Quick & Handy Home Remedies: Find practical, affordable ways to deal with some of life's most common ailments, proving that getting back to the basics has its reward. Only $16.95 +s/h
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Q. Could you please respond to all of the articles that I've been reading lately that hail turmeric as a powerful herb for its anti-inflammatory abilities, cancer prevention abilities and much more?
A. Turmeric has been used as a spice in Indian cooking for centuries. It adds the yellow color and distinctive flavor to curry.
Researchers have been studying an ingredient in turmeric called curcumin. This compound has antioxidant activity and also has strong anti-inflammatory properties. In rats, curcumin reduces precancerous lesions and colon cancers.
Readers of this column tell us it helps prevent boils and relieve arthritis and back pain. Others report that yellow mustard (which contains turmeric) can alleviate heartburn and flatulence.
Q. I am interested in finding an alternative remedy for motion sickness. Can you recommend any herbal approaches? I am leery of the scopolamine patch because you have to wear it for days. I hear it can cause drowsiness, and I have terrible reactions to Dramamine.
I am learning to scuba dive this summer and I need to be able to go out onto the ocean on boats to reach dive destinations.
A. Your concern is justified. The manufacturer of Transderm Scop warns, "Patients who expect to participate in underwater sports should be cautioned regarding the potentially disorienting effects of scopolamine."
This drug can cause drowsiness and confusion, which are not desirable when scuba diving.
Ginger is a time-honored motion-sickness remedy. It should be taken half an hour before getting on the boat.
Q. I took Zocor for several months and developed painful joints and muscle weakness. My doctor switched me to Lipitor but the pain persisted. I also experienced skin problems and memory loss. Finally I gave up on these drugs.
I'd like all the information you can provide concerning lowering my cholesterol "naturally." I can't just ignore my elevated cholesterol, but I can't handle the drugs. What can I do with diet, vitamins and herbs?
A. The first approach is to include plenty of fiber, especially soluble fiber, in your diet. Psyllium, pectin and guar gum can all lower cholesterol.
Ask your doctor whether niacin would be safe for you. This vitamin has been prescribed by physicians for decades to lower cholesterol and triglycerides while it raises good HDL cholesterol. Fish oil is another way to have a similar effect.
We are Sending your our book, The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies, with a number of natural approaches to cholesterol and heart health. Anyone who would like a copy may send $8.99 (which includes shipping) to Graedons' People's Pharmacy, Dept HHR; PO Box 52027; Durham, NC 27717-2027.
Herbs that also lower cholesterol include gugul and red yeast rice. Your doctor should be involved in your treatment program to monitor progress.
Q. Everyone in our family has allergies or mild asthma. My father had suffered with severe sinus problems all of his life. Then a few years ago I read about stinging nettle leaves. We tried it and it solved the problem. My father is now 84 and has no trouble whatsoever with allergies. My youngest son had been using an inhaler for allergies, and no longer needs it.
A. Stinging nettle extract is especially popular in Germany. Studies conducted there suggest that it may be helpful against hay fever.
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