Purulent Health Dictionary

Buch.-Ham.

Synonym: A. lakoocha Roxb.

Family: Moraceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Uttar Pradesh, Bengal, Khasi Hills and western Ghats.

English: Monkey Jack.

Ayurvedic: Lakuch, Kshudra Panas, Granthiphala, Pitanaasha.

Siddha/Tamil: Ilangu, Irapala, Ottipilu (Tamil).

Folk: Badhar.

Action: Bark—when applied externally, draws out purulent matter; heals boils, cracked skin and pimples. Seeds—purgative, haemagglutinating. Stems— vermifuge.

The stembark contains oxyresvera- trol, used for tapeworm.

A lectin, artocarpin, isolated from seeds, precipitates several galactoman- nans. It agglutinates rat lymphocytes and mouse ascites cells.

Dosage: Fruit—5-10 ml juice. (CCRAS.)... artocarpus lacucha

Roth.

Synonym: C. decidua Edgew.

Family: Capparidaceae.

Habitat: Rajasthan, Punjab and Sindh; southward to Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

English: Caper Berry.

Ayurvedic: Karira, Krakar, Apatra, Granthila, Marubhoo-ruuha, Niguudhapatra, Karila.

Unani: Kabar, Kabar-ul-Hind, Kabar-e-Hindi; Tenti.

Siddha/Tamil: Chhengan.

Folk: Tenti.

Action: Anti-inflammatory (used for enlarged cervical glands, sciatica, rheumatoid arthritis; externally on swellings, skin eruptions, ringworm). Fruits and seeds—used for urinary purulent discharges and dysentery. Flowers and seeds— antimicrobial. The fruit is used as a pickle.

The root bark contains spermidine alkaloids, used for inflammations, asthma and gout.

Activity of the seed volatiles against vibro cholerae has been recorded.

Aqueous extract of the plant exhibits anthelmintic activity; seeds contain antibacterial principles—glucocapparin; isothiocynate aglycone of glucocap- parin.

The blanched fruits, when fed to rats at 10% dietary fibre level, showed a significant hypocholesterolaemic effect, which is attributed to its hemicel- lose content.

Pickled fruits are use for destroying intestinal worms.

Dosage: Leaf, root—50-125 mg (CCRAS.)

Folk: Hains, Kanthaar.

Action: Antiseptic, antipyretic. Used for eczema and scabies.

Leaves contain taraxasterol, alpha- and beta-amyrin and beta-sitosterol, erythrodiol and betulin.

Dosage: Root—5-10 g powder. (CCRAS.)... capparis aphylla

Also known as varicella. An acute, contagious disease predominantly of children – although it may occur at any age – characterised by fever and an eruption on the skin. The name, chickenpox, is said to be derived from the resemblance of the eruption to boiled chickpeas.

Causes The disease occurs in epidemics affecting especially children under the age of ten years. It is due to the varicella zoster virus, and the condition is an extremely infectious one from child to child. Although an attack confers life-long immunity, the virus may lie dormant and manifest itself in adult life as HERPES ZOSTER or shingles.

Symptoms There is an incubation period of 14–21 days after infection, and then the child becomes feverish or has a slight shivering, or may feel more severely ill with vomiting and pains in the back and legs. Almost at the same time, an eruption consisting of red pimples which quickly change into vesicles ?lled with clear ?uid appears on the back and chest, sometimes about the forehead, and less frequently on the limbs. These vesicles appear over several days and during the second day may show a change of their contents to turbid, purulent ?uid. Within a day or two they burst, or, at all events, shrivel up and become covered with brownish crusts. The small crusts have all dried up and fallen o? in little more than a week and recovery is almost always complete.

Treatment The fever can be reduced with paracetamol and the itching soothed with CALAMINE lotion. If the child has an immune disorder, is suffering from a major complication such as pneumonia, or is very unwell, an antiviral drug (aciclovir) can be used. It is likely to be e?ective only at an early stage. A vaccine is available in many parts of the world but is not used in the UK; the argument against its use is that it may delay chickenpox until adult life when the disease tends to be much more severe.... chickenpox

Abnormal emission or emissions from any part of the body. It usually applies to purulent material – for example, the septic material which comes away from an infected ear, or nose

– but can be the result of excess secretions from the mucous linings of the vagina or rectum.... discharge

Wall.

Family: Orchidaceae.

Habitat: Throughout greater part of India, mostly in the plains.

Ayurvedic: Amrita, Sudhaa-muuli, Munjaataka (Salep var.) Saalam- misri (substitute). Munjaataka and Saalam-misri have been equated with Orchis latifolia Linn. of the same family.

Action: Tubers—used in stamatitis, purulent cough and as a cardiac and nervine tonic. Also used in scrofulous diseases and dyscrasia. Used a substitute for Salep.... eulophia campestris

Purulent discharge from the ear... otopyorrhea

Sited within some of the bones of the SKULL, these are spaces ?lled with air and lined by MUCOUS MEMBRANE. The sinuses comprise frontal and maxillary (a pair of each), ethmoidal (a group of small spaces), and two sphenoid sinuses. They drain into the nasal cavities (see NOSE). When a person has an upper respiratory infection, the sinuses sometimes become infected: this causes pain, purulent discharge from the nose and obstruction of the nasal passages (see SINUSITIS). Generally all that is required is a decongestant and antibiotic but, occasionally, infection may spread to produce a cerebral abscess or cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (see BRAIN, DISEASES OF).... paranasal sinus

Kaempferia rotunda

Zingiberaceae

San: Bhumicampaka, Bhucampaka, Hallakah

Hin: Abhuyicampa

Mal: Chengazhuneerkizhengu, Chengazhuneerkuva

Tam: Nerppicin

Kan: Nelasampiga

Tel: Bhucampakamu, Kondakaluva Mar: Bhuichampa

Importance: The tubers of Indian crocus are widely used as a local application for tumours, swellings and wounds. They are also given in gastric complaints. They help to remove blood clots and other purulent matter in the body. The juice of the tubers is given in dropsical affections of hands and feet, and of effusions in joints. The juice causes salivation and vomiting. In Ayurveda, the improvement formulations using the herb are Chyavanaprasam, Asokarishtam, Baladthatryaditailam, Kalyanakaghritham, etc. The drug “HALLAKAM” prepared from this is in popular use in the form of powder or as an ointment application to wounds and bruises to reduce swellings. It also improves complexion and cures burning sensation, mental disorders and insomnia (NRF, 1998; Sivarajan et al, 1994).

Distribution: The plant is distributed in the tropics and sub-tropics of Asia and Africa. The plant grows wild in shaded areas which are wet or humid, especially in forests in South India. It grows in gardens and is known for their beautiful flowers and foliage. It is also cultivated as an intercrop with other commercial crops.

Botany: Kaempferia rotunda Linn. belonging to the family Zingiberaceae is an aromatic herb with tuberous root-stalk and very short stem. Leaves are simple, few, erect, oblong or ovate- lanceolate, acuminate, 30cm long, 10cm wide, variegated green above and tinged with purple below. Flowers are fragrant, white, tip purple or lilac arranged in crowded spikes opening successively. The plant produces a subglobose tuberous rhizome from which many roots bearing small oblong or rounded tubers arise (Warrier et al, 1995).

Agrotechnology: The plant is a tropical one adapted for tropical climate. Rich loamy soil having good drainage is ideal for the plant. Laterite soil with heavy organic manure application is also well suited. Planting is done in May-June with the receipt of 4 or 5 pre-monsoon showers. The seed rate recommended is 1500-2000kg rhizomes/ha. Whole or split rhizome with one healthy sprout is the planting material. Well developed healthy and disease free rhizomes with the attached root tubers are selected for planting. Rhizomes can be stored in cool dry place or pits dug under shade plastered with mud or cowdung. The field is ploughed to a fine tilth, mixed with organic manure at 10-15t/ha. Seed beds are prepared at a size of 1m breadth and convenient length. Pits are made at 20cm spacing in which 5cm long pieces of rhizomes are planted. Pits are covered with organic manure. They are then covered with rotten straw or leaves. Apply FYM or compost as basal dose at 20 t/ha either by broadcasting and ploughing or by covering the seed in pits after planting. Apply fertilisers at the rate of 50:50:50 kg N, P2O5 and K2O/ha at the time of first and second weeding. After planting, mulch the beds with dry or green leaves at 15 t/ha. During heavy rainy months, leaf rot disease occurs which can be controlled by drenching 1% Bordeaux mixture. The crop can be harvested after 7 months maturity. Drying up of the leaves is the indication of maturity. Harvest the crop carefully without cutting the rhizome, remove dried leaves and roots. Wash the rhizome in water. They are stored in moisture-proof sheds. Prolonged storage may cause insect and fungus attack (Prasad et al, 1997).

Properties and activity: The tubers contain crotepoxide and -sitosterol. Tuber contains essential oil which give a compound with melting point 149oC which yielded benzoic acid on hydrolysis.

The tubers are acrid, thermogenic aromatic, stomachic, antiinflammatory, sialagogue, emetic, antitumour and vulnerary.... indian crocus

Vahl.

Synonym: S. indica C. B. Clarke.

Family: Verbenaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in gardens.

English: Brazilian Tea, Bastard Vervain, Aaron's Rod.

Ayurvedic: Kariyartharani.

Siddha/Tamil: Simainayuruvi, Simainaivirunji, Naioringi.

Folk: Chirchiti, Marang Chirchiti.

Action: Febrifuge, antiinflammatory. In Brazil, the plant is externally used for purulent ulcers and internally for rheumatic inflammations and fever. An infusion of the bark is used against diarrhoea and dysentery.

The leaves contain friedelin, stig- masterol, ursolic acid, hispidulin, scu- tellarein, choline, phenolic acids, chlo- rogenic acid and flavonoids—6-hy- droxyluteolol-7-glucuronide, luteolol- 7-glucuronide and apigenol-7-glucu- ronide. Stems and leaves gave an iri- doid glycoside, tarphetalin (ipolami- ide). The leaves are reported to be used for colds and cough.... stachytarpheta jamaicensis

An eye infection causing a purulent conjunctivitis and which can lead to blindness unless treated. Caused by Chlamydia trachomatis serotypes A, B and C.... trachoma

n. widening of the bronchi or their branches. It may be congenital or it may result from infection (especially whooping cough or measles in childhood) or from obstruction, either by an inhaled foreign body or by a growth (including cancer). Pus may form in the widened bronchus so that the patient coughs up purulent sputum, which may contain blood. Diagnosis is on the clinical symptoms and by X-ray and CT scan. Treatment consists of antibiotic drugs to control the infection and physiotherapy to drain the sputum. Surgery may be used if only a few segments of the bronchi are affected.... bronchiectasis

n. a discharge of purulent mucus from the penis or vagina resulting from chronic *gonorrhoea.... gleet

(anákhré) n. a condition following an infection with *yaws in which the nasal processes of the upper jaw bone thicken (see hyperostosis) to form two large bony swellings, about 7 cm in diameter, on either side of the nose. The swellings not only obstruct the nostrils but also interfere with the field of vision. Initial symptoms include persistent headache and a bloody purulent discharge from the nose. Early cases can be treated with injections of penicillin; otherwise surgical removal of the growths is necessary. Goundou occurs in central Africa and South America.... goundou

In?ammation affecting the membranes of the BRAIN or SPINAL CORD, or usually both. Meningitis may be caused by BACTERIA, viruses (see VIRUS), fungi, malignant cells or blood (after SUBARACHNOID HAEMORRHAGE). The term is, however, usually restricted to in?ammation due to a bacterium or virus. Viral meningitis is normally a mild, self-limiting infection of a few days’ duration; it is the most common cause of meningitis but usually results in complete recovery and requires no speci?c treatment. Usually a less serious infection than the bacterial variety, it does, however, rarely cause associated ENCEPHALITIS, which is a potentially dangerous illness. A range of viruses can cause meningitis, including: ENTEROVIRUSES; those causing MUMPS, INFLUENZA and HERPES SIMPLEX; and HIV.

Bacterial meningitis is life-threatening: in the United Kingdom, 5–10 per cent of children who contract the disease may die. Most cases of acute bacterial meningitis in the UK are caused by two bacteria: Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus), and Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus); other bacteria include Haemophilus in?uenzae (a common cause until virtually wiped out by immunisation), Escherichia coli, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (see TUBERCULOSIS), Treponema pallidum (see SYPHILIS) and Staphylococci spp. Of the bacterial infections, meningococcal group B is the type that causes a large number of cases in the UK, while group A is less common.

Bacterial meningitis may occur by spread from nearby infected foci such as the nasopharynx, middle ear, mastoid and sinuses (see EAR, DISEASES OF). Direct infection may be the result of penetrating injuries of the skull from accidents or gunshot wounds. Meningitis may also be a complication of neurosurgery despite careful aseptic precautions. Immuno-compromised patients – those with AIDS or on CYTOTOXIC drugs – are vulnerable to infections.

Spread to contacts may occur in schools and similar communities. Many people harbour the meningococcus without developing meningitis. In recent years small clusters of cases, mainly in schoolchildren and young people at college, have occurred in Britain.

Symptoms include malaise accompanied by fever, severe headache, PHOTOPHOBIA, vomiting, irritability, rigors, drowsiness and neurological disturbances. Neck sti?ness and a positive KERNIG’S SIGN appearing within a few hours of infection are key diagnostic signs. Meningococcal and pneumococcal meningitis may co-exist with SEPTICAEMIA, a much more serious condition in terms of death rate or organ damage and which constitutes a grave emergency demanding rapid treatment.

Diagnosis and treatment are urgent and, if bacterial meningitis is suspected, antibiotic treatment should be started even before laboratory con?rmation of the infection. Analysis of the CEREBROSPINAL FLUID (CSF) by means of a LUMBAR PUNCTURE is an essential step in diagnosis, except in patients for whom the test would be dangerous as they have signs of raised intracranial pressure. The CSF is clear or turbid in viral meningitis, turbid or viscous in tuberculous infection and turbulent or purulent when meningococci or staphylococci are the infective agents. Cell counts and biochemical make-up of the CSF are other diagnostic pointers. Serological tests are done to identify possible syphilitic infection, which is now rare in Britain.

Patients with suspected meningitis should be admitted to hospital quickly. General pracitioners are encouraged to give a dose of intramuscular penicillin before sending the child to hospital. Treatment in hospital is usually with a cephalosporin, such as ceftazidime or ceftriaxone. Once the sensitivity of the organism is known as a result of laboratory studies on CSF and blood, this may be changed to penicillin or, in the case of H. in?uenzae, to amoxicillin. Local infections such as SINUSITIS or middle-ear infection require treatment, and appropriate surgery for skull fractures or meningeal tears should be carried out as necessary. Tuberculous meningitis is treated for at least nine months with anti-tuberculous drugs (see TUBERCULOSIS). If bacterial meningitis causes CONVULSIONS, these can be controlled with diazepam (see TRANQUILLISERS; BENZODIAZEPINES) and ANALGESICS will be required for the severe headache.

Coexisting septicaemia may require full intensive care with close attention to intravenous ?uid and electrolyte balance, control of blood clotting and blood pressure.

Treatment of close contacts such as family, school friends, medical and nursing sta? is recommended if the patient has H. in?uenzae or N. meningitidis: RIFAMPICIN provides e?ective prophylaxis. Contacts of patients with pneumococcal infection do not need preventive treatment. Vaccines for meningococcal meningitis may be given to family members in small epidemics and to any contacts who are especially at risk such as infants, the elderly and immuno-compromised individuals.

The outlook for a patient with bacterial meningitis depends upon age – the young and old are vulnerable; speed of onset – sudden onset worsens the prognosis; and how quickly treatment is started – hence the urgency of diagnosis and admission to hospital. Recent research has shown that children who suffer meningitis in their ?rst year of life are ten times more likely to develop moderate or severe disability by the age of ?ve than contemporaries who have not been infected. (See British Medical Journal, 8 September 2001, page 523.)

Prevention One type of bacterial meningitis, that caused by Haemophilus, has been largely controlled by IMMUNISATION; meningococcal C vaccine has largely prevented this type of the disease in the UK. So far, no vaccine against group B has been developed, but research continues. Information on meningitis can be obtained from the Meningitis Trust and the Meningitis Research Foundation.... meningitis

n. the material eliminated from the uterus through the vagina after the completion of labour. The first discharge, lochia rubra (lochia cruenta), consists largely of blood. This is followed by lochia serosa, a brownish mixture of blood and mucus, and finally lochia alba (lochia purulenta), a yellowish or whitish discharge containing microorganisms and cell fragments. Each stage may last for several days. —lochial adj.... lochia

n. any discharge from the ear, commonly a purulent discharge in chronic middle ear infection (*otitis media).... otorrhoea

(pyo-) combining form denoting pus; a purulent condition. Example: pyoureter (pus in a ureter).... py

n. inflammation of one or more of the mucous-membrane-lined air spaces in the facial bones that communicate with the nose (the paranasal sinuses). It is often associated with inflammation of the nasal lining (*rhinitis) and may be acute or chronic (see rhinosinusitis). Symptoms may include pain, purulent discharge from the nose, nasal obstruction, and disturbances of the sense of smell. Many cases are self-limiting. Others require treatment with antibiotics, decongestants, or steroid nose drops. A few cases need surgery, such as sinus washouts, *antrostomy, or functional *endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).... sinusitis

Pneumonia is an in?ammation of the lung tissue (see LUNGS) caused by infection. It can occur without underlying lung or general disease, or in patients with an underlying condition that makes them susceptible.

Pneumonia with no predisposing cause – community-acquired pneumonia – is caused most often by Streptococcus pneumoniae (PNEUMOCOCCUS). The other most common causes are viruses, Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Legionella species (Legionnaire’s disease). Another cause, Chlamydia psittaci, may be associated with exposure to perching birds.

In patients with underlying lung disease, such as CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE (COPD) or BRONCHIECTASIS as in CYSTIC FIBROSIS, other organisms such as Haemophilus in?uenzae, Klebsiella, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are more prominent. In patients in hospital with severe underlying disease, pneumonia, often caused by gram-negative bacteria (see GRAM’S STAIN), is commonly the terminal event.

In patients with an immune system suppressed by pregnancy and labour, infection with HIV, CHEMOTHERAPY or immunosuppressive drugs after organ transplantation, a wider range of opportunistic organisms needs to be considered. Some of these organisms such as CYTOMEGALOVIRUS (CMV) or the fungus Pneumocystis carinii rarely cause disease in immunocompetent individuals – those whose body’s immune (defence) system is e?ective.

TUBERCULOSIS is another cause of pneumonia, although the pattern of lung involvement and the more chronic course usually di?erentiate it from other causes of pneumonia.

Symptoms The common symptoms of pneumonia are cough, fever (sometimes with RIGOR), pleuritic chest pain (see PLEURISY) and shortness of breath. SPUTUM may not be present at ?rst but later may be purulent or reddish (rusty).

Examination of the chest may show the typical signs of consolidation of an area of lung. The solid lung in which the alveoli are ?lled with in?ammatory exudate is dull to percussion but transmits sounds better than air-containing lung, giving rise to the signs of bronchial breathing and increased conduction of voice sounds to the stethoscope or palpating hand.

The chest X-ray in pneumonia shows opacities corresponding to the consolidated lung. This may have a lobar distribution ?tting with limitation to one area of the lung, or have a less con?uent scattered distribution in bronchopneumonia. Blood tests usually show a raised white cell (LEUCOCYTES) count. The organism responsible for the pneumonia can often be identi?ed from culture of the sputum or the blood, or from blood tests for the speci?c ANTIBODIES produced in response to the infection.

Treatment The treatment of pneumonia involves appropriate antibiotics together with oxygen, pain relief and management of any complications that may arise. When treatment is started, the causative organism has often not been identi?ed so that the antibiotic choice is made on the basis of the clinical features, prevalent organisms and their sensitivities. In severe cases of community-acquired pneumonia (see above), this will often be a PENICILLIN or one of the CEPHALOSPORINS to cover Strep. pneumoniae together with a macrolide such as ERYTHROMYCIN. Pleuritic pain will need analgesia to allow deep breathing and coughing; oxygen may be needed as judged by the oxygen saturation or blood gas measurement.

Possible complications of pneumonia are local changes such as lung abscess, pleural e?usion or EMPYEMA and general problems such as cardiovascular collapse and abnormalities of kidney or liver function. Appropriate treatment should result in complete resolution of the lung changes but some FIBROSIS in the lung may remain. Pneumonia can be a severe illness in previously ?t people and it may take some months to return to full ?tness.... pneumonia

A collection of pus in a cavity, consisting of spent white blood cells and dead invading micro-organisms. The body’s fight against localised infection may result in suppuration – the discharge of pus. An abscess may appear on any part of the body: ear, nose, throat, teeth, gums, or on the skin as a pimple, boil, stye. A ‘grumbling appendix’ is one form of abscess, caused by internal obstruction and irritation. Internal abscesses are usually accompanied by fever, with malaise and swollen glands under arms, groin or elsewhere. Septicaemia – a dangerous form of blood poisoning – may result where an abscess bursts and discharges purulent matter into the bloodstream.

Abscess of the rectum (anorectal, ischiorectal, perianal) can be exceedingly painful. Chiefly from E. Coli infection, it may be associated with piles, colitis, fissures or small tears in the mucosa from hard faeces. There may be throbbing pain on sitting or defecation. In all cases Echinacea should be given to sustain the immune system.

Alternatives: Abundant herb teas. Burdock leaves, Clivers, Comfrey leaves, Figwort, Gotu Kola, Ground Ivy, Horsetail, Marigold petals, Marshmallow leaves, Mullein, Plantain, Red Clover tops. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water: drink half-1 cup thrice daily.

Mixture: Tinctures. Echinacea 30ml; Blue Flag 15ml; Bayberry 5ml; Hydrastis can 1ml; Liquorice 1ml. Dose: One 5ml teaspoon in water, honey or fruit juice thrice daily.

Tablets/capsules. Blue Flag, Echinacea, Poke root, Red Clover, Seaweed and Sarsaparilla, Garlic (or capsules): dosage as on bottle.

Powders. Formula. Echinacea 1; Marshmallow root 1; Goldenseal quarter. Dose: 500mg (one-third teaspoon, or two 00 capsules), thrice daily.

Ointments or poultices: Aloe Vera, Comfrey, Marshmallow and Slippery Elm.

Abscess of the breast. Internal mixture as above.

Abscess of the kidney. Mixture: tinctures. Equal parts: Echinacea, Bearberry, Valerian. Dose: 1-2 5ml teaspoons, thrice daily.

Topical. Ointments or poultices: Aloe Vera, Comfrey, Marshmallow and Slippery Elm.

Diet: Regular raw food days. Vitamin C (oranges, lemons, etc.). Fish oils, oily fish or other vitamin A- rich foods.

Supplements. Vitamins A, B and E. ... abscess

Aloe barbadensis and others. Aloe Vera gel. Spiky cactus-like plant of the lily family. The gel is present under the outer surface of the leaf. French: Aloes. Italian: Aloe ordinario. German: Achter Aloe.

Action. Bactericidal against staphylococcus aureus, streptococcus viridans and five strains of streptococcus mutans – the cause of dental plaque. Antibiotic, Demulcent, Coagulant, Analgesic for mild degree pain. Antiviral.

Astringent, Vitamin B12 precursor, growth stimulator, vulnerary. Contains 18 amino acids and vitamins. Helps eliminate toxic minerals from the body. Neutralises free radicals created by toxic substances.

Uses: An important use: protection against radiation burns. Sunburn. A segment of the fresh leaf rubbed on the skin was a centuries-old sun-screen used by desert Arabs against sunburn, and who regarded the plant as a natural medicine chest. Internal: indigestion, stomach ulceration.

External. Ulceration (leg ulcer, etc.), acne, chapped skin, nappy rash. To allay the itching of dry skin conditions including shingles, eczema, poison ivy and other plant allergies, detergent dermatitis, ulcers on cornea of eye, purulent ophthalmia. Dry scalp, poor hair (shampoo), ringworm. Stretch marks of pregnancy, age lines and liver spots.

Dentistry. “In 12 years of dental practice I have not found any one item which is so versatile for the healing needs of the mouth . . . an ancient plant for modern dentistry”. (Dr B. Wolfe, “Health Consciousness”, Vol 6. No 1) Increasing use as a dental anaesthetic, and for oral infections. Uses include gel on new dentures, rinsing every 4 hours. In canal filling the gel is used as a lubricant.

Combines with Vitamin E for allergies; with Eucalyptus oil for sinus and nasal congestion; with Comfrey for healing of fractures. Combines with Jojoba oil as an invigorating body lotion. Combines with Chamomile or Henna for hair conditioner.

Preparations: Part of fresh leaf cut and thick sap-juice squeezed on affected area for sunburn, burns, injury, wounds. Pulp leaves for use as a poultice for inflamed joints, arthritis. (East Africa). Tablets: Combined with papaya, pineapple, apricot or acerola fruits.

Tincture: 4oz pulped leaf to 8oz Vodka. Shake bottle daily for one week. Filter. Dosage: 1 teaspoon in water, thrice daily, for internal conditions.

Aloe gel. Many preparations on the market contain pure Aloe Vera, cold-pressed to preserve its moisturising and healing properties. Most are free from artificial fragrance and colour being made without lanolin or mineral oil.

Undiluted juice. 1-2 tablespoons (20-40ml) on empty stomach. (Internal) Pregnancy. Not used during. ... aloe vera

Agents that arrest production of histamine and which are useful in allergic conditions.

Herbal antihistamines may lessen severity of symptoms. Not limited by sedative, anticholinergic or central nervous system side effects. Nor do they impair psychomotor skills or potentiate the effect of alcohol. Non-sedating antihistamines are available for perennial allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis and other conditions normally responsive to antihistamines including allergic skin reactions.

Garlic has powerful antihistamine properties. It is a vaso-constrictor and thus reduces swelling of mucosa of the nose and conjunctiva of the eye. It is of special value for purulent discharge. According to the individual case it works well with Hyssop, Angelica and Peppermint. Herbal antihistamines include: Juniper, Marshmallow root, Burdock, Parsley root, Cudweed, Elder, Ephedra, Eyebright, Echinacea, Goldenseal, Peppermint, Sage, Lobelia, Chaparral. One in common use among herbalists is Marigold (calendula), directed particularly against staphylococcus.

Ayurvedic Medicine, specific: equal parts Ginger root, Black Pepper and Aniseed. ... antihistamines

Chronic inflammation of margins of the eyes.

Aetiology. May follow children’s infections, measles, seborrhoea, skin disease. Allergic reactions to cosmetics, drugs and industrial poisons.

Symptoms: irritation of eyelids, lashes glued together on rising, crust formation. Purulent conditions – Blue Flag, Echinacea. Eyelids puffy: Buchu. Treat underlying cause.

Alternatives. Tea. Mix: equal parts Skullcap, Vervain, Yarrow. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-15 minutes. 1 cup thrice daily.

Decoction. Mix: equal parts: Echinacea, Buchu, Burdock. 1 teaspoon to two cups water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup thrice daily.

Tablets/capsules. Echinacea. Blue Flag root. Poke root.

Powders. Equal parts: Echinacea, Buchu, Burdock. Mix. Dose: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon) thrice daily.

Tinctures. Equal parts: Echinacea, Buchu, Blue Flag. Mix. 1-2 teaspoons in water 3 times daily.

Topical. Chickweed ointment. Aloe Vera gel. Potato, cold compress.

Bathe with any of following tepid teas: Red Clover, Fennel seed, German Chamomile, Plantain, Elderflowers, Raspberry leaves, Barberry bark. ... blepharitis

The ‘English Disease’. The result of repeated attacks of the acute condition. Menace to the elderly when bronchi becomes thickened and narrowed. Inelastic walls secrete a thick purulent mucus of fetid odour which plugs tubes and arrests oxygen intake. Aggravated by cold and damp, hence the need of a warm house with warm bedroom. Causes are many: smoking, industrial pollution irritants, soot, fog, etc. Breathlessness and audible breathing sounds may present an alarming spectacle.

A steady herbal regime is required including agents which may coax sluggish liver or kidneys into action (Dandelion, Barberry). Sheer physical exhaustion may require Ginseng. For purulent sputum – Boneset, Elecampane, Pleurisy root. To increase resistance – Echinacea. Where due to tuberculosis – Iceland Moss. For blood-streaked mucus – Blood root. For fever – Elderflowers, Yarrow. To conserve cardiac energies – Hawthorn, Motherwort. A profuse sweat affords relief – Elderflowers.

Alternatives. Capsicum, Ephedra, Fenugreek, Garlic, Grindelia, Holy Thistle, Iceland Moss, Lobelia, Mullein, Pleurisy Root, Wild Cherry.

Tea. Formula. Iceland Moss 2; Mullein 1; Wild Cherry bark 1. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup water gently simmered 10 minutes. Dose: 1 cup 2-3 times daily.

Powders. Pleurisy root 2; Echinacea 1; Holy Thistle 1. Pinch Ginger. Mix. Dose: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon) 2-3 times daily.

Tinctures. Formula. Iceland Moss 2; Lobelia 2; Grindelia quarter; Capsicum quarter. Dose: 1-2 teaspoons two or more times daily.

Practitioner. Liquid Extract Ephedra BHP (1983), dose 1-3ml. Or: Tincture Ephedra BHP (1983), dose 6-8ml.

Topical. Same as for acute bronchitis.

Note: In a test at Trafford General Hospital, Manchester, blowing-up balloons proved of benefit to those with chronic bronchitis. Fourteen patients were asked to inflate balloons and 14 refrained from doing so. After 8 weeks, the balloon-blowers showed considerable improvement in walking and a sense of well- being. Breathlessness was reduced. Condition of the others was either unchanged or worse. ... bronchitis, chronic

 Pulverised wood charcoal. An inert substance but with healing potential. Has power to neutralise putrid smells of cancer, diarrhoea, gangrene, and a great capacity for absorbing gases. Its latent power is brought to life by prolonged trituration (grinding finely and diluting) with sugar of milk. To counter effect of dangerous drugs.

In the absence of sterile dressings and modern hospital amenities, powdered vegetable charcoal has an ancient reputation as an astringent dressing. It absorbs bacterial toxins and is useful for chronic bowel discharge. Powdered charcoal dressings were used during World War I. Rubbed in lard, was used for purulent foul discharging wounds to neutralise smell and promote healing.

Other indications: relaxed veins, stomach tense and full of wind, constant belching. For weak and cachetic individuals where vital powers are weak.

Available in biscuits, tablets and capsules for its purifying properties and as an aid to digestion. Tablets containing a high sodium content should be avoided. ... charcoal, vegetable

Inflammation of the endometrium (lining of the womb).

Causes: curettage, abortion, sepsis, bacterial or viral infection (tuberculosis, etc), STD diseases (gonorrhoea, etc). Commonly follows miscarriage or abortion.

Symptoms: low backache, unpleasant purulent vaginal discharge, fever, painful periods.

Treatment. Bedrest. Herbal antibiotics, anti-infectives. To reduce pus formation and strengthen body resistance – Echinacea. To check bleeding between periods – Raspberry, Beth root. To repair mucous membrane – Goldenseal. Constitutional remedy: Thuja, see entry. With hormonal disturbance – Agnus Castus.

Tea. Formula: equal parts, Raspberry leaves, Yarrow, Agnus Castus.

Beth root. See entry.

Helonias. Long history of use by north American Indians. See entry.

A. Barker, FNIMH. Prescription. Tincture Goldenseal 30 drops, Liquid Extract Clivers 60 drops, Liquid Extract Cornsilk 1 fl oz, Liquid Extract Damiana 60 drops. Liquid Extract Marshmallow 1 fl oz. Water to 8oz. Dose: 2 teaspoons every 4 hours.

Topical. Douches: Thuja, Echinacea, Goldenseal, or Myrrh. Raspberry leaf tea. ... endometritis

Bright-eye. Birds-eye. Euphrasia officinalis. German: Augentrost. French: Casselunettes. Dutch: Oogentroost. Spanish: Eufrasia. Arabian: Adhil. Herb: whole of the plant gathered while in bloom. Keynote: mucous membrane.

Constituents: tannin-mannite, iridoid glycosides, volatile oil.

Action: anti-inflammatory (eye lotion), antihistamine, anti-catarrhal, astringent.

Uses: Has special reference to eyes, nose and sinuses. Conjunctivitis, red eye, stye (lotion), poor visual acuity due to eyestrain or diabetes, eyes itch and sting. For purulent ophthalmia: (tea: Eyebright 1; Goldenseal quarter). Corneal opacity. Blepharitis (local bathing). Watery catarrh, hay fever, chronic sneezing, inflamed nasal mucosa (douche). Relaxed tonsils and sore throat (gargle).

Practitioners have advised Eyebright lotion during measles to prevent eye troubles. Many causes of eye trouble in later life date from measles in childhood. The presence of a prominent red rim around the eye of an adult, especially if eyelids are missing, may be due to childhood measles when Eyebright lotion might have proved helpful.

The tea is said to strengthen a weak memory and improve circulation of the brain. Was used by Dioscorides for eye infections when accompanying the Roman legions through many countries. Preparations. Thrice daily. Average internal dose: 1-4g.

Tea. 1 teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 10 minutes. Dose (internal) half-1 cup. External, in an eyebath as a douche.

Liquid Extract. Half-1 teaspoon in water.

Tincture BHP (1983). 1 part to 5 parts 45 per cent alcohol. Dose: 2-6ml. Capsules also available. Eyebright water, (lotion). Unsuccessful as a compress or poultice, Chamomile flowers being more effective.

Douche. Half fill an eyebath with Eyebright water or warm tea. ... eyebright

Solidago virgaurea L. German: Goldrute. French: Verge d’or. Italian: Verge d’oro.

Dried or fresh leaves and flowers.

Constituents: phenolic glycosides, saponins, rutin.

Action: anticatarrhal, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic to mucous membranes, diuretic, diaphoretic.

Uses: Weak stomach, nausea, vomiting, hiccups, persistent catarrh of nose and throat. Thrush and sore throat (gargle). Irritable bowel in children. Bronchitis, with purulent phlegm. Blood in the urine. Tonsilitis, with pus. Reduces mass in kidney stone and gravel (anecdotal). Prostatis. Kidney and bladder conditions where urine is dark, scanty and reddish brown.

Dr Gallavardin cured her husband of kidney trouble after he was compelled to use a catheter for over a year, by giving him tea made from the dried leaves and flowers, morning and evening.

Preparations: Standard dose: half-2 grams. Thrice daily.

Tea. Half-1 teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Dose: 1 cup.

Liquid Extract. Dose, half-2ml.

Tincture BHP (1983) 1:5 in 45 per cent alcohol. Dose: 0.5 to 1ml. Compress (cold), for wounds and ulcers. ... goldenrod

An allergic condition with hypersensitivity of eyes, nose, throat and sometimes the skin due to grass and flower pollens in May and June. These and similar allergens cause the body to produce an excess of histamine which manifests as catarrh and nasal congestion. Hay fever may simulate allergy to cow’s milk (in children), additives and colourings in foods and sweets.

Symptoms: sneezy runny itchy nose and eyes, nose-block and sensitive palate. The upset may be mild or very disabling.

Alternatives. Teas. Cudweed, Elder, Ephedra, Eyebright, Ground Ivy, Nettles, Plantain, Peppermint, Sage.

Formula. Equal parts, Eyebright, Ephedra, White Horehound. 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Dose: half-1 cup freely.

Tablets/capsules. Iceland Moss, Garlic, Lobelia, St John’s Wort.

Powders. Formula. Equal parts: Eyebright, Ephedra, Plantain. Dose: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one- third teaspoon) thrice daily.

Tinctures. Alternatives. (1) Formula. Eyebright 3; Echinacea 2; Bayberry bark 1. (2) Formula. St John’s Wort 2; Uva Ursi 2; Bayberry bark 1. Dose: one 5ml teaspoon thrice daily. Infants: one drop each year of age.

Practitioner. Alternatives. (1) Equal parts: Ephedra (anti-allergic) and Nettles (anti-histamine). (2) Tinctures: Ephedra 2ml; Yarrow 5ml; Elder 5ml; Capsicum 0.5ml. Doses: 15-30 drops thrice daily in water.

Topical. Eyes should be treated separately. Bayberry bark powder for use as a snuff. Compresses of Chamomile for inflamed itchy eyes. Witch Hazel eye douch. Olbas oil on a handkerchief as an inhalant. Potter’s Anti-fect. Nasal douche: 1-2 drops Blood root in water. Dr Bourgeois, French Allergist, recommends Halibut liver oil nasal spray, frequently.

Diet. Avoid dairy products, caffeine drinks and alcohol entirely during the hay fever season. Low fat yoghurt contains an antihistamine. Abundant grated carrot for Vitamin A. Green tea. Raw vegetable salad once daily.

Supplementation. Vitamins A, B-complex, C (1 gram daily), E. Propolis, Pollen, Honeycomb as chewing gum, Magnesium, Zinc.

Preventative. 2 Garlic capsules, with high oil content, at night for 1-2 months before season begins. Purulent cases. 5-10 drops Tincture Myrrh in water, thrice daily. ... hay fever

Wild Pansy. Viola tricolor L. French: Pensee. German: Dreifarbiges Veilchen. Spanish: Pensamiento. Italian: Pensiero. Leaves and flowers. Keynotes: skin and mucous membranes. Constituents: mucilage, gum, saponin, flavonoids.

Action: anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, expectorant, diuretic. Alterative. Depurative. Laxative. Rich in zinc. Anti-allergic. Anti-acne.

Uses: Chronic skin disorders with purulent sticky discharge. Moist eczema, milk crust, ringworm. Some success reported by Dr Schlegel, Moscow, for sexually transmitted diseases generally, with ulceration. A daily tea made from the herb is still taken in Russia by those with a tendency to tuberculosis, scrofula. Capillary fragility BHP (1983). To prevent capillary haemorrhage when under corticosteroid therapy. Rheumatism. Acute bronchitis, whooping cough and respiratory distress in children.

Action is enhanced with Mouse Ear (equal parts) for whooping cough; and with Red Clover (equal parts) for skin disorders.

Preparations: Average dose: 2-4 grams. Thrice daily. Chiefly used as a tea made from the dried or fresh herb: 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. 1 cup. Liquid Extract BHP (1983). 2-4ml.

Tablets/capsules. Two 250mg. ... heartsease

Cochlearia armoracia L. Armoracia rusticana, Gaertn. Part used: root.

Constituents: asparagine, B vitamins, Vitamin C, sinigrin and other glucosinolates, resin.

Action: efficient alternative to Cayenne pepper, Diuretic, urinary antispetic, diaphoretic, carminative; liver, spleen and pancreatic stimulant. Bacteriostatic action on Gram-negative bacilli. (Rudat K.D. (1957) Journal Hyg. Epidem. Microbiol. Immunol. Prague 1213)

To raise vital force in the elderly. Antibiotic. Circulatory stimulant with warming effect. Digestive aid. Anti-thyroid.

Uses: Feeble circulation, hypothermia, hyperthyroidism, frostbite, chilblains, absence of stomach acid in the elderly, dropsy following fevers, proteinuria (albuminuria), to arrest vaginal discharge. Hoarseness (1 teaspoon juice in honey). Rheumatic joints (poultice). Common cold, influenza and early stages of fever: cup of Horse Radish tea every 2-3 hours. Combine with Juniper berries (equal parts) for dropsy and kidney stone. Purulent wounds: cold decoction used as a lotion.

Preparations: Average dose: 1-2 grams; thrice daily.

Tea: 1 teaspoon grated fresh root in each cup boiling water; infuse 20 minutes. Half-1 cup in sips, freely. Horse Radish vinegar. 1oz scraped fresh root to 1 pint cider vinegar. 1-2 teaspoons in water for catarrh, sinusitis, poor circulation or as a male tonic.

Steeping slices of the fresh root in cider produces a copious discharge of urine in dropsy.

Tablets, Blackmore’s Labs: Horse Radish powder 350mg; Dolomite 140mg; Gum Acacia 20mg; Magnesium stearate 10mg.

Diet: Mayonnaise: whip double cream until stiff and fold in fresh grated root, flaked almonds, lemon juice and seasoning, with a little Paprika.

Note: One of the five bitter herbs eaten by the Jews during the Passover Festival. ... horse radish

Pot marigold. Calendula officinalis L. German: Ringelblume. French: Souci des Jardins. Spanish: Calendula. Italian: Calendola. Dried florets. One of the most versatile and important herbal medicines. This is the same Calendula as used by the homoeopaths but the method of preparation and therapy is different. Contains high levels of nitrogen, phosphoric acid and Vitamin A.

Keynote: injuries. Not the same plant as French Marigold (Tagetes patula).

Constituents: volatile oil, flavonoids, triterpenes.

Action: immune stimulant, anti-protazoal, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-spasmodic, anti- haemorrhage, anti-histamine, anti-bacterial effect particularly against staphylococcus and streptococcus, anti-emetic, anti-cancer, antiseptic, styptic, haemostatic, diaphoretic, anthelmintic, oestrogenic activity (extract from fresh flowers), menstrual regulator.

Uses: Internal. A remedy which should follow all surgical operations. Enlarged and inflamed lymphatic glands, gastric and duodenal ulcer, jaundice, gall bladder inflammation, absent or painful menstruation, balanitis, rectum – inflammation of, gum disease, nose-bleeds, sebaceous cysts, measles (cup of tea drunk freely), pneumonia – a cooling drink which is anti-inflammatory. Vaginal thrush.

Uses: External. Rapid epithelisation process in damaged skin tissue, especially alcoholic extract; rapid wound adhesion and granulation without suppuration. (Weleda)

Wounds where the skin has been broken: laceration with bleeding (Arnica for unbroken skin). Sores, leg ulcers, abscess etc. Sore nipples in nursing mothers, varicose veins, nosebleeds, grazed knees in schoolchildren. Bee, wasp and other insect stings. Chilblains, fistula, inflamed nails, whitlow, dry chapped skin and lips, wind burn, air pollution.

Dentistry: Tooth extractions: rinse mouth with infusion of the florets or much-diluted tincture – 5-10 drops in water.

Malignancy: strong tea, 1-2oz to 1 pint boiling water; use as a wash to cleanse exudations.

STD purulent discharge: inject douche of strong infusion as above.

Wm M. Gregory MD, Berea, Ohio, USA. “I have never seen one drop of pus develop in any wound, however dirty.”

Preparations: For internal or external use. Average dose, 1-4 grams, or equivalent. Thrice daily.

Tea: dried petals/florets. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Drink freely.

Home tincture. 1 handful petals/florets (approximately 50g) to 1 pint (500ml) 70 per cent alcohol (Vodka); stand 14 days in a warm place, shake daily. Filter. Dose: 5-20 drops in water.

Poultice. Handful petals/florets to 1 pint boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Apply on suitable material to injuries where skin is broken; replenish when dry.

Herbalist’s Friend. 1 part Tincture Calendula to 4 parts Witch Hazel, for phlebitis and painful varicose veins.

Weleda. Calendula lotion locally, or as a mouth wash and gargle. ... marigold

Inflammation of the middle ear. Usually spreads from the nose or throat via the Eustachian tube. Tonsillitis, sinusitis or ‘adenoids’ predispose. A frequent complication of measles, influenza or other children’s infections. Sometimes due to allergy.

Symptoms. Effusion of fluid into the middle ear with increasing deafness, discharge, tinnitus. Infant shakes head. Perforation in chronic cases. Inspection with the aid of an auriscope reveals bulging of the ear-drum. Feverishness.

Treatment. Antibiotics (herbal or others) do not remove pain therefore a relaxing nervine should be included in a prescription – German Chamomile, Vervain, etc.

Before the doctor comes. Any of the following teas: Boneset, Feverfew, Holy Thistle, Thyme. One heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes; one cup thrice daily.

Formula. Practitioner. Echinacea 2; Thyme 1; Hops half; Liquorice quarter. Dose – Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid Extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 1-2 teaspoons. Acute: every 2 hours. Chronic: thrice daily.

Topical. Dry-mop purulent discharge before applying external agents. Inject warm 2-3 drops any one oil: Mullein, St John’s Wort, Garlic, Lavender or Evening Primrose.

Once every 8-10 days syringe with equal parts warm water and Cider Vinegar. Repeat cycle until condition is relieved.

Diet. Salt-free. Low-starch. Milk-free. Abundance of fruits and raw green salad vegetables. Freshly squeezed fruit juices. Bottled water. No caffeine drinks: coffee, tea or cola.

Supplements. Vitamins A, B-complex, B2, B12, C, E, K, Iron, Zinc. Evening Primrose capsules.

Notes. Where pressure builds up against the drum, incision by a general medical practitioner may be necessary to facilitate discharge of pus. Grossly enlarged tonsils and adenoids may have to be surgically removed in chronic cases where treatment over a reasonable period proves ineffective. A bathing cap is sometimes more acceptable than earplugs.

Breast-feeding. Significantly protects babies from episodes of otitis media. Commenting on a study published in the Obstetrical and Gynaecological Survey, Dr Mark Reynolds, author of a breast-feeding policy by the Mid-Kent Care Trust said: “Breast milk is known to reduce respiratory infection – a precursor of otitis media.”

Hopi ear candles. ... otitis media

Formerly known as nonspecific urethritis, inflammation of the urethra due to a cause other than gonorrhoea. Worldwide, nongonococcal urethritis is a very common type of sexually transmitted infection.Almost 50 per cent of cases are known to be caused by chlamydia trachomatis (see chlamydial infections); others are caused by the virus that causes herpes simplex, trichomonas vaginalis infections

(see trichomoniasis), or other microorganisms. In the remainder of cases, the cause remains unknown.

In men, the infection usually causes a clear or a purulent urethral discharge, often accompanied by pain or discomfort on passing urine. The equivalent condition in women, called nonspecific genital infection, may not cause symptoms unless there are complications.

Treatment may be difficult if the cause of symptoms cannot be determined. Antibiotic drugs, such as doxycycline and erythromycin, are given. Follow-up visits may be advised after treatment.

In men, epididymitis, prostatitis and urethral stricture (narrowing of the urethra) can occur as complications of nongonococcal urethritis. Reiter’s syndrome (in which there is arthritis and conjunctivitis as well as urethritis) occurs as a complication in some men who develop nongonococcal urethritis.

In women, pelvic inflammatory disease and cysts of the Bartholin’s glands may occur. Ophthalmia neonatorum, a type of conjunctivitis, sometimes develops in babies born to women with chlamydial cervicitis.... nongonococcal urethritis