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DESCRIPTION
Anemia is defined as an inadequate level of hemoglobin during pregnancy. Hemoglobin is the protein inside red blood cells that carries oxygen to body tissues. Common anemias in pregnancy include iron deficiency anemia (75 to 85 percent of cases) and folic acid deficiency. In addition, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, thalassemia and sickle cell anemia have genetic implications and should receive special evaluation.
There are several types of anemias that may occur in pregnancy. These include:
- ANEMIA OF PREGNANCY: In pregnancy, a woman's blood volume increases by as much as 50 percent. This causes the concentration of red blood cells in her body to become diluted. This is sometimes called anemia of pregnancy and is not considered abnormal unless the levels fall too low.
- IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA: During pregnancy, the fetus uses the mother's red blood cells for growth and development, especially in the last three months of pregnancy. If a mother has excess red blood cells stored in her bone marrow before she becomes pregnant, she can use those stores during pregnancy to help meet her baby's needs. Women who do not have adequate iron stores can develop iron deficiency anemia. This is the most common type of anemia in pregnancy. It is the lack of iron in the blood, which is necessary to make hemoglobin - the part of blood that distributes oxygen from the lungs to tissues in the body. Good nutrition before becoming pregnant is important to help build up these stores and prevent iron deficiency anemia.
- VITAMIN B-12 DEFICIENCY: Vitamin B-12 is important in forming red blood cells and in protein synthesis. Women who are vegans (who eat no animal products) are most likely to develop vitamin B-12 deficiency. Including animal foods in the diet such as milk, meats, eggs, and poultry can prevent vitamin B-12 deficiency. Strict vegans usually need supplemental vitamin B-12 by injection during pregnancy.
- BLOOD LOSS: Blood loss at delivery and postpartum (after delivery) can also cause anemia. The average blood loss with a vaginal birth is about 500 milliliters, and about 1,000 milliliters with a cesarean delivery. Adequate iron stores can help a woman replace lost red blood cells.
- FOLATE DEFICIENCY: Folate, also called folic acid, is a B-vitamin that works with iron to help with cell growth. Folate deficiency in pregnancy is often associated with iron deficiency since both folic acid and iron are found in the same types of foods. Research shows that folic acid may help reduce the risk of having a baby with certain birth defects of the brain and spinal cord (neural tube defects) if taken before conception and in early pregnancy.
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
These are symptoms of many forms of anemia:
Sometimes no symptoms are apparent or may vary from woman to woman.
Breathlessness. Labored breathing, particularly with exercise.
Tiredness, weakness, dizziness and/or fainting. These occur because organs are not getting enough oxygen from your red blood cells.
Paleness. Pale skin, lips, nails, palms, or underside of eyelids.
Leg cramps.
Insomnia.
Infrequent Symptoms:
Palpations or an abnormal awareness of the heartbeat. Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia).
Jaundiced (yellowish) skin.
Inflamed, sore tongue.
Nausea. Abdominal pain.
Headache. Forgetfulness, difficulty in concentrating.
Jaundice.
These are symptoms of specific forms of anemia:
Anemia caused by iron deficiency:
- Hunger for strange substances such as paper, ice, or dirt (a condition called pica).
- Upward curvature of the nails referred to as koilonychias.
- Soreness of the mouth with cracks at the corners.
MoonDragon's ObGyn Health: Iron Deficiency Anemia
Anemia caused by vitamin B-12 deficiency:
- A tingling, "pins and needles" sensation in the hands or feet.
- Loss of sense of touch.
- A wobbly gait and difficulty walking.
- Clumsiness and stiffness of the arms and legs.
- Dementia.
- Hallucinations, paranoia and schizophrenia.
Anemia caused by chronic lead poisoning:
- A blue-black line on the gums referred to as a lead line.
- Abdominal pain.
- Constipation.
- Vomiting.
Sickle cell anemia:
- Fatigue.
- Susceptibility to infection.
- Delayed growth and development in children.
- Episodes of severe pain, especially in the joints, abdomen and limbs.
Anemia caused by chronic red blood cell destruction:
- Jaundice (yellow skin and eyes).
- Brown or red urine.
- Leg ulcers.
- Failure to thrive in infancy.
- Symptoms of gallstones.
Anemia caused by sudden red blood cell destruction:
- Abdominal pain.
- Brown or red urine.
- Jaundice (yellow skin).
- Small bruises under the skin.
- Seizures.
- Symptoms of kidney failure.
Your midwife or health care practitioner tests your blood for anemia at your first prenatal appointment. One of these tests (hematocrit) measures the percentage of red blood cells in your plasma. The other (hemoglobin) measures the number of grams of hemoglobin in your blood. It is more common to develop anemia as your pregnancy progresses, however, so you will have another blood test in your late second trimester or early third trimester. It's normal for your hemoglobin and hematocrit levels to go down somewhat in the second half of pregnancy, when the amount of blood in your body is expanding dramatically and the amount of plasma (the fluid component of blood) increases faster than the number and size of red blood cells - but you do not want them to dip too low.
If you do develop anemia, you might not have any symptoms at all, especially if your condition is mild. Or you might feel tired, weak, and dizzy. (Of course, these are symptoms that many women have anyway during pregnancy, anemic or not.) You might also notice that you are paler (especially in your fingernails, the underside of your eyelids, and your lips) and have a rapid heartbeat, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, or trouble concentrating. Finally, some studies have found a link between severe iron-deficiency anemia and cravings for non-food substances such as ice, paper, or clay (a condition known as pica). If you do have these cravings, don't give in to them, and be sure to tell your midwife or health care provider.
CAUSES
Poor diet with inadequate iron.
Folic-acid deficiency.
Loss of blood from bleeding hemorrhoids or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Even if iron and folic-acid intake are sufficient, a pregnant woman may become anemic because pregnancy alters the digestive process. The unborn child consumes some of the iron or folic acid normally available to the mother's body.
Your iron requirements go up significantly when you are pregnant. Iron is essential for making hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to other cells. During pregnancy, the amount of blood in your body expands until you have almost 50 percent more than usual. And you need more iron to make more hemoglobin for all that additional blood. You also need extra iron for your growing baby and placenta.
Unfortunately, most women start pregnancy without sufficient stores of iron to meet their body's increased demands particularly in the second and third trimesters. If you get to the point that you no longer have enough iron to make the hemoglobin you need, you become anemic.
Your risk is even higher if you have morning sickness severe enough to cause frequent vomiting, if you have had two or more pregnancies close together, if you are pregnant with more than one baby, if you have an iron-poor diet, or if your pre-pregnancy menstrual flow was heavy.
This is why the amount of iron you need shoots up during pregnancy from 18 to 27 milligrams (mg) a day. And because it is hard to get enough iron through diet alone, the Centers for Disease Control recommend that pregnant women take a daily supplement of 30 mg of elemental iron as a preventive dose. Many prenatal supplements contain that amount.
Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia, but it is not the only cause. You could also develop anemia by not getting enough folic acid or vitamin B-12, by losing a lot of blood, or from certain diseases or inherited blood disorders such as sickle cell disease. The treatment for anemia depends on the cause. Iron supplements are not always the answer.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Poor nutrition, especially multiple vitamin deficiencies.
Women who are unable to eat well because of nausea or vomiting (morning sickness).
Having a multiple pregnancy, such as twins, where iron stores are depleted quicker by your growing babies.
Having two pregnancies relatively close together.
Excess alcohol consumption, leading to poor nutrition.
Medical history of any disorder that reduces absorption of nutrients.
Use of anti-coagulant drugs. Anti-seizure drugs.
Smoking or second hand smoke. Smoking alters the absorption of nutrients and can contribute to anemia.
Previous use of oral contraceptives.
Injury and bleeding problems such as hemorrhoids or gastrointestinal bleeding.
G6PD deficiency is more common in persons of Mediterranean, African American and Sephardic Jewish descent. Sickle cell anemia is found in African Americans and in persons of Italian, Middle Eastern and East Indian descent. Thalassemia anemia is most common in African, Greek, Italian, Middle Eastern and Southern Asian populations.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
If you are a vegetarian (vegan), talk to your midwife, nutritionist, or health care provider about your diet and any possible need for supplements.
Eat foods rich in iron such as beef, whole-grain breads and cereals, eggs and dried fruit. Select iron-fortified cereals and breads.
Eat foods high in folic acid, such as wheat germ, beans, peanut butter, oatmeal, mushrooms, collard greens, broccoli, beef liver and asparagus.
Eating foods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and fresh, raw vegetables makes iron absorption more efficient. Vitamin C makes the stomach more acidic and improves the absorption of iron.
Take prenatal vitamin and mineral supplements if they are prescribed.
Decrease your consumption of caffeinated products and tea. These substances can decrease iron absorption. Other offenders include the preservative EDTA, fiber, large amounts of calcium, and the phytates found in some vegetables.
Carefully follow safety guidelines if your occupation involves work with lead-containing materials such as batteries, petroleum, and paint. Ask your midwife, health care provider or local public-health authorities about lead-testing the pottery you use for food or beverage preparation.
Screening for several anemias, e.g., G6PD deficiency and sickle cell disease in high-risk women, should be considered prior to any attempt to become pregnant.
Protect yourself from injury and bleeding (blood loss).
Take your prenatal vitamin and eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of iron-rich foods. Red meat is your best bet, although poultry (dark meat), other meats, and shellfish are good sources, too. Non-animal iron-rich foods include beans, tofu, raisins, dates, prunes, figs, apricots, potatoes (leave the skins on), broccoli, beets, leafy green vegetables, whole-grain breads, blackstrap molasses, and iron-fortified cereals. Keep in mind that your body absorbs the iron from animal sources (heme iron) much more readily than the iron from non-animal sources (non-heme iron).
One note of caution: Do not turn to liver for your iron needs. Liver is best avoided during pregnancy because it contains unsafe amounts of vitamin A, which can cause birth defects.
Eating or drinking something rich in vitamin C at the same time you take your iron supplement or eat iron-rich plant foods can help your body absorb significantly more of the type of iron found in non-animal sources. Good vitamin C choices include a glass of orange or tomato juice, a handful of strawberries, sweet (bell) peppers, or half a grapefruit. Meat and fish (sources of heme iron, which your body absorbs much more easily) can also improve your absorption of the iron in non-meat foods. For example, putting a bit of beef in a pot of vegetable chili can help you absorb iron from the vegetables.
Calcium interferes with your body's ability to absorb iron. So if you are taking calcium supplements, or an antacid that contains calcium, don't take either one while you are eating iron-rich foods or at the same time as your iron supplement. For the same reason, do not take your supplement with milk, which is rich in calcium. Drink milk between meals, instead. The same goes for tea and coffee, which contain polyphenols that interfere with the absorption of iron from supplements and plant sources.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
Usually curable with iron and folic-acid supplements by mouth or by injection.
Treatment is dependent upon underlying cause of anemia symptoms.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Premature Labor.
Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR).
Dangerous anemia from normal blood loss during labor, requiring blood transfusions.
Increased susceptibility to maternal infection after childbirth.
Your baby does a good job taking care of his iron needs - he will get his share before you do. If you remain anemic during the first two trimesters, though, you are at a higher risk for having a pre-term delivery or a low-birthweight baby, so it is something to take seriously. And if you are severely deficient, it could affect your baby's iron stores at birth, increasing his risk for anemia later in infancy.
Iron-deficiency anemia affects your health as well. It can sap your energy and make it harder for your body to fight infection. And if you're anemic later in pregnancy, you are more likely to have problems if you lose a lot of blood when you give birth. You may feel dizzy, have a rapid heart rate, or have other symptoms that require you to stay in the hospital an extra day or two. You are also more likely to need a blood transfusion.
TREATMENT
DIAGNOSIS OF ANEMIA
To diagnose anemia, your midwife or health care provider will likely take your medical and obstetric history, perform a physical exam, and order laboratory tests. You can help by providing detailed answers about your symptoms, family medical history, diet, medications you take, alcohol intake and tobacco usage, and ethnic background. Your midwife or health care provider will look for symptoms of anemia and other physical clues that might point to a cause.
Diagnosis is determined by laboratory blood studies. One of the most basic tests is a complete blood count (CBC), which determines the number, size, volume, and hemoglobin content of red blood cells. Hemoglobin is the part of blood that distributes oxygen from the lungs to tissues in the body. Hematocrit is the measurement of the percentage of red blood cells found in a specific volume of blood. Cutoff values used to define anemia during each trimester of pregnancy are:
First and third trimester:
Hemoglobin (Hgb) less than 11 gm/L or Hematocrit (Hct) less than 33 percent.
Second trimester:
Hemoglobin (Hgb) less than 10.5 gm/L or Hematocrit (Hct) less than 32 percent.
This link provides normal, borderline, and anemia values and management for midwives and their clients.
Treatment depends on the type and severity of anemia. You may have your blood iron level and your serum ferritin level checked as these are indicators of your body's total iron stores. You may have your blood levels of vitamin B-12 checked as well as folate. Only in rare cases will your health care provider remove a sample of bone marrow to determine the cause of your anemia. Special blood tests can detect rare causes of anemia, such as an immune attack on your red blood cells, red blood cell fragility, and defects of enzymes, hemoglobin and clotting. If hemolytic anemia is suspected, tests can identify the breakdown products of red blood cells in your blood and urine (bilirubin, uribilirubin).
TREATMENT OF ANEMIA
Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of your anemia. For most anemias, supplements are prescribed and dietary assessments are made.
- Anemia caused by blood loss. If you suddenly lose a large volume of blood, you may be treated with fluids, blood transfusion, oxygen, and possibly iron to help your body build new red blood cells. Chronic blood loss is treated by identifying the source of bleeding, stopping the bleeding, and, if necessary, giving treatment for iron-deficiency anemia.
- Anemia caused by decreased red blood cell production. With iron deficiency anemia your midwife or health care provider will probably recommend iron supplements that contain the ferrous form of iron, which your body can absorb easily. Timed-release iron supplements are not a good choice for most people because iron is primarily absorbed in the upper part of the digestive tract.
- Vitamin B-12 deficiency anemia. If your body stores are depleted of vitamin B-12, your health care provider will most likely prescribe vitamin B-12 injections and may also recommend high doses of B-12 supplements or a B-12 nasal spray. There is a good chance that many of the symptoms of deficiency will improve once the body is provided with the needed B-12. Most people with vitamin B-12 deficiency have a permanent inability to absorb vitamin B-12 and will need injections every one to three months or pills daily for the rest of their lives. Your health care provider or midwife may also recommend that you increase the amount of vitamin B-12 in your diet. Good dietary sources of vitamin B-12 are meat, liver, and kidney; fish, oyster, and clams; and milk, cheese and eggs.
- Folate deficiency anemia. If you have a folate deficiency, your health care provider or midwife will prescribe folate supplements and may recommend you increase the amount of folate in your diet. Good dietary sources of folate include fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, cruciferous vegetables (cauliflower, broccoli and brussel sprouts), liver and kidney, dairy products, and whole grain cereals. Vegetables should be eaten raw or lightly cooked.
- Anemia caused by problems of the bone marrow and stem cells. Anemia that originates in the bone marrow and stem cells tend to be more persistent and difficult to treat. The treatments for hereditary anemias, such as thalassemia, vary widely and depend on the specific condition and the severity of symptoms. Some anemias will not require any treatment while others may require repeated transfusion and other aggressive measures. Although aplastic anemia will occasionally go into spontaneous remission, people with this disorder generally require bone marrow transplantation.
- Lead poisoning is treated by discontinuing exposure to lead and administering a drug that binds and draws lead out of the body. This is called "Chelation Therapy".
- For people with anemia as a result of chronic disease, the best way to alleviate the anemia is often to treat the underlying condition. Shots of Epogen, a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells, may also help in some instances. People who have anemia as a result of kidney failure will require adequate dialysis, take Epogen, and possibly have a kidney transplant.
- Anemia caused by increased red blood cell destruction. The treatment of hemolytic anemia will be tailored to the underlying cause. Mild cases of hemolytic anemia may not require any treatment at all. If an offending environmental agent can be identified, a chemical, for example, exposure to this agent should stop immediately. People with hemolytic anemia may need surgery to replace faulty heart valves, remove a tumor, or repair abnormal blood vessels. Supportive treatment, like intravenous fluids and pain medication, will often be administered. Blood transfusion may be necessary in some cases. Steroids can halt the body's immune attack on its own red blood cells. Certain damaging factors can be removed from the blood by a treatment called plasmapheresis. If hemolytic anemia persists despite treatment, your health care provider may recommend splenectomy, surgical removal of the spleen, as a last resort. Most people can lead a normal life without their spleen. Gallbladder surgery may also be required if you have longstanding hemolytic anemia and symptoms of gallstones. Hemolytic anemia that damages the kidneys may make dialysis necessary. In extremely rare cases, bone marrow transplantation may be the only solution for certain types of hemolytic anemia.
- For G6PD deficiency, treatment is supportive and educational.
- Sickle cell anemia in pregnant women requires careful medical management; usually done by specialists. While there is no cure for sickle cell anemia, drugs can help ease the pain. And a drug called hydroxyurea appears to stimulate the formation of an alternate form of hemoglobin that is not susceptible to the sickling.
THINGS YOU CAN DO
If the tongue is red and sore, rinse with warm salt water 3 or 4 times a day. Use 1 teaspoon salt to 8 ounces warm water.
Brush teeth with a soft toothbrush.
If your test indicates that you are anemic, your midwife or health care practitioner will prescribe an iron supplement of 60 to 120 mg a day or more. To make sure you absorb as much of the iron as possible, take your iron pills on an empty stomach. Wash them down with water or orange juice (the vitamin C helps with absorption) but not with milk (calcium hinders absorption).
Note that these doses refer to the amount of "elemental iron," or pure iron, in a supplement. Some labels list the amount of ferrous sulfate (a kind of iron salt) instead of or in addition to the amount of elemental iron. A supplement that contains 325 mg of ferrous sulfate will give you about 60 mg of elemental iron. Others use ferrous gluconate, 300 mg of which yields about 34 mg of elemental iron.
One more important thing to note: Be vigilant about keeping any pills containing iron in childproof containers and away from children. More kids die from iron overdose each year than from any other kind of accidental drug poisoning. In fact, a single adult dose can poison a small child.
MEDICATION
Iron, folic-acid and other supplements may be prescribed. For better absorption, take iron-supplements 1 hour before eating or between meals. Iron supplements should be taken with a glass of citrus juice, such as orange juice, or a vitamin C supplement to aid in absorption. Iron will turn bowel movements black, and often causes constipation. Iron sometimes may be taken with meals if it has caused an upset stomach. Injections may be required by your health care provider in severe cases of anemia if supplements cannot be taken orally.
High levels of iron in supplements can upset your gastrointestinal tract. Most often, they lead to constipation, which is already a problem for many pregnant women. If you suffer from constipation, try drinking prune juice. It can help you stay regular (and is a good source of iron). You may also have nausea or, more rarely, diarrhea. If you think your supplement is making you feel queasy, try taking it at bedtime.
If side effects continue to plague you, talk to your midwife or health care practitioner. You may be able to avoid stomach problems by starting with less iron and then gradually building up to the dose you need or taking the iron in divided doses through the day. And some women find they have less trouble with the side-effects from iron supplements when they take a time-released formula.
Iron supplements can interact with other medications you may take, so be certain to tell your midwife or health care provider if you are being treated for another condition. Calcium supplements interfere with iron absorption so it is best to take them at different times of the day.
Do not worry if your stools look darker (dark greenish or black in color) when you start taking iron. That's a normal side effect.
Your midwife or health care provider will monitor your red blood cell counts including hematocrit, hemoglobin, and ferritin levels during treatment. If your anemia does not improve with iron supplements, your health care provider will look for some other underlying cause. In rare cases, your health care provider may prescribe iron injections or give you iron intravenously (through a needle in the vein). In extremely rare cases of life-threatening iron-deficiency anemia, treatment may involve a blood transfusion.
ACTIVITY
Rest often until the anemia disappears.
Avoid activity that could result in injury and bleeding problems.
DIET
Eat well and take prescribed supplements. Your midwife or health care provider may recommend that you increase the amount of iron, vitamin B-12, and/or folate in your diet. Increase fiber and fluid intake to prevent constipation. Do not take milk with iron supplements as it inhibits absorption of iron, take supplements with citrus juice (orange juice) or water instead. For more information about holistic approaches that involve nutritional therapy and herbal supplements, see the links below:
Good pre-pregnancy nutrition not only helps prevent anemia, but also helps build other nutritional stores in the mother's body. Eating a healthy and balanced diet during pregnancy helps maintain the levels of iron and other important nutrients needed for the health of the mother and growing baby.
Good food sources of iron include the following:
- Meats - beef, pork, lamb, liver, and other organ meats
- Poultry - chicken, duck, turkey, liver (especially dark meat)
- Fish - shellfish, including clams, mussels, oysters, sardines, and anchovies
- Leafy greens of the cabbage family, such as broccoli, kale, turnip greens, and collard greens
- Legumes, such as lima beans and green peas; dry beans and peas, such as pinto beans, black-eyed peas, and canned baked beans
- Yeast-leavened whole-wheat bread and rolls, Brewer's yeast (dietary yeast supplement)
- Iron-enriched white bread, pasta, rice, and cereals
The following is a list of foods that are a good source of iron. Always consult your midwife or health care provider regarding the recommended daily iron requirements.
Iron-Rich Foods Quantity Approximate Iron
Content (milligrams)Oysters 3 ounces 13.2 Beef liver 3 ounces 7.5 Prune Juice 1/2 cup 5.2 Clams 2 ounces 4.2 Walnuts 1/2 cup 3.75 Ground beef 3 ounces 3.0 Chickpeas 1/2 cup 3.0 Bran flakes 1/2 cup 2.8 Pork roast 3 ounces 2.7 Cashew nuts 1/2 cup 2.65 Shrimp 3 ounces 2.5 Raisins 1/2 cup 2.55 Sardines 3 ounces 2.5 Spinach 1/2 cup 2.4 Lima beans 1/2 cup 2.3 Kidney beans 1/2 cup 2.2 Turkey, dark meat 3 ounces 2.0 Prunes 1/2 cup 1.9 Roast beef 3 ounces 1.8 Green peas 1/2 cup 1.5 Peanuts 1/2 cup 1.5 Potato 1 1.1 Sweet potato 1/2 cup 1.0 Green beans 1/2 cup 1.0 Egg 1 1.0
Vitamin supplements containing 400 micrograms of folic acid are now recommended for all women of childbearing age and during pregnancy. These supplements are needed because natural food sources of folate are poorly absorbed and much of the vitamin is destroyed in cooking. Making fresh juice (vegetable & fruit) is a good way of consuming heat-sensitive nutrients in foods. See this link for more information about juicing:
Food sources of folate include the following:
- Leafy, dark green vegetables.
- Dried beans and peas.
- Citrus fruits, juices and most berries.
- Fortified breakfast cereals.
- Enriched grain products.
Always consult your midwife or health care provider before taking any nutritional or herbal supplement and beginning any nutritional therapy program. Some supplements should be limited or avoided during pregnancy. Consult your midwife or herbalist about herbal supplements. Your midwife or health care provider are familiar with your particular health issues and are there to assist you in your care.
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONER IF...
You have symptoms of anemia during pregnancy such as persistent fatigue, breathlessness, rapid heart rate, pale skin, or any other symptoms of anemia.
You have a poor diet or have concerns about inadequate dietary intake of vitamins and minerals.
You have experienced heavy menstrual bleeding prior to becoming pregnant or symptoms of ulcer, gastritis, hemorrhoids or colorectal cancer.
If you are concerned about environmental exposure to lead.
A hereditary anemia runs in your family and you would like to genetic counseling before having a child.
The following occurs during treatment:
- Diarrhea.
- Nausea.
- Abdominal pain.
- Constipation.
- Bleeding, however slight, from any source.
If you are a woman considering pregnancy, your midwife or health care provider may recommend that you begin taking supplements, especially folate, before conception. These supplements benefit both mother and baby.
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
These listed supplements are suggested for general anemia and some may not be recommended for use during pregnancy or required dosage amounts may be need to be adjusted for your pregnancy condition. Consult with your midwife or health care provider before beginning any nutritional therapy program. Consult with your midwife or herbalist before taking any herbal remedies as some herbs should be avoided during pregnancy. Do not take an iron supplement unless prescribed by your midwife or health care provider. Too much iron can be harmful to you and/or your baby. Follow your recommended nutritional guidelines carefully. If you have any unusual or unexpected side effects from any supplement, discontinue use immediately and consult with your midwife or health care provider about other options that may be available to you. For more information and nutritional recommendations see:
NUTRITIONAL THERAPY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ANEMIA
Nutritional therapy will be dictated by the type of anemia you may have. The suggestions given here are basically for iron deficiency and folic acid anemia. Discuss your therapy options with your health care provider, midwife, or herbalist before beginning any self-help home therapy.
Consult with your health care provider or nutritionist to see if any of these suggestions will help with anemia caused by G-6-PD deficiency or other types of anemia.
IRON REQUIREMENTS
The average amount of iron in the average adult male is 4 grams and in the average adult female 2.5 grams. The normal North American diet contains approximately 15-20 mg of iron per day. Most is present in meat and green vegetables; approximately 1.0 mg is absorbed each day and just about an equal amount is lost in feces and sweat.
To absorb the prescribed daily requirement of 1 mg daily of iron, you would need to ingest 10-15 times that amount. Menstruating women should take 18 mg of iron a day. Post-menopausal women should take 10 mg, and those with anemia should take 30 mg two times a day to restore sufficient iron levels.
As a result, the average adult's iron intake is in delicate balance, but is of little consequence as there is slightly more iron absorbed than lost and a store of iron is gradually accumulated. If, for some reason, the rate of iron loss increases, these stores can be depleted and an absolute iron deficiency develops. Such a deficiency requires large doses of supplemental iron to resupply the body stores and sufficient monitoring to prevent iron overload.
IMPROVING IRON ABSORPTION
Iron absorption is increased by the presence of sufficient stomach acid, glucose, fructose, some amino acids and ascorbic acid (vitamin C). These substances aid in the absorption process by either reducing ferric iron to the ferrous state or by helping bind the iron to the mucosal cell receptor sites. The established benefit of vitamin C has resulted in many iron supplements being manufactured with this vitamin present. Heme iron (iron from meat myoglobin) is 10 times more easily absorbed than elemental iron, or iron from non-meat sources. Iron absorption is decreased by the presence of phosphate, bicarbonate or bile acids. Thyroid medication and iron supplements should be taken at different times of the day.
You can help increase your body's absorption of iron by avoiding such foods as almonds, cashews and chocolate, and such drinks as coffee, tea, beer and sodas. In fact, omitting all sugar from your diet increases iron absorption. Even iron supplements can be undermined if you are also taking vitamin E, calcium, zinc or antacids. Vitamin C will also aid absorption: drinking 1 glass of orange juice each day may double the amount of iron absorbed.
DAILY REQUIREMENTS
The adult male requires approximately 1.0 mg per day, just enough to cover normal iron loss. The adult female requires approximately 2.0 mg per day, enough for daily loss and menstruation. Pregnant females require approximately 3.0 mg, enough for normal, ongoing loss and fetal requirements. Children require approximately 2.0 mg, enough for normal loss and extra to produce some residual iron stores and allow for increasing red cell mass.
Normal Iron levels are 40-150 ug/dL (female) and 50-160 ug/dL (male). Normal values may vary from laboratory to laboratory.
About 60 percent of iron in meat is poorly absorbed; this is a form called non-heme iron. Eggs, dairy products, and vegetables that contain iron only have the non-heme form. Such plants include dried beans and peas, iron-fortified cereals, bread, and pasta products, dark green leafy vegetables (chard, spinach, mustard greens, kale), dried fruits, nuts, and seeds. (One study reported that even though non-heme iron is normally less easily absorbed, people who were iron deficient absorbed 10 times the amount of non-heme iron as people with normal iron levels.)
ALERT!: Be sure that you do, indeed, have an iron deficiency before taking supplements. Excess iron can damage the liver, pancreas, heart and immune-cell activity and has been linked to cancer. Use any iron supplements under the supervision of a health care provider.
Liver and lean red meats are the richest sources of iron available. These contain heme iron, the most readily absorbed form. Chicken and fish usually contain 1/3 to 1/2 the iron in red meat. Other iron rich foods are apples, apricots, asparagus, beans, bananas, leafy greens, peas, prunes, raisins, parsley, and corn. Blackstrap molasses is another excellent source of iron and essential B vitamins. Take 1 tablespoon twice daily. Also eat foods high in vitamin c to enhance absorption.
Foods For Health - Despite its popularity as an iron-rich source, spinach won't help your iron levels much. It contains oxalates, substances that actually interfere with the absorption of the iron (3 mg in 4 ounces) that it does offer.
Iron Supplements - While iron supplements are an excellent source of iron, certain iron preparations can cause nausea and constipation. If you experience these unpleasant symptoms, try eating organic liver or using liquid liver extracts. They are good alternatives that contain all the essential elements needed for red-blood-cell production.
HERBS
Alfalfa, Bilberry, Wild Cherry, Dandelion Root, Goldenseal, Grape Skins, Hawthorn Berry, Mullein, Nettle, Oregon Grape Root, Pau D'Arco, Red Raspberry, Shepherd's Purse, and Yellow Dock are good for anemia. Parsley, Amaranth Greens, and Kelp are high in iron and helpful for anemia.
An herbal mix for anemia includes: Comfrey, Nettle, Red Clover, Echinacea, Sage, Rue, Elecampane and Yarrow.
Added to this are the Bach Flower Remedies Wild Rose, Pine, and Olive. You can help further by drinking Rosehips Tea and eating some meat and plenty of green vegetables. You should consult your Herbalist if, after a course of 3 to 6 months on the anemia mix and with better habits, the symptoms return after stopping the mix. There will be other issues which need specific attention.
Herbal Remedies: Bach Flower Remedy / Essence Information & Use
Herbal Remedies: Bach Products & Supplements
For pregnancy, I have my pregnant moms drink a Pregnancy Tea consisting of: MOONDRAGON'S PREGNANCY TEA
2 Parts Red Raspberry Leaf
1 Part Nettle Leaf
1 Part Alfalfa Leaf
1 Part Peppermint Leaf
If a woman has problems with anemia, I increase the nettle and alfalfa to 2 parts each. This tea is very healthful in supplying the pregnant woman (and breast feeding woman after the birth) not only hormonal support through the Red Raspberry Leaf, but also supplies a large variety of nutrients, such as iron and calcium to her diet as well as adding digestive support with the use of the peppermint. Sometimes I have used Comfrey as an additional herb for its healthful medicinal properties. Brew as usual using hot water and steeping. It has a great flavor and can be consumed without sweetener or by using a touch of honey as a sweetening agent. It is a great basic tea that other herbs can be added to during pregnancy to help other dietary needs or as a medicinal base for tinctures. It can be frozen into ice pops for use during labor. This tea makes great sun tea and can be mixed and made up in a glass gallon jar (I use an old pickle jar, well cleaned) and steep it in the sun during the summer months. The loose dry herbs can be placed in a couple of 4X4 gauze pads, opened up, placing the herbal mixture in the middle of the gauze and tied with a string or a rubber band. It can also be made using a standard drip coffee maker and coffee filters or using a "tea ball". Hot or Cold, this is a great tea for women of all ages, regardless of pregnancy or not. At least a quart of tea should be consumed throughout the day.
Be sure to obtain quality dried herb from a reliable source with rich color and aroma. Mountain Rose Herbs has a great line of bulk herbs at a reasonable cost. Shaman Shop also has a selection of hard-to-find herbal supplements and Herbal Remedies has a fine selection of products and supplements in capsules, tablets, liquids, powders and tinctures. See links further down on this page to visit these fine online stores.
As always, I recommend you consult with your midwife before taking any supplement, herbal or otherwise, during pregnancy. If you have any problems with this tea or it simply does not agree with you for any reason, discontinue use. However, in 27 years of midwifery, I have never had problems with a pregnant mom using this tea formulation.
Pernicious Anemia and low blood oxygen levels effects health of red blood cells. Herbal approach to treating anemia are the use of Kelp, Ginseng, Nettle, Rosehips, Rue, Yarrow, Comfrey, Echinacea, Red Clover.
Bach Flower remedies include Wild Rose, Sclerantthus, Gorse and Pine.
Yellow Dock root is a easily assimilated source of iron. Yellow dock contains only a small amount of this important mineral, yet herbalists consider it one of the most effective herbs for raising your iron level. Although the way that this herb increases iron remains a mystery, the proof is in the results. Many women with anemia and their health care providers have been amazed when yellow dock brought their iron count up to normal in only a few weeks. For some of these women, yellow dock brought up their iron levels permanently and they were able to discontinue using the herb. Others found that they needed to continue taking it to maintain their iron count at a healthy level.
Even if your anemia is so stubborn that it does not respond to yellow dock, a few additional herbs will usually do the trick. Studies conducted around the world have shown that the roots of Burdock, Sarsaparilla, Dandelion, cooked Chinese Rehmannia and Chinese Wild Yam increase the assimilation of iron, as do carrots and most green vegetables. (Although Chinese herbs like Rehmannia and wild yam were once restricted to the realm of Chinese medicine, they are now available in most natural food stores or bulk herbal suppliers.) German researchers were so impressed with how Anise, Caraway, Cumin, Peppermint and Linden Flowers improved iron absorption that they suggested that anyone with an iron deficiency drink tea made with at least one of these herbs. Iron-rich herbs include parsley, watercress and the seaweed dulse.
If these herbs seem like the ingredients for the start of a delicious soup or stew base, you're right! Throw in a few beet roots to add even more iron, and dine on this soup at least twice a week. The Chinese traditionally prescribe soups made from healing herbs like Rehmannia, wild yam and burdock. When you wish to incorporate medicinal herb roots into your meals, all you need to do is finely chop or grate them, then treat them like carrots. Caraway and cumin can also be used to spice up beans and vegetables.IRON TEA
2 teaspoons Yellow Dock Root
1/2 teaspoon Nettle Leaves
1/2 teaspoon Dandelion Root
1/2 teaspoon Beet Root
1/2 teaspoon Licorice Root
1/2 teaspoon cooked Rehmannia Root (if available)
3 cups water
Bring herbs and water to a boil, then turn down heat and simmer for 5 minutes. turn off heat and let steep for 20 minutes. Strain out herbs. Drink 2 cups a day. This formula can also be taken as a tincture or in pill form. To take yellow dock by itself, you will want to use a tincture since the taste is so bitter.
For preventing anemia, take 1 tablespoon of yellow dock decoction or 25-40 drops of tincture daily. For treating anemia, use the same dosage as above but three times a day.
Caution: Do not take goldenseal or Oregon grape root during pregnancy. Do not take goldenseal for more than one week at a time, and use it only under a health care provider's supervision if you have a history of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or glaucoma.
ALFALFA PRODUCTS
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BILBERRY PRODUCTS
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DANDELION PRODUCTS
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GOLDENSEAL PRODUCTS
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NETTLE PRODUCTS
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OREGON GRAPE ROOT PRODUCTS
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YELLOW DOCK PRODUCTS
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HERBS TO AVOID
People who have anemia should avoid damiana, fennel, grapeseed extract, and rooibos. Herbs containing high concentrations of tannins interfere with the absorption of iron supplements. Avoid taking iron supplements within 2 to 3 hours of using agrimony, chebula, gambir, green tea, uva ursi, white willow bark, or any form of St. John's wort other than hypericin-standardized capsules or tablets.
TCM (TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE) FORMULAS
Four-Substance Decoction: A traditional Chinese herbal formula that treats all forms of anemia.
Si Wu Tang
[Four-Substance Decoction; Soup of Four Things; Tangkuei Four Decoction]
Class: Tonify
Subclass: Tonify the Blood
Source/Author: Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (Imperial Grace Formulary of the Tai Ping Era)
Recipe:Shu Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae Glutinosae Praeparata) 35.70%
Actions: Harmonizes the Liver. Moves Blood. Nourishes Blood.
Bai Shao Yao (Radix Paeoniae Lactiflorae) 28.60%
Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis) 25.00%
Chuan Xiong (Radix Ligustici Wallichii) 10.70%
Indications: Blood Deficiency, primarily of the Liver.
Symptoms: Amenorrhea; Anemia; Blurred vision; Dizziness; Dysmenorrhea; Irregular menstruation; Pain of the lower abdomen; Periumbilical pain; Postpartum weakness; Threatened miscarriage; Agalactia; Brittle nails; Dry nails; Dull complexion; Generalized muscle tension; Headache; Lochiometra; Pale complexion; Restless fetus disorder; Urticaria; Pale tongue; Fine-Choppy pulse (Xi Se); Fine-Wiry pulse (Xi Xian)
Preparation: DECOCTION: 40-50 g/liter until 40 cl remain.
Administration/Dosage schedule: DECOCTION: Take 3-4 times daily, before meals.
Contraindications: Acute and severe Blood loss (following hemorrhage, for example).
HOLISTIC RECOMMENDATIONS
Include the following in your diet: apples, apricots, asparagus, bananas, broccoli, egg yolks, kelp, leafy greens, okra, parsley, peas, plums, prunes, purple grapes, raisins, rice bran, squash, turnip greens, whole grains, and yams. Also eat foods and drink juices high in vitamin C to enhance iron absorption.
Increasing intake of vitamin-C rich foods can enhance absorption of non-heme iron during a single meal, although regular intake of vitamin C does not appear to have any significant effect on iron stores. In any case, vitamin-C rich foods are healthful and include broccoli, cabbage, citrus fruits, melon, tomatoes, and strawberries. One orange or six ounces of orange juice can double the amount of iron your body absorbs from plant foods.
To combat anemia, it's important to increase your consumption of iron-rich foods and supplement with B vitamins and minerals like copper. Foods containing riboflavin (vitamin B-2-) may help enhance the response of hemoglobin to iron. Sources include liver, dried fortified cereals, and yogurt. The only natural dietary sources of B-12 are animal products, such as meats, dairy products, eggs, and fish (clams and oily fish are very high in B-12-); like other B vitamins, however, B-12 is added to commercial dried cereals. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) is 2.4 mcg a day. Deficiencies are rare in young people, although the elderly may have trouble absorbing natural vitamin B-12 and require synthetic forms from supplements and fortified foods.
Folate is best found in avocado, bananas, orange juice, cold cereal, asparagus, fruits, green, leafy vegetables, dried beans and peas, and yeast. The synthetic form, folic acid, is now added to commercial grain products. Vitamins are usually made from folic acid, which is about twice as potent as folate. Many experts now recommend that adults have 400 mcg of folic acid daily, which is considerably higher than standard recommendations of 400 mcg of folate, which does not take into consideration the possible benefits of folate on the heart. Low levels of folate during pregnancy are common without supplements; deficiencies at that time increase the risk of neural tube defects in newborns. Women who are planning to get pregnant should take 400 mcg of folic acid before conception as well as when they are pregnant or breast feeding.
Grape juice with no sugar or preservatives added is a wonderful source of iron. Drink 8 ounces every day.
Obtaining a juicer and making healthy juice drinks is a great way of getting unsweetened, pure, healthful fruit and vegetable juices. See MoonDragon's Therapeutic Liquids for more juicing recommendations.
Soak 10 currants overnight. Remove seeds and have for 3-4 weeks and have first thing in the morning.
Eat raw spinach salads often. Be sure to wash the spinach thoroughly. Combine any of the following in your spinach salad-watercress, radish, kohlrabi, garlic, chives, leek and onion. They are all high in iron.
Daily intake of 3-4 pieces of dry figs helps in curing anemia.
Every morning after breakfast and every evening after dinner, eat two dried apricots. Snack on raisins.
Beet juice is the best anemia remedy. You can easily make this using a juicer. Carrots and other vegetables can be added for a raw veggie drink. Throw a few beet roots into your soup a few times a week.
Try to cook in cast iron pots and skillets. It is proven that doing it can significantly increases the amount of iron in your foods.
Honey is very good for an anemic person because it helps increase the hemoglobin in the blood. It is rich in iron, copper and manganese. Caution: Do not give raw honey to babies or very young children.
Iron rich meats may include salmon, mackerel, clams, oysters, mussels, sardines, anchovies, shellfish, organ meats such as liver, heart, tongue, beef, pork, lamb, poultry, and other fish.
Consume at least 1 tablespoon of Blackstrap molasses twice daily (for a child, use 1 teaspoon in a glass of milk or formula twice daily). Blackstrap molasses is a good source of iron, calcium, and essential B vitamins.
Eat foods containing oxalic acid in moderation or omit them from the diet. Oxalic acid interferes with iron absorption. Foods high in oxalic acid include almonds, cashews, chocolate, cocoa, kale, rhubarb, soda, sorrel, spinach, Swiss chard, and most nuts and beans.
Avoid beer and other alcoholic beverages, candy bars, dairy products, ice cream, and soft drinks such as cola. Additives in these foods interfere with iron absorption. For the same reason, avoid coffee (which contains polyphenols) and black tea (which contains tannins). Avoid excessive bran since it contains phytic acid. Seeds also contain phytic acid that can impede the body's absorption of dietary iron.
Avoid alkalinizers and phosphates. They inhibit absorption.
Avoid or minimize your exposure to lead and other toxic metals such as aluminum, cadmium and mercury. Do not use aluminum cookware.
Have a complete blood test to determine if you have an iron deficiency before taking iron supplements. Excess iron can damage the liver, heart, pancreas, and immune cell activity and has been linked to cancer. Use iron supplements only under the supervision of a health care provider.
Because iron is removed through the stool, do not eat foods high in iron and/or iron supplements at the same time as fiber. Avoid using bran as a source of fiber.
If you are a strict vegetarian, watch your diet closely. Taking supplemental vitamin B-12 is advised.
Do not smoke. Avoid second hand smoke.
Take a daily Multivitamin. Do not take any iron supplement without consulting with your health care provider.
Do not take calcium, vitamin E, zinc, or antacids at the same time as iron supplements. These can interfere with iron absorption.
HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT & MEDICATIONS FOR ANEMIA
This information was obtained from: Hpathy.com. See their website for more helpful information regarding Homeopathic Treatments.
Ferrum metallicum [Ferr]: Iron is the great allopathic remedy for anemia from almost any cause. It is also a great homeopathic remedy, but it will not cure every case of anemia; careful individualization is necessary. When the patient has an appearance of full bloodedness or plethora, which is followed by paleness or earthiness of the face and puffiness of the extremities, then Ferrum will benefit. It is not the remedy for the anemia resulting from loss of fluids; that is Cinchona, or perhaps Natrum muriaticum. When Ferrum is indicated the mucous membranes are pale, more so than with Cinchona, and there is apt to be an anemia murmur in the veins of the neck. The patient is easily exhausted. Vomiting of food after eating may occur. The patient is constantly chilly and perhaps has an afternoon or evening fever simulating hectic fever. In very stubborn cases sometimes Ferrum phosphoricum may serve better than Ferrum metallicum. Schuessler recommends first Calcarea phosphorica, then Ferrum phosphoricum. In simple, uncomplicated chlorosis Ferrum is one of our best remedies. Hughes recommends Ferrum redactum 1x or 2X. Ludlam praises Ferrum et strychnia citrate 3X, Dr. Jousset, Ferrum aceticum or the Ferrum protoxalate, and Dr. Holcombe of New Orleans, used Ferrum phosphoricum. All these preparations of Iron may benefit cases of anemia and chlorosis; if so, it is by virtue of their similarity to the symptoms of the case, and not because one or the other preparation of Iron is a tonic in the allopathic sense. By giving the indicated preparation of Iron it removes the underlying dyscrasia giving rise to the anemic or chlorotic conditions and cures the trouble.
Herbal Remedies: Ionic Iron Supplement, With Concentrace, Trace Minerals, 2 oz.
Pulsatilla [Puls]: Pulsatilla is the great antidote to Iron, and hence is indicated in the anemic condition produced by large or continued doses of it. The system is relaxed and worn out; the patient is chilly and suffers from gastric and menstrual derangements. Thus the symptoms resemble closely those calling for Ferrum. The cause of the anemia must be sought for, and if the case comes from allopathic hands it is safe to infer that much Iron has been given and Pulsatilla will surely be the remedy. The Pulsatilla patient feels better in the open air. Dizziness on rising, absence of thirst, and the peculiar disposition will lead to the remedy. Cyclamen, which is similar in many respects, differ from Pulsatilla in dreading the fresh air. Cinchona is the chief remedy for anemia resulting from loss of fluids, as in lactation or hemorrhage, or from all exhausting discharges, such as menstrual flow, long-lasting diarrhea, and sexual excesses and loss of semen. The quality of the blood is actually poorer in cases calling for Cinchona. Special symptoms are heaviness of the head, loss of sight, fainting and ringing in the ears, pale sallow complexion, sour belching, poor digestion and bloated abdomen. The patient is sensitive to draughts of air yet wants to be fanned. Dr. George Royal thinks many physicians err in giving Cinchona too low in symptomatic anemia when much time has elapsed since the drain was made on the system. He finds the 30th productive of better results than the lower preparations. Natrum muriaticum is also a remedy for anemic and debilitated conditions due to loss of fluids, especially in women who suffer from menstrual disorders and in chronic cases with a dead, dirty-looking skin. Chininum arsenicosum is sometimes prescribed for anemia, not, however, on the totality of the symptoms, but because it is said to be "good for it." It has been found curative in certain cases of pernicious anemia. Acetic acid suits anemic nursing women, with waxy skin, and thirst.
Calcarea carbonica [Calc]: Almost any of the deeper acting constitutional remedies may be of use in anemic and debilitated conditions, and especially are the Calcareas useful. Thus we have Calcarea phosphorica as the remedy for the "green sickness," chlorosis of young girls, with a complexion like wax, alabaster lips and ears, a bright eye, and when they smile or laugh it is a sickly one. The face sometimes has a true greenish hue or a sallow one. In such cases the menses are apt to be too early and then calcarea phosphorica is well indicated for this condition. Calcarea carbonica is indicated by the psoric, scrofulous or tubercular diathesis and the general symptoms of the drug, by disgust for meat, craving for sour and indigestible things, swelling of abdomen, vertigo and palpitation on going upstairs. The patient is in a state of worry. Constantly imagining calamities. Alumina is also a remedy for chlorosis due to the scrofulous diathesis and from improper nourishment, such as occurs in some children brought up on artificial foods. Nux vomica, too, may be indicated in anaemic conditions when due to gastro-intestinal derangements. Plumbum has been recommended for inveterate chlorosis with obstinate constipation. Alumina also, being an antipsoric, is the remedy for anemic conditions about puberty, with abnormal craving for indigestible substances, such as slate pencils, chalk, etc.
Arsenicum [Ars]: This being a direct poison to the red blood corpuscles takes first rank in cases of pernicious anemia or in anemia due to a malarial of toxic influence. Dr. Blackley, of England, reported four cases of pernicious anemia cured with small doses of the remedy. It does not correspond to simple anemia so well. Its indications are excessive prostration considerable edema, violent and irregular palpitation, marked appetite for acids and brandy, extreme anxiety and rapid emaciation. There is irritable stomach and intense thirst. When the allopathic school uses Arsenic as a blood tonic, and Dr. Bartholow says, "it is one of the most valuable remedies in the treatment of chlorosis and anemia," it does so on strictly Homeopathic principles. Picric acid. The extreme prostration of pernicious anemia, with a heavy tired feeling all over the body, burning pains along the spine and aggravation from excitement indicate this remedy.
Helonias [Helon]: An excellent remedy in anemia and chlorosis. It suits especially anemia from prolonged hemorrhage in women enervated by indolence and luxury, or such as are worn out with hard work; they are too tired to sleep and the strained muscles burn and ache A characteristic modality is that the patient is better when the attention is engaged, hence better when the doctor comes. This anemia is associated with disturbances in the urinary and sexual organs. Tired, anemic, backachey females need Helonias, "It is one of the best blood makers that we have." (E. G. Jones.)
Aletris [Alet]: Chlorosis. "The China of the uterine organs." (Hale.) Tired dull, heavy, confused. Debility of females from protracted illness; no organic disease. Power and energy of mind and body are weakened.
Secale [Sec]: This remedy produces a progressives general anemia. It is shown by the peculiar cachexia of anemia, pale, bloodless, jaundiced color. By its effect on the blood corpuscles it produces a general anemia, threatening not only the life of a part, but vitiating the whole life of the bodily economy. It is a sort of a mechanical anemia.
Natrum muriaticum [Nat-m]: This is one of our best remedies in anemic conditions. There is paleness, and, in spite of the fact that the patient eats well, there is emaciation. There are attacks of throbbing headache and dyspnea, especially on going up stairs, constipation and depression of spirits, and consolation aggravates. With these symptoms there is much palpitation, fluttering and intermittent action of the heart. The hypochondriasis in these cases is marked. Scanty menstruation is frequently an indicating symptom. Kali carbonicum is one of the most important remedies in anemia, weak heart, sweats, backache, especially with female complaints.
AYURVEDA &ANEMIA
This information was obtained from www.ayurvedahc.com. Please visit their website for more in depth information about Ayurvedic Treatment of ailments.
Anemia is a deficiency in the quality or quantity of one's blood. It is generally a pitta (fire) derangement. Generally the liver is involved, as bile enters the blood and thins it out. The refined eye of Ayurveda also notes that anemia, like most imbalances, can be caused by any of the three doshas. Vayu anemia is due to deficiency and/or malnourishment; Kapha anemia is caused partly by excess weight, congestion and edema. You can determine whether you have anemia by several factors, pale or lifelessness, low energy, low grade fever or burning sensation, irregular elimination or yellowish and scanty urine, indigestion, vertigo, fainting, fatigue, and women may notice a pale or scanty menstrual flow, or no flow at all., the inner part of the lower eyelid will have no redness to it and if you squeeze your hand into a fist for a few seconds and release, the blood will take a long time to return to the palm.
There are many causes for anemia, both dietary and lifestyle. Excess hot, sour and salty foods, and alcohol derange the blood. Malnutrition is another cause. A traumatic injury, pregnancy, excess menstruation or bleeding condition, febrile diseases, liver disorders and excess sexual indulgence can derange the kidneys, blood and ojas or life sap creating an anemic situation. For women, immediately after a menstrual cycle, blood building herbs are recommended.
GENERAL BLOOD BUILDERS: Organic milk from free range cows & boiled, black sesame seeds, pomegranate or black grape juice, molasses, sucanat (whole cane sugar) are all good foods. Iron supplements, vitamin A & E are useful only if taken with ginger or cinnamon to help assimilate the mineral. Chyavan prash, 2-3 tsp. twice daily with the warm milk, turmeric and ghee are all useful suggestions. A mild laxative is suggested to regulate the bowls, helping drain the excess bile from the liver; aloe vera gel and triphala are the gentlest treatments.
GENERAL HERBAL THERAPY: In addition to aloe and triphala, saffron, shatavari, manjishtha and punarnava are the main treatments.
GENERAL GEM THERAPY: Red coral (or any red stones like garnet or ruby) improve blood circulation, particularly for Vayu and Kapha doshas. Pearl or moonstone are good for Vayu and Pitta constitutions.
SPECIFIC TREATMENTS: Each constitution or dosha is suggested to follow their food guidelines.
MEAT: Ayurveda suggests using meat only as a medicine since meat does not actually rebuild and regenerate the cells and tissues. In the case of extreme weakness, such as advanced cases of anemia, red meat (or its substitutes like liver pills) and bone soups are useful to take until the anemia is treated.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
Eating fish at the same time as vegetables containing iron increases iron absorption. Omitting all sugar from the diet increases iron absorption as well.
Iron-deficiency anemia should disappear when the underlying cause is corrected.
Health care providers can sometimes detect vitamin B-12 deficiency by measuring serum B-12 levels, taking a complete blood cell count, and doing a blood test called the Shilling test, which evaluates B-12 absorption. Persons with pernicious anemia must take vitamin B-12 sublingually (dissolved under the tongue), by retention enema, or by injection. This treatment must be maintained for life, unless the underlying cause of the deficiency can be corrected.
Hydroxyuria (Droxia), a cancer drug, may be prescribed for people with sickle cell anemia who are over the age of 18 and have experienced 3 or more crises in a one-year period. The drug eases symptoms, but is not a cure for the disease.
Over 75 percent of people undergoing chemotherapy experience some degree of debilitating fatigue, and over 60 percent list fatigue as their number one problem. Usually, this fatigue results from a form of anemia known as thrombocytopenia, in which red blood cell counts are greatly reduced, a common side effect of cancer treatment.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children under one year old not drink cow's milk. Milk can cause anemia by interfering with iron absorption and possibly causing internal bleeding. The AAP published the results of a University of Iowa study that found the blood content in the stool of infants fed cow's milk was 5 times higher than children fed infant formula. Researchers concluded the amount of iron lost was "nutritionally important". MoonDragon recommends babies under the age of 1 year should be breastfed if at all possible rather than using baby formula. BREAST IS BEST! However there are situations in which breastmilk is not available or a mother is unable to breastfeed her baby due to an illness or medication she may need to take. If your baby must be fed a baby formula, research the brands and find one best suited for your baby. Don't be afraid to shop around and compare brands. Not all formulas are created equally.
NUTRIENTS Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments Essential Raw Liver Extract 500 mg twice daily. Contains all the elements needed for red blood cell production. Use liver from organically raised beef. Consider injections (under a health care provider's supervision). Very Important Blackstrap Molasses Adults: 1 tablespoon twice daily.
Children: 1 teaspoon twice daily.An excellent source of iron and other important nutrients. See above under Holistic Recommendations. Folic Acid 800 mcg twice daily. Needed for red blood cell formation.
Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 800 mcg, 100 CapsPlus
Biotin300 mcg daily. Needed for red blood cell formation.
Biotin Coenzyme, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 1000 mcg, 100 Sublingual Lozenges.Iron As prescribed by a health care provider. Take with 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption. To restore iron. Use ferrous gluconate form. Caution: Do not take iron unless anemia is diagnosed.
Iron Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 20 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.,
Ionic Iron Supplement With ConcenTrace, Trace Minerals, 2 oz.,
Iron Gluconate, Nature's Way, 18 mg, 100 CapsOr
Floradix Iron Plus Herbs2 teaspoons daily. Contains a readily absorbable form of iron that is non-toxic and from a natural source. Vitamin B-12
(Injections)2 cc once weekly or as prescribed by health care provider. Essential in red blood cell production and to break down and prepare protein for cellular use. Injections (under health care providers supervision) are best. If injections are not available, use lozenge or sublingual form for best absorption.
Vitamin B-12 Complex Liquid, Now Foods, 2 fl. oz.Or
Vitamin B-122,000 mcg 3 times daily Essential in red blood cell production and to break down and prepare protein for cellular use. Injections (under health care providers supervision) are best. If injections are not available, use lozenge or sublingual form for best absorption.
Vitamin B-12 Complex Liquid, Now Foods, 2 fl. oz.Important Vitamin B Complex 50 mg 3 times daily. B vitamins work best when taken together. A sublingual form is recommended.
Ultimate B (Vitamin B Complex), Nature's Secret, 60 Tabs,
Vitamin B-100 Complex, w/ Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 631 mg, 100 CapsPantothenic Acid (Vitamin B-5) 50 mg 3 times daily. Important in red blood cell production.
Vitamin B-5 (Pantothenic Acid), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 250 mg, 100 CapsVitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine) 100 mg daily. Involved in cellular reproduction. Aids absorption of vitamin B-12.
Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine), 100 mg, 100 CapsVitamin C 3,000-10,000 mg daily. Important in iron absorption.
Vitamin C Liquid w/ Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, Dynamic Health, 1000 mg, 16 fl. oz.,
Ester C With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 90 Tabs,
Vitamin C 1000 With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 VCaps,
The Right C, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 120 TabsHelpful Brewer's Yeast As directed on label. Rich in basic nutrients and a good source of B vitamins.
Brewer's Yeast, Debittered, NOW Foods, 1 lb.,
Brewer's Yeast, NOW Foods, 650 mg, 200 TabsCoenzyme A
Coenzyme A TechnologiesAs directed on label. Supports the immune system's detoxification of many dangerous substances.
Pantethine (Coenzyme A Precursor), Highly Active Form of Vitamin B-5, NOW Foods, 300 mg, 60 Softgels,Copper 2 mg daily. Needed in red blood cell production. Note: If more zinc is used, increase copper proportionately.
Copper Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 50 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.Zinc 30 mg daily. Do not exceed this amount. Needed to balance with copper.
Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.,
Colloidal Silver & Zinc Lozenges, Silva Solution, 90 Lozenges,
Zinc Lozenges W/ Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges,
Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 CapsRaw Spleen Glandular As directed on label. See Glandular Therapy for more information. SAM-e (S-Adenosylmethionine) As directed on label. Helps reduce stress and depression. Caution: Do not use if you have manic-depressive disorder or take prescription antidepressants.
SAM-e, Enteric Coated, NOW Foods, 100 mg, 30 TabsVitamin A 10,000 IU daily. Important antioxidant.
Vitamin A, 10,000 IU, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 100 SoftgelsPlus Natural Beta-Carotene 15,000 IU daily. Important antioxidant.
Beta Carotene (Natural Dunaliella Salina), Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 25,000 IU, 100 Softgels,
Multi-Carotene Antioxidant, Nature's Way, 60 SoftgelsOr Carotenoid Complex (Betatene) As directed on label. Important antioxidant.
Beta Carotene (Natural Dunaliella Salina), Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 25,000 IU, 100 Softgels,
Multi-Carotene Antioxidant, Nature's Way, 60 SoftgelsVitamin E 200-600 IU daily. Take separately from iron supplements. Important for red blood cell survival; prolongs the life span of these cells. Use emulsion form for better assimilation. Use d-alpha-tocopherol form, if available.
Vitamin E, D-Alpha-Tocopherol, Nature's Way, 400 IU, 100 Softgels,
Vitamin E, Mixed Tocopherols, Unesterified, 400 IU NOW Foods, 250 Softgels,
Vitamin E, DL-Alpha-Tocopherol, Hypoallergenic, Allergy Research Group, Nutricology, 400 IU, 120 Softgels
ANEMIA SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS
Information for help with anemia, a condition that occurs when either the number of red blood cells or the amount of hemoglobin in the blood is reduced.
Alfalfa Leaf Root Powder (Medicago Sativa), Kosher, 4 oz. Bulk
Alfalfa's (Medicago sativa) deep root system pulls valuable minerals from the soil. With the aid of sunlight, nutrients including beta carotene and chlorophyll are made available to the body in a usable form.Alfalfa Leaves, Nature's Way, 405 mg, 100 Caps
Nature's Way Alfalfa Leaves are organically grown by Trout Lake Farm, Washington, and Certified Organically Processed in accordance with Oregon Tilth standards and the California Organic Foods Act of 1990.Alive! Whole Food Energizer Multi-Vitamin with Mineral, Nature's Way, 18 mg of Iron added, 90 Tabs
Alive Whole Food Energizer Multi Vitamin with Mineral with Iron by Nature's Way is absorbed into your blood stream 5 times faster than other leading brands.Alive! Whole Food Energizer Ultra Multi-Vitamin Powder Shake Mix With Soy Protein, Vanilla, Nature's Way, 2.2 lb.
Alive Ultra Shake multi vitamin is the ultimate source for nutritional energy. In addition to being a comprehensive whole food multivitamin it has the added benefit of Solae soy protein. There are more invigorating nutrients from more natural sources in each serving than are contained in any other supplement.Amalaki (Dhatri), 100% Natural, 450 mg, 120 VCaps
Amalaki is an Ayurvedic effective against allergies, anemia, cold & flu, constipation, diabetes, digestive disorders, and liver problems.American Ginseng Root Candy, Prince of Peace, 5.3 oz.
American Ginseng, an adaptogen with yin properties that has a sedative effect on the central nervous system.American Ginseng Whole Root (Panax Quinquefolium), 4 oz. Bulk
Ginseng is considered to be the King of all Tonics; as it provides stimulation to the entire body for stress, fatigue, weakness, and deficiencies. It stimulates and improves the brain cells and is especially stimulating for mental fatigue.Anemia Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Used for anemia, sore throat, helps to cleanse and build the blood.Appetite Stimulant Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
This herbal appetite stimulant has been designed by a Master Herbalist to stimulate the appetite. It combines herbs well known, and recommended by the German Commission E, for improving the appetite and eliminating symptoms of appetite loss.Barberry Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Barberry is used for treating gallbladder disease, heartburn and indigestion and diarrhea. This herb can also be used to treat infections, parasites, psoriasis, and vaginitis.Beet Root, Nature's Way, 500 mg, 100 Caps
Nature's Way use only selected Beet Root from prime North American sources.Beta Carotene, Natural Dunaliella Salina, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 25,000 IU, 100 Softgels
Nature's Way Beta Carotene is 100% all natural from Dunaliella salina.Bilberry Extract Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Helpful with many different diseases of the eyes including vascular retinal disturbances, cataracts, diabetic-induced glaucoma, myopia, and all forms of eye strain.Biotin Coenzyme, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 1000 mcg, 100 Sublingual Lozenges
Biotin is an enzyme cofactor which assists in the release of energy from carbohydrates and in the production of fatty acids. It also assists in activating the energy transfer molecule ATP.Black Cherry Fruit Extract, NOW Foods, 750 mg, 90 VCaps
Black Cherry extract or Black Cherry concentrate has been found to prevent attacks of gout. Black, sweet yellow, and red sour cherries have all shown to be effective.Blood Circulator, 100% Natural, Jingul Huayu, 450 mg, 60 Caps
This time-honored formula is used in Chinese medicine to promote micro-circulation, increase blood flow to heart muscles, open and clear arteries, inhibit intestinal adhesion, soothe the liver, remove stasis and maintain healthy blood circulation and regular menses.Brewers Yeast, NOW Foods, 650 mg, 200 Tabs
Brewer's Yeast has been shown to help people having difficulty sleeping, fatigued, and diarrhea caused by Clostridium difficile.Chlorofresh, Chlorophyll Supplement, Nature's Way, 50 mg, 90 Softgels
Chlorofresh, Chlorophyll Supplement, is used chiefly as an aid to reduce odor from a colostomy or ileostomy and to reduce fecal odor due to incontinence.Chlorofresh Liquid Natural, Nature's Way, 16 fl. oz.
Chlorofresh is a special liquid chlorophyll complex, derived from premium alfalfa leaves. Chlorofresh is used chiefly as an aid to reduce odor from a colostomy or ileostomy and to reduce fecal odor due to incontinence.Cobalt Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 30 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.
WaterOz Ionic Cobalt is a pure liquid Cobalt supplement. Cobalt is an important agent of Vitamin B-12; it increases the body's ability to absorb it.Cocoa Powder, Certified Organic, 100% Natural
From holiday desserts and everyday baking, to a steaming cup of hot cocoa on those cold winter days, NOW Organic Cocoa Powder offers a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the high amounts of sugar, fat and preservatives common to many commercially available mixes.Colon & Liver Cleanser, Truman's CAC Tea, Loose Leaf, 1/2 lb.
Use of this cleansing tea has many additional benefits: improves overall digestion; strengthens the immunity; helps to prevent cancer; makes the skin more emollient and flexible: clears the eyes; and provides an overall tonic effect on the body.Comfrey Leaf Powder, 4 oz. Bulk
One of the most well-known healing plants, especially for its ability to heal tissue and bone.Comfrey Leaf Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Comfrey contains allantoin, which promotes the growth of connective tissue, bone, cartilage, and is easily absorbed through the skin.Copper Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 50 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.
WaterOz Ionic Copper is a pure liquid Copper supplement. Copper influences protein metabolism and general healing, improves vitamin C oxidation and is integral in the formation of RNA.Dandelion Root Powder (Taraxacum Officinale), 4 oz. Bulk
Dandelion root is known as a Blood purifier used for liver and kidney disorders. Dandelion root also contains nutritive salts to build up the blood.Dandelion Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Dandelion root is a natural diuretic and improves appetite and minor digestive problems. Dandelion leaves are commonly recommended as a food supplement for pregnant and post-menopausal women.Dong Quai Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Dong Quai root is often used in the treatment of menstrual cramps, or dysmenorrhea and PMS, hot flashes, and other menopausal symptoms.Ester C with Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 500 mg / 200 mg, 150 VCaps
Nature's Way Ester C with bioflavonoids is 100% natural calcium ascorbate with biologically active metabolites. These metabolites enhance cellular uptake and retention of Vitamin C.Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 800 mcg, 100 Caps
Folic acid (Vitamin B-9) is necessary precursor for the manufacture of genetic material like RNA and DNA. It also assists in the growth and repair of tissues and in the conversion of fats and amino acids into other useful products in the body.Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Powder, 8 oz.
This Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth is safe and nontoxic and destroys intestinal parasites physically by injuring them.Goldenseal Root Tincture (Hydrastis Canadensis), 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Uses include Adrenal Glands; Eye Problems; Fainting; Gallbladder; Gallstones; Nephritis; Pancreatic Disorders; Peritonitis; Poison Ivy/Oak; Prostate Problems; Psoriasis; Pyorrhea; Quinsy,;Scarlet Fever; Spinal Meningitis (sometimes referred to simply as Meningitis); Spleen; WoundsHawthorn Berries, Nature's Way, 510 mg, 180 VCaps
Hawthorn berries of this European species have been used since ancient times for well-being and as a cardiovascular tonic.Heart Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
The Heart Formula can be used for anemia, fatigue and heart problems.Instant Energy B-12 (2,000 mcg of B-12 per packet), NOW Foods, 75 Packets
NOW® Vitamin B-12 Instant Energy is the perfect way to keep alert and energized, regardless of the situation. These convenient, fast-acting packets are perfect when traveling or for convenience.Iron Complex w/ Vitamins & Herbs, Vegetarian Formula, NOW Foods, 250 Tabs
Iron is part of myoglobin, which helps muscle cells store oxygen - iron-deficient people tire easily in part because their bodies are starved for oxygen and without enough iron, ATP (the fuel the body runs on) cannot be properly synthesized so, as a result, some iron-deficient people become fatigued even when their hemoglobin levels are normal.Iron Complex w/ Vitamins & Herbs, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 250 Tabs
Now Foods utilizes the superior Albion Labs patented Ferrochel iron chelate which research has shown to be highly absorbed, well tolerated, and non-constipating at recommended levels.Iron Gluconate, Nature's Way, 18 mg, 100 Caps
Nature's Way Iron gluconate is an advanced chelate form which provides superior absorption and it contains no artificial ingredients or preservatives.Iron Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 20 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.
WaterOz Ionic Iron is a pure liquid Iron supplement. Iron is called the "energy giver." It attracts oxygen and builds blood. Along with manganese and copper it is necessary for healthy blood chemistry and is essential for recovery from illness.Kidney Support Wellness Oil, 2 fl. oz.
Kidney Support Wellness Oil was designed to promote the health of your kidneys.Kids Superfood Powder, Chocolate Flavor, Children's Supplement, 200 g.
The SuperFood Children's Supplement has 33 fruits and vegetables with a healthy scoop of cocoa to bring a new and tasty way for kids to get the anti-oxidant power of 3 servings of fruits and vegetables in one glass.Maca Powder (Lepidum Meyenii), 4 oz. Bulk
Today Maca root is used to increase energy and support the immune system. Alternative Health & Herbs Remedies Maca Powder can help a number of conditions from fatigue to frigidity.Maca (Lepidum Meyenii) Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Today Maca is used to increase energy and support the immune system. Maca can help a number of conditions from fatigue to frigidity.Meta C Vitamin C Supplement, 1000 mg, 100 Tabs
Meta C Vitamin C Supplement is a unique form of vitamin C that is absorbed faster than regular vitamin C and maintains higher serum levels for longer period of time with no intestinal discomfort.Nettle Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Nettle leaf has become a popular treatment of allergies (hay fever) and it can improve goiter, inflammatory conditions, and arthritis.Ola-Loa Childrens Multi-Vitamin Drink Mix, Cran-Raspberry, 30 Packets
Better your kids health by introducing them to this Child Multi-Vitamin based upon the most up-to-date studies on nutrition and child development and is 100% all-natural.Once Daily Multi-Vitamin & Mineral, All Natural, Lactose Free, w/ Iron, 100 Tabs
Nature's Way Daily Multi Vitamin & Mineral provides many of the essential nutrients that modern diets may lack. They are useful for protection, growth and maintenance of body systems as they age.Oregon Grape Root (Wild) Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Oregon Grape Root is used in liver deficiency, constipation, poor fat and protein metabolism, and general blood cleansing.Pantothenic Acid, 100% Natural Vitamin B-5, Nature's Way, 250 mg, 100 Caps
Nature's Way Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin B-5, is 100% natural calcium pantothenate. It contains no artificial ingredients or preservatives.Pau D Arco (Purple Lapacho), Inner Bark, 545 mg, 180 Caps
Pau d'arco is a South American herb which helps strengthen and nourish the body's defense system. A healthy immune system is a key in fighting diseases and infections.Potassium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 340 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.
WaterOz Ionic Potassium is a pure liquid Potassium supplement. Potassium aids rheumatic or arthritic conditions and is vital for the elimination of wastes.Red Raspberry Leaves, 480 mg, 100 Caps
Red raspberry leaf strengthens the uterus wall and regulates menstrual flow. It nourishes the reproductive organs, especially the uterine muscles, and helps strengthen and prepare the body for childbirth. It is also highly valued for its soothing and astringent properties to the stomach and intestinal tract.Rhodiola Root Extract, Standardized To Minimum 3% Rosavins & 1% Salidrosides, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 60 VCaps
Today, Rhodiola root extract is a commonly used herb to boost the immune system and boost energy levels naturally and supports memory and mental clarity.SAM-e, Enteric Coated, NOW Foods, 100 mg, 30 Tabs
SAM-e was discovered in 1952 in Italy and has been researched and manufactured there. SAM-e works closely with folic acid and vitamin B-12.Seabuckthorn Seed Oil, 100% Natural, 500 mg, 60 Softgels
A rare source of vitamin E, Seabuckthorn Oil also provides other vitamins including Vitamins A, C, D, K, etc, carotenoids, flavonoids, phytosterols, amino acids, serotonin and 28 trace elements: iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium, selenium, iodine, etc.Selenium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 50 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.
WaterOz Ionic Selenium is pure liquid Selenium supplement. Selenium promotes normal body growth, enhances fertility, encourages tissue elasticity and is a potent antioxidant.Shepherd's Purse Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Shepherd's Purse is mainly used to stop bleeding of all kinds.Spleen & Pancreas Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Use the Spleen & Pancreas Formula to strengthen and nourish the spleen and pancreas naturally.St. John's Wort, Perika, 300 mg, 60 Tabs
Nature's Way St. John's Wort is scientifically advanced to maintain a healthy emotional outlook.Supreme Beijing Royal Jelly With Bee Pollen, 10 ml Vials, 30 Vials
Beijing Royal Jelly with Bee Pollen is naturally dense in vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and much more.TheraClear Anti-Parasite Formula, 120 Caps
A regular natural detoxification program including TheraClear Anti Parasite Formula and a colon cleanser to promote proper elimination has been recommended by various naturopaths.U O Clear (Ovarian Cyst & Fibroid Support), 500 mg, 60 Caps
The herbs work synergistically to strengthen the body's natural capability of female systems self-cleaning functions, especially for uterus and ovary.Vitamin A, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 10,000 IU, 100 Softgels
Nature's Way vitamin A is 100% natural from fish liver oil. It contains no artificial ingredients or preservatives.Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine), 100 mg, 100 Caps
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is converted in the body to the main coenzyme responsible for amino acid and protein metabolism.Vitamin B-12 (Cobalamin), 50 mcg & B-9 (Folic Acid), 400 mcg, 1 fl. oz.
Vitamin B-12 (Cobalamin) helps to maintain a healthy nervous system and helps in the prevention of pernicious anemia.Vitamin B-100 Complex With Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 631 mg, 100 Caps
A complete Vitamin B complex of 8 essential vitamins. B Vitamins are precursors of coenzymes involved in the conversion of cellular energy, manufacture of hormones and proteins, and repair and maintenance of nerve structures.Vitamin C Liquid, with Rose Hips and Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, 1000 mg, 16 fl. oz.
Liquid Vitamin C with Natural Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids is an easy to swallow dietary supplement that exceeds the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.Vitamin C 1000 with Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 VCaps
Nature's Way Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.Vitamin E, Mixed Tocopherols, Unesterified, NOW Foods, 400 IU, 250 Softgels
Vitamin E is a major antioxidant and the primary defense against lipid peroxidation. Vitamin E is particularly important in protecting the body's cells from free radical/oxidative damage.Yellow Dock Root, 500 mg, 100 Caps
Yellow Dock root is one of the best blood cleansing herbs for chronic skin diseases, purges lymph glands, liver ailments, psoriasis, anemia, rheumatism, coughs and helps with Iron deficiency.Zinc Chelate, 100% Natural, Zinc Supplement, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 Caps
Yellow Dock root is one of the best blood cleansing herbs for chronic skin diseases, purges lymph glands, liver ailments, psoriasis, anemia, rheumatism, coughs and helps with Iron deficiency.FOR PETS HEALTH Nu-Pet Canine Chewable Wafers, Vitamins & Antioxidant Formula, Ark Naturals, 270 Wafers
Nu-Pet Canine Chewable Wafers provide vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, with a taste your pet is sure to love. Nu-Pet Canine Chewable Wafers are low in calories (a special benefit for overweight dogs) and are formulated by nutritional scientist using only the best all natural ingredients.Nu-Pet Canine Chewable Wafers, Vitamins & Antioxidant Formula, Ark Naturals, 90 Wafers
Nu-Pet Canine Chewable Wafers provide vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, with a taste your pet is sure to love. Nu-Pet Canine Chewable Wafers are low in calories (a special benefit for overweight dogs) and are formulated by nutritional scientist using only the best all natural ingredients.Herbal Remedies: Anemia Information
Herbal Remedies: Anemia Supplements & Products
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONER IF...
You or a family member has symptoms of anemia.
Symptoms do not improve in 2 weeks, despite treatment.
Symptoms of infection (fever, chills, and muscle aches) occur during treatment.
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Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
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The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
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