Pharmacymix.com, Skin Care Pharmacy and Blog Specializing in Anthelios and Mexoryl Sunscreens

Thyme and Acne

Thyme is an herb I love to use in cooking; surprisingly, new research shows that it may be an effective treatment for acne.

Thyme (Thymus mongolicus) has been used throughout history for its healing properties. The Ancient Egyptians used it for embalming and the ancient Greeks used it in their baths and burned it as incense in their temples, believing it was a source of courage. It’s thought that the Romans spread the use of thyme throughout Europe using it purify their rooms, flavor cheese and liqueurs and aid sleep. Today it is used widely in cooking to flavor a range of dishes in many different cuisines. When used medicinally, the active ingredient in thyme is thymol. Thymol has been shown to be effective against fungal infections and may be found as the active ingredient in all-natural hand sanitizers.

Researchers from Leeds Metropolitan University recently tested the effect of thyme, marigold and myrrh tinctures on Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). All three killed the P. acnes bacterium after five minutes exposure, with thyme being the most effective of the three. The research team found greater antibacterial effect in thyme than in standard concentrations of benzoyl peroxide.

The researchers plan to conduct further tests using tinctures (extracts) in conditions that mimic the skin environment in addition to investigating how the tinctures work at the molecular level. Based on their initial research, the researchers believe that thyme may be a natural treatment for acne. In addition, they note that thyme acne treatments may benefit acne sufferers with sensitive skin, as the herb is believed to be less irritating than traditional acne treatments.

Robaxin: Methocarbamol Treats Pain and Swelling

Methocarbamol, as found in the Robaxin family of medicines, is a drug that acts as a central muscle relaxant. It not only reduces tension in the muscles, but also reduces muscle spasms.

Methocarbamol is marketed under different names when presented in combination with other active ingredients:

• Robaxacet – methocarbamol plus acetaminophen . This formulation is also available as Robaxacet Extra Strength
• Robax Platinum – methocarbamol plus ibuprofen
• Robaxisal – methocarbamol and aspirin

Robaxin’s methocarbamol may safely be taken in combination with pain relievers, such as ibuprofen. However, if you are using one of the combination Robaxin products such as Robax Platinum, an additional pain reliever should be used with caution or only after checking with your physician.

Robaxin should not be taken if you are pregnant or nursing and with all medications, it should be kept safely away from children. Methocarbamol may cause drowsiness or dizziness and caution is advised when operating machinery or motor vehicles. Do not drink alcohol. Do not take more than the recommended dose unless your doctor tells you to. And, talk to your doctor if you still have symptoms after 5 days.

Going Gluten Free

Celebrities including Rachel Weisz, Elizabeth Hasselback, Zooey Deschanel and now even Miley Cyrus are going gluten free. The latest food fad – or could going gluten free really be good for your health?

A protein found in grains including wheat, rye and barley, gluten gives elasticity to baked goods, helping them to rise and keep their shape and also resulting in that chewy texture we associate with freshly baked bread. Gluten containing food tastes good – pizza, croissants, bagels – who can argue that? But, research is starting to show that gluten found in food may not be very good for us. In its most severe form, individuals who are gluten sensitive develop Celiac disease, an immune disorder that can result in bloating, diarrhea, fatigue and a host of other health problems including osteoporosis and internal bleeding. Once diagnosed with Celiac disease, you must avoid all gluten containing foods to reduce the risk of severe health problems such as:

• Type 1 diabetes
• Autoimmune thyroid disease
• Autoimmune liver disease
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Addison’s disease, a condition in which the glands that produce critical hormones are damaged
• Sjögren’s syndrome, a condition in which the glands that produce tears and saliva are destroyed

Even if you aren’t diagnosed with Celiac disease, you may have a milder gluten sensitivity or intolerance, which causes symptoms including skin problems, headaches, brain fog and pain.

What The Experts Say

Some experts caution against going gluten free just because it seems that everyone else is doing it. They maintain that vitamin and mineral deficiencies will develop if your alternate diet isn’t well planned. Or that you may gain weight, choosing to fill up on gluten-free versions of breads, cakes and cookies that are loaded with starches, sugar and fat. Whole grains (gluten containing or not) are a source of vitamins, minerals and fiber. However, if you’re giving up gluten to feel better, the hope is that you’ll steer towards healthier choices including more fresh vegetables, fruits and lean proteins. If that’s the case, you’ll get more than your fair share of the recommended daily allowances of essential nutrients, including plenty of fiber.

On the other end of the spectrum, meet Dr William Davis. A doctor who practices preventive cardiology in Wisconsin, Davis contends that it’s not just gluten, but wheat itself that is detrimental to health.  Modern day wheat has been hybridized to create a grain that spikes blood sugar higher than a Snickers bar, plays havoc with the intestinal system and with the brain, resulting in a host of health problems including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, arthritis. The list goes on. While he holds the wheat grain responsible as the biggest culprit, he cautions that the consumption of all grains are associated with adverse health effects. For this reason, Davis recommends minimizing grain consumption and loading up on vegetables and lean protein instead. He also advises going easy on the fruit. Loaded with sugar, it isn’t always the healthiest option especially if consumed in large quantities. Davis espouses his philosophy on his blog Wheat Belly.
Is Gluten Free Right For You?

Some health professionals maintain that over 90% of gluten sensitivity (whether Celiac disease or intolerance) is undiagnosed! If you think that you may be one of those individuals you may want to ask your doctor to test for Celiac disease. If tests come back negative, consider an elimination diet to help determine if you have a sensitivity. Give up all gluten containing products (anything with wheat, rye or barley) for a few weeks and gradually reintroduce them to see if you experience any side effects.

While the thought of giving up your morning toast may sound alarming, think again. Gluten free products have come a long way. Supermarkets shelves are stocked with breads, pizza crusts, cookies and cakes. If you’re a baker, then the internet is loaded with sites that will help you create the perfect flour blend for your favorite treats. Of course, you could just forgo baked goods in general and load up on vegetables instead. Your waistline will thank you and your health may improve.

Let us know. Are you gluten free?

Gardener’s Dream Cream by Aroma Crystal Therapy

Winner of 16 National Awards of Excellence for “Best Body & Skin Care Product” and “Best Aromatherapy Product”, AromaCrystal Therapy Gardener’s Dream Cream has been hailed as the go-to cream by those who covet natural treatments.

Yes, gardening season is upon us, but users of Gardener’s Dream Cream have reported success beyond what it can do for hands overworked by soil and toil. Customers claim that it soothes dry, cracked or itchy skin, aches and pains and specific skin conditions such as weird rashes, psoriasis and eczema. An infusion of essential oils makes it a good natural alternative for minor skin irritations, cuts and burns. Users report that it can also help to provide pain relief from tendonitis, arthritis and fibromyalgia.

A massage with Gardener’s Dream Cream promotes relaxation and the therapeutic aroma creates a sense of well-being. It may calm acne flare ups, bug bites, works on sinus issues, and is a perfect at home spa treatment for tired feet. Aroma Crystal Therapy maintain that it is even safe for pet hot spots and cracked ears. It makes a perfect gift for anyone who loves natural and therapeutic body care.

Gardener’s Dream Cream is infused with essential oils of lavender, peppermint, rosemary, cinnamon, eucalyptus and arnica. It also contains soothing shea butter, sunflower seed and grape seed oils. Store it in a cool, dry place and apply liberally to affected area as often as necessary.