Glossary

anabolic

The phase of metabolism in which simple substances are synthesized into the complex materials of living tissue

atheroma

A deposit or degenerative accumulation of lipid-containing plaques on the innermost layer of the wall of an artery.

apoptosis

Programmed cell death as signalled by the nuclei in normally functioning human and animal cells when age or state of cell health and condition dictates. An active process requiring metabolic activity by the dying cell, often characterised by cleavage of the DNA into fragments that give a so called laddering pattern on gels. Cells that die by apoptosis do not usually elicit the inflammatory responses that are associated with necrosis, though the reasons are not clear. Cancerous cells, however, are unable to experience the normal cell transduction or apoptosis-driven natural cell death process. This is where natural therapies can lend a hand.

atopic

Of, relating to, or caused by a hereditary predisposition toward developing certain hypersensitivity reactions, such as hay fever, asthma, or chronic urticaria, upon exposure to specific antigens: atopic dermatitis.

calcification

A hardening of tissues caused by the impregnation of excess calcium or calcium salts.

catabolic

The metabolic breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones, often resulting in a release of energy.

demulcent

serving to soothe or soften

homeostatic

The ability or tendency of an organism or cell to maintain internal equilibrium by adjusting its physiological processes

MIMS

MIMS is a series of Australian medical references that describes diseases and their treatment for Australian practioners. It is widely regarded as the authoritative source of medical information in Australia.

 

Prostaglandins

beautiful fatty fighters that whip up white blood cell activity, divert blood supply to infected zones and also increase inflammation. There are two types of Prostoglandins – initiating and terminating . The initiating ones kick off an inflammatory cascade which gets action happening in an affected site. The terminators ensure that inflammation is rapidly reduced once the fighting’s over and the enemy bugs have been vanquished. Aa beautiful illustration of balance and co-operation in the body’s biochemistry.

Free Radical

A usually short-lived, highly reactive molecular fragment that contains one or more unpaired electrons; formed by the splitting of a molecular bond, and capable of initiating or mediating a wide variety of chemical reactions. This scientific definition translates to mean that a free radical molecule can react in harmful ways in your body, destroying good cells and running amok.

Resorption

The dissolving and re assimilation of tissue

 

stressor

An agent, condition, or other stimulus that causes stress to an organism

symptomatic

 

Of, relating to, or based on symptoms: symptomatic relief.