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Can Fatty Acids Cure Cocker Spaniel's Itch?

Posting Date: 05/05/2003

Q. I have recently been diagnosed with macular degeneration. My husband read that the herb bilberry is good for the eyes. I worry, though, that it might interact with one of my medicines: Pacerone, Coumadin and Premarin. Would it be safe for me to try bilberry?

A. The idea that bilberry fruit can benefit the eyes is based primarily on folklore, but research in the Journal of Biological Chemistry (March 19, 2003) suggests a possible mechanism by which bilberry extract might protect the retina from the damage of macular degeneration.

Bilberry is not known to interact with medications. Coumadin, however, interacts with many herbs. Ask your doctor to monitor your prothrombin time (a measure of bleeding) more closely if you decide to try this herb in addition to appropriate medical care.

Q. My husband eats lemons on a regular basis. He consumes several each day, eating them as one would eat oranges. I am wondering what all that acid is doing to his system. Should I mention this to his doctor?

A. We are not as concerned about his ?system? as about his teeth. A dentist related the following story: ?Forty years ago, cheer leaders soothed their abused vocal cords by sucking on lemons. The teeth, especially the front teeth, were often severely damaged. I treated a couple of such cases.?

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In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of this newspaper or e-mail them via their Web site: www.PeoplesPharmacy.org. Their newest book is The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies (St. Martin's Press).