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Dr. Vikram Chauhan - MD (Ayurveda)

Showing posts with label adrenal gland. Show all posts
Showing posts with label adrenal gland. Show all posts

Friday, November 6, 2020

The Major Hormones of Endocrine System

The internal metabolism of our body is regulated and controlled by the various hormones produced by our Endocrine system. Various major phenomenon in body like growth, development, metabolism, reproduction, homeostasis and our body's response to stress, injury and external environment is coordinated and executed by the hormones. Here we will read about some of major hormones of our body and their function in our system.

Hormones Produced by our Endocrine System

INTRODUCTION

Hormones are the chemical substances produced in the body that acts as a messenger and transfer the important information from one group of cells to the other group. This helps in maintaining coordination between various essential functions of the body. Endocrine system consists of various glands that release hormones. Each hormone have its own specifies type and function. We can take it in this way that our endocrine system order any other part of body to do something and this command is take to the target organ by hormones. There are various glands in the body releasing different hormones and some of the major glands are pituitary, hypothalamus, pancreas, adrenals, parathyroid, thyroid, pineal body, ovaries and testes.

Let us learn about all these hormones and their influence on our body system.

1. Hypothalamus

This gland is located in the central lower part of the brain and controls metabolism, satiety and homeostasis. It releases major hormones like Growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH), Thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH), Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) and Corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH).

  • Growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH)- GHRH stimulates the anterior pituitary gland for the synthesis and release of growth hormone. Even many cells and organs functions are regulated by this hormone.
  • Thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH)- Its main function is to regulate and maintain secretion of thyroid stimulating hormone and eventually regulating thyroid hormone. TRH also control the release of growth hormone, prolactin, insulin and vasopressin.
  • Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH)- GnRH stimulates the pituitary gland which is situated in the brain to secrete the follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. These hormones in men regulate production of testosterone and in women progesterone and estrogen are released by it.
  • Corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH)- CRH stimulates the pituitary gland to release adrenocorticotropic hormone. Corticotropin releasing hormone is known as the controller of stress hormone system (Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis).

2. Pituitary Gland

This small pea sized gland regulates the vital functions of the body and maintain the general wellbeing of a person. Pituitary gland is known as the master gland of the body as it plays the major role in regulation of important functions in the body. It releases several important hormones like Growth hormone, thyroid stimulating hormone, adrenocorticotropic hormone, luteinizing hormone, prolactin, vasopressin and oxytocin.

  • Growth hormone- As the name suggests this vital hormone regulates the growth of your body and helps children to grow tall, decreases fat of the body and increases muscle mass.
  • Thyroid stimulating hormone- Pituitary gland produces this hormone and release it into the bloodstream. This hormone than travels to the thyroid gland, binds to the receptors on its cells and stimulates release of thyroxine and triiodothyronine hormones (thyroid hormones).
  • Adrenocorticotropic hormone- This hormone is vital in order to maintain the proper stress reaction of your body. It regulates the function of adrenal glands and help body to react to stress. In adrenal gland, it also stimulates the gland to release cortisol hormone.
  • Luteinizing hormone- LH in males stimulates the testes to release testosterone and in females stimulates ovaries to release steroid and progesterone.
  • Prolactin- This amazing hormone is responsible for carrying out many functions in the body, mainly being the production of milk and mammary glands development.
  • Vasopressin- Vasopressin is also known as anti-diuretic hormone which helps in retaining the body’s water. It is secreted by the posterior pituitary gland.
  • Oxytocin- Oxytocin plays a major role in the female reproduction and it helps in breastfeeding by stimulation of nipples and during childbirth by inducing the labor.

3. Pancreas

Pancreas is an abdominal organ, elongated in shape and helps in digestion and release hormones. The exocrine part releases digestive enzymes and the endocrine part releases hormones, i.e. insulin and glucagon.

  • Insulin- Insulin mediates the tyrosine kinase receptor pathway and promotes the glucose uptake by cells, glycogenesis, lipogenesis, synthesis of fats and protein of skeletal muscles. It helps in maintaining balance of blood sugar level.
  • Glucagon- This hormone prevent from falling down the blood sugar level too low. Glucagon do this by stimulating the conversion of stored glycogen to glucose and then release it into the blood stream.

4. Adrenal Gland

There are two adrenal glands which are located on top of the kidneys. Adrenal gland is divided into two parts and the hormones are produced by outer part is called corticosteroids while the inner part produces catecholamines hormones.

  • Corticosteroids- Its main function is to relieve the inflammation anywhere in the body. Corticosteroids provide relief from swelling, itching, redness and other allergic reactions.
  • Catecholamines- The fight or flight reactions in the body is controlled by these hormones as they regulate the stress reaction and helps the body to fight against and fright or terror to oneself.

5. Parathyroid Gland

Parathormone hormone is produced by the Parathyroid gland and is also known as Parathyrin hormone. It regulates the serum calcium concentration.

6. Thyroid Gland

Lower front part of the neck holds the thyroid gland that produces hormones to regulate the metabolism of the body. Thyroid hormone helps in development of nervous system, brain and bones in the children. Blood pressure, muscle tone, digestion, heart rate and reproductive functions are also regulated by thyroid hormone to certain extent.

7. Pineal Body

Pineal gland or pineal body is found in the middle area of the brain. A hormone which regulates the wake-sleep cycle of the human body called as Melatonin is produced by the Pineal gland. Other than this Melatonin also plays a role in regulation of blood pressure, immune system, and autonomic cardiovascular regulation.

8. Ovaries

Two major sex hormones are produced by this gland called estrogen and progesterone. Both the hormones help in regulation of the menstrual cycle and play a vital role in pregnancy. These hormones are necessary for the reproductive and sexual development of the women.

9. Testes

Testosterone is the major hormone produced by testes which plays the major role in sexual development and reproductive health of the men. It helps in regulating libido, distribution of fat and muscles, strength, and production of sperms and RBCs.

CONCLUSION

Endocrine system of the body is vital part of human system that plays the essential role in unhindered functioning of the human body. Coordinated and controlled functioning is carried with various hormones regulation. Other than the above mentioned ones, there are many other hormones as well which play their roles in different aspects of the body system.

Wednesday, January 30, 2019

How Can Ayurveda Help In Treating Pheochromocytoma?

Pheochromocytoma is a rare tumor which develops in an adrenal gland. This tumor is also known as a pharmacological time bomb. It is usually noncancerous and arises from cells called chromaffin cells. Usually, this tumor emerges in one of the adrenal glands particularly in the adrenal medulla which is located above the kidneys. The adrenal gland produces adrenaline hormone which is released in stressful conditions and helps the body to react in a dangerous or emergency situation. It causes increased heart rate and blood pressure. Now in case of Pheochromocytoma, uncontrolled adrenaline is released which can result in stroke, heart attack, or death.

pheochromocytoma

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF PHEOCHROMOCYTOMA?

The exact cause of Pheochromocytoma is not known. It may be the result of inherited genetic mutations. A person carrying this mutated gene may not have any sign or symptoms unless it is triggered by certain factors.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF THE PHEOCHROMOCYTOMA?

Most of the person having pheochromocytoma do not experience signs and symptoms. The symptoms of pheochromocytoma lasts for about 10-20 minutes approximately. These symptoms can appear once or several times depending upon the triggering factors. There are certain triggering factors, which are responsible for pheochromocytoma:

  • Physical exertion
  • Stress or anxiety
  • Labor or delivery
  • Change in position of the body
  • Anesthesia or surgery

These Factors Resulted In Symptoms Like:-

  • High blood pressure which may be at irregular intervals or continuous.
  • Increased or heavy heartbeats.
  • Palpitations
  • Sweating
  • Severe pain in the head.
  • Tremors
  • Face paleness
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Pain in loins.
  • Irritability and nervousness.
  • Chest or abdominal pain.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Seizures
  • Disturbed sleep.

HOW CAN BE PHEOCHROMOCYTOMA DIAGNOSED?

  • Computed tomography (CT scan)
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Urine tests
  • Blood tests

HOW CAN PHEOCHROMOCYTOMA BE TREATED?

Conventional treatment for this tumor includes surgical removal of Pheochromocytoma. When surgery cannot be opted for the treatment due to some patient-specific reasons, one has to rely on medications which are given to manage symptoms like increased blood pressure and heartbeat.

WHAT IS THE AYURVEDIC CONCEPT OF PHEOCHROMOCYTOMA?

In Sanskrit tumor is known as Granthi. According to Ayurveda reason behind round, hard, nodular and slightly elevated growths, i.e. tumor is aggravated Kapha dosha mainly. Kapha dosha enters most of the muscles, fatty tissues and blood resulting in tumor formation. According to Ayurveda, there are nine types of benign tumors that are Vataja granthi, Kaphaja granthi, Pittaj granthi, Rakta granthi, Mansa granthi, Asthi granthi, Meda granthi, Vrana granthi, and Sira granthi.

HOW CAN AYURVEDA HELP IN TREATING PHEOCHROMOCYTOMA?

The modern medicine therapy for it has drug-induced toxic side-effects. Ayurveda is a system of medicine which treats diseases in a very natural way without causing any side-effects. In Ayurveda, diseases are treated by using herbs. Along with medicines, Ayurveda suggests some lifestyle changes which helps in quick and safe recovery.

  • Avoid exposure to any kind of strong radiations, toxins, and polluted air.
  • Do not ignore any injury even a minor one which can result in tumor formation later on.
  • Consult a doctor on observing symptoms like frequent headaches, unexplained weight loss, and fever.
  • Maintain specific time habits in the context of eating, sleeping, and work.
  • Do yoga and meditation daily to relieve stress.
  • Food items like cheese, beer, wines, chocolates, and smoked or dried meat etc can trigger the symptoms.

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR PHEOCHROMOCYTOMA

Planet Ayurveda offers Pheo Support Pack for Pheochromocytoma. These herbal remedies treat this benign tumor effectively and in a very safe and natural way.

Herbal Remedies for Pheochromocytoma

1. Ashwagandha Capsules

These are the single herb capsules made from authentic herbs in a standardized method. Ashwagandha capsules have various health benefits. In Pheochromocytoma these capsules help to relieve stress and severe headaches. It increases concentration and memory. Anxiety is decreased by the consumption of these capsules in a prescribed way. It has antioxidant properties which clear toxins from the body and increases the body's strength to fight against diseases. Ashwagandha capsule effectively treats neurological disorders and also supports overall health.

DOSAGE- Take two capsules two times a day after meals.

2. Phyllanthus Niruri Capsules

Phyllanthus niruri capsules help to calm vitiated Pitta and symptoms caused due to its aggravation. These capsules help to lower the blood pressure in hypertensive patients which is one of the main symptoms of Pheochromocytoma. It treats hepatic diseases and improves appetite. These capsules are also useful in the management of various other health problems like urinary stones, dysuria, and jaundice.

DOSAGE- Take one capsule two times a day after meals.

3. Vara Churna

Vara churna is a blend of herbs. Herbs used in it are haritaki, amalaki, and bibhitaki. Its benefits are-

  • This churna strengthens digestive system of the body and relieves all symptoms of weak digestion.
  • It removes toxins from the body and clear channels blockage.
  • Constipation is relieved by proper use of this churna.
  • Vara churna gives nutrition to the body as a whole and manages symptoms associated with pheochromocytoma.
  • Liver metabolism is corrected by it and removes fat deposits.

DOSAGE- 1 teaspoonful two times a day after meals.

4. Pitta Balance

It is composed of natural calcium compounds.

  • Pitta balance capsule relieves body heat, palpitations, heartburn, abdominal pain, and ulcers.
  • These capsules re-energize the body.
  • These capsules are made up of praval pishti, mukta pishti, akik pishti, giloy satva, and kamdhudha ras.
  • Pitta balance capsules balance Pitta dosha in the body and imparts cooling and soothing effect.

DOSAGE- Take one capsule two times a day after meals.

5. Brahmi Capsules

These capsules are prepared from pure and standardized extract of Bacopa monnieri a herb.

  • It supports overall health of the body.
  • These capsules enhance body’s immunity and increases strength of the body to fight against diseases.
  • It is also known as nerve tonic and brain sharpner.
  • These capsules relieve anxiety, stress, and promote relaxed state of body and mind.

DOSAGE- Take two capsules two times a day after meals.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF TAKING PHEO SUPPORT PACK FROM PLANET AYURVEDA?

Planet Ayurveda manufactures this pack under strict ayurvedic principles. Several reasons which make it superior to other similar products are-

  • The products in this pack are 100% ayurvedic.
  • It is a purely vegetarian products.
  • Pheo support pack does not contain any chemicals, preservatives, starch, additives, colors, yeast, binders or fillers.
  • Its testing is not done on animals.
  • This product is available at Planet Ayurveda at a reasonable price with the best quality.
  • Only pure Ayurvedic herbs of the best quality are used.
  • Standardized extracts are used in the preparation of capsules.

Saturday, January 19, 2019

Hypocortisolism Treatment in Ayurveda - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Herbal Remedies

Hypocortisolism is also known as Addison's disease or Hypoadrenalism. This is a rare medical disorder characterized by insufficient production of cortisol hormone by the adrenal gland. Adrenal glands are located above the kidneys. Cortisol hormone plays an important role in the proper functioning of the body during stress. Blood pressure and blood sugar levels are maintained by this hormone. The inflammatory response is slowed down and also regulate the carbohydrate, fats and protein metabolism. During insufficiency of cortisol hormone, all these functions are seriously disturbed resulting in a range of symptoms. This disease can prove fatal.

Hypocortisolism

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF HYPOCORTISOLISM?

  • It can be an autoimmune disease in which body’s own immune system attacks the adrenal glands resulting in improper functioning of the glands.
  • There can be some other causes of Hypocortisolism like trauma, tuberculosis, fungal infection, surgery, and cancer.
  • Secondary adrenal insufficiency can result in Hypocortisolism where pituitary gland does not produce enough ACTH (adrenocorticotropin), adrenal gland stimulating hormone to produce cortisol.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HYPOCORTISOLISM?

  • Fatigue.
  • Decreased appetite and weight loss.
  • Hyperpigmentation, i.e. darkening of the skin.
  • Low blood pressure.
  • Craving for salty things.
  • Hypoglycemia, i.e. low blood sugar.
  • Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
  • Constipation.
  • Pain in the abdomen.
  • Pain in joints and muscles.
  • Irritability and other behavioral symptoms.
  • Loss of body hair.
  • Sexual dysfunction in females.

HOW CAN BE HYPOCORTISOLISM DIAGNOSED?

  • Medical history and physical examination.
  • Blood tests to measure cortisol level
  • CT scan and MRI when needed.

HOW CAN BE HYPOCORTISOLISM TREATED?

Treatment of this disorder in modern medicine includes oral and injections of corticosteroids and Androgen replacement therapy for women to treat androgen deficiency. But this treatment not give satisfactory results so always use ayurvedic remedies for better results.

WHAT IS AYURVEDIC UNDERSTANDING OF HYPOCORTISOLISM?

According to Ayurveda, Ama, toxin gets attached to the cells. Body's immune system attacks the cells to remove this ama. During an effort to remove this toxin immune system destroys the body's own healthy cells, resulting in autoimmune disease.
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine which has an Indian origin. Treatment of diseases is done by natural remedies made from herbs. Treatment is purely natural and safe even if taken for a long time.

HERBAL REMEDIES BY PLANET AYURVEDA FOR HYPOCORTISOLISM

Planet Ayurveda offers wonderful remedies for the natural and safe treatment of this disorder. All the herbs used in these remedies are authentic and standardized. All the herbal remedies offered by Planet Ayurveda are free from any type of chemical substances and additives. Any of the product of Planet Ayurveda is not tested on animals. Lactating mothers and pregnant women can take these remedies but only under medical supervision. These herbal remedies do not have any addictive effect.

Herbal Remedies For Hypocortisolism

herbal remedies for hypocortisolism, ayurvedic treatment of hypocortisolism

1. Ashwagandha Capsules

These are single herb capsules prepared from Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), following strict Ayurvedic principles. This herb is used for various health ailments since ages.

Its Benefits Are:

  • These capsules have an antioxidant property which helps in removing the toxin from the body which is the main cause of Hypocortisolism according to Ayurveda.
  • It relieves digestive problems like constipation and increases appetite.
  • Stress, headache and anxiety are relieved by these capsules.
  • Ashwagandha capsules improve the overall health of a person.
  • It nourishes the brain and improves brain functioning which results in good memory.
  • Fatigue and weakness are treated effectively by these capsules.
  • These capsules also help to treat rheumatism and impotency.
  • It prevents neurological and cardiac diseases.

DOSAGE- Take 1 capsule two times a day after meals.

2. Curcumin Capsules

Curcumin capsule is made from standardized extract of herb Curcuma longa (Turmeric). This herb is one of the ancient herb enriched with health benefits. Due to its high medicinal properties, it is used in various medicinal products. Curcumin capsules are made strictly under Ayurvedic principles.

Its Benefits Are:

  • Regular use of Curcumin capsules enhances immunity and increases the strength of the body to prevent and fight against diseases.
  • These capsules are rich in antioxidants which help to remove toxins from the body and treat diseases.
  • It also has antibiotic properties which prevent and treat infections and their associated symptoms.
  • Digestion is improved and liver diseases are treated by its proper consumption.
  • Curcumin capsules have anti-inflammatory properties which help to treat inflammation and its associated symptoms like swelling, redness, and pain of the affected part.
  • It also helps to maintain clear and toned skin.

DOSAGE- Take 1 capsule two times a day after meals.

3. Immune Booster

This herbal remedy is a medicinally rich product which strengthens the immunity. As the name suggests it deal with all kind of diseases which affect immunity. Almost in all health conditions, it can be used. It is made from following herbs:

  1. Grape seed (Vitis vinifera)
  2. Go-Piyush (Bovine colostrum)
  3. Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri)
  4. Amalaki (Emblica officinalis)

Its Benefits Are:

  • It prevents and treats diseases like asthma, diabetes, and recurrent infections.
  • Removes toxins and free radicals from the body and prevents autoimmune diseases.
  • Immune booster capsules enhance immunity and prevent recurrent infections like cold and cough in children and urinary tract infections in women.
  • These capsules also contain many vitamins, proteins, and minerals.

DOSAGE- Take 1 capsule two times a day after meals.

4. Fenugreek Capsules

Fenugreek capsules are made from Trigonella foenum-graecum (Fenugreek). It is filled with health benefits and can be used to treat various diseases. This product is made under strict Ayurvedic principles and does not cause any side-effects if taken as prescribed by a physician.

Its Benefits Are:

  • It diminishes nausea and increases appetite.
  • Digestion is improved by it, also treat any type of digestive conditions.
  • These capsules have anti-inflammatory properties which prevent and treat inflammation and its associated symptoms like pain, redness, and swelling.
  • Arthritis is also relieved by proper consumption of these capsules.
  • It also increases milk production during lactation.
  • Wound healing is accelerated by using Fenugreek capsules.
  • It helps to increase libido.

DOSAGE- Take 1 capsule two times a day after meals.

Contact my assistant to provide you the costing / ordering and delivery information at - costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or call at +91-172-5214030

Friday, April 27, 2018

Ayurvedic Treatment of Hypocortisolism (Addison's disease) - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Herbal Remedies

WHAT IS HYPOCORTISOLISM?

Hypocortisolisam is a long term endocrine disorder in which there is not enough production of steroid hormones by the adrenal gland. This problem arises when the body's immune system starts getting damaged or due to some kind of medication or bleeding into both adrenal glands. Damage of the cortex does not produce the hormones in adequate quantity which can lead to this particular problem. It is also known as Addison's disease.

hypocortisolism, addison's disease

IT CAN BE CLASSIFIED INTO TWO TYPES

  • Primary adrenal insufficiency- where adrenal gland is directly affected. This is associated with other auto immune endocrinopathies.
  • Secondary adrenal insufficiency- this is caused by the decreased ACTH production. This is far more common than primary adrenal insufficiency.

This problem mostly occurs in middle aged females and most females also suffer from loss of libido developing hyper pigmentation on skin.

POSSIBLE CAUSES OF HYPOCORTISOLISM

  1. Hemorrhaging into adrenal glands
  2. Other adrenal glands infection
  3. Tuberculosis

SYMPTOMS OF HYPOCORTISOLISM

  1. Loss of body hair
  2. Muscle pain
  3. Vomiting and diarrhea
  4. Nausea
  5. Decreased blood sugar
  6. Hyper pigmentation
  7. Sexual dysfunction (in women)
  8. Weight loss
  9. Fatigue

If this problem is not treated on time, it further leads to a very dangerous condition and further leads to hypotension or low blood pressure and low sugar level (hypoglycemia and hyperkalemia respectively). These problems are very critical for health and needs urgent attention.

Other Symptoms May Include:

  • Hypotension
  • Fainting
  • Pain in abdomen and legs
  • Low back pain
  • High potassium level
  • Extreme tiredness
  • Unintentional weight loss

DIAGNOSIS

  • Blood tests
  • ACTH stimulation tests
  • Insulin-induced hypoglycemia test
  • Imaging test

TREATMENT

  • Hormone replacement therapy
  • Taking prescribes corticosteroids
  • In the long run problem prednisolone,betamethasone ordexamethasone are given
  • These are given due to problems like asthma,arthritisand some tissue disorders

But the treatment through medication involves a deep observation of different parameters such as blood pressure, weight, blood sodium and potassium levels, blood cortisol levels. These conditions should be observed and after that medication and the tablets should be taken depending upon the body situation. Compliance is very important in this type of problem.

But sometimes the compliance is not easy to maintain which can lead to further problems and because of this particular reason people bend more towards natural remedies. Ayurvedic medicines can be a great way for the management of Hypocortisolism. So to cater the needs of the patients various Ayurvedic medicines are prepared using natural herbs in it. These medicines are free from side effects. Hence a good option to treat any disease.

MEDICINES AVAILABLE FOR TREATMENT

1. Ashwagandha Capsules

Ashwagandha also known as withania somnifera contains steroidal alkaloids and lactones which is really effective for managing adrenal gland disorder.

This herb is most often used in ayurveda for a number of health reasons.

The extract of the herb ashwagandha is used to prepare this capsule.

2. Cap. Immune Booster

As the name describes, this is specially formulated for healthy immune system.

These capsules are formulated by combination of different herbs like grape seed, cow colostrum, bhumiamla, and amlaki.

These particular herbs help to make the immune system healthy and energize the immune system to fight with the symptoms of this particular disease.

3. Curcumin Capsules

These capsules are made keeping in mind the condition of adrenal glands. This is made from cur cumin herb that is beneficial for the health of adrenal glands. The product is considered very beneficial for hypocortisolism.

4. Fenugreek Capsules

These capsules are made from pure extracts of fenugreek. The seeds of this plant are enriched with phosphates, lecithin, trigonelline, choline, iron, trimethylamine. Trigonelline is considered best for adrenal glands.

PRODUCT QUANTITY AND DOSAGE

SR. NO.

PRODUCT

QUANTITY

DOSAGE

1.

Ashwagandha Capsules

60 capsules( each bottle)

1 capsule twice a day (with plain water after meals)

2.

Immune Booster Capsules

60 capsules (each bottle)

2 capsules twice a day (with plain water after meals)

3.

Curcumin Capsules

60 capsules(each bottle)

2 capsules twice a day (with plain water after meals)

4.

Fenugreek Capsules

60 capsule(each bottle)

1 capsule twice a day (with plain water after meals)

The above is the quantity and dosage that is to be taken on time for better results and to attain maximum benefits of the herbs. All of them are 100 percent vegetarian and are made from pure herbal extracts without the addition of chemicals. As these are prepared without chemicals all of them are safe to use and do not cause any side effects. These medicines can be a great way for the management of Hypocortisolism. These medicines are prepared using natural herbs in it. These medicines are free from side effects. Hence a good option to treat any disease.

Contact my assistant to provide you the costing / ordering and delivery information at - costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or call at +91-172-5214030

Friday, August 5, 2016

Herbal Treatment for Adrenocortical Carcinoma

People are familiar with so many diseases but some conditions of the body that occur rarely and these are not so common for a person to hear but the one who suffers from such disease knows the pain. If we hear of Cancers that brings a feeling of fear. Among some of these rare conditions is Adrenocortical Carcinoma which is cancerous growth of Cortex of Adrenal gland.

On top of the kidneys lies a gland known as adrenal gland that has important role in endocrine system, having two parts adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla that produce and regulate hormones.

The adrenal cortex produces Aldosterone- that regulates the level of water and salt in the body as well as maintains blood pressure, produces cortisol- managing the metabolism of the body, also produces androgen – Sex hormones.

Cancerous growth in Adrenal Cortex leads to adrenocortical carcinoma and this malignancy occurs rarely. Affects only 0.72 persons per one million population.

Adrenal cortical carcinomas can be either

Functioning tumors where there is usually increase in the production of cortisol, testosterone, and aldosterone in the body.

Nonfunctioning tumors do not increase the adrenal glands' hormonal production.

Causes of Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma

  • The exact cause is not known.
  • ACC can also be a secondary cancer.
  • This Condition may be inherited.

Ayurvedic View of Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma

As this carcinoma is not exactly mentioned in Ayurveda but Ayurveda has named such cancerous growth as Arbud.

Risk of Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma

  • Females
  • Age between 40 and 50.
  • Having hereditary disease that affects the adrenal glands.
  • In case of other cancer that is aggressive.
  • Children under age 5 are also at higher risk for this condition.

Signs and Symptoms of ACC

That may include:

  • Pain in the abdomen or back.
  • A lump in the abdomen.
  • Feeling of fullness in the abdomen.

In case of nonfunctioning adrenocortical tumor signs or symptoms may not appear in the early stages.

A functioning adrenocortical tumor makes too much of one of the AC hormones.

High cortisol can cause

  • Weight gain in the face, neck, and abdomen of the body and thin arms and legs.
  • Face is round, red, and full.
  • A lump of fat on the back of the neck.
  • A deepening of the voice and swelling of the sex organs or breasts in both males and females.
  • Muscle weakness.
  • High blood sugar.
  • High blood pressure.
  • Change in moods and Depression

High Aldosterone

  • High blood pressure.
  • Weakness or cramps in muscles.
  • Frequent urination.
  • Feeling thirsty.
  • Fluid build-up in the body's tissues.

High testosterone (in women) may cause:

  • Fine hair growth on the face, upper back, or arms.
  • Acne.
  • Balding.
  • A deepening of the voice.
  • Menstrual periods do not occur

High estrogen (in women):

  • Menstrual periods are irregular before menopause.
  • Vaginal bleeding after menopause.
  • Weight gain.

High estrogen (in men):

  • Growth in breast.
  • Lower sex drive.
  • Erection is not maintained

Symptoms are different in children.

Male sex hormones can cause:

  • Development of excessive facial, pubic, and underarm hair
  • Penis is enlarged (in boys).
  • Clitoris is enlarged (in girls).

Female sex hormones in children can set off:

  • Results in early puberty (in girls)
  • Breast enlargement (in boys).

Herbal Treatment for Adrenocortical Carcinoma

1. ASHWAGANDHA CAPSULES

These herbal capsules are prepared using the extracts of the Withania somnifera. These capsules are beneficial in relieving symptoms such as muscle spasms, fatigue, stress, anxiety, maintain blood pressure. Loss of weight due to cancer is gained and it also enhances the physical stamina.

Ingredient / Herb:

Aswagandha (Withania somnifera) - Ashwagandha is a medicinal herb that is rich with anti-oxidant properties

Dosage - 2 capsules two times daily after meals.

2. CURCUMIN CAPSULES

These herbal capsules are formed using standardized extracts of the turmeric (Curcumin) herb. Due to this herb these capsules are anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, anti-diabetic, anti-histaminic, anti-ageing, anti-hepatotoxic, anti-coagulant, anti-thrombotic.

Ingredient / Herb:

Curcumin (Curcuma longa) - Extracted from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa. Consists of anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive and anti-inflammatory properties

Dose - 2 capsules two times daily after meals.

3. KANCHNAAR GUGGUL

Kanchnaar guggul is an Ayurvedic herbal formulation prepared by the combination of some herbs that collectively provide beneficial effects against inflammation of the lymph nodes, blockages of the lymphatic vessels, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, goiter, metastatic tumors, and malignant cancers effectively. These are very helpful in treating the tumors of all kinds.

Ingredients:

  • Kachnar bark (Bauhinia variegata)
  • Amalaki (Emblica officinalis)
  • Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)
  • Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellerica)
  • Shunthi (Zingiber officinale)
  • Marich (Piper nigrum)
  • Pippali (Piper longum)
  • Varuna (Crataeva religiosa)

Herbs used in this formulation have anti-inflammatory property and are useful for cancer.

Dose - 2 tablets twice daily with lukewarm water.

4. TULSI CAPSULES

These herbal Capsules are formed from the Tulsi herb that has so many medicinal properties. It helps to treat cancer, autoimmune disorder, chronic rhinitis, allergy and chronic sinusitis.

Ingredient / Herb:

Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) - This herb is medicinal and adaptogenic having the ability to combat stress of the body and normalizes the functioning during the traumatic periods. It comprises of Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial, Antifungal and immune modulator properties.

Dose - 2 capsules daily two times daily after meals.

5. GUGGUL CAPSULES

Guggul capsules are prepared from the standardized extract of pure natural guggul (resin).

Ingredient / Herb:

Guggul (Commiphora mukul) - Guggul naturally has the properties to treat obesity as well a good anti-ageing agent and it provides relief from the spread of the cancer cells to the various parts of the body.

Dose - 2 capsules two times daily after meals.

6. CHANDERPRABHA VATI

These herbal tablets are prepared from by combining various natural herbs along with other natural ingredients that work together to bring quality effects.

Ingredients / Herbs:

  • Shilajit (Asphaltum) 
  • Guggul (Commiphora mukul)   
  • Sugar (Sharkara) 
  • Karpoor (Cinnamomum camphora)          
  • Vacha (Acorus calamus)
  • Mustak (Cyprus rotundus)       
  • Haridra (Curcuma longa)    
  • Amalaki (Amla) (Emblica officinalis)
  • Chavya (Piper chaba)         
  • Vidanga (Embelia ribes)
  • Guduchi (Giloy) (Tinospora cordifolia)  
  • Shunthi (Zingiber officinalis)   
  • Maricha (Piper nigrum
  • Pippali (Piper longum)        
  • Sarjikashaar (Sodium carbonate)   
  • Yavkshaar  (Potassium carbonate) 
  • Rock salt (Saindhav Lavan)
  • Suvarchal Lavan (Sodium sulphate)   
  • Vida Lavan (Balck salt)      
  • Danti (Baliospermum montanum)  
  • Dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)  
  • Tejpatta (Cinnamomum tamala)    
  • Ela (Elettaria cardamomum)    

Dose - Daily 2 tablets two times daily after meals