Menses Health Dictionary

Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia and A. peruviana).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, aerial parts.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The leaf is traditionally prepared as a tea and taken orally for arthritis, delayed menses, diarrhea (in children and adults), infections, kidney ailments, menstrual pain, postpartum cleansing and stomach ache. It is also used externally as a poultice for menstrual pain and as a bath for energetic cleansing, good luck and spiritual protection.

Safety: The pollen of Ambrosia species is a common allergen and may cause symptoms of hayfever in hypersensitive individuals. Plant material should be washed thoroughly before use to remove pollen. Cases of contact dermatitis, eczema, allergic conjunctivitis and other adverse effects have been associated with this plant.

Contraindications: Due to lack of available safety information, avoid use during pregnancy or lactation and in children under 5 years of age.

Drug Interactions: Synergistic interactions may occur with medications that share similar biological activities to those demonstrated by this herb (see “Clinical Data” and “Laboratory & Preclinical Data” below).

Clinical Data: The following effects of Ambrosia artemisiifolia have been investigated in human clinical trials: allergenic, immunotherapeutic and irritant.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: Ambrosia species have shown the following biological activities in laboratory or preclinical studies using in vitro or animal models: analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimycobacterial and cytotoxic.

* See entry for Altamisa in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... altamisa

Absence or suppression of menses. Primary amenorrhea is the failure to begin menses by age 16, secondary amenorrhea is tardy menses (from pregnancy, stress, dieting, illness or intensive physical training) in the previously menstruating woman.... amenorrhea

As spinal chord nerves branch out into the body, some segments fan out across the skin; these are the nerves that monitor the surface and are the source of senses of touch, pain, hot, cold and distension. All this information is funneled back in and up to the brain, which learned early on to correlate WHAT information comes from WHERE. Think of the brain as the CPU, with the spinal chord nerves uploading raw binary data; the brain has to make a running program out of this. It must form a three-dimensional hologram or homunculus from the linear input, and retranslate it outwards as binary data. The surface of the forearm, as an example, has sensory input gathered from several different and very separate spinal chord nerves. The brain will origami-fold these separate data streams into FOREARM. If you were to inject novacaine into the base of the left first sacral nerve (LS1), you would find that a whole section of skin became numb. So well defined a section that you could outline in charcoal the demarcation between sensation and numbness. This section would be a long oval of of numbness around the left buttock, under to the groin, perhaps part of the thigh...and the left heel. That spinal nerve is solely responsible for carrying sensation from that zone of skin...that dermatome; your brain mixes all the dermatomes together to get a working hologram of your total skin surface. That particular nerve also brings and sends information about the uterus, abdominal wall and pelvic floor. If you are a woman suffering pelvic heaviness and suppressed menses, a hot footbath might be enough S1 (heel dermatome) stimulation to cross-talk over to the referred S1 pelvic functions...and heat up the stuck uterus. Much of acupuncture, Jinshinjitsu, and zone and reflex therapy (not to mention Rolfing) uses various aspects of this dermatome crossover phenomena (by whatever name) and zone counterirritation was widely used in American standard medicine up until...penicillin. It was still being described in clinical manuals as late as 1956, although with the mention that it was only used infrequently and a “mechanism not understood” disclaimer.... dermatomes

Chrysanthemum parthenium. N.O. Compositae.

Synonym: Featherfew, Featherfoil, Pyrethrum parthenium.

Habitat: Waste places, hedges.

Features ? Stem one and a half feet high, erect, finely furrowed, hairy, branches towards top. Leaves alternate, bipinnatifid, serrate edges, very short hairs, about four and a half by two and a half inches; leaf stalk flat above, convex below. Numerous flowers (June and July), yellow disc, white petals, each on stalk. Taste, very unpleasant.

Part used ? Herb.

Action: Aperient, carminative.

Assists in promotion of the menses and in the expulsion of worms. Also given in hysterical conditions. Infusion of 1 ounce to 1 pint boiling water, wineglassful doses.... feverfew

Also called a leiomyoma or fibromyoma (or myofibroma, for that matter), it is an encapsulated tumor made up of disorganized and irregular connective tissue. A uterine fibroid is benign, there may be one or many, they grow slowly, have unknown causes, and may or may not cause painful menses or mid-cycle bleeding. Much depends on where they are in the uterus and whether or not they extend far enough into the cavity to impair and thin out the endometrium. If they do, they cause distress.... fibroids

Bleeding, pure and simply. Menses is not blood but the carefully orchestrated excretion of excess endometrium. If the membranes fail to vasoconstrict and bleed further, THAT is hemorrhage.... hemorrhage

Stinking arrach. Chenopodium olidum S. Wats. Herb. Action. Relaxing nervine, emmenagogue, antispasmodic.

Uses: Delayed menses. Nervous excitement from menstrual disorders. Preparations: Thrice daily.

Tea: 1 teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Dose: Half a cup. Liquid Extracts: 30-60 drops in water. ... arrach

(Menses). See: MENORRHAGIA.

FLOATERS, Black. Usually clumps of red cells which invade the vitreous humour from the retinal vessels. “Spots before the eyes”. See: LIVER. ... flooding

Miq.

Family: Moraceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Rajsthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Western Peninsula.

Ayurvedic: Nandi Vriksha, Prarohi, Gajapaadapa, Paarasa Pipala.

Siddha/Tamil: Kagoti.

Action: Leaves—a moderate sterilizer, given to women after menses. Leaves and bark—used in skin diseases.

Dosage: Bark—50-100 ml decoction. (CCRAS.)... ficus arnottiana

(LH) This is a sugar-bearing protein manufactured by the anterior pituitary. Like a lot of the pituitary hormones, it surges on and off, since constant secretion would overload and deaden receptors. In women, it builds up after menses, stimulating the release of estrogen from the ovaries. Estrogen in turn stimulates the hypothalamus to increase its stimulation of LH from the pituitary, until, a day or two before ovulation, they produce a guitar-amp feedback, and the cells that produce LH start to surge follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The egg pops, being replaced by the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone for the next eleven to twelve days. Progesterone inhibits and lowers LH levels, as well as inhibiting levels of estrogen already being produced by the young follicles that will produce next month’s egg. In men, LH is responsible for stimulation of testosterone, although FSH and the testes hormone inhibin are responsible for both the production of sperm and controlling testosterone.... luteinizing hormone

Excess bleeding at menses, in duration or amount. Causes are many, although chronic menorrhagia and PMS is usually the result of deficient progesterone secretions (days-per-month) or constant adipose-released estradiol from obesity or recent substantial weight loss. Uterine fibroids can contribute, as can menopausal breakthrough bleeding or flooding, coagulation disorders, and most serious metabolic disease can produce menorrhagia as one of many symptoms. My rule of thumb as an herbalist is, if botanicals fail to control the bleeding directly (hemostatics) or attempting to reestablish a good folliculization for the next month’s corpus luteum does not help, there may be a metabolic problem or an overt reproductive pathology. In menopausal menorrhagia, however, the conditions are transitional and in flux...it is hard to use such absolute statements.... menorrhagia

Premenstrual Syndrome. This is STARTED by some predictable neurohormonal imbalances. On the other hand, the individual woman’s symptoms are very idiosyncratic, since the neurohormonal interplay CAN effect virtually any tissue. What it DOES effect is a matter of constitution, lifestyle, and the other collateral stresses of that PARTICULAR woman. The most common imbalance occurs when progesterone, the temporary hormone made by the post-ovulatory ovaries, is unable to sustain adequate levels for the “normal” 11-12 days. This is all an ornate adagio dance: when estrogen is the dominant hormone (from just after menses to ovulation), some of the cells effected by it are enabled to become progesterone sensitive. When progesterone is present and dominant (from ovulation to shortly before menses), some of the cells effected by it are then enabled to become estrogen-sensitive when IT comes around. There are always moderate sources of estrogen during the progesterone weeks, but healthy progesterone levels suppress their effect. If progesterone drops too early, these sources start to “show” before menses. Some functions are ALWAYS estrogen-sensitive...others need the normal length of progesterone stimulation to THEN become sensitive. A premenstrual estrogen rise will always cause an unbalanced constellation of effects. Progesterone helps prevent water retention, inflammation, blood sugar yo-yos and excess prolactin, while stimulating growth hormone and thyroid levels to maintain a generally anabolic-dominant metabolism. Withdraw it too early and you MAY get inflammatory and edemic and need an IV maple syrup drip, while prolactin rises and dopamine/adrenergic energy dominates. You might get migraines, increased cerebrospinal fluid pressure, feel variously aggressive, nervous, weepy/anxietous, or like an inflated pig bladder. It seems that, whatever your personal metabolic weakness, PMS will find it. PMS is an almost purely constitutional reaction, and holds an exciting potential wherein a woman can have a clear window for viewing her working strengths and weaknesses.... pms

Linn.

Family: Polygonaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India in wet places.

English: Water Pepper, Pepperwort, Smartweed.

Folk: Paakur-muula, Paani-maricha (Bengal).

Action: Haemostatic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, lithotriptic, emmenagogue (used as infusion for delayed menses and amenorrhoea), antifungal (root and leaf used externally). Contraindicated during pregnancy.

The herb contains sesquiterpenes, including warburganal and polygodial, in the leaves; polygonal, isodrimeni- nol, isopolygodial and confertifolin in the seeds; and flavonoids including quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin and rhamnesin; polygonolide (an iso- coumarin).

Isoquercitrin exhibited significant anti-oxidative activity. Polygodial and warburganal possess significant an- tifungal property. Warburganal also possesses potent cytotoxic and antibiotic activity. (The herb is used against cancer.)

Folk: Muniyaaraa (Bihar), Raani- phool, Macheti, Dubiaa Saaga.

Action: Galactogenic, antidiar- rhoeal. Powdered herb is given in pneumonia.

The whole plant yields 11% tannin. The rootstock contains oxymethylan- thraquinone.

Flowers gave oleanolic acid, betulin- ic acid, epi-friedelanol, beta-sitosterol, and flavonoids—quercetin, quercetin- 3-arabinoside and quercetin-3-rutino- side.... polygonum hydropiper

Hook.

Family: Rosaceae.

Habitat: The Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaon.

Folk: Ratanjot (substitute).

Action: Rootstocks—depurative; ash, mixed with oil, is applied to burns.

Unani: Baadiyaan-kohi, Karafs-e- kohi, Fitraasaaliyun (also equated with Petroselinum crispum Mill. Nym. ex auct. Kew.).

Folk: Komal.

Action: Root and fruit—diuretic, emmenagogue. An infusion of root is given for indigestion and irregular menses.

The roots and umbels yielded cou- marins and their glycosides. Osthol (7-methoxy-8-isop entenyl-coumarin), which occurs in the dried roots up to the extent of 3.6%, has been found to be a potent respiratory and circulatory stimulant in experimental animals. Its respirotonic effect was more marked than that of coramine, leptazol and caffeine.... potentilla nepalensis

This is the hormone secreted after ovulation by the corpus luteum. It is a steroid (a cholesterol with a funny hat), enters receptive cells to stimulate their growth, and acts as an anabolic agent. Estrogen should be viewed as the primary coat underneath all the cycles during a woman’s reproductive years, with progesterone, its antagonist, surging for ten or twelve days in ovulatory months. Most of the actions of progesterone cannot occur without estrogen having previously induced the growth of progesterone-receptive binding sites. In the estrus cycle, estrogen stimulates the thickening of membranes (the proliferative phase), and progesterone stimulates their sophistication into organized and secreting mucosa (the secretory phase). The new secretions contain anticoagulants, antimicrobials, and rich mucus fluids. If there is pregnancy, the uterine membranes are fully structured for the long haul; if menses occurs, the thickened tissues can erode away without clotting, becoming infected, or flowing poorly. If there is not enough estrogen, the corpus luteum will not mature. If the corpus luteum is weak, menses becomes disorganized, clotty, and painful. It is also the first part of the cycle to become disorganized in early menopause, since the available ovarian proto-follicles have been reduced over the years to only a few. In earlier years, dozens of potential follicles may attempt maturity each month, with only the strongest one able to reach dominance, form a corpus luteum and an ovum...the rest disintegrating. In a manner of speaking, the better the follicle, the better the corpus luteum and (presumably) the sounder the ovum. Since the number of potential follicles is fixed at birth, by early menopause those that still remain contain a high number of hormone-resistant and unsound protofollicles, resulting in more and more cycles having less predictable estrogen and especially progesterone levels.... progesterone

Linn.

Family: Pyrolaceae.

Habitat: North-Western and eastern Himalaya at altitudes of 2,700-3,000 m. and in Khasi and Jaintia hills up to 1,500 m.

Action: Plant—astringent and antilithic. Used for healing wounds. A decoction of the plant is prescribed against profuse menses, bloody stools, haemorrhages and ulcers in urinary passages. The whole herb is used in traditional chinese medicine for the treatment of arthritis.

The plant contains ursolic acid, chi- maphilin, hyperin, quercetin, myri- cetin and gallic acid. Chimaphilin and ursolic acid inhibit carrageenan- induced oedema in rat paw. Other constituents act as protective antioxi- dants.... pyrola rotundifolia

(Roxb.) De Wilde.

Synonym: S. indica auct. non L.

Family: Caesalpiniaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, except Northwestern India, up to 750 m.

English: Ashoka tree.

Ayurvedic: Ashoka, Ashoku, Hempushpa, Taamrapallava, Pindapushpa, Gandhapushpa. (Polyalthia longifolia Benth. & Hook. f., an ornamental roadside tree, is wrongly called Ashoka.)

Unani: Ashoka.

Siddha/Tamil: Asogam.

Action: Bark—uterine tonic (imparts healthy tone to uterus), used for suppressed menses, leucorrhoea, menstrual pain, menorrhagia, complaints of menopause. Also used for dyspepsia, biliousness, colic, burning sensation. Flowers—pounded and mixed with water, used in haemorrhagic dysentery, bleeding piles and retention of urine.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofln- dia recommends the bark in metro- hhagia, menorrhagia, chronic lymphadenitis and inflammations.

The flowers contain fatty acids and gallic acid; apigenin-7-O-beta- D-glucoside, cyanidin-3,5-diglucoside, kaempferol 3-O-beta-D-glucoside, pe- largonidin-3,5-diglucoside, quercetin and its 3-O-beta-D-glucoside and sitos- terol.

The bark yields alkanes, esters and primary alcohols. It gave n-octacosa- nol, tannin (6%), catechin, (+)-cate- chol, (-)-epicatechin, (-)-epicatechol, leucocyanidin, leucopelargonidin, pro- cyanidin derivatives, methyl-and eth- ylcholesterol derivatives.

Quercetin and its 3-O-rhamnoside, kaempferol-3-O-alpha-L-rhamnoside, amyrin, ceryl alcohol and beta-sitos- terol have been isolated from leaves and stems.

Alcoholic extract of the bark is reported to be active against a wide range of bacteria. The aqueous extract has been found to enhance the life span of mice infected with Ehrlich ascites carcinoma by 24%.

Pure phenolic glucoside (P2), isolated from stem bark, exhibited highly potent oxytocic activity on different mammals and was similar in nature to pitocin and ergometrine.

Dosage: Dried stem bark—20-30 g for decoction. (API, Vol. I.)... saraca asoca

A neurotic and metabolic condition, mostly in young women who suppress appetite by refusing food in an effort to be thin. Such starvation may result in death.

The patient may start as a food faddist with depressive tendencies. Some gorge huge meals (bulimia) and induce vomiting later. Such women are known to be oestrogen deficient; most have a low dietary intake of calcium, resulting in reduced bone density (osteoporosis). Lack of exercise has a worsening influence, often with severe loss of weight.

It is now established that one cause is a deficiency of zinc in the diet. Individuals suffering from the condition (with its depression) may recover when given 15mg zinc daily. Starvation causes increased urinary zinc secretion, thus further reducing body levels of the mineral. Most anorectics complain of loss of sense of taste and smell which is a symptom of zinc deficiency. Loss of these two senses reduces further the desire for food.

Symptoms. Excessive thinness. Anaemia. Poor haemoglobin levels. Absence of menses. Episodic hyperactivity. Slow pulse when resting. Teeth decay, brittle bones. Heart weakness. Low blood pressure, hormonal disorders, yellowing skin, blood disorders, abnormal drowsiness and weakness. Reduced bone density may develop during the illness, the subject being prone to bone fracture for years afterwards. Treatment. Correct anaemia with iron-bearing herbs, Vitamin B12, mineral supplements and nourishing food.

Angelica root, Barberry, Bogbean, Burdock root, Calamus, Centuary herb, Chamomile flowers, Condurango bark, Dandelion (coffee), Garden Sage, Gentian, Ginkgo, Helonias, Hops, Marshmallow root, Milk Thistle, Quassia chips, White Poplar.

Alternatives:– Tea. Formula. Equal parts, Centuary, Chamomile, Peppermint. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-15 minutes. Dose: 1 cup thrice daily, before meals.

Decoction. Formula. Combine Angelica root 1; Burdock root 1; Condurango bark half. 1 teaspoon to each cupful water simmered gently 20 minutes. Dose: Half-1 cup thrice daily before meals.

Powders. Formula. German Chamomile 2; Gotu Kola 1; Ginkgo 1. Dose: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one- third teaspoon) before meals thrice daily.

Tinctures. Formula. Combine: Condurango quarter; Burdock root half; White Poplar 1; Ginkgo 1; add 2- 10 drops Tincture Capsicum fort. 1-2 teaspoons in water thrice daily, before meals.

Tincture: Tincture Gentian Co BP. Dose: 2-4ml (30-60 drops).

Ginger, stem. Success reported.

Milk Thistle and Turmeric: popular in general herbal practice.

Diet. High protein, low fat, low salt. Dandelion coffee. Liver. Artichokes. 2-3 bananas (for potassium) daily.

Supplements. Daily. Vitamin B-complex. Vitamin C, 1g. Vitamin E, 200iu. Zinc, 15mg. Magnesium, 250mg morning and evening. ... anorexia nervosa

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

Haemorrhage. Bleeding from arteries is bright red, escaping in jerks; from the veins it is darker; steadier from the capillaries. There is an oozing of bright red blood from a cut. In an extravasation blood pours into lax tissues beneath the skin; the part becoming swollen with the appearance of a bruise.

To strengthen veins – Gentian. To enhance resistance – Echinacea. To counter failing strength – Ginseng. To promote granulation – Comfrey. To restore lacerated nerves – St John’s Wort. Nettles are a well-known traditional anti-haemorrhagic.

If bleeding is serious, control with firm finger pressure. Any one of the following may be used in the form of teas, tinctures, powders, etc.

Bowels. Ladies Mantle, Avens, Horsetail, Shepherd’s Purse, Tormentil, Raspberry leaves, Yarrow, Cranesbill, Bilberry.

Gums. Tea. Equal parts: Horsetail, St John’s Wort. (Maria Treben) Or:– Paint gums with Tincture Myrrh, Blood root, Goldenseal or Marigold.

Post-partum. (After child-birth) Goldenseal BHP (1983); Lady’s Mantle BHP (1983).

Lungs. Haemoptysis. Blood spitting. Blood root, Beth root, Lungwort, Mullein, Horsetail, St John’s Wort, Cranesbill. Bur-Marigold. Sage. Mouse Ear, Bugleweed. Nettle tea is a good stand-by.

Post-menopausal bleeding: Internal: Raspberry leaves, Ladies Mantle, Shepherd’s Purse. Plantain tea as an injection. Plugs of cotton wool saturated with Witch Hazel. To be investigated by a competent authority.

Mucous surfaces: tongue, mouth, throat, gullet. Marigold, Yarrow, Rue, Clematis erecta, Life root.

Blood root (tincture: 10-15 drops in water). Ice to suck.

Nose. Witch Hazel. Nettles. Vinegar water: to snuff into nostrils. Apply sponge soaked in cold water to back of the neck. Or: plug nose with Witch Hazel saturated cotton wool.

Hymen. See entry.

Skin. Superficial. Buckwheat, Marigold, Daisy, Tormentil, Witch Hazel, Blood root (tincture),.

Stomach. Haematemesis. The vomit of blood has the appearance of coffee grounds and is a symptom of gastric ulcer. Teas: Avens, Meadowsweet, Yarrow, Bur-Marigold, Cranesbill, Mullein.

Decoctions: Cranesbill root, Beth root, Oak bark.

After Surgery. After tissue excisions, blood clotting or wound-healing disorders for safe haemostasis: Beth root, Cranesbill root, Lady’s Mantle, St John’s Wort.

Blood in the urine. See: HAEMATURIA.

Bleeding of menses: See: MENSTRUATION.

IUD bleeding. Bleeding from intra-uterine devices: Injection: teas – Lady’s Mantle, Cranesbill, Tormentil, Marigold.

Vitamin E supplementation (International Journal of Fertility, Vol 28. 1983) Suggested dose: One 500iu capsule morning and evening.

Retinal haemorrhage. Buckwheat tea. Vitamin C: 1-3g daily. Evening Primrose oil.

Red cell stimulators: Yellow Dock root, Red Clover, Gentian.

White cell stimulators: Liquorice, Ginseng (Siberian) and Korean, Goldenseal, Echinacea.

Vitamins. C. D. K. P.

Minerals. Calcium, Iron, Selenium, Zinc.

Note: Any new episode of bleeding (rectal, gastric, etc) in those 45 and over should be investigated in hospital. Alteration of bowel habit, with bleeding, in young people should lead to referral to a doctor. ... bleeding

Squaw root. Papoose root. Caulophyllum thalictroides L Mich. Root and rhizome. Action: anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic (womb), oxytocic, emmenagogue, anti-rheumatic. Excellent relaxing and stimulating nervine for the womb. Its principle influence is on the generative system and the sympathetic nervous system connected thereto, soothing and imparting tone to each. (J.T. Lyle) North American women gathered it along the trails for easy childbirth and to promote rapid recovery. Not given before pregnancy is commenced. For great exhaustion before labour with feeble results.

Uses: Early American settlers and Indians claimed its power to prevent premature labour and miscarriage, prolonged painful labours and rigidity of the os. Indicated in labour with no expulsive effort and to counter false labour pains with bearing down sensations in the abdomen. Dr Farrington (Ellingwood’s Therapeutist) knew a single dose to arrest them after lasting several hours.

For persistent amenorrhoea and to increase menstrual flow; painful adolescent menses. Habitual abortion. Painful inflammation of the vagina, internally; and as a douche. Adolescent leucorrhoea. Acute rheumatic pains of the menopause. Combines well with Motherwort for rapid recovery after childbirth. Preparations. Thrice daily, or as dictated for an acute condition.

Powder: by capsule or for decoction: dose, 0.3-1g.

Liquid Extract BHP (1983): 1:1 in 70 per cent alcohol; dose, 0.5-1ml. Tincture. One to ten parts 70 per cent alcohol. Dose: 1-2ml.

Note: Chiefly used the latter half of pregnancy. ... blue cohosh

Carum carvi L. Dried seeds.

Action: Antimicrobial, antispasmodic, carminative, expectorant, galactagogue, emmenagogue.

Keynote: colic.

Uses: Wind and colic in children; loss of appetite; flatulent indigestion, ‘summer’ diarrhoea in children, colds, painful menses; to stimulate flow of breast milk. Gastric symptoms of cardiac origin.

Sometimes combined with Chamomile for digestive disorders.

Preparations: Thrice daily.

Tea: 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 10 minutes. Dose: half-1 cup. Tincture BHP (1983) 1 part to 5 parts 45 per cent alcohol: 0.5-4ml (8-60 drops). Powdered seeds: half-2 grams.

Oil of Caraway: 1-3 drops. ... caraway seeds

Creosote bush. Grease bush. Larrea divaricata. Leaves.

Action. Antibiotic, powerful blood cleanser, bactericidal, anti-inflammatory, alterative, respiratory and urinary antiseptic, anti-oxidant, anti-psoriasis, anti-arthritic. Contains NDGA a powerful parasiticide. Anti-tumour, anti-microbial. Strong bitter, enzyme inhibitor. All body cells feel its influence. Of low toxicity.

Uses: Regarded as a ‘cure-all’ by the Arizona Indians. Rheumatism, arthritis, skin disorders, bursitis, lumbago, healing of external wounds, delayed menses, indigestion, kidney disorders, piles, tetanus, itching. Early American agent for sexually transmitted diseases. History of use in skin malignancy. Chronic chest complaints (tea).

Combinations. (1) Combines well with antibiotics: Goldenseal 1; Echinacea 2; Chaparral 3. (2) Combines with Sarsaparilla (equal parts) for venereal infections and chancre. (Dr J.M. Bigelow) Preparations. Best uses reported from tea or tablets.

Tea: daily bitter health beverage; half a teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup, thrice daily.

Tablets/capsules: one 150mg thrice daily.

Ointment. 1oz powdered herb to 16oz suet. Steep one hour in an oven 300-350 degrees F. Strain through sieve; pour into jar.

Note: The sale of Chaparral has been banned in the United States of America and the United Kingdom as a result of reported cases of human toxicity. ... chaparral

Guelder rose. Snowball tree. Viburnum opulus L. German: Schling. French: Obier. Spanish: Rosa da qu?eldres. Italian: Viburno loppo. Dried bark.

Constituents: coumarins, hydroquinones.

Keynote: cramp.

Action: antispasmodic, astringent, nerve and muscle relaxant, sedative.

Uses: Muscular cramp, spasmodic pains in abdomen, womb, ovaries, back, stomach, intestines, bladder. Convulsions in children. Epididymitis. Painful menstruation, flooding menses of the menopause. Polymyalgia. Nervous irritability. Heart cramp (angina), intermittent claudication, arteritis, palpitation. Earache. Acute bronchitis, asthma. Muscular rheumatism. Bedwetting.

Preparations: Thrice daily.

Tablets. Two 200mg tablets before meals.

Decoction. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup water: simmer 15 minutes: dose, half-1 cup.

Powder. 2-5g.

Liquid extract. Half-2 teaspoons in water.

Tincture BHP (1983) 1 part bark to 5 parts 70 per cent alcohol. Dose: 5-10ml in water. ... cramp bark

Absence of sexual desire. Inability to reach orgasm, usually in women.

Causes: Sexually transmitted diseases, tension, stress, absence of menses, dry vaginal entrance, fibroids, cystic ovaries, Vitamin E deficiency. Vegetarians have lower levels of oestrogen.

Alternatives. Endocrine balancers: Helonias, Life root, Wild Yam, Damiana, Saw Palmetto, Ginseng, Motherwort.

Tea. Combination: equal parts, Motherwort, Oats, Gotu Kola. 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup daily.

South American traditional: Saw Palmetto, Kola and Damiana. Available as tablets and other preparations.

Far East traditional: Ginseng.

Agnus Castus. Deficient secretion of luteal hormone.

Diet. Oats (porridge, etc). High fibre. Vitamins. E (400iu daily). B-complex. Minerals. Zinc. ... frigidity

A mild form of neurosis which cannot be defined as mental illness. Often related to an individual’s personality and which may manifest as physical illness. Children may demand attention and display exaggerated behaviour. Sometimes a person may have ‘hysterics’, usually in the presence of others. Unresolved sexual tension may predispose (Agnus Castus).

Symptoms. May be many and varied; acute outbreaks of temper tantrums (Valerian); episodes of self-pity, paranoia; apparent paralysis; preparing for examinations. Subjects may be in constant need of reassurance. May be associated with loss of speech, muscle weakness, migraine, backache, ‘pain-in-the- neck’. Painful menses (Raspberry leaves, Motherwort).

Alternatives. General practice: Asafoetida, Betony, Cowslip, Hyssop, Lime flowers, Passion flower, Pulsatilla, Rosemary, Skullcap, Valerian, Vervain BHP (1983). Blue Cohosh, Oats, Ladies Slipper, Mistletoe. (Priest)

Combination: Blue Cohosh, Squaw Vine, Wild Yam. (Priest)

Tea: Mix, equal parts: Betony, Skullcap, Lime flowers. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. 1 cup freely.

Traditional. Equal parts, Skullcap, Valerian and Mistletoe. Mix. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup water. Bring to boil; remove vessel when boiling point is reached. Half-1 cup thrice daily.

Formula. Black Cohosh 2; Liquorice 1; Asafoetida quarter. Doses: Powders: 375mg (quarter of a teaspoon). Liquid Extracts: 15-30 drops. Tinctures: 30-60 drops. In water or honey, thrice daily. Antispasmodic Drops.

Serious cases: Lobelia tea enema.

Practitioner: Liquid Extract Gelsemium, 1-3 drops, in water, when necessary.

Local. Hot foot bath. Cold water to head. Loosen tight clothing. Divert blood from the brain. Electric blanket. ... hysteria

Failure of two people to bring about a pregnancy after one year of normal sexual intercourse. Where the cause is known accurate and effective treatment is possible. For instance, where it is likely to be caused by candida, focus on that condition with anti-fungals.

Causes (female). Absence of menses, dry vaginal entrance, tension, stress, tiredness, deformed or retroverted womb, cervical polyps, inflammation of the cervix or ovaries, fibroids, cystic ovaries, diabetes, drugs, steroids, psychogenic factors. Women who use intra-uterine devices may become infertile from tubal infection. The Pill affects fertility. Vitamin E deficiency. Professor Richard Morisset (World Health Organisation) asserts STD’s account for more than 50 per cent infertility in women. Alcohol is a factor.

Causes (male). Inadequate seman, testicular or prostate infection, orchitis (from past mumps), kidney failure, chronic lung disease from smoking, thyroid deficiency, liver and other infections, calcium or Vitamin E deficiency. Low sperm count is found in regular drinkers of alcohol. 30 per cent cases of infertility are found to be due to the male.

“Women who drink more than one cup of coffee a day may find it harder to become pregnant.” (American study reported in The Guardian, 28.12.88)

“Vegetarian women have lower levels of oestrogen. The amount of fibre women eat is believed to affect oestrogen levels in their blood.” (Dr Elwyn Hughes, University of Wales Institute of Science and Technology)

“Drinking more than four cups of coffee a day and smoking more than 20 cigarettes could be a dangerous combination for male fertility.” (Research study, North Carolina, USA)

Women whose mothers smoked when they were pregnant are only 50 per cent as fertile as women who were not exposed (when in the uterus) to a mother’s tobacco smoke. (C. Weinberg, “Reduced Fecundity in Women with Prenatal exposure to cigarette smoking.” American Journal of Epidemiology 1989; 129 p1072)

Margarine has been implicated in low sperm counts.

Alternatives. Endocrine balancers.

Female. Tea. Equal parts: herbs – Motherwort, Agnus Castus and Oats. Mix. 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Dose, 1 cup 2-3 times daily.

Tablets: Agnus Castus, dosage as on bottle.

Liquid Extracts: equal parts Agnus Castus and Helonias: 1 teaspoon in water 2-3 times daily.

Maria Treben: 25 drops fresh Mistletoe juice in water, on empty stomach, night and morning.

External: Castor oil abdominal packs twice weekly.

Male. Ginseng, Gotu Kola, or the traditional combination of Damiana, Saw Palmetto and Kola. Tablets, liquid extracts, powders or tinctures. Tinctures (practitioner): Capsicum Fort BPC 5ml; Saw Palmetto (1:5) 10ml; Damiana (1:5) 50ml; Prickly Ash (1:5) 10ml. Aqua to 100ml. 1 teaspoon in water, thrice daily. (Arthur Hyde FNIMH)

An orange a day helps keep sperm OK. (Important role of Vitamin C – New Scientist 1992 NO.1812 p20)

Fasting. Mrs A. Rylin, Sweden, had been trying to conceive for 2 years. Conventional medicine proved ineffective until both she and her husband decided to fast for ten days. Within a month she conceived. Other successes reported.

Diet. (For both partners) Vitamin A foods. Wholefoods, oatmeal products (breakfast oats, etc). Regular raw food days. No alcohol. The key mineral for infertility is zinc, a deficiency of which may be made up with bran which is not only high in zinc but in soluble fibre. Not to eat any green peas, which are mildly contraceptive.

Supplements. Daily. Vitamin C (1 gram). Vitamin E (500iu). One B-complex tablet, including B6. The calcium ion is the key regulator of human sperm function – Calcium Lactate 300mg (2 tablets thrice daily at meals). Zinc – 2 tablets or capsules at night. Folic acid, 400mcg. Dolomite. Iron.

Notes. Consider Vitamin B12 and Iron deficiency when evaluating anaemia in infertile couples.

20 percent of men suffer infertility and produce high levels of superoxide radicals in their semen. Vitamin E, an antioxidant, is believed to mop up their superoxide radicals.

Observe sign of zinc deficiency: white flecks on nails. ... infertility

Squaw weed. Senecio aureus L. Dried herb. Keynote: menopause.

Constituents: sesquiterpenes, pyrrolizidine alkaloids.

Action: Tonic for relaxed womb, emmenagogue, astringent, mild expectorant.

Uses: Hot flushes of the menopause with nervous instability. Absent, painful or profuse menstruation. Ovarian pain. Stone, gravel. Diarrhoea. Bleeding from mucous surfaces. Prostatitis.

Combinations: with Motherwort for suppressed menses. With Oats for menopause. Preparations. Average dose: 1-4 grams. Thrice daily.

Tea: half-2 teaspoons to cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Dose: half-1 cup. Liquid Extract. Half-1 teaspoon, in water.

Powder: 1-4 grams.

Not now used internally. ... life root

Levisticum officinalis, Koch. German: Agyptischer Ku?mmel. French: Ammi. Italian: Sisone. Arabian: Amus. Indian: Ajwain. Malayan: Homama Azamoda. Iranian: Zhinyan. Parts used: root, rhizome.

Constituents: coumarins, butyric acid, volatile oil.

Action: antibiotic (mild), diaphoretic, expectorant, anti-catarrhal, emmenagogue, carminative, diuretic (mild), sedative, antispasmodic.

Uses: flatulent dyspepsia, anorexia, rheumatism, gout, absent or painful menses, mild feverishness in children, renal dropsy (mild), cystitis.

Locally: as a gargle for tonsillitis; mouth wash for mouth ulcers BHP (1983).

Combinations. With Agrimony for indigestion. With Buchu for renal dropsy. With Raspberry leaves for menstrual disorders. Usually combined with other diuretics.

Preparations: Average dose: half-2g. Thrice daily.

Decoction. Half-1 teaspoon to each cup water gently simmered 15 minutes. Dose: one-third-1 cup.

Liquid Extract: 5-30 drops in water.

Oil used in aromatherapy and perfumes.

LOZENGE. A compressed tablet for sucking in the mouth for inflammatory conditions of throat, mouth and chest. Usually has a base of sugar, a demulcent (Comfrey, Marshmallow root, Slippery Elm, Tolu, or Balm of Gilead), together with a binder, such as gum acacia or gum tragacanth. Recipe for simple lozenge: half an ounce (15g) powdered herb; half an ounce sugar; powdered gum 1 teaspoon (3g). Pure spring water – a sufficiency. Mix into a paste, thin-out the mass and press out lozenges with small gauge mould and dry. ... lovage

Deficiency of thyroid hormones in the circulation. Hypothyroidism, under-active thyroid, with possible secondary increase in TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). Many causes, chief of which is the gradual destruction of the gland by inflammation (chronic thyroiditis). As hormones produced by the gland determine the body’s metabolic rate, the condition is responsible for a slowing-up of the individual in body and in mind. When occurring in infancy is known as cretinism.

Symptoms. The patient does not feel particularly unwell, but on examination is found to present a dry, scaly, thickened, puffy skin. Only a few signs may be detected: brittle lack-lustre hair, gross facial features, fatigue, slow pulse, slowness of expression and movement, aches and pains in joints, malar flush, deafness, anaemia, constipation, slurred speech, profuse menses. Later the voice assumes a deep masculine quality. The patient may be subject to carpel tunnel syndrome, and almost always complains of being icy cold. 90 per cent of cases are auto-immune.

Treatment. Official medication is the administration of Thyroxin, an iodine-containing hormone. Sometimes a herbal combination is given to supplement its action. On progress of the condition no permanent cure is possible but it is believed that certain herbs may arrest deterioration.

Alternatives: Carragheen Moss, Iceland Moss, Parsley herb, Kelp, Sarsaparilla, Ginseng, Ginkgo. Simple tea. For energy and vitality. Combine equal parts: breakfast Oats, Alfalfa herb, Gotu Kola herb. 1 teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-10 minutes. One cup morning and evening.

Formula. Equal parts: Ginseng, Kelp, Ginkgo. Add a few grains Cayenne Pepper or drops of Tincture Capsicum. Dose: Liquid Extracts, 1 teaspoon; Tinctures, 2 teaspoons; Powders, 500mg (one-third teaspoon). Morning and evening.

Note: Snoring may be a feature of myxoedema.

Diet. The following have an adverse effect upon the thyroid gland and should be eaten in small amounts: Cabbage, Kale, Cauliflower, Spinach, Brussels Sprouts, Soya beans, Turnips and Beans.

Supplements. Vitamins A, C, D, E, PABA, Calcium, Iodine, Selenium, Zinc. Selenium is an essential component of an enzyme required by the gland. A deficiency of this mineral can be responsible for an under-active thyroid. ... myxoedema

Petroselinum crispum, Hill. German: Petersilie. French: Persil. Spanish: Perejil. Italian: Prezzemolo. Indian: Bilati. Dried root, seeds and leaves. Seeds contain apiol. Source of precursor of carotene, Vitamins C, E, bioflavonoids, iron and folic acid.

Also contains apiole and myristicin (volatile oils) coumarins and flavonoids.

Action: anti-microbial, anti-spasmodic, anti-rheumatic, emmenagogue, laxative, mild brain tonic, diuretic, carminative, expectorant, gastric tonic, uterine tonic. A warming remedy for cold conditions, wasting, cachexia; avoided in fevers. Mild activator of adrenals and thyroid gland. Galen, Greek physician, advised it for disorders of womb and bladder.

Uses: Retention of excess fluid in the tissues, dropsy, bladder disorders, painful urination for those who pass water only after long intervals. Absent or painful menses. Windy colic. Inflammation of the prostate gland. PMT and menopausal hot flushes. To dispel fatigue. Mashed and unheated, leaves were once applied to the breasts of nursing mothers to arrest the flow of milk. Rich in minerals, calcium, potassium.... parsley

(menses) n. the discharge of blood and of fragments of *endometrium from the vagina at intervals of about one month in women of child-bearing age (see menarche; menopause). Menstruation is that stage of the *menstrual cycle during which the endometrium, thickened in readiness to receive a fertilized egg cell (ovum), is shed because fertilization has not occurred. The normal duration of discharge varies from three to seven days. In anovular menstruation, discharge takes place without previous release of an egg cell from the ovary. Vicarious menstruation is bleeding from a mucous membrane other than the endometrium when normal menstruation is due. Retrograde menstruation is the backflow of blood and endometrial cells through the Fallopian tubes (see endometriosis). See also amenorrhoea; dysmenorrhoea; menorrhagia; oligomenorrhoea.

mental1 adj. relating to or affecting the mind.

mental2 adj. relating to the chin.... menstruation

Santolina chamaecyparissus

FAMILY: Asteraceae (Compositae)

SYNONYMS: Lavandula taemina, cotton lavender

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: An evergreen, woody shrub with whitish-grey foliage and small, bright yellow, ball-shaped flowers borne on long single stalks. The whole plant has a strong rather rank odour, a bit like chamomile.

DISTRIBUTION: Native to Italy, now common throughout the Mediterranean region. Much grown as a popular border herb.

OTHER SPECIES: There are several varieties such as S. fragrantissima. It is not related to true lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) despite the common name.

HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: It was used as an antidote to all sorts of poison, and to expel worms; also ‘good against obstruction of the liver, the jaundice and to promote the menses’.. It was used to keep away moths from linen, to repel mosquitos, and as a remedy for insect bites, warts, scabs and verrucae. The Arabs are said to have used the juice for bathing the eyes.

ACTIONS: Antispasmodic, antitoxic, anthelmintic, insecticidal, stimulant, vermifuge.

EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam distillation from the seeds.

CHARACTERISTICS: A pale yellow liquid with a strong, acrid, herbaceous odour.

PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Only one principal constituent: santolinenone.

SAFETY DATA: Oral toxin. ‘There is no safety data available ... likely to be dangerously toxic.’.

AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE None.

OTHER USES: Little used in flavour or perfumery work due to toxicity.... santolina