The good news for people with ulcers is that there are many effective, safe, herbs that are available that can help ulcers to heal. One of the main herbs is licorice, with a number of clinical studies confirming its usefulness in treating ulcers. In addition to licorice, there are several anti-inflammatory, ulcer-healing, stomach-soothing herbs. All are pleasant tasting and safe for long-term use. Using them in combination can be especially helpful. Several options are listed below for your convenience, depending on what you have available and find desirable.
USING TINCTURES FOR ULCERS
People with ulcers are often advised to avoid alcohol. But alcohol-based tinctures are one of the easiest ways to take many of the herbs that help ulcers. If you're using tinctures rather than teas, put the recommended dose in a cup, add boiling water and allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes. This helps evaporate some of the alcohol, which can worsen ulcers. You can also substitute glycerin extracts, known as glycerites; use the same dosages. (The best way to take ulcer herbs, however, is in a tea.)
ANTIBIOTIC ALTERNATIVES
If your ulcer is caused by the Helicobacter pylori bacterium and you prefer not to take antibiotics, preliminary scientific studies show good results using a combination treatment of licorice, vitamin C and manuka honey. (This honey is made by a specific type of bee. You can find it in some health food stores.)
Take licorice in the following dosage: 3 cups of tea per day (simmer 1 teaspoon of dried root in 1/4 litre of hot water for 10 minutes); or 1/8 to 1/2 teaspoon of tincture three times per day; or chew 1 or 2 tablets of deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) licorice three times per day before meals. Add 3,000 to 10,000 milligrams of vitamin C plus 1 tablespoon of manuka honey three or four times per day. If you experience diarrhea or burning in the stomach, reduce the dose.
Continue the treatment for two months. After that, you should be retested for the bacterium. If it is still present, go for the antibiotics.
OTHER ULCER TREATMENTS
Potatoes, oatmeal and cabbage help sooth ulcers from the inside out. Cabbage juice is one food treatment that studies have shown may be helpful for ulcers. Cabbage juice is high in a chemical called glutamine, which may stimulate the stomach to produce more of a protective compound called mucin. To achieve this protective effect, you need to drink about four cups of juice a day in divided doses.
Other ulcer strategies:
*Avoid foods that worsen symptoms. Avoid vinegar, sharp wines and too fatty foods.
*Take supplements of vitamins A and E if you think you may not be getting enough of these vitamins. You need 10,000 IU of vitamin A (or 15,000 to 25,000 I U of beta-carotene) per day and 400 to 800 I U of vitamin E per day.
*Boost your fiber intake.
*Avoid smoking and coffee (including decaf).
*Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatory drugs.
HERBAL REMEDIES
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
The premier ulcer-healing herb, licorice seems to work as well as ulcer-¬treating drugs, but with fewer side effects. Instead of inhibiting acid production, it strengthens the stomach's normal protective mechanisms and induces healing. It may even help eliminate H. pylori, the bacterium at fault in many ulcers. Licorice has also been shown to decrease ulcer formation caused by drugs such as aspirin. Unlike whole licorice, a form of the herb called DGL, or deglycyrrhizinated licorice, can be taken by people with high blood pressure and those who take heart or blood pressure drugs.
Typical dosage: 3 cups of tea per day (simmer 1 teaspoon of dried root in 1/4 litre of hot water for 10 minutes); or 1/8 to 1/2 teaspoon of tincture three times per day; or 1 or 2 tablets of DGL licorice chewed three times per day before meals. (Because DGL licorice is activated by saliva, it does not work as well if you simply swallow it.) Caution: DGL licorice may cause diarrhea in some people. Whole licorice should not be used if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, if you have heart disease, liver disease or diabetes, or if you are taking heart or blood pressure drugs. Limit use of whole licorice to six weeks unless under the supervision of a qualified health practitioner.
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
This lovely, old-fashioned herb promotes healing, decreases inflammation in the stomach, and can ease the anxiety that may be perpetuating the ulcer. Typical dosage: 3 to 6 cups of tea per day (steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried herb in 1/4 liter of hot water for 10 minutes); or 1/4 to 1 teaspoon of tincture or glycerite three or four times per day.
Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
These beautiful orange or yellow flowers are anti-inflammatory and wound-healing. They are also mildly astringent, which helps reduce bleeding. So if bleeding is one of your ulcer symptoms, calendula is a good choice. Typical dosage: 3 to 6 cups of tea per day (steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried flowers in 1/4 liter of hot water for 10 minutes); or 1/4 to 1 teaspoon of tincture or glycerite three or four times per day.
Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)
This remedy for the gastrointestinal tract contributes to ulcer healing by decreasing inflammation, protecting and soothing the stomach lining, and reducing excess acidity. It is also mildly astringent. Typical dosage: 3 to 6 cups of tea per day (steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried herb in 1/4 liter of hot water for 10 minutes). Caution: avoid meadowsweet if you are allergic to aspirin; it contains a chemical relative of aspirin. Use for high pain cases as an adjunct to chamomile.
Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis)
When water is added to this soothing root, a rich mucilage, or slippery substance, forms that helps it coat and soothe an irritated ulcer. Typical dosage: 3 to 6 cups of tea per day, sipped frequently throughout the day (steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried root in 1/4 liter of hot water for 10 minutes or steep the same amount in cold water overnight); or 1/4 to 1 teaspoon of tincture or glycerite three or four times per day. Caution: the mucilage in marshmallow may absorb other drugs taken at the same time, so, if you are using other drugs, ask your practitioner's advice about a dosage routine.
Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra)
The bark of this tree is another herb that forms mucilage to protect, soothe and heal the stomach lining. Typical dosage: 3 to 6 cups of tea per day (steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried bark in 1/4 litre of hot water for 10 minutes or steep in cold water overnight); or 1/4 to 1 teaspoon of tincture or glycerite three or four times per day.
Golden Seal Root - a wonderful specific anti-inflammatory for the gut system, also able to resolve bacteria and mucus problems that contribute to gut and digestive disorders.
Common Mallow (Malva sylvestris)
Another mucilage-former, this herb can be prepared the same way as marshmallow or slippery elm. Typical dosage: 3 to 6 cups of tea per day (steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried bark in 1/4 liter of hot water for 10 minutes or steep the same amount in cold water overnight); or to 1 teaspoon of tincture or glycerite three or four times per day.
Plantain (Plantago major)
A common garden weed that grows almost everywhere in the world, plantain has soothing, astringent, antibacterial and wound-healing properties. Typical dosage: 3 to 4 cups of tea per day (steep 1 to
2 teaspoons of dried leaves or 1 tablespoon of fresh herb in 1/4 litre of hot water for 10 minutes); or 1/4 to 1 teaspoon of tincture or glycerite three or four times per day.
Oil of Oregano- kills the h. Pylori bacteria that eat the stomach lining, causing ulcers.
Ingredients for Making Ulcer Remedy Blend
2 part licorice root tincture
1 part marshmallow root tincture
1 part chamomile flower tincture
Tinctures have a shelf life of 5 to 7 years depending on the quality of your storage conditions. Recommended dosage for adults: 20 drops, 4 times daily.
Bonus: The recipe above can also be used as a tea blend when the tincture is substituted for dry herb!
No matter how many years the person has suffered with ulcers, or has had ineffective treatment for stomach and duodenal ulcers, these are usually eliminated in five weeks or less (but it is a good idea to continue with the Digestive Disorders Tincture for at least another few weeks or the condition will probably re-occur). The main dietary advice is to avoid vinegar, sharp wines and too fatty foods.
 By Stephanie L Stuart

Hemolysis is the premature destruction of red blood cells (erythrocytes) and it leads to hemolytic anemia, when bone marrow activity cannot compensate for the erythrocyte loss. This condition can be caused by a large number of hereditary and acquired disorders, which number more than 200. Symptoms include anemia, breathlessness, leg ulcers and in severe cases, angina and heart failure. Treatment consists of blood transfusions for severe acute anemia, and avoiding known causes. This includes drugs, chemicals and known offending food products. Folic acid, steroids, immunoglobin, and iron therapy are commonly used, while surgical splenectomy is required rarely.
Ayurvedic treatment is aimed at treating the cause of hemolysis, reducing the anemia and treating the associated symptoms. Medicines like Punarnavadi Mandur, Tapyadi Loh, Arogya Vardhini and Lohasav are used to increase the red blood cell count. Medicines which act on the "Rakta" and "Majja" dhatus (tissues) of the body are used for this condition. These medicines include Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia), Patol (Tricosanthe dioica), Saariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Patha (Cissampelos pareira), Musta (Cyperus rotundus), Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa), Guduchi (Tinosporia cordifolia) and Amalaki (Emblica officinalis).
In addition, medicines which act on the bone marrow are given in an attempt to improve the production of healthy red blood cells and also to reduce the tendency for hemolysis. These medicines include Guduchi, Amalaki, Musta, Laxadi Guggulu, Suvarna-Malini-Vasant, Heerak Bhasma and Panch -Tikta -Ghrut -Guggulu.
Additional treatment needs to be given for associated symptoms. Triphala Guggulu and Mandukparni (Centella asiatica) are used for leg ulcers. Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) and Laxmi Vilas Ras are used for angina and heart disease.
The overall results of treatment in this condition depend upon the cause of hemolysis. However, in most of the conditions related to hemolytic anemia, the outcome is usually quite good. Acute or emergency cases need to be treated by a Hematologist.

By Abdulmubeen Mundewadi

Neem needs no introduction in today's world. A very famous herb of India with worldwide fame and having magical properties known for its miraculous medicinal values from past 5000 years. Neem is known as free tree of India as it is found almost everywhere in India. It is considered as a magic tree, which has properties that not only relieves but also cures from illness. Neem tree is commonly known as margosa tree in English language and Azadirachta indica in biological terms. It is part of every Indian home due to its great application and hence is considered as a place of worship.

Margosa tree attains a maximum height of 40 to 50 fts. It is an evergreen tree whose branches spread all over. It is a very densely crowned tree, which may reach to a diameter of 30 to 40 fts. The trunk is relatively straight. Bark is thick and rough with whitish to reddish brown in appearance. A fluid called neera excrudes out of the bark. Leaves are pinnate 12 to 15 inch long with about 20 to 31 green colored leaflets, which are about 3 to 5 cm in length. Flowers are small and white in colour that blossom in spring i.e. February to march. Fruits are oval in appearance green in colour, when in raw form and turns pale yellow when it ripes. Every fruit contains one seed, which contain oil. Neem tree fruits in summers i.e. in May to July. Neem has been used as pesticide since early ages because of its remarkable property of fighting away with pest and microorganism, that are supposed to be harmful for agricultural and homely purpose and hence makes neem the most wonderful partner of human in his evolution.

Margosa tree possesses the sheet (cold) virya potency. It contains tickt and kashaya rasa, it possesses the laghu (light) gunna (property). Combination of these makes neem a unique herb. Due to tickt rasa it suppresses kapha and due to sheet virya potency it suppresses pitta dosha. Chemically neem contains complex compounds called triterpenes, limonoids, nonterpenoids, hexanortriterpenoids, and pentattriterpenoids. The most important active ingredient of neem is azadirachitin, which makes neem possess the power, what it projects in its usage. Every part of the plant is used i.e. flower, leaves, bark, seed, oil, branches and the excludant called neera, which flows out of the bark

Neem is a multipurpose herb, which is recommended in every type of ailment. Following are the wonders of neem, which ayurveda has to offer to this world and modern life style of living.

Local action:

· Neem act as anti bacterial, anti parasitic, anti fungal, anti protozoal and anti viral thus helps in protection from all the microorganisms, which are always ready to invade in our body causing serious ailments.

· Local application of neem powder or neem oil has miraculous results. As it is a famous anti microbial herb, it renders all the microorganisms inactive therefore helping in proper healing of wound without causing any infections and septic conditions.

· Taking bath of neem leaves water is a very common sight in Indian homes that helps our body to counter mild infections, which our body might get in day-to-day activity.

· Its tropical application makes us relieved from acne, eczema and even ringworms

· In skin related diseases, neem works as blessing of God on mankind. It has an action on almost every kind of skin disease thus making its indication in eradicating every kind of itch, rash, infection and allergy.

· Neem water is extensively used in burn injuries, thus to protect them from any kind of infection and also promote healing.

· Neem oil is extensively used in hair fall and early graying of hairs with very satisfying results. It also find its application in dandruff and in lice growth

· Its local application on arthritic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, Osteoarthritis, lower back pain, and musculo skeletal pains is highly recommended with good results

Internal action:

· Due to presence of tickt rasa it is beneficial in indigestion, constipation and restoring taste of mouth.

· It helps in fighting with the intestinal worms there by act as a deworming agent

· It is highly recommended in hyperacidity and epigastric pain as it suppresses pitta that is the main culprit in the aggravation of such illness.

· Good results have also been seen in gastritis

· Widely and extensively used as blood purifier as it possess the properties like tickt rasa which helps in detoxifying any toxins floating in our blood stream which may lead to illness.

· It gives wonderful results in diabetes incipidus and diabetes mellitus due to presence of tickt rasa.

· It is very helpful in curing urinary tract infection

· It stimulates liver for proper functioning therefore helps in maintaining proper secretions of liver

· It acts on all kinds of skin disorders and provides great relief.

· It works as an anti inflammatory and pain relieving agent

· It also helps in suppressing extra heat generated in body due to any reason thus helps in maintaing normal condition in hyperthermia. Very useful in suppressing fever.

· Anti malarial action of neem has also been seen

· Since old times neem leaves have been used as an agent that helps in increasing vision as it helps in suppressing kapha disorders thus releasing congestion on eyeballs caused due to mucus accumulation in sinuses.

· Coughing is relieved by use of neem water

· It helps in reducing excess micturation

· It has given very good results in diseases like gonorrhea and syphilis

· It works as an immunoboosting agent therefore making our immune system very strong and efficient to fight against any foreign invasion making our body strong and disease free

Author: Dr John Anne

Ginger is a popular addition to energy drinks, with good reason. You can get the energy and health benefits of ginger tea without purchasing these expensive and sugar laden drinks.
Instead, why not try ginger tea? You can purchase fresh ginger root in most supermarkets now. While the cost per pound is not very expensive, you do not need anywhere near a pound. I frequently purchase a small knob and use it fresh.
Ginger Tea Recipe
To make 4 cups of tea, start with a 1 inch piece of ginger. Peel the ginger and grate it coarsely or slice thinly.
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil and add the ginger. Reduce the heat and simmer the tea for 15 to 20 minutes depending on the strength you like.
Pour off the tea, or strain if necessary. Enjoy hot or cold. Many enjoy the tea as is, but you can also sweeten it with a little honey, and lemon is optional.
Ginger tea is commonly used as a cold remedy. It is said to boost the immune system, soothe sore throats, and treat bouts of flu. It is also believed to improve digestion and help relieve nausea.
Still not convinced to try ginger tea? Consider these known health benefits:

• Improves circulation and blood flow
• Relieves cold and flu symptoms
• Eases stomach cramps, improves digestion and relieves nausea
• Reduces menstrual cramping
• Helps regulate blood sugar
• Boosts the immune system

Ginger tea is a healthy and spicy drink that will give you energy, boost your immune system and refresh your soul. Try a cup today.

By Diane Watkins

The common cold is a major concern for people from all over the world and hence the need to look at different kinds of cold remedies. The average person will get between 2 and 4 colds in a year. It can also manifest together with a cough which with time can cause chest pains and a general discomfort. There are a number of remedies including medications, over-the-counter pills and medications. Most people prefer natural remedies to avoid the side effects of medications.

The most common signs of a cold include but not limited to runny nose, nasal congestion, mild or strong head ache, sneezing, coughing, fever watery eyes, and congestion. You should note that a good diet is vital to support the remedies.

Below are some of the proven cold remedies:

Zinc lozenges

Zinc is a vital mineral needed by over 300 body enzymes. It's abundant in foods like seafood, eggs, liver, and meat. Zinc can be gotten as lozenges in health shops. Research has indicated a high efficiency among those who took zinc 24 hrs after initial signs of the cold. It also impairs the ability of the virus to multiply.

Vitamin D

Of all people, those found with higher vitamin D levels are less susceptible to catching the cold. Apart from that, it's a common ingredient among remedies for colds.

Astralagus

A traditional Chinese root, astralagus has been proven to increase immunity to contracting colds and flu. It doubles up as an anti viral and anti oxidant that will provide relief to those with heart conditions. Health stores stock it in capsule and tea form. It also prevents colds before they occur. It also increases efficacy of other medication

Garlic

Popular home cure for a wide range of issues. It can be taken in soup, chewed or made as garlic juice. Its compound allicin has antiviral and fungal properties. Potency is at a maximum when the garlic is raw and fresh.

Vitamin C

It's a very popular cold remedy. It also protects from colds and ensures severity; occurrence and duration of colds are reduced dramatically. It should however be used in moderation as large amounts can cause diarrhea.

Honey

Probably the most used across various cultures around the world. Research has shown it reduces coughs among kids significantly and assists them to sleep well. It carries anti oxidant and antiseptic properties. It may however be unsafe in kids younger than a year old.

Echinacea

It's a very popular herb touted by herbalists as having the ability to cure and prevent colds. The suggested dosage is taking after every 3 hours for several days to alleviate all the symptoms.

Ginseng

There is a variety of ginseng for sale but the North American type has gotten a good reputation when it comes to healing and preventing colds. It has been noted that it could reduce the effect of medications like blood thinners, anti-psychotics and diabetes medications. People with hormone related conditions are advised to steer clear of Ginseng

Ginger

Its one of the most popular remedies for colds throughout the world. It treats runny noses, coughs, white tongue aches and general body aches. It can be brewed into a tea which is a popular cold management home remedy. You can add honey and lemon to soothe the throat. some people report disturbances like heartburn when used excessively so practice some moderation.

Elder berry

It has a long history in treating flu, colds and sinus infections. Its extracts have indicated ability to fight viruses. Its compounds strengthen the immune system while blocking flu infection at the same time. It is distributed as juice capsules or a syrup.

Eucalyptus steam inhale

Eucalyptus oil in boiling water provides steam that can help calm flu and cold symptoms. Cover your head with the steam under a blanket to reap the full benefits.

Lemon

Boil a glass of water and put in a fresh lemon. Lemon contains medicinal qualities and it can help you to get rid of cold.

Other remedies like the legendary chicken soup and broth have proven to have good levels of success in combating colds. You should be sure before you attempt any of the above of their compatibility with any drugs you are taking to avoid conflicts and side effects. The best thing would be to consult your doctor so he/she can advice you on the best remedy. You can use one or several of the above cold remedies for best results.

By Sammy JayJay