The Herbal Clinic - Brisbane

29/03/2024

Over the last few decades there has been a significant rise in the diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism and ADHD. While better detection and diagnosing could be contributing factors, research indicates that environmental influences may also play a role.
Researchers from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine have released study findings that suggest exposure to certain chemicals, commonly found in everyday products, may harm brain cells known as oligodendrocytes, which are crucial for the development of myelin sheaths on nerve cells. This damage, in turn, could potentially lead to neurodevelopmental and neurological disorders, such as autism, ADHD, and multiple sclerosis.
The university’s study evaluated a large spectrum of chemicals to determine their impact on oligodendrocytes both in isolation and in the developing brains of lab mice. The researchers discovered that two types of compounds – organophosphate flame retardants found in electronics and furniture, and quaternary ammonium compounds used in personal-care products and disinfectants – were harmful to the oligodendrocytes, either impeding their development or causing cell death. This did not occur with other types of brain cells.
A team of scientists analyzed the exposure of children aged 3 to 11 to organophosphates, utilizing data from the CDC's National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. This survey provided insights into the levels of bis (1,3-dichloro-2-propy) phosphate (BDCIPP), a metabolite of these chemicals, found in the urine of the children.
Their analysis revealed a significant finding: children with the highest levels of BDCIPP in their urine were two to six times more likely to exhibit special educational needs or motor impairments compared to those with the lowest levels of exposure. This suggests a potential link between exposure to organophosphate-containing flame retardants and adverse effects on children's neurological development.
In light of these findings, other research has proposed the use of alternative disinfectants such as caprylic, citric, and lactic acids, alongside agents like hydrogen peroxide and alcohol, to reduce reliance on quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs).
The researchers emphasize that while their study establishes an important foundation, comprehensive epidemiological and laboratory research is necessary to confirm the causal relationship between exposure to these compounds and the observed health issues.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41593-024-01599-2

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/household-chemicals-may-increase-risk-neurological-conditions-autism-ms?slot_pos=article_1&utm_source=Sailthru%20Email&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=MNT%20Daily%20News&utm_content=2024-03-28&apid=&rvid=e03f0b81645f734e1a18995b7e23aa1e16bd48caac56cdc5479e92bdb53b3a42 -common-household-chemicals

01/05/2023

The human microbiome is a hot topic in the medical world, particularly when it comes to cancer. Research has shown that the microorganisms living inside our bodies play a significant role in the development and progression of cancer. There are a number of risk factors that can alter the balance of bacteria in our microbiome, including diet, lifestyle habits, and antibiotic use. Additionally, studies have identified specific mechanisms through which the microbiome influences cancer growth and metastasis. Researchers are also exploring the potential of the microbiome in cancer treatment, with some promising results. As we continue to learn more about this complex relationship, it could be that the microbiome holds a key piece to the puzzle of cancer prevention and treatment.

The human microbiome is the collection of all microorganisms that reside in or on the human body. It includes bacteria, fungi, protozoa and viruses. The collection of organisms that reside in our gastrointestinal tract is called the gut microbiome. It contains about 100 trillion microbes, bacteria b...

18/09/2022

Plant-based and ketogenic diets diets can have multiple beneficial impacts on a person's health. Here is a quick review of why a diet that is anti-inflammatory may be helpful for someone with cancer.

Plant-based foods and a well-designed ketogenic can diet help reduce inflammation in the body. You may wonder if this is important for someone with cancer? It certainly is – for many years now, research has shown that chronic inflammation is a driving force of cancer’s growth and promotes all st...

13/06/2022

For people who may be interested: This article looks at some of the interplay between the immune system and cancer and what we can do to support good immune function.

Research is increasingly showing the important role of the immune system in cancer. The World Cancer Research Fund recommends three main things that any person can do to reduce their risk or to help in their recovery. They are: be a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and eat a nutritious diet.[1] W...

06/03/2022

Community announcement: Dear friends, we have reluctantly decided not to reopen the clinic this week due to the poor air quality in Rocklea as a result of the excess water and flooding. We aim to be back on deck on Monday 14 March. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

28/02/2022

Community announcement: due to the extensive rain and flooding the clinic will be closed from Monday 28 Feb - Friday 4 Mar. The clinic as far as we know has not been flooded yet. Our hearts and prayers go out to all those people whose homes and businesses have been damaged by the water.
Photo by: Justin Bobbermien 8am 28/2 - Sherwood Rd looking towards Ipswich motorway.

02/08/2021

A community announcement to let you know that we will not be open during lockdown. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and hope everyone can stay safe during this time.