In the constant evolution of mental health treatments, the resurgence of traditional Indigenous practices is capturing the attention of the scientific community. Central to this revival is the jurema preta plant, revered in Brazilian Indigenous rituals for centuries. What was once a ritualistic element, used to connect with spiritual realms, is transforming into a focal
Health
Polypharmacy, defined as the concurrent use of five or more medications, is an increasingly common phenomenon among older adults managing chronic conditions. While it is often a necessary approach to provide comprehensive care, polypharmacy can lead to adverse health outcomes, particularly in elderly patients. These adverse effects include cognitive decline, increased fall risk, and overall
Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions present a perplexing puzzle, primarily characterized by abnormal protein aggregates in the brain. At the heart of this disorder lies the tau protein, which typically helps stabilize microtubules within neurons. However, when tau undergoes misfolding, it can form toxic clumps, leading to the progressive degeneration of brain cells. Recent
Alka Kamble, a 55-year-old farmworker from Jambhali village in Maharashtra, India, represents a growing population facing dire health implications from environmental changes. Her struggle with cataracts, which progressed over five months without medical intervention, exposes the reality faced by many laborers: the inability to seek timely medical care due to time constraints and financial limitations.
It’s often said that the mouth is a mirror reflecting our overall health. This analogy has gained considerable traction in recent years, especially as new research reveals the profound connection between oral hygiene and cardiovascular well-being. The startling discovery that poor dental practices could be a catalyst for severe heart conditions is not just an
The human skin is often perceived as a mere barrier against the outside world, but emerging research reveals it as a thriving ecosystem teeming with microorganisms. Among these, a particular species of yeast, Malassezia sympodialis, seems to play a critical role in maintaining skin health and safeguarding against potentially fatal infections. In an age where
Boiled eggs are a breakfast staple, a snack on the go, and a crucial ingredient in many dishes. However, anyone who has tried to peel a freshly boiled egg knows the frustration of battling stubborn shells. It can be disheartening to see a beautifully cooked egg reduced to a mangled mess, with bits of white
Recent research suggests a groundbreaking approach toward restoring vision that has been lost due to retinal degeneration. Spearheaded by a South Korean team at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), this study delves into the intricate mechanisms of nerve cell regeneration in the retina, revealing that our eyes may possess latent abilities
The obesity epidemic is one of the most pressing health issues of our time, affecting over a billion individuals globally and significantly increasing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Amidst a landscape filled with various diets, new research sheds light on the potential of intermittent calorie restriction to prompt profound
Recent research has unveiled a disturbing reality about the very items meant to provide comfort and safety for our children: their mattresses. A study conducted by the University of Toronto found that mattresses may be releasing harmful chemicals linked to brain damage and developmental issues in children aged six months to four years. This startling
Measles, once considered a disease of the past in many developed nations, has crept back into conversations as childhood vaccination rates sharply decline. A recent modeling study published in JAMA has painted a grim picture, warning that we may be on the brink of a public health crisis if these trends continue. The data is
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Traditionally, diagnosing ADHD has been a cumbersome process, often reliant on subjective assessments, lengthy questionnaires, and behavioral observations. This inconsistency makes it challenging for clinicians to arrive at accurate diagnoses, resulting in delayed interventions for those who struggle with
Ashwagandha, a lesser-known herb that has seen a meteoric rise in popularity, especially among wellness circles, is capturing attention for its myriad benefits. This ancient plant, long revered in Ayurvedic medicine, finds itself adorned in the virtual spotlight, being endorsed by high-profile celebrities like Meghan Markle and Gwyneth Paltrow. As social media platforms echo with
While dogs have long held the title as the quintessential therapy animal, an intriguing alternative is gaining momentum within therapeutic settings: therapy cats. Traditionally seen as aloof and independent, cats are redefining their roles to become essential companions in a variety of environments, such as hospitals, schools, and care homes. The shift towards recognizing cats
Young-onset dementia (YOD), a variant affecting individuals under 65, is emerging as a crucial public health concern, with hundreds of thousands facing this debilitating condition annually. Typically overshadowed by dementia’s more widely recognized forms that affect older populations, YOD carries unique challenges. Those diagnosed often find themselves struggling to balance careers, familial obligations, and daily