This well-researched paper examines the sudden resurgence of interest in medicinalplants, which is due not only to their potential health benefits but also to the enormous amounts of money involved as well.
Abstract This paper supplies significant research which proves that medicinalplants, commonly referred to as medicinal herbs, have been successfully used by man for more than 60 thousand years. The uses of medicinalplants have ranged through the entire spectrum of the physical and psychological maladies that can afflict the human race. The writer of this paper examines the various vaccines made from medicinalplant preparations which are designed for oral consumption as well as the numerous health benefits attained by properly ingesting these herbs. This paper also analyzes the business aspect of the medicineplant trade. Through relevant research, this paper estimates that world sales of medicines derived from plants, discovered and collected by indigenous tribes and cultures in 1990, amounted to some $43 billion.
Table of Contents:
Review and Discussion
Background and Overview
Etiology, Applications and Common MedicinalPlants Today
Current and Future Trends
Conclusion
Works Cited
From the Paper "According to Zerner, the majority of the knowledge about medicinal plants today has been accumulated based on empirical observations over long periods of time. Likewise, Crellin and Philpott note that observations of the use of different plants by sick animals has always been a valuable source of information for early practitioners, and many continue to believe this is a valuable source of reliable information concerning the efficacy of medicinal plants today. Even the nonmedicinal uses of these various plant materials has helped the body of knowledge through increased familiarity to the point where, "Nowadays, many herbalists believe that they have an almost intuitive sense of whether or not a plant is medical. Ten of the most popular medicinal plants today are bilberry, cranberry, echinacea, feverfew, Ginkgo biloba, goldenseal, kava kava, milk thistle, saw palmetto, and St. John's wort."
Tags: health, plants, herbs, business, finance, medicine
Abstract This paper states that cancer is one of the most dreaded diseases throughout the world. The paper then proceeds with an overview of the use of plants as an effective way to prevent and to cure cancer. In particular, the paper identifies the plants and compounds that are extracted from the plants that are being used in the treatment of cancer. In addition, the paper discusses the action of these plant-extracted compounds on the cancer cells. The paper concludes with a commentary on the future use of plants in the fight against cancer.
Outline:
Introduction
The Use of Plants for Medicinal Purposes
Anticancer Compounds in Plants Treatment of Cancer by Plants Prevention of Cancer by Plants Summary
From the Paper "Cancer is a dreaded disease, however cancer is not incurable. There are a number of positive responses to cancer treatment and more and more people have survived cancer as more and more cure and alternative treatments are being discovered. However, the rates of discovery of these alternative drugs that can be used to treat cancer are not fast enough to become at par with the increasing incidence of this dreaded disease. Several alternative drugs that are used for the treatment of cancer are still in experimental stages and some of the drugs that are being used today have high toxicity levels that could give hazardous side effects to the patients being treated."
This paper discusses narcotic plants belonging to those categories of plants called psychedelic or hallucinogenic plants because they have a chemical compound that causes hallucinating effects.
Abstract This paper explains that narcotic plants, known for their effects on mind and body since the prehistoric period, were often associated with magic, religious rites, and medicine. Although there are over 60 species of hallucinogens known today that are consumed by people in one part of the world or other, the author focuses on the five major narcotics: tobacco, opium, hemp (marijuana), betel, and coca. The paper relates that the hallucinations that occur because the neuronal messages are changed in a greatly dramatic manner when narcotic plants are consumed.
Table of Contents
Introduction
History of the Use of Narcotic Plants and Hallucinogens
The Major Narcotic Plants Ergot
Amanita
Marijuana
Opium
Coca
Tobacco
Other Hallucinogens
Conclusion
From the Paper "Peyote: Botanically known by the name Lophophora williamsii, Peyote is a small grey-green variety of cactus found in northern Mexico and Texas. The Native Americans extensively used peyote particularly in their religious rites. The Aztecs ardently worshiped it and peyotism even grew as a religion among Americans. The compounds that are chemically active include mescaline and peyonine, of which mescaline induces hallucination essentially visual in nature, which enables the user to foresee and predict happenings as if in spiritual union with the divine power. Consumption of peyote causes intoxication accompanied by nausea, body shivers and perspiration for about two hours after which the user normally falls into hallucination."
Abstract This paper takes a look at cranberries and how the small berries and leaves of the cranberry plant have been used in traditional medicine by the Native Americans for centuries. The author discusses research and articles that point to cranberries being able to inhibit bacterial adherence, a sign of their potential for use as prevention for urinary tract infections. Other advantages of cranberries as a medicinal food are also examined such as being anti-carcinogenic, antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial.
From the Paper "Most studies on the effects of cranberries on bacterial adherence use cranberry juice cocktails, and not pure extracted cranberries. Future research should use pure cranberries or a standardized extract to ensure valid results and also to minimize the effect of contaminating variables especially the higher sugar content in cranberry juice cocktails than in plain juice or a standardized extract. Isolating which types of bacteria cranberries inhibit adhesion of in addition to E. Coli would also boost research validity. Researchers may also want to discover whether cranberries are more effective for anti-bacterial adhesion under specific conditions and whether those effects extend beyond their application to the urinary tract."
Abstract The paper provides an overview of prescription drugs, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, herbal medicines and supplementary drugs. The paper discusses the laxity in regulation of dietary supplements currently available in the market that is causing alarm among health care professionals. The paper then explores the reasons behind the increased popularity with OTC drugs and dietary supplements.
From the Paper "In these modern times, patients and consumers have numerous alternatives in attempting to alleviate their health. Conventional medicine is still the mainstream for treatment of the population's maladies. However, alternative or traditional medicine is rapidly gaining popularity among consumers and patients. These include methods that claim to have a holistic approach in healing. Reflexology and acupuncture are popular procedures in an effort to cure one's pain or illness. The uses of herbs and plants as alternative medicine have been used for centuries by other societies such as China and India. "
Abstract A humorous and entertaining essay on home plant care. The author touches on several ways one can ensure the death of plants.
From the Paper "As most everyone knows, the death of a house plant is a common occurrence. Many of us have experienced this loss, although some more often than others. While ignorance can be claimed in most cases, there are some of us who purchase houseplants with the soul intention of killing them."
Abstract The paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the topic of regional ornamental perennial plants. The paper specifically discusses the Hostas, a group of ornamental shade plants with interesting leaf color and patterns that are perennial plants and are easy to grow. The paper concludes that the adaptability of Hostas make them perfect for any garden, no matter where it is located, and with their beautiful colors and blooms, they are a pleasure to look at as well as grow.
From the Paper "Optimal growth requires several environmental factors, and these can differ from species to species. Hostas are relatively easy to grow and maintain, which helps them maintain their popularity in the garden. Most Hostas do not need to be divided, as many other perennials do (think of daylilies and irises, for example). However, most Hostas do not reproduce well from seed, and so division is the preferred method of propagating these plants. They also do not need constant watering and fertilizing. Instead, they can take regular fertilizing, as two Hosta experts note. They note gardeners should use "A balanced granular fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or 5-10-5 can be applied early in the spring, followed by an application six weeks later, followed by a midsummer application."
Abstract This paper examines some of the ecological dynamics and game theory behind mutualisms and cheaters focusing on plant-pollinator relationships.
Table of Contents
Reciprocal Exploitation
Defensive Strategies: fruit abortion and selective maturation
Offensive Strategies: cheating insects
To cheat or not to cheat?
Evolutionary Consequences of Cheating
References
From the Paper "Although mutualisms have often been heralded as mutually beneficial relationships that exist for the good of all those involved, they are often not as good-natured as people would think (Soberon & Martinez del Rio 1985). Perhaps Darwin knew best when he claimed that "Natural selection cannot possibly produce any modification in any one species exclusively for the good of another species; though throughout nature one species incessantly takes advantage of, and profits by, the structures of another" (1859). Upon close inspection of the many mutualisms that pervade the global ecology, it becomes clear that there is a strong incentive for exploitation, either by one of the partners in the mutualism or by a third party species. Because of the conflict of interest that often exists between members of a mutualism, certain tendencies to "cheat" have evolved. By escaping the costs that go hand in hand with mutualisms, these cheaters are able to reap the benefits of the mutualistic relationship without having to provide any services or resources in return. Far from one partner acting altruistically toward the other, members in mutualisms are actually pursuing their own agendas, often carrying out self-beneficial actions as far as the other partner will allow. "
Abstract Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies including traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture, aromatherapy, homeopathy and naturopathy have gained considerable popularity in recent years. This essay examines why many patients have chosen CAM therapies in preference to western medicine. The writer first defines CAM and then analyzes some of the reasons why CAM is preferred to modern medicine. This is then followed by a discussion of the risks and benefits of CAM and the need for regulation of complementary and alternative medicine.
From the Paper "Although CAM has benefits, there is not much research on their safety and efficacy or the existing research is of poor quality. CAM has numerous direct and indirect risks. CAM also is poorly regulated and many CAM practioners are not adequately trained. Although modern medicine is not exact and has its pitfalls, the fact remains that it is well researched and based on extensive and good quality clinical trials. The exact properties, benefits, and side effects of allopathic medicine are well-documented. Therefore, although some patients may choose CAM over modern medicine, CAM should be used only as an adjunct or when all other modalities of treatment have failed."
Tags:medicine treatment chinese, health care, herbal medicine, psychological homeopathy
Abstract This paper compares plant breeding in the traditional mode and that in the genetic mode and presents the final comparison of the two and importance.
Abstract This research paper looks at the definition of medicine and what is required of the field of medicine and compares it to the field of nursing to determine if nursing should be considered a subset of medicine. The paper concludes that often nursing must be applied to individuals even when they don't require actual medical care as medical care is defined, which leads to the conclusion that nursing is not a subset of medicine.
From the Paper "Chan Safani and Winkle define medicine as the science associated with the prevention cure and or alleviation of diseases and injuries. On the other hand, Stanhope and Lancaster define nursing as the work of caring for the sick or injured or infirm, noting that in some cases this caring factor can and must be applied even when no medical care is needed. In other words, the science of medicine may not be required for certain people, but nursing care still is..."
Abstract This paper discusses the use of radio-diagnostic imagery instead of the more standard form of autopsy in forensic medicine. The paper examines the pros and cons of using images provided by machinery such as MRIs instead of the information provided by the more invasive autopsy procedure. The paper discusses the accuracy of radio-diagnostic imagery compared with its less technologically advanced counterpart in determining causes of death. The author concludes that while radio-diagnostic imaging can be useful in forensic medicine, it can not yet replace traditional autopsy.
Table of Contents:
Objective
Introduction
Negative Findings in the use of Radio-diagnostic Imaging in Forensic Medicine Positive Findings in the use of Radio-diagnostic Imaging in Forensic Medicine Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper "There has been an increase in the use of MRI in forensics in making a diagnosis when death involved either injury or disease. Stated to be one of the: "main criticisms of the use of MRI as an alternative to conventional autopsy is the lack of validation of this imaging technique." This is due to the mixed results that have been reported related to MRI post mortem examinations in the fields of neuropathology and paediatrics."
Tags: MRI, forensic, medicine, Post, Mortem, Magnetic, Resonance, Imaging
Abstract The paper explains that complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) describes an array of healing modalities whose time for serious consideration and integration into the present healthcare system may have arrived. The paper states that homeopathy is the most controversial form of CAM and discusses the biases claiming that homeopathy treatment is an an implausible treatment, but affirms that homeopathy is an important topic for public health. This is due to the affordability, accessibility and efficacy of homeopathic remedies.
Outline:
The Perception of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Conventional Medicine Homeopathy: Medicine of the past and the future
Implications for CAM in Public Health
From the Paper "It is possible that unfounded accusations of quackery and the like are but a smokescreen that has been thrown up to blur certain facts about CAM's increased appeal. It is also possible that conventional health practitioners and the pharmaceutical industry are striving to monopolize treatment in the US. It is more likely however, that evidence-based research, which has become the pinnacle of standards for excellence in testing the efficacy and safety of treatment with drugs, is an improper testing method for CAM (Novella et al., 2007). CAM uses few, if any pharmaceutical treatments, and should be held to appropriate contextual standards for what CAM in general, and each therapy in particular, claims. Homeopathy, for example, displays effects that are vastly different than the action of drugs, and requires fundamentally different protocols from which to study and gather evidence."
Abstract The paper discusses the increasing trend worldwide towards alternative medicine, which encompasses a diverse group of healing therapies that include chiropractic, homeopathy, massage therapy, acupuncture, herbal medications and many others. The paper notes that although alternative medicine has been around for centuries, it is not accepted by all due to the lack of studies and medical trials, unlike conventional medical treatment. The paper goes on to discuss the differences between complementary and alternative medicine and again, how they differ from conventional medicine, both in their approach and also treatments.
From the Paper "Complementary medicine aims to balance the whole person physically, mentally, and emotionally, while conventional medicine aims to cure the pathology. Examples of complementary medicine are acupuncture, yoga, music therapy, massage, and aromatherapy. There are numerous alternative medications that are currently being studied to validate their effectiveness as well as assess potential side effects. Recent studies have concentrated on the use of omega-3 fatty acids for bipolar disorder, while several randomized controlled trials have investigated on St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum), acupuncture, and S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe), a derivative of L-methionine, as alternative treatments for major depression."
This is a technical report examining the benefits of bloodless medicine over transfusion. It looks at the history of blood in medicine, how blood works and the transfusion process.
Abstract This paper discusses the benefits of bloodless medicine and surgery over the traditionally accepted methods. It first discusses a history of the traditional methods and then looks at how technology has advanced to more hi-tech bloodless options. The advantaged and disadvantages of each method is discussed and alternative treatments are suggested.
FIGURES AND TABLE
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION
BLOOD: THE JUICE OF LIFE
The Development of Blood as Medicine Transfusion: A Gift of Blood
Blood Basics
Transfusion Practice
The Realities of Blood Transfusion
BLOODLESS ALTERNATIVES
Surgical Management
Blood Supplementation
Mechanical Enhancement
What the Future Holds
Advantages and Limitations of Bloodless Therapy
CONCLUSION
GLOSSARY
REFERENCES
SURVEY
From the Paper "Although few people are prepared to admit it, at some point in their lives they will, in all probability, end up requiring some manner of surgical intervention. However, the younger a person is, the less consideration is given to the decisions that will be faced in such a situation. This attitude is to be expected, as the common perception among most people is that it is only upon entering the "golden" years of life that the body becomes prone to the illnesses which necessitate surgery. The facts however bear out a different reality. In the year 2000, those between the ages of fifteen and forty-four years old underwent surgical procedures nearly as often as did those in the sixty-five and older demographic."
