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Alternative Medicine

Maca root used to enhance sexual performance

Sherril Sego, FNP-C, DNP August 01, 2010

Valued for its energy-boosting and aphrodisiac qualities, maca root has been shown to increase libido and reduce symptoms of sexual dysfunction.

Is DHEA the new fountain of youth?

Sherril Sego, FNP-C, DNP July 01, 2010

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a precursor of testosterone and estrogen, is purported to enhance muscle building, increase vitality, and improve sexual function.

Side effects of soy

June 17, 2010

Soy may cause angioedema and thickening of skin.

Homeopathic flu remedy

May 19, 2010

Take oscillococcinum at the first sign of a cold or flu.

Noncapsule forms of bifidobacteria

May 11, 2010

Where can I find find a liquid bifidobacteria supplement?

Nonpharmacologic treatment of pain from sickle-cell disease

May 11, 2010

Are there any nonpharmacologic treatment measures that have been effective in managing pain associated with sickle-cell disease?

Pomegranate packs a powerful punch

Sherril Sego, FNP-C, DNP March 01, 2010

The juice of the pomegranate provides abundant antioxidants and has potential as an anticarcinogenic and anti-inflammatory.

Grape seed beneficial in fight against cancer and heart disease

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP. January 29, 2010

Considering the health benefits of drinking red wine, it's not surprising to learn that grape seeds may contain significant levels of antioxidants.

What clinicians should know about herbals

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP January 12, 2010

Many patients are supplementing your care with nutraceuticals. It's important to be aware of these herbs' side effects and interactions.

Vitamin D important for more than bone density

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP January 04, 2010

An estimated 50% of colon cancers and 30% of breast cancers could be prevented with adequate levels of vitamin D.

Is the aronia berry the newest superfruit?

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP November 30, 2009

The aronia berry, high in vitamin C and other antioxidants, reduces gastric irritation and prevents swelling associated with allergic reactions.

Colloidal silver—science or fraud?

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP November 03, 2009

While topical and implanted silver products are safe, there is no clinical indication for oral colloidal silver use.

Zinc

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP September 28, 2009

Do we finally have a cure for the common cold? The manufacturers of zinc preparations think so, but the data remain inconsistent.

Olive oil

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP August 31, 2009

The benefits of olive oil go beyond its well-deserved reputation for lowering cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Red yeast rice

August 13, 2009

Red yeast rice is being hailed as a natural cholesterol-lowering agent. Perhaps more significant is its apparent anti-inflammatory action.

The balance between clinical judgment and a patient's right to choose

Marjaneh M. Fooladi, PhD, WHNP, FNP August 03, 2009

A woman refuses to treat her depression pharmaceutically and relies on herbal remedies—against her clinician's advice.

Noni

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP June 08, 2009

The juice of the tropical noni fruit is best known for its antioxidant properties. Studies also show evidence of anti-angiogenic and analgesic effects.

Probiotics

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP May 12, 2009

Probiotics are used to maintain a homeostatic balance of bacteria in the gut.

Lowering blood sugars with wolfberry

April 17, 2009

Cocoa aids cardiovascular health

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP April 17, 2009

Consumed in moderation, the right type of chocolate may do more than satisfy a craving--it can also improve cerebral blood flow and lower blood pressure.

Lemon balm

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP March 04, 2009

Lemon balm, known for its calmative effects, is frequently recommended for patients with insomnia, anxiety, and other nervous system-related conditions.

St. John's wort may be as effective as standard antidepressants — and more tolerable — for major depression

Brian S. Alper, MD, MSPH February 18, 2009

Feverfew

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP February 11, 2009

Feverfew is a medicinal herb that has largely been found safe and effective for migraine prophylaxis.

Ginkgo biloba does not prevent dementia

January 20, 2009

Findings from a large, long-term study dispel the notion that ginkgo biloba—a popular herbal supplement widely purported to improve memory and cognition—prevents dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Açaí berry

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP January 08, 2009

Juice made from the açaí berry is an excellent source of essential fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. But does it live up to the hype?

Flaxseed

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP December 10, 2008

High in essential fatty acids, flaxseed—as well as meal and oil derived from it—are touted as effective agents to lower LDL and reduce cardiovascular (CV) risks.

Guarana

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP November 11, 2008

Just when you thought you had found the biggest jolt you could get from a beverage in espresso, along comes guarana.

Get curious about CAM

Pam Shuler, DNSc, CFNP, RN November 06, 2008

You might be surprised to know that even if you're not utilizing complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies, some of your patients probably are...

Stevia

Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP November 05, 2008

Stevia is a widely used, very potent sweetener, but few herbals have sparked as much controversy...

This unusually named berry is a staple in Chinese herbal medicine and is used for a multitude of health-boosting purposes. Also called goji berry, Chinese wolfberry, and Chinese boxthorn, it belongs to one of two closely...