How Can A Personal Trainer Help Me Improve Cardio And Respiratory Functioning

The heart and lungs work together during exercise to provide us with the energy we need to sustain an activity. During exercise your heart pumps blood out to the arteries, which act as transport mediums to deliver the nutrients (namely oxygen) to the working muscles and cells.

Individuals that spend a lot of time doing cardiovascular-type training have more efficient hearts that are capable of delivering greater amounts of nourishment to working tissues with less stress placed on their hearts.

In addition to having a greater amount of working capacity, regular aerobic-type training can help prevent certain diseases and disorders that can impair an individual’s cardiovascular system.

Take a look at the following list of reported benefits of cardiorespiratory fitness. It should make you feel good to know that your physical activities are lengthening your life span and improving your quality of life because you will have more endurance and energy to do what you want to do.
Reported Benefits of Cardiorespiratory Fitness

– Reduction in blood pressure
– Increased HDL-cholesterol (the good one)
– Decreased total cholesterol
– Decreased body fat stores
– Increased aerobic work capacity
– Decreased symptoms of anxiety, and depression
– Increased heart function
– Possible reduction in mortality in post myocardial infarction patients

Beginning and Continuing a Cardiovascular Exercise Program

The following guidelines are tools to use when your trainer and you design an exercise program to train your heart. As with all types of exercise it is important to check with your physician before starting a new fitness routine.
How often should you work out? The ideal is 3-5 days per week. For optimum health results and to improve cardiovascular fitness, try to exercise aerobically at least three days per week with no more than two days rest in between sessions.

At a minimum, you can work with a personal trainer one day a week and two days on your own. If you can work in five days in a week, that is great! However, do not feel defeated or quit if you miss a day or two in a week. This happens to everyone. Just get back to your regular schedule when you can. It is better to exercise a little than not at all.

How long should each workout be? A cardio workout should be between 20 and 90 minutes a session. Trainers usually recommend a 50-60 minute session to get optimal results. If you cannot get to the gym, jog for at least 20 minutes. Or do interval training, in which you alternate between a faster jog or run and a slower paced walk. If take a 20-minute walk, walk at a pace fast enough so it is not a leisurely stroll.

As with most things in life, consistency is key. Put your workout times into your calendar like you would any important appointment or meeting. Make cardio exercise part of your life. Your trainer can help you do that. He or she will encourage you to work at a comfortable pace, never do anything that hurts, and the most important training rule — have fun! Enjoy your cardio program and you will also keep your heart healthy.

Medicine Additive In Cosmetics Applications Prospect

According to foreign medicinal plant extracts in cosmetics application status over the past ten years combined extract of traditional Chinese medicine research and application in cosmetic work done, most people believe that herbal additives in cosmetics research and development should go basic theory of Chinese medicine combined with modern scientific way, Cosmetics material, to establish a Chinese herbal medicine research with Chinese characteristics and application specifications. Given the current status of research in cosmetics research and development of Chinese medicine need to pay attention to the following questions.

1, to improve the quality of the level of detection. At present, the efficacy of cosmetic products of various components of business analysis and product quality standards of testing methods is still quite backward, does not resolve these contradictions, it is impossible to truly improve the technological content of products.

2, highlighting its unique research model. In addition to Japan, Western countries for the study of plant extracts is based on the study on chemical composition and pharmacological evaluation. Domestic cosmetics manufacturers and research institutions to study Chinese herbal medicine should be based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine combined with modern science and technology, to establish necessary to reflect the characteristics of the basic theory of Chinese medicine, but also meet the standards of modern medicine research evaluation system of Chinese herbal medicine mode.

3, the joint research. Domestic cosmetics companies and research institutions should be adopted will include fine chemicals, pharmaceutical, biotechnology and other aspects of talent combined for a joint interdisciplinary research model, the effectiveness of cosmetics to carry out the production process of traditional Chinese medicine research and development.

4, take the road of innovation. Technological innovation, is to ensure the rapid development. Domestic cosmetics companies active in the market to adjust for the internal product structure, should focus on the use of their resources, minoxidil, accelerate the development of some distinctive functional cosmetics and related products.

In Chinese medicine theory, under the guidance of the complex structure, composition range of Chinese herbal medicine for basic research work will be a long-term work. In practice, the domestic cosmetics manufacturers and research institutions should be fully aware of their peers lack, keep a cool head, take an active coping strategies to catch up, glutathione, and strive to improve in a short time effect of traditional Chinese medicine research and development of cosmetics backwardness, the development of a variety of efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine with the exact efficacy of cosmetics. Source: www.cosprm.com

Male Organ Cancer Alert – What All Men Should Know About Their Reproductive Health

Male organ cancer is relatively rare, but according to research, incidence of cancer of the manhood has increased by 20% over the last few decades. There are several potential reasons for this alarming statistic, and men’s reproductive health may play a role. In order to avoid the long-term complications of cancer, all men should be aware of the connection to reproductive health. In addition, they should pay close attention to proper manhood care, making it a priority in their daily routine.

Why is manhood cancer becoming more prevalent?

Researchers are not completely sure why this is the case. There are several possibilities. These include more accurate diagnosis of symptoms; the fact that men are living longer and are thus more likely to develop some form of cancer over a lifetime; and the fact that men may be engaging in risky behavior that can lead to cancer over the long term.

What are the signs and symptoms?

Cancer of the manhood may be characterized by any of the following:

Bumps or warts;
Bleeding;
Rash;
Change in color;
A foul-smelling discharge;
Difficulty retracting the sheath.

Men who notice these symptoms should keep in mind that many other conditions, most of them minor, may have a similar presentation, so it is best not to panic and assume the worst. On the other hand, it is very important to get them checked out to ensure proper treatment.

Risk factors

The most common risk factors for male organ cancer include smoking, family history, and exposure to HPV, or human papillomavirus (a disease spread by intimate contact). Because of the HPV-cancer connection, doctors generally recommend that boys be vaccinated in their early teens, before they become active. Vaccination later in life, especially after a man becomes active, will not provide immunity.

Manhood care for long-term health and quality of life

As with other forms of cancer, there is no bullet-proof solution to avoiding this potentially deadly disease. However, men can greatly reduce their chances of developing tumors in the area by following some common-sense guidelines:

1. Practice good hygiene. Men who are uncut have a slightly greater chance of developing cancerous lesions, due to an increased risk of developing infections. Washing the area carefully and gently removing any built-up material underneath the sheath can help to keep the area clean and reduce the chances of developing infections. All men should wash the private area carefully at least once every day.

2. Practice safe intimate contact. Because cancer of the manhood has been linked to the HPV virus, which is easily transmitted between partners, men should be sure to use barrier protection for each and every encounter. Even if neither partner has symptoms of HPV, the virus can be present in a dormant state for years; this also means that men should use protection in a monogamous relationship unless both partners have been given a clean bill of health.

3. Get tested regularly. Ideally, all men who are active should be tested approximately every six months for intimately transmitted infections. Early detection and treatment of numerous types of infections are crucial in the fight against male organ cancer.

4. Perform monthly self-exams. The majority of cancerous tumors are detected by men themselves. Conducting a monthly self-exam, looking out for any unusual bumps, lesions, warts or other changes to the skin. While any of these symptoms can occur for a variety of other reasons, anything unusual warrants a trip to the doctor for evaluation.

5. Use a male organ nutrient cream. A formula that is enriched with powerful antioxidants such as Vitamin C and alpha lipoic acid may offer extra protection against damage to the male tissue. A top-notch male organ nutrient cream (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) is also indicated for maintaining smooth, healthy tissue and an overall youthful and vibrant appearance.

Visit www.man1health.com for more information about treating common male organ health problems, including soreness, redness and loss of male organ sensation. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men’s health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous online web sites.

Causes of eczema, symptoms and ways to cure it

The following article covers a topic that has recently moved to center stage–at least it seems that way. If you’ve been thinking you need to know more about it, here’s your opportunity.

If you base what you do on inaccurate information, you might be unpleasantly surprised by the consequences. Make sure you get the whole causes of eczema, symptoms and ways to cure it story from informed sources.

Eczema is a common skin disorder that affects roughly twenty percent of the population. It is an itchy rash that causes the skin to thicken and peel.

This disorder can be caused by nutritional deficiencies or an allergic response to products like detergents, harsh chemicals, plants, wools, perfumes, cosmetics or even nail polish. Other causes may include metals or other metal alloys such as gold, silver and nickel found in jewelry and zippers. In children it usually appears in infancy or early childhood and most often appears on the face, in the bend of the elbows and behind the knee.

Symptoms include red, burning, itching and stinging of the skin with a strong desire to scratch. Sometimes it comes it comes in the form of little pimples which turns into blisters. Usually the skin dries up into little scales and itches.

Recommendation Food

Whole food diet encourages a healthy internal balance and a balanced immune system.

Add Brown rice and millet to your diet.

Eggs, peanuts wheat and dairy products must be avoided.

Also avoid sugar, strawberries, chocolates and processed foods.

Eat Pumpkin and sunflower seeds daily. They are good source of zinc (a mineral that encourages proper metabolism.

Drink at least 8 glasses of water to flush out toxins and encourage skin health.

Helpful Hints

Use warm water when bathing and add a few drops of lavender oil.

Wear Cotton because soft natural fibers will allow the skin to breath.

Exercise will get the blood circulating and this is beneficial to most skin ailment

Eat Right by eliminating fried foods and foods with added sugar.

Detoxify the body. Skin problem is usually means the body is loaded with toxins, may be from allergenic substances, toxic foods or emotional stress. Detoxification will help to relieve the body of poisons.

Acne Cortisone Injection Preferred Option To Heal Those Monstrous Acne Quickly

Eruption of acne is always an embarrassing situation. But acne types like cysts and nodules are more worrisome as these are large acne lesions about 5mm or more in diameter. They are deep within the skin and are thus sometimes cannot be cured with topical treatment. In certain cases, cysts and nodules can take long time to healweeks or even months. And if you leave them untreated, can ultimately cause a scar.
Moreover, if you have a big event around the corner like engagement or wedding or any other special occasion, but unluckily a monstrous cyst or nodule erupted on your face, Acne cortisone injection may be a way to quickly reduce swelling and heal the lesion. A cortisone injection can also help reduce scarring.
Now lets see what exactly cortisone is? It is a natural chemical which is released in our bodies in response to inflammation. But sometimes, the cortisone produced by our body is somewhat short acting however, and often does not produce the quick healing that is desired. In such scenario, cortisone is sometimes injected directly into an area of inflammation. Cortisone is a corticosteroid, a steroid hormone which is produced in the adrenal gland. Cortisone is often referred to as a “steroid”, but should not be confused with “anabolic steroids” which are drugs used for increased strength and muscle size and come with a plethora of harmful side effects.
Acne cortisone injection is quit effective in treating the large acne lesions and it can considerably lessen the inflammation and fasten the healing process. Particularly with cystic acne lesions, healing generally starts immediately. If we talk about the side effects of cortisone shot, then most notably a cortisone injection can create atrophy of the fatty tissue adjoining the injected area. The injection area can end up looking sunken or depressed. This atrophy is not permanent, but can take many months to come back to normal.
Sometimes, a cortisone shot can also be a bit painful, but your doctor can use a local anesthetic to numb the area before the shot if desired. As cortisone is naturally released in the body, thus the risk of allergy and any severe side effects are minor. Other side effects are also rare but may include temporary pain, and hypopigmentation (white spot) at the site of injection in dark skinned individuals.
And also remember that this treatment is not as extraordinary as a magic wand, but may be the next best thing to quickly reduce inflammation and heal the breakout in just a few days. This is generally done in the dermatologists office. It is not essential you only use acne cortisone injection for special occasions; you can opt for it as per your convenience and need. If you desire to magically make them disappear, feel free to make an appointment with our dermatologist or doctor at Brentwood Dermatology for injections on an as-needed basis.

Imrt In Breast Cancer

Worldwide breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women. In the developed world, it is responsible for 18 percent of all cases of cancers seen in women. One million new cases of breast cancer are registered worldwide every year and it is the single commonest cause of death among women in the 40- 50 years age group. In India breast cancer is the second commonest cancer seen in the women after carcinoma cervix. Its prevalence is higher in urban women and it accounts for 20% of all cancer related diseases. In Mumbai and Delhi, it is the commonest malignancy seen in women. In India it has an incidence of 17-40 cases per 1, 00,000 population and the 5 years survival is 42.3 percent to 46.8 percent.

Conventionally radiotherapy in early breast cancers is done by the whole breast technique which utilizes two tangential ports. Upper margin of the radiotherapy field lies at the first intercostals space, and the lower margin lies 2 cm below the inferior mammary line. Medial margin is in the midsternal line and the lateral margin is at the mid axillary line. A total dose of 50 Gy in 25 fractions is given over 5 weeks by conventional fractionation followed by boost of 10-20 Gy. This technique is easy to setup, and avoids the junction dose. Computerizes planning is done for dose optimization. Standard 2d treatment (conventional radiotherapy) techniques utilizes a simplistic view of patient anatomy and it creates hot spot because lung transmission is not accurately included and thinner regions of breast (superior and inferior) are modeled like the thickest slice of the breast. Thus conventional radiotherapy has limitations in the treatment of breast cancer and these include.

Dose inhomogeniety due to change in the contours of the breast 1520 percent of dose inhomogenicity in the superior and the inferior planes of the breast occurs. The medial and lateral aspects of the breast get higher doses of radiation.

Radiation accompaniments i. e. radiation effects on normal tissues in the field are seen uncommonly but they do occur in the lungs and the heart. Newer techniques are able to minimize them.

The newer techniques are used to

Improve dose homogeneity within the tumor volume.
Avoid radiation to normal tissues in the area.
Reduce side effects related to the radiation treatment.
Improve local tumor control and overall survival of the patient.
In an attempt to address the above mentioned parameters a number of newer radiotherapy techniques have been introduced for the treatment of early breast cancer. These include IMRT, external beam RT using 3D conformal RT, Intraoperative Electron Beam RT, Mammosite Ballon Branchytherapy and interstitial branchytherapy. Gated radiotherapy is also available.

All these techniques need a CT scan based treatment planning system and require the use of tissue compensators.

IMRT

IMRT is an approach to conformal therapy that not only delivers high dose to the tumor tissue but also ensures low dose to the surrounding normal tissue. The dose is varied depending on the tumor volume. A higher dose of radiation can be delivered to the areas with high tumor volume, a small dose where tumor volume is not so high and a minimal dose is delivered to surrounding normal tissue. By these means a higher tumor control probability and minimal or no side effects of radiotherapy are achieved, resulting in improved therapeutic ratio and better patient care.

Important normal structures that need to be examined and protected while IMRT for breast cancer is being planned include

Heart
Ipsilateral lung
Contralateral lung
Contralateral breast
Tissues outside the breast planned tumor volume (PTV)
Dose specifications in IMRT are as follows:

Breast volume receiving 105% of prescribed dose should be
Breast volume receiving 110% of prescribed dose should be 55
Breast receiving 115% of prescribed dose should be

How Heart Disease Is Completely Different In Girls

Within the last couple of years we have seen an increase in the stress of heart disease in women. Somehow the perception has been heart disease is “just a person’s problem”. Not so! In girls, heart disease will act differently however it’s simply as serious.
Many apprehend the classic symptoms of a heart attack – crushing chest pain and pain radiating into the left arm or back. Did you recognize these classic symptoms are more common in men that ladies? True, chest pain continues to be a very common symptom, however ladies often experience other symptoms. These symptoms can be extreme fatigue, shortness of breath (with or without chest pain), pain in the upper back or abdomen, nausea and vomiting. Because heart disease can gift itself therefore differently and go unrecognized, it’s valuable for girls to find out concerning the risks and learn to recognize these symptoms in their own bodies as something which will be serious and need immediate attention.
Important Statistics About Heart Disease
How really huge a risk is heart disease for ladies? If you think that it is not extremely therefore important think about this:
1.About [*fr1] 1,000,000 girls die every year from cardiovascular disease
2.This implies additional lives are lost to heart disease and stroke in ladies than to a higher SIX causes of death place along
3.Each year concerning 435,000 ladies have heart attacks, and there are SIX TIMES as several women dying every year from heart attack as from breast cancer
4.Eight million ladies are currently living with heart disease of some sort. Let’s put it another manner–10% of all women ages 45 – 64, and 25% of girls over the age of 65 have heart disease.
Who is At Risk?
Several risk factors play an necessary part in the event of cardiovascular disease. I’m positive you will have heard them all before, but we tend to’ll review the causes anyway. They’re necessary to grasp, and vital to manage if in any respect possible. It’s so a lot of better to strive and forestall cardiovascular disease than to treat heart attacks and strokes once they happen.
1.High Blood Pressure – causes injury to both the heart as a pump and to the blood vessels themselves. One third of adults within the U.S. have high blood pressure, and about one in ten have high blood pressure and don’t even grasp it. Untreated high blood pressure will result in cardiovascular disease.
2.Obesity – being overweight puts an further load on the heart. Over time the obesity can lead to high blood pressure and diabetes. Keeping your weight below control will scale back the danger of heart disease.
3.Diabetes – having diabetes is currently recognized as conferring the same risk for a serious heart event (such as a heart attack) as someone who is already known to own heart disease. What does this mean? Well, women with diabetes are a pair of-3 times more seemingly to own a heart attack than someone who will not have diabetes.
4.Smoking – if you smoke you’ve got a chance of having a heart attack as much as 19 years before you otherwise would. STOP SMOKING NOW!
5.Race – the rate of heart disease is higher is African Yank women, with the speed of heart attack being twice that of Caucasian women ages fifty five – 64. And Pacific Islanders, Latinos and American Indians have the next rate of diabetes and so a lot of cardiovascular disease as well.
6.Cholesterol – high cholesterol levels are a significant risk factor in each men and women. It contributes to a build up of plaque on the inner wall of blood vessels, which in flip can lead to heart attack and strokes. Cholesterol levels tend to creep up in ladies when menopause when hormone levels fall.
How Can I Get My Risks Under Control?
Most of us grasp how vital it’s to stay a healthy weight, exercise often, and eat a healthy diet high is veggies, fruits and grains. I am unable to tell you there is an easy path to good health without doing all of this stuff, as a result of it’s all still true. They are simply as important as they ever were. However set realistic weight goals, and try for consistency. After all, losing a pound per week suggests that in one year you will have lost fifty two pounds! That’s a lot whether or not you’re extremely, really overweight.
Be certain and visit your Health Care Skilled frequently for screening of blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar. You must realize out early and take immediate action to manage these risk factors. The Hypertension Optimal Treatment (HOT) study confirmed those who achieved lower blood pressures – one hundred twenty-125 mmHg systolic (the high number) and 80-eighty five mmHg diastolic blood pressures (the underside range) on treatment had better outcomes that those with higher blood pressures. If you’re a diabetic attempt to urge that systolic pressure range below a hundred twenty five mmHg. This can be a lot of lower than the 140/ninety mmHg we tend to have previously heard was the “magic” number. The study showed even lower variety to be necessary in lowering the danger of cardiovascular disease.
Women have a a lot of higher incidence to thyroid issues as well. A low thyroid can contribute to weight gain, higher cholesterol, and higher triglycerides, which is turn will increase cardiovascular risk. Women especially would like to urge a thryoid panel as part of their screening, particularly as they age.
Do not forget the fiber! The common Yank eats solely 10 – 15 grams a day of fiber when you ought to have about 30 grams. Whole wheat breads, cereals, and soluble fibers (like barley grains) can increase the fiber content of your diet. Even therefore, we tend to have bother getting that abundant fiber into their daily diet.
It’s important you establish your own risk factors and modification your life vogue to regulate what risks you’ll have, and in fact feel higher within the process.

Total Acne Treatments

Dear Acne Sufferer,

You have probably read about different treatments for acne all over the internet. You may wonder if they work or if they are just designed to part you from your money. You have probably also heard about myths and home remedies that can be used to treat acne. You have most likely thought about them and have been a bit hesitant. It seems that there is so much information out there but so a lot of it is slanted in favour of one treatment. What should you do? >

Anyone who ever suffered from acne, as I have, knows how problematic this condition can be for you. And I don’t want you to suffer any longer. I also do not want you to end up purchasing products that cost a fortune and do not work (at least how they are advertised).

I have written a book completely about acne where every cure is discussed – all in one small tome. Sounds too Good to be True? Its Not!

You can now get all the information that you need about acne in one small e-book. This gives you information regarding store bought topical solutions that are popular today as well as old fashioned solutions, diet and alternative medicine. It also delves into medical treatments for acne. Just about everything that you wanted to know about how to treat acne is right here! Total Acne Treatments, everything you need to know!

There is a lot of information on the internet of how to treat acne that is downright false. Many people, seeing you suffer, will take advantage of you and try to sell you a product that is made to clear up your pimples immediately. Most of these products do not work as well as they say that they do. However, there are tried and true treatments for acne.

Treating acne involves more than just putting pimple cream on your skin. It is an entire routine that involves eating as well as skin care. This book explores all facets of acne skin care.

Eczema, Causes and Solutions

I have a friend who has suffered from eczema his whole life. He has spent 46 years enduring the itching, the flaking, inflamed and dry skin. Finally, he put his foot down and decided he’d had enough. He decided to try something different. Within the space of a few weeks, his eczema was completely gone, and his skin is now softer than it has ever been in his life.

If you think you have tried everything, and still your eczema keeps coming back, don’t despair – there is a solution that works. And what’s the harm in trying one more thing? Especially when the solution is actually good for you, no steroids, drugs or topical creams…

If you suffer from eczema, dermatitis or psoriasis, you are not alone. So many people struggle with the annoying, painful and irritating skin conditions. Many of us have no idea why we get eczema, what causes it or how to get rid of it.

Most of us have been prescribed an eczema cream at some time in our life, either over the counter or something stronger. Which may work for a little while, but sooner or later it comes creeping back. Many of these creams I would not like to put on my own skin, let alone the delicate and still developing skin of my baby or young child. I wanted a solution that was safe, non toxic and treated the cause of the problem, not just the symptoms. But does a solution really exist?

The answer is yes. There is a way to banish eczema for good, with only a few simple steps. However, we are never told about this. It has taken me close to 40 years to find out this information, and it took my friend even longer.

Now I have found the answer, I believe everyone has the right to know. There is no miracle cream or instant cure – treating the symptoms alone is not enough. It is the causes of eczema that we need to address.

The most important thing to look at is what you are putting on your skin. Every morning, you may be unknowingly putting up to 100 different chemicals, some containing allergens and toxins, onto your skin. Toxins, carcinogens and other synthetic chemicals in common household products, like cleaning products, cosmetic and personal care products contribute greatly to the onset of eczema and some ingredients can be linked directly to skin irritation.

The most likely culprits are shampoos, soaps and laundry detergents. If you suffer from eczema, you need to take a careful look at all the products you use in your home and minimize your exposure to the known allergens. The best way to go is a full home detox. All these toxins are avoidable. Switch to safety conscious, toxin free, alternative products that not only clean your house and body, but are gentler on the system and far better for the planet.

This is what my friend did. He followed this advice, combining a full home detox with taking one potent probiotic to boost his immune system, and one colloidal mineral supplement, to assist with vitamin and nutrient absorption, each day – and no more eczema.

When you understand the causes of your eczema, and the few simple steps you need to take to address it, like my friend, you will never look back.

immunological Infertility Looked At From The Viewpoint Of Traditional Chinese Medicine

It is easier to understand the concept of what has come to be called Immunologic Infertility, when we look at its causes as described in Western Medical Science.

A womans ability to successfully retain the fertilized ovum and allow it to grow, depends upon a complex interplay of sophisticated immunologic adjustments designed to convert her Uterus into a host for the developing embryo and protect the developing fetus and its placenta against rejection.
Sometimes these mechanisms can go wrong; depending upon how and when this happens, the woman might experience recurrent miscarriages, infertility, or failure to conceive even after IVF.

An underlying immunological factor needs to be considered in all those cases of “unexplained infertility”, especially when a “blighted ovum” is repeatedly seen.

Western Science has thrown up a lot of evidence to show that anti-sperm antibodies can occur in both men and women and can lead to infertility. Anti-sperm antibodies are protein molecules that get attached to sperms and interfere with the sperm’s activity in any of several ways. They may immobilize sperm, cause them to clump together, limit their ability to pass through the cervical mucus, or prevent them from binding to and penetrating the egg.

Researchers have classified specific antibodies by (1) type viz. IgA, IgG and IgM and (2) the site at which they get attached to the sperm (its head, midpiece, or tail). It is seen that IgG type antibodies are most common in men while IgA type ate found in women’s cervical mucus and follicular fluid.
Binding to the head of the sperm is believed to interfere with attachment and penetration of the egg, while binding to its tail interferes with motility.

Other immunological causes involve women who produce antibodies that indirectly cause clotting in blood vessels leading to the developing fetus. The fetus is deprived of nutrients and dies in utero, which triggers an abortion.
It is now thought that between 20 and 25 percent of all repeated miscarriages are due to immunological problems.

Although several male as well as female immunological factors have been identified as causing infertility, treatment of this condition is still in its nascent stage in conventional medicine, which tends to look at problems in isolation and then proceed to treat them in similar manner.

Specific immune conditions causing infertility are not as yet adequately defined or understood and conventional treatment in suspected cases of Immune disorders is presently limited to use of Aspirin and Heparin to prevent clotting in fetal blood vessels and IVIg for controlling an immune response, often along with Steroids.

Traditional Chinese medicine, with its holistic viewpoint, though it does not mention “immunologic disorders” of course, covers a host of underlying conditions that result in infertility, and addresses what it calls the ‘imbalance’ that causes ‘disharmony’.

In the course of several years of my practice as a TCM Infertility Specialist, I have successfully tackled hundreds of so-called cases of ‘unexplained infertility’ with my custom-made Chinese herbal formulas and I suspect many of these might well have been cases in which there was a then unknown ‘immunological factor’ at work, a factor that got corrected when the underlying imbalance was removed!

Immune factors do not always manifest as physical symptoms but sometimes the following symptoms may be noticed:

Frequent miscarriages in the very early weeks
Bodyaches, PMS
Irritability and depressive episodes and /or panic attacks
Night sweats with sweating over the breast bone
Insomnia in the early mornings
Hormone levels show a decrease in every mid-cycle
Past history of hives or itchy skin
Thyroid disorders with the presence of anti-thyroid antibodies

These symptoms often translate into liver qi stagnation, and yin deficiency with heat in the heart and liver in TCM. These symptoms are further complicated by irregular menstruation and a saw-toothed, erratic BBT graph.

Several studies are now emerging about the use of Chinese herbs in this type of infertility.
www.pubmed.gov (a service of the US National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health) quotes the following article about the Chinese herb Ziyin jianghuo:
“According to the microcosmic Syndrome Differentiation, immunological infertility is recognised as Kidney Yin Deficiency-Hyperactivity of Fire Syndrome. Zhibai Dihuang Pills, a recipe of Chinese medicinal herbs, was used to treat the infertile couples with antisperm and/or antizona pellucida antibodies in their blood serum. It was found that after the treatment, the antibodies were converted to negative in 81.3% of immunological infertile couples. All 8 cases of successful pregnancy occurred in 1-9 months after antibodies negative conversion and the negative status was maintained throughout the course of pregnancy.”

The Ministry of Health of Chinas published Materia medica now documents over ten thousand herbal substances, most of which have been found through years of usage and experimentation in specific conditions.

Chinese herbs are mostly used in combinations of 8 or more herbs (often upto 20 herbs) and are customized into formulas for individual patients. It is therefore usual to have different herbal formulas for patients in the same clinical setting. These herbs can be dispensed in various forms. Raw herbs are mostly used in infertility conditions and taken in the form of brewed teas.

A study of immunological male infertility by Chen Xiaoping used the traditional remedy Zhibai Dihuang Wan. A control group received cortisone and vitamin C. In the herbal treatment group, autoimmunity measures decreased, sperm became more viable, and 80 percent of wives became pregnant within six months. In the control group, 46 percent of wives became pregnant.

Each herb has distinct properties regarding its energy, flavor and movement in the body. It is related to different meridians of the body, too.

Four types of energies described in TCM are cold, cool, warm and hot and the five flavors or herbs are pungent, sweet, sour, salty and bitter.

Recent studies have demonstrated that traditional Chinese medicine could regulate the gonadotropin-releasing hormone to induce ovulation and improve the uterus blood flow and menstrual changes of endometrium. In addition, it also has impacts on patients with infertility resulting from polycystic ovarian syndrome, anxiety, stress and immunological disorders. Ref. Current Opinion in Obstetrics and Gynecology: June 2008 – Volume 20 – Issue 3 – p 211-215

Western medicine often makes use of the corticosteroid group of drugs, with all there attendant dangers and disadvantages, to treat immunologic infertility.
This alone, apart from several other reasons, should encourage the use of Traditional Chinese herbal medicine, to treat such Cases and I am sure that with increased awareness about this, more and more men and women facing infertility will opt for this line of treatment, in the not-too-distant future!

Patricia Karnowski, M.S.O.M
Fertility Herbalist