Pain On Inside of Knee No Swelling: If there is no swelling with your medial knee pain, it is likely only a minor injury such as a small cartilage tear or a grade 1 sprain of the MCL.
Inner Knee Pain When Running: Knee pain medial side during or after running is most typically caused by a cartilage tear or Runners Knee.
Inner Knee Pain When Straightening Leg: Pes Anserine Bursitis is the main culprit here as the bursa can easily get squashed when straightening the knee.
Medial Knee Pain with Flexion: Most medial knee pain gets worse with knee flexion, especially when weight bearing through the leg. If it’s worse when standing, it may indicate an MCL tear or meniscus tear. If it happens when you are sitting or bending the knee, it may be pes anserine bursitis or plica syndrome.
Anterior Medial Knee Pain: If your inner knee pain is coming round to the front of the knee, it may be a problem with the kneecap or Runners Knee rather than one of the structures on the inner knee.
Causes of Inner Knee Pain
Medial knee injuries are common because of muscle weakness and/or tightness around the knee that can subtly change the way the knee moves. This causes more force to go through the inner side of the joint, rather than distributing weight evenly through the whole joint, which results in damage to the inner side of the knee and therefore results in medial knee pain. For example, it is much more common to get osteoarthritis on the inner side of the knee than the outer side.
Pes Anserine Bursitis
Inflammation of the pes anserine bursa, causing medial knee pain. The pes anserinus is an area on the medial (inner) side of the knee where three muscle tendons attach to the tibia (shin bone). Pes anserinus means “goose’s foot” and it gets its name from the webbed-foot shape made by these three tendons where they join forming one tendon and attach to the shin bone. Repetitive stress or friction over the area results in inflammation of the pes anserine bursa. The bursa produces excessive fluid and thus swells, placing pressure on the surrounding structures. Pain from pes anserine bursitis usually develops gradually rather than suddenly and tends to get worse with activities such as stair climbing and running.
The most common causes of pes anserine bursitis are:
Repetitive Stress: Activities where the three muscles are being used repetitively, such as in running (particularly uphill), cycling, swimming (particularly breaststroke), and side-to-side movements can cause friction and pressure on the bursa.
Muscle Weakness/Tightness: Weakness and/or tightness in the hip and knee muscles can place increased tension on the pes anserine tendons which damages the tendon itself and increases pressure on the bursa. Tight hamstrings are a common cause of pes anserine bursitis.
Poor Training Techniques: Training errors such as sudden increases in distance or intensity, not warming up and inadequate stretching can over stress the area.
Other Medical Conditions: Joint inflammation associated with arthritis can cause swelling of the bursa. Studies have shown that approximately 20% of people with knee osteoarthritis suffer from pes anserine bursitis. People with Type 2 Diabetes or Osgood Schlatters are also more likely to develop bursitis.
Gender: Pes anserine bursitis is more common in women, due to a wider pelvis and the angle of the knee joint.
Altered Biomechanics: changes to the position of the leg bones and soft tissues, such as flat feet or a turned out foot can place extra pressure on the Pes Anserine region.
Obesity: More weight goes through the area increasing the pressure on the knee bursa.
Trauma: direct injury such as a blow to the pes anserinus area can lead to swelling of the bursa.
Plica syndrome
A condition caused by inflammation in the lining of the knee joint. It results in achy knee pain which gets worse with activity, particularly up and down stairs, a feeling of instability in the knee and sometimes a catching or locking sensation. Plica syndrome develops when the synovial folds are irritated and become inflamed. This may be due to direct knee trauma, overuse or repetitive activities, or an underlying knee problem that affects the pliability of the synovial membrane. The knee plica may get trapped or pinched between the knee bones, or caught on the femur. When this happens, the knee plica in question becomes inflamed, gradually thickens and eventually, if left untreated, becomes hard.
Plica syndrome is typically caused by:
Direct Trauma: A blow to the knee e.g. a fall on to the knee or a RTA where the knee hits the dashboard
Repetitive Knee Movements: Activities where you repeatedly bend and straighten the knee are often to blame for knee plica syndrome e.g. running, cycling, going up and down stairs
Sudden Increase In Activities: If you rapidly increase your exercise levels it can lead to overloading of the synovial plica and thus they become inflamed
Knee Injuries: particularly twisting injuries, meniscus tears or anything that causes bleeding in the knee joint
Prolonged Flexion: sitting for long periods or sleeping with your knee bent often result in pain with plica synovialis
Underlying Knee Conditions: such as osteochondritis dissecans, fat pad irritation or synovitis
Muscle Weakness: As the plica are indirectly attached to the quadriceps, weakness in the quads muscles increases the force through the plica leading to irritation and inflammation
Treatments for Inner Knee Pain
Rest: temporarily avoid activities that cause pain. This may mean modifying your activities or indeed stopping some altogether to allow the swelling to settle down.
Regular Ice: Applying an ice pack for 10-15 minutes, every couple of hours, to the inner side of the knee can help to reduce pain and swelling associated with pes anserine bursitis.
Herbal Remedies: peppermint, chamomile and lavender are anti-inflammatory, calming and pain relieving; turmeric and ginger assist in healing and pain relief; arnica assists in healing and strengthening tissues; magnesium assists in healing and reducing inflammation.
Medication: Anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen can help to reduce pain and inflammation with knee bursitis. Always check with your doctor before taking any medication.
Stretches: performing simple stretching exercises is an important part of the treatment process to take the pressure off the bursa.
Strengthening Exercises: weakness in the hip and knee muscles makes subtle changes to the way the forces go through the knee, so by strengthening the glutes, quads and hamstrings, you can ease the pressure on the pes anserinus bursa.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can assess any areas of weakness and tightness that may be contributing to the problem and work on a rehab program with you. They may also use treatments such as ultrasound and acupuncture to help reduce pain and inflammation with knee bursitis.
Cinnamomum
cassia, called Chinese cassia or Chinese cinnamon, is an
evergreen tree originating in southern China, and widely cultivated there and
elsewhere in southern and eastern Asia (India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Taiwan,
Thailand, and Vietnam). It is one of several species of Cinnamomum used
primarily for their aromatic bark, which is used as a spice. In the United
States, Chinese cassia is the most common type of cinnamon used. The buds are
also used as a spice, especially in India, and were once used by the ancient Romans.
Find Cinnamon Bark in Mother Jai’s Pain Relief Tea and other great products. Check them out below.
Herbal Tea Blend – 4oz Bag
Herbal remedies to use instead of over-the-counter chemicals.
Chinese cassia is a close relative to Ceylon cinnamon (C.
verum), Saigon cinnamon (C. loureiroi), also known as “Vietnamese
cinnamon”, Indonesian cinnamon (C. burmannii), also called
“korintje”, and Malabar cinnamon (C. citriodorum) from Sri Lanka. In
all five species, the dried bark is used as a spice. Chinese cassia’s flavor is
less delicate than that of Ceylon cinnamon. Its bark is thicker, more difficult
to crush, and has a rougher texture than that of Ceylon cinnamon.
Other
Names: Bastard Cinnamon, Canela de Cassia, Canela de la China,
Canela Molida, Canelero Chino, Canelle, Cannelle Bâtarde, Cannelle Cassia,
Cannelle de Ceylan, Cannelle de Chine, Cannelle de Cochinchine, Cannelle de
Padang, Cannelle de Saigon
Cassia bark (both powdered and in whole, or “stick”
form) is used as a flavoring agent for confectionery, desserts, pastries, and
meat; it is specified in many curry recipes, where Ceylon cinnamon is less
suitable. Cassia is sometimes added to Ceylon cinnamon, but is a much thicker,
coarser product. Cassia is sold as pieces of bark, as neat quills or sticks.
Cassia sticks can be distinguished from Ceylon cinnamon sticks in this manner:
Ceylon cinnamon sticks have many thin layers and can easily be made into powder
using a coffee or spice grinder, whereas cassia sticks are extremely hard and
are usually made up of one thick layer.
Cinnamomum cassia is a medicinal plant that contains a
range of bioactive substances, including cinnamic aldehyde. Studies of cinnamic
aldehyde treatment in mid-aged rats have resulted in alleviation of chronic
unexpected stress-induced depressive-like behaviors. Cinnamic aldehyde is an
enzyme inhibitor drug, immunologic drug, and an anti-inflammatory drug. It is
administered orally to treat behavioral and mental disorders, targeting the
hippocampus and the frontal cortex. Current findings might be beneficial in
treating subjects in depression.
People take Cassia cinnamon by mouth for diabetes, gas
(flatulence), muscle and stomach spasms, preventing nausea and vomiting,
diarrhea, infections, the common cold, and loss of appetite. Some people use it
for erectile dysfunction (ED), hernia, bed-wetting, joint pain, menopausal
symptoms, menstrual problems, and to cause abortions. Cassia cinnamon is also
used for chest pain, kidney disorders, high blood pressure, cramps, and cancer.
Some apply cassia cinnamon to the skin to repel mosquitos.
How
does it work?
Cassia cinnamon contains hydroxychalcone and similar
chemicals. These chemicals seem to improve insulin sensitivity. Cassia cinnamon
also contains chemicals that may activate blood proteins that increase blood
sugar uptake. These effects may improve blood sugar control in patients with
diabetes. Cassia cinnamon also contains cinnamaldehyde. This chemical might
have activity against bacteria and fungi. It also seems to stop the growth of
some types of solid tumor cells.
The
Difference Between the Two:
Ceylon cinnamin, also called “true cinnamon,”
comes from crumbly inner bark of the Cinnamomum zeylanicum tree. It’s light
brown, and has a sweet and delicate flavor.
Cassia comes from the Cinnamomum cassia
plant, and is also called “Chinese cinnamon.” This type is a darker, redder
brown, and has a harsher, more overpowering flavor with less sweetness. Cassia
sticks are particularly hardy.
Though both types have been found in studies to have
definite health benefits, cassia does have more “coumarin,” which is a natural
plant component that can have strong blood-thinning properties and can also
lead to liver damage at high levels. The level of coumarin in ceylon is lower,
so for individuals concerned about blood-thinning effects, ceylon would be the
better choice.
Health Benefits
Both types of cinnamon have health benefits, including the following.
Diabetes.
Recent studies have found that cinnamon may help control blood sugar levels. In
2003, for example, Diabetes Care found that people with type 2 diabetes who
took 1, 3, or 6 grams of cinnamon reduced their fasting blood glucose levels by
18–29 percent, and also reduced triglycerides by 23–30 percent. It also reduced
LDL cholesterol by 7–27 percent, and total cholesterol by 12–26 percent.
High
Source of Antioxidants. Cinnamon is packed with a variety of
protective antioxidants that reduce free radical damage and slow the aging
process; in fact researchers have identified forty-one different protective
compounds of cinnamon to date!
Helps
Defend Against Cognitive Decline & Protects Brain Function. Research
also shows that another benefit of cinnamon’s protective antioxidant properties
is that they can help defend the brain against developing neurological
disorders, such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. One way that cinnamon
protects cognitive function and brain health is because it activates
neuro-protective proteins that protect brain cells from mutation and undergoing
damage. This further reduces the negative effects of oxidative stress by
stopping cells from morphing and self-destructing.
Alzheimer’s
Disease. According to a 2009 study, extracts of Ceylon cinnamon
inhibited the formation of the proteins and filaments that are the hallmark of
Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers isolated a certain flavonoid
(proanthocyanidin) from the cinnamon and determined it had the majority if the
inhibitory properties.
Cancer. One
animal study found that a particular component in cinnamon impaired the
proliferation of cancer cells and slowed tumor growth. A second study published
in 2010 also found that cinnamon extracts were directly linked with anti-tumor
effects.
Anti-inflammatory. A
study from South Korea found that compounds from cassia cinnamon had promise as
an anti-inflammatory agent, with potential in treating dyspepsia, gastritis,
and inflammatory diseases.
Protects
Heart Health. Studies have shown that another health
benefit of cinnamon is that it reduces several of the most common risk factors
for heart disease, including high cholesterol levels, high triglyceride levels,
and high blood pressure. The special compounds in cinnamon are able to help
reduce levels of total cholesterol, LDL “bad” cholesterol and triglycerides,
while HDL “good” cholesterol remains stable. Cinnamon has also been shown to
reduce high blood pressure, which is another threat for causing heart disease
or a stroke.
Fights
Infections & Viruses. There are many benefits of cinnamon when
it comes to defending the body from illnesses. Cinnamon is a natural
anti-microbial, anti-biotic, anti-fungal, and anti-viral agent. The
immune-boosting abilities of cinnamon are found in cinnamon’s essential oils. Cinnamon
is used in many cultures to naturally help fight harmful infections and
viruses. Cinnamon oils also have protective abilities against various bacteria
which can cause negative symptoms in the digestive tract, on the surface of the
skin, and can lead to colds or the flu. Cinnamon is so powerful at boosting
immunity that some studies even show that it may be able to reduce the risk of
contracting the HIV virus.
Anti-microbial.
Several studies have indicated that cinnamon has the ability to fight off bacteria.
One published in 2007, for example, found that even low concentrations boosted
the activity of antibiotic “clindamycin.” Study authors wrote that the results
suggested that cinnamon could be used in combination therapy against certain
stubborn strains of bacterial infections.
Protects
Dental Health & Freshens Breath Naturally. In
studies, the extracts found in cinnamon were shown to be protective against
bacteria living in the oral microflora that could cause bad breath, tooth
decay, cavities, or mouth infections. The essential oil from cinnamon has been
shown to be more potent than other tested plant extracts and can be used to
naturally combat bacteria in the mouth, acting like a natural anti-bacterial
mouthwash. Similarly to peppermint, one of the health benefits of cinnamon is
that it can also used as a natural flavoring agent in chewing gums due to its
mouth refreshing abilities. Because it removes oral bacteria, cinnamon has the
ability to naturally remove bad breath without adding any chemicals to the
body. For this reason cinnamon has also been traditionally used as tooth powder
and to treat toothaches, dental problems, oral microbiota, and mouth sores.
Can
Help Prevent or Cure Candida. Certain studies have
concluded that cinnamon’s powerful anti-fungal properties may be effective in
stopping or curing Candida overgrowth in the digestive tract. Cinnamon has been
shown to lower amounts of dangerous Candida Albicans, which is the yeast that
causes Candida overgrowth that can cause multiple digestive and autoimmune
symptoms. Additionally, another health benefit of cinnamon is that it helps to
control blood sugar levels, and too much sugar within the digestive tract is
associated with increased candida risk.
Benefits
Skin Health. Cinnamon has anti-biotic and anti-microbial
effects that protect skin from irritations, rashes, allergic reactions, and
infections. Applying cinnamon essential oil directly to the skin can be helpful
in reducing inflammation, swelling, pain, and redness. Cinnamon and honey,
another antimicrobial ingredient, are frequently used together to boost skin
health for this reason and are beneficial for acne, rosacea, and signs of skin
allergies.
Helps
Fight Allergies. Studies have concluded that those with
allergies can find relief thanks to the benefits of cinnamon’s compounds.
Cinnamon has been shown to be helpful in fighting common allergy symptoms
because it reduces inflammation and fights histamine reactions in the body. For
the same reason it can also help to reduce symptoms of asthma attacks. Cinnamon
also has immune boosting abilities and is beneficial for digestive health,
which helps to cut down on auto-immune reactions that can take place after
consuming common allergen foods.
Can
be Used to Sweeten Recipes without Added Sugar. Because
of its naturally sweet taste, adding cinnamon to foods and recipes can help you
cut down on the amount of sugar you normally use, thereby lowering the glycemic
load of your meal. Cinnamon already has anti-diabetic effects that slow sugar
from releasing into the blood stream which can help manage food cravings and
weight gain, but using cinnamon for its taste is another added benefit.
Can
Be Used as a Natural Food Preservative. One of the less-known
benefits of cinnamon is that it can be used to preserve food. Because cinnamon
has anti-bacterial abilities and also acts as an antioxidant, it can be used as
a preservative in many foods without the need for chemicals and artificial ingredients.
A recent study reported that when pectin from fruit was coated with cinnamon
leaf extract it yielded high antioxidant and antibacterial activities and
stayed fresh for longer. Cinnamon plays a part in the action of tyrosinase
inhibitors, which are useful in stopping discoloration on fruits and vegetables
that appears as they oxidize and begin to rot.
Other
Health Benefits? As far as other health benefits related to
cinnamon, such as weight loss, the research is still limited. A scientific
analysis published in 2010 reviewed the studies published to date, and
concluded that cinnamon has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant,
antitumor, cardiovascular, cholesterol-lowering, and immunomodulatory effects.
It added that animal studies have demonstrated strong blood-sugar-lowering
properties, and that cinnamon as an adjunct to the treatment of type 2 diabetes
is a “most promising area.”
Opt
for Ceylon over Cassia
It is probably OK to use smalls amount of cassia
occasionally. But if you are a daily user, it pays to seek out Ceylon, or
“true” cinnamon. Even if you do choose the Ceylon variety, more is not
necessarily better. Use it in moderation for culinary and medicinal purposes,
and monitor any health conditions with your physician. Some bottles of powdered
cinnamon may not specify which type it is. Usually Ceylon will be labeled. If
you have unlabeled, whole cinnamon sticks — which are actually the plant bark
— the rolled bark of Ceylon cinnamon will be thinner and multilayered compared
to the thicker bark of cassia.
CASSIA
CINNAMON SIDE EFFECTS & SAFETY
Cassia cinnamon is LIKELY SAFE when taken by
mouth in amounts commonly found in foods and when taken by mouth in medicinal
doses for up to 4 months.
Cassia cinnamon is POSSIBLY SAFE when applied
to the skin in the short-term.
Cassia cinnamon is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when taken
by mouth in large amounts for a long period of time. Taking large amounts of
cassia cinnamon might cause side effects in some people. Cassia cinnamon can
contain large amounts of a chemical called coumarin. In people who are
sensitive, coumarin might cause or worsen liver disease. When applied to the
skin, cassia cinnamon can sometimes cause skin irritation and allergic skin
reactions.
Special
Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not
enough reliable information about the safety of taking Cassia cinnamon if you
are pregnant or breast feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Children: Cassia cinnamon is POSSIBLY SAFE
when taken by mouth appropriately. One gram of cassia cinnamon daily has been
used safely in 13-18 year-old adolescents for up to 3 months.
Diabetes: Cassia cinnamon can lower blood
sugar levels in people with diabetes. Watch for signs of low blood sugar
(hypoglycemia) and monitor your blood sugar carefully, if you have diabetes and
use cassia cinnamon in amounts larger than the amounts normally found in food.
Liver disease: Cassia cinnamon contains a
chemical that might harm the liver. If you have liver disease, do not take
cassia cinnamon in amounts larger than the amounts normally found in food.
Surgery: Cassia cinnamon might lower blood
sugar and might interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery.
Stop taking cassia cinnamon as a medicine at least 2 weeks before a scheduled
surgery.
Moderate
Interaction Be cautious with this combination
Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs)
interacts with CASSIA CINNAMON
Cassia cinnamon might decrease blood sugar.
Diabetes medications are also used to lower blood sugar. Taking cassia cinnamon
along with diabetes medications might cause your blood sugar to go too low.
Monitor your blood sugar closely. The dose of your diabetes medication might
need to be changed.
Some medications used for diabetes include
glimepiride (Amaryl), glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase), insulin,
pioglitazone (Actos), rosiglitazone (Avandia), chlorpropamide (Diabinese),
glipizide (Glucotrol), tolbutamide (Orinase), and others.
Medications that can harm the liver
(Hepatotoxic drugs) interacts with CASSIA CINNAMON.
Taking very large doses of cassia cinnamon
might harm the liver, especially in people with existing liver disease. Taking
large amounts of cassia cinnamon along with medications that might also harm
the liver might increase the risk of liver damage. Do not take large amounts of
cassia cinnamon if you are taking a medication that can harm the liver.
Some medications that can harm the liver
include acetaminophen (Tylenol and others), amiodarone (Cordarone),
carbamazepine (Tegretol), isoniazid (INH), methotrexate (Rheumatrex),
methyldopa (Aldomet), fluconazole (Diflucan), itraconazole (Sporanox),
erythromycin (Erythrocin, Ilosone, others), phenytoin (Dilantin), lovastatin
(Mevacor), pravastatin (Pravachol), simvastatin (Zocor), and many others.
Cinnamon
Recipes – You can incorporate cinnamon into your diet by trying some of these
cinnamon recipes:
Secret
Detox Drink Recipe
INGREDIENTS:
1 glass of water (12-16 oz.)
2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
2 Tbsp. lemon juice
1 tsp. Cinnamon
1 dash Cayenne Pepper(optional)
stevia to taste
DIRECTIONS:
Blend all ingredients together.
Baked
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe
INGREDIENTS:
4 cups kefir
1/2 cup coconut sugar
2 Tbsp butter
3/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/8 tsp cardamom
2 cups steel cut oats
2 cups chopped apples
1/2 cup raisins
1 cup chopped nuts
1/2 tsp Sea Salt
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350.
Bring kefir, coconut sugar, butter, salt, nutmeg,
cardamom and cinnamon to boil in pot over high heat.
Add remaining ingredients to pot and mix. Transfer
contents to greased 9×13 pan and bake for 30-35 minutes
These are the dried flowers you can purchase in bulk or
in tea bags in the store. Also known as Matricaria
chamomilla or German Chamomile. The names seem to be used interchangeably.
Commonly known as chamomile (also spelled camomile), Italian camomilla, German
chamomile, Hungarian chamomile (kamilla), wild chamomile, Manzanilla,
Matricaris, Sweet False Chamomile, Ground apple, Blue Chamomile,
or scented mayweed, is an annual plant of the composite family Asteraceae. M.
chamomilla is the most popular source of the herbal product chamomile, although
other species are also used as chamomile.
German chamomile is used in herbal medicine for a sore
stomach, irritable bowel syndrome, and as a gentle sleep aid. It is also used
as a mild laxative and is anti-inflammatory and bactericidal. It can be taken
as an herbal tea, two teaspoons of dried flower per cup of tea, which should be
steeped for 10 to 15 minutes while covered to avoid evaporation of the volatile
oils.
One of the active ingredients of its essential oil is the
terpene bisabolol. Other active ingredients include farnesene, chamazulene,
flavonoids (including apigenin, quercetin, patuletin and luteolin) and
coumarin.
Chamomile, a relative of ragweed, can cause allergy symptoms and can cross-react with ragweed pollen in individuals with ragweed allergies. It also contains coumarin, so care should be taken to avoid potential drug interactions, e.g. with blood thinners. While extremely rare, very large doses of chamomile may cause nausea and vomiting. Even more rarely, rashes may occur. Type-IV allergic reactions (i.e. contact dermatitis) are common and one case of severe Type-I reaction (i.e. anaphylaxis) has been reported in a 38-year-old man who drank chamomile tea.
Drug-Herb Interactions
Non-heme Iron – Reduced absorption (human
study)
Warfarin – Potentiated (speculative)
Benzodiazepines and Opiate Withdrawal –
Adjuvant to (empirical)
Formulation
& Preparation
Infusion – 2 tsp/cup three to four times daily
Tincture – 1-4mL (1:5, 40%) three times daily or 7-14mL (1:5, 50%) three times daily
Oil – 2-3 drops of essential oil in hot water basin for steam inhalation
Eyewash – 1 cup warm infusion, strained, wash eyes gently
To encourage a baby to sleep – 1-2 cups strained infusion (tea) in bath water
Healing
with Chamomile
as a tea, be used for lumbago, rheumatic
problems and rashes.
as a salve, be used for hemorrhoids and
wounds.
as a vapor, be used to alleviate cold
symptoms or asthma.
relieve restlessness, teething problems, and
colic in children.
relieve allergies, much as an antihistamine
would.
aid in digestion when taken as a tea after
meals.
relieve morning sickness during pregnancy.
speed healing of skin ulcers, wounds, or
burns.
treat gastritis and ulcerative colitis.
reduce inflammation and facilitate bowel
movement without acting directly as a purgative.
be used as a wash or compress for skin
problems and inflammations, including inflammations of mucous tissue.
promote general relaxation and relieve
stress. Animal studies show that chamomile contains substances that act on the
same parts of the brain and nervous system as anti-anxiety drugs. Never stop
taking prescription medications, however, without consulting your doctor.
control insomnia. Chamomile’s mildly
sedating, and muscle-relaxing effects may help those who suffer from insomnia
to fall asleep more easily.
treat diverticular disease, irritable bowel problems and various gastrointestinal complaints. Chamomile’s reported anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic actions relax the smooth muscles lining the stomach and intestine. The herb may therefore help to relieve nausea, heartburn, and stress-related flatulence. It may also be useful in the treatment of diverticular disorders and inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn’s disease.
soothe skin rashes (including eczema), minor
burns and sunburn. Used as a lotion or added in oil form to a cool bath,
chamomile may ease the itching of eczema and other rashes and reduces skin
inflammation. It may also speed healing and prevent bacterial infection.
treat eye inflammation and infection. Cooled
chamomile tea can be used in a compress to help soothe tired, irritated eyes
and it may even help treat conjunctivitis.
heal mouth sores and prevent gum disease. A
chamomile mouthwash may help soothe mouth inflammations and keep gums healthy.
reduce menstrual cramps. Chamomile’s believed
ability to relax the smooth muscles of the uterus helps ease the discomfort of
menstrual cramping.
calms muscle spasms – one study from England found that drinking chamomile tea raised urine levels of glycine, a compound that calms muscle spasms. Researchers believe this is why chamomile tea could prove to be an effective home remedy for menstrual cramps as well.
natural hemorrhoid treatment – Chamomile ointment can help to relieve hemorrhoids.
fights cancer – It’s very likely that chamomile tea can help reduce cancerous cells, although research is still ongoing to see exactly how chamomile reverses abnormal cellular growth.
The flowering perennial known commonly as catnip,
catmint, or catswort actually has the scientific name of Nepeta cataria, and
although most people don’t realize, this treat so commonly reserved for its
sedative, calming effects on cats, also has extensive benefits for human
beings. It’s native range is quite extensive, stretching across much of Europe
and parts of Asia, including China, but it has since become a global export and
can be found throughout the world. It is primarily potent due to a certain
terpenoid, called nepetelactone, but various other chemical constituents and
nutrients also affect various aspects of human health.
Nepeta cataria is a short-lived perennial, herbaceous
plant that grows to be 50–100 cm (20–39 in) tall and wide, which blooms from
late-spring to the autumn. In appearance, N. cataria resembles a typical member
of the mint family of plants, featuring brown-green foliage with the
characteristic square stem of the Lamiaceae family of plants. The
coarse-toothed leaves are triangular to elliptical in shape. The small,
bilabiate flowers of N. cataria are showy and fragrant, and are either pink in
colour or white with fine spots of pale purple.
Catnip can be applied topically via the leaves or the essential oil, while catnip tea brewed from the leaves is also popular. The extracts and essential oils are also quite popular. The historical range of catnip uses include teas, juices, tinctures, extracts, salves, and even as an herb to be smoked, in addition to its culinary applications. The various forms of catnip have been used for generations in alternative medicine, and modern research has also shown it to be a reliable treatment for some common maladies.
Health
benefits of catnip for humans include:
Stress Relief: The same quality that makes catnip so attractive to cats, namely because it makes them slightly “high” and sedates them, can also apply to humans in a more controlled way. Catnip can provide stress relief and reduce chronic anxiety as an herbal remedy when eaten, consumed in the form of a juice or tea, or when smoked as an herb. This can also help to reduce the secondary symptoms of chronic stress and strengthen your immune system.
Swallowed Emotions: A favorite use for this plant is to address the specific kind of stress and anxiety created in the body when people can’t express their emotions. This is perfect for someone who isn’t able to tell the boss or the in-law just what they’d like to say because it wouldn’t be polite, or good for the family budget.
Sleep Aid: Catnip has been used by people with insomnia or sleep restlessness for hundreds, if not thousands of years. The sedative nature helps to slow down the body’s natural cycles and induce a calm, relaxed state. People are better able to sleep through the night for undisturbed, restful sleep. Many people choose to drink a cup of catnip tea before bed to ensure a refreshing sleep.
Reduces Digestive Issues: Catnip is particularly effective in clearing up digestive issues, especially constipation, excess flatulence, cramping, and bloating. The relaxing, anti-inflammatory effects of catnip’s organic compounds can ease the knots and inflammation in your gastrointestinal system and relieve tightness and discomfort.
Colic: Catnip is a digestive herb. The scent that we get when we rub its leaves between our fingers is evidence of a high amount of volatile oils. This plant chemical is responsible for its ability to calm the stomach of an adult or a nursing child with colic.
Menstrual Cramps: For women suffering from particularly painful menstrual cramps, catnip tea is often recommended as an alternative treatment, because it can quickly relieve those cramps and stresses on the body. Furthermore, the sedative, calming effects of catnip can also soothe other symptoms of menstruation, such as mood swings and depression.
Headache Reliever: Although the exact mechanism isn’t completely understood, catnip has proven to be very effective in the treatment of headaches, even chronic migraines. Rubbing the essential oil on the affected area can work, but drinking catnip tea or rubbing a catnip leaf salve on the temples can also offer quick relief.
Fever: This is one of the most popular herbs for reducing a fever. It is part of a class of herbs called febrifuges. These herbs have the ability to cool the body by inducing a sweat. It is almost never a good idea to interrupt a fever. For the rare times that a fever has been particularly prolonged (your patient is becoming dehydrated and listless) or too high (over 102° for a typically healthy adult, around 104° for a typically healthy child) it can be helpful to have a fever tincture around.
Speeds-up Healing: In terms of colds and flus, one of the fastest ways to clean out the body is to induce sweating and get the toxins flushed from the system. This is particularly true in the case of fevers, when the lack of sweating before the fever breaks is only keeping those toxins and pathogens in the body. Catnip induces sweating, so is often recommended by alternative practitioners for treating the common cold.
Anti-inflammatory Activity: As mentioned above, the chemical constituents of catnip are particularly effective as anti-inflammatory agents. This means that catnip can be effective in the treatment of arthritis, gout, sprained muscles, aching joints, and even hemorrhoids. Topical application or normal consumption of leaves, juice, or tea can be effective for all of these situations.
Treats Skin Conditions: The natural repellent quality of catnip makes it ideal for keeping bugs away from gardens when kept as an ornamental plant, but the organic compounds in the plant make it ideal for soothing bug bites and relieving irritation on the skin. Applying salves or extracts to irritated or broken skin can speed the healing process and reduce inflammation quickly.
Complete Nutrient: Although eating catnip leaves is the least common form of consumption for human beings, catnip actually has a rather impressive collection of nutrients, from beneficial chemicals and unique organic compounds to essential acids, minerals, and vitamins that our bodies need. In other words, the plant can do a lot more than knock out a cat!
Cautions: For people suffering from liver or kidney disorders, the use of catnip may be risky, particularly if you are regularly consuming the tea. Furthermore, pregnant women should avoid catnip, as it can prematurely induce labor. Other than those specific concerns, catnip is generally considered non-allergenic and harmless to users. The high potency of the essential oil should be considered, however, and extracts should always be mixed with carrier oils.
Catnip for Cats
Catnip contains the feline attractant nepetalactone. Nepeta cataria (and some other species within the genus Nepeta) are known for their behavioral effects on the cat family, not only on domestic cats but also other species of cats. Several tests showed that leopards, cougars, servals, and lynxes often reacted strongly to catnip in a manner similar to domestic cats and while lions and tigers can react strongly as well, they do not react as consistently.
With domestic cats, N. cataria is used as a recreational
substance for pet cats’ enjoyment, and catnip and catnip-laced products
designed for use with domesticated cats are available to consumers. Common
behaviors cats display when they sense the bruised leaves or stems of catnip
are rubbing on the plant, rolling on the ground, pawing at it, licking it, and
chewing it. Consuming much of the plant is followed by drooling, sleepiness,
anxiety, leaping about and purring. Some growl, meow, scratch or bite at the
hand holding it. The main response period after exposure is generally between
five and fifteen minutes, after which olfactory fatigue usually sets in.
Cats detect nepetalactone through their olfactory
epithelium, not through their vomeronasal organ. At the olfactory epithelium,
the nepetalactone binds to one or more olfactory receptors.
Not all cats are affected by catnip; roughly 33% are not
affected by the plant. The behavior is hereditary. An early 1962 pedigree
analysis of 26 cats in a Siamese breeding colony suggested that the catnip
response was caused by a Mendelian dominant gene; however, a 2011 pedigree
analysis of 210 cats in 2 breeding colonies (taking into account measurement
error by repeated testing) showed no evidence for Mendelian patterns of
inheritance, and instead demonstrated heritabilities of h2=0.51–0.89 for catnip
response behavior, indicating a polygenic liability threshold model.
Other plants that also have this effect on cats include
valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root, silver vine (Actinidia polygama) and
Tatarian honeysuckle (Lonicera tatarica) wood. It has been shown that many cats
who do not respond to catnip do respond to one or more of these three
alternatives.
Health
benefits of catnip for cats include:
The chemical compound in the plant that
attracts and affects cats is called nepetalactone. It is found in the leaves
and stems.
Nepetalactone is a stimulant when sniffed by
a cat, producing a “high” that is described as being similar to
either marijuana or LSD. (How this was determined, I do not know.) And the
effects last for about 10 minutes before wearing off and the cat going back to
normal.
When a cat eats catnip, it acts as a
sedative, but when smelled, it causes the cat to go crazy. It is thought to
mimic feline pheremones and trigger those receptors.
Cats may react to the plant by rolling
around, flipping over, and generally being hyperactive.
About 50 percent of cats seem to be affected
by catnip, and the behavior that results varies widely between individuals, and
it is believed to be an inherited sensitivity.
And if your cat does have the sensitivity, it
will not emerge until your cat is several months old, young kittens are not
affected by the chemicals in the plant.
Cats may rub against and chew on catnip to
bruise the leaves and stems, which then release more nepetalactone.
Catnip is safe for cats. If they eat a lot,
they may vomit and have diarrhea, but will return to normal given time (and no
more catnip).
It is also known to help humans, it has been
used for its sedative properties in humans for centuries, having similar
properties to chamomile and is a very potent mosquito repellent
If cats are exposed to catnip frequently,
they may no longer respond to it. Some people recommend that it shouldn’t be
given more than once every two or three weeks to prevent habituation.
Many of us are always on the look out for new and better ways to be healthy and happy. What we don’t realize is, there isn’t a new and better way. Health and wellness are so individualized that the process of obtaining it must be personalized. We all know there are common elements that create health and wellness. These elements are essential components of health and include diet, exercise and mental simulation. Each of those elements vary greatly by individual.
Our health and wellness as we age depend greatly on the choices we make when we are younger. Everything we do to our bodies as we grow up catches up with us as we grow old. Yet there are choices we can make that can reduce the damage we have done. There are many examples of people healing themselves through drastic lifestyle changes.
Personal health and wellness depends completely on three basic factors. What we put into our mind and body controls what we get out of them. Finding balance between the ‘good’ and the ‘bad’ intake helps the body to maintain balance or homeostasis. Using our body and mind every day ensures both will continue to work for us far into the future.
We Get Out of Our Body What We Put Into It
At the base of everything, our physical and mental function depend totally on how we nourish the body. If we are filling out gut with hydrogenated oils (trans fats) and highly processed grains and sugars (simple carbohydrates) we are missing out on essential nutrients. Essential nutrients are those necessary for healthy and balanced mental and physical function.
We see them listed all of the time on our multivitamins. What we don’t realize is that we only absorb about 10-20% of the nutrients in a multivitamin, even with food. We must get a natural combination of nutrients that are already optimized for complete absorption. These natural combinations of nutrients come from WHOLE and FRESH foods, NOT fortified and reconstituted foods.
Fresh Whole Foods
We all should know what fresh foods are. These are foods that are raw when you consume them or prepare them for cooking. They include, of course, raw meat and produce, but can also include raw oils, honey, grains, nuts and seeds. These foods have not been processed in any way so they contain a wide variety of nutrients that are easily absorbed and utilized by the body.
We are not considering where these foods were grown or how they were fertilized or nourished. We are only comparing fresh and raw foods to processed and packaged convenience foods. There is considerable difference in the nutrient density of organic foods as compared to commercially grown or GMO crops. The difference is not always cost effective for the average family.
Raw foods are the more nutrient dense than processed foods, plain and simple. Nutrient density is determined by the amount of nutrients by weight that you obtain from the food when consuming it. Some nutrients are always lost in the cooking or packaging process. Go raw first. Then if you don’t like the taste, try it cooked. Home cooked foods are still more nutrient dense than processed and packaged convenience foods. Even home made chocolate chip cookies.
Taking the time to prepare and cook raw foods at home not only helps you to use your mind to think and do but also helps you to control your weight. This is because you know exactly what is going into your body and you are burning calories while preparing it. Learning new recipes and techniques can help stimulate your mind while nourishing your body.
Maintaining Our Mental Health
Our mental health does rely on our nutrient consumption, especially as we age. The more nutrients we consume and utilize at a younger age the healthier our brain cells will be for longer. In other words, nutrition is one large part of the fountain of mental youth.
Beyond nutrition our mental health also depends on how we use our brain throughout life. If we use our brain for more than television and social media we find it lasts longer and functions better overall. This can be anything from painting to reading, playing music to sculpting, or dancing to day dreaming. Anything you put your mind to. To invent, create and inspire is to develop new pathways and strengthen connections in the brain.
Devoting yourself to learning something new every day will ensure your brain continues to do everything you and your body need it to do.
Finding Balance
Sometimes finding balance is hard. We struggle to be ‘good’ about our choices in lifestyle and diet. ‘Good’ is a broad word and it can mean very different things for different people. To help us determine better ways to be healthy we will leave out the terms good and bad and maybe consider them as more and less. We can have more fresh, raw and unprocessed foods and less fast and convenient foods. We can drink more water and less coffee or soda. We can read more books and watch TV less. We can exercise more and sit less.
Choosing the more side, you really do get more; more food, more water, more activity, more learning, more experiences. Making these choices are all individualized and yet they follow all of the same basic rules. Feed your body and mind more. Yes more!
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The plant contains several oleanolic acid glycosides. Flavonol
and triterpene glycosides have been isolated from C. officinalis via high
pressure chromatography. Calendulin (also known as bassorin) has been
identified in the plant as have sterols and fatty acids such as calendic acid.
Additionally, the plant contains triterpenoid in free and ester forms,
tocopherols, mucilage, and a volatile oil. Enzymatic activity of calendula extracts
has been described. The carotenoid pigments have been used as coloring agents
in cosmetics and the volatile oil has been used in perfumes.
The major chemical constituents of Calendula oil are a-cadinol, limonene, a-cadinene, p-cymene, 1, 8-cineol along with other flavonoids, terpenoids, coumarins, flavonol glycosides, carotenoids, sesquiterpene glucoside, amino acids, triterpene oligoglycosides, saponins, and oleanane-type triterpene glycosides.
Calendula has been used medicinally for centuries.
Traditionally, it has been used to treat conjunctivitis, blepharitis, eczema,
gastritis, minor burns including sunburns, warts, and minor injuries such as
sprains and wounds. It has also been used to treat cramps, coughs, and snake
bites. Calendula has a high content of flavonoids, chemicals that act as
anti-oxidants in the body. Anti-oxidants are thought to protect body cells from
damage caused by a chemical process called oxidation. Oxidation produces oxygen
free radicals, natural chemicals that may suppress immune function.
Calendula flower is used to prevent muscle spasms, start
menstrual periods, and reduce fever. It is also used for treating sore throat
and mouth, menstrual cramps, cancer, and stomach and duodenal ulcers.
Calendula is applied to the skin to reduce pain and
swelling (inflammation) and to treat poorly healing wounds and leg ulcers. It
is also applied to the skin (used topically) for nosebleeds, varicose veins,
hemorrhoids, inflammation of the rectum (proctitis), and inflammation of the
lining of the eyelid (conjunctivitis).
Don’t confuse calendula with ornamental marigolds of the
Tagets genus, which are commonly grown in vegetable gardens.
The plant has been grown in European gardens since the
12th century, and its folkloric uses are almost as old. Tinctures and extracts
of the florets were used topically to promote wound healing and to reduce
inflammation; systemically, they have been used to reduce fever, control
dysmenorrhea, and treat cancer. The plant is listed in the German Commission E
Monographs for wound healing and anti-inflammatory actions.
The dried petals have been used like saffron as a
seasoning and have been used to adulterate saffron. The pungent odor of the Calendula
has been used as an effective pesticide. Calendula flowers are often
interspersed among vegetable plants to repel insects.
Calendula infusion
Medicinal
Uses and Indications
Today, calendula is not usually taken by mouth. The
exception is when it is used in extremely small amounts in homeopathic
preparations. Calendula is usually applied topically, to the skin.
Burns,
cuts, and bruises: Calendula tinctures, ointments, and washes
are often applied to the skin to help burns, bruises, and cuts heal faster, and
to fight the minor infections they cause. Calendula cream is also used to treat
hemorrhoids. Animal studies show that calendula helps wounds heal faster, maybe
by increasing blood flow to the wounded area and by helping the body make new
tissue. There are no scientific studies looking at whether calendula works in
humans, but using it on your skin is considered safe. Professional homeopaths
often recommend using ointments with calendula to heal first-degree burns and
sunburns.
Dermatitis:
Early
evidence suggests that calendula may help prevent dermatitis, skin
inflammation, in people with breast cancer who are undergoing radiation
therapy, however, other studies show no effect. Calendula is also a safe and
effective remedy for diaper rash.
Ear
infection (otitis media): Ear drops containing calendula are
sometimes used to treat ear infections in children. A few scientific studies
have found no side effects. More research is needed to determine whether
calendula helps treat ear infections.
Oral
Health: There are also certain antibacterial properties of
calendula that have made it very popular in recent years. You will often find
it on the ingredients list of various herbal health and hygiene products,
including toothpastes, mouthwashes, soaps, and shampoos. In terms of oral
health, toothpastes and mouthwashes that contain calendula are very effective
in killing bacteria that cause everything from gingivitis to cavities.
Skin
Care: Aside from stimulating healing, calendula oil can
significantly boost the appearance of your skin. It can affect blood flow to
the skin cells, provide antioxidant protection that reduces the appearance of
wrinkles and ages spots, and even the visibility of scars. If you want smooth,
even-toned skin that glows with youthful vitality, consider adding some organic
products that contain calendula or consume calendula in another form, such as
tea.
Vision
Health: Research has shown that calendula contains certain
antioxidant compounds that directly impact your vision. Beta-carotene is
essential for the health and functioning of your eyes, and it is a wonderful
source of this compound. You can prevent macular degeneration and the development
of cataracts in this way.
Reduced
Inflammation: Regardless of where you inflammation is
occurring, calendula can significantly reduce the discomfort. If you are
suffering from a cough or congestion, calendula tea can be a wonderful remedy.
If your joints are hurting from arthritis or gout, add some calendula oil to a
skin balm and enjoy a rapid reduction in pain. Finally, if your stomach is
upset, calendula can help normalize your gastrointestinal system and eliminate
any inflammation that may be causing discomfort.
Cancer
Prevention: Calendula oil has certain anti-tumor
properties that make it very valuable in new cancer research exploring natural
solutions to this global epidemic. Cancer remains one of the great mysteries of
our species in terms of collective health, and compounds like those found in
calendula offer an interesting new angle on this critical issue.
Reduced
Cramping: There are also some anti-spasmodic properties of
calendula that are also taken advantage of by many people. If you suffer from a
nervous system disorder, have painful cramping in relation to menstruation, or
some other type of spasmodic condition, adding calendula to your diet may be a
wise choice.
Available
Forms
Fresh or dried calendula petals are available in
tinctures, liquid extracts, infusions, ointments, and creams.
Calendula products should always be protected from light
and moisture, and should not be used after 3 years of storage.
Calendula petals
Special
Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy
and breast-feeding: Don’t take
calendula by mouth if you are pregnant. It is LIKELY UNSAFE. There is a concern
that it might cause a miscarriage. It’s best to avoid topical use as well until
more is known.
Allergy
to ragweed and related plants: Calendula
may cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the
Asteraceae/Compositae family. Members of this family include ragweed,
chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and many others. If you have allergies, be
sure to check with your healthcare provider before taking calendula.
Surgery:
Calendula might cause too much drowsiness if
combined with medications used during and after surgery. Stop taking calendula
at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
