Australians diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM), the most common and deadliest form of brain cancer, can now look forward to new treatment possibilities and improved chances of survival. The Australian Brain Cancer Mission, in collaboration with the Minderoo Foundation and the Cure Brain Cancer Foundation (CBCF), has announced an innovative clinical trial, GBM Adaptive Global Innovative Learning Environment (GBM AGILE), which aims to revolutionize the way GBM is treated.
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A Grim Reality
Brain cancer has been a relentless adversary, with GBM accounting for a substantial portion of malignant brain tumors, contributing to the grim statistic that less than a quarter of those diagnosed are expected to live beyond five years. In 2020, 2,000 Australians were diagnosed with brain cancer, and these statistics underscore the urgent need for innovative approaches to treatment.
Mission for a Brighter Future
The Australian Brain Cancer Mission, supported by the Morrison Government’s Medical Research Future Fund and philanthropic contributions, seeks to reverse these statistics. It aspires to double survival rates and enhance the quality of life for brain cancer patients. The introduction of the GBM AGILE trial in Australia is a significant step towards achieving these goals.
GBM AGILE – Revolutionising Treatment
GBM AGILE is a versatile and adaptive trial approach with multiple “treatment arms,” offering the potential to expedite the clinical research process for GBM. This trial will enable researchers to simultaneously assess the effects of various unique drugs, revolutionizing the way treatments are developed and tailored to individual patients. GBM AGILE introduces a technique called adaptive randomization, which connects patients with therapies that have the greatest potential to treat their specific cancer, ensuring that effective treatments are identified more rapidly.
Collaborative Efforts for Success
The initiative has received support from various key players, including the Commonwealth Department of Health, Cancer Australia, the Minderoo Foundation, and the CBCF, which are working collaboratively to ensure its success. Bringing the GBM AGILE trial to Australia is a crucial step towards finding a cure for one of the most common and deadly forms of brain cancer. The Cure Brain Cancer Foundation CEO, Lance Kawaguchi, highlighted that the trial would provide innovative treatments and world-leading research to Australian patients.
Personalised Cancer Care
“GBM AGILE will bring world-leading research and innovative treatments to Australian patients. Cure Brain Cancer Foundation is proud to collaborate with the Government and Minderoo on this important initiative,” said Mr. Kawaguchi. This cutting-edge trial is designed to offer multiple treatment options to patients quickly, advancing a more personalized approach to cancer care, which represents the future of oncology.
Advancing the Future of Cancer Care
Dr. Steve Burnell, CEO of Minderoo Foundation’s Collaborate Against Cancer initiative, emphasized that providing new options to brain cancer patients is a priority. Adaptive platform trials, such as GBM AGILE, play a vital role in offering multiple treatment choices, driving more personalized approaches to cancer care, which is considered the future of cancer treatment.
Funding the Future
The GBM AGILE trial is a remarkable opportunity for Australians living with GBM. It promises to accelerate the development of effective treatments and ultimately improve the outlook for those diagnosed with this devastating disease. With up to $12 million available over four years from 2021-22, this initiative is a significant step forward in the fight against brain cancer.
A Beacon of Hope
The grant opportunity for researchers to undertake the GBM AGILE trial has been opened, and it represents a glimmer of hope for patients and their families. With ongoing support and collaboration between government entities, philanthropic organizations, and the scientific community, the fight against brain cancer is gaining momentum, and a brighter future for those affected by GBM is on the horizon. For more information on the grant round, visit: www.grants.gov.au
In the battle against brain cancer, GBM AGILE represents a beacon of hope, offering a promising pathway towards more effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure for this devastating disease.
Acupuncture and acupressure are both alternative therapies rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. They both stimulate specific points on the body to promote healing and relieve various symptoms. While acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points, acupressure involves applying pressure to these points with the fingers, thumbs, or other devices. When acupuncture is not available, acupressure is an alternative and convenient way to help nausea and sickness. This technique is often used for motion sickness, morning sickness during pregnancy, and nausea associated with chemotherapy.
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In the context of nausea and sickness, there are specific acupressure points that are commonly targeted. Listed here are 5 best acupuncture /acupressure points for nausea and sickness.
1. ST36 (Stomach 36) or Zu San Li 足三里:
Zu San Li ST36
Location: Situated on the front of the leg, just below the knee and slightly towards the outside.
Function: This point is used for various digestive issues, such as stomach pain, cramping, nausea sickness and vomiting.
Technique: Locate the point by finding the muscle about 1cm lateral to the shin bone. Press the point and rub cross the muscle fibre, until you feel pressure aching sensation of the muscle. Keep the pressure and rub for about 5 minutes. Repeat 2~3 times if nausea /sickness is not relieve.
2. PC6 (Pericardium 6) or Nei Guan 内关:
Nei Guan PC6
Location: This point is located on the inner forearm, about two to three finger widths below the wrist crease, between the two tendons.
Function: Traditionally this point is used for all symptoms related to Heart, Chest and Stomach, such as stomach pain, nausea, chest tightness and palpitation.
Technique: Applying pressure to this point until you feel pressure aching sensation, for about 3~5 minutes. Repeat 2~3 times if nausea /sickness is not relieve.
3. LU10 (Lung 10) or Yu Ji 鱼际:
Yu Ji LU10
Location: This point is located in the middle of greater thenar eminence on the palm side of thumb.
Function: Traditionally this point is used for heat in the lung and digestive issues including nausea and abdominal pain, particularly in children. (it is also called “板门 Ban Men” – the “Wooden Gate” in Chinese infantile Tuina massage)
Technique: Applying pressure to this point until you feel pressure or aching sensation, for about 3~5 minutes. Repeat 2~3 times if nausea /sickness is not relieved.
4. LI4 (Large Intestine 4) or He Gu 合谷:
He Gu LI4
Location: Found on the back of the hand, in the webbing between the thumb and index finger.
Function: traditionally this point is thought to help with various ailments, such as headache, stress, nausea and stomach pain.
Technique: Locate the point in the middle of the 2nd metacarpal bone, find the muscle next to the bone and apply pressure across the muscle. Keep the pressure and rub for about 3~5 minutes. Repeat 2~3 times if nausea /sickness is not relieved.
5. CV12 (Conception Vessel 12) or Zhong Wan 中脘:
Zhong Wan CV12
Location: Located on the midline of the abdomen, about halfway between the navel and the lower edge of the breastbone,
Function: This point is believed to aid in digestion and alleviate nausea.
Technique: Using thumb or middle finger, applying pressure and rub in a circle motion for 5 minutes. Repeat 2~3 times if nausea /sickness is not relieved.
Note on Effectiveness
It’s important to note that while many people find relief from symptoms through acupuncture and acupressure, scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness can be mixed. Some studies suggest that these techniques may have a positive impact on certain conditions, while others may not find significant benefits.
If you’re considering trying acupuncture or acupressure for nausea or any other health issue, it’s advisable to consult with qualified practitioners from renowned practice like Almond Wellness Centre. They can provide guidance based on your individual health needs and ensure that these complementary therapies are used in conjunction with, not as a substitute for conventional medical care.
Have a good sounded sleep is important to your physical and mental energy. Traditionally Chinese herbal medicine has been used to improve sleep for a few thousand years. Here are the list of 10 best Chinese herbs that are commonly used to promote better sleep.
Suan Zao Ren
1. Suan Zao Ren (Sour Jujube Seed)
Suan Zao Ren (酸枣仁), also known as Sour Jujube Seed, is the seed of the ziziphus jujuba plant. It is characterized by its sour taste and is commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to address various health issues, including insomnia and anxiety.
Suan Zao Ren is believed to nourish the Heart and Liver, helping to calm the mind, alleviate irritability, and promote restful sleep. Its properties make it a popular choice for managing insomnia caused by emotional disturbances and restlessness.
Bai Zi Ren
2. Bai Zi Ren (Biota Seed)
Bai Zi Ren (柏子仁), also referred to as Biota Seed, is the seed of the Biota orientalis (L.) Endl. tree, which belongs to the cypress family. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Bai Zi Ren is recognized for its sweet taste and neutral nature.
It is often utilized to nourish the Heart and Liver, helping to calm the Spirit, alleviate anxiety, and promote sleep. With its ability to harmonize and tranquilize, Bai Zi Ren is commonly employed in addressing insomnia, particularly when associated with excessive thinking and emotional imbalances.
It is also believed to have additional benefits, such as moisturizing the intestines and aiding in bowel movement.
Fu Shen
3. Fu Shen (Poria with Wood)
Fu Shen (茯神), also known as Poria with Wood, is a medicinal herb derived from the fungus Poria cocos that grows on pine tree roots.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Fu Shen is characterized by its ability to calm the Spirit and settle the Heart. It is often used to address emotional disturbances, palpitations, and insomnia caused by an unsettled mind.
With its tranquilizing properties, Fu Shen is believed to help soothe irritability, alleviate excessive worry, and promote restful sleep. It is commonly incorporated into herbal formulas aimed at treating conditions involving the Shen (mind) and emotions.
He Huan Pi
4. He Huan Pi (Albizia Bark)
He Huan Pi is believed to soothe the Liver Qi and calm the Spirit. It’s often used for insomnia caused by emotional disturbances or irritability.
He Huan Pi (合欢皮), also referred to as Albizia Bark, is derived from the bark of the Albizia julibrissin tree. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), He Huan Pi is recognized for its ability to soothe the Liver Qi and calm the Spirit. This herb is often used to address emotional imbalances, irritability, and insomnia resulting from emotional disturbances. He Huan Pi is believed to have a harmonizing effect on the Heart and Liver, helping to alleviate mood swings, emotional tension, and restlessness. Its calming properties make it a valuable ingredient in formulas aimed at promoting emotional well-being and facilitating relaxation.
Yuan Zhi
5. Yuan Zhi (Polygala Root)
Yuan Zhi is thought to calm the Heart and Spirit, and it’s used for insomnia linked to restlessness and palpitations.
Yuan Zhi (远志), also known as Polygala Root, is a medicinal herb derived from the root of the Polygala tenuifolia plant. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Yuan Zhi is characterized by its ability to calm the Heart and Spirit. This herb is often used to address restlessness, palpitations, and insomnia caused by an agitated mind. Yuan Zhi is believed to have a tranquilizing effect, helping to alleviate emotional distress, ease anxiety, and promote a sense of emotional stability. With its properties in harmonizing the Heart and calming the Shen (mind), Yuan Zhi is commonly included in formulations intended to support emotional balance and enhance sleep quality.
Wu Wei Zi
6. Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra Berry)
Wu Wei Zi is believed to calm the Spirit and generate fluids. It can be helpful for insomnia due to anxiety and Heart Yin deficiency.
Wu Wei Zi (五味子), also known as Schisandra Berry, is a medicinal herb derived from the Schisandra chinensis plant. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Wu Wei Zi is recognized for its unique five flavors: sour, sweet, salty, bitter, and pungent. This herb is often used to tonify the Kidney and nourish the Heart, helping to calm the Spirit and promote mental clarity. Wu Wei Zi is believed to have adaptogenic properties, assisting the body in adapting to stress and reducing the impact of stress-induced insomnia and anxiety. With its capacity to generate fluids and harmonize Yin and Yang, Wu Wei Zi is frequently included in formulas aimed at addressing both physical and emotional aspects of sleep disorders.
Long Gu
7. Long Gu (Dragon Bone)
Long Gu is fossilised bone, often from large animals. Long Gu is characterized by its ability to anchor the Spirit and calm the Heart. It is often used to address restlessness, palpitations, and insomnia caused by an unsettled mind. Long Gu is believed to help contain excessive emotional energy and provide a sense of stability.
8. Mu Li (Oyster Shell)
Mu Li is the shell of oysters. Mu Li is recognised for its ability to settle the Heart and calm the Spirit. Similar to Long Gu, Mu Li is used to address emotional disturbances, irritability, and insomnia. It is believed to have a tranquilising effect on the Shen (mind) and Heart, helping to alleviate anxiety, excessive worrying and emotional turbulence.
Mu Li
Long Gu and Mu Li are often used together to anchor the Spirit and calm the Heart. They’re used for insomnia with restlessness and palpitations.
These substances are commonly used together in herbal formulas to enhance their calming properties. Long Gu and Mu Li are often prescribed for individuals experiencing restlessness, anxiety, and insomnia with palpitations. They are valued components in TCM formulas intended to harmonise and stabilise the Spirit, promoting a sense of tranquility and better sleep quality.
Lian Xin
9. Lian Xin (Lotus Plumule)
“Lian Xin” (莲心) or Lotus Plumule refers to the sprouted part of the lotus seed. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is believed to have various health functions, including:
Soothing the Mind: Lotus Plumule is thought to have a calming effect on the mind and can be used to alleviate restlessness, anxiety, and insomnia.
Nourishing the Heart: It is believed to nourish the Heart and promote emotional well-being.
Promoting Digestion: Lotus Plumule is also said to aid in digestion and help with issues related to the digestive system.
Clearing Heat: In TCM terms, it has properties that help clear excess heat from the body.
Detoxification: Lotus Plumule is sometimes used for its potential detoxifying effects.
Ye Jiao Teng
10. Ye Jiao Teng (Caulis Polygoni Multiflori or Polygonum multiflorum vine)
Nourishing the Heart and Calming the Mind: Ye Jiao Teng is believed to have properties that nourish the Heart and soothe the mind. It may help alleviate restlessness in sleep and promote a sense of calm.
Please note that while these Chinese herbal medicine have been used traditionally for their potential benefits, their effectiveness and safety may vary from person to person. Always consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
Reference
Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica, 3rd Edition, by Dan Bensky and Andrew Gamble.
Disclaimer: Individual responses to herbs may vary. Consultation with a qualified TCM practitioner is recommended to determine the most suitable herbs and formulations based on individual health conditions. This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the most common chronic diseases. In addition to antihypertensive medications, adopting a regular and healthy lifestyle, along with traditional Chinese medicine treatment, may have beneficial effects on blood pressure control and symptom improvement. Here are ten Chinese herbal teas that may assist in lowering blood pressure:
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Chrysanthemum Tea:
Chrysanthemum tea can be prepared by combining chrysanthemum with honeysuckle and licorice, which have liver-cleansing, vision-clearing, heat-clearing, and detoxifying properties. It is recommended to use sweet chrysanthemum, preferably the large white chrysanthemum produced in Suzhou and Hangzhou China. Use approximately 3 grams per serving and consume a few times daily.
Hawthorn Tea:
Hawthorn contains components that aid digestion, dilate blood vessels, lower blood sugar, and reduce blood pressure. Hawthorn tea may have some auxiliary therapeutic effects for hypertension. Use 1-2 fresh hawthorn fruits or dried hawthorn slices to brew the tea, 2~3 times daily.
Pagoda Flower Tea:
Pagoda tree flower tea possesses properties such as blood vessel constriction, and may have therapeutic effect on hypertension. After drying the pagoda tree flowers, steep them in boiling water to make the tea. You can have a few times per day.
Lotus Leaf Tea:
The infusion and decoction of lotus leaves have the effects of blood vessel dilation, heat-clearing, and blood pressure reduction. Additionally, lotus leaf is beneficial for weight loss and fat reduction. Use half a fresh lotus leaf, wash it, cut it into small pieces, boil it with an appropriate amount of water, and consume as tea. Alternatively, you can use dry lotus leaves in hot water to make a tea.
Polygonum Multiflorum Tea:
Prepared Polygonum Multiflorum has the effect of reducing blood lipids and preventing blood clot formation. For individuals with elevated blood lipids, regular consumption of Polygonum Multiflorum tea shows some therapeutic effects. Take 5-10 grams of prepared Polygonum Multiflorum, boil it in water for 30 minutes, and drink it as tea.
Kudzu Root Tea:
Kudzu root improves cerebral blood circulation and provides relief for symptoms such as headache, dizziness, tinnitus, and lower back pain caused by hypertension. Wash and slice 30 grams of kudzu root, boil it in water, and consume it as tea.
Lotus Plumule Tea:
Lotus plumule refers to the green sprout/embryo inside the lotus seed. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it has a bitter taste, a cooling nature, and possesses certain blood pressure-lowering effects. It also has the benefits of heat-clearing, calming the mind, and strengthening the heart. Use 12 grams of lotus seed heart, steep it in hot water, and consume it as tea.
Cassia Seed Tea:
Cassia seed has the effects of lowering blood pressure, reducing blood lipids, cleansing the liver and benefit vision. Use 15-20 grams of cassia seeds to make tea by steeping them in water. Consume a times daily.
Mulberry Mistletoe Tea:
Mulberry mistletoe is an important herb for nourishing the kidney in Chinese medicine. Brew mulberry mistletoe as a tea to provide significant auxiliary therapeutic effects for hypertension. Take 15 grams of dried mulberry mistletoe, boil it for 15 minutes, and consume it as tea. You can have the tea a few time per day.
Corn Silk Tea:
In Traditional Chinese Medicine Corn silk has been used for diarrhoea, diuresis and some stomach issues. It also has some blood pressure-lowering effects. Use 25-30 grams per serving to make tea. 2~3 times daily.
For patients with hypertension, Chinese herbal tea may provide complementary therapeutic benefits in conjunction with your conventional medical treatment. In general, it is easier to use a single herb for tea brewing. For specific treatment needs or conditions, we recommend see a fully qualified Chinese medicine practitioner for herbal combinations. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) emphasis on individualised treatment based on syndrome differentiation. Your TCM practitioners aim to address the unique patterns of disharmony within your body and provide tailored herbal remedies for the specific imbalances.
Saturday last week (5th July 2023) American actress Sandra Bullock’s partner Bryan Randall passed away at 57. He battled Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) privately for 3 years.
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What is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)?
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive and neurodegenerative disorder that affects the nerve cells (neurons) responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movements. ALS primarily involves the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to their degeneration and eventual death. As these neurons die, the brain loses the ability to initiate and control muscle movement, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and, eventually, respiratory failure.
Main Symptoms of ALS
Muscle weakness: Initial symptoms often include weakness in the limbs, which may affect the ability to walk, grasp objects, speak, or swallow.
Muscle cramps and twitching: Individuals with ALS may experience muscle cramps and fasciculations (muscle twitching).
Difficulty speaking and swallowing: As the disease progresses, speech and swallowing become challenging.
Muscle atrophy: Affected muscles begin to shrink due to the lack of nerve stimulation.
Difficulty breathing: In later stages, respiratory muscles become affected, leading to breathing difficulties.
Causes
The exact cause of ALS is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In some cases, ALS can be linked to specific genetic mutations. However, the majority of cases appear to be sporadic with no clear genetic inheritance pattern.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing ALS can be complex and involves ruling out other conditions with similar symptoms. The process usually includes a thorough neurological examination, electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction studies, MRI scans, and blood tests. A diagnosis of ALS is typically made based on clinical observations and the exclusion of other possible causes.
Treatment
As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, there is no cure for ALS, and treatment mainly focuses on managing symptoms and improving the patient’s quality of life. Medications, such as riluzole and edaravone, may help slow disease progression and provide some symptom relief. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy can assist in maintaining mobility and communication. Devices like ventilators may be used to support breathing in later stages of the disease.
ALS and Traditional Chinese medicine
There is limited scientific evidence to suggest that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) may provide some symptom relief for individuals with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). It’s important to note that TCM is a holistic system that aims to restore balance and harmony within the body, and individual responses to TCM treatments can vary.
Some of the ALS symptoms that TCM may potentially address include:
Muscle Cramps and Twitching: Certain herbal remedies and acupuncture may help alleviate muscle cramps and fasciculations.
Pain: TCM treatments, such as acupuncture and herbal medicines, have been used traditionally to manage pain associated with various conditions, including neurological disorders like ALS.
Stress and Anxiety: TCM practices, such as acupuncture and meditation techniques, may help reduce stress and anxiety levels, providing some relief to individuals with ALS who may experience emotional distress.
Improving General Well-Being: TCM treatments often focus on supporting the overall well-being of an individual, which may contribute to an improved sense of quality of life.
It is essential to understand that TCM should not be considered a substitute for evidence-based medical treatments for ALS. ALS is a severe and progressive neurological disorder, and while TCM practices may offer some symptomatic relief or complementary support, there is no cure for the disease through TCM alone.
If someone with ALS is interested in exploring TCM or other complementary therapies, it is crucial that they consult with their healthcare team, including a qualified TCM practitioner, to ensure that these treatments are safe and do not interfere with any existing medical interventions.
Since research and medical knowledge are continuously evolving, it is advisable to consult updated sources and medical professionals for the most recent information regarding ALS treatments and complementary therapies.
How to choose TCM for ALS
When considering the use of Chinese herbal tea as a complementary approach for managing ALS symptoms, it’s crucial to work with a qualified and experienced TCM practitioner. They will take into account the individual’s overall health, specific symptoms, constitution, and any other relevant factors before recommending specific herbs or herbal formulas.
Here are some points to keep in mind:
Consultation with a TCM Practitioner
A TCM practitioner will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the pattern of disharmony or syndrome that best matches the individual’s condition. This involves examining symptoms, pulse, tongue appearance, and other diagnostic methods.
Herb Selection and Formula Creation
Based on the assessment, the TCM practitioner will select appropriate herbs and create a herbal formula tailored to the individual’s needs. The formula may consist of multiple herbs that work synergistically to address specific imbalances.
Quality and Safety
It’s crucial to use high-quality herbs from reputable sources to ensure their safety and effectiveness. Working with a qualified TCM practitioner helps ensure that the herbs are properly sourced and prepared.
Monitoring and Adjustment
TCM treatments are often adjusted over time as the individual’s condition changes. Regular follow-ups with the TCM practitioner are important to assess progress and make any necessary modifications to the treatment plan.
Integration with Conventional Care
TCM should not replace conventional medical treatments for ALS. It can be considered a complementary approach to help manage symptoms and improve well-being alongside standard medical care.
Communication with Medical Team
It’s important for individuals with ALS to maintain open communication between their TCM practitioner and their medical doctors. This ensures that all healthcare providers are aware of the treatments being pursued and can collaborate to provide comprehensive care.
Reference
Significant Neurological Improvement in Two Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis After 4 Weeks of Treatment with Acupuncture Injection Point Therapy Using Enercel
Author links open overlay panelShan Liang 1, David Christner 2, Stephanie Du Laux 2, Dariel Laurent. Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies. Volume 4, Issue 4, December 2011, Pages 257-261
Erik K Koda, Acupuncture for Managing Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Med Acupunct 2021 Feb 1;33(1):103-106. doi: 10.1089/acu.2020.1474. Epub 2021 Feb 16.
Poovadan Sudhakaran, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: An Acupuncture Approach, Med Acupunct. 2017 Oct 1; 29(5): 260–268.
Mudan Cai , Eun Jin Yang, Complementary and alternative medicine for treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A narrative review. Integr Med Res. 2019 Dec;8(4):234-239
