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6 Benefits of Butterbur herb and side effects

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6 Benefits of Butterbur Herb and side effects.

Seasonal allergies are often accompanied by a flurry of unpleasant symptoms. Sneezing, sniffling and itchy eyes are just some of the annoying side effects that come with the season.

If you’re like most, you’ve probably desperately reached for antihistamines to find quick relief from your allergies only to experience additional symptoms like drowsiness, dry mouth, or nausea.

Fortunately, there are natural allergy remedies, like the herb butterbur, that can help prevent symptoms without the unpleasant side effects.

Butterbur herb is good for more than just allergy season. It can be used year-round to relieve inflammation, prevent migraines, reduce asthma symptoms, and even protect the brain and heart from damage.

In the past, it was also used as a traditional treatment to help heal wounds, reduce symptoms of urinary tract infection, and fight fevers.

Available in a convenient capsule form, adding butterbur herb to your medicine cabinet can have a huge impact on your health and may even reduce your need for other medications.

Benefits of Butterbur Herb

1.- treats seasonal allergies

Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever or seasonal allergies, is an allergic response that produces symptoms such as sneezing and itchy eyes.

Although traditional treatment includes medications such as antihistamines, steroids, and decongestants, the herb butterbur can be an effective natural alternative to help reduce symptoms.

In one study, butterbur extract was shown to be significantly more effective in treating hay fever than placebo in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group comparison.

In another study, the effects of butterbur were compared to cetirizine, also known as Zyrtec, a drug used to treat seasonal allergies. Not only was butterbur as effective as cetirizine in improving symptoms, but it also produced fewer negative side effects, such as drowsiness and fatigue.

For those who suffer from seasonal allergies, butterbur can be a great option to help lessen symptoms and avoid the adverse side effects that can occur with traditional medications.

2.- Relieves migraines

If you’ve ever suffered from migraines, you’re probably all too familiar with the long list of migraine symptoms that come with them.

Throbbing pain, sensitivity to light and sound, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting are all common side effects when you have a migraine.

Fortunately, many natural remedies can help lessen symptoms. Butterbur herb extract has been shown to help naturally treat migraines.

In one study, the benefits of butterbur cut migraine frequency by 48 percent over a four-month treatment period. Another trial found similar results, showing that the herb decreased the number of migraines by 47 percent and was significantly more effective than a placebo.

Additional research focused only on children and adolescents who took butterbur and found that migraine frequency was reduced by 63 percent, and 91 percent still felt improvements four months after treatment.

If you suffer from frequent migraines, butterbur can be a great natural remedy to have on hand. You may also want to consider other natural remedies, such as feverfew, which have been shown to provide migraine relief as well.

3.- Reduces asthma symptoms

Asthma is a common problem throughout the world, affecting approximately 300 million people and accounting for 250,000 premature deaths each year.

Some evidence shows that the benefits of butterbur herb could be used in combination with traditional treatment to help improve asthma symptoms.

One study measured the effects of butterbur in 80 participants with asthma for four months. Not only did the severity, duration, and number of asthma attacks decrease, but symptoms also improved, and 40 percent of participants reduced their use of asthma medications.

An animal study also showed that butterbur has potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help treat asthma.

Using butterbur, alone or with other asthma treatments, might help reduce asthma symptoms and severity while reducing the number of asthma attacks.

4.- Protects the brain

Interestingly, there is some evidence showing that butterbur might help keep your brain healthy and protect against oxidative damage.

Oxidative damage is caused by the buildup of damaging free radicals, compounds that form as a result of factors such as stress, pollution, and a poor diet. If antioxidants don’t neutralize free radicals, they can cause cell damage and even lead to chronic disease.

An animal study showed that the herb butterbur has a protective effect on the brain. It was able to prevent damage to the brain even after a neurotoxin was administered.

The herb butterbur also contains a plant compound called kaempferol, which is also found in foods such as broccoli,  Brussels sprouts, spinach, apples, and green tea. Kaempferol boasts a long list of health benefits and has even been shown to prevent oxidative damage to the brain.

Compounds found in butterbur may help keep your brain healthy and prevent degenerative brain disorders such as dementia and  Alzheimer’s disease.

5.- Promotes heart health

The herb butterbur is full of health-promoting compounds and antioxidants that can help improve your heart health and reduce certain risk factors for heart disease.

In an animal study, butterbur supplementation was shown to decrease total cholesterol,  bad LDL cholesterol, and oxidative stress in mice. Another animal study also found that it improved cholesterol concentrations and even reduced body weight and fat accumulation.

The kaempferol found in this herb may also benefit heart health. Several studies have shown that it can protect against heart damage caused by heart attacks.

6.- Reduces inflammation

Although inflammation is a normal response of the immune system, more and more emerging research shows that chronic inflammation may be at the root of many diseases. Inflammation is thought to contribute to diseases like obesity, cancer,  diabetes,  and heart disease.

The herb butterbur contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to prevent the buildup of inflammatory cells in the body. Kaempferol, one of the components found in butterbur, also contains anti-inflammatory properties.

An animal study showed that kaempferol reduced levels of inflammatory markers and reduced oxidative stress in mice.

According to these studies, pairing butterbur with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle may help decrease inflammation and prevent chronic disease.

How To Use Butterbur Herb

The herb butterbur is most commonly found as a supplement in capsule form and is widely available at most natural health stores, drug stores, and online retailers.

It is also found in some natural medicines, such as Petadolex. Petadolex is a medicine containing butterbur that is used to promote blood flow and prevent migraines.

Most studies show that butterbur is most effective when given in doses of 50 to 75 milligrams twice daily. You may want to start with a smaller amount and gradually increase your intake to assess tolerance.

Be aware that some butterbur-containing products may also contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), a type of chemical that can cause liver damage and other adverse side effects. If you have liver problems, avoid raw butterbur and look for butterbur-free products to avoid this harmful chemical.

Also, be sure to look for a trusted brand with minimal ingredients to ensure you’re getting the best quality possible.

The butterbur plant in dried form or extract can also be used to make an allergy-fighting tea.

Butterbur Herb Side Effects and Precautions

Although generally safe and well-tolerated, some people may want to avoid butterbur.

Some people may be allergic to this herb. Butterfly allergies are more common in those who are also sensitive to other plants in the same family, such as ragweed, daisies, marigolds, and chrysanthemums. If you experience symptoms such as hives, itching, or swelling of the throat, you should stop using immediately and talk to your doctor.

If you are pregnant or nursing, the use of butterbur is not recommended as its effects have not yet been studied. Also, although it is safe and effective for children, it should only be given to children under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

You should also make sure to only use products labeled certified PA-free to avoid liver damage and other negative effects. Consuming raw, unprocessed butterbur is not recommended for those with liver problems in particular, as these harmful chemicals have not been removed.

Common side effects of butterbur include headache,  diarrhea, fatigue, belching, and itchy eyes.

As always, if you experience negative side effects, you may want to lower the dosage or discontinue use and consult with your doctor.

Final Thoughts on Butterbur Herb Benefits

The butterbur herb has a long history of being used as a medicinal herb, treating everything from the plague to fevers and wounds.

Several recent studies have shown that it can effectively treat migraines, reduce seasonal allergy symptoms, protect the heart and brain, relieve inflammation, and lessen the severity of asthma.

It’s easy to add butterbur into your daily routine whether you’re using a supplement once or twice a day or brewing an occasional cup of butterbur tea.

Use alone or with other natural remedies in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle to help improve certain conditions and move toward better health.

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5 Ways a Qualified Marijuana Doctor Can Streamline the Process of Obtaining Your Medical Card

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5 Ways a Qualified Marijuana Doctor Can Streamline the Process of Obtaining Your Medical Card

A qualified cannabis physician will perform a physical exam, complete and document a full assessment of your medical history and determine whether you qualify for a marijuana card. This process typically takes 20 – 30 minutes. If you meet the qualifications, a medical marijuana doctor will give you a patient ID number that you can use to register with your state.

Streamlined Appointments

Whether you’re a current medical marijuana patient or are seeking an evaluation to become one, your experience with your doctor can be a huge factor in the success of your treatment. A qualified doctor will take the time to examine and question you about your symptoms thoroughly. They will listen to you and provide an honest opinion on whether they think medical cannabis can help. Medical marijuana doctors like Texas 420 Doctors are educated on cannabis as a medicine and can determine if your conditions qualify you for the drug. This means they can create a personalized marijuana treatment plan for you. A great way to streamline your appointment is by offering telemedicine consultations. Unlike traditional MD or DO assignments, these can be done at any time of day. In addition to the streamlined appointment, medical marijuana doctors can help expedite the process of completing the state’s application. They will make sure you have the correct paperwork, forms, and medical records ready to go so that you can complete your registration or renewal. Additionally, they will alert you if your physician certification is approaching its expiration date so you can schedule an appointment to get recertified.

Convenient Locations

A qualified marijuana doctor knows that patients are eager to get relief from their debilitating symptoms and will work hard to schedule appointments that accommodate their busy lives. They are also familiar with state laws and understand the limitations on physician access to medical marijuana patients. Depending on your condition, medical marijuana may ease the pain of cancer treatment, reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, or help you sleep better. Medical marijuana can come in various forms, including dried flowers, edibles, tinctures, and topicals. A qualified marijuana doctor will ask you to bring a government-issued photo ID and a list of your current medications. They will also review your health records and determine if cannabis is an appropriate medication to treat your symptoms. They will explain how to use the medicine and discuss the risks. They will also recommend entering your name into the medical marijuana registry. Your certifying doctor must do this for each patient before you can purchase from a dispensary. You will be subject to legal repercussions if you do not complete this step.

No Waiting

Marijuana is a plant with multiple medicinal properties. It contains two active compounds; one is cannabidiol (CBD), and the other is delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It has several therapeutic properties and has been found to help with chronic pain, PTSD, seizures, and many other conditions. Although it remains illegal on a federal level, 29 states and DC have legalized marijuana. While medical marijuana is still a very new industry, physicians are working to navigate uncharted legal territory to provide patients with the relief they need. It is important to find a doctor willing to work with state regulations and stay up to date on the latest research on medical cannabis.

Qualified doctors are also able to expedite the process of getting your card. They can provide a medical marijuana recommendation to eligible patients, which is needed to register online with the state. This will allow patients to purchase medical marijuana at a dispensary. In addition, the doctor can provide a government-issued photo ID to the patient and caregivers for identification purposes.

Knowledgeable Staff

Providing patients with the information and advice they need to treat their conditions effectively is one of the most important tasks of any doctor. A medical marijuana doctor is no different. They will take the time to explain the benefits, side effects, and contraindications of cannabis. They will also be knowledgeable about the current state of medical marijuana research, ensuring that their recommendations are based on the latest scientific evidence.

Marijuana has several medicinal compounds, including CBD and delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Both have been shown to have therapeutic effects for many health conditions. However, it is still illegal at the federal level and must be obtained through a qualified physician’s recommendation. Medical marijuana doctors are willing to navigate uncharted legal areas and make it possible for their patients to access a medication that can help ease pain, anxiety, nausea, spasms, and more. These doctors are dedicated to reducing the burdens and time associated with obtaining your medical card and helping you find relief from your symptoms. They are a true lifesaver for many people who need the natural treatment that marijuana can provide.

Experience

Many people are still unsure about the process of qualifying for medical marijuana. So many factors are involved, from self-reporting health symptoms to the cost of multiple appointments to get a formal diagnosis.

A qualified marijuana doctor can help make this process as simple and stress-free as possible. A physician who is familiar with the medical benefits of cannabis can help patients find the right products and dosages to treat their specific health conditions. Marijuana physicians should also be able to answer any questions that patients may have about the law or regulations in their state. This will ensure patients receive the most accurate information to avoid potential issues. A medical marijuana recommendation is valid for one year, and annual renewals are required. Finding a qualified, compassionate, cannabis-friendly doctor is important in obtaining your medical card. By understanding the benefits of working with a qualified marijuana doctor, you can save time and money while ensuring you receive the treatment you need to alleviate your symptoms.

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Understanding the Role of Neurologists in Colorado Integrated Neurology

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Understanding the Role of Neurologists in Colorado Integrated Neurology

Colorado Integrated Neurology provides chiropractic neurology and functional medicine care for patients with complex neurological conditions such as concussions, POTS, vertigo, balance disorders, movement disorders, and dysautonomia. 

The survey revealed that most neurologists do not understand (or disagree with) the concept of death that BD fulfills and that brain functions often remain in patients diagnosed dead using accepted clinical tests confirming the BD criterion.

What Is Integrated Neurology?

Integrated neurology services treat conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body dementia, Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury, stroke, epilepsy, and other less common neurobehavioral disorders. These specialists use a comprehensive approach to assess a patient’s cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning and develop individualized treatment strategies for each case.

Advanced radiology imaging can detect blood clots in the brain and perform a procedure called a thrombolysis or clot-busting injection. A tiny tube (catheter) is inserted through the neck or groin to access the blocked artery in the brain. Once the clot is removed, blood flow to the brain resumes, and brain cells are no longer deprived of oxygen.

Providing a one-stop shop for patients, they offer sleep studies, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), Botox treatment for migraines, electromyography, electroencephalograms (EEG), and other diagnostic procedures. 

What Are the Benefits of Integrated Neurology?

Colorado Integrated Neurology neurologists offer the latest diagnostic tools, including CT and MRI scans. They also perform procedures like spinal cord stimulators and deep brain stimulation (DBS). Additionally, they provide extensive treatments like sleep studies, CPAP, Botox for migraines, and telemedicine to help patients control their symptoms and enhance their quality of life.

The team specializes in neurobehavioral disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy body dementia, Parkinson’s, and traumatic brain injury. They work with various healthcare professionals, including general neurologists, psychiatrists, and therapists, to create a treatment plan that addresses the neurological and behavioral aspects of these disorders.

Many neurologists hesitate to learn about and incorporate integrative health into their practice because they believe it is not evidence-based, focuses on unconventional methods, or promotes unnecessary or harmful therapies. However, taking a don’t-ask-don’t-tell approach to this issue may lead to suboptimal care for their patients by implicitly endorsing unconventional medicine and perpetuating the misperception that alternative therapies are safe and effective.

How Can Integrated Neurology Help Me?

During integrated learning, students must make connections between different fields of study. These connections are further reinforced through case studies and presentations/seminars. The more a student is forced to recognize diseases that intersect neurology and psychiatry, the more likely they will identify them as they continue their education and career.

Integrated Neurologists can access state-of-the-art technologies like ultrasounds and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to visualize a patient’s brain and spinal cord. It allows them to identify and treat problems like stroke, blood clots, seizures, head trauma, and multiple sclerosis.

Integrative neurologists can also help patients with lifestyle practices that may positively or negatively affect their health. They can help patients differentiate unconventional therapies from safe and effective ones. For example, they can help their patients with MS distinguish a diet that helps manage symptoms from those that do not.

What Is the Role of the Neurologists in Integrated Neurology?

A neurologist is a medical doctor trained to investigate, diagnose, and treat neurological disorders. These diseases affect the brain, spinal cord, cranial nerves, peripheral nerves, autonomic nervous system, and neuromuscular junction. Symptoms may include weakness, uncontrolled movement of body parts, lack of coordination or loss of sensation, chronic pain, or changes in behavior and emotional states.

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Untreated Sleep Apnea and Its Hidden Dangers

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Untreated Sleep Apnea and Its Hidden Dangers

Millions of people all around the world are impacted by sleep apnea, a prevalent but sometimes ignored sleep disorder. Unfortunately, a sizable portion of cases go unidentified and untreated. We will delve into the world of untreated sleep apnea in this blog, looking at its possible effects on physical and mental health as well as providing management tips.

Understanding Sleep Apnea

Breathing pauses or short breaths while sleeping are symptoms of sleep apnea. Multiple apneas, also known as interruptions, can take place in a single hour and can cause irregular sleep patterns. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most frequent type, results from an obstruction of the airway, usually caused by the soft tissue at the back of the throat collapsing.

The Unknown Threat

Sleep apnea can seriously harm a person’s general health if left untreated. Although the acute symptoms can appear to be unimportant, the long-term consequences might be serious and widespread.

Heart Complications

The effects of untreated sleep apnea on the cardiovascular system may be the most concerning side effect. Apneas stress the heart and can cause hypertension, arrhythmias, and even heart failure because of the intermittent shortage of oxygen they cause. Untreated OSA clearly increases the risk of stroke and heart attack, according to studies.

Daytime Sluggishness and Reduced Cognitive Abilities

Daytime tiredness and cognitive impairment are frequently the results of the fragmented sleep patterns brought on by sleep apnea. People could have trouble focusing, making choices, or remembering information. This may have a substantial impact on daily tasks, such as working and driving, and may even increase the risk of accidents and lower productivity.

Mood Disorders and Mental Health

A close connection has been shown between sleep apnea and mood disorders like anxiety and depression. The equilibrium of neurotransmitters in the brain can be upset by persistent sleep loss and the physiological stress response brought on by apneas. This imbalance may eventually play a role in the onset or worsening of mental health issues.

Gaining Weight and Metabolic Problems

Untreated sleep apnea can cause weight gain or make it more difficult to lose weight. Sleep disturbance can cause hormones that control hunger to become unbalanced, which increases appetite, especially for high-calorie, carbohydrate-rich foods. Additionally, untreated sleep apnea is linked to insulin resistance, which may result in type 2 diabetes.

Strained Relationships

Untreated sleep apnea frequently has an effect on not only the affected person but also their spouses and family. The sleep of those who share a bed can be disturbed by loud snoring and irregular sleep patterns, which can cause resentment, frustration, and marital tension.

Management and Treatment

Thankfully, there are practical methods for treating sleep apnea. Symptoms can be reduced by making lifestyle adjustments such as losing weight, exercising frequently, and refraining from alcohol and sedatives. Positional therapy, which involves switching up sleeping positions, can also occasionally be successful.

Sleep apnea is commonly treated with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) equipment, which are also very successful. These gadgets keep the airway from contracting as you sleep by providing a constant flow of air through a mask.

Oral appliances that keep the airway open may be advised for people with mild to moderate sleep apnea. Surgery may be an option in extreme circumstances to address structural problems restricting the airway.

Conclusion

Untreated sleep apnea is a major medical issue that could have catastrophic effects on a person’s physical and mental health. For reducing these risks, it is essential to be aware of the symptoms and seek the right therapy. People can regain deep, rejuvenating sleep, enjoy improved general health, and improve their quality of life by treating sleep apnea. Take action right away to stop the silent threat of untreated sleep apnea.

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