Naturopathic Medicine Northwest Calgary
In the medical discipline worldwide, antibiotic abuse leading to superbug outbreaks is becoming a worrisome and threatening phenomenon. It is now common knowledge that antibiotics are for bacterial infections and that common colds and flus caused by viruses can usually be fought off by the body’s adaptive immune system, of course, given overall good health, adequate nutrition, fluids, and rest. In addition, I am now seeing a trend where certain natural health products are being applied to help people overcome cold and flu symptoms: muscle and joint aches, headaches, stuffy nose, abdominal discomfort, etc. While I validate the supportive use of topical ointments, creams, and essential oils for symptom relief, I would also like to put forth a precautionary note on the use of these remedies. Specifically, chemical substances called monoterpenes (menthol, camphor, eucalyptol, pinene), found in Tiger Balm, BenGay, Icy Hot, FlexAll, RUB A535, Vick’s, Salonpas, proprietary and non-proprietary essential oil mixtures, to name a few, are neurotoxic for certain groups of people. Individuals belonging to the following groups should completely avoid these products, especially because monoterpenes are easily absorbed through the mouth, nose (inhalation), mucus membranes, and skin:
- Toddlers less than 2 years of age.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Epilepsy.
- Severe gastroesphageal reflux disease.
- Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, also known as Favism.
- Cholecystitis (gallbladder infection), cholelithiasis (gallstones), biliary duct blockage, liver diseases.
Dr. Kait Chang ND
Dr. Kait Chang ND is a graduate from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. Before studying medicine, she acquired Honours Bachelor of Science in psychology and nutritional sciences at the University of Toronto.
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