Many compounds in milk thistle, have shown potent anti- prostate and anti-lung cancer activity

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) : Milk thistle have antioxidant properties that help the liver function and stay healthy

Milk thistle is sometimes called silymarin, which is actually a mixture of the herb's active components, including silybinin (also called silibinin or silybin). Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) herb is a tall, stocky, plant that grows fruit, and is native to the Mediterranean. Milk thistle supplement has been used for thousands of years as a remedy for a variety of ailments, especially liver problems. Milk thistle supplement is a very powerful antioxidant and as such helps to remove toxic elements from the body. In regards to liver function, milk thistle seed extract has the ability to stimulate the flow of bile from the liver. It is this bile stimulation that is believed to account for the effectiveness of milk thistle in treating ailments of the liver and aiding digestion.
Studies show silymarin, silibinin, and other flavonoids found in milk thistle liver. Silymarin is a powerful antioxidant that is ten times as potent as vitamin E Silymarin in milk thistle which is assumed to protect liver cells in the following ways:

- Silymarin has antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are thought to protect body cells from damage caused by a chemical process called oxidation.
- Silymarin has anti-inflammatory effects, which keeps liver cells from swelling in response to injury.
- Silymarin seems to encourage liver cell growth. By changing the outside layer of liver cells, it prevents certain toxins from getting into liver cells.

Many compounds in milk thistle, for instance silibinin, have shown potent anti- prostate and anti-lung cancer activity.

History of Milk Thistle

Milk thistle extract was still grown in old-fashioned British gardens at the end of the nineteenth century. The young leaves (with spines removed) were used in spring salads and as a spinach substitute. Young stalks, peeled and soaked, are eaten like asparagus. The roots, soaked in water overnight to remove bitterness, are eaten like salsify. In Germany during the nineteenth century, doctors commonly treated jaundice and other liver diseases with an extract from milk thistle seeds. The scientific study of herbs continued to be concentrated in Europe, and in 1949, German researchers found that milk thistle tea appeared to protect the livers of animals exposed to high doses of carbon tetrachloride, a potent liver toxin.

In Medieval Europe, the milk thistle was a remedy for snakebite and rabies. The plant has veins that contain a white, milky-appearing liquid, so was naturally considered useful for encouraging lactation. The milk thistle acquired the additional names of Marian thistle and lady's-thistle.

Milk Thistle Benefits

Milk thistle extract is most closely associated with treating ailments of the liver and digestive system, but it has shown promise in treating a number of other ailments as well. These include
- Gallstones
- High Cholesterol
- Allergies
- Skin cancer

Athletes and bodybuilders may benefit from the use of milk thistle supplements. Athletes and bodybuilders typically use many nutritional supplements at one time, in order to boost performance. The use of a number of supplements at one time may produce synergism that results in enormous stress being placed upon the liver.

After a cycle of anabolic steroids, pro-hormones, thermogenics, or any other supplement, athletes may find it helpful to allow the body to rest from supplementation, while taking herb milk thistle to promote liver health.

Numerous studies from Europe have shown conclusively that taking milk thistle supplements helps extend the life of patients suffering from cirrhosis. Researchers tracked patients diagnosed with cirrhosis for five years, and found that those taking 200 milligrams of milk thistle extract three times a day had improved liver function and death rates that were approximately 50 percent lower than those taking placebos. Several European studies have also shown that silymarin helps normalize liver function in people with hepatitis A, B, and C.

More Detail About Milk Thistle

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Author By Rosa parks
Added: 10 Oct 2006
Article Source: http://articles.simplysearch4it.com/article/38697.html

Tanning Bed Lotions Can Help Prevent Skin Cancer

Know who would have that that a bull frog and a tanner had something in common. Well guess what, they do!

Know who would have that that a bull frog and a tanner had something in common. Well guess what, they do! The new Bullfrog Sunscreen Company offers a full line of sun and tanning bed lotions for residential and commercial use, to reduce your risk of tanning skin cancer. All of their products offer varying levels of sunscreen protection.

This new sunscreen and sun tan lotion line is bragging about its extra features that are perfect for the world we live in today. Their products are especially beneficial for those that enjoy the outdoors, for children, and for people who work outdoors and want to protect their skin.

Their full line of creams and tanning lotions boast about their staying power. They are able to up to 8 hours, that’s nearly a full day of coverage with having to worry about reapplying.

Now if that’s not enough to tickle your fancy, this bullfrog is also a bug repellent. Nothing like having your frog on the job all day! Better yet, the manufacture guarantees that their product won’t drip no matter how much you sweat.

These pleasantly scented, non greasy lotions and creams are perfect for kids. No squirming and squealing because the lotion smells yucky. No fighting with them to stand still.

It’s also great for adults who don’t want to have a greasy residue on their skin. Very important if you work outside and don’t want to jeopardize you’re safely with slippery oily skin.

This line produces an SPF ranging from 15 to 45. This product line doesn’t cater for those people looking for a dark tan, but it does cater to those looking to protect their skin from burning and damage. It’s also a great product choice for those that burn easily.

If you or your children are out in the sun all day, give this line of sunscreens a try! It will stay on the kids while the run and play, and it will stay on you while you work.

About the Author:
M.D. Stracener from Home Tanning Beds has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing valuable information to keep you beautiful and healthy. Please visit us at Home Tanning Beds
Submitted on 2005-10-05
Article Source: http://www.articlesarea.com/

Breast Cancer Causes and Treatment

About Breast Cancer:
Breast cancer is a type of uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that can develop in one of several areas of the breast, including the ducts that carry milk to the nipple, the small sacs that produce milk (lobules) and the nonglandular tissue.Breast Cancer is estimated that 192,200 women and 1,500 men in the United States will be diagnosed with Breast cancer in 2001. Though rare in men, Breast cancer accounts for 31% of all cancer diagnosed in women. Breast cancer is a disease in which cancer cells are found in Breast tissue. There are numerous types of Breast cancer. For example, ductile cancer, found in the cells of the ducts, is the most common type of Breast cancer. Cancer that begins in the lobes or lobules is called lobular cancer. Treatment will depend on the type of Breast cancer and stage of the disease. There are also many non-cancerous (benign) Breast diseases as well.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer:
1.A lump or thickening in the breast or under the arm.
2.A clear or bloody discharge from the nipple.
3.Crusting or scaling of the nipple.
4.Nipples that don't stick out (inverted).
5.Redness or swelling of the breast.
6.Dimpling on the breast skin resembling the texture of an orange.
7.A change in the contours of the breast, such as one being higher than the other.
8.A sore or ulcer on the skin of the breast that does not heal.

Causes of Breast Cancer:
The exact cause of cancer remains a mystery. Over twenty percent of those who have cancer never know why. The primary parts that are involved are the natural parts of food, tobacco, occupational hazards, genetic composition and food additives. Other agents that have been linked with cancer are ionizing radiation, chemicals in the air and diet, vitamin deficiency, high-fat diet, stress and environmental conditions.

Diagnosis:

Biopsy: Used to diagnose tumors, a biopsy tests cells removed surgically or through aspiration for microscopic examination.

Cytology test: A test that shows the shedding of abnormal cells. A good example of a cytology test is pap smear.

Imaging techniques: low dose x-rays such as those used in a mammogram can detect early Breast cancer. Ultrasound scanners can also produce images of organs.

Chemical testing: Detect the presence of blood in the feces or elevated levels of enzyme acid phosphates in the blood.

Ultrasound: A new ultrasound technique used after a mammogram can help reduce uncertainty about whether a Breast mass is cancerous or not.

Home Care Suggestions:
-Avoid tobacco in all forms, synthetic hormones, particularly estrogen, excessive alcohol, caffeine.
-To minimize hair loss apply cold packs to the scalp while taking radiation or therapy.
-Engage in mild exercise such as walking and make it part of your daily ritual.
-If you ever receive a serious diagnosis of any kind, one of the most important things you can do is to free your mind of daily concerns.

More Detail About Breast Cancer

About the Author:
By Michal John
Added: Fri May 12 2006
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Metastatic Breast Cancer, learn all about it!

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in one of the breasts. It is one of the most frequent cancers in women. Cancer cells can sometimes spread to other organs and tissues in your body through bloodstream or lymph system. When this happens, the cancer is called metastatic breast cancer.

In metastatic breast cancer, new tumors may form in other organs and tissues of the body as well, most frequently in the lymph nodes. These tumors are called metastases and they may also form in the liver, brain or lungs.

Metastatic Breast Cancer Symptoms

Metastatic breast cancer symptoms vary upon the area where the metastases are found. Bone metastases usually cause pain. Metastases in the liver are often associated with an increased liver size. Lung metastases are generally accompanied by shortness in breath or cough and can be seen on an X-ray.

Metastatic Breast Cancer Treatment

The treatment for metastatic breast cancer depend on the size of tumors and how much they have spread. Common treatments include radiation, chemotherapy and hormone therapies. These treatments are used either alone or combined. None of them will cure metastatic breast cancer, but they can slow down the process and reduce or eliminate symptoms.

Radiation is applied to a certain part of the body, generally the brain or a bone, in order to reduce the tumors as well as the pane. When it is given to the bone, it also decreases the risk of bone fracture. Chemotherapy is a medication treatment with anticancer drugs given either through veins or orally to kill cancer cells. Hormone therapy includes hormone pills instead of or in addition to chemotherapy. This type of treatment is mainly used for older women or the ones with other medical conditions as well. Another treatment option for metastatic breast cancer is immunotherapy, which uses the body’s immune system.

Most patients take medicines to reduce the pain. For more severe pain, the medication treatment generally includes narcotics. However, these pills do not cause addiction and when the pain in relieved, the need for taking them will also fade out.

How Long Can the Effects Last?

How long can you keep the disease under control depends on how much has the cancer spread. Proper treatment can sometimes control metastatic breast cancer for several years.

What Can You Do?

• There are also a few things you can do on your own to maximize the effects of the treatment:

• Follow the treatment plan carefully an rest often.

• Have breast or chest self-exams regularly and report any unusual changes. Do a breast exam every month, preferably at the end of your menstruation or the first day of the months if you don’t have a menstrual cycle.

• Ask the doctor to prescribe you an exercise to follow once you have finished the treatment.

• Consult a dietitian for improving your diet in order to heal tissue after the treatment and fight cancer.

• Join a support group for breast cancer.

• Talk to your family members and health care provider about the way you should be cared for if you are temporarily disabled.

• Do things that you enjoy and spend time with people that you love.

About the Author:
Nguang Nguek-Fluek
Visit us for more information about
Metastatic Breast Cancer
Article Source: http://www.articles2k.com

Mesothelioma a cancer caused by asbestos

The internal organs of the human body are encased in a protective sac called the mesothelium. Examples of mesothelilial membranes are the peritoneum (abdominal organs), pleura (lungs), and pericardium (heart).

Under specific conditions, the cells of the protective membrane divide uncontrolled and become cancerous. This disease is termed as Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer which is caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos dust.

The disease is found to occur among those who work in shipyards, asbestos mines and factories, industries that produce asbestos based products, and the heating and construction businesses. Approximately 3,000 cases occur each year in the US, and most patients are between 50-70 years old. Statistics show that males are commonly affected and among them whites more than African Americans.

First studied in the late 1700s in depth studies were only done in the 1960s. Tumors of the Mesothelioma can be benign or malignant. The malignant Mesothelioma are categorized into three types:

• Epithelioid, accounting for 50-70% of mesotheliomas.

• Sarcomatoid, accounting for 7-20%.

• Mixed or bi-phasic, accounting for 20-35%.

When asbestos fibers are breathed into the lungs they travel through large air passages to reach the smaller passages and from them the pleura. In the pleura they damage: the mesothelial cells leading to cancer; lung tissue causing lung cancer; and the development of scar tissue within the lungs known as asbestosis. When asbestos fibers are swallowed they reach the abdominal cavity and cause peritoneal mesothelioma.

Research reveals that the disease only manifests 20-50 years after being exposed to asbestos dust. The symptoms are not specific to the disease but a patient may develop:

• Breathlessness.

• Chest pain accompanied by tightness believed to be caused by accumulation of fluid in the pleura.

• Low back pain.

• Swelling of face and arms.

• Sensory loss.

• Muscle weakness.

• Nausea.

• Vomiting.

• Weight loss that is unexplained.

• Persistent dry cough.

• Sore throat.

• Anemia.

• Fever.

• Constipation.

• Problems with blood clotting.

Since the above are common to minor ailments, patients often ignore the symptoms. It is advisable to consult a doctor if any of the above symptoms persist or if you feel you have been knowingly or unknowingly exposed to asbestos.

A doctor will:

• Take down a detailed medical history and try and determine the symptoms and risk factors.

• Do a thorough physical examination and check for signs of:

o Pleural effusion, fluid accumulated in the chest cavity.

o Fluid in the abdominal cavity.

o Pericardial effusion, fluid in the lining of the heart.

• Take a chest x-ray and check for thickening of the pleura, calcifications, and lowered lung fissures.

• Ask for a CT scan to determine clearly the location, size, and extent of the problem if any is suspected.

• Recommend tests of tissue samples and pleural fluids.

Other risk factors are cigarette or cigar smoking, exposure to radiation, exposure to zeolite a compound that is similar to asbestos, exposure to or infections caused by SV40, a Simian virus.

Those who work in a risky environment should wear protective clothing, have the surroundings tested regularly for suspended asbestos particles, and ensure that they have regular medical tests and report to the doctor any ailments that persist.

Being aware of the disease and its problems helps.

About the Author:
Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888Discuss.com/health/ , the premier REVENUE SHARING discussion forum for Health Forum including topics on health care, Children's Health Issues, addiction, Cancer, fitness equipment, Burns & Injuries and more. His article profile can be found at the premier Health Article Submission Directory http://www.1888Articles.com/health-articles-8.html
Added: 02 Mar 2006
Article Source: http://articles.simplysearch4it.com/article/22640.html

Mesothelioma Cancer

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer in the general population. However, in individuals that were exposed to asbestos, it is not as rare. There are experts that have speculated on other causes. There are incidences of Mesothelioma with no known asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is not a lung cancer. Smoking does not cause it. It is a cancer of the mesothelial cells.

Causes of Mesothelioma
The only known, established cause of Mesothelioma is asbestos. The asbestos fibers are breathed in, travel through the lung and become lodged in the pleura, the thin, saran wrap-type membrane that lines that encases the lung. The pleura, produces a special lubricating fluid that facilitates the ability of the lungs to move inside the chest during breathing. The process of irritation from the infiltration of the asbestos fibers creates changes in the cells, which causes the Mesothelioma. This is known as pleural Mesothelioma. Less common is peritoneal Mesothelioma, which is a cancer of the membrane that encompasses the lining of the abdomen.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma
An individual with Mesothelioma experiences chest pain usually caused by a build-up of fluid in the pleural space called an effusion and shortness of breath. Since many doctors may not have expertise in the area of asbestos-related diseases, these symptoms are often believed, at first, to be attributable to other medical problems. A biopsy of the pleural tissue or fluid may reveal the cancer of the mesothelial cells and a proper diagnosis can thus be established. A history of the individual’s occupational exposure shall be taken. Since there is no “safe” level of exposure to asbestos, even brief, low level exposures may be enough to cause Mesothelioma.

Occurrence of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer and its incidence is actually increasing day by day. There is presently no known cure for Mesothelioma. As the disease progresses, the cancerous cells harden the pleura and spread. As time passes, breathing, sleeping and eating become more difficult and eventually it becomes increasingly more challenging for the victim to engage in normal activities and enjoy life.

Treatments of Mesothelioma
A number of treatments have been established to help contain the spread of the disease and reduce the pain associated with it. Chemotherapy, radiation and radical surgery to remove the lung and pleura are among the options that have been explored by the treating physician.

Prevention is better than Cure
Mesothelioma is a preventable disease. Many of the corporations that manufacture and make profit from the sale of asbestos-containing products are aware of the hazards of asbestos. Alternative fibers are available that could be used instead of asbestos. But asbestos is cheap, and available, and is a good filler and binder.

To Sum up
The varied and non-specific symptoms associated with Mesothelioma, can delay detection and diagnosis The cancer has a very long latency period, which means that it could be thirty years or more before the person even realizes that they have contracted the cancer .The onset of symptoms can take up to fifty years or more in some cases, but once the symptoms have manifested the lifespan of the person can be as short as several months. So, if you or a loved one is experiencing any of the above symptoms, consult your doctor right away. Make sure that your physician is aware of any previous asbestos exposure, and occupational risk factors.

About the author:
Rob Mellor owns the free to use www.mesotheliomasupportonline.com website helping people find out more about mesothelioma. Please visit the site for more information on mesothelioma cancer
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Prostate Cancer: All About Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a disease that affects adult males and is known to occur when the cells of the prostate begin to grow uncontrollably. Although prostate cancer can be cured if detected and treated early, most of its symptoms rarely cause concern for most men and are likely to be overlooked in the initial stages. Unfortunately, too often, cancer detection just may be postponed until it is too late.

Symptoms
Symptoms include the urge to urinate frequently, especially at night. There could be pain or bleeding while urinating and the patient may find himself suffering from frequent pain or stiffness in his lower back, hips or upper thighs. Since most of these symptoms seem to resemble fatigue or tiredness, they are often overlooked. It is recommended that a proper medical check up be undertaken at regular intervals to find track any indicative symptoms for prostate cancer.

Diagnosis
DRE and PSA tests are carried out to determine the extent of growth of your prostate cells. These tests may not prove the presence of prostate cancer, but conducting a biopsy will determine the presence of cancerous cells in the body. The biopsy method involves taking tissue samples, using needles and using ultrasound imaging to detect cancer cells. Although the biopsy procedure itself may be a short one, patients are often asked to be at the hospital stay on for a full day at the hospital where several tests are carried out. A diagnosis is also required to find out if any of the symptoms match the disease, because of the prostate cells in a cancerous condition or due to some other reason.

Grading and Staging the Disease
Gleason grading and scores help determine the extent to which the disease has spread and also to find out the damage caused by the presence of cancerous cells in the prostate. Localized, locally advanced and metastatic are the three stages in which a prostate cancer patient is classified as. These three stages are in order of the least to the most dangerous of stages of prostate cancer. Also, the chances of a cure and treatment are more possible in a localized stage and are almost impossible in the metastatic stage.

About the Author:
Author Barney Garcia writes about on Prostate Cancer: All About Prostate Cancer to visit :- prostate cancer, cancer prostate
Article Source: http://www.articles411.com

Staying Active Helps Reduce Risk of Prostate Cancer

Those men who stay active can significantly cut down on their risk getting prostate cancer. In fact the more aerobic the exercise the better walking, hiking, swimming and bike riding were some of the examples given in a study by Harvard Medical School on ways to stay healthy and simultaneously reduce your risk of prostate cancer.

Those men who stay active can significantly cut down on their risk getting prostate cancer. In fact the more aerobic the exercise the better walking, hiking, swimming and bike riding were some of the examples given in a study by Harvard Medical School on ways to stay healthy and simultaneously reduce your risk of prostate cancer. Those who went to a gym twice to three times per week and used the treadmill did best, although even those who played golf three times a week reduced their risks as well.

Most all physical activity which included a form of cardiorespiratory workout seemed to work. These men were able to reduce their risks by 75%, a huge gap over those were the most inactive one-third of all males. The cut off seemed to be 20 minutes per day or an average of 20 minutes a day over a weeks period. Those who worked out three times a week for thirty minutes are more were amongst the lowest risk groups. Some life insurance questionnaires now ask these questions, when determining risk and that ought to tell you something as well. Not only is it good for your heart but your prostate as well.

There are two factors being looked at as to why this is? One thought was that since high testosterone levels were are part of high risk categories, that those who did physical activity reduced their risks because they were lowering their testosterone levels during cardio respiratory workouts. This tends to make a lot of sense.

It would be best to get screened for prostate cancer and continue your work outs or increase them to put you into the lower risk categories. Discuss this with your physician and do some of your own research to see what works best for you. Please be thinking on this, it could save your life.

About the Author:
"Lance Winslow" - If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance http://www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs
Submitted on 2005-10-05
Article Source: http://www.articlesarea.com/