People's Pharmacy

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Listerine Works For Trucker's Bottom

Posting Date: 08/29/2005

Q. I read an article in your column about using Listerine for itchy scalp. It reminded me that forty-plus years ago when I was a glue chemist, we kept a crystal of thymol in our pH buffers to prevent the growth of organisms like fungi and bactera.

I tried sloshing Listerine on a paper towel and applying it to my scalp. It worked. I reasoned that since Listerine is okay in the mouth, it should be safe for regular skin. Listerine turns out to be wonderful for treating jock itch, smelly feet and the condition the British describe as "trucker's bottom."

A. We can only imagine what trucker?s bottom might be, but it certainly sounds unpleasant. Several of the herbal extracts in Listerine, including thymol, have antifungal properties and may be helpful against these fungal afflictions.

Q. After my last medical check up my doctor called to report that my cholesterol and triglycerides were slightly elevated. He suggested I start taking fish oil and niacin before considering a statin.

Niacin causes unbearable flushing. Some days it feels as if my entire body is on fire. What causes this and is it dangerous?

A. Niacin is very effective at lowering cholesterol, and fish oil can bring down triglycerides, so your doctor?s suggestion is sensible.

It is not entirely clear why high doses of the B vitamin niacin can trigger flushing, tingling and itching. This harmless side effect is temporary, but while it is happening it feels terrible.

Some people find that taking an aspirin half an hour before the niacin helps diminish this reaction. Others take niacin with food, which may also help.

Timed-release niacin is less likely to cause flushing, but such formulations may increase the risk of liver damage. That?s why anyone taking niacin to lower cholesterol must be under medical supervision.

We?re sending you our Guide to Cholesterol and Heart Health for more information on niacin, fish oil and other natural approaches. 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. C-8, P. O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.