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<title>Practitioners RSS : Gourt</title>
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<dc:date>2009-07-03T18:08+43:00
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<title>Chromium Picolinate Does Not Improve Key Features of Metabolic Syndrome in Adults</title>
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<description><![CDATA[About 47 million Americans have some form of metabolic syndromea group of conditions that increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and related complications. Metabolic syndrome is often characterized by abdominal obesity, impaired fasting glucose (an increase in glucose levels), elevated blood pressure, and high cholesterol and triglycerides. It is also associated with insulin resistance, a condition in which the body cannot use insulin effectively. Previous studies have suggested that chromium picolinate dietary supplements can help people with type 2 diabetes by improving insulin resistance and increasing the bodys sensitivity to insulin. However, its effects on people with a high risk for developing type 2 diabetes, especially those with metabolic syndrome, are largely unknown.]]></description>
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<title>Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Focus on Research and Care  May 2009</title>
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<description><![CDATA[Low-Back Pain and CAMFour out of five American adults will experience low-back pain (LBP). Many will try CAM therapies to manage their pain. Given the many choices, how can one approach making decisions about CAM use for LBP?Also Featuring: Moving the Economyand Biomedical DiscoveryAhead; Interview: Low-Back Pain and Evidence-Based Care; First Straus Lecture: Acupuncture and Medical Paradigms; and other stories]]></description>
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<title>Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal ProductsWarnings</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/alerts/?nav=rss#Z</link>
<description><![CDATA[FDA notified consumers and healthcare professionals to discontinue use of three Zicam Nasal Gel/Nasal Swab products sold over-the-counter as cold remedies because they are associated with the loss of sense of smell that may be long-lasting or permanent. The FDA has received more than 130 reports of loss of sense of smell associated with the use of the three Zicam products.  In these reports, many people who experienced a loss of smell said the condition occurred with the first dose; others reported a loss of the sense of smell after multiple uses of the products. People who have experienced a loss of sense of smell or other problems after use of the affected Zicam products should contact their health care professional. The loss of sense of smell can adversely affect a persons quality of life, and can limit the ability to detect the smell of gas or smoke or other signs of danger in the environment.Please use our link about Zicam to read more on these warnings.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/offices/od/director.htm?nav=rss">
<title>A Message from the Director</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/offices/od/director.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Considering All PerspectivesRecently, a series of articles appeared in the media that were critical of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and how NCCAM directs taxpayer resources to study these modalities. While the articles contained several misconceptions regarding NCCAM's research, they also raised some important concerns that I share. No one likes criticism, but it is important to listen to the critics and look for any threads of truth that can help us fulfill our mission better. While the value of research on CAM interventions will probably continue to be the subject of some controversy, there are many areas of promise in CAM that need to be pursued. NCCAM is committed to this path.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/offices/od/directortestimony/0509.htm?nav=rss">
<title>2009 Director&#x27;s Testimony</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/offices/od/directortestimony/0509.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Budget Request for FY 2010Before the Senate Subcommittee on Labor-HHS-Education AppropriationsThe President's Fiscal Year 2010 Budget request for the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) of the National Institutes of Health includes $127,241,000, which is $1,770,000 more than the comparable FY 2009 appropriation of $125,471,000.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/acupuncture-for-pain.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Acupuncture for Pain</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/acupuncture-for-pain.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Physical pain is a common occurrence for many Americans; in fact, a national survey found that more than one-quarter of U.S. adults had recently experienced some sort of pain lasting more than a day. In addition to conventional treatments, such as over-the-counter and prescription medications, people may try acupuncture in an effort to relieve pain. This fact sheet provides basic information about pain and acupuncture, summarizes scientific research on acupuncture for specific kinds of pain, and suggests sources for additional information.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/051809.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Study Finds Benefits of Therapeutic Massage for Chronic Neck Pain</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/051809.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Neck pain is a common health problem in the United States. People suffering from neck pain often turn to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies. Although therapeutic massage is one of the most popular CAM therapies for neck pain, little is known about its effectiveness for this condition.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/events/backworkshop/?nav=rss">
<title>NIH Workshop on Nonpharmacologic Management of Back Pain</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/events/backworkshop/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[This 1-day workshop will identify clinical research questions related to nonpharmacologic interventions to treat back pain. This information will help inform future research directions.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/espanol/?nav=rss">
<title>Como evaluar recursos de salud publicados en Internet</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/espanol/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[El n&uacute;mero de sitios Web que ofrecen recursos relacionados con la salud, incluso informaci&oacute;n sobre medicina complementaria y alternativa, crece d&iacute;a a d&iacute;a. Si bien muchos sitios de Internet resultan &uacute;tiles, es posible que algunos presenten informaci&oacute;n inexacta o enga&ntilde;osa. Al visitar un sitio por primera vez es importante evaluar si es confiable. Esta gu&iacute;a describe algunos aspectos que debe considerar al evaluar estas fuentes.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2009/051109.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Acupuncture-Like Treatments Improve Outcomes Compared to Usual Care for Low Back Pain</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2009/051109.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[People suffering from chronic low back pain who received acupuncture or simulated acupuncture treatments fared better than those receiving only conventional care according to a recent study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. The study highlights central questions about the mechanisms of benefit seen in acupuncture studies.&quot;Because of the lack of highly effective medical treatments for chronic low back pain, we were pleased to find that acupuncture-like treatments were helpful for persons suffering from chronic back pain,&quot; said Daniel Cherkin, Ph.D. &quot;However, the finding that real acupuncture produced no greater benefit than simulated acupuncture raises important questions about acupuncture's mechanisms of action.&quot;]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/offices/od/director.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Message from NCCAM&#x27;s Director</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/offices/od/director.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Caution: Using CAM to Prevent the H1N1 FluRecently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission alerted the public to be wary of Internet sites and other promotions for CAM products that claim to diagnose, prevent, mitigate, treat, or cure the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus (swine flu). Such products have not been tested for safety and efficacy. Currently, the only approved medications for this flu virus are Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) and Relenza (zanamivir).]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/alerts/?nav=rss">
<title>FDA, FTC Warn of Fraudulent Flu Products</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/alerts/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[FDA, FTC Warn Public of Fraudulent 2009 H1N1 Influenza ProductsOffending web sites and illegal activity targeted for actionThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission are alerting the public to be wary of Internet sites and other promotions for products that claim to diagnose, prevent, mitigate, treat or cure the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus.  The agencies are also advising operators of offending web sites that they must take prompt action to correct and/or remove promotions of these fraudulent products or face enforcement action.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/jobs/?nav=rss">
<title>Job Openings: IT Specialist</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/jobs/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[If you are a motivated individual with an excellent attention to detail AND you want to play a significant role in a dynamic organization, then consider joining the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), Office of Administrative Operations (OAO)! Our office provides leadership and direction for NCCAM's business and administrative operations to promote organizational growth, encourage and empower NCCAM's staff, and optimize effective management of the public's investment in CAM research. ]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/alerts/?nav=rss">
<title>FDA Alert - Hydroxycut</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/alerts/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[FDA Warns Consumers to Stop Using Hydroxycut ProductsDietary Supplements Linked to One Death; Pose Risk of Liver InjuryThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers to immediately stop using Hydroxycut products by Iovate Health Sciences Inc., of Oakville, Ontario and distributed by Iovate Health Sciences USA Inc. of Blasdell, N.Y. Some Hydroxycut products are associated with a number of serious liver injuries. Iovate has agreed to recall Hydroxycut products from the market.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/043109.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Study Finds Creatine Does Not Enhance Strength-Building Effects of Resistance Training in HIV Patients</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/043109.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Progressive resistance exercise training (known as PRT) can increase muscle mass and preserve physical functioning in people with HIV. In light of evidence that the dietary supplement creatine can enhance PRT-related benefits in athletes and improve muscle function in patients with muscle-wasting conditions, a recent NCCAM-funded study investigated creatine's effects on PRT results in a group of HIV-positive men. The researchers were affiliated with the University of California at San Francisco and Santa Cruz, San Francisco General Hospital, Northern California Institute for Research and Education, the University of Massachusetts, and the University of Thessaly (Greece).]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/recovery/biomedical.htm?nav=rss">
<title>NCCAM Faculty Recruitment through Biomedical Research Core Centers</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/recovery/biomedical.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The purpose of the Biomedical Research Core Centers program is to support the hiring of newly-recruited faculty to develop research projects within the context of Biomedical Core Centers. For this announcement, a Biomedical Core Center is defined as a community of multidisciplinary researchers focusing on areas of biomedical research relevant to NIH, such as centers. These awards are designed to enhance innovative programs of excellence by providing scientific and programmatic support for promising research faculty and their areas of research. Specifically for the purposes of this announcement, Core Center Grants are institutional awards that provide funding to hire, provide appropriate start-up packages, and develop pilot research projects for newly independent investigators, with the goal of augmenting and expanding the institution's community of multidisciplinary researchers focusing on areas of biomedical research relevant to NIH.This initiative is one of several being offered by NCCAM to help fulfill the goals of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) to help stimulate the economy through support of biomedical and behavioral research. Additional information the Recovery Act and related NIH opportunities is available through the Office of Extramural Research.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/offices/od/director.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Message from NCCAM&#x27;s Director</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/offices/od/director.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[For 10 years, NCCAM has been supporting research studies on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices, determining their safety and effectiveness, and reporting the findings to the medical community and to the public. In these 10 years, we have funded more than 2,200 research projects, resulting in more than 3,300 articles published in peer-reviewed medical journals. A paper published in the April 13, 2009 Archives of Internal Medicine exposes a gap in the knowledge and application of CAM research in clinical practice. In sum, approximately one in four clinicians was aware of two major CAM clinical trials. The 1,561 clinicians surveyed included acupuncturists, naturopaths, internists, and rheumatologists.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/recovery/?nav=rss">
<title>Two More NCCAM Funding Opportunities Related to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA)</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/recovery/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[NCCAM has posted the Center's guidelines for Grand Opportunities (GO) Grants. This new program will support projects that address large, specific biomedical and biobehavioral research endeavors that will benefit from significant 2-year funds without the expectation of continued NIH funding beyond two years. The center is also participating in an initiative that supports new faculty recruitments to biomedical core centers (P30 grant).  These grants will be institutional awards that provide funding to hire, provide appropriate start-up packages, and develop pilot research projects for newly independent investigators, with the goal of augmenting and expanding the institutions community of multidisciplinary researchers focusing on areas of biomedical research relevant to NIH.    ]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/041309.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Translating CAM Research Results Into Clinical Practice: Results From a National Survey of Physicians and CAM Providers</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/041309.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[In an initial investigation of the potential for information from CAM research to influence clinical practice, a 2007 national survey asked acupuncturists, naturopaths, internists, and rheumatologists about their awareness of CAM clinical trials, their ability to interpret research results, and their use of research evidence in decisionmaking. The survey was conducted by researchers affiliated with the National Institutes of Health, the Mayo Clinic, the University of Chicago, Harvard Medical School, and the University of Massachusetts. The survey focused on awareness of two major NCCAM-funded clinical trials that studied acupuncture or glucosamine/chondroitin for osteoarthritis of the knee.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/april09.htm?nav=rss">
<title>World Tai Chi and Qi Gong Day Is April 25</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/april09.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[What Is Tai Chi?Tai chi (pronounced &quot;tie chee&quot; and also known by some other names and spellings) is a mind-body practice that originated in China as a martial art. A person doing tai chi moves his body slowly and gently, while breathing deeply and meditating (tai chi is sometimes called &quot;moving meditation&quot;).What Is Qi Gong?A component of traditional Chinese medicine that combines movement, meditation, and controlled breathing. The intent is to improve blood flow and the flow of qi.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/naccam/?nav=rss">
<title>April 7 Council Meeting Public Conference</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/naccam/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[TeleconferenceApril 7, 20091:00 P.M.1:15 P.M. EST877-719-9799 (toll-free); Passcode: 6064250The first 15 minutes of the teleconference will be monitored by the Premiere Conferencing Operator. People who are calling on this line just listen only when Dr. Briggs speaks. This line will be closed at 1:15 P.M. EST.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/recovery/?nav=rss">
<title>NCCAM Investments Related to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA)</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/recovery/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[NCCAM has posted the Center's guidelines for ARRA Administrative Supplements, ARRA Competitive Revisions, and Recovery Act Funds for Summer Research Opportunities.  Information about NCCAM's Challenge Grant Topics is also available.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/031709.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Acupuncture Shows Possible Effect for Tension Headaches</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/031709.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Headaches affect millions of Americans. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, about 45 million Americans suffer from chronic headaches. Tension-type headaches (or tension headaches)&#8212;characterized by pain or discomfort from tense or constricted muscles in the head, neck, or scalp&#8212;are one of the most common forms of headaches. In most patients, tension headaches occur infrequently and can be treated with over-the-counter pain medicine. However, some people experience these headaches several days per month, or even daily, and may benefit from other treatments.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/031209.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Grape Seed Extract May Help Neurodegenerative Diseases</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/031209.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Tauopathies&#8212;a group of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease&#8212;have been linked to the build-up of &quot;misfolded&quot; tau proteins in the brain. (Tau proteins are associated with microtubules, which help to regulate important cellular processes.) In light of previous studies indicating that grape-derived polyphenols may inhibit protein misfolding, an NCCAM-funded research center at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine recently examined the potential role of a particular grape seed polyphenol extract (GSPE) in preventing and treating tau-associated neurodegenerative disorders.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/offices/od/director.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Message from NCCAM&#x27;s Director</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/offices/od/director.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[On February 17, President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act). Funds from the Recovery Act will be invested in the construction and renovation of research and educational facilities, as well as groundbreaking scientific research that will improve the health of our Nation.We appreciate that the President and Congress have recognized both the economic and health impacts of biomedical and behavioral research.The goals of the Recovery Act include:    Preserving and creating jobs    Promoting economic recovery    Increasing economic efficiency by spurring technological advances in science and health.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2009_january/?nav=rss">
<title>Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Focus on Research and Care  January 2009</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2009_january/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Welcome to Our New NewsletterA fresh new design and content that is more focused on research and patient care.Survey Sheds New Light on Adults'&#8212;and Children's&#8212;Use of CAMA new national survey on Americans' use of CAM and, for the first time, data on children's use of CAM.Also Featuring: Sorting Claims from Facts About CAM; Interview: Cognitive Disorders in Later Life; Children and CAM; Using Dietary Supplements Wisely; and other stories]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/february09.htm?nav=rss">
<title>February Is American Heart Month</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/february09.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States and is a major cause of disability. About 1.2 million people will have a first or recurrent coronary attack. Each year, about 700,000 people die of heart disease. (CDC) NCCAM supports studies on heart disease. Some people at risk for heart disease may try complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies, including dietary supplements. An individual considering using CAM therapy, should talk to their health care providers to ensure safe and coordinated care.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/director/?nav=rss">
<title>Message from the Director: Public Mission</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/director/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Yesterday, NCCAM and the National Center for Health Statistics released the results of a survey on the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in the United States. The report confirms that CAM practices are a frequently used component of Americans health care regimens. Whether people use CAM for chronic health conditions or to prevent disease and maintain wellness, these approaches are a part of health care in America today.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/121208.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Brain-Imaging Study Explores Analgesic Effect of Acupuncture</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/121208.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Although acupuncture has long been used to relieve pain, scientific understanding of how acupuncture might achieve an analgesic effect is incomplete. Previous research has linked acupuncture's effects to the neuronal networks and opioid (pain response) systems of the brain. In light of these findings, NCCAM-funded researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital recently used two imaging technologies&#8212;functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and positron emission tomography (PET)&#8212;to investigate how specific areas of the brain might be involved in acupuncture analgesia.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/120808.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Green Tea May Help Protect Against Rheumatoid Arthritis</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/120808.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects more than 2.1 million Americans. It is characterized by joint pain, stiffness, inflammation, swelling, and sometimes joint destruction. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the standard treatment for RA, but their prolonged use is associated with adverse effects and discomfort. Natural plant alternatives like green tea are being investigated for the management of RA. Green tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world, and its polyphenols (substances rich in antioxidants) possess anti-inflammatory properties.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/120908.htm?nav=rss">
<title>St. John&#x27;s Wort Extracts May Help Treat Major Depression</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/120908.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Major depression is a disorder characterized by a depressed mood and/or a loss of interest in nearly all activities consistently for at least 2 weeks. People with major depression may also experience a variety of other symptoms such as loss of appetite, fatigue, sleep disturbance, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide. Extracts from the herb St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) are used in many countries, especially Germany, to treat depression. However, results from clinical trials worldwide have been contradictory, and the effectiveness of St. John's wort for depression is still questionable. Additionally, major depression is often treated with antidepressant drugs, which have only shown modest effects over placebo in clinical trials.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/camstats/?nav=rss">
<title>New Statistics on Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use in the United States</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/camstats/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Approximately 38 percent of adults in the United States aged 18 years and over and nearly 12 percent of U.S. children aged 17 years and under use some form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), according to a new nationwide government survey. This survey marks the first time questions were included on children's use of CAM, which is a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products such as herbal supplements, meditation, chiropractic, and acupuncture that are not generally considered to be part of conventional medicine.

The survey, conducted as part of the 2007 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), an annual study in which tens of thousands of Americans are interviewed about their health- and illness-related experiences, was developed by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), a part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The survey included questions on 36 types of CAM therapies commonly used in the United States&#8212;10 types of provider-based therapies, such as acupuncture and chiropractic, and 26 other therapies that do not require a provider, such as herbal supplements and meditation.

"The 2007 NHIS provides the most current, comprehensive, and reliable source of information on Americans' use of CAM," said Josephine P. Briggs, M.D., director of NCCAM. "These statistics confirm that CAM practices are a frequently used component of Americans' health care regimens, and reinforce the need for rigorous research to study the safety and effectiveness of these therapies. The data also point out the need for patients and health care providers to openly discuss CAM use to ensure safe and coordinated care.
]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/blackcohosh/?nav=rss">
<title>Herbs at a Glance Update: Black Cohosh</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/blackcohosh/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[This fact sheet provides basic information about the black cohosh&#8212;common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Black cohosh, a member of the buttercup family, is a plant native to North America. It was used in Native American medicine and was a home remedy in 19th-century America.What It Is Used ForBlack cohosh has a history of use for rheumatism (arthritis and muscle pain) but has been used more recently to treat hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and other symptoms that can occur during menopause.Black cohosh has also been used for menstrual irregularities and premenstrual syndrome, and to induce labor.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/december08.htm?nav=rss">
<title>December 1 Is World AIDS Day</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/december08.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV. By killing or damaging cells of the body's immune system, HIV progressively destroys the body's ability to fight infections and certain cancers. These infections are caused by viruses or bacteria that usually do not make healthy people sick.Many people infected with HIV or living with AIDS may be considering the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to boost their immune system; treat complications of disease; or cope with side effects of conventional medications.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/gems/?nav=rss">
<title>Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory (GEM) Study Fails To Show Benefit in Preventing Dementia in the Elderly</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/gems/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[In a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, 240 milligrams per day of the dietary supplement Ginkgo biloba was found to be ineffective in reducing the development of dementia and Alzheimer's disease in older people. Researchers led by Steven T. DeKosky, M.D., conducted the trial known as the Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory (GEM) study at four clinical sites over the course of 8 years. GEM is the largest clinical trial ever to evaluate ginkgo's effect on the occurrence of dementia.Press Release&#8212;summary of results of the studyQuestions and Answers&#8212;detailed background information on the study]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/110608.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Massage Therapy May Ease Pain and Improve Mood in Advanced Cancer Patients</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/110608.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[People with advanced cancer often experience pain that causes physical and emotional distress, which leads to a decrease in functional ability and quality of life. Symptom relief is an important part of end-of-life care, and small studies have suggested that massage therapy may benefit people with advanced cancer.In a study funded in part by NCCAM, researchers investigated the benefits of massage versus simple touch therapy (placing both hands on specific body sites) in patients with advanced cancer. This multisite study&#8212;conducted at 15 U.S. hospices in the Population-based Palliative Care Research Network&#8212;included 380 participants with advanced cancer who were experiencing moderate-to-severe pain. Participants were randomly assigned to receive six 30-minute treatment sessions of either massage or simple touch therapy over a 2-week period.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/hepatitisc/?nav=rss">
<title>CAM and Hepatitis C: A Focus on Herbal Supplements</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/hepatitisc/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Hepatitis C, a liver disease caused by a virus, is usually chronic (long-lasting), with symptoms ranging from mild (or even none) to severe. Conventional medical treatments are available for hepatitis C; however, some people also try complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies, especially herbal supplements. This fact sheet provides basic information on hepatitis C, summarizes scientific research on the effectiveness and safety of selected supplements, and suggests sources for additional information.Key PointsNo CAM treatment has yet been proven effective for treating hepatitis C or its complications.It is important not to replace conventional medical therapy for hepatitis C with an unproven CAM therapy.Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/nov08.htm?nav=rss">
<title>November Is American Diabetes Month</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/nov08.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[There are 23.6 million adults and children in the United States living with diabetes. Conventional medical treatments are available to control diabetes and its complications. However, some people also try complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies, including dietary supplements. An individual considering using CAM therapy, should talk to their health care providers to ensure safe and coordinated care.What is Diabetes?Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/110308.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Researchers Investigate Effects of Ginkgo Biloba on Stroke-Related Brain Injury in Mice</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/110308.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Previous animal studies have indicated that an extract from leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree may protect against stroke-related brain injury. However, the mechanism involved has not been fully understood. In a recent NCCAM-funded study, researchers at Johns Hopkins University investigated whether and how the ginkgo extract Egb761 alters outcomes in mice with brain injury from stroke.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/102408.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Half of Surveyed Physicians Use Placebo Treatments for Patients</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/102408.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Treating patients with placebos has a long, complicated, and often controversial history. Nonetheless, little is actually known about U.S. physicians' current attitudes toward and use of placebo treatments. A recent national survey of 679 physicians, funded in part by NCCAM, found that about half the physician respondents prescribed placebo treatments on a regular basis. Most (62%) said they think the practice is ethical. The surveyed physicians were internists and rheumatologists&#8212;specialties that commonly treat patients with debilitating chronic conditions.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/alerts/vitamine/vitamine.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Review of Prostate Cancer Prevention Study Shows No Benefit for Use of Selenium and Vitamin E Supplements </title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/alerts/vitamine/vitamine.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Initial, independent review of study data from the Selenium and Vitamin E Cancer Prevention Trial (SELECT), funded by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and other institutes that comprise the National Institutes of Health shows that selenium and vitamin E supplements, taken either alone or together, did not prevent prostate cancer. The data also showed two concerning trends: a small but not statistically significant increase in the number of prostate cancer cases among the over 35,000 men age 50 and older in the trial taking only vitamin E and a small, but not statistically significant increase in the number of cases of adult onset diabetes in men taking only selenium. Because this is an early analysis of the data from the study, neither of these findings proves an increased risk from the supplements and both may be due to chance.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/102308.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Hypnosis May Reduce Hot Flashes in Breast Cancer Survivors</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/102308.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Hot flashes are a problem for many menopausal women and a common side effect of breast cancer treatment. For many breast cancer survivors, vasomotor symptoms result in discomfort, disrupted sleep, anxiety, and decreased quality of life. Hormonal (estrogen) drugs have been used to treat hot flashes, but because estrogens are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, they usually are avoided by breast cancer survivors. Since nonhormonal treatments do not work for some women and may have adverse effects, new interventions for hot flashes are needed. Previous research has indicated that hypnosis may be a promising alternative.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/oct08.htm?nav=rss">
<title>National Chiropractic Month, October 2008</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/oct08.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Chiropractic is a health care approach that focuses on the relationship between the body's structure&#8212;mainly the spine&#8212;and its functioning. Although practitioners may use a variety of treatment approaches, they primarily perform adjustments to the spine or other parts of the body with the goal of correcting alignment problems and supporting the body's natural ability to heal itself.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2008/102008.htm?nav=rss">
<title>New Complementary and Alternative Medicine Research Centers Target Stress-Related Illnesses, Obesity, Cancer, and Other Conditions</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2008/102008.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has added four new Centers of Excellence for Research on Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CERCs) to its research centers program. The new centers will add to knowledge about complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches and their potential in treating and preventing diseases and conditions that are common among Americans.In NCCAM's CERC program, highly accomplished researchers across a variety of disciplines apply cutting-edge technology to projects in CAM.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/100908.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Lifestyle Changes May Affect Cell-Level Processes Related to Disease</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/100908.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Disease risk, progression, and premature mortality&#8212;in many types of cancer and in cardiovascular and infectious diseases&#8212;have been linked to telomeres, which are protective DNA-protein complexes that keep cells genetically stable. The cellular enzyme telomerase is an important part of the body's maintenance system for these essential complexes. For example, a previous investigation found that increased stress among caregivers of Alzheimer's patients was associated with lower telomerase activity and telomere shortening.

In a recent pilot study funded by NCCAM and several other sponsors, researchers at the University of California-San Francisco investigated the effects of lifestyle changes on telomerase levels in 24 men with low-risk prostate cancer.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2008_october/?nav=rss">
<title>CAM at the NIH - October 2008</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2008_october/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Feature Stories

	Tips for Talking with Your Health Care ProviderAre you using&#8212;or thinking about using&#8212;complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)? If so, NCCAM provides some ideas on how to get a conversation started about CAM use when you talk to your health care providers.
	
	NCCAM Hosts Meditation WorkshopExperts from a wide range of fields and disciplines who share a common interest in meditation for health purposes met to assess current scientific knowledge and identify areas of opportunity for future research.
	
	Meet NACCAM Member Margery Gass, M.D.What are some things that women can do to stay healthy at midlife and beyond? NCCAM National Advisory Council member Margery Gass, M.D., a specialist in women's health, discusses this topic.
	
	Happiness and Systematic Mind-Body TrainingWhat do monks, meditation, and music have in common? Dr. Richard Davidson discusses his work on the science of happiness and on systematic training of the mind and body.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/talkingaboutcam.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Tips for Talking With Your Health Care Providers About CAM</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/talkingaboutcam.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

Like many Americans, you may be using or considering some form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). If so, it is a good idea to talk with your health care providers about your CAM use. This fact sheet explains why and offers some tips to help you get the conversation started.

Key Points


	Tell your health care providers about all the complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.
	Be proactive. Don't wait for your health care providers to ask about your CAM use.
	When you talk with your health care providers about CAM, make the most of the conversation. Bring a list of everything you use, keep a record of the information you receive, and ask questions if something is unclear.


]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2008/092908.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Dietary Supplements Glucosamine and/or Chondroitin Fare No Better than Placebo in Slowing Structural Damage of Knee Osteoarthritis</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2008/092908.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

The dietary supplements glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, together or alone, appeared to fare no better than placebo in slowing loss of cartilage in osteoarthritis of the knee, researchers from the Glucosamine/chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT) team report in the October issue of Arthritis &amp; Rheumatism. Interpreting the study results is complicated, however, because participants taking placebo had a smaller loss of cartilage, or joint space width, than predicted. Loss of cartilage, the slippery material that cushions the joints, is a hallmark of osteoarthritis and its loss is typically measured as a reduction in joint space width&#8212;the distance between the ends of bones in a joint as seen on an X-ray.

"While these results are of interest, we cannot draw definitive conclusions about the utility of glucosamine or chondroitin in reducing joint space width loss, in part because the placebo group fared better than anticipated based on prior research results," said Josephine P. Briggs, M.D., director of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), one of the study's funders. "The results of the study provide interesting insights for future research."

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/curious/share.shtml">
<title>Operation False Cure</title>
<link>http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/curious/share.shtml</link>
<description><![CDATA[

The FTC today announced a new Web site about bogus cancer cures. The site &#8212; www.ftc.gov/curious &#8212; tells consumers how to spot and report bogus claims they see online, and urges people with cancer to talk to their treatment team about any products they'd like to try. The site features a video and includes a list of resources on cancer treatments from a variety of agencies within the federal government. Information is provided in English and Spanish.

The Federal Trade Commission also announced 11 law enforcement actions challenging deceptive advertising of bogus cancer cures. The FTC charged the companies with making unsupported claims that their products cured or treated one or more types of cancer. In each case, the company is charged with violating the FTC Act, which bars deceptive claims. Some complaints allege that the companies also falsely touted clinical or scientific proof for their products.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://www.nia.nih.gov/NewsAndEvents/PressReleases/PR20080917menopause.htm">
<title>New NIH Research Initiative to Test Treatments for Menopausal Symptoms</title>
<link>http://www.nia.nih.gov/NewsAndEvents/PressReleases/PR20080917menopause.htm</link>
<description><![CDATA[Clinical Trials to Target Hot Flashes, Night Sweats

Women troubled by hot flashes and night sweats during the years around menopause want safe, effective treatment options. A new research initiative from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) will establish a multisite research network to conduct clinical trials of promising treatments for the most common symptoms of the menopausal transition. 

The initiative Menopause Strategies: Finding Lasting Answers for Symptoms and Health (MsFLASH) is led by the National Institute on Aging in collaboration with the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, and the Office of Research on Womens Health, all parts of the NIH. The MsFLASH network will be coordinated by principal investigators Andrea Z. LaCroix, Ph.D., and Garnet Anderson, Ph.D., both of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle. The network centers will collectively receive approximately $4.4 million each year of the initiative, which is projected to run for five years.

A Press Release from the National Institute on Aging

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/director/?nav=rss">
<title>Message from the Director</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/director/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

As I've had the opportunity to meet with many of our stakeholders over the past 6 months, I have learned a lot. I've gained a greater appreciation of the complexities of studying CAM, the challenges to conducting rigorous research, and the need for setting clear priorities for the years ahead.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/sept08.htm?nav=rss">
<title>September Is Healthy Aging Month</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/sept08.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[
The older population is growing rapidly, and the aging of the "baby boomers," born between 1946 and 1964 (and who begin turning age 65 in 2011), will accelerate this growth. Healthy Aging Month was designed to focus national attention on the positive aspects of growing older. Many older Americans use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to improve their health and maintain wellness. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) conducts and supports research on many conditions associated with aging and provides information on how to be an informed consumer.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/financial/?nav=rss">
<title>Paying for CAM Treatment</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/financial/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[
If you are using (or thinking about using), you may have financial questions about paying for treatment. This fact sheet answers some frequently asked questions on this topic. To find out more about any topic or resource that is mentioned.
What are some questions to ask about paying for CAM treatment?
Some questions to ask a CAM practitioner or his office staff are:

	What does the first appointment cost?
	What do followup appointments cost?
	How many appointments does someone with my condition typically need?
	Are there any additional costs (such as for tests, equipment, or supplements)?

If you have a health insurance plan, some other questions are:

	Do you accept this insurance?
	What has your experience been with coverage by this insurance company for my condition?
	Do I file the claim forms, or do you take care of that?

If it would be difficult for you to pay the full fee at each visit, you can ask:

	Could you arrange a payment plan over time?
	Do you offer a sliding-scale fee? (Sliding-scale fees are determined by people's income and ability to pay.)
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2008/070808.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Executive Summary of Meditation for Health Purposes Workshop</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2008/070808.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[
The purpose of the meeting was to articulate potential goals and directions for research on the mechanisms and efficacy of meditation practices for a variety of health concerns. Experts from a range of disciplines and with a wide range of involvement in the field of meditation research were asked to critically examine the current state of science on meditation for health, and to identify existing or potential intersections and contributions from their fields to further this area of science. This group developed a set of critical questions and approaches that could better inform future research in this area.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/reiki/?nav=rss">
<title>Reiki: An Introduction</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/reiki/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Reiki is a healing practice that originated in Japan. Reiki practitioners place their hands lightly on or just above the person receiving treatment, with the goal of facilitating the person's own healing response. In the United States, Reiki is part of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). This fact sheet provides a general overview of Reiki and suggests sources for additional information.

People use Reiki to promote overall health and well-being. Reiki is also used by people who are seeking relief from disease-related symptoms and the side effects of conventional medical treatments.
Reiki has historically been practiced as a form of self-care. Increasingly, it is also provided by health care professionals in a variety of clinical settings.
People do not need a special background to learn how to perform Reiki. Currently, training and certification for Reiki practitioners are not formally regulated.
Scientific research is under way to learn more about how Reiki may work, its possible effects on health, and diseases and conditions for which it may be helpful.
Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/ayurveda/?nav=rss">
<title>Ayurvedic Medicine: An Introduction</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/ayurveda/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Ayurvedic medicine (also called Ayurveda) is one of the world's oldest medical systems. It originated in India and has evolved there over thousands of years. In the United States, Ayurvedic medicine is considered complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)&#8212;more specifically, a CAM whole medical system. Many therapies used in Ayurvedic medicine are also used on their own as CAM&#8212;for example, herbs, massage, and specialized diets. This fact sheet provides a general overview of Ayurvedic medicine and suggests sources for additional information.

Key Points

The aim of Ayurvedic medicine is to integrate and balance the body, mind, and spirit. This is believed to help prevent illness and promote wellness.
Ayurvedic medicine uses a variety of products and techniques to cleanse the body and restore balance. Some of these products may be harmful if used improperly or without the direction of a trained practitioner. For example, some herbs can cause side effects or interact with conventional medicines.
Before using Ayurvedic treatment, ask about the practitioner's training and experience.
Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2008_july/?nav=rss">
<title>CAM at the NIH - July 2008</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2008_july/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Feature Stories

	New Campaign Encourages Open Communication About CAM A new campaign from NCCAM, which offers free educational materials, is encouraging dialogue between patients and their health care providers about CAM use.
	
	A Walk in the Botanical Research Centers "Garden"Visit the NIH Botanical Research Centers "garden" to find out how Russian tarragon, prunella (self-heal), borage oil, and other botanical and dietary supplement ingredients are being examined to prevent and treat diseases and conditions.
	
	CAM and Fibromyalgia: At a GlanceFibromyalgia is a condition involving pain, "tender points" on the body, and fatigue. About nine out of 10 people with this condition use CAM. What is known from science about CAM's effectiveness for fibromyalgia?

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/pain/fibromyalgia.htm?nav=rss">
<title>CAM and Fibromyalgia: At a Glance</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/pain/fibromyalgia.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

People with chronic health conditions such as fibromyalgia often turn to some form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)&#8212;a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine. This fact sheet provides basic information on fibromyalgia and "what the science says" about the effectiveness of CAM practices that many people with fibromyalgia use. If you are considering a CAM therapy for fibromyalgia, this information can help you talk to your health care provider about it.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/diabetes/?nav=rss">
<title>CAM and Diabetes: A Focus on Dietary Supplements</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/diabetes/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

Diabetes is a chronic condition affecting millions of Americans. Conventional medical treatments are available to control diabetes and its complications. However, some people also try complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies, including dietary supplements. This fact sheet provides basic information on diabetes (with a focus on type 2), summarizes scientific research on the effectiveness and safety of selected supplements that people with diabetes sometimes use, and suggests sources for additional information.

Key Points

In general, there is not enough scientific evidence to prove that dietary supplements have substantial benefits for type 2 diabetes or its complications.
It is very important not to replace conventional medical therapy for diabetes with an unproven CAM therapy.
Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.


]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/062408.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Grape Seed Extract May Help Prevent and Treat Alzheimer&#x27;s</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/062408.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), Alzheimer's disease affects nearly 4.5 million Americans and is the most common form of dementia in the elderly. Alzheimer's disease is an incurable disease with a slow progression beginning with mild memory loss and ending with severe brain damage and death. While no treatment is proven to stop Alzheimer's disease, some conventional drugs may limit symptoms for a short period of time in the early stages of the disease. Emerging research shows a correlation between red wine consumption and reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease-type cognitive decline. Authors of a new NCCAM-funded study in mice found that grape seed-derived polyphenolics&#8212;similar to that in red wine&#8212;significantly reduced Alzheimer's disease-type cognitive deterioration.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/061008.htm?nav=rss">
<title>St. John&#x27;s Wort Shows No Impact on the Symptoms of ADHD</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/061008.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

According to the National Institute of Mental Health at NIH, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects 3 to 5 percent of children in the United States and it is one of the most common mental disorders that develop in children. NIMH states that children with ADHD have impaired functioning in multiple settings, including home, school, and in relationships with peers. Children with chronic conditions like ADHD are reported to have higher rates of complementary and alternative medicine use and may turn to dietary and herbal supplements such as St. John's wort. However, according to authors of a new NCCAM-funded study, St. John's wort does not appear to have an impact on the symptoms of ADHD in children and adolescents.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2008/060608.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Time To Talk About CAM</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2008/060608.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), has launched Time to Talk, an educational campaign to encourage patients&#8212;particularly those age 50 or older&#8212;and their health care providers to openly discuss the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). CAM is a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine, such as herbal supplements, meditation, naturopathy, and acupuncture.

According to a national consumer survey conducted by NCCAM and AARP, almost two-thirds of people age 50 or older are using some form of CAM, yet less than one-third of these CAM users talk about it with their providers. The NCCAM/AARP survey revealed some reasons why this doctor-patient dialogue about CAM does not occur. 

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/director/?nav=rss">
<title>Message From The Director</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/director/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

I am now 4 months into this exciting and challenging new job as Director of NCCAM. In this short period, I have been given an excellent orientation to all areas of responsibility of the Center, guided by our terrific staff. I have also had the opportunity to speak with many CAM investigators, practitioners, and thought leaders, and some of our critics as well. I am learning a great deal from these various communities and perspectives. Clinicians have given me a sense of the promise that they see in the CAM approaches to health and wellness. Scientists have discussed the many challenges and knowledge gaps in conducting CAM research as well as the opportunities that are emerging from new research methods. NCCAM staff members have shared with me their expertise and experience in the complexities of oversight of our highly varied research portfolio. And CAM advocates who closely follow our progress have shared their perspective and hopes for NCCAM as well.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/?nav=rss">
<title>International Pharmaceuticals, Ltd. Issues a Voluntary Recall of all Viril-Ity-Power (VIP) Tabs</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

International Pharmaceuticals, Ltd. is conducting this recall after being informed by representatives of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that lab analysis by FDA of a sample from one lot of the product revealed that it contained a potentially harmful undeclared ingredient, hydroxyhomosildenafil. FDA asserts that this ingredient is an analog of sildenafil. Sildenafil is the active chemical ingredient of an FDA-approved drug used for Erectile Dysfunction in men to enhance sexual performance. The use of undeclared chemicals pose a threat to consumers because they may harmfully interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs (such as nitroglycerin) and may lower blood pressure to dangerous levels. Consumers with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease often take such nitrates.

VIP Tabs are sold in retail outlets nationwide and are packaged into 2-capsule blister packs and 8-capsule bottles.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="https://www.nccaminfo.org/herbs/herbs.asp?nav=rss">
<title>Herbs at a Glance Book Now Available</title>
<link>https://www.nccaminfo.org/herbs/herbs.asp?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

Many people take herbal supplements to boost their immune systems, treat allergy symptoms, prevent a cold&#8212;all in an effort to be well and stay healthy. There are hundreds of herbal supplements available in the grocery store or pharmacy or for sale on the Internet. And, there are many claims about their health benefits. How can a consumer decide what's safe or effective?

This booklet will give you a basic understanding of some of the most common herbs in popular dietary supplements&#8212;their historical uses, what they're used for now, the scientific evidence on their effectiveness, and side effects or cautions for you to consider.

To manage your health, you need to be an informed consumer. Learn about herbal supplements and talk with your health care provider about everything you are doing to stay well.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/pain/spinemanipulation.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Spinal Manipulation for Low-Back Pain</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/pain/spinemanipulation.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

Low-back pain is a common condition that can be difficult to treat. Spinal manipulationThe application of controlled force to a joint, moving it beyond the normal range of motion in an effort to aid in restoring health. Manipulation may be performed as a part of other therapies or whole medical systems, including chiropractic medicine, massage, and naturopathy. is among the treatment options used by people with low-back pain in attempts to relieve pain and improve functioning. It is performed by chiropractors and other health care professionals such as physical therapists, osteopaths, and some conventional medical doctors. This fact sheet summarizes the current scientific knowledge about the effects of spinal manipulation on low-back pain.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2008/052108.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Martin H. Goldrosen, Ph.D., Named Director of NCCAM&#x27;s Division of Extramural Activities</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2008/052108.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

Martin H. Goldrosen, Ph.D., was recently appointed director of the Division of Extramural Activities at the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, part of the National Institutes of Health.

In announcing Dr. Goldrosen's appointment, Josephine P. Briggs, M.D., NCCAM Director, said "The Division of Extramural Activities is crucial to NCCAM's ability to review and fund high-quality research, as well as coordinate grant management and advisory committee activities. Dr. Goldrosen's experience and his extensive research background make him well-suited for this important work for NCCAM."

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/yoga/yoga.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Yoga for Health: An Introduction</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/yoga/yoga.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

Yoga is a mind&#8211;body practice in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) with origins in ancient Indian philosophy. The various styles of yoga that people use for health purposes typically combine physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation or relaxation. This Backgrounder provides a general overview of yoga and suggests sources for more information.

Yoga in its full form combines physical postures, breathing exercises, meditation, and a distinct philosophy. Yoga is intended to increase relaxation and balance the mind, body, and the spirit.

Early written descriptions of yoga are in Sanskrit, the classical language of India. The word "yoga" comes from the Sanskrit word yuj, which means "yoke or union." It is believed that this describes the union between the mind and the body. The first known text, The Yoga Sutras, was written more than 2,000 years ago, although yoga may have been practiced as early as 5,000 years ago. Yoga was originally developed as a method of discipline and attitudes to help people reach spiritual enlightenment. The Sutras outline eight limbs or foundations of yoga practice that serve as spiritual guidelines. 

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/yoga/?nav=rss">
<title>NIH Yoga Week is May 19&#x2013;23, 2008</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/yoga/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

This 5-day series of events will highlight the science and practice of yoga. Participants will not only learn about yoga but also experience it first-hand through stretching and practice. NIH grantees as well as other local and international speakers will explore yoga practice for health. For a schedule of events and additional information visit: does.ors.od.nih.gov/fitness/yogaWeek.htm.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/womenshealthweek.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Women&#x27;s Health Week is May 11&#x2013;17, 2008</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/womenshealthweek.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

NCCAM provides resources and information on some health issues that affect women, such as menopause, osteoarthritis, and urinary tract infections. We also highlight some of the clinical trials related to women's health issues.

Decisions about medical care and treatment should be made in consultation with a health care provider and based on the condition and needs of each person. Discuss information on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) with your health care provider before making any decisions about treatment or care. Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care. 

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/offices/od/directortestimony/0308.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Director&#x27;s Testimony: Fiscal Year 2009 Budget Request</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/offices/od/directortestimony/0308.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

I am pleased to present the President's Fiscal Year (FY) budget request for the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) of the National Institutes of Health. The FY 2009 budget includes $121,695,000, which is $118,000 more than the comparable FY 2008 appropriation of $121,577,000.

The public's concept of health is broader than preventing and treating disease. Increasingly, Americans are using strategies that they can employ themselves to improve their health, maintain wellness, and improve quality of life. As part of this participatory approach to health, millions of people are using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Many of the leading U.S. medical institutions now offer integrative medicine services. These programs include personalized CAM interventions such as yoga, meditation, massage, and acupuncture. However, we know relatively little about the true potential of CAM to improve health and well being or to preempt disease, or about how best to use most CAM modalities. We also need to understand how CAM practices interact with other therapies and whether they are safe.

Given this consumer-driven call for better approaches to improved health and wellness, the medical research community has begun to explore promising CAM approaches and develop the scientific evidence base for CAM modalities that can be integrated as part of comprehensive health care. Using proven scientific methods and rigorous standards, NCCAM is building the research enterprise and the evidence base to better understand CAM. Through scientific investigation, research training programs, and outreach activities, NCCAM's efforts will support the rational integration of proven CAM approaches with conventional medicine.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/magnet/?nav=rss">
<title>The Use of Magnets for Pain</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/magnet/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

Magnets have been used for health purposes for centuries. Static, or permanent, magnets are widely marketed for pain control and are considered part of complementary and alternative medicine. This fact sheet provides an overview of static magnets and summarizes current scientific knowledge about their effects on pain.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/#alerts?nav=rss">
<title>Herbal Science International, Inc. Recalls Twelve Dietary Herbal Supplements Nationwide Because of Possible Health Risk Associated with Ephedra, Aristolochic Acid and Human Placenta</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/#alerts?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

FDA has long regarded dietary supplements containing ephedra as potential health hazards because this botanical contains ephedrine alkaloids. Ephedrine alkaloids are adrenaline-like stimulants that can have potentially dangerous effects on the heart. Recent studies have confirmed that ephedrine alkaloids raise blood pressure and otherwise stress the circulatory system, effects that are linked to adverse health effects like heart attacks and strokes. Based on this and other evidence in the scientific literature, FDA issued a rule in February 2004 prohibiting the sale of dietary supplements containing ephedrine alkaloids because they present an unreasonable risk of illness or injury. The company is recalling nine products that contain ephedra, a source of ephedrine alkaloids.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2008_april/?nav=rss">
<title>CAM at the NIH - April 2008</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2008_april/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

NCCAM has a new director, Josephine L. Briggs, M.D. Meet this accomplished researcher and physician, and hear her foremost goal for the upcoming months. 

It's been 10 years since a groundbreaking NIH conference on acupuncture. What has happened in acupuncture research since then? Where should the field go from here? A recent conference explored these questions.

The last thing people need when they are under stress is to get a cold&#8212;yet that's what often happens. Is there a scientific connection? A member of NCCAM's Advisory Council talks about some of his work in this area.


]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/040308.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Study Sheds Light on the Placebo Effect of Medical Encounters</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/040308.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

Researchers have found that a medical encounter may produce its own placebo effects that can bring about significant symptom improvement. The part of the encounter that plays the greatest role in the placebo effect appears to be the physician-patient relationship. In theory, the placebo effect of a medical encounter can be divided into the response to three main components: 1) the assessment and observation, 2) placebo treatment, and 3) patient-physician relationship. This study verified this theory and examined these components of the placebo effect.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/march08.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Brain Awareness Week is March 10-16, 2008</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/march08.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

Brain Awareness Week is an international effort to advance public awareness about the progress and benefits of brain research.

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine is actively involved in brain research, including research on mind-body medicine. Innovative use of imaging technology allows researchers to study the effects of specific CAM therapies on the brain. You can find out more about NCCAM's brain research efforts here.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/022608.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Pilot Study Provides New Insight on Effect of Ginkgo Extract on Dementia in the Elderly</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/022608.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

Overall, in a pilot study of a ginkgo biloba extract for delaying the onset of dementia in the elderly, researchers did not find a reduction in progression to dementia in those using ginkgo versus those using placebo. However, when the researchers took into account participants' adherence to taking the compound, the group that took ginkgo did appear to have a reduced risk of progression and a smaller decline in memory.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/020808.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Acupuncture Shows Promise in Improving Rates of Pregnancy Following IVF</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/020808.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

A review of seven clinical trials of acupuncture given with embryo transfer in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) suggests that acupuncture may improve rates of pregnancy. An estimated 10 to 15 percent of couples experience reproductive difficulty and seek specialist fertility treatments, such as IVF.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/february08.htm?nav=rss">
<title>February Is American Heart Month</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/february08.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and is a major cause of disability. NCCAM has funded many basic and clinical studies related to heart disease. To ensure safe and coordinated care, people should talk to their health care providers about any CAM therapy that they are currently using or considering.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/stjohnswort/ataglance.htm?nav=rss">
<title>St. John&#x27;s Wort and Depression</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/stjohnswort/ataglance.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

This fact sheet answers some frequently asked questions about St. John's wort and depression, and summarizes what the science says about its effectiveness and the research being done.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/?nav=rss">
<title>Introduction to Acupuncture</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

This Backgrounder will provide an introduction to acupuncture as well as resources for more information. Acupuncture is among the oldest healing practices in the world. As part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), acupuncture aims to restore and maintain health through the stimulation of specific points on the body.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2008/020108.htm?nav=rss">
<title>NCCAM&#x27;s Advisory Council Welcomes Six New Members</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2008/020108.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) welcomes six new members to the National Advisory Council for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. The Council serves as the principal advisory body to NCCAM, the lead Federal agency for complementary and alternative medicine research and a component of the National Institutes of Health.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/menopause/menopausesymptoms.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Menopausal Symptoms and CAM</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/menopause/menopausesymptoms.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

This fact sheet will provide information on menopausal symptoms and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) based on findings from a 2005 National Institutes of Health State-of-the-Science conference on the management of menopause-related symptoms, as well as resources for more information.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/chiropractic/?nav=rss">
<title>Introduction to Chiropractic</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/chiropractic/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

This fact sheet provides basic information about the Chiropractic health care approach that focuses on the relationship between the body's structure-mainly the spine-and its functioning.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/extramural/awards/2007/?nav=rss">
<title>FY 2007 Research Awards</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/extramural/awards/2007/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

The posted table lists research and training grants funded for both new and ongoing research by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine during Fiscal Year 2007. The list includes the grant number, project title (linked to abstracts on CRISP), principal investigator, institution, and state. 

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/director/?nav=rss">
<title>Josephine Briggs, M.D., Named Director of NCCAM</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/director/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director, Elias A. Zerhouni, M.D., today named Josephine P. Briggs, M.D., to be the director of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM). An accomplished researcher and physician, Dr. Briggs brings a focus on translational research to the study of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to help build a fuller understanding of the usefulness and safety of CAM practices.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2007/110707.htm?nav=rss">
<title>NCCAM Grantsmanship Workshop</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2007/110707.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), a component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), will conduct a 3-day grantsmanship workshop. This workshop will provide researchers, fellows, and graduate students with an in-depth understanding of the NIH grants and review processes, clarify Federal regulations and policies, and highlight areas of special interest and concern.

Emphasis will be placed on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) research. The workshop will include time to interact and discuss research ideas with NCCAM staff. Due to limited space, attendees will be selected through an application process.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2007_fall/?nav=rss">
<title>CAM at the NIH - Fall 2007</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2007_fall/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

International Team Studies South African Plant for HIV/AIDS
Could a plant that is unique to South Africa, and used as a traditional medicine there, be helpful to people with HIV/AIDS? A research team on two continents is working to find out.

Also Featuring: Meet NACCAM Member Carlo Calabrese, M.D., M.P.H.; Low Back Pain: NACCAM Symposium; First Transagency Fellow in Cancer CAM

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/jobs/#1?nav=rss">
<title>Job Opening: Health Scientist Administrator NCCAM</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/jobs/#1?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

If you are an exceptionally talented, knowledgeable and motivated individual with excellent knowledge of NIH training and career development programs; have scientific expertise in basic or clinical research that you wish to apply toward advancing the mission of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), and ability to work as a member of and provide leadership for a team, within and across groups and organizations, AND you want to play a significant role in a dynamic organization, then consider joining NCCAM's Division of Extramural Research! The Division develops and oversees NCCAM-funded research and research training programs conducted across the country and around the world.

The deadline for applications is Friday, January 11, 2008.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://era.nih.gov/ElectronicReceipt/faq_check_assembled.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Grant Application Notice: NIH Reduces Error Correction Window to Two Business Days</title>
<link>http://era.nih.gov/ElectronicReceipt/faq_check_assembled.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

After January 8, the &quot;error correction window&quot; for NIH eSubmission will be the two business days (Mon.&#8211;Fri., excluding Federal holidays) that follow the receipt deadline of the Funding Opportunity Announcement. 

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/december.htm?nav=rss">
<title>December 1 Is World AIDS Day</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/december.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

Many people infected with HIV or living with AIDS may be considering the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to boost their immune system; treat complications of disease; or cope with side effects of conventional medications. This information may be of interest.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/#alerts?nav=rss">
<title>Recall of &#x27;True Man Sexual Energy,&#x27; &#x27;Energy Max&#x27; Dietary Supplements: FDA Press Release</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/#alerts?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration requested a recall of True Man Sexual Energy Nutrient Capsules and Energy Max Energy Supplement Men's Formula Capsules, illegal drug products that contain potentially harmful, undeclared ingredients.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/noni/?nav=rss">
<title>New Herbs at a Glance: Noni</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/noni/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

This fact sheet provides basic information about noni&#8212;common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Noni is an evergreen shrub or small tree that grows throughout the tropical regions of the Pacific Ocean, from Southeast Asia to Australia and especially in Polynesia.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/soy/?nav=rss">
<title>New Herbs at a Glance: Soy</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/soy/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

This fact sheet provides basic information about soy&#8212;uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Soy, a plant in the pea family, has been common in Asian diets for thousands of years. It is found in modern American diets as a food or food additive. Soybeans, the high-protein seeds of the soy plant, contain isoflavones-compounds similar to the female hormone estrogen. This fact sheet highlights what is known about soy when used by adults for health purposes.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/tgvine/?nav=rss">
<title>New Herbs at a Glance: Thunder God Vine</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/tgvine/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

This fact sheet provides basic information about the herb thunder god vine&#8212;common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Thunder god vine has been used in China for health purposes for more than 400 years.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/november.htm?nav=rss">
<title>November Is American Diabetes Month</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/november.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

Nearly 21 million adults and children in the United States are living with diabetes. Some people with diabetes may be considering the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to either treat their diabetes or its complications. This information may be of interest.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/102607.htm?nav=rss">
<title>NCCAM Education Grant Program Focus of Academic Medicine Journal Issue</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/102607.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

With millions of Americans including complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in their health care, and as CAM therapies become increasingly available as a result of consumer demand, it is critical that conventional health care professionals be familiar with the most commonly used forms of CAM. The October 2007 issue of the journal Academic Medicine, published by the American Association of Medical Colleges, highlights the results of 15 Education Project Grants funded by NCCAM.

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/gallery/?nav=rss">
<title>NCCAM Image Gallery</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/gallery/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[

The Image Gallery contains high quality digital photographs available from the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM).

]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/october.htm?nav=rss">
<title>October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/october.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[While there are no proven CAM treatments for cancer, CAM may be useful to relieve the side effects of treatment and to improve quality of life. NCCAM has a number of resources available for breast cancer patients considering complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).Please visit our site to learn more.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/hoodia/?nav=rss">
<title>New Herbs at a Glance: Hoodia</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/hoodia/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Hoodia is a flowering, cactus-like plant native to the Kalahari Desert in southern Africa. Today, hoodia is marketed as an appetite suppressant for weight loss. This fact sheet provides basic information about the herb hoodia&#8212;common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/euroelder/?nav=rss">
<title>New Herbs at a Glance: European Elder</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/euroelder/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Today, elderberry and elder flower are used for flu, colds, fevers, constipation, and sinus infections. This fact sheet provides basic information about European elder&#8212;common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/chamomile/?nav=rss">
<title>New Herbs at a Glance: Chamomile</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/chamomile/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Two types of chamomile are used for health conditions: German chamomile and Roman chamomile. This fact sheet provides basic information about the herb chamomile&#8212;common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/bitterorange/?nav=rss">
<title>New Herbs at a Glance: Bitter Orange</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/bitterorange/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The bitter orange tree is native to eastern Africa and tropical Asia. Today, it is grown throughout the Mediterranean region and elsewhere, including California and Florida. Bitter orange oil is used in foods, cosmetics, and aromatherapyA therapy in which the scent of essential oils from flowers, herbs, and trees is inhaled to promote health and well-being. products. This fact sheet provides basic information about bitter orange&#8212;common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2007/NEW01678.html?nav=rss">
<title>Warning of Red Yeast Rice Products for High Cholesterol</title>
<link>http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2007/NEW01678.html?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The FDA is warning consumers not to buy or eat three red yeast rice products promoted and sold on Web sites.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/offices/od/directortestimony/0607.htm?nav=rss">
<title>FY 2008 Budget Request</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/offices/od/directortestimony/0607.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[On June 22, Ruth L. Kirschstein, M.D., Acting Director NCCAM, presented the President's Fiscal Year (FY) 2008 budget request of $121,699,000 for the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine NCCAM) to the Senate Subcommittee on Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>FDA Issues Dietary Supplements Final Rule</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced a final rule establishing regulations to require current good manufacturing practices (cGMP) for dietary supplements. The rule ensures that dietary supplements are produced in a quality manner, do not contain contaminants or impurities, and are accurately labeled.

&quot;This rule helps to ensure the quality of dietary supplements so that consumers can be confident that the products they purchase contain what is on the label,&quot; said Commissioner of Food and Drugs Andrew C. von Eschenbach, M.D. &quot;In addition, as a result of recent amendments to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, by the end of the year, industry will be required to report all serious dietary supplement related adverse events to FDA.&quot;]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/children/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>CAM Use in Children</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/children/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine. As with adults, a wide range of CAM therapies are used in children, including herbs and dietary supplements, massage, acupuncture, chiropractic care, naturopathy, and homeopathy. This fact sheet includes issues to consider and resources for more information when making decisions about CAM use and children.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/astragalus/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>New Herbs at a Glance: Astragalus</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/astragalus/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Native to China, astragalus has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. In the United States, the herb gained popularity in the 1980s. This fact sheet provides basic information about the herb's common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2007_spring/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>CAM at the NIH: Focus on Complementary and Alternative Medicine</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2007_spring/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[NCCAM's Centers of Excellence: Focusing on the Big&#8212;and (Very) Small&#8212;PictureWhat do Chinese herbal formulas, mindfulness meditation, electromagnetic beams, and the supplements alpha-lipoic acid and gamma tocopherol have in common? They are among CAM treatments being studied in depth at eight NCCAM-supported research centers.In Memoriam: Stephen E. Straus, M.D.Stephen E. Straus, M.D., founding Director of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), died of brain cancer on May 14, 2007.
He was 60.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2007/051507.htm?nav=rss">
<title>In Memoriam: Stephen E. Straus, M.D., First Director of NIH&#x27;s National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine and Internationally Recognized Physician-Scientist</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2007/051507.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Stephen E. Straus, M.D., 60, the first director of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), died of brain cancer May 14, 2007, at his home in Potomac, Maryland.&quot;As NCCAM's first Director, Dr. Straus articulated an uncompromising and compelling agenda for scientific research and research training that engendered broad interest and collaboration,&quot; noted Elias A. Zerhouni, M.D., Director of the National Institutes of Health. &quot;His success stemmed from the fact that he understood that the commitment to help patients had to be constantly evolving in order to meet their needs. The NIH has lost a great leader and an outstanding scientist. Most of all, we have lost a dear friend.&quot;]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2007/051407.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Integrative Medicine Consult Service Established at the NIH Clinical Center</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2007/051407.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has established an Integrative Medicine Consult Service at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center, the world's largest hospital devoted to research. This service will provide physicians, nurses, and other members of the Clinical Center health care team the ability to discuss complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies with knowledgeable medical staff from the consult service and learn how various CAM practices might complement or interact with a patient's care as a research participant at the Clinical Center.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>May is National High Blood Pressure Education Month</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Nearly 1 in 3 American adults has high blood pressure, or hypertension. If it is not found and treated, the condition can cause major health problems such as stroke, heart disease, eye problems, or kidney failure. Your doctor can tell you how to prevent and control high blood pressure. NCCAM is studying complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for this condition&#8212;such as mindfulness-based stress reduction. Be sure to tell your doctor about any CAM therapies you are considering, including herbal or dietary supplements. Ask your health care providers about its safety, effectiveness, and possible interactions with medications (both prescription and nonprescription).]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/naturopathy/?nav=rss">
<title>An Introduction to Naturopathy</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/naturopathy/?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Naturopathy, also called naturopathic medicine, is a whole medical system&#8212;one of the systems of healing and beliefs that have evolved over time in different cultures and parts of the world. Naturopathy is rooted in health care approaches that were popular in Europe, especially in Germany, in the 19th century, but it also includes therapies (both ancient and modern) from other traditions. In naturopathy, the emphasis is on supporting health rather than combating disease.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome Awareness Month</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[As many as 20 percent of the adult population, or one in five Americans, has symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), making it one of the most common disorders diagnosed by doctors. In an effort to bring attention to the symptoms and difficulties associated with the disorder, April has been designated as IBS Awareness Month. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine conducts and supports research on many types of diseases and disorders, including IBS. Researchers are studying the effects of acupuncture and the placebo effect on pain caused by IBS. The results have not been published yet.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/grapeseed/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Grape Seed Extract: Herbs at a Glance</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/grapeseed/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[This fact sheet provides basic information about grape seed extract&#8212;uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. The grape seeds used to produce this extract are generally obtained from wine manufacturers.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/lavender/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Lavender: Herbs at a Glance</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/lavender/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[This fact sheet provides basic information about the herb lavender&#8212;common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Lavender is native to the Mediterranean region. It was used in ancient Egypt as part of the process for mummifying bodies. Lavender's use as a bath additive originated in Persia, Greece, and Rome. The herb's name comes from the Latin lavare, which means &quot;to wash.&quot;]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/030607.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Study compares year-long effectiveness of four weight-loss plans</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/030607.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The very low carbohydrate diet known as the Atkins diet may contribute to greater weight loss than higher carbohydrate plans without negative effects such as increased cholesterol. Christopher Gardner, Ph.D., and colleagues at Stanford University conducted an NCCAM-funded study of 311 pre-menopausal women, all of whom were overweight or obese. Each woman was randomly assigned to one of four diets.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Brain Awareness Week (March 12-18, 2007)</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Brain Awareness Week is an international effort to advance public awareness about the progress and benefits of brain research.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/turmeric/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Turmeric: Herbs at a Glance</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/turmeric/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[This fact sheet provides basic information about the herb turmeric&#8212;common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Turmeric, a shrub related to ginger, is grown throughout India, other parts of Asia, and Africa. Known for its warm, bitter taste and golden color, turmeric is commonly used in fabric dyes and foods such as curry powders, mustards, and cheeses. It should not be confused with Javanese turmeric.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/peppermintoil/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Peppermint Oil: Herbs at a Glance</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/peppermintoil/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[This fact sheet provides basic information about peppermint oil&#8212;uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. The herb peppermint, a cross between two types of mint (water mint and spearmint), grows throughout Europe and North America. Peppermint is often used to flavor foods, and the leaves can be used fresh or dried in teas.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/fenugreek/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Fenugreek: Herbs at a Glance</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/fenugreek/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[This fact sheet provides basic information about the herb fenugreek&#8212;common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. The first recorded use of fenugreek is described on an ancient Egyptian papyrus dated to 1500 B.C. Fenugreek seed is commonly used in cooking.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/jobs/index.htm#1?nav=rss">
<title>Job Opening: Director, Office of Policy, Planning, and Evaluation, NCCAM</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/jobs/index.htm#1?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[This position is located in the Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation (OPPE), National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM).
NCCAM is dedicated to exploring complementary and alternative healing practices in the context of rigorous science, training complementary and alternative medicine researchers, and disseminating authoritative information to the public and professionals. OPPE is responsible for the science policy, programmatic analyses, program planning, and legislative liaison activities of the Center.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/jobs/director.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Job Opening: Director of NCCAM</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/jobs/director.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[There is much to be done to understand the safety and efficacy of the myriad of CAM therapies used by Americans each year. The NCCAM Director is the leader of the Nation's primary organization for exploring complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices in the context of rigorous science, training CAM researchers, and disseminating information to the public and professionals. The incumbent will have the opportunity to build upon a foundation of research that encompasses basic to clinical studies; to attract leading researchers from academic medicine to bring state of the art approaches to studying CAM; and to build a research infrastructure within the CAM community. The incumbent will chart a course for the future of CAM research that will, ultimately, facilitate the integration of proven CAM approaches with conventional health care.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2007_winter/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Winter CAM at the NIH Newsletter</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2007_winter/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Feature stories:
Survey: Older Americans' Discussion of CAM with DoctorsFindings from a new survey, conducted by AARP in collaboration with NCCAM, on older Americans' use of CAM and their discussions of CAM with their physicians.Thinking About CAM Therapies for Young PeopleCan CAM therapies be helpful to children? Are they safe? Here are some general points to consider in addressing these questions.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/yohimbe/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Yohimbe: Herbs at a Glance</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/yohimbe/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[This fact sheet provides basic information about the herb yohimbe&#8212;common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. The yohimbe tree is a tall evergreen that is native to western Africa. The bark of the tree contains a chemical called yohimbine. The amount of yohimbine in dietary supplements may vary; some yohimbe products have been found to contain very little yohimbine. However, a standardized form of yohimbine&#8212;yohimbine hydrochloride&#8212;is available as a prescription medicine that has been studied and used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>February is American Heart Month</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/thismonth/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[NCCAM is involved in research related to heart health&#8230;Clinical TrialsChelation Therapy Study&#8212;A large national study of an alternative treatment&#8212; chelation therapy and vitamin therapy&#8212;for people with heart diseaseExamples of Recently Published Studies:Transcendental meditation and quality of life of African Americans with congestive heart failure Tea consumption and risk of ventricular arrhythmias among patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/timetotalk/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>AARP/NCCAM Report on Older Americans</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/timetotalk/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Do Americans age 50 and older discuss the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) with their physicians? In spring 2006, AARP and NCCAM partnered on a survey to help answer this question. The consumer survey found that among the 1,559 adults surveyed age 50+ nearly two out of three reported using some form of CAM, yet only one in three of those who have used CAM said they have discussed it with their physicians.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/probiotics/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>An Introduction to Probiotics</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/probiotics/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Probiotics are live microorganisms (in most cases, bacteria) that are similar to beneficial microorganisms found in the human gut. They are also called &quot;friendly bacteria&quot; or &quot;good bacteria.&quot; Probiotics are available to consumers mainly in the form of dietary supplements and foods. They can be used as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/122606.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Self-Hypnosis Beneficial for Women Undergoing Breast Biopsy</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/122606.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[An NCCAM-funded trial found that women who used self-hypnosis during a type of core needle breast biopsy experienced anxiety relief and reduced pain when compared with standard care.

A large core needle breast biopsy is usually an outpatient procedure that limits the use of anesthetic. Women having this procedure often experience anxiety because of the possibility of a cancer diagnosis in addition to the anxiety that patients typically experience during a medical procedure.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/naccam/agenda/2007feb.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Twenty-Sixth NACCAM Meeting, February 2, 2007</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/naccam/agenda/2007feb.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The draft agenda is available for the twenty-sixth NACCAM meeting, scheduled for February 2, 2007. NACCAM is charged with the responsibility of advising, consulting with, and making recommendations to the Director, NCCAM, on matters relating to the research activities and functions of the Center. The role and responsibilities of the council members include secondary review of grant applications in light of NCCAM scientific program priorities and program balance.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/herbsataglance.htm?nav=rss">
<title>New Herbs at a Glance: Aloe Vera, Cat&#x27;s Claw, Chasteberry, and More.</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/herbsataglance.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[NCCAM has published eight new Herbs at a Glance fact sheets: Aloe Vera, Cat's Claw, Chasteberry, Ephedra, Evening Primrose Oil, Feverfew, Goldenseal, and Hawthorn. Herbs at a Glance is a series of fact sheets that provides basic information about specific herbs or botanicals&#8212;common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/122006.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Herbal Supplement Fails To Relieve Hot Flashes</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/122006.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The herbal supplement black cohosh, whether used alone or with other botanicals, did not relieve hot flashes in women in the Herbal Alternatives (HALT) for Menopause Study. HALT, co-funded by NCCAM and the National Institute on Aging, did find that women using menopausal hormone therapy received significant relief from their hot flashes and night sweats.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/extramural/awards/2006/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>NCCAM-Funded Research for FY 2006</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/extramural/awards/2006/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[This lists research and training grants funded for both new and ongoing research by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine during Fiscal Year 2006. The list includes the grant number, project title (linked to abstracts on CRISP), principal investigator, institution, and state.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2006_fall/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>CAM at the NIH, Fall 2006</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2006_fall/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Stephen E. Straus, M.D., first Director of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), stepped down from his position on November 7, 2006, for health reasons. Dr. Straus plans to continue his scientific work at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as Senior Advisor to the NIH Director.

Tools That Are Transforming Discovery in CAM The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is the nation's medical research agency&#8212;making important medical discoveries that improve health and save lives. NIH-supported scientists study ways to prevent disease, as well as the causes, treatments, and cures for common and rare diseases. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), as a part of NIH, shares in these goals.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/financial/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Paying for CAM Treatment</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/financial/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[If you are using (or thinking about using) complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), you may have financial questions about paying for treatment. This fact sheet answers some frequently asked questions on this topic.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2006/110706.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Stephen E. Straus, M.D., Becomes Senior Advisor to NIH Director</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2006/110706.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[On November 7, 2006, Stephen E. Straus M.D., Director of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), stepped down from his leadership of the Center for health reasons. Straus will become Senior Advisor to National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Elias A. Zerhouni, M.D.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2006/100506.htm?nav=rss">
<title>NCCAM and The Bernard Osher Foundation Announce New Career Development Award</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2006/100506.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) today announced a prestigious career development award designed to diminish the barriers that prevent complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) clinicians from exploring a career in research. NCCAM, a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), created this award in partnership with The Bernard Osher Foundation through a grant to the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/events/upcoming/index.htm#probiotics?nav=rss">
<title>Developing Probiotics as Foods and Drugs</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/events/upcoming/index.htm#probiotics?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[This workshop will review the state of the science supporting clinical applications of probiotics in promoting and sustaining health and in the management of disease conditions. It will also explore how the current regulatory status of probiotics, which are marketed mostly as foods and dietary supplements in the United States, impacts the clinical evaluation of probiotics. Limitations and gaps in the current body of evidence, as well as scientific and regulatory hurdles, will be identified and recommendations will be provided regarding areas in need of future support. NIH is one of the cosponsors of the workshop.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/events/lectures/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Natural Products: Challenges and Opportunities, Distinguished Lectures</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/events/lectures/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Ram Sasisekharan, Ph.D.Professor of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyOctober 25, 2006 at 11 a.m.Complex carbohydrates called glycans coat the surface of every cell in our bodies, but only recently have scientists been able to probe the structure of these compounds to understand their biological function and how they might be used to prevent or arrest disease. Dr. Ram Sasisekharan and his multidisciplinary team of researchers at MIT have developed a technique for rapidly sequencing these glycans, revealing their structure for the first time. They have discovered that glycans play a key role in the communications between cells that cause cells to divide, migrate and die. Dr. Sasisekharan and his team are pursuing ways to use glycans for diagnostic purposes and to develop alternative carbohydrate-based therapies for a variety of diseases including cancer. Ginseng, heparin and chondroitin have been the focus of recent studies. Please plan to attend and learn more about this new and promising area of research.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://www.nih.gov/news/pr/sep2006/od-21.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Significant Advances in Dietary Supplement Research Released in Annual Bibliography (2005)</title>
<link>http://www.nih.gov/news/pr/sep2006/od-21.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institutes of Health announces the release of the 2005 issue of the Annual Bibliography of Significant Advances in Dietary Supplement Research. This seventh issue of the Bibliography includes abstracts of 25 noteworthy dietary supplement research papers published in 2005, as judged by an international team of reviewers.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2006/091806.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Over 1.6 million Americans Use CAM for Insomnia or Trouble Sleeping</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2006/091806.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[A recent analysis of national survey data reveals that over 1.6 million American adults use some form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to treat insomnia or trouble sleeping
according to scientists at the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), part of the National Institutes of Health. The data came from the 2002 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/massage/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Massage Therapy as CAM</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/massage/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Massage therapy is a practice that dates back thousands of years.
There are many types of massage therapy; all involve manipulating the muscles and other soft tissues of the body. In the United States, massage therapy is sometimes part of conventional medicine]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2006_summer/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>CAM at the NIH, Summer 2006</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2006_summer/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[International Research Conference Highlights Progress, New DirectionsIn May, more than 600 people from 22 countries gathered at the 2006 North American Research Conference on Complementary and Integrative Medicine. Read about the research findings and perspectives shared on the rich diversity of CAM and integrative medicine.

Getting To Know &quot;Friendly Bacteria&quot;Probiotics, also known as &quot;friendly bacteria&quot; or &quot;good bacteria,&quot; are found in certain foods and supplements. Find out more about these products and the evidence on their health benefits.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/naccam/agenda/2006sep.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Advisory Council Meeting, September 8</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/naccam/agenda/2006sep.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The public is welcome to attend the open session of the upcoming meeting of the National Advisory Council for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NACCAM).
The meeting will be held in Rockville, Maryland on September 8, 2006]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://jobsearch.usajobs.opm.gov/getjob.asp?JobID=46529587">
<title>Job Opening: International Health Program Specialist, GS 12/13</title>
<link>http://jobsearch.usajobs.opm.gov/getjob.asp?JobID=46529587</link>
<description><![CDATA[International Health Program Specialist-NCCAM

Deadline: August 22, 2006]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/redclover/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Red Clover: Herbs at a Glance</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/redclover/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[This fact sheet provides basic information about the herb red clover&#8212;common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Like peas and beans, red clover belongs to the family of plants called legumes. Red clover contains phytoestrogens&#8212;compounds similar to the female hormone estrogen.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/licoriceroot/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Licorice Root: Herbs at a Glance</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/licoriceroot/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[This fact sheet provides basic information about licorice root&#8212;common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Most licorice is grown in Greece, Turkey, and Asia. Licorice contains a compound called glycyrrhizin (or glycyrrhizic acid).

Licorice root has been used as a dietary supplement for stomach ulcers, bronchitis, and sore throat, as well as infections caused by viruses, such as hepatitis.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/alerts/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>FDA Warns Consumers and Health Care Providers Not to Use Bismacine, also known as Chromacine</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/alerts/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The U.S. Food &amp; Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers and health care providers not to use a product called &quot;bismacine,&quot; also known as chromacine.
The FDA is investigating one report of a death and several reports of injury related to the administration of bismacine.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/alerts/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>FDA Warning: Dietary Supplements Used for Sexual Enhancement</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/alerts/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[FDA Warns Consumers About Dangerous Ingredients in &quot;Dietary Supplements&quot; Promoted for Sexual Enhancement

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
is warning consumers not to purchase or consume Zimaxx, Libidus, Neophase, Nasutra, Vigor-25, Actra-Rx, or 4EVERON.
These products are promoted and sold on web sites as &quot;dietary supplements&quot; for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) and enhancing sexual performance, but they are in fact illegal drugs that contain potentially harmful undeclared ingredients.
These products have not been approved by FDA, and there is no guarantee of their safety and effectiveness, or of the purity of their ingredients.

FDA advises consumers who have used any of these products to discontinue use and to consult their health care provider.
FDA encourages anyone experiencing ED to seek guidance from a health care provider before purchasing a product to treat this medical condition.

&quot;These products threaten the public health because they contain undeclared chemicals that are similar or identical to the active ingredients used in several FDA-approved prescription drug products.
This risk is even more serious because consumers may not know that these ingredients can interact with medications and dangerously lower their blood pressure,&quot; said Dr. Steven Galson, Director of FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/grants/notices.htm?nav=rss">
<title>New SF424 and PHS 398 Electronic Forms</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/grants/notices.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[NOT-OD-06-078 : Grants.gov and NIH/AHRQ recently have made changes to the standard SF424 (R&amp;R) and agency-specific PHS 398 electronic form components used for the electronic submission of grant applications. The forms changes provide greater consistency between forms and align the forms with current policy.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2006_spring/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Spring Issue: CAM at the NIH Newsletter</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2006_spring/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate Study Results Announced Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are two popular CAM therapies for arthritis. Read about the results of one of NCCAM's largest studies, on the use of these supplements to treat the pain of knee osteoarthritis.

The Irresistible Treat That Might Help Resistance Many people enjoy dark chocolate for its taste. Could it have health benefits, too, for insulin resistance&#8212;a silent condition that increases one's chances of developing diabetes and heart disease?]]></description>
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<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/research/dcrc.htm?nav=rss">
<title>DCRC Applicants Conference Call</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/research/dcrc.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[NCCAM will hold a conference call on Thursday, July 6, 2006, from 2 to 3 pm ET to clarify issues specific to multi-PI applications submitted in response to the Developmental Centers for Research on CAM (DCRC) initiatives. During the call, NCCAM staff will review relevant forms and issues and answer applicants' questions.

Please register for the call by sending an e-mail to nccamdcrcinfo@mail.nih.gov. We will send you a call-in phone number and passcode to confirm.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2006/060506.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Miller Named Director of Office of Policy, Planning, and Evaluation</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2006/060506.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Heather G. Miller, Ph.D., M.F.S., was selected as Director for the Office of Policy, Planning, and Evaluation within the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Dr. Miller will serve as senior advisor to NCCAM's director on science, science policy, and other strategic issues, as well as oversee the planning, evaluation, and reporting activities for the Center.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2006/060806.htm?nav=rss">
<title> Five New Members on the Advisory Council</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/news/2006/060806.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) welcomes five new members to the National Advisory Council for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NACCAM). The Council serves as the principal advisory body to NCCAM, a component of the National Institutes of Health within the Department of Health and Human Services.

The Council, which meets three times a year, is composed of physicians, scientists, licensed alternative and complementary medicine practitioners, and representatives of the public who contribute their time and expertise over a 4-year term. Council members offer advice and recommendations on the prioritization, conduct, and support of complementary and alternative medicine research, including research training and disseminating health information derived from NCCAM's research.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/jobs/dir_clinical.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Job Opening: Scientific Director/Clinical Director</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/jobs/dir_clinical.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) seeks an accomplished, innovative neuroscientist and clinician to fill three pivotal roles: as Scientific Director and Clinical Director of its Intramural Research Program (IRP) and as Senior Investigator responsible for developing a new research program in mind-body medicine. This individual will report to the NCCAM Director and will be a member of the NCCAM leadership.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/about/jobs/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Job Opening: Grants Management Specialist</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/about/jobs/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine is seeking a Senior Grants Management specialist to serve as a resource to staff associated with grants management related issues. NCCAM is dedicated to exploring complementary and alternative healing practices in the context of rigorous science, training complementary and alternative medicine researchers, and disseminating authoritative information to the public and professionals.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/taichi/index.htm?nav=rss">
<title>Tai Chi for Health Purposes</title>
<link>http://nccam.nih.gov/health/taichi/index.htm?nav=rss</link>
<description><![CDATA[Tai chi (pronounced &quot;tie chee&quot; and also known by some other names and spellings) is a mind-body practice that originated in China as a martial art. A person doing tai chi moves his body slowly and gently, while breathing deeply and meditating (tai chi is sometimes called &quot;moving meditation&quot;). Many practitioners believe that tai chi helps the flow throughout the body of a proposed vital energy called qi (pronounced &quot;chee,&quot; it means &quot;air,&quot; &quot;puff,&quot; or &quot;power&quot;). In the United States, tai chi for health purposes is part of complementary and alternative medicine, or CAM. This Backgrounder provides a general overview of tai chi and suggests some resources you can use to find more information.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/129?rss=1">
<title>eCAM: Integrative Genomics and Fecundity</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/129?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/133?rss=1">
<title>Static Magnetic Field Therapy: A Critical Review of Treatment Parameters</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/133?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Static magnetic field (SMF) therapy, applied via a permanent magnet attached to the skin, is used by people worldwide for self-care. Despite a lack of established SMF dosage and treatment regimens, multiple studies are conducted to evaluate SMF therapy effectiveness. Our objectives in conducting this review are to:(i) summarize SMF research conducted in humans; (ii) critically evaluate reporting quality of SMF dosages and treatment parameters and (iii) propose a set of criteria for reporting SMF treatment parameters in future clinical trials. We searched 27 electronic databases and reference lists. Only English language human studies were included. Excluded were studies of electromagnetic fields, transcranial magnetic stimulation, magnets placed on acupuncture points, animal studies, abstracts, posters and editorials. Data were extracted on clinical indication, study design and 10 essential SMF parameters. Three reviewers assessed quality of reporting and calculated a quality assessment score for each of the 10 treatment parameters. Fifty-six studies were reviewed, 42 conducted in patient populations and 14 in healthy volunteers. The SMF treatment parameters most often and most completely described were site of application, magnet support device and frequency and duration of application. Least often and least completely described were characteristics of the SMF: magnet dimensions, measured field strength and estimated distance of the magnet from the target tissue. Thirty-four (61%) of studies failed to provide enough detail about SMF dosage to permit protocol replication by other investigators. Our findings highlight the need to optimize SMF dosing parameters for individual clinical conditions before proceeding to a full-scale clinical trial.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/141?rss=1">
<title>Fetal Hemoglobin Inducers from the Natural World: A Novel Approach for Identification of Drugs for the Treatment of {beta}-Thalassemia and Sickle-Cell Anemia</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/141?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
The objective of this review is to present examples of lead compounds identified from biological material (fungi, plant extracts and agro-industry material) and of possible interest in the field of a pharmacological approach to the therapy of &beta;-thalassemia using molecules able to stimulate production of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in adults. Concerning the employment of HbF inducers as potential drugs for pharmacological treatment of &beta;-thalassemia, the following conclusions can be reached: (i) this therapeutic approach is reasonable, on the basis of the clinical parameters exhibited by hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin patients, (ii) clinical trials (even if still limited) employing HbF inducers were effective in ameliorating the symptoms of &beta;-thalassemia patients, (iii) good correlation of in vivo and in vitro results of HbF synthesis and -globin mRNA accumulation indicates that in vitro testing might be predictive of in vivo responses and (iv) combined use of different inducers might be useful to maximize HbF, both in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we present three examples of HbF inducers from the natural world: (i) angelicin and linear psoralens, contained in plant extracts from Angelica arcangelica and Aegle marmelos, (ii) resveratrol, a polyphenol found in grapes and several plant extracts and (iii) rapamycin, isolated from Streptomyces hygroscopicus.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/153?rss=1">
<title>Ten Years Evidence-based High-Tech Acupuncture--A Short Review of Peripherally Measured Effects</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/153?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Since 1997, the Research Unit of Biomedical Engineering in Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine of Graz Medical University has been dealing with the demystification of acupuncture and examining, using non-invasive methods, how different stimulation modalities (manual needle acupuncture, laserneedle acupuncture and electro acupuncture) affect peripheral and central functions. Laser is also an important instrument for acupuncture. One only needs to mention the treatment of children or of patients with needle phobia. The laserneedle acupuncture, which was examined scientifically for the first time in Graz, represents a new painless acupuncture method for which up to ten laserneedles are glued to the skin, but not stuck into it. This first part of the short review article summarizes some of the peripherally measured effects of acupuncture obtained at the Medical University of Graz within the last 10 years.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/159?rss=1">
<title>Humor and Laughter May Influence Health IV. Humor and Immune Function</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/159?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
This is the final article in a four part series reviewing the influence of humor and laughter on physiological and psychological well-being. This final article reviews the evidence for the effect of sense of humor, exposure to a humor stimulus and laughter on various immune system components, with a focus on the effects of laughter on natural killer cell cytotoxicity.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/165?rss=1">
<title>Medical Honey for Wound Care--Still the &#x27;Latest Resort&#x27;?</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/165?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
While the ancient Egyptians and Greeks used honey for wound care, and a broad spectrum of wounds are treated all over the world with natural unprocessed honeys from different sources, MedihoneyTM has been one of the first medically certified honeys licensed as a medical product for professional wound care in Europe and Australia. Our experience with medical honey in wound care refers only to this product. In this review, we put our clinical experience into a broader perspective to comment on the use of medical honey in wound care. More prospective randomized studies on a wider range of types of wounds are needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of medical honey in wound care. Nonetheless, the current evidence confirming the antibacterial properties and additional beneficial effects of medical honey on wound healing should encourage other wound care professionals to use CE-certified honey dressings with standardized antibacterial activity, such as MedihoneyTM products, as an alternative treatment approach in wounds of different natures.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/175?rss=1">
<title>Philosophy, Psychology, Physics and Practice of Ki</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/175?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Ki (in Japanese) or Qi (in Chinese) is the key concept in Eastern medicine, Eastern philosophy, as well as in martial arts. We explain the philosophical and psychological background of Ki. We emphasize that the unique aspects of Eastern philosophy are &lsquo;non-linearity&rsquo; and &lsquo;holistic&rsquo; approach. We then present physics aspect of Ki. Our experiments demonstrated that a &lsquo;Ki-beam&rsquo; carries &lsquo;entropy&rsquo; (or information), which is different from &lsquo;energy&rsquo;. We introduce our experience of having taught Ki to 37 beginners in the United States through the Nishino Breathing Method. If beginners had martial arts training or a strong background in music or dance, about half of them could sense Ki within 10 weeks (1 h class per week) of practice.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/185?rss=1">
<title>Acupuncture: What Underlies Needle Administration?</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/185?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese therapy with its mode of action unclear and efficacy inconclusive. A lack of attention given to the role of psychosocial context presented in clinical provision of acupuncture may mainly account for the current dilemma in acupuncture research. This psychosocial context induces various cognitive and affective processes in the patient while receiving this treatment. On the basis of the analysis of these psychological factors involved in clinical provision of acupuncture and in light of prior studies on the placebo effect, the author hypothesizes that acupuncture works through potentiation and modulation of a highly organized and somatotopic network of endogenous opioids that links expectation, attention and body schema. This hypothesis, which focuses on the contextual factors involved in clinical provision of acupuncture, has immediate clinical and experimental implications and will take the acupuncture debate much further forward.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/195?rss=1">
<title>Hepatoprotective Activity of Licorice Water Extract against Cadmium-induced Toxicity in Rats</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/195?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Licorice is commonly used as a cure for digestive disorders and as a detoxification agent in East Asia. This study investigated the protective effect of licorice water extract against cadmium (CdCl2, Cd)-induced liver toxicity in rats. To induce acute toxicity, Cd (4 mg/kg body weight) was dissolved in normal saline and intravenously (i.v.) injected into rats. The rats then received either a vehicle or licorice water extract (50, 100 mg/kg/day) for 3 days, and were subsequently exposed to a single injection of Cd 24 h after the last licorice/vehicle treatment. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were significantly increased by Cd treatment. In contrast, pretreatment with licorice reduced ALT, AST and LDH. In histopathological analysis, licorice decreased the central necrosis around central veins, the peripheral hemorrhage around portal triads, the percentage of degenerative hepatic regions (%/mm2 hepatic parenchyma) and the number of degenerative hepatic cells (N/100 hepatic cells). Licorice also inhibited the increment of Bad (a BH3 domain-containing protein) translocation by Cd in liver cells. These results demonstrate that licorice could have a hepatoprotective effect by inhibiting the translocation of Bad to the mitochondria in Cd-intoxificated rats.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/203?rss=1">
<title>Enhancement of Amygdaloid Neuronal Dendritic Arborization by Fresh Leaf Juice of Centella asiatica (Linn) During Growth Spurt Period in Rats</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/203?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Centella asiatica (CeA) is a creeping herb, growing in moist places in India and other Asian Countries. Ayurvedic system of medicine, an alternate system of medicine in India, uses leaves of CeA for memory enhancement. Here, we have investigated the role of CeA fresh leaf juice treatment during growth spurt period of rats on dendritic morphology of amygdaloid neurons, one of the regions concerned with learning and memory. The present study was conducted on neonatal rat pups. The rat pups (7-days-old) were fed with 2, 4 and 6 ml/kg body of fresh leaf juice of CeA for 2, 4 and 6 weeks. After the treatment period, the rats were killed, brains removed and amygdaloid neurons impregnated with Silver nitrate (Golgi staining). Amygdaloid neurons were traced using camera lucida and dendritic branching points (a measure of dendritic arborization) and intersections (a measure dendritic length) quantified. These data were compared with those of age-matched control rats. The results showed a significant increase in dendritic length (intersections) and dendritic branching points along the length of dendrites of the amygdaloid neurons of rats treated with 4 and 6 ml/kg body weight/day of CeA for longer periods of time (i.e. 4 and 6 weeks). We conclude that constituents/active principles present in CeA fresh leaf juice has neuronal dendritic growth stimulating property; hence it can be used for enhancing neuronal dendrites in stress and other neurodegenerative and memory disorders.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/211?rss=1">
<title>Tibetan Medicated-Bath Therapy may Improve Adjuvant Arthritis in Rat</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/211?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Tibetan medicated-bath therapy has been applied to patients with rheumatoid arthritis for centuries. However, the detailed action mechanism of Tibetan medicated-bath therapy on the morphology and function of joints remains unknown. We designed our investigation to evaluate the efficacy of Tibetan medicated-bath therapy on adjuvant arthritis (AA) of rats in comparison with water-bath and dexamethasone administration. AA was induced by intradermal injection of Mycobacterium butyricum suspended in sterile mineral oil. The control animals were similarly injected with sterile vehicle. Eight days after injection, rats were treated with fresh-water bath, Tibetan medicated-bath (40&deg;C, 15 min) or intramuscular injection with dexamethasone for 21 consecutive days after which we evaluated the severity of arthritis visually and microscopically and measured serum interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)- levels. While arthritis did not significantly change after water-bath treatment, the Tibetan medicated-bath and dexamethasone groups showed diminished joint swelling and alleviation of, inflammatory cell infiltration and the destruction of bone and cartilage. Serum IL-6 and TNF- levels significantly decreased. Our results demonstrated that Tibetan medicated-bath therapy exerted a reliable effect on rat adjuvant arthritis, which may be involved in the inflammatory cytokines, IL-6 and TNF-. Our data provide evidence for clinical use of Tibetan-medicated bath therapy for arthritis patients.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/219?rss=1">
<title>Asparagus Root Regulates Cholesterol Metabolism and Improves Antioxidant Status in Hypercholesteremic Rats</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/219?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Hyperlipidemia/hypercholesteremia are major risk factors for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. Root of Asparagus racemosus (AR) is widely used in Ayurvedic system of medicine in India and is known for its steroidal saponin content. This study was designed to investigate the hypocholesteremic and antioxidant potential of AR root in both normo- and hypercholesteremic animals. Normal and hypercholesteremic male albino rats were administered with root powder of AR (5 and 10 g% dose levels) along with normal and hypercholesteremic diets, respectively, for a duration of 4 weeks. Plasma and hepatic lipid profiles, fecal sterol, bile acid excretion and hepatic antioxidant activity were assessed. Inclusion of AR root powder in diet, resulted in a dose-dependant reduction in plasma and hepatic lipid profiles, increased fecal excretion of cholesterol, neutral sterol and bile acid along with increases in hepatic HMG-CoA reductase activity and bile acid content in hypercholesteremic rats. Further, AR root also improved the hepatic antioxidant status (catalase, SOD and ascorbic acid levels). No significant changes in lipid and antioxidant profiles occurred in the normocholesteremic rats administered with AR root powder. AR root appeared to be useful as a dietary supplement that offers a protection against hyperlipidemia/hypercholesteremia in hypercholesteremic animals. The results of the present study indicate that the potent therapeutic phyto-components present in AR root i.e. phytosterols, saponins, polyphenols, flavonoids and ascorbic acid, could be responsible for increased bile acid production, elimination of excess cholesterol and elevation of hepatic antioxidant status in hypercholesteremic conditions.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/227?rss=1">
<title>Evaluation of Antioxidant Properties of Phaulopsis fascisepala C.B.Cl. (Acanthaceae)</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/227?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
The antioxidant activities of crude extract of Phaulopsis fascisepala leaf were evaluated and compared with -tocopherol and BHT as synthetic antioxidants and ascorbic acid as natural-based antioxidant. In vitro, we studied its antioxidative activities, radical-scavenging effects, Fe2+-chelating ability and reducing power. The total phenolic content was determined and expressed in gallic acid equivalent. The extract showed variable activities in all of these in vitro tests. The antioxidant effect of P. fascisepala was strongly dose dependent, increased with increasing leaf extract dose and then leveled off with further increase in extract dose. Compared to other antioxidants used in the study, -Tocopherol, ascorbic acid and BHT, P. fascisepala leaf extract showed less scavenging effect on ,,-diphenyl-&beta;-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical and less reducing power on Fe3+/ferricyanide complex but better Fe2+-chelating ability. These results revealed the in vitro antioxidant activity of P. fascisepala. Further investigations are necessary to verify these activities in vivo.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/233?rss=1">
<title>Regulation of Caspase-3 and Bcl-2 Expression in Dalton&#x27;s Lymphoma Ascites Cells by Abrin</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/233?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
The role of abrin, a toxic lectin isolated from seeds of Abrus precatorius Linn in inducing apoptosis in murine Dalton's Lymphoma Ascites (DLA) cells was evaluated. Abrin when incubated at the concentration of 10 ng per million DLA cells could bring about cell death as typical morphological changes with apoptosis. However, necrotic cell death dominated when a higher dose of abrin was used. DNA samples, isolated from DLA cells treated with abrin showed fragmentation. Abrin brought about induction of apoptosis by stimulating the expression of pro-apoptotic Caspase-3, at the same time blocking the expression of Bcl-2, which is an anti apoptotic gene. However, the expression of tumor suppressor gene p53 has not been observed in control and abrin-treated DLA cells. Results suggested that abrin effectively induced apoptotic changes in the tumor cells that led to cellular death.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/239?rss=1">
<title>Pain Controlling and Cytokine-regulating Effects of Lyprinol, a Lipid Extract of Perna Canaliculus, in a Rat Adjuvant-induced Arthritis Model</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/239?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Using an adjuvant-induced arthritis rat model, we investigated the effects of a lipid extract of Perna canaliculus (Lyprinol&reg;) on pain. Radiological examinations, as well as levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory (AI) cytokines, were measured aiming to provide independent objective data to the pain controlling investigation. We confirmed the ability of Lyprinol&reg; to control pain at the initial phase of its administration; with similar efficacy to that observed with Naproxen. The pain scores slowly increased again in the group of rats treated with Lyprinol&reg; after day 9&ndash;14. The Naproxen-treated rats remained pain-free while treated. Both Naproxen and Lyprinol&reg; decreased the levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF- and IFN-, and increased that of IL-10. Extra-virgin olive oil was ineffective on cytokine secretion. Rats treated with Lyprinol&reg; were apparently cured after 1 year. This study confirms the AI efficacy of this lipid extract of P. canaliculus, its initial analgesic effect, its perfect tolerance and its long-term healing properties.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/247?rss=1">
<title>Oral Administration of Ren-Shen-Yang-Rong-Tang &#x27;Ninjin&#x27;yoeito&#x27; Protects Against Hematotoxicity and Induces Immature Erythroid Progenitor Cells in 5-Fluorouracil-induced Anemia</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/247?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of four different Japanese and Chinese herbal prescriptions, Ren-Shen-Yang-Rong-Tang (Ninjin&rsquo;yoeito, NYT), Chai-Hu-Gui-Zhi-Gan-Jiang-Tang (Saikokeishikankyoto, SKKT), Si-Jun-Zi-Tang (Shikunshito, SKT) and Si-Wu-Tang (Shimotsuto, SMT), which are traditionally used for anemia and fatigue, against hematotoxicity in mice treated with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). NYT 1&ndash;100 mg kg&ndash;1 day&ndash;1 injected orally for 7 consecutive days before and after 5-FU injection significantly suppressed reductions in red blood cell, white blood cell and platelet counts in peripheral blood, and accelerated their recovery. Administration of SKKT also produced a slight but significant improvement in 5-FU-induced erythrocytopenia, whereas SMT and SKT could not prevent anemia. Oral injection of NYT also inhibited 5-FU-induced decreases in peripheral reticulocyte and bone marrow cell counts on day 10, and markedly hastened their recovery on day 20, in a dose-dependent manner. Erythroid progenitor colonies, such as colony forming units-erythroid and burst forming units-erythroid, formed by marrow cells from mice treated with 5-FU were significantly increased by oral administration of NYT. These findings suggest that NYT has the potential to protect against hematotoxicity, and also has hematopoietic activity, through stimulation of immature erythroid progenitor cell differentiation.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/257?rss=1">
<title>Dynamized Preparations in Cell Culture</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/257?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Although reports on the efficacy of homeopathic medicines in animal models are limited, there are even fewer reports on the in vitro action of these dynamized preparations. We have evaluated the cytotoxic activity of 30C and 200C potencies of ten dynamized medicines against Dalton's Lymphoma Ascites, Ehrlich's Ascites Carcinoma, lung fibroblast (L929) and Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cell lines and compared activity with their mother tinctures during short-term and long-term cell culture. The effect of dynamized medicines to induce apoptosis was also evaluated and we studied how dynamized medicines affected genes expressed during apoptosis. Mother tinctures as well as some dynamized medicines showed significant cytotoxicity to cells during short and long-term incubation. Potentiated alcohol control did not produce any cytotoxicity at concentrations studied. The dynamized medicines were found to inhibit CHO cell colony formation and thymidine uptake in L929 cells and those of Thuja, Hydrastis and Carcinosinum were found to induce apoptosis in DLA cells. Moreover, dynamized Carcinosinum was found to induce the expression of p53 while dynamized Thuja produced characteristic laddering pattern in agarose gel electrophoresis of DNA. These results indicate that dynamized medicines possess cytotoxic as well as apoptosis-inducing properties.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/265?rss=1">
<title>Qigong Ameliorates Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue: A Pilot Uncontrolled Study</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/265?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners consider that chronic fatigue reflects a disharmony and depletion in the supply of qi in the body. Qigong is one of the traditional complementary interventions used to strengthen qi through self-practice, and to manage the state of qi to prevent and cure disease. The aim of this study is to assess whether qigong could be used to manage the symptoms of chronic fatigue. Eighteen Caucasian, British female participants were recruited, taught a qigong routine during weekly classes over 6 months, and asked to practice it daily for 15 min. Participants completed the core set of the RAND Medical Outcomes Study questionnaire (RAND MOS) and a sleep diary during the 2-week baseline control period, and at 3 and 6 months following the start of the trial. The qigong intervention resulted in significant changes in sleep rate score and in the following subscales of the RAND MOS: SF36 Vitality, Sleep Problems, Social Activity, Social Activity Limitation due to Health, Health Distress, Mental Health Index and Psychological Well-being. Qigong seems to improve factors related to chronic fatigue such as sleep, pain, mental attitude and general mobility after 3 and 6 months. Qigong's positive effects indicate that it represents a potentially safe method of treatment for chronic fatigued patients. However, we cannot completely discount the possible influence of placebo effects, and more objective clinical measures are needed to reproduce our findings with long-term follow-up in a randomized, controlled study involving a larger number of subjects.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/271?rss=1">
<title>Laughter, Humor and Pain Perception in Children: A Pilot Study</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/271?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Although there are many clinical programs designed to bring humor into pediatric hospitals, there has been very little research with children or adolescents concerning the specific utility of humor for children undergoing stressful or painful procedures. Rx LaughterTM, a non-profit organization interested in the use of humor for healing, collaborated with UCLA to collect preliminary data on a sample of 18 children aged 7&ndash;16 years. Participants watched humorous video-tapes before, during and after a standardized pain task that involved placing a hand in cold water. Pain appraisal (ratings of pain severity) and pain tolerance (submersion time) were recorded and examined in relation to humor indicators (number of laughs/smiles during each video and child ratings of how funny the video was). Whereas humor indicators were not significantly associated with pain appraisal or tolerance, the group demonstrated significantly greater pain tolerance while viewing funny videos than when viewing the videos immediately before or after the cold-water task. The results suggest that humorous distraction is useful to help children and adolescents tolerate painful procedures. Further study is indicated to explore the specific mechanism of this benefit.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/277?rss=1">
<title>Aspects of Sino-Japan Complementary and Alternative Medicine and Development on the Traditional Uighur Medicine</title>
<link>http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/short/6/2/277?rss=1</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Two consecutive conferences on &lsquo;Sino-Japan Complementary and Alternative Medicine and Development on the Traditional Uighur Medicine&rsquo; were held in Xinjiang Medical University on July 3 and Kanazawa Medical University on October 6, 2007. The Vice president Halmurat Upur presided over the meeting and gave congratulatory address on holding of the conference. In order to understand mutually and discuss the possibility of the Uighur Medicine as CAM and the situation of medicine in the global sense, specialist scholars of Traditional Uighur Medicine and postgraduates attended this conference. In the meeting of the CAM, the achievements on the research of Traditional Uighur Medicine were exchanged and warmly discussed. Presentations were made in the consecutive conference.
]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/20">
<title>Anti-tumor effect of Liqi, a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, in tumor bearing mice</title>
<link>http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/20</link>
<description><![CDATA[Background:
Liqi, an herbal preparation used in traditional Chinese medicine, has been used to treat cancer in China for centuries. We investigated the anti-tumor effects of liqi and their mechanisms in mice that had been xenografted with tumors.
Methods:
Sarcoma 180 tumor, Lewis lung carcinoma, and SGC-7901 cells were implanted in BALB/c mice, C57BL/6 mice, and BALB/c nude mice, respectively. Liqi was administered to subgroups of these mice. The tumor weight and size were measured. Cell cycle assay and T lymphocyte subsets were determined by flow cytometry. The activity of NK cells and TNF was tested using cytotoxicity assay on YAC-1 cells and L929 cells, respectively, and the activity of IL-2 was tested with an IL-2-dependent CTLL-2 cell proliferation assay. Platelet aggregation was monitored by measuring electric impedance, and the levels of thromboxane A2 (TXA2) and prostacyclin (PGI2) in blood were measured by 125I-TXB2 and 125I-Keto-PGF1alpha radioimmunoassay.
Results:
The results showed that liqi inhibited tumor growth in tumor-implanted mice and arrested the cell proliferation in the G0/G1 phase and reduced the portion of cells in S and G2/M phase for SGC-7901 cells. Liqi increased the activity of NK cells and TNF-alpha, stimulated IL-2 production and activity, and regulated T lymphocyte subpopulations. Liqi inhibited the Lewis lung carcinoma metastasis by inhibiting platelet aggregation and normalizing the balance between TXA2 and PGI2.
Conclusions:
All these findings demonstrated that liqi has an anti-tumor effect in vivo. The mechanism may be related to immune regulation and anticoagulation effects.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/19">
<title>The potential of complementary and alternative medicine in promoting well-being and critical health literacy: a prospective, observational study of shiatsu</title>
<link>http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/19</link>
<description><![CDATA[Background:
The potential contribution of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) modalities to promote and support critical health literacy has not received substantial attention within either the health promotion or the CAM literature. This paper explores the potential of one CAM modality, shiatsu, in promoting well-being and critical health literacy.
Methods:
Data are drawn from a longitudinal, 6 months observational, pragmatic study of the effects and experience of shiatsu within three European countries (Austria, Spain and the UK). Client postal questionnaires included: advice received, changes made 6 months later, clients 'hopes' from having shiatsu and features of the client-practitioner relationship.Result: At baseline, three-quarters of clients (n=633) received advice, on exercise, diet, posture, points to work on at home or other ways of self-care.  At 6 months follow-up, about four-fifths reported making changes to their lifestyle 'as a result of having shiatsu treatment', including taking more rest and relaxation or exercise, changing their diet, reducing time at work and other changes such as increased body/mind awareness and levels of confidence and resolve. Building on the findings, an explanatory model of possible ways that a CAM therapy could contribute to health promotion is presented to guide future research, both within and beyond CAM.
Conclusion:
Supporting individuals to take control of their self-care requires advice-giving within a supportive treatment context and practitioner relationship, with clients who are open to change and committed to maintaining their health.  CAM modalities may have an important role to play in this endeavour.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/18">
<title>Evaluating complex health interventions: a critical analysis of the &#x27;outcomes&#x27; concept</title>
<link>http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/18</link>
<description><![CDATA[Background:
The extent to which a health care intervention causes or facilitates health-related change is a key question in research. The need to quantify such change has led to the development of an increasing number of change indicators, to measure what have come to be known as 'outcomes'. In the context of medical research into the efficacy or effectiveness of an intervention the term 'outcomes' has often been interpreted to mean single endpoints with a linear cause and effect link to an external intervention.DiscussionIn this paper we present a critical analysis of the nature and interpretation of the 'outcomes' concept and of the assumptions that underpin it. Drawing on our own work and that of others, we analyse the problems that arise when the concept is applied to complex interventions and discuss the use of other models, such as programme theory, as a basis for alternative conceptualisations for indicators of change.Our analysis demonstrates that the interpretation of 'outcomes' that may be appropriate for clinical trials of pharmaceutical products, is problematic when used in evaluations of complex interventions in areas such as complementary medicine, palliative care, rehabilitation, and health promotion. The 'outcomes' concept may impose inappropriate patterns of thought and meaning. We present alternative models, such as those based on programme theory, which conceptualise health-related change as resulting from the interaction between intervention, process and context over time. In this framework both the intervention and the patient are defined as causal factors, because the result of the treatment is dependent on the resources of the patient - such as the body's ability to heal itself - and the impact of the patient's situation.SummaryEvaluations based on a model such as programme theory will encompass a wide range of health-related changes that include aspects of process, such as new meanings and understanding, as well as longer term changes in health, wellbeing and health-related competences and behaviours.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/17">
<title>Animal-based folk remedies sold in public markets in Crato and Juazeiro do Norte, Ceara, Brazil.</title>
<link>http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/17</link>
<description><![CDATA[Background:
Human communities consistently develop a detailed knowledge of the therapeutical and medicinal properties of the local flora and fauna, and these folk remedies often substitute medicines produced by the pharmaceutical industry. Animals (and their derived products) are essential ingredients in the preparation of many traditional remedies. The present work prepared an inventory of the animals sold in public markets in the cities of Crato and Juazeiro do Norte, Ceará State, Brazil.
Methods:
Information was obtained through the use of semi-structured questionnaires in interviews held with 27 merchants of medicinal animals (18 in the municipality of Juazeiro do Norte [11 men and 7 women] and 9 people in the municipality of Crato [6 men and 3 women]). We calculated the Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) to determine the consensus over which species are effective for particular ailments, as well as the species Use Value (UV) to determine the extent of utilization of each species.
Results:
A total of 31 animal species, distributed among 21 families were identified as being used medicinally. The taxa most represented were: insects (8 species), mammals (7), fish (5), reptiles (5) and birds (4). The animals sold in these markets are used to treat a total of 24 ailments, with rheumatism, asthma, and inflammations having the largest numbers of citations. Three species not previously reported as having medicinal use were encountered: Leporinus steindachneri (utilized for treating cholesterol problems), Gryllus assimilis (utilized in treating urinary infections), and Phrynops tuberosus (used to treat asthma, rheumatism and bruises).
Conclusion:
The composition of the local fauna, the popular culture, and commercial considerations are factors that maintain and drive the market for therapeutic animal products – and the lack of monitoring and regulation of this commerce is worrisome from a conservationist perspective. A detailed knowledge of the fauna utilized in alternative medicine is fundamental to the conservation and rational use of the Brazilian fauna.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/16">
<title>Bach Flower Remedies for psychological problems and pain: a systematic review</title>
<link>http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/16</link>
<description><![CDATA[Background:
Bach Flower Remedies are thought to help balance emotional state and are commonly recommended by practitioners for psychological problems and pain. We assessed whether Bach Flower Remedies (BFRs) are safe and efficacious for these indications by performing a systematic review of the literature.
Methods:
We searched MEDLINE®, Embase, AMED, and the Cochrane Library from inception until June 2008 and performed a hand-search of references from relevant key articles. For efficacy, we included all prospective studies with a control group. For safety, we also included retrospective, observational studies with more than 30 subjects. Two authors abstracted data and determined risk of bias using a recognised rating system of trial quality.
Results:
Four randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and two additional retrospective, observational studies were identified and included in the review. Three RCTs of BFRs for students with examination anxiety, and one RCT of BFRs for children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) showed no overall benefit in comparison to placebo. Due to the number and quality of the studies the strength of the evidence is low or very low. We did not find any controlled prospective studies regarding the efficacy of BFRs for pain. Only four of the six studies included for safety explicitly reported adverse events.
Conclusion:
Most of the available evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of BFRs has a high risk of bias. We conclude that, based on the reported adverse events in these six trials, BFRs are probably safe. Few controlled prospective trials of BFRs for psychological problems and pain exist. Our analysis of the four controlled trials of BFRs for examination anxiety and ADHD indicates that there is no evidence of benefit compared with a placebo intervention.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/15">
<title>Anti-angiogenic effects of pterogynidine alkaloid isolated from Alchornea glandulosa </title>
<link>http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/15</link>
<description><![CDATA[Background:
Angiogenesis, a complex multistep process that comprehends proliferation, migration and anastomosis of endothelial cells (EC), has a major role in the development of pathologic conditions such as inflammatory diseases, tumor growth and metastasis. Brazilian flora, the most diverse in the world, is an interesting spot to prospect for new chemical leads, being an important source of new anticancer drugs. Plant-derived alkaloids have traditionally been of interest due to their pronounced physiological activities. We investigated the anti-angiogenic potential of the naturally occurring guanidine alkaloid pterogynidine (Pt) isolated from the Brazilian plant Alchornea glandulosa. The purpose of this study was to examine which features of the angiogenic process could be disturbed by Pt.
Methods:
Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were incubated with 8 μM Pt and cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and capillary-like structures formation were addressed. Nuclear factor κB (NFκB), a transcription factor implicated in these processes, was also evaluated in HUVEC incubated with Pt. Quantifications were expressed as mean ± SD of five independent experiments and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by the Dunnet test was used.
Results:
A significant decrease in proliferation and invasion capacity and an effective increase in apoptosis as assessed by bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU), double-chamber and terminal transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay, respectively, have been found. Pt also led to a drastic reduction in the number of capillary-like structures formation when HUVEC were cultured on growth factor reduced-Matrigel (GFR-Matrigel) coated plates. In addition, incubation of HUVEC with Pt resulted in reduced NFκB activity.
Conclusion:
These findings emphasize the potential use of Pt against pathological situations where angiogenesis is stimulated as tumor development.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/14">
<title>The use of herbal medicines by people with cancer: a qualitative study</title>
<link>http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/14</link>
<description><![CDATA[Background:
Between 7% and 48% of cancer patients report taking herbal medicines after diagnosis. Because of the possibility of unwanted side effects or interactions with conventional treatments, people with cancer are generally advised to tell the professionals treating them if they are taking any form of medication, including herbal medicines and supplements. Studies suggest that only about half do so and that the professionals themselves have at best very limited knowledge and feel unable to give informed advice. This study is intended to inform the future development of information resources for cancer patients, survivors and healthcare professionals including tools for use before or during consultation to make it easier for patients to mention, and for healthcare professionals to ask about, use of herbal medications.Methods/designThis is a three-phase study. In phase 1, a systematic review of the literature on self-medication with herbal medicines among UK populations living with cancer will establish the current evidence base on use of herbal medicine, sources of information, characteristics and motivations. This will allow us to better understand what aspects need further investigation and inform the topic guide for a qualitative study (phase 2). Six focus groups of six to eight cancer patients who have used at least one herbal preparation since diagnosis will explore behaviour, beliefs, knowledge, information sources and needs in an informal conversational setting.Informed by the findings of the systematic review and qualitative study, in phase 3 we will construct and pilot a questionnaire for a future large-scale survey to quantify and prioritise people's beliefs, needs and information preferences.DiscussionDespite known interactions with conventional cancer treatments and contraindications for some herbal remedies with specific cancers, reliable information resources for patients are very limited. Identifying cancer patients' information needs and preferences is the first step in creating a suitable resource for both the public and the professionals advising them.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/13">
<title>Herbal therapy associated with antibiotic therapy: potentiation of the antibiotic activity against methicillin - resistant Staphylococcus aureus by Turnera ulmifolia L.</title>
<link>http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/13</link>
<description><![CDATA[Background:
Staphylococcus genus is widely spread in nature being part of the indigenous microbiota of skin and mucosa of animal and birds. Some Staphylococcus species are frequently recognized as etiological agents of many animal and human opportunistic infections This is the first report testing the antibiotic resistance-modifying activity of Turnera ulmifolia against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus – MRSA strain.
Methods:
In this study an ethanol extract of Turnera ulmifolia L. and chlorpromazine were tested for their antimicrobial activity alone or in combination with aminoglycosides against an MRSA strain.
Results:
The synergism of the ethanol extract and aminoglycosides were verified using microdillution method. A synergistic effect of this extract on gentamicin and kanamycin was demonstrated. Similarly, a potentiating effect of chlorpromazine on kanamycin, gentamicin and neomycin, indicating the involvement of an efflux system in the resistance to these aminoglycosides.
Conclusion:
It is therefore suggested that extracts from Turnera ulmifolia could be used as a source of plant-derived natural products with resistance-modifying activity, constituting a new weapon against the problem of bacterial resistance to antibiotics demonstrated in MRSA strains.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/12">
<title>A complementary method for detecting qi vacuity</title>
<link>http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/12</link>
<description><![CDATA[Background:
Qi vacuity (QV) is defined by traditional Chinese medicine as a loss of energy in the human body. An objective method for detecting QV was not available until recently, however. The automatic reflective diagnosis system (ARDK) is a device that detects human bioenergy through measuring skin conductance at 24 special acupoints on the wrists and ankles.
Methods:
This study used the ARDK to measure skin conductance on 193 patients with QV and 89 sex- and age-matched healthy controls to investigate whether the device is useful in detecting QV. Patients diagnosed with QV have three or more of five symptoms or signs; symptom severity is measured on 5 levels and scored from 0 to 4 points. We compared the difference in the mean ARDK values between patients with QV and healthy controls, and further used linear regression analysis to investigate the correlation between the mean ARDK values and QV scores in patients diagnosed with QV.
Results:
The mean ARDK values in patients with QV (30.2 ± 16.8 μA) are significantly lower than those of healthy controls (37.7 ± 10.8 μA; P < 0.001). A negative correlation was found between the mean ARDK values and QV scores (r coefficient = -0.61; P < 0.001). After adjusting for age, the decreased mean ARDK values in patients with QV showed a significant correlation with the QV scores.
Conclusion:
These results suggest that the mean ARDK values reflect the severity of QV in patients diagnosed with the disorder. They also suggest that the bioenergy level of the human body can be measured by skin conductance. ARDK is a safe and effective complementary method for detecting and diagnosing QV.]]></description>
</item>

<item rdf:about="http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/11">
<title>Development and evaluation of an instrument for the critical appraisal of randomized controlled trials of natural products.</title>
<link>http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/11</link>
<description><![CDATA[Background:
The efficacy of natural products (NPs) is being evaluated using randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with increasing frequency, yet a search of the literature did not identify a widely accepted critical appraisal instrument developed specifically for use with NPs. The purpose of this project was to develop and evaluate a critical appraisal instrument that is sufficiently rigorous to be used in evaluating RCTs of conventional medicines, and also has a section specific for use with single entity NPs, including herbs and natural sourced chemicals.
Methods:
Three phases of the project included: 1) using experts and a Delphi process to reach consensus on a list of items essential in describing the identity of an NP; 2) compiling a list of non-NP items important for evaluating the quality of an RCT using systematic review methodology to identify published instruments and then compiling item categories that were part of a validated instrument and/or had empirical evidence to support their inclusion and 3) conducting a field test to compare the new instrument to a published instrument for usefulness in evaluating the quality of 3 RCTs of a NP and in applying results to practice.
Results:
Two Delphi rounds resulted in a list of 15 items essential in describing NPs. Seventeen item categories fitting inclusion criteria were identified from published instruments for conventional medicines. The new assessment instrument was assembled based on content of the two lists and the addition of a Reviewer's Conclusion section. The field test of the new instrument showed good criterion validity. Participants found it useful in translating evidence from RCTs to practice.
Conclusion:
A new instrument for the critical appraisal of RCTs of NPs was developed and tested. The instrument is distinct from other available assessment instruments for RCTs of NPs in its systematic development and validation. The instrument is ready to be used by pharmacy students, health care practitioners and academics and will continue to be refined as required.]]></description>
</item>

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