COMMON COLD:HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES

Common Cold

If you are finding that you are having more than two colds a year, it would be advised to seek help from a professional homeopath to strengthen your immune system. Homeopathy emphasises treating the underlying imbalance in the immune system rather than simply fighting the infection--although in the moment, fighting the infection may be the priority.

The following remedies may offer symptomatic relief so long as the remedy you choose is well indicated for your individual symptom picture.

REMEDY	KEYNOTE SYMPTOMS	OTHER SYMPTOMS	MAKES YOU FEEL BETTER	MAKES YOU FEEL WORSE
Aconite	Comes on suddenly. Fearful, restless, cheeks hot and red. First stage of cold. Caused by exposure to cold dry winds	Sudden dry painful cough/croup watery mucous, sweats on uncovered parts. High fever with sensitivity to light. Thirsty, watery runny nose, possible bright red nose bleed.	Fresh open air, sleep	Warm stuffy room In the evening and at night Lying on affected side. Irritated by music, dry, cold winds.
Allium cepa	Profuse, bland, watery discharge from eyes. Nasal discharge is profuse and burning. Warm rooms aggravate, better in open air.	Eyes run but the discharge is usually bland Violent sneezing. Mucous burns/corrodes top lip. Tickle in larynx, hoarseness, hacking cough worse breathing in cold air desires onions	Fresh air	Evening. Cold air. Stuffy room. Getting feet wet.
Arsenicum album	Complaints are usually right-sided. Watery, burning nasal discharge. Restlessness, weakness, anxiety, thirsty for sips at frequent intervals, chilly, desires company.	Right nostril burns/corrodes top lip watery thin discharge, but nose feels blocked. Excessive sneezing, Irritation, tickling of the nose. Cold might move to chest.	Heat, elevated head, Warm drinks, company	Wet, windy weather. Midnight to 2am. Sight or smell of food.
Belladona	First stage of cold, sudden onset, high fever, red face, cold extremeties, throbbing pains, patient radiates heat.	Skin hot, dry with high temperature Throbbing headache, very thirsty or not thirsty at all sore throat on right side Tickly throat, light hurts eyes Eyes glassy Eyes dilated delirious in high fever dry barking cough desires lemons or lemonade	Sitting upright or standing. In warm room	Jarring, movement, Noise, drafts. From lying down. After 12noon, 3PM
Bryonia alba	A Cold slow to develop, painful coughs--patient holds chest when he coughs; worse from slightest movement, dry mucus membranes and very thirsty, worse for company, worse for having to answer questions, very irritable, wants to be alone.	Better for being still and quiet. cold moves into chest. A painful, dry, spasmodic cough. Left-sided headache, otherwise, right-sided complaints.	From applying firm, cool pressure to head and chest. In cool surroundings	For movement. Bright lights. Eating, noise and touch 9pm and 3pm.
Dulcamara	Worse from damp and cold/damp weather, worse from change of weather, worse from drafts.	Thick saliva and hoarse voice Possible cold sores Thirst for cold drinks Post-nasal drip, lumbago or an Earache, watery diarrhea	warm, dry air. Movement	For rest. At night. Cold, damp weather
Euphrasia	The opposite of Allium Cepa: Nasal discharge is bland; discharge from the eyes is burning. Cough only in the daytime.	Copious fluid from nose Bursting sensation as sinuses fill. At night little pains all over body. Heat/fever descends the body, sweats only on front. Later symptoms, chilliness, loose violent cough, pressing pain under sternum.	Lying down in darkened room but may feel more blocked up. For coffee	From warm, windy weather. Being indoors. In the evening. Bright light.
Ferrum phos.	A cold that comes on slowly. Beginning of colds when symptoms are vague. Right-sided complaints.	Mild fever may be present Mouth feels hot. Throat is red and swollen. Possible nose bleeds.	Gentle exercise. Applying a cold compress to the forehead.	For fresh air. In the Sun. For jarring or touch. Lying on right side. Between 4am& 6pm
Gelsemium	Cold comes on gradually. Patient's appearance: dopey, drowsy, droopy and dull. You could also add dizzy! Inclination to sleep. Apathetic. Weakness, chills run up and down back, headache starts in back of head or neck and spreads forward, heavy head, thirstless.	Tiredness, heavy body sensation. Headache above nape of neck. Tickling in nose gets worse. Later running nose, watery and irritating	Fresh air. movement, After urinating. Bending forward, sweating. Drinking alcohol.	Before thunderstorm. Early in the morning and last thing at night. Humidity. Tobacco smoke.
Hepar sulph	Over-sensitive to pain; anxiety, irritable, angry outbursts, chilly and worse from cold, intolerant of drafts, worse uncovering a hand or a foot, swollen glands, bad odor of discharges, splinter-like pains.	Cold starts with watery runny nose. Later, excessive yellow mucous with offensive-smelling discharge and sneezing. Irritability and chilliness.	For wrapping head firmly. Warm, moist environment.	In cold air, draughts. Getting cold from undressing. If touched.
Kali bichrom	Second stage of cold. Thick, yellow, ropy, stringy nasal discharge. Sinusitis. Thick post-nasal drip.	Thick mucous may block nose. yellow or green discharge with postnasal drip. Sinus headaches, pressure pain at root of nose.	From warmth	In the morning. Hot weather Getting cold from undressing.
Natrum mur	Beginning stages of a cold with sneezing. "Egg-white" nasal discharge. Runny eyes worse in open air or wind. Sun and light aggravate. Warm, worse heat. Cold sores on lips, vesicles in mouth, cracked lips, ailments from grief.	Wants to be left alone. A dislike for sympathy. Cold starts with fits of sneezing and a thin catarrhal discharge consistency of the white of a raw egg. Nose maybe blocked with tendency towards developing cold sores.	Applying cold compresses to the sinuses. Fasting. Fresh open air	In sea air or wet weather. Mental, physical exertion. Around 10am. Bright light or hot sun. Noise, talking, music.
Nux vomica	Cold, chills, worse slightest draft of air, ailments from over-work, irritable and angry, impatient; runny nose in the morning, obstructed at night; stomach pains, better warm drinks, constipation with ineffectual urging.	Runny nose during the day blocked at night. Overcritical of others, impulsive, chilliness, watery eyes, sneezing, headache, sore throat	Sleep, warmth. Firm pressure, in the evening. Washing and warm compresses	Windy, Cold, dry weather. In public places. After over-indulgence of spicy foods and stimulants such as coffee. Between 3am & 4am.
Pulsatilla	Patient is weepy and wants to be consoled. Warm and worse heat, worse sun, better walking slowly in open air, worse warm stuffy rooms, dry mouth but no thirst, worse at twilight, worse from fatty foods; bland and often greenish nasal discharge	Possible nose bleeds runny nose during the day, blocked nose at night thirstless, loss of smell Headache above eyes	Crying and Sympathy. Exercise and fresh open air. Cold drinks, cold compresses. Raising hands above the head.	Rich, fatty foods. Heat, In the sun. In the evening and at night.
Rhus tox.	Second stage of cold Congested nose and scratchy throat. Worse cold and cold wet weather. Better warmth and warm bathing. Stiffness and restlessness. Desires cold milk. Worse in cloudy, foggy, rainy weather; worse getting wet. Can't be still, must move.	Thick, yellow/green nasal discharge with a red scratchy throat, dry cough, tickling, hoarseness. Cough prevents sleep	From warmth, hot bathing. >From motion. For changing positions.	Cough worse in cold room. Cold, wet, rainy weather. During sleep.

CONSTIPATION

Constipation is passage of small amounts of hard, dry bowel movements, usually fewer than three times a week. People who are constipated may find it difficult and painful to have a bowel movement. Other symptoms of constipation include feeling bloated, uncomfortable, and sluggish.

Constipation - CAUSE

Common causes of constipation are

-Not enough fibre in the diet.
-Not enough liquids.
-Lack of exercise.
-Medications.
-Irritable bowl syndrome.
-Changes in life or routine such as pregnancy,older age and travel.
-Abuse of laxatives
-Ignoring the urge to have a bowl movement.
-Specific diseases such as stroke
-Problems with the colon and rectum
-Problems with intestinal function (chronic idiopathic constipation)

Constipation - Treatment & Homeopathic Medicines

Nux vomica

Nux vomica has peculiar and characteristic indications for constipation –“wants to but can’t.” is a phrase that brings Nux Vomica to mind.This remedy is often useful to people ,who are impatient,tense, and ambitious- who work too hard and exercise too little,indulge in stimulants or alcohol, and are partial to sweets and spicy food.In many cases of inveterate constipation, Nux prescribed in low potency will frequently relieve constipation, but to cure it, the drug must be given in a much higher potency.

The mental symptoms of Nux are important in treating constipation, for the effect that constipation has upon the minds of some people is well known. In cases indicating Nux vomica there will be a great crossness, irascibility and objection to all opposition. The Nux stool is also apt to be large, and haemorrhoids are a frequent accompaniment. We may sum up Nux vomica by calling again the attention to the mental characteristics, the sedentary temperament,the fitful intestinal action and its antidotal relation to purgative drugs. Dr. Cartier says: "Nux vomica should never be given in constipation according to the law of similars in the low attenuations, or in the mother tincture. An opposite effect will be produced thereby, an augmentation of the spasmodic state of the intestines; the higher the dilution the better the chance success. Nor should it be too often repeated."

Dose- Potency- 30;200 : 8-10 granules or 2 drops a day twice daily.Its effect is best,if given in the evening.

Hydrastis

It is useful after the abuse of purgatives, laxatives, cathartics and their like. In all these cases, however, the symptoms calling for the respective drug should be present. Hughes claims it to be superior to Nux as usually prescribed. He recommends a drop or two of the tincture in water once daily before breakfast. Hydrastis has a symptom, however, which is quite characteristic, that is a sinking, gone feeling at the epigastrium, which Nux vomica does not have to any extent. Carbo vegetabilis has urging, but it is due to wind, while Opium and Bryonia have no urging at all. According to d'Espiney, the physical signs of this inharmonious intestinal action can be felt by palpating the abdominal walls. Anacardium resembles Nux vomica in many ways. It has a sensation of a plug in the rectum which cannot be expelled. There is a fitful intestinal activity, but withal a powerlessness of the rectum. Even soft stools are expelled with difficulty. Small quantities may be expelled with each attempt.

Dose- Potency-Mother Tincture; 30 : 8-10 granules or 2 drops a day twice daily.

Sulphur

Many of the older homoeopaths used to give Sulphur and Nux vomica in alteration for constipation. They complement each other, follow each other well, but better results will be obtained, if each be given singly when indicated; for, surely, both cannot be indicated at once. With Sulphur there is an ineffectual urging to stool, with a sensation of heat and discomfort in the rectum , and there is a general uneasy feeling all through the intestinal tract, due to abdominal plethora or passive portal congestion. It is very useful remedy with which to commence the treatment of constipation, though, unless the symptoms call for it, it should not be given. A bad constitution and frequent ill health are good indications to start with, a tendency to piles is another. The stools are hard, dark, dry, and expelled with great straining, the first effort to stool being extremely painful. There is apt to be much twitching and burning of the anus, the evacuation are often unsatisfactory, and, as in Nux, there is often a sensation, as if a part remained behind. Another characteristic symptom of Sulphur is constipation alternating with diarrhoea.People who need this remedy are often “Characters” with interesting mental notions,slouching postures ,and very little interest in tidiness.The general venous system is usually at fault in true Sulphur cases, and anything that stimulates this system into action, such as exercise and cold, always benefits the Sulphur patient. Sulphur needs to be given in high potency and not continued for any length of time .

Dose- Potency-12x; 30;200;1M;CM : 8-10 granules or 2 drops a day .Acts in all potencies from lowest to highest.some of the best results are obtained from higher potencies and not from the frequent doses.Chronic cases be treated with higher potency.

Opium

While the constipation of Nux is due to irregularity of intestinal action, that of Opium is due to absolute inaction of the intestines, a regular paralysis of the peristaltic movement. There is an absence of desire, absolutely no urging to stool whatever, and so the faeces become impacted in the bowels; and when passed at all come in little, hard, dry, black balls, here resembling the stool of Plumbum , but with Plumbum there is some activity. Another drug which has no urging to stool is Bryonia, but here the lack of urging is rather due to dryness of the mucous membrane than to intestinal inactivity; with Opium there is a want of sensibility throughout the intestinal tract, and consequently the constipation is not apt to inconvenience the patient, hence it is apt to go on getting worse until the attention is called to it by the flatus accumulating in the upper part of the intestines. Where the faeces require artificial means for their removal, this remedy should be thought of, though Selenium, Alumina, Plumbum or Bryonia may be used in this condition. Diminished secretions are also characteristic of Opium , so that dryness intestinal inactivity, is one of the causes of constipation of old people; the patient is drowsy and dizzy.

Dose- Potency -3x;30;200 : 8-10 granules or 2 drops a day .

Plumbum

So we have urging to stool, and accompanying this urging is a colic with a marked retraction of the abdominal walls. The stool is passed with the greatest difficulty and consists of little round balls, which are black, dry and hard, and there is accompanying, a marked spasm of the sphincter ani, which is apt to be painful. The anus feels ,as if drawn upward. With this drug, there is loss of muscular activity and diminished secretion of intestinal glands. Thus we see that the indications for Plumbum in constipation are concise and precise.

Dose- Potency-3x; 30 : 8-10 granules or 2 drops a day twice daily.

Alumina

Chief among remedies for constipation due to dryness of the intestinal tract stands Alumina. There is diminished peristaltic movement and complete inertia of the rectum, so that we have the symptom, soft stool expelled with difficulty. There is little or no urging to stool. The stools may be hard and knotty like sheep dung, or may be soft. It is one of our most useful remedies in constipation of children where the rectum is dry, inflamed and bleeding about the orifice. Alumina differs from Bryonia chiefly in the state of rectal inactivity. A dry mouth and an irritated looking tongue may lead to the selection of Alumina. There is much straining with the remedy and the stool is passed in very small quantities , piecemeal, so to speak. If the characteristics of Alumina are prominent in a given case, they may be due to the use of aluminum ware in cooking.

Bryonia

The large-hard-dry-stool-as-if-burnt of Bryonia is familiar to all of our Medical School. The constipation of the drug is due to dryness and there is no urging. With Bryonia, the stools are passed with a great deal of difficulty, owing to an atony of the intestines similar to Veratrum album and Opium. Bryonia cures constipation ,where not only the intestinal secretions are diminished, but the muscular action as well.The person feel grouchy or out of sorts, and may be tense from business-related worries. Constipation in young children, according to Hughes, is frequently cured by Bryonia 30th. It is said to act better in rheumatic subjects and in summer. The mental condition of irritability and ill-humor will often be present as a concommitant of the Bryonia constipation. Older writers alternated Bryonia and Nux vomica with success in very obstinate cases.

Dose- Potency-6x; 30 : 8-10 granules or 2 drops a day twice daily till amelioration is noticed.

Natrum muriaticum

The characteristic constipated stool of Natrum muriaticum is a hard and crumbly one; the rectum is dry, the stool is hard to expel and causes bleeding, smarting and soreness in the rectum. There is ineffectual urging to stool,with stitches in the rectum. It sometimes comes in the most obstinate cases, which are accompanied by hypochondriasis. . In constipation of young people, who are subjected to acne and comedos, Natrum muriaticum should be thought of.

Dose- Potency 30;200 : 8-10 granules or 2 drops a day twice daily.The very highest potencies often yield most brilliant results.And in infrequent doses.

Magnesia muriatica

It has characteristically a constipation in which the stools are passed with great difficulty, being composed of hard lumps like sheep dung, which are so dry that they crumble as they pass the anus.

Dose- Potency-Tincture;3x; 200 : 8-10 granules or 2 drops a day till amelioration is noticed.

Ammonium muriaticum

It has this same symptom of dry and crumbly stools, they may also be coated externally with mucus.

Dose- Potency-3x;6x : 8-10 granules or 2 drops a day twice daily for one week.

Lycopodium

Like Nux, Lycopodium has a sensation after stool, as if something remained behind. Constipation, due to constriction of the rectum, calls for this remedy, and here it reminds one of Silicea. The constipation , too, is apt to be associated with the stool. The stools are dry and hard, or the first part hard, the last soft. In the constipation of children and pregnant women, it often finds a place, and it is here praised by Hartmann. A great deal of rumbling in the abdomen following the stool is an additional indication. Nux and Lycopodium may be easily distinguished , though each has ineffectual urging to stool. In Nux, as ,we have seen, this is due to irregular peristaltic action, while with Lycopodium, it is due to a constriction of the rectum. The mental symptoms here, too, are of the utmost importance; the depression, the melancholy and the apprehension are characteristic.

Dose- Potency- Tincture;6x; 30;200 : 8-10 granules or 2 drops a day for one week.Tincture can be given thrice daily.

Graphites

Graphites is one of our best remedies in constipation, if Homoeopathy can be said to have "best remedies". With this drug there is no urging. The patient sometimes goes days without a stool, and when it does come it is composed of little round balls, knotted together with shreds of mucus and accompanied with great pain when passing, owing to the fissure. These fissures, as well as the haemorrhoids which accompany them, burn, smart and itch intolerably. Excessive soreness of the anus in making the post defecation toilet is an indication for its use. Aching of the anus after stool is also characteristic of Graphites, and sometimes we have with the drug ineffectual urging. The mucus-coated stool, the extreme soreness of the anus, the general Graphites temperament of sadness and obesity, will easily decide for the remedy. Graphites suits especially women who suffer from a neglect to attend promptly to nature's call.

Dose- Potency- 6x;30 : 8-10 granules or 2 drops a day daily .Locally as a cerate,in sore nipples.

Platina

With Platina, there is torpor of the whole intestinal tract, unsuccessful urging to stool and great dryness of the rectum. The stools seem to adhere to the rectum like glue or putty. There is great weakness in the abdomen and a sensation, as if there were a load in the rectum ,which could not be expelled. It is considered a remedy for the constipation of emigrants and travelers, so it would seem to find an additional indication, where the trouble was brought on by change in manner of living. It is also a remedy for the constipation due to lead poisoning. There is frequent urging, scanty, dry stool and great abdominal weakness. As under Ignatia, there are sharp stitches in the rectum.

Dose- Potency- 6x; 30 : 8-10granules or 2 drops a day till amelioration is noticed

Silicea

When constipation is due to inefficient expulsive force of the rectum and a spasmodic condition of the sphincter then Silicea is our remedy. With this condition, we have a condition ,where the sphincter suddenly contracts and the partially expelled stool recedes. People who need this remedy are nervous and mentally acute,but also chilly,physically frail and easily fatigued.

Dose- Potency-6x; 30;200 : 8-10 granules or 2 drops a day twice daily for 2-3 weeks.The higher potency are of unquestioned activity.In malignant affections,the lowest potency is needed at times.

Causticum

It has constipation due to powerlessness of the rectum, so that the patient almost stands in order to enable him to get sufficient power to expel the stool, but the spasmodic condition of Silicea is absent. As with Graphites, Silicea has a great deal of soreness about the anus, also an oozing of moisture. There is urging to stool and a sensation, as if faeces remained in the rectum.When it finally emerges,the stool will be narrow and full of mucous.

Dose- Potency-3x; 30 : 8-10 granules or 2 drops a day till amelioration is noticed.In chronic ailments and specially in paralytic states,the higher potencies once or twice a week.

Veratrum album

One of our greatest diarrhoea remedies, it has a marked effect in the treatment of constipation. The symptoms calling for its use, are as follows: There is complete atony of the intestines, as under Bryonia and Opium. The faeces accumulate in large masses in into a sweat; but finally has to give it up, and the faeces have to be removed by artificial means. There are extreme cases ,where the patient is able to force a passage for himself; the stools are large, hard and black. As with the diarrhoea there may be faintness after the stool. Dunham speaks of the constipation of Veratrum as one characterized by a disposition to stool in the upper part of the intestinal canal and an indisposition to stool in the lower part. Dr. Bryce claims that it will bring stool quickest of any medicine I ever tried." He used 3x. It comes in very well after Nux vomica, especially in constipation of children. Podophyllum 12th has proved of use in constipation of children.Phosphorus has a constipation of long slender stools voided with much straining.

Dose- Potency-1x; 30 : 8-10 granules or 2 drops a day thrice daily till amelioration is noticed

ALOE VERA: The WONDER PLANT

Dr.Avinash Kumar Mishra IFS

Resident Commissioner,

Government of Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Bhawan; New Delhi.110021

The Wonder Plant

The use of herbs to treat human ailments has been in practice since eternity. Even the modern pharmaceutical industry, with its unprecedented capabilities, can’t do without herbs. If one takes a walk through the success trail of the ‘pharma’ industry, it will end at one or other herb. Herbs are an essential part of our ecological system and add beauty to ‘Planet Earth.’ Herbs makes man’s existence smooth, more rewarding, and devoid of infirmity. Slow and steady wins the race’ — this holds true in the case of herbal medicines, as they take time to give results. One of the best herbal products available is ‘Aloe Vera’ —The gel is tasteless,colourless and odourless. The dried Aloe juice is chocolate brown in colour, opaque and bitter in taste. Ayurveda calls it Ghrit Kumari.

Aloe Vera
Family-Name-LILIACEAE
Botanical Name : ALOE VERA, ALOE BARBADENSIS, ,ALOE INDICA,ALOE BARBADOS .
Common Name : ALOE, BARBADOS ALOE, CURACAO ALOE, INDIAN ALOE, GHI KUNVAR, GHIRITA,GAWARPALTRA,BARBADOS ALOE,LU HUI .

Parts Used : FLOWERS, ROOTS
Habitat : South and South Western India., America, Africa.

Dose: For internal use of aloe gel, two tablespoons (about 30 ml) three times per day is used by some people for inflammatory bowel conditions, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. For constipation, dose of 40 to 170 milligrams of aloe latex per day, for no longer than seven days, has been taken by mouth. The use of oral aloe latex is not currently recommended for children.

Aloe Vera’s ability to detoxify is sufficient to gently and gradually break down, loosen and assist in the natural dispersal of these residues filled with toxins from intestine.

• The Greeks scientists, 2000 years ago regarded Aloe Vera as the universal

Panacea.

• The Egyptians called the Aloe "The PLANT of IMMORTALITY"
• The American Indians called Aloe " The WAND of HEAVEN"

Aloe, native to Africa, is also known as "lily of the desert", the "plant of immortality". The name was derived from the Arabic alloeh meaning "bitter" because of the bitter liquid found in the leaves.There are around 300 species of Aloe Vera out of which 11 are poisonous and only 4 are of medicinal value .Most potent is Barbadensis Miller. Full potency is achieved at the age of around 3 years. Aloe Vera contains over 200 nutritional substances, which makes it the most nutritional plant on the earth. Aloe Vera contains: Barb loin , Aloin (glycosides), aloe emodin, lupeol, salicylic, magnesium, salicylic acid, campesterol, B-sitosteral, anthraquinones, cinnamic acid, phonon, sulphur, calcium, potassium, chromium,zinc and vitamins, steroids, 6 Antiseptic Agents, Anti-Microbials Lectins, Amino Acids (over 21), Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6,B12,C, D & E(Vitamins cannot be manufactured to sustain a continuous supply) 3 types of Carbohydrates, over 20 minirals Minerals(All of which are essential for human body), Enzymes and Fibers. Its prostaglandin inhibitor effect justifies its use as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic.Together they form a very strong and unique combination which makes Aloe Vera the wonder plant . Thus Aloe Vera exhibits number of activities such as analgesic, anti microbial, anti-inflammatory, powerful immune modulator (stimulator), anti- tumor agent, antioxidant.

The human body requires 22 amino acids for good health -- eight of which are called "essential" because the body cannot fabricate them. Aloe Vera contains all of these eight essential amino acids, and 11 of the 14 " within the body, and some cannot be stored by the body, so it is necessary for the diet secondary" amino acids. . It contains a newly discovered compound in aloe, Acemannan, which is currently being studied for its ability to strengthen the bodies natural resistance. Studies have shown Acemannan to boost T-lymphocyte cells that aid the immune system.

Aloe can aid in keeping the skin supple, and has been used in the control of acne and eczema. It can relieve itching due to insect bites and allergies. Aloe's healing power come from increasing the availability of oxygen to the skin, and by increasing the synthesis and strength of tissue. The gel of the Aloe plant, when exposed to oxygen for a prolonged time (about four hours) oxidizes - rendering it worthless. (This is the same reaction to air as an apple undergoes when the "insides" are exposed to air - it quickly browns due to oxidation. This natural product is a safe and environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic preservatives such as sulfur dioxide. According to the researchers, this gel operates through a combination of mechanics (Serrano et al., 2006), forming a protective layer against the oxygen and moisture of the air and inhibiting, through its various antibiotic and antifungal compounds, the action of micro-organisms that cause foodborne illnesses.

Plant for a Future

The use of aloe vera can be traced all the way back to the ancient Egyptians. Aloe was held in such reverence in Egypt that it was considered to be the "Plant of Immortality". Drawings of the aloe plant have even been found inscribed in the tombs of pharaohs.

Legend has it that Aristotle persuaded Alexander the Great to conquer the Isle of Socroto, to secure enough Aloe vera to heal his soldiers’ wounds. The glamorous Cleopatra relied on it for her unlined, youthful complexion, whilst the Chinese hailed Aloe as an elixir of youth. Aloe is also listed in St. John’s gospel as an anointing ingredient for the body of Christ.For over 3500 years,tales of “Healing Aloe Vera” have been handed down through centuries by words of mouth . The earliest documented use of Aloe Vera comes from the ancient Egyptians,but it was also grown and used by King Solomon,Who was said to have valued it highly.Writings of the early Greeks show how they valued it for relieving blisters, burns and leg ulcers as well as bowel and stomach disorders.

WONDERS OF ALOE VERA

1. AGING (Elderly and Patients):

Aloe Vera is one of the most potent sources of anti-oxidants, Vitamins E and C and Vitamin B-12 (only known natural source). Recent studies are demonstrating the remarkable benefits of anti-oxidants. Oxidation in cells, can damage DNA, leading sometimes to cancer, other diseases and, to the changes associated with aging. The anti-oxidant compounds counter the aging effects wrought by the free radicals. Patients too have weak health and immune system. Treasure of over 200 nutritional elements in Aloe Vera gives immediate boost to overall health and immune system. People drinking Aloe Vera regularly were shown to suffer less from life threatening diseases and overall live about 10% longer life.


2. AIDS / CANCER:

There is, to-date, no known cure for cancers, HIV nor AIDS. All such patients have very weak Immune System. They are helped in 4 ways. Aloe Vera helps to boost the strength and Immune System by giving it the nutrients it needs. It also cleans the toxins that may build up in the system from the strong medicines given to such patients. The anti oxidants kill free radicals thus prevent further damages to the body.

Aloe Vera activates whites blood cells and promotes growth of non-cancerous cells apparent cancer fighting properties. Helpful chemicals are Lectins, Arginine, Germanium, Beta Carotene. They are powerful anti-turnor agents and immune modulators and were shown to retard the growth of turners (such as S-180 and cancer. The increase the number of T-4 and T-8 T Iymphocytes which destroy microbes and cancer cells.

Trails on AIDS patients showed that fever and night sweats, diarrhea and opportunistic infections (which are usually responsible for the dath of the AIDS patient) were controlled or eliminated in most patients. Clinical toxicity and side-effects were entirely absent. In 1994, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for human testing against the human immune deficiency approved Aloe Vera for the treatment of HIV virus, which is believed to cause AIDS.


3. ARTHRITIS:

Aloe Vera has been shown to help arthritis in many ways. It helps in strengthening the thigh muscles and ligaments. It also helps in development of cartilage. Phenylalanine, Boron, Proline, Cysteine, Valine is very helpful in this. They improve bone health, strengthen joints, aid skin and cartilage healing, are helpful in metabolism of calcium, phosphorous and magnesium. Aloe Vera is naturally rich in calcium. It also helps in absorption of calcium.


4. BALDNESS:

One of the main reasons for hair loss is toxins in small intestine. Thus toxins removal by Aloe Vera helps repair this problem. Local application of Aloe Gelly on the scalp creates new cells.


5. BLOOD:

Aloe Vera is natural blood purifier. Thus is many skin diseases. It increases hemoglobin, white blood cells and platelets. It also dilates blood vessels thus increasing blood circulation. Iron, Copper, Lysine, Threonine, Folic Acid, Thiamin are helpful chemicals. They help in blood formation and the oxygenation of red blood cells, enhance the use of iron, promote maturation of the red blood cells and increases their life span, aid in production of anti-bodies, in tissue repair, gain in energy, strengthening immunity, assist in blood formation. This combined effect of amino also helps reduction of high blood pressure.


6. BRAIN:

Aloe Vera is very beneficial for brain. It contains Choline which has been shown to boost memory retention. It directly affects nerve signaling and is needed for proper transmission of nerve impulses from the brain through the central nervous system. Other helpful chemicals are Boron, Phenykakanine, Gultamic acid, Thiamin, Asparagine. They increase mental alertness, neuron activity in central nervous system, neuro-transmitter activity in brain and spinal cord, aid in detoxifying ammonia out of the brain, optimize cognitive activity and brain function, also act as antioxidant, maintain balance in the central nervous system thus stabilizing nervous system. Thus improvement in Parkinson's disease, migraine is also seen.


7. DIABETES:

Many Studies have shown that regular consumption of Aloe Vera leads to lowering blood glucose level with no toxic effects on kidney or liver function as assessed by blood chemistry. Aloe Vera helps toning up of Pancreas, thus regularizing the insulin flow. Insulin breaks up the sugar, molecules floating in the blood and pushes it in cells. Cells do not open without insulin. Sometimes insulin is not potent enough to open the cells. Insulin requires chromium to function properly. Aloe Vera contains chromium picolinate. Which helps improve glucose utilization, which is important for energy, maintains stable blood sugar levels. Helpful chemicals are Copper, Isoleucine, Leucine, Alanine, Manganese. They enhance the use of iron, aid in metabolism of glucose and help utilize glucose thus help in reducing, regulation sugar level, promote maturation of the red blood cells and increases their life span.

Aloe Vera helps accelerate healing of Diabetic wounds. It dramatically lessens inflammation and improve pain response.


8. DIGESTIVE PROBLEMS:

Aloe Vera helps in indigestion, irritable bowl syndrome, ulcerative colitis, esophagitis, peptic ulcer, chronic colon problems including constipation, hemorrhoids, colitis and Crohn's disease. It helps removal of excess acid (pitta) and cough (Ayurveda). Glutamine is antigastial duodental ulcer drug which helps maintain proper body pH/alkalinity.

9. HEART:

Indians whether in India or abroad have a 4-5 times higher rate of heart attacks and that too at a much younger age. It is predicted that by 2010, over 60% of the heart attack victims will be Indians.

Aloe Vera helps the heart in many ways. The heart rate is showed through Chronotropic effect, so the diastolic period is longer. Electrical impulses are slowed through the Dromotropic effect. Through the inotropic effect, the force of the heart contraction is increased. Thus giving the body a better supply of fresh blood... improving stable blood pressure. Silicone plays major role in preventing cardiovascular disease. Aloe Vera has been shown to:

1. Decrease total cholesterol levels, triglyceride, phosholipid, nonesterified fatty acid levels.
2. Increase HDL cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol) levels and also HDL/Total cholesterol ratios.

Aloe Vera contains major Antioxidents like Vitamin C,A and E. They reduce risk of heart attack and offer a vital protection against death from coronary disease.


10. FAT METABOLISM:

Amino acids Methionine, Serine, Threonine and Molydbenum are useful. They detoxify heavy metals. Help in proper metabolism carbohydrate, fat and protein thus prevent buildup of fat in liver, arteries.


11. IMMUNITY: (allergies):

Aloe Vera is a rich source of Vitamins E and C. They help in boosting the immune system tremendously. Thus it's an ideal solution to many allergies we suffer such as colds, asthma. Serine maintains healthy immune system. Aspartic Acid helps increase stamina.

12. KIDNEY:

Aloe Vera helps expel excess water in the cells. Thus it is helpful in many kidney problems such as Kidney stones, painful urination. It works wonders in people with failed kidneys.

13. REPRODUCTION & LADIES PROBLEMS:

Aloe Vera is described as 'Woman's friend' in Ayurveda. Thus Aloe Vera is very helpful in variety of ladies problems. Irregularity in period, cramps and other painful syndromes, Menopause related problems are helpful in many ways. In men it is shown to remove semen defects.

14. SKIN:

Aloe has been well known for centuries for it's healing properties. It facilities healing of any kind of skin wound, burn, or scald - even speeding recovery times after surgery. It works on include blisters, insect bites, rashes, sores, herpes, urticaria, athlete's foot, fungus, vaginal infections, conjunctivitis, sties, allergic reactions and dry skin. Aloe gel helps to protect the outer layers of the skin by helping it to reorganize skin cells. Skin absorbs moisture from Aloe gel three to four times faster than water. Glycine: repairs damaged tissue and promotes healing while Threonine is a natural moisturizer. Beta Carotene helps prevent acne and other skin disorders. Aloe modifies skin tine.


15. PSORIASIS AND SKIN PROBLEMS:

Aloe Vera helps the skin pores to open and receive the moisture and nutrients of Aloe Vera. For skin problems such as psoriasis, rashes, and "shingle", the Aloe treatment includes large daily doses of Aloe Vera gel, daily topical applications of Aloe Vera Gelly and Aloe Propilis Cream (most powerful natural antibiotic), supplemented by a specific regimen of megavitamins and anti-oxidants is recommended. Zinc treats acne, eczema and other skin diseases.

16. WEIGHT MANAGEMENT:

Yes, Aloe is excellent for people wanting to diet and lose weight. With over 200 nutritional compounds (including vitamin B-12) in Aloe Vera, you should include it (the drink) in any diet/nutrition program. Aloe Vera alone cannot take the weight off and keep it off. Aloe drink twice a day makes sure that you are getting the vitamins and nutrients your body needs a sit burns off fat, and builds a lean, tone body!. It facilitates the weight loss by helping in expelling excess water from the cells.

Many other problems such anemia, appetite loss, bleeding gums, body swelling, cramps, epilepsy, gall bladder stones, gout, jaundice, liver detoxification, muscular and back pain, parkinson's piles, prostate, sinus problems, toothaches, varicose veins are also helped by Aloe Vera.

All above data is confirmed scientifically

CRASH DIET PROGRAMME

Courtesy:Dr.Avinash Kumar Mishra

IFS

Resident Commissioner

SINO –VEDIC CANCER RESEARCH CENTRE

FB-12, Shivaji Enclave, New Delhi-110021 (PH: 011-25169500, 25169555)

WEIGHT LOSS DIET PROGRAMME

by

Dr. S.P. Kaushal

M.B.B.S. M.D. (Chinese Medicine), Ph. D., D.Sc

This programme is developed to facilitate well-being and fitness of the body. It is designed to reduce weight from 4 to 7 kg per week. It also improves the human attitude and emotions by cleansing the body. This plan can be used as often as you like. After seven days you will feel lighter with an abundance of energy. During these seven days, you must abstain from alcohol and drink at least 10 glasses of water each day.

DAY-1

On Day –1, you should eat stomach full of fruits except bananas. Specially recommended fruits are melon, watermelon, papaya, guava and apple.

DAY-2

Start you Day-2, with two baked potatoes in the breakfast. Eat stomach full of all the vegetables (raw or cooked) of your choice throughout the Day-2. There is no limit on the amount or type of vegetables. Vegetables may be taken in the form of salad without dressing (except vinegar, squeezed lemon garlic and herbs). Do not add more than one teaspoon of oil, preferably none.

DAY-3

Today, you should eat stomach full of fruits (except bananas) and vegetables of your choice. But do not eat potatoes today.

DAY-4

On the Day-4, you may consume upto nine bananas and one litre of toned milk. This may be combined with the special soup, which may be taken in unlimited quantities (see Page 2)

DAY-5

You are allowed to eat 400 gm of sprouts and six tomatoes on the Day-5. you must increase your water intake by 1.5 litres from today to clear your system of the uric acid that you will be producing.

DAY-6

Today you may eat an unlimited amount of sprouts and vegetables.

DAY-7

On the Day-7, your food intake consists of rice (brown rice), fruit juices and all the vegetables of your choice.

SINO –VEDIC CANCER RESEARCH CENTRE

FB-12, Shivaji Enclave, New Delhi-110021 (PH: 011-25169500, 25169555)

Beverages that you may consumes while on the programme:

1. Water or lemon water.

2. Brick coffee/black tea (without sugar or sweeteners).

3. The following soup is recommended as a supplement to you diet from the Day-4. it can be taken any time of the day in unlimited quantity. You are encouraged to consume large quantities of this soup.

RECEOPE OF SPECIAL SOUP.

Water: 750 ml

Onions (large): 6

Tomatoes: 3

Green peppers: 2

Cabbage: 1

Herbs and flavouring as desired.

The recipe is flexible. You may substitute vegetable according to your taste. You may add any vegetable you like such as asparagus, peas, corn, green beans, cauliflower, turnip etc. try to avoid beans because these are high in calories.

4. You should not take fruit juices before the Day – 7.

SINO –VEDIC CANCER RESEARCH CENTRE

FB-12, Shivaji Enclave, New Delhi-110021 (PH: 011-25169500, 25169555)

HOW THIS PROGRAMME WORKS

The food eaten during this programme works by burning more calories than it gives to the body.

DAY-1

On Day –1 your only source of nutrition is fresh fruits. Fruits provide everything to the body except total balance and variety.

DAY-2

This is day starts with complex carbohydrates in the morning for energy and balance. The rest of the Day-2 consists of vegetables, which are virtually calorie free and provide essential nutrients and fibre to the body.

DAY-3

You system is now preparing to burn excess weight. You may have carving for food but it diminishes by the Day-4.

DAY-4

Bananas, milk and soup are to be taken on the day-4. You probably may not consume all the bananas allowed on this day but these are added to recover the potassium you have lost and the sodium you have missed in the past three days. You will notice a definite loss of desire for sweets. This day is excepted to pass very easy.

DAY-5

Sprouts provide iron and protein, while tomatoes provide vitamins and fibre. Sprouts and lot of water will purify your system. You will notice colourless urine today.

DAY-6

Similar to the Day-5 sprouts & tomatoes provide Iron, protein vitamins and fibre. By now, there should a noticeable difference in the way you look today as compared to the Day-1

DAY-7

You have your body under control. You should be thankful to this unique programme for purging and cleansing you body.

Tomorrow morning you will be 4 to 7 kg lighter than one week ago. If you desire further weight loss, repeat the programme again. However, it is suggested that you rest for three days between each programme

HEPATITIS AND HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT

Hepatitis and Homeopathic Treatment
Hepatitis is a serious disorder in which liver cells become inflamed. The inflammation is most occurs because of a virus. It can also be caused by an overactive immune system, and from drugs, alcoholism, chemicals, and environmental toxins. Viral hepatitis usually appears as type A, B, or C.
Type A, the most common form of viral hepatitis, often affects school-aged children. The disease is transmitted by contaminated food or water, or contact with a person ill with hepatitis A. The hepatitis A virus is shed in the stools of an infected person during the incubation period of 15 to 45 days before symptoms occur and during the first week that the person feels sick. Blood and other body fluids may also carry the infection. The virus does not stay in the body after the infection has resolved, and, unlike hepatitis types B and C, there is no "carrier" state (a person who spreads the disease to others but does not become ill).
Hepatitis types B and C affect people of all ages. Most people who become infected with hepatitis B get rid of the virus within 6 months. This type of short infection is known as an "acute" case of hepatits B. Approximately 10% of people infected with the hepatitis B virus develop a chronic, life-long infection. People with chronic infection may or may not have symptoms. Those who do not develop symptoms are referred to as carriers. Having chronic hepatitis B increases your chance of permanent liver damage, including cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and liver cancer.
Hepatitis B
Contact with blood in work setting: this puts physicians, nurses, dentists, and other healthcare personnel at particular risk
Sex with multiple partners without the use of a barrier such as a condom
History of blood transfusion prior to the early 1990's
Receiving a tattoo with contaminated instruments
IV drug use with sharing of contaminated needles
Birth to a hepatitis B infected mother
Travel to underdeveloped nations and immigrants from areas where disease rates are high (namely, the Asia Pacific and Mediterranean regions and southern Africa)
Having the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) puts you at greater risk for chronic hepatitis and its potential complications
Homeopathy

There have been few studies examining the effectiveness of specific homeopathic remedies. A professional homeopath, however, may recommend one or more of the following treatments for viral hepatitis based on his or her knowledge and clinical experience. Before prescribing a remedy, homeopaths take into account a person's constitutional type. In homeopathic terms, a person's constitution is his or her physical, emotional, and intellectual makeup. An experienced homeopath assesses all of these factors when determining the most appropriate remedy for a particular individual.
Aconitum — used during initial phases of hepatitis when the individual has a fever, jaundice, and sharp pains in the liver; can be used in newborns
Belladonna— used in early stages of hepatitis when the individual has occasional liver pains that are worsened by inhalation and movement
Chelidonium— for individuals with pain that originates in the liver and extends to the back and right shoulder; this remedy is most appropriate for individuals who have gray or yellow loose stools, fever, and jaundice; a craving for milk may be present; lying on the left side and ingesting hot food or drink may bring some relief
China— for individuals with a tender liver and a sensation of fullness in the stomach; the individual may burp frequently although it provides no relief; he or she may also have cravings for sweets, cold drinks, or coffee
Lycopodium— one of the primary remedies for hepatitis in children and adults; this remedy is most appropriate for individuals who feel tension in the liver area, have difficulty standing up, and feel full after eating only small amounts of food
Mercurius— for individuals with a swollen, tender liver and jaundice; the tongue may also be yellow and swollen; this remedy is most appropriate for individuals with clammy perspiration, excessive salivation, a sensitivity to temperature variations, and bleeding gums; lying on the right side is painful and stools may be light gray or green
Phosphorus— for individuals with burning pains under the right rib cage and in the back between the shoulder blades that are relieved by cold drinks; this remedy may be used in newborns with jaundice

PRINCIPLES OF HOMEOPATHY

Homeopathy rests on three principles.
1.Like cures like For example, if the symptoms of your cold are similar to poisoning by mercury, then mercury would be your homeopathic remedy.
2.Law of Infinitesimals/Minimal Dose
The remedy is taken in an extremely dilute form; normally one part of the remedy to around 1,000,000,000,000 parts of water.
3.The Single Remedy No matter how many symptoms are experienced, only one remedy is taken, and that remedy will be aimed at all those symptoms.

Homeopathy

"Unless the laws of chemistry have gone awry, most homeopathic remedies are too diluted to have any physiological effect...." ---Consumer Reports (January 1987)

"Many previous studies have demonstrated that homeopathy has an effect over and above placebo....It has been established beyond doubt and accepted by many researchers, that the placebo-controlled randomised controlled trial is not a fitting research tool with which to test homeopathy." --a spokeswoman from the Society of Homeopaths