Vitamin D deficiency, or hypovitaminosis D is defined as a vitamin D level that is below normal. It most commonly occurs in people when they have inadequate sunlight exposure (in particular sunlight with adequate ultraviolet B rays (UVB). Vitamin D deficiency can also be caused by inadequate nutritional intake of vitamin D, disorders limiting vitamin D absorption, and conditions impairing vitamin D conversion into active metabolites—including certain liver, kidney, and hereditary disorders. Deficiency ...

vitamin d deficiency

The-role-of-vitamin-D-for-our-health

The role of vitamin D for our health 

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Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for the body that plays a role in bone growth, remodeling and maintaining strong immune function. In addition to controlling calcium and phosphate levels in the body, vitamin D is believed to help regulate various functions in the central nervous system.&nbsp;

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In fact, earlier animal studies have suggested that it may even contribute to the control of chemical balance in the brain, which may somewhat explain the link between vitamin D and mental health.

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Vitamin D deficiency is common and can contribute to the development of osteopenia, osteoporosis and the risk of falling in the elderly. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/disease/42965" target="_blank" data-ref="Vitamin d deficiency" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a> Vitamin D deficiency leads in the first place to abnormalities in the metabolism of calcium, phosphorus and bones. In particular, it causes a decrease in the effectiveness of intestinal calcium and the absorption of phosphorus from dietary sources of calcium and phosphorus, which leads to an increase in levels of parathyroid hormones. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4545131/" target="_blank" data-ref="Page not available - PMCTwitterFacebookLinkedInGitHubSM-TwitterSM-FacebookSM-Youtube" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp; With secondary hyperparathyroidism, serum calcium can remain within normal limits if the body extracts calcium from the skeleton and loses more phosphorus than the kidneys. In this situation, the risk of osteopenia and osteoporosis is even greater.

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Vitamin deficiency is also seen as a factor in an increased risk of developing depression and impaired cognitive function. According to the neurotrophic hypothesis, immunohistochemical studies have found vitamin D receptors (VDR) in the central nervous system, providing a serious indication that vitamin D plays a significant role in brain functions.&nbsp;

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VDR are found throughout the brain, including the hippocampus, which plays a role in controlling memory and emotional function. Since the hippocampus is vital for the causes of depression, the discovery of VDR in it directed many researchers to analyze the effects of vitamin D on the shape and function of the hippocampus in animals. Numerous studies using in vitro cultivation of hippocampal cells and in vivo experiments on the brains of adult mice have revealed that vitamin D deficiency can change the shape or function of the development of the hippocampus.&nbsp;<a href="https://secure.jbs.elsevierhealth.com/action/cookieAbsent" target="_blank" data-ref="DEFINE_ME" rel="noopener">[Ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

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A study of 2,716 people from the Netherlands found that those with vitamin D deficiency (serum concentration 30 nmol/L) had reduced brain tissue and hippocampus volume, which is also confirmed by MRI. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/action/cookieAbsent" target="_blank" data-ref="" rel="noopener">[Ref. 4]</a>&nbsp;

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What-the-meta-analysis-reveals-about-the-link-between-vitamin-D-and-depression

What the meta-analysis reveals about the link between vitamin D and depression 

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A new meta-analysis from July 2022 covered a total of 53,235 participants from 41 studies, including those with or without depression; people taking vitamin D supplements and people taking placebo, as well as individuals with different physical conditions. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.airitilibrary.com/Publication/alDetailedMesh?DocID=09647058-201912-201912130001-201912130001-689-694" target="_blank" data-ref="Vitamin D and depression: mechanisms, determination and application" rel="noopener">[Ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;

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Although the doses used vary, the average amount of vitamin D participants take is 50-100 micrograms per day. In participants with depression, vitamin D supplements proved more effective than placebo in alleviating symptoms of depression.

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Vitamin D supplements also appear to be most effective in shorter periods of exacerbation of the condition (under 12 weeks), the researchers report. In healthy individuals, however, placebo had a slightly greater impact on symptoms of depression.

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The results showed that supplementation with vitamin D had a beneficial effect in both individuals with major depressive disorder and those with milder, clinically significant depressive symptoms.&nbsp;

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As depression is now recognised as the leading cause of disability worldwide - affecting more than 280 million people each year - and antidepressants are not an effective tool for everyone, more treatment options need to be urgently explored.

While the data may be interesting to scientists, they are still not enough to prove that low levels of vitamin D cause depression or that supplements are an effective remedy. Previous research has also found conflicting opinions about the influence of the sunny vitamin on cognitive health and its relationship to depression.
Although a meta-analysis like this is useful in comparing the results of a large number of people, the different approaches and factors in each individual study make it more difficult to draw general conclusions. It is necessary to study more thoroughly and with more precise methods what are the relationships and mechanisms, if any, between vitamin D and depressive conditions.

Vitamin D shown to alleviate symptoms of depression according to experts

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Бетина Цветкова

What-is-multiple-sclerosis

What is multiple sclerosis 

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Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves that make up the central nervous system and control everything we do.&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28367411/" target="_blank" data-ref="Multiple Sclerosis: Pathogenesis, Symptoms, Diagnoses and Cell-Based Therapy - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

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The exact cause of the development of the disease is unknown, but we know that something triggers the immune system to specifically attack the central nervous system (CNS). The resulting damage to myelina - the protective layer, isolating wire-like nerve fibers, disrupts signals to and from the brain. This interruption of communication signals causes unpredictable symptoms such as tingling, tingling, mood swings, memory problems, pain, fatigue, blindness and/or paralysis.&nbsp;

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As mentioned, the course of the disease varies from person to person, and these losses may be temporary or long-lasting. These things largely depend on the type of MS from which the individual suffers.&nbsp;

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Although there is no way to predict with certainty how the individual's disease will progress, four main courses of MS disease (also called types or phenotypes) were defined by the International Advisory Committee on Clinical Trials of MS in 2013&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24871874/" target="_blank" data-ref="Defining the clinical course of multiple sclerosis: the 2013 revisions - PubMed" rel="noopener">[Ref. 2]</a>&nbsp; These are:

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<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Clinically isolated syndrome</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Relapse-remitting (or recurrent only)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Secondary progressive</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Primary progressive.</li></ol>

Symptoms-and-causes-of-developing-multiple-sclerosis

Symptoms and causes of developing multiple sclerosis

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The cause or causes of multiple sclerosis have not been established by the scientific community. Currently, scientists believe that MS is triggered by a combination of factors.&nbsp;

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To establish the cause, studies are carried out in the following areas:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Immunology (examination of the body's immune system) - abnormal immune response;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Epidemiology (study of disease patterns in large groups of people) - predisposition of people with a certain place of residence, vitamin D deficiency, obesity, smoking;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Genetics (understanding genes that may not function properly in people who develop MS) - MS is not an inherited disease, which means it is not a disease that is passed down from generation to generation. However, in MS, there is a genetic risk that can be inherited. In the general population, the risk of developing MS is about 1 in 750 - 1000. In single-day twins, if one twin has MS, the risk of the other twin developing MS is about 1 in 4.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Infectious agents (such as viruses) - measles, human herpes virus-6, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and others.</li></ul>When we come to information about the reasons why people develop multiple sclerosis, the process of finding more effective ways to treat and – ultimately – cure will be accelerated. It is also important to look for ways of prevention, which would be the best development.

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Symptoms of MS are unpredictable and vary in type and severity from one person to another and in the same person over time. These manifestations can disappear temporarily or pass completely, or they can continue and worsen over time.

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The most common symptoms of MS include:&nbsp;

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fatigue</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Numbness and tingling</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Blurred vision</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Double vision</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Weakness</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Poor coordination and imbalance</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pain</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Depression and problems with memory and concentration</li></ul>

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Less often MS can cause tremor, paralysis and blindness. Various scientific sources describe the so-called "embrace of multiple sclerosis", which is often the first symptom of MS or relapse. It is a feeling of squeezing around the torso, which feels like something that wraps or tightens around it.

Diagnosing MS can be a difficult process. At an early stage of MS, symptoms may be nonspecific and suggest several disorders of the nervous system, and at a later stage also make treatment more difficult.&nbsp; Diagnostic criteria, which include MRI results and analysis of cerebrospinal fluid, have been developed and revised by experts in the field to help healthcare professionals make an accurate and timely diagnosis. It is crucial for the future and life of a person diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

Deficiency-and-Role-of-Testosterone-in-Health

Deficiency and Role of Testosterone in Health 

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Testosterone is an important hormone for any person regardless of their gender. Although often associated with libido and muscles, testosterone occurs in everyone, including women, and also plays a key role in their health, along with other hormones. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/compound/100" target="_blank" data-ref="Testosterone" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

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However, its deficiency in the body gives its reflection through various symptoms such as:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Weak libido and fertility problems</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Erectile dysfunction in men&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Increased body fat</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Loss of muscle mass</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Reduced bone density</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Loss of body hair</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fatigue</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Irritability or depression</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Memory and concentration disorders</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Low red blood cell count (anaemia)</li></ul>

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Vitamins,-herbs-and-supplements-for-low-testosterone

Vitamins, herbs and supplements for low testosterone 

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Traditional hormone replacement therapies, in the form of injections, gels and others, can provide the necessary levels of testosterone in the body. Herbs and supplements, on the other hand, can help the body independently produce testosterone. Some herbs and supplements simply aim to alleviate the symptoms of testosterone deficiency.&nbsp;<a href="https://academic.oup.com/advances/article/12/3/744/5956480" target="_blank" data-ref="Examining the Effects of Herbs on Testosterone Concentrations in Men: A Systematic Review" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;

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While some alternative forms of treatment are safe for people with low levels of the hormone, many have not undergone rigorous tests in humans. Therefore, before trying any herb or supplement, always consult a doctor. This way you will find out which ones are right for you and recommend the best individual dosage.

Ashwagandha-(Withania-somnifera)

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) 

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Traditional Indian medicine recommends ashvaganda for many things, including sexual dysfunction and infertility. The roots and fruits of the plant are used for the preparation of teas, extracts and capsules. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Role_of_Withania_somnifera_Ashwagandha_in_the_management_of_male_infertility_29277366" target="_blank" data-ref="Role of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) in the management of male infertility. | Билкови и природни лекарства" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

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A 2010 study estimated ashvaganda intake in 75 men suffering from infertility. Ashvaganda has been found to help improve testosterone levels, sperm count, sperm motility and levels of antioxidants in semen. [&nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0015028209010140" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 4] In other</a>&nbsp;studies, however, the results are contradictory.

Vitamin-D

Vitamin D 

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Vitamin D, also called cholecalciferol, can also help boost testosterone levels. A 2011 study found that men with vitamin D deficiency who had been taking 3,332 international units (IU) of vitamin D daily for 1 year had noticed a significant increase in <a href="https://www.thieme-connect.de/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/s-0030-1269854" target="_blank" data-ref="Thieme E-Journals - Hormone and Metabolic Research / Abstract" rel="noopener">testosterone levels. [ref.</a>&nbsp;5]&nbsp;

Zinc

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Zinc deficiency may be associated with low testosterone. This is because zinc is involved in testosterone production and maintains sperm quality. It is contained in foods such as poultry meat, legumes, nuts, some dairy products.

Garlic-(Allium-sativum)

Garlic (Allium sativum) 

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Garlic (Allium sativum) can be used as a natural therapy in high blood pressure, supports immunity and gives good results in studies with mice for increased testosterone levels. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/14382" target="_blank" data-ref="Allium sativum" rel="noopener">[ref. 6]</a>&nbsp; However, studies involving humans are needed to confirm the same effect.

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Dehydroepiandrosterone-(DHEA)

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) 

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In some cases of low testosterone levels, the body may not produce enough dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). It is a hormone that is converted into estrogen and testosterone. But the data on supplementation with DHEA and testosterone are mixed. Most studies report minor changes.&nbsp;

Chrysin-(Passiflora-incarnata)

Chrysin (Passiflora incarnata) 

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The crisis is a flavonoid extract found in honey and in Passiflora incarnata. You can take a crisis in the form of tea or supplements. A 2012 study in rats showed that a crisis can increase sperm motility, sperm concentration and testosterone levels. &nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1439-0272.2010.01127.x" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 7] However,</a>&nbsp; it is not clear how well it is absorbed by the human body, so more research is needed.&nbsp;

There are many different natural remedies as well as dietary supplements that are believed to help normalize testosterone levels and correct deficiency. However, it is important to remember that in most cases studies of the safety and effectiveness of these therapies in humans are still very limited or need broader research. Therefore, always consult your doctor about possible treatment options, regardless of the condition.

Herbs, Vitamins and Supplements for Low Testosterone

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Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

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Gingivitis and periodontitis are serious gum diseases, which, however, often remain neglected. The infection develops, the gums bleed, but we are accustomed to discomfort, and it already seems to us that it is normal to spit blood when brushing our teeth. But it's not.

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These diseases are due to the development of bacteria under the gum, and over time they begin to harm the whole organism, and the loss of a tooth can turn out to be the slightest evil.

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Besides bacteria, there are other risk factors that lead to gum inflammation - smoking, stress, obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis, calcium and vitamin D deficiency, as well as genetic factors.

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Treatment of gingivitis and periodontal disease requires a complex approach and guidance from a dentist. It can also be supported by the local application of certain medicinal plants and herbs, thanks to their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant action. In this article, we will look at which herbs work best according to the information in the scientific literature.

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Aloe-vera-reduces-inflammation

Aloe vera reduces inflammation

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There are several clinical studies that show good effectiveness of aloe vera in various forms - toothpaste, mouthwash or extract intake, as a means complementing other methods of treatment. There is evidence that the plant reduces bleeding and inflammation of the gums in gingivitis. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Effect_of_Aloe_vera_mouthwash_on_periodontal_health_triple_blind_randomized_control_trial_24603910" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>]

Pot-Marigold-(Calendula-officinalis)-stops-bleeding

Pot Marigold (Calendula officinalis) stops bleeding

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This herb is alo known as ruddles, common marigold or Scotch marigold. According to several clinical studies, one of which involves 240 people with gingivitis, mouthwash with marigold significantly reduces bleeding and inflammation of the gums, as well as other factors by which the severity of the disease is determined. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Evaluation_of_Calendula_officinalis_as_an_anti_plaque_and_anti_gingivitis_agent_24554883" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.2</a>]

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Green-tea-(Camellia-sinensis)-has-antibacterial-activity

Green tea (Camellia sinensis) has antibacterial activity

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Data on the benefits of green tea in various forms in gingivitis and inflamed gums are promising. Several clinical trials have shown this. Green tea has also been found to have bactericidal activity against the bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia and Prevotella nigrescens in laboratory conditions. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Preliminary_Clinical_Evidence_of_the_Antiplaque_Antigingivitis_Efficacy_of_a_Mouthwash_Containing_2_Green_Tea_A_Randomised_Clinical_Trial_25610918" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.3</a>]

Chamomile-(Matricaria-chamomilla)-fights-plaque

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) fights plaque

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A clinical trial was conducted on a 1% solution of chamomile, used as mouthwash in the morning and evening after brushing teeth, for 15 days in patients who wear braces and have gingivitis. The results show that bleeding gums decreased, as did the amount of plaque accumulated. This is probably due to the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of chamomile. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Clinical_efficacy_of_a_1_Matricaria_chamomile_L_mouthwash_and_0_12_chlorhexidine_for_gingivitis_control_in_patients_undergoing_orthodontic_treatment_with_fixed_appliances_28025442" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.4</a>] Other studies have shown the same effects in gingivitis.

Pomegranate-(Punica-granatum)-as-a-mouthwash

Pomegranate (Punica granatum) as a mouthwash

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Few people know that the bark of the fruit and the core of the root are used as a healing agent due to their content of ellagic acid, ellagitannins, punic acid, flavonoids, anthocyanidins, anthocyanins and estrogenic flavonols and flavons, as well as alkaloids such as pelletierine.

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There are studies that show that pomegranate juice can improve the condition of gingivitis sufferers and bleeding gums - in the form of mouthwash. It has been shown to be particularly effective in patients who also have diabetes. [<a href="https://www.jdrr.org/article.asp?issn=2348-2915;year=2016;volume=3;issue=4;spage=117;epage=123;aulast=Kiany" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.5</a>]

Arak,-Miswak-(Salvadora-persica)---the-toothbrush-tree

Arak, Miswak (Salvadora persica) - the toothbrush tree

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This is a type of tree characteristic of the Middle East and Africa, where twigs of it are used as a natural toothbrush, that's why it's also called toothbrush tree. It's rich in different substances. There is evidence that it can improve the condition of bleeding gums, especially when used in combination with a standard toothbrush or in the composition of toothpaste. [<a href="https://www.jisponline.com/article.asp?issn=0972-124X;year=2012;volume=16;issue=1;spage=84;epage=88;aulast=Patel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.6</a>]

Arak,-Miswak-(Salvadora-persica)---the-toothbrush-tree_5_1

Some herbal combinations, containing elderberry, gotu cola, echinacea, eucalyptus, menthol, and others, also improve gum health, through their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory action. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Medicinal_plants_for_gingivitis_a_review_of_clinical_trials_30524670" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.7</a>, <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Herbs_as_an_antioxidant_arsenal_for_periodontal_diseases_27069730" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.8</a>]

Natural remedies for bleeding gums - which herbs to use

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 Natural remedies for bleeding gums - which herbs to use

Rositsa Tashkova-Kacharova

Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) <a href="/p/kakva_ie_vrzkata_miezhdu_polikistoznitie_iaichnitsi_insulinovata_riezistientnost_i_biezplodiieto_d3998f8b_139b_48b0_9d2a_33ba35debf57" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer"></a>is a complex endocrine disease that needs to be considered and treated taking into account all its aspects. Often the condition is related to something else - insulin resistance and this fact can be used as a starting point for treatment [<a href="../p/kakva_ie_vrzkata_miezhdu_polikistoznitie_iaichnitsi_insulinovata_riezistientnost_i_biezplodiieto_d3998f8b_139b_48b0_9d2a_33ba35debf57" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>]. If insulin resistance is controlled, this will have a significant positive effect on polycystic ovary syndrome.

Several characteristic manifestations of the syndrome are observed: the formation of cysts in the ovaries, lack of ovulation, irregular menstrual cycle, increased hair growth, acne, thinning of hair. Cysts in the ovaries are the most typical symptom and are detected during ultrasound examination by a gynecologist.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is one of the most common causes of infertility in women, due to the fact that ovulation does not occur or it is difficult to predict when this is most likely to happen if it does.

More and more women are looking for alternative ways to tackle the problem, i.e. <a href="/p/kakva_ie_vrzkata_miezhdu_polikistoznitie_iaichnitsi_insulinovata_riezistientnost_i_biezplodiieto_d3998f8b_139b_48b0_9d2a_33ba35debf57" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer"></a> regulating the cycle with changes in lifestyle, nutrition, with the help of herbs and andsupplements. In the article "<a href="../p/kakva_ie_vrzkata_miezhdu_polikistoznitie_iaichnitsi_insulinovata_riezistientnost_i_biezplodiieto_d3998f8b_139b_48b0_9d2a_33ba35debf57" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What is the connection between polycystic ovaries, insulin resistance and infertility</a>", we discussed the importance of sports and nutrition to deal with the problem, and in this article we will focus on herbs and supplements for which there is scientific evidence that can help those who suffer from polycystic ovaries.

Herbs-for-polycystic-ovary-syndrome

Herbs for polycystic ovary syndrome

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As mentioned, polycystic ovary syndrome is a complex condition, Since reproductive health is loaded with additional emotional burden, this problem requires particular respect - it is extremely important to consult with your physician about each herb or supplement that you would like to take, so as not to inadvertently aggravate your condition. Each organism has its own specifics and each case is different - the doctor's job is to detect these differences and prescribe individual therapy to each patient.

Herbs-for-polycystic-ovary-syndrome_0_1

In the following lines, we will look at scientific data on the benefits of certain herbs and supplements - information you can discuss with your physician. :)

Liquorice-root-lowers-testosterone-levels-(Glycyrrhiza-glabra-and-Glycyrrhiza-uralensis)

Liquorice root lowers testosterone levels (Glycyrrhiza glabra  and  Glycyrrhiza uralensis)

Liquorice-root-lowers-testosterone-levels-(Glycyrrhiza-glabra-and-Glycyrrhiza-uralensis)_0_0

Several preclinical and clinical trials of the effect of licorice have been conducted and it has been found that the herb can lower levels of testosterone and androgens in the blood, as well as improve the frequency of ovulation in women with polycystic ovaries [<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Herbal_medicine_for_the_management_of_polycystic_ovary_syndrome_PCOS_and_associated_oligo_amenorrhoea_and_hyperandrogenism_a_review_of_the_laboratory_evidence_for_effects_with_corroborative_clinical_findings_25524718" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.2</a>].

Liquorice-root-lowers-testosterone-levels-(Glycyrrhiza-glabra-and-Glycyrrhiza-uralensis)_0_1

Licorice can also help metabolize sugar if a woman also has insulin resistance, improving insulin sensitivity [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Glycyrrhizic_acid_improved_lipoprotein_lipase_expression_insulin_sensitivity_serum_lipid_and_lipid_deposition_in_high_fat_diet_induced_obese_rats_20670429" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.3</a>].

Liquorice-root-lowers-testosterone-levels-(Glycyrrhiza-glabra-and-Glycyrrhiza-uralensis)_0_2

Maca-improves-fertility-in-both-men-and-women-(Lepidium-meyenii)

Maca improves fertility in both men and women (Lepidium meyenii)

Maca-improves-fertility-in-both-men-and-women-(Lepidium-meyenii)_0_0

Maca is also known as Peruvian ginseng. The root of the maca plant is often recommended as a means of improving fertility in both men and women, and for increasing libido. Unfortunately, there are no clinical trials that prove the benefit of maca in women with polycystic ovary syndrome, although the herb is used and prescribed very often. [<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7505790/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.4</a>]

Vitex-regulates-the-levels-of-hormones-(Vitex-agnus-castus)

Vitex regulates the levels of hormones (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex-regulates-the-levels-of-hormones-(Vitex-agnus-castus)_0_0

This tree has many names - chaste tree (or chastetree), chasteberry, Abraham's balm, lilac chastetree, or monk's pepper. It is good to keep in mind that it can suppress sexual desire. There is evidence that it regulates the levels of sex hormones, cycles and can increase the chances of success in getting pregnant. [<a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/305953583_The_Effects_of_Combined_Low-Dose_Oral_Contraceptives_and_Vitex_Agnus_on_the_Improvement_of_Clinical_and_Paraclinical_Parameters_of_Polycystic_Ovarian_Syndrome_A_Triple-Blind_Randomized_Controlled_Clin" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.5</a>]

Vitex-regulates-the-levels-of-hormones-(Vitex-agnus-castus)_0_1

Black-cohosh-has-multiple-effects-on-female-reproductive-system-(Cimicifuga-racemosa)

Black cohosh has multiple effects on female reproductive system (Cimicifuga racemosa)

Black-cohosh-has-multiple-effects-on-female-reproductive-system-(Cimicifuga-racemosa)_0_0

The plant is also known as black bugbane, black snakeroot, or fairy candle. Several preclinical and at least 3 clinical studies have been conducted on the effects of black cohosh in women suffering from PCOS. Their results are encouraging and include lowering LH (luteinizing hormone), optimizing the ratio between hormones LH and FSH (favors ovulation) [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23347605/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.6</a>], positive influence on the thickness of the endometrium (uterine mucosa) and others. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Herbal_medicine_for_the_management_of_polycystic_ovary_syndrome_PCOS_and_associated_oligo_amenorrhoea_and_hyperandrogenism_a_review_of_the_laboratory_evidence_for_effects_with_corroborative_clinical_findings_25524718" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.2</a>]

Chinese-cinnamon-or-Chinese-cassia-(Cinnamon-cassia)

Chinese cinnamon or Chinese cassia (Cinnamon cassia)

Chinese-cinnamon-or-Chinese-cassia-(Cinnamon-cassia)_0_0

The cassia is a relative of the cinnamon and its bark is also used as a spice. There are at least two studies that show beneficial effect of the plant in polycystic ovary syndrome. One was conducted in rats and compared the effects of metformin with those of the herb [<a href="https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Metabolic-Changes-and-Hormonal-Disturbances-in-Rats-Heibashy/953f4a4b32ec2196d1753d87aac2bf4cd7907605" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.7</a>]. The other was conducted in overweight women&nbsp; and those with PCOS [<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/The_effect_of_cinnamon_extract_on_insulin_resistance_parameters_in_polycystic_ovary_syndrome_a_pilot_study_17296187" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.8</a>].

Chinese-cinnamon-or-Chinese-cassia-(Cinnamon-cassia)_0_1

The results: in the first study, cassia extract lowered testosterone, LH and insulin resistance to the same extent as metformin; in the second study, women's metabolic profile improved.

Tribulus-terrestris

Tribulus terrestris

Tribulus-terrestris_0_0

In the 1980s, Bulgarian scientists conducted two clinical trials in women and found that the herb Tribulus terrestris increased FSH in healthy women [ref. 9] and induced ovulation in women who did not ovulate&nbsp;[ref.10].

Tribulus-terrestris_0_1

In more recent studies, ovulation was also observed in polycystic ovary syndrome rat models after treatment with the herb [<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21883512/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.11</a>].

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