Optic disc Health Dictionary

Optic Disc: From 3 Different Sources


The area on the retina where nerve fibres from the eyeball join the optic nerve. The optic disc is also known as the blind spot due to its lack of lightsensitive cells.
Health Source: BMA Medical Dictionary
Author: The British Medical Association
Otherwise known as the blind spot of the EYE, the disc is the beginning of the optic nerve – the point where nerve ?bres from the retina’s rods and cones (the light- and colour-sensitive cells) leave the eyeball.
Health Source: Medical Dictionary
Author: Health Dictionary
(optic papilla) the start of the optic nerve, where nerve fibres from the rods and cones leave the eyeball. See blind spot.
Health Source: Oxford | Concise Colour Medical Dictionary
Author: Jonathan Law, Elizabeth Martin

Discharge

The release of a patient from a provider’s care, usually referring to the date at which a patient checks out of a hospital.... discharge

Intervertebral Disc

The ?brous disc that acts as a cushion between the bony vertebrae (see SPINAL COLUMN), enabling them to rotate and bend one on another. The disc tends to degenerate with age and may get ruptured and displaced – prolapsed or slipped disc – as a result of sudden strenuous action. Prolapsed disc occurs mainly in the lower back; it is more common in men than in women, and in the 30–40 age group.... intervertebral disc

Optic Atrophy

A deterioration in the ?bres of the optic nerve (see EYE) resulting in partial or complete loss of vision. It may be caused by damage to the nerve from in?ammation or injury, or the atrophy may be secondary to disease in the eye.... optic atrophy

Optic Nerve

See EYE.... optic nerve

Optic Neuritis

In?ammation of the optic nerve (see EYE) which may result in sudden loss of part of a person’s vision. It is usually accompanied by pain and tenderness on touch. The cause is uncertain, although in some cases it may be a prcursor of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS): CORTICOSTEROIDS may help by improving the loss of visual acuity, but seems not to check the long-term in?ammatory activity.... optic neuritis

Disc

An anatomical term describing a rounded ?attened structure. Examples are the cartilagenous disc positioned between two vertebrae (see SPINAL COLUMN) and the optic disc (see EYE).... disc

Discutient

Removing tumours... discutient

Optic

Concerned with the EYE or vision.... optic

Slipped Disc

The popular name for a PROLAPSED INTERVERTEBRAL DISC. (See also SPINAL COLUMN; SCIATICA.)... slipped disc

Prolapsed Intervertebral Disc

The SPINAL COLUMN is built up of a series of bones, known as vertebrae, placed one upon the other. Between these vertebrae lies a series of thick discs of ?bro-cartilage known as intervertebral discs. Each disc consists of an outer portion known as the anulus ?brosus, and an inner core known as the nucleus pulposus. The function of these discs is to give ?exibility and resiliency to the spinal column and to act as bu?ers against undue jarring. In other words, they are most e?cient shock-absorbers. They may, however, PROLAPSE, or protrude, between the two adjacent vertebrae. If this should happen they press on the neighbouring spinal nerve and cause pain. As the most common sites of protrusion are between the last two lumbar vertebrae and between the last lumbar vertebra and the sacrum, this means that the pain occurs in the back, causing LUMBAGO, or down the course of the sciatic nerve causing SCIATICA. The prolapse is most likely to occur in middle age, which suggests that it may be associated with degeneration of the disc involved, but it can occur in early adult life as well. It usually occurs when the individual is performing some form of exercise which involves bending or twisting, as in gardening. The onset of pain may be acute and sudden, or gradual and more chronic in intensity. (See also INTERVERTEBRAL DISC.)

Treatment varies, depending (amongst other things) on the severity of the condition. In the acute phase, rest in bed is advisable, along with ANALGESICS. Later, exercise and physiotherapy are helpful, and in some cases manipulation of the spine brings relief by allowing the herniated, or prolapsed, disc to slip back into position. The injection of a local anaesthetic into the spine (epidural ANAESTHESIA) is yet another measure that often helps the more chronic cases. If those measures fail, surgery to remove the prolapsed disc may be necessary, but the patient’s condition should be carefully reviewed before surgery is considered since success is not certain. An alternative form of treatment is the injection into the disc of chymopapain, an ENZYME obtained from the paw-paw, which dissolves the disc.... prolapsed intervertebral disc

Age Discrimination

Unfair or unequal treatment of people on the grounds of age.... age discrimination

Delayed Discharge

A prolonged hospital stay due to non-medical conditions, such as a lack of, or delayed start of, community care arrangements.... delayed discharge

Dis-disclaimer:

M.D. guys used to say it was all in your head, that you secretly were mourning an infertile month, that it made you unsuitable for a serious profession (like becoming an M.D. guy)...etc. after ugly etc.... dis-disclaimer:

Discharge Planning

A process by which an admitted inpatient’s needs on discharge are anticipated, planned for or arranged.... discharge planning

Discission

The term applied to an operation for destroying a structure by tearing it without removal: for example, the operation of needling the lens of the eye for cataract (see EYE, DISORDERS OF).... discission

Disclaimer

A guy is writing this.... disclaimer

Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (dle)

See under LUPUS.... discoid lupus erythematosus (dle)

Discordia

(Latin) In mythology, goddess of strife

Dyscordia, Diskordia, Dyskordia... discordia

Discover Heather Tea

Heather tea has been used in Swedish herbal medicine for a very long time and has been recognized for its medicinal properties by the German Commission E. Heather (calluna vulgaris) is a woody and bushy plant with multiple branching stems, that grows mainly in Scotland, Ireland, the Scandinavian countries, Russia and North America. The parts of the heather plant have different usage. For example: the branches are used as straw for brooms and the leaves are used as flavoring agent for beer and teas. The constituents of heather plant are various types of quercetin, tannin and flavonoids. How To Make Heather Tea To make your own heather tea, you will need a handful of chopped heather, both flowers and leaves. Boil the water, add the heather and let the mix steep for about 10-15 minutes. After that, pour the tea into your cup using a strainer to catch the heather leaves and flowers. Depending on your preferences, you can sweeten it by adding sugar or honey. Heather Tea Benefits Heather tea has a lot of health benefits:
  • Helps in the treatment of kidney and bladder problems.
  • Prevents and treats rheumatism, arthritis and gout.
  • It is a remedy for cold and cough.
  • Helps disinfecting the urinary tract.
  • It is a strong allied in the treatment of cystitis.
  • Tears various gastrointestinal problems.
Heather Tea Side Effects The things that you should keep in mind when you consider drinking heather tea are:
  • You shouldn’t drink too much heather tea because it can cause liver damage.
  • Heather tea can alter the effects of some medications, especially the ones related to the urinary and gastro intestinal tract, so make sure you consult your doctor before drinking it.
  • Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid drinking heather tea.
All in all, try not to drink more than 2 cups of heather tea. Enjoy all its benefits and make sure you won’t experience any of its side effects!... discover heather tea

Discover Marjoram Tea

Marjoram tea has been known for a very long time for its diuretic and antispasmodic actions. Marjoram is a perennial herb that grows in North Africa, the Middle East and India. Its leaves are small, roundish and fuzzy-haired, having a sweet and spicy flavor in the same time. It is believed that marjoram plant was cultivated by Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. The herb is still placed in hope chests and under women’s pillow to ensure a happy marriage. The constituents of marjoram tea are oleic acids, essential oils, tannins, ursolic acid, vitamin C and zinc. How To Make Marjoram Tea To brew marjoram tea, you will need to place 1 teaspoon of marjoram herb in 8 ounces of cold water. Bring the mix to a boil and just when the water reaches the boiling point, reduce the heat and let it steep for 15-20 minutes. Strain the tea into your cup and enjoy! Marjoram Tea Benefits
  • Helps relieve dry cough.
  • May help in the treatment of epilepsy and rheumatism.
  • Can be used as a remedy for asthma.
  • Relieves indigestion and flatulence.
  • Prevents spasm in the digestive tract.
Marjoram Tea Side Effects So far, no side effects have been noticed when consuming marjoram tea. However, pregnant women should not consume large amounts of marjoram because it can cause uterine contractions. Infants and children should not drink marjoram tea. If you are experiencing nausea, diarrhea or vomiting, reduce your dose of marjoram tea or stop drinking it! If these symptoms last more than a few days, consult your doctor. Marjoram tea may interfere with the action of certain drugs, so make sure you consult your doctor before drinking any herbal tea. Marjoram tea is a healthy choice, having many health benefits. Do not drink more than 3 cups per day in order not to experience any of the side effects listed above!... discover marjoram tea

Discrete Data

See “data”.... discrete data

Discussion

In a research paper/study, a discussion connects the various aspects of the data analysis, shows the commonality across groups, uniqueness, inconsistencies, etc., and identifies the limits to the study resulting from the design and data analysis.... discussion

Discover More About Earl Grey Tea

If you’re a fan of black tea, you must have heard of the Earl Grey tea. If not, this is your chance to find out all you need to know about this richly-flavored black tea. Read about its health benefits and side effects, as well. About Earl Grey tea Earl Grey tea is one of the most popular types of black tea, drunk by people all around the world. It has a refreshing, citrusy flavor thanks to the bergamot orange oil added in its composition. The bergamot orange is the fruit of a citrus tree which blooms during winter; it is commercially cultivated in Italy. The bergamot oil, which is responsible for the tea’s citrusy flavor, is extracted from the skin of the fruit. In America, it is sometimes misspelled as “Earl Gray”. However, this is not the generally accepted spelling of the tea’s name. The Earl Grey tea is often drank during breakfast or brunch. It makes a good team with different sweets and pastries.  It is also used to add flavor to various types of cakes. History of Earl Grey tea The Earl Grey tea is named after Charles Grey, 2nd Earl of Britain, who was Prime Minister during the 1830s. As to why it was named after him, one legend says that a Chinese merchant gave this tea to Lord Grey to show his gratefulness, as one of the lord’s men had saved his son from drowning. However, there are doubts related to the authenticity of this story, as Lord Grey had never been to China, and the Chinese hadn’t yet discovered about the use of bergamot oil as a tea ingredient. It is possible that, seeing as Earl Grey tea was discovered at the beginning of the 19th century, it was simply named after a politician who was quite well-known at that time. According to the Grey family, Lady Grey served Earl Grey tea to various guests. As it became more and more popular, she was asked if the Earl Grey tea could be sold. This is how it became a brand of the Twinings tea company. Varieties of Earl Grey tea Considering how popular the Earl Grey tea is, it isn’t surprising that there are currently quite a few varieties of this tea. One of the well-known varieties of Earl Grey tea is Lady Grey, named after Mary Elizabeth Grey, the wife of Lord Grey. Other flavors are added to the usual Earl Grey tea. Some varieties of Lady Grey include adding blue cornflower blossoms, lavender or Seville oranges. Another type of the Earl Grey tea is the Russian Earl Grey. To the usual ingredients, it adds citrus peels, vodka, and lemon grass. Other types of Earl Grey tea include flowers among its ingredients. One of them is the French Earl Grey, which uses rose petals. There are some types of Earl Grey tea where the usual black tea leaves are replaced with something else. One example is Earl Grey Green, where the bergamot oil is combined with green leaves instead of the black ones. Another example is Rooibos Earl Grey, possibly originating from Malaysia. In this case, the black leaves are replaced with Rooibos, a South-African herbal plant. Also, in various coffee shops and tea shops, you can find a drink called London Fog. It is a “tea latte” and its ingredients are Earl Grey tea, steamed milk and vanilla syrup. How to prepare Earl Grey Tea For a cup of Earl Grey tea, use one teaspoon of tea leaves, or one regular-sized teabag. Boil the water before pouring it into the cup, and then let it steep for about 5 minutes. Then, remove the tea leaves or teabag. Based on your preferences, you can add sugar, lemon or milk to your cup of Earl Grey tea. Benefits of Earl Grey Tea The Earl Grey tea comes with many health benefits, both thanks to the black tea leaves and the bergamot oil. First, the antioxidants in its composition strengthen your immune system. They help keep your body young and healthy, protecting it from various viruses. This is why people who have caught a cold or the flu, or simply have a fever, drink Earl Grey tea. The Earl Grey tea has a calming effect thanks to the bergamot oil in its composition. It helps improve your mood by fighting against anxiety, depression, stress, and mood swings. The bergamot oil in the Earl Grey tea also helps you with digestion. It’s useful when suffering from indigestion, nausea and colic. It is also recommended in the case of urinary tract infections and intestinal problems. Earl Grey tea also helps you maintain a good oral hygiene. It fights against tooth decay and oral infections, and keeps the cavities away. Side effects of Earl Grey tea Despite its many health benefits, consumption of Earl Grey tea can have a few side effects, as well. The caffeine found in the composition of Earl Grey tea can affect you negatively, especially if caffeine isn’t good for your body.  To some people it may induce anxiety and heart palpitations. It can also increase blood pressure, making it bad for people who already have a high blood pressure. Also, if you drink a large amount of Earl Grey tea for a long time and suddenly, you stop, you might experience caffeine withdrawal symptoms. They include headaches that can last for up to a week, difficulty in concentrating, nausea, depression and anxiety. Drinking a large amount of Earl Grey tea can lead to side effects, as well. You might end up suffering from headaches, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia, dizziness, and irregular heartbeats. Therefore, make sure you don’t drink more than six cups of any tea, including Earl Grey tea.   Stay healthy by drinking this rich and citrusy-flavored black tea, the Earl Grey tea. Keep an eye on the side effects, but don’t let them scare you, as there are many more health benefits. So relax and enjoy your cup of Earl Grey tea with some cookies!... discover more about earl grey tea

Hospital Discharge Scheme

A scheme which ensures a smooth transition from hospital to home.... hospital discharge scheme

Discover More About Horsetail Tea

Horsetail tea is made from the horsetail herb also named Equisetum arvense. Horsetail was used by ancient Romans and Greeks in medicine as an herbal remedy to stop bleeding, heal wounds and treat tuberculosis or kidney problems. This plant is actually a non-flowering weed that is found in some parts of Europe, Asia, the Middle East and North America. How to brew Horsetail Tea To brew a cup of horsetail tea, place 1-2 teaspoons of dried horsetail in a cup of boiled water. Then cover it and let it steep for about 10-15 minutes. When the time is up, strain thehorsetail tea into another cup and, depending on your taste preferences, sweeten it with some honey or sugar. Horsetail Tea benefits Horsetail tea has a lot of health benefits due to its high silica content that may help straighten bones, hair and nails, relieve bloating and fight fungal infections.  Also, horsetail tea:
  • It is most commonly used as a diuretic since washes away the toxins, having a cleansing effect to the kidneys.
  • Strengthens your lungs thanks to its main component - silica acid helps strengthen the walls of the air sacs in the lungs.
  • Promotes healthy hair. You can add 4 oz. of cooled horsetail tea into your shampoo or you can use the tea as a hair rinse.
  • Reduces swellings and gets rid of water retention.
  • Treats urinary infections.
  • Helps healing and treating burns and wounds thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Horsetail Tea side effects Even though this tea has a lot of benefits, over consumption may lead to certain side effects. Try not to drink more than 2 cups of horsetail tea a day.
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women are advised not to drink horsetail tea.
  • If you have kidney stones, try to stay away from this tea.
  • You can experience nausea, muscle weakness, fever or certain skin problems if you drink too much horsetail tea.
  • Before you start drinking horsetail tea, make sure you don’t have theamine deficiency or weak heart. In case you do, do not drink this tea.
Horsetail tea makes an excellent choice of drink since it has a lot of medical properties and therefore many benefits. Avoid over consumption and enjoy a healthy cup of tea!... discover more about horsetail tea

Discover Orris Tea

If you haven’t tried orris tea before, now is the time. As an herbal tea, it has a bittersweet taste, but it also has important health benefits. Read to find out more about orris tea. About Orris Tea Orris tea is made from orris root, which is the root of the flower Florentine iris from the genus Iris. The plant is grown for ornamental purposes, and it is cultivated mostly in the Mediterranean region, but also in northern India, North Africa and southern Europe. The stems of the flower may reach 1 meter in height, with green, flat and sword-like leaves, and white flowers. Orris root is used for making orris tea. During ancient times, orris root was used to make perfumes, as well as for medical purposes. Later, it was also used in cuisine. Constituents of Orris Tea Orris tea is made from orris root, which has important active constituents. They make orris teagood for our health. A few important ones are starch, myristic acid, and iridin. Also, orris root has various anti-inflammatory flavonoids and isoflavone glycosides. These active constituents make orris tea an important herbal tea with many health benefits. Orris Tea Benefits Orris tea is helpful when you’ve got a cold. Besides this, it can help you when you’ve only got a sore throat and coughing problems, as it’s got strong expectorant properties. Drinking orris tea will help detoxify your body. It will help you in your treatment for congestive heart failure, as well. It is also used in the treatment for dental problems, liver congestion, diarrhea, bronchitis, and dropsy. Orris tea also works as a good diuretic. Because of this, it is helpful when treating heart failure, kidney disease, cirrhosis of the liver, and high blood pressure. Orris Tea Side Effects There aren’t too many known side effects related to the consumption of orris tea; it is mostly considered safe to drink. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you shouldn’t drink orris tea. Although it hasn’t been proven that it can be harmful, there is a possibility that it might affect the baby in both cases. Also, it is generally recommended that you not drink more than six cups of tea per day. This applies to any type of tea, including orris tea. If you drink more tea than your body can take, you might get some of the following symptoms: headaches, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia, dizziness, and irregular heartbeats.   While orris tea doesn’t have a high number of health benefits, it’s also notable that it doesn’t have any dangerous side effects. Because of this, it is considered safe to consume orris tea every day. Just be careful with the amount.... discover orris tea

Optic Chiasma

This is formed by a crossing-over of the two optic nerves (see EYE) which run from the back of the eyeballs to meet in the mid line beneath the brain. Nerve ?bres from the nasal part of the retina cross to link up with ?bres from the outer part of the retina of the opposite eye. The linked nerves form two separate optic tracts which travel back to the occipital lobes of the brain.... optic chiasma

Ear Discharge – Otorrhoea

May be due to a perforated eardrum or to inflammation of the external ear (otitis externa). Whatever cause, antibacterials and alteratives would be required. See: OTITIS EXTERNA. OTITIS MEDIA. ... ear discharge – otorrhoea

Anal Discharge

The loss of mucus, pus, or blood from the anus. Haemorrhoids, anal fissures, and proctitis (inflammation of the rectum) can all cause anal discharge.... anal discharge

Discover Mullein Tea

One type of herbal tea is the mullein tea. Despite its slightly bitter taste, it has plenty of health benefits, and it is quite easy to prepare, too. Read this article to find out more about mullein tea’s health benefits and side effects. About Mullein Tea The main ingredient of the mullein tea is the mullein plant. It includes about 250 species of flowering plants that grow in Europe (especially in the Mediterranean region) and Asia. Recently, various species were introduced and even naturalized in America, Australia and Hawaii. The shorter stems of the plant grow up to half a meter, while the tallest can reach 3 meters. There are spirally arranged and often densely hairy leaves in the lower half, while the upper half has five-petal flowers of various colors: yellow, orange, red-brown, purple, blue, or white; the yellow ones are most common. The fruit is a small capsule which contains numerous minute seeds. How to prepare Mullein Tea It only takes a few minutes to prepare a cup of mullein tea. Boil some water, then pour it in a cup, over the mullein dried herbs. Let it steep for about 5 minutes before removing the herbs. If you think the taste is too bitter for you, you can sweeten it with honey, sugar or lemon. Components of Mullein Tea Dried leaves and flowers of the plant are used to make the mullein tea. This way, many components of the plant are transferred to the mullein tea. The components include mucilage, rotenone, flavonoids, iridoids, sterols, and sugars. Mullein Tea Benefits Mullein tea is quite useful when it comes to treating chronic bronchitis, coughs, asthma, pneumonia, congestion, and other respiratory problems. It relaxes the muscles within the chest, loosens the mucus, and helps with expectoration. Also, when you’ve dealing with a sore throat, it helps soothe the throat and chest. Drinking mullein tea helps treat diarrhea and works to expel intestinal parasites, such as worms. It is useful when treating bladder and urinary tract infections, for example hematuria (bloody urine). Also, consumption of mullein tea lessens the pain from hemorrhoids. Mullein tea can also help you if you’re suffering from insomnia, or when you’re dealing with anxiety or high levels of stress. It is good for cleansing the blood, and it can treat various forms of allergies. Also, mullein tea is useful when treating earaches, eczema, inflammations, acne and minor wounds. Mullein Tea Side Effects If you’re preparing the mullein tea on your own, using the leaves of the plant, be careful with the little hairs found on the leaves. When they come in contact with your skin, they can lead to red, itchy or inflamed skin. Despite the fact that it’s used to treat respiratory problems, mullein tea can lead to breathing problems. Although rare, the symptoms in this case include chest wall inflammation, difficulty in inhaling, tightness in the chest, and tightness of the throat. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop drinking mullein tea and go visit your doctor. Also, mullein seeds contain rotenone, which is a potentially toxic substance that, if ingested, may cause severe side effects. Make sure you check to see if the mullein tea you drink is made from mullein seeds. It is generally recommended that you not drink mullein tea if you are pregnant or breast feeding, as it might affect the baby. Don’t drink more than six cups of mullein tea a day. If you do, it won’t be that good for your health anymore. You might experience some of the following symptoms: headaches, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia, dizziness, and irregular heartbeats. Although bitter, mullein tea is still a delicious type of herbal tea. It comes with many health benefits, as well. Just make sure you won’t experience any side effects. Once it’s all safe, you’re free to enjoy your daily cup of this type of tea.... discover mullein tea

Discover Self-heal Tea

When it comes to self-heal tea, the title should say enough. This herbal tea is known for its many health benefits, which should make it a must-drink for many people. Find out more about self-heal tea! About Self-Heal Tea Self-heal tea is made from Prunella vulgaris, which is commonly called self-heal or heal-all. It is an herbaceous plant which can be found in places with temperate climate throughout Europe, Asia and North America. Self-heal is a low-growing perennial weed, part of the mint family. It has a height between 5 and 30cm. It has lance shaped and serrated leaves, pretty reddish at the tip. The flowers during summer, are tubular, and grow in a whirled cluster. They are also two lipped; the top lip is purple, while the bottom lip is usually white. How to prepare Self-Heal Tea To enjoy some self-heal tea, add two teaspoonfuls of dehydrated self heal leaves or flowers to a cup of freshly boiled water. Let it steep for about 10 minutes. Then, strain to remove the leaves or flowers, and sweeten if necessary with honey or fruit juice. Self-Heal Tea Constituents Self-heal tea uses the leaves and flowers of the self-heal plant. These have important active constituents which are transferred to the tea, as well. Some of them include betulinic-acid, D-camphor, delphinidin, hyperoside, oleanolic-acid, rosmarinic-acid, rutin, ursolic-acid, and tannins. Also, self-heal tea has lots of vitamins. One cup of tea includes vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin K. Self-Heal Tea Benefits Self-heal tea has various health benefits. It can be used to treat diarrhea or eye infections, such as stye and conjunctivitis. When it comes to diseases, self-heal tea is often included in the treatment for Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, gynecological disorders, and even AIDS/HIV. It also lowers blood pressure and helps with an upset stomach or internal bleeding. Self-heal tea can be used topically, as well. It can be applied on cuts, bruises and wounds in order to disinfect them and hasten the healing process. Also, it is used to treat boils. You can also use self-heal tea to gargle, or as mouth wash. Like this, it can treat sore throats, or mouth and throat ulcers. Self-Heal Tea Side Effects There aren’t any known side effects to self-heal tea. It is still generally recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women shouldn’t drink this herbal tea, because it might affect the baby in some way. It is considered best not to drink more than 2-3 cups of self-heal tea a day. If you drink too much, you might get headaches, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or feel dizzy or nauseous.   Just like its name promises, self-heal tea has plenty of important health benefits. Meanwhile, it has very few side effects. Knowing this, you should give it a try!... discover self-heal tea

Discover Oregon Grape Root Tea

If you want to try a special type of herbal tea, there’s Oregon grape root tea! It has a slightly bitter taste, but that shouldn’t discourage you. It also has plenty of health benefits which are bound to keep you healthy. Read to find out more about Oregon grape root tea! About Oregon Grape Root Tea Oregon grape root tea is made from the root of the Oregon grape. The plant is an evergreen shrub which grows along the North American west coast. The plant can grow up to 5m tall. The leaves are similar to those of holly, and the stems and twigs are thick and corky. The flowers are yellow-colored and bloom in late spring. The fruits are small, purplish-black, with a dusty appearance, and they contain large seeds. The Oregon grape is in no way related to normal grapes. The name of the tree comes from the similarity of its berries to the grapes’ berries. Constituents of Oregon Grape Root Tea It is not surprising that the root is used to make Oregon grape root tea. The root is actually the part of the tea which contains the most active constituents. A cup of Oregon grape root tea contains many alkaloids (berberine) and phytochemicals, as well as tannins. How to prepare Oregon Grape Root Tea It isn’t difficult to make a cup of Oregon grape root tea. Place one teaspoon of dried root in a cup filled with boiling water. Let it steep for about 10-15 minutes. Once the steeping time ends, remove the dried herbs from the cup. If Oregon grape root tea is too bitter for your taste, you can add honey or sugar to sweeten it. Oregon Grape Root Tea Benefits Thanks to its important constituents, Oregon grape root tea brings you many health benefits. First of all, Oregon grape root tea is used in the treatment for dyspepsia (indigestion) and diarrhea, and it helps you fight intestinal parasites. It also increases the speed to the flow of bile, which makes it useful in the treatment for gallbladder pain, gallstones, hepatitis, and jaundice. The alkaloids found in Oregon grape root tea help treat typhoid, tuberculosis in its early stage, and various digestive disorders. It can even help with small problems, such as stomach cramps and abdominal pains. It also works as a potential anti-carcinogenic, speeding up the recovery from chemotherapy and radiation therapies. Oregon grape root teacan work as a lymphatic and liver stimulating blood cleanser. It is good for your liver as it helps release stacked away iron from the liver into the blood stream. It might also help you fight tumors in the bladder and colon. Oregon grape root tea can help you even when it’s applied topically. It is useful when treating psoriasis, eczema, athlete’s foot, acne, and other fungal infections. It also helps in easing inflammation, irritation, and itching of the skin. Oregon Grape Root Tea Side Effects First, it’s not recommended that you drink Oregon grape root tea if you are pregnant. If you do, it might cause uterine contractions. It is also best that you not consume Oregon grape root tea if you’ve gotchronic gastrointestinal irritation or inflammation. It will only worsen the symptoms. Be careful with how much Oregon grape root tea you drink. Don’t have more than six cups of tea a day, and don’t drink for more than 7 consecutive days. If you drink too much Oregon grape root tea, you’ll get the following symptoms: headaches, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia, dizziness, and irregular heartbeats. Even if it has a slightly bitter taste, Oregon grape root tea shouldn’t be forgotten. Its many health benefits can help you, if needed.... discover oregon grape root tea

Disc, Intervertebral

A flat, circular, plate-like structure containing cartilage that lines the joints between adjacent vertebrae (bones) in the spine. Each intervertebral disc is composed of a fibrous outer layer and a soft gelatinous core. It acts as a shock absorber to cushion the vertebrae during movements of the spine. With increasing age, intervertebral discs become less supple and more susceptible to damage from injury.

Fibrous covering disclosing agents Dyes that make the plaque deposits on teeth more visible so that they can be seen and removed. discoid lupus erythematosus A form of the chronic autoimmune disorder lupus erythematosus.... disc, intervertebral

Disc, Slipped

See disc prolapse.... disc, slipped

Herniated Disc

See disc prolapse.... herniated disc

Discover Quassia Tea

If you want to try something new, drink quassia tea - an herbal tea from South America. Even if its taste is bitter, you won’t regret giving it a try thanks to its many health benefits. Read to find out more about quassia tea! About Quassia Tea Quassia tea is made from the bark of the quassia tree, which can be found in the tropical parts of South America. Quassia is a deciduous tree which can grow up to 30m in height. Its bark is grey, and it has branches full of leaves. The flowers of the tree are yellow, while the fruits are black and pea-shaped. Constituents of Quassia Tea Quassia tea has plenty of health benefits. These can be found in the tea thanks to the active constituents which are transferred from the bark of the tree. Some of the important active constituents are: various quassinoids and alkaloids, beta-sitostenone, beta-sitosterol, calcium tartrate, gallic acid, mallic acid, potassium acetate, and simalikalactone D and E (SkE). How to prepare Quassia Tea If you’re using quassia bark to make a cup of quassia tea, add two teaspoons to a mug full of freshly-boiled water and let it steep for 10 minutes. Stream and sweeten if you wish. If you use teabags, follow the instructions on the box (steeping time should be around 5-7 minutes). You can drink cold quessia tea, too. For this, just soak a handful of tree bark in a mug of cool water. Let it steep for about eight hours before you remove the bark pieces. Quessia Tea Benefits Quessia tea has plenty of health benefits, thanks to its active constituents. They should encourage you to drink this tea, despite its bitter taste. Quessia tea promotes a proper digestion. It also helps expel parasites and lice, clean the blood, and eliminate toxins and bacteria; it is recommended if you’ve got a fever. It is used in the treatment for various diseases: malaria, diarrhea, dysentery and gastric ulcers, for example. Quessia tea is also recommended if you’ve got a tumor. You can drink quessia tea when you feel nervous or stressed. This tea will help you relax, as it will sedate the nerves. It is also useful if you’ve got a bad appetite, or even if you’re suffering from anorexia. Quessia Tea Side Effects You shouldn’t drink quessia tea if you’re pregnant or breast feeding. It can affect the baby in both cases, as well as lead to cell damage and nausea. It is recommended to drink 3-4 cups of quessia tea a day. If you drink too much, you might get a few side effects. These include: irritation of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract, nausea, vomiting, headaches. Long-term consumption of quessia tea might lead to vision changes or even blindness. As quessia tea can irritate the digestive tract, it’s best that you don’t drink it if you’re suffering from digestive tract diseases, such as stomach, intestinal ulcers, or Crohn’s disease. It might worsen your condition. Quessia tea can be consumed every day with no worries. It has important health benefits which should convince you to drink it, despite its bitter taste.... discover quassia tea

Breasts, Nipples, Discharge

Due to a number of causes. Unlike colostrum secreted during breast-feeding after delivery. A pathological nipple discharge is non-milky, recurs from time to time, and is usually only from one nipple. It may be watery or a sticky yellow, staining being detected on bra or pyjamas. When blood-flecked it should be promptly investigated by a competent authority.

When the discharge is yellow, indicating pus, an infection is suspected which may develop into an abscess. Herbal treatment can be effective but if, after a week, the condition has not improved surgical exploration may be necessary to remove the affected duct.

Alternatives. Clivers, Goldenseal, Fenugreek, Marigold, Poke root, Queen’s Delight, Wild Indigo. Taken as tea, powder, liquid extract or decoction.

Tea. Formula. Equal parts: Red Clover, Clivers, Gotu Kola. 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup thrice daily.

Powders. Formula. Wild Indigo 1; Echinacea 2; Poke root 1. Dose: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon) thrice daily.

Tinctures. Formula. Echinacea 2; Goldenseal 1; Poke root 1. Dose: 30-60 drops thrice daily.

Topical – for sore nipples. Wheatgerm oil, Evening Primrose oil. Lotions: Goldenseal, Marigold, distilled extract of Witch Hazel. Nipples to be washed before a child is again put to the breast. Cracked nipples: Comfrey – pulp from fresh plant, or equal parts powder and milk as a paste.

Minerals: magnesium, zinc. ... breasts, nipples, discharge

Nasal Discharge

The emission of fluid from the nose. Nasal discharge is commonly caused by inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the nose and is often accompanied by nasal congestion. A discharge of mucus may indicate allergic rhinitis, a cold, or an infection that has spread from the sinuses (see sinusitis). A persistent runny discharge may be an early indication of a tumour (see nasopharynx, cancer of).

Bleeding from the nose (see nosebleed) is usually caused by injury or a foreign body in the nose.

A discharge of cerebrospinal fluid from the nose may follow a fracture at the base of the skull.... nasal discharge

Urethral Discharge

A fluid that flows from the urethra in some cases of urethritis caused by infection.... urethral discharge

Disc Cupping

an abnormal enlargement of the central depression of the *optic disc due to loss of nerve fibres, as occurs in glaucoma.... disc cupping

Discectomy

n. surgical removal of part (partial discectomy) or all (total discectomy) of a diseased or damaged intervertebral disc. It is performed for the relief of neurological symptoms arising from a displaced intervertebral disc compressing a nerve root or the spinal cord (see prolapsed intervertebral disc) or as part of a more extensive procedure. See also microdiscectomy.... discectomy

Disc Herniation

displacement of an intervertebral disc through a tear in the fibrous outer coat of the disc. See prolapsed intervertebral disc.... disc herniation

Discoid Lupus Erythematosus

(DLE) see lupus erythematosus.... discoid lupus erythematosus

Discover Sarsaparilla Tea!

If you enjoy a cup of herbal tea, then sarsaparilla tea can count as a good choice for a daily beverage. The many health benefits should also tempt you to give it a try. Find out more about sarsaparilla tea. About Sarsaparilla Tea Sarsaparilla tea is made from the roots of sarsaparilla, a plant native to Central and South America. It is also known by the name Smilax regelii. In Spanish, it is called zarzaparrilla; “zarza” means “shrub” and “parrilla” means “little grape vine”. Sarsaparilla is a perennial plant which has a trailing vine with lots of wood-like stems and long thorns. It has small, greenish flowers which grow in axillary umbels. It is often used to flavor soft drinks. There is also the “false sarsaparilla”, native to South Asia. It belongs to a different plant family and genus, and it is often used in place of sarsaparilla. The false sarsaparilla is a slender shrub with woody and aromatic roots and many slender stems. It has small leaves and greenish flowers. Sarsaparilla Tea Constituents Both types of sarsaparilla have their own active constituents. The usual type includes sarsasaponin, sarsaparilloside, flavonoids, sarsapac acid, dextrose, and fatty acids. Meanwhile, the “false sarsaparilla” has some of the following constituents: coumarins, saraponins, starch, tannins, tannic acid, glucose, phenols, iron, and magnesium. Both the American type and the South Asian one can be used to make sarsaparilla tea, which gets the active constituents found in the roots. How to prepare Sarsaparilla Tea No matter the variety, you can easily prepare a cup of sarsaparilla tea. Just add about 1 gram of chopped dried root to a cup of freshly boiled water. Let it steep for about 10 minutes; then, stream to remove the root pieces. Sarsaparilla Tea Benefits The American and South Asian sarsaparilla root share a few health benefits, which are transferred to sarsaparilla tea, as well. They are used to treat various skin problems, such as eczema or psoriasis. Drinking sarsaparilla tea also helps you with arthritis, gout, and rheumatism. This tea is also included in the treatment of various sexual diseases, such as herpes, gonorrhea or syphilis. Drinking sarsaparilla tea might help improve your memory and mental concentration. It also helps with urinary tract infections, and menopausal symptoms. It can even be applied topically, to treat sores and burns. The tea made with the American sarsaparilla is believed to improve the sexual performance, and to enhance virility. If you’re using the ‘false sarsaparilla’ to make sarsaparilla tea, this can help fight various digestive problems and upper respiratory infections. Sarsaparilla Tea Side Effects It is recommended not to drink sarsaparilla tea if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Sarsaparilla tea can affect the baby in both cases. Also, don’t drink this tea if you’ve got asthma; it might worsen your condition. If you’re under any kind of medication (especially if you’re taking other diuretics), make sure you talk with your doctor first before you start drinking sarsaparilla tea. Also, be careful with the amount of sarsaparilla tea you drink. If you drink too much, it might cause digestive problems. Sarsaparilla tea is a pleasant everyday herbal tea. With its many health benefits, just one cup can help you stay healthy.... discover sarsaparilla tea!

Discoloured Teeth

Teeth that are abnormally coloured or stained. Extrinsic stains, on the tooth’s surface, are common, but are usually easily removed by polishing. They can be prevented by regular tooth cleaning. Smoking tobacco produces a brownish-black deposit. Pigment-producing bacteria can leave a visible line along the teeth, especially in children. Some dyes in foodstuffs can cause yellowing; dark brown spots may be due to areas of thinned enamel stained by foods. Some bacteria produce an orange-red stain. Stains may also follow the use of drugs containing metallic salts.

Intrinsic stains, within the tooth’s substance, are permanent. Causes include death of the pulp or the removal of the pulp during root-canal treatment and the use of the antibiotic tetracycline in children. Mottling of the tooth enamel occurs if excessive amounts of fluoride are taken during development of the enamel (see fluorosis). Hepatitis during infancy may cause discoloration of the primary teeth. The teeth of children with congenital malformation of the bile ducts may be similarly affected.

Many stains can be covered or diminished with cosmetic dental procedures.... discoloured teeth

Discontinuation Syndrome

symptoms that arise from the sudden cessation of certain centrally acting drugs, such as antidepressants, beta blockers, and antihypertensives. Experiences include a rebound effect in which the original symptoms return but are temporarily worse than before, flulike symptoms and headaches, nausea, and giddiness that is usually short-lived and stops within 36 hours. This syndrome is not a sign of addiction and it does not indicate dependency.... discontinuation syndrome

Discrimination

n. treating individuals differently on the basis of morally insignificant characteristics, such as race, sex, or religion. In medicine, any discrimination of this kind (e.g. when deciding on treatments or allocating resources) offends against the ethical principle of *justice. Legally, discrimination can be direct (i.e. overtly differentiating between people and groups) or indirect (i.e. behaviour that will disproportionately affect particular people or some groups more than others). See also equality; stigma.... discrimination

Embryonic Disc

the early embryo before the formation of *somites. It is a flat disc of tissue bounded dorsally by the amniotic cavity and ventrally by the yolk sac. The formation of the *primitive streak and *archenteron in the embryonic disc determines the orientation of the embryo, which then becomes progressively elongated.... embryonic disc

Leber’s Optic Atrophy

a rare hereditary disorder, usually affecting young males, that is characterized by loss of central vision due to neuroretinal degeneration. Visual loss in one eye is rapid and usually followed by loss in the second eye. [T. Leber]... leber’s optic atrophy

Optic Chiasm

(optic commissure) the X-shaped structure formed by the two optic nerves, which pass backwards from the eyeballs to meet in the midline beneath the brain, near the pituitary gland (see illustration). Nerve fibres from the nasal side of the retina of each eye cross over to join fibres from the lateral side of the retina of the opposite eye. The optic tracts resulting from the junction pass backwards to the occipital lobes.... optic chiasm

Discover Saw Palmetto Tea!

If you’re a fan of herbal teas, you have to try saw palmetto tea! It’s special, as it is made from the berries of a small palm. Read more about its health benefits and side effects! About Saw Palmetto Tea Saw palmetto tea is made from the fruit saw palmetto, also known by its scientific name, Serenoa repens. It is the sole species which remains classified in the genus Serenoa. It is a small palm, native to the southeastern part of the United States. Its height varies between 2 and 4m. Its leaves are 1-2m long and have a bare petiole, with a rounded fan of about 20 leaflets at the end; the petiole has fine, sharp teeth or spines. The flowers are small, yellowish-white and produced in dense panicles, and the fruit is a large, reddish-black berry. How to prepare Saw Palmetto Tea A cup of saw palmetto tea can be prepared with either the plant’s berries, or normal teabags. In case you’re using saw palmetto berries, add a teaspoon of the fruits to a cup of freshly boiled water. Let it steep for about 5 minutes, before you strain to remove the berries. Sweeten it, if necessary, with honey or fruit juice. If you’ve got saw palmetto tea bags, follow the instructions on the tea box. Saw Palmetto Tea Constituents Saw palmetto tea gets many active constituents from its main ingredient: saw palmetto berries. The constituents of the berries include a high concentration of fatty acids and phytosterols, as well as beta-sitosterol, capric acid, ferulic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid. Saw Palmetto Tea Benefits Saw palmetto tea is known for its important role in treating urinary tract infections. Drinking this tea helps to gently stimulate urination; thanks to this, the infectious microorganisms are “flushed out” along with the urine. Drinking saw palmetto tea helps remove toxins and waste products which can affect and reduce the functions of the kidneys, liver, and bladder. It also helps with the digestive system; it is drunk to treat diarrhea, acid reflux, gas, bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome. Saw palmetto tea also helps calm coughs and treats various forms of chest congestion. It is useful if you’ve got a headache. It can be used to treat benign prostate enlargement and prostatitis, as well. Saw Palmetto Tea Side Effects You shouldn’t drink saw palmetto tea if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. It can act like a hormone, which might lead to problems. Drinking saw palmetto tea before a surgery is also bad. It might slow down the blood clotting process, which might lead to extra bleeding both during and after the surgery. It is recommended that you stop drinking this tea two weeks before you’ve got a surgery scheduled. Although rare, the possibility of getting an allergic reaction to saw palmetto tea still exists. Symptoms include rashes, itchiness, difficulty in breathing, and swelling of the mouth, tongue or nose. Also, be careful with the amount of saw palmetto tea you drink. The recommended amount is 3-4 cups a day. If you drink too much, you might get some of the following symptoms: dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. Saw palmetto tea can easily be used as a daily hot beverage. You’re bound to enjoy both the taste and its many health benefits.... discover saw palmetto tea!

Disc Prolapse

A common disorder of the spine, in which an intervertebral disc ruptures and part of its pulpy core protrudes. It causes painful and at times disabling pressure on a nerve root or, less commonly, on the spinal cord. The lower back is most commonly affected. A prolapsed disc may sometimes be caused by a sudden strenuous action, but it usually develops gradually as a result of degeneration of the discs with age. If the sciatic nerve root is compressed, it causes sciatica, which may be accompanied by numbness and tingling, and, eventually, weakness in the muscles of the leg. A prolapsed disc in the neck causes neck pain and weakness in the arm and hand.

Symptoms improve with time and analgesic drugs. However, in severe cases, surgical techniques, such as decompression of the spinal canal or removal of the protruding material and repair of the disc, may be necessary.... disc prolapse

Vaginal Discharge

The emission of secretions from the vagina. Some mucous secretion from the vaginal walls and from the cervix is normal in the reproductive years; its amount and nature vary from woman to woman and at different times in the menstrual cycle (see menstruation). Oral contraceptives can increase or decrease the discharge. Secretions tend to be greater during pregnancy. Sexual stimulation also produces increased vaginal discharge.

Discharge may be abnormal if it is excessive, offensive-smelling, yellow or green, or if it causes itching. Abnormal discharge often accompanies vaginitis, and may be the result of infection, as in

candidiasis or trichomoniasis, or may be due to a foreign body, such as a forgotten tampon, in the vagina.... vaginal discharge

Optic Cup

either of the paired cup-shaped outgrowths of the embryonic brain that form the retina and iris of the eyes.... optic cup

Optic Foramen

the groove in the top of the *orbit that contains the optic nerve and the ophthalmic artery.... optic foramen

Tilting-disc Valve

the most commonly used form of mechanical heart valve replacement.... tilting-disc valve

Discover The Blueberry Tea

If you’re looking for a fruity-flavored tea, try the blueberry tea! Not only is it richly aromatic, but it also comes with several health benefits. About Blueberry Tea Blueberry tea can be considered a type of black tea which has been infused with blueberry flavor. It can also contain pieces of dried blueberry, as well as pieces of other dried berries. Blueberry leaves may be used, as well. Blueberries are grown all around the world. Based on the place where they are cultivated, harvesting time may vary. In North America, harvesting starts in May and ends in late summer, while in the Southern Hemisphere, harvesting takes place during winter and may last until early spring. They are rich in vitamins, dietary fiber and dietary mineral manganese. Blueberry Tea Cocktail There is also a cocktail with the name “Blueberry Tea”. It is made from tea and liqueurs, and it is served hot, usually in a brandy snifter. The usual ingredients for the cocktail are Grand Marnier liqueur, Amaretto liqueur, and hot Orange Pekoe tea. If interested, you can give it a try. However, be careful not to mix it up when ordering Blueberry Tea in a place that might serve both. Despite its name, it might not contain anything blueberry-related; still, the taste is fruity, similar to that of blueberries, which is why the cocktail is named Blueberry Tea. How to prepare Blueberry Tea There are several ways in which you can enjoy a cup of Blueberry tea. For a classic cup of Blueberry tea, add a teaspoon of Blueberry tea leaves into a cup of hot water. Let it steep for 3-04 minutes before removing the leaves. Add sugar or honey to sweeten the taste. Another way to prepare Blueberry tea is with black Ceylon tea. Add a teaspoon of leaves or a teabag in a cup of hot water and let it steep for 3-4 minutes. After removing the tea leaves or the teabag, add fresh blueberry juice and stir; the more blueberry juice you add, the stronger the flavor. This is ideal during hot summer days, when you can serve it iced. Also, you can replace the black Ceylon tea with rooibos tea or white tea. Health Benefits of Blueberry tea Drinking Blueberry tea leads to plenty of health benefits. The black tea leaves are rich in antioxidants, amino acids, minerals and vitamins, while blueberries have plenty of nutrients, antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C and E. Together, they help you stay healthy! The antioxidants that are found both in the tea leaves and in the berries are good at helping you fight off cancer. A cup of blueberry tea can reduce the risk of developing tumors and cancer. The antioxidants also have a neuroprotective effect on the brain. Therefore, it may lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease. Blueberry tea also helps when it comes to muscle damage. This time, the antioxidants are the ones protecting the muscle cells from muscle oxidative damage which is usually associated with high-intensity exercise. Blueberry tea reduces the risk of diabetes. Consumption of blueberry tea helps boost the insulin sensitivity. This way, the body uses insulin more efficiently to store glucose. It also helps lower the blood sugar levels, reducing the need for insulin. Blueberry tea lowers the blood pressure, as well, reducing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Polyphenols that are part of the blueberry tea’s composition help prevent urinary tract infections. They keep the harmful bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract. Also, blueberry tea has ellagic acid, which protects the metabolic pathways. Side effects of Blueberry tea Besides the many health benefits, don’t forget that blueberry tea has a few side effects, as well. They’re not too harmful, but you should still remember them. If you’re suffering from diabetes, you know that blueberry tea is good for you, since it lowers the blood sugar levels. Still, you have to carefully monitor your blood sugar levels. In some cases, it may lower the blood sugar levels too much, and you might get hypoglycemia. Blueberry tea might affect blood glucose levels, so it might interfere with the blood sugar control both during and after a surgery. You should stay away from blueberry tea (and blueberries, in general) two weeks before the surgery. Be careful not to drink too much blueberry tea! This applies to all types of tea, too. It is recommended not to drink more than six cups of tea per day. For some, it might be even less. See if you get any of the following symptoms: headaches, dizziness, insomnia, irregular heartbeats, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite. If you get them, you should reduce the amount of tea you drink.   Blueberry tea is a delicious, aromatic type of tea. It’s also good for your health, as it combines the health benefits of both black tea leaves and blueberries. Drink a cup or two a day and you won’t regret it!... discover the blueberry tea

Discover The Milk Thistle Tea

Milk Thistle tea is a type of herbal tea made from the plant with the same name: milk thistle. The plant has many health benefits, therefore making the tea good for your body. Find out more about the milk thistle tea in this article. About Milk Thistle Tea The main ingredient of the milk thistle tea is, of course, the milk thistle; it is made from the seeds of the plant. The milk thistle is a flowering plant of the daisy family, an annual or biennial herb which grows in the Mediterranean regions of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. The stem is tall, branched but with no spines, and has large, alternate leaves. At the end of the stem, there are large flower heads, disk-shaped and pink-purple in color. The fruit of the plants consists of a black achene with a white pappus. The name of the plant comes from the way its leaves look. The edges of the leaves are streaked with milky-white veins. How to prepare Milk Thistle Tea You can easily prepare a cup of milk thistle tea in no more than 10 minutes. First, boil the water necessary for a cup of milk thistle tea. Add one teaspoon of milk thistle tea seeds and then, add the hot water. Let it steep for 4-7 minutes, depending on how strong you want the flavor of the tea to be. During summer, you can also try the iced tea version of the milk thistle tea. Place 6 teaspoons into a teapot or a heat resistant pitcher and then pour one and a half cups of boiled water. Let it steep for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, get a serving pitcher and fill it with cold water. Once the steeping time is done, pour the tea over the cold water, add ice, and then pour more cold water. Add sugar, honey or anything else you want to sweeten the taste. Benefits of Milk Thistle Tea The main health benefit of the milk thistle tea is related to its effectiveness in protecting the liver, thanks to one of its components, Silymarin. Silymarin is the main active ingredient of the milk thistle tea, working both as an anti-inflammatory and as an antioxidant. It helps with cirrhosis, jaundice, hepatitis, and gallbladder disorders. It also detoxifies the liver, as well as helping it by cleansing the blood. If you’ve got type 2 diabetes, drinkingmilk thistle tea might help you a lot, as well. Some of the benefits of milk thistle tea, related to diabetes, are:decrease in blood sugar levels, improvement in cholesterol and improvement in insulin resistance.  Also, by lowering the LDL “bad” cholesterol levels, milk thistle tea can help lower the chances of developing heart diseases. Other health benefits of milk thistle tea involve increasing the secretion of the bile in order to enhance the flow in the intestinal tract, helping to ease kidney and bladder irritations, and helping to remove obstructions in the spleen. Milk Thistle Tea side effects Despite its important health benefits, don’t forget that there are also a few side effects you might experience when drinking milk thistle tea. If you regularly drink milk thistle teafor a long period of time, it might end up having laxative effects. That can easily lead to diarrhea and, in some rare cases, it can also lead to nausea, gases, and an upset and bloating stomach. You should avoid drinking milk thistle tea if you know that you have a ragweed allergy. In this case, it can cause a rash or lead to more severe allergic reactions. Milk thistle tea also isn’t recommended to women who are pregnant or breast feeding. The main ingredient of milk thistle tea, the milk thistle herb, may mimic the effects of estrogen. Because of this, some women should avoid drinking milk thistle tea. This refers to women who have fibroid tumors or endometriosis, as well as women who are suffering from breast, uterine, and/or ovarian cancer. Also, don’t drink more than six cups of milk thistle tea (or any other type of tea) a day. Otherwise, it won’t be as helpful as it should be. The symptoms you might get are headaches, dizziness, insomnia, irregular heartbeats, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite. Try the milk thistle tea! As an herbal tea, it helps you stay healthy, especially by protecting your liver. Still, don’t forget about the few side effects.... discover the milk thistle tea

Public Interest Disclosure

1. the expression of concern about performance or competence that is privileged at law by virtue of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998. The statute provides that where an employee acts in good faith in questioning the behaviour or performance of another member of staff or an organization, he or she should be protected from such penalties as disciplinary procedures, suspension, or dismissal. See also whistle-blowing. 2. circumstances in which *confidentiality can be breached because there is a serious risk of physical harm to an identifiable individual or individuals. The basis on which confidentiality can be breached in the public interest were defined in the case of W v Egdell, in which the court held that the risk had to be of physical harm to identifiable person(s) and must not be merely ‘fanciful’. Where there is a serious risk of physical harm to a specific person, there is an entitlement but not a duty to breach confidentiality, and the *General Medical Council requires that doctors must be prepared to justify their decision either way.... public interest disclosure

Discover The Myrtle Tea!

If you’re a fan of herbal teas, you have to try myrtle tea. It has a refreshing taste, slightly fruity and sweet. It also brings plenty of health benefits in just a cup of tea. Read to find out more about the myrtle tea. About Myrtle Tea The main ingredient of the myrtle tea is myrtle, the herbal plant. It is a type of flowering plant belonging to the Myrtaceae family, with one or two species. It can be found in the Mediterranean regions of both Europe and Africa. The plant is an evergreen shrub or small tree, which can grow up to 5 meters tall. The leaves are 3-5cm long, with a fragrant essential oil. It also has a star-like flower with five white petals and sepals, and numerous stamens. The fruit of the plant is a round berry, most commonly blue-black in color; it contains several seeds. The plant has been known since ancient times. It is found in the Greek mythology, where it is known to be sacred to Aphrodite and Demeter. Also, many Greek writers have mentioned it in their works; some of them are Hippocrates, Pliny and Dioscorides. How to prepare Myrtle Tea It doesn’t take long to prepare a cup of myrtle tea. While you wait for the water to boil, add a few leaves to your cup. Pour the water in the cup and let it steep for 3-5 minutes. After you remove the leaves, you can enjoy your cup of myrtle tea. Benefits of Myrtle Tea Just like many herbal teas, the myrtle tea is also good for your health. Read to find out more about its health benefits. Drinking myrtle tea can help you if you’ve got throat problems. It is quite useful in the treatment of dry coughing. Myrtle tea is also helpful if you’re suffering from bronchial congestion, sinusitis, or other respiratory problems. Myrtle tea is well-known for promoting a good digestion, by helping you combat various digestive problems and disorders. It is used in the treatment of urinary tract disorders, and may also help in the treatment for cerebral infections and epilepsy. Also, you can use myrtle tea topically. It can be applied on fresh wounds and bruises in order to prevent infections. Side effects of Myrtle Tea Check if myrtle tea contains myrtle oil. The oil contains a chemical that might do you harm, by causing asthma-like attacks and lung failure. You should avoid drinking myrtle tea if you’re pregnant or breast feeding. In both cases, it can be harmful to the baby. It is also recommended that you not give myrtle tea to small children, as it might lead to breathing problems. Also, don’t drink too much myrtle tea. Generally, it is recommended that you not drink more than six cups of tea a day, no matter what type of tea. Otherwise, you might get some of the following symptoms: headaches, dizziness, insomnia, irregular heartbeats, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite. Myrtle tea is a delicious, slightly sweet herbal tea which can easily be included in your daily diet. Thanks to its many health benefits, it is even recommended that you drink it daily. As long as you’re not pregnant, it will only do you good.... discover the myrtle tea!

Discover The Spectacle Of Dragon Well Green Tea

One of the most popular drinks in China, Dragon Well tea is part of the green teas family, having an inviting and a toasty flavor. A truly enjoyable and spectacular cup of tea.

Description of Dragon Well tea

Dragon Well tea is a type of pan-fried green tea, most commonly named Longjing tea from Hangzhou, Zheijang province in China, where is produced mainly by hand. During the production process, the Dragon Well is dried under a wood-fired Chinese pan called “wok”. This process removes the green, grassy taste and also inhibits enzyme activity. Due to the widespread opinion in China that the Dragon Well tea has a cooling effect, its popularity significantly increases especially during the spring and summer seasons. Often called the national tea of China, Dragon Well tea is often served to head of states and foreign delegations during their visits in China. Presented as a tribute to many generations, it was given even to Richard Nixon during his memorable encounter with Mao Zedong. This tea is very popular because of its unique properties:  jade color, vegetative aroma, mellow chestnut flavor and singular shape. It has a buttery, nutty, rich texture and an enjoyable dry finish. Commonly, Dragon Well tea is graded using a scale of six levels from superior quality to low quality so it is advisable to chose wisely when you decide to buy it. When the flavor can barely be sensed, it is clear that you deal with a poor quality.

How to store the Dragon Well tea

If the tea is sealed, keep it in a freezer. Cover with a box to insulate from temperature change. In order to get warm, leave it to room temperature before opening. This prevents condensation. After opening the package of Dragon Well tea, it is best to keep it away from light, moisture, smell and heat in an airtight container.

Ingredients of Dragon Well tea

Like most green teas, the Dragon Well tea contains amino acids, vitamins, flavonoids, proteins, calcium, iron, fluorine, theine and has one of the highest concentrations of catechins among teas, second only to white teas.

How to brew Dragon Well tea

When it comes to brewing Dragon Well tea, the best choice is a clear glass teacup, so that you can see the beauty of the leaves as they dance and unfurl in the water. It is really spectacular. Quality of tea is related directly to the beauty of the buds. Glass is most suitable also because it disperses heat quickly and prevents over-steeping. If you see that the buds have reached the bottom, this means that the tea is ready to drink. You should infuse a small amount of leaves in high temperature water for as long as it takes. Pour hot water at approximately 80 - 90 degrees Celsius. Immerse until most of the tea buds has sink to the bottom of the glass and the tea liquor turns yellow. This will take 5 to 10 minutes for the first infusion. During soaking, the tea brings out a soft, pure aroma, a yellow-green color and a rich flavor. Decant and leave a small quantity as you may use it as the seed for the next infusion. Infuse for another 2 to 4 times with progressively shorter steeping time.

Health Benefits of Dragon Well tea

All tea comes from the same plant named Camellia sinensis. The method of production creates the different types of tea. Dragon Well tea contains the highest content of antioxidant compounds. Antioxidants are proven to fight against certain cancers, lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure, reduce the likely-hood of getting the flu and other infections, boosting the immune function of our body and help reduce the signs of aging. It is also a fat burning accelerator so let’s not forget its important benefits for diets. There’s also enough fluoride found in green tea to aid against plaque and other oral bacteria.

Side effects of Dragon Well tea

Like any other green tea, Dragon Well tea may have few side effects like restlessness, palpitations, insomnia, anxiety, irritability, increased heart rate, and elevated blood pressure due to the caffeine content. It may also cause pain in the stomach area or reduce the body’s absorption of iron by 25% so it is contraindicated to people with anemia, faintness, gastritis with hyperacidity, stomach and duodenal ulcer. In spite of few side effects, it is worth trying it and get to know its flavor. The spectacle of drinking this type of tea is truly unique and the flavor really satisfying.... discover the spectacle of dragon well green tea

Discover The Teas For Breastfeeding Women

It is well-known that tea should be avoided both during and after pregnancy. After you give birth, the tea you drink can affect the baby through breastfeeding. This is why you should be careful with the types of tea you drink if you are breastfeeding. Check teas for breastfeeding women Herbal teas are mostly considered safe for women who are breastfeeding. Still, there are some things you need to be careful with and check, before you start drinking an herbal tea while nursing. Make sure the herbal tea you drink does not contain caffeine. While it might not affect you, the caffeine found in tea can affect the baby. Also check if the herbal tea contains plants you are allergic to. It is not the baby you have to worry about in this case, but your own health, as it could prove to be harmful for you. It is best to speak with your doctor as well, before you drink a type of tea, even herbal ones. Check to see if the tea you have chosen is safe to take when you are breastfeeding, or if it does not decrease the breast milk supply. Make sure you choose the proper tea for breastfeeding. Teas for breastfeeding women There are many herbal teas which are recommended for breastfeeding women. Most of them help increase the breast milk supply. Organic mother’s milk tea is known to be useful, because of its ingredients (fennel, aniseed, and coriander help with the milk supply). Other herbal teas include raspberry leaf tea, nettle tea, or alfalfa tea. Also, you can drink blessed thistle tea and fennel tea in small amounts. Chamomile tea can also be consumed if you are breastfeeding. It will help you relax and have a peaceful sleep. Motherwort tea also helps you relax, as well as reduces the risk of getting post partum depression. Ginger tea can help with an upset stomach, as well as increase blood circulation. Teas you should avoid while breastfeeding During nursing periods, you should not drink teas that contain caffeine. This means you should avoid teas made from the Camellia Sinensis plant: white tea, black tea, green tea, and oolong tea. There are several types of tea which can reduce your breast milk supply. These include oregano tea, sage tea, spearmint tea, peppermint tea, borage tea, comfrey tea, yarrow tea, chickweed tea, parsley tea or thyme tea. Make sure you do not consume any of these teas while breastfeeding. Topically applied teas for breastfeeding Teas can be used topically, as well. There are some which help during breastfeeding periods when they are applied on the skin. Partridge tea can help in this way. When applied topically, it relieves the soreness you might get from breastfeeding. The tea you drink can affect both you and the baby even during nursing. Because of this, make sure you check to see if what you are drinking is safe. Choose one of these teas for breastfeeding and you will not have to worry about any side effects!... discover the teas for breastfeeding women

Discover Yunnan Tea

If you want to quit drinking coffee or simply try a new variety of black tea, you can chose Yunnan tea for a change. Its strong sweet flavor will surely delight your senses. There are several types for this black tea, so before you buy it take a look at its description and benefits.

Description of Yunnan Tea

Commonly known as Dianhong, Yunnan tea is a type of Chinese black tea used in various blends and other tea assortments. Its name comes from the Chinese province of Yunnan where it is grown and harvested. This type of tea has three major properties : big leaves, a brownish color and a strong flavor. The first sip can be slight sour at the beginning but after that it gets sweeter. Quality Yunnan tea has a sweet strong flavour. Low quality Yunnan tea can have a darker color and a bitter taste, so be careful what to buy. It is also known as Yunnan Red tea. There are several varieties of Yunnan black tea.

Broken Yunnan

A cheap tea used in various mixtures which contains very few golden buds and is generally bitter on its own. It can be easily identified because the dried leaves have a darker almost black color with only a few bursts of golden tips. The drink is dark with a reddish-brown color. The taste can sometimes be as strong as cooked pu-erh tea.

Yunnan Gold

Another Dianhong type which has less golden buds and more dark tea leaves. It resembles with Yunnan Pure Gold type and is priced similarly. However, the tea resulting from it has slightly different characteristics. The drink has a bold red color different from other black teas and a vivid sweetness not quite as intense as Yunnan Pure Gold.

Yunnan Pure Gold

Seen as the best type of Dianhong tea, it holds only golden ends, which are generally covered in fine hairs. If we look it from a distance, the dried tea has a bright orange color. The tea liquor is bright red in color and it has a gentle aroma and a sweet taste. The leaves turn into a reddish brown color after preparation. If we compare it to other small-leaf varieties, Yunnan tea contains a higher concentration of polyphenol, catechin and water-soluble substances that the average values for a black tea.

Preparation of Yunnan tea

Like most of black teas that are usually infused with hot water, Yunnan tea is no exception. It is recommended to use porcelain containers or cups. Put a teaspoon of Yunnan tea and poor hot water of approximately 100 degrees Celsius. Let is infuse for about 5 minutes, then it’s ready to drink. Some people may add milk to the tea.

Yunnan tea benefits

According to the different methods used in tea processing, Yunnan tea can be classified into over 100 kinds of products. Yunnan tea is famous for its health benefits. Studies have shown that it is indeed an effective beverage for eliminating fat, reducing weight, strengthening the body, enhancing longevity, stimulating metabolism, balancing and regulating cholesterol level. Yunnan tea is also highly reputed as “slimming tea”, “beauty tea” and “healthy tea” in more than twenty countries and regions including France, Spain, Japan, Hong Kong and so on. Studies confirm what the Chinese have known for centuries - that Yunnan tea provides a natural alternative to medicines for those expecting to lose weight, reduce tension and generally have a more healthy and relaxed lifestyle. It was clearly proven that drinking Yunnan tea regularly lowers blood lipid levels without having side effects as medical drugs have.

Yunnan tea side effects

The side effects of Yunnan teaare similar to those caused by other black teas and they are related to intense consumption. They are mostly associated with higher caffeine content which may cause restlessness, palpitations, difficulty in sleeping, anxiety, irritability, increased heart rate, and elevated blood pressure. Caffeine is also diuretic. Like most black teas, Yunnan tea is suitable for regular consumption in spite of few side effects. Drink it wisely and enjoy its benefits.... discover yunnan tea



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