Natural remedies for the over 50s

A combination of better nutrition and modern medicine has led to higher life expectancy. But as ELDERJUICE discovers, some of the more traditional natural remedies are increasingly being taken seriously by scientists.

avatar Posted by on March 6, 2012. Filed under Health. Posted with the tags:,
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Natural remedies for the over 50s

Turmeric
Commonly found in curries, turmeric paste has long been been used in in India to  improve skin tone, to screen out  harmful sun rays and to slow down the ageing process.  Now scientists  across the world  are  investigating the possibility that the spice might be helpful in treating a wide range of clinical disorders including Alzheimer’s, cancer and arthritis.

Tea
For thousands of years, tea has been regarded as a powerful medicine. Modern scientists now believe that the anti-oxidants in tea – especially green tea – may  have antibiotic, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties. It is also widely accepted that tea has  a positive effect on the immune system, that it helps relieve stress and that it can reduce the chances of cognitive impairment.

Ginger
Recent research has identified nine compounds in ginger which may have a beneficial effect on gastro-intestinal
functions, with some studies revealing it to be an effective treatment for nausea caused by seasickness, morning
sickness and chemotherapy.

Some  preliminary studies even suggest that ginger may reduce pain from arthritis pain, and help to  thin the blood and lower
cholesterol.

Cranberry juice
Well known for its beneficial effect on bladder and kidney problems, as well as cystitis. While any liquid will help flush out
infection, there is evidence that drinking cranberry juice may prevent the infection returning.

A recent scientific study found that cranberry juice may even  help prevent cancer and cardiovascular disease, thanks
to chemical compounds they contain called phytochemiocals.

Cod Liver Oil
Those of us of a certain age will remember the obligatory foul-tasting capsule we were forced to take in childhood.  Back then, it was believed to fend off colds and flu.  More recently, it’s been discovered that the substance can ease the  pain and stiffness associated with arthritis.  It does also  contain high levesl of omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A and D.

A 2007 Norwegian study of almost 70,000 women female cancer patients discovered that those who took daily cod liver oil supplements had 25 reduced mortality from cancer.

A lesser-known fish oil, Krill, is believed by some arthritis sufferers to be even more effective at treating the pain.

Sage
Used by the Ancient Greeks to improve mood and memory,  sage has also been used down through the years  to treat sprains,  ulcers,  bleeding,  sore throats and coughs.

Now some preliminary studies show that the popular cooking herb could improve  cognitive function in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Chicken soup
Jewish families – and others – have known for a  long time that home-made chicken soup, with onions, garlic, turnip, and carrots – as well as chicken of course) is great for all sorts of ailments, notably colds, flu and sore throoats. More recent investigation has confirmed that it can help break up congestion and ease the flow of nasal secretions.

Some researchers also believe the combination of an amino-acid called cystein – released from chicken when made into soup – helps to thin the mucous in the lungs.

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