Angelica Herb

The Angelica Herb

Positive identification is essential, when collecting wild species, because it resembles some poisonous members of the carrot family. Originally a native of northern Europe, the Angelica herb is often grown as a garden herb. The wild American Angelica herb or {angelica atropurpurea} is similar in appearance to the above except for its purplish stems. It has similar medicinal properties and uses. Many of the reputed applications date back to Medieval times.The Angelica herb, was believed to protect against contagious diseases, ward of evil Spirits and enchantments,as well as bestow long life.

Around World War I, people chewed on the Angelica herb roots in the belief that it would protect them from the influenza epidemic. Also known as Arch Angle, this herb has been used as a remedy for stomach disorder, Heartburn, Gas, Colic, Colds and Fever,

The Angelica herb in all its applications has a warming effect, useful in treating respiratory inflammations such as asthma and bronchitis, The Angelica herb has antibacterial and anti fungal properties. One of its ingredient agents (coumarin) has been tested for these effects.

In some applications the Angelica herb is believed to increase sexual desire and aids in reducing PMS. The traditional Chinese medicine uses about 10 different Angelica herb species, the most used is the Sinensis, which in China is Dong Quai, (woman's ginseng) a blood tonic. The whole plant is aromatic, but only the roots of the Angelica herb are used in the Swiss, Austrian and German Pharmacopoeias.

The leaves of the Western Angelica herb, are prepared as a tea or tincture, to treat coughs, colds and bronchitis, the respiratory discomfort. The preparation from the leaves are gentler than those from the roots.

A tincture is a mixture of alcohol and herbs, very concentrated. A typical recipe is to take 7 oz of herbs to 2 pints of vodka, cover tightly and keep it for 14 days in a warm place, then strain it and store it in a dark bottle. Since only a small amount is necessary for treatment , it may be diluted with water.

Preparation made from the roots of the Angelica herb are used as an appetite stimulant and digestive problems. The essential oil derived from the Angelica herb is used in making perfumes, skin and hair products and for food flavoring.

A tonic from the Angelica herb root and Gentian herb taken before a meal promotes digestive secretion and better absorption of nutrients. The Angelica herb is more beneficial for a woman then a man and it is best and safest to take it in a combination of other herbs, like in the KM from Matol.

Thyroid surgery

Thyroid surgery may be indicated for one of three reasons: cancer, compression or cosmesis. There are about 40,000 new thyroid cancer cases diagnosed per year in the United States. This number has been progressively rising over the last few decades probably because of earlier detection and an actual increase in the incidence with immigrants from areas exposed to radiation. Compression refers to choking or swallowing difficulties resulting from a goiter or from extension of the thyroid to the chest. The final indication, cosmesis, refers to a patient's wish to eliminate an unsightly goiter in the neck.

Aside from anaesthetic risks, the specific risks of thyroid surgery are hemorrhage, wound infection, voice disturbance and hypocalcemia. Hemorrhage refers to bleeding during or after the procedure. It is important that all vessels supplying the thyroid gland are adequately controlled during the procedure. Hemorrhage after the procedure can be life-threatening. Wound infection is uncommon but a few patients may react to the stitch material used for the closure.

The thyroid gland overlies the larynx and trachea. The nerves supplying the vocal cords traverse the upper and deep portions of the thyroid gland. Disturbances of the voice can result from direct trauma to these nerves or cautery. These injuries can be minimized with the use of the intra-operative nerve monitor, which is akin to the monitor used during spinal surgery. By this means, the surgeon can be alerted to even minimal nerve stimulation and thus avoid any significant trauma to the nerves.

The final potential complication is hypocalcemia, which typically may arise after a total thyroidectomy, which is usually indicated for thyroid cancer or a goiter. It is important for the surgeon to identify and preserve the parathyroid glands with their intricate blood supply intact. If there is any concern, the parathyroid gland should be removed and transplanted into the neck muscles. Post-operative blood tests can show if one has parathyroid malfunction and calcium supplementation should be commenced.

Finally, it is important to discuss with your surgeon their experience in thyroid surgery. Like other surgeries requiring meticulous dissection, the greater experience is generally coupled with reduced risk. Similarly, it is important to ensure that the surgeon will be personally performing or attending the surgery at all times.