Health Blog

Lingzhi or Reishi mushroom is a type of mushroom that has been used as a traditional medicine in Asian countries for 2000 years. Listed as the oldest herbal mushrooms in the world, mushrooms are believed to have many health benefits. Lingzhi is described as a difficult-to-cook mushroom that has a hard structure and a bitter taste. Lingzhi mushrooms are divided into two parts, namely the fruiting body and the mycelium. This part of the mycelium is usually used as herbal medicine.
Lingzhi contains carbohydrates, fats, fiber, and proteins. This mushroom, whose Latin name is Ganoderma lucidum, also contains bioactive molecules of polysaccharides, peptidoglycans, and triterpenoids.

1. Anticancer
   Lingzhi is rich in fatty acids, amino acids, alkaloids, steroids, enzymes, triterpenoids, and polysaccharides. Triterpenoids and polysaccharides are compounds that contribute to the anti-cancer properties of Lingzhi mushrooms.
   Several clinical research studies found that many cancer cells were killed by this fungus. Other studies have shown that the Lingzhi mushroom can reduce the number and size of tumors in the colon and prevent colon and prostate cancer.
2. Lowers Blood Sugar and Fat Levels
   According to research, compounds in lingzhi mushrooms are believed to lower blood sugar levels in the body.
3. Boosts immunity
   Another benefit of Lingzhi is that it stimulates the immune system. One study claimed that compounds in lingzhi mushrooms can increase white blood cell activity to help fight infection and disease.
4. Fights Depression and Fatigue
   Not only does it boost immunity, but consuming Lingzhi mushrooms is also believed to be able to relieve depression and fatigue and improve the quality of life in people suffering from certain diseases.
5. Anti-Aging
   Study shows that there are several components in Lingzhi mushroom that are known to have anti-aging effects. These components are polysaccharides, triterpenes, peptides, and peptide polysaccharides. The antioxidant compounds contained in this mushroom are also able to protect the body’s cells from the effects of free radicals.
6. Heart Health
   Compounds that act as antioxidants in Ganoderma mushrooms may reduce the risk of narrowing of the arteries. Reishi extract also reduces damage to the cells lining blood vessels, reducing the risk of heart attack

Cordyceps is a medicinal mushroom with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Cordyceps has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine and is now available in the United States as a dietary supplement.

The genus Cordyceps contains 400 species, the vast majority of which are indigenous to Bhutan, China, Korea, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam. The most well-known medicinal species is Cordyceps sinensis (now known officially as Ophiocordyceps sinensis). The body of the mushroom is long and finger-like, and it is typically brown or orangish-brown in color.
Cordyceps is frequently promoted in alternative medicine as a natural energy booster. Supporters of cordyceps also claim that it can help with asthma, depression, diabetes, fatigue, high cholesterol, and upper respiratory tract infections.

Cordyceps increases libido, slows the aging process, and may also protect against cancer, according to some herbalists. Few of these claims are well supported by research.

Benefits of Cordyceps:

1.Improve physical ability
Cordyceps is thought to boost the body’s production of the molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is needed to supply energy to muscles.
This improves the body’s use of oxygen, especially during exercise.

2. Anti-aging treatment
   Cordyceps is considered a traditional Chinese anti-aging herb, and scientists are now proving this to be true. According to researchers, their antioxidant content may explain their anti-aging potential.
3. May Help Control Type 2 Diabetes
   Diabetes is a condition in which the body either does not produce insulin or becomes resistant to insulin. Insulin is a hormone that transports glucose into cells and converts it into energy.
   If the body doesn’t make enough insulin or doesn’t respond well, glucose doesn’t get into the cells and stays in the blood. Too much glucose in your blood can lead to serious health problems over time.
   Cordyceps helps control blood sugar levels by mimicking the action of insulin. Cordyceps has been shown to lower blood sugar levels in several studies on diabetic mice.

A hiatal hernia, a stomach defect, is a common cause of acid reflux disease. This happens when the upper stomach and LES move over the diaphragm, a muscle that connects the stomach to the chest. Normally, the diaphragm helps retain stomach acid. However, if you have a hiatus hernia, the acid can go back into the esophagus and cause acid reflux symptoms.
These are other common risk factors for acid reflux disease:
• Eat large meals or lie down immediately after a meal
• Being overweight or obese
• Eat a heavy meal and lie on your back or bend over at the waist
• Have a snack before bedtime
• Eat citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, mint, garlic, onions, or spicy or fatty foods
• Drink alcohol, soda, coffee or tea
• Smoking
• Pregnant
• Taking aspirin, ibuprofen
Consuming manuka honey can be beneficial for reducing stomach acid and balancing the digestive system. This is because small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), acid reflux, and stomach acid can all interact with one another. Manuka honey is known to contain antibiotics that are efficacious as a medicine for diseases caused by bacteria.
There are several studies that examine the efficacy of honey as a remedy for acid reflux disease. One of them was published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research.

1. The results of the study found that the antioxidant content in honey is thought to be able to ward off free radicals that damage the cells lining the gastrointestinal tract. Damage to gastrointestinal cells is one of the factors that cause reflux, namely the condition of rising gastric contents, in the form of food, drinks, and gastric acid fluids.
2. Research has also found that the benefits of honey for stomach acid are believed to reduce inflammation in the esophagus.
3. The thick texture of honey can help coat the mucous membrane of the esophagus. This property is thought to be able to help relieve your esophagus when stomach acid disease recurs.
4. According to research published in British Medical Research, the thick texture of honey is also thought to prevent gastric contents from rising.
   Consumption of about 1 teaspoon of honey every day is enough to relieve symptoms of stomach acid. You can mix honey with a glass of warm water or tea.
   Although research is still limited, honey consumption is still considered a safe and effective way to relieve stomach acid symptoms.

1) Ligustrum lucidum

The berries of the sleek privet tree, Ligustrum lucidum, have an extended records of use in Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine as a herb that helps “tonify the yin.” This expression cannot be completely defined without entering the theoretical framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine, but it can be said loosely to suggest a strengthening effect on positive body components, specifically the kidneys and liver. Lucidum ligustrum fruit is used in natural combinations (Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine rarely uses single-herb preparations) to support within the control of illnesses such as greying hair, hair loss, ringing within the ear, and treating vertigo.

2) Prostrate Eclipta
Eclipta prostrata is a plant belonging to the Asteraceae family that grows abundantly in the tropics and is used successfully in Ayurvedic medicine (one of the oldest and maximum famend machine of medicinal drug). Because of its effective liver tonifying activity, Eclipta prostrata is a first-rate recognized herb in Ayurvedic Medicine for balding and premature greying of hair.
Eclipta prostrata is a well-known Ayurvedic herb that is said to promote hair growth. This herb extract and minoxidil 2% solution were evaluated on the shaved denuded pores and skin of albino rats. On treatment with the extracts, hair growth initation time was drastically reduced to half, and quantitative evaluation of hair growth revealed a greater number of hair follicles in anagenic section in comparison to minoxidil.

3) Rehmannia glutinosa (root)

One of the 50 essential herbs used in Traditional Chinese Medicine is Rehmannia glutinosa. Rehmannia glutinosa is a perennial herb with reddish-violet plant life local to China, Japan and Korea. Chinese Foxglove is a common name for this plant. The root of Rehmannia glutinosa is used medicinally in Oriental medicine to replenish vitality, strengthen the liver, kidney, and coronary heart, and to treat a variety of illnesses. It’s included in the Hair Restore AdvancedTM components to enhance the synergistic effects of the main tonic herbs, Ligustrum lucidum and Eclipta prostrata.

4) Vitamins and minerals

The nutrients and minerals in Hair Restore AdvancedTM nourish the hair and provide building blocks that beautify the moves of the specialized herbs. Hair Restore AdvancedTM contains a unique combination of nutrients and minerals such as Biotin, Pantothenic acid (Vit B5), Inositol, Pyridoxine (Vit B6), and Zinc, all of which have been scientifically proven to help the growth of healthy hair.

Wide spread Lupus Erythematosus Manifestations – Systemic lupus symptoms

SLE influences multiple organ devices. The Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Manifestationsadvancement is visible by remissions and regressions and could vary from moderate to intense.

Mucocutaneous – A lot of people have skin lesions at some time during the advancement of the condition. Butterfly breakout, erythema or redness over the cheeks and nose, saving the nasolabial layers, which shows up after sunlight exposure is the most usual lesion. It usually persists however lasts a few days. Some people will certainly get discoid sores, that are more inflammatory and have a scarring propensity. Alopecia or baldness is common, yet thinning hair is unheard of.

Arthritis – Joint Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Manifestationswhich are often the earliest indication take place in over 90 % of people at time throughout the health problem. Just a few joints are typically had an effect on, specifically those of the hands. The SLE arthritis has the tendency to be strolling and in proportion. The arthritis is relatively uncomfortable, and hardly ever warping.
12 to 45 percent of clients have dental and/or nasal ulcers, usually pain-free, unlike herpetic chancre scorchings.

Raynaud sensation – Happened in 16 to 40 % of clients, Chilly or emotion-induced color changes of the figures of the hands and/or feet, the Raynaud phenomenon, is a frequent trouble and might antedate various other attributes of the ailment.

Gastrointestinal tract – Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Symptom is usually included GI tract, but more often from medicine negative effects than from energetic SLE. Instances of the previous consist of gastritis and even peptic ulcers secondary to using NSAIDs alone or in combo with glucocorticoids. SLE vasculitis can bring about pancreatitis, peritonitis, and colitis. Signs of esophageal irritation or reflux could develop. Nonspecific stomach discomfort is regular.

Renal – Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Symptoms of Kidney ended up being clinically obvious in roughly 50 percent of clients; however, most of the continuing to be clients have subclinical ailment that could be demonstrated if renal biopsy were executed. Renal participation normally develops in the first few years of health problem, and should be identified early by routine urinalyses, quantitation of proteinuria, and estimation of the glomerular filtering price (normally by overseeing the plasma creatinine concentration). A number of kinds of glomerulonephritis can take place and renal biopsy serves to determine the type and level of renal involvement.

Cardiovascular – There are a selection of cardio signs of SLE. Pericarditis is rather usual, while verrucous (Libman-Sacks) endocarditis is normally medically quiet however can generate valvular lack and function as a resource of emboli (image 5). Patients with SLE have an enhanced threat of coronary artery condition.

Lung – Pleurisy, pleural effusion, pneumonitis, interstitial lung condition, pulmonary hypertension, and alveolar hemorrhage can all happen in SLE. The threat of thromboembolic involvement is boosted in those with antiphospholipid antibodies. Dyspnea, episodic pleuritic breast pain, dynamic decrease in lung amount in the absence of interstitial fibrosis or substantial pleural ailment recommends the shrinking lung disorder. Pulmonary feature tests are often substantially unusual, with limiting irregularities, before complaints of dyspnea.

Neurologic – Neurologic complications include cognitive defects, organic brain syndromes, delirium, psychosis, seizures, headache, and/or peripheral neuropathies. Other less common problems are movement disorders, cranial neuropathies, myelitis, and meningitis.

Psychosis, which may be due to SLE or to glucocorticoid treatment, is one of several psychiatric manifestations of SLE. Others include: depression, anxiety, and mania.

Neonatal lupus can cause heart block of varying degrees that may be noted in utero and or present as congenital heart block.

Thromboembolic events, often in association with antiphospholipid antibodies, may occur in a substantial minority (20 percent) of patients with SLE. Arterial thromboemboli may cause focal neurologic problems, such as stroke or seizures, and/or more diffuse cognitive defects

Ophthalmologic – The eye is frequently involved in SLE with the most common manifestation being keratoconjunctivitis sicca. rare ophthalmologic manifestations of SLE include: Cotton wool exudates due to retinal vasculitis, Anterior uveitis, Episcleritis or scleritis.

Hematologic– Cytopenias and thrombophilia, an increased the propensity to develop thromboembolic disease, might be features of SLE. Leukopenia which is diagnostically useful is common. While, it is usually not symptomatic unless severe  (less than 2000/mm3). 43 to 66 % of patients have leukocyte count of less than 4500/mm3. Many patients have a mild anemia, which is most often due to the anemia of chronic disease.

Lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly – Many patients have peripheral lymphadenopathy and/or splenomegaly.
Anticardiolipin antibodies can produce a false positive test for syphilis (eg, VDRL).

Immunologic – Autoantibody production is a hallmark of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Symptoms.

What is Systemic Lupus Erythemathosus? You could read that on my previous article What is Lupus. We could divide the Lupus Procedure into Non-Pharmacological and Pharmacological in shorts Non-Drugs and Drugs. We will certainly review Lupus treatment into 2 parts. In this section we will certainly go over on the Non-Pharmacological Treatment.

Non-Pharmacological Lupus Procedure comprises of

1. Academic training

Person education and learning plays an essential part since Systemic Lupus Erythemathosus is a persistent disease. Patients should be geared up with adequate info about an assortment of medical manifestations that can take place, the extent of the illness is differ, so people could recognize and decrease too much anxiety. It is essential to females of reproductive age to provide the understanding that if they want to obtain expectant, after that the pregnancy must be prepared when the illness is in remission, so it could decrease the incidence of flare and the threat of abnormalities in the unborn child in addition to patients during pregnancy.

2. Social and Psychological Assistance

This can come from physicians, family, buddies and includes peer group or support group among lupus patients. The team could conduct clients and public education and also can give advocacy and support for Lupus clients. There are a great deal of lupus team or organization, you can locate it on the internet.

3. Relax

Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythemathosus frequently experience tiredness that it needs sufficient rest, along with take into consideration other reasons such as fibromyalgia, hypothyroidism and/or misery. You could review my prevoius blog post on Lupus Symptoms for even more info on fatigue reasons.

4. Sun screen lotion

In clients with Systemic Lupus Erythemathosus ailment activity could be raised after exposure to sunshine, so it is strongly advised to stay clear of excessive sun direct exposure and use sun screen lotion with SPF> )30 in 30-60 minutes before exposure, every 4-6 hrs.

5. Screen closely

Clients with Systemic Lupus Erythemathosus vulnerable to infection and should look out if there is unexplained fever source. The danger of infection likewise enhanced in addition to the administration of drugs and corticosteroids immunosupression. Danger of incident heart disease events, weakening of bones and malignancy additionally increased in clients with SLE, so the need to regulate threat aspects resemble cigarette smoking, excessive weight, dyslipidemia and hypertension is a must.

Pharmacological Procedure of SLE

Immunomodulatory treatment

1. Cyclophosphamide.

2. Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF).

3. Azathioprine.

4. Leflunomide (Arava).

5. Methotrexate.

Treatment Plan

There is no recognized remedy for lupus. However, your team of health care suppliers can develop a treatment plan to prevent flare-ups, to address them when they do occur, and to minimize problems.

Prevention

While you could’ t protect against lupus, you can assist protect against flare-ups:

Avoid sunlight exposure, high-dose birth control pills, penicillin, and sulfonamides (anti-bacterial representatives).
Exer.cise regularly
Get flu and pneumonia vaccines

Lupus Symptoms in women is surely an autoimmune disease which commonly affects women, although men can also have the lupus symptoms,  and often many experts have said that women who have lupus symptoms cannot become pregnant due to their condition. However, this myth has been denied by specialists, approximately 50% of  pregnant women who has lupus symptoms can have a ordinary pregnancy and give birth healthy babies. Conversely, some women might possibly face complications and even lose their fetuses during the pregnancy.

Whilst many pregnancies with lupus are totally natural, women risk to facing problems over their pregnancy. The expectant mother with lupus need to be supervised by an expert doctor (obstetrician) till the end of pregnancy,  in other words, the health risk of the mother’s is definitely diminished and normal babies are usually born. In addition, women with lupus symptoms must obey the doctor’s instruction manuals.

Pregnant women with symptoms of lupus may perhaps face particular symptoms which includes rashes and lupus flare which can appear because of an increased blood flow in the skin, growth of new hair during pregnancy plus severe hair loss after the baby born.

One of the important things we need to notice is that 20% of lupus patients who are pregnant tend to have an abrupt rise in BP (blood pressure), protein in the urine, a condition which you’ll find known as Preeclampsia or toxaemia and degree of serious treatment as well as immediate delivery. The presence of antibody called anti-phospholipid antibody could occur to lupus pregnancies which is another serious complications.  Anti-phospholipid antibody can minimize the function of the placenta by bring about blood clots, as well as blood clots within the placenta, making the placenta to higher risks. Neonatal Lupus Syndrome can occur in lupus pregnancy when the unborn children are exposed to an antibody known as anti-ro or anti-SSA. In many events, women who has severe form of lupus symptoms in pregnancy  have to get through a caesarian section to conserve the premature baby.

Even though, lupus patient in remission generally have less problem when compared with women with activate lupus, a balanced healthy diet could actually help a lot throughout the pregnancy. There are some golden rules to be followed by pregnant woman living with lupus, they are: regularly visits on the doctor, proper prescription of  medication, stay away from pills that can put the baby’s life in danger, a sensible food diet, as well as no bad habits like smoking or drinking.

In conclusion, a normal pregnancy can be carried on by pregnant women who put up with lupus symptoms if  they follow the suitable management and have an equalize standard of living. Moreover, it has been taken into account that most medications for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) are safe to be used during the pregnancy given that that they don’t pass through the placenta.

Cutaneous sarcoidosis as other individual forms of sarcoidosis isn’t really simple to recognize the means it can mirror bunches of various other ailments. Due to this, skin sarcoidosis is also called the ‘wonderful imitator’ in dermatology.

Cutaneous sarcoidosis happens in as much as one 3rd regarding people with systemic sarcoidosis. It is extremely important recognize skin sarcoidosis thinking about that it could supply crucial insight in the improvement of the problem with the skin sores being so available for histologic checking.

Cutaneous sarcoidosis Medical diagnosis

You do not have single test which could certainly identify the particular visibility of sarcoidosis. Consequently the intention is generally to finish a clinical picture to see histological proof with noncaseating granulomas.

Additionally, the wellness professional might be looking to dismiss various other possible trigger of the exact same symptoms, for example infections.

Cutaneous sarcoidosis – particular and nonspecific indications on the ailment

All indications of skin sarcoidosis are typically split into number of teams, certain along with non-specific:.

• Non-specific (no granuloma is situated in the tissue biopsy)

• Specific (granuloma is situated in the cells biopsy)

Erythema Nodosum

Erythema Nodosum is the best nonspecific cutaneous lesion about sarcoidosis. It occurs in the form of soreness of your skin created by congestion from the blood vessels, which might result from a selection of reasons. In cutaneous sarcoidosis, this typically indicates that that spots appear associating with the legs – the shins much more reguarily then other individual parts.

Papules

The most familiar sorts of accurate lesions are papules. They commonly develop associating with the face however could possibly develop anywhere to the physical body and can be different in color consisting of red, reddish-brown as well as violaceous.

Plaques

Cavity enducing plaques are really bigger, sores that perform the face and they typically have a fat-free top torso, or perhaps extremities. The sores might maybe be solitary or numerous and will also be different in tone.

Lupus pernio

Lupus pernio is amongst the few cutaneous symptoms which could be particular of sarcoidosis. A lot more consistently after that not, it has an effect on the edge belonging to the nose. It can be acknowledged by all the characteristic purplish color selection.

Cutaneous sarcoidosis – Treatment

Very much like various other kinds connected with sarcoidosis, dental steroids are typically utilized in cutaneous sarcoidosis. Procedure which may be certain just for cutaneous sarcoidosis are typically topical corticosteroids emulsions.

Polymyositis is an unheard of wide spread disorder whose main feature is balanced muscular tissue weakness
and throwing away involving the proximal muscles of the shoulder and pelvic girdles.
Polymyositis + associated breakout = dermatomyositis

Clinical components

• any age
• peak occurrence 40-60 years
• female to male proportion 2:1
• muscular tissue disadvantage and losing proximal limb muscular tissues
• major problem is weakness
• muscular tissue discomfort and inflammation in concerning FIFTY %
• arthralgia or arthritis in regarding FIFTY % (resembles circulation of rheumatoid arthritis)
• dysphagia in concerning 50 % as a result of oesophageal involvement
• Raynaud’s phenomenon
• think about linked malignancy: lung and ovary

The breakout

The unique rash shows attributes of photosensitivity. There is violet staining of the eyelids,.
forehead and cheeks, and possible erythema appearing like sunburn and periorbital oedema. There is a.
particular rash on the hands particularly the fingers and nail folds. The knees and elbows are.
generally included.

Diagnosis
muscle enzyme studies (serum creatine kinase and aldolase)
biopsies—skin and muscle
EMG studies—show characteristic pattern

Teatment

includes corticosteroids and cytotoxic drugs. Early referral is appropriate.

Sarcoidosis
Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic disorder of unknown aetiology which is characterised by non-caseating
granulomatous inflammation that involves the lung in about 90% of affected patients. A characteristic
feature is bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy, which is often symptomless and detected on routine CXR.
Radiological lung involvement can be associated with or occur independently of hilar lymphadenopathy.
Clinical features:

• may be asymptomatic (one-third)
• onset usually 3rd or 4th decade (but any age)
• bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy (on CXR)
• cough
• fever, malaise, arthralgia
• erythema nodosum
• ocular lesions, e.g. anterior uveitis
• other multiple organ lesions (uncommon)
• overall mortality 2-5%

Erythema nodosum with acute fever, malaise and arthralgia in a young adult female is diagnostic of
sarcoidosis.

Diagnosis
Histological evidence from biopsy specimen, usually transbronchial biopsy (essential if an alternative
diagnosis, e.g. lymphoma, cannot be excluded) or skin biopsy in cases of erythema nodosum.

Supporting evidence:

• elevated serum ACE (non-specific)
• PFTs: restrictive pattern; impaired gas transfusion in advanced cases.
• ±ve Kveim test (not recommended these days)

Treatment
Sarcoidosis may resolve spontaneously (hilar lymphadenopathy without lung involvement does not require treatment). About half of all people with sarcoidosis get better without needing treatment. For others, medications such as corticosteroids may help reduce swelling, rashes, pain, fever, and lung problems. Some lifestyle changes may help control complications, such as kidney stones or other damage. While complementary therapies for sarcoidosis have not been well studied, they may help you feel better as part of an overall treatment plan.
Indications for treatment with corticosteroids:

• no spontaneous improvement after 6 months
• symptomatic pulmonary lesions
• eye, CNS and other systems involvement
• hypercalcaemia, hypercalcuria
• erythema nodosum with arthralgia
• persistent cough

Lifestyle

If you smoke, quit. Quitting smoking can ease lung symptoms.

Sarcoidosis can be a long-lasting disease, so it’s important to eat a healthy diet filled with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Exercise regularly. Be sure to ask your doctor before starting a new exercise program, especially if sarcoidosis leaves you short of breath.

Medications

Corticosteroid treatment
Prednisolone 30 mg daily for 4-6 weeks, then reduce to lowest dose that maintains
improvement. 6 If there is no response, taper the dose to zero. If there is a response, taper the
dose to 10-15 mg (o) daily as a maintenance dose for 6-12 months. 14
Prednisolone 20-30 mg for 2 weeks for erythema nodosum of sarcoidosis.

Corticosteroids such as prednisone are considered the first-line treatment for lowering inflammation associated with sarcoidosis. Oral corticosteroids can have some serious side effects if taken in high doses for long periods. Side effects may include high blood pressure, diabetes, peptic ulcers, tuberculosis, or osteoporosis. Your doctor will likely suggest regular check-ups and tests.

Other medications sometimes used for sarcoidosis include those that suppress the immune system, such as methotrexate, azathioprine (Imuran), and infliximab (Remicade). However, there are no long-term studies on whether these medication are effective for treating sarcoidosis.

Other medications that may be used include:

Antimalarial drugs such as hydroxychloroquine — used when the skin is affected. It may be toxic to the eyes.

Thalidomide — being studied for sarcoidosis; used to improve lung function and treat skin problems.

Surgery and Other Procedures

Surgery, such as a lung or heart transplant, is only necessary in very severe cases.

Nutrition and Dietary Supplements

Although there is no evidence that any particular herb or supplement helps treat sarcoidosis, a comprehensive treatment plan may include complementary and alternative therapies. Ask your team of doctors about the best ways to bring these therapies into your overall treatment plan. Always tell your doctor about the herbs and supplements you are using or considering using, as some supplements may interfere with conventional treatments.

These nutritional tips will help your overall health:

• Eat antioxidant foods, including fruits (such as blueberries, cherries, and tomatoes), and vegetables (such as squash and bell peppers).
• Include foods rich in magnesium and low in calcium, such as barley, bran, corn, rye, oats, soy, brown rice, avocado, banana, and potato.
• Avoid refined foods, such as white breads, pastas, and sugar.
• Eat fewer red meats and more lean meats, cold-water fish, tofu (soy, if no allergy) or beans for protein.
• Use healthy oils, such as olive oil or vegetable oil.
• Reduce or eliminate trans-fatty acids, found in commercially baked goods such as cookies, crackers, cakes, French fries, onion rings, donuts, processed foods, and margarine.
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco.
• Drink 6 – 8 glasses of filtered water daily.
• Exercise at least 30 minutes daily, five days a week. Ask your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

The following supplements may also help overall health:

• A daily multivitamin, containing the antioxidant vitamins A, C, E, the B-complex vitamins, and trace minerals such as magnesium, calcium, zinc, and selenium.
• Omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil, 1 – 2 capsules or 1 – 3 tablespoonfuls oil, one to three times daily. Fish oil seems to help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Cold-water fish, such as salmon or halibut, are good sources to add to your diet. If you take supplements, check with your doctor because they may increase the risk of bleeding, especially if you take blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin) or aspirin. Eating fish doesn’ t cause the same risk.
• Bromelain, a mixture of enzymes derived from pineapple, 500 mg per day. Bromelain may also help reduce inflammation in the body. Ask your doctor before taking it, because it can increase the risk of bleeding and may interact with other medications.
• Probiotic supplement (containing Lactobacillus acidophilus), 5 – 10 billion CFUs (colony forming units) a day. These “friendly” bacteria help maintain gastrointestinal health. You should refrigerate your probiotic supplements for best results.

Herbs : Natural Remedies

Herbs are generally a safe way to strengthen and tone the body’s systems. As with any therapy, you should work with your health care provider to get your problem diagnosed before starting any treatment. You may use herbs as dried extracts (capsules, powders, teas), glycerites (glycerine extracts), or tinctures (alcohol extracts). Unless otherwise indicated, you should make teas with 1 tsp. herb per cup of hot water. Steep covered 5 – 10 minutes for leaf or flowers, and 10 – 20 minutes for roots. Drink 2 – 4 cups per day. You may use tinctures alone or in combination as noted.

Studies haven’ t found any herbs that specifically treat sarcoidosis. However, the following herbs may help overall health. Talk to your doctor before taking any herb or supplement if you have sarcoidosis.

• Turmeric (Curcuma longa) standardized extract, 300 mg three times a day, may help reduce inflammation. Turmeric may increase the risk of bleeding and interact with other medications, so ask your doctor before taking it.
• Cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa) standardized extract, 20 mg three times a day, may help reduce inflammation. People with leukemia should not take cat’ s claw. Cat’ s claw interacts with some medications, so ask your doctor before taking it.

Homeopathy

A few case reports suggest that homeopathic remedies may improve the general well-being of individuals with sarcoidosis. An experienced homeopath can prescribe a regimen for treating sarcoidosis that is designed specifically for each individual. The primary remedies used by individuals who reported improvements in their symptoms include:

• Tuberculinum bovinum
• Beryllium

Other homeopathic remedies that have been used clinically for the condition are as follows:

• Carcinosin
• Euphrasia
• Graphites
• Leuticum (Syphilinum)
• Bacillinum
• Sepia
• Phosphorus
• Arsenicum album