antioxidants and herbs

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Nutrition

As explained, low levels of antioxidants in the blood may make an

individual more prone to develop pancreatitis; at the same time, someone who

already has pancreatitis is more likely to develop deficiencies of the following

nutrients:

a.. Magnesium – particularly in the case of chronic alcoholism

b.. Methionine

c.. Selenium

d.. Vitamin A

e.. Vitamin C

f.. Vitamin E

Some studies do suggest that taking these nutrients mentioned,

particularly the latter five each of which has antioxidant properties, can

reduce the pain from which people with pancreatitis suffer and recover more

readily from the condition. Other potentially valuable supplements to take

include:

a.. Vitamin B12; levels may be low with pancreatitis; works best in this

case if given by injection.

b.. Soybeans; extracts of soybeans known as polyunsaturated

phosphatidylcholines (PCs) work as antioxidants and have demonstrated prevention

of damage to the pancreas in animal studies.

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Herbs

a.. Emblica officinalis (Indian gooseberry) is a traditional Ayurvedic

medicinal plant used to treat pancreatic disorders. It is the richest natural

source of vitamin C. Animal studies further suggest that this herb can be used

to prevent development of pancreatitis.

Individual case reports suggest that traditional Chinese medicines are

effective for the prevention and treatment of pancreatitis including the

following which are also used commonly as both Western and Ayurvedic treatments

of gastrointestinal disorders:

a.. Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

b.. Ginger root (Zingiber officinale)

c.. Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng),

d.. Peony root(Paeonia officinalis)

e.. Cinnamon Chinese bark (Cinnamomum verum)

Animal studies further suggest the value of using these herbs in

combination along with the following herbs:

a.. Bupleurum (Bupleri falcatum L)

b.. Pinelliae tuber (Pinelliae ternata)

c.. Chinese skullcap (Scutellariae baicalensis)

d.. Jujube (Zizyphi jujuba)

To determine the regimen for each individual, it is best to see a skilled

herbalist or licensed and certified practitioner of traditional Chinese

medicine, particularly because these herbs often work best in combination.

Reflexology or Massage Therapy

Reflexology is based on a system of points on the hands and feet thought

to correspond or " reflex " to other areas of the body. The technique is thus

specific to particular body parts (most often the feet), but is intended to

assist the entire body

Mark E. Armstrong

www.top5plus5.com

NW Chapter Rep

Pancreatitis Association, International