Capsella bursa pastoris (Shepard’s purse) 1:5 25%
Description:
Shepherd's purse has a long history of use in the management
of obstetric and gynaecologic haemorrhage. Shepherd's Purse has primarily been used in the treatment of bleeding disorders, often
in conjunction with Goldenseal Root. The herb was used to stop haemorrhaging in the stomach and especially for urinary tract
bleeding. Shepherd's Purse has been used regulate menstrual problems and by midwives to stimulate uterine contractions and prevent
post-partum haemorrhage. It has also been shown to reduce urinary tract irritation and has often been used as a mild diuretic.
Read more…click on search articles
Contra-Indications, Cautions and Interactions:
Shepherd's Purse should not be used during pregnancy,
as it is a uterine stimulant. Those who take prescription kidney medications should not use this herb.
Ingredients:
Shepherd’s
purse 1:5 25%
Assessments at ICIM:
If there is excessive menstrual bleeding, it is advisable to investigate further to identify
the cause of the problem. The ICIM Ultrasound can help confirm underlying ovarian cysts and/or endometriosis or fibroids. Ultrasound
examination can also help monitor patient responsiveness to treatment.
Carduus marianus (Milk thistle) 1:5 25%
Description:
The
protective effect of Silybum against liver damage has been demonstrated in a number of experimental and clinical studies. Silymarin
prevents the depletion of glutathione (GSH) induced by alcohol and other liver toxins. Silybum's ability to prevent liver destruction
and enhance liver function is due largely to silymarin's inhibition of the factors that are responsible for hepatic damage-free radicals
and leukotrienes-coupled with its ability to stimulate liver protein synthesis. Silybum components prevent free radical damage by
acting as antioxidants. Silymarin has also been shown to lower cholesterol levels in animal studies and may block cholesterol synthesis.
Read more….click on search articles
Contra-Indications, Cautions and Interactions:
Caution for use with certain medications.
Ingredients:
Carduus
marianus 1:5 25%
Assessments at ICIM:
The ICIM offers a their ICIM Laboratory Assessment which includes measuring blood serum
levels for liver function testing as well as lipid profile (cholesterol – HDL, LDL, Fasting Cholesterol), triglycerides, haematology
and thyroid function etc. If liver damage is suspected, Ultrasound examination can also be conducted by ICIM’s resident GP.
Description:
The majority of pharmacologic investigations on Centella asiatica have focused on the triterpene's
wound-healing and venotonic activity e.g. treatment of Cellulite. More recent investigations have focused on some of centella's effects
on the central nervous system, cognitive function, stress, and anxiety. Read more….click on search articles
Contra-Indications,
Cautions and Interactions:
Caution for use with certain medications. Use only as prescribed by a trained professional.
Ingredients:
Centella
asiatica 1:5 25%
Assessments at ICIM:
Where varicose veins are suspected the ICIM CTI plus ultrasound can prove helpful in identifying
circulatory related problems and monitoring treatment effectiveness.
Chamomile (German) capsules 500mg (Matricaria recutita)
Description:
Chamomile has been widely used in children and adults for thousands of years for a variety of health conditions.
The herb is often used for sleeplessness; anxiety; and gastrointestinal conditions such as upset stomach, gas, and diarrhoea.
It is used topically for skin conditions and for mouth ulcers resulting from cancer treatment. The flowering tops of the chamomile plant are used to make teas, liquid extracts, capsules, or tablets. The herb can also be applied to the skin as a cream or an ointment, or used as a mouth rinse. Some early studies point to chamomile's possible benefits for mouth ulcers and certain skin conditions. In combination with other herbs, it may be of some benefit for upset stomach and for diarrhoea in children. NCCAM-funded research on chamomile includes studies of the herb for generalized anxiety disorder and for chronic pain caused by children's bowel disorders. Read more….click on search articles
Contra-Indications, Cautions and Interactions:
Though rare, allergic reactions to chamomile have
been reported. These reactions have included bronchial constriction with internal use and allergic skin reactions with topical use.
While reports of such side effects are uncommon, people with allergies to plants of the Asteraceae family (ragweed, aster, and chrysanthemums),
as well as mugwort pollen, should avoid using chamomile. Chamomile is usually considered to be safe during pregnancy or breast-feeding.
However, ICIM encourage expectant Mothers not to take any herbs including Chamomile during the pregnancy.
Ingredients:
Chamomile
capsules 500mg
Assessments at ICIM:
If gastrointestinal conditions such as upset stomach, gas, and diarrhoea are an ongoing problem
for you then some assessments at ICIM can be conducted to help identify possible underlying causes. The ICIM offers a wide range of
tests to determine the root cause, including the ICIM Gut Fermentation test, Stool Analysis, Breath Test (where helico bacter pylori
is suspected) (ICIM Laboratory Assessment) and ICIM Blood Analysis. Should Stomach ulcers be suspected referral for Gastroscopy can
be arranged by ICIM’s resident GP.
Chinese Wormwood (Artemisia annua) 1:3
Description:
Wormwood has been used for
centuries to expel intestinal parasites, aid digestion, stimulate the appetite and promote menstruation. It has also bee used
on infected wounds or exposed ulcers. A more recent discovery has been wormwood's efficacy as an anti-malarial agent. It was also
regarded as a useful remedy for liver and gallbladder problems. Read more….click on search articles
Contra-Indications, Cautions
and Interactions:
Longer-term use (over four weeks) or intake of amounts higher than those recommended can cause nausea, vomiting,
insomnia, restlessness, vertigo, tremors, and seizures. Thujone-containing oil or alcoholic beverages (absinthe) made with the oil
is strictly inadvisable—the oil is addictive and may cause brain damage, seizures, and even death. Short-term use (two to four weeks)
of a wormwood tea or tincture has not resulted in any reports of significant side effects. One study found there were no side effects
when using less than 1 ml tincture three times per day for as long as nine months to promote digestive function. Nevertheless, consult
with a healthcare professional knowledgeable in herbal medicine before taking wormwood. Wormwood is not recommended during pregnancy
and breast-feeding.
Ingredients:
Chinese Wormwood 1:3
Assessments at ICIM:
Should gastrointestinal conditions such as upset
stomach, gas, and diarrhoea be present the ICIM offers a wide range of tests to help determine the root cause, including the ICIM
Gut Fermentation test, Stool Analysis, ICIM Blood Analysis and Gut Permeability Test. During the consultation we would determine which,
if any, test may be suitable for your particular case, and use the results to formulate an individualised treatment program. Follow
up testing can be arranged to measure treatment effectiveness.
Description:
Cinnamon
is used traditionally to calm an upset stomach and as a general stimulant. It stops vomiting, relieves flatulence, and given with
astringents is useful for diarrhoea and haemorrhages of the womb. Recent studies have determined that consuming as little as one-half
teaspoon of Cinnamon each day may reduce blood sugar, cholesterol and triglyceride levels by as much as twenty percent in Type-2 diabetes
patients who are not taking insulin. Read more….click on search articles
Contra-Indications, Cautions and Interactions:
Pregnant
women or those allergic to Balsam of Tolu should not use Cinnamon. Men with prostate problems, diabetics and those taking blood
thinners should consult a health care provider before using Cinnamon. This product is not recommended if you have a tendency toward
excessive menstrual bleeding. Taking Cinnamon and antibiotics together may make the antibiotic not work for you. Increased heart
rate (pulse), feeling dizzy, shortness of breath and redness of the face may occur if you take too much Cinnamon.
Ingredients:
Cinnamomun
zeylanicum 1:5 45%
Assessments at ICIM:
If you suspect Diabetes, or blood sugar irregularities, the ICIM Laboratory Assessment can
measure blood glucose levels, tryglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL and HDL. The ICIM Cardiovascular Assessment can be conducted where
appropriate.
Description:
Cranberry extract is an extract of the red acidic fruit of the
shrubby viburnum of North America and Europe. It contains phytochemicals that include flavonol glycosides, anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins
(condensed tannins), and organic and phenolic acids. But it is the proanthocyanidins that exhibit potent bacterial anti-adhesion activity.
The proanthocyanidins found in cranberry differ from those found in other plants by their unique structures and very potent antibacterial
activity. In the case of UTIs, these proanthocyanidins prevent E. coli from adhering to the urethra and bladder. Here's how: The cell
wall of E. coli bacteria has tiny finger-like projections that contain complex molecules called lectins on their surfaces. These lectins
are cellular glue that binds the bacteria to the bladder wall so they cannot be easily rinsed out by urination. But because proanthocyanidin
molecules attach themselves to these lectins and fill up all of the bacterial anchoring sites, the bacteria can no longer stick to
the bladder wall and are flushed away. The likelihood of infection is significantly reduced because bacteria must first adhere to
the mucosal lining before they can proliferate—and without the ability to stick, the bacteria cannot infect. Read more….click
on search articles
Contra-Indications, Cautions and Interactions:
It has not been reported to cause side effects and can be used
safely during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Individuals with a history of kidney stones should consult a medical professional before
using cranberry extract for long periods of time, since there is some indication long term use might increase the risk of developing
a kidney stone.
Ingredients:
Cranberry Concentrate Powder 440 mg Vitamin C (l-ascorbic acid) 60 mg
Assessments at ICIM:
If
you suspect a kidney or urinary tract infection, the ICIM can conduct a Urine Analysis which can measure many parameters including
leukocytes, nitrates, blood, protein etc. This can be used to monitor treatment effectiveness.
Crataegus oxyacantha (Hawthorn) 1:5 25%>/a>
Description:
Hawthorn is widely used as a diuretic and astringent but is mainly used as a cardiac tonic in organic and
functional heart troubles. Both flowers and berries are astringent and useful in decoction to cure sore throats. A useful diuretic
in kidney troubles and associated high blood pressure. Read more….click on search articles
Contra-Indications, Cautions
and Interactions:
Not to be used with low blood pressure. Must not be taken in combination with cardiotonics such as digitalis, convallaria
majalis, Adonis veralis, as it has been shown to enhance the activity of these medications. Do not combine this herb with cardiac
glycosides such as digitoxin and digoxin, as it is known to enhance their activity. Not to be taken with beta-blockers.
Ingredients:
Crataegus
oxyacantha 1:5 25%
Assessments at ICIM:
The ICIM offers their complete ICIM Cardiovascular Assessment, which includes ECG, cholesterol
measuring, and blood pressure.