People's Pharmacy

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Treating Narcolepsy Is Tricky

Posting Date: 10/10/2005

A. Turmeric comes from the underground stem of a plant related to ginger. It is a bright yellow color and is used for its distinctive flavor in curries. Research has found that it has anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity.

Because turmeric is used in food, it is considered quite safe. Nevertheless, we have heard from people who have developed skin rash or elevated liver enzymes. One person had an interaction with the blood thinner Coumadin (warfarin).

We are sending you our Guide to Alternatives for Arthritis with many other tips for home remedies and natural treatments for joint pain and inflammation. Anyone who would like a copy, please send $3 in check or money order with a long (no. 10) stamped (60 cents), self-addressed envelope: Graedons' People's Pharmacy, No. AA-2, P. O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.

Q. I know there can be benefits to drinking hot green tea. However, I like to brew and drink iced, decaffeinated green tea. Does it have the same health benefits?

A. Caffeine does not contribute to the benefits of green tea. Freshly made iced green tea should have all the benefits of hot tea.

A key component, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), is an antioxidant with anticancer properties. In a recent study, mice treated with ECGC had 50 percent less brain plaque associated with dementia. Green tea may also reduce the risk of atherosclerosis.

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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).

2005 King Features Syndicate, Inc.