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Dr. Daniel Hoover

What Diseases are Treated with Herbs?

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Medicinal Herbs
Medicinal herbs can sometimes help treat diseases.

Herbs have been used as treatment for diseases and ailments for centuries around the world. Today, the popularity of herbal medicine has increased, many Americans have chosen to seek herbal medicine for treatment due to it being more affordable and easier to obtain compared to its pharmaceutical counterparts. 

But what diseases are treated with herbs? 

What should I keep in mind when looking for herbal treatment for my condition?

Join me as we discover the answers to these questions and more.

What is an Herbal Supplement?

When a product is made for internal use with plants, roots or any other botanical to maintain health or treat a condition it is known as an herbal supplement. Though you need to practice precaution when looking for herbal supplements on your own. Just because a product is labeled as “natural” it doesn’t necessarily mean the product is safe for consumption.

Unfortunately herbal medicine and supplements do not go through the same testing that pharmaceuticals go through. Even when many over the counter medicine is derived from herbs,  herbal supplements themselves aren’t regulated as strictly. If you are thinking about using herbal medicine as a treatment, be sure to consult your herbal pharmacist. They should be able to either supply reliable herbal medicine or show you what brands are reputable and safe. At SOHMA Integrative Medicine in Long Beach, we only carry hand selected herbal supplements that are held to the highest standards of quality and reliability.

Herbal supplements can be produced in many forms, and can be used in a variety of ways such as:

  • Pills
  • Powders
  • Teas
  • Tinctures
  • Gels
  • Lotions
  • Bath Additives

Herbal supplements aren’t for everyone. If you are unsure if you should begin treatment with herbal supplements, first consult with an herbal pharmacist. Some herbal medicines can have adverse reactions with prescribed pharmaceuticals.

What can Herbal Medicine Treat?

Although self diagnosis is highly discouraged, some herbs tend to be common treatment options for certain diseases. These include:

Aloe Vera

Used as a gel topically aloe vera can treat burns, psoriasis and osteoarthritis. It can also be consumed orally to treat digestive issues like constipation and gastritis. 

Aloe vera leaves contain latex which can lead to allergic reactions causing rashes, burning sensation and irritation. When consumed aloe vera may cause your blood sugar levels to drop and its laxative effects can lead to dehydration.

Black Cohosh

Black cohosh is used to treat symptoms of menopause including hot flashes and nightsweats.

Side effects are mild but include: nausea, skin rashes, muscle pain, breast pain or bleeding outside of your menstrual cycle.

Echinacea

Also known as the purple coneflower, echinacea is used as a preventative against the common cold and flu. It is also used to boost the body’s immune system.

Common side effects include: nausea,vomiting, sore throat, drowsiness and headaches.

Evening Primrose

Oil derived from evening primrose can be used for breast pain, arthritis and reducing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Side effects are extremely rare however, allergic reactions can happen including: rashes, itching, swelling, dizziness and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms seek immediate medical care.

Feverfew

Used as a pain reliever, good for headaches and menstrual cramps.

Mild side effects may include: canker sores, constipation, indigestion, nausea and diarrhea.

Flaxseed

An excellent source of fiber and omega 3 fatty acids, flaxseed can also be used to lower cholesterol.

When consuming flaxseed oil it can cause diarrhea. Other side effects include bloating, stomach ache, constipation and gas.

Garlic

While also used in the kitchen, garlic is generally used to lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

When consumed as a supplement garlic can have mild side effects like: bad breath and body odor, diarrhea, stomach aches and indigestion.

Ginkgo Biloba

Typically used to help older adults with conditions associated with aging, it can also be used for anxiety, depression, headaches and poor blood circulation.

Common side effects include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headaches, stomach aches and insomnia.

Green Tea

One of the most commonly consumed drinks in the world, green tea can boost energy levels, lower cholesterol and help lose weight.

Consuming green tea late in the day can cause insomnia and restlessness when trying to sleep. When brewed too strongly, green tea can cause stomach irritation. Other side effects include anemia, iron deficiency, headaches and dizziness.

St. John’s Wort

Commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia and depression.

Side effects are rare, but can be serious. These include: dark stool, bruising, bleeding, or vomit containing black particles. Stop taking St. John’s wort and seek medical attention if you notice any of these side effects.

This list is only meant to be informational and should not be used to self diagnose. Many herbal supplements may have adverse reactions to prescribed pharmaceuticals, take precaution and speak with your herbal pharmacist and primary care provider if you feel like beginning an herbal treatment for your condition.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

What are the 7 Most Common Questions You Should Ask Every Herbalist?

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Herbalists can be a great source for an initial treatment.

Herbs have been used to cure and treat ailments for thousands of years. Although they fell out of favor after pharmaceuticals were invented, in recent times herbal remedies have become popular again due to the affordability and ease of access compared to typical pharmaceuticals. 

The intention for herbalists is to find the root cause of your condition, and develop a treatment option individually designed for each patient. An herbalist will choose herbs based on physical, and mental health as well as the symptoms described by the patient during the consultation.  

Before deciding to proceed with an herbal treatment you may have some questions for your herbalist. Below we compiled the top 7 questions you should be asking every herbalist.

Do you Have an Herb for my Particular Condition?

Every person is different, and much like each person, the remedy can be varied. Many conditions can be treated with herbs, in some cases there are many herbs that can treat the same condition. With few exceptions your herbalist should be able to provide the best protocol to alleviate your condition.  

Does Herbal Medicine Work?

Of course.

Like previously stated, herbal remedies have been used for thousands of years. Herbs contain naturally occurring chemicals which can work similarly to general pharmaceutical medicine. Herbal medicine, when used while living a healthy lifestyle can be a powerful and effective treatment.

Why do you Need to Know if I’m Taking any Medication?

During your consultation with your herbalist, they will likely ask about other medicines you may be taking. They’re not trying to be nosy, in fact it’s incredibly important for developing a treatment that won’t work against the medicine you’re taking, or cause extreme side effects. As an example ginkgo biloba which is used to treat circulatory and respiratory conditions can cause severe bleeding when combined with aspirin or warfarin. 

How Long Do I Have to Take These Herbs for?

Herbal medicine takes time to show results. Herbal medicine is used to attempt to reach the root of the problem, not just cover up symptoms. Typically 2-3 weeks is needed to begin to see significant improvement. The longer you take herbal medicine the stronger the effects can become in the body.

I Read that this Herb can work, Why not use that?

Although we all have all the world’s information at the palm of our hands, an herbalist will be able to determine whether or not an herb will have the same effect as the example you may have found online. It’s their job to discover the right protocol for your condition. Each body is unique, your herbalist will have to work closely with you especially if you’re currently taking prescribed medication.

I Cook with that, how is it Going to Help my Condition?

Well, why not both?

Just because you use  garlic, turmeric and spearmint in cooking doesn’t take away from their natural healing abilities. Garlic is a great seasoning for many dishes, but it’s reported to increase cardiovascular health by regulating blood pressure and lowering blood sugar. Turmeric can reduce inflammation caused by arthritis, improve liver health and be used in curry. Whereas spearmint is great for teas while being used for digestive disorders like gas, diarrhea nausea among others.

Can you Teach me to Make my own Herbal Medicine?

Although it is possible to learn and become an herbalist yourself, good quality herbal medicine needs to be grown and processed carefully to avoid contamination. Even though you may be able to grow some of the herbs yourself in your garden, there may be some plants or trees that aren’t easily available to procure. Others may be simply too difficult to grow making some homemade remedies difficult to know whether or not you’re getting the appropriate dose. 

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

3 Risks of Chiropractic Care

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Chiropractors are licensed practicioners.

Generally speaking there are very few risks associated with chiropractic adjustments when performed by licensed and trained professionals. Chiropractic care has an excellent safety record. Many of the risks with adjustments are temporary and minor. Though there are a few risks that involve the patient’s health prior to the adjustment.

This is what we are going to go over today. Join me as we go through 3 risks of chiropractic care, how to minimize those risks or how to avoid them all together.  

Temporary Discomfort in Treated Area

When you go to the chiropractor, they are manipulating your spine, and joints. It’s common for some patients to experience discomfort in the treated area. Typically this manifests as achiness and soreness in the muscles and tendons around the joints being manipulated. The soreness usually only lasts a few hours post-treatment. In some patients the discomfort can last 24 to 48

 hours, but only on rare occasions.

One of the best ways you can reduce the amount of time you feel sore is by applying moisture and heat to your sore muscles. This will let your joints and muscles relax, another fantastic way to help ease soreness is through a warm Epsom salt bath.

Can Cause Low Back Injury

Although chiropractors are there to help treat back pain, there is a risk that there can be lower back pain injury. Usually this occurs when patients have underlying medical conditions that either the patient is unaware of, or doesn’t disclose those underlying conditions to the chiropractor. For those with those conditions, it’s important for you to discuss chiropractic care with both your chiropractor and primary care provider. These conditions include:

  • Severe osteoporosis
  • Multiple myeloma
  • Bone tumors
  • Osteomyelitis
  • Broken or fractured bones
  • Severe arthritis

Bleeding disorders, or structural instability issues can also be cause for concern so be sure to properly communicate any conditions you have.

Chiropractors want to improve your condition so you can get back to enjoying your day. As a patient, being upfront with existing conditions, health issues or challenges you have can greatly diminish any risks involved. You may think they are “small” or “no big deal” however we recommend letting your chiropractor know about any and all pre existing conditions you may have.

Risk of Stroke

This is possibly the rarest risk involving neck manipulation, but it is a possibility. Once again it is a rare risk, some high-velocity neck manipulation may result in a vertebral artery dissection, which can lead to a stroke.

A vertebral artery dissection is when the inner lining of the vertebral artery tears. This artery is located towards the back of our neck and is one of the 4 major arteries that supply the brain with blood. Once torn blood can enter the arterial wall and for blood clots. If a piece of the blood clot were to break off or the expanding artery wall can narrow to the point of restricting blood flow which can result in a stroke. Vertebral dissection can be caused by multiple reasons, not just chiropractic adjustments. Other causes of vertebral dissection include:

  • Automobile accidents
  • Contact sports
  • Roller-coaster rides
  • Mechanical stress

Vertebral artery dissection can also happen spontaneously, though usually the patient has an underlying connective tissue disorder that affects the blood vessels.

Symptoms of vertebral artery dissection may occur days or weeks after the tear, these include:

  • Slurred speech
  • Vertigo or difficulty walking
  • Sensory loss of an arm or leg on one side of your body
  • Trouble swallowing

If you have these symptoms after any blunt force trauma, not just after a chiropractic neck adjustment call 911 immediately as every minute counts.

The risk of suffering a stroke after chiropractic care is incredibly slim. But we want to make sure you are well informed about the risks of chiropractic care even if the risk is small.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

7 Reasons to See a Chiropractor

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Chiropractors help with various ailments that range from small injuries to helping with mobility.

It’s common to see Chiropractors online adjusting and manipulating patients and hearing satisfying cracks. Many times patients will feel an instant wave of relief other times it may take a few chiropractic adjustments to see improvements in your condition.

Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who specialize in manipulating the spine to help reduce pain, treat pain, and improve mobility and functionality of patients. On your first visit you may be asked about your general health, diet, daily activity and what conditions you have been dealing with. 

When should you see a chiropractor though? Today we’re going to give you 7 reasons you may want to consider seeing a Chiropractor.

Back and Neck Pain

The most common reason to visit a Chiropractor is when you’re dealing with neck and back pain. Though neck and back pain is common for nearly everyone, when you wake up several mornings dealing with that pain it may be time to visit a chiropractic office. Oftentimes after having a car accident you may be recommended to see a Chiropractor to avoid long-term damage. 

Difficulty Sleeping

Sleep is one of the most important aspects of recovery. If you are unable to sleep, your body will have a difficult time healing naturally. However, even if you feel like you’ve slept over 7 hours but have difficulty waking up or feel tired after you wake up you may have poor sleep quality. While you’re asleep your body is busy recovering from the day, and if your spine is misaligned it can cause your body to stress over the pain. This can also cause irritation and stiffness in the neck as well as pain in your arms and legs. A chiropractor can realign the vertebrae in your spine to reduce pain, increase sleep quality allowing you to rest better.

Headache Pain

Headaches can be caused by a variety of reasons, some can have them after poor sleep, staring at computer monitors for hours, allergies, subluxations or simply just because you ate too much ice cream. The severity of headaches can range from a mild brain freeze to a crippling migraine. Although you can take an ibuprofen or aspirin to help with the pain you may be ignoring underlying problems if it happens often. For some people headaches occur because of pressure built up in their neck and spine, a chiropractor can adjust the neck to release tension and relax the neck muscles reducing the frequency and strength of headaches.

Alternative Medicine

Many people mask their pain symptoms with pain pills which rarely deal with the root cause of their physical pain. It’s not uncommon for Americans to take over the counter pain relievers in the morning to help them deal with chronic pain.

What if instead of just dealing with the symptoms you do something about the reason for the pain?

Back pain can be caused by compressed or slipped discs, spinal adjustment or spinal decompression can help with long-term pain relief. Chiropractic adjustments can also help improve your posture which can benefit the rest of your body as well. 

Mental Health

When making chiropractic care a regular part of your health routine many patients express how great they feel. Chiropractors relieve pain in your back and neck allowing you to get out of pain and into balance, and back to play. Feeling less pain means you no longer have to fight your body to perform activities and focus on the moment and fun and enjoy yourself again.

Improved Physical Health

While you may not be looking to be a professional athlete, chiropractic adjustments can help you improve your physical health. A Chiropractor understands the human body and how it’s supposed to move and will be able to test your range of motion and determine if you are dealing with any issues. If you enjoy an active lifestyle a chiropractor can help you to continue to enjoy it with less pain.

Overall Health

Chiropractors specialize in the spine, which connects to the rest of your body. Even if you are not suffering from debilitating pains, a chiropractic adjustment may make you feel holistically better. Patients who have regular chiropractic adjustments report improvements in their daily lives. From feelings of well-being and happiness to increased strength and a stronger immune system. 

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

 What can an Herbalist Help With?

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Herbalists prepare specific recipes tailored to you.

To first understand what an Herbalist can help with, first we need to understand what an Herbalist is.

Simply put, an Herbalist uses herbs to help treat different kinds of conditions, ailments and their symptoms. Herbalists attempt to find the root cause of illness. Practitioners will often choose herbs based on the symptoms or ailments a patient describes during the consultation. They will also perform a clinical exam, inspecting certain areas of the body and create a personalized prescription. 

An Herbalist’s knowledge cannot be understated. Join me as we go through what an Herbalist can help with as well as how an herbalist can help.

Herbs for Treatment?

Yes! 

Herbal medicine is one of the oldest forms of medicine still used today. In recent years the popularity of herbal medicine has increased due to it being more affordable and easier to obtain compared to conventional medicine. In many cases, herbal medicine may have fewer and milder side effects. Some of the most common beneficial herbs can be purchased at your local supermarket such as chamomile, turmeric, peppermint, lavender and ginseng. Though we highly recommend you have a conversation with a professional Herbalist before attempting to treat your symptoms on your own. 

Why Consult an Herbalist?

In today’s age of computers and smartphones it’s easy to have the misconception that you have all the answers at the palm of your hand. Although this can be true in some cases, we believe you shouldn’t take that risk when it comes to your health. An Herbalist specializes in treating patients with natural herbs. They understand how herbs help with your condition. And more importantly they can tell you what herbs not to use.

Like all medicines, herbal medicine may have some side effects. It’s an Herbalist’s job to talk with you and understand what medicine you may already be taking. Whether it is other herbal medicine or pharmaceuticals prescribed from your doctor. An herbalist can help you understand that some herbs can have heightened side effects when combined with a prescription treatment from your doctor.

Some examples include; if you are on some contraceptives you should avoid supplements that contain St. John’s wort. St. John’s wort is commonly used as a mild antidepressant, but when used with contraceptives can cause irregular bleeding or an unplanned pregnancy. Ginkgo biloba is a natural anti-inflammatory commonly used to treat arthritis and migraines. Using it with other blood-thinners like warfarin or aspirin can lead to an increased risk of bleeding.

Laxed Regulation on Herbal Medicine

Unlike pharmaceuticals, herbal medicine does not have strict inspections for safety or efficacy. The herbal supplements we carry at SOHMA are hand-picked and held to the highest standards of quality and reliability. With the increased use of herbal medicine and supplements, it’s unfortunate that there is a lack of regulation for herbal medicine. Many companies out there are just in it to make a quick buck and aim to take advantage of less fortunate people. Lack of dosage instructions for claimed effects may not be property stated and unknown growing and processing conditions can result in contaminated or diluted products. This makes it difficult for consumers to reliably purchase high quality products. Herbalists can help filter out much of the unwanted herbal medicine on the market.

Although herbal remedies are natural, you should also talk to your primary care provider to let them know you’re looking to treat your conditions with herbal medicine. Understand that herbal medicine is used to attempt to treat the root cause of your condition and typically will work slower compared to conventional pharmaceuticals.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.