The journal of alternative and complementary medicine : research on paradigm, practice, and policy
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J Altern Complement Med · Jul 2015
ReviewEffects of Fermented Dairy Products on Skin: A Systematic Review.
Fermented dairy products, such as yogurt, have been proposed as a natural source of probiotics to promote intestinal health. Growing evidence shows that modulation of the gastrointestinal tract microbiota can modulate skin disease as well. This systematic review was conducted to examine the evidence for the use of ingested fermented dairy products to modulate skin health and function. We also sought to review the effects of the topical application of dairy products. ⋯ Overall, there is early and limited evidence that fermented dairy products, used both topically and orally, may provide benefits for skin health. However, existing studies are limited and further studies will be important to better assess efficacy and the mechanisms involved.
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J Altern Complement Med · Jul 2015
Randomized Controlled TrialEffect of Inhaled Lavender and Sleep Hygiene on Self-Reported Sleep Issues: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
To compare the effectiveness of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and sleep hygiene versus sleep hygiene alone on sleep quantity and sleep quality and to determine sustained effect at two-week follow-up. ⋯ Lavender and sleep hygiene together, and sleep hygiene alone to a lesser degree, improved sleep quality for college students with self-reported sleep issues, with an effect remaining at follow-up.
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J Altern Complement Med · Jul 2015
The Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Hospitalized Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Israel.
The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has been on the rise in recent years in the general population, as well as among patients with chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to add information regarding the use of CAM in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) in Israel and explore possible interactions between CAM and prescription medication (PM). ⋯ Since CAM consumption is on the rise, it is desirable to improve our knowledge concerning their potential effects and adverse effects, especially in conjunction with PM. Given the complexity of pharmaceutics in patients with chronic diseases, among them patients with DM, the use of supplementary medicine cannot be ignored.