Jia li Health Dictionary

See PEDICULOSIS.... lice

The average number of years of life remaining to a person at a particular age based on a given set of age-specific death rates, generally the mortality conditions existing in the period mentioned.... life expectancy

A functional, not physical, system in the brain, generally considered to mediate emotions with metabolism.... limbic system

A term applied to any thick, syrupy medicine. Most of these are remedies for excessive coughing.... linctus

See Tilo.... linden

A liquid or thin paste applied to the skin to work as a pain reliever... liniment

A TUMOUR mainly composed of FAT. Such tumours arise in almost any part of the body, developing in ?brous tissues – particularly in that beneath the skin. They are benign in nature, and seldom give any trouble beyond that connected with their size and position. If large, they can be excised.... lipoma

The formation of calculus of any kind... lithiasis

See “advance directive”.... living will

The liver is the largest gland in the body, serving numerous functions, chie?y involving various aspects of METABOLISM.

Form The liver is divided into four lobes, the greatest part being the right lobe, with a small left lobe, while the quadrate and caudate lobes are two small divisions on the back and undersurface. Around the middle of the undersurface, towards the back, a transverse ?ssure (the porta hepatis) is placed, by which the hepatic artery and portal vein carry blood into the liver, and the right and left hepatic ducts emerge, carrying o? the BILE formed in the liver to the GALL-BLADDER attached under the right lobe, where it is stored.

Position Occupying the right-hand upper part of the abdominal cavity, the liver is separated from the right lung by the DIAPHRAGM and the pleural membrane (see PLEURA). It rests on various abdominal organs, chie?y the right of the two KIDNEYS, the suprarenal gland (see ADRENAL GLANDS), the large INTESTINE, the DUODENUM and the STOMACH.

Vessels The blood supply di?ers from that of the rest of the body, in that the blood collected from the stomach and bowels into the PORTAL VEIN does not pass directly to the heart, but is ?rst distributed to the liver, where it breaks up into capillary vessels. As a result, some harmful substances are ?ltered from the bloodstream and destroyed, while various constituents of the food are stored in the liver for use in the body’s metabolic processes. The liver also receives the large hepatic artery from the coeliac axis. After circulating through capillaries, the blood from both sources is collected into the hepatic veins, which pass directly from the back surface of the liver into the inferior vena cava.

Minute structure The liver is enveloped in a capsule of ?brous tissue – Glisson’s capsule – from which strands run along the vessels and penetrate deep into the organ, binding it together. Subdivisions of the hepatic artery, portal vein, and bile duct lie alongside each other, ?nally forming the interlobular vessels,

which lie between the lobules of which the whole gland is built up. Each is about the size of a pin’s head and forms a complete secreting unit; the liver is built up of hundreds of thousands of such lobules. These contain small vessels, capillaries, or sinusoids, lined with stellate KUPFFER CELLS, which run into the centre of the lobule, where they empty into a small central vein. These lobular veins ultimately empty into the hepatic veins. Between these capillaries lie rows of large liver cells in which metabolic activity occurs. Fine bile capillaries collect the bile from the cells and discharge it into the bile ducts lying along the margins of the lobules. Liver cells are among the largest in the body, each containing one or two large round nuclei. The cells frequently contain droplets of fat or granules of GLYCOGEN – that is, animal starch.

Functions The liver is, in e?ect, a large chemical factory and the heat this produces contributes to the general warming of the body. The liver secretes bile, the chief constituents of which are the bile salts (sodium glycocholate and taurocholate), the bile pigments (BILIRUBIN and biliverdin), CHOLESTEROL, and LECITHIN. These bile salts are collected and formed in the liver and are eventually converted into the bile acids. The bile pigments are the iron-free and globin-free remnant of HAEMOGLOBIN, formed in the Kup?er cells of the liver. (They can also be formed in the spleen, lymph glands, bone marrow and connective tissues.) Bile therefore serves several purposes: it excretes pigment, the breakdown products of old red blood cells; the bile salts increase fat absorption and activate pancreatic lipase, thus aiding the digestion of fat; and bile is also necessary for the absorption of vitamins D and E.

The other important functions of the liver are as follows:

In the EMBRYO it forms red blood cells, while the adult liver stores vitamin B12, necessary for the proper functioning of the bone marrow in the manufacture of red cells.

It manufactures FIBRINOGEN, ALBUMINS and GLOBULIN from the blood.

It stores IRON and copper, necessary for the manufacture of red cells.

It produces HEPARIN, and – with the aid of vitamin K – PROTHROMBIN.

Its Kup?er cells form an important part of the RETICULO-ENDOTHELIAL SYSTEM, which breaks down red cells and probably manufactures ANTIBODIES.

Noxious products made in the intestine and absorbed into the blood are detoxicated in the liver.

It stores carbohydrate in the form of glycogen, maintaining a two-way process: glucose

glycogen.

CAROTENE, a plant pigment, is converted to vitamin A, and B vitamins are stored.

It splits up AMINO ACIDS and manufactures UREA and uric acids.

It plays an essential role in the storage and metabolism of FAT.... liver

Two strong ligaments in the interior of the knee-joint, which cross one another like the limbs of the letter X. They are so attached as to become taut when the lower limb is straightened, and they prevent over-extension or bending forwards at the knee. The cruciate ligaments are sometimes strained or torn as a result of sporting injuries or vehicular accidents; surgery may be needed to repair the damage, but the knee will be permanently weakened.... cruciate ligaments

An operation to reduce wrinkles and lift ‘loose’ skin on the face of mature persons with the aim of making them look younger. It can be performed under local anaesthetic as an outpatient or with general anaesthesia as an inpatient. The operation is regarded as cosmetic and is usually done in the private health-care sector in the UK.... face lift

Emergency mouth-to-mouth resuscitation of an unconscious person (see APPENDIX 1: BASIC FIRST AID).... kiss of life

The natural desire for sexual intercourse. Lack of desire or diminished libido may occur in any general medical illness as well as in endocrine diseases when there is a lack of production of the sex hormones. The strength or weakness of the sexual drive may be associated with psychiatric diseases; it may also be the result of certain drugs. It must be distinguished from IMPOTENCE, where the desire for intercourse is normal but the performance is defective due to the inability to achieve or maintain an erection.... libido

A local anaesthetic given by injection, previously called lignocaine. It is also used in the treatment of certain disorders of cardiac rhythm known as ventricular arrhythmias which may be particularly dangerous following a coronary thrombosis (see HEART, DISEASES OF).... lidocaine

(Vietnamese) Resembling the lotus Lian... lien

Tying-o? – for example, of a blood vessel – by completely encircling it with a tight band, usually of catgut or some other suture material.... ligation

A cord or thread used to tie around arteries in order to stop the circulation through them, or to prevent escape of blood from their cut ends. Ligatures are generally made of catgut or silk, and are tied with a reef-knot.... ligature

See RADIOTHERAPY.... linear accelerator

A descriptive term, rather than chemical one, for fats. Broadly, it means true fats (like triglycerides), lipoids (like phospholipids) and sterols (like cholesterol).... lipid

A rare malignant TUMOUR of adipose or fatty tissue. It occurs most frequently in the thighs, buttocks or retro-peritoneum. The four main types are: well di?erentiated; myxoid; round cell; and pleomorphic (variety of forms).... liposarcoma

A surgical procedure, also called suction lipectomy, for extracting unwanted accumulations of subcutaneous FAT with the use of a powerful suction tube passed through the skin at di?erent sites. Widely used in cosmetic surgery to improve the contour of the body, particularly that of women, the technique can have unwanted side-effects.... liposuction

Glycyrrhiza glabra

Papilionaceae

San: Yashtimadhu Hin: Jathimadh Mal: Irattimadhuram Tam:Athimadhuram

Tel: Yashtimadhukam

Ben: Yashtomadhu Pun:Muleti

Importance: Liquorice or Muleti is a perennial herb or undershrub about 1m high. Its dried peeled or unpeeled underground stems and roots constitute the drug which is an important constituent of all cough and catarrh syrups, throat lozenges and pastilles. This has been used in medicine for more than 4000 years. Hippocrates (400 BC) mentioned its use as a remedy for ulcers and quenching of thirst. Dioscorides, the father of Greek medicine described this drug in detail and considered it useful for maintaining shape of arteries and in burning stomach, trouble of liver and kidney, scabies, healing of wounds and as a remedy for eye diseases. It has been used in Arab system of medicine for more than 600 years from where it has been adopted to modern medicine (Gibson, 1978).

The commercial name of the dried rhizome and root of the plant is liquorice which is used as flavouring agent and the taste coorigent in pharmaceutical and confectionery industries and its products are widely reported to be useful in ulcer therapy. Glycyrrhizin, a triterpene glucoside, is the principal constituent of G. glabra which is 50 times sweeter than sugar.

Distribution: Liquorice is native to Mediterranean region, South Europe and Middle East. It is widely distributed in Spain, Italy, Greece, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Turkey, parts of USSR and China. However its cultivation is limited to small areas in USSR, UK, and USA. In India, it grows in Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir. Semi arid areas of Haryana, Rajasthan and Gujarath states are suitable for the cultivation of Liquorice. However, its commercial cultivation has not yet been possible and the domestic requirement is largely met through imports.

Botany: Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn. belongs to the family Papilionaceae. The word Glycyrrhiza is of Greek origin meaning ‘sweet’ and glabra means ‘smooth’ which refers to smooth fruit of the species. This is a tall perennial, self pollinated herb or undershrub about 1m high with long cylindrical burrowing rootstock and horizontal creeping stolons which reach 1.5-1.8m in length. Leaves are alternate, pinnate with 9-17 leaflets. Leaflets are yellowish-green, 2.5-5cm long, ovate and obtuse. Flowers are pale blue arranged in a raceme and 1.25cm long. Calyx is glandular and pubescent. The pods are glabrous, red to brown having 3-4 seeds. Rhizome is soft, flexible and fibrous with light yellow colour and a characteristic sweet taste.

Agrotechnology: This plant thrives well in subtropical areas with very warm summers and cool winters with a rainfall not exceeding 500mm. Semi -arid and arid areas in subtropical zones are not suitable for the cultivation of this crop. It does not tolerate high humidity and waterlogged conditions. Well drained light loam soils which are rich in calcium and magnesium with slightly alkaline pH and free from stones are ideal for this crop. There are a number of varieties of this crop among which Spanish, Russian and Persian liquorice are quite common. Commercial varieties are Typica, Regel and Herd. This is propagated by seed, but usually multiplied vegetatively either through crown cuttings or stolon pieces. In the case of crown cuttings, 10-15cm long crown pieces with 2-3 buds are planted vertically at a distance of 0.6-0.7m in rows 1-1.5m apart. However, most of the liquorice is propagated through stolon pieces of the above size planted horizontally, preferably on ridges during spring at the same distance as above. Rapid clonal propagation is also possible by tissue culture technique. Murashige and Skoog’s medium supplemented with 6-benzylaminopurine and indole-3-acetic acid favoured multiple shoot production without any intervening callus phase. These regenerated plantlets can be transferred to earthen pots in the glass house and after a brief hardening phase, these are transplanted in the field with a high rate (90-95%) of survival. This plant normally does not require much fertilizers but in deficient soils, it is better to apply 10-15 tonnes FYM per hectare before planting. The field should be immediately irrigated after planting in spring and after the crop has sprouted, it requires very little irrigation. Space between the rows should be kept free from weeds. Short term vegetables like carrot or cabbage can be planted between the rows for additional income. In order to produce good rhizome, flowering shoots are clipped. No serious disease except leaf spot caused by Cercospora cavarae has been reported in this crop. Roots are ready for harvesting after 3-4 years. The root is dug when the top has dried during autumn (November- December). A trench 60cm deep is dug along the ridges and the entire root is lifted. Broken parts of the root left in the soil, sprout again and give another crop after 2-3 years. Thus liquorice once planted properly can be harvested for 10-15 years.

Postharvest technology: Harvested roots are cut into pieces of 15-20cm long and 1-2cm in diameter. They are washed and dried upto 6-8% moisture in the sun and shade alternately which reduces the weight by 50%. The average yield of dried roots varies from 1-3 tonnes per hectare depending on the variety, soil and climatic conditions.

Properties and activity: Roots gave a number of compounds the most important bieng a glucoside, glycyrrhizin which gave glycyrrhetinic acid on enzyme hydrolysis. Root also contains flavans, flavones, iso-flavanoes and coumarins including a 4-methyl coumarin, liqcoumarin, glabridin, glabrene, 4’-0-methyl and 3’-methoxyglabridin, formononetin, salicylic acid, 0-acetyl salicylic acid which has been isolated first time from nature, hispaglabridins A and B and 4’0- methylglabridin.On hydrolysis it also gave two molecules of d-glucuronic acid, each linked with 1-2 linkage to 3-hydroxyl of the sapogenin (Elgamal et al, 1969) Glycyrrhizin is antidiuretic, antiinflammatory, expectorant, antiulcerous, antihistamine. Glycyrrhizic acid is antiviral. The roots are emetic, tonic, diuretic, demulcent, mild laxative, aphrodisiac, trichogenous, expectorant, emmenagogue, alexipharmic, alterant and intellect promoting.... liquorice

The operation of cutting for stone in the bladder. The operation is of great historic interest, because more has probably been written about it in early times than about any other type of surgery – and because, for a long time, it formed almost the only operation in which the surgeon dared to attack diseases of the internal organs.... lithotomy

Extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL) causes disintegration of renal and biliary stones (see CALCULI) without physical contact, and is therefore an attractive procedure for patients and surgeons alike.

Shock waves generated outside the body can be accurately focused with a re?ector whilst the patient is suspended in water, to facilitate transmission of the waves. These are focused on the calculus. The resultant ?ne fragments are passed spontaneously in the urine with minimal, if any, discomfort. The procedure has been shown to be safe, short and e?ective, and is most acceptable to patients.... lithotripsy

Following the AMPUTATION of a limb, it is usual for the patient to experience sensations as if the limb were still present. This condition is referred to as a phantom limb. In most patients the sensation passes o? in time.... phantom limb

A protein found in the blood lymph and plasma which combines with fats such as cholesterol. It is important for transport of fats in the lymph vessels and blood stream.

High density lipoproteins (HDLs) are blood-fats known to delay deposits of cholesterol on blood vessels, while low density lipoproteins (LDLs) have the opposite effect.

See: HYPERLIPIDAEMIA. HYPERCHOLESTEROLAEMIA. CHOLESTEROL. ... lipoprotein

An inflammatory skin eruption with small shiny pimples starting from the wrists and spreading towards the trunk. Associated with lesions on mucous surfaces – vulva, penis, mouth. Cause is unknown but sometimes related to tuberculosis or drug poisoning. Usually over front of wrists, trunk and shins.

Symptoms: Severe itching. Thickened skin with shiny red patches which later become brown and scaly. Distinguish from psoriasis. Nails ridged and split.

Alternatives. Relief from itching by use of antihistamines: Garlic, Goldenseal, Ephedra, Lobelia.

Teas. Nettles, Boneset, Chickweed, Heartsease, Yucca.

Decoctions. (1) Combine: equal parts: Burdock, Sarsaparilla, Passion flower. OR (2) Combine: equal parts: Echinacea, Blue Flag root, Sarsaparilla. Half an ounce (14g) to 1 pint (500ml) water gently simmered 20 minutes. Dose: half-1 cup thrice daily.

Cold infusion. One heaped teaspoon Barberry (Berberis Vul) to cup cold water. Steep overnight. Half-1 cup thrice daily.

Powders, Liquid Extracts or Tinctures. Equal parts: Wild Yam, Blue Flag root, Fringe Tree bark. Powders: 500mg. Liquid Extracts: 30-60 drops in water. Tinctures: 1-2 teaspoons in water. Thrice daily before meals.

Mouth ulcers: Rinse mouth with Goldenseal and Myrrh drops, in water.

Topical. Ointment or pulp from any one: Aloe Vera, Comfrey, Chickweed, Houseleek, Marshmallow. Vaginal lesion. Aloe Vera pulp or gel.

Diet. Avoid citrus fruits and milk.

Vitamins. A. B-complex, B12, C. E. F. PABA.

Minerals. Dolomite. Zinc. Cod Liver oil: one dessertspoon daily. ... lichen planus

See “residential care services”; “assisted living facility”.... assisted living

Cod-liver oil is derived from the fresh liver of the cod (Gadus callarius). It is a rich source of vitamin D, used in the prevention and treatment of RICKETS, and of vitamin A. Human milk contains more than enough vitamin D for the breast-fed baby, provided the mother has a balanced diet with adequate exposure to sunlight, or is taking vitamin supplements during pregnancy and lactation if considered necessary. All baby foods in the UK contain added vitamins, and therefore supplementation is unnecessary until weaning begins, and the baby starts taking cow’s milk, which contains less vitamin D than human milk. (See APPENDIX 5: VITAMINS.)... cod-liver oil

Care of older persons who are dying.... end-of-life care

(Linn.) Hary.

Habitat: Native to South America, particularly its north-western parts. Also cultivated in India.

English: Egyptian Cotton, Sea- Island Cotton.

Ayurvedic: Kaarpaasa.

Siddha/Tamil: Semparutthi.

Folk: Kapaasa.

Action: Root—emmenagogue, oxytocic, abortifacient, parturient, lactagogue. Seed and leaf— antidysenteric. Seed—galacto- gogue, pectoral, febrifuge. Seed oil—used externally for clearing spots and freckles from the skin. Leaf—hypotensive, an- tirheumatic. Flower—used in hypochondriasis and bronchial inflammations.

The seed contains 26.2-27.9% protein; 1.22-2.42 free gossypol.... gracilaria lichenoides

The time taken for the PLASMA concentration of an administered drug to decline by half as a result of redistribution, METABOLISM and EXCRETION.... half life

See CHLORDIAZEPOXIDE.... librium

1 The entire course of a person’s life – from infancy to old age. 2 The genetically prescribed course followed by all living organisms, including humans.... life cycle

(Latin) Resembling the bluish-purple flower

Lilack, Lilak, Lylac, Lylack, Lylak, Lilach... lilac

(English) Resembling the flower; one who is innocent and beautiful Leelee, Lil, Lili, Lilie, Lilla, Lilley, Lilli, Lillie, Lillika, Lillita, Lilly, Lilybel, Lilybell, Lilybella, Lilybelle, Lillah, Lilia, Lilch, Lilika, Lilike... lily

Mental Powers, Happiness... lily of the valley

An orthopaedic procedure in which the length of a limb, usually a leg, is increased. The bone is surgically divided and slowly stretched in a special frame. The operation is usually done on people with unequal leg lengths as a result of injury or from PARALYSIS in childhood. Exceptionally, it may be done in both legs to help people of short stature.... limb lengthening

Healing, Love, Protection... lime

An insecticide used in SCABIES and lice infestations (see PEDICULOSIS); however, head lice are now often resistant. Used excessively, lindane may be neurotoxic (damage the nervous system).... lindane

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

Referring or related to the TONGUE: for example, the lingual nerve supplies sensation to the tongue.... lingual

Liniments, or EMBROCATIONS, are oily mixtures intended for external application by rubbing. Their chief use is in the production of pain relief, particularly in rheumatic conditions. They may be highly toxic if taken orally.... liniments

A description that in GENETICS means circumstances in which two or more GENES lie near each other on a chromosome (see CHROMOSOMES) and so may well be inherited together.... linkage

An unsaturated fatty acid occurring widely in the glycerides of plants. It is an essential nutrient for mammals, including humans.... linoleic acid

This was originally made of teased-out linen; now it consists of a loose cotton fabric, one side of which is ?u?y, the other being smooth and applied next to the skin when the surface is broken. Marine lint consists of tow impregnated with tar, and is used where large quantities of some absorbent and deodorising dressing are required. Cotton lint is impregnated with various substances, the most common being boracic lint. Lint containing perchloride of iron (15 per cent) is valuable as a styptic (see STYPTICS).... lint

The presence of an excessive amount of FAT in the blood.... lipaemia

An ENZYME widely distributed in plants, and present also in the liver and gastric and pancreatic juices, which breaks down fats to the constituent fatty acids and glycerol.... lipase

Any disorder of LIPID metabolism in body cells. Some hereditary disorders cause deposition of lipids within the brain.... lipidosis

A congenital maldistribution of FAT tissue. Subcutaneous fat is totally absent from a portion of the body and hypertrophied in the remainder. Another form of lipodystrophy occurs at the site of INSULIN injections, but is much less frequently seen nowadays; the new, synthetic preparations of insulin are pure and unlikely to cause this reaction, which was not uncommon with the older preparations. Occasionally the converse occurs at the site of insulin injections, where the lipogenic action of insulin stimulates the fat cells to hypertrophy. This can also be dis?guring and usually results from using the same site for injections too frequently.... lipodystrophy

The enzymatic breaking-down of FAT.... lipolysis

See SOLUTION.... liquor

These form a pair of ‘curtains’ before the mouth, each composed of a layer of skin and of mucous membrane, between which lies a considerable amount of fat and of muscle ?bres.

Fissures coming on in cold weather are often di?cult to get rid of. Peeling and cracking of the vermilion of the lips is common in those exposed for long periods to wind and sunlight. Treatment consists of the application of aqueous cream. If the main cause is excessive exposure to sunlight – in which case the lower lip is mainly affected – a protective cream should be applied.

Herpes in the form of ‘cold sores’ often develops on the lip as a result of a cold or other feverish condition, but quickly passes o? (see HERPES SIMPLEX).

Ulcers may form on the inner surface of the lip, usually in consequence of bad teeth or of DYSPEPSIA.

Small cysts sometimes form on the inner surface of the lip, and are seen as little bluish swellings ?lled with mucus; they are of no importance.

Hare-lip is a deformity sometimes present at birth (see PALATE, MALFORMATIONS OF).

Cancer of the lip sometimes occurs – almost always in men, and usually on the lower lip. (See also MOUTH, DISEASES OF.)... lips

Litholapaxy is the term applied to the operation in which a stone in the URINARY BLADDER is crushed by an instrument introduced along the URETHRA, and the fragments washed out through a catheter (see CATHETERS).... litholapaxy

A unit measurement of volume. One litre (l) is equivalent to the volume occupied by one kilogram of pure water at 4 °C and 760 mm Hg pressure. For day-to-day measurement, 1 litre is taken as being equal to 1,000 cubic centimetres (cm3).... litre

Fasciola hepatica is a parasite infesting sheep and occasionally invading the bile ducts and liver of humans (see FASCIOLIASIS).... liver fluke

A misnomer applied to the brown MACULES often seen on the backs of the hands of those chronically exposed to sunlight (see LENTIGO). They have no connection with any liver disorder.... liver spots

Protection ... liverwort

A colloquial description of the feelings of anxiety and distress experienced by some individuals in early middle age. They realise that by 45 years of age they are no longer young, and men in particular try to turn the clock back by changing jobs, dressing trendily, taking up energetic or unusual sports or engaging in extramarital liaisons. Sometimes those in mid-life crises develop mild or even serious DEPRESSION. The feelings of anxiety and insecurity usually disappear with time but some people may bene?t from counselling.... mid-life crisis

The product of the interplay between social, health, economic and environmental conditions which affect human and social development. It is a broad-ranging concept, incorporating a person’s physical health, psychological state, level of independence, social relationships, personal beliefs and relationship to salient features in the environment. As people age, their quality of life is largely determined by their ability to access needed resources and maintain autonomy and independence.... quality of life

The way in which a characteristic or an illness determined by the SEX CHROMOSOMES in an individual’s cells is passed on to the succeeding generation. Men have one X and one Y sex chromosome and women have two X chromosomes. Disorders that result from an abnormal number of sex chromosomes include KLINEFELTER’S SYNDROME, which affects only men, and TURNER’S SYNDROME, which affects mainly women. Recessive GENES on the X chromosome cause most other sex-linked characteristics; in women these may well be masked because one of their two X chromosomes carries a normal (dominant) gene. In men, who have just one X chromosome, no such masking occurs – so more men than women are affected by X-linked characteristics or diseases. (See also HEREDITY.)... sex-linked inheritance

A term widely used in the NHS to show the number of people waiting for hospital admission, usually for non-acute surgery. The size of the waiting list has come to be perceived over the past 20 years– especially by politicians – as a measure of the Service’s e?ectiveness. To the individual patient, however, what matters is the ‘waiting time’ – how long they have to wait before admission. This ?gure – along with the time a patient has to wait for an outpatient appointment to see a consultant – is increasingly being recognised as one important measurement of how well a hospital is serving its local communities.... waiting list

One of a group of proteins that transport lipids in the blood. High levels of high density lipoprotein can help protect against atherosclerosis. (See also fats and oils; low density lipoprotein.)... high density lipoprotein

Thickening and hardening of the skin caused by repeated scratching, often to relieve the intense itching of disorders such as atopic eczema or lichen simplex.... lichenification

Listeriosis. A form of food poisoning by the bacterium listeria monocytogenes which from the soil enters the human food chain on unwashed vegetables, infected milk through udder infection or faecal matter or the carcasses of slaughtered animals. A common route is unpasteurised milk in soft cheeses. The organism can survive a long time in extreme conditions of heat or cold – even microwave cooking.

At risk: pregnant females, babies, the elderly and immuno-suppressed groups. Notifiable disease.

There may be few gastrointestinal signs but it may lead to endocarditis and CNS disturbance: encephalitis and meningitis. When faced with a previously healthy person with acute diarrhoea and vomiting, food poisoning should be suspected.

Treatment. Dosage: thrice daily (chronic conditions); 2-hourly (acute conditions).

Formula. Equal parts: Wild Yam, Goldenseal, Valerian. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 30-60 drops in water. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Tinctures: two 5ml teaspoons. Tablets: one tablet of each taken together.

Diet. Slippery Elm gruel. No tea, alcohol or caffeine drinks. Lemon balm tea freely. Listeria is inhibited by unsaturated fatty acids.

Prevention. 2 Garlic tablets/capsules at night.

Treatment by or in liaison with a general medical practitioner. ... listeria

A thyroid hormone used as replacement therapy in hypothyroidism. Liothyronine acts more quickly than levothyroxine and is cleared from the body more rapidly.... liothyronine

May follow inflammation of the liver from a number of causes, the most common being a manifestation of amoebic dysentery. Through blood infection it may appear on the surface of the liver or other organs.

Symptoms: pain under the right lower rib which may be referred to the right shoulder or under shoulder blades.

Treatment. Official treatment is aspiration or opening-up the abscess followed by drainage. Whether or not this is necessary, alternative anti-bacterials such as Myrrh, Goldenseal, Echinacea and Blue Flag may be used with good effect.

Alternatives. Teas: Milk Thistle. Grape leaves. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup of water, thrice daily. Decoctions: Echinacea, Blue Flag, Goldenseal, Parsley root. One heaped teaspoon to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half a cup thrice daily.

Tablets/capsules: Blue Flag, Echinacea. Goldenseal. Wild Yam. Devil’s Claw.

Tinctures. Formula. Fringe Tree 3; Meadowsweet 2; Goldenseal 1. One to two 5ml teaspoons, thrice daily.

Practitioner. Ipecacuanha contains emetine which is specific for liver abscess; at the same time it is effective as an anti-amoebic-dysentery agent. Where dysentery is treated with Ipecacuanha liver abscess is rare. Tincture Ipecacuanha BP (1973). Dose: 0.25-1ml.

Diet. Fat-free. Dandelion coffee. Vitamins B6, C and K. Lecithin.

Treatment by or in liaison with a general medical practitioner. ... liver – abscess

A drug used in the long-term treatment of mania and manic-depressive illness. High levels of lithium in the blood may cause vomiting, diarrhoea, blurred vision, tremor, drowsiness, rash, and, in rare cases, kidney damage.... lithium

Position in which a patient lies on his or her back with the hips and knees bent and the legs wide apart.

Once used for lithotomy, the position is still used for pelvic examinations and some types of pelvic surgery.... lithotomy position

One of a group of proteins that are combined with lipids in the plasma. Low density lipoproteins (LDLs) are involved in the transport of

cholesterol in the bloodstream. An excess of LDLs (see hyperlipidaemias) is associated with atherosclerosis. (See also high density lipoprotein.)... low density lipoprotein

(litho-) combining form denoting a calculus (stone). Example: lithogenesis (formation of).... lith

n. see hyperuricuria.... lithuria

A concept of functioning – activities of daily living are basic activities that are necessary to independent living, including eating, bathing and toileting. This concept has several assessment tools to determine an individual’s ability to perform the activity with or without assistance. See related “instrumental activities of daily living (IADL)”.... activities of daily living (adl)

See ALTE.... acute life-threatening event (alte)

Housing that has been specially built for, or changed to a certain standard to accommodate people with disabilities.... adapted living facility / housing

Abscess of the liver caused by Entamoeba histolytica and often containing socalled “anchovy sauce” fluid.... amoebic liver abscess (ala)

See PROSTHESIS.... artificial limbs and other parts

Ashwagandha tea has a long medicinal history, being used for its healing properties byAyurveda practitioners, native Americans and Africans. At present, it is used to improve memory, but not only. What is Ashwagandha? Ashwagandha is a stout shrub that belongs to the nightshade family, but it does not possess poisonous properties.  It grows in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bangladesh. Literally translated, Ashwagandha means horse smell. It has been also known as “India’s ginseng” or “winter cherry.” In Ayurveda, practitioners use Ashwagandha for its medicinal properties which enhance longevity and health in general. Native Americans and Africans have been using Ashwagandha to heal inflammation, fevers and infection. The plant has anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties. Ashwagandha can be taken as tea, as tincture, in capsule form, or as an extract. Ashwagandha tea is the resulting beverage from brewing the abovementioned plant. Ashwagandha tea brewing To prepare Ashwagandha tea:

• Place about 1 teaspoon of dried ashwagandha leaves in boiling water.
• Let the mix steep for about 15 minutes and cool.
• Strain and then drink.

Ashwagandha tea benefits Studies revealed that Ashwagandha tea is successfully used to:

• calm the nerves and treat severe stress and nervous exhaustion
• help in the treatment of hypertension
• clear the mind, as well as to improve memory and cognitive abilities
• help in fighting arthritis
• help in restoring sexual vitality, especially in males

It also has anti-carcinogenic and anti-cancer properties. Ashwagandha tea is recommended for expectant mothers. It is said to purify the mother’s blood and strengthen her immune system. Because it acts as a uterine sedative, Ashwagandha tea is used during childbirth, bytraditional Ayurvedic medicine. Ashwagandha tea side effects Ashwagandha tea is not recommended to pregnant women. To avoid any possible side effects, consumers should not intake the tea in high doses or for long periods of time. Ashwagandha tea is a good choice when looking for an increased libido, or an adjuvant against cancer, due to its antioxidant content. It can be also used to enhance the immune system and thus, to release stress.... ashwagandha tea increases libido

Establishment which provides accommodation and care for older or disabled persons who cannot live independently but do not need nursing care. Residents are also provided with domestic assistance (meals, laundry, personal care).... assisted living facility / assisted care living facility

(Wall.) Engl.

Synonym: B. ciliata Sternb. Saxífraga ligulata Wall.

Family: Saxifragaceae.

Habitat: Temperate Himalaya from Kashmir to Bhutan, between altitudes of 900 and 3,000 m.

Ayurvedic: Paashaanabheda, Ashmaribhedikaa, Ashmaribhit, Ashmghna, Shilaabhit, Shilaabheda. (These synonyms are also equated with Aerva lanata Juss.)

Siddha/Tamil: Padanbethi.

Action: Leaf and root—antiscorbutic, astringent, spasmolytic, antidiarrhoeal. Used in dysuria, spleen enlargement, pulmonary affections as a cough remedy, menorrhagia, urinary tract infections. Alcoholic extract of roots— antilithic. Acetone extract of root- bark—cardiotoxic, CNS depressant and anti-inflammatory; in mild doses diuretic but antidiuretic in higher doses. Anti-inflammatory activity decreases with increasing dosage.

Due to its depressant action on the central nervous system, the drug is used against vertigo, dizziness and headache in moderate or low dosage.

Key application: In lithiasis, dysuria, polyuria. (The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India; Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)

The rhizome contains an active principle bergenin (0.6%), gallic acid, glucose (5.6%), tannins (14.2-016.3%), mucilage and wax; a C-glycoside and beta-sitosterol.

Bergenin prevented stress-induced erosions in rats and lowered gastric outputs.

(Paashaanabheda indicates that the plant grows between rocks appearing to break them; it does not necessarily mean that it possesses lithotriptic property.)

Dosage: Rhizome—20-30 g for decoction. (API Vol. I)... bergenia ligulata

See CLIMACTERIC; MENOPAUSE.... change of life

See LIPS.... chapped lips

Pers.

Synonym: B. sindica T. Anders.

Family: Acanthaceae.

Habitat: Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Ayurvedic: Ushtrakaandi, Utangan (var.).

Folk: Utangana (Sindh). Asad.

Action: Seeds, boiled in milk, are taken as an invigorating tonic.

Blepharis molluginifolia Pers., used for urinary discharges, is also equated with Utangana.... blepharis linariaefolia

Blue Flag tea has a long history in treating liver ailments: Native American tribes used to consume it for its hepatic properties. Blue Flag Tea description Blue flag is a perennial herb also known as the liver lily and the fleur-de-lis, native to North America. It has smooth spear-shaped leaves topped with a light bluish-purple flower. Blue flag plants grow in bunches and bloom during late June and early July. Blue Flag tea is the resulting beverage from brewing the abovementioned plant. Blue Flag Tea brewing To prepare Blue Flag tea, place 1 teaspoon of the dried roots in a cup of boiling water. Let it steep for 10 minutes. The tea can be consumed three times a day. Blue Flag Tea benefits Blue Flag has been successfully used to:

• stimulate the liver and thus, it is helpful in the treatment of jaundice and hepatitis
• fight impurities of the blood
• fight against skin problems like acne and psoriasis
• detoxify the body by increasing the production of bile, as well as frequency of urination
• help treat indigestion
• treat rheumatism
• help in weight loss

Blue Flag tea can be an effective laxative, diuretic and as an emetic. It is also effective in reducing inflammation of the skin, decreasing the symptoms of skin infections. It is also good in treating burns, bruises and wounds. Blue Flag Tea side effects Until further studies are conducted, pregnant and nursing women should avoid intaking this type of tea. Blue Flag tea has proven its efficiency in dealing with severe liver-related diseases. Also, applied topically, it can treat skin problems, but not only.... blue flag tea for a healthy liver

Boldo tea has a long medicinal history, according to recent archeological discoveries. It is a healthy choice for the liver, urinary tract and infections. Boldo Tea description Boldo is a tree found in the central region of Chile and near the Mediterranean. It is an evergreen shrub whose leaves are colored brown when dried and whose fruits are small green spheres. Apparently, boldo use dates back at least 10,000 years. Nowadays, people use this plant to aid digestion, cleanse the liver and increase bile production for gallbladder’s health. Boldo tea is the resulting beverage from brewing the abovementioned plant. Boldo Tea brewing To prepare Boldo tea:

• Pour boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dried boldo leaves.
• Let the mix infuse for about 10 to 15 minutes.
• Drink it slowly.

Boldo tea can be drunk three times a day for short periods of time. Boldo Tea benefits Studies have shown that Boldo tea is efficient in:

• treating urinary tract and bladder infections
• helping in liver cleansing
• helping alleviate heartburn
• relieving discomfort in the gallbladder
• helping treat mild stomach cramps
• treating worm infections
• helping in the treatment of cystitis
• treating gonorrhea

Boldo Tea side effects Patients with severe liver or kidney disease or obstruction of the bile ducts are advised to avoid the use of Boldo tea. Pregnant and nursing women should not consume Boldo tea. Boldo tea is a medicinal beverage which proved its efficiency in dealing with liver cleansing and urinary tract infections. It is recommended to patients suffering from stomach cramps, but not only.... boldo tea is benefic for the liver

The minimum and maximum value of a confidence interval.... confidence limit

Increase to a monthly long-term disability benefit, usually after the first year of payments. May be a flat percentage (e.g. 3%) or tied to changes in inflation.... cost-of-living adjustment (cola)

A modification of conventional life expectancy to account for time lived with disability. It is the number of healthy years of life that can be expected on average in a given population. It is generally calculated at birth, but estimates can also be prepared at other ages. It adjusts the expectation of years of life for the loss on account of disability, using explicit weights for different health states.... disability-adjusted life expectancy

The number of healthy years of life lost due to premature death and disability.... disability-adjusted life years (dalys)

Kurz.

Synonym: E. viride (Forsk.) Alston. Justica ecbolium Linn.

Family: Acanthaceae.

Habitat: Northeastern Peninsular India.

English: Blue Fox Tail Nail Dye.

Siddha/Tamil: Nilambari.

Action: Plant—used in gout and dysuria; decoction of leaves for stricture. Roots—given in jaundice, menorrhagia and rheumatism.... ecbolium linneanum

Bupleurum tea is largely known for its healing propertiesand its action against the growth and spreading of cancer cells. Bupleurum Tea description Bupleurum is a plant from the Apiaceae family, originating from Asia. The roots of Bupleurum are used in various healing mixtures throughout China and East Asia. Scientists have shown that this plant possesses anti-inflammatory constituents and may inhibit the growth of liver cancer cells. Both Japan and China medicinal industries use it in order to treat cancer and hepatitis. Bupleurum tea is the resulting beverage from brewing the abovementioned plant. Bupleurum Tea brewing Bupleurum tea can be prepared by combining dried and chopped bupleurum roots with hot water. After steeping the mixture for about 10 minutes, drink it slowly. Bupleurum herb can also be consumed as extracts and capsules. Buplerum Tea benefits Bupleurum tea has been successfully used to:

• treat liver problems like hepatitis, cirrhosis and cancer
• treat infections with fever
• relieve chest congestion
• treat indigestion
• treat hemorrhoids
• treat uterine and anal prolapse
• treat diarrhea
• help in overall efforts to treat HIV

Bupleurum Tea side effects Bupleurum tea is not recommended to pregnant and breastfeeding women. Bupleurum tea is a healthy beverage used efficiently to treat liver-related diseases. It has been also proven that this type of tea can fight free radicals, responsible for cancer cells growth, due to its content of antioxidants.... bupleurum tea: a cure for the liver

Canna indica

Description: The canna lily is a coarse perennial herb, 90 centimeters to 3 meters tall. The plant grows from a large, thick, underground rootstock that is edible. Its large leaves resemble those of the banana plant but are not so large. The flowers of wild canna lily are usually small, relatively inconspicuous, and brightly colored reds, oranges, or yellows.

Habitat and Distribution: As a wild plant, the canna lily is found in all tropical areas, especially in moist places along streams, springs, ditches, and the margins of woods. It may also be found in wet temperate, mountainous regions. It is easy to recognize because it is commonly cultivated in flower gardens in the United States.

Edible Parts: The large and much branched rootstocks are full of edible starch. The younger parts may be finely chopped and then boiled or pulverized into a meal. Mix in the young shoots of palm cabbage for flavoring.... canna lily

(Linn.) Burm.f.

Family: Rutaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated all over India.

English: Lemon.

Ayurvedic: Jambira, Jambh, Jambhir, Jaamphal, Nimbu, Nimbuka, Naaranga, Limpaka, Dantashatha, Airaavata, Neebu (bigger var.).

Unani: Utraj.

Siddha/Tamil: Periya elumuchhai.

Action: Fruit—antiscorbutic, carminative, stomachic, antihistaminic, antibacterial. Used during coughs, colds, influenza and onset of fever (juice of roasted lemon), hiccoughs, biliousness. Fruit juice—used externally for ringworm (mixed with salt), erysipelas, also in the treatment of leprosy and white spots. Leaves and stems—antibacterial.

All parts of the plants of citrus sp. contain coumarins and psoralins. The fruits contain flavonoids and li- monoids. The flavonoids comprise three main groups—flavanones, fla- vones and 3-hydroxyflavylium (antho- cyanins); flavanones being predominantly followed by flavones and antho- cyanins. Bitter flavonoids do not occur in lemon and lime.

Lemon juice is a richer source of antiscorbutic vitamin (contains 4050 mg/100 g of vitamin C) than lime, and a fair source of carotene and vitamin B1. Volatile oil (about 2.5% of the peel) consists of about 75% limonene, alpha-and beta-pinenes, alpha-ter- pinene and citral. The fruit juice also contains coumarins and bioflavonoids.

The acid content of the fruit, once digested, provides an alkaline effect within the body and is found useful in conditions where acidity is a contributory factor (as in case of rheumatic conditions). The bioflavonoids strengthen the inner lining of blood vessels, especially veins and capillaries, and help counter varicose veins, arteriosclerosis, circulatory disorders and infections of liver, stomach and intestines.

Major flavonoid glycosides, isolated from citrus peels and juices, include hesperidin (with properties of vitamin P). Rutin and other flavanones, isolated from citrus fruits, form the principal components of vitamin P. Flavanone glycosides contained in lemon and lime juices are eriocitrin 47 and 94; hesperidin 84 and 196 mg/l, respectively.

The composition of cold pressed lime oil is quite similar to lemon oil, but citral content of lime oil is higher.

Monoterpene alcohols and their esters, aldehydes—geraniol, geranial and neral, contribute to the characteristic aroma of lemon and lime.

Dosage: Fruit—6-12 g (Juice—5- 10 ml). (API Vol. IV.)... citrus limon

This is a sensitive method for measuring the quantity of a substance. An antibody to the substance is prepared along with an ENZYME which binds to the antibody and which can be accurately measured using colour changes that occur as a result of the chemical reaction.... enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (elisa)

The average number of years an individual of a given age is expected to live if current mortality rates continue to apply. See “life expectancy”.... expectation of life

Insurance which covers the risk of loss for most accidents and injuries to third parties (the insured and its employees are not covered) which arise from the actions or negligence of the insured, and for which the insured may have legal liability, except those injuries directly related to the provision of professional health care services (the latter risks are covered by professional liability insurance).... general liability insurance

auct. non-Bl.

Synonym: E. hyssopifolium (Willd) I. C. Verdoorn. E. axillare (Lam.) Raynal. Exacum hyssopifolium Willd. Adenema hyssopifolium G. Don.

Family: Gentianaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, from Punjab and Gangetic Plain to Kanyakumari up to 500 m.

English: Indian Gentian.

Ayurvedic: Naagjhvaa, Maamajjaka, Naahi, Tikshnapatra.

Unani: Naai, Naahi.

Siddha/Tamil: Vellargu.

Folk: Chhotaa Chirayataa.

Action: Bitter tonic, carminative, blood purifier, antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory, antipsychotic, anthelmintic, cardiostimulant.

The plant is used as a substitute for Swertia chirayita, and is reported to be effective against malaria. The plant contains ophelic acid which is also present in chiretta as a hydrolytic product of chiratin. The root extract showed antimalarial activity both in vitro and in vivo.

Whole plant gave alkaloids—gen- tianine, erythrocentaurin, enicoflavine and gentiocrucine; flavonoids—api- genin, genkwanin iso-vitaxin, swer- tisin, saponarin and 5-O-glucoside derivatives of sylwertisin and isoswer- tisin; glucosides—swertiamarin, a tri- terpene betulin. Swertisiode exhibited hypotensive activity.

The plant extracts inhibited carrage- enan-induced oedema and its anti- inflammatory activity was found comparable to that of hydrocortisone.

Enicostema verticellatum Blume, the smallar var. ofKiryaata, is also equated with Vellargu (Siddha/Tamil).

Dosage: Whole plant—3-5 g powder; 50-100 ml decoction. (CCRAS.)... enicostemma littorale

(Linn.) Swingle.

Synonym: F. elephantum Corr.

Family: Rutaceae.

Habitat: Indigenous to South India; cultivated throughout the plains of India up to 500 m in the western Himalaya.

English: Wood Apple.

Ayurvedic: Kapittha, Dadhittha, Dadhiphala, Surabhichhada, Dantshatha, Kapipriya.

Unani: Kuvet.

Siddha/Tamil: Vilamaram, Vilangai, Narivila.

Folk: Kaith.

Action: Fruit—antiscorbutic, carminative, stimulates the digestive system bark. Pulp is included in a paste to tone the breast. Leaves— astringent; used for indigestion, flatulence, diarrhoea, dysentery and haemorrhoids.

Unripe fruit—prescribed in sprue, malabsorption syndrome. (The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India.)

The leaves and stem bark contain the coumarins, luvangetin, xanthotoxin and limonin and the steroids, sitosterol and sitosterol-O-beta-D-glucoside.

Antifungal compounds, psoralene from stem bark; xanthotoxin and os- thenol from root bark and 2,6-dimeth- oxybenzo-quinone from the fruit shell are reported. Roots contain xanthotoxin and bergapten, used for the treatment of leucoderma, characterized by vitiligo.

Dosage: Dried pulp of mature fruit—1-3 g powder. (API Vol. II.)... feronia limonia

Research reports that are not found in traditional peer-reviewed publications, such as government agency monographs, symposium proceedings and unpublished reports.... gray or grey literature

The oil expressed from fresh, or suitably preserved, halibut liver. It is a particularly rich source of vitamin A (30,000 international units per gram), and also contains vitamin D (2,300– 2,500 units per gram). It is available in capsules as a means of providing the two vitamins. (See APPENDIX 5: VITAMINS.)... halibut-liver oil

The cognitive skills and motivation of an individual to gain access to, and use information to promote and maintain good health.... health literacy

Individual outcome measure that extends beyond traditional measures of mortality and morbidity to include such dimensions as physiology, function, social activity, cognition, emotion, sleep and rest, energy and vitality, health perception and general life satisfaction (some of these are also known as health status, functional status or quality-of-life measures).... health-related quality-of-life (hrql) measure

See “disability-adjusted life expectancy”.... healthy life expectancy

Living at home without the need for continuous help and with a degree of self determination or control over one’s activities.... independent living

Gloriosa superba

Liliaceae

San: Langali, Visalya, Agnishika,Shakrapushpi, Garbhaghatini

Hin: Kalihari

Mal: Menthonni

Tam: Akkinichilam

Pan: Kariari

Guj: Dudhiya vachnag

Kan: Nangulika Mar: Nagakaria

Ben: Bishalanguli Ori: Dangogahana

Tel: Adavinabhi

Importance: Glory lily is a glabrous herbaceous climber which yields different types of troplone alkaloids of medicinal importance. The major alkaloids are colchicine , 3-demethyl colchicine and colchicoside. There is another alkaloid gloriosine which promises to be even more effective than colchicine in plant breeding for inducing polyploidy. The genus has importance in the ornamental horticulture due to its bright flowers and wiry climbing stem.

The roots and rhizomes are used in traditional system of medicine. Its abortifacient and antipyretic properties have been mentioned in ancient classics “Charaka”. The name Garbhaghatini is due to this abortifacient activity. They are useful in the treatment of inflammations, ulcers, scrofula, hemorrhoids, pruritus, dyspepsia, helminthiasis, flatulence, intermittent fevers and debility. The root is given internally as an effective antidote against cobra poison. A paste of the root is also used as an anodyne; applications in bites of poisonous insects, snake bites, scorpion sting, parasitic skin diseases and leprosy (Nadkarni,1954; Chaudhuri and Thakur; 1994).

Distribution: The plant is distributed throughout tropical India upto an altitude of 2500m and in Andaman islands. It is also cultivated in tropical and South Africa, Madagaskar, Indonesia and Malasia. It is reported to be cultivated in some parts of Europe. In India it was cultivated in RRL, Jammu in 1960s. Recently it was taken up by Indian Council of Agricultural Research(ICAR). Cultivation of the plant is mostly confined to the Southern states of India besides its collection from wild sources.

Botany: Gloriosa superba Linn. belongs to Liliaceae family. It is a glabrous climbing herb with tuberous root stock grows over hedges and small trees. Stem is 6m long which grows to a height of 1.2-1.5m before the stem branches. Leaves are simple, alternate or whorled, sessile, ovate-lanceolate, 17x4.5cm, tip elongating into a spirally coiled tendril, base cordate and margin entire. Flowers are large in terminal racemes; perianth segments 6, linear, flexuosus and deflexed, basal half bright yellow, upper half red; stamens 6; ovary glabrous, 3-celled. Fruits are capsules, linear-oblong, upto 6.8cm long, 3 equal lobes, one or two lobes shorter in malformed fruits; green dried to pale and then black colour, dehisced into three sections. Seeds are oval in shape, testa spongy, embryo cylindric, 30-150 seeds per capsule, pale orange attached to the sutures. Tubers are cylindric, large, simple, ‘V’ shaped with the two limps equal or unequal in lenth pointed towards end brownish externally and yellowish internally. (Narain, 1977)

Agrotechnology: This is a rainy season plant and sprouts well in warm, humid and tropical conditions. It should be grown in sun as the plants in shade become weedy and thin and move towards light. G. superba is a shallow rooted plant and grows well in a variety of soils either clay or sand through out India. It grows well in a light porous soil with good drainage. For vigorous growth, greater blooms and strong tuber, a mixture of soil, sand and compost manure is recommended. The propagation is mainly by tubers, by division of rhizomes. Seeds remain dormant for 6-9 months and due to hard seed coat, about 20-30 days are required for germination and seeds may take 3-4 years before it matures to flower. Treatment of seeds by gibberellin(1-3 ppm) resulted in higher yield of colchicine in the plant and higher production of tubers. In tissue culture, young sprouts are cultured on Murashige and Skoog’s medium (Msb) supplemented with kinetin (1-4 mg/l). Direct regeneration of the explants are obtained.

The seeds and rhizomes are sown usually in the last week of June to mid July. The rhizomes are planted by splitting carefully into two from their ‘V’ shaped joints (two buds being at the extreme end of each rhizome) in lines 20cm apart at a distance of 20cm (while seeds are sown in lines at a distance of 4-6cm apart). They are watered regularly when the plants are growing. After green shoots appear 2-3 showers are weekly. The irradiation of the plant at 42% natural sunlight intensity increased the production of tuber and colchicine. They usually takes 6-10 weeks to flower after sprouting and then set on fruits. The fruits ripen at the end of October and after that aerial shoot eventually dies, leaving the fleshy tubers underground. The tubers are dug out with great care. An individual plant produces 50g tubers on an average. The average yield is approximately 4000-5000kg of rhizomes and 1000 kg of seed per hectare. The content of colchicine is usually 0.358% and 1.013% in tubers and seeds, respectively.

Post harvest technology: Lixivation of the material is done with 70% ethyl alcohol. Concentrated under vacuum to one third of its volume and extracted with chloroform for colchicine and related substances-concentration of the aqueous phase to syrup which is extracted 6-8 times with a mixture of CHCl3 - alcohol (4:1) to yield colchicoside.

Properties and activity: The flowers, leaves and tubers contain colchicine, superbin, N-formyl deacetyl colchicine, demethyl colochicine and lumicolchicine. Tubers also contain gloriosine. Leaves in addition, contain chelidonic acid, 2-hydroxy 6-methoxy benzoic acid and -sitosterol glucoside. Colchicine, demethyl colchicine and colchicoside have been reported from seeds. Rhizome is oxytocic, anticancerous, antimalarial, stomachic, purgative, cholagogue, anthelmintic, alterative, febrifuge and antileprotic. Leaf is antiasthmatic and antiinflammatory. Root shows antigonorrhoeic and antibiotic activity. This plant has poisonous effect to enviroment and livestock. The toxic properties are due to presence of alkaloids chiefly colchicine (Clewer et al, 1915).... glory lily

A rental unit in which services are not included as part of the rent, although services may be available on site and may be purchased by residents for an additional fee.... independent living facility

Activities with aspects of cognitive and social functioning, including shopping, cooking, doing housework, managing money and using the telephone. See also “activities of daily living (ADLs)”.... instrumental activities of daily living (iadl)

(Irish) An older woman; the gray lady

Leadan, Lyadan... liadan

(French / English) Of the jungle vine; bound / form of Eliana, meaning “the Lord answers our prayers” Liann, Lianna, Lianne, Liahna, Liahne, Liane, Liani, Lianie, Lianee, Liany, Lianey, Lyanne, Lyane, Lyana, Lyanna, Lianea... liana

(English) Form of Elizabeth, meaning “my God is bountiful” Libba, Libbee, Libbey, Libbie, Libet, Liby, Lilibet, Lilibeth, Lilibet, Lillibet, Lilybet, Lilybeth, Lilybell, Lib, Libbea, Libea... libby

(English) An independent woman; having freedom

Libertey, Libertee, Libertea, Liberti, Libertie, Libertas, Libera, Liber, Libyr... liberty

(Latin) In mythology, goddess of death

Lybitina, Lybytyna, Libitena, Libityna, Libiteena, Libiteana, Libitiena, Libiteina... libitina

(Hebrew) A distinguished woman; fair-skinned

Libnie, Libney, Libny, Libnee, Libnea... libni

(Latin) One who is balanced; the seventh sign of the zodiac Leebra, Leibra, Liebra, Leabra, Leighbra, Lybra... libra

(Spanish) One who is free Libradah, Lybrada, Lybradah... librada

A permission granted to an individual or organization by a competent authority, usually public, to engage lawfully in a practice, occupation or activity. Licensure is the process by which the licence is granted. It is usually granted on the basis of examination and/or proof of education rather than on measures of performance. A licence is usually permanent, but may be conditional on annual payment of a fee, proof of continuing education, or proof of competence. See also “accreditation”.... licence/licensure

Lichen, or licheni?cation, is a term used to describe a thickening of chronically in?amed skin to give a tree-bark-like appearance.

Lichen simplex (neurodermatitis) is a form of eczema (see DERMATITIS) perpetuated by constant rubbing of the affected skin. Typically, well-de?ned plaques occur on one or both sides of the nape of the neck, on the ulnar forearm near the elbow, or on the sides of the calves. It is often associated with emotional stress.

Lichen planus is a less common in?ammation of the skin characterised by small, shiny, ?at-topped violaceous papules which may coalesce to form large plaques. Itching can be intense. Typically seen on the ?exor aspects of the wrists, the lower back and on the legs below the knees, it may also affect the mucous membranes of the mouth and lips. The cause is unknown. While in some patients the disorder appears to be nervous or emotional in origin, it can be caused by certain drugs such as CHLOROQUINE. Severe cases may require oral CORTICOSTEROIDS to control the eruption.... lichen

(Latin / English) Woman from Lycia / form of Alicia, meaning “woman of the nobility; truthful; having high moral character” Liciah, Leecea, Leecia, Leesha, Lesia, Lisia, Lycia... licia

Love, Lust, Fidelity... licorice

Licorice tea has been known for many years due to its medicinal benefits. Licorice herb (glycyrrhiza glabra) grows in Greece, Italy, Spain, Syria, Iraq and Southern China. The root is the one that contains an abundance of valuable properties. The root contains a substance that is as sweet as sugar cane, named glycyrrhizin. How To Make Licorice Tea To brew licorice tea, first of all, cut the licorice root into small pieces. You can buy a whole licorice root from a “natural foods” shop. Then put 1 teaspoon of licorice into 1 cup of boiled water and let it steep for about 5-10 minutes. To really flavor the tea you can add peppermint or cinnamon. Licorice Tea Benefits

• Speeds the healing of stomach ulcers.
• Alleviates liver inflammations.
• Combats diarrhea.
• Helps treating headaches.
• Overcomes excessive thirst.
• Treats sore throat.

Licorice Tea Side Effects If you drink licorice tea excessively, you can be predisposed to some disorders:

• Hypertension.
• High blood pressure.
• Headaches.
• Low potassium levels in the blood.
• It may interact with the effects of some medications.
• It should not be consumed by pregnant or breastfeeding women.

All in al, licorice tea is a healthy option and it can be drank 3 times a day! Just make sure you won`t experience any of its side effects!... licorice tea

(Scandinavian) A friend to all Lidwyna, Lidweena, Lidwiena, Lidweina, Lidweana... lidwina

(American) Form of Liesl, meaning “my God is bountiful” Lieselet, Lieselete, Lieselett, Lieseleta, Lieseletta... lieselette

(German) Form of Elizabeth, meaning “my God is bountiful” Liezl, Liesa, Liese, Liesel, Liezel, Liesei, Liesheth, Liesi, Liesie... liesl

(Vietnamese) Of the willow tree... lieu

See “life cycle”.... life course

Longevity, Health, Healing... life everlasting

Insurance providing for payment of a stipulated sum to a designated beneficiary upon death of the insured.... life insurance

See “well-being”.... life satisfaction

The longest period over which the life of any plant or animal organism or species may extend, according to the available biological knowledge concerning it.... life span

Drugs, medical devices, or procedures that can keep alive a person who would otherwise die within a foreseeable, though usually uncertain, time. Examples include cardiopulmonary resuscitation, mechanical ventilation, renal dialysis, nutritional support (i.e. tube or intravenous feeding) and provision of antibiotics to fight life-threatening infections.... life-sustaining treatment

The set of habits and customs that is influenced, modified, encouraged or constrained by the lifelong process of socialization. These habits and customs include the use of substances, such as alcohol, tobacco, tea or coffee; dietary habits; and exercise. They have important implications for health and are often the subject of epidemiological investigation.... lifestyle

Drugs used for non-health problems or for disorders that are in the grey area between a genuine health need and a desire to change a ‘lifestyle failing’ by the use of medication. Examples are: SILDENAFIL CITRATE, which is prescribed for men unable to achieve penile erection (erectile dysfunction); and ORLISTAT, a drug used to combat OBESITY.... lifestyle medicines

Housing built to be adaptable to people’s changing needs, thus avoiding the need for expensive and disruptive adaptations.... lifetime home

Strong bands of ?brous tissue which serve to bind together the bones entering into a joint. In some cases they are cord-like; in others, ?attened bands – whilst most joints are surrounded by a ?brous capsule or capsular ligament. (See JOINTS.)... ligaments

(American) A lighthearted woman Lite, Lyte... light

Pupillary constriction in the EYE in response to light. The direct light re?ex involves pupillary constriction in the eye into which a light is shone; the consensual light re?ex is the pupillary constriction that occurs in the other eye. The a?erent or inward pathway of the re?ex is via the optic nerve, and the e?erent or outward pathway is via the occulomotor nerve.... light reflex

A mechanical trap which use a combination of light and/or carbon dioxide to attract and trap adult mosquitoes, e.g. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Light Trap.... light traps

(Greek) One who is musically talented Ligiah, Ligya, Ligiya, Lygia, Ligea, Lygea, Lygya, Lygiya... ligia

(Burm. f) Makino.

Synonym: L. kaempferi Sieb & Zucc. Senecio kaempferi DC.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: Native to Japan; grows in Indian gardens.

Action: Used for obstinate skin diseases.

The rhizomes contain inulin and beta-dimethylacrylic acid.... ligularia tussilaginea

(Greek) One who loves music Liguriah, Lyguria, Lyguriah, Ligurea, Ligureah, Lygurea, Lygureah... liguria

An ordinal scale of responses to a question or statement ordered in a hierarchical sequence, such as from “strongly agree” through “no opinion” to “strongly disagree”.... likert scale

(Arabic / Greek) Born at night / resembling a lily Lilah, Lyla, Lylah... lila

(Latin) Resembling a lily Lilea, Lyleah, Lylea, Lilya, Lilyah, Lylya, Lylyah... lileah

(Latin) Resembling a budding lily Lilett, Lilete, Lilet, Lileta, Liletta, Lylette, Lylett, Lylete, Lylet, Lyletta, Lyleta... lilette

(Spanish) Resembling a lily Liliashe, Lilyash, Lilyashe... liliash

(Hawaiian) One who holds rank as chief... liliha

(Babylonian) Woman of the night Lilyth, Lillith, Lillyth, Lylith, Lyllith, Lylyth, Lyllyth, Lilithe, Lylithe, Lilythe... lilith

Linn.

Habitat: Native to Southern Europe and South-West Asia; grown in Indian gardens.

English: Madona Lily, Annunciation Lily, White Lily.

Action: Bulb—astringent, demulcent. Used for gynaecological disorders. A decoction of the bulbs in water or milk is given for dropsy; a poultice is applied to tumours, ulcers and skin inflammations. Fresh flowering plant is used in homoeopathy as an antispasmodic; the pollen is used against epilepsy

A total extract stimulates phagocytosis in mice. The bulbs contain alkaloids (pyrroline derivatives), jat- ropham, ethyljatropham and citracon- ic acid imides.

Mucous, tannin, sterine and gluco- side impart anti-inflammatory, analgesic, diuretic and expectorant properties to the bulb.

Bulbs of Lilium species contain soluble polysaccharides (glucomannans), starch, gamma-methylene glutamic acid and tuliposide.... lilium candidum

Wall.

Family: Liliaceae.

Habitat: Temperate Himalayas from Kumaon and Garhwal to Sikkim, Khasi and Aka hills and Manipur at altitudes of 1,200-3,000 m.

Folk: Gaayotraa (Jaunsar).

Action: Leaves—used as an external cooling applications to alleviate pains of wounds and bruises.... lilium giganteum

D. Don.

Family: Liliaceae.

Habitat: Uttaranchal, Himachal Pradesh.

Ayurvedic: Kaakoli, Madhuraa, Kshira, Vayhasthaa, Karnikaa, Vaayasoli.

Action: Tuberous root—used as a tonic in emaciation and as a source of energy, after dry roasting.

Dosage: Tuberous root—3-6 g. (API, Vol. III.)... lilium polyphyllum

Ker-Gawl.

Family: Liliaceae.

Habitat: Native to China and Japan; cultivated in Indian gardens.

English: Tiger Lily, Crumple Lily.

Action: Bulbs—used as a cardiac tonic. Flowers—used for ovarian neuralgia, also recommended in myoptic astigmia.

The bulbs of Lilium martagon Linn., Turk's Cap Lily, also possesses cardio- tonic properties and are used in the treatment of dysmenorrhoea; externally for ulcers.

Folk: Findora. Badai (Lushai).

Action: Dried bulb scales— demulcent; used like salep in pectoral complaints.... lilium tigrinum

Schutt. f.

Family: Liliaceae.

Habitat: Western Himalayas, Nepal, Lushai hills, Manipur and hills of South India at altitudes of 3002,400 m.... lilium wallichianum

(Latin) Resembling the lily

Lilian, Liliana, Liliane, Lilianne, Lilias, Lilas, Lillas, Lillias, Lilianna, Lilliana, Lilliane, Lilliann, Lillianna, Lillianne, Lillyan, Lillyanne, Lilyan, Lilyann, Lillis, Lilis... lillian

(Hawaiian) One who is generous Lylo, Leelo, Lealo, Leylo, Lielo, Leilo... lilo

(Native American) Resembling the soaring hawk... liluye

(African) One who is joyful Lymber, Lember... limber

Broadly the accumulative process of emotional and metabolic evaluation, as carried on by the various parts of the brain that are part of the ad hoc “evaluations” committee (the limbic system) and those changes in metabolism that, based on the evaluations, are acted out in the whole body by the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus, the main part of the system with tools, acts through a blood translator, the pituitary gland.... limbic/hypothalamus

See PROSTHESIS.... limbs, artificial

A yellow liquid obtained by squeezing lime-fruit, Citrus limetta. In common with lemon-juice, it is a rich source of vitamin C (16·8–62·5 mg per 100 ml) and contains a large quantity of citric acid. It is used as a refreshing drink and as a preventive of, and remedy for, SCURVY. Lime-juice which has been boiled, or preserved for a prolonged period, loses its anti-scorbutic properties.... lime-juice

(Roxb.) Griseb.

Synonym: Menyanthes hydrophyl- lum Lour.

Nymphoides hydrophyllum Kuntze.

Family: Menyanthaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, in fresh water ponds and tanks. (Considered by some authors a synonym of Nymphoides Hill.)

Folk: Ghainchu, Tagarmuula; Panchuli, Chandmalla (Bengal); Kumudini (Maharashtra).

Action: Plant—used in fevers and jaundice. Seeds—anthelmintic. Stalks and leaves—applied to ulcers and insect bites. A decoction is used as a wash for parasitic skin affections. The plant is used as a substitute for Swertia Chirata.

The rhizomes and roots of Nymphoides macrospermum Vasudevan (Family: Menyanthaceae) are sold in the market as Granthik Tagar. These are used as a substitute for Valeriana hard- wickii Wall. in neurological disorders and colic.... limnanthemum cristatum

(L.) Griseb.

Synonym: Menyanthes indica Linn. Nymphoides indicum (L.) O. Kuntze.

Family: Menyanthaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, in tanks and back waters.

Folk: Barachuli, Chinnambal (Kerala).

Action: Plant—bitter, febrifuge, antiscorbutic. Used as a substitute for Swertia Chirata in fever and jaundice.... limnanthemum indicum

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

(Lam.) Druce.

Synonym: L. gratissima Blume.

Family: Scrophulariaceae.

Habitat: South Bihar, Orissa, Assam, Western parts of South India, up to 600 m, also in back waters.

Folk: Aamragandha Karpuur (non-classical); Karpuur (Bengal); Ambuli (Maharashtra); Manganari (Kerala). Kuttra.

Action: Plant—galactagogue, aperient, antiseptic. Juice given in fever and to nursing mothers when milk is sour. Oil—antiseptic.

The plant gave an essential oil (0.1%), containing d-limolene and d-perillal- dehyde as principal constituents. The essential oil showed significant antimicrobial activity against Bacillus subtilis, Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger and Rhizopus oryzae.

The plant, made into a liniment with coconut oil, is used in elephantiasis.

L. conferia Benth., known as Munga- nari in Kerala, contains flavonoids showing anti-inflammatory activity, quercetin showed significant activity only at a dose of 150 mg/kg, while wogonin, nevadensin and quercetin- pentamethyl ether at 75 mg/kg. The essential oil from the plant exhibited antifungal activity against ringworm fungi.... limnophila aromatica

(Lam.) Bruce.

Synonym: L. gratioloides R. Br. L. racemosa Benth.

Family: Scrophulariaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India in damp places, swamps and rice fields.

Folk: Kuttra; Karpuur (Bengal), Ambuli (Maharashtra); Manganari (Kerala).

Action: Plant—carminative, antiseptic. Leaves—an infusion is given in dyspepsia and dysentery. A liniment prepared from the plant is used in elephantiasis.

Related species: L. rugosa (Roth) Merrill, synonym L. roxburghii G. Don, known as Kaalaa Karpuur (throughout India), is used as diuretic, stomachic, digestive tonic. Also used as a hair perfume.... limnophila indica

Lemon (Citrus spp.; typically Citrus limon).

Plant Part Used: Fruit, leaf, root.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Fruit: juice or tea, orally for common cold, flu, kidney stones, musculoskeletal injury, diarrhea; juice, topically, for burns, bruises and dermatological conditions. Root: multi-herb decoction or tincture, orally, menstrual disorders.

Safety: Fruit is widely consumed and generally considered safe; little data available on safety of root and leaves.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, diuretic, nutritive.

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

(Hebrew) Refers to myrrh Limora, Limoria, Limorea, Leemor, Leemora, Leemoria, Leemorea... limor

(Arabic) Of the palm tree Leena, Leina, Leyna, Lena, Lyna, Leana... lina

(Spanish) One who is soft and beautiful

Lindalee, Lindee, Lindey, Lindi, Lindie, Lindira, Lindka, Lindy, Lynda, Lynde, Lyndy, Lyndi, Lyndall, Lyndee, Lynnda, Lynndie, Lueinda, Lindea, Lyndea... linda

(Linn.) Kuntze.

Synonym: L. urticaefolia Lehm.

Family: Scrophulariaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, ascending to 2,100 m in the Himalayas.

Folk: Haldi Basanto (Bengal), Dhol (Maharashtra), Patthar-chatti (Gujarat), Bheet-chatti.

Action: Plant—juice is given in chronic bronchitis; also applied to skin eruptions.... lindenbergia indica

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, stalk.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaf/stalk: infusion, orally, for asthma, common cold, flu-symptoms, stomach ailments, indigestion, gastro-intestinal pain, diarrhea (in children), menopausal hot flashes, arthritis, internal bruising and musculoskeletal injury.

Safety: This plant is nontoxic according to clinical studies; the essential oil potential may cause allergic reaction to skin or lung irritation if inhaled.

Contraindications: Pregnancy.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, lowered heart rate (leaf infusion, essential oil); antinociceptive (essential oil); chemopreventive, inhibition of hepatocarcinogenesis (leaf extract); hypocholesterolemic (leaves).

In vitro: antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antitumor, polyphenol oxidase inhibition (essential oil or constituents); enzyme inhibition, vasorelaxant (leaf/stalk extract).

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

Roxb.

Synonym: Hesperethusa crenulata (Roxb.) M. Roem.

Family: Rutaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, from Punjab and Kumaon eastwards; in Assam, Bihar, Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and South India.

Ayurvedic: Bilvaparni.

Siddha/Tamil: Nayvila.

Folk: Ran-limbu, Naringi (Mum- bai), Tondsha (Maharashtra), Beli, Bainthaa.

Action: Dried fruit—stomachic; used in pestilent fevers, also as an antidote to poisons. Root— purgative, sudorific.

The plant showed anti-inflammatory activity which was attributed to 8- hydroxy-6-methoxy-2-methyl-anthra- quinone-3-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside in animal studies.

The leaves contain an essential oil; major constituents are geraniol, alpha- and beta-pinene, 1,8-cineole, elemol acetate, linool, alpha-terpinolene, camphor, eudesmol, p-cymene, cam- phane, azulene, borneol acetate, alpha- terpenol, alpha-curcumene, alpha thu- jone, limolene, myrcene and beta- ocimene.

Leaves also contain anthraquinones and dalbargin galactopyranoside.... limonia crenulata

Cleaning, cleansing or clearing; this term has two uses: to describe (1.) the internal cleansing action of remedies inside the body; or (2.) an external spiritual/energetic cleansing ritual:

1. Herbal preparations taken internally are sometimes said to “cleanse the body [internally]” (limpiar el sistema), particularly the digestive tract, kidneys, liver and/or reproductive system; in this sense, it can be used to describe laxative or diuretic herbs, remedies that cleanse the blood or preparations that clear obstruction in the reproductive system.

2. a cleansing ritual is performed using herbs and/or other items to ritually clear or dispel unwanted energy around a person’s body or in a physical space (i.e. a room, house, office or car); this ritual often includes the use of incense, prayer and bundles of herbs that are swept or shaken over the body or in ones living space. Often, water-based preparations of herbs, fragrant aguas and/or perfume oils are used for washing ones living area, especially the floor; then a similar mixture of herbs is prepared as a bath for washing the physical body as part of this spiritual/energetic cleansing ritual.... limpieza

Linden Tea has been used in medicine as a natural remedy for various health problems. Linden plant grows mainly in Europe and North America, linden tree having large deep roots and smooth reddish twigs. Linden tea is known for its diuretic, diaphoretic, antispasmodic and sedative properties. The constituents of linden are mucilages, tannins, volatile oils and antioxidants flavonoids. How To Make Linden Tea To brew Linden Tea, you have to infuse a handful of linden flowers and leaves into 250 ml of water. Let the tea steep for about 5-10 minutes and then, using a strainer, pour it into your cup. Be careful! Linden Tea should not be consumed for long periods since over-consumption may lead to heart damage. Also, if you are taking drugs or different supplements, drink Linden Tea 2 hours before taking them so that it cannot interfere with their action. Linden Tea Benefits

• The most common use of Linden Tea is to treat anxiety since the herb has a relaxing effect on the body.
• Helps clear up any problems with the digestive system, combating also diarrhea.
• Alleviates fever, colds and cough.
• Relieves sore throat.
• Lessens the effects of excessive flatulence.
• Helps you to sweat out the toxins from your body.
• Is a strong helper in fighting different infections.

Linden Tea Side Effects Linden Tea doesn’t have many side effects. But there a few thing that you should keep in mind when drinking linden tea:

• First of all, avoid over-consumption. Drinking too much linden tea can be harmful rather than helpful.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not drink linden tea.
• Frequent use of linden tea has been linked with heart problems, so if you are experiencing heart diseases make sure you always consult your doctor before taking any herbal teas or supplements.

In conclusion, Linden Tea is a healthy tea with a lot of benefits for your body. In order not to experience its (very few) side effects, avoid drinking too much linden tea!... linden tea

(African) The daughter we have waited for... lindiwe

(English) From the pastureland Lindly, Lindlee, Lindleigh, Lindli, Lindlie, Leland, Lindlea... lindley

(English) From the island of linden trees; from Lincoln’s wetland Lind, Lindsea, Lindsee, Lindseigh, Lindsey, Lindsy, Linsay, Linsey, Linsie, Linzi, Linzee, Linzy, Lyndsay, Lyndsey, Lyndsie, Lynnsey, Lynnzey, Lynsey, Lynzey, Lynzi, Lynzy, Lynzee, Lynzie, Lindse... lindsay

The line of ?brous tissue stretching down the mid line of the belly from the lower end of the sternum to the pubic bone (see PUBIS). The linea alba gives attachment to the muscles of the wall of the stomach.... linea alba

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

(Chinese) As sweet as the tinkling of a bell Lyng... ling

(Scottish) Resembling the cascade of a waterfall Linne... linn

(Scandinavian) Resembling a small mountain flower; of the lime tree Lenae, Linea, Linna, Linnae, Linnaea, Lynae, Lynea, Lynnae, Lynnea... linnea

An agent that effects the dissolution of a calculus... linthontriptic

Linn.

Habitat: Cultivated mainly in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Rajasthan.

English: Linseed, Flax.

Ayurvedic: Atasi, Umaa, Masrnaa, Nilapushpi, Kshumaa.

Unani: Kattan.

Siddha/Tamil: (Seed).

Action: Seed—demulcent, emollient, laxative, antilipidemic, antitussive, pectoral (used in bronchitis and cough). Flowers—used as nervine and cardiac tonic. Oil— used in burns, skin injuries and sores.

Key application: Internally, for chronic constipation, for colons damaged by abuse of laxatives, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticular disease, symptomatic short-term treatment of gastritis and enteritis. Externally, for painful skin inflammations. (German Commission E, ESCOP, The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)

The plant contains chlorogenic acid and its isomer. Also present are palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic acids, along with amino acids, and sugars. Linseed also contains mucilage (3-10%) in epidermis; fatty oil (30-40%); cyanogenic glycosides (0.05-00.1%) mainly linus- tatin, neolinustatin and linamarin; lig- nans; phenylpropane derivatives including linusitamarin. (Cyanogenic glycosides are not found toxic in therapeutic doses as these are broken down only to a limited extent in the body.)

The seeds are an excellent source of dietary alpha-linolenic acid for modifying plasma and tissue lipids. Flaxseed preparations reduced atherogenic risk in hyperlipemic patients. (Cited in Expanded Commission E Monographs.)

Human studies have indicated Flax- seed's use in atherosclerosis, hyperc- holesterolemia, lupus nephritis, chronic renal diseases and in cancer prevention (active principle: lignan precursor secoisolariciresinol diglycoside). (Sharon M. Herr. Also Am J Clin Nutr, 1999, 69, 395-402.)

The PP glucose response to a 50 g carbohydrate load given as Flaxseed bread was found to be 27% lower when compared with regular white bread.

Taking Flaxseed oil daily for 3 months did not improve symptoms of pain and stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis and no effect was observed on RA, such as C-reactive protein and ESR. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)

The water-binding capacity and rhe- ological properties of linseed mucilage resembled those of guar gum.

Dosage: Ripe seed—3-6 g powder. (API, Vol. I.) Flower-bud—3-6 g; oil—5-10 ml. (CCRAS.)... linum usitatissimum

A colloquial term for Cyanea - used in many countries other than Australia.... lion’s mane

See Scorpaenidae.... lionfish

A preparation based on the thyroid (see THYROID GLAND) hormone triiodothyronine, which is prescribed to replace the lack of natural thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism). The drug is also used to treat goitre and cancer of the

thyroid gland. (See THYROID GLAND, DISEASES OF.)... liothyronine acid

Rehd.

Family: Orchidaceae.

Ayurvedic: Jivaka-Rshabhaka (bulbs of Microstylis wallichi Lindl. and M. musifera, also of other orchids, are sold as Jivaka-Rshabhaka).

Action: Used in age-sustaining and invigorating tonics.... lipasis rostrata

These drugs reduce the amount of low-density LIPOPROTEINS, which transport CHOLESTEROL and triglycerides (see TRIGLYCERIDE) in the blood, or raise the concentration of high-density lipoproteins. The aim is to reduce the progression of ATHEROSCLEROSIS and therefore help prevent coronary heart disease (see HEART, DISEASES OF). These drugs should be combined with reducing other risk factors for raised lipid concentrations, such as a high-fat diet, smoking and obesity. Lipid-regulating drugs include STATINS, ?brates, anion-exchange resins, and NICOTINIC ACID, which may be used singly or in combination under careful medical supervision (see HYPERLIPIDAEMIA).... lipid-regulating drugs

An agent involved in the clotting mechanism of the blood. It helps in the activation of THROMBOPLASTIN in the blood PLASMA (see COAGULATION).... lipoid factor

Compounds containing lipids and proteins (see LIPID; PROTEIN). Most lipids in blood PLASMA are present in this form and are characterised according to their densities: very low (VLDL), intermediate (IDL), low (LD), high (HDL) and very high (VHDL). Concentrations of lipoproteins are key factors in assessing the risk of cardiovascular disease (see HEART, DISEASES OF).... lipoproteins

These are essentially tiny oil droplets consisting of layers of fatty material, known as phospholipid, separated by aqueous compartments. Drugs can be incorporated into the liposomes, which are then injected into the bloodstream or into the muscles, or given by mouth. Using this method of giving drugs, it is possible to protect them from being broken down in the body before they reach the part of the body where their curative e?ect is required: for example, in the liver or in a tumour.... liposomes

Various compounds and processes that enable the liver to metabolize fats properly or prevent the formation of cholesterolic stones in the gall bladder by supporting the continued emulsification of gall bladder bile. EXAMPLES: Lecithin, choline, Aristolochia... lipotropic factors

Protection ... liquidamber

(French) One who enjoys reading aloud

Lirienne, Liriena, Lirienna, Lirien, Lirienn... liriene

Linn.

Family: Magnoliaceae.

Habitat: Native to North America; introduced into hill stations in India.

English: Tulip tree.

Action: Bark—antipyretic, diaphoretic; used in rheumatism, dyspepsia and as antimalarial.

The root contains an alkaloid tulip- iferin, traces of a glycoside, essential oil and tannin.... liriodendron tulipifera

(Greek) In mythology, a nymph and the mother of Narcissus Leiriope, Leirioessa... liriope

H. B. & K.

Synonym: L. alba (Mill.) N.E.Br. L. javanica (Burm.f.) Spreng.

Family: Verbenaceae.

Habitat: Bihar and Orissa to Assam; Madhya Pradesh, Nilgiris and Anaimalais up to 900 m in wet places and river banks.

Folk: Basula (Madhya Pradesh), Naagaa-aiari (Orissa).

Action: Leaves—stomachic and nervine. Essential oil—fungitoxic.

The essential oil from leaves contains citral, neral and geranial. Diterpenes, d- and l-limonene, l-piperitone, geranial. Diterpenes, d-and l-limonene, l- piperitone, lippone, a saturated ketone, d-alpha-pinene, dl-dihydrocarvone, citral and camphor have been identified in different samples.... lippia geminata

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

Hance.

Family: Altingiaceae; Hamameli- daceae.

Habitat: Native to China; now reported to have been introduced into Lalbagh gardens, Bangalore.

English: Fragrant Maple.

Ayurvedic: Silhak (var.).

Unani: Silaaras (var.).

Action: See Liquidambar orientalis.

Balsam (Chinese Storax) contains cinnamic acid (16%). Cinnamyl alcohol, borneol, a resin alcohol and volatile constituents (1.8-8%). The leaves on steam-distillation yield 005% of a volatile oil consisting principally of terpenes (88%).... liquidambar formosana

Mill.

Family: Altingiaceae; Hamameli- daceae.

Habitat: Native to Asia Minor.

English: Storax, Oriental Sweet Gum.

Ayurvedic: Turushka, Silhaka, Kapitaila.

Unani: Ambar Saayil, Silaaras.

Siddha/Tamil: Neri-arishippal.

Action: Balsam—anti-inflammatory, stimulating expectorant, antipara- sitic, antiseptic, antimicrobial. Used externally in scabies, ringworm and other skin diseases. Used for coughs and bronchitis as an inhalation.

Storax contained cinnamic acid up to 30%—cinnamin acid esters, cin- namyl cinnamate (styracin), phenyl- propyl cinnamate; triterpene acids; vanillin; styrene; aromatic alcohols. Pentacyclic triterpene aldehydes—liq- uidambronal and ambronal—have been isolated from nonvolatile part of resin along with bornyl trans-cinna- mate.

Dosage: Gum—1-3 g. (CCRAS.)... liquidambar orientalis

(Hebrew) One who is musically talented Lirita, Liritia, Liritea, Leerit... lirit

(English) Form of Elizabeth, meaning “my God is bountiful” Leesa, Liesa, Lisebet, Lise, Liseta, Lisette, Liszka, Lisebeth, Lisabet, Lisabeth, Lisabette, Lisbet, Lisbeth, Lisavet, Lissa, Lissette, Lyssa, Lysa, Lesa, Liesbet, Liisa, Lis, Leysa, Leisa, Leasa... lisa

(African) One who is awarded a medal

Lishana, Lishanna, Lyshan, Lyshana, Lyshanna... lishan

(American) Resembling a flower Lissi, Lissy, Lissey, Lissee, Lissea... lissie

A rare disease, although the causal organism, Listeria monocytogenes, is widely distributed in soil, silage, water, and various animals, with consequent risk of food contamination – for example, from unpasteurised soft cheese. Neonates are mainly affected – often as a result of a mild or inapparent infection in the pregnant mother. The disease presents in two main forms: MENINGOENCEPHALITIS, or SEPTICAEMIA with enlarged LYMPH glands. Elderly adults occasionally develop the ?rst form, while younger adults are more likely to develop a mild or even inapparent form. The disease is treated with ANTIBIOTICS such as ampicillin (see PENICILLIN) or CHLORAMPHENICOL.... listeriosis

A summary and interpretation of research findings reported in the literature. It may include unstructured qualitative reviews by single authors as well as various systematic and quantitative procedures, such as meta-analysis.... literature review

(Gaertn.) Sonn.

Synonym: Nephelium litchi Cambess.

Family: Sapindaceae.

Habitat: Native to China; now cultivated mainly in Northern Bihar, particularly in Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga districts, and Saharanpur, Dehra Dun, Muzaffar- nagar, Gorakhpur, Deoria, Gonda, Basti, Faizabad, Rampur, Bareil- ly, Bahraich, Kheri and Pilibhit districts of Uttar Pradesh.

English: Litchi, Lychee.

Action: Fruit—refrigerant during summer. Leaf—used in bites of animals.

Litchi aril contains: total sugars (as invert sugar) 12.1-14.8; reducing sugar 9-13.7; non-reducing sugar 1.0-3.4; acidity (as citric acid) 0.22-0.36%; and ascorbic acid 34.5-45.4 mg/100 g.

The plant contains levulinic, malic, citric, lactic, malonic, fumaric, suc- cinic, phosphoric and glutaric acids.

The Bark contains friedelin and stig- masterol.

Litchi seeds are prescribed in Malaya for neurological disorders and orchi- tis. In seed lipids, fatty acids cyclo- propanoic 42.0; oleic 27.0, palmitic 12.0 and linoleic 11.0%, have been determined.... litchi chinensis

A drug widely used in the PROPHYLAXIS treatment of certain forms of MENTAL ILLNESS. The drug should be given only on specialist advice. The major indication for its use is acute MANIA; it induces improvement or remission in over 70 per cent of such patients. In addition, it is e?ective in the treatment of manic-depressive patients (see MANIC DEPRESSION), preventing both the manic and the depressive episodes. There is also evidence that it lessens aggression in prisoners who behave antisocially and in patients with learning diffculties who mutilate themselves and have temper tantrums.

Because of its possible toxic effects – including kidney damage – lithium must only be administered under medical supervision and with monitoring of the blood levels, as the gap between therapeutic and toxic concentrations is narrow. Due to the risk of its damaging the unborn child, it should not be prescribed, unless absolutely necessary, during pregnancy – particularly not in the ?rst three months. Mothers should not take it while breast feeding, as it is excreted in the milk in high concentrations. The drug should not be taken with DIURETICS.... lithium carbonate

Linn.

Family: Boraginaceae.

Habitat: Kashmir and Kumaon, at altitudes of 1,500-2,700 m.

Folk: Lubis firmun.

Action: Leaves—sedative. Seeds— diuretic, lithotriptic. A decoction of roots and twigs is given in the form of syrup in eruptive diseases, such as smallpox and measles.

The aerial parts contain pyrrolizi- dine alkaloids.

Saline extracts of the aerial parts and roots, administered to experimental animals by injection, inhibit oestrus and the functioning of ovaries and testes; the activity of the thyroid gland is also reduced. The active principle is formed from phenolic precursors like caffeic, chlorogenic, rosmarinic acid as well as luteolin-7 beta-glucuronide by an oxidation step. Other constituents are lithospermic acid and shikonin.

Shikonin and acetyl-shikonin, the pigments of the root, exhibit anti- inflammatory activity comparable to phenylbutazone.

An infusion of leaves is used in Spain as sedative.... lithospermum officinanle

See MEDICAL LITIGATION.... litigation

Litmus, which is prepared from several lichens, is a vegetable dye-substance, which on contact with alkaline ?uids becomes blue, and on contact with acid ?uids, red. Slips of paper, impregnated with litmus, form a valuable test for the acidity of the secretions and discharges.... litmus

Hook. f.

Family: Lauraceae.

Habitat: The hills of western Deccan Peninsula.

Folk: Pisi, Posha (Maharashtra).

Action: Leaves—an infusion is given in irritation of bladder and urethra.

The seeds yield a fat consisting mostly of lauric acid with a small amount of oleic acid.

The leaves are mucilaginous.... litsea stocksii

A form of CEREBRAL PALSY.... little’s disease

(Hebrew) A vibrant woman; full of life

Livona, Lyvonah, Lyvona, Levona, Levonah... livonah

(Lour.) C. B. Robinson.

Synonym: L. sebifera Pers. L. chinensis Lam.

Family: Lauraceae.

Habitat: Punjab, Khasi Hills, Bengal, Assam and South India.

English: Common Tallow Lowrel.

Ayurvedic: Medaasaka.

Unani: Maidaa-lakdi, MaghaaseHindi.

Siddha/Tamil: Mushaippeyetti, Elumpurukki, Uralli.

Action: Leaf—antispasmodic and emollient. Bark—demulcent, emollient, astringent, antidiarrhoeal, anodyne. Root—decoction is used as an emmenagogue. Oil from berries—used in rheumatism. Essential oil—antibacterial, antifungal.

The bark is mucilaginous. The plant contains a polysaccharide. Leaves and stem contain aporphine al- kaloids—boldine, laurotetanine, acti- nodaphnine and their derivatives. The trunk bark gave sebiferine and litsefer- ine.

Boldine produced dose-dependent inhibition of induced microsomal peroxidation in experimental studies.

Dosage: Bark—3-5 g powder. (CCRAS.)... litsea glutinosa

(Roxb.) Pers.

Synonym: L. polyantha Juss.

Family: Lauraceae.

Habitat: Assam and Eastern Himalayas, also Tamil Nadu.

Ayurvedic: Maidaa-lakdi (var.).

Siddha/Tamil: Maidalagadil, Picin- pattai.

Action: Bark—stimulant, astringent, spasmolytic, stomachic, antidiarrhoeal. Root—applied externally for pains, bruises and contusions.

The bark contains beta-sitosterol and an aporphine alkaloid, actino- daphnine.... litsea monopetala

ACUTE LIVER DISEASE The hepatitis viruses (A– F) are of paramount importance. Hepatitis E (HEV) often produces acute hepatic failure in pregnant women; extensive epidemics – transmitted by contaminated drinking-water supplies – have been documented. HBV, especially in association with HDV, also causes acute liver failure in infected patients in several tropical countries: however, the major importance of HBV is that the infection leads to chronic liver disease (see below). Other hepatotoxic viruses include the EPSTEIN BARR VIRUS, CYTOMEGALOVIRUS (CMV), the ?avivirus causing YELLOW FEVER, Marburg/Ebola viruses, etc. Acute liver disease also occurs in the presence of several acute bacterial infections, including Salmonella typhi, brucellosis, leptospirosis, syphilis, etc. The complex type of jaundice associated with acute systemic bacterial infection – especially pneumococcal PNEUMONIA and pyomiositis – assumes a major importance in many tropical countries, especially those in Africa and in Papua New Guinea. Of protozoan infections, plasmodium falciparum malaria, LEISHMANIASIS, and TOXOPLASMOSIS should be considered. Ascaris lumbricoides (the roundworm) can produce obstruction to the biliary system. CHRONIC LIVER DISEASE Long-term disease is dominated by sequelae of HBV and HCV infections (often acquired during the neonatal period), both of which can cause chronic active hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (‘hepatoma’) – one of the world’s most common malignancies. Chronic liver disease is also caused by SCHISTOSOMIASIS (usually Schistosoma mansoni and S. japonicum), and acute and chronic alcohol ingestion. Furthermore, many local herbal remedies and also orthodox chemotherapeutic compounds (e.g. those used in tuberculosis and leprosy) can result in chronic liver disease. HAEMOSIDEROSIS is a major problem in southern Africa. Hepatocytes contain excessive iron – derived primarily from an excessive intake, often present in locally brewed beer; however, a genetic predisposition seems likely. Indian childhood cirrhosis – associated with an excess of copper – is a major problem in India and surrounding countries. Epidemiological evidence shows that much of the copper is derived from copper vessels used to store milk after weaning. Veno-occlusive disease was ?rst described in Jamaica and is caused by pyrrolyzidine alkaloids (present in bush-tea). Several HIV-associated ‘opportunistic’ infections can give rise to hepatic disease (see AIDS/HIV).

A localised (focal) form of liver disease in all tropical/subtropical countries results from invasive Entamoeba histolytica infection (amoebic liver ‘abscess’); serology and imaging techniques assist in diagnosis. Hydatidosis also causes localised liver disease; one or more cysts usually involve the right lobe of the liver. Serological tests and imaging techniques are of value in diagnosis. Whilst surgery formerly constituted the sole method of management, prolonged courses of albendazole and/or praziquantel have now been shown to be e?ective; however, surgical intervention is still required in some cases.

Hepato-biliary disease is also a problem in many tropical/subtropical countries. In southeast Asia, Clonorchis sinensis and Opisthorchis viverini infections cause chronic biliary-tract infection, complicated by adenocarcinoma of the biliary system. Praziquantel is e?ective chemotherapy before advanced disease ensues. Fasciola hepatica (the liver ?uke) is a further hepato-biliary helminthic infection; treatment is with bithionol or triclabendazole, praziquantel being relatively ine?ective.... liver disease in the tropics

(Hebrew) The Lord’s daughter Liyah, Leeya, Leeyah, Leaya, Leayah... liya

(English) Form of Elizabeth, meaning “my God is bountiful” Lyza, Leeza, Litsea, Litzea, Liz, Lizzie, Lizabeth, Lizandra, Lizann, Lizbet, Lizbeth, Lizeth, Lizette, Lizina, Lizzy, Lyzbeth, Lyzbet, Lyzabeth, Lyzz, Lizz, Lyz, Leyza, Liiza, Leza... liza

Maca tea has been recognized for its nutritional properties and for being a libido enhancer. Maca plant, also known as the “Peruvian ginseng”, is an herb that grows in the high Andes of Bolivia and Peru for thousands of years. It is related to the turnip and the radish, having green and fragrant tops that lie along the ground. Maca has been used in Peru as a remedy to enhance energy and sexual function. The constituents of maca root are basically minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus and iron; sterols, lipids, carbohydrates, fiber, proteins and amino acids. How To Make Maca Tea Maca tea has a sweet taste, similar to butterscotch. To brew maca tea you will need an herbal tea of your choice to combine it with the maca powder. Prepare the herbal tea and after 1-2 minutes, add a teaspoon of maca powder and stir the mixture. To really enhance the flavor, you can add milk or honey. Tea connoisseurs recommend Soya milk. Maca Tea Benefits

• Helps providing energy without over-stimulating the body’s systems.
• Enhances libido and helps in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
• Increases the production of sperm.
• Helps relieving the symptoms of menopause.
• Strengthens your immune system.
• Balances and stabilizes the body’s cardiovascular, nervous, muscular and lymphatic systems.

Maca Tea Side Effects In toxicity studies, maca tea showed no adverse pharmacological effects. However, maca root contains iodine, which can lead to side effects such as thyroid disease. Maca root is also high in glucosinolates and in case of over consumption, combined with low-iodine diet, can cause goiter. It can also cause hives and fatigue to people that are allergic to the constituents of maca tea. Maca Tea is a wonderful tea with many health benefits. It is ideal for incresing your libido and boosting your immune system! Try to avoid over consumption in order not to experience any of its side effects!... maca tea - a libido enhancer

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

The LIVER may be extensively diseased without any obviously serious symptoms, unless the circulation through it is impeded, the out?ow of BILE checked, or neighbouring organs implicated. JAUNDICE is a symptom of several liver disorders, and is discussed under its separate heading. ASCITES, which may be caused by interference with the circulation through the portal vein of the liver, as well as by other reasons, is also considered separately. The presence of gallstones is a complication of some diseases connected with the liver, and is treated under GALLBLADDER, DISEASES OF. For hydatid cyst of the liver, see TAENIASIS. Liver diseases in a tropical environment are dealt with later in this section.

In?ammation of the liver, or HEPATITIS, may occur as part of a generalised infection or may be a localised condition. Infectious hepatitis, which is the result of infection with a virus, is one of the most common forms. Many di?erent viruses can cause hepatitis, including that responsible for glandular fever (see MONONUCLEOSIS). Certain spirochaetes may also be the cause, particularly that responsible for LEPTOSPIROSIS, as can many drugs. Hepatitis may also occur if there is obstruction of the BILE DUCT, as by a gall-stone.

Cirrhosis of the liver A disorder caused by chronic damage to liver cells. The liver develops areas of ?brosis or scarring; in response, the remaining normal liver cells increase and form regeneration nodules. Those islands of normality, however, suffer from inadequate blood supply, thus adversely affecting liver function. Alcohol is the most common cause of cirrhosis in the United Kingdom and the USA, and the incidence of the disorder among women in the UK has recently risen sharply as a consequence of greater consumption of alcohol by young women in the latter decades of the 20th century. In Africa and many parts of Asia, infection with hepatitis B virus is a common cause. Certain drugs – for example, PARACETAMOL – may damage the liver if taken in excess. Unusual causes of cirrhosis include defects of the bile ducts, HAEMOCHROMATOSIS (raised iron absorption from the gut), CYSTIC FIBROSIS, cardiac cirrhosis (the result of heart failure causing circulatory congestion in the liver), and WILSON’S DISEASE (raised copper absorption).

Symptoms Some people with cirrhosis have no signs or symptoms and the disease may be diagnosed at a routine medical examination. Others may develop jaundice, OEDEMA (including ascites – ?uid in the abdomen), fever, confusion, HAEMATEMESIS (vomiting blood), loss of appetite and lethargy. On examination, cirrhotic patients often have an enlarged liver and/ or SPLEEN, and HYPERTENSION. Liver function tests, cholangiography (X-ray examination of the bile ducts) and biopsy of liver tissue will help to reach a diagnosis.

Treatment Nothing can be done to repair a cirrhosed organ, but the cause, if known, must be removed and further advance of the process thus prevented. In the case of the liver, a high-protein, high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet is given, supplemented by liver extract and vitamins B and K. The consumption of alcohol should be banned. In patients with liver failure and a poor prognosis, liver TRANSPLANTATION is worthwhile but only after careful consideration.

Abscess of the liver When an ABSCESS develops in the liver, it is usually a result of amoebic DYSENTERY, appearing sometimes late in the disease – even after the diarrhoea is cured (see below). It may also follow upon in?ammation of the liver due to other causes. In the case of an amoebic abscess, treatment consists of oral metronidazole.

Acute hepatic necrosis is a destructive and often fatal disease of the liver which is very rare. It may be due to chemical poisons, such as carbontetrachloride, chloroform, phosphorus and industrial solvents derived from benzene. It may also be the cause of death in cases of poisoning with fungi. Very occasionally, it may be a complication of acute infectious hepatitis.

Cancer of the liver is not uncommon, although it is rare for the disease to begin in the liver – the involvement of this organ being usually secondary to disease situated somewhere in the stomach or bowels. Cancer originating in the liver is more common in Asia and Africa. It usually arises in a ?brotic (or cirrhotic) liver and in carriers of the hepatitis B virus. There is great emaciation, which increases as the disease progresses. The liver is much enlarged, and its margin and surface are rough, being studded with hard cancer masses of varying size, which can often be felt through the abdominal wall. Pain may be present. Jaundice and oedema often appear.... liver, diseases of

Legal action taken by an individual or group of individuals, usually patients, against hospitals, health-service providers or health professionals in respect of alleged inadequacies in the provision of health care.

In the hospital service, claims for clinical negligence have risen enormously since the 1970s. In 1975 the NHS spent about £1m a year on legal claims; by 2004 the NHS faced over £2 billion in outstanding claims. In 1995 a risk-pooling Clinical Negligence Scheme for Trusts (CNST) was set up in England, and is administered by the NHS Litigation Authority. NHS trusts are expected to follow a set of risk-management standards, the ?rst being that each trust should have a written risk-management strategy with an explicit commitment to managing clinical risk (see RISK MANAGEMENT).... medical litigation

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

See MEDICAL LITIGATION.... nhs litigation authority

Also known as the inguinal ligament, it is the strong ligament lying in the boundary between the anterior abdominal wall and the front of the thigh.... poupart’s ligament

A minimum income level below which a person is officially considered to lack adequate subsistence and to be living in poverty. Poverty statistics are based on definitions developed by individual countries or constituencies.... poverty level / line

Liability insurance to protect professionals for loss or expense resulting from claims arising from mistakes, errors or omissions committed or alleged to have been committed by the insured in his professional activities.... professional liability insurance

ACROMEGALY or gigantism is the result of the overactivity of, or tumour formation of cells in, the adenohypophysis which produces GROWTH HORMONE (see also PITUITARY GLAND). If this overactivity occurs after growth has ceased, acromegaly arises, in which there is gross overgrowth of the ears, nose, jaws, and hands and feet. DWARFISM may be due to lack of growth hormone.

DIABETES INSIPIDUS, a condition characterised by the passing of a large volume of URINE every day, is due to lack of the antidiuretic hormone (see VASOPRESSIN). Enhanced production of the ADRENOCORTICOTROPHIC HORMONE (ACTH) leads to CUSHING’S SYNDROME. Excessive production of PROLACTIN by micro or macro adenomas (benign tumours) leads to hyperprolactinaemia and consequent AMENORRHOEA and GALACTORRHOEA. Some adenomas do not produce any hormone but cause effects by damaging the pituitary cells and inhibiting their hormone production.

The most sensitive cells to extrinsic pressure are the gonadotrophin-producing cells and the growth-hormone producing cells, so that if the tumour occurs in childhood, growth hormone will be suppressed and growth will slow. Gonadotrophin hormone suppression will prevent the development of puberty and, if the tumour occurs after puberty, will result in amenorrhoea in the female and lack of LIBIDO in both sexes. The thyroid-stimulating hormone cells are the next to suffer and the pressure effects on these cells will result in hypothyroidism (see under THYROID GLAND, DISEASES OF).

Fortunately the ACTH-producing cells are the most resistant to extrinsic pressure and this is teleologically sound as ACTH is the one pituitary hormone that is essential to life. However, these cells can suffer damage from intracellular tumours, and adrenocortical insu?ciency is not uncommon.

Information about these disorders may be obtained from the Pituitary Foundation.... pituitary-linked disorders

Years of life saved by a medical technology or service, adjusted according to the quality of those years (as determined by some evaluative measure). QALYs are the most commonly used unit to express the results in some types of cost-effectiveness analysis.... quality-adjusted life years (qalys)

Sw.

Family: Scrophulariaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, up to an altitude of 900 m, except in acrid areas in the West.

English: Scleria.

Action: Plant—antinephritic. Root—decoction is given after parturition. Young tops—given to children for enlarged stomach.

The roots of Scleria biflora Roxb. smell strongly of camphor or cajeput.

The fruits of S. levis are used for cough and stomach disorders.

A decoction of the sedge of S. per- gracilis (Nees) Kunth (the Himalayas from Garhwal to Assam at altitudes of 1,500 m and in Bihar, West Bengal and Deccan Penninsula) is used for cough.

(Folk names not known. About 28 species are found in India.)... scleria lithosperma

A colloquial term used for any creature, or anything present in sea water causing a mild irritation of the skin, either with or without a rash. There is no single creature responsible for this stinging effect.... sea lice

A polyunsaturated fatty acid; an essential ingredient in the body’s production of prostaglandins. Present naturally in mother’s milk. The body produces GLA from linoleic acid present in food as an essential fatty acid (EFA). Vital to growth, cell structure and cardiac health. Sources: Evening Primrose oil; Sunflower seed oil, Borage and Blackcurrant. Preparations from the fermentation of rotten carrots. Helps lower blood pressure and prevent cholesterol build-up in the blood. ... gamma linolenic acid (gla)

See: PRODUCT LICENCE. ... licensing of herbal remedies

See: LIQUORICE ROOT. ... licorice root

Quaiacum officinale. ... lignum vitae

Nuphar species

Description: This plant has leaves up to 60 centimeters long with a triangular notch at the base. The shape of the leaves is somewhat variable. The plant’s yellow flowers are 2.5 centimeter across and develop into bottle-shaped fruits. The fruits are green when ripe.

Habitat and Distribution: These plants grow throughout most of North America. They are found in quiet, fresh, shallow water (never deeper than 1.8 meters).

Edible Parts: All parts of the plant are edible. The fruits contain several dark brown seeds you can parch or roast and then grind into flour. The large rootstock contains starch. Dig it out of the mud, peel off the outside, and boil the flesh. Sometimes the rootstock contains large quantities of a very bitter compound. Boiling in several changes of water may remove the bitterness.... spatterdock or yellow water lily

Liver problems appear as a sign of weakness shown by your organism after a prolonged consumption of alcohol, drugs or medicines. The main characteristic of these affections is that they are due to system intoxication and need to be repaired as quickly as possible. The liver is the organ responsible for our molecular exhaustion. All the toxins in our body go straight to the liver in order to clear the blood and detoxify the entire mechanism. When the liver is not functioning well, the main symptoms are: fatigue, stress, vascular malfunction and irradiated pain from the liver area to the entire body. Unsolved liver problems may lead to kidney failure and then to pulmonary edema or other respiratory disorder. How Tea for Liver Works A Tea for Liver is a natural supplement that can calm your localized pain and bring relief to those suffering from this affection. The main ingredients of these teas are based on a great amount of nourishing substances that can reconstruct the damaged liver cells or at least increase their action. However, these teas are not recommended for severe liver problems. If the pain is unbearable, a tea is most likely to calm it for a while and then lose its positive effect on your body. If that is the case, you should see a doctor immediately. Efficient Tea for Liver When choosing a Tea for Liver, you must keep in mind the fact that it must be safe and nourishing. You don’t need a tea that is rich in volatile oils or other substances that slow the liver cells’ action. If you are not sure about your abilities to choose the right tea, here are some suggestions: - Green Tea – has all the necessary ingredients to sustain life. Also, its action includes nourishing the coronary system and the arteries, in order to enhance the blood flow through your organs - Black Tea – more powerful than the Green Tea, the Black Tea is very effective, but more dangerous. If you’re also on your period or menopause, it’s best not to take it: it may cause abdominal acidity and discomfort. - Yerba Mate Tea – or the new green tea, how the specialists are calling it. Yerba Mate Tea can be used as a cure in order to rejuvenate the liver, but also as a treatment in cases of low blood pressure or digestive tract infections. Pay attention, though: more than 2 cups of Yerba Mate Tea per day may lead to a series of nervous system complications and even death! Teas you should avoid If you are suffering from liver problems, it’s best to avoid taking a tea with an elevated level of vitamins or acids. Although vitamins get directly to your blood and none of them reaches the liver, they have a tendency to enhance your body’s action towards other affected areas. In other words, they make your antibodies be more preoccupied with a random scratch than with your liver problems. A Tea for Liver needs to be specialized in internal affections and only attract antibodies to the most important damages. Tea for Liver contraindications When taken properly, any Tea for Liver is safe. However, high dosage may lead to a number of complications, such as diarrhea, nausea and even death. If you’re not very sure about starting a treatment based on one of these teas, talk to a specialist in order to gather more information. If there’s nothing that could interfere with your treatment, choose a Tea for Liver and enjoy its wonderful benefits responsibly!... tea for liver

A group of injuries resulting from overuse of a part of the limb. One example is TENNIS ELBOW (epicondylitis) caused by in?ammation of the tendon attaching the extensor muscles of the forearm to the humerus because of overuse of the muscles. Overuse of the shoulder muscles may cause in?ammation and pain around the joint. Perhaps the best-known example is repetitive strain injury (RSI) affecting keyboard workers and musicians: the result is pain in and weakness of the wrists and ?ngers. This has affected thousands of people and been the subject of litigation by employees against their employers. Working practices have been improved and the complaint is now being recognised at an early stage. Treatment includes PHYSIOTHERAPY, but some sufferers have been obliged to give up their work.... upper limb disorders

Tablets: formulated in accordance with traditional and modern scientific phytotherapy to provide an over-the-counter (OTC) product for the symptomatic relief of rheumatic aches and pains as in lumbago, fibrositis, backache, stiffness of joints and other systemic connective tissue disorders. Formula: Guaiacum resin BHP (1983) (anti-inflammatory) 40mg. Black Cohosh BHP (1983) (soothing and sedative) 35mg. White Willow bark BHP (1983) (analgesic, anti-inflammatory) 100mg. Extract Sarsaparilla 4:1 (antiseptic) 25mg. Extract Poplar bark 7:1 (to reduce pain) 17mg. Product Licence No 1661/5016R. (Gerard House) ... ligvites

LINOLEIC and linolenic acids.

Essential fats known as Vitamin F and which are necessary for the maintenance and repair of the membrane that encloses a cell.

Important sources: Grape, Sunflower, Evening Primrose, Black Currant and Sesame oils. Fatty acids are prone to attack by free radicals.

See: FREE RADICALS. ... linoleic

Tribulus Tea is a well known for its aphrodisiac properties and for its ability to enhance the sexual activity, even if Tribulus plant is still considered a pest in many areas of the world. Tribulus is a perennial herb that grows mainly in sunny and warm places, such as Southern Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia, with small green leaves and bright yellow flowers. Its fruits contain a fruit that is round and hard. You can recognize it by its short needles, places on the back side of the leaves and all over the roots. Tribulus Tea Properties The main ingredient of Tribulus Tea is called steroidal sapoins and it can be found mainly in the leaves. However, drinking too much Tribulus Tea may increase your body’s toxicity level and cause great damages to your health. A great amount of steroidal sapoins is hard to be flushed out of your system, so if you’re not sure about taking it and you don’t know how much steroidal sapoins your system can take, talk to a herbalist or to your doctor. Tribulus Tea Benefits Tribulus Tea is a great help when it comes to increasing the libido. However, too much of it may cause you problems. It is also used to treat infertility in men, some erectile disorders and it is said that Tribulus Tea has also anti-tumor properties. Herbalists say that this tea can also increase your muscular mass, lower your blood pressure and your cholesterol. How to make Tribulus Tea Infusion Preparing Tribulus Tea involves following a number of simple steps. Take the fresh or dried herbs (you can use any parts of tribulus plant), put them in a teapot and add boiling water. Leave it for 10 or 15 minutes and drink it hot or cold. Use a teaspoon of herbs for every cup of tea and don’t drink more than 1 or 2 cups per day, for a short time period. Do not turn drinking Tribulus Tea into a daily habit, just take it as long as you need to take advantage of its benefits and then take some time off. This way, your system will be able to flush away any trace of toxicity that this tea could leave. Tribulus Tea Side Effects The main concern when it comes to taking Tribulus Tea is that you shouldn’t drink more than one or two cups per day, for not longer than 7 days. When enhancing your libido, Tribulus Tea increases your hormone level, especially your estrogen and testosterone level. If you are a female, pay attention to hair growth and other male characterics, and if you are a male, make sure you keep an eye on how your glands are behaving. Let’s not forget that Tribulus Tea is a medical treatment and should not be used unsupervised. Before starting a Tribulus Tea Treatment, talk to a specialist. Tribulus Tea Contraindications Do not take Tribulus Tea if you are suffering from one of these conditions: stomach disorders, ulcers, breast and prostate cancers as well as other hormone-dependent problems. The same advice if you are pregnant or breastfeeding: since the active ingredient of this tea enhances your libido by increasing your hormone level, it is best to avoid taking it. If you have already taken it and you’re experiencing vomiting episodes or any other side effect, talk to your doctor as soon as possible! But, if both your health and will are strong, there’s no reason not to take Tribulus Tea. At least give it a try and enjoy the wonderful benefits of this tea!... tribulus tea libido enhancer

Nymphaea odorata

Description: These plants have large, triangular leaves that float on the water’s surface, large, fragrant flowers that are usually white, or red, and thick, fleshy rhizomes that grow in the mud.

Habitat and Distribution: Water lilies are found throughout much of the temperate and subtropical regions.

Edible Parts: The flowers, seeds, and rhizomes are edible raw or cooked. To prepare rhizomes for eating, peel off the corky rind. Eat raw, or slice thinly, allow to dry, and then grind into flour. Dry, parch, and grind the seeds into flour.

Other Uses: Use the liquid resulting from boiling the thickened root in water as a medicine for diarrhea and as a gargle for sore throats.... water lily

Usually contracted in a tropical country during foreign travel. Likely to be associated with amoebic dysentery by the organism Entamoeba histolytica from contaminated drinking water or decaying foods (uncooked vegetables), foods exposed to flies. Onset of the disease may not be apparent until years after original infection. It presents with tenderness over the liver. On palpation, liver area is tender and the diaphragm elevated.

Symptoms. Fever, sweating, constitutional upset.

Differential diagnosis: diverticulitis, Crohn’s disease, salmonella, carcinoma, bacillary dysentery.

Alte rnative s:– Blue Flag, Boneset, Burdock, Chaparral, Echinacea, Elecampane, Elder flowers, Eucalyptus, Fringe Tree, Milk Thistle, Marshmallow, Queen’s Delight, Thyme (garden), Wild Indigo, Wild Yam, Yarrow, Yellow Dock.

Tea. Combine: equal parts, Yarrow, Burdock leaves, Marshmallow leaves. 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water: infuse 10-15 minutes; 1 cup freely.

Decoction. Echinacea 2; Fringe Tree bark 1; Yellow Dock root 1. 2 teaspoons to 2 cups water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half a cup freely.

Formula: Combine: Echinacea 2; Fringe Tree bark 1; Boneset 1; Goldenseal quarter. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 2-4ml. Tinctures: 4-8ml. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules, or one-third teaspoon). In water, honey, or cup of Fenugreek tea.

Cold puree. Pass Garlic corm through food blender. Eat with a spoon as much as tolerated. Blend with adjutants: carrots, raisins, apple. ... amoebic liver abscess

Cough medicine with European mass market. Made with honey and lemon. Each 5ml contains: active ingredients: Ipecacuanha liquid extract BP 13.9mg. Liquid Glucose USP 5.08g. Menthol BP 1.32mg. Honey 0.33g. Lemon juice 1.1ml. Liqufruta Ltd, London E4 8QA. ... liqufruta

Herb with the ability to dissolve or expel stone, gravel (renal calculi). Bearberry, Buchu, Corn Silk, Couchgrass, Golden Rod, Gravel root, Horse Radish, Hydrangea, Nettles, Pellitory of the Wall, Parsley Piert, Sea Holly, Stone root, Violet leaves, Wild Carrot. ... lithagogue

For bilious headache, inactive liver, constipation.

Ingredients: Aloin gr. 1/10. Ipom resin gr. 1/10. Capsic gr. 1/50. Podoph. resin. gr. 1/10. Jalapin gr. 1/10. Olearesin. Ginger. gr. 1/70.

Dose: One or two pills at bedtime or after dinner.

Historical interest only. ... little liver pills

A primary lesion in the liver is rare. Usually invasion of carcinoma from the pancreas, gall bladder, stomach or intestines. Enlargement is rapid.

Symptoms. Jaundice. Ascites (excess fluid in the abdomen). Tenderness and enlargement of right upper abdomen; hobnail to the touch.

Alternatives: for possible relief of symptoms:–

Dandelion juice (fresh): 4 drachms (14ml) every 4 hours.

Wormwood tea freely.

Tea. Equal parts: Agrimony, Gotu Kola, Milk Thistle. Mix. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-10 minutes. 1 cup freely.

Decoction. Dandelion 2; Clivers 1; Liquorice 1; Blue Flag root half. Mix. 30g (1oz) to 500ml (1 pint) water gently simmered 20 minutes. Dose: half-1 cup 3 or more times daily.

Tablets/capsules. Blue Flag root, Goldenseal, Prickly Ash.

Formula. Dandelion 2; Milk Thistle 2; Fennel 1; Peppermint 1. Mix. Dose: Powders: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1-2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 1-2 teaspoons. 3 or more times daily.

Biostrath artichoke formula.

Practitioner. Dandelion juice (fresh) 4oz; Wahoo bark Liquid extract 10 drops. Violet leaves Liquid extract 10.5ml. Tincture Goldenseal 10 drops. Dose: 2 teaspoons in water thrice daily. To each dose add 10 drops Liquid extract Oats (avena). (W. Burns-Lingard MNIMH)

Vinchristine. Success has been reported following use of the Periwinkle plant (Vinca rosea).

Greater Celandine has been regarded of value.

Chinese Herbalism. See: CANCER: CHINESE PRESCRIPTION. Also: Pulverised t’ien chihuang (Hypericum japonicum) 1 liang, mixed with rock sugar, with boiled water, 3 times daily. Also of value for cirrhosis.

Epsom’s salt Baths (hot): to encourage elimination of impurities through the skin. Diet. Limit fats. Protein diet to increase bile flow.

Treatment by a general medical practitioner or hospital oncologist. CANCER – LYMPH VESSELS. See: HODGKIN’S DISEASE. ... cancer – liver

Epithelioma.

Causes: occupational hazards, contact with toxic metals and minerals.

A Health Department’s committee found an increased risk of developing mouth cancer from “snuff- dipping”, the practice of sucking tobacco from a small sachet, “tobacco teabags”.

Of possible value:– Fresh plant juices, Houseleek, Aloe Vera.

Teas: Chickweed, Mullein, Comfrey. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes; dose – 1 cup thrice daily, increasing to as much as well tolerated.

Condurango Liquid extract. 10-30 drops in water before meals.

Goldenseal Liquid extract. 3-5 drops in water before meals.

George Burford MD. Condurango and Goldenseal.

E.H. Ruddock MD 1925. “Several cases of cancer of the lips have been cured by Goldenseal.”

Topical. Wipe area with Liquid Extract Condurango, Goldenseal, Thuja, Poke root or fresh plant juices of above. Slippery Elm paste: powdered Slippery Elm in few drops milk or water.

Mouthwash. Equal parts: Liquid Extract Goldenseal, Liquid Extract Bayberry, Tincture Myrrh and Glycerine. Some may be swallowed as internal medicine. Comfrey, Mullein or Chickweed cream.

Diet. See: DIET – CANCER.

Treatment by a general medical practitioner or hospital oncologist. ... cancer – mouth and lips

There are remedies that may be manufactured or assembled by any person carrying on a business or practice provided he or she is occupier of the premises which are closed to exclude the general public. The person (i.e. practitioner) supplies or sells the remedy to a particular person (i.e. patient) having been requested by or on behalf of that person and in that person’s presence to use his/her own judgement as to treatment.

Anyone may administer a herbal product to a human being, except by injection. Under Section 12 of the Medicines Act 1968, any remedy may be sold or supplied which only specifies the plant and the process. The remedy shall be called by no other name. This applies to the process producing the remedy consisting only of drying, crushing and comminuting. It must be sold without any written recommendation for use.

Those who have a manufacturer’s licence, or who notify the Enforcement Authority (the Secretary of State and the Pharmaceutical Society) can sell dried, crushed or comminuted herbs which have also been subjected to certain other limited processes (tablet-making, etc) but not those herbs contained in the Schedule to the Medicines (Retail Sale or Supply of Herbal Remedies) Order 1977 (SI 1977 No.2130).

This Schedule has three parts.

Part 1 contains substances that may only be sold by retail at registered pharmacies under the supervision of a pharmacist.

Part 2 refers to remedies that can be sold only in a registered pharmacy. There is, however, an important exception, as follows.

Part 3 contains a list of considered toxic herbs. A practitioner can prescribe all remedies that a shopkeeper can sell. He may also prescribe and sell remedies on Part 3 of the Schedule which a shopkeeper cannot. Such supply must be in premises closed to the public and subject to a clear and accurate indication of maximum dosage and strength. These remedies are as follows:... licencing of herbal remedies – exemptions from

The most common cause of inflammation of the liver from a virus known as Hepatitis A. May be caught by eating shellfish contaminated by sewage or polluted water. Distinct from alcohol and drugs. The virus is ingested in the mouth, grown in the intestines and passes out of the body on defecation.

Treatment. Same as for acute infectious hepatitis. ... liver – hepatitis a

Paul Bergner describes 4 cases of patients with chronic hepatitis C successfully treated. All were given Milk Thistle, and prescribed an alternative tea: equal parts, Burdock, Dandelion, Barberry, Liquorice, Cinnamon and Fennel. Chologogue action is important in chronic liver disease. Not used in acute inflammation. All patients felt better within 2 weeks, and had liver function tests at 3-monthly intervals, showing a gradual decline in elevated values until normal or almost so. All patients became symptom-free. (Medical Herbalism, Vol 6, No 4) ... liver – hepatitis c

Necrosis. Fatal disease in which the substance of the liver is destroyed. Incidence is rare since the public has been alerted to the dangers of certain chemical toxins, fumes from synthetic glues, solvents, and poisonous fungi.

Symptoms: jaundice, delirium and convulsions.

As it is the work of the liver to neutralise incoming poisons it may suffer unfair wear and tear, alcohol and caffeine being common offenders.

Treatment for relief of symptoms only: same as for abscess of the liver.

Treatment by or in liaison with a general medical practitioner. ... liver – acute yellow atrophy

A combination of tinctures devised to stimulate a healthy reaction from the major organs of the body. For promoting body warmth in winter; mobilising resources to fight off colds, chills, or threatening infection. When the fires of life burn low, a few drops in a cup of tea has power to revive and rouse the vital force.

Ingredients: Tincture Capsicum fort 70 per cent, (general stimulant). Ess Menth Pip 20 per cent (stomach and intestines). Tincture Elder flowers 5 per cent (to promote vigorous peripheral circulation). Tincture Cola vera 2 per cent (to activate brain cells). Tincture Hawthorn (or Cactus grand) 3 per cent (to sustain the heart).

Formula: Edgar G. Jones MNIMH ... life drops

The spirit of the body concerned with life and survival. An extension of the spirit of the Creator in the human body. The intelligence and power behind the immune system.

A weak immune system, with little ability to withstand infection or injury, may be genetic in origin. May be acquired by faulty diet, chemicalised food and medicine, antibiotics, vaccines, and steroid drugs that exhaust the glandular system.

The Life Force can be sustained by a diet of wholefoods, organically grown vegetables and an absence of chemicals in medicine, food and environment. It is safe-guarded by a relaxed life-style which predisposes to a balanced personality capable of meeting the stresses of modern living with equanimity and self-possession. Only the spirit can restore. It is the work of the practitioner to aid in its work. ... life force, the.

Squaw weed. Senecio aureus L. Dried herb. Keynote: menopause.

Constituents: sesquiterpenes, pyrrolizidine alkaloids.

Action: Tonic for relaxed womb, emmenagogue, astringent, mild expectorant.

Uses: Hot flushes of the menopause with nervous instability. Absent, painful or profuse menstruation. Ovarian pain. Stone, gravel. Diarrhoea. Bleeding from mucous surfaces. Prostatitis.

Combinations: with Motherwort for suppressed menses. With Oats for menopause. Preparations. Average dose: 1-4 grams. Thrice daily.

Tea: half-2 teaspoons to cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Dose: half-1 cup. Liquid Extract. Half-1 teaspoon, in water.

Powder: 1-4 grams.

Not now used internally. ... life root

May Lily. Convallaria majalis L. German: Lilienkonvallen. French: Muguet. Spanish: Lirio de los valles. Italian: Mughetto. Keynote: heart. Part used: dried leaves. The herbalist’s “digitalis”. Practitioner use only. In official use in Russia for heart conditions where it is used in place of digitalis, but at a low dosage. Similar action on the heart as digitalis. (Martindale 27th edn., p.489) Specific action on heart muscle alone.

Constituents: cardioactive glycosides, flavonoid glycosides.

Action: increases force of the heart, regularises the beat for distension of the ventricles. Restores an irritable heart. Increases size and strength of the pulse; slows down a rapid feeble pulse; restores regular deep breathing. Is a secondary diuretic which eliminates fluid retained in the tissues (oedema), leaving no depression or depletion of potassium. Cardiac stimulant. Mild gastric tonic.

Uses: Left ventricular failure, mitral insufficiency, sense that “the chest is held in a vice”. Congestive heart failure, endocarditis, cardiac dropsy with swollen ankles, cardiac asthma, renal hypertension. Effective in painful and silent ischaemic episodes. Bradycardia.

Combines well with Motherwort and Selenicereus grandiflorus for heart disease BHP (1983). With Echinacea and Poke root for endocarditis. Never combine with Gotu Kola. (Dr John Heinerman, Texas, USA)

Preparations: Maximum dose: 150mg dried leaf. Thrice daily.

Tea: 1 teaspoon shredded leaves to each cup water gently simmered 10 minutes. One-third of a cup. Liquid Extract BPC 1934: dose: 0.3-0.6ml (5 to 10 drops).

Tincture BHP (1983): 1:5 in 40 per cent alcohol; dose – 0.5 to 1ml (8 to 15 drops).

Juice. Fresh leaves passed through a juicer. 3-5 drops thrice daily.

Contra-indicated in high blood pressure. Sale: Pharmacy Only. ... lily of the valley

Patients with amoebic dysentery may develop liver complications, usually by blood borne infection via the portal system. Small lesions coalesce to form abscesses capable of destroying liver cells.

Treatment: as for LIVER ABSCESS. ... liver – amoebic hepatitis

From a number of causes ranging from persistent infections to chemical poisoning.

Formula. Fringe Tree bark 2ml; Black root 7ml; Echinacea 4ml; Distilled water to 4oz (120ml). Dose: teaspoon every two hours. (W.H. Black MD, Tecumseh, Oklahoma, USA)

Hypertrophy. Equal parts: tinctures Goldenseal and Fringe Tree. 15-60 drops in water before meals and at bedtime.

Diet. Low fat. Artichokes, Dandelion coffee, lecithin.

Supplements. Vitamin B6. ... liver enlargement

Tilia platyphyllos Scop. Tilia cordata Mill. German: Lindenbaum. French: Tilleul. Spanish: Tilo. Italian: Tiglio. Part used: dried flowers.

Constituents: volatile oil, mucilage, tannins, phenolic acids, flavonoids.

Action: antispasmodic, diaphoretic, diuretic, sedative, hypotensive, anticoagulant, anxielytic, immune enhancer. One of the few herbs with very low tannin content. Tannins present in ordinary tea inhibit true protein digestibility thus favouring Lime, or Linden tree flowers for efficient digestion.

Uses: Headache from high blood pressure. Hardening of the arteries. Nervous excitability, hysteria, insomnia. Once had a reputation for reducing severity of epileptic attacks. Teabag or loose-leaf infusion is a substitute for caffeine drinks in coronary heart disease and arterial complaints (temporal arteritis). To aid digestion. Muscular weakness of the eyes.

For relief of early stages of influenza, colds, and fevers of childhood (Lime blossom tea drunk hot and freely). Combines well with Lemon Balm to reduce nerve tension.

Preparations: Average dose: 2-4g dried flowers or equivalent. Thrice daily.

Tea: 1 teaspoon to each cup or, 1oz to 1 pint boiling water; infuse 10 minutes; dose, 1 cup. Teabags available.

Liquid Extract: 1:1, in 25 per cent alcohol. Dose 2-4ml in water.

Home tincture: 1 part to 5 parts white wine (25 per cent) alcohol. Macerate 8 days, shake daily. Decant. 4-8 teaspoons.

An ingredient of blood pressure mixtures. ... lime flowers

Flaxseed. Linum usitatissimum L. German: Flachs. French: Lin. Italian: Lino usuale. Chinese: Hu-ma-esze. Indian: Tesimosina. Arabian: Bazen. Part used: oil from the seeds (Linseed oil), seeds.

Constituents: oil, mucilage, protein.

Action: demulcent, emollient, anti-cough, nutrient body-builder, antispasmodic (stomach and bowel). Source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, mucins and minerals. Expectorant. Bulk laxative and bowel lubricant. Rich in linoleic acid for breaking down cholesterol deposits, and to produce specific types of prostaglandins. Linseed is around six times richer in Omega-3 (the polyunsaturate present in fish oil) than most fish.

Uses: Its healing mucilage is beneficial for inflammation of the digestive and respiratory tracts, and of the gall duct. To soothe irritable mucous membranes. Spasmodic cough, bronchial asthma, bronchitis. To reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and thrombosis. Heart disease. Persistent constipation.

Preparations: Average dose: 3-6 grams or equivalent. Thrice daily.

Tea: 2-3 teaspoons to cupful boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Drink without filtering, with honey for sweetening if necessary. One-third-1 cup.

Cold tea for stomach disorders: Half a teaspoon crushed Linseed to cup water soaked overnight. Drink next morning. Heat if desired.

Tincture: 1-2 teaspoons in water.

Poultice: Crushed seeds. Half fill small muslin bag with seeds; immerse in boiling water until swollen seeds fill the bag; apply to abscesses, boils, or to relieve chest pain.

Linseed oil. An ingredient of liniments for burns and scalds.

Linusit: organically cultivated golden Linseed.

Diet: 3 tablespoons crushed Flaxseed daily ensures adequate supply of Omega-3 fatty acids, sprinkled on breakfast cereal, or as an ingredient of muesli. Also increase fluid intake.

Capsules. Emulsified Linseed oil. 1,000mg organic cold-pressed Linseed oil: 1-5 daily. (Bio-Care) LION CLEANSING HERBS. Elder leaf 8 per cent, Fennel 18 per cent, Frangula 8 per cent, Ispaghula 8 percent, Mate 8 per cent, Senna leaf 50 per cent. Non-persistent constipation. (Potter’s) ... linseed

Post phlebitis. An important fore-runner to leg ulceration without resolution of which an ulcer may reappear indefinitely. A condition due to pressure on the vascular system which causes deposition of excess fibrin in the capillaries and veins which arrests the circulation of oxygen and nutrients to the skin.

Symptoms. Those of a prelude to ulceration: eczema, pigmentation, pain.

Treatment. Aim should be (1) to reduce internal pressure on the veins and (2) to resolve deposition of fibrin.

Alternatives. Teas: Alfalfa, Nettles, Plantain. Brigham tea, Clivers, Bladderwrack.

Capsules: Evening Primrose oil (4 × 500mg) daily.

Tablets/capsules. Fucus (Bladderwrack). Motherwort. Chlorophyll, Rutin.

Formula. Equal parts: Dandelion and Burdock: add pinch or few drops Cayenne. Powders: half a teaspoon. Liquid Extracts: 2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 2-3 teaspoons. In water, thrice daily before meals. Topical. Graduated elastic stocking compression reduces tension on veins and prevents further deposition of fibrin. Juice, gels, or oils:– Aloe Vera, Houseleek, Evening Primrose, Comfrey, Chickweed, Zinc and Castor oil. ... lipodermatosclerosis

See pubic lice.... crab lice

See Whipple’s disease.... intestinal lipodystrophy

A chronic skin condition of the anogenital area. The skin is scarred and white, and the anatomy of areas such as the vaginal opening or the foreskin may become distorted. Treatment is with potent topical steroid drugs.... lichen sclerosus et atrophicus

Patches of thickened, itchy, sometimes discoloured skin, due to repeated scratching. Typical sites are the neck, wrist, elbow area, and ankles. Lichen simplex is most common in women and is often stress-related. Treatment is with oral antihistamine drugs and creams containing corticosteroid drugs, and may also involve addressing any underlying stress or anxiety.... lichen simplex

Incomplete development of one or more limbs at birth.

Limb defects are rare and may be inherited or form part of a syndrome.

In a condition called phocomelia, hands, feet, or tiny finger- or toe-buds are attached to limb stumps or grow directly from the trunk.

The sedative drug thalidomide, when taken by pregnant women, is known to have caused phocomelia in fetuses.... limb defects

Fluid Extract (F.E.). The most concentrated form in which a herbal medicine can be prepared. Stronger than a tincture. Almost all liquid extracts contain alcohol. Made by a number of methods including cold percolation, evaporation by heat, or under pressure. A popular commercial form of administering herbs as a medicine. Usually taken in water.

Strength: “One part by volume of liquid is equal to 1 part by weight of herb.” Thus, one ounce of fluid is equal to one ounce of crude material. For instance, 1oz Stone root liquid extract would have the same therapeutic potency as 1oz Stone root.

In the making of liquid extracts there is often a loss of valuable volatile constituents which is believed to reduce efficacy of a plant. For this reason tinctures are becoming popular among practitioners. Dosage of L.E.s may vary from 5 to 60 drops according to the plant. For instance, the maximum dosage of Goldenseal is 15, Black Cohosh 30, and Yarrow 60 drops. A general average would appear to be 15-60 drops, though a practitioner would be more specific. The bottle should be shaken vigorously before use to remix any natural sediment.

One millilitre = 15 drops. One teaspoonful = 5ml (5 millilitres) or 75 drops liquid medicine. For liquid medicines, always use medicine glass graduated in millilitres, or standard dropper. ... liquid extract (l. e.)

The universal herb. Sweet root. Glycyrrhiza glabra L. Shredded or powdered dried root. Long history for strength and long life in Chinese medicine. Sweet of the Pharoahs of Ancient Egypt. Carried by armies of Alexander to allay thirst and as a medicine.

Constituents: volatile oil, coumarins, chalcones, triterpenes, flavonoids.

Action: demulcent expectorant, glycogenconservor, anti-inflammatory, mild laxative. Adrenal restorative (has glycosides remarkably similar to body steroids). ACTH-like activity on adrenal cortex (Simon Mills). Female hormone properties (Science Digest). Regulates salt and water metabolism (Medicina, Moscow, 1965). Anti-stress. Anti-ulcer. Antiviral. Increases gastric juices up to 25 per cent, without altering pH. Aldosterone-like effect. Liver protective. Anti-depressive.

Use s. Adrenal insufficiency – sodium-retention properties suitable for Addison’s disease. Hypoglycaemia. Peptic ulcer – reduces gastric juice secretion. Inflamed stomach. Mouth ulcer. Duodenal ulcer. Respiratory infections: dry cough, hoarseness, bronchitis, lung troubles, catarrh. Tuberculosis (Chinese traditional). In the absence of more effective remedies of value in food poisoning. To prevent urinary tract infections.

Combinations: with Iceland Moss for wasting and cachexia to nourish and increase weight; with Lobelia for asthma and bronchitis: with Raspberry leaves for the menopause; with Comfrey for dental caries.

“Liquorice is recorded as a cancer remedy in many countries.” (J.L. Hartwell, Lloydia, 33, 97. 1970) Preparations. Average dose: 1-5 grams. Thrice daily before meals.

Decoction: half-1 teaspoon to each cup water, simmer 15 minutes. Half-1 cup.

Liquid Extract: 1:1. Dose: 2-5ml.

Sticks: for chewing.

Powdered root: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon).

Diet: Pontefract cakes – use in kitchen for adrenal failure; because of their sodium-retaining properties may be taken as sweets without added sugar. Low salt when taken.

Contra-indicated: In pregnancy, cirrhosis (liver) and in the presence of digitalis.

Note: If over-consumed may result in low potassium levels, high blood pressure and falls in renin and aldosterone. Where taken for a long period, increase intake of potassium-rich foods. May cause fluid retention of face and ankles which could be tolerated while primary disorder is being healed. ... liquorice root

An abnormal pattern of walking in which the movements of one leg (or of the hip on one side of the body) are different from those of the other. A limp in a child should always be seen within 24 hours as it may result from a hip problem that requires treatment.... limp

A type of body contour surgery in which excess fat is sucked out through a small skin incision.... lipectomy, suction

Metabolic disorders that result in abnormal amounts of lipids (fats) in the body.

The most common lipid disorders are the hyperlipidaemias, which are characterized by high levels of lipids in the blood and can cause atherosclerosis and pancreatitis.

There are also some very rare lipid disorders due solely to heredity, such as Tay–Sachs disease.... lipid disorders

A group of drugs used to treat hyperlipidaemia.

These drugs help to prevent, or slow the progression of, severe atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease.

The most commonly used types are statins and fibrates.... lipid-lowering drugs

Inflammation of the liver from virus infection. As the commonest form of liver disorder, it is often without jaundice or marked liver symptoms apart from general malaise and abdominal discomfort, ‘Gippy tummy’, ‘chill on the liver’. For feverishness, add a diaphoretic.

Treatment. Bitter herbs keep the bile fluid and flowing.

Alternatives. Teas. Agrimony, Lemon Balm, Boldo, Bogbean, Centuary, Dandelion, Hyssop, Motherwort, Wormwood, Yarrow.

Maria Treben. Equal parts: Bedstraw, Agrimony, Woodruff. 2 teaspoons to cup boiling water.

Cold tea: 2 teaspoons Barberry bark to each cup cold water. Infuse overnight. Half-1 cup freely. Tablets/capsules: Blue Flag. Dandelion. Wild Yam. Liquorice.

Formula. Equal parts: Turkey Rhubarb, Dandelion, Meadowsweet. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 1-2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 2-3 teaspoons. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). 3-4 times daily. Alfred Vogel. Dandelion, Devil’s Claw, Artichoke.

Antonius Musa, physician to Emperor Augustus Caesar records: “Wood Betony preserves the liver and bodies of men from infectious diseases”.

Preventative: Garlic. (Old Chinese)

Milk Thistle: good responses observed.

General. Bedrest until motions are normal. Enema with any one of above herb teas.

Diet. Fat-free. Fasting period from 1-3 days on fruit juices and herb teas only. Artichokes. Dandelion coffee. Lecithin.

See: COCKROACH, The.

Treatment by or in liaison with a general medical practitioner. ... liver – acute infectious hepatitis

Term referring to hepatitis where the condition is the result of acute attacks of more than six months duration.

Causes: alcohol excess, drugs (Paracetamol prescribed for those who cannot tolerate aspirin), autoimmune disease, toxaemia, environmental poisons. Clinically latent forms are common from carbon monoxide poisoning. May lead to cirrhosis.

Symptoms. Jaundice, nausea and vomiting, inertia.

Treatment. Bile must be kept moving.

Alternatives:– Decoction. Formula. Milk Thistle 2; Yellow Dock 1; Boldo 1. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup thrice daily.

Formula. Barberry bark 1; German Chamomile 2. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 2-3 teaspoons. Powders: 750mg (three capsules or half a teaspoon) thrice daily.

Tablets/capsules. Blue Flag root. Goldenseal.

Astragalus. Popular liver tonic in Chinese medicine. A liver protective in chemotherapy.

Diet. Fat-free. Dandelion coffee. Artichokes. Lecithin.

Supplements. B-vitamins, B12, Zinc.

Treatment by or in liaison with a general medical practitioner. ... liver – hepatitis, chronic

Regarded as more serious than Hepatitis A. A main symptom is a flu-like illness followed by jaundice. Transmitted sexually, blood transfusion or by infected blood as from contaminated needles used by drug abusers. It is the first human virus to be identified with cancer in man. High mortality rate.

Symptoms: nausea and vomiting, fever, dark urine, loss of appetite, skin irritation, yellow discoloration of the skin and whites of eyes, weakness and fatigue.

Treatment. Internal. Silymarin (active principle of Milk Thistle) has been used with good responses. (R.L. Devault & W. Rosenbrook, (1973), Antibiotic Journal, 26;532)

Wormwood tea. 1-2 teaspoons herb to each cup boiling water in a covered vessel. Infuse 10-15 minutes: 1 cup thrice daily.

Formula. Equal parts: Balmony, Valerian, Wild Yam. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 1-2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 1- 3 teaspoons. Powders: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon) thrice daily.

Astragalus. Popular liver protective used in Chinese medicine.

Phyllanthus amarus. Clinical trials on 78 carriers of the virus revealed that this plant effectively eliminated the virus from the body in 59 per cent of cases. Treatment consisted of 200mg dried powdered herb (whole plant minus the roots) in capsules, thrice daily for 30 days). (Thyagarajan, S.P., et al “Effect of Phyllanthus amarus on Chronic Carriers of Hepatitis B Virus.” The Lancet, Oct. 1988 2:764-766) External. Castor oil packs for two months.

Treatment by or in liaison with a general medical practitioner. ... liver – hepatitis b

A general term for fats and oils. Lipids include triglycerides (simple fats), phospholipids (important constituents of cell membranes and nerve tissue), and sterols, such as cholesterol.... lipids

A disease of the liver with hardened and fibrotic patches. Scar tissue obstructs the flow of blood through the liver, back pressure causing damage. As they wear out liver cells are not renewed.

Causes: damage from gall-stones, aftermath of infections, drugs; the commonest is alcohol. Usually made up of three factors: toxaemia (self-poisoning), poor nutrition, infective bacteria or virus.

Symptoms. Loss of appetite, dyspepsia, low grade fever, nosebleeds, lethargy, spidery blood vessels on face, muscular weakness, jaundice, loss of sex urge, redness of palms of hands, unable to lie on left side. Mechanical pressure may cause dropsy and ascites. Alcohol-induced cirrhosis correlates with low phospholipid levels.

Treatment. Bitter herbs are a daily necessity to keep the bile fluid and flowing. Among other agents, peripheral vaso-dilators are indicated. Regulate bowels.

Teas. Balmony, Milk Thistle, Boldo, Bogbean. Dandelion coffee. Barberry tea (cold water). Tablets/capsules. Calamus, Blue Flag, Wild Yam.

Formula. Wahoo 2; Wild Yam 1; Blue Flag root 1. Dose: Liquid Extracts: one 5ml teaspoon. Tinctures: two 5ml teaspoons. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Thrice daily.

Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum). Based on its silymarin contents: 70-210mg, thrice daily.

Practitioner. For pain. Tincture Gelsemium: 5-10 drops in water when necessary.

Enema. Constipation may be severe for which warm water injection should be medicated with few drops Tincture Myrrh.

Diet. High protein, high starch, low fat. Reject alcohol. Accept: Dandelion coffee, artichokes, raw onion juice, turmeric as a table spice.

Lecithin. Soy-derived lecithin to antidote alcohol-induced cirrhosis. (Study: Bronx Veterans Affairs Medical Center & Mount Sinai Hospital School of Medicine, New York City)

Supplements. B-complex, B12, C (1g), K, Magnesium, Zinc.

Treatment by or in liaison with a general medical practitioner or gastro-enterologist. ... liver – cirrhosis

Non-inflammatory simple passive congestion is usually secondary to congestive heart failure, injury, or other disorders.

Symptoms: headache, vomiting of bile, depression, furred tongue, poor appetite, lethargy, sometimes diarrhoea. Upper right abdomen tender to touch due to enlargement, pale complexion.

BHP (1983) recommends: Fringe Tree, Wahoo, Goldenseal, Blue Flag, Butternut bark, Boldo, Black root. Treatment. Treat the underlying cause, i.e. heart or chest troubles. Bitter herbs.

Alternatives:– Teas. Balmony, Bogbean, Centuary. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water infused 15 minutes. Half-1 cup 3 or more times daily.

Decoction. Dandelion and Burdock roots. Mix. One teaspoon to large cup water simmered gently 20 minutes. Cup 2-3 times daily.

Tablets/capsules. Blue Flag, Goldenseal, Wild Yam.

Formula. Dandelion 2; Wahoo 1; Meadowsweet 1; Cinnamon 1. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 1-2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 1-3 teaspoons. Powders: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon) thrice daily.

Alfred Vogel recommends: Barberry bark, Centuary, Boldo, St John’s Wort, St Mary’s Thistle, Sarsaparilla.

Epsom salt baths (hot) to promote elimination of impurities through the skin.

Diet. Fat-free. Dandelion coffee. Artichokes. Lecithin. ... liver – congestion

Destruction of normal liver cells and their replacement by fat.

Causes: obesity; environmental chemicals, toxins from fevers (influenza, etc).

Alternatives. Teas. Boldo, Clivers, Motherwort, Chaparral. One heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water infused 15 minutes. 1 cup freely.

Tablets/capsules. Seaweed and Sarsaparilla.

Formula. Fringe Tree 2; Clivers 1; Bladderwrack (fucus) 1. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 1-2 teaspoons. Powders: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon) thrice daily.

Cider Vinegar. 2-3 teaspoons to glass water. Drink freely.

Evening Primrose oil. 4 × 500mg capsules daily.

Diet. Fat-free. Dandelion coffee. Artichokes.

Supplementation. Vitamin B6. C. K. Zinc. Kelp. ... liver – fatty

As bleeding cannot be ruled out, no time should be lost seeking hospital treatment.

An immediate surgical repair may be necessary. However, there are ways in which healing can be speeded and body defences sustained. The following promote healing: Fringe Tree being most relevant. To prevent infection it should be combined with Echinacea (anti-microbial).

Alternatives. Teas. Comfrey, Horsetail, Marigold, St John’s Wort, Plantain.

Decoction. Equal parts: Fringe Tree bark; Echinacea root. 1 heaped teaspoon to each large cup water simmered gently 20 minutes. Half-1 cup or as much as tolerated, every 2 hours.

Tinctures. Equal parts: Milk Thistle, Echinacea root. 20-60 drops in water every 2 hours.

Castor oil packs. Applied over liver area. ... liver – injuries

The machine used in extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL) to disintegrate small calculi (stones).... lithotripter

A net-like, purple or blue mottling of the skin, usually on the lower legs, caused by the enlargement of blood vessels beneath the skin.

It is more common in people with vasculitis and those who suffer from excessive sensitivity to cold.

The condition is harmless, and tends to be worse in cold weather.... livedo reticularis

A diagnostic test in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the liver, usually under local anaesthesia. The main function of this test is to diagnose liver diseases. (See also biopsy.)... liver biopsy

See cirrhosis.... liver, cirrhosis of

Tests of blood chemistry that can detect changes in the way the liver is making new substances and breaking down and/or excreting old ones.

The tests can also show whether liver cells are healthy or being damaged.... liver function tests

Techniques that produce images of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and blood vessels supplying the liver, to aid the detection of disease.

Ultrasound scanning, CT scanning, and MRI are commonly used.

Radionuclide scanning may reveal cysts and tumours and show bile excretion.

X–ray techniques include cholangiography, cholecystography, and ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography).

In these procedures, a contrast medium, which is opaque to X-rays, is introduced to show abnormalities in the biliary system.

Angiography reveals the blood vessels in the liver.... liver imaging

A cancerous tumour in the liver. The tumour may be primary (originating within the liver) or secondary (having spread from elsewhere, often the stomach, pancreas, or large intestine). There are 2 main types of primary tumour: a hepatoma, which develops in the liver cells, and a cholangiocarcinoma, which arises from cells lining the bile ducts.The most common symptoms of any liver cancer are loss of appetite, weight loss, lethargy, and sometimes pain in the upper right abdomen.

The later stages of the disease are marked by jaundice and ascites (excess fluid in the abdomen).

Tumours are often detected by ultrasound scanning, and diagnosis may be confirmed by liver biopsy.

A hepatoma can sometimes be cured by complete removal.

In other cases, anticancer drugs can help to slow the progress of the disease.

It is usually not possible to cure secondary liver cancer, but anticancer drugs or, in some cases, removal of a solitary metastasis may be advised.... liver cancer

Damage to the liver caused by excessive alcohol consumption.

The longer consumption goes on, the more severe the damage.

The initial effect is the formation of fat globules between liver cells, a condition called fatty liver.

This is followed by alcoholic hepatitis, and damage then progresses to cirrhosis.

Alcohol-related liver disease increases the risk of developing liver cancer.

Liver function tests show a characteristic pattern of abnormalities, and liver biopsy may be needed to assess the severity of damage.

There is no particular treatment, but abstinence from alcohol prevents further damage.

Treatment for alcohol dependence may be required.... liver disease, alcoholic

The liver is a common site of disease. The most significant liver conditions include alcohol-related disorders (see liver disease, alcoholic), hepatitis, and liver cancer. Disorders can also result from infection. Certain viruses cause hepatitis (see hepatitis, viral). Bacteria may spread up the biliary system to the liver, causing cholangitis or liver abscess. Parasitic diseases affecting the liver include schistosomiasis, liver fluke, and hydatid disease. Certain metabolic disorders, such as haemochromatosis and Wilson’s disease, may involve the liver. Other types of liver disorder include Budd–Chiari syndrome, in which the veins draining the liver become blocked. Occasionally, defects of liver structure are present at birth. Such defects principally affect the bile ducts; one example is biliary atresia, in which the bile ducts are absent. Because the liver breaks down drugs and toxins, damage to liver cells can also be caused through overdose or drug allergy. (See also jaundice; liver failure; portal hypertension.)... liver, disorders of

Severe impairment of liver function that develops suddenly or at the final stages of a chronic liver disease. Because the liver breaks down toxins in the blood, liver failure causes the levels of the toxins to rise, affecting the functioning of other organs, particularly the brain. Liver failure may be acute or chronic. Symptoms of acute liver failure develop rapidly and include impaired memory, agitation, and confusion, followed by drowsiness. The functioning of other organs may become impaired, and the condition may lead to coma and death. Features of chronic liver failure develop much more gradually and include jaundice, itching, easy bruising and bleeding, a swollen abdomen due to accumulated fluid, red palms and, in males, gynaecomastia (enlarged breasts) and shrunken testes. Chronic liver failure may suddenly deteriorate into acute liver failure.

Acute liver failure requires urgent hospital care.

Although no treatment can repair damage that has already occurred in acute and chronic liver failure, certain measures, such as prescribing diuretic drugs to reduce abdominal swelling, may be taken to reduce the severity of symptoms.

Consumption of alcohol should cease in all cases.

The prognoses for sufferers of chronic liver failure vary depending on the cause, but some people survive for many years.

For acute liver failure, a liver transplant is necessary to increase the chances of survival.... liver failure

Replacement of a diseased liver with a healthy liver removed from a donor. Liver transplants are most successful in the treatment of advanced liver cirrhosis in people with chronic active hepatitis or primary biliary cirrhosis. People who have primary liver cancer are rarely considered for transplantation because there is a high risk that the tumour will recur.During this procedure, the liver, gallbladder, and portions of the connected blood and bile vessels are removed.

The donor organs and vessels are connected to the recipient’s vessels.

After the transplant, the recipient is monitored in an intensive care unit for a few days and remains in hospital for up to 4 weeks.... liver transplant

Small, wingless insects (PHTHIRUS PUBIS) that live in the pubic hair and feed on blood. Also called crab lice or crabs, they are usually spread by sexual contact. A louse has a flattened body, up to 2 mm across. Female lice lay eggs (nits) on the hair, where they hatch about 8 days later. On men, the lice may also be found in hair around the anus, on the legs, on the trunk, and even in facial hair. The bites sometimes cause itching. Children can become infested by transmission from parents, and the lice may live on the eyelids. An insecticide lotion kills the lice and eggs.... pubic lice

A cosmetic procedure, also called liposuction, that is used in body contour surgery.... suction lipectomy

See sterilization, female.... tubal ligation

See living will.... will, living

Sex-linked genetic disorders in which the abnormal gene or genes (the causative factors) are located on the X chromosome. Almost all affected people are males. Haemophilia, fragile X syndrome. and colour vision deficiency are examples.... x-linked disorders

Invisible light from the part of the electromagnetic spectrum immediately beyond the violet end of the visible light spectrum. Long wavelength ultraviolet light is termed , intermediate , and short.

Ultraviolet light occurs in sunlight, but much of it is absorbed by the ozone layer. The ultraviolet light (mainly ) that reaches the earth’s surface causes the tanning effects of sunlight and the production of vitamin D in the skin. It can have harmful effects, such as skin cancer (see sunlight, adverse effects of).

Ultraviolet light is sometimes used in phototherapy.

A mercury-vapour lamp (Wood’s light) can also produce ultraviolet light.

This is used to diagnose skin conditions such as tinea because it causes the infected area to fluoresce.... ultraviolet light

(ADLs) the tasks of everyday life. Basic ADLs include self-care tasks, such as bathing, dressing, eating, grooming, toileting, and moving. Instrumental ADLs include housework, shopping, managing finances, taking medication, and cooking. Inability to perform ADLs is a practical measure of disability in many disorders; problems are much more prevalent in the elderly.... activities of daily living

a rare and life-threatening complication of pregnancy that usually presents in the third trimester with symptoms of nausea, vomiting, malaise, and abdominal pain. Liver function tests are abnormal and the features of *pre-eclampsia and often *HELLP syndrome are present. *Hepatic encephalopathy, *disseminated intravascular coagulation, and renal failure may develop, and the condition is associated with a high maternal and fetal mortality. Treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach, usually in an intensive care unit.... acute fatty liver of pregnancy

(ALS) a structured and algorithm-driven method of life support for use in the severest of medical emergencies, especially cardiac arrest. Doctors, nurses, and paramedic personnel involved in ALS receive special training in the use of equipment (e.g. defibrillators and appropriate drugs). Paediatric advanced life support (PALS) is ALS for use in severe medical emergencies in children, while advanced trauma life support(ATLS) is specifically for patients who have been subjected to major trauma, such as a serious road accident. Compare basic life support.... advanced life support

a rare neurological condition in which upper limb movements occur without an individual’s awareness of or control over the actions. In extreme cases, a person will deliberately use their other arm to restrain the ‘alien limb’. It is caused by damage to connections between the cerebral hemispheres or the frontal or occipital brain areas and can occur following stroke or in dementia.... alien limb syndrome

a narrow *catheter inserted into an artery for the purposes of continuous monitoring or blood gas analysis. It is used for short periods during phases of acute or critical illness and should be clearly labelled to prevent inadvertent use as a medication conduit. The femoral, axillary, or posterior tibial arteries can be used as insertion sites.... arterial line

a device for helping people with hearing difficulties. An assistive listening device can be a stand-alone device or can work in conjunction with a *hearing aid or *cochlear implant. Assistive listening devices include *induction loop systems, amplifiers for telephones, and radio headphones to wear when listening to the radio or television. Such devices increase the loudness of the desired sound without increasing the level of any background noise; i.e. they improve the signal-to-noise ratio. See also environmental hearing aid.... assistive listening device

(banding) see oesophageal varices. See also gastric banding.... band ligation

the provision of treatment designed to maintain adequate circulation and ventilation to a patient in *cardiac arrest, without the use of drugs or specialist equipment. Compare advanced life support.... basic life support

transverse depressions on the nails appearing some weeks or months after a severe illness or chemotherapy. [J. H. S. Beau (1806–65), French physician]... beau’s lines

(DLQI) a validated questionnaire designed by Finlay in 1994 to assess the impact of skin diseases on psychological and social wellbeing. It is the most common *quality of life tool used as an endpoint in dermatology clinical trials. DLQI scores of more than 10 (indicating a severe impact on life) are required before biological treatments for psoriasis may be administered in the UK.... dermatology life quality index

(DALY) a common research measure of disease burden that accounts for both morbidity and mortality. One year lived in full health is equivalent to one DALY. Disabilities and disease states are assigned a weighting that reduces this figure, such that a year lived with disability is equivalent to less than one DALY. Some studies also use social weighting, in which years lived as a young adult receive a greater DALY weight than those lived as a young child or older adult. See also health-adjusted life expectancy; quality of life.... disability-adjusted life year

(DLA) (in Britain) a state benefit payable to help with the extra costs of looking after a child under the age of 16 with special needs. It has two components: a care component, payable at three rates to children needing help with personal care; and a mobility component, payable at two rates to those aged 3 years or over who need help with walking. The rates depend on the level of help required. DLA for adults aged 16–64 years has been replaced by the *personal independence payment (PIP). People aged over 65 years with a disability and requiring help may be eligible for the attendance allowance.... disability living allowance

(ELISA) a sensitive technique for measuring the amount of a substance. An antibody that will bind to the substance is produced; the amount of an easily measured enzyme that then binds to the antibody complex enables accurate measurement.... enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay

a fold of peritoneum separating the right and left lobes of the liver and attaching it to the diaphragm and the anterior abdominal wall as far as the umbilicus.... falciform ligament

see nonalcoholic fatty liver disease; acute fatty liver of pregnancy.... fatty liver

therapy that is the first choice for treating a particular condition; other (second-line) treatments are used only if first-line therapy has failed.... first-line treatment

a portion of the medial end of the *inguinal ligament that is reflected along the upper part of the pubic bone. It is used to hold stitches during repairs of a femoral *hernia. [A. de Gimbernat (1734–1816), Spanish surgeon and anatomist]... gimbernat’s ligament

a manoeuvre for opening the airway of an unconscious patient. With the patient lying on his or her back, the neck is extended and the chin simultaneously pulled gently upwards to pull the tongue away from the back of the pharynx. This method is often used when mouth-to-mouth ventilation is to be given and is an alternative to the *jaw thrust manoeuvre.... head tilt, chin lift

a measure developed by the World Health Organization to capture life expectancy in terms of both morbidity and mortality. The number of years lived with ill-health, weighted according to severity, are subtracted from the overall life expectancy. Previously known as disability-adjusted life expectancy, it is sometimes referred to as healthy life expectancy. See also disability-adjusted life year.... health-adjusted life expectancy

the liver of a patient with *cirrhosis, which has a knobbly appearance caused by regenerating nodules separated by bands of fibrous tissue.... hobnail liver

a linear horizontal yellowish line seen in the deep epithelium of ageing corneas. [A. C. Hudson (1875–1962), British ophthalmologist; J. Stähli (20th century), Swiss ophthalmologist]... hudson–stähli line

(Poupart’s ligament) a ligament in the groin that extends from the anterior superior iliac spine to the pubic tubercle. It is part of the *aponeurosis of the external oblique muscle of the abdomen.... inguinal ligament

fine horizontal lines seen in the angle between the diaphragm and the chest wall on a chest X-ray. It is a sign of pulmonary *oedema and therefore heart failure. [P. J. Kerley (20th century), British radiologist]... kerley b lines

normal permanent skin creases. Incisions parallel to Langer’s lines heal well and are less visible. [C. R. von E. Langer (1819–87), Austrian anatomist]... langer’s lines

the interface between medicine and psychiatry, recognized by the Royal College of Psychiatrists as a specialty of psychiatry. Liaison teams ideally consist of psychiatric nurses, psychiatrists, psychologists, pharmacists, health-care support workers, and social workers. They are usually located in general hospitals and see patients after *deliberate self-harm or when a mental illness or *delirium is suspected anywhere in the hospital, in order to diagnose and advise on treatment. They offer *psychosocial assessments, treatment plans, medication advice, and advice regarding mental health and capacity legislation, and support ward staff with the management of challenging patients. They also help develop plans for earlier discharges, provide training, and support governance structures.... liaison psychiatry

n. 1. (in pharmaceutics) a document that allows a pharmaceutical company to market a particular drug. The company must apply for a licence to the regulatory body that issues them: in the UK this is the *Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. A drug is licensed only for defined uses (indications), which the health-care professional prescribing it should adhere to. 2. (licence to practice) (in general practice) see licensing.... licence

n. a system in which the medical register shows whether a doctor is a licensed medical practitioner or holds registration only. It is the licence to practise rather than registration that signifies to patients and employers that a doctor has the legal authority to hold a post as a doctor, write prescriptions, sign death certificates, and exercise various other legal privileges. See also revalidation.... licensing

adj. describing any skin disease that resembles *lichen planus.... lichenoid

(neurodermatitis) thickened eczematous skin that develops at the site of constant rubbing in susceptible individuals. Common sites are the nape of the neck in women and the lower legs or scrotum in men. Stress may be a relevant factor.... lichen simplex chronicus

a chronic skin disease affecting the anogenital area (and rarely other sites), especially the vulva in women and foreskin in men. It is characterized by sheets of thin ivory-white skin and may be caused by chronic irritation by urine. There is a risk of *squamous cell carcinoma. In women, the condition causes intense itching, and atrophy of the labia minora often occurs. Potent topical corticosteroids are helpful for women. In men, normal penile architecture is progressively lost and a constricting band around the foreskin may appear (causing sexual dysfunction and sometimes *paraphimosis) or sometimes narrowing of the urethral meatus may occur. This sometimes necessitates circumcision.... lichen sclerosus

a rare autosomal *dominant condition characterized by hypertension associated with hypokalaemia, metabolic alkalosis, and low levels of plasma *renin and *aldosterone. The hypertension often starts in infancy and is due to excess resorption of sodium and excretion of potassium by the renal tubules. The syndrome is caused by a single genetic mutation on chromosome 16, which results in dysregulation of a sodium channel in the distal convoluted tubule. Treatment is with a low salt diet and a potassium-sparing diuretic that directly blocks the sodium channel, such as amiloride or triamterene. [G. G. Liddle (1921–89), US endocrinologist]... liddle’s syndrome

(crypts of Lieberkühn) simple tubular glands in the mucous membrane of the *intestine. In the small intestine they lie between the villi. They are lined with columnar *epithelium in which various types of secretory cells are found. In the large intestine Lieberkühn’s glands are longer and contain more mucus-secreting cells. [J. N. Lieberkühn (1711–56), German anatomist]... lieberkühn’s glands

an actuarial presentation of the ages at which a group of males and/or females are expected to die and from which mean life expectancy at any age can be estimated, based on the assumption that mortality patterns current at the time of preparation of the table will continue to apply.... life table

n. 1. a tough band of white fibrous connective tissue that links two bones together at a joint. Ligaments are inelastic but flexible; they both strengthen the joint and limit its movements to certain directions. 2. a sheet of peritoneum that supports or links together abdominal organs.... ligament

an important posterior ligament of the spine, which is thickened and yellowish in colour and joins the *laminae of adjacent vertebrae.... ligamentum flavum

n. a molecule that binds to another molecule, as in antigen–antibody and hormone–receptor bondings.... ligand

reflex changes in the eye to enable vision either in normal light after being in darkness or in very bright light after being in normal light. The pupil contracts (see pupillary reflex) and the pigment in the *rods is bleached. Compare dark adaptation.... light adaptation

n. the sensation experienced, usually after the 36th week of gestation, by many pregnant women, particularly those carrying their first child, as the presenting part of the fetus enters the pelvis. This reduces the pressure on the diaphragm and the woman notices that it is easier to breathe. Compare engagement.... lightening

see pupillary reflex.... light reflex

n. see lidocaine.... lignocaine

the degree to which a test result will change the odds that a patient has a disease. The likelihood ratio for a positive test expresses the degree to which the odds that a patient has a disease increase following a positive test. The likelihood ratio for a negative test expresses the degree to which the odds that a patient has a disease decrease following a negative test. Likelihood ratios depend on the *sensitivity and specificity of the test.... likelihood ratio

n. (in anatomy) an edge or border; for example, the limbus sclerae is the junction of the cornea and sclera of the eye.... limbus

n. (in anatomy) a border or boundary. The limen nasi is the boundary between the bony and cartilaginous parts of the nasal cavity.... limen

adj. (in physiology) relating to the threshold of perception.... liminal

n. abnormal hunger or an excessive desire for food.... limosis

n. see linear accelerator.... linac

n. see DPP-IV inhibitors.... linagliptin

see haemangioblastoma. [A. Lindau (1892–1958), Swedish pathologist]... lindau’s tumour

n. (pl. lineae) (in anatomy) a line, narrow streak, or stripe. The linea alba is a tendinous line, extending from the xiphoid process to the pubic symphysis, where the flat abdominal muscles are attached.... linea

n. a member of a class of antibiotics – the oxazolidinones – that are active against Gram-positive bacteria, including *MRSA. Linezolid is used to treat pneumonia and soft-tissue infections caused by these organisms when they have not responded to other antibacterials. The most common side-effects are headache, a metallic taste in the mouth, diarrhoea, and nausea.... linezolid

n. 1. the thin forward-projecting portion of the anterior lobe of the cerebellum, in the midline. 2. a small section of the upper lobe of the left lung, extending downwards in front of the heart. 3. a bony spur on the inside of the mandible, above the angle of the jaw. 4. a small backward-pointing projection on each side of the sphenoid bone.... lingula

n. (in dentistry) a protective layer placed in a prepared tooth cavity before a *filling is inserted.... lining

(leather-bottle stomach) diffuse infiltration of the stomach submucosa with malignant tissue, producing rigidity, narrowing, and reduced luminal capacity. Endoscopic diagnosis may be difficult (typically the stomach does not distend during air insufflation at gastroscopy) but radiological changes are more marked.... linitis plastica

n. a radiological examination of any tube or line placed into any organ. A radiopaque contrast material is injected through the line and the flow is observed with X-rays, to look for any leakage or blockage of the tubing or the organ it is placed in.... linogram

see essential fatty acid.... linolenic acid

an irritant contact *dermatitis caused by saliva produced during habitual licking of the lips and the surrounding skin in an attempt to moisten dry chapped lips. The mainstay of treatment is regular frequent application of a moisturizing agent.... lip licker’s dermatitis

n. an immune reaction to insulin injections close to the site of injection, resulting in localized hollowing of the fat tissue, which may be unsightly. Formerly common with bovine insulin, it is now very rarely seen with human insulins and insulin analogues.... lipoatrophy

n. multiple congenital defects affecting lipid (fat) metabolism, cartilage and bone, skin, and the major internal organs, leading to learning disabilities, dwarfism, and deformities of the bones.... lipochondrodystrophy

n. a pigment that is soluble in fat and therefore gives colour to fatty materials. An example is *carotene, the pigment responsible for the colour of egg yolks and butter.... lipochrome

n. a chronic progressive condition involving abnormal fat-cell accumulation in the buttocks and lower limbs, which causes fluid retention, pain, reduced mobility, and psychological problems.... lipoedema

n. a brownish pigment staining with certain fat stains. It is most common in the cells of heart muscle, nerves, and liver and is normally contained within the *lysosomes.... lipofuscin

n. the process by which glucose and other substances, derived from carbohydrate in the diet, are converted to *fatty acids in the body.... lipogenesis

n. an abnormality of lipid metabolism causing deposition of yellowish nodules in the skin.... lipogranulomatosis

n. a local build-up of fat tissue at the site of repeated insulin injections, which tends to alter the rate of absorption of further injections. It is caused by the local action of the insulin, which (among other things) promotes fat storage.... lipohypertrophy

a sulphur-containing compound that can be readily interconverted to and from its reduced form, dihydrolipoic acid. Lipoic acid functions in carbohydrate metabolism as one of the *coenzymes in the oxidative decarboxylation of pyruvate and other ?-keto acids.... lipoic acid

n. see lipidosis.... lipoidosis

n. 1. the presence of an abnormally large amount of fat occurring in the tissues. 2. the presence of multiple *lipomas.... lipomatosis

n. a complex molecule containing both a lipid component and a polysaccharide component. Lipopolysaccharides are constituents of the cell walls of Gram-negative bacteria and are important in determining the antigenic properties of these bacteria.... lipopolysaccharide

an enzyme that catalyses the hydrolysis of triglycerides in *chylomicrons and *very low-density lipoproteins to free fatty acids, which are absorbed from the capillaries into local tissues. Deficiency of this enzyme results in severe *hypertriglyceridaemia.... lipoprotein lipase

n. a microscopic spherical membrane-enclosed vesicle or sac (20–30 nm in diameter) made artificially in the laboratory by the addition of an aqueous solution to a phospholipid gel. The membrane resembles a cell membrane and the whole vesicle is similar to a cell organelle. Liposomes can be incorporated into living cells and may be used to transport relatively toxic drugs into cancer cells, where they can exert their maximum effects. The cancerous organ is at a higher temperature than normal body temperature, so that when the liposome passes through its blood vessels the membrane melts and the drug (e.g. *doxorubicin) is released. Liposomes are also undergoing clinical trials as vehicles in *gene therapy for cystic fibrosis.... liposome

n. a hormone-like substance from the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates the transfer of fat from the body stores to the bloodstream.... lipotrophin

adj. describing a substance that promotes the transport of fatty acids from the liver to the tissues or accelerates the utilization of fat in the liver itself. An example of such a substance is the amino acid methionine.... lipotropic

n. overgrowth of bone around a joint as seen on X-ray. This is a characteristic sign of degenerative joint disease and occurs most frequently and prominently in osteoarthritis. See also osteophyte.... lipping

a scoring system used for newborn babies who may be withdrawing from maternal opioids or other (usually nonprescription) drugs. See neonatal abstinence syndrome.... lipsitz score

n. the presence of fat or oil droplets in the urine.... lipuria

(LBC) a technique used for analysing *cervical smears taken for *cervical screening. The specimen is collected using a brush or spatula and then mixed with a liquid preservative fluid. In the laboratory, this fluid is spun and filtered to remove blood and other extraneous material, leaving a thin layer of cells that is spread on a microscope slide and examined. LBC yields specimens that are easier to screen and give more accurate results than those obtained by the traditional Pap test.... liquid-based cytology

n. see GLP-1 receptor agonists.... liraglutide

pigmented *hamartomas of the iris of the eye seen in *neurofibromatosis type I. [K. Lisch (1907–99), Austrian ophthalmologist]... lisch nodules

(smooth brain) n. a condition in which the brain develops abnormally – it has no grooves on the outside, large ventricles, and generally is smaller than it should be. Lissencephaly causes severe learning disabilities and *failure to thrive. See also Miller–Dieker syndrome.... lissencephaly

n. see hyperuricaemia.... lithaemia

n. surgical removal of a stone from the kidney. See nephrolithotomy; pyelolithotomy.... lithonephrotomy

n. a fetus that has died in the uterus or abdominal cavity and has become calcified.... lithopaedion

n. a surgical instrument used for crushing a stone in the bladder. See litholapaxy.... lithotrite

adj. see autotrophic.... lithotrophic

n. the passage of small stones or *gravel in the urine.... lithuresis

an unusual hernia containing a Meckel’s *diverticulum. [A. Littre (1658–1726), French anatomist]... littre’s hernia

see asynclitism. [K. C. T. Litzmann (1815–90), German obstetrician]... litzmann’s obliquity

n. a discoloured area or spot on the skin, often caused by local congestion of the circulation.... livedo

adj. denoting a bluish colour of the skin, such as that produced locally by a bruise or of the general complexion in *cyanosis.... livid

n. see hypostasis.... lividity

n. see GLP-1 receptor agonists.... lixisenatide

(NAFLD) a spectrum of conditions affecting the liver in the absence of excessive alcohol consumption. NAFLD is a common cause of referral for patients with abnormal liver function tests. Fatty liver is excessive fat accumulation in the liver seen as an area of brightness within the liver on ultrasound examination. Fatty liver does not lead to irreversible liver damage in the majority of cases. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is inflammation of the liver associated with accumulation of fat. It is often linked to insulin resistance, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and *metabolic syndrome. Treatment involves dietary modification, regular physical exercise, weight reduction, and management of underlying conditions (e.g. diabetes, hypertension, and hiperlipidaemia). NASH may predispose to *cirrhosis and may ultimately require liver transplantation.... nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

(PALS) (in England) a confidential service provided by each NHS trust to support patients, their families, and carers by giving advice and information in response to questions and concerns about local NHS services. See also advocacy.... patient advice and liaison service

peripherally inserted central catheter: a long flexible catheter usually inserted via a vein in the arm and the subclavian vein into the superior vena cava. It is used when prolonged intravenous access is required; for example, for infusional chemotherapy and *total parenteral nutrition (TPN).... picc line

see photodermatosis.... polymorphous light eruption

see inguinal ligament. [F. Poupart (1661–1708), French anatomist]... poupart’s ligament

the means by which information about health events from several different sources (e.g. hospital attendance, vaccination, and consultation with general practitioners) are all related to a specific individual in a common file or more usually a computerized record. This contrasts with data in which events only are recorded (see Hospital Episode Statistics) and two individuals treated for the same disease cannot be distinguished from one individual treated on two separate occasions.... record linkage

a surgical technique to correct vaginal *vault prolapse after hysterectomy. A stitch is made from the apex of the vagina to the sacrospinous ligament (which supports the vagina) approximately 2 cm medial to the ischial spine. The main complication is bleeding and formation of a haematoma.... sacrospinous ligament fixation

the religious or moral belief that all life – and especially all human life – is intrinsically valuable and so should never be deliberately harmed or destroyed. Many of those who hold such a view will have ethical objections to *euthanasia, *abortion, and *embryo research. The phrase may also be used to denote that the value of life should always be respected, whatever the perceived quality of that life. See also humanity; personhood.... sanctity of life

adj. describing a condition that runs a predicted course and is unaffected by any treatment.... self-limiting

a series of head and body movements used to move microscopic debris from the posterior *semicircular canal in the inner ear. It is used in the treatment of *benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.... semont liberatory manoeuvre

adj. describing characteristics that are expressed differently in the two sexes but are controlled by genes not on the sex chromosomes, e.g. baldness in men.... sex-limited

adj. describing genes (or the characteristics controlled by them) that are carried on the sex chromosomes, usually the *X chromosome. The genes for certain disorders, such as *haemophilia, are carried on the X chromosome; these genes and disorders are described as X-linked. Since most of these sex-linked genes are *recessive, men are more likely to have the diseases since they have only one X chromosome; women can carry the genes but their harmful effects are usually masked by the dominant (normal) alleles on their second X chromosome.... sex-linked

(SPA) a surgical procedure to identify and occlude the sphenopalatine artery in the nose using endoscopic surgery. It is used in the treatment of severe epistaxis (nosebleed).... sphenopalatine artery ligation

a ligament that serves to support or suspend an organ in position. For example, the suspensory ligament of the lens is a fibrous structure attached to the ciliary processes (see ciliary body) by means of which the lens of the eye is held in position.... suspensory ligament

(VLDL) a *lipoprotein that is the precursor of *low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Containing triglycerides and cholesterol, it is produced in the liver and circulates in the bloodstream, where its triglycerides are hydrolysed to free fatty acids by *lipoprotein lipase. The remaining lipoprotein becomes progressively denser and richer in cholesterol to form LDL.... very low-density lipoprotein

an inherited syndrome in which *haemangioblastomas, particularly in the cerebellum, are associated with renal and pancreatic cysts, *angiomas in the retina (causing blindness), cancer of the kidney cells, and red birthmarks. [E. von Hippel (1867–1939), German ophthalmologist; A. Lindau (1892–1958), Swedish pathologist]... von hippel–lindau disease

ultraviolet light filtered through a nickel oxide prism, which causes fluorescence in skin and hair affected by some fungal and bacterial infections and is therefore useful in diagnosis. For example, *erythrasma fluoresces coral pink, while scalp ringworm caused by Microsporum species fluoresces green. [R. W. Wood (1868–1955), US physician]... wood’s light

see sex-linked.... x-linked disease

(XLP syndrome, Duncan’s disease) a hereditary disorder of the immune system caused by a defective *sex-linked gene carried on an *X chromosome. There is uncontrolled proliferation of B-*lymphocytes in response to infection by the Epstein-Barr virus, which can lead to fulminating hepatitis or lymphoma. This condition is due to a defect in a gene, SAP, which encodes a signalling molecule found in the cytoplasm of cells.... x-linked lymphoproliferative syndrome

(YLL, years of potential life lost, YPLL, potential years of life lost, PYLL) a measure of premature mortality that calculates the number of additional years a person could have expected to live, on average, had they not died prematurely. A reference age intended to represent the total number of years a person can expect to live, on average, is required for the calculation: this is often given in square brackets after YLL. Negative values for YLL are not used: if somebody survives longer than the reference age, their YLL is calculated as 0. YLLs for different diseases can be compared across populations to give an indication of which diseases carry the greatest burden of premature mortality.... years of life lost

Bursera glabrifolia

FAMILY: Burseraceae

SYNONYMS: B. delpechiana, Mexican linaloe, ‘copallimon’.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A tall, bushy tropical shrub or tree, with a smooth bark and bearing fleshy fruit. The wood is only used for distillation purposes when the tree is twenty or thirty years old. The oil is partially a pathological product since its production is stimulated by lacerating the trunk – which apparently must be wounded on the night of the full moon for the tree to produce any oil!

DISTRIBUTION: Native to Central and South America, especially Mexico. It is cultivated in the Far East particularly in India (Mysore). The wood oil is mainly produced in Mexico, the seed (and husk) oil in India.

OTHER SPECIES: There are several species which are all known simply as linaloe: see Botanical Classification section. West Indian elemi (B. simaruba) is a close relative, as are myrrh and frankincense.

HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: The seed oil is known in India as ‘Indian lavender oil’ and used chiefly as a local perfume ingredient and in soaps by the cosmetics industry of Mysore state. It is not much found outside India. In Mexico the wood oil is used in a similar fashion to rosewood, which contains similar constituents.

ACTIONS: Anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, bactericidal, deodorant, gentle tonic.

EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam distillation from the 1. Wood, and 2. Seed and husk. (An essential oil is also occasionally produced from the leaves and twigs.)

CHARACTERISTICS: 1. A pale yellow liquid with a sweet-woody, floral scent, similar to rosewood. It blends well with rose, sandalwood, cedarwood, rosewood, frankincense, floral and woody fragrances. 2. A colourless liquid with a terpene-like odour, harsher than the wood oil.

PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: 1. Mainly linalol, some linalyl acetate. 2. Mainly linalyl acetate, some linalol.

SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitizing.

AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE

Skin care: Acne, cuts, dermatitis, wounds, etc., all skin types.

Nervous system: Nervous tension and stressrelated conditions.

OTHER USES: The wood oil is used in soaps, toiletries and perfumes. It is also used for the production of natural linalol, although this is increasingly being replaced by synthetic linalol.... linaloe

a narrow projection from the top of a leaf sheath in grasses.... ligulet

of leaves, narrow and more or less parallel-sided.... linear

causing lipolysis, the chemical disintegration or splitting of fats.... lipolytic

Litsea cubeba

FAMILY: Lauraceae

SYNONYMS: L. citrata, ‘may chang’, exotic verbena, tropical verbena.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A small tropical tree with fragrant, lemongrass-scented leaves and flowers. The small fruits are shaped like peppers, from which the name ‘cubeba’ derives.

DISTRIBUTION: Native to east Asia, especially China; cultivated in Taiwan and japan. China is the main producer of the oil, much of which is used by the Chinese themselves.

OTHER SPECIES: Despite its folk names, this plant is not related to lemon verbena (Aloysia triphylla). It belongs to the same family as the laurel tree, rosewood and cinnamon.

HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: It is planted as a wind breaker in China.

ACTIONS: Antiseptic, deodorant, digestive, disinfectant, insecticidal, stimulant, stomachic.

EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam distillation from the fruits.

CHARACTERISTICS: A pale yellow mobile liquid with an intense, lemony, fresh-fruity odour (sweeter than lemongrass but less tenacious).

PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Mainly citral (up to 85 per cent).

SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant, possible sensitization in some individuals.

AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE

Skin care: Acne, dermatitis, excessive perspiration, greasy skin, insect repellent, spots.

Digestive system: Flatulence, indigestion.

Immune system: Epidemics, sanitation.

OTHER USES: Extensively used as a fragrance component in air fresheners, soaps, deodorants, colognes, toiletries and perfumes. Employed in flavouring work, especially fruit products. It serves as a source of natural ‘citral’ all over the world.... litsea cubeba