Inflation of the kidneys... nephritis

A painful affection of the nerves due to functional disturbances or neuritis... neuralgia

Nervous debility... neurasthenia

A chronic neurologic condition characterized by reoccurring and inexplicable drowsiness and sleep. There is no organic cause and no seeming changes in EEG readings.... narcolepsy

A drug that induces sleep... narcotic

New or abnormal uncontrolled growth.... neoplasm

A slow-growing, benign tumour in the auditory canal arising from the Schwann cells of the acoustic cranial nerve. The neuroma, which accounts for about 7 per cent of all tumours inside the CRANIUM, may cause facial numbness, hearing loss, unsteady balance, headache, and TINNITUS. It can usually be removed surgically, sometimes with microsurgical techniques that preserve the facial nerve.... acoustic neuroma

See under EATING DISORDERS.... anorexia nervosa

A collective term for the brain, spinal cord, their nerves, and the sensory end organs. More broadly, this can even include the neurotransmitting hormones instigated by the CNS that control the chemical nervous system, the endocrine glands.... central nervous system

The system of medicine where only natural medicines/treatments are used. Examples include manual manipulation, nutrition-based treatments, hygiene and certain kinds of immunization.... naturopathy

The sensation that VOMITING is about to occur; however, nausea does not always lead to vomiting.... nausea

Death of tissue or cells, either from infection or the loss of normal circulation and autotoxicity.... necrosis

Disease of the kidneys... nephropathy

This extensive, complex and ?nely tuned network of billions of specialised cells called neurones (see NEURON(E)) is responsible for maintaining the body’s contacts with and responses to the outside world. The network also provides internal communication links – in concert with HORMONES, the body’s chemical messengers – between the body’s diverse organs and tissues, and, importantly, the BRAIN stores relevant information as memory. Each neurone has a ?lamentous process of varying length called an AXON along which passes messages in the form of electrochemically generated impulses. Axons are bundled together to form nerves (see NERVE).

The nervous system can be likened to a computer. The central processing unit – which receives, processes and stores information and initiates instructions for bodily activities – is called the central nervous system: this is made up of the brain and SPINAL CORD. The peripheral nervous system – synonymous with the cables that transmit information to and from a computer’s processing unit – has two parts: sensory and motor. The former collects information from the body’s many sense organs. These respond to touch, temperature, pain, position, smells, sounds and visual images and the information is signalled to the brain via the sensory nerves. When information has been processed centrally, the brain and spinal cord send instructions for action via motor nerves to the ‘voluntary’ muscles controlling movements and speech, to the ‘involuntary’ muscles that operate the internal organs such as the heart and intestines, and to the various glands, including the sweat glands in the skin. (Details of the 12 pairs of cranial nerves and the 31 pairs of nerves emanating from the spinal cord are given in respective texts on brain and spinal cord.)

Functional divisions of nervous system As well as the nervous system’s anatomical divisions, the system is divided functionally, into autonomic and somatic parts. The autonomic nervous system, which is split into sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, deals with the automatic or unconscious control of internal bodily activities such as heartbeat, muscular status of blood vessels, digestion and glandular functions. The somatic system is responsible for the skeletal (voluntary) muscles (see MUSCLE) which carry out intended movements initiated by the brain – for example, the activation of limbs, tongue, vocal cords (speech), anal muscles (defaecation), urethral sphincters (urination) or vaginal muscles (childbirth). In addition, many survival responses – the most powerfully instinctive animal drives, which range from avoiding danger and pain to shivering when cold or sweating when hot – are initiated unconsciously and automatically by the nervous system using the appropriate neural pathways to achieve the particular survival reaction required.

The complex functions of the nervous system include the ability to experience emotions, such as excitement and pleasure, anxiety and frustration, and to undertake intellectual activities. For these experiences an individual can utilise many built-in neurological programmes and he or she can enhance performance through learning – a vital human function that depends on MEMORY, a three stage-process in the brain of registration, storage and recall. The various anatomical and functional divisions of the nervous system that have been unravelled as science has strived to explain how it works may seem confusing. In practical terms, the nervous system works mainly by using automatic or relex reactions (see REFLEX ACTION) to various stimuli (described above), supplemented by voluntary actions triggered by the activity of the conscious (higher) areas of the brain. Some higher functions crucial to human activity – for example, visual perception, thought, memory and speech – are complex and subtle, and the mechanisms are not yet fully understood. But all these complex activities rest on the foundation of relatively simple electrochemical transmissions of impulses through the massive network of billions of specialised cells, the neurones.... nervous system

Nerve inflammation, usually with an abnormal amount of pain, and often part of a degenerative process.... neuritis

Another name for CANCRUM ORIS.... noma

1 The process of nourishing or being nourished, especially the process by which a living organism assimilates food and uses it for growth and for replacement of tissues. 2 The science or study that deals with food and nourishment, especially in humans.... nutrition

Facial neuralgia or tic doulourex. This is pain of the gasserian ganglion or one or more branches of the trigeminal nerves. It is felt as pain along the side or top of the head, the scalp and around the eyes...a “skin headache”...and sometimes accompanied by facial muscle cramps. It is usually initiated by trigger points, with blood sugar irregularities and substance sensitivities often lowering their threshold of irritation.... trigeminal neuralgia

The atria (see ATRIUM) of the heart contain peptides with potent diuretic and vasodilating properties. It has been known since 1980 that extracts of human atria have potent diuretic and natriuretic effects in animals (see DIURETICS). In 1984 three polypeptide species were isolated from human atria and were called alpha, beta and gamma human atrial natriuretic peptides. Plasma concentration of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide can now be measured: the levels are low in healthy subjects and are increased in patients with congestive heart failure. Infusion of the peptides reduces blood pressure and causes a natriuresis and diuresis.... atrial natriuretic peptide

See VESTIBULOCOCHLEAR NERVE.... auditory nerve

Part of the nervous system which regulates the bodily functions that are not under conscious control: these include the heartbeat, intestinal movements, salivation, sweating, etc. The autonomic nervous system consists of two main divisions – the SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM and the PARASYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM. The smooth muscles, heart and most glands are connected to nerve ?bres from both systems and their proper functioning depends on the balance between these two. (See also NERVES; NERVOUS SYSTEM.)... autonomic nervous system

Cranial nerves are those arising from the BRAIN.... cranial nerves

The seventh cranial nerve (arising from the BRAIN), supplying the muscles of expression in the face, being purely a motor nerve. It enters the face immediately below the ear after splitting up into several branches. (See BELL’S PALSY.)... facial nerve

The 12th cranial nerve, which supplies the muscles of the tongue, together with some others lying near it. This nerve is responsible for movements required for swallowing and talking. (See also NERVOUS SYSTEM.)... hypoglossal nerve

A potentially serious disease of the newborn, characterised by haemolytic ANAEMIA (excessive destruction of red blood cells) and JAUNDICE. If severe, it may be obvious before birth because the baby becomes very oedematous (see OEDEMA) and develops heart failure – so-called hydrops fetalis. It may ?rst present on the ?rst day of life as jaundice and anaemia. The disease is due to blood-group incompatibility between the mother and baby, the commoneset being rhesus incompatibility (see BLOOD GROUPS). In this condition a rhesus-negative mother has been previously sensitised to produce rhesus antibodies, either by the delivery of a rhesus-positive baby, a miscarriage or a mismatched blood transfusion. These antibodies cross over into the fetal circulation and attack red blood cells which cause HAEMOLYSIS.

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

A congenitally determined tissue abnormality. In the SKIN, naevi of blood vessels are best known, but a MOLE is a MELANOCYTE naevus, and warty streaked and linear naevi of the epidermis occasionally occur. There are several patterns of vascular naevi:

Naevus simplex Also known as ‘salmon patch’. About one-third of white children are born with macular pink areas of ERYTHEMA on the nape, brow or eyelids which usually disappear after a few months, but patches on the nape may persist.

Naevus ?ammeus Also known as ‘portwine stain’ and present at birth. It is unilateral, usually on the face, and may be extensive. It tends to darken with age and is permanent. Laser treatment is e?ective.

Strawberry naevus (cavernous haemangioma) is usually not present at birth but appears within a few weeks and grows rapidly, reaching a peak in size after 6–12 months, when the lobulated red nodule may resemble a ripe strawberry. Untreated, the naevus disappears spontaneously over several years. It may occur anywhere and may be very troublesome when occurring around an eye or on the ‘nappy’ area. If possible it should be left alone, but where it is causing problems other than simply cosmetic ones it is best treated by an expert. This may involve medical treatment with steroids or interferon or laser therapy.

Spider naevus is due to a dilated ARTERIOLE causing a minute red papule in the skin, the small branching vessels resembling spider legs. A few spider naevi are common in young people, but multiple naevi are common in pregnancy and may also be a warning sign of chronic liver disease.... naevus

See SKIN.... nail

A common practice in schoolchildren, most of whom gradually give it up as they approach adolescence. Too much signi?cance should therefore not be attached to it; in itself it does no harm, and punishment or restraining devices are not needed. It is a manifestation of tension or insecurity, the cause of which should be removed. In some people the habit is carried into adulthood.... nail-biting

An antibiotic drug, active against gram-negative (see GRAM’S STAIN) micro-organisms, used to treat and prevent infections of the URINARY TRACT.... nalidixic acid

An e?ective drug in the treatment of opioid poisoning. It blocks the effects of most opiates; given intravenously, it acts within 2–3 minutes. The drug is also given to newborn babies whose breathing has been depressed by narcotic drugs given to their mothers to relieve pain during childbirth.... naloxone

One of the ANABOLIC STEROIDS, with the property of building PROTEIN. It is of little value in medical care, although is licensed for use in aplastic ANAEMIA; it has also been used in the past to treat osteoporosis in women (see under BONE, DISORDERS OF), but is no longer recommended for this purpose. Its use as a bodybuilder by some athletes and others has caused controversy: those found using it are barred from most recognised athletic events. Nandrolone should never be taken by pregnant women or by people with liver disease or prostate cancer. Side-effects include ACNE; VIRILISATION with high doses including voice changes, cessation of periods, and inhibition of sperm production; and liver tumours after prolonged use.... nandrolone

A common form of irritant contact DERMATITIS in the nappy area in babies under one year old. Wetting of the skin by urine, abrasion, and chemical changes due to faecal contamination all play a part. Good hygiene and use of disposable absorbent nappies have much reduced its incidence. An ointment containing a barrier, such as titanium dioxide, may help; other medications such as mild CORTICOSTEROIDS or antibiotics should be used very cautiously and only under the guidance of a doctor, as harmful effects may result – especially from overuse.... nappy rash

See under NON-STEROIDAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS (NSAIDS).... naproxen

An abnormal mental state characterised by excessive admiration of one’s self. In Greek mythology, Narcissus so loved staring at his own re?ection in water that he eventually fell in and drowned.... narcissism

A condition of stupor (see under UNCONSCIOUSNESS), resembling sleep, that is usually caused by a drug. It may also occur as a result of liver or kidney failure which causes URAEMIA. The affected person has signi?cantly reduced awareness and is hard to arouse. Treatment is of the underlying cause and the normal precautions for caring for an unconscious or semiconscious subject should be taken. (See APPENDIX 1: BASIC FIRST AID.).... narcosis

A small-bore plastic or rubber tube passed into the stomach through the nose, pharynx and then the oesophagus. It is used either to aspirate gas and liquid from the stomach or to pass food or drugs into it.... nasogastric tube

A duct that goes through the nasolacrimal canal in the palatine bone of the SKULL. The duct drains the tears from the lacrimal (tear) glands into the NOSE.... nasolacrimal duct

Nasopharynx is the upper part of the throat, lying behind the nasal cavity. (See NOSE.)... nasopharynx

Navel, or UMBILICUS, is the scar on the abdomen marking the point where the umbilical cord joined the body in embryonic life. (See PLACENTA.)... navel

The term applied to a slight opacity on the cornea (see EYE) producing a haze in the ?eld of vision, and also to any oily preparation to be sprayed from a nebuliser – an apparatus for splitting up a ?uid into ?ne droplets.... nebula

The connecting tissues between the scolex and strobila of a tapeworm. This part is unsegmented.... neck

A traditional term for an autopsy or POSTMORTEM EXAMINATION.... necropsy

Degeneration of the kidney, with high discharge of albumin in the urine. Anaemia, dropsy and protein loss.

Causes: recurrent attacks of nephritis, bacterial toxins, environmental poisons, mineral drugs (mercury etc).

Treatment. Specific hospital treatment essential, (dialysis etc). Simple phytomedicines may bring a measure of relief as supportives to conventional medicine.

Teas. Barley water, Buchu, Clivers, Cornsilk, Couchgrass, Goldenrod, Parsley, Plantain, Wild Carrot. Decoctions. Broom tops, Dandelion root, Marshmallow root, Hydrangea root, Parsley root.

Powders. Alfalfa 45; Bearberry 15; Buchu 10; Couchgrass 15; Wild Carrot 15. Dose: 500-750mg (2-3 00 capsules or one-third to half a teaspoon) thrice or more daily.

Tinctures. Echinacea 2 (to enhance powers of resistance). Parsley root 2; Ginseng 1; Ginger quarter. Dose: 1-2 teaspoons in water thrice or more daily.

Restharrow herb. For weak kidneys and bladder. (R.F Weiss MD. Book: Herbal Medicine, Beaconsfleld Publishers)

Diet. High protein, salt-free, herb teas. Spring water in abundance.

Supplements. Vitamin A, B-complex, B2, C, E. Calcium, Iron, Magnesium.

Supportives. Hot abdominal packs. Castor oil packs. Sweat packs. Induce sweating with aid of diaphoretics.

Subsequent treatment by or in liaison with a qualified medical practitioner. ... nephrosis

A non-irritating, easily-digested agent which provides body nourishment and stimulates metabolic processes.

Alfalfa, Arabic gum, Arrow root, Carob flour, Fenugreek seed, Iceland Moss, Irish Moss, Okra pods, Sago root, Slippery Elm, Oats, Barley. ... nutrient

Neomycin is one of the AMINOGLYCOSIDES, derived from Streptomyces fradiae. It has a wide antibacterial spectrum, being e?ective against the majority of gram-negative (see GRAM’S STAIN) bacilli. Its use is limited by the fact that it is liable to cause deafness and kidney damage. Its main use is for application to the skin – either in solution or as an ointment – for the treatment of infection; it is also given by mouth for the treatment of certain forms of ENTERITIS due to E. coli.... neomycin

The presence of abnormal cells forming a growth or tumor, unable to perform their normal functions, and replacing healthy cells.... neoplasia

An ANTICHOLINESTERASE drug which enhances neuromuscular transmission – the passage of chemical messages between nerve and muscle cells – in voluntary and involuntary muscles in patients with the disorder MYASTHENIA GRAVIS. Its e?ect lasts for about four hours. A disadvantage is that it has a marked cholinergic action – affecting heart rhythm, causing excessive salivation and tear secretion, constricting the BRONCHIOLES and stimulating the gastrointestinal tract.... neostigmine

The operation for removal of the kidney. (See KIDNEYS, DISEASES OF.)... nephrectomy

Nephroblastoma, or Wilm’s tumour, is the commonest kidney tumour in infancy (see also KIDNEYS, DISEASES OF – Tumours of the kidney). It is a malignant tumour, which occurs in around 1 per 10,000 live births. The survival rate with modern treatment (removal of the kidney followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy) is now around 80 per cent.... nephroblastoma

The branch of medicine concerned with the study and management of kidney disease. A specialist in these diseases is called a nephrologist.... nephrology

Each kidney comprises over a million of these microscopic units which regulate and control the formation of URINE. A tuft of capillaries invaginates the Bowmans capsule, which is the blind-ending tube (GLOMERULUS) of each nephron. Plasma is ?ltered out of blood and through the Bowmans capsule into the renal tubule. As the ?ltrate passes along the tubule, most of the water and electrolytes are reabsorbed. The composition is regulated with the retention or addition of certain molecules (e.g. urea, drugs, etc.). The tubules eventually empty the ?ltrate, which by now is urine, into the renal pelvis from where it ?ows down the ureters into the bladder. (See KIDNEYS.)... nephron

Nephrostomy is the operation of making an opening into the kidney (see KIDNEYS) to drain it.... nephrostomy

Nephrotic syndrome is one of PROTEINURIA, hypo-albuminaemia and gross OEDEMA. The primary cause is the leak of albumin (see ALBUMINS) through the GLOMERULUS. When this exceeds the liver’s ability to synthesise albumin, the plasma level falls and oedema results. The nephrotic syndrome is commonly the result of primary renal glomerular disease (see KIDNEYS, DISEASES OF – Glomerulonephritis). It may also be a result of metabolic diseases such as diabetic glomerular sclerosis and AMYLOIDOSIS. It may be the result of systemic autoimmune diseases such as SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS (SLE) and POLYARTERITIS NODOSA. It may complicate malignant diseases such as MYELOMATOSIS and Hodgkin’s disease (see LYMPHOMA). It is sometimes caused by nephrotoxins such as gold or mercury and certain drugs, and it may be the result of certain infections such as MALARIA and CROHN’S DISEASE.... nephrotic syndrome

See ANAESTHESIA – Local anaesthetics.... nerve block

A non-medical description of a variety of emotional crises ranging from an outburst of hysterical behaviour to a major neurotic illness that may have a lasting e?ect on an individual’s life. Sometimes the term is used to describe an overt psychotic illness – for example, SCHIZOPHRENIA (see also MENTAL ILLNESS; NEUROSIS).... nervous breakdown

A nerve is a bundle of conductory ?bres called axons (see AXON) that emanate from neurones (see NEURON(E)) – the basic anatomical and functional units of the NERVOUS SYSTEM. Nerves make up the central nervous system (BRAIN and SPINAL CORD) and connect that system to all parts of the body, transmitting information from sensory organs via the peripheral nerves to the centre and returning instructions for action to the relevant muscles and glands.

Nerves vary in size from the large pencil-sized sciatic nerve in the back of the thigh muscles to the single, hair-sized ?bres distributed to the skin. A nerve, such as the sciatic, possesses a strong, outer ?brous sheath, called the epineurium, within which lie bundles of nerve-?bres, divided from one another by partitions of ?brous tissue, in which run blood vessels that nourish the nerve. Each of these bundles is surrounded by its own sheath, known as the perineurium, and within the bundle ?ne partitions of ?brous tissue, known as endoneurium, divide up the bundle into groups of ?bres. The ?nest subdivisions of the nerves are the ?bres, and these are of two kinds: medullated and non-medullated ?bres. (See NEURON(E) and NERVOUS SYSTEM for more details on structure and functions of neurons and nerves.)... nerve

See URTICARIA.... nettle-rash

Urtica and Laportea species

Description: These plants grow several feet high. They have small, inconspicuous flowers. Fine, hairlike bristles cover the stems, leafstalks, and undersides of leaves. The bristles cause a stinging sensation when they touch the skin.

Habitat and Distribution: Nettles prefer moist areas along streams or at the margins of forests. They are found throughout North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and northern Europe.

Edible Parts: Young shoots and leaves are edible. Boiling the plant for 10 to 15 minutes destroys the stinging element of the bristles. This plant is very nutritious.

Other Uses: Mature stems have a fibrous layer that you can divide into individual fibers and use to weave string or twine.... nettle

A malignant growth comprising embryonic nerve cells. It may start in any part of the AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM. The medulla of the adrenal gland (see under ENDOCRINE GLANDS) is a common site; secondary growths develop in other tissues. Neuroblastomas are the most common extracranial solid tumour of childhood. The incidence is around eight cases per one million children. Treatment is by surgery followed by radiotherapy and CYTOTOXIC drugs. About 30 per cent of sufferers survive for at least ?ve years after treatment.... neuroblastoma

The branch of medical practice and science which is concerned with the study of the NERVOUS SYSTEM and its disorders. Specialists in neurology – neurologists – examine a patient’s nerves, sensory and motor functions and re?exes. They use modern imaging techniques

– for example, CT scanning (see COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY) and MRI – to aid diagnosis. Until relatively recently, many neurological conditions could be treated only with palliative methods. Now there is much improved understanding of the nervous system and its disorders, with closer liaison between psychiatrists (see PSYCHIATRY) and neurologists.... neurology

Neuroma means a TUMOUR connected with a NERVE – such tumours being generally composed of ?brous tissue, and of a painful nature.... neuroma

A disease affecting nerves (see NERVE). It may affect a single nerve (mononeuropathy) or be a generalised disorder (polyneuropathy). Symptoms will depend on whether motor, sensory, or autonomic nerves are affected. Trauma or entrapment of a nerve is a common cause of mononeuropathy, pressure or stretching of a nerve occurring in various situations. Complete recovery in 4–6 weeks is usual. Common causes of polyneuropathy include DIABETES MELLITUS, vitamin B de?ciency (often alcohol-associated) and some viral infections. Genetic and toxic neuropathies are also seen.... neuropathy

Surgery performed on some part of the NERVOUS SYSTEM, whether brain, spinal cord or nerves. Disorders treated by neurosurgeons include damage to the brain, spinal cord and nerves as a result of injury; tumours in the CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM; abnormalities of blood vessels in or supplying blood to the brain – for example, ANEURYSM; brain abscess; bleeding inside the skull; and certain birth defects such as HYDROCEPHALUS and SPINA BIFIDA.... neurosurgery

A general term applied to mental or emotional disturbance in which, as opposed to PSYCHOSIS, there is no serious disturbance in the perception or understanding of external reality. However, the boundaries between neurosis and psychosis are not always clearly de?ned. Neuroses are usually classi?ed into anxiety neuroses, depressive neuroses, phobias (see PHOBIA), HYPOCHONDRIASIS, HYSTERIA and obsessional neuroses.

Anxiety neurosis, or anxiety state, constitutes the most common form of neurosis; fortunately it is also among the most responsive to treatment. Once the neurosis develops, sufferers are in a state of persistent anxiety and worry, ‘tensed up’, always fatigued and unable to sleep at night. In addition, there are often physical complaints – for example, palpitations, sweating, apparent discomfort on swallowing (‘globus’), and headache.

Obsessional neuroses are much less common and constitute only about 5 per cent of all neuroses. Like other neuroses, they usually develop in early adult life. (See MENTAL ILLNESS.)... neurosis

A chemical substance which transmits the action of a NERVE to a cell (see CELLS). It is released from nerve-endings and transmits the impulse across synapses (see SYNAPSE) to other nerves. In the central nervous system the substances acting as neurotransmitters include ACETYLCHOLINE, NORADRENALINE, DOPAMINE and SEROTONIN. The main transmitter in the peripheral system is acetylcholine, while for the sympathetic system it is noradrenaline. In recent years a new group of neurotransmitters called neuropeptides has been identi?ed, comprising large protein molecules. One of the best-known is that of endorphins, which the brain uses to control pain. (See also NEURON(E); NERVOUS SYSTEM; PAIN.)... neurotransmitter

A type of leucocyte or white blood cell (see LEUCOCYTES; BLOOD).... neutrophil

A widely used anthelmintic drug (see ANTHELMINTICS) for treating TAENIASIS or tapeworm infection.... niclosamide

Nicotinamide, the amide of NICOTINIC ACID, is usually used instead of the latter in the treatment of vitamin B de?ciency.... nicotinamide

An alkaloid which is the principal addictive agent in TOBACCO. The small amount of nicotine in a single cigarette is su?cient to stimulate mental and bodily activities. In larger quantities it acts as a depressant or narcotic – habitual smokers may ?nd its e?ect sedating. Nicotine works by stimulating the production of a chemical called DOPAMINE, a neurotransmitter or chemical messenger between nerve cells. Nicotine mimics the action of a neurotransmitter called ACETYLCHOLINE. Nerve cells that produce dopamine have acetylcholine-receptor molecules on their surfaces; when these ‘nicotine-like’ receptors are occupied by acetylcholine molecules, a cell is prompted to produce dopamine. So nicotine itself can arti?cially stimulate dopamine production. Dopamine is part of the neuronal circuitry that plays a part in the body’s perception of pleasure, which is why smoking is enjoyed by many people.... nicotine

Nicotinic acid is a member of the vitamin B complex. It is essential for human nutrition, the normal daily requirement for an adult being about 15–20 mg. A de?ciency of nicotinic acid is one of the factors in the etiology of PELLAGRA, and either nicotine acid or NICOTINAMIDE is used in the treatment of this condition. Nicotinic acid also reduces the concentration of blood lipids (see HYPERLIPIDAEMIA).... nicotinic acid

A member of the CALCIUM-CHANNEL BLOCKERS group of cardiovascular drugs. It relaxes vascular smooth muscle and dilates coronary and peripheral arteries. Nifedipine has been used to prevent and treat ANGINA PECTORIS and certain types of HYPERTENSION.... nifedipine

See under BLINDNESS.... night blindness

The small, sensitive prominence at the tip of each breast (see BREASTS) containing (in women) the small openings through which milk can pass from the milk glands in the breast tissue. The nipple and its surrounding area (the areola) are darker than the adjacent skin. The area becomes darker during pregnancy.... nipple

A tranquilliser introduced as a hypnotic. It is long-acting and may produce drowsiness next day. Addiction can occur. (See TRANQUILLISERS; HYPNOTICS; BENZODIAZEPINES.)... nitrazepam

A synthetic nitrofuran derivative which has a wide range of antibacterial activity and is e?ective against many gram-positive and gram-negative (see GRAM’S STAIN) micro-organisms. It is used mainly in the treatment of infections of the lower URINARY TRACT.... nitrofurantoin

Excess passing of URINE during the night. Among its many causes are glomerulonephritis (see under KIDNEY, DISEASES OF) and enlargement of the PROSTATE GLAND.... nocturia

The term node is widely used in medicine. For instance, the smaller lymphatic glands are often termed LYMPH NODES. It is also applied to a collection of nerve cells forming a subsidiary nerve centre found in various places in the sympathetic nervous system (see NERVOUS SYSTEM), such as the sinuatrial node and the atrioventricular node which control the beating of the HEART.... node

A precursor of ADRENALINE in the medulla of the suprarenal glands (see ADRENAL GLANDS). It is also present in the BRAIN. Its main function is to mediate the transmission of impulses in the SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM; it also has a transmitter function in the brain.... noradrenaline

See NORADRENALINE.... norepinephrine

A synthetic preparation that has the action of PROGESTERONE, but is active when given by mouth.... norethisterone

In the course of RESPIRATION, incoming air enters via the nose and is here warmed, moistened, and ?ltered before entering the lungs. The nose has a protective function, irritant air being expelled by SNEEZING. It is also the organ of SMELL.

Several sinuses (see SINUS) lie concealed in the bones of the SKULL, into which air enters freely by apertures connecting them with the nose. These cavities occupy spaces in the frontal bone over the eyebrow (frontal sinus); in the upper jaw-bone, ?lling in the angle between the EYE and the nose (maxillary sinus); in the sphenoid bone (sphenoidal sinus); and in the lateral part of the ethmoid bone (ethmoidal sinus). The sinuses drain into the interior of the nose, as does the Eustachian or auditory tube from the middle ear (see EAR).... nose

... nuclear magnetic resonance

The branch of medicine concerned with the use of radioactive material in the diagnosis, investigation and treatment of disease.... nuclear medicine

Group of chemicals found in cells and which carry biochemical codes for heredity and day-to-dayfunctioning of cells.... nucleic acid

The central body in a cell, which controls the activities of the latter. (See CELLS.)... nucleus

See TOUCH.... numbness

See under EYE, DISORDERS OF.... nystagmus

An antibiotic, isolated from Streptomyces noursei, active against Candida albicans (see CANDIDA). It is not absorbed from the gut but is useful in gastrointestinal and skin candidosis.... nystatin

See EYE.... optic nerve

In?ammation of the optic nerve (see EYE) which may result in sudden loss of part of a person’s vision. It is usually accompanied by pain and tenderness on touch. The cause is uncertain, although in some cases it may be a prcursor of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS): CORTICOSTEROIDS may help by improving the loss of visual acuity, but seems not to check the long-term in?ammatory activity.... optic neuritis

See NERVOUS SYSTEM.... peripheral nervous system

A form of PARAESTHESIA, or disturbed sensation, such as may occur, for example, in NEURITIS or POLYNEURITIS.... pins and needles

Also known as periarteritis nodosa. A rare but potentially serious disease, probably caused by a disturbance of the immune system (see IMMUNITY). Prolonged fever and obscure symptoms referable to any system of the body are associated with local areas of in?ammation along the arteries, giving rise to nodules in their walls. Large doses of CORTICOSTEROIDS, coupled with IMMUNOSUPPRESSANT treatment, usually curtail the disorder. Recovery occurs in about 50 per cent of cases.... polyarteritis nodosa

This NERVE arises from the BRACHIAL plexus in the axilla. At ?rst descending posteriorly and then anteriorly, it ends just above the elbow by dividing into the super?cial radial and interosseous nerves. It supplies motor function to the muscles which extend the arm, wrist, and some ?ngers, and supplies sensation to parts of the posterior and lateral aspects of the arm, forearm and hand.... radial nerve

In?ammation of the optic nerve behind (rather than within) the EYE. It usually occurs in young adults and presents with a rapid deterioration in vision over a few hours. Colour vision is also impaired. Usually vision recovers over a few weeks, but colour vision may be permanently lost. It can be associated with certain viral illnesses and with MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS). (See also EYE, DISORDERS OF.)... retrobulbar neuritis

These are five pairs of CNS nerves that exit through the sacral foramen and sacral hiatus, and bring information in and out of the spinal cord. Much of their function relates to the sciatic nerve, and they bring information in from the skin sensory zones (dermatomes) of the heel, back of the legs, buttocks, and the pelvic floor.... sacral nerves

This is the natural pacemaker of the HEART, and comprises a collection of specialised muscle cells in the wall of the upper chamber (atrium) of the heart. The cells initiate electrical impulses at a rate of up to 100 a minute. These impulses stimulate the muscles of the heart to contract. The rate is altered by the effects of certain hormones and various impulses from the nervous system. Damage or disease of the node affects the regular beating of the heart. (See also CARDIAC PACEMAKER.)... sinoatrial node

Part of the AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM. It consists of scattered collections of grey matter known as ganglia, united by an irregular network of nerve-?bres; those portions where the ganglia are placed most closely and where the network of ?bres is especially dense being known as plexuses. The chief part of the sympathetic system consists of two ganglionated cords that run through the neck, chest, and abdomen, lying close in front of the spine. In conjunction with the other part of the autonomic nervous system – the parasympathetic – this part controls many of the body’s involuntary activities involving glands, organs and other tissues. (For further details, see NERVOUS SYSTEM.)... sympathetic nervous system

The fourth cranial nerve (arising from the BRAIN), which acts upon the superior oblique muscle of the EYE.... trochlear nerve

A major NERVE in the arm, it runs from the brachial plexus to the hand. The nerve controls the muscles that move the ?ngers and thumb and conveys sensation from the ?fth and part of the fourth and from the adjacent palm. Muscle weakness and numbness in the areas supplied by the nerve is usually caused by pressure from an abnormal outgrowth from the epicondyle at the bottom of the humerus (upper-arm bone).... ulnar nerve

Also called the pneumogastric nerve, this is the tenth cranial nerve, with many fibers leading to parasympathetic ganglia in internal organs, and can be considered the presynapse starter for the upper parts of the parasympathetic functions.... vagus nerve

The eighth cranial nerve. It consists of two sets of ?bres, which constitute two separate nerves. One is known as the vestibular nerve, which connects the semicircular canals and inner ear to the BRAIN and conveys information on posture and movement of the body; it is the nerve of equilibration or balance. The other is known as the cochlear nerve, which links the COCHLEA (organ that responds to sounds) with the brain and is the nerve of hearing. Disturbance of the former causes giddiness (VERTIGO), whilst disturbance of the latter causes DEAFNESS.... vestibulocochlear nerve

The ?fth cranial nerve (arising from the BRAIN). It consists of three divisions: (1) the ophthalmic nerve, which is purely sensory in function, being distributed mainly over the forehead and front part of the scalp; (2) the maxillary nerve, which is also sensory and distributed to the skin of the cheek, the mucous membrane of the mouth and throat, and the upper teeth; and (3) the mandibular nerve, which is the nerve of sensation to the lower part of the face, the tongue and the lower teeth, as well as being the motor nerve to the muscles concerned in chewing. The trigeminal nerve is of special interest, owing to its liability to NEURALGIA – TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA, or tic douloureux as it is also known, being the most painful form known.... trigeminal nerve

Epistaxis. Often Nature’s way of relieving high blood pressure.

Causes: high blood pressure, accident, anticoagulant drugs, infection, blood disorder. As many as fifty- four causes. Usually innocent, from ruptured small vessel on anterior part of the nasal septum. May be spontaneous in the elderly, in which case blood vessels may be strengthened by Nettle tea.

Teas. Marigold flowers, Ephedra, Nettles, Melilot, Yarrow, Shepherd’s Purse, Ladies Mantle, Tormentil. Decoction. Burdock root.

Tablets/capsules. Cranesbill. Goldenseal.

Powders. Alternatives. (1) Cinnamon. (2) Bayberry. (3) Cranesbill. Half a teaspoon in milk or honey. External. Instil juice of Houseleek into nostril. Soak cotton wool in Witch Hazel and plug nostril. Pound fresh Nettles to a pulp in pestal and mortar and instil the juice or pulp. Beth root powder. Artichoke. Soak cotton wool in Cider vinegar and plug nostril. Other astringents, as available. See: ASTRINGENTS. Cold compresses to back of neck. ... nosebleed

This is the sixth nerve rising from the brain and controls the external rectus muscle of the EYE, which turns the eye outwards. It is particularly liable to be paralysed in diseases of the nervous system, thus leading to an inward squint.... abducent nerve

Acanthosis nigricans is a darkly pigmented verrucous skin change, usually occurring around the neck and axilla. It may be inherited but is most commonly acquired, and is associated with adenocarcinoma – usually of the stomach (see CANCER) – and certain hormonal disorders

The group of arthropod insects that include the parasitic MITES and TICKS.... acanthosis nigricans

A volatile, oily liquid prepared by the action of nitric and nitrous acids on amyl alcohol. It was used for many years to treat angina but has been superseded by other nitrate drugs such as glyceril trinitrate. The substance is misused by drug abusers to produce a ‘high’ and is referred to as ‘poppers’.... amyl nitrite

The nursing of a patient suffering from an infectious disease in such a way that the risk of their passing on the disease to others is reduced. Thus, precautions are taken to ensure that all infective matter – such as stools, urine, sputum, discharge from wounds, and anything that may be contaminated by such infective matter (e.g. nurses’ uniforms, bedding and towels) – is so treated that it will not convey the infection. (See NURSING.)... barrier nursing

Obsessional fear about the state of the heart. It tends to occur after a heart attack and may result in the patient’s experiencing the symptoms of another attack.... cardiac neurosis

A term that includes district nurses, health visitors, practice nurses and school nurses. While customarily based in a general practice or a health centre, they are independent health professionals contracted to the NHS (see NURSING).... community nurses

See SLEEP.... dreams

A negative test result for a condition that is, in fact, present.... false negative

Gram’s Method is a staining procedure that separates bacteria into those that stain (positive) and those that don’t (negative). Gram-positive bugs cause such lovely things as scarlet fever, tetanus, and anthrax, while some of the gram negs can give you cholera, plague, and the clap. This is significant to the microbiologist and the pathologist; otherwise I wouldn’t worry. Still, knowing the specifics (toss in anaerobes and aerobes as well), you can impress real medical professionals with your knowledge of the secret, arcane language of medicine.... gram-positive/negative

A branch of the ophthalmic nerve supplying the lacrimal gland and conjunctiva of the EYE.... lacrimal nerve

During pregnancy, the LINEA ALBA becomes pigmented and appears as a dark line down the middle of the belly, and is called the linea nigra.... linea nigra

The central drainage and metabolic organs strung along the lymph vessels. The mesenchymal structure is native, being present at birth. The functional cells have all migrated there, some recently from the marrow, spleen, thymus or blood, others have resided since a few months after birth. Much of the antibody memory is stored in these nodes, and having only venous blood supply, lymph nodes are constantly shunting metabolized substances back into the blood, so the final lymph drainage from the thoracic duct into the left subclavian vein (or the right subclavian) contains fluid already screened and cleansed by many nodes.... lymph nodes

Under the strict legal de?nition, negligence must involve proving a clearly established duty of care which has been breached in a way that has resulted in injury or harm to the recipient of care. There does not need to be any malicious intention. Whether or not a particular injury can be attributed to medical negligence, or must simply be accepted as a reasonable risk of the particular treatment, depends upon an assessment of whether the doctor has fallen below the standard expected of practitioners in the particular specialty. A defence to such a claim is that a respected body of practitioners would have acted in the same way (even though the majority might not) and in doing so would have acted logically.... medical negligence

A group of disorders of unknown origin. Certain cells in the neurological system’s MOTOR nerves degenerate and die. Upper and lower motor neurones may be affected but sensory cells retain their normal functions. Three types of MND are identi?ed: amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (AML – 50 per cent of patients); progressive muscular atrophy (25 per cent), in which the prognosis is better than for AML; and bulbar palsy (25 per cent). Men are affected more than women, and the disorder affects about seven people in every 100,000. Those affected develop progressive weakness and wasting of their muscles. The diagnosis is con?rmed with various tests including the measurement of electrical activity in muscles, electromyography, muscle BIOPSY, blood tests and X-ray examination of the spine. There is no medical treatment: patients need physical and psychological support with aids to help them overcome disabilities. The Motor Neurone Disease Association provides excellent advice and help for sufferers and their relatives. (See APPENDIX 2: ADDRESSES: SOURCES OF INFORMATION, ADVICE, SUPPORT AND SELF-HELP.)... motor neurone disease (mnd)

Baliospermum montanum

Euphorbiaceae

San: Danti;

Hin: Danti;

Mal: Danti, Nagadanti;

Tam: Nakatanti;

Tel: Nelajidi

Importance: Danti or Nagadanti is a stout undershrub with numerous flowers. Root, which is the officinal part, is used in abdominal pain, constipation, calculus, general anasarca, piles, helminthic manifestations, scabies, skin disorders, suppurative ulcers and diseases caused by the morbidity of kapha and pitta. Root paste is applied to painful swellings and piles. Leaves cure asthma and seeds are used in snakebite (Kurup et al, 1979; Sharma, 1983). The drug forms an important constituent of preparations like Dantyarishta, Dantiharitakileham, Kaisoraguggulu gulika, etc.(Sivarajan et al, 1994).

Distribution: The plant is found throughout the sub-Himalayan tracts from Kashmir to Khasi Hills. It is common in West Bengal, Bihar and Central and Peninsular India.

Botany: Baliospermum montanum (Willd.) Muell-Arg. syn. B. axillare Bl., B. polyandrum Wt. belongs to the family Euphrobiaceae. It is a stout under-shrub 0.9-1.8m in height with herbaceous branches from the roots. Leaves are simple, sinuate-toothed, upper ones small, lower ones large and sometimes palmately 3-5 lobed. Flowers are numerous, arranged in axillary racemes with male flowers above and a few females below. Fruits are capsules, 8-13mm long and obovoid. Seeds are ellipsoid smooth and mottled (Warrier et al,1993).

Agrotechnology: The tropical plant is suited to almost all soils. It can be cultivated either as pure crop or intercrop. It is propagated vegetatively by cuttings. About 15-20cm long rooted cuttings are used for planting. Pits of size 50cm cube are to be taken at 3m spacing and filled with dried cowdung, sand and top soil and formed into a mound. On these mounds, rooted cuttings are to be planted at 2 cuttings/mound. Cuttings establish within one month. Weeding is to be carried out at this time. Application of organic manure after every 6 months is beneficial. Irrigation during summer months is preferable. The plant is not attacked by any serious pests or diseases. Roots can be collected at the end of second year. The roots are to be cut and dried in sun before marketing. The yield is about one tonne root/ha (Prasad et al,1997).

Properties and activity: Roots contain diterpenes, baliospermin, montanin, phorbol-12-deoxy-13-O-palmitate, phorbol-12-deoxy-16-hydroxy-13-O-palmitate and phorbol-12-deoxy-5 -hydroxy-13 – myristate (Ogura et al, 1978). Alcoholic extract of plant showed hypotensive activity in experimental animals (Bhakuni et al, 1971). Antilukaemic and cytotoxic activities have been demonstrated in the esters of both 12-deoxyphorbol and 12-deoxy-16-hydroxyphorbol, isolated from B. montanum (King-horn, 1979). The roots are acrid, thermogenic, purgative, antiinflammatory, anodyne, digestive, anthelmintic, diuretic, diaphoretic, rubefacient, febrifuge and tonic. Seed is purgative, stimulant, rubefacient and antidote for snakebite. Seed oil is antirheumatic. Leaf is antiasthmatic and wound healing. Root and seed oil is cathartic and antidropsical. Stem is anti-dontalgic.... nagadanti

A drug that is an ANTAGONIST to narcotic substances (see NARCOTICS). Given orally, it is used in the maintenance treatment of HEROIN – and other opiate-dependent people.... naltrexone

A nanometre is a millionth of a millimetre. The approved abbreviation is nm. (See APPENDIX 6: MEASUREMENTS IN MEDICINE.)... nanometre

The nose and nasal sinuses (see SINUS) produce up to a litre of MUCUS in 24 hours, most of which enters the stomach via the NASOPHARYNX. Changes in the nasal lining mucosa occur in response to changes in humidity and atmospheric temperature; these may cause severe congestion, as might an allergic reaction or nasal polyp.

Treatment Topical nasal decongestants include sodium chloride drops and corticosteroid nasal drops (for polyps). For commoncold-induced congestion, vapour inhalants, decongestant sprays and nasal drops, including EPHEDRINE drops, are helpful. Overuse of decongestants, however, can produce a rebound congestion, requiring more treatment and further congestion, a tiresome vicious circle. Allergic RHINITIS (in?ammation of the nasal mucosa) usually responds to ipratropium bromide spray.

Systemic nasal decongestants given by mouth are not always as e?ective as topical administrations but they do not cause rebound congestion. Pseudoephedrine hydrochoride is available over the counter, and most common-cold medicines contain anticongestant substances.... nasal congestion

The excretion of SODIUM in the URINE, particularly if the amount excreted is more than normal. An agent that causes this sodium excretion

– usually a diuretic (see DIURETICS) – is termed a natriuretic.... natriuresis

Accidental perforation of the skin by an injection needle, commonly of the hand or ?nger and usually by a nurse or doctor administering a therapeutic injection. The term also refers to accidental injuries from injection needles discarded by drug abusers. Dangerous infections such as viral HEPATITIS or HIV may be acquired from needle-stick injuries, and there are strict procedures about the disposal of used syringes and needles in medical settings.... needle-stick injury

An operation performed in the treatment of cataracts (see under EYE, DISORDERS OF), in which the anterior lens capsule of the EYE is torn open with a needle, allowing the aqueous ?uid to dissolve the opaque soft lens matter, which is gradually washed away into the bloodstream. This ‘extra-capsular extraction’ may need to be repeated several times before all the opaque lens matter disperses. Although a relatively simple procedure, it is unsuitable for patients over the age of 35 (when the nucleus of the lens becomes increasingly hard), and CRYOSURGERY and LASER therapy have become the preferred methods of treatment.

Needling is also used for certain minor dermatological procedures, such as removal of small facial cysts and scabies mites.... needling

Azadirachta indica

Meliaceae

San: Nimbah, Prabhadrah Hin,

Ben: Nim, Nim Mal: Aryaveppu

Tel: Vepa Ori: Nimba

Tam: Vembu, Veppu Pun: Bakam,Bukhain

Guj: Limba

Kan: Bevu Mar: Limbu

Importance: Neem or margose tree, also known as Indian lilac is a highly exploited medicinal plant of Indian origin, widely grown and cultivated throughout India. Every part of the tree, namely root, bark, wood, twig, leaf, flower, fruit, seed, kernel and oil has been in use from time immemorial in the Ayurvedic and Unani systems of medicine. Nimbarishta, nimbadi churna and nimbharidra khand are well known preparations. It is valuable as an antiseptic, used in the treatment of small pox. Small twigs are used as tooth brushes and as a prophylactic for mouth and teeth complaints. Extract from the leaves are useful for sores, eczema and skin diseases. Boiled and smashed leaves serve as excellent antiseptic. Decoction of leaves is used for purifying blood. Neem oil is used in soaps, toothpaste and as a hair tonic to kill lice. Seed is used in snake bite. The fruits and leaves being renewable, provide sustainable returns. Different parts of the fruit are separated into components and each one produces derivatives of varying chemical nature and utility. Neem derivatives are now used in agriculture, public health, human and veterinary medicines, toiletries, cosmetics and livestock production. Applications as pesticides, allied agrochemicals, plant nutrients and adjuvants for improving nitrogen use efficiency are of much importance. Neem kernel suspension (1%) is a house hold insecticide. Pesticide formulations containing azadirachtin are now commercially available in India, USA, Canada, Australia and Germany. Neem cake is rich in N, P, K, Ca and S. Neem Meliacins like epinimbin and nimbidin are commercially exploited for the preparation of slow and extended release of nutrients including nitrification inhibitors (Eg. Nimin). Extracts of neem seed oil and bark check the activity of male reproductive cells and prevents sperm production. Neem seed oil is more effective than the bark for birth control. Neem based commercial products are also available for diabetes treatment (Nimbola, JK-22), contraceptive effect (Sensal, Nim-76) and mosquito/ insect repelling (Srivastava, 1989; Tewari, 1992; Parmer and Katkar, 1993; Pushpangadan et al, 1993; Mariappan, 1995).

Distribution: Neem is a native of the Siwalik deccan parts of South India. It grows wild in the dry forests of Andra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. It has spread to Pakistan, Bangladesh , Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Middle East Sudan and Niger. It is now grown in Australia, Africa, Fiji, Mauritious, Central and South America, the Carribeans, Puerto Rico and Haiti. The largest known plantation of nearly 50,000 trees is at Arafat plains en route to Mecca in Saudi Arabia for providing shade to Haj pilgrims (Ahmed, 1988).

Botany: The genus Azadirachta of family Meliaceae comprises two species: A. indica A. Juss syn. Melia azadirachta Linn. and A. excelsa (Jack) Jacobs syn. A. integrifolia Mers., the latter being found in Philippines, Sumatra, Malaya, Borneo and New Guinea. Neem is a hardy medium to large, mostly evergreen tree attaining 20m height and 2.5m girth. It has a short bole with wide spreading branches and glabrous twigs forming a round to oval crown. The bark is thick, dark-gray with numerous longitudinal furrows and transverse cracks. Leaves are imparipinnately compound, alternate, exstipulate and 20-38cm long. Inflorescence is long, slender, axillary or terminal panicle. Flowers are white or pale yellow, small, bisexual, pentamerous and bracteate. Stamens 10; filaments unite to form a moniliform tube. Gynoecium is tricarpellary and syncarpous, ovary superior, trilocular. Each carpel bears two collateral ovules on parietal placentation. Fruit is one seeded drupe with woody endocarp, greenish yellow when ripe. Seed ellipsoid, cotyledons thick fleshy and oily. Neem has chromosome number 2n = 28. Neem trees tend to become deciduous for a brief period in dry ecology. Ecotypes, exhibiting morphological variation in root growth, leaf size, contents, bole length , canopy, inflorescence, fruit bearing, seed size, shape and quality exist in natural populations.

Agrotechnology: Neem grows in tropical arid regions with high temperatures, altitudes between 50m and 1000m, as little rainfall as 130mm/yr and long stretches of drought. Well drained sunny hill places are ideal. It grows on most kinds of soils including dry, stony, shallow, nutrient deficient soils with scanty vegetation, moderately saline and alkali soils, black cotton, compact clays and laterite crusts. However, silty flats, clayey depressions and land prone to inundation are not conducive for its growth (Chaturvedi, 1993). Soil pH of 5.0 to 10.0 is ideal. It brings surface soil to neutral pH by its leaf litter. It has extensive and deeply penetrating root system capable of extracting moisture and nutrients even from highly leached poor sandy soils.

Neem propagates easily by seed without any pretreatment, though it can be regenerated by vegetative means like root and shoot cuttings. Seeds are collected from June to August. These remain viable for 3-5 weeks only which necessitates sowing within this short time. Seeds may be depulped and soaked in water for 6 hours before sowing. Seeds are sown on nursery beds at 15x5cm spacing, covered with rotten straw and irrigated. Germination takes 15-30 days. Seedlings can be transplanted after two months of growth onwards either to polybags or to mainfield. Neem can be grown along with agricultural crops like groundnut, bean, millets, sorghum and wheat. It is also suitable for planting in roadsides, for afforestation of wastelands and under agroforestry system. For field planting, pits of size 50-75 cm cube are dug 5-6m apart, filled with top soil and well rotten manure, formed into a heap, and seedling is planted at the centre of the heap. FYM is applied at 10-20 kg/plant every year. Chemical fertilizers are not generally applied. Irrigation and weeding are required during the first year for quick establishment.

More than 38 insect pests are reported on Neem which may become serious at times. The important ones are seed and flower insect (Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood), defoliators (Boarmia variegata Moore and Eurema sp.), sap suckers (Helopeltes antonii Signoret and Pulvinaria maxima Green) , root feeders (Hototrichia consanguinea Blanchard), mealy bug (Pseudococus gilbertensis), scale insect (Parlatoria orientalis) and a leaf webber (Loboschiza Koenigiana)(Beeson, 1941, Bhasin et al, 1958, Parmar, 1995). They can be controlled by the application of 0.01-0.02% monocrotophos or dimethoate. No serious diseases are reported in Neem. Flowering starts after 5 years. In India flowering is during January-May and fruits mature from May-August. The leaves are shed during February- March and a full grown tree produces about 350 kg dry leaves and 40-50 kg berries per annum. Fresh fruits give 60% dry fruits which yield 10% kernel which contains 45% fixed oil, on an average. After 10 years of growth the wood can be cut and used as timber.

Properties and Activity: Dry Neem leaves contain carbohydrates 47-51%, crude protein 14-19%, crude fiber 11-24%, fat 2-7%, ash 7-9%, Ca 0.8-2.5% and P 0.1-0.2%. Leaves also contain the flavanoid quercetin, nimbosterol (-sitosterol), kaempferol and myricetin. Seed and oil contains desacetylnimbin, azadirachtin (C35H44O16), nimbidol, meliantriol ,tannic acid, S and amino acids. Neem cake contain the highest sulphur content of 1.07% among all the oil cakes. Trunk bark contains nimbin 0.04%, nimbinin 0.001%, nimbidin 0.4%, nimbosterol 0.03%, essential oil 0.02%, tannins 6.0 %, margosine and desacetylnimbin (Atal and Kapur, 1982; Thakur et al 1989).

Neem bark is bitter, astringent, acrid, refrigerant, depurative, antiperiodic, vulnerary, demulcent, insecticidal, liver tonic, expectorant and anthelmintic. Leaves are bitter, astringent, acrid, depurative, antiseptic, ophthalmic, anthelmintic, alexeteric, appetizer, insecticidal, demulcent and refrigerant. Seed and oil are bitter, acrid, thermogenic, purgative, emollient, anodyne, anthelmintic depurative, vulnerary, uterine stimulant, urinary astringent, pesticidal and antimicrobial (Warrier et al, 1993).... neem

Negativism means a morbid tendency in a person to do the opposite of what he or she is desired or directed to do. It is especially characteristic of those suffering from SCHIZOPHRENIA, but is not uncommon in non-psychotic persons.... negativism

See MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE.... negligence

A roundworm. (See ASCARIASIS.)... nematode

Unsegmented worms having a gut and a body cavity (pseudocoel). Are round in transverse section. Many species are parasitic.... nematodes

The branch of PAEDIATRICS responsible for the medical care of newborn babies. Problems may be short term – for example, those linked to prematurity – or life-long such as CEREBRAL PALSY. After the ?rst few weeks of life, paediatricians take over the responsibility for any specialist medical care required, with general practitioners looking after the infants’ primary-care needs.... neonatology

Pain in the kidney... nephralgia

A condition in which CALCULI are present in the kidney.... nephrolithiasis

Surgical ?xation (to the 12th rib and posterior abdominal wall) of a mobile kidney; this prevents the kidney from descending in the abdomen when the affected person stands up.... nephropexy

The condition in which a kidney (see KIDNEYS) is mobile or ‘?oating’ instead of being ?xed to the back of the abdominal cavity.... nephroptosis

An endoscopic instrument for examining the inside of the kidney (see KIDNEYS). It is normally passed into the renal pelvis of the organ via a route from the surface of the skin. Instruments can be passed through the nephroscope under direct vision to remove CALCULI (stones) or break them up using ULTRASOUND.... nephroscope

Nephrotomy means the operation of cutting into the kidney (see KIDNEYS), in search of CALCULI or for other reasons.... nephrotomy

See NEURON(E).... nerve cell

The structure in the EMBRYO from which the BRAIN and SPINAL CORD develop.... neural tube

Congenital abnormalities resulting from the failure of the NEURAL TUBE to form normally. The resulting conditions include SPINA BIFIDA, MENINGOCELE and defects in the bones of the SKULL.... neural tube defects

An operation in which part of a NERVE is excised: for example, for the relief of NEURALGIA.... neurectomy

The thin membranous covering which surrounds every nerve-?bre. (See NERVE.)... neurilemma

Sensations or conditions derived solely from the nervous system... neurogenic

The ?ne web of tissue and branching cells which supports the nerve-?bres and cells of the nervous system. (See NERVE.)... neuroglia

The area where a motor NERVE ends close to the MUSCLE membrane so can initiate muscle contraction. The motor-nerve ending is separated from the motor end plate by the synaptic cleft which is only 50–70 nm wide. When a nerve impulse arrives at the motor-nerve ending, molecules of ACETYLCHOLINE are released which cross the synaptic cleft and attach to receptors on the motor end plate. This initiates depolarisation of the muscle which in turn initiates the process of contraction. Acetylcholinesterase (an ENZYME) rapidly breaks down the molecules of acetylcholine, thus ending their action and freeing the receptor in preparation for the next impulse.... neuromuscular junction

A URINARY BLADDER with complete or partial loss of sensation. As there is no sensation of fullness, the individual either develops complete retention of URINE, or the bladder empties automatically – usually every few hours. The condition predisposes affected individuals to urinary-tract infections and back pressure on the KIDNEYS, leading to renal failure. It may be caused by spinal injury, SPINA BIFIDA or any disorder which produces NEUROPATHY.... neuropathic bladder

The branch of PATHOLOGY that covers the reasons for and consequences of disorders of the NERVOUS SYSTEM (see also NEUROLOGY).... neuropathology

A chemical substance that harms nervous tissue, causing symptoms of numbness or weakness of the body part supplied by the damaged NERVE. The venom of some snakes contains neurotoxic substances, and bacteria may produce neurotoxins: examples are those that cause DIPHTHERIA and TETANUS. Arsenic and lead are examples of inorganic neurotoxins.... neurotoxin

A reduction in the number of neutrophil LEUCOCYTES per cubic millimetre of circulating blood to a ?gure below that found in health. There is still some disagreement over the precise limits of normality, but a count of fewer than 1,500 per mm3 would be generally accepted as constituting neutropenia. Several infective diseases are characterised by neutropenia, including typhoid fever (see ENTERIC FEVER), INFLUENZA and MEASLES. It may also be induced by certain drugs, including chloramphenicol, the sulphonamides and chlorpromazine.... neutropenia

A site of infection within the body from which it can spread to other tissues.... nidus

Chemical compounds that have a valuable role in the treatment of ANGINA PECTORIS. They are very e?ective in dilating the ARTERIES supplying the HEART; their prime bene?t, however, is to reduce the return of venous blood to the heart (via the superior and inferior venae cavae), thus reducing the demands on the left ventricle, which pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs. Undesirable side-effects such as ?ushing, headache and postural HYPOTENSION may restrict the use of nitrates. Among the nitrate drugs used is GLYCERYL TRINITRATE which, taken under the tongue (sublingually), provides quick, symptomatic relief of angina, lasting for up to half an hour. Alternative administration can be via a spray product. Isorbide dinitrate taken sublingually is a more stable preparation, suitable for patients who need nitrates infrequently. The drug’s e?ect may last for 12 hours in modi?ed-release form. Patients taking long-acting nitrates or preparations absorbed through the skin (transdermal) may develop TOLERANCE.... nitrates

See DEAFNESS; OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES.... noise

The symmetrical clustering of values around a central location. The properties of a normal distribution include: (1) it is a continuous, symmetrical distribution: both tails extend to infinity; (2) the arithmetic mean, mode and median are identical; and (3) its shape is completely determined by the mean and standard deviation.... normal distribution

The precursor of an erythrocyte (see ERYTHROCYTES; BLOOD) which still contains the remnant of a NUCLEUS.... normoblast

Having a BLOOD PRESSURE within the NORMAL range for an individual’s age and sex.... normotensive

One of the ANTIDEPRESSANT DRUGS; also a sedative.... nortriptyline

Infection pertaining to a hospital or an infirmary.... nosocomial infection

The term applied to scienti?c classi?cation of diseases.... nosology

See NOSE.... nostrils

An infectious or other disease required to be notified to the relevant State Government Authorityfor entry onto the Notifiable Diseases Register.... notifiable disease

See NON-STEROIDAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS (NSAIDS).... nsaids

The Latin name for the back of the neck. (Adjective – nuchal.)... nucha

A molecule that is formed from a structural protein that is combined with nucleic acid, and generally found in cell nuclei and other proliferative points in cells. Upon cell death, nucleoproteins, unlike others, cannot be catabolized and recycled efficiently; instead, part of the protein is degraded to purines, and thence to uric acid. Uric acid, unlike urea, is an excretory dead end.... nucleoprotein

The statistical hypothesis that one variable has no association with another variable or set of variables, or that two or more population distributions do not differ from one another. In simplest terms, the null hypothesis states that the results observed in a study, experiment or test are no different from what might have occurred by chance alone.... null hypothesis

The term applied to a woman who has never borne a child.... nullipara

An individual with advanced training in caring for the sick, aged or injured. A nurse may be defined as a professional qualified by education and authorized by law to practise nursing. There are many different types, specialties and grades of nurses. Those who specialize in care of older adults are often called geriatric or gerontological nurses.... nurse

See “high dependency care facility”.... nursing home

Night blindness... nyctalopia

That part of the AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM which is connected with the BRAIN and SPINAL CORD through certain nerve centres in the midbrain, medulla, and lower end of the cord. The nerves from these centres are carried in the third, seventh, ninth and tenth cranial nerves and the second, third and fourth sacral nerves. The action of the parasympathetic system is usually antagonistic to that of the sympathetic system. Thus it inhibits the action of the HEART and augments the action of the INTESTINE; whereas the sympathetic augments the action of the heart and inhibits that of the intestine. (See diagram of sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems under NERVOUS SYSTEM.)... parasympathetic nervous system

See POLYARTERITIS NODOSA.... periarteritis nodosa

The NERVE which chie?y supplies the DIAPHRAGM. A phrenic nerve arises on each side of the SPINAL CORD from the third, fourth and ?fth cervical spinal nerves; both follow a long course down the neck, and through the chest to the diaphragm. They play a key part in RESPIRATION through control of the diaphragm. Injury to one nerve paralyses one half of the diaphragm. Occasionally the phrenic nerve may be surgically crushed as part of the treatment to repair a HIATUS HERNIA or, rarely, to stop intractable hiccups.... phrenic nerve

The nerve that operates the lowest muscles of the ?oor of the PELVIS and also the anal SPHINCTER muscle. It may be damaged in childbirth, resulting in INCONTINENCE.... pudendal nerve

A condition in which the head is twisted to one side. It may be caused by the contraction of a scar, such as that resulting from a burn or by paralysis of some of the muscles; as a result of injury at birth; or trauma to the area later in life. Treatment is by an orthopaedic collar, heat or ULTRASOUND, or PHYSIOTHERAPY. Sometimes a local injection of BOTULISM toxin will produce temporary relief. Rarely, surgery is necessary. (See also MUSCLES, DISORDERS OF – Cramp; SPASMODIC TORTICOLLIS.)... wry-neck

A mosquito-borne viral infection that is normally harmless to healthy people who, if infected, develop a mild ?u-like illness. However, if the elderly and those in poor health, particularly immunocompromised patients, are infected, they may develop fatal in?ammation of the brain and spinal cord. In Israel in 2000, 12 people died and more than 155 survived an outbreak; and in New York in 1999, more than 60 people were infected, of whom six died. The disease was ?rst reported in Uganda in 1937 and became ENDEMIC in the Middle East and Africa, recently spreading to Europe, central Asia, Oceania and America. Mosquitoes bearing the ?aviviridae-family virus usually contract it by biting infected poultry, but the infection has been found in mammals, such as cats, dogs and horses.... west nile virus

Appearance of red oval nodules on the skin, later passing from red to brown. Onset sudden. Infection is usually streptococcal for which Myrrh and Goldenseal are specific. Non- infective. Lesions are preceded by sore throat. Stony-hard nodules break down to discharge pus. Symptoms: lesions mostly on shins and forearms; fatigue, aching joints and muscles, sometimes fever. Much physical activity stimulates out-cropping.

Tre atme nt. Bedrest where necessary. Treat underlying cause which may be ulcerative colitis, tuberculosis, toxicity from The Pill, drug reactions.

Alternatives:– Tea. Red Clover, Gotu Kola, Clivers. Combine. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-10 minutes; half-1 cup thrice daily.

Tablets/capsules. Blue Flag root, Devil’s Claw, Poke root, Seaweed and Sarsaparilla, Wild Yam. Formula. Burdock 1; Dandelion 2; Sarsaparilla 1. Dose – Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid Extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Thrice daily in water.

Diet. See: DIET – SKIN DISEASES.

Note: Erythema nodosum associated with Crohn’s disease, more frequently recognised in childhood. ... erythema nodosum

The 11th cranial nerve. Unlike the other cranial nerves, most of the accessory nerve originates from the spinal cord. The small part of the nerve that originates from the brain supplies many muscles of the palate, pharynx (throat), and larynx (voice box). Damage to this part of the nerve may cause difficulty in speaking and swallowing. The spinal part of the nerve supplies large muscles of the neck and back, notably the sternomastoid and trapezius. Damage to the spinal fibres of the nerve paralyses these muscles.... accessory nerve

The part of the vestibulocochlear nerve (the 8th cranial nerve) that is concerned with hearing. It is also known as the auditory nerve.... acoustic nerve

A frightening dream. Night terrors in children.

Causes: excessive mental activity during the day, a heavy meal late in the evening, indigestion, obstruction of free blood return from the brain.

Teas: Alfalfa. English Herb Tea.

Dioscorides, and Pliny, both record: Paeony root. Prepare: 1 part powdered Paeony root mixed with 4 parts honey. 1-2 teaspoons to cup boiling water at bedtime.

France: traditional – Marjoram tea.

Dr Wooster Beach, USA. Cup Skullcap tea with honey and pinch of Cayenne on retiring.

Aromatherapy. Bedtime inhalation or anointing of forehead: oil of Frankincense. Nightly footbath. Practice relaxation at night before falling asleep. ... nightmare

A small knot of specialized muscle cells in the right atrium of the heart. Electrical impulses from the sinoatrial node pass through the atrioventricular node and along conducting fibres to the ventricles, causing them to contract.... atrioventricular node

The death of cells in body tissue caused by damage to blood vessels supplying the area.

aversion therapy An outdated form of behaviour therapy in which unpleasant stimuli, such as electric shocks, are administered at the same time as an unwanted behaviour in an attempt to alter behavioural patterns.... avascular necrosis

Also known as , abnormalities in the cells of the cervix which may become cancerous.

The grading system is used to distinguish levels of change in the surface cells of the cervix in biopsy samples taken during colposcopy, a procedure usually performed following an abnormal cervical smear test.

Grades 1–3 broadly correspond to mild to severe cervical dysplasia in cells obtained from a smear.... cervical intraepithelial neoplasia

Notifiable diseases under the Public Health (Control of Disease Act, 1984) are:–

Acute encephalitis, acute meningitis, acute poliomyelitis, anthrax, cholera, diphtheria, dysentery (amoebic and bacillary), food poisoning, infective jaundice, leprosy, leptospirosis, lassa fever, mumps, malaria, marburg disease, measles, German measles, ophthalmia neonatorum, paratyphoid fever, plague, rabies, relapsing fever, scarlet fever, smallpox, tetanus, tuberculosis, typhoid fever, typhus, viral haemorrhagic fever, whooping cough and yellow fever.

Six communicable diseases are internationally notifiable to the World Health Organisation: yellow fever, plague, cholera, smallpox, louse-borne relapsing fever, louse-borne typhus.

Notification has to be made to local and central Government authorities. Certain occupational diseases and all cases of cancer must be registered and notified.

It is required that the above diseases and certain others receive modern medical therapy in a hospital or treatment under the supervision of a qualified physician. Failure to conform may expose a practitioner, registered or unregistered, to a charge of negligence. ... notifiable diseases

Myristica fragrans, Houtt. German: Muskatnussbaum. French: Miscadier. Spanish: Nuez Moscado. Italian: Noce moscato. Arabian: Jour-ut-tib. Indian: Jaephal. Iranian: Jowz bo?yah. Chinese: Jou-tou-kou. Part used: dried kernels. Constituents: volatile oil.

Action: prostaglandin inhibitor, anti-diarrhoeal, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, sedative, diaphoretic, brain stimulant, carminative, aromatic (oil), digestive stimulant.

Uses: children’s diarrhoea, dysentery, colic, nausea, vomiting, to promote acid content of gastric juice. Claimed to dissolve gall-stones. Nervous stomach, throbbing headache caused by stress, palpitation.

Relief of muscle tension back of neck.

“To comfort head and nerves.” (Dr Joseph Mill)

Preparations: Average dose, 0.3-1 gram or equivalent. Thrice daily, after meals. Grains obtained by rubbing a Nutmeg over a metal kitchen grater; may be taken in a beverage, honey, mashed banana, etc. Powder: Fill No 3 gelatin capsules; 1 capsule or 50mg.

Oil: an alternative for internal conditions. 1-2 drops daily.

Massage oil for rheumatic pains and to stimulate circulation: Nutmeg oil (1), Olive oil or Almond oil (10).

Home tincture: one freshly grated Nutmeg to macerate in half pint 60 per cent alcohol (Vodka, gin, etc) 7 days. Decant. Dose: 5-10 drops.

Avoid large doses. ... nutmeg

Insatiable desire for sex in women.

Indicated: Agnus Castus, Hops, Black Willow, Ladyslipper, (Albert Priest) Sweet Marjoram. Traditional: White Pond Lily (emblem of purity).

Chinese Barefoot medicine – Sage tea.

Teas. Agnus Castus, Hops, Sweet Marjoram.

Decoction. Black Willow bark.

Tablets/capsules. Agnus Castus, Black Willow.

Formula. Equal parts: Black Willow, Agnus Castus, Wild Lettuce. Dose: Liquid extracts: 2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 2-3 teaspoons. Powders: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon). Thrice daily.

Oregano (origanum vulgare). Spanish traditional. 5-20 drops tincture or 1 drop oil in honey between meals, thrice daily.

Home-tincture: handful Oregano steeped in bottle of white wine. ... nymphomania

A condition, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, in which local pressure on a nerve causes muscle pain, numbness, and weakness in the area that the nerve supplies.... entrapment neuropathy

One of the main nerves of the leg. The nerve fibres making up the femoral nerve emerge from the lower spine and run down into the thigh, where they branch to supply the skin and quadriceps muscles.

Damage to the femoral nerve (which impairs the ability to straighten the knee) is usually caused by a slipped disc in the lumbar region of the spine (see disc prolapse). Damage may also result from a backward dislocation of the hip or a neuropathy.... femoral nerve

The ninth cranial nerve.

This nerve performs both sensory and motor functions.

It conveys sensations, especially taste, from the back of the tongue, regulates secretion of saliva by the parotid gland, and controls movement of the throat muscles.... glossopharyngeal nerve

A small organ lying along the course of a lymphatic vessel (see lymphatic system); commonly but incorrectly called a lymph gland. Lymph nodes vary considerably in size, from microscopic to about 2.5 cm (1 in) in diameter.

A lymph node consists of a thin, fibrous outer capsule and an inner mass of lymphoid tissue. Penetrating the capsule are several small lymphatic vessels (whichcarry lymph into the node). Each node contains sinuses (spaces), in which the lymph is filtered. The flow of the lymph slows as it moves through narrow channels in the sinuses; this reduction in flow allows macrophages (white blood cells that engulf and destroy foreign and dead material) time to filter microorganisms from the lymph. Germinal centres in the lymph node release white blood cells called lymphocytes, which also help to fight infection. A single, larger vessel carries lymph out of the node.... lymph node

A group of disorders in which there is degeneration of the nerves in the central nervous system that control muscular activity. This causes weakness and wasting of the muscles. The cause is unknown.

The most common type of motor neuron disease is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( or Lou Gehrig’s disease). It usually affects people over the age of 50 and is more common in men. Some cases run in families. Usually, symptoms start with weakness in the hands and arms or legs, and muscle wasting. There may be irregular muscle contractions, and muscle cramps or stiffness. All four extremities are soon affected.

Progressive muscular atrophy and progressive bulbar palsy both start with patterns of muscle weakness different from but usually develop into.There are 2 types of motor neuron disease that first appear in childhood or adolescence. In most cases, these conditions are inherited. Werdnig–Hoffman disease affects infants at birth or soon afterwards. In almost all cases, progressive muscle weakness leads to death within several years. Chronic spinal muscular atrophy begins in childhood or adolescence, causing progressive weakness but not always serious disability.

There are no specific tests for motor neuron disease. Diagnosis is based on careful clinical examination by a neurologist. Tests including EMG, muscle biopsy, blood tests, myelography, CT scanning, or MRI may be performed.

The disease typically goes on to affect the muscles involved in breathing and swallowing, leading to death within 2–4 years. However, about 10 per cent of sufferers survive for 10 years.

Nerve degeneration cannot be slowed down, but physiotherapy and the use of various aids may help to reduce disability. The drug riluzole is used to extend life (or the time until mechanical ventilation is required).... motor neuron disease

An aerosol device used to administer a drug in the form of a fine mist for inhalation through a face mask or mouthpiece.

Nebulizers are used to administer bronchodilator drugs, especially in the emergency treatment of asthma.... nebulizer

A rare, serious infection of tissues beneath the skin by a type of streptococcal bacterium.

Necrotizing fasciitis is most likely to occur as a complication following surgery.

The initial symptoms are inflammation and blistering of the skin.

The infection spreads very rapidly, and the bacteria release enzymes and toxins that can cause extensive destruction of deeper tissues and damage internal organs.

Urgent treatment with antibiotic drugs and removal of all infected tissue are essential.

The infection is life-threatening.... necrotizing fasciitis

A rare disorder of the endocrine system that causes increased skin pigmentation. Nelson’s syndrome results from enlargement of the pituitary gland, which can follow removal of the adrenal glands (a treatment for Cushing’s syndrome).

Nelson’s syndrome is treated by hypophysectomy (removal or destruction of the pituitary gland).... nelson’s syndrome

The act of making up new words that have a special meaning for the inventor. The term also refers to the invented words themselves. Persistent neologism can be a feature of speech in people with schizophrenia.... neologism

A newly born infant, under the age of 1 month (see newborn).... neonate

Deposits of calcium within the tissue of 1 or both kidneys. Nephrocalcinosis is not the same as kidney stones (see calculus, urinary tract), in which calcium particles develop inside the drainage channels of the kidney. Nephrocalcinosis may occur in any condition in which the level of calcium in the blood is raised. It may also occur as a result of taking excessive amounts of certain antacid drugs or vitamin D. Treatment is of the underlying cause to prevent further calcification.... nephrocalcinosis

The surgical removal of a calculus (stone) from the kidney.

Nephrolithotomy may be performed through an abdominal incision, or via a puncture incision in the back. Large

calculi may need to be broken up before removal. Other methods of removal are pyelolithotomy and lithotripsy.... nephrolithotomy

Hardening of the arterioles and arteries of the kidney.... nephrosclerosis

A type of nerve injury in which the outward structure of a nerve appears intact, but some of the conducting fibres have been damaged or have degenerated and thus do not transmit signals normally.... neurapraxia

An itchy, eczema-like skin condition caused by repeated

scratching. (See also lichen simplex.)... neurodermatitis

The branch of medicine dealing with the relationship between psychiatric symptoms and neurological disorder.

This may include the effects of head injury and alcohol on the brain, or disorders such as brain tumours, infections, inherited illnesses, and disorders causing brain damage in childhood.... neuropsychiatry

An uncommon disorder that is inherited. Also called von Recklinghausen’s disease, neurofibromatosis is characterized by numerous neurofibromas (soft, fibrous swellings, varying significantly in size), which grow from nerves, and by café au lait spots (pale, coffee-coloured patches) on the skin, usually on the trunk and pelvis. If neurofibromas occur in the central nervous system, they may cause epilepsy and other complications. Neurofibromatosis can lead to bone deformities. Rarely, neurofibromas become cancerous.

Surgical removal of neurofibromas is necessary only if there are complications.

Anyone with this disorder, and parents of an affected child, should seek genetic counselling if planning a pregnancy.... neurofibromatosis

The term used to describe a nerve cell. A typical neuron consists of a cell body, several branching projections called dendrites, and a filamentous projection called an axon (also known as a nerve fibre). An axon branches at its end to form terminals through which electrical signals are transmitted to target cells. Most axons are coated with a layered insulating myelin sheath, which speeds the transmission of the signals. The myelin sheath is punctuated along its length by gaps called nodes of Ranvier, which help this process. Because the myelin sheath is nonconductive, ion exchange (depolarization) only occurs at a node, and signals leap from node to node along the length of the axon.

The nervous system contains billions of neurons, of which there are 3 main types: sensory neurons, which carry signals from sense receptors into the central nervous system (CNS); motor neurons, which carry signals from the CNS to muscles or glands; and interneurons, which form all the complex electrical circuitry within the CNS itself.

When a neuron transmits (“fires”) an electrical impulse, a chemical called a neurotransmitter is released from the axon terminals at synapses (junctions with other neurons). This neurotransmitter may make a muscle cell contract, cause an endocrine gland to release a hormone, or affect an adjacent neuron.

Different stimuli excite different types of neurons to fire. Sensory neurons, for example, may be excited by physical stimuli, such as cold or pressure. The activity of most neurons is controlled by the effects of neurotransmitters released from adjacent neurons. Certain neurotransmitters generate a sudden change in the balance of electrical potential inside and outside the cell (an “action potential”), which occurs at one point on the cell’s membrane and flows at high speed along it. Others stabilize neuronal membranes, preventing an action potential. Thus, the firing pattern of a neuron depends on the balance of excitatory and inhibitory influences acting on it.

If the cell body of a neuron is damaged or degenerates, the cell dies and is never replaced. A baby starts life with the maximum number of neurons, which decreases continuously thereafter.... neuron

Infection of the brain or spinal cord that occurs in untreated syphilis many years after initial infection.

Damage to the spinal cord due to neurosyphilis may cause tabes dorsalis, characterized by poor coordination of leg movements, urinary incontinence, and pains in the abdomen and limbs. Damage to the brain may cause dementia, muscle weakness, and, in rare cases, total paralysis of the limbs.... neurosyphilis

See vitamin B complex.... niacin

A potassium channel opener drug used in the prevention and longterm treatment of angina. Side effects, which include flushing, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness, are mainly due to nicorandil’s vasodilation effects and usually wear off with continued treatment. Rarely, mouth ulcers and muscle pain can occur.... nicorandil

A disorder, occurring mainly in children, that consists of abrupt arousals from sleep in a terrified state. Night terror (also called sleep terror) usually starts between the ages of 4 and 7, gradually disappearing in early adolescence.

Episodes occur during (nonrapid eye movement) sleep, usually half an hour to 3 and a half hours after falling asleep. Sufferers wake up screaming in a semiconscious state and remain frightened for some minutes. They do not recognize familiar faces or surroundings, and usually cannot be comforted. The sufferer gradually falls back to sleep and has no memory of the event the following day.

Night terror in children has no serious significance, but, in adults, is likely to be associated with an anxiety disorder.... night terror

(NO) A gas that is produced both outside the body as a pollutant (for example, in car exhaust fumes), and inside the body, where it takes the form of a molecule that acts as a messenger between cells.

Nitric oxide causes blood vessels to dilate, affecting the flow of oxygenated blood and regulating blood pressure.

Overproduction of nitric oxide is associated with various disorders, including toxic shock, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes mellitus; underproduction may cause impotence and angina.

The control of nitric oxide is an important element of many drug treatments.... nitric oxide

A colourless, odourless gas that makes up 78 per cent of the Earth’s atmosphere. Although nitrogen gas cannot be utilized by the body, compounds of nitrogen, such as amino acids, are essential to life.... nitrogen

(NO) A colourless gas, sometimes called laughing gas. Nitrous oxide is used with oxygen to provide analgesia (pain relief) and light anaesthesia (see anaesthesia, general).

Adverse effects of nitrous oxide and oxygen may include nausea and vomiting during the recovery period.... nitrous oxide

An infection caused by a fungus-like bacterium present in soil. The infection, acquired through inhalation, usually starts in the lung and spreads via the bloodstream to the brain and tissues under the skin. Nocardiosis is rare except in people with immunodeficiency disorders or those already suffering from another serious disease.

The infection causes a pneumonia-like illness, with fever and cough.

It fails to respond to short-term, antibiotic treatment, and progressive lung damage occurs.

Brain abscesses may follow.

Treatment is with sulphonamide drugs, often in conjunction with other antibacterial drugs, for example trimethoprim.... nocardiosis

A small lump of tissue. A nodule may protrude from the skin’s surface or form deep under the skin. Nodules may be either hard or soft.... nodule

See child abuse.... nonaccidental injury

A term used to describe any medical procedure that does not involve penetration of the skin or entry into the body through any of the natural openings.

Examples include CT scanning and echocardiography.

The term noninvasive is sometimes also applied to noncancerous tumours that do not spread throughout body tissues.... noninvasive

Abbreviation for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.... nsaid

The 3rd cranial nerve, controlling most of the muscles that move the eye. The oculomotor nerve also supplies the muscle that constricts the pupil, that which raises the upper eyelid, and the ciliary muscle, which focuses the eye. The nerve may be damaged due to a fracture to the base of the skull or a tumour. Symptoms include ptosis, squint, dilation of the pupil, inability to focus the eye, double vision, and slight protrusion of the eyeball. (See also trochlear nerve; abducent nerve.)... oculomotor nerve

The first cranial nerve, which conveys sensations of smell as nerve impulses from the nose to the brain. Each of the 2 olfactory nerves has receptors in the mucous membrane lining the nasal cavity. These receptors detect smells and send signals along nerve fibres, which pass through tiny holes in the roof of the nasal cavity and combine to form the olfactory bulbs. From here, nerve fibres come together to form the olfactory nerve, leading to the olfactory centre in the brain. Sense of smell may be lost or impaired due to damage to the olfactory nerves, usually as a result of head injury.... olfactory nerve

A type of eye inflammation and discharge (ophthalmitis) that occurs in newborn infants, usually as a result of infection with gonorrhoea or chlamydia at birth.

The infection is treated with antibiotic drugs.... ophthalmia neonatorum

The main nerve in each leg and the largest nerve in the body.The sciatic nerves are formed from nerve roots in the spinal cord.... sciatic nerve

A red, raised pinheadsized dot, from which small blood vessels radiate, due to a dilated minor artery and its connecting capillaries. Small numbers of spider naevi are common in children and pregnant women, but in larger numbers, they may indicate liver disease. (See also telangiectasia.)... spider naevus

A set of 31 pairs of nerves that connect to the spinal cord. Spinal nerves emerge in 2 rows from either side of the spinal cord and leave the spine through gaps between adjacent vertebrae. The nerves then branch out to supply all parts of the trunk, arms, and legs with sensory and motor nerve fibres.

Disc prolapse may lead to pressure on a spinal nerve, causing pain. Injury to a nerve may lead to loss of sensation or movement in the area supplied by the nerve. (See also nerve injury; neuropathy.)... spinal nerves

See TENS.... transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation

Alfalfa tea is known for more than 2000 years and its benefits are shown by recent studies to be good in treating ailments such as kidney stones or arthritis. Alfalfa: the plant and the tea Alfalfa, literally meaning “the father of plants”, is also known as lucerne, holy-hay or trefoil. It has a high nutritional content, and is best known for possessing A, B, C, D, E and K vitamins. This plant has been originally used only as horse feed, but due to its nutritional benefits its usage has been extended to human consumption too. It proved to be a good soil fertilizer, especially a plant growth regulator. As part of the human diet, at first, it was used to promote appetite and stop bleeding, but further studies have revealed many other health benefits. Alfalfa tea is the beverage resulting from brewing the dried herbs. Brewing Alfalfa Tea To make Alfalfa tea:

• take the dried leaves
• soak them in boiling water
• steep them for 10 to 15 minutes (depending on the quantity and flavor preferences)

Consumers described the taste of the resulting Alfalfa tea as refreshing and pleasant to drink. For medicinal purposes, it is advisable to have 5,000 to 10,000 mg of alfalfa leaves steeped three times a day. Another efficient way of intaking Alfalfa is through herbal supplements, like tablets or capsules. Alfalfa Tea benefits Alfalfa tea is successfully used to:

• lower cholesterol levels
• help keep calcium in bones and out of artery linings
• help lower blood sugar levels
• help in treatment of upset stomach
• alleviate kidney and bladder woes
• stimulate the immune system
• purify the blood
• carry intestinal waste out of the body
• reduce cancer risks

Alfalfa Tea side effects Studies have shown that consuming Alfalfa tea, especially in high doses,could have side effects, such as: breaking down red blood cells, aggravating or even causing symptoms similar to systemic lupus erythematosus disease (SLE). The abovementioned tea is not recommended to pregnant or nursing women, and its administration is not advisable to children suffering from diabetes or autoimmune disease. Alfalfa tea is a modern cure for a large array of diseases. It is also largely used as cattle food, due to its nutritional content.... alfalfa tea: a nutritional tea

DC.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: The Nilgiri Hills at 2,1002,500 m.

Ayurvedic: Raktaskandana.

Folk: Kaatplaaster (Nilgiri hills).

Action: Antiseptic. Fresh leaves are bruised and applied to wounds and cuts as plaster.

An acyl flavonoid glycoside, ana- phaloside, along with isoquercitrin and astragalin, has been isolated from the flowers of a related sp. Anaphalis contorta, used as an antibacterial and styptic.... anaphalis neelgerriana

Fixed dilated pupils of the eyes

Absent CORNEAL REFLEX

Absent VESTIBULO-OCULAR REFLEX

No cranial motor response to somatic (physical) stimulation

Absent gag and cough re?exes

No respiratory e?ort in response to APNOEA despite adequate concentrations of CARBON DIOXIDE in the arterial blood.... b nosed. the test for brain-stem death are:

Linn.

Synonym: Chamaemelum nobile (L.) Allioni.

Family: Asteraceae.

Habitat: The temperate regions of the Himalayas. Wild at several places.

English: Roman Chamomile, Double Chamomile.

Unani: Gul-e-Baabuuna.

Siddha/Tamil: Shimai chamantipu.

Action: Mild sedative, anticon- vulsant, antispasmodic, anti- inflammatory, mild analgesic; used externally for skin disorders, poultice of flowers in sprains and rheumatism.

Key application: Used mainly in France for mild spasmodic gastrointestinal disturbances and sluggishness of bowels, also for nervousness. (PDR.) (German Chamomile has been included by German Commission E among approved herbs, whereas Roman chamomile remains unapproved due to lack of clinical evidence.) The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia recognizes antispasmodic activity of Anthemis nobilis.

The flower heads contain volatile oil (including azulenes and bisabolol); sesquiterpene lactone (nobilin); flavo- noids, cyanogenic glycoside, bitter glu- coside (anthemic acid); acetylenic salicylic derivatives, coumarins (including scopolin), valerianic acid; tannins.

Azulenes and bisabolol are anti- inflammatory and antispasmodic, reducing histamine-induced reactions, including hay fever and asthma. Flavo- noids, especially anthemidin, are also antispasmodic. Valerianic acid and cyanogenic glycosides are sedative.

Flowers and root—abortifacient. Leaves—astringent. A decoction is used for gargling in stomatitis and aphthae.

Along with other therapeutic applications, The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India indicates the use of dried stembark in disorders of female genital tract and bleeding disorders.

The dried bark contains alkaloids, steroids, reducing sugars and also tannins (4.61%). The ether-soluble alkaloid of the bark shows antibacterial activity.

Dosage: Stembark—0.5-1.5 g powder. (API Vol. II.)... anthemis nobilis

The term used for names devised or selected by the British Pharmacopoeia Commission for new drugs. European Union law (1992) requires the use of a Recommended International Non-proprietary Name (rINN) for medicinal substances. In most cases the British Approved Name (BAN) and rINN were the same when the legislation was introduced; where there were di?erences, the BAN was modi?ed to meet the new requirements.

Pharmaceutical manufacturers usually give proprietary (brand) names to the drugs they develop, though doctors in the NHS are expected to prescribe using approved – nonproprietary or generic – titles. Most nonproprietary titles are those in the European Pharmacopoeia, British Pharmacopoeia Commission or the British Pharmaceutical Codex. The USA has its own legislation and arrangements covering the naming and prescribing of medicines. (See PROPRIETARY NAME; GENERIC DRUG; PATENT.)... approved names for medicines

Linn.

Family: Aspleniaceae.

Habitat: Kashmir at 1500-2000 m and extending to Dalhousie and Chamba in Himachal Pradesh.

English: Black Spleenwort.

Folk: Krishna fern.

Action: Fond—expectorant, pectoral, emmenagogue. Rhizome— anthelmintic. Plant—bitter, diuretic, laxative, anti-inflammatory. It is used for diseases of spleen and in jaundice; produces sterility in women.

The fonds contain aliphatic hydrocarbons, the chief one being hentri- acontane, non-acosane and triterpe- noid hydrocarbons, mainly of 22 (29)- hopene.

Alcohols, sterols and fatty acids are also reported.

Related sp. include: A. laciniatum D. Don (vitamin K3 and phthiocol have been isolated for the first time from the plant); A. adiantoides (L.) C. Chr., synonym A. falcatum Lam. (used in the treatment of enlarged spleen, in in- contenence of urine, in calculus, jaundice and malaria); A. nidus Linn. synonym Thamnopteris nidus (L.) C. Presl., known as Bird's Nest Fern (used as a depurative and sedative).... asplenium adiantum-nigrum

See Hierba mora.... black nightshade

The o?cially approved name for a medicinal substance used in the UK. A 1992 European Union directive required the use of a Recommended International Non-proprietary Name (rINN) for these substances. Usually the BAN and rINN were identical; where there was a difference, the rINN nomenclature is now used. An exception is adrenaline, which remains the o?cial name in Europe with the rINN – epinephrine – being a synonym.... british approved names (ban)

An integrated collection of computer and telecommunication capabilities that permit multiple providers, payers, employers and related health care entities within a geographic area to share and communicate client, clinical and payment information.... community health information network (chin)

Linn.

Family: Cruciferae; Brassicaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Punjab, Bengal and Bihar.

English: Mustard, Indian Rape.

Ayurvedic: Krishna-Sarshapa, Raajakshavaka, Kattaka, Katus- neha, Tantubha, Siddhaartha, Siddhaarthaka, Siddhaartha-sita, Rakshogna. (White variety of Sarshapa is also equated with Siddhaartha. Asita and Rakta seed varieties are reddish; Gaur and Siddhaartha are whitish.)

Unani: Kaali Sarson.

Action: Emollient, diuretic, anticatarrhal.

The oil gave brassino steroid—brasi- nolide. Seeds gave a antithyroid compound, 5-vinyl-2-oxazolidinethone; thioglucosides and thioglucosinolates. The seed oil is said to dissolves gallstone.... brassica napus

(Linn.) Koch.

Family: Cruciferae; Brassicaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

English: Black Mustard.

Ayurvedic: Banarasi Raai, Raajika (var.).

Unani: Khardal Siyah. Siddha/Tamil: Kadugu. Folk: Raai.

Action: Seeds are used for treating coryza with thin excoriating discharge with lacrimation, sneezing and hacking cough, nostril blockage and dry and hot feeling of pharyngitis.

The seeds contain glucosinolate sin- igrin, which produces allyl isothio- cyanate when mixed with warm water. Allyl isothiocynate acts as a counterir- ritant when diluted (1:50).

Brayera anthelmintica Kunth.

Synonym: Hagenia abyssinica (Bruce) J. F. Gmelin.

Family: Rosaceae.

Habitat: Indigenous to north-east Africa. Imported into Mumbai.

English: Cusso, Brayera.

Folk: Kusso.

Action: Anthelmintic. Administered in the form of an infusion for the expulsion of tapeworm (ineffective against hookworm, roundworm, whipworm). Irritant to mucous membrane; produces nausea, vomiting and colic in large doses.... brassica nigra

Cleavers tea has been used for centuries, even in ancient Greece. It is considered probably the best tonic for the lymphatic system available. Discover all of its benefits and learn how to make the most of this type of tea. Description of Cleavers tea Cleavers is an annual green plant that grows mostly in Britain, North America and Eurasia regions. The green to white flowers look like small balls and they are very sticky, similar to the leaves. Scientifically named gallium aparine, cleavers is also called bedstraw, barweed, catchweed, grip grass. The entire cleavers plant is used in herbal medicine and is harvested just before it blooms in early summer. The active constituents of cleavers tea are chlorophyll, citric acide, rubichloric acid, galiosin and tannins. To benefit the most from these constituents, you can consume cleavers, usually found in the form of tea, extracts, capsule, or fresh for many cooking recipes. The roasted seeds are used as a coffee substitute and the young leaves can be eaten like spinach. Cleavers tea has a slightly bitter taste and no odor. Cleavers tea brew For a tasty Cleavers tea, take 2 to 3 teaspoons of the dried above-ground parts of the plant and infuse them in a 250 mg cup of hot water for 10 or 15 minutes. You may add sugar or honey to improve its taste and drink up to three times per day. Cleavers tea  Benefits Cleavers tea is a strong detoxifying for the lymphatic system. It is diuretic, thus treating most of urinary tract infections. It cleans the blood, the liver and kidneys. The tea can be used together with Uva Ursi or Echinacea for best results. Applied topically, Cleavers tea helps in the treatment of many skin conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, dandruff, itchy scalp, sunburns or even wounds. Cleavers tea can be used as a facial tonner because it helps clear the complexion. Cleavers tea Side effects Cleavers tea has no known side effects. Though it is widely safe, children, pregnant or nursing women should drink it with precaution. Cleavers tea can surely be included in a healthy lifestyle. As long as you don’t exaggerate with it, you can enjoy the benefits of this tea and even use the plant to prepare many tasty recipes and salads.... cleavers tea - best tonic for the lymphatic system available in nature

A control group that is observed by investigators at the same time as the treatment group but that was not established using random assignment of participants to control and treatment groups. Differences in the composition of the treatment and control groups may result.... concurrent nonrandomized control

See APPENDIX 7: STATUTORY ORGANISATIONS.... council for nursing and midwifery

The popular name of Atropa belladonna, from which ATROPINE is procured. Its poisonous black berries are sometimes eaten by children.... deadly nightshade

Linn.

Family: Palmae; Arecaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated chiefly in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

English: Coconut Palm.

Ayurvedic: Naarikela, Naalikera, Laangali, Tunga, Skandhaphala, Sadaaphala, Trnaraaja, Kuurch- shirshaka.

Unani: Naarjeel, Naariyal.

Siddha/Tamil: Thenkai. Kopparai (kernel of ripe coconut).

Action: Water from tender fruit— cooling, used in thirst, fever, urinary disorders, gastroenteritis, and as a source of K for cholera patients. Fruit—stomachic, laxative, diuretic, styptic, sedative; useful in dyspepsia and burning sensation. Oil from endosperm—antiseptic; used in alopecia. Root—astringent; used in urinary and uterine and disorders.

Tender coconut water is rich in potassium and other minerals and vitamins. It contains reducing sugars 2.222.85%, total sugars 3.5-4.25%; brix 5.56.2%. It is used as a substitute for normal saline in cases of dehydration.

Alcoholic extract of coconut shell (2% in petroleum jelly, externally) was found very effective in dermatophyto- sis. Lighter fractions of the tar oil are used as antiseptics.

Flowers, mixed with oil, are applied to swellings, leaves to treat abscesses, shoots and ashes of dry meat to deep cuts, grated meat to burns, roots to wounds and gonorrhoea.

Shell and fibre—antimicrobial.

Dosage: Dried endosperm—10- 20 g powder. (API Vol. III.)... cocos nucifera

Linn.

Family: Commelinaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India.

Ayurvedic: Kanchata (var.).

Folk: Kenaa (vegetable) (Maharashtra).

Action: Antidermatosis. The plant is used as a blood purifier.

Commelina diffusa Burm f; C. paludosa Blume synonym C. obliqua Buch.- Ham. and C. salicifolia Roxb. are related species of Kanchata and are known as Kenaa vegetable.

Commiphora sp. (Burseraceae).

Refer to Balsamodendron sp.... commelina nudiflora

Buch.-Ham.

Synonym: C. magna (Lour.) DC.

Family: Capparidaceae.

Habitat: Wild as well as cultivated in gardens all over India.

Ayurvedic: Varuna, Varana, Barnaa, Setu, Ashmarighna, Kumaarak, Tiktashaaka.

Unani: Baranaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Maavilingam.

Action: Bark—diuretic (finds application in urinary disorders, including urolithiasis, prostatic hypertrophy, neurogenic bladder and urinary infections; uterine and gastro-intestinal problems). Juice of the bark is given to women after childbirth. Extract of root bark, mixed with honey, is applied to scrofulous enlargements of glands. Whole plant powder—cholinergic in smooth muscles including urinary bladder.

Key application: As antiurolithiatic. (Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)

The antiurolithic activity of the stem-bark is attributed to the presence of lupeol. Lupeol not only prevented the formation of vesical calculi, but also reduced the size of the preformed stones in the kidneys of calculogenic rats. It also reversed the biochemical parameters in urine, blood and serum towards normal.

The stem bark also exhibit anti- inflammatory activity, and is reported to stimulate bile secretion, appetite and bowel movement.

Dosage: Stem bark—20-30 g for decoction. (API Vol. I.)... crataeva nurvala

(Linn.) Rendle.

Synonym: Andropogon nardus Linn.

Family: Poaceae.

Habitat: Mainly in South India; cultivated to a small extent in warmer parts of India.

English: Ceylon Citronella Grass.

Ayurvedic: Jambir-trn (var.).

Siddha/Tamil: Kamachipillu.

Action: Leaf—stomachic, carminative, spasmolytic, mild astringent. Essential oil—stimulant, carminative, diaphoretic, rubefacient, antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, larvicidal.

Lemongrass and lemongrass oil preparations are used almost exclusively in combinations for disorders and discomforts of gastrointestinal tract, muscle pain and neuralgia, colds, various nervous disturbances and for conditions of exhaustion.

Major constituents of the essential oil are: citronellal 31.6, neral 28.6, cit- ronellol 10.6, elemicine 7.3, geranyl acetate 4.6, elemol 3.7, limonene 3.2 and isopulegol 2.7%.

Citronella oil is also used as an insect repellent.... cymbopogon nardus

Linn.

Family: Convolvulaceae.

Habitat: A weed of grassy lawns.

Ayurvedic: Aakhukarni, Muusaakarni (substitute for Merremia emarginata (Burm. f.) Hallier f., synonym Ipomoea reniformis Choisy).

Folk: Muusaakaani, Chhinipatra (Bihar).

Action: Weak sedative, anthelmintic.... evolvulus nummularius

Elderberry tea is commonly known as a remedy for flu or cold. This miraculous shrub has many other benefits for your health and can be used in many forms even for wines or sweets. About Elderberry tea Originally native to Europe and Western Africa, elderberry is a bush with white flowers and clusters of berries that are purplish to black in color. The best type of elderberry is considered to be the sambucus nigra, because it is truly the only safe type. Other types can be poisonous (especially stems and leaves) so be careful when you pick it yourself or when you buy it from stores. The elderberry flowers and fruits are usually used to prepare teas, wine, jams, pies and syrups and are sometimes used as flavoring for soft drinks. The elderberry plant is also sometimes used as an ornamental plant. Elderberry tea is rich in vitamin C and has high levels of flavonoids, anthocyanin, sambucin, sambunigrin and potassium nitrate, along with sugars. Only dried white flowers are used to prepare the tea which has a delicate tasty flavor. How to prepare Elderberry tea For a delicious cup of Elderberry tea, take 3 teaspoons of dried flowers and combine them with a cup of boiling water. Let them steep for approximately 10 minutes. Cool, strain and enjoy it afterwards. The same procedure must be followed if you use teabags, but use only 1. Drink it up to three times a day to treat flu or other respiratory conditions. If you add honey, its benefits will be doubled. Benefits of Elderberry tea Elderberry tea has lots of benefits especially when it comes to flu or fever. It helps relieving respiratory conditions caused by a buildup of mucus or phlegm, such as colds, bronchitis, and asthma problems. It clears the system out, lowers fever and eases flu symptoms. Elderberry tea also acts as an antioxidant protecting the body against aging free radicals thanks to the flavonoids contained. It has also a detoxifying effect helping the liver and kidneys to process and remove toxins from the body. Elderberry tea may help in the treatment of various types of allergies. Elderberry tea may be helpful in the quick recovery of patients with eruptive diseases caused by viruses like measles and chicken pox. It is also recommended in the treatment of arthritic and rheumatic pain. Side effects of Elderberry tea Although Elderberry tea is considered generally safe, it can occasionally generate  some side effects like gastrointestinal upset. Please keep in mind that it is always a good idea to ask your physician’s opinion before taking this tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. As you can see, Elderberry tea has many benefits for your health and as long as you have chosen the right type and you do not exceed 3 cups a day you can drink it with no worries.... elderberry tea - a natural flu fighter

Lindl.

Family: Orchidaceae.

Habitat: Tropical Himalayas from Nepal eastward to Assam, and in Deccan from Konkan southwards.

Ayurvedic: Baalakanda, Amarkan- da, Maalaakanda.

Folk: Ambarkanda (Maharashtra).

Action: Tubers—used for bronchitis, diseases due to vitiated blood, tumours, scrofulous glands. Also used as vermifuge.

The tubers yield two phenanthrene derivatives, eulophiol and nudol, along with n-hexacosyl alcohol and lupeol.... eulophia nuda

Auct. Non Linn.

Synonym: E. ligularia Roxb.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Grown as a field and boundary fence and as curious on rockeries in gardens.

English: Holy Milk Hedge, Dog's Tongue.

Ayurvedic: Snuhi, Samant-dugdhaa, Sehunda, Singhtunda, Snuk, Gudaa, Sudhaa, Vajra, Vajjri, Vajjradram, Thuuhar.

Siddha/Tamil: Ielaikkali, Perumbu- kalli.

Action: Latex—purgative, diuretic, antiasthmatic, expectorant, rube- facient. Used in ascites, polyuria, anasarca, chlorosis, tympanitis; externally on warts, cutaneous eruptions, scabies, unhealthy ulcers.

A succus compounded of equal parts of the juice and simple syrup is said to be used for giving relief in asthma.

The triterpenoids, euphol, 24-meth- ylenecycloartenol, euphorbol hexa- cosonate, glut-5 (10)-en-1-one, glut-5- en-3 beta-yet-acetate, taraxerol, friede- lan-3 alpha-ol and -3 beta-ol have been reported from the plant.... euphorbia neriifolia

In injury to, or in?ammation of, the PANCREAS, the fat-splitting enzyme in it may escape into the abdominal cavity, causing death of fat-containing cells.... fat necrosis

(Korean) Of the sky... ha-neul

A splitting of the skin (cuticle) at the side of a ?ngernail. In manual workers it is usually caused by trauma, but ISCHAEMIA of the ?ngers (see also RAYNAUD’S DISEASE) may predispose to the condition. Secondary infection and in?ammation may make hang-nail a very tender condition; treatment consists of reducing trauma, and the use of EMOLLIENTS and ANTIBIOTICS if necessary.... hang-nail

Small hard knobs which appear at the sides of the last phalanges of the ?ngers in people who have OSTEOARTHRITIS.... heberden’s nodes

Buch.-Ham.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Northern and central India, often planted in dry areas.Ayurvedic: Snuhi (substitute), Patra-Snuhi.Siddha/Tamil: Kalli, Naga-kalli.

Action: Latex—used for treating jaundice, dropsy, enlargement of liver and spleen; colic; syphilis, leprosy; applied to haemorrhoids. Coagulated latex is used for bronchitis. Leaf—juice is used as a purgative. Warmed in mustard oil, applied in cold and headache.The latex gave cycloart-25-en-3 beta-ol, and cyclolaudenol; stem contained cyclolaudenol and sitosterol; leaves gave sitosterol. (None of these triterpenes have been reported from E. neriifolia.) These triterpenes exhibited antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli.

... euphorbia nivulia

Sweet.

Synonym: G. affine W. & A.

Family: Geraniaceae.

Habitat: Temperate Himalayas, Kashmir, Khasi Hills and the Nilgiris.

English: Nepal Geranium, Nepalese Crane's Bill.

Ayurvedic: Bhanda, Bhandaa.

Folk: Ratanjot (var.), Roel (Kashmir).

Action: Astringent, styptic, used in renal diseases, diarrhoea, internal and external bleeding. Also used topically for ulcers and haemorrhoids.

The plant gave geraniin, kaempferol- 7-rhamnoside and kaempferitrin. The leaves gave tannins.

EtOH (50%) extract of the plant exhibited hypotensive activity.

A gastrointestinal-contracting cho- line-like substance has been isolated from var. thumbergii and is found useful for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders such as gastroptosis.... geranium nepalense

See BELL’S PALSY.... idiopathic facial nerve palsy

Lymph nodes in the groin, next to the genitalia... inguinal nodes

A network of organizations, usually including hospitals and medical practitioner groups, that provides or arranges to provide a coordinated continuum of services to a defined population and is held both clinically and financially accountable for the outcomes in the populations served.... integrated delivery system / integrated services network (isn)

Care provided in geriatric centres and acute hospitals to older persons who are in need of limited medical care and who are awaiting nursing home placement.... interim nursing home care

D. Don.

Family: Iridaceae.

Habitat: Temperate Himalaya and in Khasi Hills.

Ayurvedic: Paarseeka Vachaa.

Folk: Sosan, Shoti, Chalnundar, Chiluchi.

Action: Deobstruent (in bilious obstructions), diuretic, cathartic. Used in diseases of the liver.

The plant contains an isoflavone, irisolidone. Rhizomes contain iriso- lone and irigenin.... iris nepalensis

A surgical nail inserted into the medulla of a fractured bone to ?xate it. First introduced by a 20th-century German surgeon.... kuntscher nail

Koch.

Synonym: H. helix auct. non Linn. H. himalaica Tobler.

Family: Araliaceae.

Habitat: 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 nepalensis

Linn.

Family: Ranunculaceae.

Habitat: 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 niger

Linn.

Habitat: 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 niger

Linn.

Family: Lauraceae.

Habitat: Native to the Mediterranean region; cultivated throughout India.

English: Laurel, Sweet Bay.

Unani: Habb-ul-Ghaar, Daphni.

Action: Leaves—mild sedative, gastric tonic, cholagogue, diaphoretic, antiseptic, antifungal. Used as a gargle against sore throat. Oil—used externally for rheumatism and in hair dressings for dandruff. Berry— emmenagogue, antileucorrhoeic, antidiarrhoeal.

Fresh leaves from Lahore (Pakistan) gave an essential oil (0.3-0.36%) with, 1,8-cineole 42.2, eugenol 16.4, sabinene 6.5, alpha terpineol 1.6, alpha-pinene 3.4, methyl eugenol 2.4 and terpinolene 1.9%. Major components of Greek and Russian oils were 1,8-cineole followed by alpha-terpinyl acetate.

The fruit from Kumaon region gave an essential oil (5%), including among others, 1,8-cineol (28.4), methyl cinna- mate (20.1), alpha phellandrene (10.1) and alpha-pinene (9.3%).

The leaves contain sesquiterpene lactones and isoquinoline alkaloids. Ethanolic extract of leaves produces a significant decrease in blood glucose level of diabetic rabbits. It contains amylase inhibitors which can supress sugar metabolism and can be used as an antiobesity agent for pet animals.

The leaf extract has been used as an antidandruff solution.... laurus nobilis

Hoffm. & Link.

Synonym: Nymphoides peltata (Gmel.) O. Kuntze.

Family: Menyanthaceae.

Habitat: Kashmir.

English: Fringed Water-Lily.

Folk: Kuru, Khairposh (Punjab).

Action: Leaf—used in periodic headache.... limnanthemum nymphaeoides

Benth.

Family: Lauraceae.

Habitat: Temperate Himalayas from Nepal eastwards at 1,800-2,400 m, and in Assam.

Folk: Gandha-daaru (Bengal), Siltimur (Nepal).

Action: Carminative.

The plant is reported to yield sassafras, which is substituted for the true sassafras from Cinnamomum glan- duliferum Meissn.

The seeds yield a fatty oil (60.7%). It gave methyl esters : methyl laurate 75.2, methyl caprate 13.3, methyl oleate 5.4, methyl myristate 2.4, and methyl- palmitate 0.5%.... lindera nessiana

Rich.

Synonym: Phyla nodiflora (Linn.) Greene.

Family: Verbenaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, in wet places and river banks.

English: Wild sage.

Ayurvedic: Jalapippali, Shaaradi, Shakulaadani, Jalakarnaa, Matsya- gandhaa. Laangali (now equated with Gloriosa superba).

Unani: Bukkum Booti.

Siddha/Tamil: Paduthalai.

Action: Plant—cooling, febrifuge, diuretic. Poultice used as maturant for boils. Leaves—an infusion is given to women after delivery.

An alcoholic extract of the leaves shows antibacterial activity against E. coli. The leaf juice enters into hair oils for alopecia areata.

Aerial parts are reported to contain flavonoids, flavone aglycones and flavone sulphates.

Dosage: Whole plant—10-20 ml juice. (CCRAS.)... lippia nodiflora

Heyne.

Family: Campanulaceae; Lobeli- aceae.

Habitat: Deccan, Konkan and Western Ghats, at altitudes of 9002,100 m.

English: Wild Tobacco.

Ayurvedic: Devanala, Nala (var.).

Siddha/Tamil: Kattuppugaiyilai, Upperichedi.

Action: Used as a substitute for Lobelia inflata.

An analysis of Lobelia nicotianae- folia, grown in Maharashtra, shows that the plant contains appreciable quantities of nor-lobelanine and small amounts of lobinine and minor bases.

Lobelia cardinalis Linn., Cardinal Flower, is cultivated in Indian gardens. It contains lobinaline as main alkaloid. Lobinaline depresses blood pressure but has no influence on respiration. L. erinus Linn. and L. succulenta Blume, synonym L. affinis Wall. also contain alkaloids with lobinaline 0.445%.

Lobelia cordigera Cav., synonym L. fulgens Willd., an ornamental Lobelia sp., grown in Indian gardens, contains inulin.

Lobelia pyramidalis Wall. (Himalayas from Kumaon eastwards to Sikkim and Assam at altitudes of900-2,700 m) contains 0.29-0.38% alkaloids as lobeline, and may be used as a substitute for Lobelia inflata.... lobelia nicotianaefolia

Dalz. & Gibs.

Family: Ebenaceae.

Habitat: Gujarat.

Folk: Ragat-Rohido (Gujarat), Rakta-Rohido.

Action: Used for diseases of liver and spleen. In folk medicine, as a substitute for Rakta-Rohitaka. (Rohitaka is equated with Tecomel- lia undulata Seem., synonym Tecoma undulata G. Don, Bignoni- aceae.)

In Gujarat, Polygonum glabrum Willd. (Polygonaceae) and Myristica attenuta Wall., synonym Knema atten- uata (Wall.) Warb. (Myristicaceae) are also known as Rakta Rohido, and are used for diseases of liver and spleen.

In Mumbai, Rhamnus wightii Wight & Arn. (Rhamnaceae) is known as Rakta-Rohidaa. The bark is used as astringent and deobstruent.

Folk: Phulwaaraa, Maakhaniaa Mahuaa.

Action: Fat used as ointment in rheumatism, for chapped hands and feet during winter.

The flowers contain beta-amyrin acetate, friedelin, erythrodiol monopal- mitate, beta—sitosterol and apha-spi- nasterol. The seeds contain triterpe- noid saponins, butyroside C and buty- roside D. A triterpenoidal sapogenin, butyraceol, has been isolated from the seed. The leaves contain butyracic acid. Defatted seed flour contains 10.4% saponins.

Administration of acute dose of saponins to albino rats caused severe diarrhoea and histopathological changes in liver and kidney and altered, particularly in female rats, levels of serum alkaline phosphatase, cholesterol and proteins.... maba nigrescens

See KAWASAKI DISEASE.... mucocutaneous lymph nodesyndrome

(L.) Brenan.

Synonym: Aneilema nudiflorum (L.) Wall.

Family: Commelinaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, in moist and marshy places; common in West Bengal.

Ayurvedic: Koshapushpi.

Folk: Kanshura.

Action: Plant—used in burns, boils and sores.... murdannia nudiflora

(Hebrew) Feminine form of Noam; an attractive woman; good-looking Naamah... naama

(Hebrew) A young woman; a girl; in the Bible, one of Ashur’s wives Naarai, Naarae... naarah

(Hebrew) A lovely and pleasant woman

Naavah, Nava, Navah, Navit... naava

(Arabic) One who is intelligent Nabeeha, Nabyha, Nabihah, Nabeehah, Nabyhah, Nabeaha, Nabeahah... nabiha

(Arabic) Daughter born into nobility; a highborn daughter Nabilah, Nabeela, Nabyla, Nabeelah, Nabylah, Nabeala, Nabealah... nabila

DC.

Synonym: Berberis nepalensis Spreng (in part).

Family: Berberidaceae.

Habitat: Temperate Himalayas from Garhwal to Bhutan at 1,3502,700 m. and in Khasi Hills.

English: Holly Leaved Berberry.

Folk: Chhatri (Nepal), Haldia (Garhwal).

Action: Used as Berberis. Anti- prolific, antipsoriatic, alterative, demulcent, diuretic, antidysenteric.

The plant gave tertiary aporphines, berberine and jatrorrhizine.... mahonia napalensis

Linn.

Family: Moraceae.

Habitat: Native to West Asia; cultivated in Kashmir, also grown in Darjeeling.

English: Black Mulberry.

Unani: Tuut Siyaah.

Action: Berries and root bark— mild laxative and used in the treatment of respiratory catarrh. Berries—refrigerant, given during convalescence.

The fruit contains invert sugar, pectin, fruit acids (including malic and citric acid), ascorbic acid, and fla- vonoids (including rutin). Leaves contain flavonoids, including rutin (26%). Root bark contains calcium malate; the bark of branches contains tannins, phlobaphenes, a sugar, a phy- tosterol, ceryl alcohol, fatty acids and phosphoric acid.

An infusion of leaves causes a drop in blood sugar, sometimes diuresis and a reduction in arterial pressure. It shows no effect on glucosuria.

Morus acidosa Griff., M. australis Poir and Morus indica L. have also been equated with Tuut Siyaah of Unani medicine.... morus nigra

Hook. f. non-Thunb.

Synonym: M. esculenta Buch.-Ham ex Don.

Family: Myricaceae.

Habitat: Subtropical Himalayas from the Ravi eastwards at 9002,100 m.

English: Box Myrtle.

Ayurvedic: Katphala, Kushb- hikaa, Shriparnikaa, Mahaavalkal, Bhadraa, Bhadravati.

Unani: Kaayaphal.

Siddha/Tamil: Marudam.

Action: Bark—carminative, antiseptic. Used in fever, cough and asthma; also as a snuff in catarrh with headache. Fruit wax— used externally for ulcers. Fruit— pectoral, sedative.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia recommends the stem bark and fruit in anaemia and polyuria.

The stembarkgave myricanol, a pro- anthocyanidin. The root bark yielded beta-sitosterol, taraxerol and myricadi- ol. The stem bark exhibited analgesic, spasmolytic, hypotensive and antiar- rhythmic activity.

Dosage: Fruit—3-5 g, stem bark— 3-5 g. (API, Vol. III.)... myrica nagi

A CANNABIS-related drug given by mouth and licensed for use in treating severe nausea and vomiting, particularly when they result from treatment with anticancer drugs.... nabilone

(Egyptian) One who gives birth to twins Naberye... nabirye

(Spanish) A fiery young woman Nacheene, Nachyne, Nachina, Nachinah, Nachyna, Nacheena, Nacheane, Nacheana... nachine

(Arabic) A very generous woman Naddah, Nada, Nadah... nadda

(French) Form of Bernadette, meaning “one who has bearlike strength and courage”

Nadette, Nadett, Nadet, Nadete, Nadeta... nadetta

(Arabic) A flourishing woman; one who is precious

Nadhirah, Naadhira, Nadheera, Nadhyra, Nadhiera, Nadheira, Nadhera, Naadhirah, Nadheerah, Nadhyrah, Nadhierah, Nadheirah, Nadherah, Nadheara... nadhira

(Slavic) One who is full of hope Nadja, Nadya, Naadiya, Nadine, Nadie, Nadiyah, Nadea, Nadija, Nadka, Nadenka, Nadezhda, Nadusha, Nadiah, Nadeen, Nadeene, Nadean, Nadyne, Nadien, Nadin, Nadene, Nadina, Nadena, Nadyna, Nadyn, Nadeana, Nadeane, Nadeena, Naydene, Naydeen, Naydin, Naydyn, Naidene, Naidine, Naidyne, Naideen, Naydine, Nadezda, Nadiya, Nadjae, Nadjah, Nads, Nadyenka, Nadyuiska, Nadzia, Naiya, Naia, Naiyana, Naya, Nadege, Natia... nadia

(African) One who is born between the seasons

Nadifah, Nadeefa, Nadyfa, Nadeefah, Nadyfah, Nadeafa, Nadeafah... nadifa

(Arabic) One who is precious; rare Nadira, Nadyra, Nadyrah, Nadeera, Nadeerah, Nadra, Nadrah... nadirah

(Arabic) One who gives wise counsel

Nadwa... nadwah

(Egyptian) A kind and benevolent woman

Nayma, Nayima, Nayema... naeemah

(Latin) In mythology, the goddess of funerals

Naenie, Naeni, Naeny, Naeney, Naenee, Naenea, Naeniah... naenia

(French) Born in the evening Naevah, Naevia, Naevea, Nayva, Nayvah, Nayvia, Nayvea... naeva

(Arabic) As precious as a gem Nafeesa, Nafeeza, Nafisah, Nafeesah, Nafeezah, Nafysa, Nafysah, Nafeasa, Nafeasah... nafisa

(African) A child who is delivered feetfirst

Nafunah, Nafunna, Nafoona, Nafoonah, Naphuna, Naphunah, Naphoona, Naphoonah, Nafouna, Naphouna... nafuna

(African) Born during the time of harvest Nagesah, Nagessa, Nagessah ... nagesa

(Hebrew) A radiant woman... nagge

(Hebrew) A wealthy woman Nagidah, Nagyda, Nagydah, Negida, Negidah, Negyda, Negydah, Nageeda, Nageedah, Negeeda, Negeedah, Nageada, Nageadah... nagida

(Arabic) As precious as a pearl Nageena, Naginah, Nageenah, Nagyna, Nagynah, Nageana, Nageanah... nagina

(Basque) One who is greatly desired Nahiah, Nahea, Naheah, Nahiya, Nahiyah... nahia

(Persian) One who is elevated; in mythology, the goddess of love Naaheed, Naheed, Naheede, Nahyde, Nahyd, Nahead, Naheade... nahid

(Greek) A water nymph Naiadia, Naidah, Nyad, Nayad, Naiad, Nyada, Nayada, Niadah, Naeda, Naedah... naida

(Arabic) Feminine form of Nail; a successful woman; the acquirer Na’ila, Na’ilah, Naa’ilah, Naila, Nayla, Naylah, Naela, Naelah... nailah

(African / Arabic) A contented woman / one who brings comfort and peace

Na’ima, Na’imah, Naimah, Nayma, Naymah, Naeema, Naeemah, Naema, Naemah... naima

(Native American) A woman with big eyes

Nairah, Nayra, Nayrah, Naera, Naerah... naira

(Armenian) From the mountainous land

Nairie, Nairy, Nairey, Nairee, Nairea... nairi

(Scottish) From the alder-tree river Naime, Nairnia, Nairnea, Naerna, Nayrna... nairna

(African) Woman from the capital of Kenya

Nairobie, Nairoby, Nairobey, Nairobee, Nayrobi, Nayrobie, Nayroby, Nayrobey, Nayrobee, Nairobea, Nayrobea... nairobi

An acute inflammation of the eye resulting from an irritant secreted by beetles of the genus Paederus, getting onto the eye.... nairobi eye

(Arabic) A starlike woman Naja, Najah, Najama, Najma... najam

(Arabic) An independent woman; one who is free Naajia... najia

(Arabic) An intellectually superior woman; born into the nobility Najibah, Najeeba, Najeebah, Najyba, Najybah, Najeaba, Najeabah... najiba

Disease may affect the nail fold, nail plate or nail bed (see SKIN – Nail). In?ammation of the nail fold is called paronychia: acute paronychia is usually caused by a minor injury allowing in bacteria, which set up infection; chronic paronychia is often an occupational hazard, due to constant exposure of the hands to water – for example, in the catering industry, agriculture and housework – but may also be caused by impaired circulation in the ?ngers. Often, ANTIBIOTICS are su?cient for treatment, but sometimes surgical incision is needed.

PSORIASIS is a common cause of disease of the nail plate, as are eczema (see DERMATITIS) and fungal infection (see FUNGAL AND YEAST INFECTIONS). Deformity of the nail may point to systemic disease, as in CLUBBING, or the spoon-shaped concave nails (koilonychia) of severe iron de?ciency. Acute toxic illnesses may temporarily disturb nail growth causing horizontal ridges (Beau’s lines) which grow out slowly.

Onycholysis is separation of the nail plate from its bed. It may be due to psoriasis of the nail bed and trauma, or may occur spontaneously. Gross thickening of nails is common in the toes, caused by psoriasis or fungal infection.... nails, diseases of

(Arabic) A woman with shining eyes Najilah, Najyla, Najylah, Najla, Najlah, Nagla, Naglah, Najeela, Najeelah, Najeala, Najealah... najila

(African) The second-born child Najjah... najja

(Arabic) One who is beneficial to others

Najjiyyah, Najiyah, Najiya... najjiyya

(Arabic) A secretve woman Nagwa, Najwah, Nagwah... najwa

(Arabic) A victorious woman Najyah... najya

(American) Form of Keisha, meaning “the favorite child” Nakeesha, Nakysha, Nakeasha, Nakiesha, Nakeysha, Narkeasha... nakeisha

(African) The firstborn daughter Nakie, Naky, Nakey, Nakee, Nakye... naki

(Arabic) One who is pure; chaste Nakiah, Nakea, Nakeah, Nakya, Nakyah, Nakiya, Nakiyah, Nakeya, Nakeyah, Nakiaya, Nakiea, Nakeyia... nakia

(African / Latin) A successful woman / of the olive tree

Nalah, Nalla, Nallah, Nalia, Nalea... nala

(Hawaiian) A calmness of the skies; heaven’s calm

Nalanie, Nalany, Nalaney, Nalany, Nalanee, Nalaneigh, Nalanea, Nalania, Nalanya, Nallely... nalani

(African) A future wife Naliakah, Nalyaka, Naliacca, Naliacka, Nalyacka... naliaka

(Indian) Resembling the lotus flower Naline, Naleen, Nalyne, Nalyn, Nalen... nalin

(Sanskrit) A beautiful and lovely woman

Nalinie, Naliny, Naliney, Nalinee, Nalyni, Nalynie, Nalynee, Nalinea... nalini

(African) A lovable daughter... nalo

Nalorphine reduces or abolishes most of the actions of MORPHINE and similarly acting NARCOTICS, such as PETHIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE. It was used as an antidote in the treatment of overdosage with these drugs but has now been superseded by NALOXONE.... nalorphine

(Japanese) Woman of the waves Namie, Namee, Namy, Namey, Namika, Namiko, Namea... nami

(Native American) A star dancer Namide, Namyd, Namyde... namid

(Papuan) In mythology, a mother goddess

Namitah, Nameeta, Namyta, Nameetah, Namytah, Nameata, Nameatah... namita

(Hawaiian / English) Born during the spring; a star / a grandmother or one who watches over children... nana

(English) Form of Ann, meaning “a woman graced with God’s favor” Nainsey, Nainsi, Nance, Nancee, Nancey, Nanci, Nancie, Nancsi, Nanice, Nann, Nanncey, Nanncy, Nannie, Nanny, Nansee, Nansey, Ninacska, Nin, Ninockha, Nancea, Nansea... nancy

(Indian) One who is full of joy Nandah, Nandia, Nandea... nanda

(Australian) A fiery woman Nandaliah, Nandalea, Nandaleah, Nandali, Nandalie, Nandalei, Nandalee, Nandaleigh, Nandaly, Nandaley, Nandalya... nandalia

(Hindi) In Hinduism, a divine cow who can grant wishes Nandinie, Nandiny, Nandiney, Nandinee, Nandinea... nandini

(Indian) A delightful daughter Nanditah, Nanditia, Nanditea... nandita

(French) Form of Anna, meaning “a woman graced with God’s favor” Nanine, Nannette, Nettie, Netty, Nanetta, Nanete, Naneta, Nanelia, Nanna, Nette, Ninette, Nynette... nanette

(African) Born during travel Nangilah, Nangyla, Nangeela, Nangylah, Nangeelah... nangila

(Greek / Hawaiian) A charming woman / one who is beautiful Nanie, Nanee, Naney, Nany, Nania, Nanya, Naniya, Nanea, Naniah, Naneah, Naniyah... nani

A unit used in electronmicroscopy and virology. 1 nm = 1 thousandth of a um.... nanometer

(French) Form of Ann, meaning “a woman graced with God’s favor” Nanone, Nanona, Nanonia, Nanonea, Nanonya, Ninon, Ninone, Ninona, Ninonia, Ninonea, Ninonya, Ninan... nanon

(Japanese) An obediant daughter... naoko

(Hebrew / Japanese) One who is pleasant / a beauty above all others Naoma, Naomia, Naomie, Nayomi, Naomee, Neoma, Neomi, Noami, Noemi, Noemie, Noemi, Noemie, Nohemi, Naomy, Naomey, Naomea... naomi

(Hawaiian) Young woman of the flowers... napua

(Arabic) A strong leader Naqeeba, Naqyba, Naqibah, Naqeebah, Naqybah... naqiba

(English) A contented woman Narah, Narra, Narrah, Nareen, Nareene, Nareena, Nareane, Nareana... nara

Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, fruit.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaves: decoction, orally, common cold, flu, headache; poultice or salve, externally, for headache, sinusitis. Fruit: juice, decoction, for diarrhea.

Safety: Considered safe if used appropriately.

Clinical Data: Human clinical trial: antifungal (essential oil).

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vitro: antioxidant (constituent), insecticidal (fruit peel extract), relaxant (essential oil).

* See entry for Naranja agria in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... naranja agria

(Linn.) DC.

Family: Ranunculaceae.

Habitat: The tropical forests of eastern Himalayas, Assam, Bengal, Bihar, Deccan Peninsula.

Ayurvedic: Dhanavalli (Kerala), Chhagul-bati (Bengal).

Siddha/Tamil: Vathomkolli, Neen- davalli.

Action: Astringent, antiinflammatory, vulnerary, anthelmintic. Used for colic, headache, inflammations, rheumatic pain, wounds and ulcers, intestinal worms, leprosy and skin diseases. Saps of stem—effective in onychia.... naravelia zeylanica

(Greek) Resembling a daffodil; self-love; in mythology, a youth who fell in love with his reflection Narcisa, Narcisse, Narkissa, Narcissah, Narcisah, Narcessa, Narcissus, Narcyssa, Narcysa, Nargis, Nargiss, Nargys, Naryss, Nargisse, Nargysse... narcissa

Linn.

Family: Amaryllidaceae.

Habitat: All over Europe. Grown in Indian gardens.

English: Narcissus, Daffodil, Lent Lily.

Unani: Nargis.

Action: Bulbs—powerfully emetic, diuretic, purgative. Poisonous. Oil is applied for curing baldness.

The bulbs are imported into India. Dried and sliced bulbs are sold as a substitute for bitter hermodactyls.

Alkaloids, lycorine, pseudolycorine, galanthamine, haemanthamine and narcisine, have been isolated from the bulbs of the species. The alkaloid nar- cisine is toxic.

The mucilage, narcissus T-gluco- mannan, isolated from the bulbs, was found to exhibit significant hypogly- caemic activity in mice.... narcissus tazetta

Substances that induce stupor and eventually UNCONSCIOUSNESS. Used in the relief of severe pain, people can become ?rst tolerant of them – so requiring larger doses – and then dependent (see also ANALGESICS; HYPNOTICS; TOLERANCE; DEPENDENCE).... narcotics

(Latin) One who is fragrantly anointed

Nardah, Nardia, Nardea, Nardiya, Nardya... narda

DC.

Synonym: N. grandiflora DC.

Family: Valerianaceae.

Habitat: Alpine Himalayas, Kumaon, Sikkim and Bhutan.

English: Spikenard, Musk-root.

Ayurvedic: Maansi, Jataamaansi, Bhuutajataa, Tapaswini, Sulo- mashaa, Jatilaa, Naladaa.

Unani: Sumbul-e-Hindi, Sambul-ut- Teeb, Naardeen-e-Hindi, Baalchhar.

Siddha/Tamil: Sadamanchil.

Action: Used as a substitute for Valerian. Tranquilizer, sedative, hypotensive. Used for the treatment of epilepsy, hysteria, convulsive affections, palpitation of heart and in intestinal colic. A decoction of powdered roots is prescribed as a home remedy for high blood pressure. It is used in dysmenorrhoea for pain relief and smooth menstrual flow. It is used in hair oil for arresting hair loss and greying of hair.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends dry rhizomes in obstinate skin diseases, erysipelas, disturbed mental state and insomnia.

The rhizome is rich in sesquiter- penoids. The crude drug gave an oil (yield 2.5% v/w), which contains d- nardostachone, valeranone and jata- mansone as the major ketonic sesqui- terpenes. The oil potentiated phenobarbital narcosis in rats, reduced brain serotonin content and decreased the conditioned avoidance performance in cats.

Jatamansone was shown to exert tranquilizing effect in mice and monkeys. In rabbits, jatamansone was found to impair biosynthesis of serotonin in the brain leading to a reduction in brain level of 5-hydroxytrypta- mine. The degradation of serotonin was unaffected. The mode of action of jatamansone was thus in variance with that of reserpine which has direct action on the cell to liberate serotonin.

On the other hand, the alcoholic extract of the roots of Indian Nard caused an overall increase in the levels of central monamines, 5-hydroxy indole acetic acid and the inhibitory amino acids, gamma-aminobutyric acid, norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin in rat brain.

In a clinical trial on hyperkinetic children, jatamansone showed significant reduction in hyperactivity and improvement in restlessness and aggressiveness, almost at par with D- amphetamine.

The volatile oil was found to be less active than quinidine in several tests. It did not counteract digitalis induced ventricular arrhythmias.

Jatamansone semicarbazone, a sesquiterpene ketone, was found to possess antiestrogenic activity.

N. jatamansi is also used in place of Muraa (Selinum tenuifolium Wall. ex DC.)

Dosage: Root—2-3 g powder; 5-10 g for infusion; 50-100 ml infusion. (API, Vol. I; CCRAS.)... nardostachys jatamansi

(Greek) A bright woman; intelligent Narellah, Narela, Narelah, Narelle, Narell, Narele... narella

Wight & Arn.

Family: Meliaceae.

Habitat: Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, up to 1,000 m.

English: Goanese Ipecacuanha.

Folk: Nilanaaringa, Bhumi- Naagaranga. Pitta-vela, Tinpaani (Maharashtra).

Action: Root—emetic, cholagogue, expectorant, antidysenteric; plant— antirheumatic; leaf and stem— antibilious.

Creeping roots possess properties similar to ipecacuanha (Cephaelis ipecacuanha).

The plant is used in prescriptions for malarial and chronic fevers, anaemia and enlarged spleen.

The root and stem gave heneicosane, beta-sitosterol, stearic and palmitic acids.... naregamia alata

(Japanese) A gentle child Nari... nariko

(Indian) Woman of the river Narmadah, Narmadia, Narmadea... narmada

(Native American) Resembling an owl... nascha

(Latin) In mythology, goddess of childbirth... nascio

(African) Born during the season of rain

Nashaly, Nashalee, Nashaley, Nashalia, Nashalea, Nashaleigh, Nashalie, Nashali... nasha

(Arabic) A lively woman; one who is energetic

Nashitah, Nashyta, Nasheeta, Nasheata, Nashieta, Nasheita... nashita

(Native American) The second- born of twins

Nashotah, Nashotta, Nashottah... nashota

(Arabic) One who provides a feeling of ecstasy Nashwah... nashwa

(Arabic) Feminine form of Nasib; one who is noble

Naseeba, Nasyba, Nasibah, Nasybah, Naseebah, Naseaba, Naseabah... nasiba

(Arabic) One who gives good advice Naasiha, Nasihah, Naseeha, Naseehah, Nasyha, Nasyhah, Naseaha, Naseahah... nasiha

(Arabic) As gentle as a breeze Naasima, Nasimah, Naseema, Naseemah, Nasyma, Nasymah, Naseama, Naseamah... nasima

(Arabic) One who is victorious; a helper

Naasira, Nasirah, Naseera, Naseerah, Nasyra, Nasyrah, Naseara, Nasearah... nasira

Inflation of the nose... nasitis

(Native American) Filled with music

Nasnane, Nasnana, Nasnann, Nasnanne, Nasnanna... nasnan

(Greek) Form of Anastasia, meaning “one who shall rise again” Nastassia, Nastassija, Nastassja, Nastassiya, Nastassya, Nastasiya, Nastunye, Nastya... nastasia

(Hebrew) A miracle child of God Nasyah, Nasiya, Nasiyah, Nasia, Nasiah, Naysa... nasya

(Latin) A strong swimmer... nata

(Latin) Born on Christmas Day; refers to Christ’s birthday Natala, Natalee, Natalene, Natalia, Natalja, Natalina, Nataline, Nataly, Nataliya, Natalya, Natelie, Nately, Nathalee, Nathalia, Nathalie, Nathaliely, Nathalija, Nathaly, Natilie, Natividad, Nattilie, Nattie, Nettie, Nat, Natuche, Nadalia, Nadalie, Nasia, Natille, Natica, Natalea, Nathalea... natalie

(Hebrew) Feminine form of Nathan; a gift from God Natanah, Natania, Natanna, Nataniela, Nataniella, Natanielle, Nataniele, Nataniya, Natanya, Natanyah, Nathaniella, Nathanielle, Netanela, Netanella, Netania, Netanya, Nethania, Nathania... natana

(Native American) Her father’s daughter Natanne... natane

(Russian) Form of Natalie, meaning “born on Christmas Day” Nastaliya, Nastalya, Natacha, Natascha, Natashenka, Natashia, Natasia, Natosha, Natucha, Natyashenka, Natasa, Nathacha, Nitca... natasha

R. Br.

Synonym: Rorippa nasturtium- aquaticum (Linn.) Hayek.

Family: Cruciferae; Brassicaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Bengal, Orissa and Punjab.

English: Watercress.

Folk: Piriyaa-Haalim (Punjab), Latputiyaa (Maharashtra).

Action: Leaves—antiscorbutic, expectorant (used in catarrh of the respiratory organs), diuretic (used in kidney and bladder disorders), detoxifying. A lotion of leaves is applied to blotches, spots and blemishes. Fresh herb is used as a blood purifier.

Key application: For catarrh of respiratory tract. (German Commission E.)

Watercress contains vitamin A 4720 IU, ascorbic acid 77 mg/100 g, also thiamine, riboflavin, niacin and biotin; mineral matter 2.2%—calcium 290, phosphorus 140, iron 4.6 mg/100 g, also sulphur, iodine, manganese, zinc, arsenic and copper; proteins 2.9%, amino acid composition includes leucine, phenylalanine, valine, lysine, tyrosine, alanine, threonine, glutamic acid, serine, aspartic acid, cystine, methionine sulphoxide and proline.

The glucosinolate phenethyl isothio- cyanate, which is released upon chewing the leaf, is a chemopreventive agent against lung cancer. (cited in Expanded Commission E Monographs.)

Watercress is contraindicated in gastric and duodenal ulcers and inflammatory kidney diseases. (Francis Brinker.)... nasturtium officinale

(Arabic) One who is pure; clean Nathifah, Nathipha, Nathiphah, Nathyfa, Nathyfah, Nathypha, Nathyphah, Nadhifa, Nadhyfa, Natifa, Natifah, Natyfa... nathifa

This body manages regional TRANSFUSION centres. Among its aims are the maintenance and promotion of blood and blood products based on a system of voluntary donors; implementing a cost-e?ective national strategy for ensuring adequate supplies of blood and its products to meet national needs; and ensuring high standards of safety and quality.... national blood authority

This was set up under the CARE STANDARDS ACT 2000 as an independent regulator in respect of homes for the elderly, the disabled and children in the state and private sectors in the UK.... national care standards commission

This National Health Service initiative went online in November 2000. It aims to provide health professionals with easy and fast access to best current knowledge from medical journals, professional group guidelines, etc. Unbiased data can be accessed by both clinicians and the public.... national electronic library for health

Information, usually in the form of indicators, a country may collect on its health expenditures. Indicators may include total health expenditure, public expenditure, private expenditure, out-of-pocket expenditure, tax-funded and other public expenditure, and social security expenditure.... national health accounts

See “health policy”.... national health policy

The United Kingdom’s National Health Service was created by Act of Parliament and inaugurated on 5 July 1948. Its original aim was to provide a comprehensive system of health care to everyone, free at the point of delivery. Scotland had its own, similar legislation, as did Northern Ireland. The service is funded by National Insurance contributions and from general taxation, with a small amount from patient charges. The structure, functioning and ?nancing of the NHS have been – and still are – undergoing substantial changes.... national health service (nhs)

A National Health Service body intended to combat the increasing threat from infectious diseases and biological, chemical and radiological hazards. Covering England, the agency includes the Public Health Laboratory Service, the National Radiological Protection Board, the Centre for Applied Microbiology and Research, and the National Focus Group for Chemical Incidents.... national infection control and health protection agency

National Listening Library is a charity which produces recorded books for handicapped people who cannot read, with the exception of the blind who have their own separate organisation, the Royal National Institute for the Blind. (See also CALIBRE.)... national listening library

A broad intersectoral master plan for attaining national health goals through implementation of a strategy. It indicates what has to be done, who has to do it, during what time-frame, and with what resources. It is a framework leading to more detailed programming, budgeting, implementation and evaluation. It specifies, in operational terms, the steps to be taken in accordance with the strategy, keeping in mind the various objectives and targets to be attained and the programmes for attaining them.... national plan of action

Based on national health policy, a set of decisions that includes the broad lines of action required in all sectors involved to give effect to the national health policy and indicates the problems and ways of dealing with them.... national strategy

(Spanish) Refers to the Nativity Natividade, Natividada, Natyvydad, Nativydad, Natyvidad... natividad

(Japanese) Child born during the summer Natsu, Natsumi... natsuko

(Spanish) Woman of the outdoors Naturah, Naturia, Naturea, Nature... natura

This special health authority in the National Health Service, launched in 1999, prepares formal advice for all managers and health professionals working in the service in England and Wales on the clinical- and cost-e?ectiveness of new and existing technologies. This includes diagnostic tests, medicines and surgical procedures. The institute also gives advice on best practice in the use of existing treatments.

NICE – its Scottish equivalent is the Scottish Health Technology Assessment Centre – has three main functions:

appraisal of new and existing technologies.

development of clinical guidelines.

promotion of clinical audit and con?dential inquiries. Central to its task is public concern about ‘postcode prescribing’ – that is, di?erent availability of health care according to geography.

In 2003 the World Health Organisation appraised NICE. Amongst its recomendations were that there should be greater consistency in the methods used for appraisal and the way in which results and decisions were reported. WHO was concerned about the need for transparency about the con?ict between NICE’s use of manufacturers’ commercial evidence in con?dence, and believed there should be greater de?nition of justi?cation for ‘threshold’ levels for cost-e?ectiveness in the Centre’s judgement of what represents value for money.

In all, WHO was congratulatory – but questions remain about the practical value and imlementation of NICE guidelines.... national institute for clinical excellence (nice)

Natural Herbs That Increase Sex Drive

[catlist id=14 numberposts=100 pagination=yes instance=2 orderby=title order=asc]

... natural herbs that increase sex drive

The progressive development of a disease that runs its course without treatment. 1. Stage of susceptibility2. Stage of presymptomatic 3. Stage of clinical disease 4. Stage of disability/resolution Necator americanus See hookworm.... natural history of di sease

Geographic areas or multi-unit buildings that are not restricted to persons over a specified age, but which have evolved over time to include a significant number (typically, over 50%) of residents who are aged 60 and over.... naturally occurring retirement communities

(Egyptian) In mythology, goddess of the watery abyss Nunet... naunet

An agent that causes nausea... nauseant

(Greek) In mythology, a princess who is kind to Odysseus Nausikaa, Nausica, Nausika... nausicaa

(English) Woman of the sea Nautika, Nautia, Nautea, Nautyca, Nautyka... nautica

(Gaelic / Indian) A pleasant, lovely woman / one who is strong-willed Naveena, Navine, Navyne, Navina, Navyna, Navean, Naveana... naveen

(Iranian) Feminine form of Navid; bringer of good news Navyda, Navidah, Navyda, Naveeda, Naveedah, Naveada, Naveadah... navida

(Indian) One who is youthful Navyah, Naviya, Naviyah... navya

(Arabic) A gift of God Nawall, Nawalle, Nawala, Nawalla... nawal

(Arabic) Resembling a flower Nawaar... nawar

(Indian) Having beautiful eyes Nayana, Nayann, Nayane, Nayanne... nayan

(Native American) One who loves and is loved

Nayelie, Nayely, Nayeley, Nayeli, Nayelee, Nayeleigh, Nayelea... nayeli

(Arabic) One who is pure and honest

Nazaha, Nazihah, Naziha... nazahah

(Arabic) A delicate woman Nazaakat... nazakat

(Arabic) One who is motherly Naazima, Nazimah, Nazeema, Nazyma, Nazeama, Naziema, Nazeima... nazima

(Arabic) A spectator Naazira, Nazirah, Nazyra, Nazeera, Nazeara... nazira

(Farsi) A charming and beautiful woman

Nazneene, Naznine, Nazyne, Naazneen, Naznin, Naznean, Nazneane... nazneen

Nordihydroguaiaretic acid, a substance found in abundance in the oleoresins of Larrea (Chaparral) and the Guaiacum genus (Lignum Vitae). It is strongly antioxidant to lipids and is antifungal, antimicrobial and antibacterial. Both plants contain a constellation of related compounds and do not have the potential kidney toxicity found in pure NDGA...and the reason it is no longer used as an EDTA-type edible oil stabilizer in food manufacturing.... ndga

(African) Resembling a goat Ndyla, Ndilah, Ndylah... ndila

(Gaelic) Feminine form of Neal; a champion

Neale, Nealla, Neila, Neile, Neilla, Neille, Neely, Neelie, Nealina, Neilina, Neelle, Neela, Nealie, Neali, Nelia, Nelea, Niall, Niala, Nialla, Niela, Nielsine... neala

been recognised from earliest times. Evidence of the condition has been found in Egyptian mummies; in the fourth century BC Hippocrates, the Greek physician, called it phthisis because of the lung involvement; and in 1882 Koch announced the discovery of the causative organism, the tubercle bacillus or Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

The symptoms depend upon the site of the infection. General symptoms such as fever, weight loss and night sweats are common. In the most common form of pulmonary tuberculosis, cough and blood-stained sputum (haemoptysis) are common symptoms.

The route of infection is most often by inhalation, although it can be by ingestion of products such as infected milk. The results of contact depend upon the extent of the exposure and the susceptibility of the individual. Around 30 per cent of those closely exposed to the organism will be infected, but most will contain the infection with no signi?cant clinical illness and only a minority will go on to develop clinical disease. Around 5 per cent of those infected will develop post-primary disease over the next two or three years. The rest are at risk of reactivation of the disease later, particularly if their resistance is reduced by associated disease, poor nutrition or immunosuppression. In developed countries around 5 per cent of those infected will reactivate their healed tuberculosis into a clinical problem.

Immunosuppressed patients such as those infected with HIV are at much greater risk of developing clinical tuberculosis on primary contact or from reactivation. This is a particular problem in many developing countries, where there is a high incidence of both HIV and tuberculosis.

Diagnosis This depends upon identi?cation of mycobacteria on direct staining of sputum or other secretions or tissue, and upon culture of the organism. Culture takes 4–6 weeks but is necessary for di?erentiation from other non-tuberculous mycobacteria and for drug-sensitivity testing. Newer techniques involving DNA ampli?cation by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can detect small numbers of organisms and help with earlier diagnosis.

Treatment This can be preventative or curative. Important elements of prevention are adequate nutrition and social conditions, BCG vaccination (see IMMUNISATION), an adequate public-health programme for contact tracing, and chemoprophylaxis. Radiological screening with mass miniature radiography is no longer used.

Vaccination with an attenuated organism (BCG – Bacillus Calmette Guerin) is used in the United Kingdom and some other countries at 12–13 years, or earlier in high-risk groups. Some studies show 80 per cent protection against tuberculosis for ten years after vaccination.

Cases of open tuberculosis need to be identi?ed; their close contacts should be reviewed for evidence of disease. Adequate antibiotic chemotherapy removes the infective risk after around two weeks of treatment. Chemoprophylaxis – the use of antituberculous therapy in those without clinical disease – may be used in contacts who develop a strong reaction on tuberculin skin testing or those at high risk because of associated disease.

The major principles of antibiotic chemotherapy for tuberculosis are that a combination of drugs needs to be used, and that treatment needs to be continued for a prolonged period – usually six months. Use of single agents or interrupted courses leads to the development of drug resistance. Serious outbreaks of multiply resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis have been seen mainly in AIDS units, where patients have greater susceptibility to the disease, but also in developing countries where maintenance of appropriate antibacterial therapy for six months or more can be di?cult.

Streptomycin was the ?rst useful agent identi?ed in 1944. The four drugs used most often now are RIFAMPICIN, ISONIAZID, PYRAZINAMIDE and ETHAMBUTOL. Three to four agents are used for the ?rst two months; then, when sensitivities are known and clinical response observed, two drugs, most often rifampicin and isoniazid, are continued for the rest of the course. Treatment is taken daily, although thrice-weekly, directly observed therapy is used when there is doubt about the patient’s compliance. All the antituberculous agents have a range of adverse effects that need to be monitored during treatment. Provided that the treatment is prescribed and taken appropriately, response to treatment is very good with cure of disease and very low relapse rates.... nature of the disease tuberculosis has

(Native American) From the flat water land; from the state of Nebraska... nebraska

A hookworm, closely resembling but smaller than the Ancylostoma duodenale. (See ANCYLOSTOMIASIS.)... necator americanus

(Hebrew) One who provides comfort

Nehama, Nehamah, Nachmanit, Nachuma, Nechamah, Nechamit... nechama

(Latin) A passionate woman; one who is fiery

Necia, Necie, Necee, Necy, Necey, Necea... neci

Also known as CELLULITIS. A potentially lethal infection caused by the gram-positive (see GRAM’S STAIN) bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes which has the property of producing dangerous exotoxins. The infection, which starts in the layer of FASCIA under the SKIN, may spread very rapidly, destroying tissue as it spreads. Urgent antibiotic treatment may check the infection, and surgery is sometimes required, but even with treatment patients may die (see STREPTOCOCCUS).... necrotising fasciitis

(Slavic) Born on a Sunday Nedda, Nedah, Nedi, Nedie, Neddi, Neddie, Nedaa... neda

(Hebrew) A giving and noble woman

Nedivah, Nedeeva, Nedyva, Nedeevah, Nedyvah, Nedeava, Nedeavah... nediva

A nebuliser makes an aerosol (see under INHALANTS) by blowing air or oxygen through a solution of a drug. Many inhaled drugs such as SALBUTAMOL, ipratropium and beclomethasone can be given in this way. It has the advantage over a metered dose inhaler (MDI) that no special e?ort is required to coordinate breathing, and a nebuliser allows a much greater volume of the drug to be delivered to where it is needed (the airways) compared with that of MDIs. The use of higher doses of bronchodilator drugs made possible by the nebuliser means that the risk of unwanted side-effects is also increased. Fortunately the safety pro?le of anti-asthmatic drugs such as salbutamol is extremely high and overdose is generally well-tolerated.... nebulisers

(English) Woman of the underground

Nedrah, Neddra, Needra, Needrah... nedra

(Indian) Of the morning dew Neharika, Neeharyka, Neharyka... neeharika

(Indian) Resembling a water lily Neejah, Nyja, Neerja, Neerjah, Nyrja, Neaja, Neajah, Nearja... neeja

(Indian) As precious as a sapphire Nelam, Nylam, Nealam, Neylam... neelam

(African) Born into prosperity Neemah, Neama, Neamah, Neyma, Neymah... neema

(Hindi) A woman who has beautiful

eyes

Neenah, Neanah, Neana, Neyna, Neynah... neena

(Egyptian) A queenly woman Nefertari, Nefertyty, Nefertity, Nefertitie, Nefertitee, Nefertytie, Nefertitea... nefertiti

A non-opioid analgesic drug (see ANALGESICS) of use in the relief of pain that fails to respond to other non-opioid analgesics. It causes little depression of respiration but side-effects may be a problem.... nefopam hydrochloride

(Persian) As precious as a gem Negeene, Negyne, Negyn, Negine, Negean, Negeane... negeen

(Hebrew) An accomplished musician

Neginothe, Negynoth, Negynothe, Neginotha, Negynotha... neginoth

The refusal or failure on the part of a person (or persons) in a caring role to fulfil a care-giving obligation, either consciously or unintentionally, which results in physical or emotional distress for an older person. See also “abuse”.... neglect

Inclusions found in the cytoplasm of brain neurons in rabies.... negri bodies

(Indian) One who loves and is loved Nehah, Nyha, Nyhah... neha

(Hebrew) One who provides comfort Nehamah, Nehamma, Nehammah, Nehamia, Nehamea, Nehamiya

... nehama

(African) Our beautiful daughter has come to us

Nehandah, Nehandia, Nehandea, Nehandiya... nehanda

(Hebrew) Born of the light Neharah, Neharra, Nehira, Nehirah, Nehura, Nehurah, Nehora, Nehorah, Nahara, Naharah... nehara

(Hebrew) A dreamer Nehelamitte, Nehelamit, Nehelamyte, Nehelamytte, Nehelamyt... nehelamite

(Hebrew) Resembling copper Nehushtah... nehushta

See “community health centre”.... neighbourhood health centre

A family of bacteria of which three varieties cause disease. Neisseria meningitidis causes meningococcal MENINGITIS and SEPTICAEMIA. It is divided into three groups: A, B and C; group B accounts for most meningitis cases in the UK, mostly affecting children. Neisseria gonorrhoeae causes GONORRHOEA. The bacteria are gram-negative (see GRAM’S STAIN) cocci usually occurring in pairs. A third variety is Moraxella catarrhalis: this occurs in the nose and throat and sometimes causes ear infection and low-grade infection of the respiratory tract.... neisseriaceae

Frequent urging to stool due to nervous irritability or emotional distress.

Indicated: astringents, nerve relaxants.

Teas. Hops, Vervain, Chamomile, Cranesbill.

Tablets/capsules. Chamomile, Calamus, Wild Yam, Fenugreek.

Formula. Bayberry 2; Wild Yam 1; Valerian half. Dose: Liquid extracts: 1-2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 2-3 teaspoons. Powders: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon). Thrice daily.

Tincture. Black Catechu BHP (1983). 1:5 in 45 per cent alcohol. Dose 2.5 to 5ml in water, thrice daily. Fenulin. (Gerard House)

Diet. Slippery Elm gruel.

Supplements. Vitamins A, B6, C, Calcium, Dolomite. ... nervous bowel syndrome

Nerve weakness; loss of strength and power.

To strengthen nerves and generate vitality: Ginseng, Bee pollen, Oats, Ginkgo, Saw Palmetto, Damiana. Tea. Formula. Equal parts: Betony, Balm, Skullcap. One heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-15 minutes. 1 cup thrice daily.

Gentian. One teaspoon fine-cut root in cup cold water; infuse overnight. Strain; drink cold following morning.

Tablets/capsules: Damiana, Skullcap, Lady’s Slipper, Ginseng, Ginkgo.

Formula. Equal parts: Gentian, Oats. Gotu Kola. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 3 teaspoons. Powders: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon). Thrice daily.

After surgical operation: St John’s Wort. Hawthorn. ... nervous debility

Stomach hypersensitivity, with absence of acidity or organic disturbance. Calamus, Cinnamon, Burnett Saxifrage, Lovage, Fumitory, Rosemary, Wormwood, Oats, Skullcap.

German Chamomile tea. ... nervous stomach

Nervous excitability, irritability, prone to over-reaction by anger or other destructive emotion.

Teas. Cowslip flowers, St John’s Wort flowers, Passion flower, Valerian, Hops, Lime flowers, Balm, Motherwort, Woodruff, Skullcap, Oats.

Formula, tea: equal parts, Balm, Motherwort, Passion flower. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-10 minutes. 1 cup thrice daily.

Tablets. Valerian. Pulsatilla. Natracalm. (English Grains) 500mg Passion flower tablets: 1 tablet thrice daily.

See: SEDATIVES. ... nerve tension

Non-medical term for nervous collapse. “All gone to pieces” syndrome following a period of abnormal stress or shock. Nervous breakdown. Psychiatric illness. Posttraumatic stress disorder.

Alternatives. Betony, Black Cohosh, Hops, Lady’s Slipper, Mistletoe, Oats, Skullcap, Valerian.

Tea. Formula. Equal parts: Skullcap, Mistletoe, Valerian. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup water gently simmered 10 minutes. Dose: half-1 cup thrice daily.

Formula. Equal parts: Hops, Rosemary, Valerian. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Thrice daily.

Supplements. B-complex, B12, B6, E. Magnesium, Dolomite. Calcium. ... nervous shock

With menstrual problems, menopausal women, ovarian pain, or weak nerves after childbrith.

Tea. Combine equal parts: Raspberry leaves, Skullcap, Motherwort. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. 1 cup freely.

Formula. Equal parts: Black Cohosh, Helonias, Valerian. Dose: Liquid Extracts: half a teaspoon. Tinctures: 1 teaspoon. Powders: 250mg thrice daily.

Supplements. B-complex. Vitamin C to aid iron absorption. ... nervousness in young women

See: CACTUS. ... night blooming cereus

See: BREASTS.... nipples, cracked

(ears). See: TINNITUS. ... noises in head

To assist people to find a nutritionist in their area. Concerned with all aspects of diet – proteins, carbohydrates, fats, fibre, vitamins, minerals and other trace components of food. Factors which may affect a person’s nutritional status such as dietary imbalances, food allergies, food processing, additives, drug therapy, metabolic and digestive disorders, personal life-style, stress, exercise and environmental factors. Maintains a directory of practising nutritionists. Promotes educational courses, encourages research.

Address: 24, Harcourt House, 19, Cavendish Square, London W1M 0AB. ... nutrition association, the.

Neem tea is a refreshing herbal tea, with origins in South Asia. Despite its bitter taste, it is often recommended as a beverage thanks to its many health benefits. Read this article to find out more about neem tea! About Neem Tea Neem tea is made from the leaves of the Neem tree. The tree can be found in India, Bangladesh and Pakistan. It is an evergreen tree which can grow up to twenty feet in just three years, and it starts bearing fruit after 3-5 years. However, during periods of severe drought, it may shed most or even all of its leaves. The green leaves are 20-40cm long, with medium to dark green leaflets about 3-8cm long; the terminal leaflet is usually missing. The tree’s flowers are small, white and fragrant, arranged axillary. The fruit has an olive-like form, with a thin skin and a yellow-white, fibrous and bittersweet pulp. How to prepare Neem Tea To brew a cup of neem tea, you have to follow a few simple steps. First, boil the necessary amount of water. Then, pour it over a cup with includes a few neem leaves. Let it steep for about 5 minutes. Lastly, remove the leaves and, if you think it is needed, flavor it with honey and/or lemon. You can make your own stack of neem leaves for neem tea. If you’ve got neem trees around, gather leaves and leave them to dry. You can use fresh neem leaves, as well. In both cases though, you have to wash the leaves well before you use them. Once you’ve got the leaves ready, whether dry or fresh, just follow the earlier-mentioned steps. You can also make a cup of neem tea by using powdered neem leaf. Neem Tea Benefits Neem leaves have many antibacterial and antiviral properties. Thanks to this, neem tea is full of health benefits. Indians chew on neem twigs to have a good oral hygiene. However, a cup of neem tea can also help you maintain a good oral hygiene. It is useful in treating bad breath and gum disease, and it fights against cavities. Neem tea is also useful in treating fungal infections, such as yeast infections, jock itch, thrush, and ringworm. Neem tea can help you treat both indigestion and constipation. It is also useful when it comes to reducing swelling of the stomach and intestinal tract, and it can be used to counter ulcers and gout. Neem tea, when combined with neem cream, has anti-viral uses. It can help speed up the healing time and pain associated with herpes simplex 1, herpes zoster and warts. Neem tea is also used in the treatment of malaria and other similar diseases. It helps purify and cleanse the blood, as well; therefore, it increases liver function. Other important benefits that are related to consumption of neem tea are: treating pneumonia, treating diabetes, treating hypertension and heart diseases. Also, neem tea doesn’t have to be used only as a beverage. Because of its anti-parasitic use, you can bathe in it. This way, the tea acts as an antiseptic, killing the parasites. Neem Tea Side Effects While we can say that neem tea has plenty of important health benefits, don’t forget that there are a few side effects, as well. First of all, neem oil can be incredibly toxic for infants. Even a small amount of neem oil can cause death. Check to see if the neem tea you drink has neem oil among its ingredients. Or, just to be on the safe side, don’t give infants neem tea to drink. You shouldn’t drink neem tea if you have a history of stomach, liver or kidney problems. Some of its active ingredients can cause you harm in this case. Although rare, neem tea can also lead to allergic reactions. Symptoms in this case include difficulty in breathing, rashes, itching, or swelling of the throat or mouth. If you get any of these, stop drinking neem teaand contact your doctor. Drinking neem tea is a big no if you’re trying to conceive, or you’re already pregnant. In the first case, neem tea can work as a contraceptive, therefore lessening the chances of you getting pregnant. In the second case, consumption of neem tea can lead to miscarriages. Also, don’t drink more than six cups of neem teaa day - or any other type of tea. It won’t do you well, despite its many health benefits. Some of the symptoms you might get are: headaches, dizziness, insomnia, irregular heartbeats, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite. If you get any of these symptoms, reduce the amount of neem tea you drink. As a herbal tea, neem tea is definitely good for your health. Still, despite its many health benefits, there are a few side effects as well. Keep them both in mind when drinking neem tea.... neem tea - an indian herbal tea

(Egyptian) In mythology, goddess of war and hunting

Neitha, Neytha, Neyth, Neit, Neita, Neitia, Neitea, Neithe, Neythe... neith

(Spanish) Woman of sorrow Nekane, Nekania, Nekanea... nekana

(Egyptian) In mythology, a goddess depicted as a vulture Nechbet, Nekbet, Nekhebit... nekhbet

(English) Form of Helen, meaning “the shining light”

Nel, Nelida, Nell, Nella, Nellene, Nellie, Nellwen, Nellwin, Nelle, Nelley, Nelli, Nellee, Nellis, Nelma, Nellwinne, Nellwenne, Nellwyn, Nellwynne, Nelwina, Nelwena, Nellwina, Nellwena, Nelda, Nelleke... nelly

(English) Form of Kelsey, meaning “from the island of ships; of the ship’s victory” Nellsea, Nellseigh, Nellsey, Nellsie, Nelsea, Nelseigh, Nelsie, Nelsy, Nelsee, Nellsee, Nellsy, Nellsi... nelsey

The stinging cells present on the tentacles (and the bell of some species) of cnidarian. Each nematocyst consists of an coiled tube which may be bathed in venom. When the trigger on the outside of the nematocyst is touched, the tube rapidly inverts itself firing rather like a harpoon into the tissues of the prey. Venom on the outside of this tube is thus deposited in the tissues, and possibly into blood vessels during this trajectory. Finally, in some specialised nematocysts venom is then discharged through the open end of this thread tube and is deposited in the tissues o f the prey.... nematocyst

(Hebrew) Resembling a leopard Nemerah, Nemerra, Nemeria, Nemerea, Nemerya, Nemra... nemera

Gaertn.

Nelumbium speciosum

Family: Nymphaeaceae.

Habitat: Throughout warmer parts of India, up to 1,800 m.

English: East Indian Lotus, Sacred Lotus.

Ayurvedic: Kamala, Padma, Nalina, Aravinda, Jalaja, Raajeeva, Pushkara, Ambuja, Abja, Pankaja. Pundarika (whitish), kokanada (red), Indivara (Bluish).

Unani: Used as a substitute for Nilofar.

Siddha/Tamil: Thaamarai, Ambel.

Action: Filament—astringent and haemostatic. Prescribed for bleeding piles and menorrhagia. Flowers—a decoction is given in cholera, fever, strangury, palpitation of heart. Rhizomes—given in piles, chronic dyspepsia and dysentery; applied externally to cutaneous eruptions, scabies and ringworm. Rhizome-arrowroot— given to children in diarrhoea and dysentery. Root—astringent, diuretic, antiemetic, cooling. Used for dysentery, dyspepsia, piles, skin affections and for its anticoagulant properties.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia recommends dried rhizomes, with roots attached at nodes, in syncope and vertigo.

Flowers yielded quercetin, luteolin and their glycosides and kaempferol glycosides. Leaves gave quercetin, iso- quercitrin and leucoanthocyanidin.

Isoquinoline alkaloid, nuciferin, is neuroleptic. Active agents in the leaves are the alkaloids, nelumbin and roe- merin.

Dosage: Dried flower—12-24 g for decoction (API, Vol. II); rhizomes— 5-10 m powder; 10-20 ml juice (API, Vol. III). Seed—3-6 g powder; flower—10-20 ml juice. (CCRAS.)... nelumbo nucifera

(Greek) In mythology, goddess of vengeance

Nemisiss, Nemisys, Nemisyss, Nemysis, Nemysiss, Nemysys, Nemysyss... nemesis

(Spanish) Form of Amelia, meaning “one who is industrious and hardworking” Nenecah, Nenica, Nenneca, Nennica... neneca

(Greek) One who is youthful Neolla, Neolah, Neollah... neola

(Greek) Born under the new moon Neomea, Neomenia, Neomia, Neomenea, Neomah, Neona, Neonea, Neonia, Neonah... neoma

Pertaining to the ?rst month of life.... neonatal

The provision of a dedicated unit with special facilities, including one-to-one nursing and appropriate technology, for caring for premature and seriously ill newborn babies. Paediatricians and neonatologists are involved in the running of such units. Not every maternity unit can provide intensive care: for example, the provision of arti?cial ventilation, other than as a holding procedure until a baby can be transferred to a better-equipped and better-serviced unit. Such hospitals tend to have special-care baby units, which are capable of looking after the needs of most, but not all, premature or ill babies.... neonatal intensive care

Neonatal mortality is the mortality of infants under one month of age. In England and Wales this has fallen markedly in recent decades: from more than 28 per 1,000 live births in 1939 to 3.6 in 2002. This improvement can be attributed to various factors: better antenatal supervision of expectant mothers; care to ensure that expectant mothers receive adequate nourishing food; improvements in the management of the complications of pregnancy and of labour; and more skilled resuscitation at birth for those who need it.

Nearly three-quarters of neonatal deaths occur during the ?rst week of life. For this reason, increasing emphasis is being laid on this initial period of life. In Britain, in the last four decades of the 20th century, the number of deaths in the ?rst week of life fell dramatically from 13.2 to just over 2.7 per 1,000 live births. The chief causes of deaths in this period are extreme prematurity (less than 28 weeks’ gestation), birth asphyxia with oxygen lack to the brain, and congenital abnormalities. After the ?rst week the commonest cause is infection.... neonatal mortality

(Greek) In mythology, a nymph created from a cloud

Nephelle, Nephel, Nephell, Nephelia, Nephelea... nephele

Presence of renal c alculi... nepholithiasis

Nepal Tea is a type of black teathat gets its name from the South-Asian country of origin. It is a bright yellow tea which has a delicate floral aroma and combines the ripe fruit sweetness with a tinge of bitterness. This fruity tea is hand-processed and considered one of the best teas in the world, similar in flavour to the more famous Darjeeling Tea. Nepal Tea brewing The first rule of tea-making is the use of fresh water which maintains the flavour intact. Nepal black tea brewingshould last two or three minutes, up to five minutes for a stronger taste, but take care not to over-brew it, because both the aroma and the taste will be spoiled. You can prolong the brewing time only if you want to add milk or sugar to your cup of tea. When to drink Nepal Tea You can sip Nepal Tea at any point during the day because it is a fruity refined beverage, ideal for experiencing an energy surplus. Nepal Tea Health Benefits Nepal Tea consumption can bring numerous health benefits for individuals. People who drink black tea are generally healthier; they have a considerably lower rate of heart attacks or strokes, as well as lower risks of ever suffering from certain types of cancer, such as colon and lung cancer. Research shows that drinking black tea also decreases the risk of osteoporosis and diabetes and improves teeth health. Nepal Tea Side Effects Like other types of black tea, Nepal black Tea contains caffeine which increases mental alertness, but may also lead to insomnia and anxiety. When consumed in large quantities, it may cause unpleasant digestive side effects such as upset stomach symptoms. In a busy and crowded world, almost everyone could use a little bit of help to boost up their energy and at the same time, increase their mental alertness. Apart from having an enchanting aroma, Nepal Tea brings tremendous benefits by relieving stress and keeping tea drinkers stay alert at the same time.... nepal tea

Linn.

Family: Labiatae, Lamiaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Britain and the USA. Occurs in Himalayas from Kashmir to Nepal at 2,000-3,300 m.

English: Catnip, Catnep, Catmint.

Action: Leaves and flowers— gentle nerve relaxant and sedative, carminative, antispasmodic, an- tidiarrhoeal, diaphoretic, febrifuge. Used in restlessness, convulsions, nervous headache, colic, early stages of fever, colds and influenza. The herb is to be infused (not boiled).

Catnip contains iridoids, tannins and volatile oil, major components being alpha- and beta-nepetalactone (up to 42%), citronellol and geraniol.

The catnip response in the domestic cat is being attributed to iridoid lac- tones, nepetalactone, dihydronepeta- lactone, iso-dihydronepetalactone and neonepetalactone. Its reputation as a hallucinogen has been disputed, but a few studies have shown behavioural effects, although weak, in young chicks, rodents and cats. (Potter's New Cyclopaedia.)

Neptalactone is structurally related to valepotriates found in valerian. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)... nepeta cataria

(Roth) Haines.

Synonym: N. ruderalis Buch-Ham. ex Benth.

Family: Labiatae; Lamiaceae.

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 hindostana

(Egyptian) In mythology, one of the nine most important deities; the lady of the house... nephthys

Lour.

Synonym: N. prostrata Baill.

Family: Mimosaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, in tanks.

Ayurvedic: Lajjaalu (var.), Alam- bushaa. (Provisional synonyms.)

Siddha: Sadai, Sundaikkirai.

Folk: Paani-lajak (Punjab).

Action: Astringent, refrigerant.

Mimosa pudica Linn. is the accepted source of the classical herb Lajjaalu. It is used as astringent and styptic.... neptunia oleracea

(Latin) Feminine form of Neptune, the god of the sea Neptuna, Neptunia, Neptunea, Neptunina, Neptuninia, Neptuninea... neptunine

(Hebrew) Resembling a flickering candle; born during Hannukah Nerah, Neriya, Nerit... nera

(Basque) Daughter of mine Nereah, Neria, Neriah... nerea

(Greek) A sea nymph; in mythology, the Nereids were mermaids Nereyda, Nerida, Nireida, Nerine, Narine, Nerida, Nerina, Neried, Nerin, Ninfa... nereida

(Latin) In mythology, the wife of the god of war... nerio

(Italian / Greek) A black-haired beauty / form of Nereida, meaning “a sea nymph”

Narissa, Naryssa, Nericcia, Neryssa, Narice, Nerice, Neris... nerissa

(Greek) Woman from the sea Neritah, Nereeta, Nereetah, Neryta, Nerytah, Nirita, Nireta, Nyrita, Nyreta, Nereata, Nereatah... nerita

(Italian) Resembling the orange flower

Nerolia, Nerolie, Nerolea, Neroli, Neroley, Neroly, Nerolee, Neroleigh... nerola

(German) In mythology, goddess of fertility Nerthos, Nerthous... nerthus

I. Olfactory, to the nose (smell).

II. Optic, to the eye (sight).

III. Oculomotor

Trochlear, to eye-muscles.

Abducent

VI. Trigeminal, to skin of face.

VII. Facial, to muscles of face.

VIII. Vestibulocochlear, to ear (hearing and balancing).

IX. Glossopharyngeal, to tongue (taste).

X. Vagus, to heart, larynx, lungs, and stomach.

XI. Spinal accessory, to muscles in neck.

XII. Hypoglossal, to muscles of tongue.... nerves twelve nerves come off the brain:

Gaudich.

Synonym: Pogonia flabelliformis Lindl.

Family: Orchidaceae.

Habitat: Tropical Himalayas from Garhwal eastwards at altitudes of 1,200-1,500 m and in Bihar, Konkan, North Kanara and Travancore.

Ayurvedic: Padmachaarini, Shankhaaluka. (Sthala Kamala is a doubtful synonym.)

Action: Astringent, diuretic (used in dysuria).

A decoction of leaves is given after parturition.... nervilia aragoana

Mill.

Synonym: N. odorum Soland.

Family: Apocynaceae.

Habitat: Native of Mediterranean region; grown in Indian gardens.

English: Indian oleander, White oleander.

Ayurvedic: Karavira, Viraka, Ashva- maaraka, Hayamaaraka, Gauripush- pa, Divyapushpa, Shatakumbha, Siddhapushpa (white-flowered var.). Raktapushpa, Raktaprasava, Ravipriya (red-flowered var.)

Unani: Kaner Safed, Diflaa, Samm-ul-maar, Khar-zaharah.

Siddha/Tamil: Arali, Alari, Aatrulari, Karaviram.

Action: Root—resolvent and attenuant. A paste of the root is externally applied to haemorrhoids and ulcerations in leprosy. Paste of the root bark and leaves is used in ringworm and other skin diseases. An oil extracted from the root bark is used in skin diseases of scaly nature. Leaves—cardioactive (digitalis-like effect) and diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, insecticidal. Toxic.

The leaves contain several glyco- sides including glycosides of 8 beta- hydroxy-digitoxigenin. Cardenolide glycosides and pregnanolone glyco- sides have been isolated from roots.

The ethanolic extract of the flowers inhibits the growth of dermatophytes.

The plant shows antifungal activity against ringworm fungus, Microspo- rum nanum.

Dosage: Detoxified leaves—30— 125 mg powder (API, Vol. I); root— 30 mg—125 mg powder (API, Vol. III).... nerium indicum

Linn.

Family: Apocynaceae.

Habitat: Native to Mediterranean region; grown in Indian gardens.

English: Red Oleander, Rose Bay.

Unani: Surkh Kaner.

Action: See N. indicum. (The white- and red-flowered varieties are equated with Nerium oleander; both possess similar properties. The yellow-flowered variety is equated with Thevetia peruviana.)

Key application: Leaf—included among unapproved herbs by German Commission E. Positively inotropic and negatively chronotropic actions have been mentioned; the use of leaf for diseases and functional disorders of the heart, as well as for skin diseases has been indicated.

The leaves and roots gave a number of active principles including gly- cosides, terpenoids, sterols and other compounds. Cardiac steroids, isolated from the leaf, include oleandrin, gen- tiobiosyl oleandrin, odoroside. The stem contained alanine arginine, as- partic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glycine, histidine, leucine, isoleucine, lysine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine and valine. A polysaccharide (2.3%), containing galacturonic acid, rhamnose, arabinose and galactose has been isolated from leaves.

Neutral fraction from leaves at low doses caused marked suppression of locomotor activity.

Aqueous extract of leaves showed significant antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The leaves also showed insecticidal activity.... nerium oleander

This is transmitted chemically, by the formation at nerve-endings of chemical substances. When, for example, a NERVE to a muscle is stimulated, there appears at the NEUROMUSCULAR JUNCTION the chemical substance, ACETYLCHOLINE. Acetylcholine also appears at endings of the parasympathetic nerves (see NERVOUS SYSTEM) and transmits the e?ect of the parasympathetic impulse. When an impulse passes down a sympathetic nerve, the e?ect of it is transmitted at the nerve-ending by the chemical liberated there: ADRENALINE or an adrenaline-like substance.... nervous impulse

The following conditions are discussed under their individual headings: APHASIA; BRAIN, DISEASES OF; CATALEPSY; CHOREA; CRAMP; EPILEPSY; HYSTERIA; LEARNING DISABILITY; MEMORY; MENTAL ILLNESS; MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS); NERVES, INJURIES TO; NEURALGIA; NEURITIS; PARALYSIS; PSYCHOSOMATIC DISEASES; SPINE AND SPINAL CORD, DISEASES AND INJURIES OF; STROKE; TABES.... nervous system, disorders of

(Welsh) A daughter born into nobility Neris, Neriss, Neryss, Nerisse, Nerysse

... nerys

(Hebrew / Greek) A miracle child / form of Agnes, meaning “one who is pure; chaste”

Nesha, Nessah, Nessia, Nessya, Nesta, Neta, Netia, Nessie, Nessy, Nessi, Nessey, Nessee, Nest, Nestia, Nesy, Netta, Netah, Nettah, Neysa, Niesha... nessa

(Hebrew) Those who are set apart; given

Nethinima, Nethynima, Nethynym, Nethynyma, Nethinimia, Nethinimea... nethinim

(Native American) One who is trustworthy

Netiss, Netisse, Netys, Netyss, Netysse... netis

These have several causes. Continued or repeated severe pressure may damage a nerve seriously, as in the case of a crutch pressing into the armpit and causing drop-wrist. Bruising due to a blow which drives a super?cially placed nerve against a bone may damage, say, the radial nerve behind the upper arm. A wound may sever nerves, along with other structures; this accident is specially liable to occur to the ulnar nerve in front of the wrist when a person accidentally puts a hand and arm through a pane of glass.

Symptoms When a sensory nerve is injured or diseased, sensation is immediately more or less impaired in the part supplied by the nerve. Ulceration or death of the tissue supplied by the defective nerve may occur. When the nerve in question is a motor one, the muscles governed through it are instantly paralysed. In the latter case, the portion of nerve beyond the injury degenerates and the muscles gradually waste, losing their power of contraction in response to electrical applications. Finally, deformities result and the joints become ?xed. This is particularly noticeable when the ulnar nerve is injured, the hand and ?ngers taking up a claw-like position. The skin may also be affected.

Treatment Damaged or severed (peripheral) nerve ?bres should be sewn together, using microsurgery. Careful realignment of the nerve endings gives the ?bres an excellent chance of regenerating along the right channels. Full recovery is rare but, with regular physiotherapy to keep paralysed muscles in good shape and to prevent their shortening, the patient can expect to obtain a reasonable return of function after a few weeks, with improvement continuing over several months.... nerves, injuries to

An affiliation of providers through formal and informal contracts and agreements. Networks may contract externally to obtain administrative and financial services. The term can also refer to an individual’s social network. See “social network”.... network

Standards for provider networks to maintain sufficient numbers and types of providers to ensure accessibility of services without unreasonable delays.... network adequacy

Dalz.

Family: Acanthaceae.

Habitat: Western Ghats, Deccan and Gujarat.

Folk: Ganther (Gujarat and Maharashtra), Ghosa-vel (Maharashtra).

Action: Root-paste applied to ringworm.... neuracanthus sphaerostachyus

See under SKIN, DISEASES OF.... neurodermatoses

A microscopic strand of CYTOPLASM that occurs in the cell body of a NEURON(E) as well as in the semi?uid content of the AXON of a nerve cell.... neurofibrils

See VON RECKLINGHAUSEN’S DISEASE.... neurofibromatosis

Drugs used to quieten disturbed patients, whether this is the result of brain damage, MANIA, DELIRIUM, agitated DEPRESSION or an acute behavioural disturbance. They relieve the ?orid PSYCHOTIC symptoms such as hallucinations and thought-disorder in SCHIZOPHRENIA and prevent relapse of this disorder when it is in remission.

Most of these drugs act by blocking DOPAMINE receptors. As a result they can give rise to the extrapyramidal effects of PARKINSONISM and may also cause HYPERPROLACTINAEMIA.

Troublesome side-effects may require control by ANTICHOLINERGIC drugs. The main antipsychotic drugs are: (i) chlorpromazine, methotrimeprazine and promazine, characterised by pronounced sedative effects and a moderate anticholinergic and extrapyramidal e?ect; (ii) pericyazine, pipothiazine and thioridazine, which have moderate sedative effects and marked anticholinergic effects, but less extrapyramidal effects than the other groups; (iii) ?uphenazine, perphenazine, prochlorperazine, sulpiride and tri?uoperazine, which have fewer sedative effects and fewer anticholinergic effects, but more pronounced extrapyramidal effects.... neuroleptics

The cell of a nerve responsible for transmission of the signal along the nerve fibre.... neurone

In clinical practice, the transmission of impulses at the NEUROMUSCULAR JUNCTION may be blocked to paralyse temporarily a patient for a surgical procedure, or to assist treatment on the intensive care unit. There are two main types of drug, both of which competitively block the ACETYLCHOLINE receptors on the motor end plates. (1) Depolarising neuromuscular blocking agents: these act by ?rst producing stimulation at the receptor, and then by blocking it. There are characteristic muscle fasciculations before the rapid onset of paralysis which is of short duration (less than ?ve minutes with the commonly used drug, suxamethonium). The drug is removed from the receptor by the enzyme, CHOLINESTERASE.

(2) Non-depolarising neuromuscular blocking agents: these drugs occupy the receptor and prevent acetylcholine from becoming attached to it. However, in su?ciently high concentrations, acetylcholine will compete with the drug and dislodge it from the receptor; the e?ect of these drugs is reversed by giving an anticholinesterase, which allows the amount of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction to build up. These drugs have varying durations of action, but all are slower in onset and of longer duration than the depolarisers.... neuromuscular blockade

Also known as a nerve cell, this is the basic cellular building-block of the NERVOUS SYSTEM, which contains billions of neurones linked in a complex network and acting in di?erent combinations to keep the body informed about the outside world, and then to organise and activate appropriate responses. There are three main types of neurone:

Sensory These carry signals to the central nervous system (CNS) – the BRAIN and SPINAL CORD – from sensory receptors. These receptors respond to di?erent stimuli such as touch, pain, temperature, smells, sounds and light.

Motor These carry signals from the CNS to activate muscles or glands.

Interneurons These provide the interconnecting ‘electrical network’ within the CNS.

Structure Each neurone comprises a cell body, several branches called dendrites, and a single ?lamentous ?bre called an AXON. Axons may be anything from a few millimetres to a metre long; at their end are several branches acting as terminals through which electrochemical signals are sent to target cells, such as those of muscles, glands or the dendrites of another axon.

Axons of several neurones are grouped

together to form nerve tracts within the brain or spinal cord or nerve-?bres outside the CNS. Each nerve is surrounded by a sheath and contains bundles of ?bres. Some ?bres are medullated, having a sheath of MYELIN which acts as insulation, preventing nerve impulses from spreading beyond the ?bre conveying them.

The cellular part of the neurones makes up the grey matter of the brain and spinal cord – the former containing 600 million neurones. The dendrites meet with similar outgrowths from other neurones to form synapses. White matter is the term used for that part of the system composed of nerve ?bres.

Functions of nerves The greater part of the bodily activity originates in the nerve cells (see NERVE). Impulses are sent down the nerves which act simply as transmitters. The impulse causes sudden chemical changes in the muscles as the latter contract (see MUSCLE). The impulses from a sensory ending in the skin pass along a nerve-?bre to affect nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain, where they are perceived as a sensation. An impulse travels at a rate of about 30 metres (100 feet) per second. (See NERVOUS IMPULSE.)

The anterior roots of spinal nerves consist of motor ?bres leading to muscles, the posterior roots of sensory ?bres coming from the skin. The terms, EFFERENT and AFFERENT, are applied to these roots, because, in addition to motor ?bres, ?bres controlling blood vessels and secretory glands leave the cord in the anterior roots. The posterior roots contain, in addition to sensory ?bres, the nerve-?bres that transmit impulses from muscles, joints and other organs, which among other neurological functions provide the individual with his or her

proprioceptive faculties – the ability to know how various parts of the body are positioned.

The connection between the sensory and motor systems of nerves is important. The simplest form of nerve action is that known as automatic action. In this, a part of the nervous system, controlling, for example, the lungs, makes rhythmic discharges to maintain the regular action of the respiratory muscles. This controlling mechanism may be modi?ed by occasional sensory impressions and chemical changes from various sources.

Re?ex action This is an automatic or involuntary activity, prompted by fairly simple neurological circuits, without the subject’s consciousness necessarily being involved. Thus a painful pinprick will result in a re?ex withdrawal of the affected ?nger before the brain has time to send a ‘voluntary’ instruction to the muscles involved.

Voluntary Actions are more complicated than re?ex ones. The same mechanism is involved, but the brain initially exerts an inhibitory or blocking e?ect which prevents immediate re?ex action. Then the impulse, passing up to the cerebral hemispheres, stimulates cellular activity, the complexity of these processes depending upon the intellectual processes involved. Finally, the inhibition is removed and an impulse passes down to motor cells in the spinal cord, and a muscle or set of muscles is activated by the motor nerves. (Recent advances in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques have provided very clear images of nerve tracts in the brain which should lead to greater understanding of how the brain functions.) (See BRAIN; NERVOUS SYSTEM; SPINAL CORD.)... neuron(e)

A disease of the central or peripheral nervous systems. In more common reference, a neuropathy is primarily a disorder of peripheral nerves. CNS diseases are often life threatening; neuropathies are generally disorders of the control and sensory nerves out in the body.... neuropathies

A vague term applied to a person of nervous temperament, whose actions are largely determined by emotions or instincts rather than by reason.... neurotic

A neutron is one of the particles that enter into the structure of the atomic nucleus. (See ISOTOPE.)... neutron

Another name for polymorphonuclear leukocytes, the most common type of blood-carried white blood cell, and the first mobile resistance cell to come to the rescue in injury.... neutrophils

(Latin) From the place covered with snow

Nevah, Neve, Nevara, Nevarra, Nevaria, Nevarea, Nieve, Neiva, Nieva, Neive... neva

(Latin) From the state of Nevada; form of Neva, meaning “from the place covered with snow”... nevada

(American) Child from heaven... nevaeh

(Slavic) Resembling a butterfly Nevea, Neviah, Neviya, Nevia, Neviyah... neveah

(Scottish) Feminine form of Nevin; daughter of a saint Nevinah, Neveena, Nevyna, Nevinne, Nevynne, Neveene, Neveana, Neveane... nevina

(Gaelic) Born during the spring Newlynn, Newlynne, Newlin, Newlinn, Newlinne, Newlen, Newlenn, Newlenne... newlyn

(Turkish) The child of our desire Neylana, Neylanna, Neylann, Neylanne, Neylane... neylan

(Hebrew) One who is pure; a victorious woman

Nezia, Nezea, Nezeah, Neza, Nezah, Neziya, Neziyah... neziah

(Maori) From the trees; a clever woman... ngaio

(Maori) A yellow-haired woman Ngare, Ngair, Ngayre, Ngaira, Ngara, Nyree, Nyri, Nyrie, Nyrea, Ngaer, Ngaera... ngaire

(Vietnamese) As precious as jade ... ngoc

(Vietnamese) Woman of the moon... nguyet

(Vietnamese) Resembling velvet... nhung

(Native American) Resembling a fawn Niabie, Niabee, Niabey, Niaby, Nyabi, Nyabie, Niabea, Nyabea, Nyaby, Nyabey, Nyabee... niabi

(English) From the famous waterfall

Niagarah, Niagarra, Niagarrah, Nyagara, Nyagarra... niagara

(Irish) A bright woman; in mythology, daughter of the sea god... niamh

(Norse) In mythology, a follower of Siegfried

Nabelung, Nebelung, Nybelung... nibelung

(Hebrew / Spanish) A conqueror / of the victorious army Nicanora, Nicanorre, Nicanorra, Nicanore... nicanor

(American) A victorious young woman

Nachell, Nichele, Nishell, Nishelle, Nishele, Nychelle, Nychele, Nyshelle, Nyshele... nichelle

(English) Form of Berenice, meaning “one who brings victory” Niciah, Neecia, Nicija, Nicci, Nicea... nicia

(Greek) Feminine form of Nicholas; of the victorious people Necole, Niccole, Nichol, Nichole, Nicholle, Nickol, Nickole, Nicol, Nicola, Nikita, Nikki, Nikkole, Nikky, Niko, Nikol, Nikola, Nikole, Nikoleta, Nikoletta, Nikole, Nikolia, Niquole, Niquolle, Nychole, Nycholl, Nykia, Nycole, Nykole, Nykolia, Nyquole, Nyquolle, Nicoletta, Nicolette, Nicoleta, Nicolete, Nickie, Nicki, Nicky, Nickey, Nickee, Nichola, Nicolleta, Nicollet, Nakeeta, Nakita, Nickita, Nikeeta, Niquita, Nikolaevna, Nijole... nicole

(English) Woman from the capital of Cyprus

Nicosiah, Nicosea, Nicoseah, Nicotia, Nicotea... nicosia

Linn.

Family: Solanaceae.

Habitat: Native to tropical America; cultivated mainly in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal.

English: Tobacco.

Ayurvedic: Taamraparna, Dhuu- mrapatraa.

Unani: Tambaakhu.

Action: Leaves—decoction is locally applied for muscle relaxation in dislocation, strangulated hernia and orchitis. Also for arthralgia, lumbago, rheumatism and gout (an ointment is made by simmering the leaves in lard). Not used internally as a medicine.

The plant contains nicotine as the major alkaloid.

Toxic influence of cigarette and bidi smoking on carboxyhaemoglobin levels of the blood of regular smokers was compared and no significant difference was observed in both of them. A py- rolysed tobacco product, used in India as a dentifrice, when administered to rats, showed activity comparable to benzo(a)pyrene, a potent carcinogen.

Habitual consumption of betel quid containing tobacco shows a strong cy- totoxic potential.

Nicotiana rustica Linn. is known as Kalakatiyaa or Vfilaayati tobacco. Its nicotine content is high and is not suitable for cigarettes, cigars or bidis. Different variants of this tobacco are used for hookah, chewing and snuff.... nicotiana tabacum

(Native American / Arabic) An elflike woman

Needah, Nidah, Needa, Nyda, Nydah, Neada, Neadah... nida

(Spanish) One who is gracious Nydia, Nidiah, Nydiah, Nidea, Nideah, Nibia, Nibiah, Nibea, Nibeah, Nydia, Nydea, Nybia, Nybea... nidia

(Arabic) Feminine form of Nigel; a champion

Nigeliah, Nigela, Nigella, Nigelea... nigelia

(African) Daughter of the harvest Nigessa, Nigese, Nigesse, Nygesa, Nygessa... nigesa

(Scottish) A young woman; a maiden

Nighinn, Nigheen... nighean

(American) Born in the evening; child of the darkness Nite, Nyt, Nyte, Nyght... night

Copious PERSPIRATION occurring in bed at night and found in conditions such as TUBERCULOSIS, BRUCELLOSIS and lymphomas (see LYMPHOMA), as well as thyrotoxicosis (see under THYROID GLAND, DISEASES OF), anxiety states and menopausal ?ushes (see MENOPAUSE).... night sweats

A service that enables a caregiver night rest (e.g. where night disturbances of the older person receiving care are frequent).... night-sitting service

Linn.

Family: Ranunculaceae.

Habitat: Native to Southern Europe; cultivated in Indian gardens.

English: Love-in-a-mist.

Ayurvedic: Upakunchikaa (var.).

Siddha: Karumcheerakam.

Action: Seeds—carminative, emmenagogue, anthelmintic. A tincture prepared from the ripe seeds is used against catarrhal inflammations of liver and intestines in homoeopathy.... nigella damascena

Linn.

Habitat: Cultivated in Punjab, Bengal, Assam and Bihar.

English: Black Cumin, Small Fennel.

Ayurvedic: Kaalaajaaji, Kalikaa, Prthvikaa, Sthulajiraka, Sushavi, Upkunchikaa (the plant bears seeds of bigger size).

Unani: Kalonji, Kamaazaruus.

Siddha/Tamil: Karum seeragm.

Action: Seeds—stimulant, carminative, diuretic, lactiferous, em- menagogue (stimulate uterine contractions). Used in puerperal fever. Powdered seeds externally applied to boils. Essential oil— used in common cold, cough and bronchospasm.

The essential oil from seeds contains nigellone and 2-methyl-4-isopropyl-p- quinone. The oil contains carvone (4560%), d-limonene and cymene. Seeds contain fatty acids including palmitic, myristic, stearic, oleic, linoleic and linolenic. Beta-sitosterol is also present in the seeds.

Low concentration of nigellone has been shown to inhibit the release of histamine from mast cells in animals. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)

The ethanolic extract of the seeds and the volatile oil from seeds showed antispasmodic activity in experimental animals, possibly due to a calcium antagonistic effect.

The oil exhibited CNS depressant and potent analgesic effects on experimental animals, possibly due to the presence of an opioid principle in the oil.

Dosage: Seed—1-3 g powder (API, Vol. I); 3-5 g powder (CCRAS).... nigella sativa

(Russian) Form of Veronica, meaning “displaying her true image” Nyka, Nicka, Nicca, Nica... nika

(Greek) One who brings victory; in mythology, goddess of victory Nikee, Nikey, Nykee, Nyke... nike

(Indian) Feminine form of Nikhil; one who is complete Nikhilah, Nikhilla, Nykhila, Nykhyla... nikhila

(Arabic) Resembling a precious blue stone

Neelam, Nylam, Nilima, Nilyma, Nylyma, Nylima, Nealam, Nealama... nilam

(Italian) Form of Brunhilda, meaning “a dark and noble battlemaiden” Nilda, Nild, Nilde, Nillda, Nillde, Nilld... nilda

(Egyptian) From the Nile river Nilea, Nilia, Nila, Nyla, Naila... nile

(Nees) Bremek.

Synonym: Strobilanthes ciliatus Nees.

Family: Acanthaceae.

Habitat: Western Ghats from South Kanara to Travancore, in evergreen forests.

Ayurvedic: Sahachara (pale-rose- flowered var. used in Kerala). (Sahachara is equated with Barleria prionitis in other regions.)

Siddha/Tamil: Kurinji, Sinnangur- inji.

Action: Used against neurological disorders, sciatica, glandular swellings and oedema.... nilgirianthus ciliatus

(Arabic) Resembling the water lily Neelofar, Nylofar, Nealofar... nilofar

(Indian) Of the heavens... niloufer

(Scandinavian) Feminine form of Neil; a champion

Nilsina, Nilsyne, Nilsyna, Nylsine, Nylsyna, Nylsina, Nylsyne, Nilsa... nilsine

(Arabic) Blessed by God Ni’mah, Nima, Nymah, Nyma, Nimat, Nymat... nimah

(African) A princess; daughter born to royalty

Nimeeshah, Nimiesha, Nimisha, Nimysha, Nymeesha, Nymisha, Nymysha, Nimeasha, Nymeasha... nimeesha

(Spanish / Native American) A little girl / a fiery woman

Ninah, Nyna, Neena, Neenah, Nena, Neneh, Neina, Nenna, Ninacska, Nineta, Ninete, Ninetta, Ninette, Ninnette, Ninon, Ninochka, Ninoska, Ninotchka... nina

(African) As solid as a stone Ninie, Niny, Niney, Ninee, Ninea... nini

(Greek) Resembling a fern; in mythology, a weeping queen who turned to stone

Niobee, Niobeh, Nyobe, Nyobee, Niobey, Nyobey, Niobea, Nyobea, Niobi, Nyobi, Niobie, Nyobie... niobe

(Indian) From the brook Nipah, Nypa, Nypah... nipa

Virus first identified from the village of Nipah in Malaysia. Carried by flying foxes (fruit bats). Can infect pigs and humans.... nipah virus

Nipa fruticans

Description: This palm has a short, mainly underground trunk and very large, erect leaves up to 6 meters tall. The leaves are divided into leaflets. A flowering head forms on a short erect stern that rises among the palm leaves. The fruiting (seed) head is dark brown and may be 30 centimeters in diameter.

Habitat and Distribution: This palm is common on muddy shores in coastal regions throughout eastern Asia.

Edible Parts: The young flower stalk and the seeds provide a good source of water and food. Cut the flower stalk and collect the juice. The juice is rich in sugar. The seeds are hard but edible.

Other Uses: The leaves are excellent as thatch and coarse weaving material.... nipa palm

See BREASTS, DISEASES OF.... nipples, diseases of

(Hebrew) Of the plowed field Niria, Nirea, Niran, Nirela, Nirit... nira

(Hebrew) Resembling a flowering plant

Nurit, Nurita, Nureet, Nirita, Nureeta... nirit

(English) In a state of ultimate bliss

Nirvanah, Nervana, Nirvanna, Nervanna, Nyrvana, Nyrvanna, Narvana, Narvanna... nirvana

(Arabic) A lady Neesaa, Nisaa, Neesa, Neasa... nisa

(Indian) Born at night Neesha, Niesha, Neisha, Nysha, Neasha... nisha

(African) One who wins awards Nishann, Nishanne, Nishana, Nishanna, Nyshan, Nyshana... nishan

(Japanese) Woman from the West Nishie, Nishee, Nishey, Nishy, Nishea... nishi

(Indian) A woman of faith Nishthia, Nishthea... nishtha

(Scandinavian / Hebrew) A friendly elf / one who tests others Nisse, Nissah, Nissnana, Nissanit, Nyssa, Nysa, Nysse... nissa

(Native American / Spanish / Hebrew) Resembling a bear / God is giving / having grace

Nitah, Neeta, Nyta, Neetah, Nytah, Neata, Neatah... nita

(Indian) One who is deeply rooted Nitarah, Nitarra, Nitarrah, Nytara, Nytarra... nitara

(Native American) As precious as a gem

Nitikah, Nityka, Nytika, Nytyka... nitika

A naturally occurring chemical that performs a wide range of biological roles. It is involved in the laying down of memories in the BRAIN; in killing viruses, bacteria and cancer cells; and in helping to control blood pressure. NO, comprising a nitrogen atom attached to an oxygen one, is one of the smallest of biologically active compounds as well as having such diverse functions. The chemical is a muscle relaxant and is important in maintaining the heart and circulation in good condition. NO is also the toxic agent released by macrophages (see MACROPHAGE) to kill invading germs and spreading cancer cells. It acts as an essential NEUROTRANSMITTER and protects nerve cells against stress. Researchers are studying how it might be used to treat diseases, for example by using it as an inhaled gas in certain respiratory conditions.... nitric oxide (no)

The nitrogen analogues of mustard gas are among the most important ALKYLATING AGENTS used in the treatment of various forms of malignant disease. They include chlormethine, busulphan, chlorambucil and melphalan.... nitrogen mustards

A compound or molecule that contains nitrogen; in my context, a substance that is or was a part of protein metabolism.... nitrogenous

Also known as laughing gas, this is (at ordinary pressures) a colourless, sweetish-smelling gas. It is used with oxygen to provide relief of pain (see ANALGESICS; PAIN) and mild ANAESTHESIA during childbirth, during painful dental procedures, and at the site of major accidents. It has a rapid action and the effects do not last for long.... nitrous oxide gas

(German) Form of Irene, meaning “a peaceful woman” Nitsah, Nytsa, Nytsah... nitsa

(Native American) My daughter Nitunah, Nytuna, Nytunah, Nitunna, Nitoona, Nytoona, Nitouna, Nytouna... nituna

(Indian) An eternal beauty Nithya, Nithyah, Nityah... nitya

(Hebrew) A budding young woman; a blossom

Nitzah, Nitzana, Nitzanna, Nitzaniya, Nytza, Nytzana, Nytzaniya, Nizana... nitza

(Indian) One who is dedicated to helping others

Niveditah, Nivedeeta, Nivedyta, Nyvedita, Nyvedyta, Nivedeata, Nyvedeata... nivedita

(German) A beautiful water sprite Nixi, Nixy, Nixey, Nixee, Nixea... nixie

(Hindi) Realizing one’s destiny; fate Niyatie, Niyatee, Niyatey, Niyaty, Niyatea... niyati

(Native American) A beautiful woman

Nizhonie, Nyzhoni, Nyzhonie, Nizhony, Nizhoney, Nizhonea, Nyzhony, Nyzhoney, Nyzhonea, Nizhonee, Nyzhonee... nizhoni

(African) An upstanding woman Njemille, Njemyle, Njemylle... njemile

(African) One who is loyal Nkechie, Nkechy, Nkechey, Nkechee, Nkechea... nkechi

(Hebrew) A howling woman Noba, Nobia, Nobiah, Nobea, Nobeah... nobah

NERVE endings which detect and respond to painful or unpleasant stimuli.... nociceptors

The involuntary passing of URINE during sleep. It is a condition predominantly of childhood, and usually genetically determined. Sometimes, however, it is a symptom of anxiety in a child, especially if there has been over-rigorous attempts at toilet-training or hostile or unloving behaviour by a parent. It can also be provoked by apparently unimportant changes in a child’s life – for example, moving house. In a small minority of cases it is due to some organic cause such as infection of the genitourinary tract.

The age at which a child achieves full control of bladder function varies considerably. Such control is sometimes achieved in the second year, but much more commonly not until 2–3 years old. Some children do not normally achieve such control until the fourth, or even ?fth, year, so that paediatricians are reluctant to make this diagnosis before a child is aged six.

The approach consists essentially of reassurance and ?rm but kindly and understanding training. In most cases the use of a ‘star chart’ and a buzzer alarm which wakens the child should he or she start passing urine is helpful. Where there are relationship or social problems, these need to be considered in treating the child. The few who have urinary infection or irritable bladders may respond to drug tretament.

Those who do not respond may be helped by DDAVP, an analogue of a pituitary hormone, which reduces the amount of urine produced overnight. It is licensed for use for three months at a time. Some children prefer to reserve it for occasions such as sleeping away from home. The antidepressant imipramine can help some children but has to be used cautiously because of side-effects.

For help, contact www.eric.org.uk... nocturnal enuresis

Nematodes which live in nodules in the wall of the large intestine. Belong to the genus Oesophagostomum. Infect a range of mammal species including humans.... nodular worms

(French) Born at Christmastime Noelle, Noela, Noele, Noeleen, Noelene, Noeline, Noeliz, Noell, Noella, Noelleen, Noelynn, Nowel, Noweleen, Nowell, Noe, Noelia, Nohely... noel

(Hawaiian) Born of the mist of heaven

Noelanie, Noelany, Noelaney, Noelanee, Nohealani, Nohealanie, Nohealanee, Noelanea, Nohealanea... noelani

(Hebrew) A bright woman; one who is lustrous Noga... nogah

(Native American) A daughter of the moon

Nokomiss, Nokomisse, Nokomys, Nokomyss, Nokomysse... nokomis

(Irish) Form of Finola, meaning “one who is fair; a white-shouldered woman” Nolah, Nolla, Nollah, Nowla, Nuala, Nualla, Nula, Nulla, Noola, Noolla, Nuallan... nola

(Irish) A champion of the people Nollan, Nolana, Noland, Nolanda, Nolen, Nolene, Nolin, Nolynn... nolan

(Native American) Of the sun Nolchia, Nolchea... nolcha

See ANTIDEPRESSANT DRUGS.... nomifensine

A face-to-face group judgement technique in which participants generate silently, in writing, responses to a given question/problem; responses are collected and posted, but not identified by author, for all to see; responses are openly clarified, often in a round robin format; further iterations may follow; and a final set of responses is established by voting/ranking.... nominal group technique

See “measurement scale”.... nominal scale

(African) One who is merciful Nomusah, Nomusha, Nomusia, Nomusea, Nomushia, Nomushea... nomusa

These act by inhibiting the formation of PROSTAGLANDINS which are mediators of INFLAMMATION. They act both as ANALGESICS to relieve pain, and as inhibitors of in?ammation. Aspirin is a classic example of such a compound. Newer compounds have been synthesised with the aim of producing fewer and less severe side-effects. They are sometimes preferred to aspirin for the treatment of conditions such as RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS, OSTEOARTHRITIS, sprains, strains and sports injuries. Their main side-effects are gastrointestinal: gastric ulcers and gastric haemorrhage may result (see STOMACH, DISEASES OF). This is because prostaglandins are necessary for the production of the mucous protective coat in the stomach and, when the production of prostaglandin is inhibited, the protection of the stomach is compromised. NSAIDs should therefore be used with caution in patients with DYSPEPSIA and gastric ulceration. The various nonsteroidal anti-in?ammatory drugs di?er little from each other in e?cacy, although there is considerable variation in patient response. Ibuprofen is one of the ?rst choices in this group of drugs as it combines good e?cacy with a low incidence of side-effects and administration is only required twice daily. Other drugs in this series include diclofenac, fenbufen, fenclofenac, fenoprofen, feprazone, ?urbiprofen, indomethacin, indoprofen, ketoprofen, ketorolac, naproxen, piroxicam, sulindac, tiaprofenic acid and tolmetin.... non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (nsaids)

(Latin) The ninth-born child Nonah, Noni, Nonie, Nonna, Nonnah, Nonnie, Nonni, Nuna, Nunna... nona

A person who is aged between 90 and 99 years.... nonagenarian

An independent, national or international organization. These organizations may be run either for profit or not for profit.... nongovernmental organization (ngo)

Statistical techniques designed to be used when the data being analysed depart from the distribution that can be analysed with parametric statistics.... nonparametric statistics

(English) Form of Eleanor, meaning “the shining light”; form of Honora, meaning “having a good name and integrity; an honorable woman”

Norah, Noora, Norella, Norelle, Norissa, Norri, Norrie, Norry, Noreen, Noreena, Norene, Norine, Norena, Norina, Norma, Normina, Normie, Normee, Normi, Neorah, Noirin, Norabel... nora

(German) Femining form of Norbert; a bright heroine from the North Norberte, Norbertha, Norberaht, Norberthe... norberta

(German) Woman from the North Nordika, Nordicka, Nordyca, Nordyka, Nordycka, Norda, Norell, Norelle, Norella, Norele, Norela... nordica

Protection, anti hunger ... norfolk island pine

(Japanese) One who upholds the law Nori... noriko

The expected value for something measurable. Most people have measurements lying to either side of the norm. Traditionally in medicine, only those lying beyond two standard deviations from the norm are considered likely to be abnormal (approximately 3 per cent of those measured). (See STANDARD DEVIATION.)... norm

A term used in several di?erent senses. Generally speaking, it is applied to anything which agrees with the regular and established type. In chemistry, the term is applied to solutions of acids or bases of such strength that each litre contains the number of grams corresponding to the molecular weight of the substance in question. In physiology the term ‘normal’ is applied to solutions of such strength that, when mixed with a body ?uid, they are ISOTONIC and cause no disturbance: for example, normal saline solution.... normal

A bell shaped curve that results when a normal distribution is graphed.... normal curve

(French) Woman from Normandy

Normandi, Normandee, Normandy, Normandey, Normandea... normandie

(Scandinavian) In mythology, goddess of fate Nornah, Norne, Norn... norna

(Etruscan) In mythology, goddess of chance Nortiah... nortia

A severe form of scabies presenting often in immunosuppressed individuals, often presenting with a generalised dermatitis, extensive scaling and occasionally vesiculation and crusting. The severe itch may be reduced or absent. Secondary infection can develop. See also Scabies.... norwegian scabies

Certain skin diseases – particularly CHILBLAIN, ACNE, LUPUS and ERYSIPELAS – tend to affect the NOSE, and may be very annoying. Redness of the skin may be caused by poor circulation in cold weather.

Acute in?ammation is generally the result of a viral infection (see COLD, COMMON) affecting the mucous membrane and paranasal sinuses (see SINUSITIS); less commonly it results from the inhalation of irritant gases. Boils may develop just inside the entrance to the nose, causing pain; these are potentially troublesome as infection can spread to the sinuses. HAY FEVER is one distressing form of acute rhinitis.

Malformations are of various kinds. Racial and familial variations in the external nose occur and may be a reason for RHINOPLASTY. Di?erences in the size and shape of the nose occur, often forming the starting point for chronic in?ammation of the nose, perennial rhinitis (all the year round), hay fever, or ASTHMA. More commonly, obstruction results from nasal polyps or adenoids, leading to inhalation through the mouth. Adenoids are an overgrowth of glandular tissue at the back of the throat, into which the nose opens. Polyps are growths of soft jelly-like character: they arise from chronic in?ammation associated with allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, asthma, and aspirin abuse. Large polyps can cause erosion of the nasal bones and should be surgically removed.

Bleeding (see HAEMORRHAGE).

Foreign bodies At ?rst these may not cause any symptoms, but in time they can cause obstruction of the affected nostril with a foul-smelling bloody discharge. The problem is common with small children who tend to push small objects into their noses. Foreign bodies require removal, sometimes in hospital. Anyone attempting to remove a foreign body should take care not to push it further into the nose.

Loss of sense of smell, or anosmia, may be temporary or permanent. Temporary anosmia is caused by conditions of the nose which are reversible, whereas permanent

anosmia is caused by conditions which destroy the OLFACTORY NERVES. Temporary conditions are those such as the common cold, or other in?ammatory conditions of the nasal mucosa or the presence of nasal polyps (see above). Permanent anosmia may follow in?uenzal NEURITIS or it may also follow injuries to the brain and fractures of the skull involving the olfactory nerves.

Injury to nose The commonest injury is a fracture of the nasal bones or displacement of the cartilage that forms the bridge of the nose. The nasal SEPTUM may also be displaced sideways by a lateral blow. Sporting activities, especially boxing and rugby football, are commonly a cause of nasal injury. If a fracture is suspected, or if there is substantial tissue swelling, an X-ray examination is necessary. Resetting a damaged bone should be done either immediately, before swelling makes surgery di?cult, or ten days or so later when the swelling has subsided. Results are usually good, ensuring a clear airway as well as a restored pro?le. It is not unusual for the cheek-bone to sustain a depressed fracture at the same time as the nose is broken. Careful assessment and prompt surgery are called for. (For more information on fractures, see under BONE, DISORDERS OF).

Rhinitis In?ammation of the MUCOUS MEMBRANE lining the nose. Symptoms include nasal discharge and obstruction, sneezing and sometimes pain in the sinuses. There are several types of rhinitis:

•Allergic – due to allergy to dust, pollen or other airborne particles. Also called hay fever, allergic rhinitis causes a runny nose, sneezing and local congestion. It affects up to 10 per cent of the population and is more common in people suffering from other allergic disorders such as asthma or eczema (see DERMATITIS). Skin tests help to identify the causative ALLERGEN which the sufferer can then try to avoid, although in the case of pollen this is di?cult. Decongestant drugs, ANTIHISTAMINE DRUGS, and CORTICOSTEROIDS may help, as can SODIUM CROMOGLYCATE inhaled regularly during the pollen season. A desensitisation course to a particular allergen sometimes provides long-term relief.

Atrophic rhinitis is caused by a deterioration in the nasal mucous membrane as a result of chronic bacterial infection, nasal surgery or AGEING. Symptoms include persistent nasal infection and discharge and loss of sense of smell. ANTIBIOTICS and, in some cases, OESTROGENS alleviate the symptoms.

Hypertrophic rhinitis results from repeated nasal infection, and is characterised by thickened nasal membranes and congestion of the nasal veins. Removal of thickened mucosa may help severe cases.

Vasomotor rhinitis occurs when the mucosa becomes oversensitive to stimuli such as pollutants, temperature changes or certain foods or medicines. It may occur as a result of emotional disturbances and is common in pregnancy.

Viral rhinitis occurs as a result of infection by the common cold virus; treatment is symptomatic. Sinusitis is sometimes a complication.... nose, disorders of

(African) Mother of the homeland... nosiwe

Pain in the back... notalgia

Wight.

Family: Amaranthaceae.

Habitat: Distributed in tropical Africa and Asia; found throughout the plains of India.

Folk: Dhaulaa-findauri (Rajasthan).

Action: Used as a substitute for Paashaanabheda (Aerva lanata Juss. ex Schult., Amaranthaceae) for its diuretic and lithotriptic properties.... nothosaerva brachiata

Diseases, usually of an infectious nature, which are required by law to be made known to a health o?cer or local authority. (See INFECTION.) Certain occupational diseases are also noti?able.

Noti?able diseases in the UK (For more information on a speci?c disease, refer to the separate dictionary entry.) Acute encephalitis Acute poliomyelitis Anthrax Cholera Diphtheria Dysentery (amoebic or bacillary) Ebola virus disease Food poisoning Lassa fever Leprosy (reported to Chief Medical O?cer at the Department of Health) Leptospirosis Malaria Marburg disease Measles Meningitis Meningococcal septicaemia (without meningitis) Mumps Ophthalmia neonatorum Paratyphoid fever Plague Rabies Relapsing fever Rubella Scarlet fever Smallpox Tetanus Tuberculosis Typhoid fever Typhus Viral haemorrhagic fever (including Lassa fever) Viral hepatitis Whooping cough Yellow fever

Reporting AIDS is voluntary (and in con?dence) to the Director, Communicable Diseases Surveillance Centre (PHLS).... notifiable diseases

DC.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: Konkan,Western Ghats, Deccan and hills of South India.

English: Common Fleshy Rag-weed.

Siddha/Tamil: Mosakathu-thalai.

Folk: Waandar-Roti, Gaidar (Maharashtra).

Action: Plant—feebly aperient. Used externally for pimples.... notonia grandiflora

(Arabic) Having an inner light Nureh, Nourah, Nure... noura

(Egyptian) A superior woman Nurbese, Nourbeze, Nurbeze... nourbese

(Iranian) A sweet woman; one who is pleasant

Noushah, Noushia, Noushiah, Noushea, Nousheah... nousha

(Latin / Native American) New; a bright star / a butterfly chaser Novah, Novia, Novea, Novelle, Novele, Novella, Novela, Novy, Novey, Novee, Novie, Novi... nova

(American) Born in the month of November Novimber, Novymber... november

(Spanish) A girlfriend Noviah, Novea, Noveah... novia

(Arabic) One who is beautifully ornamented

Noyah, Noy, Noye... noya

(Japanese) One who brings hope to others

Nozomie, Nozomy, Nozomey, Nozomee, Nozomea... nozomi

(African) The sixth-born child... nsia

(African) The seventh-born child... nsonowa

(African) A starlike woman... nthanan

(Egyptian) A woman from Nubia; resembling a cloud

Nubea, Nubiah, Nubeah, Nubiane, Nubiann, Nubianna, Nubiana, Nubianne... nubia

See REVERSE TRANSCRIPTASE INHIBITOR.... nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor

The inner core of an intervertebral disc. (See SPINAL COLUMN.)... nucleus pulposus

(Arabic) The golden daughter Nudhar, Nudara, Nudaria, Nudarea... nudar

(Arabic) Having great wisdom Nuhah... nuha

(Native American) The younger daughter

Nukah, Nucka, Nucca... nuka

1 The upper portion of a fraction used to calculate a rate or ratio. 2 For a performance measure, the cases in the denominator group that experience events specified in a review criterion. See “denominator”.... numerator

(Italian) One who makes announcements; a messenger Nunziah, Nunzea, Nunzeah, Nunciata, Nuncia, Nuncea, Nunziata, Nunziatina, Nunziateena, Nunziatyna... nunzia

(Arabic) Woman of the light Noor, Nour, Noura, Nur, Nureen, Nurine, Nuru... nura

(Turkish) Born under the bright moon

Nuraye, Nurai, Nurae... nuray

(Catalan) Refers to the Virgin Mary Nuriah, Nurea, Nureah, Nuriya, Nuriyah... nuria

(Arabic) A luminous woman Nurine, Nurina, Nuryne, Nureen, Nureene, Nuryna, Nureena... nurin

A staff member who has completed a specific requirement of coursework and clinical training and is responsible for lower levels of nursing care and assisting individuals with their daily living activities, such as bathing, toileting, eating and moving about.... nurse assistant / aide

In old-growth forests, these are ancient downed trees that rot so slowly that they themselves become the fundus and growth media for new and growing trees and other life-forms.... nurse logs

Linn.

Family: Oleaceae; Nyctanthaceae.

Habitat: Outer Himalaya, Assam, West Bengal; cultivated in many parts of India.

English: Tree of Sorrow, Night Jasmine, Coral Jasmine.

Ayurvedic: Paarijaata, Shephaali, Shephaalikaa, Mandaara.

Unani: Harasingaar.

Siddha: Pavazha mattigai.

Action: Leaves—bitter tonic, chola- gogue, febrifuge, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, hypotensive, respiratory stimulant. Used for fevers, rheumatism, obstinate sciatica.

The leaves and seeds contain iri- doid glycosides; other constituents reported from the leaves are mannitol, beta-amyrin, beta-sitosterol, hentria- contane, benzoic acid, astragalin, nico- tiflorin, oleanolic acid, nyctanthic acid, friedelin and lupeol. The seeds contain a polysaccharide glucomannan.

All parts of the plant are used for allergic disorders. Alcoholic extract of the plant was found to inhibit passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) in experimental animals. The inhibition was comparable to standard drugs used for allergy and bronchial asthma.

Ethanolic extract of the leaves, flowers and seeds demonstrated strong stimulation of antigen specific and non-specific immunity in mice.

The 50% ethanolic extracts of the leaves, flowers, seeds and roots were found effective in treating caecal amoe- biasis caused by Entamoeba histolytica in rats. But the extracts did not exhibit direct amoebicidal activity in vitro against trophozoites of the parasite.

The iridoid glucosides showed an- tileishmanial activity both in vivo and in vitro.

Dosage: Leaf—10-20 ml juice. (CCRAS.)

Seeds—used in diabetes, also in cutaneous diseases. Filaments— astringent and cooling; prescribed for bleeding piles and menorrhagia. Plant—toxic on the nervous system.

The flowers contain flavonoids including quercetin, kaempferol, api- genin. Cardiac glucoside, nymphalin, showed sedative action in small doses.

The petroleum ether extract of the plant of Nymphaea species, given at a dose of 300 mg/kg i.p. prevented necrosis of the liver tissue and promoted, to some extent, liver regeneration in CCl4-induced toxicity.

Dosage: Dried flowers—3-6 g (API, Vol. III); seed—3-6 g. powder (CCRAS.).... nyctanthes arbor-tristis

(English) Of the nest Nydiah... nydia

(Welsh) A pious woman Nefyn, Nyfaine, Nyfayne, Nyfayn, Nefayn, Nefain, Nyfaen, Nefaen... nyfain

(Greek) In mythology, a beautiful minor deity Nymph, Nymphe... nympha

Willd.

Family: Nymphaeaceae.

Habitat: A native to Southeast Asia; found in ponds and ditches throughout India.

English: Indian Blue Water-lily.

Ayurvedic: Nilotpala (blue or voilet-flowered var.).

Unani: Nilofar.

Siddha/Tamil: Neelothpalam.

Action: See N. alba.... nymphaea stellata

Vasudevan.

Family: Menyanthaceae.

Habitat: South India.

Folk: Granthik Tagar.

Action: Sedative, antispasmodic. Used in neurological disorders and colic.

Stalks and leaves—pounded with oil and applied to ulcers.

See Limnanthemum cristatum Griseb.... nymphoides macrospermum

Nurses are the largest single group of sta? working in the health service. There are more than 330,000 quali?ed nursing posts in NHS trusts and primary care across the UK. Would-be registered nurses (RNs) do either a three-year diploma programme or a four-year degree. An increasing number of nurses are now acquiring degrees, either as their initial quali?cation or by studying part-time later in their career. This has led to an often heated debate over the nature of nursing and whether there is now too much emphasis on academic theory at the expense of hands-on care.

Nursing is changing rapidly, and today’s nurses are expected to take on an extended role – often performing tasks which were once the sole preserve of doctors, such as diagnosing, prescribing drugs and admitting and discharging patients.

There are four main branches of nursing: adult, child, mental health and learning disability. Student nurses qualify in one of these areas and then apply to go on the nursing register. This is held by nursing’s regulatory body, the Council for Nursing and Midwifery. Nurses are expected to abide by the Council’s Code of Professional Conduct. The organisation’s main role is protecting the public and it is responsible for monitoring standards and dealing with allegations of misconduct. There are more than 637,000 quali?ed nurses on the Council’s register, and this is the main pool from which the NHS and other employers recruit.

The criticisms about nurses’ education being too academic, and persisting problems of recruitment of nurses into the NHS, were among factors prompting a strategic government review of the status, training, pay and career opportunities for nurses and other health professionals. The new model emphasises the practical aspects of the education programme with a better response to the needs of patients and the NHS. It also o?ers nurses a more ?exible career path and education linked more closely with practice development and research, so as to provide greater scope for continuing professional education and development.

About 60 per cent of RNs work in NHS hospitals and community trusts. But an increasing number are choosing to work elsewhere, either in the private sector or in jobs such as school nursing, occupational health or for NHS Direct, the nurse-led telephone helpline. Others have dropped out of nursing altogether. The health service is facing a shortage of quali?ed nurses and many trust employers have resorted to overseas recruitment drives. The government has launched a major nurse recruitment and retention campaign and is promoting family-friendly employment practices to lure those with a nursing quali?cation currently working outside the NHS back into the workforce. Nursing is a mainly female profession and a third of nurses work part-time.

Nurses’ pay has for long compared unfavourably with other professional employment opportunities, despite being determined by an independent Pay Review Body. With the recruitment of nurses a perennial problem, the government’s strategy, Making a Di?erence, is to set up a new pay system o?ering greater ?exibility and opportunities for nurses and other health-service sta?. In 2005, a newly quali?ed sta? nurse earned around £16,000 a year, while one of the new grade of consultant nurses could command an annual salary of between £27,000 and £42,000. Nurse consultants were introduced in spring 2000 as a means of allowing nurses to progress up the career ladder while maintaining a clinical role.

The nurse of today is increasingly likely to be part of a multidisciplinary team, working alongside a range of other professionals from doctors and physiotherapists to social workers and teachers. A further sign of the times is that many registered nurses are being asked to act in a supervisory role, delegating tasks to nonregistered nurses working as health-care assistants and auxiliaries. In recognition of the latter’s increasing role, the Royal College of Nursing, the main professional association and trade union for nurses, has now agreed to extend membership to health-care assistants with a Scottish/National Vocational Quali?cation at level three.

Midwifery Midwives (see MIDWIFE) are practitioners who o?er advice and support to women before, during and after pregnancy. They are regulated by the Council for Nursing and Midwifery (formerly the UK Central Council for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting). Registered nurses can take an 18month course to become a midwife, and there is also a three-year programme for those who wish to enter the profession directly. Midwifery courses lead to a diploma or degree-level quali?cation. Most midwives work for the NHS and, as with nursing, there are problems recruiting and retaining sta?.

Health visiting Health visitors are registered nurses who work in the community with a range of groups including families, the homeless and older people. They focus on preventing ill-health and o?er advice on a range of topics from diet to child behavioural problems. They are employed by health trusts, primary-care groups and primary-care trusts.... nursing

Licensed facility that provides skilled nursing care and rehabilitation services to functionally disabled, injured or sick individuals.... nursing facility

Data recorded by nurses concerning the nursing care given to the patient, including judgement of the patient’s progress.... nursing record

(African) Born during the daylight... nuru

(Hungarian) Woman of grace Nusah, Nussa, Nussah, Nusi, Nusie, Nusia, Nusea... nusa

Fertility, Prosperity, Love, Luck... nuts

(Native American) Child of my heart Nutta... nuttah

(African) Resembling an antelope Nyalah, Nyalla, Nyallah... nyala

(African) One who is humble Nyarae, Nyara, Nyaria, Nyarea... nyarai

(English) In Arthurian legend, another name for the lady of the lake Nineve, Niniane, Ninyane, Nyniane, Ninieve, Niniveve... nyneve

Linn.

Family: Nymphaeaceae.

Habitat: Kashmir (in lakes).

English: European White Water-lily.

Ayurvedic: Kumuda, Utpala (white- flowered var.) (Mahotpla is the synonym of Nelumbo nucifera.)

Unani: Nilofar.

Siddha/Tamil: Alli (water lilies).

Action: Flowers and rhizomes—astringent, demulcent, mild sedative, spasmolytic, antiseptic, antimicrobial. Used in the form of an infusion internally for chronic diarrhoea, as a douche for leucorrhoea and vaginitis, as a gargle for sore throat. Also given internally in prostatis.... nymphaea alba

Roxb. ex Salisb.

Synonym: N. nouchali Burm. f. N. lotus Hook. f. Thoms non L.

Family: Nymphaeaceae.

Habitat: Throughout the warmer parts of India.

English: Indian Red Water-lily.

Ayurvedic: Kumuda, utpala (red-flowered var.).

Siddha/Tamil: Alli-tamarai, Vellam- bal.

Action: Flower—astringent, cardiac tonic; used in palpitation of heart. Rhizomes—used for dysentery and dyspepsia.... nymphaea rubra

(African) A snakelike woman Nyokah, Nioka, Niokah... nyoka

(Ukrainian) A graceful woman Nyrurah, Nyrurra, Niura, Neura... nyura

This is an executive agency of the UK government formed by an amalgamation in 1990 of the Central Statistical O?ce and the O?ce of Population Censuses and Surveys (OPCS). The ONS compiles and publishes statistics on national and local populations, including their social and economic situation and contributions to the country’s economy. It also records the demographic patterns of births, marriages and deaths, including the medical cause of death. The former OPCS organised a national ten-yearly census and ONS is carrying on this activity. The census is based on the actual presence of individuals in a house or institutions on a given night. The ?gures provide government departments and local authorities with information for planning services.... office for national statistics (ons)

The nerves of SMELL. Each nerve detects smell by means of hair-like receptors positioned in the mucous membrane lining the roof of the nasal cavity (see NOSE).... olfactory nerves

A very common jellyfish known as the little mauve stinger, which has occurred in severe `swarms’ in the Mediterranean Sea. The sting causes moderate skin pain, but may also cause systemic symptoms such as cough, sneezing, painful breathing and nasal catarrh. It has not caused death, but one severe case of potentially-fatal anaphylaxis occurred in the wife of the then Greek Prime Minister.... pelagia noctiluca

In?ammation of the nerves (see NERVE) in the outlying parts of the body. (See NEURITIS.)... peripheral neuritis

In severely ill patients – especially those who have had major surgery or those with SEPSIS, burns, acute pancreatitis (see PANCREAS, DISORDERS OF) and renal failure – the body’s reserves of protein become exhausted. This results in weight loss; reduction in muscle mass; a fall in the serum albumin (see ALBUMINS) and LYMPHOCYTE count; and an impairment of cellular IMMUNITY. Severely ill patients are unable to take adequate food by mouth to repair the body protein loss so that enteral or parenteral nutrition is required. Enteral feeding is through the gastrointestinal tract with the aid of a nasogastric tube; parenteral nutrition involves the provision of carbohydrate, fat and proteins by intravenous administration.

The preferred route for the infusion of hyperosmolar solutions is via a central venous catheter (see CATHETERS). If parenteral nutrition is required for more than two weeks, it is advisable to use a long-term type of catheter such as the Broviac, Hickman or extra-corporeal type, which is made of silastic material and is inserted via a long subcutaneous tunnel; this not only helps to ?x the catheter but also minimises the risk of ascending infection.

Dextrose is considered the best source of carbohydrate and may be used as a 20 per cent or 50 per cent solution. AMINO ACIDS should be in the laevo form and should contain the correct proportion of essential (indispensable) and non-essential amino acids. Preparations are available with or without electrolytes and with or without fat emulsions.

The main hazards of intravenous feeding are blood-borne infections made possible by continued direct access to the circulation, and biochemical abnormalities related to the composition of the solutions infused. The continuous use of hypertonic solutions of glucose can cause HYPERGLYCAEMIA and glycosuria and the resultant POLYURIA may lead to dehydration. Treatment with INSULIN is needed when hyper-osmolality occurs, and in addition the water and sodium de?cits will require to be corrected.... parenteral nutrition

(L.) E. Greene.

Synonym: Lippia nodiflora A. Rich.

Family: Verbenaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, near fresh water bodies.

English: Jalapippali, Shaaradi, Shakulaadani, Matsyagandhaa, Matsyaadani, Laangali, Vashiraa.

Siddha/Tamil: Poduthalai.

Action: Spasmolytic, diuretic, febrifuge.

The plant contains flavone glyco- sides—nodiflorins A and B, lipiflorins A and B, as well as free flavones including 6-hydroxyluteolin, nepetin and nodifloretin along with beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol glucosides.

Dosage: Plant—10-20 ml. juice. (CCRAS.)... phyla nodiflora

Linn.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Native to America.

English: Chanca Piedra.

Ayurvedic: Bhuumyaamalaki, assigned to P. niruri, has now been equated with P.fraternus.

Action: Antispasmodic, antipyretic, diuretic, antiviral, bactericidal.

Taking Chanca Piedra orally does not seem to be effective for treating hepatitis B. The herb contains niuride, which inhibits specific HIV-protein binding activity, but does not protect cells from acute HIV infection. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)... phyllanthus niruri

Linn.

Family: Piperaceae.

Habitat: Native of the Indo- Malaysian region; cultivated in Western Ghats, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Assam and Kerala.

English: Black Pepper.

Ayurvedic: Maricha, Vellaja, Uushna, Suvrrita, Krishnaa.

Unani: Filfil Siyaah, Safed.

Siddha/Tamil: Milagu. Milaguver (root).

Action: Stimulant, carminative, diuretic, anticholerin, sialagogue, bechic, antiasthmatic. Used in fevers, dyspepsia, flatulence, indigestion, and as mucous membrane and gastro-intestinal stimulant. Externally—rubefacient and stimulant to the skin. Used as a gargle for sore throat. Used with ginger and Piper longum for viral hepatitis.

The fruit yielded piperine, pipera- tine and piperidine; amides, pipery- line, piperoleins A and B, and N-i'so- butyl-cicosa-trans-2-trans-4-dienami- de.

The aqueous extract of roasted black pepper is reported to show cholinomi- metic effect on rat abdominis muscles.

Dosage: Fruit—500 mg to 1 g. (CCRAS.)... piper nigrum

The probability that a person with a negative test is free of the disease and is not a false negative.... predictive value negative

Plantago species

Description: The broad leaf plantain has leaves over 2.5 centimeters across that grow close to the ground. The flowers are on a spike that rises from the middle of the cluster of leaves. The narrow leaf plantain has leaves up to 12 centimeters long and 2.5 centimeters wide, covered with hairs. The leaves form a rosette. The flowers are small and inconspicuous.

Habitat and Distribution: Look for these plants in lawns and along roads in the North Temperate Zone. This plant is a common weed throughout much of the world.

Edible Parts: The young tender leaves are edible raw. Older leaves should be cooked. Seeds are edible raw or roasted.

Other Uses: To relieve pain from wounds and sores, wash and soak the entire plant for a short time and apply it to the injured area. To treat diarrhea, drink tea made from 28 grams (1 ounce) of the plant leaves boiled in 0.5 liter of water. The seeds and seed husks act as laxatives.... plantain, broad and narrow leaf

Linn. var. italica Kochne.

Family: Salicaceae.

Habitat: North-western Himalaya at 900-3,700 m.

English: Black Lombardy Poplar.

Action: Bark and balsam from leaf bud— used for cold. Bark— depurative. Leaf bud—antiseptic, anti- inflammatory.

The bud exudate contains dimethyl- caffeic acid, which was found active against herpes simplex virus type 1.

A 50% ethanol extract of a mixture of flowers and buds showed 11% inhibition of enzymatic conversion of testosterone into 5 alpha-dihydrotesterone and 4-androstene-3,17-dione. The extract was partitioned between ethylac- etate and water and the resultant ethy- lacetate fraction contained the active compounds, pinobanksin, demethyl- quercetin and pinocembrin. It exhibited 15% inhibitory activity on the enzyme. Pinocembrin was the most potent, almost equal to estradiol, which was used as a control.

The bark of all Populus species contains, phenolic glycosides, salicin and populin (salicinbenzoate). Tannins are also present (5-9%).

Both salicin and populin cause elimination of uric acid. Salicin is antiperi- odic and is used like quinine in intermittent fever, also in coryza, rheumatism and neuralgia.... populus nigra

Hook.

Family: Rosaceae.

Habitat: The Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaon.

Folk: Ratanjot (substitute).

Action: Rootstocks—depurative; ash, mixed with oil, is applied to burns.

Unani: Baadiyaan-kohi, Karafs-e- kohi, Fitraasaaliyun (also equated with Petroselinum crispum Mill. Nym. ex auct. Kew.).

Folk: Komal.

Action: Root and fruit—diuretic, emmenagogue. An infusion of root is given for indigestion and irregular menses.

The roots and umbels yielded cou- marins and their glycosides. Osthol (7-methoxy-8-isop entenyl-coumarin), which occurs in the dried roots up to the extent of 3.6%, has been found to be a potent respiratory and circulatory stimulant in experimental animals. Its respirotonic effect was more marked than that of coramine, leptazol and caffeine.... potentilla nepalensis

A branch of the vagus NERVE which leaves the latter low down in its course, and – hooking around the right subclavian artery on the right side and round the arch of the aorta on the left

– runs up again into the neck, where it enters the larynx and supplies branches to the muscles which control the vocal cords.... recurrent laryngeal nerve

Hook. f. & Th.

Family: Polygonaceae.

Habitat: The Himalayas from Nepal to Bhutan at 3,900-4,800 m.

Folk: Tehuka (Sikkim).

Action: The roots resemble those of Rheum emodi, but are spongy and inert. Stems are acidic, used as salad. Dried leaves are sometimes used as a substitute for tobacco.... rheum nobile

See APPENDIX 8: PROFESSIONAL ORGANISATIONS.... royal college of nursing (rcn)

Any of a variety of organizational arrangements to link rural health care providers in a common purpose.... rural health network

Colloquial term for the north American jellyfish Chrysaora quinquecirrha.... sea nettle

A small excrescence on the vocal cords (see LARYNX) which causes hoarseness. This tends to develop in people who abuse their voices – for example, singers, or people who shout excessively.... singer’s nodule

(L.) Kurz.

Synonym: R. communis Nees. Justicia nasuta L.

Family: Acanthaceae.

Habitat: Throughout the greater part of India.

English: Snake Jasmine.

Ayurvedic: Yuuthiparni, Yuuthika- parni. Paalaka-Juuhi.

Unani: Gul-baglaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Nagamalli.

Action: Leaf, seed and root—used for skin diseases. A paste of the root, with lime juice, is applied externally to eczema, ringworm and Dhobi's itch.

The roots are reported to contain an antiseptic and antiparasitic active principle, rhinacanthin (1.9%). The plant is rich in potassium salts; also contains oxymethyl anthraquinones. The flowers contain rutin.

Dosage: Leaf, seed, root—5-10 ml juice; 3-5 g powder. (CCRAS.)... rhinacanthus nasutus

Linn.

Family: Grossulariaceae.

Habitat: Cold temperate regions extending from Himalayas to northern Asia and Europe.

English: European Black Currant.

Folk: Nabar.

Action: Dried leaves and twigs— a home remedy for coughs. Leaves—diuretic, hypotensive, refrigerant. An infusion is used for inflammatory conditions, sore throat, hoarseness. Fruits— refrigerant, mildly spasmolytic, vasoprotective, anti-inflammatory.

Black currents are very rich in vitamin C (average 150 mg/100g) and contain 0.9-1.7% pectin as calcium pec- tate, also minerals, potassium (372 mg/ 100 g). The acidity of the fruit is mainly due to citric acid; malic acid is present in small amounts. Glucose and fructose are principal sugars; sucrose is a minor component.

The flavonoids in the fruits include kaempferol, quercetin and myricetin. About 0.3% anthocyanosides, concentrated mainly in the skin, consist of glycosides of cyanidol and delphinidol.

The anthocyanosides are reportedly bacteriostatic and exhibit vasopro- tective and anti-inflammatory activity. They are antisecretory against cholera toxin-induced intestinal fluid secretion in vitro.

The leaves contain an anti-inflammatory principle, pycnometol and minute quantities of an essential oil composed mostly of terpenes.

Polyphenolic extract of buds inhibited lipid peroxidation by rat liver mi- crosomes.

Polyphenols present in R. nigrum and R. rubrum (Red Current, Western Himalayas from Kumaon to Kashmir) exhibit free radical scavenging activity. The seed oil lowers VLDL and total cholesterol.

Contraindicated in bleeding disorders. (Sharon M. Herr.)... ribes nigrum

Marsh.

Family: Salicaceae.

Habitat: Native to America (New York and Pennsylvania).

English: Black Willow.

Unani: Bed-Siyaah.

Action: Astringent, febrifuge, sedative, nervine tonic. Anaphrodisiac (used for reducing sexual activity; in spermatorrhoea). Largely used in the treatment of nocturnal emissions.

The bark contains tannin, about 1% of glucoside salinigrin. Once considered a substitute for potassium bromide, but without a depressant effect.... salix nigra

Silver Needle tea is a rare type of white tea,with a delicate flavor and great health benefits. Recommended to consumers willing to reduce the amount of caffeine, it is a special beverage both for connoisseurs and beginners. About Silver Needle Tea Silver Needle Tea is a type of white tea, originating from the Chinese Fuding county, and considered to be the finest type of this kind of tea. It was once reserved to Royal Chinese Family due to its benefits and rareness. Silver Needle Tea is hand-harvested only two days a year, during spring. It contains only the unopened tea buds, one of the reasons the Royal Family was the only one to drink it. Silver Needle Tea brewing Silver Needle Tea has a subtle taste and a low quantity of caffeine. It is recommended to consumers searching for the benefits of green tea, but not enjoying its strong flavor .

• Silver Needle tea brews best with water at 180 degrees Fahrenheit (the water should be almost boiling, but not rolling)
• After adding the water to the tea, steep it for five minutes
• In case of adding more tea to the pot, it needs three minutes to steep

Silver Needle Tea benefits Being a whitetea, Silver Needle tea is helpful in cancer prevention, due to its high content of antioxidants. These compounds are able to fight free radicals, best known for causing tumors growth and spreading cancer cells. Silver Needle tea properties were also acknowledged to:

• detoxify the body
• relieve stress
• lift mood

Silver Needle Tea side effects Silver Needle Tea has few side effects, especially related to overconsumption. It is indicated that individuals suffering from cardiac problems or hypertension should consume it moderately. Silver Needle teais a good choice for consumers who want to keep a good physical and mental state, enjoying both a delicate taste and a healthy beverage.... silver needle tea

Daily nursing and rehabilitative care that can only be performed by, or under the supervision of, skilled nursing personnel.... skilled nursing care

Nursing homes that are certified to provide a fairly intensive level of care, including skilled nursing care.... skilled nursing facility

An individual’s web of kinship, friendship and community ties.... social network

See “informal care”.... social network care

Nursing care needs that require the advanced and specialized clinical skills and knowledge of a registered nurse.... specialized nursing care needs

Linn.

Synonym: S. rubrum Mill.

Family: Solanaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, in dry parts, up to an elevation of 2,100 m.

English: Black Nightshade.

Ayurvedic: Kaakamaachi, Kaakaahya, Kaakamaataa, Dhvankshamaachi.

Unani: Mako (smallar var., black var.)

Siddha/Tamil: Manittakkali.

Action: Plant—anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, sedative, diuretic, laxative, antiseptic; fresh extract is used for inflammatory swellings, enlargement of liver and spleen and in cirrhosis of liver. Berries— antidiarrhoeal, antipyretic. Berries and flowers—prescribed in cough and cold. Leaves— applied hot to swollen testicles; paste used as poultice to gout, rheumatic swellings and skin diseases.

The berries contain steroidal alkaloid glycosides, solasonine, alpha- and beta-solanigrine, alpha-and beta- solamargine; steroidal sapogenins, di- osgenin and tigogenin; solasodine and solasodine.

Solamargine and solasonine are present also in leaves. The total alkaloid content of fruits and leaves are 0.101 and 0.431% respectively.

Dosage: Whole plant—5-10 ml juice. (API, Vol. II.)... solanum nigrum

Nerve damage can include neuropathy or neuritis, which can be caused by diabetes, nerve injury, autoimmune disease, viral infections, muscle spasms or vitamin deficiencies. Traditional medicine found a lot of treatments for nerve damage, but alternative medicine fans think that you don’t need to take a lot of pills for something that can be treated with just a cup of tea. How a Tea for Nerves Works A Tea for Nerves’ main purpose is to nourish your nervous system and induce a state of relaxation to all your nervous cells. Also, these teas can reconstruct the damaged tissue and make your body heal all affected areas. In order to be useful, a Tea for Nerves needs to contain tannins, volatile oils and minerals (manganese, magnesium, iron, preferably). Efficient Tea for Nerves When choosing a Tea for Nerves, remember that it must be both one hundred percent safe and very efficient. If you don’t know which teas to choose from, here’s a list to help you out: - Saint John’s Wort Tea – is useful for sciatica and it can bring relief to patients suffering from depression and spinal nerves damages. Take only a cup per day and avoid it at all costs if you’re on antidepressants. Also, if you’re pregnant, talk to your doctor before starting a treatment based on Saint John’s Wort Tea. - Skullcap Tea – treats a number of affections such as inflammation, arteriosclerosis, high cholesterol and epilepsy thanks to its active constituents: antioxidant flavonoids, which can repair the nervous damages and baicalin (has anti-spastic and nerve-relaxant properties). Don’t take more than 2 cups per day for a short amount of time and don’t combine it with anti-depressants and sedatives. Basil Tea – this Tea for Nerves has many medical uses and not only that it can repair the nervous ailments, but it’s also a great energy and health enhancer. You can also use it to treat asthenia, anemia, loss of appetite and digestive tract problems. Drink one or two cups per day for a short amount of time and enjoy the health benefits! Tea for Nerves Side Effects When taken properly, these teas are generally safe. However, make sure you don’t exceed the number of cups recommended per day or you’ll get diarrhea, constipation, nausea, headaches or skin rashes. If you’ve been taking one of these teas for a while and you’re experiencing some unusual reactions, talk to your doctor as soon as possible! Don’t take a Tea for Nerves if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on blood thinners, anticoagulants or preparing for a major surgery (these teas contains substances that may interfere with your anesthetic). The same advice for children: there are no studies to examine the treatment’s effect on them. If your doctor says it’s ok to try a Tea for Nerves, choose one that fits best your needs and enjoy its wonderful health benefits!... tea for nerves

A method of electrical stimulation that is being used for the relief of PAIN, including that of MIGRAINE, NEURALGIA and phantom limbs (see AMPUTATION). Known as TENS, its mode of action appears to have some resemblance to that of ACUPUNCTURE. Several controlled trials suggest that it provides at least a modicum of relief of pain after operations, thereby reducing the amount of ANALGESICS that may be called for.... transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (tens)

Nets used to sample the living mosquito population. By permitting access to a bait but restricting movement away from it, trap nets tend to concentrate female mosquitoes near the bait.... trap nets

Linn.

Family: Cucurbitaceae.

Habitat: Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Ayurvedic: Patoli (related species of Patola).

Siddha/Tamil: Kombu Pudalai.

Action: Herb—bitter tonic, febrifuge. Root—purgative. Fruit— used as dentifrice.... trichosanthes nervifolia

Having a lucid dream means dreaming while being aware of the fact that you are dreaming. However, many people become lucid in the middle of the dream or, on the contrary, fall lose reality contact after being lucid at first. Although traditional medicine can’t be very helpful in these cases, alternative medicine has a few tricks up its sleeve. How a Tea for Lucid Dreams Works A Tea for Lucid Dreams’ main purpose is to make you recall what you have dreamed by calming your nervous system and improving your memory function. These teas are good for a number of other diseases, such as memory loss, headaches or migraines. However, talk to an herbalist or to your doctor before starting any kind of herbal treatment in order to make sure everything will be alright. Efficient Tea for Lucid Dreams In order to work properly, a Tea for Lucid Dreams needs to be both very efficient and one hundred percent safe (since lucid dreams are not exactly a medical problem, you may want to avoid developing one). A tea that is rich in antioxidants, nutrients, tannins, volatile oils and minerals (sodium, magnesium, iron, manganese) would be very adequate. You may want to avoid teas with a large amount of acid agents (they could cause stomach pain). If you don’t know which teas could be useful for lucid dreams, here’s a list for guidance: - Green Tea – contains all the ingredients necessary to sustain life, so it’s useful for a wide range of ailments, not just lucid dreams. If you’re suffering from infertility, anemia, asthenia, loss of appetite, digestive tract complaints or nervous system failure, this decoction could also be useful. However, you must avoid it at all costs if you’re experiencing some menstrual or menopausal symptoms. The same advice if you’re pregnant (it may cause uterine contractions and therefore miscarriage). - Valerian Tea – was been used as a sleep aid since ancient times, when the Romans and the Greeks took it before going to bed. This Tea for Lucid Dreams, thanks to its active compounds, is a mild sedative and could also work miracles on your nervous system. However, you need to make sure that you don’t exceed the number of cups recommended per day in order to avoid hallucinations, tiredness or even death. - Chamomile Tea – of course, the world’s greatest panacea shouldn’t be left aside. If you’re having trouble remembering your dreams, try a cup of Chamomile Tea before you go to bed! This Tea has a great fragrance and a pleasant smell. Plus, it’s one hundred percent safe so you can drink as much as you want. Tea for Lucid Dreams Side Effects When taken according to specifications, these teas are generally safe. However, exceeding the number of cups recommended per day may lead to a number of health problems, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach or even death! If you’ve been taking one of these decoctions for a while and you’re experience a negative response from your body, ask for medical assistance right away! Don’t take a Tea for Lucid Dreams if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on blood thinners or anticoagulants. The same advice in case you’re preparing for a surgery. If your doctor says it’s ok to start an herbal treatment, choose a tea that fits best your requirements and enjoy its wonderful benefits!  ... tea for lucid dreams

Linn.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Throughout moist and hot parts of India.

English: False White Teak, Gutel.

Ayurvedic: Shriparni, Tumri, Pindaara. Shriparni is a synonym of Gambhaari (Gmelina arborea).

Siddha/Tamil: Attarasu, Nay Kumil.

Action: Plant—antibilious, antiflat- ulent, bechic, anti-inflammatory. Root—carminative, antirheumatic.

Applied as poultice in gout and rheumatism. Plant extract showed an- tileukaemic activity.

Plant contains a pyridine alkaloid, N-methyl-5-carboxamide-2-pyridone. Leaves contain an alkaloid, nudiflor- ine.

Bark yields taraxerone and beta- sitosterol. Seeds contain an alkaloid ricinidine. The seeds also contain a maytansinoid compound, trewiasine (TWS). It exhibited significant cyto- toxic activity against various human cell lines in vitro.

The charcoal made from the wood is rich in potassium (21.16%).

Trewia polycarpa Benth. ex Hook. f. (Western Ghats, Konkan and Kerala) is also a related species of Tumri.... trewia nudiflora

Hook. f. & Thoms.

Synonym: V. grandiflorum Wall. ex DC.

Family: Caprifoliaceae.

Habitat: The Himalayas from Kashmir to Sikkim at altitudes of 3,000-4,000 m.

Ayurvedic: Tilvaka.

Folk: Telam, Timoi (Kumaon), Tilen, Thelkaa (Garhwal).

Action: Bark—astringent; contain 13.1% tannin on dry basis.... viburnum nervosum

The nervous system is responsible for almost any reaction that comes from your body. From eyes to muscles and even hair, your body is a very complex electric system directed by your brain. Most of the problems that a person has in a lifetime are related to a nervous system failure. In order to treat this kind of problems or prevent them from happening, you may want to try a tea instead of all those traditional pills. How a Tea for Nervous System Works A Tea for Nervous System is indeed helpful if it contains an important amount of nutrients, enzymes, tannins, volatile oils and minerals (sodium, iron, magnesium and manganese). You may want to avoid a tea that has an elevated acids level since it may cause you even more damages. A Tea for Nervous System will make your body send all the active constituents to the affected areas and heal the damaged tissue. Efficient Tea for Nervous System In order to work properly, a Tea for Nervous System must show results in a short time period and be one hundred percent safe (you don’t want any more complications than you already have). However, before starting any kind of herbal treatment, remember to take the indicated dose and never surpass it in order to avoid other health problems. If you don’t know which teas could be helpful for you, here’s a list for guidance: - Oolong Tea – contains half the amount of caffeine that other teas have so it’s best for your health to give it a try every once in a while. This Tea for Nervous System will also strengthen your entire organism and rejuvenate the aspect of your skin. However, don’t drink more than 2 cups per day. - Green Tea – as the scientists have proved, this decoction contains all the ingredients necessary to sustain life, so it’s good for a number of other health complaints, such as infertility, headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, anemia and asthenia. Just make sure you avoid it at all costs in case you’re experiencing some menstrual or menopausal symptoms (it may cause uterine contractions and internal bleedings). - Black Tea – some say that it does more damages than good for your nervous system and some others think that this tea is worth a try. Having an elevated level of caffeine, this tea is highly addictive. In right amount, it can treat infertility, erectile dysfunctions, sore throats and colds. However, ask an herbalist before starting a treatment based on this Tea for Nervous System in order to find out which are the risks. Tea for Nervous System Side Effects When taken according to specifications, these teas are generally safe. However, exceeding the number of cups recommended per day may lead to other health complaints, such as nausea, diarrhea, uterine contractions, internal bleedings and headaches. If you’ve tried one of these teas and something doesn’t feel quite right, talk to your doctor as soon as possible! Don’t take a Tea for Nervous System if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on blood thinners or anticoagulants. The same advice if you’re preparing for a surgery (some of the active compounds in these teas may interfere with your anesthetic and cause death). But if you have the green light from your doctor, choose a tea that fits best your requirements and enjoy its wonderful health benefits!... tea for nervous system

Blume.

Family: Annonaceae.

Habitat: Western ghats from Maharashtra southwards up to an altitude of 1,200 m.

Siddha/Tamil: Pulichan.

Action: Root and leaves—used in intermittent fevers, biliousness, jaundice; also in rheumatic affections; bruised in salt water, used in skin diseases. A decoction of the root bark is given to women to control fits at the time of delivery.

Acetogenins, including stereoiso- mers, are important constituents of the root bark. Glutinone, glutinol, taraxerol, beta-sitosterol and benzyl benzoate have also been isolated. The essential oil of the root bark of Kerala plant contains bornyl acetate 15.2% and patchoulenone 8.1%.

A decoction and roots of Uvaria gandiflora Roxb., synonym U. purpurea Blume (Indian Botanic Garden, Kolkata) is used for flatulence, stomachache; also after childbirth. A decoction of U. micrantha (A. DC.) Hook. f. & Thoms. (tropical forests of the Andamans) is also administered after childbirth as a prophylactic.... uvaria narum

Herbs that arrest or inhibit vomiting and nausea. Black Horehound. ... anti-nauseants

Herbs that prevent formation or destroy tumour cells. Some reported in the literature to arrest the spread of malignancy. A neoplasm is a new growth and may be malignant or non- malignant. Bayberry (intestinal), Bryonia (lung), Clivers (Genito-urinary tract), Comfrey (general), Condurango (gastric), Dandelion (liver), Echinacea, Greater Celandine (epithelial), Mandrake (face and skin), Mistletoe, Myrrh, Plantain (throat), Poke root (breast), Queen’s Delight, Red Clover (epithelial and breast), Rosebay Willowherb (gastric), Vinca rosea (leukaemia), Thuja (womb), Wild Violet (breast and womb), Yellow Dock. ... anti-neoplastics

Small nerve ?bres that lie upon the walls of blood vessels and connect the muscle ?bres of their middle coat with the NERVOUS SYSTEM. Through these nerves the blood vessels are retained in a state of moderate contraction. There are vasodilator nerves, through which are transmitted impulses that dilate the vessels, and, in the case of the skin vessels, produce the condition of blushing; there are also vasoconstrictor nerves which transmit impulses that constrict, or narrow, the blood vessels – as occurs on exposure to cold (see HYPOTHERMIA). Various drugs produce dilatation or contraction of the blood vessels, and several of the substances produced by ENDOCRINE GLANDS in the body have these effects: for example, ADRENALINE.... vasomotor nerves

Linn.

Family: Verbenaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India in the warmer zones; ascending to 900 m in the North-western Himalaya.

English: Five-leaved Chaste tree.

Ayurvedic: Nirgundi, Shephaa- likaa, Sindhuka, Sindhuvaara, Suvahaa, Sugandhikaa. Nila, Nila- nirgundi, Shveta nirgundi (var.). White-flowered var. is known as Sinduvaara, blue-flowered as Nirgundi or Shephaali,

Unani: Sambhaalu, Fanjankisht.

Siddha/Tamil: Nochi, Nalla Nochi, Vellai Nochchi, Nirkundi.

Action: Seeds—prescribed in spermatorrhoea, and for promoting spermiogenesis (in Unani medicine). Also given as a rejuvenating tonic for retarding old age and for retaining and promoting virility. (in Ayurvedic medicine). Leaf—anti-inflammatory, analgesic; removes foetid discharges and worms from ulcers. Flowers—astringent, febrifuge, antidiarrhoeic; prescribed in liver complaint. Oil— applied to sinus, scrofulous sores.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends the leaf (also the root) in excessive vaginal discharges, oedema, skin diseases, pruritus, helmin- thiasis, rheumatism, and puerperal fever.

A water extract of the leaves, when administered to rats, exhibited anti- inflammatory, analgesic, antihistami- nic and membrane stabilizing and an- tioxidant activities. (J. Ethnopharmo- col, 2003, (203), 199-206.) Methano- lic extract of leaves showed remarkable antihistaminic activity.

The leaves contain iridoid glyco- sides, isomeric flavanones and flavo- noids, besides casticin and the gluco- sides, luteolin-7-glucoside and alpha- D-glucoside of a tetrahydroxy mono- methoxy flavone.

Dried powder of roots contains hen- triacontane, beta-sitosterol and its aetat and stigmasterol. Alcoholic extract of the root showed 40-60% antiimplantation activity with no anti- ovulatory effect in rats.

Flavone vitexicarpin (1), isolated from the leaves, exhibited broad cyto- toxicity in human cancer cell line panel. Two pentacyclic triterpenoids, betulin- ic acid and ursolic acid, along with an aliphatic alcohol, n-hentriacontanol, beta-sitosterol and p-hydroxybenzoic acid have been isolated from leaves.

The seeds contain p-hydroxybenz- oic acid, 5-oxyisophthalic acid, glucose and the triterpene, vitextriter- pene. Several anti-inflammatory triter- penoids and flavonoids have also been isolated from the seeds. The flavanone, 5,7,3' trihydroxy-6, 8,4'-trimethoxy- flavone exhibited anti-androgenic activity in adult mice and dogs.

Dosage: Leaf—10-15 ml juice (API, Vol. III); root—10-12 ml juice (API, Vol. IV.)... vitex negundo

(Burm. f) Wight & Arn.

Synonym: Z. rotundifolia Lam. Rhamnus nummularia Burm. f.

Family: Rhamnaceae.

English: Wild Jujube.

Ayurvedic: Karkandhu.

Unani: Jharber, Sadarber.

Action: Fruit—cooling and astringent. Prescribed for bilious affections. Leaves—used in scabies and other skin diseases.

The root bark contains 12% of tannin and cyclopeptide alkaloids—num- mularines A, B and C, mucronine D and amphibine H. The leaves contain ascorbic acid. Nummularine M, R and S, besides frangufoline have been isolated from the stem bark. Num- mularine R and S showed antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria, while frangufoline was active against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. The alkaloid fraction, obtained from the bark, showed significant analgesic activity.... ziziphus nummularia

An institution for training and granting of the qualification, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, including study of two years basic medical sciences and two years clinical sciences. The philosophical approach includes personal responsibility for one’s own health, natural treatment of the whole person, prevention of disease, and to awaken the patient’s inherent healing powers. Of university status. Address: 144 N.E. 54th, Seattle, WA 98105, USA. See: NATUROPATHY. ... bastyr college of naturopathic medicine

Gather basket of nettles, wash and place in a pan with double their quantity of water. Simmer gently one hour. Strain. To every gallon add half an ounce ground Ginger and one pound Barbados sugar or molasses. When cool, ferment with Yeast – three-quarters of an ounce to each gallon. Allow to stand until next day before bottling. Flavour is improved by juice of a lemon. ... beer, nettle

Yohimbe Tea has been used for centuries as a very powerful aphrodisiac, although this use was only exploited by the Africans. Later on, the scientists found out that the active constituents of this tea could very well be used to improve erectile function. Many pharmaceutical treatments contain a small dosage of Yohimbe Tea extract. Yohimbe is a small ever-green tree that grows mainly in places like Gabon, Cameroon and Zaire. Also known as pausinystalia yohimbe, this tree is a member of the Rubiaceae family that can be recognized by its lance-like leaves and brownish bark. Yohimbe Tea Properties Aside from its aphrodisiac properties, Yohimbe Tea contains a lot of chemical ingredients used to treat a variety of health problems. The active substances of this tea are yohimbine HCl (indole alkaloid), which can only be found in the bark and which is the responsible constituent for all the medical benefits of this tea. Other than this, Yohimbe Tea also contains pigments and tannis, but in a smaller dosage, almost impractical for the alternative medicine. Yohimbe Tea Benefits Drinking Yohimbe Tea has proven its benefits since ancient times, when African population used it as a medical cure and also as an important element when it came to religious ceremonies and rituals. It was believed that whoever drank a cup of Yohimbe Tea during one of these ceremonies, would have a great sexual life. Some say it only worked thanks to the willing power, other truly believed that this tea can perform miracles. Aside from these legends, scients found out that Yohimbe Tea is actually a good sexual enhancer and an erectile dysfunction treatment. How to make Yohimbe Tea Infusion Preparing Yohimbe Tea is very easy. Use a teaspoon of herbs for every cup of tea you want to make, add boiling water and wait 30 minutes for the health benefits to be released. Strain and drink it hot or cold, adding honey or lemon, if you feel the taste is a bit unpleasant. You can either use dried or freshly picked leaves; the only thing you need to be careful about is where you buy them from. Make sure you only use herbs from a trusted provider. Yohimbe Tea Side Effects When taken properly, Yohimbe Tea is perfectly safe. However, high dosages may lead to a number of complications such as rapid heartbeat, kidney failure, seizure, heart attack and others. Make sure you talk to a doctor the first time you notice something unusual about your health when taking Yohimbe Tea! It’s better to be safe than sorry! Yohimbe Tea Contraindications Don’t take a treatment based on Yohimbe Tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or suffer from one of the following disorders: - Schizophrenia (this tea can enhance your psychotic episodes). - Prostate problems. - Post traumatic distress, liver failure, kidney failure, chest pain, anxiety, high or low blood pressur. But if there’s nothing that could interfere with this herb’s ingredients, try Yohimbe Tea and enjoy its wonderful benefits responsibly!... yohimbe tea - a natural aphrodisiac

Due to many causes from catarrh to infection. May be associated with sinus headache and nasal congestion.

Alternatives. Teas. Plantain leaves, Nasturtium leaves, Marigold flowers (Calendula), Thyme. Tablets/capsules. Garlic, Goldenseal, Iceland Moss.

Tinctures. Formula. Echinacea 2; Goldenseal 1. Mix. 30-60 drops in water thrice daily. Practitioner. Ephedra.

Topical. Decongestants. Olbas oil. Oils of Aromatherapy: Eucalyptus, Garlic, Thyme. Supplementation. Vitamins A, C.

Bedtime: 2-3 Garlic capsules. ... blocked-up nose

Musician’s breast.

Alternatives:– External treatment. Lotion – few drops Tincture Arnica in eggcup of water. Aloe Vera or Comfrey cream. Marshmallow and Slippery Elm ointment. ... breast, guitar nipple

Bathe nipple with Vodka or gin. ... breasts, nipple – to harden

Due to a number of causes. Unlike colostrum secreted during breast-feeding after delivery. A pathological nipple discharge is non-milky, recurs from time to time, and is usually only from one nipple. It may be watery or a sticky yellow, staining being detected on bra or pyjamas. When blood-flecked it should be promptly investigated by a competent authority.

When the discharge is yellow, indicating pus, an infection is suspected which may develop into an abscess. Herbal treatment can be effective but if, after a week, the condition has not improved surgical exploration may be necessary to remove the affected duct.

Alternatives. Clivers, Goldenseal, Fenugreek, Marigold, Poke root, Queen’s Delight, Wild Indigo. Taken as tea, powder, liquid extract or decoction.

Tea. Formula. Equal parts: Red Clover, Clivers, Gotu Kola. 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup thrice daily.

Powders. Formula. Wild Indigo 1; Echinacea 2; Poke root 1. Dose: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon) thrice daily.

Tinctures. Formula. Echinacea 2; Goldenseal 1; Poke root 1. Dose: 30-60 drops thrice daily.

Topical – for sore nipples. Wheatgerm oil, Evening Primrose oil. Lotions: Goldenseal, Marigold, distilled extract of Witch Hazel. Nipples to be washed before a child is again put to the breast. Cracked nipples: Comfrey – pulp from fresh plant, or equal parts powder and milk as a paste.

Minerals: magnesium, zinc. ... breasts, nipples, discharge

Dr Desmartis, in a paper to The American Academy of Sciences announced that Logwood, (Haematoxylum campechianum) was an antiseptic of value in cancer. This was discovered by accident. Having under his care several cancer patients presenting ulcerative sores ‘emitting a nauseous odour’, he composed a plaster of equal parts of Extract of Logwood and hog’s lard. To his surprise, on application the fetter immediately disappeared. ... cancer – to neutralise odour

Astrologer-physician. In 1649 he issued his “Physical Directory” which attracted the fury of the College of Physicians. Followed by “The Complete Herbal”, (1653) Family Dispensary and Natural System of Healing, which became the herbal best-seller – even today. He practised in Spitalfields, beloved by the poor of the East End. Revolutionary in medicine and politics, was wounded in the chest whilst serving as a Roundhead in the Civil War. See: ASTROLOGY. ... culpeper, nicholas (1616-1654)

Inability to cope with incessant demands of the child. Heaviness of shoulders and back. Headache, pains, possible anaemia, lack of energy, insomnia, mental depression. Usually a combination of invigorating herb teas suffices. Alcohol-based tinctures, liquid extracts, etc, are contra-indicated. Bananas, to counter potassium deficiency. Oatmeal porridge. Alternatives. Teas. Oats. Raspberry leaves. Ginseng, Wood Betony, Vervain.

Gerard tea. Equal parts: Raspberry leaves, Lemon Balm leaves, Agrimony leaves. Mix. Made as ordinary tea: 2-3 teaspoons to small teapot; infuse few minutes. Drink freely.

Fenugreek tea: consume seeds as well as liquor.

Gentian root. 2 teaspoons to cup cold water left to steep overnight. Half-1 cup before meals.

Pollen..

Diet. Oatmeal porridge. Honey.

Supplements. Multivitamins, B-complex, B6, B12. ... breasts, nursing mother exhaustion

Usually epithelioma with burning. Lesion may extend upwards into the base of the skull. Thickening of nasal membranes may cause deafness by compressing Eustachian tubes.

Anyone over 40 who has recurrent sore throat for more than six weeks should visit his family doctor. Symptoms. Pain, headache, paralysis of eye muscles.

Of possible value. Alternatives:– Teas. Violet leaves, Red Clover flowers, Plantain. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-15 minutes. Drink freely.

Decoction. Combination. Goldenseal 1; Poke root 1; Yellow Dock 3; Marshmallow root 3. Place half an ounce (15g) in 1 pint (500ml) water simmered gently 20 minutes. Half a cup or more, as freely as tolerated.

Formula. Echinacea 2; Goldenseal 1; Poke root half; Thuja quarter; Liquorice half. Mix. Dose: Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Three or more times daily as tolerated.

Case of Lady Margaret Marsham, Maidstone. Cured of cancer of the throat by Violet leaf tea. Boiling water was poured on fresh Violet leaves (wild, not cultivated) and allowed to stand 12 hours. Compresses were moistened and applied externally to the throat and covered with oil silk. Relief was immediate. Difficult swallowing, sense of suffocation and the visible swelling disappeared within one week, the growth on the tonsil within a fortnight.

Treatment by a general medical practitioner or hospital oncologist. Diet. See: DIET – CANCER. ... cancer – nose and throat

Infection by Candida albicans.

Internal. Goldenseal 1; Myrrh 1; Thuja half; Poke root half. Dose – Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extracts: one 5ml teaspoon. Tinctures: two 5ml teaspoons. Thrice daily before meals.

Capricin. See entry.

Topical. Thuja lotion: 1 teaspoon Liquid extract Thuja to 1oz (30ml) distilled extract Witch Hazel.

Aloe Vera; fresh juice or gel.

Tea Tree oil; may be diluted many times.

Comfrey cream; Castor oil, Oil of Mullen or Houseleek. Cider vinegar.

Night wash. Warm water to which is added a few drops Tincture Myrrh, Tincture Thuja or Tea Tree oil. Diet and Supplements. Same as for CANDIDA – VAGINAL. ... candida, of skin and nails

Lamium album L. Part used: herb.

Constituents: flavone glycosides, mucilage, tannin.

Action: anti-catarrhal.

Uses: Nasal catarrh, leucorrhoea. Anaemia.

Preparations: Tea. As a medicament or daily ‘health’ tea. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 10-15 minutes. 1 cup as desired.

Vaginal douche: 2oz dried (or handful fresh herb) to 2 pints boiling water; infuse, and inject warm. May also be used as a lotion for skin disorders. ... dead nettle

Extreme anguish after birth of a child. Mental illness: “sinking into gloom”. Baby blues. Bursting into tears; every small problem seems magnified; agoraphobic tendency. Etiology. Some mothers have a genetic predisposition to the condition. Death of a close relative, stressful pregnancy, redundancy, moving house, or sheer physical and mental exhaustion.

Treatment. Conventional medicine advises strong anti-depressants. Alternatives, until “hormones settle down”: Agnus Castus, Helonias, Milk Thistle. Raspberry leaf tea (tablets/capsules/liquid extracts/tinctures). Special attention to the thyroid gland.

Diet. See: GENERAL DIET.

Supplements. Vitamins: B group, E. Minerals: Calcium, Iodine, Magnesium, Zinc. Tyrosine. Supportives: Astute GP, helpful health visitor, thoughtful husband. ... depression – post-natal

Inability to see at night or in imperfect light due to a deficiency of visual purple (rhodopsin) in the rods at the back of the eye due to low level Vitamin A. Night myopia usually affects people during twilight. “One in five people are not fit to drive at night.” May occur in glaucoma and other eye disorders. Other causes: old age, free radical damage.

Alfalfa tea freely.

Of value: Kelp, Irish Moss, Iceland Moss.

Diet. Vitamin A foods, carrots, bilberries, Cod Liver oil.

Supplements. Vitamin A, Beta-carotene. C (2g), E (400iu). B-complex, B2, Niacin, Zinc. ... eyes  - night blindness

Greco-Arabian and Ayurvedic Medicine. Islamic Research and scholarship. Research into natural medicines on the Indian Continent and Far East; traditional medicines of Pakistan. President: Hakim Mohammed Said, distinguished physician, researcher and publisher.

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

See: COLA. ... kola nuts

Dietary minerals. See entries: CALCIUM, CHROMIUM, COBALT, COPPER, DOLOMITE, FLUORINE, IODINE, IRON, MAGNESIUM, MANGANESE, MOLYBDENUM, PHOSPHORUS, POTASSIUM, SELENIUM, SODIUM, SULPHUR, ZINC. ... mineral nutrients

Condition with no specific organic lesion present, but one in which palpitation or cardiac distress may be precipitated by nervous or emotional stimuli.

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

A cyst on the cervix of the womb. Ducts of the glands may be plugged with mucus and manifest as white pimples of the size of grape shot and which cause little harm. Often the result of irritation from contraceptives.

Treatment: usually by cauterisation.

See: CYST, CERVICAL. ... nabothian cyst

Nail loss. Paronychia. Clubbing. Brittle nails. Deformity (koilonychia). Spoon-shaped, as from iron-deficiency anaemia. A wide range of diseases affect the nails which, themselves, provide useful clues to underlying constitutional disturbance. Brittle and malformed nails are usually due to mineral deficiency. Ridging and grooving show altered nutrition and damage to the nail bed. Psoriasis nails are pitted.

Infections include candidiasis (monilia), ringworm, staphylococcal or streptococcal bacteria. Biting of fingernails reveals anxiety. Colour change and atrophy of nails may be caused by antibiotics, antimalarials, betablockers, gold and arsenic medicines, steroids, “The Pill”; requiring Eliminatives, liver, kidney and possibly Lymphatic agents.

For in-growing toenail – see entry.

Alternatives. General, internal. For antifungals, see: WHITLOW. Mineral-rich herbs for nutrition.

Teas: Alfalfa, Carragheen, Horsetail, Gotu Kola, Red Clover, Oats (for silicon salts), Plantain, Silverweed, Clivers, Dandelion.

Decoctions: Yellow Dock, Burdock, Sarsaparilla, Queen’s Delight.

Tablets or capsules: Alfalfa. Kelp. Bamboo gum.

Formula. Horsetail 2; Gotu Kola 1; Thuja quarter. Dose: Liquid extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Thrice daily.

Cider Vinegar, See entry. Efficacy recorded.

Topical. Alternatives:– Apply to the nail:

(1) Liquid Extract or Tincture Thuja. (Ellingwood)

(2) Blood root. (J.T Kent MD)

(3) Evening Primrose oil.

(4) Contents of a Vitamin E capsule.

(5) Tincture Myrrh.

Diet. Nails are almost wholly protein. High protein. Onions, Garlic, Soya products, Carrot juice, Cod Liver oil, Kelp.

Vitamins. A. B-complex. B6. B12. Folic acid.

Minerals. Calcium. Dolomite. Copper. Iron. Silica. Stannum, Zinc. ... nails

Lobelia, Poke root, Ephedra. ... nasal decongestant

Professional association of qualified consulting medical herbalists. Founded 1920. Membership is by examination. Members required to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics. Quarterly publication: see – AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL HERBALISM.

Address: NHAA – PO Box 65, Kingsgrove, NSW 2208, Australia. Tel: +61(02) 502 2938. ... national herbalist association of australia

For symptomatic relief of nervous tension and stress. Active ingredient: aqueous alcoholic extractive from 500mg Passion flower (Passiflora incarnata). One tablet thrice daily; and at bedtime if required. English Grains Ltd ... natracalm

A dispenser designed to convert a remedy solution into a mist of droplets to effectively convey medication to the respiratory organs. Essential oils suitable for this purpose: Peppermint, Eucalyptus, “Olbas”. For asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, hay fever.

Nebulisers should carry a warning against misuse. Failure to respond should not be a signal to increase dosage, but an indication that asthma or the complaint is deteriorating. ... nebuliser

Contains Senna leaf 40 per cent, Frangula bark 22.5 per cent, Psyllium seeds 27.5 per cent, Fennel 10 per cent. For non-persistent constipation. ... neoklenz

Britain’s oldest herbal establishment. Founded by Duncan Scott Napier, 1860, 17, Bristo Place. While run in the light of modern pharmacy it is still complete with its mahogany fittings, antique tincture bottles and bygones of the Victorian herbalist.

In those early days almost all herbs were collected locally and extracts made on the premises for the queues of patients which formed outside until ten o’clock at night. Today crude material comes from abroad for manufacture into their many preparations: Lobelia syrup, Compound Barberry bark, Composition Essence, Skullcap Herb Compound, Heart Tonic, etc. Ginseng, a supposed modern discovery, has been handled by Napier’s for over a century. ... napier’s of edinburgh

(Garden). Tropaeolum majus. German: Kapuziner-kresse. French: Capucine grande. Spanish: Nasturcia. Italian: Asturzia. Aerial parts used.

Constituents: mineral salts including iodine, iron, phosphates and a sulpho-nigrogenous oil.

Action: antibiotic, antitussive, diuretic, expectorant.

Uses: lung emphysema (fresh juice drunk in milk). Bronchitis, colds, influenza, dry cough. Cystitis, bladder disease. Alopecia – fresh juice rubbed into the scalp is said to stimulate hair growth. Wounds (external use).

Preparations: Thrice daily.

Tea: 2-3 bruised fresh leaves to cup boiling water. Infuse 15 minutes. Dose: one-third-1 cup.

Tincture: 1 part fresh leaves and flowers to 5 parts 45 per cent alcohol (Vodka, gin, etc). Macerate 8 days; shake daily. Filter. Bottle. Dose: 1-3 teaspoons in water.

Tromacaps. (Dr Madaus, West Germany) Antibiotic resistant pneumonia; monilial infections of the genito-urinary tract; acute pyelitis. Adults and children over 8 years: on the first day 2 capsules thrice daily; thereafter 1 capsule thrice daily.

Diet. Its pungent flavour adds a zestful stimulant to a salad. Eaten for general health and especially for skin infections. ... nasturtium