kuushmaandanaadi.Unani: Pethaa, Mahdabaa, Kaddu- e-Roomi.Siddha/Tamil: Ven-poosani, Saambalpushani.Action: Leaves—cooling, juice rubbed on bruises. Fruit decoction—laxative, diuretic, nutritious, styptic (given for internal haemorrhages and diseases of the respiratory tract.) Juice of fruit— used for treating epilepsy, insanity and other nervous diseases. The ash of fruit rind—applied on painful swellings. Seeds—anthelmintic.
The fruits contain lupeol, beta-sitos- terol, their acetates and several amino acids. The fruit juice produces tran- quilizing activity and mild CNS depressant effect in mice.The roots of mature plant contain a pentacyclic triterpene, which exhibits antiallergic activity against both homologous passive cutaneous ana- phylaxis and delayed hypersensitivity in mice. The fruit beverage contains pyrazine compounds.Isomultiflorenol acetate, a penta- cyclic triterpene, has been isolated as the major constituent of wax coating of fruits.Dosage: Dried pieces of the fruit— 5-10 g (API Vol. IV.) Fruit juice— 10-20 m (CCRAS.)... benincasa hispidaIt is important for a paediatrician to determine that such events are not epileptic (see EPILEPSY). Generally they require no treatment other than reassurance, as recovery is spontaneous and rapid – although a small number of severely affected children have been helped by a PACEMAKER. Parents should avoid dramatising the attacks.... breath-holding
Habitat: Throughout the plains of India, as a wild climber.
English: Ballon Vine, Winter Cherry, Heartseed.Ayurvedic: Kaakatiktaa, Kaakaadani, Karnsphotaa, Shatakratulataa.Unani: Habb-e-Qilqil.Siddha/Tamil: Mudukottan, Kottavan.Folk: Kanphotaa, Kanphuti, Lataaphatakari. Used as Jyotishmati in Bengal.Action: Used in rheumatism, lumbago, skeletal fractures, nervous diseases, amenorrhoea, haemorrhoids, erysipelas. The herb is used in hairoils for treating dandruff, alopecia and for darkening hair.
The plant extract showed significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity and sedative effect on CNS. The drug also showed (transient) vasode- pressant activity.The leaves contain beta-sitosterol and its D-glucoside, an alkaloid, oxalic acid and amino acids. The presence of a saponin and quebrachitol is reported in the plant.The leaves and stem are used in preparations used against common cold. Alcoholic extract of the plant exhibits antisickling and antiarthritic activity. Seeds have positive anabolic activity and increase body weight by inducing a positive nitrogen balance.The alkaloid fraction from the seeds showed hypotensive activities and cardiac inhibition in anaesthetized dogs; blocked spasmogenic effects of acetyl- choline, histamine and 5-HT on guinea pig ileum, biphasic effort on frog rec- tus abdominis muscle. The seeds also showed antibacterial activity.Dosage: Whole plant—50-100 ml decoction. (CCRAS.)... cardiospermum halicacabumHabitat: Throughout tropical and sub-tropical tracts of India.
English: Broom-Creeper, Ink-Berry.Ayurvedic: Chhilihinta, Paataala- garuda, Mahaamuulaa, Dirghavalli, Jalajamani.Siddha/Tamil: Kattukodi.Action: Root—laxative, sudorific, alterative, antirheumatic. Leaf— used externally for eczema, prurigo and inpetigo. A decoction of leaves is taken in eczema, leucorrhoea and gonorrhoea.
Aqueous extract of stem and root— sedative, anticonvulsant, hypotensive, bradycardiac, cardiotonic and sapas- molytic. Roots are used as a substitute for Sarsaparilla in chronic rheumatism gout, and syphilitic cachexia.The stem contains cyclopeptide alkaloids. The plant contains coclaurine, magnoflorine, beta-sitosterol, ginnol and a monomethyl ether of inositol.C.pendulus (Forsk.) Diels, synonym C. leaeba (Del.) DC. (Punjab, Gujarat and South India) is known as Parwati (Gujarat, Sindh) and Ullar-billar (Punjab).Ethanolic extract of the leaves and stem showed anticancer and hypoten- sive activities associated with the al- kaloidal fraction which contains bis- benzylisoquinoline alkaloids (including pendulin and cocsulin). Presence of quercitol is reported from non- alkaloidal fraction.Dosage: Root—50-100 ml decoction. (CCRAS.)... cocculus hirsutusHistory Child health services were originally designed, before the NHS came into being, to ?nd or prevent physical illness by regular inspections. In the UK these were carried out by clinical medical o?cers (CMOs) working in infant welfare clinics (later, child health clinics) set up to ?ll the gap between general practice and hospital care. The services expanded greatly from the mid 1970s; ‘inspections’ have evolved into a regular screening and surveillance system by general practitioners and health visitors, while CMOs have mostly been replaced by consultant paediatricians in community child health (CPCCH).
Screening Screening begins at birth, when every baby is examined for congenital conditions such as dislocated hips, heart malformations, cataract and undescended testicles. Blood is taken to ?nd those babies with potentially brain-damaging conditions such as HYPOTHYROIDISM and PHENYLKETONURIA. Some NHS trusts screen for the life-threatening disease CYSTIC FIBROSIS, although in future it is more likely that ?nding this disease will be part of prenatal screening, along with DOWN’S (DOWN) SYNDROME and SPINA BIFIDA. A programme to detect hearing impairment in newborn babies has been piloted from 2001 in selected districts to ?nd out whether it would be a useful addition to the national screening programme. Children from ethnic groups at risk of inherited abnormalities of HAEMOGLOBIN (sickle cell disease; thalassaemia – see under ANAEMIA) have blood tested at some time between birth and six months of age.
Illness prevention At two months, GPs screen babies again for these abnormalities and start the process of primary IMMUNISATION. The routine immunisation programme has been dramatically successful in preventing illness, handicap and deaths: as such it is the cornerstone of the public health aspect of child health, with more potential vaccines being made available every year. Currently, infants are immunised against pertussis (see WHOOPING COUGH), DIPHTHERIA, TETANUS, POLIOMYELITIS, haemophilus (a cause of MENINGITIS, SEPTICAEMIA, ARTHRITIS and epiglottitis) and meningococcus C (SEPTICAEMIA and meningitis – see NEISSERIACEAE) at two, three and four months. Selected children from high-risk groups are o?ered BCG VACCINE against tuberculosis and hepatitis vaccine. At about 13 months all are o?ered MMR VACCINE (measles, mumps and rubella) and there are pre-school entry ‘boosters’ of diphtheria, tetanus, polio, meningococcus C and MMR. Pneumococcal vaccine is available for particular cases but is not yet part of the routine schedule.
Health promotion and education Throughout the UK, parents are given their child’s personal health record to keep with them. It contains advice on health promotion, including immunisation, developmental milestones (when did he or she ?rst smile, sit up, walk and so on), and graphs – called centile charts – on which to record height, weight and head circumference. There is space for midwives, doctors, practice nurses, health visitors and parents to make notes about the child.
Throughout at least the ?rst year of life, both parents and health-care providers set great store by regular weighing, designed to pick up children who are ‘failing to thrive’. Measuring length is not quite so easy, but height measurements are recommended from about two or three years of age in order to detect children with disorders such as growth-hormone de?ciency, malabsorption (e.g. COELIAC DISEASE) and psychosocial dwar?sm (see below).
All babies have their head circumference measured at birth, and again at the eight-week check. A too rapidly growing head implies that the infant might have HYDROCEPHALUS – excess ?uid in the hollow spaces within the brain. A too slowly growing head may mean failure of brain growth, which may go hand in hand with physically or intellectually delayed development.
At about eight months, babies receive a surveillance examination, usually by a health visitor. Parents are asked if they have any concerns about their child’s hearing, vision or physical ability. The examiner conducts a screening test for hearing impairment – the so-called distraction test; he or she stands behind the infant, who is on the mother’s lap, and activates a standardised sound at a set distance from each ear, noting whether or not the child turns his or her head or eyes towards the sound. If the child shows no reaction, the test is repeated a few weeks later; if still negative then referral is made to an audiologist for more formal testing.
The doctor or health visitor will also go through the child’s developmental progress (see above) noting any signi?cant deviation from normal which merits more detailed examination. Doctors are also recommended to examine infants developmentally at some time between 18 and 24 months. At this time they will be looking particularly for late walking or failure to develop appropriate language skills.... child health
The new Council for Healthcare Regulatory Excellence will help to promote the interests of patients and to improve co-operation between the existing regulatory bodies – providing, in e?ect, a quality-control mechanism for their activities. The government and relevant professions will nominate individuals for this overarching council. The new council will not have the authority to intervene in the determination by the eight regulatory bodies of individual ?tness-to-practise cases unless these concern complaints about maladministration.... council for healthcare regulatory excellence
Habitat: Deccan Peninsula; common in the forest areas of Western Ghats.
Unani: Desi Ushbaa.Siddha/Tamil: Mahali kizhangu.Action: Root—appetizer, blood purifier, bacteriostatic. Used as a substitute for Shveta Saarivaa (Hemidesmus indicus). Sold as Saarivaa in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The root powder is given to diabetics.
The root contains quercetin, kaempferol, coumarin and rutin. It has a sweet sarsaparilla-like taste; contains 92% fleshy matter and 8% woody core.The root can be stored for longer periods and remains unaffected by microorganisms and insects, apparently due to the presence of the volatile principle which possesses bacteriostat- ic and toxic properties.The root, on steam distillation, gave 4-O-methyl-resorcylaldehyde in a concentration of 0.8%. (The growth of E. coli was arrested by the aldehyde in 0.041% concentration; fish died within 4 min in 0.02% solution.) The sterols consists mainly of stagma and brassica sterols. Alpha-amyrin and lupeol, both free and as esters are also present in the root.The plant contains lupeol, beta- amyrin 2-hydroxy, 4-methoxy benzaldehyde, and ferulic acid.... decalepis hamiltoniiHabitat: The Western Ghats, Sikkim, Assam, Orissa and Bengal.
Ayurvedic: Vaaraahi (var.).Folk: Naagar-kanda (Bihar).Action: Tubers contain 85.50% carbohydrates, 8.30% albuminoids.... dioscorea hamiltonii
Habitat: The Himalayas at Lachen and Tungu, and Sikkim.
English: Leopard's Bane. (Arnica montana Linn. is also known as Leopard's Bane.)Unani: Daarunaj Aqrabi.Action: Root—used as a constituent of cardiac and nervine tonics. Used as exhilarant. Acts as a stomachic and dissolves trapped gases.... doronicum hookeri
Health has driven much of environmental policy since the work of Edwin Chadwick in the early 1840s. The ?rst British public-health act was introduced in 1848 to improve housing and sanitation with subsequent provision of puri?ed water, clean milk, food hygiene regulations, vaccinations and antibiotics. In the 21st century there are now many additional environmental factors that must be monitored, researched and controlled if risks to human health are to be well managed and the impact on human morbidity and mortality reduced.
Environmental impacts on health include:
noise
air pollution
water pollution
dust •odours
contaminated ground
loss of amenities
vermin
vibration
animal diseases
Environmental risk factors Many of the major determinants of health, disease and death are environmental risk factors. Some are natural hazards; others are generated by human activities. They may be directly harmful, as in the examples of exposure to toxic chemicals at work, pesticides, or air pollution from road transport, or to radon gas penetrating domestic properties. Environmental factors may also alter people’s susceptibility to disease: for example, the availability of su?cient food. In addition, they may operate by making unhealthy choices more likely, such as the availability and a?ord-ability of junk foods, alcohol, illegal drugs or tobacco.
Populations at risk Children are among the populations most sensitive to environmental health hazards. Their routine exposure to toxic chemicals in homes and communities can put their health at risk. Central to the ability to protect communities and families is the right of people to know about toxic substances. For many, the only source of environmental information is media reporting, which often leaves the public confused and frustrated. To bene?t from public access to information, increasingly via the Internet, people need basic environmental and health information, resources for interpreting, understanding and evaluating health risks, and familiarity with strategies for prevention or reduction of risk.
Risk assessment Environmental health experts rely on the principles of environmental toxicology and risk assessment to evaluate the environment and the potential effects on individual and community health. Key actions include:
identifying sources and routes of environmental exposure and recommending methods of reducing environmental health risks, such as exposure to heavy metals, solvents, pesticides, dioxins, etc.
assessing the risks of exposure-related health hazards.
alerting health professionals, the public, and the media to the levels of risk for particular potential hazards and the reasons for interventions.
ensuring that doctors and scientists explain the results of environmental monitoring studies – for example, the results of water ?uoridation in the UK to improve dental health.
National policies In the United Kingdom in 1996, an important step in linking environment and health was taken by a government-initiated joint consultation by the Departments of Health and Environment about adding ‘environment’ as a key area within the Health of the Nation strategy. The ?rst UK Minister of State for Public Health was appointed in 1997 with responsibilities for health promotion and public-health issues, both generally and within the NHS. These responsibilities include the implementation of the Health of the Nation strategy and its successor, Our Healthy Nation. The aim is to raise the priority given to human health throughout government departments, and to make health and environmental impact assessment a routine part of the making, implementing and assessing the impact of policies.
Global environmental risks The scope of many environmental threats to human health are international and cannot be regulated e?ectively on a local, regional or even national basis. One example is the Chernobyl nuclear reactor accident, which led to a major release of radiation, the effects of which were felt in many countries. Some international action has already been taken to tackle global environmental problems, but governments should routinely measure the overall impacts of development on people and their environments and link with industry to reduce damage to the environment. For instance, the effects of global warming and pollution on health should be assessed within an ecological framework if communities are to respond e?ectively to potential new global threats to the environment.... environment and health
Habitat: Western Himalayas, Bengal and Western parts of Deccan Peninsula.
English: Salep (var.).Ayurvedic: Munjaataka (substitute), Saalam-misri (substitute).Action: Tubers—used as a substitute for Salep.... eulophia herbacea
Habitat: Throughout warmer regions of India.
English: Euphorbia, Australian Asthma Weed, Pill-bearing Spurge.Ayurvedic: Dudhi, Dudhikaa, Naagaarjuni, Vikshirini.Unani: Dudhi Khurd.Siddha/Tamil: Amman pachharisi.Action: Pectoral, antiasthmatic, antispasmodic. Used for asthma, laryngitis, chronic nasal and bronchial catarrh; diarrhoea, dysentery, intestinal parasitosis Also used in postnatal complaints, failure of lactation. Latex— vermifuge. Used in diseases of urinogenitory tract.
The herb contains several terpenes, anthocyanins, alcohols and steroids. Aerial parts also gave shikimic acid, choline, L-inositol and free sugars.Antiasthmatic activity is attributed to choline and shikimic acid. Shikimic acid and choline showed relaxant and contracting properties on guinea-pig ileum.The aqueous extract of the herb exhibited sedative, anxiolytic, analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory activities; exerted an inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation.Quercitrin is reported to be responsible for antidiarrhoeal activity.Methanolic extract of the leaves exhibits antibacterial and antifungal activities.Dimeric hydrolysable tannins, eu- phorbains, have been isolated from the plant.... euphorbia hirtaHabitat: Throughout warmer regions of India, up to 1,500 m in the Himalaya.
Ayurvedic: Dugdhikaa.Action: Plant—used in colic, diarrhoea and dysentery. Leaf— astringent, antidysenteric, antileuc- orrhoeic (also used in menorrhagia).
The plant contains taraxerol, oc- tacosanol, campesterol, stigmasterol, beta-sitosterol, quercetin, quercitrin, ellagic acid, rhamnetin-3-galactoside, rhmnetin-3-rhamnoside and kaempferol.... euphorbia hypericifoliaHabitat: Cultivated in the Himalayas, especially in the colder parts of Ladakh, Zaskar and Western Tibet.
English: Tatary Duckwheat.Ayurvedic: Ukhal.Folk: Kutu (var.).Action: See F. esculentum. Duck- wheat is a better source of rutin than the common Buckwheat. It contains 45-80% more rutin than the latter, and maintains its high rutin content for a longer period.
Family: Cruciferae; Brassicaceae.Habitat: Mediterranean region, eastwards to India and southwards to tropical Africa.
Folk: Farid-booti (Punjab).Action: Antirheumatic.
Farsetia species contain a volatile oil which gave glucosinolates. Allylglu- cosinolate is the major constituent.... farsetia hamiltoniiHabitat: Sub-Himalayan tract from Chenab eastward to Bhutan and in Assam, Bengal and Orissa.
English: Indian Fig.Ayurvedic: Malayu, Choraka- patra, Laakshaa-vrksha, Laghu- udumbara.Siddha: Taragadu (Tamil).Action: See F. carica. Fruits— spasmolytic; used in aphthous complaints. Root—used for bladder and visceral troubles. Bark-decoction—used for washing ulcers; juice and powdered bark— applied to wounds and bruises. Syconium—used for ulcers of mucous membrane. Syconium and bark—antileprotic.
The tree is one of the recorded hosts of the Indian lac insect.... ficus heterophyllaHabitat: Outer Himalaya from Chenab eastwards to West Bengal Assam, Central and South India and the Andaman Islands.
Ayurvedic: Kaakodumbara, Kaashtodumbara, Phalgu, Malayu, Malapu.Unani: Anjir Dashti.Siddha/Tamil: Peyatti, Chona Atthi.Action: Syconium—galactagogue. Bark and seed—purgative, emetic.
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia recommends the fruit in jaundice, oedema and anaemia; fruit and root in leucoderma, vitiligo.The fruits, seeds and bark contain beta-sitosterol, beta-amyrin, n- triacontanyl acetate, gluacol acetate, hispidin, a phenanthraindolizidine alkaloid, bergapten and psoralen. A leu- cocyanin has been isolated from the root; oleanolic acid from the leaves.Dosage: Fruit—10-20 g; root—1- 3 g powder. (API Vol. III.)... ficus hispidaHabitat: Evergreen forests of Assam and Khasi Hills.
English: Siam Gamboge.Ayurvedic: Kankushtha; Kaalakushtha, Tamaala.Unani: Usaar-e-revand.Action: Gum-resin—drastic hydragogue, cathartic; used for dropsical conditions. Toxic. The gum-resin contains 70-75% resins consisting mainly of alpha- and beta-garcinolic acids with gambogic acids; about 20-25% gum.
Gambogic acid, morellic acid and isomorellic acid are toxic constituents of the gum-resin.... garcinia hanburyiHabitat: Temperate and sub-tropical Himalayas from Kashmir to Sikkim, and in Assam and Khasi hills.
English: Himalayan Nettle.Ayurvedic: Vrishchikaa.Folk: Bichhuu-booti, Awaa, Chikri.Action: Leaves—decoction is given in fevers; applied externally to swollen joints, also as a paste for headache. (Due to stringing hair, the plant causes dermatitis and is known as Bichhuu.)
The leaves contain 5-OH-trypta- mine and histamine, also AC-choline.The plant gave beta-sitosterol.... girardinia heterophyllaHabitat: Southern parts of Uttar Pradesh adjoining Madhya Pradesh, also in Bihar and Western Ghats.
Folk: Gurmaar (related species).Action: Leaf—when chewed, temporarily paralyses the sense of taste for sweet and bitter substances. Plant—used as stomachic, bechic, expectorant, and in male impotency, poor lactation.
The leaves contain gymnemic acid.... gymnema hirsutumHabitat: Cultivated mainly in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.
English: Asiatic Cotton, Levant Cotton, Uppam Cotton.Ayurvedic: Kaarpaasa, Kaarpaasi, Kaarpaasaka, Rakta-Kaarpaasa, Shona-Kaarpaasa, Samudraantaa, Tuula, Pichu, Bhaaradwaaji, Tundikeri.Unani: Pambahdaanaa. (Seed.)Siddha/Tamil: ParuttikkootamAction: Root bark—diuretic, oxytocic. Bark—emmenagogue, haemostatic. Seed—demulcent, laxative, expectorant, abortifacient, galactagogue, nervine, anticepha- lalgic.
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia recommends the seed oil for toning up the breast.The seed contains 21.3-25.2% protein, free gossypol 0.82-1.96%.Dosage: Seeds, devoid of lint—3- 6 g powder. (API Vol. I.)... gossypium herbaceumHabitat: Sub-Himalayan tract from the Indus to Nepal up to 1,500 m, also in hills of Bihar, Orissa and Tamil Nadu.
Ayurvedic: Naagabalaa, Gud- sharkaraa.Siddha/Tamil: Tavadu.Folk: Gulshakari.Action: Fruit and root—diuretic, antidiarrhoeal. Roots and leaves, crushed with sugar candy, are prescribed for spermatorrhoea.
Dosage: Root—50-100 ml decoction. (CCRAS.)... grewia hirsutaHabitat: Outer range of Western Himalayas from Punjab to Kumaon.
Ayurvedic: Riddhi. (Tubers of Eulophia nuda Lindl. and Dioscorea bulbifera are also used as Riddhi.)Action: Nervine and cardiac tonic.... habenaria edgeworthii
Habitat: The Himalayan region. Found in Ranikhet.
Ayurvedic: Riddhi, Vriddhi. (Substitute: Dioscorea bulbifera.)Action: Nervine and cardiac tonic.... habenaria intermedia
Hadennah, Hadena, Hadynna, Hadinna, Hadyna, Hadina... hadenna
Hadiyah, Hadiyyah, Haadiyah, Haadiya, Hadeeya, Hadeeyah, Hadieya, Hadieyah, Hadeiya, Hadeiyah, Hadeaya, Hadeayah... hadiya
Hadrea, Hadriana, Hadriane, Hadrianna, Hadrien, Hadrienne, Hadriah, Hadreah... hadria
Habitat: Native to tropical America and the West Indies. Grown in Indian gardens.
English: Logwood, Peachwood, Compeachy tree.Ayurvedic: Pattanga, Patraanga, Bakam (substitute). (Caesalpinia sappan is also equated with Pattanga.)Unani: Buqqam, Bakam-Hindi.Action: Astringent. Used for atonic dyspepsia, diarrhoea, summer diarrhoea, dysentery, internal haemorrhages, menorrhagia, leucorrhoea. (It imparts red colour to urine and stool. Incompatible with chalk or lime-water.)
The wood contains about 10% hae- matoxylon, a red-brown phenolic dye, tannins, resin and volatile oil.Haematoxylin exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity in the carra- geenan-induced oedema test.The seed contains crude protein 29.1, pentosan 6.6, and water-soluble gum 3.2%.... haematoxylon campechianumHafwenne, Hafwin, Hafwyn, Hafwinne, Hafwynne, Hafwenn, Hafwinn, Hafwynn... hafwen
Hagae, Hagay, Hagaye, Haggai, Haggae, Hagie, Haggie, Hagi, Haggi, Hagee, Haggee, Hagea, Haggea, Hagy, Haggy, Hagey, Haggey... hagai
Haggithe, Haggyth, Haggythe, Hagith, Hagithe, Hagyth, Hagythe... haggith
Hadee, Haydee, Haydy, Haidi, Haidie, Haydi, Haydie, Haidy, Haedee, Haedi, Haedie, Haedy, Haedey, Haedea, Haidea, Haydea... haidee
Haimatie, Haimaty, Haimatey, Haimatee, Haymati, Haymatie, Haymatee, Haimatea, Haymatea... haimati
Haimie, Haimy, Haimey, Haimee, Haymi, Haymie, Haymee, Haimea, Haymea... haimi
Haiwea, Haiwie, Haiwi, Haiwy, Haiwey... haiwee
Hajnale, Hajnala, Hajnalla, Hajnalka... hajnal
Hakoz, Hakkoze, Hakoze, Hakkoza, Hakoza... hakkoz
Haldah, Haldane, Haldayn, Haldayne, Haldain, Haldaine, Haldaen, Haldaene, Haldana, Haldania, Haldanea, Halden, Haldin, Haldyn, Haldi, Haldie, Haldee, Haldea, Haldey, Haldy, Haldis... halda
Haldisa, Haldys, Haldiss, Haldisse, Haldyss, Haldysse, Halldis, Halldiss, Halldisse, Halldys, Halldyss, Halldysse... haldis
Haldorah, Haldoria, Haldorea, Haldorra, Halldora, Halldorra, Halldoria, Halldorea... haldora
Hayle, Haile, Haylan, Haylen, Hael, Haele, Hayl... hale
Halett, Halet, Haleta, Halette, Halete... haletta
Halimah, Haleema, Haleemah, Haleima, Halyma, Helima, Helimah, Helyma, Heleema, Heleemah, Haleama, Haleamah, Heleama, Heleamah... halima
Halinah, Haleena, Haleenah, Halyna, Halynah, Haleina, Haleinah, Haleana, Haleanah, Haliena, Halienah, Halena, Halenah... halina
Halley, Hallie, Halle, Hallee, Hally, Halleigh, Hallea, Halleah... hallie
Causes They may be the result of intense emotion or suggestion, sensory deprivation (for example, overwork or lack of sleep), disorders of sense organs, or disorders of the central nervous system. Although hallucinations may occur in perfectly sane people, they are more commonly an indication of a MENTAL ILLNESS. They may be deliberately induced by the use of HALLUCINOGENS.... hallucinations
Halonna, Halonah, Halonia, Halonea... halona
Hamathe, Hamoth, Hamothe, Hamatha, Hamotha... hamath
Hamylton, Hamilten, Hamylten, Hamiltyn, Hamyltyn... hamilton
Haniya, Haniyyah, Haniyya, Hani, Hanie, Hanee, Hany, Haney, Hanea, Haneah... haniyah
Hannabelle, Hannabell, Hannabele, Hannabela, Hannabella... hannabel
Hansyne, Hanseen, Hansinah, Hansina, Hansyna, Hannes, Hanseane, Hanseana, Hanseena... hansine
Habitat: Hills of Deccan Peninsula and parts of western and central India.
Folk: Kaalaa-Kirayaat (Maharashtra).Action: Febrifuge, bitter tonic.
A closely related species, Haplan- thus tentaculatus Nees, is also known as Kaalaa-Kiryaat. The herb is given in fever.... haplanthus verticillatusHaqika, Haquikah, Haquika, Haqyka... haqikah
Haraldene, Haraldina, Harolda, Haroldene, Haroldina, Haraldia, Harelda, Hareldina, Hareldene, Harelde, Harolde, Haraldyna, Haroldyna, Hareldyna, Haraldyne, Haroldyne, Hareldyne... haralda
Habitat: Dry forests of Deccan Peninsula, Central India and parts of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Ayurvedic: Anjana.Siddha/Tamil: Katudugu, Kodapalai.Action: Balsam—used for sexually transmitted diseases. The balsam is similar to Copaiba balsam (Copaifera langsdorffii Desf., Leguminosae) of Brasil and is used in leucorrhoea, chronic cystitis, gonorrhoea, combined with cubebs and sandal. The resin (not the oleo-resin) is used as diuretic.
The essential oil of H. binata is not a substitute for Copaiba oil.The methanolic extract of the heart- wood yields beta-sitosterol, (+)-taxifo- lin, eriodictyol, (+)-catechin, (+)-epi- catechin and (+)-mopanol. The phenolic compounds are said to impart antibacterial and antifungal property to the herb.The bark has a good absorption capacity for mercury from water.... hardwickia binataHarinakshie, Harynakshi, Harinakshy, Harynakshy, Harinakshea, Harynakshea, Harynakshie... harinakshi
Harlea, Harlee, Harleen, Harleigh, Harlene, Harlie, Harli, Harly... harley
Harmonie, Harmoni, Harmonee, Harmonia, Harmoney, Harmonea... harmony
Harriett, Hanriette, Hanrietta, Harriette, Harrietta, Harrette, Harriot, Harriotte, Harriotte, Harriotta, Heirierte, Heirrierte... harriet
Hasinah, Hasyna, Hasynah, Haseena, Haseenah, Hasiena, Hasienah, Haseina, Haseinah, Haseana, Haseanah... hasina
Hathora, Hathoria, Hathorea, Hathore... hathor
Hatitah, Hatyta, Hatytah, Hateetah, Hateeta, Hateata, Hateatah... hatita
Hausisse, Hausiss, Hausys, Hausyss, Hausysse... hausis
Havanah, Havanna, Havannah, Havane, Havann, Havanne... havana
Hayven, Havan, Hayvan, Havon, Hayvon, Havin, Hayvin, Havyn, Hayvyn, Haeven, Haevin, Haevan... haven
Hazara, Hazarah, Hazarenanna, Hazarena, Hazaryna... hazarenan
Hazargadda, Hazargada, Hazargadah... hazargaddah
Maintaining an up-to-date evidence base of ‘what works’ in public health and health improvements.
Providing useful information to health practitioners.
Commissioning research to remedy the gaps in the evidence base for medical practice.
Improving health promotion and advising on the standards for (and implementation of) public-health activities.
(See APPENDIX 7: STATUTORY ORGANISATIONS.)... health development agency (hda)
Arrhythmias An abnormal rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. The reason is a disturbance in the electrical impulses within the heart. Sometimes a person may have an occasional irregular heartbeat: this is called an ECTOPIC beat (or an extrasystole) and does not necessarily mean that an abnormality exists. There are two main types of arrhythmia: bradycardias, where the rate is slow – fewer than 60 beats a minute and sometimes so slow and unpredictable (heartblock) as to cause blackouts or heart failure; and tachycardia, where the rate is fast – more than 100 beats a minute. A common cause of arrhythmia is coronary artery disease, when vessels carrying blood to the heart are narrowed by fatty deposits (ATHEROMA), thus reducing the blood supply and damaging the heart tissue. This condition often causes myocardial infarction after which arrhythmias are quite common and may need correcting by DEFIBRILLATION (application of a short electric shock to the heart). Some tachycardias result from a defect in the electrical conduction system of the heart that is commonly congenital. Various drugs can be used to treat arrhythmias (see ANTIARRHYTHMIC DRUGS). If attacks constantly recur, the arrhythmia may be corrected by electrical removal of dead or diseased tissue that is the cause of the disorder. Heartblock is most e?ectively treated with an arti?cial CARDIAC PACEMAKER, a battery-activated control unit implanted in the chest.
Cardiomyopathy Any disease of the heart muscle that results in weakening of its contractions. The consequence is a fall in the e?ciency of the circulation of blood through the lungs and remainder of the body structures. The myopathy may be due to infection, disordered metabolism, nutritional excess or de?ciency, toxic agents, autoimmune processes, degeneration, or inheritance. Often, however, the cause is not identi?ed. Cardiomyopathies are less common than other types of heart diseases, and the incidence of di?erent types of myopathy (see below) is not known because patients or doctors are sometimes unaware of the presence of the condition.
The three recognised groups of cardiomyopathies are hypertrophic, dilated and restrictive.
•Hypertrophic myopathy, a familial condition, is characterised by great enlargement of the muscle of the heart ventricles. This reduces the muscle’s e?ciency, the ventricles fail to relax properly and do not ?ll suf?ciently during DIASTOLE.
In the dilated type of cardiomyopathy, both ventricles overdilate, impairing the e?ciency of contraction and causing congestion of the lungs.
In the restrictive variety, proper ?lling of the ventricles does not occur because the muscle walls are less elastic than normal. The result is raised pressure in the two atria (upper cavities) of the heart: these dilate and develop FIBRILLATION. Diagnosis can be di?cult and treatment is symptomatic, with a poor prognosis. In suitable patients, heart TRANSPLANTATION may be considered. Disorders of the heart muscle may also be
caused by poisoning – for example, heavy consumption of alcohol. Symptoms include tiredness, palpitations (quicker and sometimes irregular heartbeat), chest pain, di?culty in breathing, and swelling of the legs and hands due to accumulation of ?uid (OEDEMA). The heart is enlarged (as shown on chest X-ray) and ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY shows thickening of the heart muscle. A BIOPSY of heart muscle will show abnormalities in the cells of the heart muscle.
Where the cause of cardiomyopathy is unknown, as is the case with most patients, treatment is symptomatic using DIURETICS to control heart failure and drugs such as DIGOXIN to return the heart rhythm to normal. Patients should stop drinking alcohol. If, as often happens, the patient’s condition slowly deteriorates, heart transplantation should be considered.
Congenital heart disease accounts for 1–2 per cent of all cases of organic heart disease. It may be genetically determined and so inherited; present at birth for no obvious reason; or, in rare cases, related to RUBELLA in the mother. The most common forms are holes in the heart (atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect – see SEPTAL DEFECT), a patent DUCTUS ARTERIOSUS, and COARCTATION OF THE AORTA. Many complex forms also exist and can be diagnosed in the womb by fetal echocardiography which can lead to elective termination of pregnancy. Surgery to correct many of these abnormalities is feasible, even for the most severe abnormalities, but may only be palliative giving rise to major diffculties of management as the children become older. Heart transplantation is now increasingly employed for the uncorrectable lesions.
Coronary artery disease Also known as ischaemic heart disease, this is a common cause of symptoms and death in the adult population. It may present for the ?rst time as sudden death, but more usually causes ANGINA PECTORIS, myocardial infarction (heart attack) or heart failure. It can also lead to a disturbance of heart rhythm. Factors associated with an increased risk of developing coronary artery disease include diabetes, cigarette smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, and a raised concentration of cholesterol in the blood. Older males are most affected.
Coronary thrombosis or acute myocardial infarction is the acute, dramatic manifestation of coronary-artery ischaemic heart disease – one of the major killing diseases of western civilisation. In 1999, ischaemic heart disease was responsible for about 115,000 deaths in England and Wales, compared with 153,000 deaths in 1988. In 1999 more than 55,600 people died of coronary thrombosis. The underlying cause is disease of the coronary arteries which carry the blood supply to the heart muscle (or myocardium). This results in narrowing of the arteries until ?nally they are unable to transport su?cient blood for the myocardium to function e?ciently. One of three things may happen. If the narrowing of the coronary arteries occurs gradually, then the individual concerned will develop either angina pectoris or signs of a failing heart: irregular rhythm, breathlessness, CYANOSIS and oedema.
If the narrowing occurs suddenly or leads to complete blockage (occlusion) of a major branch of one of the coronary arteries, then the victim collapses with acute pain and distress. This is the condition commonly referred to as a coronary thrombosis because it is usually due to the affected artery suddenly becoming completely blocked by THROMBOSIS. More correctly, it should be described as coronary occlusion, because the ?nal occluding factor need not necessarily be thrombosis.
Causes The precise cause is not known, but a wide range of factors play a part in inducing coronary artery disease. Heredity is an important factor. The condition is more common in men than in women; it is also more common in those in sedentary occupations than in those who lead a more physically active life, and more likely to occur in those with high blood pressure than in those with normal blood pressure (see HYPERTENSION). Obesity is a contributory factor. The disease is more common among smokers than non-smokers; it is also often associated with a high level of CHOLESTEROL in the blood, which in turn has been linked with an excessive consumption of animal, as opposed to vegetable, fats. In this connection the important factors seem to be the saturated fatty acids (low-density and very low-density lipoproteins [LDLs and VLDLs] – see CHOLESTEROL) of animal fats which would appear to be more likely to lead to a high level of cholesterol in the blood than the unsaturated fatty acids of vegetable fats. As more research on the subject is carried out, the arguments continue about the relative in?uence of the di?erent factors. (For advice on prevention of the disease, see APPENDIX 2: ADDRESSES: SOURCES OF INFORMATION, ADVICE, SUPPORT AND SELFHELP.)
Symptoms The presenting symptom is the sudden onset, often at rest, of acute, agonising pain in the front of the chest. This rapidly radiates all over the front of the chest and often down over the abdomen. The pain is frequently accompanied by nausea and vomiting, so that suspicion may be aroused of some acute abdominal condition such as biliary colic (see GALLBLADDER, DISEASES OF) or a perforated PEPTIC ULCER. The victim soon goes into SHOCK, with a pale, cold, sweating skin, rapid pulse and dif?culty in breathing. There is usually some rise in temperature.
Treatment is immediate relief of the pain by injections of diamorphine. Thrombolytic drugs should be given as soon as possible (‘rapid door to needle time’) and ARRHYTHMIA corrected. OXYGEN is essential and oral ASPIRIN is valuable. Treatment within the ?rst hour makes a great di?erence to recovery. Subsequent treatment includes the continued administration of drugs to relieve the pain; the administration of ANTIARRHYTHMIC DRUGS that may be necessary to deal with the heart failure that commonly develops, and the irregular action of the heart that quite often develops; and the continued administration of oxygen. Patients are usually admitted to coronary care units, where they receive constant supervision. Such units maintain an emergency, skilled, round-the-clock sta? of doctors and nurses, as well as all the necessary resuscitation facilities that may be required.
The outcome varies considerably. The ?rst (golden) hour is when the patient is at greatest risk of death: if he or she is treated, then there is a 50 per cent reduction in mortality compared with waiting until hospital admission. As each day passes the prognosis improves with a ?rst coronary thrombosis, provided that the patient does not have a high blood pressure and is not overweight. Following recovery, there should be a gradual return to work, care being taken to avoid any increase in weight, unnecessary stress and strain, and to observe moderation in all things. Smoking must stop. In uncomplicated cases patients get up and about as soon as possible, most being in hospital for a week to ten days and back at work in three months or sooner.
Valvular heart disease primarily affects the mitral and aortic valves which can become narrowed (stenosis) or leaking (incompetence). Pulmonary valve problems are usually congenital (stenosis) and the tricuspid valve is sometimes involved when rheumatic heart disease primarily affects the mitral or aortic valves. RHEUMATIC FEVER, usually in childhood, remains a common cause of chronic valvular heart disease causing stenosis, incompetence or both of the aortic and mitral valves, but each valve has other separate causes for malfunction.
Aortic valve disease is more common with increasing age. When the valve is narrowed, the heart hypertrophies and may later fail. Symptoms of angina or breathlessness are common and dizziness or blackouts (syncope) also occur. Replacing the valve is a very e?ective treatment, even with advancing age. Aortic stenosis may be caused by degeneration (senile calci?c), by the inheritance of two valvular leaflets instead of the usual three (bicuspid valve), or by rheumatic fever. Aortic incompetence again leads to hypertrophy, but dilatation is more common as blood leaks back into the ventricle. Breathlessness is the more common complaint. The causes are the same as stenosis but also include in?ammatory conditions such as SYPHILIS or ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS and other disorders of connective tissue. The valve may also leak if the aorta dilates, stretching the valve ring as with HYPERTENSION, aortic ANEURYSM and MARFAN’S SYNDROME – an inherited disorder of connective tissue that causes heart defects. Infection (endocarditis) can worsen acutely or chronically destroy the valve and sometimes lead to abnormal outgrowths on the valve (vegetations) which may break free and cause devastating damage such as a stroke or blocked circulation to the bowel or leg.
Mitral valve disease leading to stenosis is rheumatic in origin. Mitral incompetence may be rheumatic but in the absence of stenosis can be due to ISCHAEMIA, INFARCTION, in?ammation, infection and a congenital weakness (prolapse). The valve may also leak if stretched by a dilating ventricle (functional incompetence). Infection (endocarditis) may affect the valve in a similar way to aortic disease. Mitral symptoms are predominantly breathlessness which may lead to wheezing or waking at night breathless and needing to sit up or stand for relief. They are made worse when the heart rhythm changes (atrial ?brillation) which is frequent as the disease becomes more severe. This leads to a loss of e?ciency of up to 25 per cent and a predisposition to clot formation as blood stagnates rather than leaves the heart e?ciently. Mitral incompetence may remain mild and be of no trouble for many years, but infection must be guarded against (endocarditis prophylaxis).
Endocarditis is an infection of the heart which may acutely destroy a valve or may lead to chronic destruction. Bacteria settle usually on a mild lesion. Antibiotics taken at vulnerable times can prevent this (antibiotic prophylaxis) – for example, before tooth extraction. If established, lengthy intravenous antibiotic therapy is needed and surgery is often necessary. The mortality is 30 per cent but may be higher if the infection settles on a replaced valve (prosthetic endocarditis). Complications include heart failure, shock, embolisation (generation of small clots in the blood), and cerebral (mental) confusion.
PERICARDITIS is an in?ammation of the sac covering the outside of the heart. The sac becomes roughened and pain occurs as the heart and sac rub together. This is heard by stethoscope as a scratching noise (pericardial rub). Fever is often present and a virus the main cause. It may also occur with rheumatic fever, kidney failure, TUBERCULOSIS or from an adjacent lung problem such as PNEUMONIA or cancer. The in?ammation may cause ?uid to accumulate between the sac and the heart (e?usion) which may compress the heart causing a fall in blood pressure, a weak pulse and circulatory failure (tamponade). This can be relieved by aspirating the ?uid. The treatment is then directed at the underlying cause.... heart, diseases of
Heavely, Heavenly, Hevean, Hevan, Heavynne, Heavenli, Heavenlie, Heavenleigh, Heavenlee, Heavenley, Heavenlea, Heavyn... heaven
Hebrona, Hebronah, Hebrone, Hebrun... hebron
Hadvig, Hadwig, Hedvig, Hedviga, Hedvige, Hedwiga, Hedwige, Hedda, Heda, Heddi, Heddie, Hedi, Hedy, Haduwig, Hadu... hedwig
Heat collapse is characterised by fatigue, giddiness, and temporary loss of consciousness. It is accompanied by HYPOTENSION and BRADYCARDIA; there may also be vomiting and muscular cramps. Urinary volume is diminished. Recovery is usual.
Heat exhaustion is characterised by increasing weakness, dizziness and insomnia. In the majority of sufferers, sweating is defective; there are few, if any, signs of dehydration. Pulse rate is normal, and urinary output good. Body temperature is usually 37·8–38·3 °C.
Heat cramps (usually in the legs, arms or back, and occasionally involving the abdominal muscles) are associated with hard physical work at a high temperature. Sweating, pallor, headache, giddiness and intense anxiety are present. Body temperature is only mildly raised.
Heat hyperpyrexia is heralded by energy loss and irritability; this is followed by mental confusion and diminution of sweating. The individual rapidly becomes restless, then comatose; body temperature rises to 41–42 °C or even higher. The condition is fatal unless expertly treated as a matter of urgency.
Treatment With the ?rst two syndromes, the affected individual must be removed immediately to a cool place, and isotonic saline administered – intravenously in a severe case. The fourth syndrome is a medical emergency. The patient should be placed in the shade, stripped, and drenched with water; fanning should be instigated. He or she should be wrapped in a sheet soaked in cool water and fanning continued. When rectal temperature has fallen to 39 °C, the patient is wrapped in a dry blanket. Immediately after consciousness returns, normal saline should be given orally; this usually provokes sweating. The risk of circulatory collapse exists. Convalescence may be protracted and the patient should be repatriated to a cool climate. Prophylactically, personnel intended for work in a tropical climate must be very carefully selected. Adequate acclimatisation is also essential; severe physical exertion must be avoided for several weeks, and light clothes should be worn. The diet should be light but nourishing, and ?uid intake adequate. Those performing hard physical work at a very high ambient temperature should receive sodium chloride supplements. Attention to ventilation and air-conditioning is essential; fans are also of value.... heat stroke
Habitat: Hills of Tamil Nadu. Grown in gardens as an ornamental.
English: Common Ivy, Bentwood.Siddha/Tamil: Maravalai.Action: Leaf—expectorant, anti- spasmodic, antineuralgic, vasocon- strictive.
Fruit—used in jaundice, haempt- ysis. Flower—antidysenteric. Leaf and resin—emmenagogue. Tender twigs—boiled in butter, used for sunburn. Extracts are used in some cosmetic preparations.Key application: In catarrh of the upper respiratory passages, symptomatic treatment of chronic inflammatory bronchial conditions. (German Commission E.)The stem and bark gave triterpene glycosides, named kizuta saponins. Oleanolic acid glycoside was also obtained from the plant but the presence of emetine could not be confirmed in subsequent work. The fruits gave hederagenin glycosides.Emetin has been isolated from European and British plant. The fruit and hederagenin glycosides exhibit mollus- cacidal activity. Emetine-containing plant is amoebicidal.... hedera helixHabitat: The Himalayas; from Kashmir to Bhutan at 1,5002,000 m and Assam at 1,3502,000 m.
English: Nepal Ivy.Folk: Baandaa, Bandaa, Lablab.Action: Leaves and berries— cathartic, diaphoretic, febrifuge, antispasmodic, expectorant. Used in whooping cough. Leaves— used in glandular enlargements. A decoction of the leaves is used topically to destroy lice in the hair. An infusion of berries is given in rheumatism. Gum— emmenagogue.
The inflorescences contain beta- amyrin, beta-sitosterol and its D-glu- coside, oleanolic acid, triterpene gly- cosides, nepalins. Nepalins 1,2 and 3 at 0.5, 0.25 and 0.125% respectively completely immobilize human sperm.Plant extract exhibited antitumour activity in vivo and in vitro against Ehrich ascites.... hedera nepalensisHeenie, Heeny, Heeney, Heenee, Heenea, Heani, Heanie, Heany, Heaney, Heanee, Heanea... heeni
Hehewutie, Hehewute, Hehewuty, Hehewutey, Hehewutee, Hehewutea... hehewuti
Habitat: Throughout the moist parts of India, up to 2,000 m. Also grown in gardens of Assam and South India.
English: Ginger Lily.Ayurvedic: Shati (related species).Action: Anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, febrifuge, tranquilizer.
The rhizomes gave furanoditerpene, hedychenone, an anti-inflammatory principle, also cytotoxic principles as labdane-type diterpenes.The essential oil from rhizome shows anthelmintic and mild tranquil- izing property. The essential oil contains alpha- and beta-pinene, limo- nene, carene, and its oxide, linalool and elemole in varying concentrations. The essential oil also gave borneol, methyl salicylate, eugenol and methy- lanthranilate.... hedychium coronariumHabitat: Central Himalaya at 1,1002,500 m, East India and hills of South India.
English: Spiked Ginger Lily.Ayurvedic: Shathi, Shati, Gand- hashathi, Gandhapalaashi, Kapu- urkachari, Suvrataa, Gandhaarikaa, Gandhavadhuu, Gandhamuulikaa.Unani: Kapuurkachari.Siddha/Tamil: Poolankizangu, Kichilikizangu.Folk: Ban-haldi (Kumaon).Action: Rhizome—carminative, spasmolytic, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, antidiarrhoeal, analgesic, expectorant, antiasthmatic, emmenagogue, hypoglycaemic, hypotensive, antimicrobial, anthelmintic, insect- repellent.
The rhizome shows hypotensive effect in dogs at low doses, lowers blood pressure in high doses.EtOH (50%) extract—anti-inflammatory and hypoglycaemic; gave encouraging results in tropical pulmonary eosinophilia in clinical studies. Alcoholic extract of the plant—vasodilator, mild hypotensive and antiseptic in animals. Essential oil from rhizome—mild tranquilizer in male albino rats; antimicrobial.Rhizome gave sitosterol and its glu- coside, a furanoid diterpene—hedy- chenone and 7-hydroxyhedychenone. The essential oil contains cineole, gamma-terpinene, limonene, beta- phellandrene, p-cymene, linalool and beta-terpineol as major constituents.The oil inhibits the growth of several fungi. The ethanol (95%) extract showed antibacterial activity. The 50% extract showed antimalarial activity in vitro against Plasmodium berghei strain.Dosage: Rhizome—1-3 g powder. (API Vol. I.)... hedychium spicatumHabitat: A weed in wet, low lands and in cultivated fields.
Ayurvedic: Kshetraparpata (used in Kerala as Parpataka).Action: Purifies blood, improves digestion, stimulates action of liver.
The presence of caffeine and fumar- ic acid has been reported in H. corym- bosa.Iridoidoglucosides have been isolated from H. diffusa Willd. The plant is reported to have immunopotentiation activity and has been used in China to treat some tumours. An aqueous extract of the plant yielded a polysac- charide composed of rhamnose, arabi- nose, xylose, mannose, galactose and glucose.Hedyotis herbacea Linn., synonym Oldenlandia herbacea Roxb. is also used in Kerala as Parpata, Parpataka.See Fumaria indica.... hedyotis corymbosaHeirnyne, Heirneine, Heirniene, Heirneene, Heirneane... heirnine
Helene, Halina, Helaine, Helana, Heleena, Helena, Helenna, Hellen, Helaina, Helenka, Heleana, Heley, Helina, Heleanor, Helenore, Helenann, HelEne, Hellena, Hellene, Hellenor, Hellia, Heli, Helli, Helie, Hella, Helle... helen
Habitat: Native to America. Cultivated in India.
English: Sunflower.Ayurvedic: Suurajmukhi, Su- uryaavarta.Siddha/Tamil: Suryakanti.Action: Seeds—build up physical endurance and resistance against diseases; a decoction is used in coughs and colds, bronchial, laryngeal and pulmonary affections, whooping cough, also as a febrifuge and diuretic.
The seeds contain a fatty oil (3748%), rich in polyunsaturated acids (linoleic 70%, oleic 20%). The oil also contains tocopherols (alpha-type 92% of the total) and phytosterol (beta- sitosterol 154 mcg/100 g). In Europe and USA, several hybrids produce oils rich in oleic acid. Sunflower oil is reported to decrease the risk of coronary and arterial diseases.Extracted oil from dehulled seeds (chlorogenic acid, present in hulls, interferes with lipid metabolism) reduced serum and hepatic cholesterol in healthy women.The tubers of Helianthus tuberosus Linn., a related species, consists mainly of inulin. The dried tubers can be utilized in diabetic products. The tuber concentrate as food diminishes the risk of developing arteriosclerosis. It is advantageous in the diet of patients with gout, chronic renal diseases, and for obesity control.... helianthus annuusHabitat: Dry forests throughout the country.
English: East Indian Screw tree.Ayurvedic: Aavartani, Aavartphalaa, Aavartaki.Unani: Marorphali.Siddha/Tamil: Valampiri.Action: Pods and bark—antidiar- rhoeal, astringent, antibilious. Bark and root—antigalactic, demulcent, expectorant (used in cough and asthma). Leaf—paste used against skin diseases. Pods—anthelmintic. Used in fever due to cold. Seeds— aqueous extract administered in colic and dysentery.
The plant contains a 4-quinolone alkaloid, malatyamine, an antidiarrhoeal principle.The seeds gave diosgenin. Root gave cytotoxic principles—cucurbitacin B and iso-cucurbitacin B. Leaves yielded as ester tetratriacontanyl—tetratri- acontanoate along with tetratriacon- tanoic acid, tetratriacontanol and sitos- terol.Dosage: Fruit, bark—3-6 g powder; 50-100 ml decoction. (CCRAS.)... helicteres isoraHabitat: Throughout India.
English: Scorpion Tail.Ayurvedic: Hastishundi Shrihastini, Vrischikaali.Siddha/Tamil: Thaelkodukku.Action: Plant—diuretic, astringent, emollient, vulnerary. Used as a local application for ulcers, wounds, sores, gum boils and skin affections. Decoction of leaves is used in urticaria and fevers; that of root in coughs. Flowers—emmenagogue in small doses, abortifacient in large doses. Masticated seeds— stomachic.
Aerial parts of the plant contain alkaloids—indicine (principal base), echinatine, supinine, heleurine, he- liotrine, lasiocarpine and lasiocarpine- N-oxide. Aerial parts and root gave an anticancer principle—indicine-N- oxide.The aqueous and alcohol extracts of the plant possess oxytocic activity. The roots contain significant amounts of estradiol, a sex hormone.The inflorescences are used by trib- als for scorpion bite.... heliotropium indicumHabitat: Native to sub-alpine woods in Southern and Eastern Europe. Grown in Indian gardens.
English: Black Hellebore, Christmas Rose.Ayurvedic: Khuraasaani Kutaki.Unani: Kharbaq Siyah, Kutaki.Action: Digitalis-like action in cardiac disorders, drastic purgative, abortifacient, diuretic, local anaesthetic, narcotic.
The rhizome contains cardiac glycosides; helleborin, helleborein, hellebrin and others based on helleborigenin.Helleborin has a burning, acrid taste and is narcotic. Helleborein has a sweetish taste and is a highly active cardiac poison. Helleborin and veratrin (steroidal saponins), helle- brin or helleborein (steroid glycoside) are main constituents of the root and leaves. The plant irritates mucous membranes.A related species, Helleborus virdis Linn. (Bear's Foot, Green Hellebore) is known as Kaali Kutaki and Krishna- bhedi. The plant contains magno- florine and corytuberine. The roots and rhizomes gave hellebrin, desgluco- hellebrin, hellebrigenin, bufatetraeno- lide, beta-ecdysterone and 5beta-hy- droxyecdysterone.... helleborus nigerHemangi, Hemangie, Hema, Hemlata, Hem... hemangini
Hemantie, Hemanty, Hemantey, Hemantee, Hemantea... hemanti
Habitat: The Himalaya, Khasi Hills; cultivated in Indian gardens.
English: Common Yellow Day-lily, Tawny Day-lily, Orange Day-lily.Action: Flower—analgesic, especially in child birth; blood purifier. (Flowers are sold in Chinese food shops as Gum-Tsoy or Gum-Jum.)
Hemerocallin, a neurotoxic principle, has been found in Hemerocallis sp. The plant gave amino acid—oxyp- innatanine.... hemerocallis fulvaHabitat: Throughout India; common in Bengal, Maharashtra and extending to Travancore.
English: Indian Sarsaparilla (white var.). Sarsaparilla root is equated with Smilax sp. in Western herbal.Ayurvedic: Shveta Saarivaa, Anant- muula, Gopi, Gopaa, Gopakanyaa, Gopavalli, Gopasutaa, Krishodari, Sphotaa, Utpalsaarivaa, Kapuuri, Dugdhgarbhaa.Unani: Ushbaa Hindi.Siddha/Tamil: Nannaari, Sugan- thipala.Action: Blood purifier, antisyphilitic, antileucorrhoeic, galactogenic, antidiarrhoeal, antirheumatic, febrifuge, alterative. Roots used against gonorrhoea, leucoderma, bleeding piles, jaundice and dysentery.
Key application: Smilax sp.—in skin diseases and urinary infections. (German Commission E included Smilax sp. among unapproved herbs.)Hemidesmus indicus does not contain the same saponins or other principal constituents which are found in sarsaparilla. (Tyler's Honest Herbal.)The root contains coumarino-lig- noids, hemidesmine, hemidesmin-1, 2. The stem contains pregnane glyco- sides, hemidine, hemidescine, emidine and indicine, a triterpene lactone, a lu- panone, besides lupeol acetate, sitos- terol and hexadecanoic acid and several hydroxy- methoxybenzaldehydes.Aqueous extract of the root is bacteriostatic against Mycobacterium leprae.Dosage: Root—20-30 g for decoction. (API Vol. I.) palmitoleic, stearic, oleic, linoleic and arachidic. Pyrocatechol, tannins, fla- vonoids and amino acids were also present.... hemidesmus indicusHabitat: Western Himalaya, from Kashmir to Garhwal, up to 3,000 m.
Action: Fern—diuretic, astringent; used for diseases of the urinary tract, infirmities of spleen, also for treating jaundice.
The plant contains caffeic acid, neo- hesperidin, kaempferol-3, 7-digluco- side, chlorogenic acid and quercetol- 3-glucoside. The leaves gave methyl esters of the acids—myristic, palmitic,Synonym: H. nepalense D. Don. H. lanatum Michx.Family: Umbelliferae; Apiaceae.Habitat: Chamba, Kulu, Jammu & Kashmir, Bushahr, Garhwal and Kumaon Hills.
English: Cowparsnip.Folk: Kaindal (Kashmir), Gandhraayana (Garhwal).Action: Fruit—stimulant, nervine tonic, spasmolytic. Heraclenin (active principle)—hypoprothrom- binaemic.
Essential oil from the fruits is moderately antimicrobial.Furanocoumarins present in the whole fruit and leaves are psoralen, xanthotoxin and bergapten. Roots also contain furanocoumarins.The fruits of H. concanense Dalz. contain a coumarin which is effective against dermatophytosis. The fruits of H. regins Wall. ex DC. are used for cough and bronchitis, also for urinary concretions in Siddha medicine. H. thomsoni C. B. Clarke (Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh) also contains a coumarin; the fruit showed nonspecific spasmolytic activity equipotent to papaverine.... hemidictyum ceterachHabitat: Plains and mountains of South India up to 1,200., and in West Bengal, Bihar and Orissa.
English: Mule Fern.Folk: Raamabaanam (Andhra Pradesh), Chakuliya (Bengal).Action: Fonds—antibacterial, used in burns and as febrifuge.
Heracleum candicans Wall. ex DC.... hemionites arifolia[catlist id=8 numberposts=100 pagination=yes instance=2 orderby=title order=asc]
... herbal manual[catlist id=9 numberposts=100 pagination=yes instance=2 orderby=title order=asc]
... herbal medicalHerleene, Herlean, Herleane, Herlein, Herleine, Herlien, Herliene, Herlyn, Herlyne... herleen
Hermelynda, Hermalinda, Hermalynda, Hermelenda, Hermalenda... hermelinda
Hermossa, Hermosah, Hermoza, Hermosia, Hermozia, Hermosea, Hermozea... hermosa
Habitat: Throughout Europe. Introduced into Indian gardens.
English: Rupture-Wort.Action: Plant—astringent, diuretic, antimicrobial, anticatarrhal. An infusion is used principally for bladder complaints for ruptures.
The plant gave a flavonic glycoside, rutoside; coumarins, herniarin and umbelliferone, and saponins.A related species, H. hirsuta L. (Himalaya, from Kashmir to Kumaon up to 3,000 m) gave umbelliferone, scopo- letin and herniarin.... herniaria glabra2. It is mostly acquired as a result of sexual activity; some cases are caused by simplex type
1. After initial infection the virus lies latent in the dorsal nerve root ganglion (of the spinal cord) which enervates the affected area of the skin. Latent virus is never cured and reactivation results in either a recurrence of symptoms or in asymptomatic shedding of the virus which then infects a sexual partner. Around 30,000 cases of genital herpes are reported annually from clinics dealing with SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES (STDS) in England, but there are also many unrecognised (by either patient or doctor) infections. Patients may have a history of painful attacks of ulceration of the genitals for many years before seeking medical advice. All patients with a ?rst episode of the infection should be given oral antiviral treatment, and those who suffer more than six attacks a year should be considered for suppressive antiviral treatment. ACICLOVIR, valaciclovir and famciclovir are all e?ective antiviral drugs. If a woman in the ?nal three months of her pregnancy contracts herpes genitalis, this can have serious consequences for the baby as he or she will be at risk of herpes encephalitis after delivery.... herpes genitalis
Hersiliah, Hersilea, Hersileah, Hersylia, Hersylea, Hersyleah, Hersiliya, Hersiliyah... hersilia
Hervi, Hervy, Hervey, Hervee, Hervea, Herveah... hervie
Hespera, Hesperie, Hesperi, Hespery, Hesperey, Hesperee, Hesperea... hesper
Hesperiah, Hesperea, Hespereah... hesperia
Hestiah, Hestea, Hesteah, Hestya, Hestyah... hestia
Habitat: Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu.
Ayurvedic: Waarasa.Siddha/Tamil: Barokalagoru.Folk: Pullunga, Paatang (Maharashtra).Action: Tar extracted from wood— used in skin diseases. Leaf juice— applied externally on toe sores and in chilblain.
The flowers gave hentriacontane and allantoin; the leaves contain ursolic acid and sitosterol. The seeds contain a saponin (rhamnoside), lupeol, beta- sitosterol, stigmasterol and cubulin. The essential oil from flowers exhibits antimicrobial activity.... heterophragma roxburghiiHeulwenn, Heulwenne, Heulwin, Heulwinn, Heulwinne, Heulwyn, Heulwynn, Heulwynne... heulwen
Hiawathah, Hyawatha, Hiwatha, Hywatha... hiawatha
Habitat: Throughout the warmer parts and hilly regions of India; also cultivated.
English: Musk Seed, Muskmallow, Ambette Seed.Ayurvedic: Lataakasturi, Lataakas- turikaa, Kattaphala, Katuka.Unani: Mushkdaanaa.Siddha/Tamil: Kasturi-vendai.Action: Seeds—diuretic, antispas- modic, stomachic, nervine (nervous debility, hysteria and other nervous disorders). Used externally for skin diseases and itch. Mucilage made from the root and leaves is prescribed in venereal diseases, urinary discharges and painful micturition. Seeds, steeped in water, are used for asthma, cold, flu.
Fatty oil of seeds contains phospholipids—alpha cephalin, phosphatidyl- serine and its plasmalogen and phos- phatidylcholine plasmalogen. Absolute contains farnesol and ambrettolic acid lactones.The seeds contain chiefly 2-trans, 6-trans-farnesyl acetate, 2-cis, 6-trans farnesyl acetate and ambrettolide. The leaves contain beta-sitosterol and its beta-D-glucoside.Dosage: Seed—2-4 g powder. (API Vol. IV.)... hibiscus abelmoschusHabitat: Native to tropical America and Africa; cultivated in West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Bihar and Punjab.
English: Bimlipatam Jute, Kenaf, Mesta, Deccan Hemp.Siddha/Tamil: Pulichhai, Pulimanji, Kasini.Folk: Patsan, Pitwaa. Ambaadi (Maharashtra).Action: Seed—nervine tonic, analgesic. Leaf—purgative. The juice of flowers, mixed with sugar and black pepper, is given for biliousness.
The leaves contain flavonoids, including rutin and isoquercitrin; kaem- pferol; polyphenols. The flowers gave myricetin glucoside; the root contains polyphenols, also proanthocyanidins. The seeds gave phosphonolipids.... hibiscus cannabinusHabitat: Throughout the warmer parts of India.
Ayurvedic: Ran Bhindi.Folk: Kishli-Keerai (Tamil Nadu).Action: Flower—emollient, pectoral. Stem and leaf—used in urethritis and venereal diseases.
Petals (yellow part) gave gossypitrin and gossypetin; the purple part gave cyanidin, delphinidin and pelargoni-... hibiscus surattensisHabitat: Native to China; planted in the hedges of gardens.
English: Cotton-Rose, ChineseRose, Confederate Rose.Ayurvedic: Sthala-Padam, Sthal- Kamal.Siddha/Tamil: Irratai-vellaichemba- rattam, Sembarattai.Action: Flower—used in pectoral and pulmonary affections. Leaf and flower—expectorant, bechic, anodyne. Used in menorrhagia, dysuria, swellings, fistulae, wounds and burns.
The flowers contain quercetin, kaempferol, betulinic acid, hexyl stearate, tetratriacontanol, nonacosane, stigmasta-3, 7-dione, stigmasta-4-ene- one and beta-sitosterol. Flowers collected in the morning gave no an- thocyanin; maximum anthocyanin is found in the afternoon.... hibiscus mutabilisHabitat: Native of China; grown in gardens throughout India.
English: Rose-of-China, Shoe- flower, Chinese Hibiscus.Ayurvedic: Japaa, Javaa, Odrapush- pa, Rudrapushpa, Arunaa.Unani: Gul-e-Gurhal.Siddha/Tamil: Semparuthi.Action: Flower—used in impo- tency, bronchial catarrh. Flower and bark—emmenagogue. Leaf— stimulates expulsion of placenta after childbirth; laxative, anodyne. Flower and root—used in menorrhagia.
The plant contains the cyclopro- panoids, methyl sterculate, methyl- 2-hydroxysterculate, 2-hydroxystercu- late, malvalate and beta-sitosterol.The major anthocyanin in the flower is cyanidin 3-sophoroside. The flower nectar is rich in amino acids, mainly aspartic acid and asparagin. During pollination, the amino acid concentration increases substantially.Flower powder exhibited anti-inflammatory activity in male albino rats with carrageenan-induced rat paw oedema. The aqueous extract of the plant showed antitumour activity against sarcoma 180 ascites.An aqueous extract of flowers reduced the duration of oestrus cycle in experimental albino rabbits. The alcoholic extract of flowers showed antiimplantation activity. The benzene extract of flowers, on oral administration, terminated pregnancy in experimental animals.Flower buds are used in the treatment of vaginal and uterine discharges.Oral administration of flower extract to rats affected spermatogenesis and endocrine function of testis.In diabetic patients, a flower bud is given daily up to 10 days or until the level of blood sugar is reduced to tolerable limits.The white-flowered var. of Japan (cultivated all over India in garden) is equated with Hibiscus syriacus Linn. (Rose of Sharon, Shrubby Althaea). The white flower is an oriental drug used as demulcent and antidiarrhoeal. The bud yields mucilage which consists mainly of partially acetylated acidic polysaccharides. The aqueous extract of the petals causes vasorelaxation of the isolated rat arota via both endo- thelium-dependent and -independent mechanisms. The petals contain anthocyanin pigments.The cortex and bark exhibit antifun- gal acitivity.The bark gave canthin-6-one and a fatty acid fraction consisting of lauric, myristic and palmitic acids.Dosage: Flower—10-20 g paste. (CCRAS.)... hibiscus rosa-sinensisHabitat: Native to the West Indies; now cultivated in Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Punjab, Assam and Tamil Nadu.
English: Roselle, Jamaican Sorrel, Natal Sorrel, Red Sorrel.Ayurvedic: Ambashtthaki.Siddha/Tamil: Sivappu Kashmakki, Pulichai-keerai, Gogu, Seemai Kaseru.Folk: Laal-ambaadi, Patavaa, Patsan.Action: Digestive, choleretic, antibilious, laxative, diuretic, hypotensive, antiscorbutic. Used as a cardiac and nervine tonic for disorders of circulation, also for calcified arteries.
Key application: Flowers—used for loss of appetite, for colds, catarrhs of the upper respiratory tract and stomach, for disorders of circulation. (Included among unapproved herbs by German Commission E.)The seeds contain sterols, including 3.2% ergosterol; leaves contain sitosterol-beta-D-galactoside. Flowers contain myricetin, kaempferol and quercetin, but did not contain free mutagenic flavonol aglycons.The aqueous extract of flower buds has been reported to decrease blood pressure, cause relaxation of rat uterus. Succulent sepals and leaves—hypoten- sive, antimicrobial and anthelmintic.Oil and unsapanofiable matter—antibacterial, antifungal.Dosage: Root—5-10 g. (API Vol. III.)... hibiscus sabdariffaHillary, Hilaree, Hilarie, Hilarey, Hilari, Hillari, Hillarie, Hillaree, Hillarey, Hillory, Hilaire, Hilaria, Hilery, Hillery, Hiliary, Hiliarie, Hylary, Hylarie, Hylari, Hylarey, Hylaree, Hyllari, Hyllary, Hilaeira, Hiolair, Hillarea, Hylarea, Hyllarea, Hilarea... hilary
Hildibrand, Hildebrande, Hildibrande, Hyldebrand, Hyldibrand... hildebrand
Hildemara, Hildimar, Hildimara, Hildemar, Hyldemare, Hyldemar, Hyldemara... hildemare
Hilinah, Hileena, Hileenah, Hilyna, Hilynah, Hileana, Hileanah, Hiliena, Hilienah, Hileina, Hileinah... hilina
Hippodamea, Hippodameia, Hipodamia, Hipodamea, Hipodameia... hippodamia
Hirkanie, Hirkany, Hirkaney, Hirkanee, Hirkanea... hirkani
Hiriko, Hyroko, Hyriko, Hyryko... hiroko
Habitat: North-west Himalayas at 2,350-5,000 m.
English: Seabuckthorn, Sand Thorn.Folk: Dhurchuk, Chumaa, Tarwaa (Uttar Pradesh), Sirmaa (Punjab, Ladakh).Action: Fruit—astringent, anti- diarrhoeal, stomachic, antitussive, antihaemorrhagic.
Sea Buckthorn preparations are used internally for stomach ulcer, duodenal ulcer and other illnesses of the alimentary organs; externally in cases of burns, bedsores and other skin complications induced by the treatment with X-rays and other radiations.The berries contain polyphenols, 3,4-dihydroxy benzoic acid and p- coumaric acid. They are an important source of vitamins for people living in cold, long winter regions; contain high concentration of vitamin A (carotene 30-40 mg), B1, B2, B6, C (50-600 mg) and E (160 mg/100 g).The plant is an effective antioxidant and shows protective effect on smooth muscles of rabbits in vitro. The methanolic extract of the berry showed scavenging activity on chemically generated superoxide radicals.The leaves contain flavonoids, iso- rhamnetin and astragalin; the bark gave serotonin.... hippophae rhamnoidesHabitat: Throughout the warmer parts of Maharashtra, Konkan, Karnataka and other parts of India.
Ayurvedic: Atimukta, Atimuktaka, Maadhavi, Vaasanti, Pundrika, Mandaka, Vimukta, Kaamu- ka.Siddha/Tamil: Madhavi, Vasanda- gala-malligai.Action: Kernel of seeds is prescribed for reducing abdominal girth (obesity). Leaves—used in chronic rheumatism, asthma and skin diseases. Bark—used in bronchial asthma.
The stem and its bark contain friede- lin, epi-friedelinol, octacosanol, alpha- amyrin, beta-sitosterol and its beta-D- glucoside. The root bark gave a nitrogenous glucoside, hiptagin, identical with endecaphyllin and a glucosyl xanthone, mangiferin.Dosage: Fruit, seed, root—powder 3-5 g; paste 5-10 g. (CCRAS.)... hiptage benghalensiseyes
Hitomie, Hitomee, Hitomea, Hitomy, Hitomey... hitomi
Hodell, Hodele, Hodelle, Hodela, Hodella... hodel
Hodesha, Hodeshah, Hodeshia, Hodeshea... hodesh
Hokulani, Hokulanie, Hokulanee, Hokulanea, Hokulany, Hokulaney... hoku
Holebrook, Holbrooke, Holebrooke... holbrook
Habitat: The tropical Himalayas, going up to an altitude of 1,100 m. Also found throughout many forests of India, in Travancore, Assam and Uttar Pradesh.
English: Easter tree, Ivory tree, Tellicherry Bark.Ayurvedic: Kutaja, Girimallikaa, Kaalinga, Kalingaka, Indravrik- sha, Shakra, Vatsa, Vatsaka, Shakraahvya. Indrayava, Indrabija, Vatsabija (seed). Kurchi (bark).Unani: Inderjo talkh, Teewaaj-e- Khataai.Siddha/Tamil: Kudasappaalai-pattai, -vidai (bark, seed).Action: Root and bark—used in amoebic dysentery. Bark—astringent, anthelmintic, amoebicidal, diuretic. Used in colic, dyspepsia, piles, diseases of the skin and spleen. Seed—antibilious. Used for promoting conception, also for toning up vaginal tissues after delivery.
The bark contains the alkaloids, regholarrhenine-A, -B, -C, -D, -E and -F; pubescine, norholadiene, pubes- cimine, kurchinin, kurchinine, kur- chinidine, holarrifine, holadiene, kurchilidine, kurchamide, kurcholes- sine, kurchessine, conessine, cones- simine and isoconessimine, and the steroidal compounds kurchinicin and holadyson.The alkaloid conessine is used as a therapeutic drug for the treatment of dysentery and helminthic disorders. Conessine and conimine inhibited the growth of Shigella sonnei, S. flexneri and Salmonella enteritidis strains in vitro. In chronic amoebiasis, Bi-iodide compound of total alkaloids, given orally, compare favourably with emetine Bi-iodide.The plant possesses potent immuno- stimulant property.The Kurchi seeds are sold as a substitute for Strophanthus sp. seeds in Indian market. (Seeds of Strophanthus sp. contain a toxic glucoside, strophan- thin, and are poisonous.)Dosage: Stem bark—20-30 g for decoction. (API Vol. I); seed—3- 6 g powder; 20-30 g for decoction. (API Vol. III.)... holarrhena antidysentericaHollace, Holisa, Hollisa, Holise, Holyse, Hollice, Hollissa, Holyce, Hollyse, Hollisse, Holisse, Hollysa... hollis
Habitat: Throughout greater parts of India, also grown in gardens.
Ayurvedic: Chirbilva, Putika, Prakirya.Siddha/Tamil: Avil thol, Ayil pattai (bark)Action: Bark—internally and externally used in rheumatism. Stem bark paste—in scabies. Seeds—used topically on ringworm.
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends dried fruits in poly- uria and other urinary disorders.The stem bark contains the triter- penoidal fatty acid esters, holoptelin-A (epi-friedelinol palmitate) and holop- telin-B (epi-friedelinol stearate), frie- delin and epi-friedelinol.The powdered bark exhibited lipoly- tic action and mobilized fat from adipose tissues in rats and consequently helped in the reduction of obesity.Dosage: Dried fruit—1-3 g. (API Vol. III.)... holoptelea integrifoliaHoley, Holee, Holeigh, Holi, Holie, Holye, Holea, Holeah... holy
Habitat: Tropical Himalayas and Western Peninsula. Cultivated in Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu.
Ayurvedic: Ark-pushpi.Siddha/Tamil: Palay-keerai.Action: Roots—used in orchitis, spermatorrhoea, also as laxative. Roots are used as Jivanti in Kerala (See also Leptadenia reticulata.)
The tubers contain protein (5.510%). It gave alpha-amyrin, lupeol and beta-sitosterol. Aspartic acid, glycine, serine, threonine and valine were detected chromatographically.The bark gave alpha-amyrin, lupeol and beta-sitosterol.... holostemma annularisHabitat: Eastern, Central and Peninsular India, up to 700 m.
Ayurvedic: Paashaana-bheda (substitute), Kshudra Paashaana- bheda.Siddha/Tamil: Kattu Alari.Action: Root—diuretic, spasmolytic, antilithic. Used for urinary discharges. Leaf and stem— depurative. Leaf and fruit—used in skin diseases.
The roots gave alpha-spinasteryl acetate. The fatty acid from the fat of roots gave myristic, palmitic, stearic and oleic acids.... homonoia ripariaHonovie, Honovee, Honovy, Honovey, Honovea... honovi
Habitat: Cultivated as food crop in Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.
English: BarleyAyurvedic: Yava, Hayeshtha, Hayapriya, Shuka-dhaanya, Tiksh- nashuka.Unani: Barley, Jao Shaeer.Siddha: Yavam. Saambaluppu (ash).Action: Barley—nutritive and demulcent during convalescence and in cases of bowel inflammation and diarrhoea. Protects immune system.
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia recommends barley in urinary disorders, muscular rigidity, chronic sinusitis, cough, asthma, lipid disorder and obesity.Juice of young barley leaves—7 times richer in vitamin C than oranges, 5 times richer in iron than spinach, 25 times richer in potassium than wheat; high in SOD (superoxide dismutase), an enzyme that slows ageing of cells.The nutritional quality of the barley depends on beta-glucan fraction of the grain. Beta-glucan-enriched fraction produced cholesterol-lowering effect in hamsters.Naked barley extracts have been found to selectively inhibit cyclohex- anase activity and may be useful as a therapeutic drug for treating thrombosis and atherosclerosis.Ethanol extract of young green leaves exhibits antioxidant activity attributed to a flavonoid, 2"-O-glucosyl- isovitexin. It also exhibits antiinflammatory and antiallergic activities. The leaves contain an indole alkaloid, gramine, which exhibits antibacterial properties.Dosage: Dried fruit—100-200 g. (API Vol. II); dried plant—10-20 g. (API Vol. IV.)... hordeum vulgareHosannah, Hosann, Hosane, Hosanne, Hosana, Hosanah... hosanna
Hoshiko, Hoshie, Hoshee, Hoshy, Hoshey, Hoshiyo, Hoshea... hoshi
Chaplains have a broad responsibility for the spiritual health care of all in hospital. They share this with other sta? members, particularly the nursing sta?, for whom the chaplains can be a resource. Chaplains also train and use volunteers from local churches to help with ward visiting and other chaplaincy duties. Much of the time spent with patients takes the form of a listening ministry, helping patients to ?nd their own answers to what is happening to them in hospital and in life generally. Spiritual health can be seen as a quest for the right relationships in four areas – with other people; with oneself; with the world around; and with ‘Life’ itself. The religious person subsumes all that in his/ her relationship to God.
The link between spiritual disease and physical ill-health is well established; the chaplain therefore helps a hospital to provide a HOLISTIC approach to health care. Chaplains also give time to the care of sta? who face increasing levels of stress at work, making use of support groups, counselling, meditation, etc. Chaplains support patients’ relatives facing a crisis, for example, by being with them over the period of a death, and by providing regular bereavement services for those who have lost babies. Some chaplains have a particular expertise in ETHICS and are members of the various hospital ethics committees. A chaplain may have a ‘nonmanagement’ view of the health of the hospital itself, which can be of use to hospital management. (See also SPIRITUAL PAIN.)... hospital chaplaincy
– for example, METHICILLIN-RESISTANT STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS (MRSA). This makes hospital-acquired infections potentially dangerous and sometimes life-threatening, and is one of the developments that is prompting calls for greater care in the prescribing of antibiotics as well as higher standards of cleanliness.... hospital-acquired infection
Habitat: Native to China. Now cultivated in Kumaon, Sikkim and West Bengal.
English: Japanese Raisin tree, Coral tree.Folk: Sikkaa.Action: Fruit—diuretic; relieves intoxication due to wine.
The leaves and root bark gave tri- terpene saponins. Root bark also gave peptide alkaloids.The fruit extract contains potassium nitrate and potassium malate and is strongly diuretic. The seeds contain beta-carboline alkaloid, perlolyrine. A toothpaste, containing extracts of the fruits and seeds as one of the ingredients, has been patented for controlling dental caries (in Japan).... hovenia dulcisHrothberta, Hrothbertina, Hrothnerta... hrothbeorhta
Hooda, Hudah, Hoodah, Houda, Houdah... huda
Hudsen, Hudsan, Hudsun, Hudsyn, Hudsin... hudson
Habitat: Konkan and North Kanara, throughout dry forests of Tamil Nadu.
Folk: Kaakibeeraa, Kansamaara.Siddha/Tamil: Agori. Motirakkanni.Action: Root—anti-inflammatory, febrifuge; disperses swellings.... hugonia mystax
Humidity is expressed as relative humidity (RH). This is the amount of moisture in the air expressed as a percentage of the maximum possible at that temperature. If the temperature of a room is raised without increasing the moisture content, the RH falls. The average outdoor RH in Britain is around 70–80 per cent; with central heating it may drop to 25 per cent or lower. This is why humidi?cation, as it is known, of the air is essential in buildings heated by modern heating systems. The aim should be to keep the RH at around 30–50 per cent. In houses this may be achieved quite satisfactorily by having a jug or basin of water in the room, or some receptacle that can be attached to the heater. In o?ces, some more elaborate form of humidi?er is necessary. Those suffering from chronic BRONCHITIS are particularly susceptible to dry air, as are those individuals with disorders of the EYE because the secretions that bathe the eyes and keep them moist are unnaturally dried out. (See also VENTILATION.)... humidification
course of the week. (See also LEGIONNAIRE’S DISEASE.)... humidifier fever
Humitah, Humyta, Humeeta, Humieta, Humeita, Humeata, Humytah, Humeetah, Humietah, Humeitah, Humeatah... humita
Habitat: Native to Europe and Asia. Conditions for its successful cultivation are reported to exist in Kashmir and parts of Himachal Pradesh.
English: Hops.Unani: Hashish-ut-Dinaar.Action: Flowers—sedative, hypnotic, nervine tonic, diuretic, spasmolytic on smooth muscle, analgesic, astringent. Used for nervous diseases, intestinal cramps, menopause, insomnia, neuralgia and nervous diarrhoea. Also as a tonic in stomach and liver affections. As a blood cleanser, the root is used like sarsaparilla.
Key application: In mood disturbances, such as restlessness and anxiety, sleep disturbances. (German Commission E. ESCOP.)The British Herbal Compendium and The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia reported herb's action as sedative, soporific, spasmolytic and aromatic bitter, and indicated its use for excitability, restlessness, disorders of sleep and lack of appetite.Hop cones consist of the whole dried female inflorescences of Humu- lus lupulus.Hop contains bitter principles— lupulin containing humulon, lupulon and valerianic acid; volatile oil (0.31.0%) including humulene; flavonoids including xanthohumole; polypheno- lic tannins, asparagin, oestrogenic substances.Bitter principles stimulate the digestive system. Valerianic acid is sedative. The resin components, lupulon and humulon are antiseptic against Grampositive bacteria. Asparagin is diuretic. Research suggested that the anti- spasmodic effect is stronger than the sedative, and hops also possess antihis- taminic and anti-oxytocic properties. (Cases of amenorrhoea and dysmen- orrhoea are treated with hops.)Hop extracts exert different effects on CNS in mice. They show hypother- mic, hypnotic, sedative, muscle relaxing and spontaneous locomotor activities, besides potentiating pentobarbital anaesthesia in mice.Humulone inhibited induced inflammation in mice.The dried strobila containing humu- lone and lupulone showed antidiabetic activity in experimental rats.Hop mash or extract is used in the preparation of toothpaste for inhibiting Gram-positive bacteria and in hair preparations for preventing dandruff formation. It is also used in skin- lightening creams.... humulus lupulusHabitat: Native to tropical America; introduced into India.
English: Sandbox tree, Monkey Dinner-bell.Siddha/Tamil: Mullarasanam.Action: Seed, bark and fresh latex— emetocathartic, antileprotic. Seed— insecticidal, piscidal.
In South America, a poultice made from the latex is used for treating cutaneous leishmaniasis. Highly irritant and tumour-promoting deterpene esters (DTC) have been detected in the latex. Latex gave the triterpenes, 24- methylene cycloartanol, cycloartanol and butyrospermol. Sap of the plant gave a diterpene hexaol ester, huratox- in, and a glycolipoprotein, crepitin.... hura crepitansHuriya, Huriyyah, Hooriya, Huriyya, Hooriyah... huriyah
Hutenah, Hutenna, Hutyna, Hutina... hutena
Huyanna, Huyane, Huyann, Huyanne... huyana
Habitat: Assam and Tripura.
English: Chalmogra.Ayurvedic: Tuvaraka (related species, substitute for H. laurifolia.)Unani: Chaalmograa, Tukhm-e- Biranj Mograa.Siddha/Tamil: Niradi-muttu.Action: Antileprotic, dermatic, febrifuge, sedative. Used parenter- ally for leprosy; also for psoriasis, eczema and dermatitis.
The plant is a source of chaulmoogra oil (Oleum Chaulmoograe which contains hydnocarpic, chaulmoogric, gor- lic, oleic, palmitic acids and lower homologues of hydnocarpic acid. The oil mixed with neem oil or oil of Psoralea corylifolia is used in leprosy.In mice, intraperitoneal and subcutaneous administration of chaul- moogra fatty acids demonstrated antimicrobial activity against Mycobac- terium leprae. (PDR.)... hydnocarpus kurziiHabitat: Western Ghats.
English: Soorty Oil tree.Ayurvedic: Tuvaraka, Katu- Kapittha, Kushtavairi, Garudaphala, Chaalmograa.Unani: Chaalmograa, Tukhm-e- Biranj Mograa.Siddha/Tamil: Maravattai, Niradi- muttu.Action: Seed oil—antileprotic, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic.
The seed oil gave chemical constituents similar to Hydnocarpus kuzii, and contain the flavonolignan, hyd- nowightin, hydnocarpin and neohyd- nocarpin.Hydnocarpin showed good anti- inflammatory and anti-neoplastic activity in mice, in vivo. Cytotoxicity against the growth of murine and human tissue cultured cells was also observed.The stem bark and leaves contain triterpenes, acelylbetulinic, betulinic, ursolic and acetylursolic acids.Dosage: Seed—3-5 g powder; oil— 5-10 drops. (CCRAS.)... hydnocarpus laurifoliaHabitat: Throughout India, in moist and swampy places.
Ayurvedic: Wrongly equated with Laangali. (Laangali is equated with Gloriosa superba Linn.) Known as Ish-languulia (West Bengal).Action: Leaves and paste— used for callous ulcers. Plant— antiprotozoal.... hydrolea zeylanica
Treatment Congenital hydrocoeles usually disappear spontaneously and may be safely watched; surgery is only indicated when there is a hernia, or if the condition persists after the ?rst year. Hydrocoeles in adults should be tapped and the testis palpated to exclude primary lesions. Primary hydrocoeles may be managed by intermittent tapping, or, preferably, by surgical removal. Secondary hydrocoeles require treatment of the underlying condition.... hydrocoele
Habitat: The Himalayas, Khasi Hills and Western Ghats.
Ayurvedic: Manduukaparni (related species).Folk: Brahma-manduuki (Sikkim).Action: Used as a substitute for Centella asiatica, as a blood purifier (in cutaneous diseases); for indigestion, dysentery and nervousness.
The plant is used for treating leuco- derma.Hydrocotyle rotundifolia Roxb. (throughout India, up to 2,350 m) is also equated with Manduukaparni.... hydrocotyle javanicaHabitat: Throughout India along the banks of fresh or stagnant water ditches and swampy grounds, mixed with marshy grasses and sedges.
Ayurvedic: Kokilaaksha, Kokilaak- shi, Ikshuraka, Ikshura, Kshuraka, Bikshu, Kaakekshu.Unani: Taalmakhaanaa.Siddha/Tamil: Neermulli.Action: Leaves, roots and seeds— diuretic; used for diseases of the urinogenital tract, spermatorrhoea. Seeds promote sexual vigour, arrest abortion and cure diseases due to vitiated blood. Also used for arthritis and oedema.
The seeds contain large amounts of tenacious mucilage and potassium salts, which may be responsible for the diuretic property of seeds. The seeds also contain linoleic acid (71%), besides diastase, lipase and protease.EtOH (50%) extract of the plant is spasmolytic and hypotensive.The chloroform soluble fraction of ethanolic extract of aerial parts exhibited promising hepatoprotective activity in albino rats.The plant contains lupeol, stigmas- terol and hydrocarbons.Dosage: Seed—3-6 g powder; ash—1-3 g. (CCRAS.)... hygrophila auriculataHabitat: Central India and Western Peninsula.
Ayurvedic: Bhramar-chhalikaa, Ugragandhaa (a confusing synonym). Bhringa-vrksha (provisional synonym).Siddha/Tamil: Sagappu, Vellei Kadambu, Peranjoli.Folk: Bhaulan, Bhramarchhali, Bhuurkunda.Action: Bark—astringent, febrifuge, antiperiodic (especially for tertian ague).
The stem bark contains scopoletin and its apioglucoside, hymexelsin (yield 0.12%). The presence of glucose, fructose, galactose and several amino acids, alanine, arginine, cystine, glycine, leucine; besides fatty acids, beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol is also reported from the bark.Roots contain several quinones.... hymenodictyon excelsumHabitat: North-western Himalayas. Cultivated on limited scale in North Indian plains.
English: Egyptian Henbane.Ayurvedic: Paarsika-yavaani (related species), Turushkaa.Unani: Ajwaayin Khuraasaani, Shuukraan, Tukhm-bang.Folk: Vajra-bhang.Action: Sedative.
The leaves and flowering tops contain higher concentration of tropane alkaloids than other species of Hyoscy- amus, used as a source of hyoscine.... hyoscyamus muticusHabitat: Mediterranean region and temperate Asia. (Allied species: H. pendulum Linn. and H. procumbens Linn., found in Peshavar, Multan, Waziristan and Baluchistan). Occurs in Sikkim.
Folk: Zirgulaki, Waziri.Action: Used in stomachache. Juice of the plant has the same effect as opium. Leaves diaphoretic. Plant— narcotic.
The whole plant contains protopine (0.19) as the major alkaloid.... hypecoum leptocarpumHabitat: Native to Europe and Asia. Occurs in the temperate Himalayas from Kashmir to Garhwal.
English: Indian Henbane, Black Henbane.Ayurvedic: Paarsika-yavaani, Yavaani, Madkaarini, Turushkaa, Khuraashaanikaa, Khuraasaani Ajwaayin.Unani: Barz-ul-Banj, Khuraasaani Ajwaayin.Siddha/Tamil: Paarseekayavani, Khurasani Omam.Action: Sedative. Narcotic drug. Used for convulsions. Action similar to Belladonna.
Key application: In spasms of gastrointestinal tract. (German Commission E, The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)The leaves and flowering tops contain tropane alkaloids, 0.045-00.14%, the principal ones being hyoscyamine and hyoscine. The alkaloids are para- sympatholytic, with similar actions to Belladonna, although with less cerebral excitement.The seeds show inhibitory activity against digestive enzyme, lipase in vitro.Contraindicated in tachycardias, prostatic hyperplasia, narrow-angle glaucoma, acute pulmonary oedema, stenosis of gastrointestinal tract, maga colon.Dosage: Seed—3-5 g powder. (CCRAS.)... hyoscyamus nigerHabitat: Temperate Western Himalayas from Kashmir to Shimla at 2,000-3,000 m.
English: Common St. John's wort.Unani: Heufaariqoon, Bassant, Balsaan.Action: Antidepressant, sedative, relaxing nervine, anti-inflammatory. Used in anxiety, stress, depression, menopausal nervousness, menstrual cramps, neuralgia and rheumatism.
Key application: Psychovegetative disturbances, depressive moods, anxiety and or nervous unrest. Externally, oil preparation for treatment and post-therapy of acute and contused injuries, myalgia and first degree burns. (German Commission E, ESCOP, British Herbal Pharmocopoeia.)The herb contains hypericin and pseudohypericin (0.0095 to 0.466% in the leaves and as much as 0.24% in the flowers), rutin, quercetin, hyperoside, methylhesperidin, caffeic, chloro- genic, p-coumaric, ferulic, p-hydroxy- benzoic and vanillic acids.Plant's standardized extract (0.3% hypericin) shows antidepressant activity by inhibiting MAO.A biflavonoid, amentoflavone, isolated from the plant, exhibited anti- inflammatory and antiulcerogenic activity.Alcoholic extract of the plant shows in vivo hepatoprotective activity in rodents.The oily extract of the flowers have been found effective in wound-healing due to the antibiotically active acyl- phlorogucinol, hyperforin.The aerial parts show significant antibacterial activity against several Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.A lyophilized infusion from the aerial parts exhibited antiviral activity and inhibited reproduction of different strains of influenza virus types A and B both in vivo and in vitro.The whole herb is effective against many viral infections.... hypericum perforatumTreatment of acute hypoglycaemia depends upon the severity of the condition. Oral carbohydrate, such as a sugary drink or chocolate, may be e?ective if the patient is conscious enough to swallow; if not, glucose or GLUCAGON by injection will be required. Comatose patients who recover after an injection should then be given oral carbohydrates. An occasional but dangerous complication of coma is cerebral oedema (see BRAIN, DISEASES OF – Cerebral oedema), and this should be considered if coma persists. Emergency treatment in hospital is then needed. When the patient has recovered, management of his or her diabetes should be assessed in order to prevent further hypoglycaemic attacks.... hypoglycaemic coma
Sulphonylureas The main group of hypoglycaemic agents, these act on the beta cells to stimulate insulin release; consequently they are e?ective only when there is some residual pancreatic beta-cell activity (see INSULIN). They also act on peripheral tissues to increase sensitivity, although this is less important. All sulphonylureas may lead to HYPOGLYCAEMIA four hours or more after food, but this is relatively uncommon, and usually an indication of overdose.
There are several di?erent sulphonylureas; apart from some di?erences in their duration or action (and hence in their suitability for individual patients) there is little di?erence in their e?ectiveness. Only chlorpropamide has appreciably more side-effects – mainly because of its prolonged duration of action and consequent risk of hypoglycaemia. There is also the common and unpleasant chlorpropamide/ alcohol-?ush phenomenon when the patient takes alcohol. Selection of an individual sulphonylurea depends on the patient’s age and renal function, and often just on personal preference. Elderly patients are particularly prone to the risks of hypoglycaemia when long-acting drugs are used. In these patients chlorpropamide, and preferably glibenclamide, should be avoided and replaced by others such as gliclazide or tolbutamide.
These drugs may cause weight gain and are indicated only if poor control persists despite adequate attempts at dieting. They should not be used during breast feeding, and caution is necessary in the elderly and in those with renal or hepatic insu?ciency. They should also be avoided in porphyria (see PORPHYRIAS). During surgery and intercurrent illness (such as myocardial infarction, COMA, infection and trauma), insulin therapy should be temporarily substituted. Insulin is generally used during pregnancy and should be used in the presence of ketoacidosis.
Side-effects Chie?y gastrointestinal disturbances and headache; these are generally mild and infrequent. After drinking alcohol, chlorpropamide may cause facial ?ushing. It also may enhance the action of antidiuretic hormone (see VASOPRESSIN), very rarely causing HYPONATRAEMIA.
Sensitivity reactions are very rare, usually occurring in the ?rst six to eight weeks of therapy. They include transient rashes which rarely progress to erythema multiforme (see under ERYTHEMA) and exfoliate DERMATITIS, fever and jaundice; chlorpropamide may also occasionally result in photosensitivity. Rare blood disorders include THROMBOCYTOPENIA, AGRANULOCYTOSIS and aplastic ANAEMIA.
Biguanides Metformin, the only available member of this group, acts by reducing GLUCONEOGENESIS and by increasing peripheral utilisation of glucose. It can act only if there is some residual insulin activity, hence it is only of value in the treatment of non-insulin dependent (type 2) diabetics. It may be used alone or with a sulphonylurea, and is indicated when strict dieting and sulphonylurea treatment have failed to control the diabetes. It is particularly valuable in overweight patients, in whom it may be used ?rst. Metformin has several advantages: hypoglycaemia is not usually a problem; weight gain is uncommon; and plasma insulin levels are lowered. Gastrointestinal side-effects are initially common and persistent in some patients, especially when high doses are being taken. Lactic acidosis is a rarely seen hazard occurring in patients with renal impairment, in whom metformin should not be used.
Other antidiabetics Acarbose is an inhibitor of intestinal alpha glucosidases (enzymes that process GLUCOSIDES), delaying the digestion of starch and sucrose, and hence the increase in blood glucose concentrations after a meal containing carbohydrate. It has been introduced for the treatment of type 2 patients inadequately controlled by diet or diet with oral hypoglycaemics.
Guar gum, if taken in adequate doses, acts by delaying carbohydrate absorption, and therefore reducing the postprandial blood glucose levels. It is also used to relieve symptoms of the DUMPING SYNDROME.... hypoglycaemic agents
Hypsypyle, Hipsipyle, Hipsipile, Hypsipile, Hypsypile... hypsipyle
Habitat: Native to tropical America. Distributed throughout India.
Ayurvedic: Tumbaaka (provisional synonym).Folk: Gangaa Tulasi, Vilaayati Tulasi, Bhunsari.Action: Carminative, antispasmodic, antisoporific, antirheumatic, anticephalalgic, lactagogue. Used in catarrhal and uterine affections, parasitical cutaneous diseases, epistaxis.
The plant gave lupeol, lupeol acetate and friedelin, leaves and flowers gave campesterol and fucosterol; roots contained beta-sitosterol, oleanolic and alpha-peltoboykinolic acids.The plant gave an essential oil containing l-sabinene. l-limonene and azulenic sesquiterpenes as major constituents. The oil inhibits the growth of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, particularly, Staphylococcus aureus; also exhibits fungitoxicity.Alcoholic extract (50%) of the whole plant exhibited hypoglycaemic and anticancer activity.... hyptis suaveolensHabitat: Native to Europe and temperate Asia. Occurs in West Himalyas from Kashmir to Kumaon.
English: Hyssop.Ayurvedic: Dayaa-kunji. (Nepeta longibractea is also equated with Zuufaa, Dayaa-kunji.)Unani: Zuufaa, Zuufaa Yaabis.Folk: Diyaanku (Laddakh).Action: Stimulant, carminative, sedative, antispasmodic, diuretic, pectoral. Used for bronchitis, coughs and colds. Induces heavy sweating in fevers, increases blood pressure. Emmenagogue. Used externally for bruises, discoloured contusions and cuts.
Key application: As expectorant. (The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)Hyssop contains terpenoids, including marrubiin; a volatile oil consisting mainly of camphor, pinocamphone and beta-pinene; flavonoids, gluco- sides, tannins and resin. Marrubiin is a strong expectorant. The plant also contains ursolic acid, an anti- inflammatory principle. The alcoholic extract of the aerial parts at flowering yields an active antioxidant compound, rosmanol-9-ethyl ether. Its activity is much greater than butylat- ed hydroxytoluene. The extract of the plant showed weak hepatoprotective activity against CCl4-induced toxicity in albino mice.Pinocamphone and isopinocam- phone are toxic constituents of the essential oil. Wild plants from Ku- maon (Uttaranchal) shows presence of very small amounts of pinocam- phone (0.61%) in essential oil, as compared to Himalayan hyssop (38.44%) and cultivated North American hyssop (42.66%). The essential oil can induce epileptic seizures.... hyssopus officinalisHabitat: North American species. Not found wild in India. Grown in Indian gardens.
Folk: Krishna-bija, Kaalaadaanaa. Kakkattan (Tamil Nadu). Jirki (Andhra Pradesh).Action: Seed—purgative. Used as a substitute for Jalap (Exogonium purga).
The seed gave alkaloids—lysergol, chanoclavine, penniclavine, iso-penni- clavine and elymoclavine.... ipomoea hederaceaHabitat: Nepal, North Bengal, Assam hills, Khasi hills and Manipur.
Ayurvedic: Svarna-yuuthikaa (var.). Folk: Juuhi (yellow var.).Action: See Jasminum humile.... jasminum heterophyllum
Habitat: Sub-tropical Himalayas from Kashmir to Nepal and in the Nilgiris, Palni Hills, Western Ghats and Kerala.
English: Yellow Jasmine, Nepal Jasmine, Italian Jasmine.Ayurvedic: Svarna-yuuthikaa, Svarnajaati, Hemapushpikaa, Vaasanti.Siddha/Tamil: Semmalligai.Folk: Juuhi (yellow var.).Action: Flower—astringent, cardiac tonic. Root—used in ringworm. The milky juice, exuded from incisions in the bark, is used for treating chronic fistulas. The plant is also used for treating hard lumps.
The leaves gave alpha-amyrin, be- tulin, friedelin, lupeol, betulinic, olea- nolic and ursolic acids; beta-sitosterol, 10-cinnamoyloxyoleoside-7-methyl- ester (jasminoside) and a secoiridoid glycoside.... jasminum humileHabitat: Eastern Himalaya, Assam, Western Ghats in Malabar.
Folk: Pattiamlo, Salado-rik (Himalayas). Kang-mari, Mi-jangew, Theiarbawm (Assam).Action: The stems have been used in Chinese folk medicine to promote blood circulation and for the treatment of gastric and duodenal ulcer, acute and chronic gastroenteritis, postpartum abdominal pain and trauma.
The stem contains dibenzocyclo- octadiene type lignans. The plant lig- nans showed PAF (platelet activating factor) receptor antagonistic activity. The lignans have also been reported to be potent inhibitors of lipid peroxidation in rat liver. The fruit contains gomisin D, which is an active ingredient of an antiulcer agent.... kadsura heteroclitaHabitat: Grown in Indian gardens and as an avenue tree.
Folk: Panuitteku (Tamil Nadu). Bol (Bengal).Action: Bark and leaves—used in the treatment of cough and tuberculosis.
The roots contain kaempferol, quer- cetin and rutin.... kleinhovia hospita[catlist id=11 numberposts=100 pagination=yes instance=2 orderby=title order=asc]
... medical dictionaryAnxiety, phobias and depression are fairly common. For instance, surveys show that up to
2.5 per cent of children and 8 per cent of adolescents are depressed at any one time, and by the age of 18 a quarter will have been depressed at least once. Problems such as OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER, ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER (HYPERACTIVITY SYNDROME), AUTISM, ASPERGER’S SYNDROME and SCHIZOPHRENIA are rare.
Mental-health problems may not be obvious at ?rst, because children often express distress through irritability, poor concentration, dif?cult behaviour, or physical symptoms. Physical symptoms of distress, such as unexplained headache and stomach ache, may persuade parents to keep children at home on school days. This may be appropriate occasionally, but regularly avoiding school can lead to a persistent phobia called school refusal.
If a parent, teacher or other person is worried that a child or teenager may have a mental-health problem, the ?rst thing to do is to ask the child gently if he or she is worried about anything. Listening, reassuring and helping the child to solve any speci?c problems may well be enough to help the child feel settled again. Serious problems such as bullying and child abuse need urgent professional involvement.
Children with emotional problems will usually feel most comfortable talking to their parents, while adolescents may prefer to talk to friends, counsellors, or other mentors. If this doesn’t work, and if the symptoms persist for weeks rather than days, it may be necessary to seek additional help through school or the family’s general practitioner. This may lead to the child and family being assessed and helped by a psychologist, or, less commonly, by a child psychiatrist. Again, listening and counselling will be the main forms of help o?ered. For outright depression, COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR THERAPY and, rarely, antidepressant drugs may be used.... mental health problems in children
Methadone is valuable as a suppressant for non-productive cough, acting on the medullary ‘cough centre’ in the central nervous system. It is also helpful in weaning addicts o? morphine and heroin, having a slower onset of DEPENDENCE and a less severe withdrawal syndrome. When used for prolonged periods, methadone should not be given more often than twice daily, to avoid the risks of accumulation and opioid overdosage.... methadone hydrochloride
Habitat: Cultivated throughout India.
English: Indian Cork tree.Siddha/Tamil: Maramalli.Folk: Aakaasha Neem, Neem- Chameli.Action: Bark—antipyretic. Flowers—used for asthma and sinusitis.
The butanol soluble fraction from aqueous extract of flowers showed bronchial smooth muscle relaxant property. Hispidulin, isolated from the flowers, is reported to exhibit bron- chodilatory and antiphlogistic activities. Hispidulin is found to be more potent than aminophyllin and less toxic than the crude extract. gallic acid. The aerial parts of the plant contain C-glycosylflavones, 2"- O-rhamnosylorientin and 2"-O- rhamnosylisoorientin.Dosage: Whole plant, root—10- 20 ml juice; 50-100 ml decoction. (CCRAS.) Whole plant—10-20 g for decoction. (API, Vol. II.)... millingtonia hortensis[catlist id=14 numberposts=100 pagination=yes instance=2 orderby=title order=asc]
... natural herbs that increase sex driveOccupational health includes both mental and physical health. It is about compliance with health-and-safety-at-work legislation (and common law duties) and about best practice in providing work environments that reduce risks to health and safety to lowest practicable levels. It includes workers’ ?tness to work, as well as the management of the work environment to accommodate people with disabilities, and procedures to facilitate the return to work of those absent with long-term illness. Occupational health incorporates several professional groups, including occupational physicians, occupational health nurses, occupational hygienists, ergonomists, disability managers, workplace counsellors, health-and-safety practitioners, and workplace physiotherapists.
In the UK, two key statutes provide a framework for occupational health: the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974 (HSW Act); and the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA). The HSW Act states that employers have a duty to protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees and to conduct their business in a way that does not expose others to risks to their health and safety. Employees and self-employed people also have duties under the Act. Modern health-and-safety legislation focuses on assessing and controlling risk rather than prescribing speci?c actions in di?erent industrial settings. Various regulations made under the HSW Act, such as the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations, the Manual Handling Operations Regulations and the Noise at Work Regulations, set out duties with regard to di?erent risks, but apply to all employers and follow the general principles of risk assessment and control. Risks should be controlled principally by removing or reducing the hazard at source (for example, by substituting chemicals with safer alternatives, replacing noisy machinery, or automating tasks to avoid heavy lifting). Personal protective equipment, such as gloves and ear defenders, should be seen as a last line of defence after other control measures have been put in place.
The employment provisions of the DDA require employers to avoid discriminatory practice towards disabled people and to make reasonable adjustments to working arrangements where a disabled person is placed at a substantial disadvantage to a non-disabled person. Although the DDA does not require employers to provide access to rehabilitation services – even for those injured or made ill at work – occupational-health practitioners may become involved in programmes to help people get back to work after injury or long-term illness, and many businesses see the retention of valuable sta? as an attractive alternative to medical retirement or dismissal on health grounds.
Although a major part of occupational-health practice is concerned with statutory compliance, the workplace is also an important venue for health promotion. Many working people rarely see their general practitioner and, even when they do, there is little time to discuss wider health issues. Occupational-health advisers can ?ll in this gap by providing, for example, workplace initiatives on stopping smoking, cardiovascular health, diet and self-examination for breast and testicular cancers. Such initiatives are encouraged because of the perceived bene?ts to sta?, to the employing organisation and to the wider public-health agenda. Occupational psychologists recognise the need for the working population to achieve a ‘work-life balance’ and the promotion of this is an increasing part of occupational health strategies.
The law requires employers to consult with their sta? on health-and-safety matters. However, there is also a growing understanding that successful occupational-health management involves workers directly in the identi?cation of risks and in developing solutions in the workplace. Trade unions play an active role in promoting occupational health through local and national campaigns and by training and advising elected workplace safety representatives.
Occupational medicine The branch of medicine that deals with the control, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and management of ill-health and injuries caused or made worse by work, and with ensuring that workers are ?t for the work they do.
Occupational medicine includes: statutory surveillance of workers’ exposure to hazardous agents; advice to employers and employees on eliminating or reducing risks to health and safety at work; diagnosis and treatment/management of occupational illness; advice on adapting the working environment to suit the worker, particularly those with disabilities or long-term health problems; and advice on the return to work and, if necessary, rehabilitation of workers absent through illness. Occupational physicians may play a wider role in monitoring the health of workplace populations and in advising employers on controlling health hazards where ill-health trends are observed. They may also conduct epidemiological research (see EPIDEMIOLOGY) on workplace diseases.
Because of the occupational physician’s dual role as adviser to both employer and employee, he or she is required to be particularly diligent with regards to the individual worker’s medical CONFIDENTIALITY. Occupational physicians need to recognise in any given situation the context they are working in, and to make sure that all parties are aware of this.
Occupational medicine is a medical discipline and thus is only part of the broader ?eld of occupational health. Although there are some speci?c clinical duties associated with occupational medicine, such as diagnosis of occupational disease and medical screening, occupational physicians are frequently part of a multidisciplinary team that might include, for example, occupational-health nurses, healthand-safety advisers, ergonomists, counsellors and hygienists. Occupational physicians are medical practitioners with a post-registration quali?cation in occupational medicine. They will have completed a period of supervised in-post training. In the UK, the Faculty of Occupational Medicine of the Royal College of Physicians has three categories of membership, depending on quali?cations and experience: associateship (AFOM); membership (MFOM); and fellowship (FFOM).
Occupational diseases Occupational diseases are illnesses that are caused or made worse by work. In their widest sense, they include physical and mental ill-health conditions.
In diagnosing an occupational disease, the clinician will need to examine not just the signs and symptoms of ill-health, but also the occupational history of the patient. This is important not only in discovering the cause, or causes, of the disease (work may be one of a number of factors), but also in making recommendations on how the work should be modi?ed to prevent a recurrence – or, if necessary, in deciding whether or not the worker is able to return to that type of work. The occupational history will help in deciding whether or not other workers are also at risk of developing the condition. It will include information on:
the nature of the work.
how the tasks are performed in practice.
the likelihood of exposure to hazardous agents (physical, chemical, biological and psychosocial).
what control measures are in place and the extent to which these are adhered to.
previous occupational and non-occupational exposures.
whether or not others have reported similar symptoms in relation to the work. Some conditions – certain skin conditions,
for example – may show a close relationship to work, with symptoms appearing directly only after exposure to particular agents or possibly disappearing at weekends or with time away from work. Others, however, may be chronic and can have serious long-term implications for a person’s future health and employment.
Statistical information on the prevalence of occupational disease in the UK comes from a variety of sources, including o?cial ?gures from the Industrial Injuries Scheme (see below) and statutory reporting of occupational disease (also below). Neither of these o?cial schemes provides a representative picture, because the former is restricted to certain prescribed conditions and occupations, and the latter suffers from gross under-reporting. More useful are data from the various schemes that make up the Occupational Diseases Intelligence Network (ODIN) and from the Labour Force Survey (LFS). ODIN data is generated by the systematic reporting of work-related conditions by clinicians and includes several schemes. Under one scheme, more than 80 per cent of all reported diseases by occupational-health physicians fall into just six of the 42 clinical disease categories: upper-limb disorders; anxiety, depression and stress disorders; contact DERMATITIS; lower-back problems; hearing loss (see DEAFNESS); and ASTHMA. Information from the LFS yields a similar pattern in terms of disease frequency. Its most recent survey found that over 2 million people believed that, in the previous 12 months, they had suffered from an illness caused or made worse by work and that
19.5 million working days were lost as a result. The ten most frequently reported disease categories were:
stress and mental ill-health (see MENTAL ILLNESS): 515,000 cases.
back injuries: 508,000.
upper-limb and neck disorders: 375,000.
lower respiratory disease: 202,000.
deafness, TINNITUS or other ear conditions: 170,000.
lower-limb musculoskeletal conditions: 100,000.
skin disease: 66,000.
headache or ‘eyestrain’: 50,000.
traumatic injury (includes wounds and fractures from violent attacks at work): 34,000.
vibration white ?nger (hand-arm vibration syndrome): 36,000. A person who develops a chronic occu
pational disease may be able to sue his or her employer for damages if it can be shown that the employer was negligent in failing to take reasonable care of its employees, or had failed to provide a system of work that would have prevented harmful exposure to a known health hazard. There have been numerous successful claims (either awarded in court, or settled out of court) for damages for back and other musculoskeletal injuries, hand-arm vibration syndrome, noise-induced deafness, asthma, dermatitis, MESOTHELIOMA and ASBESTOSIS. Employers’ liability (workers’ compensation) insurers are predicting that the biggest future rise in damages claims will be for stress-related illness. In a recent study, funded by the Health and Safety Executive, about 20 per cent of all workers – more than 5 million people in the UK – claimed to be ‘very’ or ‘extremely’ stressed at work – a statistic that is likely to have a major impact on the long-term health of the working population.
While victims of occupational disease have the right to sue their employers for damages, many countries also operate a system of no-fault compensation for the victims of prescribed occupational diseases. In the UK, more than 60 diseases are prescribed under the Industrial Injuries Scheme and a person will automatically be entitled to state compensation for disability connected to one of these conditions, provided that he or she works in one of the occupations for which they are prescribed. The following short list gives an indication of the types of diseases and occupations prescribed under the scheme:
CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME connected to the use of hand-held vibrating tools.
hearing loss from (amongst others) use of pneumatic percussive tools and chainsaws, working in the vicinity of textile manufacturing or woodworking machines, and work in ships’ engine rooms.
LEPTOSPIROSIS – infection with Leptospira (various listed occupations).
viral HEPATITIS from contact with human blood, blood products or other sources of viral hepatitis.
LEAD POISONING, from any occupation causing exposure to fumes, dust and vapour from lead or lead products.
asthma caused by exposure to, among other listed substances, isocyanates, curing agents, solder ?ux fumes and insects reared for research.
mesothelioma from exposure to asbestos.
In the UK, employers and the self-employed have a duty to report all occupational injuries (if the employee is o? work for three days or more as a result), diseases or dangerous incidents to the relevant enforcing authority (the Health and Safety Executive or local-authority environmental-health department) under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR). Despite this statutory duty, comparatively few diseases are reported so that ?gures generated from RIDDOR reports do not give a useful indication of the scale of occupational diseases in the UK. The statutory reporting of injuries is much better, presumably because of the clear and acute relationship between a workplace accident and the resultant injury. More than 160,000 injuries are reported under RIDDOR every year compared with just 2,500 or so occupational diseases, a gross underestimate of the true ?gure.
There are no precise ?gures for the number of people who die prematurely because of work-related ill-health, and it would be impossible to gauge the exact contribution that work has on, for example, cardiovascular disease and cancers where the causes are multifactorial. The toll would, however, dwarf the number of deaths caused by accidents at work. Around 250 people are killed by accidents at work in the UK each year – mesothelioma, from exposure to asbestos at work, alone kills more than 1,300 people annually.
The following is a sample list of occupational diseases, with brief descriptions of their aetiologies.
Inhaled materials
PNEUMOCONIOSIS covers a group of diseases which cause ?brotic lung disease following the inhalation of dust. Around 250–300 new cases receive bene?t each year – mostly due to coal dust with or without silica contamination. SILICOSIS is the more severe disease. The contraction in the size of the coal-mining industry as well as improved dust suppression in the mines have diminished the importance of this disease, whereas asbestos-related diseases now exceed 1,000 per year. Asbestos ?bres cause a restrictive lung disease but also are responsible for certain malignant conditions such as pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma and lung cancer. The lung-cancer risk is exacerbated by cigarette-smoking.
Even though the use of asbestos is virtually banned in the UK, many workers remain at risk of exposure because of the vast quantities present in buildings (much of which is not listed in building plans). Carpenters, electricians, plumbers, builders and demolition workers are all liable to exposure from work that disturbs existing asbestos. OCCUPATIONAL ASTHMA is of increasing importance – not only because of the recognition of new allergic agents (see ALLERGY), but also in the number of reported cases. The following eight substances are most frequently linked to occupational asthma (key occupations in brackets): isocyanates (spray painters, electrical processors); ?our and grain (bakers and farmers); wood dust (wood workers); glutaraldehyde (nurses, darkroom technicians); solder/colophony (welders, electronic assembly workers); laboratory animals (technicians, scientists); resins and glues (metal and electrical workers, construction, chemical processors); and latex (nurses, auxiliaries, laboratory technicians).
The disease develops after a short, symptomless period of exposure; symptoms are temporally related to work exposures and relieved by absences from work. Removal of the worker from exposure does not necessarily lead to complete cessation of symptoms. For many agents, there is no relationship with a previous history of ATOPY. Occupational asthma accounts for about 10 per cent of all asthma cases. DERMATITIS The risk of dermatitis caused by an allergic or irritant reaction to substances used or handled at work is present in a wide variety of jobs. About three-quarters of cases are irritant contact dermatitis due to such agents as acids, alkalis and solvents. Allergic contact dermatitis is a more speci?c response by susceptible individuals to a range of allergens (see ALLERGEN). The main occupational contact allergens include chromates, nickel, epoxy resins, rubber additives, germicidal agents, dyes, topical anaesthetics and antibiotics as well as certain plants and woods. Latex gloves are a particular cause of occupational dermatitis among health-care and laboratory sta? and have resulted in many workers being forced to leave their profession through ill-health. (See also SKIN, DISEASES OF.)
Musculoskeletal disorders Musculoskeletal injuries are by far the most common conditions related to work (see LFS ?gures, above) and the biggest cause of disability. Although not all work-related, musculoskeletal disorders account for 36.5 per cent of all disabilities among working-age people (compared with less than 4 per cent for sight and hearing impairment). Back pain (all causes – see BACKACHE) has been estimated to cause more than 50 million days lost every year in sickness absence and costs the UK economy up to £5 billion annually as a result of incapacity or disability. Back pain is a particular problem in the health-care sector because of the risk of injury from lifting and moving patients. While the emphasis should be on preventing injuries from occurring, it is now well established that the best way to manage most lower-back injuries is to encourage the patient to continue as normally as possible and to remain at work, or to return as soon as possible even if the patient has some residual back pain. Those who remain o? work on long-term sick leave are far less likely ever to return to work.
Aside from back injuries, there are a whole range of conditions affecting the upper limbs, neck and lower limbs. Some have clear aetiologies and clinical signs, while others are less well de?ned and have multiple causation. Some conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, are prescribed diseases in certain occupations; however, they are not always caused by work (pregnant and older women are more likely to report carpal tunnel syndrome irrespective of work) and clinicians need to be careful when assigning work as the cause without ?rst considering the evidence. Other conditions may be revealed or made worse by work – such as OSTEOARTHRITIS in the hand. Much attention has focused on injuries caused by repeated movement, excessive force, and awkward postures and these include tenosynovitis (in?ammation of a tendon) and epicondylitis. The greatest controversy surrounds upper-limb disorders that do not present obvious tissue or nerve damage but nevertheless give signi?cant pain and discomfort to the individual. These are sometimes referred to as ‘repetitive strain injury’ or ‘di?use RSI’. The diagnosis of such conditions is controversial, making it di?cult for sufferers to pursue claims for compensation through the courts. Psychosocial factors, such as high demands of the job, lack of control and poor social support at work, have been implicated in the development of many upper-limb disorders, and in prevention and management it is important to deal with the psychological as well as the physical risk factors. Occupations known to be at particular risk of work-related upper-limb disorders include poultry processors, packers, electronic assembly workers, data processors, supermarket check-out operators and telephonists. These jobs often contain a number of the relevant exposures of dynamic load, static load, a full or excessive range of movements and awkward postures. (See UPPER LIMB DISORDERS.)
Physical agents A number of physical agents cause occupational ill-health of which the most important is occupational deafness. Workplace noise exposures in excess of 85 decibels for a working day are likely to cause damage to hearing which is initially restricted to the vital frequencies associated with speech – around 3–4 kHz. Protection from such noise is imperative as hearing aids do nothing to ameliorate the neural damage once it has occurred.
Hand-arm vibration syndrome is a disorder of the vascular and/or neural endings in the hands leading to episodic blanching (‘white ?nger’) and numbness which is exacerbated by low temperature. The condition, which is caused by vibrating tools such as chain saws and pneumatic hammers, is akin to RAYNAUD’S DISEASE and can be disabling.
Decompression sickness is caused by a rapid change in ambient pressure and is a disease associated with deep-sea divers, tunnel workers and high-?ying aviators. Apart from the direct effects of pressure change such as ruptured tympanic membrane or sinus pain, the more serious damage is indirectly due to nitrogen bubbles appearing in the blood and blocking small vessels. Central and peripheral nervous-system damage and bone necrosis are the most dangerous sequelae.
Radiation Non-ionising radiation from lasers or microwaves can cause severe localised heating leading to tissue damage of which cataracts (see under EYE, DISORDERS OF) are a particular variety. Ionising radiation from radioactive sources can cause similar acute tissue damage to the eyes as well as cell damage to rapidly dividing cells in the gut and bone marrow. Longer-term effects include genetic damage and various malignant disorders of which LEUKAEMIA and aplastic ANAEMIA are notable. Particular radioactive isotopes may destroy or induce malignant change in target organs, for example, 131I (thyroid), 90Sr (bone). Outdoor workers may also be at risk of sunburn and skin cancers. OTHER OCCUPATIONAL CANCERS Occupation is directly responsible for about 5 per cent of all cancers and contributes to a further 5 per cent. Apart from the cancers caused by asbestos and ionising radiation, a number of other occupational exposures can cause human cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer regularly reviews the evidence for carcinogenicity of compounds and industrial processes, and its published list of carcinogens is widely accepted as the current state of knowledge. More than 50 agents and processes are listed as class 1 carcinogens. Important occupational carcinogens include asbestos (mesothelioma, lung cancer); polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons such as mineral oils, soots, tars (skin and lung cancer); the aromatic amines in dyestu?s (bladder cancer); certain hexavalent chromates, arsenic and nickel re?ning (lung cancer); wood and leather dust (nasal sinus cancer); benzene (leukaemia); and vinyl chloride monomer (angiosarcoma of the liver). It has been estimated that elimination of all known occupational carcinogens, if possible, would lead to an annual saving of 5,000 premature deaths in Britain.
Infections Two broad categories of job carry an occupational risk. These are workers in contact with animals (farmers, veterinary surgeons and slaughtermen) and those in contact with human sources of infection (health-care sta? and sewage workers).
Occupational infections include various zoonoses (pathogens transmissible from animals to humans), such as ANTHRAX, Borrelia burgdorferi (LYME DISEASE), bovine TUBERCULOSIS, BRUCELLOSIS, Chlamydia psittaci, leptospirosis, ORF virus, Q fever, RINGWORM and Streptococcus suis. Human pathogens that may be transmissible at work include tuberculosis, and blood-borne pathogens such as viral hepatitis (B and C) and HIV (see AIDS/HIV). Health-care workers at risk of exposure to infected blood and body ?uids should be immunised against hapatitis B.
Poisoning The incidence of occupational poisonings has diminished with the substitution of noxious chemicals with safer alternatives, and with the advent of improved containment. However, poisonings owing to accidents at work are still reported, sometimes with fatal consequences. Workers involved in the application of pesticides are particularly at risk if safe procedures are not followed or if equipment is faulty. Exposure to organophosphate pesticides, for example, can lead to breathing diffculties, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps, and to other neurological effects including confusion and dizziness. Severe poisonings can lead to death. Exposure can be through ingestion, inhalation and dermal (skin) contact.
Stress and mental health Stress is an adverse reaction to excessive pressures or demands and, in occupational-health terms, is di?erent from the motivational impact often associated with challenging work (some refer to this as ‘positive stress’). Stress at work is often linked to increasing demands on workers, although coping can often prevent the development of stress. The causes of occupational stress are multivariate and encompass job characteristics (e.g. long or unsocial working hours, high work demands, imbalance between e?ort and reward, poorly managed organisational change, lack of control over work, poor social support at work, fear of redundancy and bullying), as well as individual factors (such as personality type, personal circumstances, coping strategies, and availability of psychosocial support outside work). Stress may in?uence behaviours such as smoking, alcohol consumption, sleep and diet, which may in turn affect people’s health. Stress may also have direct effects on the immune system (see IMMUNITY) and lead to a decline in health. Stress may also alter the course and response to treatment of conditions such as cardiovascular disease. As well as these general effects of stress, speci?c types of disorder may be observed.
Exposure to extremely traumatic incidents at work – such as dealing with a major accident involving multiple loss of life and serious injury
(e.g. paramedics at the scene of an explosion or rail crash) – may result in a chronic condition known as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is an abnormal psychological reaction to a traumatic event and is characterised by extreme psychological discomfort, such as anxiety or panic when reminded of the causative event; sufferers may be plagued with uncontrollable memories and can feel as if they are going through the trauma again. PTSD is a clinically de?ned condition in terms of its symptoms and causes and should not be used to include normal short-term reactions to trauma.... occupational health, medicine and diseases
Habitat: Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and South India up to 2,400 m. (Blue-flowered var.)
Unani: Baadranjboyaa, Billilotan. Also equated with Melissa officinalis.Action: See Nepeta cataria.
The alcoholic extract of the plant yielded a triterpenoid aldehyde, nepe- hinal. Nepetidone, nepedinol, and a triterpenic acid have also been reported. The plant contains flavonoids including nepitrin, dinatin, nepetin. Flowers and stem gave napetol, hen- triacontane and beta-sitosterol. An aqueous extract of flowers contained Na, K, Ca, Mg, Zn, Cd, Cu, Ni, Mn and Fe. Alcoholic extract of the plant produced marked hypocholesterolaemic effect in experimental animals. It also produced beneficial effects in the histopathology of myocardial infarction. Aqueous extract of the plant, given intravenously, lowered the blood pressure in dogs by 26.87%. It also showed CNS depressant and sedative activities. (In Indian medicine, the plant is used in various cardiac conditions including cardiac asthma.)... nepeta hindostanaHabitat: Throughout the Himalayas.
Folk: Kandur (Jaunsar), Philunaa (Garhwal) Laderi (Kumaon).Action: Bark and twigs—astringent and expectorant.... parthenocissus himalayana
Habitat: Sikkim, Terai, West Bengal and Khasi hills, up to 900 m.
English: Wild Pepper.Folk: Jangali Paan.Action: Carminative and diuretic.
Kadsurin A and isodihydrofuto- quinol B have been isolated from aerial parts.... piper hamiltoniiHabitat: Tropical and subtropical countries of the world.
English: Congress Grass.Folk: Pichhi, Machhipatri.Action: Anti-amoebic, antidysen- teric, febrifuge, analgesic, emmena- gogue.
The grass was introduced into India during 1950 s (it first appeared in Pune).The grass exhibits in vitro anti- amoebic activity against axenic and polygenic cultures of Entamoeba his- tolytica, comparable to the standard drug for amoebiasis, Metronidazole.Parthenin and some of its derivatives exhibited significant antimalarial activity against a multi drug-resistant strain of Plasmodium falciparum.The main toxic constituent of the grass responsible for causing dermatitis and other forms of allergy are parthenin and coronopilin. Parthenin in present up to 8% in the capitulum and 5% in the leaves.... parthenium hysterophorusHabitat: Throughout Northern and Northwestern India, and in drier regions of Deccan.
English: Wild Rue; Foreign Henna, Syrian Rue.Ayurvedic: Haramal, Isband.Siddha/Tamil: Simaiyaravandi, Simaiyalavinai.Action: Plant—emmenagogue, abortifacient. Seeds—narcotic, hypnotic, antispasmodic, anodyne and emetic; used in asthma, hiccough, colic, neuralgia, hysteria, dysmenorrhoea; used as abortifa- cient (properties similar to ergot, savine and rue). (Dried seeds constitute the drug Harmal of Indian medicine.)
The plant gave flavonoids—kaem- pferol, quercetin and acacetin. Aerial parts and seeds contain alkaloids— harmine, harmaline and harmalol (called harman alkaloids). Harman alkaloids from the seeds have been suggested for use in nervous diseases, and as coronary dilators and embolic. Harmol exhibits hypertensive activity. Harmine, vasicinone, deoxyvasici- none and 8-hydroxy glucosylharmine exhibit antitumour activity.The alkaloids, harmine, harmaline and harmol exhibit antibacterial and antifungal activity.The aqueous extract of seeds exhibited significant antiviral activity in vitro against herpes virus hominis type 1, slight activity was also observed against influenza viruses A and B. The plant extract exhibits significant analgesic activity.... peganum harmalaHabitat: Inner ranges of the Himalayas, from Kashmir to Sikkim at 1,800-4,000 m.
English: Indian Podophyllum.Ayurvedic: Giriparpata.Folk: Bana-kakari (Punjab), Venivel (Gujarat), Patvel (Maharashtra). Paapraa, Paapri.Action: Rhizomes and roots— antineoplastic. Strongly irritant to skin and mucous membranes. Used topically as an ointment for venereal warts, verrucae and similar conditions.
Key application: P. peltatum— externally, for removal of pointed condyloma (skin adjacent to the treated area should be protected). (German Commission E.) P hexandrum: Podophyllin (10-40%) for external application, 2-6 h weekly, for anogenital warts. (Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia.) (Podophyllin is a mitotic poison.)May Apple of North America is equated with Podophyllum peltatum Linn. The main lignin is podophyllo- toxin. Podophyllum hexandrum contains similar lignans with the exception of alpha-and beta-peltatins, which are reportedly absent; the concentration of podophyllotoxin is up to 4.3%. P. peltatum contains about 0.25% and the Taiwanese species P. pleianthum 0.1% podophyllotoxin.(Podophyllotoxin is a valuable lig- nin, as it is used for the synthesis of chemically administered cytostat- ic etoposide and tenoposide.)... podophyllum hexandrumHabitat: Throughout India in wet places.
English: Water Pepper, Pepperwort, Smartweed.Folk: Paakur-muula, Paani-maricha (Bengal).Action: Haemostatic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, lithotriptic, emmenagogue (used as infusion for delayed menses and amenorrhoea), antifungal (root and leaf used externally). Contraindicated during pregnancy.
The herb contains sesquiterpenes, including warburganal and polygodial, in the leaves; polygonal, isodrimeni- nol, isopolygodial and confertifolin in the seeds; and flavonoids including quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin and rhamnesin; polygonolide (an iso- coumarin).Isoquercitrin exhibited significant anti-oxidative activity. Polygodial and warburganal possess significant an- tifungal property. Warburganal also possesses potent cytotoxic and antibiotic activity. (The herb is used against cancer.)Folk: Muniyaaraa (Bihar), Raani- phool, Macheti, Dubiaa Saaga.Action: Galactogenic, antidiar- rhoeal. Powdered herb is given in pneumonia.
The whole plant yields 11% tannin. The rootstock contains oxymethylan- thraquinone.Flowers gave oleanolic acid, betulin- ic acid, epi-friedelanol, beta-sitosterol, and flavonoids—quercetin, quercetin- 3-arabinoside and quercetin-3-rutino- side.... polygonum hydropiperHabitat: The sub-tropical Himalayas and in Assam, extending southwards through West Bengal, Bihar, Orissa into Deccan Peninsula. Roots are usually confused with those of Clerodendrum serratum and are sold as Bhaarangi.
Siddha/Tamil: Siru Thekku.Folk: Gethiaa, Ghantu Bhaarangi. Baaman-haati (Bengal). Fruits are known as Bhuumi-jambu, Phin Jaamun. The root is known as Bhaarangamuula; in Andhra Pradesh, Gandu Bhaarangi.Action: Root and leaves—given in asthma, rheumatism.
The root contains several diterpe- noids. Quinonemethide (bharangin) is reported from the plant. controlling the activity of the adreno- corticotropic hormone.Dosage: Leaf, root bark—50- 100 ml decoction, powder—1-3 g. (CCRAS.)... premna herbaceaCertain specialties – for example, orthopaedic and reconstructive/cosmetic surgery and mental health – attract more private patients than others, such as paediatrics or medicine for the elderly. The standards of clinical care are generally the same in the two systems, but private patients can see the specialist of their choice at a time convenient to them. Waiting times for consultations and treatment are short and, when in hospital, private patients usually have their own room, telephone, TV, open visiting hours, etc.
A substantial proportion of private medical-care services are those provided for elderly people requiring regular nursing care and some medical supervision. The distinction between residential care and nursing care for the elderly is often blurred, but the government policy of providing means-tested state funding only for people genuinely needing regular nursing care – a system operated by local-authority social-service departments in England and Wales – has necessitated clearer de?nitions of the facilities provided for the elderly by private organisations. The strict criteria for state support (especially in England), the budget-conscious approach of local authorities when negotiating fees with private nursing homes, and the fact that NHS hospital trusts also have to pay for some patients discharged to such homes (to free-up hospital beds for new admissions) have led to intense ?nancial pressures on private facilities for the elderly. This has caused the closure of many homes, which, in turn, is worsening the level of BED-BLOCKING by elderly patients who do not require hospital-intensity nursing but who lack family support in the community and cannot a?ord private care.... private health care
Habitat: Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Orissa and in some parts of Kerala.
Ayurvedic: Bhumi-jambu.Siddha/Tamil: Siru Thekku.Action: Rootstock—antiasthmatic. Leaf— bechic, febrifuge. Rootstock and leaf—antirheumatic. (Sold in South Indian market as Bhaarangi.)
A diterpenoid quinonemethide (bharangin) is reported from the plant.... pygmaeopemna herbaceaHabitat: Cultivated in Indian gardens.
English: Blood-veined Sage.Unani: Behman Surkh. (Behman Safed is equated with Centaurea behen Linn.)Action: Both the varieties of Behman are used in Unani medicine as a cardiac and sex tonic, also as a liver tonic in jaundice.... salvia haematodes
Habitat: Throughout India.
English: Midnapore Creeper.Ayurvedic: Phanji.Siddha/Tamil: Budthi-kiray.Folk: Kalmi-lataa, Phaang.Action: Root—a tonic after childbirth. Leaves—astringent; used in haemorrhagic diseases, diarrhoea, dysentery.... rivea hypocrateriformis
Habitat: Native to warmer parts of America; introduced into Indian gardens.
English: Baby Pepper, Dog Blood, Blood Berry, Rouge-Plant.Action: Berries—febrifuge, intestinal antiseptic.
A betaxanthin, humilixanthin, has been isolated from the berry.A decoction of the herb is used for cold, chest congestion and pain, diarrhoea and jaundice. Berries alleviate dysentery and amenorrhoea.Pounded leaves are used for wound- healing and for treating catarrh.... rivina humilisHabitat: Native to Sri Lanka; found along coastal regions of India from Bengal to Tamil Nadu.
English: Ceylon Bowstring Hemp.Ayurvedic: Naagadamani (related species) (also known as Muurvaa).Siddha/Tamil: Marul, Motta manji.Action: See S. roxburghiana. Leaves and rhizomes are applied externally in high fever with delirium.
Rhizomes—diuretic, diaphoretic, expectorant.The leaf contains aconitic acid; the root yielded an alkaloid sansevierine (0.018%).... sansevieria hyacinthoidesHabitat: Native to Mediterranean region; found in Kashmir.
English: Summer Savory. Winter Savory is equated with S. montana L.Action: Flowering top—carminative, digestive, laxative, stomachic, diuretic, sudorific and vermifuge. Used in flatulent colic and menstrual suppression. A tea (of leaves) is given as a carminative and expectorant. Essential oil—antibacterial, antifungal, spasmolytic.
The plant gave fluorine, labiatic acid, ursolic acid and beta-sitosterol. Labi- atic acid is antioxidant. The volatile oil consists mainly of carvacrol with p- cymene, beta-pinene, beta-phellandre- ne, limonene and borneol.The volatile oil of S. montana contains carvacrol, p-cymene and thymol with alpha-and beta-pinene, cineole and borneol.... satureja hortensisAction: Leaves—antiseptic; applied to wounds. Seeds— carminative. The plant exhibits CNS depressant and hypothermic properties.
Saussurea hieracioides Hook. f (Sikkim Himalayas at 3,600-4,200 m) gave a sesquilignan, saussol; scopoletin, luteolin-7-O-beta-D-glucoside and sy- ringin were isolated from the aerial parts.Synonym: S. auriculata (DC.) Sch.-Bip.Aplotaxis auriculata DC.Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.Habitat: The Himalayas from Kashmir to Sikkim.
Ayurvedic: Kushtha (pseudo).Folk: Uplet (Maharashtra).Action: Leaves—used in the treatment of syphilis.
The root of the plant is found mixed with the root of Kushtha of Indian medicine.... saussurea heteromallaHabitat: Pastures and wastes.
Features ? Stem square, smooth, up to a foot high. Leaves in pairs, one pair one side of stem, next pair opposite side ; short-stalked, slightly hairy on top side, entire at edges, broad based tapering to point, about one inch long by half-inch across. Flowers small, purplish-blue, upper lip upright, lower lip jagged, bloom in dense terminal bunch at end of stem.Part used ? Herb.Action: Astringent.
The 1 ounce to 1 pint infusion is taken in wineglass doses for internal bleeding, used blood-warm as an injection in leucorrhea, and may be used to gargle sore and relaxed throats.... self-healHabitat: South India, particularly in the Nilgiri, Palni and Annamalai hills and Western Ghats.
Siddha/Tamil: Vellai Naval.Action: Bark—antibilious; also used for syphilitic affections.... syzygium hemisphericum
Habitat: The Himalaya, from Simla westwards to Assam and southwards to Kanyakumari.
Ayurvedic: Madana Ghanti.Siddha/Tamil: Nellichoori.Action: Leaves—an extract is given as an astringent in haemorrhoids and gall stones. Seeds—demulcent; given in diarrhoea and dysentery. Root—prescribed as a mouthwash to cure toothache. A decoction of the herb is used in the treatment of headache.
The weed is rich in calcium and phosphorus; contains beta-sitosterol, ursolic acid and D-mannitol.The plant gave alkaloid borreline, along with beta-sitosterol, ursolic acid and iso-rhamnetin.... spermacoce hispidaHabitat: Forests of the Western and Eastern Ghats.
Ayurvedic: Used as Raaj-Paathaa in the South. (Raaj-Paathaa is also equated with Cyclea arnotii Miers in southern and eastern parts of India).Action: Root—prescribed in skin diseases, pruritus, inflamed piles, internal abscesses, urinary diseases, vomiting, diarrhoea, colic, respiratory disorders and as a cardiotonic.
The plant is rich in alkaloids. Aerial parts gave epi-stephanine (aknadine), hernandifoline, aknadinine and mag- noflorine. Alkaloid aknadine shows significant antispasmodic activity on uterine spasms. Cytotoxic alkaloids include d-and dl-tetrandrine, d-iso- chondrodendrine and fangchinoline. The alkaloid, epi-stephanine (akna- dine) possesses adrenergic neuron blocking activity.... stephania hernandiifoliaSee: INFECTIVE HEPATITIS.
Treatment. To include liver agents: Barberry, Fringe Tree, Balmony or Milk Thistle. ... arthritis – of infective hepatitis
Action: expectorant, diuretic, diaphoretic, emetic. Contains cardiac glycosides. Action similar to strophanthus, digitalis and adonis. General medical practitioner use only.
Uses: cardiac dropsy, pleuritic effusion. Preparations. Liquid Extract: 0.05 to 0.25ml. Tincture: 0.2 to 0.5ml, in water. ... canadian hemp
Action. Photosensitiser, antifungal, tuberculostatic. (Journal of Natural Products 1987, 50(5), pp997-8) Uses. Leucoderma. Vitiligo. Reputed fading of coloured areas of skin. ... cow parsley, himalayan
Minor variations from the mean do not warrant investigation, but if the height of an individual falls below the third centile (3 per cent of normal children have a height that falls below the third centile) or above the 97th centile, investigation is required. Changes in the rate of growth are also important, and skeletal proportions may provide useful information. There are many children who are normal but who are small in relation to their parents; the problem is merely growth delay. These children take longer to reach maturity and there is also a proportional delay in their skeletal maturation – so that the actual height must always be assessed in relation to maturity. The change in skeletal proportions is one manifestation of maturity, but other features include the maturing of facial features with the growth of nose and jaw, and dental development. Maturity of bone can readily be measured by the radiological bone age.
Failure to gain weight is of more signi?cance. Whilst this may be due to some underlying disease, the most common cause is a diet containing inadequate calories (see CALORIE). Over the last six decades or so there has been quite a striking increase in the heights and weights of European children, with manufacturers of children’s clothing, shoes and furniture having to increase the size of their products. Growth is now completed at 20–21 years, compared with 25 at the turn of the century. It has been suggested that this increase, and earlier maturation, have been due to a combination of genetic mixing as a result of population movements, with the whole range of improvement in environmental hygiene – and not merely to better nutrition.
In the case of adults, views have changed in recent years concerning ‘ideal’ weight. Life-insurance statistics have shown that maximal life expectancy is obtained if the average weight at 25–30 years is maintained throughout the rest of life. These insurance statistics also suggest that it is of advantage to be slightly over the average weight before the age of 30 years; to be of average weight after the age of 40; and to be underweight from ages 30–40. In the past it has been usual, in assessing the signi?cance of an adult’s weight, to allow a 10 per cent range on either side of normal for variations in body-build. A closer correlation has been found between thoracic and abdominal measurements and weight.... weight and height
Green drinks are important sources of chlorophyll, vitamins and minerals and are regarded as preventive medicine. ... green health cup
Itchy scalp. Catmint leaves and flowers, Chamomile, Comfrey. ... hair – dry
Causes: hereditary background with deficiency of cell enzymes or cell membrane weakness; wrongly matched blood transfusion, environmental chemicals, food additives, colourings, drugs, infections. Symptoms. Pale face, sore tongue, headache, dizziness, palpitations, breathlessness, angina, weakness, loss of weight and appetite, jaundice (yellow skin), feverishness, vague aches and pains, enlarged spleen and pain under left ribs.
Treatment. Under hospital supervision.
Echinacea has a long reputation for regeneration of red blood cells: experience shows it beneficial for this type of anaemia. To assist control of symptoms: Gentian, Motherwort, Mugwort, Barberry, Hops, Saw Palmetto.
Bitter herbs stimulate the stomach, liver and pancreas. By increasing the appetite they benefit digestion and are given half an hour before meals by tea or decoction: Hops, Quassia chips, Angostura, Feverfew, Bogbean.
Formula. Tea. Milk Thistle 2; Betony 1; Hops 1. Mix. 1-2 teaspoon to each cup boiling water. Infuse 5-15 minutes. 1 cup, thrice daily.
Decoction. Echinacea 1; Sarsaparilla 1; Peruvian bark half; Saw Palmetto half. Mix. 2 teaspoons to 2 cups water, simmer gently 20 minutes. Half a cup, cold, thrice daily before meals.
For weak heart add one part Hawthorn; neurasthenia (Ginkgo); swelling of ankles (Lily of the Valley); loss of hormonal balance (Ginseng).
Prognosis. Surgical removal of spleen may be necessary.
Diet. Dandelion coffee, molasses, desiccated or fresh calves’ liver. Green leafy vegetables, dried beans, apricots. Shellfish, milk, eggs, Soya, meats. Supplements. Daily. Vitamin B12 1mg; Vitamin C, 1g; Folic acid 400mcg; Floradix. ... anaemia: haemolytic
Digestive tract: Marigold, Comfrey, Bur-Marigold, Matico, Shepherd’s Purse, Holy Thistle, American Cranesbill, Goldenseal.
Anal/Rectal: Pilewort, Plantain, Matico, Rhatany root, Witch Hazel.
Mouth: Tormentil.
Nose-bleeds: Nettles.
Uterus. Shepherd’s Purse, Ladies Mantle, Greater Periwinkle, Beth root, Avens, Goldenseal. Urinary system. Bistort, Plantain, Marigold, Stone root, Horsetail, Bur-Marigold.
Lungs. Bugleweed, Elecampane, Lungwort.
Colon. Greater Burnet, Matico, Comfrey, Bistort, Wild Yam, Holy Thistle, Avens, Tormentil. Capillary haemorrhage. Buckwheat. ... anti-haemorrhagics
Tablets/capsules. Ginseng, Hawthorn, Motherwort.
Formula. Ginseng, Hawthorn, Mistletoe, Motherwort. Equal parts. Dose: Powders: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Thrice daily in water. Practitioner. Tincture Arnica: 1-3 drops in honey, once or twice daily.
First-aid on the track. Ginseng. Arnica.
Diet. See DIET – HEART AND CIRCULATION.
Supplements. Vitamin E (500-1000iu daily), Chromium, Magnesium, Potassium, Selenium. ... athlete’s heart
Keynote: kidneys. Part used: pods without beans.
Action: hypotensive, diuretic, anti-diabetic, resolvent, glycaemic – to regulate blood sugar.
Uses: Water retention. Albuminuria (proteinuria), especially of pregnancy. Oedema of cardiac origin. Premenstrual tension. Diabetes mellitus. Hyperinsulinism. To induce loss of weight. Swollen legs and ankles. Hypoglycaemia. Sometimes given in combination with Bladderwrack.
Preparations: Capt Frank Roberts Bean Cure. 40 grams of the dried herb soaked for 6 hours in 750ml (1 and a half pints) cold water. Boil, half an hour. Drink all over 1-2 days for water retention.
Roasted beans: nutritious coffee substitute.
French bean water (after cooking beans without salt) used traditionally in France for a soaked-lint compress for leg ulcer.
Powder. Capsules, 200mg. Dose: 8 capsules: 2 in morning, 3 at midday, 3 in the evening, at beginning of meals. (Arkocaps) ... bean husks
Topical. Massage scalp with creams or lotions of Jojoba, Aloe Vera, or wash with strong teas made from Burdock, Sage, Elder leaves, Walnut leaves or Nettles. Apple Cider vinegar.
Aromatherapy. 2 drops each: Sage, Nettles, Thyme to two teaspoons Gin, Vodka or strong spirit. Massage into scalp daily.
Supplements. Biotin, a growth factor, seems to slow down hair loss and is a substitute for oestrogen in a penetrating cream applied to the scalp. Inositol 300mg; Zinc 15mg, daily. ... hair falling
Supplements: PABA, Vitamin B-complex, Kelp, Selenium, Zinc. ... hair – greying
HAKIMS. A group of herbal therapists, usually Indian or Muslim, who practise the Ayurvedic system of medicine. See: AYURVEDIC.
HALFA SUDANI. Sudanese grass. Hamareb. Traditional reputation in Egypt and the Sudan for breaking- up gravel and stone. Due to high salt content in soil and water, gravel is a common native affliction.
Tea: whole plant: 1oz to 1 pint water simmered 5 minutes. 1 cup freely until all is taken during the day. Continue until positive results ensue. ... hair – surplus
Publications include: Hamdard Pharmacopoeia of Eastern Medicine; Greco-Arabian Concepts of Cardio-vascular Disease; Avicenna’s Tract of Cardiac Drugs and Essays on Arab Cardiotherapy. Scientific journal: Hamdard Medicus – informative articles by world authorities. Hamdard Foundation, Nazimabad, Karachi-18, Pakistan. ... hamdard national foundation, pakistan
The BHMA is recognised by the Medicines Control Agency as the official representative of the profession and the trade. Its objects are (a) to defend the right of the public to choose herbal remedies and be able to obtain them; (b) to foster research in herbal medicine and establish standards of safety which are a safeguard to the user; (c) to encourage the dissemination of knowledge about herbal remedies, and (d) do everything possible to advance the science and practice of herbal medicine, and to further recognition at all levels.
Membership is open to all interested in the future of herbal medicine, including herbal practitioners, herbal retailers, health food stores, wholesalers, importers, manufacturers, pharmacists, doctors and research workers.
The BHMA produces the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia. Its Scientific Committee is made up of senior herbal practitioners, university pharmacologists and pharmacognosists. Other publications include: BHMA Advertising Code (1978), Medicines Act Advertising guidelines (1979), the Herbal Practitioner’s Guide to the Medicine’s Act (F. Fletcher Hyde), and miscellaneous leaflets on ‘Herbs and Their Uses’.
The BHMA does not train students for examination but works in close co-operation with the National Institute of Medical Herbalists, and with the European Scientific Co-operative on Phytotherapy.
Chairmen since its inception: Frank Power, 1964-1969; Fred Fletcher-Hyde, 1969-1977; Hugh Mitchell 1977-1986; James Chappelle 1986-1990; Victor Perfitt 1990-.
During the years the association has secured important advantages for its membership, particularly continuity of sale of herbal medicines in health food shops. It continues to maintain vigilance in matterss British and European as they affect manufacturing, wholesaling, retailing, prescribing and dispensing.
See: BRITISH HERBAL PHARMACOPOEIA and BRITISH HERBAL COMPENDIUM. ... british herbal medicine association
Sheila E. Drew BPharm PhD MRPharms. Deputy Head of Technical Services, William Ransom & Son plc.
Fred Fletcher-Hyde BSc FNIMH. President Emeritus, British Herbal Medicine Association. President Emeritus, National Institute of Medical Herbalists.
Simon Y. Mills MA FNIMH. Director, Centre for Complementary Health Studies, University of Exeter. Hugh W. Mitchell MNIMH (Hon). President, British Herbal Medicine Association. Managing Director, Mitchfield Botanics Ltd.
Edward J. Shellard BPharm PhD DSc(Hon) (Warsaw Medical Academy) FRPharmS CChem FRSC FLS. Emeritus Professor of Pharmacognosy, University of London.
Arnold Webster CChem MRSC. Technical Director, English Grains Ltd.
Peter Wetton BSc LRSC. G.R. Lane Health Products Ltd.
Hein Zeylstra FNIMH. Principal. School of Phytotherapy, Sussex. ... british herbal medicine association, scientific committee, 1995
Alternatives. Teas. Betony, Burdock, Elderflowers, German Chamomile, Hops, Gotu Kola, Mullein, Plantain, Red Clover, Valerian.
Tea formula. Equal parts, Mullein, Red Clover, Valerian. Mix. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes; 1 cup thrice daily.
Tablets/capsules. Blue Flag, Dandelion, Devil’s Claw, Echinacea, Poke root, Red Clover, Seaweed and Sarsaparilla, Valerian.
Powders. Formula. Equal parts: Burdock root, Dandelion root, Valerian root. Two 00 capsules or one- third teaspoon thrice daily, (500mg).
Liquid extracts or tinctures. Formula. Chickweed 10ml; Poke root 5ml; Meadowsweet 10ml; Valerian 10ml. Dose: liquid extracts, one 5ml teaspoon; tinctures, two 5ml teaspoons. Thrice daily in water. Topical. Apply dilute Tea Tree oil 3-4 times daily. Witch Hazel, Aloe Vera, Vitamin E cream, Evening Primrose oil, or Marshmallow and Slippery Elm ointment. Bran bath.
Diet. Gluten-free.
DERMATITIS, LIGHT. Photo dermatitis. Reddening and blistering of the skin on exposure to sunlight.
See: SUNBURN. ... dermatitis, herpetiformis
Oily skin: Witch Hazel cream, cleansing milk or skin freshener.
To maintain healthy skin: Cucumber cleansing cream, or milk; Marigold cream.
Formula: Almond oil 2; Apricot kernel oil 1; Beeswax 1. Dissolve in a pan in gentle heat; pour into pots. To soothe chapped hands, wind burn, and for general kitchen use. ... hand cream
Constituents: flavonoids, tannins, mucilage.
Action: spleen and liver astringent, pectoral, laxative, diuretic. Uses. Disorders of liver and spleen BHP (1983). Gravel.
Combines well with Fringe Tree BHP (1983).
Preparations: Average dose 2-4g. Thrice daily.
Tea. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup of boiling water; infuse 15 minutes; dose half-1 cup. Liquid extract. Half-1 teaspoon in water.
Tincture BHP (1983) 1:5 in 45 per cent alcohol; dose 2-6ml. ... hart’s tongue
Unsaturated fatty acids, as in vegetable oils, should replace animal fats (saturated fatty acids) that increase deposits of cholesterol on the inner coat of arteries and encourage hardening. Vegetable oils contain lecithin – a homogeniser which thins and separates the cholesterol, sweeping it along through the bloodstream and preventing deposits to form on walls of the arteries.
A study on the European population has shown a strong link between oily fish consumption and a reduced risk of heart disease. Populations that eat a lot of fish, such as Greenland Eskimos (about 400g a day) and Japanese fishermen (about 200g a day) have low rates of heart disease.
Another study, by the Leiden University of the Netherlands, has found that men who ate more than 30g of fish per day were less than half as likely to die from coronary heart disease as those who ate no fish. A diet high in fish lowers plasma cholesterol, triglyceride and very low density lipoprotein levels and is of value in the treatment of hyperlipidaemia (abnormally high concentration of fats in the blood).
Indicated: Magnesium-containing foods, lecithin, Evening Primrose oil for gamma linoleic acid which is converted into prostaglandin E1 in the body and helps reduce high blood pressure and prevents platelet clumping. Coffee carries a risk factor and should be taken sparingly – alternatives: herbal teas Rutin, Lime flowers and others as available in bulk or tea-bags. Green grapes.
Supplements, daily: Vitamin C 1g; Vitamin E 400iu; Magnesium 300mg – 450mg for pregnant women and nursing mothers. Iodine. Chromium, Selenium. Garlic tablets/capsules – 2-3 at night.
Flora margarine is high in essential polyunsaturated fats – made from sunflower seed oil. Hay diet: good results reported. ... diet - heart and circulation
Every cardiac prescription for this condition should include a gentle diuretic to assist kidney function. The kidneys should be borne in mind, the most appropriate diuretic being Dandelion which would also make good any potassium loss. ... heart – fibrous degeneration
Fibre-deficient foods lead to poor elimination of body wastes and constipation, disposing the colon to a toxic state. This induces depression, a coated tongue and tiredness during the day. Such foods bring about a change in the balance of bowel bacterial flora, and form gas which may cause pouches of diverticulitis to develop. One of its less obvious effects is to enhance the risk of tooth and gum disease. Soon calcium is expelled by the urine and the intake of magnesium reduced, thus favouring the development of stone.
All plant material; leaves, stalks, seeds etc contain fibre. High-fibre foods include: whole grains, wholemeal bread, wholemeal flour (100 per cent extraction rate), crispbreads, biscuits (digestive, bran, oatmeal or coconut), raw green salad materials, potatoes boiled in their jackets, breakfast cereals (porridge, muesli, All-Bran, Shredded Wheat), brown rice, bran (2 teaspoons thrice daily; increase if necessary), fresh or dried fruit once or twice daily. ... diet - high fibre
Only roots should be washed soon after lifting, and cut before drying into hardness. In a few cases drying of roots may be assisted by added heat. ... drying herbs
Described as “seems as if my head was bursting, with a flash of light”. Reaction is one of fear and violent heart beat. Attacks unrelated to alcohol or excitement of the previous evening. No circulatory changes in the brain or cerebrospinal fluid are known to cause such a symptom.
Treatment. Cup of one of the following teas at bedtime: Buckwheat, Yarrow, Hawthorn flowers, Skullcap, Oats. Morning and evening: one 500mg Evening Primrose capsule; one 400iu Vitamin E capsule.
Diet: low-salt. Cholesterol-rich foods should be kept to a minimum. ... exploding head synrome (ehs)
Hyde organised the fight for the survival of herbal medicine endangered by the Medicines Bill and was able to modify some clauses that would have put an end to herbal medicine under the Medicines Act, 1968. The BHP is indebted to his expertise and clinical experience. As a consultant and teacher he inspired many students and practitioners. A Doctorate of Botanic Medicine was conferred on him by the School of Botanic Medicine, London. ... fletcher-hyde, frederick
Treatment. Purpose of medication is to stimulate flow of bile and support the liver.
Arthur Hyde, MNIMH recommends a selection from the following according to individual case: Balmony, Barberry, Dandelion, Goldenseal, Hops, Ladyslipper, Mistletoe, Passion flower, Stone root. Tinctures. Formula. Marigold 2; Barberry 2; Ginkgo 1. Dose: 2 drops in feed, or in water, thrice daily. Infants 3-5 years: 10 drops.
To be treated by or in liaison with a qualified medical practitioner. ... haemolytic disease of infants
Action: urinary antiseptic, diuretic, anti-rheumatic.
Uses: Cystitis, urethritis, gravel in the bladder, gout, muscular rheumatism.
Preparations: Average dose: 1-2 grams. Thrice daily.
Tea: half-1 teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes.
Liquid Extract BHP (1983) 1:1 in 25 per cent alcohol. Dose: 15-30 drops (1-2ml). ... heather flowers
Onset: diarrhoea with streaks of blood, vomiting, breathlessness, feverishness, dizziness, jaundice and enlargement of the spleen.
Other causes may be mismatched food transfusion, environmental chemicals, nitrite food preservatives and analgesic drugs.
Alternatives. Tea. Combine herbs: Red Clover (to increase platelets) 3; Yarrow (kidneys) 2; Hops (cerebrospinal supportive) 1. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup freely.
Formula: Combine, Tinctures. Red Clover 2; Fringe Tree 1; Hops half. Dose: one 5ml teaspoon. Babies: 2 drops in feed; infants 3-5 years 10 drops in water and honey thrice daily.
Supplementation. Vitamin B-complex. C.
To be treated by or in liaison with a qualified medical practitioner. ... haemolytic-uraemia syndrome (hus)
Far in advance of his time in preventive medicine, he denounced the hazardous treatments of his day thus arousing the animosity of his contemporaries. His major work, “The Organon” is the homoeopathist’s bible to this day. “Cinchona bark was to Hahnemann what the falling apple was to Newton and the swinging lamp to Galileo.” See: HOMOEOPATHY. ... hahnemann
An adequate daily intake of essential fatty acids is assured by the golden oils (Sunflower, Corn, etc) which can be well supported by Evening Primrose oil capsules.
Internal: Bamboo gum. Nettle tea, Alfalfa, Horsetail, Soya.
Topical. Shampoo. Soapwort or Yucca. Chop 2 tablespoons (dry) or 1 tablespoon (fresh) leaves or root. Place in cup of warm water. Stir until a froth is produced. Decant and massage liquor into scalp.
Aloe Vera gel is noted for its moisturising effect and to provide nutrients. It may be used as a shampoo, hair set and conditioner. Jojoba oil has been used for centuries by the Mexican Indians for a healthy scalp; today, it is combined with Evening Primrose and Vitamin E with good effect. Olive oil stimulates strong growth.
One of several herbs may be used as a rinse, including Nettles, Rosemary, Southernwood, Fennel, Chamomile, Yellow Dock and Quassia. Hair should be washed not more than once weekly with warm water and simple vegetable soap; rinse four times with warm rinse, finishing off with cold. Brunettes should add a little vinegar; blondes, lemon juice. Selenium once had a reputation as a hair conditioner; recent research confirms. Selenium shampoos are available.
Supplements: Vitamins B (complex), B6, Choline, C and E. Copper, Zinc, Selenium, Vitamin B12 (50mg thrice daily).
Aromatherapy. 2 drops each: Sage, Nettles, Thyme; to 2 teaspoons Gin or Vodka, and massage into the scalp daily. ... hair care
Action: haemostatic, astringent, anti-diarrhoeic, styptic, anti-diabetic.
Uses: Bleeding throughout the gastro-intestinal tract. Bleeding from nose, mouth, throat.
Irritable bowel. As a cleansing wash for discharging ulcers.
Preparations: Tea: 1oz to 1 pint boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup freely. Poultice: rheumatism. ... herb robert
Causes: hormone deficiency (Agnus Castus) in females, where it may be associated with failing thyroid or ovarian function. In such cases, other agents include: Helonias, Motherwort, Black Haw bark. Other causes may be pregnancy, the menopause, or simply discontinuing The Pill. Certain skin diseases predispose: ringworm (Thuja), eczema (Yellow Dock), from thyroid disorder (Kelp, Blue Flag root).
Exposure to some cosmetics, excessive sunlight, strong chemicals and treatment of cancer with cytotoxic drugs may interfere with nutrition of the hair follicles. To ensure a healthy scalp a correct mineral balance is essential calling for supplementation of the diet with vitamins, selenium, zinc and silica. Yellow Dock is believed to counter toxicity of chemicals; Pleurisy root opens the pores to promote sweat and action of surface capillaries.
Baldness sometimes happens suddenly; eye-lashes or beard may be affected. Though emotional stress and a run-down condition is a frequent cause, most cases are not permanent, returning to normal with adequate treatment.
Baldness of the eyebrows alerts us to a lowered function of the thyroid gland, being an early outward sign of myxoedema. A pony-tail hair style or the wearing of a crash helmet may cause what is known as traction alopecia. Heavy coffee drinkers invariably lose hair lustre.
Soviet Research favours silica-rich plants internally and as a lotion: Horsetail, Burdock, Nettles, Bamboo gum.
Growth of hair is assisted by improving surface circulation of the scalp which is beneficial for conveying nutrients to the hair roots and facilitating drainage. Herbal vasodilators stimulate hair follicle nutrition and encourage growth: Cayenne, Pleurisy root, Black Cohosh and Prickly Ash, taken internally. A convenient way of taking Cayenne is the use of a pepper-shaker at table.
Topical. Hair rinse. 2-3 times weekly. Infusion: equal parts Yarrow, Sage and Rosemary. 1oz (30g) to 1 pint (500ml) water. Simmer gently five minutes. Allow to cool. Strain before use.
Cider vinegar – minimal success reported.
Day lotion. Liquid Extract Jaborandi half an ounce; Tincture Cantharides half an ounce; Oil Jojoba to 4oz. Shake well before use.
Oily lotion. Equal parts Olive and Eucalyptus oils.
Bay Rhum Lotion. Oil of Bay 50 drops; Olive oil half an ounce; Rum (Jamaica or other) to 4oz. Shake well before use.
Oil Rosemary: rub into hair roots.
Russian Traditional. Castor oil half an ounce; Almond oil 1oz; Oil Geranium 15 drops; Vodka to 6oz. Rub into hair roots.
Aromatherapy. To 1oz Castor oil and 1oz Olive oil add, 10 drops each – Oils Neroli, Lavender and Rosemary.
Gentian plant extract. Japanese scalp massage with extract from roots to thicken thinning hair. Some success reported.
Supplements. B-vitamins, Kelp, Silicea Biochemic salt. Zinc. Low levels of iron and zinc can cause the condition.
Note: Studies show that male occipital baldness confers a risk of heart disease, being associated with a higher total cholesterol and diastolic blood pressure than men with a full head of hair. Frontal baldness has not been found to be associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease and myocardial infarct. “It seems prudent for bald men to be specially vigorous in controlling risk factors for such conditions.” (S.M. Lesko, Journal of the American Medical Association, Feb 24, 1993, 269: 998-1003) ... hair loss
Cause: a virus spread by field mice, rats and other rodents. Incubation period: 2-3 weeks.
Symptoms: fever, headache, backache, severe nervous prostration, low blood pressure, red patches on skin, failure of kidneys, high protein levels in urine. Small red or purple spots indicate bleeding beneath the skin.
Treatment. Traditional. Ayurvedic:– Gotu Kola, Juniper. Dr Mattiolus regards Juniper as a preventative of the pestilence.
To be treated by or in liaison with a qualified medical practitioner. HARPAGOPHYTUM. See: DEVIL’S CLAW. ... hantaan virus
Herbs should be collected in dry weather after the dew has lifted. Where not possible to cull by hand, a sharp knife or scythe should be used. In general, aerial parts should be gathered before flowering. Rhizomes and roots are gathered in the autumn when the leaves decline for maximum therapeutic action. Wash and clean roots, and ensure they do not touch when drying. Flowers are picked just before breaking into full bloom. Barks and twigs are collected in the spring when the sap is rising.
Spread out fresh material to dry in a thin layer, without delay. Use trays, wire racks, even lengths of string netting. Packed into bundles without circulation of air encourages bruising, fermentation and mould that destroy medicinal properties.
Almost any shed can be adapted as a drying shed, provided there is adequate ventilation. Artificial heat may be required for complete drying. Leaves should not be dried to the point where they powder when rubbed between the palms. Most herbs and roots lose about four-fifths of their weight on drying. When the hand is plunged into a bag of well-dried herbs they should feel warm and crisp to the touch. Roots are dried to the point of brittleness, breaking easily.
Present-day growers achieve high standards of drying. Since passage of the Medicine’s Act, 1968, the quality of herbs on sale has been good. Dried herbs should be stored away from direct sunlight, or they will lose their colour and efficacy. ... harvesting of herbs
See separate entry for migraine.
As indicated: relaxants, antispasmodics, hepatics (liver agents), laxatives. BHP (1983) recommends: Betony, Hops, St John’s Wort, Yerba Mate, Catmint, Passion flower, Jamaican Dogwood, Pulsatilla, Rosemary. A diuretic may release excess body fluid and surprisingly relieve headache as in pre-menstrual tension.
Frontal headache: Agnus Castus.
From eyestrain: Rue, Witch Hazel.
After heavy physical work: Ginseng.
Neuralgia of the skull: Gelsemium.
Low blood pressure: Gentian.
High blood pressure: Lime flowers.
Depressive conditions: Cola.
Pain, back of the head: Oats, Ladyslipper.
Pre-menstrual: Cramp bark, Agnus Castus.
Excess mental exertion: Rosemary.
Following anger: Sumbul.
In children: see CHILDREN’S COMPLAINTS.
Pain, top of head: Pulsatilla, Cactus.
Throbbing headache: Chamomile.
Sick headache: Blue Flag.
Tension headache: Skullcap, Betony, Passion flower.
Cluster headache, associated with shingles: Vervain, Skullcap.
Menstrual headache: see entry: MENSTRUAL HEADACHE.
Alternatives. Tea. Combine equal parts: Skullcap, Betony, Chamomile. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup when necessary.
Decoction. Combine equal parts: Valerian, Blue Flag, Barberry bark. 1 teaspoon to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup whens necessary.
Tablets/capsules. Blue Flag, Valerian, Chamomile, Passion flower.
Powders. Formula. Equal parts: Skullcap, Rosemary, Valerian. 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon) when necessary.
Tinctures. Combine equal parts: Mistletoe, Valerian, Skullcap. One to two teaspoons in water every 3 hours as necessary.
Tincture Rosemary. 15-30 drops in water as necessary.
Practitioner. Tincture Gelsemium 5 drops to 100ml water (half cup) – 1 teaspoon hourly.
Traditional combination: Skullcap, Valerian, Mistletoe.
Topical. Hot footbaths. Cold compress to head.
Aromatherapy. Anoint forehead with few drops: Lavender, Chamomile, Rosemary, Mint, Balm, or Tiger Balm essential oils.
Diet. Low fat. Low salt. Avoid meats preserved in sodium nitrite (bacon, ham, red meats, etc). Supplementation. Vitamins A, B-complex, B6 (50mg), B12, C (up to 1 gram), E (up to 1000iu). Magnesium, Zinc. ... headache, common
Adults and elderly: two 5ml teaspoons thrice daily. Children over 5: one 5ml teaspoon thrice daily.
Expectorant and demulcent to soothe irritable cough. (Potter’s, UK) ... horehound and aniseed
Financial advantages to members include earning profit-sharing discounts: suppliers are relieved of the burden of collecting separate accounts and benefit from having their products approved by the retailers own organisation. Its meetings are a focal point for reporting on up-to-date research and protecting the public interest. Address: Queen’s Road, Nottingham NG2 3AS. ... health stores (wholesale) ltd
While cure is not possible, atheroma may be arrested by a cup of herbal tea: Hawthorn blossoms, Motherwort, Horsetail: single or in combination. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-15 minutes; 1-2 cups daily.
Formula. Hawthorn 2; Ginkgo 2; Horsetail 1; Ginger quarter. Dose. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Twice daily: morning and evening in water or honey.
Diet. See: DIET – HEART AND CIRCULATION. Few grains of Cayenne pepper as seasoning on food once daily.
Stop smoking. ... heart – degeneration, in the elderly
Alternatives. Seldom necessary. Prolonged pressure with the finger against the source of the bleeding usually suffices. Insert tampon saturated with Witch Hazel water. Marigold or Yarrow tea.
Internal. Two Cranesbill tablets every 15 minutes. Raspberry leaf or Ladies Mantle tea. Topical. Douche – Raspberry leaf infusion. ... hymenal bleeding
HYPERGLYCAEMIA. See: DIABETES. To reduce sugar in blood – Guar gum. HYPERHIDROSIS. Excessive sweating. See: PERSPIRATION. ... hypergalactia
For serious cases requiring medication: Lobelia, Gelsemium. A cup of Lime flower tea may reduce the breathing rate.
Elecampane decoction: good results reported.
Supportive: instruct patient to swallow when exhaling. Magnesium supplementation. ... hyperventilation (hv)
(1) Arises from the exertions of professional athletes. Extra strain enlarges the heart and calls for compensation. Other causes: high blood pressure and diseased valves.
(2) From anaemia, thyroid disorder, or extra strain demanded by fever. Thin walls always lead to heart weakness, robbing the organ of its maximum power.
Treatment. When compensation is delayed cardiac supportives include Bugleweed (American) to increase force of contractions of the heart and reduce the rate BHP (1983).
Right ventricular enlargement – Stone root.
Left ventricular enlargement – Lily of the Valley.
Both remedies have the advantage of being diuretics, thus aiding elimination of excess fluids.
Diet. See: DIET – HEART AND CIRCULATION. ... heart – enlargement
Alternatives. Teas: Balm, Motherwort, Hawthorn flowers or leaves. Tablets: Hawthorn, Motherwort, Mistletoe, Valerian.
Tincture Lily of the Valley: 8-15 drops when necessary.
Broom: Spartiol drops. (Klein) 20 drops thrice daily.
Broom decoction. 1oz to 1 pint water gently simmered 10 minutes. 1 cup morning and evening. ... heart – extra beats
Alternatives. Teas. Alfalfa, Clivers, Yarrow, Motherwort.
Tablets/capsules. Poke root, Kelp, Motherwort.
Formula. Equal parts: Bladderwrack, Motherwort, Aniseed, Dandelion. Dose. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons in water thrice daily. Black Cohosh. Introduced into the medical world in 1831 when members of the North American Eclectic School of physicians effectively treated cases of fatty heart.
Diet. Vegetarian protein foods, high-fibre, whole grains, seed sprouts, lecithin, soya products, low-fat yoghurt, plenty of raw fruit and vegetables, unrefined carbohydrates. Oily fish: see entry. Dandelion coffee. Reject: alcohol, coffee, salt, sugar, fried foods, all dairy products except yoghurt.
Supplements. Daily. Broad-spectrum multivitamin including Vitamins A, B-complex, B3, B6, C (with bioflavonoids), E, Selenium. ... heart – fatty degeneration
Failure of the left ventricle may occur in cases of pericarditis, disease of the aortic valve, nephritis or high blood pressure.
Left ventricular failure is often of sudden onset, urgent, and may manifest as “cardiac asthma”.
Causes: blood clot, anaemia, thyroid disorder, coronary disease, congenital effects, drug therapy (beta blockers, etc), and to fevers that make heavy demands on the left ventricle.
Symptoms: breathlessness, wheezing, sweating, unproductive cough, faintness, bleeding from the lungs, palpitation. Cardiac asthma at night: feels he needs air; better upright than lying flat. Exertion soon tires. Sensation as if heart would stop. Blueness of lips and ears from hold-up in circulation of the blood through the lungs. Frequent chest colds. Awakes gasping for breath. Always tired. Cold hands and feet. Symptoms abate as compensation takes place. ‘Cream and roses’ complexion. The failure of left ventricle soon drags into failure of the right ventricle.
Right ventricular failure leads to congestive heart failure, with raised venous pressure in neck veins and body generally, causing oedema, ascites and liver engorgement.
Treatment. Agents to strengthen, support, and eliminate excess fluids from the body. BHP (1983) advises four main remedies: Hawthorn, Motherwort, Broom and Lily of the Valley. The latter works in a digitaloid manner, strengthening the heart, contracting the vessels, and lessening congestion in the lungs. Tinctures. Hawthorn 2; Stone root 1. Lily of the Valley 1. Dose: 15-45 drops thrice daily.
Broom tea. 2 teaspoons flowers, or 2-3 teaspoons tops and flowers, in cup water brought to boil and simmered one minute. 1 cup freely.
To remove fluid retention in the lungs, diuretics are indicated; chief among which is Dandelion root because of its high potassium content to prevent hypokalaemia. Dandelion coffee. As urinary excretion increases, patient improves.
Vitamin E. Not to be taken in left ventricular disorders.
Diet. See entry: DIET – HEART AND CIRCULATION.
UK Research. Researchers found that left ventricular failure was reduced by a quarter when patients were given magnesium intravenously for the first 24 hours after admission to the coronary care unit. They conclude that it should be given before any other heart therapy is commenced, and that patients should receive regular infusions if no other drug treatment is used. (The Lancet, 2.4.1994). This supports the use of magnesium sulphate (Epsom’s salts) by a past generation of herbal practitioners for the condition. ... heart – left ventricular failure (lvf)
Alternatives. Neuralgia of the Heart: Lobelia.
Palpitation with sense of suffocation: Pulsatilla.
From physical exhaustion: Ginseng.
With rapid heart beat: Lily of the Valley, Gelsemium.
Tea. Equal parts, Valerian, Motherwort, Lime flowers. Mix. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water allowed to cool. Drink cold 1 teacup 2 or 3 times daily.
Decoction. Equal parts, Valerian, Hawthorn, Mistletoe. Mix. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup water simmered gently for 20 minutes. 1 teacup 2 or 3 times daily.
Tablets/capsules. Hawthorn, Mistletoe, Motherwort. Valerian. Passion flower. Lobelia.
Formula. Equal parts: Hawthorn, Lily of the Valley, Mistletoe. Dose: Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures 2 teaspoons. Thrice daily.
Practitioner. Formula. Tincture Hawthorn 2; Tincture Gelsemium 1. Dose: 15-30 drops 2-3 times daily. Alternative formula. Tincture Valerian 2; Strophanthus 1. Dose: 15-30 drops thrice daily.
Diet. Oats (oatmeal porridge), low fat, low salt, high fibre. See also: DIET – HEART AND CIRCULATION. ... heart – nervous
Teas: Nettles, Borage, Mate, Figwort, Gotu Kola, Motherwort.
Decoctions: Blach Cohosh, Cramp bark, Hawthorn, Lily of the Valley, White Willow, Sarsaparilla. Any one.
Formula. Combine Black Cohosh root half; White Willow bark 2; Gotu Kola 1; Hawthorn berries 1. 1oz to 1 pint water; bring to boil; simmer gently 15 minutes; strain when cold. Dose: half-1 cup thrice daily, and when necessary.
Ligvites. Guaiacum resin BHP (1983) 40mg; Black Cohosh BHP (1983) 35mg; White Willow bark BHP (1983) 100mg; Extract Sarsaparilla 4:1 25mg; Extract Poplar bark 7:1 17mg. (Gerard House)
Powders. Combine, Hawthorn 1; Cactus 2; Black Cohosh half; White Willow bark 1; with pinch Cayenne. 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon) 2-3 times daily.
White Bryony. Liquid Extract: 15-60 drops, thrice daily. Good results reported.
Colchicum, Tincture. Indicated in presence of gout: Dose: 0.5-2ml in water. (Practitioner use only) Vitamin E. Should not be taken in rheumatic heart disorders.
Diet. See: DIET – HEART AND CIRCULATION. ... heart - rheumatic heart
Mitral disease leads to heart failure either by a narrowing of the orifice (stenosis) or a regurgitation blocks the passage of blood from the left atrium (auricle) to the left ventricle. The left atrium enlarges (hypertrophies) in an effort to counter the impediment. Real compensation – increased thrust of the blood – is provided by the right ventricle. In order to overcome a mitral impediment the right ventricle has to enlarge.
Sooner or later the right ventricle cannot enlarge any further and general heart failure sets in. Though caused primarily by a lesion of the mitral valve, it may be secondary to left ventricular failure (LVF), thyroid disorder (thyrotoxicosis), pericarditis, congenital heart disease, or any disease which weakens ventricular muscle.
Venous congestion and back pressure of RVF leads to congestion and accumulation of fluid in the lungs, cough and spitting of blood, painful swelling of the liver, nausea, loss of appetite and severe wasting.
Where the right ventricle fails to move the blood forward as it arrives from the systemic circulation, generalised dropsy sets in. Congestion of the kidneys leads to reduced urinary excretion and presence of albumin in the urine.
The picture is well known to the cardiac practitioner: blueness of the skin, congestion of the brain circulation with sleeplessness and delirium. Soon the tension of water-logged tissues results in pain and extreme anxiety. Feet are swollen and ankles pit on pressure; chest cavities fill with fluid and the abdomen swells (ascites).
Alternatives. Cardio-tonics would be given to strengthen the ventricle and diuretics to correct fluid retention: Lily of the Valley, Hawthorn, Motherwort, Broom. BHP (1983).
Due to rheumatic fever: Hawthorn.
High Blood Pressure: Mistletoe.
Effort Syndrome: Motherwort.
Tinctures. Combine, Lily of the Valley 2; Hawthorn 2; Motherwort 3. Dose: 1 teaspoon thrice daily after meals.
Diet. Low salt, low fat, high fibre. Restricted fluids, vegetarian protein foods, yoghurt. See also: DIET – HEART AND CIRCULATION.
Supplements. Potassium (bananas), Vitamin B6.
General. Stop smoking. Correction of overweight. Complete bed-rest with legs raised above level of the abdomen and patient propped-up to relieve difficult breathing. ... heart – right ventricular failure (rvf)
Eucalyptus, (R. Benigni et col Planti Medicinali, 1962, vol 1, 562) Reduction of blood sugar by Garlic has been reported. ... hypoglycaemic
Address: Byron House, College Street, Nottingham NG1 5AQ. ... institute of health food retailing
1. Name of the patient.
2. Name and address of the herbal practitioner.
3. Directions for use of the remedy.
4. Liquid preparations for local or topical use to be clearly marked: For external use only.
Statutory Instruments: Medicine (Labelling) Regulations 1976 No. 1726. Medicines (Labelling) Regulations 1977 No. 996. ... labelling of herbal products by a practitioner
Herbal combinations include: Rheumatic Pain tablets No 100: formula:– Guaiacum resin BPC ’49 50.0mg; Capsicum oleoresin BPC 0.6mg; the solid extracts of: Rhubarb (alc 60 per cent 1-4) BPC ’54 15mg; Uva Ursi (Aq 4:10) BPC ’34 12.0mg; Bogbean (Aq 1:4) 30.0mg; Celery seed (Aq l:4) BPC ’49 30.0mg.
Indigestion and Flatulence tablets No 80: formula:– Capsicin BPC ’23 0.25mgm; dried aqueous extract of Skullcap (3-10) BPC ’34 3mgm; Valerian BPC 14mgm; Fennel seed BPC 14mgm; Myrrh BPC 19mgm; Papain BPC ’54 1mgm; Peppermint oil BP 0.0006ml. ... heath and heather, ltd.
Lead disrupts neurotransmitters in the brain and disposes to nervous excitability, aggression and hyperactivity. Aluminium is associated with senile dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, accumulating in the brain. Cadmium induces changes in behaviour with reduced mental ability. Mercury is present in the amalgam used in dental surgery as part-filling for teeth. Arsenical poisoning may occur in food contamination or paints.
An internal chelating or cleansing of tissues of the lungs, urinary system, blood and lymph may be assisted by a combination of relative expectorants, diuretics, hepatics and adaptogens among which are: Barberry, Blue Flag root, Chaparral, Burdock, Echinacea, Red Clover, Yellow Dock. To bind with metals and assist their passage through the intestinal canal to the outside of the body: Irish Moss, Iceland Moss or Slippery Elm. Garlic.
The Medicines Control Agency of the Ministry of Health (UK) has given consideration to the content of heavy metal impurities and rules that a limit of 75 micrograms of total heavy metals shall be the acceptable maximum daily intake.
Licence-holders are required to carry out tests on all incoming material. Some seaweeds may be heavily polluted with mercury, arsenic and radioactive particles as a result of micro-biological contamination. The MCA requires Bladderwrack and other seaweeds to contain minimum levels. ... heavy metal toxicity
Treatment. Same as for acute infectious hepatitis. ... liver – hepatitis a
Constituents: helonin, saponins, chamaelirin.
Action. Powerful uterine tonic. Emmenagogue. Adaptogen. (Simon Mills) Precursor of oestrogen. Anthelmintic, diuretic, emetic.
Uses: Weakness of female reproductive organs. Absent or painful periods. Endometriosis, leucorrhoea, morning sickness, female sterility, inflammation of the Fallopian tubes, vaginitis, pruritus. Symptoms of the menopause: hot flushes, heavy bloated feeling, headache, depression, and to maintain normal fluid balance. Ovarian neuralgia. Spermatorrhoea in the male. Threatened abortion: miscarriage.
Preparations: Thrice daily. Average dose: 1-2g.
Combines well with Beth root. (F. Fletcher Hyde)
Tea. Does not yield its properties to simple infusion.
Decoction. Half-1 teaspoon to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Dose: half-1 cup.
Liquid extract BHC Vol 1. 1:1 in 45 per cent ethanol. Dose: 1-2ml.
Tincture BHC Vol 1. 1:5 in 45 per cent alcohol. Dose: 2-5ml.
Powder. Equal parts Helonias and Beth root: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon).
Popular combination. Tablets/capsules. Powdered Helonias BHP (1983) 120mg; powdered Parsley BHP (1983) 60mg; powdered Black Cohosh BHP (1983) 30mg; powdered extract Raspberry leaves 3:1 – 16.70mg. (Gerard House)
Note: Large doses may cause vomiting. ... helonias
Chinese: Tse-lan. Indian: Allepa.
Constituents: flavonoids, pyrrolizidine alkaloids, sesquiterpene lactones, volatile oil.
Action: anti-tumoral, diuretic, cathartic. Echinacea-effect to enhance immune system.
Uses: Blood impurities. Tumour. Internal use discouraged except by a general medical practitioner. Preparations. Tea: 1 teaspoon to each cup boiling water: infuse 15 minutes. Dose: half a cup, thrice daily.
Liquid Extract: 30-60 drops in water.
Externally as a poultice. HENBANE. See: HYOSCYAMUS. ... hemp agrimony
Since 1542 there have been many attempts to expunge this law from the Statute Book. A formidable attack was launched by the Pharmacy and Medicines Bill, 1941, which was fought so vigorously by a Mr Montgomery and Mrs Hilda Leyel that herbalists won the concession to continue the right to practise. ... henry viii
Practical medical herbalism in Britain received an impetus under the work of Mrs Leyel until the 1968 Medicine’s Act which made this alternative therapy available to all. In 1974 the Society became a registered educational charity and its name changed to The Herb Society. The brand name “Culpeper” was franchised to a private company which continues to trade as the “Culpeper” retail chain of shops.
Today, The Herb Society promotes interest in and knowledge of all aspects of herbs, as well as herbal medicine. Information is available from: The Secretary, The Herb Society, PO Box 599, London SW11 4RW. ... herb society, the
Herbs are soft-stemmed plants that die back in winter. No artificial additives; no cruelty to animals; and no damage to the environment is the ideal in the preparation of herbal remedies.
All herbs are subject to natural variations such as weather, climate and constituents of the soil. In herbal pharmacy products are standardised as carefully as possible under strict laboratory conditions. ... herbs, source of
Treatment: as for LIVER ABSCESS. ... liver – amoebic hepatitis
Address: NHAA – PO Box 65, Kingsgrove, NSW 2208, Australia. Tel: +61(02) 502 2938. ... national herbalist association of australia
(a) The practitioner must supply remedies from premises (apart from a shop) in private practice ‘so as to exclude the public’. He is not permitted to exceed the maximum permitted dose for certain remedies, or to prescribe POM medicines.
(b) The practitioner must exercise his judgement in the presence of the patient, in person, before prescribing treatment for that person alone.
(c) For internal treatment, remedies are subject to a maximum dose restriction. All labels on internal medicines must show clearly the date, correct dosage or daily dosage, and other instructions for use. Medicines should not be within the reach of children.
(d) He may not supply any remedies appearing in Schedule 1. Neither shall he supply any on Schedule 2 (which may not be supplied on demand by retail).
He may supply all remedies included in the General Sales List (Order 2129).
(e) He must observe requirements of Schedule III as regards remedies for internal and external use.
(f) He must notify the Enforcement Authority that he intends to supply from a fixed address (not a shop) remedies listed in Schedule III.
(g) Proper clinical records should be kept, together with records of remedies he uses under Schedule III. The latter shall be available for inspection at any time by the Enforcement Authority.
The practitioner usually makes his own tinctures from ethanol for which registration with the Customs and Excise office is required. Duty is paid, but which may later be reclaimed. Accurate records of its consumption must be kept for official inspection.
Under the Medicines Act 1968 it is unlawful to manufacture or assemble (dispense) medicinal products without an appropriate licence or exemption. The Act provides that any person committing such an offence shall be liable to prosecution.
Herbal treatments differ from person to person. A prescription will be ‘tailored’ according to the clinical needs of the individual, taking into account race as well as age. Physical examination may be necessary to obtain an accurate diagnosis. The herbalist (phytotherapist) will be concerned not only in relieving symptoms but with treating the whole person.
If a person is receiving treatment from a member of the medical profession and who is also taking herbal medicine, he/she should discuss the matter with the doctor, he being responsible for the clinical management of the case.
The practitioner can provide incapacity certificates for illness continuing in excess of four days for those who are employed. It is usual for Form CCAM 1 5/87 to be used as issued on the authority of the Council for Complementary and Alternative medicine.
General practitioners operating under the UK National Health Service may use any alternative or complementary therapy they choose to treat their patients, cost refunded by the NHS. They may either administer herbal or other treatment themselves or, if not trained in medical herbalism can call upon the services of a qualified herbalist. The herbal practitioner must accept that the GP remains in charge of the patient’s clinical management.
See: MEDICINES ACT 1968, LABELLING OF HERBAL PRODUCTS, LICENSING OF HERBAL REMEDIES – EXEMPTIONS FROM. ... herbal practitioner
Causes: eating too fast, carbonated drinks, stomach irritation (hot peppers, vinegars, alcohol). Where persistent, there may be constriction of the lower gullet by early neoplasm caused by drinking piping-hot tea when X-ray and specialist advice should be sought.
Alternatives. Teas. Celery seed. Spearmint. Mustard seed. Fennel seed, Dill seed, Coriander seed, Peppermint. Caraway seed.
Decoction. Blue Cohosh. Black Cohosh. Calamus. Valerian.
Tablets/capsules. Capsicum (Cayenne), Papaya, Peppermint, Cinnamon, Celery seed, Liquorice, Ginger. Old English traditional. 1-2 teaspoons Onion juice every few minutes.
Cinnamon, oil of. 3 drops on sugar. (John Wesley)
Blue Cohosh, or Black Cohosh. 10 drops Tincture in little water, hourly.
Cloves, oil of. 1-2 drops in teaspoon honey.
Wild Yam. Liquid Extract. 15-30 drops in water, every 10 minutes.
Capsicum (Cayenne). Tincture, 3-5 drops in water, hourly.
Cramp Bark. (Muscle relaxant).
Slippery Elm gruel.
Supportives: deep breathing; holding the breath as long as possible. Hot foot bath. Stick a finger in each ear for 20 seconds. ... hiccups
I will use my power to help the sick to the best of my ability and judgement. I will abstain from harming or wronging any man.
I will not give a fatal draught to anyone, even if it is demanded of me, nor will I suggest the giving of the draught. I will give no woman the means of procuring an abortion.
I will be chaste and holy in my life and actions. I will not cut, even for the stone, but I will leave all cutting to the practitioners of the craft.
Whenever I enter a house, I shall help the sick, and never shall I do any harm or injury. I will not indulge in sexual union with the bodies of women or men, whether free or slaves.
Whatever I see or hear, either in my profession or in private, I shall never divulge. All secrets shall be safe with me. If therefore I observe this Oath, may prosperity come to me and may I earn good repute among men through all the ages. If I break the Oath, may I receive the punishment given to all transgressors.” ... hippocrates – oath of
Constituents: Marrubiin, volatile oil, tannins, alkaloids, diterpene alcohols.
Action: stimulating expectorant, mild antispasmodic, sedative, amphoteric, vulnerary, diuretic, stomach and liver bitter tonic.
Uses: Chronic bronchitis, whooping cough, hard cough with little phlegm, common cold, loss of voice, snake bite, dog bite. Chronic gall bladder disease, fevers, malaria, hepatitis, “Yellowness of the eyes”. Combinations. Teas. (1) with Coltsfoot and Hyssop (equal parts) for hard cough. (2) with Lobelia and Iceland Moss for chronic chest complaints.
Preparations: Thrice daily.
Tea. 1 teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Dose: half-1 cup. Liquid extract BHC Vol 1. 1:1, 20 per cent ethanol. Dose: 1-2ml.
Tincture BHC Vol 1. 1:5, 25 per cent ethanol. Dose: 3-6ml.
Horehound ale: wholesome beverage.
Horehound, Hyssop and Honey Mixture.
Traditional English syrup.
Note: Horehound, Horseradish, Coriander, Lettuce and Nettles are the five bitter herbs eaten by the Jews at their Passover feast according to the Old Testament. ... horehound, white
They may be felt in late pregnancy and are sometimes mistaken for labour pains.... braxton hicks’ contractions
Constituents: asparagine, B vitamins, Vitamin C, sinigrin and other glucosinolates, resin.
Action: efficient alternative to Cayenne pepper, Diuretic, urinary antispetic, diaphoretic, carminative; liver, spleen and pancreatic stimulant. Bacteriostatic action on Gram-negative bacilli. (Rudat K.D. (1957) Journal Hyg. Epidem. Microbiol. Immunol. Prague 1213)
To raise vital force in the elderly. Antibiotic. Circulatory stimulant with warming effect. Digestive aid. Anti-thyroid.
Uses: Feeble circulation, hypothermia, hyperthyroidism, frostbite, chilblains, absence of stomach acid in the elderly, dropsy following fevers, proteinuria (albuminuria), to arrest vaginal discharge. Hoarseness (1 teaspoon juice in honey). Rheumatic joints (poultice). Common cold, influenza and early stages of fever: cup of Horse Radish tea every 2-3 hours. Combine with Juniper berries (equal parts) for dropsy and kidney stone. Purulent wounds: cold decoction used as a lotion.
Preparations: Average dose: 1-2 grams; thrice daily.
Tea: 1 teaspoon grated fresh root in each cup boiling water; infuse 20 minutes. Half-1 cup in sips, freely. Horse Radish vinegar. 1oz scraped fresh root to 1 pint cider vinegar. 1-2 teaspoons in water for catarrh, sinusitis, poor circulation or as a male tonic.
Steeping slices of the fresh root in cider produces a copious discharge of urine in dropsy.
Tablets, Blackmore’s Labs: Horse Radish powder 350mg; Dolomite 140mg; Gum Acacia 20mg; Magnesium stearate 10mg.
Diet: Mayonnaise: whip double cream until stiff and fold in fresh grated root, flaked almonds, lemon juice and seasoning, with a little Paprika.
Note: One of the five bitter herbs eaten by the Jews during the Passover Festival. ... horse radish
Child abuse may take the form of physical injury, sexual abuse, emotional mistreatment, and/or neglect; it occurs at all levels of society.
Being deprived or ill-treated in childhood may predispose people to repeat the pattern of abuse with their own children.
Children who are abused or at risk of abuse may be placed in care while the health and social services decide on the best course of action.... they generally heal without treatment child abuse
These drugs suppress ovulation and make cervical mucus thick and impenetrable to sperm.
They also cause thinning of the endometrium (lining of the uterus), which reduces the chance of a fertilized egg implanting successfully.
The best-known form of hormonal contraception is the contraceptive pill (see oral contraceptives).
The hormones can also be given as contraceptive implants under the skin, by injection (see contraceptives, injectable), or be released by IUDs.... contraception, hormonal methods of
The Hoxsey Cancer Clinic was founded in Dallas, which became a mecca for the herbal treatment of that disease. However, he received such persecution from the American Medical Association that he was persuaded to sign a contract transferring to them his herbal formulae, medicines and ointments, and to abandon his practice. This he did in good faith but the opposition continued. Worn out by long prison sentences for practising medicine without a licence, he died a broken man.
Though it is still illegal to offer the Hoxsey treatment in the United States, his main formula is still used by individuals left to their own resources.
Formula. Liquid Medicine: Red Clover, Burdock root, Queen’s Delight root, Barberry root, Liquorice, Poke root, Cascara sagrada, Potassium iodide, Prickly Ash bark, Buckthorn powder.
Pills: Red Clover, Queen’s Delight root, Poke root, Buckthorn, Pepsin.
A popular version revised by Paul Bergner, American Medical Herbalist reads: Liquorice 4 parts; Red
Clover 4 parts; Burdock 2 parts; Queen’s Delight 2 parts; Mountain Grape 2 parts; Poke root 2 parts; Prickly Ash bark 1 part; Frangula bark 1 part. (P. Bergner, ‘Botanic Medicine: Alterative Medicine’. Townsend Letter for Doctors, Nov. 1988, No 64, p487-8) ... hoxsey
Action. Anti-infective against Coxsackie virus. Immune stimulant. Antiviral.
Uses: Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). Upper respiratory infection. For increased white blood cell count, improved sleep habits and to stimulate appetite in patients receiving chemotherapy and radiation. (American Health 1989 8th Oct. –100) To increase production of interferon. Gastric ulcer therapy. Influenza. The common cold. To combat Coxsackie B myocarditis. Of value for incontinence and frequency of urine. Inhibits HIV-1 replication in cells acutely or chronically infected.
Preparation. Decoction. Dried root: 2 teaspoons to each cup of water simmered gently 20 minutes. Half- 1 cup thrice daily. ... huang qi
Differential diagnosis: arterio-sclerosis, Sydenham’s chorea.
Action. Emotional instability ranging from apathy to irritability. Complicated by menstrual problems (Motherwort, Helonias, Black Cohosh). Regresses into dementia. No cure possible, but anti-convulsants may reduce contortions and restlessness. Institutional care may be necessary. Scientists claim the gene that causes Huntingdon’s disease has been identified.
Alternatives. Of Therapeutic Value. Betony, Black Cohosh, Chamomile (German), Cramp bark, Helonias, Ladyslipper, Motherwort, Oats, Passion flower, Sarsaparilla, Skullcap, Valerian, Feverfew. Tablets/capsules. Motherwort, Passion flower, Skullcap, Valerian.
Formula. Combine: equal parts, Black Cohosh, Mistletoe, Helonias. Dose: Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extract: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Thrice daily in water or honey.
Traditional, UK. Combine equal parts, Skullcap, Valerian, Mistletoe. 1oz (30g) to 1 pint (500ml) water; bring to boil; remove vessel when boiling point is reached. Dose: half-1 cup thrice daily.
Diet. Lacto-vegetarian. Yoghurt. Low salt. Oatmeal porridge, Muesli, regular raw food days. Supplements. Vitamin B-complex, Vitamin B6, Kelp, Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc.
Note: It would appear the Ginkgo would be an object of scientific study for the complaint. Treatment by or in liaison with general medical practitioner only. ... huntingdon’s chorea
Treatment. Aspiration or surgery. Pulsatilla is a key remedy. Ellingwood recommends Thuja. Poke root. Pulsatilla: tablets, tincture. Liquid Extract: thrice daily.
Thuja. Tea, liquid extract or tincture. See entry.
Poke root. Tablets, Decoction, liquid extract or tincture. See entry.
Supportives: cold hip bath. Attention to bowels; a laxative may relieve pressure. ... gsl hydrocele
When elimination of body wastes is held up by a chronically-overloaded bowel general health may suffer. A constipated colon, with accumulations of hard faeces, obstructs peristalsis and loses its ability to evacuate effectively. Toxaemia follows, with gross interference of digestion of food.
As contents putrefy, toxins are re-absorbed, poisoning the blood. Such self-induced disease may lie at the root of sluggish liver function, skin disease, blood pressure, and aches in muscles similating rheumatism.
To clean out a clogged colon, injection of a herbal tea into the rectum not only proves effective but brings about a healthful purgation and release from tension. 2-3oz herb is brought to the boil in 1 gallon water, simmered for one minute, and allowed to cool. The tea is strained when warm and injected.
Enema herbs include: Soapwort, Chamomile, Marshmallow, Catmint, Raspberry leaves, Chickweed. Alternative: 20-30 drops Tincture Myrrh added to boiled water allowed to cool. ... hydrotherapy, colon
Constituents: The leaves contain hyoscine, hyoscamine, scopolamine, choline, mucilage.
Action: Powerful brain relaxant, antispasmodic on smooth muscle, sedative. Inhibits release of acetylcholine as a neuro-transmitter (action similar to Belladonna). Analgesic, narcotic.
Uses: Rabies, delirium tremens, delirium of fevers, cystitis, travel sickness, bronchitis, asthma, renal colic, whooping cough. See: TRANSDERMAL PATCHES.
Preparations: Poultice. Leaves once used for painful rheumatism.
Pharmacy only. Herbal practitioners are exempted up to 300mg daily (100mg per dose). HYPERACIDITY. See: ACIDITY. ... hyoscyamus
Constituents: flavonoids, hypericins, essential oil.
Action: alterative, astringent, antiviral, relaxing nervine, anti-depressant, sedative, anti-inflammatory, cardio-tonic. Analgesic (external).
Topical. Antiseptic, analgesic (mild). To promote coronary flow and strengthen the heart.
Uses: Neuralgia (facial and intercostal), sciatica, concussion of the spine, post-operative pain and neuralgia, physical shock. Pain in coccyx, polymyalgia with tingling of fingers or feet, to reduce pain of dental extractions. Injuries to flesh rich in nerves – finger tips or sole of feet. Shooting, stitching pains. Punctured wounds: bites of dogs (rabies), cats, rats where pain shoots up the arm from the wound. Painful piles. Chorea. Tetanus. Temporary relief reported in Parkinsonism. Has been used with some success in relieving cramps of terminal disease. Anxiety, stress, depression. Menopausal nervousness. Menstrual cramps.
Researchers have shown that the herb possesses radioprotective properties. (Biol. Nauki. 1992 (4) 709)
Preparations: Average dose: 2-4 grams, or equivalent in fluid form. Thrice daily. Tea: 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup of boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half a cup. Liquid Extract: 15-60 drops in water.
Tincture BHP (1983). 1:10 in 45 per cent alcohol. Dose: 2-4ml.
Flowers: steeped in Olive oil offer a good dressing for burns, sores and stubborn ulcers. Oil of St John’s Wort, (topical).
Compress, or wet pack for wounds or rheumatism: tea rinse.
Keynote: depression ... hypericum
Treatment: emphasis is on new red cell production. Dosage would be according to individual tolerance. Alternatives. Tea. Mix equal parts: Agrimony, Clivers, Red Clover flowers. 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-15 minutes; one cup every 3 hours.
Decoction. Equal parts: Fringe Tree, Gentian, Milk Thistle. 2 teaspoons to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup every 3 hours, or as much as tolerated.
Tablets/capsules. Red Clover, Ginseng.
Formula. Equal parts: Fringe Tree, Yellow Dock root, Dandelion. Dose – Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid Extracts: one 5ml teaspoon. Tinctures: two 5ml teaspoons. Every 3 hours in water or honey. ... jaundice, haemolytic
Misleading claims and the use of such words as “organic”, “wholesome”, “natural” or “biological” cannot be accepted on product labels. The Licensing Authority treats herbal manufacturers no differently than manufacturers of allopathic products for serious conditions.
The Advertising Standards Authority does not allow quotation of any medicinal claims, except where a Product Licence (PL) has been authorised by the Licensing Authority.
All labels must include: Name of product (as on Product Licence), description of pharmaceutical form (tablet, mixture etc), Product Licence No., Batch No., quantity of each active ingredient in each unit dose in metric terms; dose and directions for use; quantity in container (in metric terms); “Keep out of reach of children” or similar warning; Name and address of Product Licence Holder; expiry date (if applicable); and any other special warnings. Also to appear: excipients, method/route of administration, special storage instructions, and precautions for disposal, if any.
Where licences are granted, the following words should appear on the label of a product: “A herbal product traditionally used for the symptomatic relief of . . .”. “If symptoms persist see your doctor.” “Not to be used in pregnancy” (where applicable). “If you think you have . . . consult a registered medical practitioner before taking this product.” “If you are already receiving medical treatment, tell your doctor that you are taking this product.” These warnings are especially necessary should symptoms persist and be the start of something more serious than a self-limiting condition.
Herbal preparations should be labelled with the additives and colourings they contain, if any. This helps practitioners avoid prescribing medicines containing them to certain patients on whom they may have an adverse reaction.
Labels of medicinal products shall comply with the Medicines (Labelling) Regulations 1976 (SI 1976 No. 1726) as amended by the Medicines (Labelling) Amendment Regulations 1977 (SI 1977 No. 996), the Medicines (Labelling) Amendment Regulations 1981 (SI 1981 No. 1791) and the Medicines (Labelling) Amendment Regulations 1985 (SI 1985 No. 1558).
Leaflets issued with proprietory medicinal products shall comply with the requirements of the Medicines (Leaflets) Regulations 1977 (SI 1977 No. 1055).
See also: ADVERTISING: CODE OF PRACTICE. BRITISH HERBAL MEDICINE ASSOCIATION. ... labelling of herbal products
Anyone may administer a herbal product to a human being, except by injection. Under Section 12 of the Medicines Act 1968, any remedy may be sold or supplied which only specifies the plant and the process. The remedy shall be called by no other name. This applies to the process producing the remedy consisting only of drying, crushing and comminuting. It must be sold without any written recommendation for use.
Those who have a manufacturer’s licence, or who notify the Enforcement Authority (the Secretary of State and the Pharmaceutical Society) can sell dried, crushed or comminuted herbs which have also been subjected to certain other limited processes (tablet-making, etc) but not those herbs contained in the Schedule to the Medicines (Retail Sale or Supply of Herbal Remedies) Order 1977 (SI 1977 No.2130).
This Schedule has three parts.
Part 1 contains substances that may only be sold by retail at registered pharmacies under the supervision of a pharmacist.
Part 2 refers to remedies that can be sold only in a registered pharmacy. There is, however, an important exception, as follows.
Part 3 contains a list of considered toxic herbs. A practitioner can prescribe all remedies that a shopkeeper can sell. He may also prescribe and sell remedies on Part 3 of the Schedule which a shopkeeper cannot. Such supply must be in premises closed to the public and subject to a clear and accurate indication of maximum dosage and strength. These remedies are as follows:... licencing of herbal remedies – exemptions from
Treatment. Bitter herbs keep the bile fluid and flowing.
Alternatives. Teas. Agrimony, Lemon Balm, Boldo, Bogbean, Centuary, Dandelion, Hyssop, Motherwort, Wormwood, Yarrow.
Maria Treben. Equal parts: Bedstraw, Agrimony, Woodruff. 2 teaspoons to cup boiling water.
Cold tea: 2 teaspoons Barberry bark to each cup cold water. Infuse overnight. Half-1 cup freely. Tablets/capsules: Blue Flag. Dandelion. Wild Yam. Liquorice.
Formula. Equal parts: Turkey Rhubarb, Dandelion, Meadowsweet. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 1-2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 2-3 teaspoons. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). 3-4 times daily. Alfred Vogel. Dandelion, Devil’s Claw, Artichoke.
Antonius Musa, physician to Emperor Augustus Caesar records: “Wood Betony preserves the liver and bodies of men from infectious diseases”.
Preventative: Garlic. (Old Chinese)
Milk Thistle: good responses observed.
General. Bedrest until motions are normal. Enema with any one of above herb teas.
Diet. Fat-free. Fasting period from 1-3 days on fruit juices and herb teas only. Artichokes. Dandelion coffee. Lecithin.
See: COCKROACH, The.
Treatment by or in liaison with a general medical practitioner. ... liver – acute infectious hepatitis
Causes: alcohol excess, drugs (Paracetamol prescribed for those who cannot tolerate aspirin), autoimmune disease, toxaemia, environmental poisons. Clinically latent forms are common from carbon monoxide poisoning. May lead to cirrhosis.
Symptoms. Jaundice, nausea and vomiting, inertia.
Treatment. Bile must be kept moving.
Alternatives:– Decoction. Formula. Milk Thistle 2; Yellow Dock 1; Boldo 1. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup thrice daily.
Formula. Barberry bark 1; German Chamomile 2. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 2-3 teaspoons. Powders: 750mg (three capsules or half a teaspoon) thrice daily.
Tablets/capsules. Blue Flag root. Goldenseal.
Astragalus. Popular liver tonic in Chinese medicine. A liver protective in chemotherapy.
Diet. Fat-free. Dandelion coffee. Artichokes. Lecithin.
Supplements. B-vitamins, B12, Zinc.
Treatment by or in liaison with a general medical practitioner. ... liver – hepatitis, chronic
Symptoms: nausea and vomiting, fever, dark urine, loss of appetite, skin irritation, yellow discoloration of the skin and whites of eyes, weakness and fatigue.
Treatment. Internal. Silymarin (active principle of Milk Thistle) has been used with good responses. (R.L. Devault & W. Rosenbrook, (1973), Antibiotic Journal, 26;532)
Wormwood tea. 1-2 teaspoons herb to each cup boiling water in a covered vessel. Infuse 10-15 minutes: 1 cup thrice daily.
Formula. Equal parts: Balmony, Valerian, Wild Yam. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 1-2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 1- 3 teaspoons. Powders: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon) thrice daily.
Astragalus. Popular liver protective used in Chinese medicine.
Phyllanthus amarus. Clinical trials on 78 carriers of the virus revealed that this plant effectively eliminated the virus from the body in 59 per cent of cases. Treatment consisted of 200mg dried powdered herb (whole plant minus the roots) in capsules, thrice daily for 30 days). (Thyagarajan, S.P., et al “Effect of Phyllanthus amarus on Chronic Carriers of Hepatitis B Virus.” The Lancet, Oct. 1988 2:764-766) External. Castor oil packs for two months.
Treatment by or in liaison with a general medical practitioner. ... liver – hepatitis b
Treatment. Uterine restoratives, nerve relaxants. Formula. Tea. Equal parts: Raspberry leaves; Skullcap; Agnus Castus. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-15 minutes; drink freely. Alternative formula. Agnus Castus 2; Black Cohosh 1. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 1-2 teaspoons. Tinctures:
2-3 teaspoons. Powders: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon). Thrice daily.
Feverfew: good results reported.
Evening Primrose oil capsules. 500mg thrice daily.
Sleep. One in two patients find relief in ‘sleeping it off’ any time of the day or night. Hot bath. Passion flower tea or tablets.
Diet. High fibre, low fat, low salt. Hot soup. A cooked meal but not with rich fatty or spicy foods. Oatmeal porridge.
Supplements. Vitamin B6, 50mg daily. Magnesium, Zinc.
Preventative: Raspberry leaf tea 3 days before periods. ... menstrual headache
(a) To promote and protect the interests of Health Foods Stores among members.
(b) To set standards in retailing of health foods and herbs.
(c) To encourage production, marketing and sales of products derived from purely natural and vegetable sources.
((d) To provide qualifications by certificate and diploma courses for those engaged in the industry.
The Association provides advice on aspects of health food and herb retailing and is able to help its members with professional advice and merchandising. NAHS Diploma of Health Food Retailing qualifies for membership of the Institute of Health Food Retailing. Address: Bastow House, Queens Road, Nottingham NG2 3AS. ... national association of health stores (nahs)
Members are directly involved with patient-care, carrying full responsibility for their recommendations, prescribing medication suitable to the individual biological requirements of each patient. Their role includes patient-counselling, health education and research.
Official recognition of the Institute, indicating its growing importance in the field of medicine came with the historic Grant of Arms by Her Majesty’s College of Heralds. Members regard this as evidence that the Royal Charter of King Henry VIII still stands and that there is no monopoly in healing the sick. See: HENRY VIII, HERBALISTS’ CHARTER.
The Institute played a major role in winning vital concessions for the survival of the herbalist in the passage through Parliament of the Medicine’s Bill. See: MEDICINE’S ACT, 1968.
In connection with the NIMH degree courses in herbal medicine are available at a London University, and Exeter University.
The Institute provides professional indemnity cover for its members, and is engaged in a series of clinical trials to evaluate traditional remedies.
All members are required to adhere to a strict professional Code of Ethics and are entitled to carry after their names the letters of qualification: MNIMH or FNIMH.
Members have a key role in preventative medicine and health promotion in their contribution to improvement of the nation’s health.
Address: 56 Longbrook Street, Exeter EX4 6AH, from which a list of members is obtainable. ... national institute of medical herbalists
It may also be shaved from around an incision site before surgery.
Temporary methods include shaving, waxing, depilatory creams, and waxing; electrolysis is the only permanent method of removal.... hair removal
In severe cases, the disorder is apparent soon after birth. In milder cases, symptoms appear later, sometimes producing premature puberty in boys and delayed menstruation, hirsutism, and potential infertility in girls.
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is confirmed by measuring corticosteroid hormones in blood and urine. Treatment is by hormone replacement. If this is started early, normal sexual development and fertility usually follow.... adrenal hyperplasia, congenital
When haemolysis is due to a defect inside the red cells, the underlying problem is abnormal rigidity of the cell membrane. This causes the cells to become trapped, at an early stage of their life-span, in the small blood vessels of the spleen, where they are destroyed by macrophages (cells that ingest foreign particles). Abnormal rigidity may result from an inherited defect of the cell membrane (as in hereditary spherocytosis), a defect of the haemoglobin in the cell (as in sickle-cell anaemia), or a defect of one of the cell’s enzymes. An inherited deficiency of the glucose-6phosphate dehydrogenase enzyme (see G6PD deficiency) may result in episodes of haemolytic anaemia since the red cells are prone to damage by infectious illness or certain drugs or foods.
Haemolytic anaemias due to defects outside the red cells fall into 3 main groups. First are disorders in which red cells are destroyed by buffeting (by artificial surfaces such as replacement heart valves, abnormal blood-vessel linings, or a blood clot in a vessel, for example). In the 2nd group, the red cells are destroyed by the immune system. Immune haemolytic anaemias may occur if foreign blood cells enter the bloodstream, as occurs in an incompatible blood transfusion, or they may be due to an autoimmune disorder. In haemolytic disease of the newborn, the baby’s red cells are destroyed by the mother’s antibodies crossing the placenta. Thirdly, the red cells may be destroyed by microorganisms; the most common cause is malaria. People with haemolytic anaemia may have symptoms common to all types of anaemia, such as fatigue and breathlessness, or symptoms specifically due to haemolysis, such as jaundice.
Diagnosis is made by examination of the blood (see blood film). Some inherited anaemias can be controlled by removing the spleen (see splenectomy). Others, such as G6PD deficiency, can be prevented by avoiding the drugs or foods that precipitate haemolysis. Anaemias due to immune processes can often be controlled by immunosuppressant drugs. Transfusions of red cells are sometimes needed for emergency treatment of life-threatening anaemia.... anaemia, haemolytic
Hallucinogens include certain drugs of abuse, such as LSD, marijuana, mescaline, and psilocybin.
Some prescription drugs, including anticholinergic drugs and levodopa, occasionally cause hallucinations.... hallucinogenic drug
Ectopic beats can occur in a heart that is otherwise normal and may cause no symptoms. Multiple ectopic beats can cause palpitations. After a myocardial infarction, multiple ectopic beats are a sign of damaged heart muscle. Multiple ectopic beats may lead to ventricular fibrillation, a rapid uncoordinated heartbeat that may be fatal.
Multiple ectopic beats that are causing palpitations, or that occur after a myocardial infarction, are often treated with an antiarrhythmic drug. (See also arrhythmia, cardiac.)... ectopic heartbeat
CT scanning or MRI confirms the diagnosis.
Surgical treatment consists of craniotomy, draining the blood clot, and clipping the ruptured blood vessel.... extradural haemorrhage
The simplest form of fetal heart monitoring involves the use of a special fetal stethoscope. Cardiotocography, a more sophisticated electronic version, makes a continuous paper recording of the heartbeat together with a recording of the uterine contractions. The heartbeat is picked up either externally by an ultrasound transducer strapped to the mother’s abdomen or, as an alternative during labour, internally by an electrode attached to the baby’s scalp that passes through the vagina and cervix.... fetal heart monitoring
In strip grafting, a strip of skin and hair is taken from a donor site, usually at the back of the scalp or behind the ears. The removed hairs and their follicles are then inserted into numerous incisions made in a bald area, known as the recipient site. The procedure usually takes 60–90 minutes. The patient is given a mild sedative and anaesthetic on the donor and recipient sites. The donor site heals in about 5 days. Transplanted hairs fall out shortly afterwards, but new hairs grow from the follicles 3 weeks to 3 months later.
Other transplant techniques include punch grafting, in which a punch is used to remove small areas of bald scalp, which are replaced with areas of hairy scalp; flap grafting, in which flaps of hairy skin are lifted, rotated, and stitched to replace bald areas; and male pattern baldness reduction, which involves cutting out areas of bald skin and stretching surrounding areas of hair-bearing scalp to replace them.... hair transplant
Diagnosis is confirmed by blood tests.
Treatment is by thyroid hormone replacement therapy, which is life-long.... hashimoto’s thyroiditis
Head lag is obvious in a newborn because the neck muscles are still weak, but by 4 months the baby can hold his or her head upright (see child development).... head lag
An audiometer (an electrical instrument) is used to test an individual’s ability to hear sounds at different frequencies and volumes. The lowest level at which a person can hear and repeat words (the speech reception threshold) is tested, as is the ability to hear words clearly (speech discrimination). The type of hearing loss (see deafness) is determined by holding a tuning fork to different parts of the ear.... hearing tests
An intra-aortic balloon pump, comprising a balloon in the aorta that inflates with each heartbeat, increases the volume of blood entering the circulation. A left ventricular assist device takes blood from the left ventricle and pumps it electrically into the abdominal aorta. There are also mechanical hearts, which are powered from outside the body, usually by compressed air.
Problems with artificial hearts include the formation of blood clots within the device, and infection.
They are therefore used as a temporary measure until a heart transplant can be performed.... heart, artificial
In general, genetic factors do not play a large part in causing heart disorders, however they do contribute to the hyperlipidaemias that predispose a person to atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. Structural abnormalities in the heart are among the most common birth defects (see heart disease, congenital).
Infections after birth may result in endocarditis or myocarditis. Tumours arising from the heart tissues are rare. They include noncancerous myxomas and cancerous sarcomas.
The heart muscle may become thin and flabby from lack of protein and calories. Thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, common in alcoholics, causes beriberi with congestive heart failure. Alcohol poisoning over many years may cause a type of cardiomyopathy. Obesity is an important factor in heart disease, probably through its effect on other risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes, and cholesterol.
The coronary arteries may become narrowed due to atherosclerosis, depriving areas of heart muscle of oxygen. The result may be angina pectoris or, eventually, a myocardial infarction.
Some drugs, such as the anticancer drug doxorubicin, tricyclic antidepressants, and even drugs used to treat heart disease, may disturb the heartbeat or damage the heart muscle.
Many common and serious heart disorders may be a complication of an underlying condition, such as cardiomyopathy or a congenital defect. Such disorders include cardiac arrhythmia, some cases of heart block, and heart failure. Cor pulmonale is a failure of the right side of the heart as a consequence of lung disease.... heart, disorders of
Moist heat may be administered by soaking the affected area in a warm bath, or applying a hot compress or poultice. Dry heat may be administered by a heating pad, hot-water bottle, or by a heat lamp that produces infra-red rays. More precise methods of administering heat to tissues deeper in the body include ultrasound treatment and short-wave diathermy.... heat treatment
–
Echocardiography is useful for investigating congenital heart defects and abnormalities of the valves or heart wall. An ultrasound technique using the Doppler effect allows measurement of blood flow through valves. Radionuclide scanning and CT scanning provide information about the efficiency of heart function. Angiography may be used to show the heart chambers and to assess the condition of the coronary arteries and valves. High-quality images of the heart can be obtained by MRI.... heart imaging
A heart–lung machine consists of a pump (to replace the heart’s function) and an oxygenator (to replace the lung’s function). It bypasses the heart and lungs, and the heart can be stopped.
Use of a heart–lung machine tends to damage red blood cells and to cause blood clotting. These problems can be minimized, however, by the administration of heparin, an anticoagulant drug, beforehand.heart–lung transplant A procedure in which the heart and lungs of a patient are removed, and replaced with donor organs. This surgery is used to treat diseases in which the lung damage has affected the heart, or vice versa. Such diseases include cystic fibrosis, fibrosing alveolitis, and some severe congenital heart defects (see heart disease, congenital). A heart–lung machine is used to take over the function of the patient’s heart and lungs during the operation, which is no more dangerous than a heart transplant.
heart-rate The rate at which the heart contracts to pump blood around the body. Most people have a heart-rate of between 60 and 100 beats per minute at rest. This rate tends to be faster in childhood and to slow slightly with age. Very fit people may have a resting rate below 60 beats per minute.
The heart muscle responds automatically to any increase in the amount of blood returned to it from active muscles by increasing its output. During extreme exercise, heart-rate may increase to 200 contractions per minute and the output to almost 250 ml per beat.
The heart-rate is also regulated by the autonomic nervous system. The parts of this system concerned with heart action are a nucleus of nerve cells, called the cardiac centre, in the brainstem, and 2 sets of nerves (the parasympathetic and sympathetic).
At rest, the parasympathetic nerves – particularly the vagus nerve – act on the sinoatrial node to maintain a slow heart-rate. During or in anticipation of muscular activity, this inhibition lessens and the heart-rate speeds up.
Sympathetic nerves release noradrenaline, which further increases the heart-rate and force of contraction. Sympathetic activity can be triggered by fear or anger, low blood pressure, or a reduction of oxygen in the blood.
Release of adrenaline and noradrenaline by the adrenal glands also acts to increase heart-rate.
The rate and rhythm of the heart can be measured by feeling the pulse or by listening with a stethoscope; a more accurate record is provided by an ECG.
A resting heart-rate above 100 beats per minute is termed a tachycardia, and a rate below 60 beats per minute a bradycardia. (See also arrhythmia, cardiac.)... heart–lung machine
Abnormal heart sounds may be a sign of various disorders.
For example, highpitched sounds or “clicks” are due to the abrupt halting of valve opening, which can occur in people with certain heart valve defects.
Heart murmurs are abnormal sounds caused by turbulent blood flow.
These may be due to heart valve defects or congenital heart disease.... heart sounds
Surgery may be needed to remove a damaged area of liver following injury, or to treat noncancerous liver tumours and hydatid disease.
Rarely, liver cancer is treated in this way.... hepatectomy, partial
Hepatectomy is the 1st stage in a liver transplant operation.... hepatectomy, total
The incubation period lasts for 15–40 days, after which nausea, fever and jaundice develop.
Recovery usually occurs within 3 weeks.
Serious complications are rare.
Active immunization provides the best protection against hepatitis A, and an attack can confer immunity.... hepatitis a
Hepatitis C has an incubation period of 6–12 months and begins as a mild illness which may go undetected. In about 3 in 4 patients, chronic hepatitis develops (see hepatitis, chronic), which can progress to cirrhosis of the liver and an increased risk of hepatoma.... hepatitis c
Most of the diseased heart is removed, but the back walls of the atria (upper chambers) are left in place.
The ventricles (upper chambers) are then attached to the remaining areas of the recipient’s heart.
Once the immediate post-operative period is over, the outlook is good.
Patients face the long-term problems associated with other forms of transplant surgery.
(See also heart–lung transplant.)... heart transplant
Any of the 4 heart valves may be affected by stenosis (narrowing), which causes the heart to work harder to force blood through the valve, or by incompetence or insufficiency (leakiness), which makes the valve unable to prevent backwash of blood. These defects cause characteristic heart murmurs.
Heart-valve defects may be present at birth (see heart disease, congenital), or they may be acquired later in life. The most common congenital valve defects are aortic stenosis and pulmonary stenosis. Acquired heart-valve disease is usually the result of degenerative changes or ischaemia affecting part of the heart and leading to aortic stenosis or mitral incompetence. Rheumatic fever can cause mitral stenosis, mitral incompetence, aortic valve defects, tricuspid stenosis and tricuspid incompetence. The heart valves may also be damaged by bacterial endocarditis.
Heart-valve disorders commonly lead to heart failure, arrhythmias, or symptoms resulting from reduced blood supply to body tissues.
Heart-valve defects may be diagnosed by auscultation, chest X-ray, ECG, or echocardiography and may be corrected by heart-valve surgery.... heart valve
The mechanisms by which the body loses unwanted heat are controlled by the hypothalamus in the brain. When blood temperature rises, the hypothalamus sends out nerve impulses to stimulate the sweat glands and dilate blood vessels in the skin, which cools the body down. However, excessive sweating may result in an imbalance of salts and fluids in the body, which may lead to heat cramps or heat exhaustion. When the hypothalamus is disrupted (for example, by a fever), the body may overheat, leading to heatstroke. Excessive external heat may cause prickly heat.
Most heat disorders can be prevented by gradual acclimatization to hot conditions and taking salt tablets or solution.
A light diet and frequent cool baths or showers may also help.
Alcohol and strenuous exercise should be avoided.... heat disorders
The main symptom is a raised purplish rash on the buttocks and backs of the limbs. The joints are swollen and often painful, and colicky abdominal pain may occur. In some cases, there is intestinal bleeding, leading to blood in the faeces. The kidneys may become inflamed, resulting in blood and protein in the urine.
The only treatment usually required is bed rest and analgesic drugs. Complications may arise if kidney inflammation persists. In severe cases, corticosteroid drugs may be given.... henoch–schönlein purpura
Five viruses that attack the liver as their primary target have been identified.
They cause hepatitis A, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, hepatitis D, and hepatitis E.... hepatitis, viral
True hermaphroditism is extremely rare and its cause unknown.
A more common condition is pseudohermaphroditism, in which the gonads of only 1 sex are present, but the external genitalia are not clearly either male or female.... hermaphroditism
Surgery is usually performed to treat a hernia of the abdominal wall that is painful or cannot be pushed back into place.
A strangulated hernia requires an emergency operation.
During surgery, the protruding intestine is pushed back into the abdomen and the weakened muscle wall is strengthened.
Either open or minimally invasive surgery may be used.... hernia repair
Acute hepatitis is fairly common.
The most frequent cause is infection with one of the hepatitis viruses (see hepatitis, viral), but it can arise as a result of other infections such as cytomegalovirus infection or Legionnaires’ disease.
It may also occur as a result of overdose of halothane or paracetamol or exposure to toxic chemicals including alcohol (see liver disease, alcoholic).
Symptoms range from few and mild to severe with pain, fever, and jaundice.
Blood tests, including liver function tests, may be used for diagnosis.
In most cases of acute viral hepatitis, natural recovery occurs within a few weeks.
If the disorder is caused by exposure to a chemical or drug, detoxification using an antidote may be possible.
Intensive care may be required if the liver is badly damaged.
Rarely, a liver transplant is the only way of saving life.
In all cases, alcohol should be avoided.... hepatitis, acute
In about 5 percent of cases, the virus continues to cause inflammation and can still be detected in the blood 6 months after infection. People who suffer from persistent infection are at long-term risk of liver cancer and cirrhosis and may be treated with interferon.... hepatitis b
Chronic hepatitis may cause slight tiredness or no symptoms at all.
It is diagnosed by liver biopsy.
Autoimmune hepatitis is treated with corticosteroid drugs and immunosuppressants.
Viral infections often respond to interferon.
In the drug-induced type, withdrawal of the medication can lead to recovery.
For metabolic disturbances, treatment depends on the underlying disorder.... hepatitis, chronic
A rough estimate of heritability can be obtained from the known incidence of a disorder in the first-degree relatives of affected people compared with the incidence of the disorder in a population exposed to similar environmental influences. Estimates of heritability are useful in genetic counselling. (See also genetic disorders.)... heritability
Heroin addiction has many adverse effects on the user, including injection scars, skin abscesses, weight loss, impotence, and the risk of infection with hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV through sharing needles.
Death commonly occurs from accidental overdose.... heroin abuse
Severe herpes gestationis is treated with corticosteroid drugs in tablet form and may require hospital admission.
The disorder usually clears up completely after birth of the baby, but tends to recur in subsequent pregnancies.... herpes gestationis
The main group of histocompatibility antigens is the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system, which consists of several series of antigens. A person’s tissue type (the particular set of HLAs in the body tissues) is unique, except for identical twins, who have the same set.
HLA analysis has some useful applications. Comparison of HLA types may show that 2 people are related, and it has been used in paternity testing. The HLA system is also used in tissue-typing to help match recipient and donor tissues before transplant surgery. Certain HLA types occur more frequently in people with particular diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, coeliac disease, and ankylosing spondylitis. HLA testing can help to confirm the presence of such diseases and identify people at risk of developing them.... histocompatibility antigens
Resting the voice helps in strain- or laryngitis- related cases. If hoarseness persists for more than 2 weeks, a doctor should be consulted. A laryngoscopy may be performed to exclude a serious underlying cause.... hoarseness
continuously for 24 hours or longer.
The monitor records by means of electrodes attached to the chest and allows the detection of intermittent arrhythmias.... holter monitor
(See also inheritance; genetic disorders.)... homozygote
The larvae penetrate the skin of the feet or are ingested. They migrate throughout the body and mature in the small intestine. Adult worms lay eggs, which pass out in the faeces.
When larvae penetrate the skin, a red, itchy rash may develop on the feet. In light infestations, there may be no further symptoms. In heavier infestations, migration of the larvae through the lungs may produce cough and pneumonia; adult worms in the intestines may cause abdominal discomfort. The most important problem is iron-deficiency anaemia due to loss of blood.
Diagnosis is made by microscopic examination of the faeces for worm eggs. Anthelmintic drugs kill the worms. (See also larva migrans.)... hookworm infestation
Each district has a general hospital providing services that include medicine, surgery, gynaecology, obstetrics, and paediatrics.
Some more specialist services are concentrated in fewer centres.
Many of the ’s private hospitals are nursing homes for the elderly; others cater for nonemergency surgery, obstetric care, or inpatient care for the mentally ill.... hospitals, types of
The term humours usually refers to the aqueous humour and vitreous humour that occur in the eye.... humours
This is achieved by placing a person in a special chamber and exposing him or her to oxygen at a much higher atmospheric pressure than normal.
Hyperbaric oxygen treatment is used to treat poisoning from carbon monoxide and in cases of gas gangrene.... hyperbaric oxygen treatment
Hypergonadism may be due to disorders of the gonads or a disorder of the pituitary gland that results in overproduction of gonadotrophin hormones.
During childhood, the condition causes precocious sexual development and excessive growth.... hypergonadism
Diagnosis depends on blood tests.
Treatment aims to reduce blood lipid levels, usually by a low-fat diet and lipid-lowering drugs.... hyperlipidaemias
Causes include gingivitis, persistent breathing through the mouth, the anticonvulsant drug phenytoin, and ill-fitting dentures.
Surgical treatment may be needed.... hyperplasia, gingival
Too high a dose may provoke the onset of hypoglycaemia.... hypoglycaemics, oral
It may also be caused by vitamin deficiency, injury, or infection of a primary tooth that interferes with enamel maturation.... hypoplasia, enamel
At birth, the baby may seem healthy. However, within a day or 2 the ductus arteriosus naturally closes off and the baby collapses, becoming pale and breathless. In most cases, hypoplastic left-heart syndrome cannot be treated surgically, and most affected babies die within a week. A few infants have been treated with heart transplants.... hypoplastic left-heart syndrome
Cold reduces the rate of metabolism in tissues and thus increases their tolerance to lack of oxygen.
Cooling may be achieved by continuously instilling cold saline at about 4°C into the open chest cavity.... hypothermia, surgical
an early feature of cerebral palsy.
It occurs in disorders of the spinal cord, such as Werdnig–Hoffman disease, and in some children who have muscular dystrophy.... hypotonia in infants
Most admissions to mental hospitals are for acute psychiatric illness.
The majority of admissions are voluntary, but in some cases detention under the Mental Health Act may be necessary.... mental hospital
All nervous habits increase during periods of tension or anxiety, and may be severe in some forms of depression, anxiety disorder, or drug withdrawal.... nervous habit
In women, they are produced mainly in the ovaries and also in the placenta in pregnancy.
Small amounts are produced in the adrenal glands in both men and women, but oestrogens have no known specific function in men.
When levels are low, oestrogen hormones can be replaced with oestrogen drugs.... oestrogen hormones
The ruptured artery is usually in the cerebrum. The escaped blood seeps out, damaging brain tissue. The symptoms are sudden headache, weakness, and confusion, and often loss of consciousness. Speech loss, facial paralysis, or onesided weakness may develop, depending on the area affected. Surgery is usually impossible; treatment is aimed at lifesupport and the reduction of blood pressure. Large haemorrhages are usually fatal. For the survivor of an intracerebral haemorrhage, rehabilitation and outlook are as for any type of stroke.
intracytoplasmic sperm injection... intracerebral haemorrhage
There is usually painless swelling of lymph nodes in the neck or groin. The liver and spleen may enlarge, and lymphoid tissue in the abdomen may be affected. Many other organs may become involved, leading to diverse symptoms ranging from headache to skin ulceration. Unless it is controlled, the disease (often marked by fever) progressively impairs the immune system, leading to death from infections or an uncontrolled spread of cancer. Diagnosis is based on a biopsy, usually taken from a lymph node. Chest X-ray, CT scanning, MRI, bone marrow biopsy, and lymphangiography of the abdomen may be needed to assess the extent of the disease.
If the lymphoma is confined to a single group of lymph nodes, treatment consists of radiotherapy. More often, the disease is more extensive, and in such cases anticancer drugs are given. A bone marrow transplant, together with drug treatment and/or radiotherapy, may be performed on some people.... lymphoma, non-hodgkin’s
Exposure to a sudden, very loud noise, usually above 130 decibels, can cause immediate and permanent damage to hearing. Normally, muscles in the middle ear respond to loud noise by altering the position of the ossicles (the chain of bones that pass vibrations to the inner ear), thus damping down the intensity of the noise. If these protective reflexes have no time to respond, the full force of the vibrations is carried to the inner ear, severely damaging the delicate hair cells in the cochlea. Occasionally, loud noises can rupture the eardrum.
More commonly, noise damage occurs over a period of time by prolonged exposure to lower levels of noise. Any noise above 85–90 decibels may cause damage, with gradual destruction of the hair cells of the cochlea, leading to permanent hearing loss. Prolonged exposure to loud noise leads initially to a loss of the ability to hear certain high tones. Later, deafness extends to all high frequencies, and the perception of speech is impaired. Eventually, lower tones are also affected.
Sounds at 85–90 decibels or above may cause pain and temporary deafness. Prolonged tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in
the ears) occurring after a noise has ceased is an indication that some damage has probably occurred.... noise-induced hearing loss
Professional treatment to remove calculus and stubborn plaque by scaling and polishing is usually carried out by a dentist or dental hygienist during a routine check-up.
In periodontal disease, treatment may be needed more often.... oral hygiene
Progesterone is made in the ovaries, and small amounts are produced by the adrenal glands and testes.
During the menstrual cycle, changing progesterone levels cause thickening of the endometrium and menstruation.
If pregnancy occurs, progesterone is produced by the placenta; a fall in its level helps to initiate labour.
Progesterone also causes increased fat deposition and increased sebum production by glands in the skin.... progesterone hormone
(site of central vision) is involved, vision is severely impaired.
Peripheral haemorrhages may be detected only when the eye is examined with an ophthalmoscope.... retinal haemorrhage
With some forms of radiation, damage occurs when the radiation dose exceeds a certain limit, usually 1 sievert (Sv) (see radiation unit). This damage may include radiation dermatitis, cataracts, organ failure (which may occur many years later), or radiation sickness.
For other types of radiation damage, the risk that damage will occur increases with increasing doses of radiation. Cancer caused by radiation-induced mutation is the major example of this type of damage. Radioactive leaks from nuclear reactors can cause a rise in mutation rates, which may lead to an increase in cancers, such as leukaemias; to birth defects; and to hereditary diseases. Cancer usually develops years after exposure. Radiation damage can be controlled by limiting exposure. People exposed to radiation at work have their exposure closely monitored to ensure that it does not exceed safe limits. People of reproductive age or younger should have their reproductive organs shielded when having X-rays or radiotherapy.There is no evidence of radiation hazards with visual display units (VDUs).... radiation hazards
person is usually monitored with regular scans, and the clot may clear up on its own. (See also extradural haemorrhage.)... subdural haemorrhage
Marked floppiness and paralysis occur during the first few months, and affected children rarely survive beyond age 3.
There is no cure for the disease. Treatment aims to keep the affected infant as comfortable as possible.... werdnig–hoffmann disease
BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes associated with susceptibility to breast and ovarian cancer. Women with mutations in either of these genes have a 56–85% risk of developing breast cancer, and this form of the cancer tends to develop at a relatively young age. The risk of ovarian cancer is 36–66% in women with BRCA1 mutations and 10–20% with BRCA2. Targeted therapy specific to these mutations using a *PARP inhibitor is undergoing investigation.... braxton hicks contractions
DHSC section of the website: provides information on a wide range of public health issues... department of health and social care
The FPH website... faculty of public health
HbA1c see glycated haemoglobin.... hazardous substance
HSE website: provides guidance on a wide range of health and safety topics... health and safety executive
HEE website... health education england
Healthwatch England website... healthwatch england
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) a *retrovirus responsible for *AIDS. There are two varieties, HIV-1 and HIV-2; the latter is most common in Africa. See also HTLV.... histrionic personality disorder
HYCOSY (hysterosalpingo-contrast sonography) an out-patient technique that tests for blocked Fallopian tubes. Using *transvaginal ultrasonography following the injection of an echo contrast medium through the cervix, flow along the tubes can be reliably visualized. See also Doppler ultrasound.... hybridomas
MHRA section of the website... medicines and healthcare products regulatory agency
NIHR website... national institute for health research
Different arrangements apply in Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland.
NHS website: includes much basic medical information together with a guide to local services... national health service
Recombinant parathyroid hormone (Preotact) is given by subcutaneous injection to treat postmenopausal osteoporosis.... parathyroid hormone
Public Health England website... public health england
FAMILY: Pinaceae
SYNONYMS: Pinus canadensis, Abies canadensis, spruce, eastern hemlock, common hemlock, hemlock (oil), spruce (oil), fir needle (oil).
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A large evergreen tree up to 50 metres tall, with slender horizontal branches, finely toothed leaves and smallish brown cones, which yields a natural exudation from its bark.
DISTRIBUTION: Native to the west coast of the USA. The oil is produced in Vermont, New York, New Hampshire, Virginia and Wisconsin.
OTHER SPECIES: Numerous cultivars of this species exist; often the oil is produced from a mixture of different types. Similar oils, also called simply ‘spruce oil’ are produced from the black spruce (Picea nigra or mariana), the Norway spruce (P. abies) and the white or Canadian spruce (P. glauca). The essential oil from the western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla), contains quite different constituents. It is also closely related to the Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga taxifolia), which is also used to produce an essential oil and a balsam.
HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: The bark of the hemlock spruce (which contains tannins and resin as well as volatile oil) is current in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia indicated for diarrhoea, cystitis, mucous colitis, leucorrhoea, uterine prolapse, pharyngitis, stomatitis and gingivitis. An extract of the bark is also used in the tanning industry.
ACTIONS: Antimicrobial, antiseptic, antitussive, astringent, diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, nervine, rubefacient, tonic.
EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam distillation from the needles and twigs.
CHARACTERISTICS: A colourless or pale yellow liquid with a pleasing, fresh-balsamic, sweet-fruity odour. It blends well with pine, oakmoss, cedarwood, galbanum, benzoin, lavender, lavandin and rosemary.
PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Mainly pinenes, limonene, bornyl acetate, tricyclene, phellandrene, myrcene, thujone, dipentene and cadinene, among others. Constituents vary according to source and exact botanical species (sometimes mixed).
SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitizing.
AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE
Circulation muscles and joints: Muscular aches and pains, poor circulation, rheumatism.
Respiratory system: Asthma, bronchitis, coughs, respiratory weakness.
Immune system: Colds, ’flu, infections.
Nervous system: Anxiety, stress-related conditions – ‘opening and elevating through grounding ... excellent for yoga and meditation.’.
OTHER USES: Used in veterinary liniments. Extensively used for room spray perfumes, household detergents, soaps, bath preparations and toiletries, especially in the USA.... spruce, hemlock