Glycerin Health Dictionary

A drug preparation in solid, bullet-like form, which is inserted into the RECTUM (or the VAGINA, when it is called a pessary). This method of using drugs may be chosen for various reasons. For example, the suppository, as in the case of glycerin suppositories, may be used to produce an aperient action. Other suppositories, such as those of MORPHINE, are used to reduce pain and check the action of the bowels. Suppositories are useful when the patient is unable to take oral medication and when no suitable preparation is available for injection.... suppository

Rosewater; the hydrosol of the distillate of rose petals; a byproduct of making rose essential oil; may also contain other ingredients, including alcohol, glycerine, coloring or flavoring agents and preservatives; may be attributed therapeutic properties and used for physical illness treatments and spiritual cleansing rituals.... agua de rosas

A clear, yellow liquid, of aromatic smell and burning taste, prepared by distillation from pine-wood or beech-wood. It mixes readily with alcohol, ether, chloroform, glycerin, and oils.

Creosote is a powerful antiseptic and disinfectant; it is also an ingredient of some disinfectant ?uids.... creosote

Diseases may affect the EAR alone or as part of a more generalised condition. The disease may affect the outer, middle or inner ear or a combination of these.

Examination of the ear includes inspection of the external ear. An auriscope is used to examine the external ear canal and the ear drum. If a more detailed inspection is required, a microscope may be used to improve illumination and magni?cation.

Tuning-fork or Rinne tests are performed to identify the presence of DEAFNESS. The examiner tests whether the vibrating fork is audible at the meatus, and then the foot of the fork is placed on the mastoid bone of the ear to discover at which of the two sites the patient can hear the vibrations for the longest time. This can help to di?erentiate between conductive and nerve deafness.

Hearing tests are carried out to determine the level of hearing. An audiometer is used to deliver a series of short tones of varying frequency to the ear, either through a pair of headphones or via a sound transducer applied directly to the skull. The intensity of the sound is gradually reduced until it is no longer heard and this represents the threshold of hearing, at that frequency, through air and bone respectively. It may be necessary to play a masking noise into the opposite ear to prevent that ear from hearing the tones, enabling each ear to be tested independently.

General symptoms The following are some of the chief symptoms of ear disease: DEAFNESS (see DEAFNESS). EARACHE is most commonly due to acute in?ammation of the middle ear. Perceived pain in this region may be referred from other areas, such as the earache commonly experienced after tonsillectomy (removal of the TONSILS) or that caused by carious teeth (see TEETH, DISORDERS OF). The treatment will depend on the underlying cause. TINNITUS or ringing in the ear often accompanies deafness, but is sometimes the only symptom of ear disease. Even normal people sometimes experience tinnitus, particularly if put in soundproofed surroundings. It may be described as hissing, buzzing, the sound of the sea, or of bells. The intensity of the tinnitis usually ?uctuates, sometimes disappearing altogether. It may occur in almost any form of ear disease, but is particularly troublesome in nerve deafness due to ageing and in noise-induced deafness. The symptom seems to originate in the brain’s subcortical regions, high in the central nervous system. It may be a symptom of general diseases such as ANAEMIA, high blood pressure and arterial disease, in which cases it is often synchronous with the pulse, and may also be caused by drugs such as QUININE, salicylates (SALICYLIC ACID and its salts, for example, ASPIRIN) and certain ANTIBIOTICS. Treatment of any underlying ear disorder or systemic disease, including DEPRESSION, may reduce or even cure the tinnitis, but unfortunately in many cases the noises persist. Management involves psychological techniques and initially an explanation of the mechanism and reassurance that tinnitus does not signify brain disease, or an impending STROKE, may help the person. Tinnitus maskers – which look like hearing aids – have long been used with a suitably pitched sound helping to ‘mask’ the condition.

Diseases of the external ear

WAX (cerumen) is produced by specialised glands in the outer part of the ear canal only. Impacted wax within the ear canal can cause deafness, tinnitis and sometimes disturbance of balance. Wax can sometimes be softened with olive oil, 5-per-cent bicarbonate of soda or commercially prepared drops, and it will gradually liquefy and ‘remove itself’. If this is ineffective, syringing by a doctor or nurse will usually remove the wax but sometimes it is necessary for a specialist (otologist) to remove it manually with instruments. Syringing should not be done if perforation of the tympanic membrane (eardrum) is suspected. FOREIGN BODIES such as peas, beads or buttons may be found in the external ear canal, especially in children who have usually introduced them themselves. Live insects may also be trapped in the external canal causing intense irritation and noise, and in such cases spirit drops are ?rst instilled into the ear to kill the insect. Except in foreign bodies of vegetable origin, where swelling and pain may occur, syringing may be used to remove some foreign bodies, but often removal by a specialist using suitable instrumentation and an operating microscope is required. In children, a general anaesthetic may be needed. ACUTE OTITIS EXTERNA may be a di?use in?ammation or a boil (furuncle) occurring in the outer ear canal. The pinna is usually tender on movement (unlike acute otitis media – see below) and a discharge may be present. Initially treatment should be local, using magnesium sulphate paste or glycerine and 10-per-cent ichthaminol. Topical antibiotic drops can be used and sometimes antibiotics by mouth are necessary, especially if infection is acute. Clotrimazole drops are a useful antifungal treatment. Analgesics and locally applied warmth should relieve the pain.

CHRONIC OTITIS EXTERNA producing pain and discharge, can be caused by eczema, seborrhoeic DERMATITIS or PSORIASIS. Hair lotions and cosmetic preparations may trigger local allergic reactions in the external ear, and the chronic disorder may be the result of swimming or use of dirty towels. Careful cleaning of the ear by an ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) surgeon and topical antibiotic or antifungal agents – along with removal of any precipitating cause – are the usual treatments. TUMOURS of the ear can arise in the skin of the auricle, often as a result of exposure to sunlight, and can be benign or malignant. Within the ear canal itself, the commonest tumours are benign outgrowths from the surrounding bone, said to occur in swimmers as a result of repeated exposure to cold water. Polyps may result from chronic infection of the ear canal and drum, particularly in the presence of a perforation. These polyps are soft and may be large enough to ?ll the ear canal, but may shrink considerably after treatment of the associated infection.

Diseases of the middle ear

OTITIS MEDIA or infection of the middle ear, usually occurs as a result of infection spreading up the Eustachian tubes from the nose, throat or sinuses. It may follow a cold, tonsillitis or sinusitis, and may also be caused by swimming and diving where water and infected secretions are forced up the Eustachian tube into the middle ear. Primarily it is a disease of children, with as many as 1.5 million cases occurring in Britain every year. Pain may be intense and throbbing or sharp in character. The condition is accompanied by deafness, fever and often TINNITUS.

In infants, crying may be the only sign that something is wrong – though this is usually accompanied by some localising manifestation such as rubbing or pulling at the ear. Examination of the ear usually reveals redness, and sometimes bulging, of the ear drum. In the early stages there is no discharge, but in the later stages there may be a discharge from perforation of the ear drum as a result of the pressure created in the middle ear by the accumulated pus. This is usually accompanied by an immediate reduction in pain.

Treatment consists of the immediate administration of an antibiotic, usually one of the penicillins (e.g. amoxicillin). In the majority of cases no further treatment is required, but if this does not quickly bring relief then it may be necessary to perform a myringotomy, or incision of the ear drum, to drain pus from the middle ear. When otitis media is treated immediately with su?cient dosage of the appropriate antibiotic, the chances of any permanent damage to the ear or to hearing are reduced to a negligible degree, as is the risk of any complications such as mastoiditis (discussed later in this section). CHRONIC OTITIS MEDIA WITH EFFUSION or glue ear, is the most common in?ammatory condition of the middle ear in children, to the extent that one in four children in the UK entering school has had an episode of ‘glue ear’. It is characterised by a persistent sticky ?uid in the middle ear (hence the name); this causes a conductive-type deafness. It may be associated with enlarged adenoids (see NOSE, DISORDERS OF) which impair the function of the Eustachian tube. If the hearing impairment is persistent and causes problems, drainage of the ?uid, along with antibiotic treatment, may be needed – possibly in conjunction with removal of the adenoids. The insertion of grommets (ventilation tubes) was for a time standard treatment, but while hearing is often restored, there may be no long-term gain and even a risk of damage to the tympanic membrane, so the operation is less popular than it was a decade or so ago. MASTOIDITIS is a serious complication of in?ammation of the middle ear, the incidence of which has been dramatically reduced by the introduction of antibiotics. In?ammation in this cavity usually arises by direct spread of acute or chronic in?ammation from the middle ear. The signs of this condition include swelling and tenderness of the skin behind the ear, redness and swelling inside the ear, pain in the side of the head, high fever, and a discharge from the ear. The management of this condition in the ?rst instance is with antibiotics, usually given intravenously; however, if the condition fails to improve, surgical treatment is necessary. This involves draining any pus from the middle ear and mastoid, and removing diseased lining and bone from the mastoid.

Diseases of the inner ear

MENIÈRE’S DISEASE is a common idiopathic disorder of ENDOLYMPH control in the semicircular canals (see EAR), characterised by the triad of episodic VERTIGO with deafness and tinnitus. The cause is unknown and usually one ear only is affected at ?rst, but eventually the opposite ear is affected in approximately 50 per cent of cases. The onset of dizziness is often sudden and lasts for up to 24 hours. The hearing loss is temporary in the early stages, but with each attack there may be a progressive nerve deafness. Nausea and vomiting often occur. Treatment during the attacks includes rest and drugs to control sickness. Vasodilator drugs such as betahistine hydrochloride may be helpful. Surgical treatment is sometimes required if crippling attacks of dizziness persist despite these measures. OTOSCLEROSIS A disorder of the middle ear that results in progressive deafness. Often running in families, otosclerosis affects about one person in 200; it customarily occurs early in adult life. An overgrowth of bone ?xes the stapes (the innermost bone of the middle ear) and stops sound vibrations from being transmitted to the inner ear. The result is conductive deafness. The disorder usually affects both ears. Those affected tend to talk quietly and deafness increases over a 10–15 year period. Tinnitus often occurs, and occasionally vertigo.

Abnormal hearing tests point to the diagnosis; the deafness may be partially overcome with a hearing aid but surgery is eventually needed. This involves replacing the stapes bone with a synthetic substitute (stapedectomy). (See also OTIC BAROTRAUMA.)... ear, diseases of

Emollients are substances which have a softening and soothing e?ect upon the skin. They include dusting powders such as French chalk, oils such as olive oil and almond oil, and fats such as the various pharmacopoeial preparations of para?n, suet, and lard. Glycerin is also an excellent emollient.

Uses They are used in various in?ammatory conditions such as eczema (see DERMATITIS), when the skin becomes hard, cracked, and painful. They may be used in the form of a dusting powder, an oil or an ointment.... emollients

A food that has more energy-producing power, weight for weight, than any other. Animal fat is a mixture in varying proportions of stearic, palmitic, and oleic acids combined with glycerin. Butter contains about 80 per cent of fat; ordinary cream, 20 per cent; and rich cream 40 per cent – whilst olive oil is practically a pure form of fat. When taken to a large extent in the diet, fat requires to be combined with a certain proportion of either CARBOHYDRATE or PROTEIN in order that it may be completely consumed, otherwise harmful products, known as ketones, may form in the blood. Each gram of fat has an energy-producing equivalent of 9·3 Calories (see CALORIE).

Fats are divided into saturated fats – that is, animal fats and dairy produce; and unsaturated fats, which include vegetable oils from soya bean, maize and sun?ower, and marine oils from ?sh (e.g. cod-liver oil). (See also ADIPOSE TISSUE; LIPID; OBESITY.)

Body fat Most of the body’s fat is stored in ADIPOSE TISSUE which is mainly sited beneath the skin and around various internal organs. Some, however, is stored in liver, muscle and other cellular structures such as bone marrow (see BONE). Various methods can be used to estimate the body’s fat content but all are indirect and not very accurate, depending as they do on hard-to-measure di?erences in composition between fat and lean tissues. The average body fat of healthy young men and women is below 20 per cent and 25 per cent respectively of their body weight. In economically developed countries, middle-aged men and women usually undergo a steady increase in body fat. This is probably not a feature of ageing, however, since in developing nations, which have di?erent diets and greater levels of physical activity, increased age does not bring with it an increase in body fat. One widely used means to estimate whether a person has excess fat is to measure his or her skinfold thickness on the arms and torso. The distribution of fat can be a pointer to certain disorders: those adults, for example, who deposit their fat abdominally rather than on their hips – an android rather than a gynaecoid distribution – are particularly susceptible to disease of the CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM and to DIABETES MELLITUS.

Adipose tissue comprises fat deposited as a result of eating more food than is metabolised by exercise and the body’s basic energy needs. Surplus fat can in some circumstances be a useful energy store. For example, hibernating animals ‘burn o?’ the fat stored during the summer months and are much leaner when they wake up in the spring. Excessive quantities of adipose tissue result in OBESITY, an increasingly serious problem among all age groups, including children, in countries with developed economies.... fat

This is derived from COLLAGEN, the chief constituent of CONNECTIVE TISSUE. It is a colourless, transparent substance which dissolves in boiling water, and on cooling sets into a jelly. Such a jelly is a pleasant addition to the invalid diet, especially when suitably ?avoured, but it is of relatively little nutritive value as not more than one ounce can be taken in the day (i.e. the amount required to make one pint of jelly). Although it is a protein, it is lacking in several of the vital amino acids. The ordinary household ‘stock’ made from boiling bones contains gelatin. Mixed with about two and a half times its weight of glycerin, gelatin forms a soft substance used as the basis for many pastilles and suppositories. Partially degraded gelatin is sometimes given as a PLASMA-substitute transfusion for short-term emergency treatment for patients in SHOCK as a result of a severe blood or ?uid loss from burns or SEPTICAEMIA.... gelatin

Another name for GLYCERIN.... glycerol

Kaolin, or china clay, is a smooth white powder consisting of natural white aluminium silicate resulting from the decomposition of minerals containing felspar. It is used as a dusting powder for eczema (see DERMATITIS) and other forms of irritation in the skin. It is also used internally in cases of diarrhoea. Talc, French chalk and Fuller’s earth are similar silicates.

Kaolin poultice contains kaolin, boric acid, glycerin and various aromatic substances.... kaolin

A small disc of glycerin jelly, 3 mm (1/8 inch) in diameter, containing an active drug for application to the eye. It is applied by insertion behind the lower lid.... lamella

These are small tablets containing drugs mixed with sugar, gum, glycerin-jelly or fruit-paste. They are used in various affections of the mouth and throat, being sucked and slowly dissolved by the saliva, which brings the drugs they contain into contact with the affected surface. Some of the substances used in lozenges are benzalkonium (disinfectant), benzocaine (analgesic), betamethasone (corticosteroid), bismuth (disinfectant), formaldehyde (disinfectant), hydrocortisone (corticosteroid), liquorice, and penicillin (antibiotic).... lozenges

(1) A plastic device placed in the VAGINA designed to support a displaced UTERUS.

(2) A suppository suitably shaped for insertion into the vagina. Made of oil of theobromine or a glycerin basis, they are used for applying local treatment to the vagina.... pessaries

Small round masses containing active drugs held together by syrup, gum, glycerin, or adhesive vegetable extracts. They are sometimes without coating, being merely rolled in French chalk, but often they are covered with sugar or gelatin. Many people use the term interchangeably with tablets, and ‘the pill’ has come to represent oral contraceptives.... pills

Tannin, or tannic acid, is an uncrystallisable white powder, soluble in water or glycerin. It is extracted from oak galls in large amount, but it is also present in almost all vegetable infusions. Tannic acid acts as an astringent.... tannin

An extract, usually herbal, and usually made with a mixture of water and alcohol, although there were official tinctures that also used acetic acid, chloroform and glycerin. Only a few tinctures are still official in the U.S., including Tincture of Arnica and Compound Tincture of Benzoin. In herb commerce, the term should really only be appropriate when the extract at least RESEMBLES the formerly official methods for making plant extracts. The strength should be listed, usually as a ratio (1:5 being the most common) or a percentage (20%...the same strength as 1:5). Green Tinctures of fresh plants, are usually appropriate when defined as 1:2 or 50%. The alcohol percentage should be given, and, if below 45%, is made incorrectly. Dry plant tinctures, the norm, are official when percolated (usually), although maceration was and is allowed as an alternative method. The term Tincture is still pharmaceutical in implication, so the FDA periodically objects to its use in the herb industry. Nonetheless, if it is IMPLIED, it should reasonably resemble the former pharmaceutical media. Glycerin, although a vary inferior solvent, is used as a substitute for moral reasons by some manufacturers, and others try to make do with low percentages, like 25%...others use Vinegar for making their “tinctures”..There are many alternative methods for preparing herbs inconcentrated forms, in ours and other cultures. (the Unani honeys, the pills used in Ayurveda and TCM), but trying to emulate a tincture with other media results in inferior products...and a moral waste of Plant Energy. Methods and recommended strengths are outlined in my pamphlet HERBAL MATERIA MEDICA See: FLUIDEXTRACT, MENSTRUUM... tincture

Dryness of the mouth due to lack of SALIVA. Its most extreme form occurs following radiotherapy of the mouth, and in the condition known as Sjögren’s syndrome. No satisfactory substitute for natural saliva has been found though some ?nd a methyl-cellulose substitute gives partial relief, as may a glycerin mouthwash.... xerostomia

A suppurative disease from hard surfaces that soften and form punctured holes in the skin (multiple sinuses). Primarily a disease of cattle (hard mouth), infectious to man. Can affect lungs, abdomen, throat and mouth. Draining fistulas and ‘holes’ produce a pus with gram positive micro- organism (actinomyces israeli) which causes abscesses and hard swellings.

Differential diagnosis: tuberculosis and cancer.

Conventional treatment: antibiotics and surgical excision.

Herbal treatment: antiseptics, anti-microbials, vulneraries. In addition to basic formula, they will be given according to the organ or system involved. for skin give basic formula.

Alternatives. Basic formula: Combine: Echinacea 4; Goldenseal 1; Yellow Dock 2. Preparations: powders, liquid extracts, tinctures; doses taken in water or honey thrice daily.

For the lungs: add Balm of Gilead 1.

For the abdomen: add Sarsaparilla 2.

For the throat: add Red Sage 2.

For the mouth: add Myrrh quarter.

Powders. 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon).

Liquid Extracts: mix. Dose, 15-30 drops.

Tinctures: Dose, 30-60 drops thrice daily.

Dr Finlay Ellingwood. Echinacea liquid extract: 60 drops in water every 2 hours. Where ulcerative lesions are present: 10 drops in water applied externally.

Topical:– Lotion: 1 part oil Eucalyptus to 9 parts glycerine. shake well.

Diet: The fungus is more likely to become established where health is poor. Regular raw food days. Avoid liver-clogging eggs, ham, bacon, cream and excessive cheese. ... actinomycosis

Due to deficient nutrition as well as inclement weather or occupational hazard. Hands dry and painful.

Alternatives. Creams or ointments of Comfrey, Chickweed, Aloe Vera, Evening Primrose, Plantain, Avocado, Marigold, Cucumber, Vitamin E. Sunflower seed oil. Glycerine and Rosewater.

Aromatherapy. Few drops of one of the following essential oils in a heavy carrier oil (Avocado) to ensure penetration: Chamomile, Jasmine, Orange Blossom, Patchouli, Sandalwood.

Supplementation. Vitamins A, C, D, E. Zinc. 1 teaspoon Cod Liver oil in the morning. ... chapped hands

Anti-irritant. A herb rich in mucilage that is soothing, bland, offering protection to inflamed or irritable mucous surfaces. Herbalist’s alternative to glycerine. A demulcent is almost always used together with anti-lithics for stone to protect surrounding mucosa (i.e. Parsley Piert).

Agar Agar, Aloe Vera, Arrowroot, Chickweed, Coltsfoot, Cornsilk, Fenugreek seeds, Iceland Moss, Irish Moss, Ispaghula seeds, Linseed, Liquorice root, Marshmallow root, Meadowsweet, Mullein, Oatmeal, Plantain, Slippery Elm bark, Tragacanth gum, White Pond Lily. ... demulcent

As expressed from fresh plants and used within 2-3 days or preserved with equal parts alcohol or glycerine. Use of home juicer suffices. Plantain, Horseradish, Marigold petals, Marshmallow leaves or root. ... juices

Liquid preparations applied externally for protection or medication of the skin or mucous membranes. May be made with alcohol, (Tincture Calendula); water (Witch Hazel water); or glycerine (Goldenseal and glycerine). Preparations containing oil are generally known as liniments. Lotions may be made from flowers, herbs, etc, with the aid of glycerine.

Marigold Lotion. Flowerheads are passed through a juicer. Combine equal parts juice and glycerine. Hand lotion for children’s sensitive skin with tendency to chafe and smart. ... lotions

Alcohol is a chemical with definite physical and chemical properties. It may be used as the alcohol of pharmacy (ethyl alcohol, ethanol) for the making of tinctures, extracts, etc. Strength of alcohol used depends upon the phytochemistry of the plant. The weakest spirit is always chosen to serve the purpose.

Weak. 20-25 per cent. For water soluble ingredients and small amounts of volatile oils, i.e., Infusion Buchu Cone. A white wine (approximately 25 per cent) may prove adequate for most leaves, flowers and stems (i.e., Agrimony, Balm or Chamomile.

Medium Strength. 45 per cent. This is the strength, on average, used by the herbal practitioner. For tannins and small amounts of volatile oils, etc (i.e., Extract of Witch Hazel Liquid).

Moderately Strong. 60-70 per cent. Water soluble glycosides, (Tincture Digitalis, Squills, etc.).

Strong alcohols. 70-80 per cent. For alkaloids present in many plants.

Very Strong Alcohols. 90-99 per cent. For gums and resins (Myrrh), essential and volatile oils (Spirit Menth Pip., etc.).

Without alcohol, extraction of active constituents of plants would not be possible. Glycerine has not proved to be a satisfactory menstruum. For simple home-made tinctures Vodka offers a useful alternative provided it is of the strength specified.

Alcohol is not only a reliable solvent and preservative. It may be used effectively in the treatment of disease. In the form of wine it is one of the oldest drugs known to medicine. It appears in the pharmacopoeias and medical text-books of every civilised culture in the world. It may be used as an analgesic for the control of pain. It is an effective anaesthetic, vasodilator, sedative, and diuretic to stimulate kidney function. It was probably the first tranquilliser discovered. See: PRESCRIPTIONS.

Alcohol is the commonest substance to be incriminated in drug interactions. It can potentiate soporific effects in antidepressants, pain-killers and antihistamines and increase irritation of the stomach by aspirin. It can change the action of hypoglycaemic and anticoagulant remedies. ... alcohol

Epithelioma.

Causes: occupational hazards, contact with toxic metals and minerals.

A Health Department’s committee found an increased risk of developing mouth cancer from “snuff- dipping”, the practice of sucking tobacco from a small sachet, “tobacco teabags”.

Of possible value:– Fresh plant juices, Houseleek, Aloe Vera.

Teas: Chickweed, Mullein, Comfrey. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes; dose – 1 cup thrice daily, increasing to as much as well tolerated.

Condurango Liquid extract. 10-30 drops in water before meals.

Goldenseal Liquid extract. 3-5 drops in water before meals.

George Burford MD. Condurango and Goldenseal.

E.H. Ruddock MD 1925. “Several cases of cancer of the lips have been cured by Goldenseal.”

Topical. Wipe area with Liquid Extract Condurango, Goldenseal, Thuja, Poke root or fresh plant juices of above. Slippery Elm paste: powdered Slippery Elm in few drops milk or water.

Mouthwash. Equal parts: Liquid Extract Goldenseal, Liquid Extract Bayberry, Tincture Myrrh and Glycerine. Some may be swallowed as internal medicine. Comfrey, Mullein or Chickweed cream.

Diet. See: DIET – CANCER.

Treatment by a general medical practitioner or hospital oncologist. ... cancer – mouth and lips

Balsam copaiva. Copaifera langsdorffi, Desf. Oleoresin obtained by cutting deeply into trunk of the Copaiva tree.

Constituents: volatile oil, terpenic acids, resins.

Action. Antiseptic (urinary), carminative, alterative, diuretic, stimulant, cathartic.

Uses: Chronic inflammation of the genito-urinary tract, mild STD attacks, for its antiseptic effect. Chronic catarrh of the bladder, vagina and of the respiratory organs. Pruritus of anus and genitals. Irritable bladder of old women. Leucorrhoea.

Preparations: Because of its disagreeable taste it is usually given in capsules. Oil of Copaib: dose, 5 drops, thrice daily. Combined with alkali diuretics.

Lotion: oil of Copaiva 1 part, Glycerine 10 parts. ... copaiba

(English) Vaccinium oxycoccos. (American) Macrocarpa oxycoccos.

Action: Antiscorbutic.

Uses: Urinary tract infections. Unpleasant odour of urine. Believed to be of value for diabetes mellitis. Suppresses symptoms of bacterial infection. Prevention of Vitamin C deficiency states. Hay fever. Food and chemical allergies.

Preparations: Cranberry Juice Capsules. Ingredients: Oil (vegetable Soya) 243mg; Cranberry Juice Concentrate 12.1-140mg (equal to 1680mg of fresh cranberries); Gelatine 118mg; Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) 100mg; Glycerine 71mg; Beeswax 14mg; Lecithin 13mg; Vitamin E (d’Alpha-Tocopheral) 2iu. 2 capsules daily. (Power Health)

Fresh juice. “For mild urinary infections – drinking 15fl oz cranberry juice daily prevented bacteria clinging to the urinary tract.” (Dr Anthony Sobota, Professor of Microbiology, Youngstown University, Ohio, USA) ... cranberries

Partial extraction of the active constituents of a plant by the action of a solvent, usually alcohol. The process takes a few days, usually seven, in a closed vessel at room temperature and frequently shaken. The liquor is strained off, the marc (spent herbs) pressed out and the expressed liquor added. The whole is filtered and sediments removed. All herbs can be macerated, fresh or dry, for the making of tinctures. Glycerine is sometimes used as a solvent. ... maceration

n. a preparation containing alcohol (ethanol) or glycerine, which is used as the vehicle for bitter or nauseous drugs.... elixir

n. (in pharmacy) a thick aqueous solution of a gum used as a lubricant in skin preparations (see also glycerin), for the production of pills, and for the suspension of insoluble substances. The most important mucilages are of acacia, tragacanth, and starch.... mucilage

n. a medicinal preparation containing gelatine and glycerine, usually coated with sugar, that is dissolved in the mouth so that the medication is applied to the mouth or throat.... pastille

There is strong evidence that sunlight plays a major role in the development of human skin cancers. Skin malignancy usually takes the form of Basal Cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma that may develop from pre-existing naevi.

Basal Cell Cancer. Strong sunlight on fair skins. Common on face and hands and other exposed areas. Commences as a tiny hard nodule. See – RODENT ULCER.

Squamous Cell Cancer. The role of sunlight in this type of cancer is even more positive. Other causes: photosensitisers such as pitch and PUVA photochemotherapy. Commences as a raised scaly rapidly- growing nodule.

Malignant Melanoma. Rare, but incidence rising. Four different kinds. Incidence is increased in individuals with fair or red hair who tend to burn rather than tan in the sun.

Causes may be numerous: genetic, occupational hazards or exposure to low-level radiation. Heavy freckling in youth doubles the risk. (Western Canada Melanoma study)

A study carried out by the New York’s Memorial-Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre refers to damage to the ultra violet-blocking ozone layer by supersonic jet exhaust and aerosol propellants that can also raise the malignant melanoma rate. A University of Sydney study links fluorescent lighting with the disease. Symptoms. Itching lesion increases in size and with growing discoloration. Colours may present as brown, black, red, blue, white, with a red inflammatory border. May progress to a dry crust, with bleeding.

Study. A study conducted by a team from Melbourne University, Anti-Cancer Council and St Vincent’s Hospital, Australia, describes a summer-long experiment that showed that people who used a sun-screen lotion (in this case SPF-17) cut their chances of developing the first signs of skin cancer.

Study. Patients who receive blood transfusions are more likely to develop malignant lymphomas and non- melanomatous skin cancers. (European Journal of Cancer (Nov 1993))

Eclectic physicians of the 19th century reported success from the use of American Mandrake (podophylum peltatum). Recent experience includes a 76 per cent cure rate achieved in 68 patients with carcinoma of the skin by treatment twice daily for 14 days with an ointment consisting of Podophyllum resin 20 per cent, and Linseed oil 20 per cent, in lanolin, followed by an antibiotic ointment. (Martindale 27; 1977, p. 1341) Podophyllum is an anti-mitotic and inhibits cell-division and should not be applied to normal cells.

Aloe Vera. Fresh cut leaf, or gel, to wipe over exposed surfaces.

Vitamin E oil. Applying the oil to the skin can reduce chances of acquiring skin cancer from the sun. (University of Arizona College of Medicine)

Red Clover. “I have seen a case of skin cancer healed by applying Red Clover blossoms. After straining a strong tea, the liquid was simmered until it was the consistency of tar. After several applications the skin cancer was gone, and has not returned.” (May Bethel, in “Herald of Health”, Dec. 1963)

Clivers. Equal parts juice of Clivers (from juice extractor) and glycerine. Internally and externally.

Thuja. Internal: 3-5 drops Liquid Extract, morning and evening.

Topical. “Take a small quantity powdered Slippery Elm and add Liquid Extract Thuja to make a stiff paste. Apply paste to the lesion. Cover with gauze and protective covering. When dry remove pack and follow with compresses saturated with Thuja.” (Ellingwood’s Therapeutist, Vol 10, No 6, p. 212) Echinacea and Thuja. Equal parts liquid extracts assist healthy granulation and neutralise odour.

Rue Ointment. Simmer whole fresh leaves in Vaseline.

Poke Root. An old physician laid great stress on the use of concentrated juice of green leaves. Leaves are bruised, juice extracted, and concentrated by slow evaporation until the consistency of a paste, for persistent skin cancer. Care should be taken to confine to the distressed area. (Ellingwood’s Therapeutist, Vol 8, No 7, p. 275)

Maria Treben. Horsetail poultice.

Laetrile. Some improvement claimed. 1 gram daily.

Cider vinegar. Anecdotal evidence: external use: small melanoma.

Diet. See: DIET – CANCER. Beta-carotene foods.

Treatment by skin specialist or oncologist. ... cancer – skin

A term used to describe lavage of certain parts of the body, for washing wounds and ulcers, for eye douches with aid of an eye-bath, but especially for cleansing or applying medication to the vagina. Douches with herbal teas (or decoctions) are given for their antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties being used to irrigate the vagina in cases of infections or to soothe inflammation. They are best performed sitting on the toilet, the douche or enema can about two feet above the thighs. Fluid is retained for 5-10 minutes. Not advised in pregnancy. Once or twice daily for one week.

A strong tea is prepared from one of a number of agents according to indications.

Infections: Blue Flag root, Yellow Dock root, Echinacea, Marshmallow root, Sarsaparilla.

Leucorrhoea: Motherwort, Plantain, Bayberry, Black Cohosh.

Endometritis: Raspberry leaves.

Candida: injection of neat yoghurt or, half cup cider vinegar to 2 pints warm water.

Acute discomfort, itching, inflammation: equal parts Chamomile, Marshmallow, Ladies Mantle. 1oz to 2 pints boiling water; infuse, inject warm.

Alternative to herbs: use liquid extracts, 2-4 teaspoons to two pints water.

Thuja douche: Thuja, Liquid Extract half an ounce; Ginger Tincture 10 drops; Glycerine 1oz. Hot water to 1 pint. Candida, leucorrhoea, Polypi. ... douche

Yellow root. Eye Balm. Hydrastis canadensis L. Dried rhizome and roots. One of phytotherapy’s most effective agents. Versatile, with a wide sphere of influence.

Constituents: berberine, hydrastine, canadine, resin.

Action: alterative, choleretic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, bacteriostatic against staphyococcus. (Complementary Medical Research Vol 2, No 2, p.139) Bitter, diuretic, haemostatic, laxative, oxytocic, powerful stomach and liver tonic, detoxifier. Increases blood supply to the spleen. Uses. Mucous membranes generally. Ulceration of mouth, throat, intestines. Heartburn, chronic dyspepsia, gastric and duodenal ulcer, diverticulosis, ulcerative colitis, liver damage. To assist function of old age. Drying to mucous surfaces and therefore indicated in all forms of catarrh (respiratory, vaginal etc). Proteinuria. Painful, excessive menstruation and bleeding from the womb for which the addition of Beth root (equal parts) enhances action. Itching of anus and genitals. Ear infections: internal and topical medication. Prostatitis. Bleeding gums. Tinnitus. Has a long history for use in sexually transmitted diseases. Once used to stimulate contractions of the womb to hasten delivery.

Preparations: Standard dose: half-1 gram. Thrice daily.

Decoction. Quarter to half a teaspoon dried rhizome to each cup water simmered gently in a covered vessel 20 minutes. Dose: half a cup.

Liquid Extract, BHC Vol 1. 1:1 in 60 per cent ethanol; 0.3-1ml, (5-15 drops).

Tincture, BHC Vol 1. 1:10, 60 per cent ethanol; 2-4ml, (15-60 drops).

Formula. Popular. All BHP (1983) standard powders:– Marshmallow root 100mg; Goldenseal 10mg; Cranesbill 30mg; Dandelion root 60mg. Traditional for the relief of indigestion, heartburn, flatulence, nausea and gastric irritation.

Powder. Dose: half-1g.

Lotion. Equal parts, Tincture Goldenseal and glycerine. For painting mouth, throat and lesions elsewhere. Goldenseal solution. 250mg powder shaken in 3oz Rosewater or Witch Hazel: filter. 5-10 drops in eyebath half-filled with water; douche 3 or more times daily.

Goldenseal ointment. 1 teaspoon (5ml) tincture in 1oz Vaseline; dissolve in gentle heat.

Mouth Wash. 5-10 drops tincture in glass water.

Vaginal douche or enema. 10 drops tincture to 2 pints boiled water; inject warm.

Notes. Liquid extract may be used instead of tincture, in which case half quantity is used. Not given in pregnancy, lactation or high blood pressure Not given with Eucalyptus to which it is antagonistic.

GSL, schedule 1

“GONE ALL TO PIECES” SYNDROME. Nervous disarray and weakness from severe emotional or physical shock.

Tablet: 45mg each, Skullcap, Lupulin, Hydrocotyle; and the aqueous extractive from: 90mg Gentian, 75mg Jamaica Dogwood. ... goldenseal

Ava Pepper. Piper methysticum, Forster. German: Kawa pfeffer. French: Kawa. Spanish: Kava kava. Italian: Pepe kava. Parts used: rhizome and root.

Constituents: Pipermethysticine (alkaloid), Pyrone derivative.

Action: antimicrobial with special reference to STDs with mucopurulent discharge, including gonorrhoea. Also effective against Bacillus Coli. Antiseptic stimulant, mild analgesic for painful spasm, antispasmodic, nerve relaxant, diuretic, stimulant, tonic.

Uses: Genito-urinary infections, orchitis, vaginitis, urethritis, Candida, violent itching, ichthyosis, metritis, inflammation of the Fallopian tubes, incontinence in the aged with bladder weakness, infection of kidney, bladder and prostate gland, conditions arising from excess of uric acid, joint pains of rheumatism following STD infection, bed-wetting. A powerful soporific for chronic insomnia, ensuring dreamless sleep with no known ill-effects on rising.

Combinations: with Sarsaparilla for STDs. With Black Cohosh for rheumatism following STDs. Preparations. Average dose: 2-4g. Thrice daily.

Decoction. 1oz to 1 pint (30g to 500ml) water, simmer in gentle heat down to three-quarters volume. Dose: half-1 cup.

Liquid Extract. Half-1 teaspoon in water.

Powder: 2-4g.

Lotion. 1oz powdered root to 8oz glycerine, macerate 8 days, shake daily. External: for pruritus and most forms of intolerable itching. Add 10 drops Oil Eucalyptus for chronic cases. ... kava kava

Citrus aurantifolia

FAMILY: Rutaceae

SYNONYMS: C. medica var. acida, C. latifolia, Mexican lime, West Indian lime, sour lime.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A small evergreen tree up to 4.5 metres high, with stiff sharp spines, smooth ovate leaves and small white flowers. The bitter fruit is a pale green colour, about half the size of a lemon.

DISTRIBUTION: Probably native to south Asia; naturalized in many tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is cultivated mainly in south Florida, the West Indies (Cuba), Central America (Mexico) and Italy.

OTHER SPECIES: There are several species of lime such as the Italian lime (C. limetta) which is used to produce an oil called ‘limette’; and the leech-lime (C. hystrix) which is occasionally used to produce an essential oil called combava.

HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: The fruit is often used indiscriminately in place of lemon with which it shares many qualities. It is used for similar purposes including fever, infections, sore throat, colds, etc. It used to be used as a remedy for dyspepsia with glycerin of pepsin.

ACTIONS: Antirheumatic, antiscorbutic, antiseptic, antiviral, aperitif, bactericidal, febrifuge, restorative, tonic.

EXTRACTION: Essential oil by 1. cold expression of the peel of the unripe fruit; the expressed oil is preferred in perfumery work, and 2. steam distillation of the whole ripe crushed fruit (a by-product of the juice industry).

CHARACTERISTICS: 1. A pale yellow or olive-green liquid with a fresh, sweet, citrus-peel odour. 2. A water-white or pale yellow liquid with a fresh, sharp, fruity-citrus scent. It blends well with neroli, citronella, lavender, lavandin, rosemary, clary sage and other citrus oils.

PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Limonene, pinenes, camphene, sabinene, citral, cymene, cineols and linalol, among others. The expressed ‘peel’ oil, but not the ‘whole fruit’ oil, also contains coumarins.

SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant, nonsensitizing. However, the expressed ‘peel’ oil is phototoxic (but not the steam-distilled ‘whole fruit’ oil).

AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE See lemon.

OTHER USES: Both oils, but mainly the expressed, are used as fragrance components in soaps, detergents, cosmetics and perfumes. Mainly the distilled oil, but also the terpeneless oil, is used by the food industry, especially in soft drinks – ‘lemon and lime’ flavour. The juice is used for the production of citric acid.... lime