Helping the adrenals.

Date: Mon, 11 Jul 1994 21:50:52 +1000
Sender: "Medicinal and Aromatic Plants discussion list <HERB.TREARN.BITNET>
From: LEICHTON PHILLIPS <lphillip.OZEMAIL.COM.AU>
Subject: Re: Pantothenic acid

Pantothenic acid is a water soluble vitamin (B5). It can be manufactured by the body primarily by bacteria in the colon. From this site it is stored mainly in the liver and kidneys.

There are many reasons for good bowel flora, and production of the B vitamins is a major job of these bacteria. Therefore lactobacillis bifidus and fibres like psyllium, guar gum, slipper elm are essential to provide effective production of the vitamin group.

Like many of the B group vitamins, it plays a part in energy production (Krebs cycle).

In regards to your interest in anti-allergic effects, pantothenic acid actions are based on the adrenal gland.. Pantothenic acid is required for production of the adrenal steroid hormones. The glucocorticoids do have some anti-inflammatory activity, which will assist the allergy sufferer, however only slightly.

Vitamin B5 used is doses greater than, 50mg can cause a mild to severe flush (hot/redness/wave of pins and needles) over the body. Dosages should be kept below this range, if long term use is to be prescribed.

There are several plants we can use to stimulate secretion and reduce the breakdown of the adrenal steroid hormones.

Rehmannia glutinosa 30-60ml week 1:2
-Inhibits breakdown of cortsone products in the body.
-Antagonizes adrenal-depression caused by steroid hormones

Glyccyrhiza glabra (Licorice) 14-35 ml week
-Poteniates ACTH and cortisone.
-NOTE *** Due to the effects licorice has on cortisone and not aldosterone, long term use can cause sodium retention and fluid retention.

Leighton Phillips
Brisbane AUSTRALIA