A Thera

April 3, 2018

Absorption Enhancement

Some drugs are administered as a patch or ointment thru the skin.  Certain plant substances have shown potential in aiding cutaneous absorption enhancement / transdermal delivery of medicines.  Essential oils with their fat soluble structure have been studied as a potential skin penetration enhancer. Absorption Enhancement Recipes   Blog Articles […]
April 3, 2018

Acne

Acne results from blocked skin follicles, encouraging bacteria, and resulting in infection and pimples.  During puberty, hormonal changes result in increased sebum production that can cause the blocked pores.  Here are a few basic suggestions: Keep the face clean, but don’t over-wash. Don’t touch the face with unclean hands and spread […]
April 3, 2018

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness, also called mountain sickness, is caused by reduced oxygen available to the body at higher altitudes.  It is more likely to happen when climbing altitudes above 8,000 feet quickly, not allowing the body to acclimatize. The body may need more time getting used to the higher level.  Symptoms […]
April 3, 2018

Analgesic / Pain

Analgesic substances reduce pain in a variety of ways: as a local anesthetic or anti-nociceptive, and also via the nervous system.  The menthol constituent in peppermint has shown topical anti-nociceptive activity, lavender aromatherapy has shown to calm nerves after surgery to help reduce pain, and comfrey has been used for […]
April 3, 2018

Anti-inflammatory

Inflammation is our body’s response to infection and injury. Its purpose is to clear out foreign cells and dead cells from the local area.  Inflammation is characterized by increased redness, heat, pain, and swelling to an area.  Anti-inflammatory herbs reduce inflammation in various ways.  For example, spices like turmeric, ginger, […]
April 3, 2018

Anti-itch

Certain herbs taken orally or applied topically have shown to have anti-itch potential.  German chamomile, peppermint, and colloidal oatmeal are examples of herbs that may help show a reduction in symptoms.  In the cases of ongoing or severe itching conditions, consult with a Doctor. Recipes to Help with Itching   […]
April 3, 2018

Anti-allergy / Anti-histamine

Allergies can be topical, respiratory, or digestive, and result in an immune system overreaction to a substance.  This can release histamines, which cause wheezing, rashes, sneezing, vomiting, and even anaphylactic shock.  People can be allergic to specific foods, plants, animals, and chemicals.  Human studies are lacking, and more research is […]
April 3, 2018

Anti-asthma

An asthma  attack is a spasm in the airway muscles that causes wheezing and additional breathing issues.  It is often triggered by allergies, dust, stress, smoking, and pollution.  While regular exercise can help with asthma by increasing lung capacity, it can also cause asthma attacks. Certain herbs may have potential […]
April 3, 2018

Antibacterial

There are many types of bacteria, and not all bacteria are bad.  Some good bacteria in the body help aid in digestion and fight infection.  Pathogenic bacteria can cause disease.  Wikipedia does an excellent job of categorizing and listing the most common types of bacteria:  Pathogenic Bacteria List. Antibacterial herbs […]
April 3, 2018

Anti-fungal

Certain herbs are known for their anti-fungal actions.  Most research studies have been in vitro; more human studies are necessary. Recipes to Help with Fungal Infections Blog Articles RESEARCH The listings of research below represent a compilation of scientific articles found on the topic, with a very brief overview description […]
April 3, 2018

Antimicrobial

Herbs and essential oils are known for their antimicrobial potential, and have been studied for their abilities to inhibits or kill microbes including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and yeast.  It is important to understand therapeutic margin for each botanical, the amount at which a substance is both safe and effective to […]