An asthma benefit found in use of hot flash remedy

I have used Pycnogenol for almost two years for horrible hot flashes and night sweats. I started with 200 milligrams. It did stop the symptoms, but it felt like I was trying to restart an old engine. I dropped the dose to 150 mg and found that is a good dose for me. The flashes and sweats are minimal and tolerable.

An unexpected and welcome side effect is that my asthma is so much better. I was on Symbicort, maximum dosage, and could not wean myself off. I realized my asthma was better after using the Pycnogenol for a short while, and I tried to taper down again. This time I was successful, and I have never had to go back on the steroid since. I rarely have to use my rescue inhaler, either.

There is a randomized, controlled trial of Pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark extract) for symptoms of menopause. Many visitors to our website report symptom relief from this dietary supplement. We also discovered research supporting Pycnogenol as part of an asthma treatment program (Journal of Asthma, Issue No. 8, 2004). Perhaps its anti-inflammatory action helps explain the benefits you have noted for your asthma.

I was prescribed Nexium for heartburn, but it began to lose its effectiveness, and I worried about side effects. I found that yellow mustard worked faster and longer.

Nexium is a powerful and expensive way to treat routine heartburn. Many others have told us that yellow mustard can help ease heartburn. Other options include old-fashioned antacids such as baking soda or calcium carbonate, as well as home remedies such as a spoonful of vinegar or a few almonds after a meal.

Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist, and Teresa Graedon is an expert in medical anthropology and nutrition. https://www.peoplespharmacy.com