Bladder Pain natural help

Bladder Pain natural help
I see people with bladder pain in my practice often. Sometimes it is a recurrence of a bladder infection that can be managed by antibiotics. Sometimes, on the other extreme, the patient may have more chronic phenomenon. Also known as painful bladder syndrome, interstitial cystitis is a chronic condition characterized by pain, pressure and burning in the bladder. The precise cause of the condition is not known but we know that it most often occurs between the ages of 30 and 40 and that women are up to ten times likelier to develop interstitial cystitis than men. The most common symptoms of interstitial cystitis are bladder discomfort, the frequent urge to urinate, burning pains in the pelvic area and pain or discomfort during intercourse.
  
Associated Signs/Symptoms:  
Frequent urination (8 or more times/day) and urinary urgency (90%). 
Small mucosal disruptions, mild cellular infiltrates, and sub-urothelial infiltrates (90%). 
Concomitant food or respiratory allergies (40%). 
Concomitant irritable bowel syndrome (20%). 

Complimentary and Alternative Treatments  
Complementary treatments aimed at mitigating the side-effects of conventional treatments and optimizing the immune system response are often employed by naturopathic medical doctors, and supplement (rather than replace) conventional medical treatment.  Alternative treatments that replace conventional medical treatment are not approved by the FDA, but may be based on traditional or historical theories and practice. Their safety and effectiveness is considered unproven by conventional medical authorities, despite theoretical, anecdotal or historical evidence.  Since complimentary and alternative treatments are not generally proven by double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trials, insurance typically does not cover these treatments, although medical savings accounts may possibly be used.  

There is no known cure for interstitial cystitis and treatment tends to be based on diet and lifestyle changes.

Complimentary and alternative strategies for recurrent bladder discomfort that are considered below include:  
1. There are certain foods listed by the Interstitial Cystitis Association as a possible cause of bladder pain and irritation. However, I have also seen people have success when they identify and remove allergens or dietary irritants (IgG food-allergy test, IgE, food elimination diet).   Consider exploring the possibilities with an at home fingerstick  test for 96 foods or 204 foods to identify your unique inflammatory foods.

2. MSM has shown some effectiveness for treating allergies, repetitive stress injuries, certain bladder disorders like interstitial cystitis, and wounds, but more research is needed before it can be recommended for any of these conditions.  If you wanted to include MSM in your diet, consider Sulfurzyme, which also contains NingXia Wolfberry powder. 

3. Hypothyroidism is associated with a thinning of the endothelial lining of the urinary bladder, resulting in irritation of the bladder by its contents.  To provide additional nutrients to your thyroid gland consider Thyromin which maximizes nutritional support for healthy thyroid function.

4. Many issues with bladder and vaginal discomfort have a possible association with vaginal flora alterations. Consider taking probiotics. Life 9® is a highly potent probiotic with 17 billion live cultures from nine beneficial bacteria strains.

5. Alkalime, a natural alkalinizing supplement that is free of artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners, helps maintain optimal pH in the stomach with an alkaline blend of biochemical mineral salts, lemon powder, and premium essential oils. This change in pH may be beneficial to some people.

5.  Because of its chronic nature, many suffers also experience a decline in mood.
Many essential oils, alone or in combination, may be beneficial. Consider Peace & Calming, Stress Away, White AngelicaSARA or Trauma Life

Summary of related studies
1. Frankincense and myrrh modulate urothelial wound healing, which ameliorates typical features of acute interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome in rats.  The rats received these oils orally. Please click this link to acquire the oils that are labeled for oral use. (frankincense vitality)                
2. Copaiba used in rats to affect healing... topical use.
3. Ylang Ylang was used for bladder muscle spasms in rats.

Ideas how to incorporate into your lifestyle:
1.  White Angelica includes Myrrh and Ylang Ylang. Apply 2–4 drops directly to desired area or wear as a daily perfume.
2. Progessence Plus includes Frankincense and Copaiba and can be applied topically to the suprapubic area.
3. Frankincense and copaiba can be combined and massaged topically
4. Frankincense Vitality and Copaiba Vitality can both used to support internal wellness. please click this link to explore the oils that are labeled for oral use
  • Take as a dietary supplement by adding 1–2 drops to a vegetarian capsule to assist overall well-being and healthy immune function.*
  • Add Frankincense Vitality or Copaiba Vitality to water or a green smoothie to enjoy its subtle, flavor.


References:
Chen, Yung-Hsiang et al. “Efficacy of Frankincense and Myrrha in Treatment of Acute Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome.” Chinese journal of integrative medicine vol. 26,7 (2020): 519-526.

Feitosa, Denilson José Silva Junior et al. “Effects of Copaiba oil in the healing process of urinary bladder in rats.” International braz j urol : official journal of the Brazilian Society of Urology vol. 44,2 (2018): 384-389.

Kim, Hyung-Jee et al. “Effects of ylang-ylang essential oil on the relaxation of rat bladder muscle in vitro and white rabbit bladder in vivo.” Journal of Korean medical science vol. 18,3 (2003): 409-14.

To acquire some of the products I mentioned click this link to sign up and receive them for full price or at a discount.  If you plan to ingest the essential oils, please click this link to acquire the oils that are labeled for oral use. If you plan to use these oils near your sensitive areas, seek oils that do not contain fillers or impurities.

Preserving Colon Health

Preserving Colon Health
For colon support eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables; cut back on red meat and other inflammatory foods, such as gluten and many dairy products. You can get the protein you need from non- dairy products like flax milk (also a good source of calcium ), nuts, beans, lentils, and soybean products.

Attached are some foundational supportive products.
I constantly edit this protocol, so check back for updates!

Additional things you can do:

1. Cinnamon & Clove are discussed in the article belowClick here to search for edible oils. 

Cinnamon or Clove Vitality, (Thieves Vitality has both cinnamon and clove) Petrocelli, Giovannamaria et al. “Molecules Present in Plant Essential Oils for Prevention and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer (CRC).” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 26,4 885. 8 Feb. 2021, 

2. Rose was discussed in this articleClick here to search for oils. 
Rezaie-Tavirani, Mostafa et al. “Effect of essential oil of Rosa Damascena on human colon cancer cell line SW742.” Gastroenterology and hepatology from bed to bench vol. 6,1 (2013): 25-31.

3. Sage was discussed in this article. Click here to search for sage vitality oil  
Luca, Tonia et al. “Antiproliferative Effect and Cell Cycle Alterations Induced by Salvia officinalis Essential Oil and Its Three Main Components in Human Colon Cancer Cell Lines.” Chemistry & biodiversity vol. 17,8 (2020): e2000309

4. Thyme essential oil was studied. Click here to search 
Al-Menhali, Afnan et al. “Thymus vulgaris (thyme) inhibits proliferation, adhesion, migration, and invasion of human colorectal cancer cells.” Journal of medicinal food vol. 18,1 (2015): 54-9. 

5. OreganoClick here to search for Oregano essential oil
Savini, Isabella et al. “Origanum vulgare induces apoptosis in human colon cancer caco2 cells.” Nutrition and cancer vol. 61,3 (2009): 381-9. 

6. FrankincenseClick here to search for Frankincense essential oil
Ranjbarnejad, Tayebeh et al. “Methanolic extract of Boswellia serrata exhibits anti-cancer activities by targeting microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 in human colon cancer cells.” Prostaglandins & other lipid mediators vol. 131 (2017): 1-8.

Consider regular use of Cinnamon, Clove, Sage, Rose, Thieves essential oils
Consider Thieves, a blend that contains Cinnamon and Clove
Consider Longevity, a blend that contains Thyme, Frankincense and Clove
Consider Inner Defense, a capsule that contains Oregano, Thyme, Cinnamon and Clove
For example, mix rose in your daily body oil or lotion, diy your own fragrance or body spray, add a drop of cinnamon to your coffee or shake

6.  NingXia Red.  Click here to search for NingXia Red . It contains lycium barbarum (wolfberry), aronia berry, pomegranate, blueberry and more)

Mao, Fang et al. “Anticancer effect of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides on colon cancer cells involves G0/G1 phase arrest.” Medical oncology (Northwood, London, England) vol. 28,1 (2011): 121-6. 

Minker, Carole et al. “Impact of Procyanidins from Different Berries on Caspase 8 Activation in Colon Cancer.” Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity vol. 2015 (2015): 154164. 

Yi, Weiguang et al. “Phenolic compounds from blueberries can inhibit colon cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis.” Journal of agricultural and food chemistry vol. 53,18 (2005): 7320-9. 

Malik, Minnie et al. “Anthocyanin-rich extract from Aronia meloncarpa E induces a cell cycle block in colon cancer but not normal colonic cells.” Nutrition and cancer vol. 46,2 (2003): 186-96. 

Jaganathan, Saravana Kumar et al. “Role of pomegranate and citrus fruit juices in colon cancer prevention.” World journal of gastroenterology vol. 20,16 (2014): 4618-25.



Information on this web site is provided for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice experience and research by the author. This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. Do not use the information on this web site for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read on this web site. Information provided on this web site and the use of any products or services purchased from our web site by you DOES NOT create a doctor-patient relationship between you and any of the physicians affiliated with our web site. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Pelvic Support after delivery

Pelvic Support after delivery
The pubic symphysis is a secondary cartilaginous joint between the left and right superior rami of the pubis of the hip bones. It is in front of and below the urinary bladder. In females, the pubic symphysis is close to the clitoris. 

The symphysis pubis separates to some degree during childbirth. In some women this separation can become a diastasis of the symphysis pubis. The diastasis could be the result of a rapid birth, or a forceps delivery, or may be a prenatal condition.

In some people, the pubic symphysis can become inflamed and irritated, causing the symptoms of osteitis pubis. The most common symptom of osteitis pubis is pain over the front of the pelvis. Other symptoms include:

  • Pain while running, walking, kicking, or changing direction
  • A clicking or popping sensation when shifting positions
Treatment varies, but rest is usually recommended to alleviate the symptoms of osteitis pubis. Other ways to help include hot packs, cold packs, and pain medications.  Unfortunately osteitis pubis can be unresponsive to treatment, and can take from 6 months to 2 years to heal.

Inflammation in the joints between the sacrum and pelvic bone can be a result of arthritis, falling, or wear and tear.

There are a variety of things one can do for bone and cartilage support, however, the usual items I recommend (like wintergreen, peppermint and eucalyptus), might be a little spicy for intimate areas! Here are some ideas that might be more comfortable :

1. CBD Calm roll on: Contains CBD (with zero THC) and lavender. Many essential oils have pain-relieving properties that can penetrate the skin and relieve pain in the pelvic area. For example, a study published in 2015 into the medicinal properties of lavender oil found that it can help to reduce inflammation. The study found that lavender oil has an anti-inflammatory effect when applied to the skin.   

2. Valor oil blend, known as "chiropractor in a bottle", is usually applied topically to realign the spine, but can be used in other areas in need of readjustment

3. Another essential oil which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties is frankincense essential oil. Frankincense also reduces muscle tension by helping you to relax and reduce stress. Frankincense oil can be combined with a carrier oil to rub into joints for effective pain relief. The Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2016 published a study showing how frankincense has pain-reducing qualities. The oil works to block COX-2 (an enzyme connected with inflammation) and “exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

4. Sulfurzyme is an MSM supplement that helps to support normal joint health by providing building blocks for strong collagen and strong cartilage. It also helps to normalize responses and recovery time after exercise.

5. AgilEase is a joint health supplement that supports healthy cartilage, flexibility and mobility, and the body’s natural response to inflammation after exercise.

Click this link and search for the products you want to try, or click directly on the product for more information.

Other things that could manage that area:

1. Radiofrequency has been tried as a method of treating articular cartilage damage in the joint.

2. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is emerging as a biological therapy for the treatment of cartilage injuries.

How to strengthen your body against overgrowth of yeast

How to strengthen your body against overgrowth of yeast

Yeast infections, whether vaginal or on the skin, most often occur because of a shift the your bacterial ecosystem.  Vaginal yeast infections, and thrush are just some of the visible symptoms of systemic fungal infestation.  While at times, yeast infection can be treated locally, the underlying problem of systemic candidiasis may still remain unless specific dietary and health practices are used. 

This shift in balance can be caused by a variety of reasons, including:

1. Taking Antibiotics

Although often necessary for serious medical treatments, one side effect of taking antibiotics is that they kill all bacteria, including the good kind, which can allow fungus to spread out of control.

Remedy: I often suggest that people replace their good bacteria by using a probiotic supplement, or making dietary changes, like eating yogurt or drinking kombucha.

2. Changing Estrogen Levels

A shift in hormones is another common way your body’s bacterial environment is affected. Estrogen levels shift around your menstrual cycle, during pregnancy and menopause, and if you take birth control or other forms of hormone therapy.

Fortunately, Geranium is an estrogen supportive oil, and supports healthy estrogen levels.

3. Chronic Disease

Chronic health conditions or viral infections can also trigger a yeast overgrowth. These can be far-ranging and different on a case-by-case basis, but often include insulin resistance, pre-diabetes, diabetes, or any condition that weakens your body’s immune system.


The best way to balance the body to discourage overgrowth of Candida utilizes an integrative approach that incorporates all the following:

  • reduce the need for antibiotics - consider instead using an essential oil that has antibacterial properties
  • anti-fungal -consider instead using an essential oil that has anti-fungal properties, I recommend that people find a way to incorporate them into their daily routine
  • low-carb/high protein diet- at minimum I recommend avoiding gluten (and grains like wheat and corn), dairy (ghee can be substituted for butter), sugar, difficult-to-digest starches like potatoes, and high sugar fruits. Gluten and dairy are gut irritants, and the more you can reduce sugar, the better.
  • assess nutritional deficiencies and supplement accordingly. For example, chromium helps your body manage blood sugar properly, and other nutrients also have a role.  I frequently have people take a comprehensive multivitamin or a vitamin pack like Master Formula
  • antioxidants- Studies have shown that Curcuma longa completely inhibits the growth of candida.  Turmeric is available in capsule form, but I use a powdered form that makes a great latte called Golden Turmeric
  • colon cleansing- once yeast die, you want to move them out quickly, candida often colonizes the colon
  • digestive enzymes- may help with elimination. Most people with a Candida problem are deficient in digestive enzymes.  The enzyme formulas Allerzyme, Essentialzyme and Essentialzyme-4 contain beneficial essential oils, and don't contain gluten, dairy, or other unwanted additives as many over-the counter products do.
  • stress management- elevated cortisol leads to the release of glucose, which allows the yeast to multiply. When you experience stress, it releases sugar into the bloodstream, which feeds the yeast. It also weakens the immune system and degrades gut health. CortiStop is designed to address the way we react to the cortisol produced when under stress. 
  • Vitamin C helps in several ways: First, it provides support to your adrenals, which are crucial for stress hormones and blood sugar regulation. Second, Vitamin C boosts your immune system.  Super C  is one of the rare corn free Vitamin C supplements. 
  • Take vitamin D daily to maintain healthy levels to support your immune system. Super Vitamin D 
  •  Life 9 is a  highly potent probiotic with 17 billion live cultures from nine beneficial bacteria strains to promote normal intestinal function. Repopulate the good bacteria to restore balance
Certain essential oils have been documented to have antifungal activity. 
Essential Oils: Bergamot, Clary Sage, Clove, Copaiba,  GeraniumGinger, Helichrysum, Lemongrass, Manuka, Marjoram, Myrrh, Oregano, Parsley, Patchouli, Peppermint, Sandalwood, Tea Tree, Thyme, Vetiver 

How Can Essential Oils help Yeast balance?

Many essential oils have antibacterial, antiviral, or anti-fungal properties and are received by the body just like any nutrient consumed in your food. Used topically, they are absorbed by the skin and can penetrate cell walls within 20-30 minutes after application.

Since essential oils are very concentrated, you’ll want to dilute the oil before application in order to avoid irritating an already sensitive area of your skin. 

Also keep in mind that not all essential oils are created equally. Although most essential oils sold in stores smell just as strong as their competitors, you’ll need to do your research in order to get high quality oils if you intend to use them for medicinal purposes. Depending on the manufacturer and distillation process, the medicinal properties of the plant may or may not have carried through to the oil sold on the shelf. Likewise, the oils may have been mixed with other compounds or synthetic chemicals, which can change an oil’s effectiveness at treating wounds or infections.  Below I have included links to the brand I recommend my patients use.


            
Some ideas for managing your yeast body burden:
Bergamot, Clary Sage, Clove, Copaiba,  Geranium,Ginger, Helichrysum, Lemongrass, Manuka, Marjoram, Myrrh, Oregano, Parsley, Patchouli, Peppermint, Sandalwood, Tea Tree, Thyme, Vetiver 
                   
Some ideas on how to incorporate them into your daily regimen
     
1. Peppermint is antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal. Use Peppermint in tea or water and drink daily to balance levels. You can also add it to your protein shake or coffee. 
               
2. Copaiba essential oil is also a traditional medicine in preventing infection. Copaiba has antifungal properties and is beneficial for skin health. Apply a drop of Copaiba + a teaspoon of coconut oil to the affected area daily.

3. Geranium - add it to a DIY body wash, then when you shower, you can cleanse.  
Into a squeeze bottle add:
  • ½ cup Castile Soap (unscented is preferred)
  • 1 Tablespoon Vegetable Glycerin
  • 1 Tablespoon carrier Oil
  • 10-20 drops Essential Oils (You can use any of the above anti-fungal oils, but my favorite is 10 drops Geranium and 10 drops copaiba)

References:
Zore, Gajanan B et al. “Evaluation of anti-Candida potential of geranium oil constituents against clinical isolates of Candida albicans differentially sensitive to fluconazole: inhibition of growth, dimorphism and sensitization.” Mycoses vol. 54,4 (2011): e99-109. 

Bouzid, D et al. “Vitamin D3 a new drug against Candida albicans.” Journal de mycologie medicale vol. 27,1 (2017): 79-82. 

Tobouti, Priscila Lie et al. “Influence of melaleuca and copaiba oils on Candida albicans adhesion.” Gerodontology vol. 33,3 (2016): 380-5. 

Alshaikh, Najla A, and Kahkashan Perveen. “Susceptibility of Fluconazole-Resistant Candida albicans to Thyme Essential Oil.” Microorganisms vol. 9,12 2454. 28 Nov. 2021

Yassin, Mohamed Taha et al. “In vitro anticandidal potency of Syzygium aromaticum (clove) extracts against vaginal candidiasis.” BMC complementary medicine and therapies vol. 20,1 25. 30 Jan. 2020

Click here to search for a product for more information:

Daily Tips for upper Gastrointestinal health

Daily Tips for upper Gastrointestinal health
Essential oils have been used for centuries to remedy common ailments, and it is important to know that there are numerous oils that can aid nearly any problem, including those that are digestive in nature.

1.  Ginger oil works best when consumed before meals. Thanks to ginger’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it is great at blocking stomach acid production and suppressing H.pylori bacteria, known for causing stomach ulcers. Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis will benefit from ginger oil. When taken as a dietary supplement, it may provide comfort for the digestive system and help to support weight management as part of a healthy lifestyle.

2. Peppermint oil. This pleasantly scented oil can help indigestion and acid reflux. It also acts as a pain reliever, which is why it’s a great choice for reducing pain associated with heartburn. Peppermint essential oil provides a refreshing and cooling feeling that most people will find soothing to the throat. It is advised to dilute a small amount in another beverage.

3. Digize has an antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic quality that combats indigestion.  Take 5-6 drops in an empty gel capsule after meals or add to your drinking water. When experiencing symptoms related to indigestion, heartburn or bloating apply 1-2 drops under your tongue   Dilute it -one part DiGize and one part vegetable or carrier oil. Then, apply several drops (2-4) on ears, wrists, neck, forehead, temples, feet, or apply directly to your abdomen.

3. Studies done on rats have also found evidence for gastro-protective activity of essential oils from turmeric and ginger.  Golden Turmeric
 

4. Scientists in Germany also tried a combination of Peppermint oil and Caraway oil to treat patients suffering from functional dyspepsia to find that this holistic method showed amazing improvements when used for 28 days in a clinical trial.  Try adding a couple of drops of each to water, tea, or a capsule.

5. Allerzyme is a vegetarian enzyme that works with your body’s system to promote natural digestive function. It uses ingredients such as plantain leaf and Tarragon and Ginger premium essential oils that are gentle on your system as they support normal digestion.* This product is formulated for people with dietary and environmental sensitivities and helps provide relief of occasional symptoms such as fullness, pressure, bloating, gas, pain, and/or minor cramping that may occur after eating.*

6. Alkalime helps maintain optimal pH in the stomach with an alkaline blend of biochemical mineral salts, lemon powder, and premium essential oils that also work together to soothe occasional upset stomach.*

7. Life 9 is a probiotic blend. Probiotics may promote faster absorption and stomach emptying. Many sufferers of acid reflux report that they suffer more symptoms after overeating. The use of probiotics balances out the good and bad bacteria in the body, reducing the gas and eliminating fermentation.

Consider finding out if there are particular foods bothering you. Shop Food Sensitivity Test 96 foods at Everlywell. Shop Food Sensitivity Comprehensive Test 204 foods at EverlyWell

Click here or on any product for more information:
 
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