Anemia
Anemia is a blood disorder where the level of oxygen-carrying hemoglobin in the blood is below normal. Red blood cells carry hemoglobin, which helps the red blood cells carry oxygen to the body. Hemoglobin formation depends on sufficient amounts of iron and protein in the diet.
There are several types of anemia, the most common of which is iron deficiency. Iron is needed to create hemoglobin. When iron is low, the blood cannot carry as much oxygen. Aplastic anaemia occurs when the body stops making enough red blood cells, allowing the chance of infection to increase. Vitamin deficiency is also known as megaloblastic anaemia. This type is caused by a deficiency of folic acid or vitamin B12. Because of this deficiency, the red blood cells cannot carry enough oxygen. Inherited blood diseases like sickle cell are inherited through the genes. In sickle cell, the cells are deformed and do not properly circulate. Thalassemia is another inherited form of anaemia. Pernicious anaemia happens when the body cannot absorb vitamin B12 from the diet.
Symptoms
People with this ailment may feel tired all the time, have a distinct lack of energy, and may find themselves breathless. Their skin will be pale, with possible discoloration of the lips and nails. The heartbeat may feel rapid. Just performing minor tasks may raise the heartbeat to a very high level. Insomnia is common. They may feel giddy, dizzy or nauseated. The disease may cause digestive problems like indigestion, flatulence or constipation. They may find themselves depressed, slow to heal and with a lack of sex drive. They may also bruise easily.
Causes
The primary causes are a reduced or low formation of red blood cells and a heavy blood loss due to injury, bleeding hemorrhoids or heavy menstruation. If the bone marrow is defective or there is an inadequate intake of iron or vitamins, there is a low formation of red blood cells. Some chronic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis may increase the risk of anaemia. Women are more prone to it than men, due to menstrual blood loss. Pregnancy increases the risk of iron-deficiency. Vegetarians can have increased risk due to low intake of animal foods.
Cautions
If you have any of the symptoms of anaemia, you should always seek medical assistance. A simple blood test can tell you if you are anemic, and you can take the steps needed to remedy the situation. The disease can signify the presence of serious underlying illness.
Herbal Treatments
Internal Applications
As a blood tonic:
- Dandelion taking two capsules of dandelion root or leaf twice a day, or adding dandelion greens to your salad can help up your iron and support your liver.
- Fenugreek cooked fenugreek leaves can help prevent anemia at the onset of menstruation. The seeds of this herb are very rich in iron and may be taken as a remedy for anemia. Fenugreek can also be taken in powdered form.
- Stinging nettle this herb is rich in iron and minerals. A tincture or tea can be taken daily to help increase the richness of the blood. For tea - infuse 2-4 grams dried leaves in 1 cup boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink
As a digestive aid or to increase iron absorption:
- Yellow dock a tincture of yellow doc root can be taken three times per day in a dose of ½ to 1 teaspoon each time.
- Alfalfa Homeopaths and herbalists use alfalfa to treat anemia. Alfafa is full of vitamins and minerals. Alfalfa can be taken as a tea or as tablets.
- Chive this herb is full of vitamin C and iron. Add fresh chives to your food at mealtimes.
- Soy soybeans are rich in iron and protein. If the anemic person also suffers from a weak digestion, soy should be taken in a very light form, like soymilk.