Overview
If you're looking for alternative ways to ease the physical and
mental problems that come with CF, you're not alone. More people are looking
beyond traditional medicine for at least some of their health care. That said,
it's important to note that "natural" or "holistic" doesn't always mean safe.
The majority of natural therapies haven't undergone the same clinical testing as
traditional medications. Some herbs or supplements may even interact with the
medications you are taking for CF. Remember-- they are called complementary
therapies because they are meant to complement your existing therapies, not
replace them.
If you want to try a complementary therapy, it is essential to;
- continue with your medical treatment
- consult skilled professionals-get information from the associations, orders and federations concerned
- discuss the treatment with your attending physician and the team that looks after your case at the CF clinic. These people will undoubtedly have some suggestions, answers and advice for you
Share your successes and failures with others, so they can benefit from your
experience.
The following recommendations are for your information only. We are in no
way proposing or endorsing alternative medicine.
|
Phytotherapy or Therapy Using Plants and Vitamin Supplements
Very likely the most popular complementary therapy, phytotherapy is not risk-free. The following are the most commonly used products:
|
|
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is an antioxidant that may protect against bacterial infections. You
are probably already taking a vitamin A supplement in a multivitamin or in the
form of ADEK™. It is a liposoluble vitamin, which means that it is dissolved in
fats. Therefore, it is absorbed in smaller quantities in persons with CF.
Nonetheless, it is important not to take too much of this vitamin as an overdose
could cause poisoning.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is another antioxidant that helps in the absorption of iron and helps build up the immune system. Some experts believe that it may reduce cold symptoms when taken in large enough doses (more than one gram a day). However, taking larger doses may also be risky in some cases. Because it improves iron absorption, vitamin C can lead to an iron overdose and cause an imbalance in your blood. If you want to take large doses of vitamin C, you should check with your physician first. The recommended dose of vitamin C for an adult is 60 mg a day (200 mg for smokers). This is also easily achieved by eating an orange and drinking a glass of fruit juice.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a plant root that is believed to boost your immune system to
protect you against colds. It may also help you resist other types of
infection.
Opinions vary as to its effectiveness. Some experts believe that it has
immune-building properties when used in combination with ginseng. Others claim
that it doesn't work and could cause allergic reactions. Echinacea has no known
side effects and is generally considered a safe (although somewhat expensive)
option.
|
Garlic
Despite the lack of clinical evidence that garlic has health benefits, it is
still one of the most popular supplements taken for boosting the immune system
and for helping people recover from respiratory tract infections. It contains an
ingredient called "allicin" that helps people fight - and even prevent
--the common cold. Some experts believe that to be effective garlic should be
taken once a day, even if you don't have cold symptoms.
|
|
|
Pine tree extract
Pine tree extract, or pycnogenol, is said to be another extremely powerful
antioxidant. Studies have shown that it may help asthma patients and may also
enhance endurance, increase athletic performance, and help with the treatment of
diabetes.
|
Grape seeds
According to some experts, grape seeds contain an active ingredient that is a powerful antioxidant. It has been used to prevent infections, as an anti-inflammatory, and is widely used in Europe for treating allergic rhinitis and asthma. It has no known side effects.
Cider Vinegar
Cider vinegar is a very popular home remedy. It may aid digestion and the absorption of nutrients, and even relieve asthma, flu symptoms, and certain sinus infections. The usual treatment is two teaspoons of cider vinegar and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of water taken up to three times a day, half an hour before meals. The vinegar must be unpasteurized, and ideally, organic and unfiltered. Besides the somewhat tart vinegary taste, there are no known side effects.
Evening Primrose Oil
Some studies claim that Evening Primrose Oil strengthens the immune system, improves circulation and reduces the pain and inflammation caused by arthritis.
Making the right choice
|
As previously mentioned, "natural" doesn't
always mean safe. Very few studies have been done on these products, so
their effectiveness is not guaranteed. Because they are sold as dietary
supplements, they are not regulated by the same standards as prescription
drugs. Manufacturers are not required to list the ingredients on the label,
so you must be alert for possible allergic reactions. Also, what is marked
on the outside of the bottle is not necessarily what is inside.
|
|
One study done on ginseng showed that certain bottles contained all kinds of
substances . . . except ginseng! Hopefully, this field will be regulated in the
near future to help you make a better choice about your options.
Therapies that help the mind and body
|
Easing tensions in the body can help relax the mind and lead to a sense of
well being. The following methods are some of the most popular
"holistic" treatments. They are not all risk free so you need to talk
to a member of your CF team before trying them.
|
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a 2000-year-old Chinese medical technique that involves
inserting needles into the body at specific points. Some believe that touching
or stimulating these points called "meridians" can unblock the flow of natural
energy so your body can begin to heal itself.
Some believe acupuncture successfully treats some respiratory problems
(particularly mild cases of bronchial asthma) and gastro-intestinal problems
(such as hiccups, duodenal ulcers and constipation). It is not painful but some
people find it uncomfortable.
Although everyone is different, in most cases treatment requires five to
fifteen sessions. When practiced by a certified acupuncturist there are few side
effects. However, the following events might happen:
- The acupuncturist may forget a needle.
- Your symptoms may get worse following a session. This generally doesn't last more than two days.
- You may feel euphoric after a session. This is related to the release of endorphins, or the "feel-good" chemical in your brain. Patients are encouraged to relax for 20 minutes following a session.
- Pneumothorax has been reported.
- Certain medications may interfere, check with your physician your acupuncturist and perhaps your pharmacist.
Osteopathy
Osteopathy is based on the belief that the skeleton and vital organs are
dependent on one another. The body only functions well when these structures are
properly aligned. For example, a curvature of the spine may cause other health
problems. When your body is brought back into balance through physical
manipulations, stretching and exercise, it may function better.
According to some authors, osteopathy can improve digestive and respiratory
problems, and relieve certain kinds of pain.
Massotherapy and Acupressure: "Hands on" approach to healing.
|
For centuries, people have used the healing power in their hands and fingers
to relieve all kinds of health problems. It makes sense when you think of how we
naturally want to rub an area of our body that hurts, for example, your stomach
when you have a stomach ache. Some experts believe that massage can block the
painful stimuli carried by certain nerve fibres. As well as relieving aches and
pains, it can improve your circulation, digestion, reduce fatigue, and relieve
tension.
|
A massage session usually lasts one hour, and there are many varieties of
techniques. The following list briefly describes different types of massages.
| Shiatsu |
This technique, from Japan, uses firm pressure from the thumbs, palms of the hands, the elbows and even the feet. Pressure is applied at Acupressure points along your body to restore balanced energy flow. It can be done while you are clothed. |
| Jin Shin Do |
In this method, pressure is applied to various spots to get rid of pain or tension in certain areas. |
| Reflexology |
This technique is based on the theory that the body's organs have corresponding points on the hands and feet. Pressure applied to these points, may relieve tensions in other parts of the body. |
| Orthotherapy |
This treatment involves stretching, to relieve muscular pain and increases joint flexibility. |
| Swedish |
This massage combines firmness with gentleness to help ease tension in the muscles. |
| Californian |
This method consists of lingering light touches and kneading to produce relaxation. |
| Esalen |
The gentle slow movements of this method can help increase your intuition and unblock negative emotions. |
| Ileo-Reichian |
This helps relax chronic muscular tension and allows you to find new vitality. |
| Trager |
This technique consists of stretching, rotating, and vibrating certain parts of your body. It helps to loosen up your body and bring peace of mind. |
| Polarity |
This is a gentle approach to touching which aims to restore balance to your body's vital energy. |
Reiki
Reiki is an ancient Japanese energy science. Some believe that is can heal
your body and calm your mind at the deepest levels.
Reiki sessions are different from massage in that there is no direct kneading
of muscles. Instead, the Reiki Master places his or her hands gently on various
spots of your body for about five minutes. Their hands do not move. The person
being treated will often feel sensations such as warmth or tingling coming from
the Reiki Master's hands. The mind is calmed, breathing slows down, and most
people feel a sense of deep relaxation. A Reiki session usually lasts from 60 to
90 minutes.
Chiropractic
Chiropracty is the art of joint manipulation. The main premise of chiropracty is that any deviation in your spinal column can affect your overall health. Chiropractic "adjustments" can make you more flexible, reduce pain and swelling and calm your nervous system. Check with your healthcare team first to ensure chiropractic sessions are right for you.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a system of caring for your mind and body with the scents of
essential oils derived from plants. According to some experts, smelling certain
aromas have a direct effect on brain activity. Whether they are inhaled
directly, massaged into your skin or added to your bath, these oils can help
relieve pain, ease tension, and restore your energy and sense of well being.
There are literally as many types of oils as there are plants. Here are some
choices to consider:
| Pine |
May have antiseptic, antibacterial and inflammatory properties. May also be beneficial when inhaled for treating colds and flu. |
| Lavender |
Used for centuries as a stress reliever. |
| Eucalyptus |
Believed to help clear respiratory tract and restore energy. |
| Citrus oils (such as lemon, lime or grapefruit oils) |
Often used to help banish bad moods, and also to help you focus better. |
| Rosemary |
May boost your spirits on low-energy days, and help you concentrate better. |
Do keep in mind that sometimes the strong smell of essential oils may induce wheezing. Be careful not to overdo it. Pay attention to your body's response.
Hypnosis
Hypnosis is an age-old form of relaxation that allows a person to get into
contact with his or her imagination and emotions. Under hypnosis, people fall
into an "in-between" or dream-like state. Many people report a sense of well
being, muscle relaxation, and being able to recall long forgotten stressful
situations from the past. In this state, many people are responsive to
suggestion. Therefore, the hypnotherapist will suggest positive images to help
change certain negative behaviours into constructive ones.
Homeopathy
Classical homeopathy is a health-care system that uses tiny amounts of
natural remedies to help heal both physical and emotional problems. It can help
strengthen the body's defense mechanisms, and increase well being and zest for
life.
The choice of homeopathic remedies is based on the principle of "Like Cures
Like." According to this principle, a substance that produces a certain number
of symptoms in a healthy person will cure these same symptoms in a sick person.
Homeopathic remedies are made from plants, minerals, and other natural
substances. Again, check with your CF team beforehand to make sure that the
remedies won't interact with any other medications you may be taking.
