By SUZY COHEN
Q: You mentioned Padma Basic in a recent article and how it might help autoimmune conditions. I have rheumatoid arthritis and heart disease. Can you provide more information? — E.O., New York
A: Padma Basic is considered a drug overseas, sold as “Padma 28.” It is made by a well-respected company in Switzerland and has been available throughout Europe for years. In the United States, it is classified as an over-the-counter dietary supplement.
Unlike most dietary supplements, this one has clinical research to support its use in the following conditions: Peripheral artery disease, heart disease, arteriosclerosis, angina, high cholesterol, stroke recovery, hepatitis, ulcers, diabetes, AIDS-related complex, multiple sclerosis (MS), chronic fatigue, frequent infections and dental disease. The product is a natural blood thinner, so a dosage reduction may be needed if you take anticoagulants.
It works for rheumatoid arthritis by calming an overactive immune system that is bent on destroying cartilage and bone. The destruction occurs thanks to TNF (tumor necrosis factor), which signals the attack. Padma contains an herb “Pterocarpus santalinus,” which inhibits TNF and T-cell proliferation in a similar way to prescription drugs like Humira, Remicade and Enbrel. It could improve inflammatory conditions among them, Crohn’s disease, MS, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis. Any kind of “itis” disease could benefit, like arthritis, bursitis, pancreatitis, plantar fasciitis and cystitis.
Padma increases circulation, particularly in the legs, so it helps with swollen ankles, cold feet and poor circulation. The multi- tasking formula contains 20 ingredients including lettuce leaf, natural camphor, cloves, cardamom, neem fruit, calendula flower and iceland moss. It also provides valerian root, prized for its ability to calm the nerves, and licorice root for hayfever, emphysema, asthma, gout, psoriasis and chronic fatigue.
Originally published by SUZY COHEN Dear Pharmacist.
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