People's Pharmacy

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Shellfish Allergy Leads to Hospitalization

Posting Date: 03/28/2005

A. Seborrheic dermatitis and bad dandruff are caused by microscopic yeast (fungus) called Malassezia. Anti-fungal dandruff shampoos (Nizoral, Head and Shoulders, Selsun Blue) work for some people, especially if they are rotated every couple of weeks.

Alternative approaches involve soaking the scalp in Listerine or diluted apple cider vinegar. Leave either on the scalp for five to ten minutes and then rinse off. For more information on dandruff treatment we are sending you our Guide to Hair Care. Anyone who would like a copy, please send $2 in check or money order with a long (no. 10) stamped (60 cents), self-addressed envelope: Graedons' People's Pharmacy, No. H-31, P. O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.

Q. I have had heart bypass surgery and am on Coumadin to thin my blood. I get it tested every month.

I have heard people talk about fish oil as a substitute for Coumadin. Could I take it instead of or along with my anticoagulant?

A. Do not try this. Fish oil cannot substitute for Coumadin. The two together might lead to dangerous bleeding.

Q. I have a student with irritable bowel syndrome. Nothing--even removing her gallbladder--gave her relief. She was thinking of dropping out of school.

I told her what I read in your column about coconut and it worked. Her digestion is normal again. Amazing!

A. Some people report that two Archway Coconut Macaroon cookies daily control chronic diarrhea.

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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).