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Arteriosclerosis
Arteriosclerosis refers
to the thickening of the walls of the arteries. It has become a
common ailment in modem times, accounting for much of the disability
and high death rate, more so among older people.
Arteriosclerosis is
usually preceded by atherosclerosis, a kind of fatty infiltration in
the inner lining of the blood vessel walls. The most risky places
for such degeneration are the coronary vessels of the heart and the
arteries of the brain. Arteriosclerosis results in the loss of
elasticity of the blood vessels and a narrowing of the smaller
arteries, which interferes with the free circulation of the blood.
The symptoms of
arteriosclerosis vary according to the arteries involved. Signs of
inadequate blood supply generally appear first in the legs. There
may be numbness and coldness in the feet, and cramps and pains in
the legs even after light exercise. If the coronary arteries are
involved, the patient may have sharp pains, characteristic of angina
pectoris. When arteries leading to the brain are involved, the
vessel may burst, causing haemorrhage in thebrain tissues. A
cerebral vascular stroke, with partial or complete paralysis on one
side of the body, may result if there is blockage with a blood clot
It may also lead to loss of memory and a confused state of mind in
elderly people. If arteries leading to the kidneys are involved, the
patient may suffer from high blood pressure and kidney disorders.
The most important
causes of arteriosclerosis are lack of physical exercise, excessive
intake of white sugar, refined foods, and a high fat diet rich in
cholesterol. Hardening of the arteries may also be caused by other
diseases such as high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes.
Emotional stress plays an important part, and heart attacks are more
common during periods of mental and emotional disturbances,
particularly in those engaged in sedentary occupations. Heredity
also plays its role and this disease runs in families.
It is imperative that a
patient has his condition diagnosed by a physician and resorts to
remedies only in consultation with him.
Arteriosclerosis Home Remedy with Garlic and
Onions:
Recent investigations
have shown that garlic and onions have a preventive effect on the
development of arteriosclerosis. They should be included in the
daily diet, either aw or cooked, according to individual taste.
Arteriosclerosis Home Remedy with Ishabgul:
The herb ishabgul,
botanically known as Plaatago-ovata, has been found valuable in
arteriosclerosis. The oil of the seeds of this plant should be used.
It contains fifty per cent of linoleic acid, an unsaturated fat, and
is, therefore, helpful in the prevention and treatment of this
disease.
Arteriosclerosis Home Remedy with Vegetable
Juices:
Beet juice, taken daily,
has been found valuable in arteriosclerosis. It is an excellent
solvent for inorganic calcium deposits. The juices of carrots and
spinach are also beneficial if taken once a day. These juices can be
taken individually-500 ml, or as a combination. When taken as a
combination, they should be in the following proportion: carrots
-300 ml and spinach -200 ml to prepare 500 ml of juice.
Arteriosclerosis Home Remedy with Parsley:
Parsley is another
effective remedy for arteriosclerosis. It contains elements which
help to maintain the blood vessels, particularly the capillaries,
and arterial system in a healthy condition. It may be taken as a
tea: a teaspoon of dry parsley may be allowed to simmer gently in a
cupful of water for a few minutes. This can be taken two to three
times daily.
Arteriosclerosis Home Remedy with Honey:
Honey is also considered
beneficial in the treatment of arteriosclerosis. It is easily
digested and assimilated. The patient should take a glass of water
with one teaspoon each of honey and lemon juice in it, before going
to bed. He can also take it if he wakes up at night.
Arteriosclerosis Home Remedy with Lemon:
One of the most
effective home remedies for arteriosclerosis is the lemon peel. It
is believed to be one of the richest sources of vitamin P. It
strengthens the entire arterial system. Shredded lemon peel of one
lemon may be
added to soups and
stews, or sprinkled over salads. To make a medicine, the peel of one
or two lemons may be cut up finely, covered with warm water and
allowed to stand for about twelve hours. A teaspoon may be taken
every three hours, or immediately before or after a
meal.
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