What does research tell us about the use of Xanthium for allergies, sinus issues and other conditions?
Xanthium, commonly known as cocklebur, is a genus of plants that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the research on Xanthium as a Chinese medicinal herb: Traditional Uses Xanthium, particularly the species Xanthium sibiricum (also known as Xanthium strumarium), has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for various purposes: – Treating rhinitis, nasal congestion, and sinusitis[1][2] – Alleviating headaches[2][4] – Managing allergic conditions[1][3] – Addressing bacterial and fungal infections[2] – Treating arthritis and rheumatism[2] The fruit of the plant, known as Cang-Er-Zi in Chinese medicine, is the most commonly used part for medicinal purposes[1][2]. Phytochemistry Extensive research has been conducted on the chemical composition of Xanthium species. Some of the key compounds identified include: – Sesquiterpenoids (e.g., xanthatin, xanthanolides)[1][2][4] – Phenylpropenoids[1] – Lignans[1] – Coumarins[1] – Steroids[1] – Glycosides[1] – Flavonoids[1] Over 170 chemical constituents have been isolated and identified from Xanthium strumarium[2]. Pharmacological Activities Modern research has revealed a wide range of pharmacological effects of Xanthium extracts and compounds: **Anti-allergic effects:** Studies have shown that Xanthium can effectively treat allergic rhinitis by modulating cytokine production and inflammatory responses[1][3]. **Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects:** Various compounds from Xanthium have demonstrated the...
read moreBell’s palsy and Acupuncture – what the research tells us.
What does the research tell us about Acupuncture and its effect on Bell’s palsy? Based on the research, acupuncture appears to be a potentially effective therapy for Bell’s palsy, with several proposed mechanisms of action. Acupuncture is not considered a treatment for Bell’s palsy, but it does seem to help improve symptoms. Below you will find some of the ways that it may work: 1. Reducing inflammation and edema: Acupuncture may help reduce facial nerve swelling and inflammation, which are common in Bell’s palsy cases [1][3]. 2. Improving nerve conduction: Studies suggest acupuncture can enhance nerve conduction, potentially improving the speed of electrical signals through the affected facial nerve [2]. 3. Promoting nerve regeneration: Acupuncture may stimulate regeneration of nerve fibers and formation of collateral branches [4]. 4. Enhancing blood circulation: Improved local blood flow to the affected area may aid recovery [2][4]. 5. Modulating immune response: Acupuncture may help regulate inflammatory and immune responses related to Bell’s palsy [3]. 6. Accelerating recovery: Several studies indicate that acupuncture, especially when started early, can shorten recovery time and improve outcomes [1][5]. 7. Improving muscle activity: Acupuncture may enhance muscle contraction in the affected facial muscles [4]. 8. Reducing complications: Some...
read moreThanksgiving Comic Relief. Stress reduction with Dr. Lou in Portland, Maine
In the wake of a politically charged year, every laugh counts. It’s time to regroup and we’ve got just the thing for the holidays. In addition to Dr. Lou’s Guitar Raffle For Rescues to benefit the dogs of Pittie Posse Rescue & Sanctuary, we have a Thanksgiving Comic Relief Kit for you and your family. This kit will distract you all from the conflicts, challenges, and discussions that make us most likely to begin the Thanksgiving War of 2024. HOW DO YOU ENTER? Film yourself saying “When I think chiropractor, I think Dr. Lou!” That’s it. Send that 3 second video to us with the understanding that it will be used online as part of one of our marketing campaigns. The rest of the details are listed below. You need not be a patient at our office and you can live anywhere within the continental U.S. If you do not live locally, we will mail the gifts to you if you win. The gag box contains 4 sources of fun and distraction: 1. The Annual Inflatable Turkey – Blow it up and serve! 2. One bag of plastic cock roaches – for garnishing! 3. Drunk, Stoned or Stupid...
read moreBell’s palsy and The Vagus Nerve. Are they related?
Bell’s palsy Multiple sources report an annual incidence of about 23 cases per 100,000 persons in the United States, with recurrence happening at a rate of 8-12%. A theory about the vagus nerve being involved in Bell’s Palsy was recently floated to me, and I thought it would be wise to dig around a little bit to help you understand the relationship a bit better. Bell’s palsy primarily affects the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII), but in some cases it can involve other cranial nerves, including the vagus nerve (cranial nerve X). Here are the key points about the relationship between Bell’s palsy and the vagus nerve: 1. Typical Bell’s palsy: Bell’s palsy typically affects only the facial nerve, causing weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles on one side[5][6]. This is the most common presentation. 2. Atypical presentations: In some cases, Bell’s palsy can involve other cranial nerves in addition to the facial nerve. This is considered an atypical presentation[3]. 3. Vagus nerve involvement: When the vagus nerve is affected along with the facial nerve in Bell’s palsy, it is a rare occurrence. The vagus nerve controls functions such as swallowing, speech, and some aspects of taste[1][5]. 4....
read moreInfantile Colic – Digestive issues or Migraine Pain – Important Research!
As we learn more about infantile colic, protocols for treatment may change dramatically. Several studies have suggested that infant colic may be related to migraine headaches rather than digestive issues. While the talking points below suggest a relationship between colic and migraine later in life, it’s not yet clear whether infants with colic are experiencing a migraine as a cause of their colic. They can’t explain what they feel because they don’t speak yet, which is an obstacle for researchers. As a board certified pediatric chiropractor I see a lot of infants whose parents bring them to me for help with colic. Historically, if vertebral subluxation (spinal dysfunction that creates neurological confusion and misfiring) is found, adjusting the spine with pediatric adjusting techniques has helped most of these children. The most common subluxation in these children in my experience has been in the upper cervical spine. Whether from birth trauma, restricted movement in the womb, or infantile torticollis, babies often have neck tension, restriction or preferences related to how they hold their head, this is the part of the spine most often associated with headaches and migraines in people of all ages. below you will find a list of...
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