Top 7 science-backed NATURAL ways to combat diseases and disorders that BIG PHARMA does NOT want you to know about or stock up on

 The now famous “drug” that was suppressed by mainstream medicine and Big Pharma during Covid-19 because it cured it, and because they wanted to push the deadly clot shots, is ivermectin. Ivermectin is a drug originally developed for animals that has become a life-changing solution for humans worldwide.

Ivermectin, discovered in Japan in the late 1970s, has made a huge impact on the lives of billions of people. Initially used as a veterinary drug to combat parasites in livestock, researchers soon realized its potential to treat two of the world's most debilitating diseases: river blindness and lymphatic filariasis. These tropical diseases have plagued the poor for centuries, causing blindness and severe swelling.

The drug's effectiveness against these diseases has been so impressive that it is now being used free-of-charge in global campaigns to eliminate them. But that's not all. Ivermectin has also shown promise in treating other human diseases, making it a true "wonder" drug.

This once-animal-only medication has now found its way into human health care, becoming a key tool in fighting diseases that disproportionately affect the world's poorest populations. Its journey from animal health to human health is a remarkable story of scientific discovery and humanitarian impact.

The drug's effectiveness and versatility have made it a game-changer in global health, offering hope and relief to millions. It's a prime example of how innovations in one field can lead to breakthroughs in another, ultimately improving lives worldwide.

In a world where new diseases continue to emerge, the story of ivermectin serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when science, compassion, and perseverance come together.

That brings us to the top 7 science-backed natural ways to combat diseases that mainstream medicine doesn’t want anyone knowing about or using

#1. Ivermectin – Wonder “Drug” from Japan – originated solely from a single microorganism from Japanese soil

#2. Oil of Oregano – Nature’s antibiotic and antiviral medicine

#3. Medicinal Mushrooms – top immunity-boosting fungi – including chaga, reishi, lion’s mane, cordyceps, and shiitake

#4. Turmeric – Ayurvedic medicine for battling pain and inflammation

#5. Magnesium – for calming mood and relieving stress

#6. Peppermint – for irritable bowels (IBS)

#7. Mucuna Pruriens – for fighting and overcoming depression and anxiety

The many health benefits of the King of medicinal mushrooms – Chaga

Chaga mushrooms, a fungus that grows on birch trees in cold climates, are gaining popularity in the Western world for their potential health benefits. Traditionally used in Siberia and other parts of Asia, these mushrooms are believed to boost the immune system, fight cancer, and even lower cholesterol.

Despite their unappealing appearance, which resembles burnt charcoal, chaga mushrooms are packed with antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. They can be consumed as a tea or taken as a supplement.

Studies have shown that chaga mushrooms may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help fight infections and reduce the risk of diseases linked to chronic inflammation, such as heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis.

Research also suggests that chaga mushrooms may have cancer-fighting properties. Animal studies have shown that chaga supplements can reduce tumor size and prevent the growth of cancer cells in various organs.

In addition, chaga mushrooms may help manage diabetes. Animal studies have found that chaga supplements can reduce blood sugar levels and improve insulin resistance.

While more research is needed to confirm these potential health benefits, chaga mushrooms appear to be a promising natural remedy for a range of conditions. However, always consult a healthcare professional before adding any new supplement to your diet.

Try the magic bean Mucuna pruriens to combat depression and anxiety, instead of risking your life with Big Pharma’s psychotropic nightmare drugs

Mucuna pruriens is a natural remedy that boosts dopamine levels in the brain better than any other food or superfood on planet Earth. Highly potent with L-dopa, the direct precursor to dopamine production in the human body, this boosts your feel-good neurotransmitters, reducing or even eliminating depression and anxiety.

A cutting-edge product called Next Level Gum contains Mucuna pruriens and is a handy way to have a natural remedy in your pocket or pocketbook for promoting a sense of well-being and happiness. Check out Next Level Gum, which is medically proven to reduce stress, anxiety and depression, at NextLevelGum.com.

Tune your internet dial to NaturalMedicine.news for more tips on how to use natural remedies for preventative medicine and for healing, instead of succumbing to Big Pharma products that cause, spread, and exacerbate disease and disorder.

A toast to heart health: How moderate wine consumption could support a healthy heart

 For centuries, wine has been celebrated not just for its rich flavors and cultural significance, but also for its potential health benefits. Now, emerging research suggests that enjoying a glass of wine in moderation – particularly as part of a balanced diet – could play a meaningful role in supporting heart health.

A groundbreaking study published in the European Heart Journal has shed new light on the protective effects of wine, revealing that moderate consumption could reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 50 percent.

But before you uncork that bottle, it’s important to understand the nuances of these findings and how they fit into a broader picture of heart-healthy living.

Science behind wine and heart health

The study, led by Professor Ramon Estruch from the University of Barcelona, took a unique approach to measuring wine consumption. Instead of relying solely on self-reported data, researchers analyzed urine samples for tartaric acid, a biomarker that provides a more accurate measure of wine intake.

Over four to five years, they tracked 1,232 older adults at high risk of cardiovascular disease, all of whom lived in a Mediterranean country.

The results were striking: Participants who drank between 12 and 35 glasses of wine per month – roughly one glass per day – had a 50 percent lower risk of heart disease compared to those who drank one glass or less. Even those who consumed between three and 12 glasses per month saw a 38 percent reduction in risk.

These benefits were comparable to or even exceeded, the effects of statins, a commonly prescribed medication for lowering cholesterol.

However, the study also highlighted a crucial caveat – moderation is key. Drinking more than 35 glasses per month diminished the heart-protective effects. This underscores the importance of balance when it comes to alcohol consumption.

Role of antioxidants

So, what makes wine, particularly red wine, so beneficial for the heart? The answer lies in its rich concentration of antioxidants, particularly polyphenols like resveratrol.

These compounds help neutralize free radicals – unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to chronic diseases, including heart disease. Resveratrol, in particular, has been shown to reduce inflammation, improve blood vessel function, and lower levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol or "bad" cholesterol.

But wine isn’t the only source of these powerful antioxidants. Foods like peaches, sweet potatoes, tangerines and walnuts also contain polyphenols, making them excellent additions to a heart-healthy diet.

For those who don’t drink alcohol, there's no need to start solely for the sake of resveratrol.

Wine and the Mediterranean diet

One of the most intriguing aspects of the study is its focus on the Mediterranean diet, a dietary pattern rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and olive oil, with moderate amounts of fish, poultry and dairy.

This diet has long been associated with reduced risks of heart disease, and the study suggests that wine may amplify its benefits.

Professor Paul Leeson, a cardiologist and professor of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Oxford, noted that the heart-protective effects of wine may only be significant when consumed as part of this dietary pattern. Leeson suggested that the health advantages of a glass of wine could only be seen "when being drunk alongside a plate of Mediterranean food."

This also highlights an important point: Like other superfoods, wine isn’t a magic elixir. Its benefits are most likely to be realized when enjoyed as part of a broader lifestyle that prioritizes nutrient-rich foods, regular physical activity and other heart-healthy habits.  

Practical tips for enjoying wine responsibly

If you’re considering incorporating wine into your routine for its potential heart benefits, here are a few key guidelines to keep in mind:

Moderation is essential

The study defined moderate consumption as 12 to 35 glasses per month or roughly one glass of wine per day. For women, experts recommend limiting intake to half that of men due to differences in metabolism.

Pair it with meals

Drinking wine with food, particularly meals rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats, may enhance its benefits.

Know your limits

If you don’t currently drink alcohol, there’s no need to start. The potential benefits of wine can be achieved through other dietary and lifestyle choices.

Choose quality over quantity

Opt for high-quality wines, particularly red varieties, which tend to have higher concentrations of polyphenols.

Consult your doctor

If you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or other health conditions, it's important to discuss alcohol consumption with your healthcare provider.

The latest research adds to a growing body of evidence that moderate wine consumption, particularly as part of a Mediterranean diet, could be a valuable tool in supporting heart health.

However, it’s important to remember that wine is just one piece of the puzzle. A balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management and avoiding smoking are all critical components of a heart-healthy lifestyle.

The next time you drink a glass of wine, you can do so with the knowledge that, when enjoyed responsibly, it might just be doing your heart a favor.

Newsom orders crackdown on processed foods as obesity epidemic grows

 California Governor Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order targeting ultra-processed foods, a growing contributor to America’s obesity epidemic and chronic health conditions. The order, signed on January 3, directs state agencies to investigate the health risks associated with these foods and recommend actions to limit their harm. While Newsom’s policies often leave much to be desired, this initiative is a step in the right direction for public health.

The executive order tasks the California Department of Public Health with providing recommendations by April 2025 on how to address the dangers of ultra-processed foods, which are defined as industrial formulations containing chemically modified substances and additives. These foods, including packaged snacks, sugary beverages, and processed meats, are linked to increased risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. The order also explores the possibility of warning labels on certain products and initiatives to reduce the purchase of sodas, candies, and other unhealthy items.

A growing health crisis

The urgency of this issue cannot be overstated. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 73% of American adults are overweight or obese, and 38% of children aged 12 to 19 are prediabetic. These staggering statistics highlight the devastating impact of poor nutrition on public health. Ultra-processed foods, laden with synthetic dyes, preservatives, and artificial flavors, are a major culprit. They are designed to be addictive, cheap, and convenient, but their long-term consequences are dire.

Newsom’s order also calls for improving access to fresh, healthy foods through programs like Medi-Cal and California’s universal school meals initiative. By connecting farms to schools and banning harmful additives like synthetic dyes, the state is taking meaningful steps to protect its citizens, especially children, from the dangers of processed foods.

A rare win for Newsom

While Newsom’s track record is far from perfect, this executive order is a rare exception. It builds on previous efforts, such as banning synthetic dyes in school foods and restricting sugary beverages in schools. These measures, though incremental, are critical in addressing the root causes of America’s obesity epidemic.

However, the real test will be whether these recommendations translate into actionable policies. Warning labels and restrictions on harmful additives are a good start, but more comprehensive reforms are needed to truly transform the food industry. This is where the federal government must step in.

Hope for federal action under Trump and RFK Jr.

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office, there is hope that his administration will prioritize public health in a meaningful way. Trump’s pick for Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has long been a vocal critic of processed foods. Kennedy’s “Make American Healthy Again” platform includes plans to eliminate harmful chemicals from food, water, and air, and to ensure that all Americans have access to clean, safe, and nutritious food.

If confirmed, Kennedy could push the FDA to regulate the food industry more rigorously, banning harmful additives and promoting whole, unprocessed foods. Such reforms would complement Newsom’s efforts and create a healthier future for all Americans.

Newsom’s executive order is a small but significant step in the fight against processed foods and the obesity epidemic. It acknowledges the role of government in protecting public health and sets a precedent for other states to follow. However, true progress will require bipartisan cooperation and a commitment to putting people over profits.

As we look ahead, let’s hope that leaders like RFK Jr. and Trump build on this momentum to make America healthier. After all, the food we eat shouldn’t make us sick—it should nourish us and help us thrive.

What's The Difference Between Regular Honey And Raw?

 If you decided to stir some honey into your tea this morning, you likely went into your cabinet and searched for the baby bear-shaped jar filled with sweet golden purified liquid. But if you want something that is a little closer to the honey first introduced into our diets 8,000 years ago, you may want to reach for raw honey. Raw honey, which is sometimes cloudy, often crystalized, and perhaps jarred with a piece or two of honeycomb, may be a little less golden -- but it's certainly just as sweet. 

The honey you're most likely to find on store shelves is conventional honey, which is pasteurized, heated, and filtered before it's packaged. Raw honey, which is more commonly found at farmers' markets and natural food stores, is the same honey you see dripping from honeycombs when they're pulled from the hives. Unlike conventional honey, most of it goes straight from the hive to the jar without pasteurization, heat, or filtration.

Before conventional honey is packaged, it goes through an intense heating process that ensures a consistent color and texture and enhances shelf life. It also creates a smoother honey by removing any crystallization. Although you may find some crystallization in raw honey, it doesn't affect its flavor or quality. 

Honey is considered to be nutritious and to have several health benefits. It is unknown, however, whether or not the nutrients found in regular honey are destroyed under the intense heat used in pasteurization. Since raw honey does not go through that process, it is thought to retain important antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and enzymes. (That being said, it's not concretely been proven one way or the other.)

In addition, raw honey often contains pollen, beeswax and other material that might be considered undesirable and are filtered out in conventional honey. These are also thought to have health benefits. Many of honey's benefits -- including wound healing, cough suppression, heart health and gut health -- are attributed to bee pollen. It's made up of grains of pollen picked up by the bees while pollinating flowers. In the hive, it is mixed with nectar and honey and gland secretions from the bees. Although its specific make-up and benefits are dependent on the type of flowers they pollinate, studies show bee pollen has high levels of proteins, dietary fiber, fats, carbohydrates and minerals.

Another substance found in raw honey is called propolis. Also known as bee glue, propolis is made from a combination of beeswax and saliva and is used in the construction and protection of the hives. Studies have shownthat propolis also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may be beneficial for heart health.

You can use raw honey the same way that you would use regular honey -- it is just as delicious eaten straight from the jar, spread over toast or mixed into yogurt. However, if you are considering purchasing raw honey for its health benefits alone, you should avoid using it in cooking and baking, since the heat may destroy some of the beneficial nutrients. 

When choosing between raw and regular honey, you should also consider differences in color and texture. If you're not worried about the loss of nutrients, go ahead and use it in baking. You'll want to first make sure it hasn't crystallized or you may get lumps or clusters of sweetness in your finished product. You can also decrystallize honey yourself. If you're having guests and want to serve honey as a condiment or drizzle it over a dish or some cheese, you may want the silky smooth, golden consistency of regular honey. Either way, you can't go wrong with nature's taste of sweetness.

9 Signs You're Lacking Magnesium in Your Diet

Magnesium is one of the most abundant minerals in the body. It is crucial in hundreds of biochemical reactions and is essential to protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and energy production.

Since your body cannot produce magnesium, it's essential to meet your needs through dietary intake. Falling short puts you at risk of hypomagnesemia or clinically low magnesium levels, which can have adverse effects on your health. 

Interestingly, research shows that only about 0.3% of the body's total magnesium is found in serum, which means that lab values may not always reflect your total magnesium levels. Therefore, it's essential to understand the symptoms associated with magnesium deficiency.

1. You're Feeling Irritable

Irritability and anger are relatively standard emotional responses, often triggered by stress and fatigue. Low magnesium levels may also heighten these emotions.

Without enough magnesium in your system, the brain may be unable to regulate essential neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine. These neurotransmitters are chemicals that influence mood and, when impaired, may heighten emotional sensitivity, leading to increased irritability.

A magnesium deficiency may make it difficult to cope with day-to-day challenges and manage mood stability. More research is needed to understand the mineral's effect on mood, especially as it relates to irritability with depression. Several other factors can contribute to mood changes.

2. You're Nauseous

Magnesium is involved in smooth muscle contraction, so it's essential for gut motility. Poor gut motility can affect digestion and nutrient absorption. Low magnesium levels have been associated with gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting.

Magnesium relaxes the skeletal muscles, and a deficiency can cause severe digestive discomfort. Those who experience nausea and vomiting may also experience bloating and constipation.

Several factors can contribute to nausea, so it's essential to seek care if symptoms persist.

3. You Have a Decreased Appetite

Loss of appetite is an early sign of low magnesium levels. Magnesium is essential for normal nerve and muscle function, including those used for digestion. More research is needed to understand magnesium's role in hunger, but decreased appetite may stem from slower digestion. 

Low magnesium levels have also been linked to higher levels of leptin, a hormone that regulates body weight by controlling appetite. Magnesium deficiency may disrupt these hunger hormones, reducing the inclination to eat.

Low magnesium may also contribute to issues like nausea, bloating, and indigestion, which may further suppress appetite.

4. You Feel Tired

Fatigue is a state of exhaustion characterized by a constant lack of energy and overwhelming tiredness. It can affect you physically and mentally. Factors like stress, poor sleep, and certain medications can contribute to it. Low magnesium levels may also be to blame.

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the body's primary energy source, and magnesium is essential for ATP's production. ATP binds with magnesium to create its functional form, which can deliver energy within the cells. Insufficient magnesium makes it challenging for the body to recharge and recover. 

5. You're Experiencing Numbness in Your Extremities

Magnesium is a key player in nerve function, and low levels may disrupt normal nerve signaling. Research has linked magnesium deficiency with numbness or tingling, especially in your extremities, and peripheral nerve injuries caused by inflammation.

Magnesium helps regulate calcium levels in nerve cells, which is essential for regular nerve transmission. Without enough magnesium, your body cannot regulate its calcium levels, potentially resulting in peripheral nerve degeneration. This peripheral neuropathy is often marked by numbness, pain, or a burning sensation.

6. You're Having Headaches

Headaches are pain or discomfort in the head, neck, or scalp. They can vary in intensity, from a dull ache to a sharp, throbbing pain. Headaches are often accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, dizziness, and sensitivity to light, which can worsen their effects.

Tension headaches are the most common, and migraines usually cause the most debilitating symptoms. Low magnesium levels may contribute to all headaches by affecting neurotransmitter function and blood flow. Magnesium plays a key role in dilating intracranial blood vessels, so low levels can negatively affect blood flow to the area.

7. Your Sleep Is Suffering

Adequate sleep is one of the primary components of healthy living. While individual needs vary, research shows that most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Some studies have shown that magnesium intake is associated with better sleep quality and duration.

Magnesium is essential for regulating neurotransmitters that promote relaxation and maintain healthy levels of melatonin, the hormone responsible for the sleep-wake cycle. Magnesium also helps reduce or manage stress, a well-known antagonist to sleep quality.

8. You're Experiencing Muscle Cramps

Magnesium is crucial for muscle function and nerve transmission. A deficiency can lead to unexpected muscle cramps or twitching.

Muscle cramps are painful, involuntary contractions of a muscle. They typically have a sudden onset and can last from a few seconds to several minutes. They often affect the legs and feet but can impact any muscle group, often causing soreness after the episode.

Magnesium deficiency is commonly linked to nocturnal leg cramps or painful muscle spasms during sleep. It helps regulate calcium and potassium levels in muscle tissue, which are critical for muscle contraction and relaxation. Low magnesium impacts calcium levels, making muscles more prone to involuntary spasms.

Magnesium is also involved in energy production. Low magnesium levels can disrupt the energy production necessary for muscle relaxation, causing muscle fibers to remain contracted. Research about magnesium supplementation and muscle cramping is mixed, as many factors contribute to muscle health.

9. You're Having Heart Palpitations

Magnesium plays a critical role in cardiovascular health. Hypomagnesemia can disrupt the heart's electrical activity, potentially leading to heart palpitations or arrhythmias.

Magnesium is essential for regulating the heart muscle and maintaining the balance of electrolytes that control its rhythm. Low magnesium may cause palpitations, which feel like a fluttering, racing, or pounding sensation in the chest cavity.

Heart palpitations may also happen alongside shortness of breath, anxiety, and dizziness. Severe cases of magnesium deficiency can trigger serious arrhythmias, requiring extensive cardiac care.

Who Is at Risk for Low Magnesium?

Certain groups have an increased risk of developing a magnesium deficiency due to biological, environmental, and social influences. Those at risk for low magnesium include:

• Older adults: Older adults tend to absorb less magnesium from the gut while losing more through renal excretion. An estrogen deficiency may also contribute to low magnesium levels in aging people.
• People with gastrointestinal diseases: Those with gastrointestinal diseases, such as Crohn's disease, celiac disease, and inflammatory bowel diseases, may be unable to absorb magnesium effectively.
• People with type 2 diabetes: High glucose levels can increase urine output, increasing the risk of magnesium loss through excretion.
• People with alcohol dependence: Those affected by long-term alcoholism may experience difficulty absorbing magnesium in the intestines.
• People taking certain medications: Some medications, such as diuretics, proton pump inhibitors, and immunosuppressants, can affect magnesium levels.

How To Get More Magnesium in Your Diet

Dietary intake is an efficient way to increase your magnesium levels. Focus on magnesium-rich foods like leafy green vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Chia and pumpkin seeds are especially rich in magnesium. Spinach and salmon are also popular magnesium-rich foods.

Incorporating these foods into a well-balanced diet can help boost magnesium levels naturally. If you cannot meet your nutrient needs through whole foods, magnesium supplements can help bridge the gap.

Magnesium supplements, like magnesium citrate and magnesium oxide, are available. Some forms are absorbed more readily, so it's essential to consult your healthcare provider before starting a new magnesium supplement.

A Quick Review

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in hundreds of bodily processes. Signs of low magnesium levels include nausea and vomiting, fatigue, headaches, muscle cramps, decreased appetite, poor sleep, and heart palpitations.

The body cannot produce magnesium, highlighting the importance of meeting your needs through dietary intake. A doctor or registered dietitian can help you determine your individual magnesium needs.

Sources of magnesium include whole grains, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Magnesium supplements can also help correct nutrient deficiencies.

8 common conditions that are now being treated with medical cannabis

 Hope is on the horizon for people who want to use marijuana to treat medical conditions.

Cannabis is currently illegal under federal law as a Schedule I drug. But in January, federal researchers recommended moving it to a Schedule III drug, which includes drugs like ketamine and testosterone that are available by prescription.

Americans most closely associate medical marijuana with treating severe symptoms of cancer and AIDS. Indeed, the Food and Drug Administration has approved a handful of cannabis-derived drugs to treat these and a few other specific diseases. However, people living with many different medical conditions could potentially benefit from the reclassification and broader legal acceptance of cannabis.

Stacker identified eight medical conditions where cannabis may be beneficial, either by lessening symptoms or treating the underlying medical problem. Despite federal policy, the drug is already legal for medical use in 38 states, including Washington D.C., and is legal for recreational use in 25 states. Additionally, the medicinal use of cannabidiol, or CBD, often formulated as oil—which is made from cannabis plants but has low levels of their primary psychoactive element, THC—is allowed in six more states. Regulations vary widely between states—some are very restrictive, while in others, new laws have yet to be implemented, meaning cannabis is effectively illegal.

As legal recreational marijuana use has increased and stigma has decreased, the plant-derived drug has emerged as a potential treatment option for myriad conditions. Cannabis takes many different forms, which in turn can affect each person differently.

Common reactions to marijuana include a sense of relaxation and euphoria, and increased appetite. For the uninitiated, not all marijuana is created equal; various potencies and terpene makeups (the chemical compounds in cannabis that cause different effects like relaxation or heightened awareness) have a profound effect on the experience.

Anyone hoping to test cannabis to treat a medical condition should become familiar with their state's laws first and speak with a doctor about treating the condition through more conventional methods. Under current federal law, doctors can't prescribe marijuana, but instead can provide referrals for its use to those with qualifying conditions.

Even in states where cannabis is legal, obtaining a referral or license for medical marijuana can be challenging and may be impossible for many of the lesser-researched medical conditions. What's more, federal restrictions have limited researchinto using cannabis to treat various conditions.

However, there are options for adults 21 and over in states where recreational marijuana use is legal, who can visit a verified dispensary to test the benefits of marijuana for their medical conditions. Research and cautious trial-and-error with cannabis products, including edibles, topicals, joints, and oils, can help those seeking relief find the proper dosage and method to manage symptoms.

Cannabis can have adverse effects that prospective users should be aware of: The drug can cause difficulty thinking and slow reaction times, impair memory, and, in high doses, can cause hallucinations and delusions. It also elevates users' heart rate, and when smoked, marijuana irritates users' lungs and can cause breathing problems. Use of cannabis while pregnant can negatively affect the fetus' development.

Though there's evidence that cannabis has been used for millennia to treat various ailments, modern research is only just beginning to provide scientific proof of its medicinal value. Although a more holistic understanding of its medical impact is still emerging, cannabis has proven beneficial for a variety of physical and mental health issues that have inflammation, anxiety, or stress as an underlying cause or major symptom.

Either anecdotally or through case studies and scientific research, people with these conditions have reported some therapeutic benefits of cannabis.

Seizures 

Seizures are sudden and uncontrolled electrical bursts within the brain, which notably cause falls, uncontrolled flailing and stiffening, loss of consciousness, difficulty breathing, staring or rapid blinking, and lack of control of other bodily functions.

CBD, in particular, has shown promise to help control seizures, reducing their frequency and severity. CBD is beneficial for conditions that are resistant to other treatments. In 2018, the Food and Drug Administration approved a CBD medication to treat seizures associated with a severe form of epilepsy.

Eating disorders 

Eating disorders, especially anorexia, can cause dangerously low levels of body fat, which impede many mental and physical functions. Studies on using cannabis as a treatment for eating disorders are limited, but some have shown that cannabis helped those with anorexia regain healthy weight and eased other symptoms of the disorder, such as stress.

Keep in mind that eating disorders and substance use disorders often occur in tandem, so those using marijuana for treatment should be cautious about using the drug.

Psoriasis and eczema

Psoriasis and eczema are similar skin conditions, both causing itchy, inflamed, and painful dry patches on the person's skin that can crack and bleed. Cannabis can help target the underlying inflammation and symptoms of these incurable conditions.

Recent research shows that cannabis can calm inflammation and may even slow the overactive skin cell growth that causes dry patches. Cannabis and CBD products can also relieve pain, reduce itching, heal wounds, and manage stress (which often worsens these conditions).

Arthritis 

Arthritis is another inflammatory disease that primarily attacks joints in the hands, hips, and knees. Marijuana can relieve the inflammation and pain associated with arthritis.

People who have tested CBD to treat their arthritis have also reported improved sleep and reduced anxiety. Some studies have shown cannabis could even slow or stop the progression of the disease, but more research must occur to confirm those early theories.

Muscle spasticity 

Several medical conditions are primarily associated with muscle spasticity, or abnormal muscle tightness that prevents normal movement and causes involuntary muscle spasms and pain. These include multiple sclerosis and muscular dystrophy.

The THC in marijuana can relax muscles and temper spasms. Cannabis can also relieve pain, reduce muscle and nerve inflammation, and improve sleep.

Alzheimer's disease 

Alzheimer's—and dementia more broadly—affects millions of Americans each year, deteriorating parts of their brains associated with memory, reasoning, and other mental functions. Research is limited on the use of marijuana to treat these diseases.

Some studies have shown that high concentrations of CBD oil can relieve agitation and anxiety among Alzheimer's patients, significant behavioral symptoms associated with the disease.

Crohn's disease  

Crohn's is characterized by digestive tract inflammation, which causes abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, reduced appetite, and weight loss.

As an anti-inflammatory, cannabis can reduce these symptoms. Some Crohn's patients report that cannabis has improved their quality of life by helping them manage pain, boost their appetites, and promote better sleep.

Health Benefits of Potato Starch

Potato starch is made from a carbohydrate extracted from potatoes called starch. Potato starch is used in commercial food production and home cooking and can also be taken as a dietary supplement. 

Consuming potato starch may offer a few health benefits, such as improving digestive health and supporting better blood sugar management. 

May Improve Digestive Health 

Resistant starch naturally exists in certain foods, such as raw potatoes, legumes, and grains. Raw potato starch contains large amounts of resistant starch—around 60%, according to some research.

Resistant starch resists digestion in the small intestine, passing through to the large intestine, where it's fermented (broken down) by bacteria. This process releases beneficial compounds called short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). 

SCFAs strengthen the gut lining, support mucus production, and regulate intestinal inflammation. SCFAs also affect immune function, appetite, and many other essential processes in the body.

Ingesting potato starch may improve gut health by increasing SCFA production. Some research suggests that potato starch may be more effective for increasing SCFA production than other types of carbohydrates, including the soluble fiber inulin. 

One study found that daily supplementation with 28-34 grams of resistant starch from potatoes was the most effective in increasing fecal SCFA concentrations, compared to resistant starch from corn and inulin derived from chicory root.

Research also suggests that increasing your intake of potatoes can improve gut health. A study found that eating a serving of cold potato salad daily (containing 2.0–2.9 grams of resistant starch) increased the abundance of butyrate-producing gut bacteria, compared to an equal caloric intake of couscous (low in resistant starch).

While fecal concentrations of SCFAs remained unchanged in the study participants, these results suggest that eating resistant starch-rich foods may increase levels of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Raw potato starch and potato starch supplements are much higher in resistant starch than cooked potatoes. However, cooking and then chilling potatoes increases levels of resistant starch, making cooked, cooled potatoes a good choice for gut health. 

Some research also suggests that potato starch supplements may improve diarrhea and constipation symptoms and increase levels of beneficial probiotic bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium, in healthy adults. More research is needed to confirm these potential benefits.

May Reduce Blood Sugar Levels

Potato starch may reduce blood sugar levels and improve the response of insulin, a hormone that transports glucose (sugar) into cells to use for energy.

Resistant starch can help slow the rise in post-meal blood sugar and enhance insulin response and sensitivity. This can benefit people with high blood sugar levels, like those with type 2 diabetes or at risk for developing diabetes.

A study of women at risk for developing type 2 diabetes found that when participants consumed 250 grams of baked then chilled potatoes, their post-meal blood sugar and insulin levels were significantly reduced compared to consuming the same serving of boiled potatoes—which are low in resistant starch. 

Another study found that supplementation with a nutrition bar containing either 21 or 30 grams of VERSAFIBE, a resistant starch derived from potatoes, reduced post-meal blood sugar and insulin levels compared to a control treatment.

Though these results are promising, more research is needed to fully understand how eating potato starch can benefit the health of people with high blood sugar. 

May Support Weight Management

Resistant starch could support weight loss and body weight maintenance through several mechanisms. Resistant starch might help increase feelings of fullness after meals and improve insulin resistance.

While older human studies and some animal studies have shown that potato starch may be effective for reducing appetite and supporting weight loss, research is conflicting. 

A review of 22 studies, including some using potato starch, showed inconclusive evidence that resistant starch treatments had any significant effects on appetite, hunger levels, food intake, or satiety hormones in adults who had prediabetes, were overweight, or did not have health conditions.

More research is needed to determine whether eating potato starch may improve feelings of fullness and support weight loss. 

Nutrition of Potato Starch

Potato starch is entirely composed of carbohydrates and is a poor source of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fats.

A 1-tablespoon (12-gram) serving of potato starch contains:

• Calories: 40
• Fat: 0 grams (g)
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 0 g 

Potato starch contains trace amounts of minerals, such as calcium and potassium. It is not a good source of any nutrients besides carbohydrates, so it shouldn't make up a large portion of your calorie intake.

Potato starch isn't consumed for its nutritional value. It's used in small amounts in cooking and food production to thicken foods like gravies and soups. It's also taken as a dietary supplement to improve certain aspects of health, such as gut health. 

Risks of Potato Starch

Potato starch is safe and isn't associated with significant side effects when consumed in small amounts. Potato starch could trigger digestive symptoms such as gas, bloating, and abdominal pain in larger portions.

This is due to the fermentation of the starch in the large intestine, which releases gas. Digestive side effects are more likely if you rapidly increase your intake of resistant starches over a short period.

To avoid side effects, you should slowly introduce foods and supplements high in resistant starch into your diet to give your body time to adapt. 

Foods and supplements high in resistant starch may worsen symptoms of some digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). If you have a digestive condition, it's best to check with your healthcare provider before adding potato starch to your diet.

Tips for Consuming Potato Starch

Potato starch is often used by home cooks and in commercial food production as a thickener. Potato starch granules swell and rupture when they come into contact with water, making it an effective thickening agent.

Potato starch is a versatile ingredient that can improve the texture and consistency of foods like:

• Soups
• Stews
• Gravies
• Bread
• Casseroles
• Cookies
• Puddings

Potato starch is commonly dissolved in cold water before being added to sauces and gravies as a thickener. This is known as a slurry.

Potato starch can also improve the texture of baked goods like breads and cookies. It's naturally gluten-free, so it's safe for people with celiac disease and gluten intolerance.

Potato starch is available as a dietary supplement in powdered and capsule form. It's often combined with other ingredients, like fiber, in products meant to boost gut and metabolic health. 

If you're interested in using potato starch as a supplement, it's best to check with your healthcare provider first. Though potato starch is relatively safe, it's not appropriate for everyone.

A Quick Review

Potato starch is a potato-derived starch product that is high in a carbohydrate called resistant starch.

Due to its high concentration of resistant starch, potato starch could improve certain aspects of gut health and may support blood sugar regulation and weight management.

Potato starch is a versatile kitchen ingredient and can also be a dietary supplement. If you're interested in using potato starch as a supplement, check with your healthcare provider first to ensure it's the right choice for your health needs.