Researchers struggle to resurrect devil’s claw for alternative medicine

Devil’s claw is an African plant with long-established medicinal properties, but a long drought has pushed it closer towards extinction, and scientists around the world are scrambling to preserve its unique compounds. The scientific community believes the plant may hold the key to effective treatments for a range of conditions including arthritis and tendonitis. Its

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Vitamin blend may protect fetal brain

Many pregnant women already take folic acid as a nutritional health supplement to prevent congenital defects, but they may be able to use it for more than prevention. Research done at the University of Manchester and Lancaster opens the possibility of treating hydrocephalus, a change in cerebrospinal fluid which can lead to brain damage and

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Individualized Nutrition May Help People Stay Healthy

Taking a daily multivitamin, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, consuming dietary supplements and exercising are ways that many people try to stay healthy. Now, research published in the journal Atherosclerosis has announced that nutrition experts may one day be able to put clients on individualized eating plans. The study said that Professor Mike Gibney

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Prescription drug costs and safety worry some

News of deaths related to certain blood thinners and of the still-rising cost of prescription drugs may lead to more people considering alternatives like herbal supplements. Patients who were prescribed Baxter Heparin, a blood thinner that was found to be contaminated while being produced in a Chinese factory, are being advised by at least one

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Studies Link Protein to Cholesterol Levels

Two new studies have found a possible reason for the high cholesterol epidemic across the country. Researchers have been using fruit flies to understand the effects of cholesterol in the body. According to the studies, the flies have the same molecular mechanisms as humans that helps them maintain healthy cholesterol levels. The first study, published

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Changes In Weight May Affect Children’s Body Mass Index

Slight weight changes may alter blood pressure measurements in overweight adolescents, according to a study presented at American Heart Association’s High Blood Pressure Research 2010 Scientific Sessions. Throughout more than 10 years of follow ups, the blood pressure, height and weight was monitored among a total of 1,113 children. The researchers then compared each child’s

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