There is not much research to show whether phytosterols are safe for pregnant or breast-feeding women, or if they can harm a developing fetus or nursing infant. However, phytosterols may have an effect on hormones, and there is a possibility that this could cause problems for a nursing infant. If you are breast-feeding, it may be best to avoid this supplement. Phytosterols are also used to treat an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH).
Herbal Supplements
Herbal supplements are dietary supplements derived from nature. Herbal plants or parts of a plant are broken down and used for their scent, flavor and therapeutic benefits. When taken as a supplement, they can deliver strong benefits, however, herbal supplements are not regulated by the FDA and can have dangerous side effects. They act like drugs once in your system and can affect metabolism, circulation and excretion of other substances in your body. It is important to discuss with your doctor if you are on prescription medications, are breastfeeding or have chronic illnesses and want to add herbal supplements to your health regimen.
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Black snakeroot is an eastern North American perennial herb. A substance obtained from the root of the plant has been used in some cultures to treat a number of medical problems. It is being studied in the treatment of hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause. The scientific name is Cimicifuga racemosa.
This answer is based on source information from National Cancer Institute.
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Since many of your hangover symptoms are believed to be caused by inflammation, stopping that inflammation may reduce symptoms. Chemicals in prickly pear cactus extract stop inflammation in the body. Treatment with prickly pear extract has been shown to reduce the dry mouth, queasiness, and loss of appetite.
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Vitamin supplements such as calcium and vitamin D can help prevent disease such as osteoporosis that lead to joint conditions. Researchers are studying the affects of glucosamine on joint cartilage health, too. Glucosamine is also being studied for its anti-inflammatory qualities.
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All medications that you are taking should be discussed with your doctor. Many are safe to continue during treatment, but this could vary depending on the type of chemotherapy you are receiving.
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There are many common and accessible herbs to help support someone who has stress and anxiety. These include chamomile, ginko biloba, kava kava, St. Johns wort, valerian, verbena, rose, lavender, skullcap and rhodiola. Some drugs are safer and some are more well studied than others. Special care as well as physician approval should be obtained prior to starting St. Johns wort, ginko biloba and kava kava because of possible interactions. Herb formulas that combine ingredients also exist but are not necessarily better. Herbs come in many forms such as teas, tinctures, capsules and sublingual tablets or drops. Potency can vary in different forms, brands and preparations. In general, however, herbs are subtle and relatively safe for treatment of occasionally stress and anxiety.
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD , Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease), answeredDrinking tea has anti-inflammatory and metabolism-boosting benefits. For centuries, tea has been used as a cure in alternative medicine. This recipe maximizes the benefits of teas. All these ingredients have metabolism-boosting effects. When your metabolism is increased, your body has more glucose, giving you the energy your brain and body need.
Ingredients:- 2 green tea bags
- 2 bags white tea
- Cumin
- Curry
- Turmeric
- Red cayenne pepper
- Cinnamon
- Black pepper
- Ginger
- Paprika
This content originally appeared on doctoroz.com -
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD , Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease), answeredThough purslane is used in America to treat arthritis in horses, it's a popular vegetable in Turkey! Purslane is loaded with vitamins A, C, E and Coenzyme Q10. This strong antioxidant cocktail helps to protect the skin against environmental damage. Try mixing it with yogurt and garlic.
This content originally appeared on doctoroz.com -
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Dr. Michael Roizen, MD , Internal Medicine, answeredBecause of its alleged antiaging benefits, there has recently been a stir about thymus extract. Should you take it? No. Why not? The thymus is a gland that is active during childhood and adolescence. It helps control and modulate the immune system. By age twenty, the thymus begins to dry up, and by age fifty, it has virtually disappeared. The theory behind taking thymus extract as a supplement is that the extract will help stimulate immune functioning and protect you from cancers, arthritis, and other ailments that age you. Because the thymus is active during our youth, it is wrongfully assumed to be able to keep us young. No studies and absolutely no data indicate that thymus extract helps in any way. Furthermore, taking the extract poses a potential hazard. Thymus extract that is introduced into the body is different from that produced by your own body. Because supplemental thymus extract is a foreign protein, it may trigger an immune reaction, which in turn may cause your body to develop antibodies against itself. -
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Dr. Michael Roizen, MD , Internal Medicine, answeredMost herbs are probably harmless, but some cause needless aging. Never, for example, take anything that contains comfrey. This herb is known to cause liver damage. Also, sassafras, chaparral, germander, and pokeroot have been linked to severe and even lethal effects. Since St John's Wort alters the metabolism and effectiveness of over 50 medications, while useful for minor depressions, should not be taken by anyone taking any other medication without checking with his or her doctor first.