Gallstones

Gallstones are small, hard deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ located just below the liver. They can be painful and cause a range of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and pain in the upper right abdomen. If you have been diagnosed with gallstones, your doctor may recommend various treatment options depending on the severity of your symptoms and the size of the stones.

1. Medical Treatment for Gallstones

The most common medical treatment for gallstones is surgery. The procedure is called cholecystectomy, which involves removing the gallbladder. Surgery may be recommended if you are experiencing severe symptoms, or if your gallstones are large and causing complications.

Another option is medication to dissolve the stones. However, this method can take months or even years, and the stones may return after treatment. It is also not effective for all types of gallstones.

• Alternative Treatment for Gallstones

Many people seek alternative therapies to avoid surgery or medication. However, it is important to note that alternative therapies have not been scientifically proven to be effective in treating gallstones. Some alternative therapies that people have used include:

• Herbal remedies: Some herbs, such as dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) and milk thistle (Silybum marianum), are believed to support liver and gallbladder health. However, there is no evidence that they can dissolve gallstones or prevent them from forming.
• Acupuncture: Some people have reported relief from gallstone symptoms through acupuncture. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness.
• Diet: Some people believe that a diet low in fat and high in fiber can help prevent gallstones. However, there is no evidence that diet alone can dissolve gallstones.
• Combining Medical and Alternative Treatments

While alternative therapies have not been scientifically proven to treat gallstones, some people may choose to combine them with medical treatment. For example, some people may use herbal remedies to support liver and gallbladder health before or after surgery.

It is important to discuss any alternative therapies with your doctor before starting them. Some herbs and supplements can interact with medications, and may not be safe for everyone.

In conclusion, gallstones can be a painful condition, and treatment options may vary depending on the severity of your symptoms. Medical treatment, such as surgery or medication, is the most common way to treat gallstones. Alternative therapies, such as herbs and acupuncture, may be used in conjunction with medical treatment, but there is no scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. If you have been diagnosed with gallstones, it is important to discuss your treatment options with your doctor.

References:

1. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2021). Gallstones. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/gallstones
2. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Gallstones. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gallstones/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354220
3. Wong, V. W. S., Wong, G. L. H., & Chan, H. Y. (2016). Alternative therapies in management of gallstones: A systematic review. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 22(11), 872-881. doi: 10.1089/acm.2016.0085

Gallbladder removal, also known as cholecystectomy, is a common surgical procedure used to treat gallstones or other conditions that affect the gallbladder. While the removal of the gallbladder is generally considered safe, there can be consequences associated with the procedure.

1. Digestive Issues

One of the most common consequences of gallbladder removal is digestive issues. The gallbladder plays a role in the digestion of fats by releasing bile into the small intestine. Without a gallbladder, bile may flow directly from the liver into the small intestine, which can cause diarrhea, bloating, gas, and indigestion.

• Increased Risk of Colon Cancer

Recent studies have suggested that gallbladder removal may increase the risk of colon cancer. While the exact reasons for this are not clear, some researchers believe that the loss of the gallbladder may disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to inflammation and an increased risk of cancer.

• Increased Risk of Other Digestive Disorders

In addition to colon cancer, gallbladder removal may also increase the risk of other digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).

• Risk of Bile Duct Injury

During gallbladder surgery, there is a risk of injuring the bile duct, which can lead to serious complications such as bile leakage, infection, and jaundice. While this is a rare complication, it can be life-threatening if left untreated.

• Long-term Nutritional Deficiencies

The gallbladder plays an important role in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K. Without a gallbladder, there may be a reduced ability to absorb these vitamins, which can lead to long-term nutritional deficiencies.

In conclusion, while gallbladder removal is generally considered safe and effective, there can be consequences associated with the procedure. Digestive issues are a common complication, while long-term nutritional deficiencies, an increased risk of colon cancer, and an increased risk of other digestive disorders are also possible. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of gallbladder removal with your doctor and to carefully consider your options before undergoing the procedure.

References:

1. American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. (2021). Cholecystectomy. Retrieved from https://www.fascrs.org/patients/disease-condition/cholecystectomy-expanded-version
2. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2021). Gallstones. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/gallstones
3. Teixeira, J. P., Couto, N., Gonçalves, R., Bastos, P., & Mota-Silva, E. (2021). Impact of cholecystectomy on the microbiome: A systematic review. Gut Microbes, 13(1), 1-12. doi: 10.1080/19490976.2021.1881825.

There is a lot of controversy surrounding the efficacy and safety of liver cleanses for removing gallstones. While some people claim that liver cleanses can help to flush out gallstones and prevent their formation, there is little scientific evidence to support these claims. However, there are some potential benefits to liver cleanses and other natural treatments that may be worth considering before opting for surgery.

1. Non-invasive: Unlike surgery, liver cleanses are non-invasive and do not require anesthesia or incisions. This can make them a safer and less traumatic option for people who are unable or unwilling to undergo surgery.
2. Reduced risk of complications: Surgery carries the risk of complications such as bleeding, infection, and damage to surrounding organs. Liver cleanses, on the other hand, are generally considered safe and do not carry the same risks.
3. Improved liver function: Liver cleanses are often touted as a way to improve liver function and promote overall health. By supporting the liver, liver cleanses may help to prevent the formation of gallstones and other digestive problems.
4. Improved digestion: Many people who undergo liver cleanses report improved digestion and a reduction in symptoms such as bloating, gas, and constipation. This may be due to the fact that the liver plays a key role in digestion and the breakdown of fats.
5. Cost-effective: Liver cleanses are generally less expensive than surgery and do not require a hospital stay or recovery time.

It is important to note that there is limited scientific evidence to support the claims that liver cleanses are effective in treating gallstones. However, proponents of liver cleanses claim that the following mechanisms may explain their potential benefits:

1. Detoxification: The liver is responsible for detoxifying the body by removing harmful toxins and chemicals. A liver cleanse may help to support this process by providing the liver with the nutrients it needs to function properly.
2. Bile production: The liver produces bile, a fluid that helps to break down fats in the digestive system. Gallstones can interfere with the production and flow of bile, leading to digestive problems. A liver cleanse may help to improve bile production and flow, which may reduce the risk of gallstones and improve digestion.
3. Softening of gallstones: The olive oil used in some liver cleanses is thought to help soften and break down gallstones, making them easier to pass. The theory behind this is that the olive oil triggers the production of bile, which may help to push the gallstones out of the gallbladder.
4. Anti-inflammatory effects: Some proponents of liver cleanses claim that the herbs and supplements used in the cleanse have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help to reduce inflammation in the liver and gallbladder.
5. Improved liver function: Liver cleanses are often touted as a way to improve liver function, which may help to prevent the formation of gallstones and other digestive problems. The liver is responsible for many important functions in the body, including detoxification, metabolism, and nutrient storage.

It is important to note that there is limited scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of liver cleanses in treating gallstones. While some people may experience temporary relief from symptoms after undergoing a liver cleanse, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting any kind of cleanse or natural treatment for gallstones. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove gallstones and prevent complications.

Salmonella can survive a long time outside a host.  Active organisms have been found in 2 and half year old, dried feces.  The bacteria can’t be killed by freezing.  It dies when heated to at least 130F for at least an hour or at  170F for around 12 minutes.

General symptoms are vomiting, diarrhea, severe abdominal cramps and fever.  In severe cases , sepsis and infection of other organs can occur.

The people at most reis

Salmonella spp. have developed multidrug resistance and are becoming more difficult to treat due to heavy antibiotic use in both plant and animal agriculture.

If you want to have some protective, antibiotic herbs on hand, you can make and store the following that will be effective for Salmonella.  The tinctures will last years as long as they are kept closed in a dark, cool place.  Most of the powders will keep in the freezer if tightly closed between uses.

Systemic Anti bacterial tincture:

Sida acuta dried leaf tincture (1:5 60%, 5% ACV)  1tsp – 1 TBSP  3-6x daily, depending on severity.

**This herb is hypoglycemic and may affect meds for diabetes.  Just watch blood sugar if you have diabetes.

** This herb also has some ephedrine, so should not be used with pharmaceuticals that possess similar effects.

GI tract Anti bacterial tincure:

Berberis vulgaris or Mahonia aquifolium dried root bark tincture (1:5 70%)   1tsp – 1TBSP 3-6x daily, depending on severity.

**Caution if pregnant.

Immune support tincure:

Mix equal parts of…

Glycyrrhiza glabra dried root tincure (1:5 50%)

Rhodiola rosea dried root tincture  (1:5 50%)

fresh squeezed ginger juice full strength

and take 1tsp, 3x daily

Juniper berry and Sida acuta tea:

mix 1/4 cup of dry berries,  1/4 cup of dried Sida leaves and 1tsp Apple Cider vinegar in a jar and pour 1 quart of boiling water on them.  Cover and let cool for an hour.  Drink through the day.  Up to 4 cups.

For Salmonella with sepsis:  Take all three of the tinctures and the tea above and add:

Echinacea angustifolia dry root tincture 1:5 70%)   1/2 tsp – 1TBSP every half hour to an hour.  You can mix this with water for this purpose.

Use dried leaves.  1:5 60% alcohol, 5% organic apple cider vinegar.  Ex. (100% liquid)

4oz. dried leaves or powdered leaf in a jar,

19 oz. of 60% alcohol (take 95% -96% alcohol and dilute it with distilled water to 60% alcohol)

1 oz. of ACV

Put it all in a sterilized jar. Close tight.  Shake it 2x a day for at least 2 weeks.  Keep in a cool, dark place until done.

After it is macerated, in another sterilized jar, pour liquid through several layers of cheese cloth or fine material, squeeze the herb to get all the liquid from it.  Close tightly and keep in cool, dry place.  Use as needed.