Balmony Health Dictionary

A general term for a number of conditions arising from an abnormal breakdown of fats with rapid consumption of carbohydrates. Diabetic, oxybutyric acids and other allied bodies appear in the urine. Diagnosis may be confirmed by a smell of acetone on the breath.

Causes. Diet too rich in fats, inability to digest fats. May be associated with diabetes, starvation wasting diseases and liverish attacks; when followed by coma, situation is serious.

Symptoms. Physical weakness, pallor, lethargy, acid stools, constant yawning, constipation, diarrhoea – in severe cases, jaundice. A liver tonic would be an ingredient of a prescription (Barberry, Balmony, Dandelion, Mulberry, Wahoo).

A reduced alkalinity of the blood allows acidosis to take over. Symptoms of diabetic coma when due to salt deficiency profoundly affects the chemistry of the blood.

Alternatives. Teas: Agrimony, Balm (lemon), Bogbean, Boldo, Centuary, Chamomile, Cleavers, Dandelion, Fumitory, Hyssop, Meadowsweet, Motherwort, Wormwood.

Tea. Formula: equal parts, Balm, Chamomile and Dandelion. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water, infuse 10 minutes; dose – 1 cup thrice daily.

Tablets/capsules. Seaweed and Sarsaparilla, Blue Flag, Goldenseal, Wild Yam, Yellow Dock.

Potter’s Acidosis tablets: Anise oil, Caraway oil, Cinnamon, Meadowsweet, Rhubarb, Medicinal Charcoal.

Formula. Equal parts: Dandelion, Blue Flag, Meadowsweet. Mix. Dose: Powders: 500mg; Liquid extracts: 30-60 drops; Tinctures: 1-2 teaspoons thrice daily.

Goldenseal tincture: 1-2ml thrice daily.

Diet. Vigorous cutback in food-fats, especially dairy products. Readily assimilable form of carbohydrate (honey), replenishing stores in the liver without working that organ too hard. Restore body chemistry. Kelp instead of salt. Powdered skimmed milk, yoghurt, plantmilk made from Soya bean. Pectin foods: raw apples help solidify the stool. Bananas, carrots, carob flour products. Vitamin B complex, B6, Folic ac., Niacin, Pantothenic acid. See: CAROB BEAN. ... acidosis

Anti-parasitics. Herbs that destroy worms (vermicides) or expel them from the body (vermifuges). Aloe, Areca nuts (tape), Assafoetida, Balmony, Betel nuts (tape), Butternut, Castor oil (thread worms), Cinnamon, Garlic, Hyssop, Kousso, Male fern (tape – now seldom used), Mugwort, Pomegranate, Pumpkin seeds, Quassia chips, Rue, Senna, Southernwood, Tansy, Thuja, Garden Thyme (hookworm), White Bryony (small doses), Wormwood.

Anthelmintics may also be given for rectal irrigation. ... anthelmintics

Herbs with an affinity for the liver and gallbladder, prescribed for inflammation of those organs and promotion of bile.

Balmony, Barberry, Betony, Bitter root, Black root, Centuary, Chamomile, Dandelion, Fringe Tree, Fumitory, Goldenseal, Holy Thistle, Hops, Mountain Grape, Mugwort, Pomegranate bark, Vervain, Wahoo, Wild Yam, Wormwood. ... anti-bilious

Agents that lift depression without sedation. Thymoleptics. Mood raisers. They may exert an antagonising action or specifically influence any particular organ that might be responsible i.e., Dandelion for depression caused by a congested liver; Hawthorn for circulatory stasis and Skullcap for cerebral congestion.

As indicated: Oats, Kola nuts, Balmony, Ginseng, Damiana, Lavender, Ladyslipper, Rosemary, Vervain. Yerbe Mate tea is used in Paraguay for this purpose.

For neurotic depression with obsessive and phobic states: Black Cohosh, Damiana, Kola, Betony and Oats.

No behavioural changes in children have been observed. Impressive safety record. Little effect upon the cardiovascular system. ... antidepressants

Remedies that allay a sense of nausea and prevent vomiting. Three most popular: Chamomile, Black Horehound, Meadowsweet. Others: Balm, Balmony, Barberry, Cayenne, Cinnamon, Cloves, Dill, Fennel, Fringe Tree bark, Iceland Moss, Lavender, Mountain Grape, Nutmeg, Peppermint.

A cup of Chamomile tea may sometimes alleviate the vomiting of cancer chemotherapy and radiation. ANTI-FATIGUE HERBS. Ginseng, Gotu Kola, Saw Palmetto, Kola. ... anti-emetics

Inflammatory disease of a joint or joints may follow invasion of organism in infective hepatitis for which primary treatment would be directed to the liver.

See: INFECTIVE HEPATITIS.

Treatment. To include liver agents: Barberry, Fringe Tree, Balmony or Milk Thistle. ... arthritis – of infective hepatitis

A group of agents which increases the secretion of bile and its expulsion from the gall bladder. They are usually bitter and being slightly laxative and eliminative in character, are indicated in some liver diseases.

Aloe Vera, Artichoke, Balmony, Barberry, Belladonna, Boneset, Black root, Blue Flag, Boldo, Butternut, Chiretta, Dandelion, Fringe Tree, Fumitory, Gentian, Greater Celandine, Goldenseal, Heather flowers, Liquorice, Mountain Grape, Quassia, Wahoo, White Poplar, Wild Yam, Yellow Dock. ... cholagogues

A herb of strong cleaning properties such as Soapwort for use on the skin. Balmony, Southernwood, Marigold, Chickweed, Goldenseal, Daisy. ... detergent

A herb that assists the liver in its function and promotes the flow of bile. Hepatoprotective. Agrimony, Balm, Balmony, Barberry, Black root, Blue Flag, Boldo, Bogbean, Centuary, Clivers, Dandelion, Fringe Tree, Fumitory, Gentian, Goldenseal, Greater Celandine, Hyssop, Mountain Grape, Prickly Ash, Wahoo, Wild Indigo, Wild Yam, Wormwood, Yellow Dock, Stone root, Black Radish. Milk

Thistle.

HEPATITIS. See: LIVER. ... hepatic

A herb which increases or stimulates the appetite.

Balmony, Boldo, Burdock (leaves and root), Calumba, Cardamom, Chiretta, Cinnamon, Condurango, Fennel, Fenugreek, Gentian, Holy Thistle, Hops, Lungwort, Mugwort, Peruvian bark, Quassia, Wormwood. ... orexigenic

LOSS OF. Anorexia. Due to one of many causes including: kidney, liver or heart disorder, coeliac disease, adrenal insufficiency, glandular disorder, indigestion, hepatitis, vitamin deficiencies, pernicious anaemia, infection (influenza, colds), emotional conflict, thread-worms, anxiety, stress. Refer to entry of relevant disorder. Where due to absence of menses: see AMENORRHOEA.

Alternatives: before meals, thrice daily.

Teas. Alfalfa, Agrimony, Balm, Balmony, Bogbean, Calamus, Calumba, Caraway, Centuary, Chamomile, Coriander seeds, Dandelion, Fenugreek seeds, Garlic, Galangal, Gentian, Ginger, Goldenseal, Milk Thistle, Horseradish, Mugwort (where linked with menstrual disorders), Peruvian bark, Quassia, Sage, Southernwood, Wormwood.

Tea mixture. Formula. Equal parts: Agrimony, Balm, Chamomile. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-15 minutes; 1 cup.

Decoction. 1 teaspoon Gentian root to each cup cold water. 1 cup.

Powders. Formula. Equal parts: Gentian, German Chamomile. Dose: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon).

Liquid Extract. Goldenseal BPC 1949: 5-15 drops.

Tincture Gentian BHP (1983). 15-60 drops.

Diet. Wholefood.

Supplements. Vitamin B-group. Zinc. ... appetite

A systemic inflammatory disease of several joints together where erosive changes occur symmetrically, and which may arise from inflammation and thickening of the synovial membrane. Cartilage becomes eroded and fibrous or even bony fusion leads to permanent fixation of a joint, or joints. Polyarthritis. An auto-immune disease.

Symptoms. Morning stiffness and pain wearing off later. Easy fatigue and decline in health. Nodules on surface of bones (elbows, wrists, fingers). Joint fluids (synovia) appear to be the object of attack for which abundant Vitamin C is preventative. Anaemia and muscle wasting call attention to inadequate nutrition, possibly from faulty food habits for which liver and intestine herbs are indicated.

Treatment. Varies in accord with individual needs. May have to be changed many times before progress is made. Whatever treatment is prescribed, agents should have a beneficial effect upon the stomach and intestines to ensure proper absorption of active ingredients. (Meadowsweet)

It is a widely held opinion that the first cause of this condition is a bacterial pathogen. An anti- inflammatory herb should be included in each combination of agents at the onset of the disease. See: ANTI-INFLAMMATORY HERBS. Guaiacum (Lignum vitae) and Turmeric (Curcuma longa) have a powerful anti-inflammatory action and have no adverse effects upon bone marrow cells or suppress the body’s immune system. Breast feeding cuts RA death rate.

Of therapeutic value according to the case. Agrimony, Angelica root, Balmony, Black Cohosh (particularly in presence of low back pain and sciatica), Bogbean, Boldo, Burdock, Celery, Cramp bark, Devil’s Claw, Echinacea (to cleanse and stimulate lymphatic system), Ginseng (Korean), Ginseng (Siberian), Liquorice, Meadowsweet, Poke root, Prickly Ash bark, White Poplar bark, White Willow bark, Wild Yam.

Tea. Formula. Equal parts. Alfalfa, Bogbean, Nettles. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-10 minutes, 1 cup thrice daily.

Decoction. Prickly Ash bark 1; Cramp bark 1; White Willow bark 2. Mix. 1oz to 1 pint water gently simmered 20 minutes. Dose: Half-1 cup thrice daily.

Tablets/capsules. Black Cohosh, Celery, Cramp bark, Devil’s Claw, Feverfew, Poke root, Prickly Ash, Wild Yam, Ligvites.

Alternative formulae:– Powders. White Willow bark 2; Devil’s Claw 1; Black Cohosh half; Ginger quarter. Mix. Dose: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon) thrice daily.

Liquid extracts. White Willow bark 2; Wild Yam half; Liquorice half; Guaiacum quarter. Mix. Dose: 1-2 teaspoons thrice daily.

Tinctures. Cramp bark 1; Bogbean 1; Prickly Ash half; Meadowsweet 1; Fennel half. Mix. Dose: 1-3 teaspoons thrice daily.

Ligvites. (Gerard House)

Cod Liver oil. Contains organic iodine, an important factor in softening-up fibrous tissue, to assist metabolism of uric-acid, help formation of haemoglobin, dilate blood vessels; all related to arthritics. The oil, taken internally, can reach and nourish cartilage by the process of osmosis; its constituents filter into cartilage and impart increased elasticity.

Topical. Evening Primrose oil, Wintergreen lotion, Comfrey poultice. Hydrotherapy: hot fomentations of Hops, Chamomile or Ragwort. Cold water packs: crushed ice or packet of frozen peas in a damp towel applied daily for 10 minutes for stiffness and pain. See: MASSAGE OIL.

Aromatherapy. Massage oils, any one: Cajeput, Juniper, Pine or Rosemary. 6 drops to 2 teaspoons Almond oil.

Supportives: under-water massage, brush baths, sweat packs, Rosemary baths, exposure of joints to sunlight.

Diet. Low salt, low fat, oily fish, Mate tea, Dandelion coffee. On exacerbation of the disease cut out all dairy products.

Supplements. Daily. Evening Primrose capsules: four 500mg; Vitamin C (1-3g); Bromelain 250mg between meals; Zinc 25mg.

General. Residence in a warm climate. Yoga. Disability and deformity may be avoided by a conscientious approach to the subject. ... arthritis – rheumatoid

Bitters are stimulants to the autonomic nervous system. They stimulate ‘bitter’ taste buds in the mouth that reflexly initiate secretion of a special hormone into the blood stream increasing production of stomach and pancreatic juices and impelling the liver to release bile into the duodenum. Bitters increase acid production and are given about half an hour before meals. To sweeten them is to nullify their effect.

Bitters increase the appetite, assist assimilation, and are indicated for perverted or loss of the sense of taste (zinc). They reduce fermentation in the intestines and are of value in hypoglycaemia and diabetes mellitus. Bitters are not carminatives. Some, such as Gentian, Calumba and Chamomile are also sialogogues (increasing the flow of saliva). Another effect, little understood, is an increase in white corpuscles in the peripheral circulation.

Aletris, Angostura, Avens, Balmony, Barberry, Betony, Bogbean, Boneset, Calumba, Centuary, Chicory, Condurango, Feverfew, Gentian, Goldenseal, Holy Thistle, Hops, Quassia Chips, Rue, Southernwood, White Horehound, Wormwood.

Not used in presence of gastric ulcer. ... bitters

Water flag. Iris versicolor L. and I. caroliniana Watson. French: Iris. German: Blaue Iris. Spanish: Mavi Susan. Italian: Giglio azzura. Dried rhizome, root.

Action: anti-inflammatory, astringent (liver), cholagogue, diuretic, laxative, stimulant, anti-emetic, blood and lymph purifier, anti-obesity. A powerful alterative for passive sluggish conditions involving the liver, gall bladder, lymphatics, veins and glandular system. Restores loss of tonicity to involuntary muscle structures.

Uses: Chronic liver conditions to increase flow of bile. Cirrhosis, psoriasis, eczema and scrofulous skin disorders, acne, shingles, anal fissure. Combines well with Yellow Dock, Red Clover. Poke root and Queen’s Delight for skin disorders BHP (1983). Soft goitre (persist for months). Migraine or sick headache of liver origin. Reported to be of value in thyroid deficiency. Jaundice (Dr M.L. Tyler). Uterine fibroids: combined with Goldenseal and Balmony (Priest). Promotes secretions of pancreas, intestines and salivary glands.

Traditional combination: With equal parts Yellow Dock and Sarsaparilla as a powerful lymph cleanser. Henry Smith MD. “I use Blue Flag when there is any local disease involving the lymph glands. The vessels become enlarged and congested because of obstruction. Disease in these vessels is the forerunner of chronic skin disease. Blue Flag can be given in expectation of satisfactory results.”

Colonel Lydius, explorer. “The Indians take the root, wash it clean, boil it a little, then crush it between a couple of stones. They spread this crushed root as a poultice over leg ulcers. At the same time, the leg is bathed with the water in which the root is boiled. I have seen great cures by the use of this remedy. (Travels in North America, II. 606)

Preparations: Thrice daily.

Decoction: half a teaspoon to each cup water; simmer gently 15 minutes: dose – one-third cup. Liquid Extract, BHC Vol 1. 1:1, 45 per cent ethanol. Dose: 0.6-2ml.

Tincture, BHC Vol 1. 1:5, ethanol. Dose: 3-10ml. Powdered root. Half-2g.

Blue Flag is an ingredient of Potter’s Irisine Mixture.

Note: Tincture is best made from fresh root in early spring or autumn. ... blue flag root

Alternatives.

1. Powders: 3oz Bayberry, 1oz Ginger, half Cinnamon, half an ounce Cloves, quarter of an ounce Cayenne. Sift. Mix. (E.G. Jones MNIMH)

2. 2oz Bayberry, 1oz Ginger, 1oz Pleurisy root, half an ounce Cayenne. Sift. Mix. (Melville C. Keith MD) 3. 2oz Poplar bark, 1oz Balmony herb, half an ounce Goldenseal, half an ounce Cinnamon, three-quarters of an ounce Cayenne. Mix. Sift. “This brought the American physiomedical doctors immortal fame.” (F.H. England MD)

Dose: Quarter to 1 teaspoon in hot water, tea or honey. The powder may be fed into 00 capsules: 2-4 capsules swallowed or taken as above.

Composition powder is a harmless stimulant against winter’s ills, influenza and for the first stages of fevers. Long traditional reputation for stomach and bowel disorders, cramp, collapse, circulatory stasis, fainting, hypothermia, to promote perspiration, to assuage moderate degree pain. In the elderly it was given to rekindle the fires of life when burning low. ... composition powders

Myoma of the womb. Non-malignant, non-painful growth of smooth muscle tissue enlarging into a mass on the wall of the womb. Accounts for most hysterectomies. Women may have them without knowing. Responsible for heavy menstruation and clots. Surgical removal is known as myomectomy.

Fibroids depend on oestrogen for their growth. High levels, as in The Pill, are believed to increase their size. Low levels cause shrinkage. Size: anything from a marble to a turnip, producing a sense of fullness. After the menopause when oestrogen declines they may shrink and finally disappear. When enlarged, they cause frequency of urine and constipation, sometimes resultant anaemia. A common cause of infertility. Not all are removed by surgery. Women with fibroids should not take steroids.

Alternatives. Anti-mitotics – Damiana, Motherwort, Helonias, Goldenseal, Life root, Prickly Ash, White Pond Lily, Thuja, Violet leaves (wild), Blue or Black Cohosh.

To arrest bleeding: add Shepherd’s Purse or Beth root.

For pain: Cramp bark. Goldenseal has a mixed success record and can constipate.

Tea. Formula. Equal parts: Corn Silk, Shepherd’s Purse, Violet. 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes; dose, one cup thrice daily.

Decoction. Formula. Equal parts: Violet leaves, Clivers, Yellow Dock. 1 teaspoon to each cup of water simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup thrice daily.

Tinctures. Alternatives:

(1) Combine Cornsilk 3; White Pond Lily 2; Goldenseal quarter. Dose: 15-30 drops in water thrice daily. (Edgar G. Jones, MNIMH)

(2) Yellow Parilla, 60 drops; Yarrow 1oz; White Pond Lily 60 drops; Tincture Goldenseal 60 drops. Water (preferably distilled) to 8oz. Dose: 2 teaspoons in water after meals. (Arthur Barker, FNIMH) Powders. Formula. Blue Cohosh 1; Poke root 1; Goldenseal half. Dose: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one- third teaspoon) thrice daily.

A.W. & L.R. Priest. Combination: Goldenseal, Balmony, Galangal. (Oral and local suppository) Douche. 1 litre boiled water. Allow to cool. Add 30-40 drops Liquid Extract Goldenseal, Bayberry or Thuja. Castor oil packs over affected area. Three thicknesses cotton wool or suitable material soaked in Castor oil. Cover with an electric heating pad. Apply 3-4 nights a week for 6 months. Disappearance of fibroid reported. ARE Journal, Vol 19, May 84, p.127

Note: Correction of anaemia, if present. Simple iron deficiency – Nettle tea. Floradix. Special care during pregnancy. ... fibroids

Acute: non-recurring indigestion may be caused by isolated episodes of overeating, excessive alcohol, rapid eating and irregular eating habits. Chronic indigestion may indicate some serious disorder such as gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, gall bladder disorder or hiatus hernia: see appropriate entry. Symptoms vary according to each disturbance, but for simple indigestion are usually confined to abdominal discomfort, nausea and gastric reflux.

Of Value. Agrimony, Balm, Balmony, Boldo, Calamus, Caraway, Cardamom, Catnep, Cayenne, Centuary, Cinnamon, Condurango (tumour), Dandelion, Dill, Fennel, Galangal, Gentian, Ginger, Hops (nervous stomach), Peppermint, Quassia, Thyme, Wild Yam, Wormwood, German Chamomile.

Herbal mucilages protect walls of the digestive tract from erosion by strong acid secretions: Slippery Elm, Marshmallow root, Iceland Moss, Irish Moss. One of these may be combined with any of the above, as appropriate to the individual case. A simple combination is Meadowsweet and Marshmallow root (equal parts).

Alte rnative s. Teas. (1) Formula. Equal parts: Agrimony, Chamomile, Dandelion. (2) Formula. Meadowsweet 2; Balm 2; Hops 1. Prepare: 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water, infuse 5-10 minutes. Half-1 cup freely.

Decoction. Gentian root (shredded): 1 teaspoon to each cup cold water, steep overnight. Half-1 cup on rising. For weak digestion.

Acid insufficiency (especially in the elderly): 2 teaspoons Cider Vinegar in glass water; drink freely. Tablets/capsules. Dandelion, Goldenseal, Papaya, Slippery Elm, Chamomile, Meadowsweet.

Powders. Formula. Dandelion 2; Gentian 1; Ginger quarter. Dose: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon) thrice daily.

Liquid extracts. Combine equal parts: Chamomile, Meadowsweet, Marshmallow. One to two 5ml teaspoons thrice daily.

Tincture. Tincture Cardamom Compound BP (1973) Dose: 15-60 drops (2-4ml) in water thrice daily. Aloe Vera. Juice from crushed leaves (1-2 tablespoons).

Papaya. To assist protein digestion: leaf tea, fresh juice, or papain in tablet form.

David Hoffman. “For all kinds of infants indigestion, Balm herb acts like a charm. Two teaspoons of the herb, finely cut, is placed in a teacup, filling with boiling water. When cool, give hourly, one or two teaspoons to the very young and half to one cup to the over-sevens.”

Dr A. Vogel. To strengthen stomach, increase appetite, and stimulate bile flow: Cola nut 16 per cent, Peruvian bark 16 per cent, Frankincense 4.5 per cent, Myrrh 4.5 per cent, Sweet Myrtle 16 per cent, Yellow Gentian 10 per cent, Bitter Orange 16 per cent. Dose: 10-15 drops.

Banana Cure. The banana is a traditional treatment for gastric ulcer in India. Research has shown how three quarters of a treatment group on powdered banana had complete or partial relief of pain. The banana could be a useful early therapy before beginning more expensive forms of treatment. (All India Institute, Delhi)

Diet. The Hay diet. Slippery Elm gruel. Honey.

Supplements. Vitamins B-complex, B1, B6, Folic acid, Niacin.

Note: German Chamomile is the most widely used for simple dyspepsia; Roman Chamomile being important as an anti-inflammatory where dyspepsia is accompanied by feverish conditions. ... dyspepsia

Cholecystitis

Acute or chronic. One of the commonest acute abdominal emergencies. An impressive rise in incidence in the young female population has been linked with the use of oral contraceptives. Other causes: heavy consumption of animal fats, sugars.

Symptoms. Severe upper abdominal pain, often radiating to the shoulder and right midback. Constancy of the pain contrasts with the repeated brief attacks of gall-stone (biliary) colic. Sweating, shallow erratic breathing, tenderness upper right abdomen, distension, flatulence, nausea, intolerance of fatty foods.

In cases of suspected cholecystitis, bitter herbs help liquefy bile and prevent consolidation. Prevention: Blue Flag, or Wild Yam, 2 tablets at night.

For infection: Echinacea.

Alternatives. BHP (1983) selection: Barberry, Mountain Grape, Balmony, Fringe Tree, Wild Yam, Wahoo, Chiretta, Dandelion, Black root; according to individual case. Milk Thistle.

Teas. Agrimony, Milk Thistle, Fumitory, Black Horehound, Wormwood. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water, infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup freely.

Cold tea. One teaspoon Barberry bark to each cup cold water. Steep overnight. Half-1 cup freely. Tablets/capsules. Blue Flag. Echinacea, Wild Yam, Milk Thistle.

Powders. Equal parts: Echinacea, Wild Yam, Milk Thistle. Dose: 500mg (two 00 capsules, or one-third teaspoon) thrice daily.

Tinctures. Equal parts: Wild Yam, Blue Flag, Milk Thistle. 1 teaspoon thrice daily in water.

Topical. Castor oil pack over painful area.

Diet. Low fat. Avoid dairy products.

Supplementation. Vitamins A, B-complex, C. Bromelain, Zinc. Note. See entry: COURVOISER’S LAW. ... gall bladder, inflammation

Any obstruction to the free flow of bile causes stagnation within the gallbladder. Deposits of bile pigments form (bile sand). Under chemical change, these small masses become encrusted with cholesterol and converted into gall-stones. Common in overweight middle-aged women, “fair, fat and forty”. Fifteen per cent of the world’s population are affected. Pain may be mistaken for heart disorder.

Stones are of two main types: cholesterol and bile pigment. Cholesterol stones are composed of about 70 per cent cholesterol. Bile pigment stones are brittle and hard and brown or black. Stones cause gall duct obstruction, inflammation of the gall bladder and biliary colic.

Biliary colic can be one of the most excruciatingly painful conditions known.

Symptoms: extreme tenderness in upper right abdomen, dyspepsia, flatulence, vomiting, sweating, thirst, constipation. Prolonged obstruction leads to jaundice. Pain should be evaluated by a competent authority: doctor or hospital. Large stones will require surgery.

Alternatives. Combinations should include a remedy for increasing the flow of bile (cholagogue); to disperse wind (carminative); and for painful spasm.

BHP (1983) – Barberry, Greater Celandine, Balmony, Wahoo, Boldo, Chiretta, Dandelion.

Indicated: Cholagogues, Bitters to meet reduced secretion of bile. To prevent infection – Echinacea. Preventative measure for those with tendency to form stone – 2 Blue Flag root tablets/capsules, or half a teaspoon Glauber salts in morning tea, or 420mg Silymarin (Milk Thistle), daily.

Teas. Boldo, Black Horehound, Horsetail, Parsley Piert, Milk Thistle, Strawberry leaves, Wood Betony. Dr Hooper’s case: “An Indian Army officer suffered much from gall-stones and was advised to take Dandelion tea every day. Soon the symptoms left him and he remained free from them for over 20 years.” (John Clarke, MD)

Decoction. 1oz each: Milk Thistle, Centuary, Dandelion root, in 3 pints water. Bring to boil. Simmer down to 2 pints. Strain. One cup 3 times daily an hour before meals.

Tablets/capsules. Cramp bark (acute spasm). Wild Yam (spasmolytic and bile liquifier).

Powders. Equal parts: Cramp bark, Wahoo, Dandelion. Dose: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon) every 2 hours for acute cases.

Study. Silymarin 420mg daily on patients with a history of gall-stones. Results showed reduced biliary cholesterol concentrations and considerably reduced bile saturation index. (Nassuato, G. et al, Journal of Hepatology 1991, 12)

Captain Frank Roberts. Advises Olive oil and Lemon treatment (see below) followed by his prescription: Liquid Extract Fringe Tree 1oz (30ml); Liquid Extract Wahoo 1oz; Liquid Extract Kava- Kava 1oz; Liquid Extract Black root 1oz; Honey 2oz. Dose: teaspoon after meals – minimum 3 meals daily – in wineglass tepid water.

Liquid Extract Barberry: 20-60 drops in water every 2 hours.

Finlay Ellingwood MD. Liquid Extract Fringe Tree bark 10ml; Liquid Extract Greater Celandine 10ml; Tincture Gelsemium 5ml. Dose: 10 drops in water half hourly for acute cases.

Alfred Vogel. Suggests Madder root, Clivers and Knotgrass have solvent properties.

Juices believed to have solvent properties: Celery, Parsley, Beet, Carrot, Radish, Lemon, Watercress, Tomato.

Olive oil and Lemon treatment. Set aside a day for the operation. Take breakfast. No meals for the rest of the day. About 6pm commence by drinking 1 or 2 ounces of the oil. Follow with half-1 cup fresh Lemon juice direct from the fruit in a little warm water. Dilute no more than necessary. Alternate drinks of Olive oil and Lemon juice throughout the evening until one pint or more Olive oil, and juice of 8-9 Lemons been consumed. Drink at intervals of 10 minutes to half an hour. Following 3 days pass stools into a chamber and wash well in search for stones and ‘bile sand’.

Practitioner. For spasm on passing stone: Tincture Belladonna: 20 drops in 100ml water: 1 teaspoon hourly.

Compresses: hot wet. Castor oil packs, or hot water packs over painful area.

Enema. Strong Catmint tea – 2 pints.

Diet. Commence with 3 day juice-fast: no solid food. Turmeric used at table as a condiment. Avoid cheese, sugar. Vegetarian diet. Studies show those who eat meat are twice as likely to develop stone. Less saturated fat and more fibre. Vegetable margarine instead of butter. Dandelion coffee or juices in place of caffeine beverages. High vegetable protein; high carbohydrate; high fibre. Oats. Artichokes, honey, molasses, unrefined cereals. Vegetable oil in cooking.

Supplements. Daily. Vitamin C, 2-3g. Vitamin E, 500iu. Choline 1g.

Note: Subjects with a sensitive skin who enjoyed sunbathing are at a raised risk of having gallstones. (Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health)

Gall-stones may form if weight is lost rapidly when on a low calorie diet. ... gall-stones

Severe disease of the newly born and infants with jaundice and anaemia. Occurs when a Rhesus negative mother gives birth to a Rhesus positive child. There may be degeneration of nerve cells of the brain through circulating bile. Followed by water-logging of tissues lining lungs, abdomen or heart (hydrops).

Treatment. Purpose of medication is to stimulate flow of bile and support the liver.

Arthur Hyde, MNIMH recommends a selection from the following according to individual case: Balmony, Barberry, Dandelion, Goldenseal, Hops, Ladyslipper, Mistletoe, Passion flower, Stone root. Tinctures. Formula. Marigold 2; Barberry 2; Ginkgo 1. Dose: 2 drops in feed, or in water, thrice daily. Infants 3-5 years: 10 drops.

To be treated by or in liaison with a qualified medical practitioner. ... haemolytic disease of infants

Varicose veins around the anus and low bowel due to poor local circulation. First degree haemorrhoids, remain inside the rectum, but may bleed. Second degree haemorrhoids, bleed and protrude beyond the anus but return after defecation. Third degree haemorrhoids, remain outside the anus and have to be pushed back manually. Blood is bright red.

Causes: constipation, sluggish liver, grumbling appendix, pregnancy, etc. Underlying cause must be treated. Pilewort and Stone root are key remedies.

Alternatives. Teas from any of the following: Butcher’s Broom, Balmony, Bilberry, Beth root, Bistort, Comfrey, Cranesbill, Figwort, Ground Ivy, Horsechestnut, Ladies Mantle, Nettles, Oak bark, Pilewort, Plantain, Silverweed, Stone root, Tormentil, Wild Yam, Witch Hazel, St John’s Wort.

Alternative formulae. Tea. (1) Equal parts, Yarrow, Witch Hazel leaves, German Chamomile. (2) Equal parts, Yarrow, Pilewort, Mullein. (3) Equal parts, Plantain, Figwort, Pilewort. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup thrice daily before meals.

Tablets/capsules. Pilewort. Cranesbill. Wild Yam. Blue Flag root.

Powders. Formula. Equal parts, Pilewort 1; Figwort 1; Stone root half. Dose: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon) thrice daily.

Tinctures. Formula. Butternut 1; Figwort 1; Cascara quarter. One 5ml teaspoon in water thrice daily. Alternative: Combine Hawthorn 2; Stone root 1. Dose: 30-60 drops in water thrice daily.

Enema. Strong infusion of Raspberry leaves: 2oz to 2 pints boiling water. Steep 20 minutes, strain. Improves with addition of 5 drops Tincture Myrrh.

Suppositories. 1 part Liquid Extract Witch Hazel or German Chamomile to 5 parts Cocoa butter. Ointments: Pilewort, Chickweed, Figwort, Aloe Vera, Horse Chestnut, Houseleek.

Psyllium seeds (light) (Ispaghula) increases bulk of the stools making them softer and easier to pass.

To alleviate itching and assist healing: insert into the anus fresh peeled Aloe Vera or Houseleek. Alternatives: make a paste of quarter of a teaspoon of any of the following powders with few drops of milk: Comfrey, Pilewort, Stone root and apply externally, holding in position with a binder.

Vitamin E capsules. Piles that had resisted all other forms of treatment rapidly cleared. Insert one capsule into rectum night and morning.

Diet: Low salt, low fat, high fibre.

Supplements. Vitamins A, B-complex, B6, C, and E. Calcium. Zinc.

Supportives. Sitz bath. Sponge anus with cold water. ... haemorrhoids

 Now usually termed VIRAL HEPATITIS. Swelling of liver cells obstructs drainage. Plugged mucus in the bile duct; often caused by gluten foods. Aftermath of chills and colds or from excess milky or starchy foods. Congestion may be dispersed by speeding elimination of waste products of metabolism via the bowel (Blue Flag), the kidneys (Dandelion), and the skin (Devil’s Claw). Anti-catarrhals with special reference to the liver: Gotu Kola, Plantain, Goldenseal, Mountain Grape, Barberry.

Alternatives. Teas. Agrimony, Boldo, Balmony, Dandelion, Plantain, Gotu Kola.

Cold infusion. 2 teaspoons Barberry bark to each cup cold water; steep overnight. Half-1 cup every 3 hours.

Tablets/capsules. Goldenseal, Dandelion, Blue Flag, Devil’s Claw.

Formula. Equal parts: Dandelion, Devil’s Claw, Barberry. Dose – Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid Extracts: one 5ml teaspoon. Tinctures: two 5ml teaspoons. Every 3 hours. ... jaundice, catarrhal

For non-persistent constipation. An aperient for stool-softening purposes, milder than a cathartic. Sometimes given with a carminative to prevent griping.

Agar-agar, Balmony, Barberry, Black root, Blue Flag root, Bogbean, Boneset, Buckthorn, Burdock, Clivers, Dandelion, Figs, Frangula bark, Fenugreek, Fringe Tree bark, Lignum Vitae, Liquorice root (mild), Ispaghula seeds, Mountain Grape, Rhubarb root, Senna pods, Wahoo, Yellow Dock. If constipation persists or worsens a practitioner should be consulted.

Tea: Formula:– Dandelion root, crushed or shredded, 1; Senna leaves 2; Peppermint 3. Mix. 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water, infuse 15 minutes. Cup 1-3 times daily.

Tablet: Active constituents: Aloes (Cape) BP 50mg; Pulverised Fennel BHP (1983) 15mg; Pulverised Valerian BP 30mg; Pulverised Holy Thistle BHP (1983) 60mg. A traditional herbal remedy for the relief of occasional or non-persistent constipation. (Gladlax – Gerard House)

Long term use of laxatives should be avoided. ... laxative

Low blood sugar. Hyperinsulinism. “The 20th Century Epidemic.” Low blood sugar levels brought about by overstimulation of insulin production by the pancreas.

From food we eat, sugar (glucose) is converted into glycogen which is stored in the liver and muscles. To ensure its removal from the bloodstream to storage areas a balancing mechanism causes the pancreas to produce insulin for this purpose. Exhaustion of the pancreas may follow too frequent release of insulin for reducing high levels of sugar. All symptoms are temporarily relieved by eating sweet foods, chocolate, etc, or by drinking stimulating beverages: tea, coffee, cola, alcohol, etc.

Convincing evidence shows how large amounts of refined and concentrated sugars overwork the pancreas, causing wide swings in blood sugar levels. This is the reverse of diabetes which occurs from a lack of insulin.

Another factor is over-stimulation of the adrenal glands that produce adrenalin which has the power to release stored sugars. When adrenalin is discharged too frequently into the bloodstream the conversion of glycogen to glucose is impaired. This leads to a craving for sweet foods and stimulating beverages.

Symptoms are numerous and often confuse the doctor: constant hunger, tightness in the chest, dizziness, headaches, twitching of limbs, digestive disorders, fatigue, weakness in legs, irritability, migraine, nervous tension, nervous mannerisms, insomnia, memory lapses, phobia – sense of panic, cold sweats. Cold hands and feet, visual disturbances, vague aches and pains and depression.

Life becomes a succession of erratic rises and falls of the blood sugar. Symptoms are worse when the person is passing through a ‘low’ period. All this is reflected upon the sympathetic nervous system and affects the emotional life. A special blood test is carried out to assess the situation; the Glucose Tolerance Test.

Alternatives. To raise low blood sugar levels: Avens, Balmony, Bayberry, Calamus, Centuary, Chamomile (German), Dandelion root, Echinacea, Feverfew, Gentian (Yellow), Ginger, Ginseng, Goldenseal, Holy Thistle, Hops, Horehound (White), Liquorice, Quassia, Southernwood, Betony.

Teas. Chamomile (German), Ginseng, Avens, Centuary, Hops, Betony.

Decoctions. Yellow Gentian (cold infusion), Calamus (cold infusion), Dandelion root (hot infusion), Angustura bark (hot infusion).

Tablets/capsules. Calamus, Dandelion, Ginseng, Goldenseal, Echinacea, Liquorice, Kelp.

Powders. Formula. Balmony 2; Bayberry 2; White Poplar 1; Ginger 1. Dose: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon) thrice daily, before meals.

Liquid Extracts. Formula. Goldenseal 10ml; Dandelion root 20ml; Holy Thistle 20ml; Cayenne 1ml. 30- 60 drops thrice daily in water before meals.

Tinctures. Same formula, double dose.

Angostura wine. Wineglassful daily.

Diet: Herb teas, juices and mineral water instead of tea, coffee and other drinks containing caffeine. Honey. Wholefoods. Adequate protein intake. Small meals throughout the day. Avoid: alcohol, sugary snacks, white flour and white sugar products.

Supplementation. Daily. B-complex, B6 50mg, E 200iu, C 1g, Chromium 125mcg, Calcium Pantothenate 500mg, Kelp, Lecithin, Zinc.

Notes: Brewer’s yeast tablets contain chromium which assists sugar metabolism. Smoking causes both glucagon and insulin to be released thus aggravating the condition. Diabetics should carry in their pocket some form of sugar against emergency. ... hypoglycaemia

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

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

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

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

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

Astragalus. Popular liver protective used in Chinese medicine.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Moving specks, threads or black spots before the eyes. Floating debris in the vitreous humour of the eye and which are visible as ‘floating spots’.

Treatment: directed towards stomach, liver and alimentary canal.

Teas: Centuary, Holy Thistle, Meadowsweet, Wormwood, Balmony, Agrimony, Chiretta.

Formula. Tea: equal parts, Agrimony, Meadowsweet, Dandelion root. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. 1 cup thrice daily.

Decoction. 1 teaspoon Barberry bark steeped overnight in large cup cold water. One-third cup before meals, thrice daily.

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

Diet. See: DIET – GENERAL DIET. ... muscae voltantes