stomach

_-1_0

_-1_1

Author: Sylvia Marinova, PhD student in in the "Genomic Stability" lab at BAS

_-1_2

Statistical studies related to coffee consumption show that, on average, one American drinks 3 cups of coffee per day<a href="https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/coffee-consumption-by-country" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> [ref.1]</a>.&nbsp;And the United States ranks only 25th in terms of coffee consumption compared to other countries. In other words, coffee is one of the most popular soft drinks. This is due to both its aroma and the caffeine content and its effects. But what exactly is it from a physiological point of view?

What-is-caffeine

What is caffeine

What-is-caffeine_0_0

Caffeine is a stimulant of natural origin that is found in over 60 plants, including coffee, cocoa and tea. Due to its awakening effect, the drinks that contain it are part of the daily life of a huge number of people.

What-is-caffeine_0_1

After taking caffeine, it is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream by reaching the peak of its concentration in it after about an hour. It is good to keep in mind that this time is approximate and may vary between different individuals. It should also be known that the absorption process slows down significantly when it is taken with a meal. Interestingly, the process can also accelerate - for example, if caffeine is in gum, then it is dabsorbed much faster. After getting into the bloodstream, it quickly spreads to various tissues and organs, among which is the brain <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0149763416300690" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.2]</a>. In general, its effects are expressed in:

What-is-caffeine_0_2

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">stimulation of the central nervous system, which makes us feel more energetic</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">has a diuretic effect, i.e. increased urine output</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">raises blood pressure</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">increases the production of acid in the stomach</li>
</ul>

What-is-caffeine_0_3

Regardless of how we take caffeine, it is absorbed in the bloodstream and so it reaches different parts of the body, where it has an effect for approximately&nbsp; 3 to 5 hours.

How-caffeine-works-on-our-brain

How caffeine works on our brain

How-caffeine-works-on-our-brain_1_0

Whether we drink coffee in the morning or in the early afternoon, when we get sleepy at work, the most likely reason is the rush of energy that this cup provides us. This is thanks to caffeine and its effects on a biological level. But what exactly are they?

How-caffeine-works-on-our-brain_1_1

First of all, caffeine resembles in its structure a substance called adenosine. It performs many biological roles, one of which is associated with its action as a neurotransmitter. In other words, it is a substance that is used by the body as a transmitter of chemical signals between nerve cells. In particular, adenosine transmits signals relevant to the sleep-wake cycle. It controls the maintenance of sleep and the suppression of waking up, therefore its level rises with waking time, which explains why in the morning we are most energetic and in the evening - naturally sleepy.

How-caffeine-works-on-our-brain_1_2

And so, resembling adenosine by structure, caffeine has the ability to compete with it for its creceptors and thereby suppress its action. For this reason, we begin to feel significantly more cheerful after the morning dose of coffee.

How-caffeine-works-on-our-brain_1_3

Another effect of caffeine, which is a consequence of blocking adenosine receptors and to which we owe it to feel better and happier, is the fact that it prevents another neurotransmitter from reabsorbing into the body, namely dopamine. Its function is to activate certain certain parts of the brain, making us feel happy. By taking caffeine, we allow dopamine to circulate for longer in the brain and this causes us to experience positive emotions for as long as its action lasts. It is believed that it is the link with dopamine that contributes to coffee addiction.

How-caffeine-works-on-our-brain_1_4

By activating some brain functions, caffeine also manages to affect the pituitary gland and the production of hormones from it. This in turn leads to activation of the adrenal glands and sendt them signal to secrete the hormone adrenaline. And as we know, adrenaline makes us feel more concentrated and more energetic - most sought-after effects of coffee or other caffeine-containing drinks.

More-coffee-means-more-adenosine-receptors,-which-means-more-coffee

More coffee means more adenosine receptors, which means more coffee

More-coffee-means-more-adenosine-receptors,-which-means-more-coffee_2_0

An interesting fact is that studies show that the more coffee we drink, the more adenosine receptors our brain produces. And that means only one thing - the need to increase the dose of coffee in order to have the expected effect is normal to appear. This, however, does not mean that we need to increase the dose recklessly, because it can also have some negative effects on our body.

How-much-caffeine-is-to-much-caffeine

How much caffeine is to much caffeine

How-much-caffeine-is-to-much-caffeine_3_0

Overall, it is believed that up to 400 mg of caffeine per day is safe for most adults. This equates to approximately 2 cups of espresso.

How-much-caffeine-is-to-much-caffeine_3_1

For pregnant women, it is recommended to reduce this dose to 200 mg per day.

How-much-caffeine-is-to-much-caffeine_3_2

How-much-caffeine-is-to-much-caffeine_3_3

How Does Coffee Affect Our Brain

https://d20hztklr4qnvi.cloudfront.net/0e4ca6ff-e1c0-46a5-9b3b-aff8b520c1c7_middle.jpg

Силвия Маринова

Author: Sylvia Marinova, PhD student in in the "Genomic Stability" lab at BAS

Do you think about your next meal all the time? Or about drinking anything other than water? Or what to wear for this long-awaited date, so you can't tell how swollen your belly is... again? &nbsp; Moreover, bloating, heaviness, pain, diarrhea or constipation are an integral part of most of ypu days?

_-1_3

If most of your answers to the above questions are positive, then it is very possible that you suffer from the so-called Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) - a chronic functional condition characterized by abdominal pain and impaired intestinal habits, but also a lack of structural and biochemical changes that can be <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/worldwide_prevalence_and_burden_of_functional_gastrointestinal_disorders_results_of_rome_foundation_global_study_32294476" target="_blank" rel="noopener"></a>diagnosed.&nbsp;A study published this year found that more than 40% of respondents from 33 countries reported suffering from some functional disorder of the digestive system <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/worldwide_prevalence_and_burden_of_functional_gastrointestinal_disorders_results_of_rome_foundation_global_study_32294476" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.1</a>].

_-1_4

Symptoms characteristic of irritable bowel syndrome lead to a significant decrease in the quality of life of patients. Usually, alleviating the condition requires a strict diet that includes avoiding a large amount of foods and beverages causing acute reaction and abdominal discomfort.&nbsp;Medications that reduce the discomfort can also be taken, but they do not have a healing effect, which makes them an insufficiently good solution in the long run.

_-1_5

What-causes-the-pain-in-IBS-patients?

What causes the pain in IBS patients?

What-causes-the-pain-in-IBS-patients?_0_0

Another approach to the condition is to reduce stress and lead a calmer lifestyle.&nbsp;It turns out that our intestines are covered with over 100 million nerve cells that create a direct connection between them and our brain. That is why our emotions directly affect how our stomach feels.

What-causes-the-pain-in-IBS-patients?_0_1

Read more in the <a href="../p/chrievniiat_mikrobiom_i_nashieto_zdravie_62aa84cd_b51a_41ac_a714_087565dd2382" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;The intestinal microbiome and our health.</a>

What-causes-the-pain-in-IBS-patients?_0_2

This connection is also directly related to irritable bowel syndrome and abdominal pain, which is one of its most important symptoms. From a scientific point of view, it is defined as visceral hypersensitivity - a term meaning altered perception of normally occurring physiological processes <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/The_Role_of_Visceral_Hypersensitivity_in_Irritable_Bowel_Syndrome_Pharmacological_Targets_and_Novel_Treatments_27431236" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.2]</a>. The reason for this hypersensitivity caused by the intake of certain foods is the main question in the work of Gay Boeckxstaens, a gastroenterologist at the Catholic University of Leuven. The study led by him is published in the journal Nature earlier this year is the the subject of this article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-020-03118-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.3]</a>.

Local-immune-response---a-possible-cause-of-IBS?

Local immune response - a possible cause of IBS?

Local-immune-response---a-possible-cause-of-IBS?_1_0

Many patients with IBS feel that they are allergic to certain foods and are doing expensive blood tests to find out which.&nbsp;Often, however, the results are negative. Here comes the new concept proposed by scientists from the Bokstens team - a specific allergic reaction localized in the gut.

Local-immune-response---a-possible-cause-of-IBS?_1_1

The first prerequisites for this assumption appeared fifteen years ago in a study conducted at the Italian University of Bologna <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Mast_cell_dependent_excitation_of_visceral_nociceptive_sensory_neurons_in_irritable_bowel_syndrome_17241857" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.4]</a>.&nbsp;Researchers have noticed that the immune system behaves differently in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. In particular, in biopsies of their gut, they found a large number of activated specific cells of the immune system called mast cells. The function of these cells is usually associated with the invasion of external pathogens such as bacteria, parasites or viruses and is expressed in the release of substances that counteract them. What is special in this case is that the patients who were examined did not have an active infection, but nevertheless many activated mast cells were found in their intestines. What is even more interesting is that they are located near the nerve cells in the gut and cause them to fire. The biggest unanswered question that these results raise is what causes mast cells to become active?

Local-immune-response---a-possible-cause-of-IBS?_1_2

This question intrigued Boeckxstaens and his team and they presented a completely new and unexpected idea. Their suggestion is that an intestinal infection could confuse the immune system in such a way that while it is fighting the pathogen, it can perceive some of the substances taken with food at that time as foreign and remember them as such. This could explain why, even when the infection subsides, the pain and cramps continue to occur with food intake and become chronic.

Local-immune-response---a-possible-cause-of-IBS?_1_3

Local-immune-response---a-possible-cause-of-IBS?_1_4

To test their hypothesis, the researchers infected mice with pathogenic bacteria, and some of them, while the infection lasted, gave them a protein called avalbumin, which can be found in abundance in egg whites. The other half of the mice did not take ovalbumin. After clearing the infection, the mice were again given the same substance. Interestingly, those who took it during infection exhibited signs of abdominal pain. In contrast, other mice did not develop such symptoms.

Local-immune-response---a-possible-cause-of-IBS?_1_5

Further in the study, the researchers showed that after infection, ovalbumin triggers an allergy-like reaction, and that it is due to overactivation of mast cells and, accordingly, nerve cells firing - that can be perceived as pain by the body. We should emphasize that this reaction has one significant difference with typical food allergies - it remains localized in the gut and cannot be detected by blood tests looking for its signs in the blood.

Local-immune-response---a-possible-cause-of-IBS?_1_6

This study introduces a new and revolutionary idea of the root causes that lead to IBS. It also raises questions that seek their answers. One is whether such an immune reaction is at the heart of all types of IBS?&nbsp;The subject of the present work of the Boeckxstaens group is trying to answer whether stress alone could cause such an immune reaction.

A Local Immune Reaction May Cause Irritable Bowel Syndrome

https://d20hztklr4qnvi.cloudfront.net/2d307be6-de63-4c00-982e-a5b7c42a60f1_middle.jpg

 A Local Immune Reaction May Cause Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Helicobacter pylori is a type of bacterium that colonizes the gastrointestinal tract.&nbsp;It is the most common cause of stomach and duodenal ulcers and gastritis. In addition, infected people are associated with a 2 to 6-fold increased risk of developing stomach cancer <a href="https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2020/travel-related-infectious-diseases/helicobacter-pylori" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.1]</a>. The infection is often asymptomatic, but can often cause some of the following symptoms:

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">burning in the stomach and esophagus</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">stomach pain</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">vertigo</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">swelling</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">unexplained weight loss</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">loss of appetite, etc.</li>
</ul>

It is believed that over 50% of the global population is infected with H.pylori <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23165522/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.2]</a> and the problem is greatest in developed countries.&nbsp;In this article we will look at conventional treatment, its disadvantages and why it is necessary to look for alternative natural solutions to deal with the bacterium.

Standard-therapy

Standard therapy

Standard-therapy_0_0

Standard-therapy_0_1

The most desirable outcome in the treatment of this infection is complete clearance of the bacteria. This is because H.pylori can stay in the stomach for an extremely long time and lead to chronic diseases such as gastritis, ulcers or cancer. Medical practice recommends therapies with acidity regulators, such as proton pump inhibitors, and antibiotics <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1521691806001387?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.3]</a>.

Standard-therapy_0_2

Unfortunately, often the treatment is not successful for two main reasons - the increasing antibiotic resistance of the bacterium and non-compliance with the course of treatment by patients. Usually, therapy involves at least three drugs and lasts&nbsp; for a long time, and the results do not always come immediately. On the other, the appearance of side effects and the high cost of treatment act discouragingly, and patients give up treatment before a complete cure.

Virulent-factors-of-H.pylori

Virulent factors of   H.pylori

Virulent-factors-of-H.pylori_1_0

Various products of microorganisms that help them cause an infectious process in the host are indicated as virulence factors. Examples include some toxins, receptors on the surface, etc. In the case of H.pylori, it is about factors that help it colonize the stomach and survive in the highly acidic environment there.

Virulent-factors-of-H.pylori_1_1

Among them are urease and adhesins. Urease is an enzyme with which the bacterium neutralizes gastric acid by converting urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/bg/bul/research/pubmed/The_role_of_Helicobacter_pylori_urease_in_the_pathogenesis_of_gastritis_and_peptic_ulceration_8730260" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.4]</a>. In addition, there are non-invasive tests that use the reaction of this enzyme to determine the presence of helicobacter and diagnosis, as well as to monitor the effect of assigned treatment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Virulent-factors-of-H.pylori_1_2

Adhesins, on the other hand, are necessary for the bacterium to capture it for the epithelial cells of the stomach. They help it to resist adverse environmental conditions such as the constant flow of juices and peristaltic movements <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/bg/bul/research/pubmed/Adhesion_and_Invasion_of_Gastric_Mucosa_Epithelial_Cells_by_Helicobacter_pylori_27921009" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.5]</a>.

Plants-as-an-alternative-treatment

Plants as an alternative treatment

Plants-as-an-alternative-treatment_2_0

Plants-as-an-alternative-treatment_2_1

Traditional medicine should not be neglected when we talk about infection with H.pylori. Many studies can be found in scientific databases that study the antibiotic effects of various plants on this bacterium.&nbsp;In addition to individual species, some studies also focus on isolating individual pure compounds with this effect, as well as on their chemical modification to create new medicines.

Plants-as-an-alternative-treatment_2_2

When reading such literature, however, it should be taken into account that in vitro studies are often carried out, i.e. in a test tube. This is a good start, but it is also necessary to have in vitro data in order to make the action more secure. In the examples of plants with healing effect on H.pylori we will see mainly those whose effect is also studied on model organisms.

How-medical-plants-could-counteract-H.pylori

How medical plants could counteract  H.pylori  

How-medical-plants-could-counteract-H.pylori_3_0

How-medical-plants-could-counteract-H.pylori_3_1

Many natural plant products have anti-H.pylori action. Some of the mechanisms of action against the bacterium include suppression of the activity of urease, damage to genetic material, suppression of protein synthesis and virulent factors, activity againt adhesins, etc.

How-medical-plants-could-counteract-H.pylori_3_2

For example, a 2005 study showed that aqueous extracts of borage, turmeric and parsley prevented the capture of H. pylori for gastric epithelial cells <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/bg/bul/research/pubmed/Bactericidal_and_anti_adhesive_properties_of_culinary_and_medicinal_plants_against_Helicobacter_pylori_16437723" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.6]</a>. A similar effect was found in the aqueous extract of the well-known herb licorice <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/bg/bul/research/pubmed/Aqueous_extracts_and_polysaccharides_from_liquorice_roots_Glycyrrhiza_glabra_L_inhibit_adhesion_of_Helicobacter_pylori_to_human_gastric_mucosa_19607905" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.7]</a>.

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori

5 natural remedies against  H.pylori  

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori_4_0

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori_4_1

The ingredient of red wine, to which its effects are due, is resveratrol. It is a natural antioxidant that has shown activity against the urease of H.pylori, as well as against <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0963996911001049?casa_token=zFNTOThBYU4AAAAA:-qyU52IVRuOBqN2-tBgM8rkaBajprHOVCn5bRZ4ynHQ3HxKnsSzqXGrs-vuJD8TAWT61zGjkgw" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> [ref.8]</a>.

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori_4_2

Broccoli

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori_4_3

Isothiocyanate sulforaphane is the metabolized product of substances, which are abundantly found broccoli, especially in their sprouts, and has bacteriostatic action against H.pylori and other bacteria.

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori_4_4

Read more in <a href="../p/dobritie_i_loshitie_taini_na_brokolitie" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Good and The Bad Secrets of Broccoli</a>

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori_4_5

A 2011 study showed that that the intake of broccoli sprouts reduces the colonization of the gastric mucosa by the bacterium, reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in mouse models and in humans <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/bg/bul/research/pubmed/Sulforaphane_enhances_protection_and_repair_of_gastric_mucosa_against_oxidative_stress_in_vitro_and_demonstrates_anti_inflammatory_effects_on_Helicobacter_pylori_infected_gastric_mucosae_in_mice_and_human_subjects_21548875" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.9]</a>. 48 volunteers took 70 g of broccoli sproutsfor 8 weeks. 2 months after stopping sprout intake, however, it was found that the indicators returned to the original values. This indicates that broccoli has an effect on the suppression of the bacterium, but can not completely eradicate it.&nbsp;

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori_4_6

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori_4_7

The catechins in green tea are the main antioxidant in this plant. They have shown antibiotic action against H.pylori. In addition, a study on model animals shows that intake of green tea extract for 6 weeks significantly reduces the symptoms of gastritis, as well as the number of bacteria <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/bg/bul/research/pubmed/Suppression_of_Helicobacter_pylori_induced_gastritis_by_green_tea_extract_in_Mongolian_gerbils_14550260" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> [ref.10]</a>.

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori_4_8

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori_4_9

Probiotics are live bacteria that help maintain the balance of microflora in the digestive tract. Fermented foods and drinks such as yogurt, kimchi, kefir, kombucha, etc. are natural sources of probiotic bacteria, while today many ready-made dietary supplements can also be found.

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori_4_10

Their use as a complementary or alternative treatment for H.pylori infection is mentioned more and more in the medical literature.&nbsp;Probiotics are known to have an in vitro suppressive effect against this bacterium and also to reduce the symptoms associated with inflammation in gastritis in vivo. For example, the authors of a summary article from 2014 show that of the 12 articles studying the treatment of H. pylori with antibiotics combined with probiotics and 16 studying probiotics as the only treatment, most reported an improvement in patient complaints and a reduction in the number of pathogenic bacteria. However, none showed a complete cure from the infection with probiotics alone <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1684118213000637?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.11]</a>.

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori_4_11

Honey and propolis

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori_4_12

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori_4_13

Honey is well <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3925854/?fbclid=IwAR1pFDbib3yg1j_9dwj8H46FH0g1mM9Ikup8BfA3K31u2kaxo_NtwOg_0sY" target="_blank" rel="noopener"></a>known for its antibacterial properties and has several possible mechanisms that explain its action.&nbsp;There are also studies that examine its depressant effect specifically on H.pylori, as manuka honey seems to give the most promising results <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3925854/?fbclid=IwAR1pFDbib3yg1j_9dwj8H46FH0g1mM9Ikup8BfA3K31u2kaxo_NtwOg_0sY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.12]</a>.

5-natural-remedies-against-H.pylori_4_14

In conclusion, alternative treatments for H. pylori are a good approach and are probably safe. However, they have not been shown to completely cure infections with this bacterium and are rather recommended as concomitant treatment with a preparation after consultation with your doctor.

Natural Treatments for Helicobacter pylori

https://d20hztklr4qnvi.cloudfront.net/fb9760ae-975f-4dc0-972e-55d60e9bf74d_middle.png

 Natural Treatments for Helicobacter pylori

"The greatest power is thought. Whatever we think, we build from invisible matter something that draws strength to ourselves to help or harm us, according to the nature of our thoughts. Therefore, the first step is to manage our thoughts through our reasoning. And the second step requires us to develop a habit of positive thinking. There is no doctor who can eliminate the diseases of the body and soul, for they are eliminated by joyful thought."

These are very wise and insightful words uttered by the infamous Peter Dimkov the Healer [ref.1]. It would be very nice if a man like him could be among us in the midst of a severe pandemic of COVID-19, against which all branches of medicine join forces altogether.

Petar Dimkov owns the nickname "The Healer". He has left us an incredible wealth in the form of thousands of recipes for a variety of health problems and valuable life lessons for faith, empathy and acceptance of higher thought. He has drawn inspiration from his mother Ekaterina Dimkova, who has long sought and recorded folk recipes for treatment and passed on the covenant to her son.

What is the story of Petar Dimkov, what his daughter reveals about him and the books he left us, we will share with you in today's article.

Who-is-Petar-Dimkov

Who is Petar Dimkov

Who-is-Petar-Dimkov_0_0

Born in 1886, in the family of a priest and herbalist, Dimkov from a young age was brought up in patriotism and respect for the great mother Nature. At just 20 years old, he was appointed lieutenant in the Dragoman Regiment in the Caribrod.

Who-is-Petar-Dimkov_0_1

In 1899 he went to St. Petersburg (Russia), together with his older brother Dimitar, to study with a scholarship in the military academy. At the same time he attended lectures at the medical university, completed a course in homeopathy and also showed interest in lectures in traditional Tibetan medicine. During his studies, Dimkov read the books of Dr. Ignatz von Peczely, the father of iridology, which will later become the preferred diagnostic method for Dimkov.

Who-is-Petar-Dimkov_0_2

Petar Dimkov was also a participant in three wars - the Balkan, Second Balkan and First World Wars, and was repeatedly wounded. During his service in the army, he was awarded all the medals of valor that were once awarded in Bulgaria. As an acting officer in Karlovo in 1933, he rescued Levski's home and prevented it from destruction.

Who-is-Petar-Dimkov_0_3

How-does-he-get-the-nickname-"The-Healer"

How does he get the nickname "The Healer"

How-does-he-get-the-nickname-"The-Healer"_1_0

Even in his childhood he was attracted to the healing power of herbs, following the family traditions and guidelines of his mother Ekaterina. In his book "Bulgarian Folk Medicine. Volume 1" Dimkov shares:

How-does-he-get-the-nickname-"The-Healer"_1_1

In 1900, when I was 14-years old, she handed me her notebooks with advice to continue searching for and recording the methods and means by which our people had been treated over the centuries. That's what I've been doing for 75 years.'

How-does-he-get-the-nickname-"The-Healer"_1_2

In 1936, due to his Republican beliefs and though character, Dimkov retired early from the army. Years of misery followed for his family. His friend, an immigrant to the United States, offered him a home in America. However, the proud Bulgarian firmly refused because of his belief that "our people are great and the land is amazing".

How-does-he-get-the-nickname-"The-Healer"_1_3

In these years of poverty and hopelessness, Dimkov outlined a new path for himself - the herbal treatment. [ref.2]

How-does-he-get-the-nickname-"The-Healer"_1_4

Dimkov traveled tirelessly in the country and abroad. He met Peter Deunov and became his ardent follower and disciple. Dimkov then started practicing traditional medicine, iridology and herbal treatment (phytotherapy). Besides all this, the Healer is a great supporter of the ideas of vegetarianism and life according to the laws of nature and space.

How-does-he-get-the-nickname-"The-Healer"_1_5

About this side of him we are being told later by his daughter in an interview with Portal 12 - Dimkov and his entire family lived according to the canons of Christianity even in the troubled communist years and did not spare his powers to see everyone. Although the visits severely exhausted him, both mentally and physically, this did not in any way stop him from fulfilling the mission to which he devoted himself. Namely - to treat people according to folk medicine. The main principles Dimkov derives from it and observes in his treatment sessions with the people he treats tirelessly are:

How-does-he-get-the-nickname-"The-Healer"_1_6

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Healing occurs with natural native means.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The final target of the treatment is general strengthening of the body by changing the way of eating and living.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Treatment should always be individual - according to the disease, the person and his condition.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">To impact not only the affected organ or system, but also the whole organism (which is the basis of holistic medicine).</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">With the help of suggestion and self-suggestion to create confidence in the patient for successful recovery. This is also confirmed by his daughter - the artist Lily Dimkova, adding that both healthy and sick people should practice self-suggestion, because thought has the power to change the subconsciousness.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">He denies using technical equipment and machines, instead studying the usefulness of means such as compresses, baths, massages, fasting, raw foodism and more.</li>
</ul>

How-does-he-get-the-nickname-"The-Healer"_1_7

The-recipes-of-Petar-Dimkov

The recipes of Petar Dimkov

The-recipes-of-Petar-Dimkov_2_0

No disease that cannot be cured is the Healer's only rule. And perhaps his unshakable faith is rooted in the healing power of his rule. And morale, according to Dimkov, is the only guarantee of good health. He adds: "Illness is the result of lying. Breaking the law of truth leads to illness. The truth brings health. It revives, renews, rejuvenates."

The-recipes-of-Petar-Dimkov_2_1

At the basics of folk medicine, which Peter Dimkov practiced, are the recipes for various health problems. In his books you will find recipes for the most trivial things like the cold and the flu, as well as for various problems such as muscle spasms, curvature of the spine, acute rheumatism, stuttering and pelting, headache, meningitis, reproductive problems, paralysis of limbs and many more.

The-recipes-of-Petar-Dimkov_2_2

Those recipes have helped thousands of people to heal, and at a later stage numerous scientific works establish the effectiveness of the natural means used by the Healer. This is yet another proof that phytotherapy in particular and folk medicine in general can help with a wide range of health problems and more importantly: science supports their usefulness.

The-recipes-of-Petar-Dimkov_2_3

Diving into the world of Dimkov's recipes, we find an inexhaustible source of knowledge, which is applied not only to the treatment of the sick organ, but also to achieve a general strengthening effect on the whole organism.

The-recipes-of-Petar-Dimkov_2_4

Some of his most famous recipe books are:

The-recipes-of-Petar-Dimkov_2_5

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">"Hygiene and healing of the soul"</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">"Bulgarian Folk Medicine: Natural Treatment and Natural Life - Volume 1-3"</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">"Let's live one hundred years - Tips and recipes of the herb healer Petar Dimkov"</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">"Tips and recipes of Petar Dimkov for healing with fasting and treatment with water"</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">"Live for 100 years" and more.</li>
</ul>

The-recipes-of-Petar-Dimkov_2_6

In 1944, the published "Handbook of Natural Healing and Living" by Petar Dimkov was included in the list of books banned in Bulgaria, and almost all of its specimens were destroyed. At the same time, the authorities officially forbid him from treatment. Dimkov, however, continues to do so, of course - secretly and in the following decades he saved hundreds of lives. After 1989 and the end of political censorship, Petar Dimkov's books and writings became very popular again, and people began to look for his knowledge and healing skills.

The-recipes-of-Petar-Dimkov_2_7

The-twelve-"golden-herbs-of-Petar-Dimkov"

The twelve "golden herbs of Petar Dimkov"

The-twelve-"golden-herbs-of-Petar-Dimkov"_3_0

Through phytotherapy - treatment with herbs, the Healer discovers and applies his own unique combinations of herbs, to which one should treat with particular care. There are some golden rules that the Healer hands over to us regarding the collection, preservation and preparation of medicinal herbs in order to have the best preserved qualities and useful effect:

The-twelve-"golden-herbs-of-Petar-Dimkov"_3_1

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Herbs should be picked fresh in early spring, and for winter, dried herbs should be prepared.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The timing of picking is important according to when the concentration of medicinal active ingredients is highest. For example, the roots are digging up in early spring or autumn. The fruits are collected during their maturation.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Proceed very carefully with the collection and avoid the use of plastic bags that suffocate herbs.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Only visibly healthy and clean plants are picked, which do not get sick and do not have parasites on them.</li>
</ul>

The-twelve-"golden-herbs-of-Petar-Dimkov"_3_2

Here are these herbs and their applications in the folk medicine of Petar Dimkov:

The-twelve-"golden-herbs-of-Petar-Dimkov"_3_3

<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Agrimonia (Agrimonia eupatoria) - a herb that is used for sore throat, upset stomach, mild diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diabetes, gallbladder disorders, fluid retention. Petar Dimkov has also come up with a special recipe for blood purification, which includes all 12 herbs with 30 g. of each of them. Agrimony in his recipes is also recomended for losing excess weight.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pine tips (Pinus sylvestris L.) - contains valuable essential oil, resinous substances, vitamin C and other useful components. They are found in recipes for bronchitis, atherosclerosis, cleansing blood from toxins and maintaining a normal weight.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Speedwells&nbsp;("chief healer") (Veronica, plantaginaceae family) - applied for cough, bronchitis [ref. 6], diarrhea, chronic eczema, healing action against neurosis induced by mental overload, etc. </li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Nettle leaf (Urtica Dioica) - nettle has a proven diuretic, hemostatic and tonic effect. Also in scientific publications,the antioxidant, anti-ulcer and analgesic property of nettle is proven: Antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiulcer and analgesic activities of nettle (Urtica dioica L.). [ref.3]. There is evidence of effectiveness of nettle in arthritis, which we find in Evidence for antirheumatic effectiveness of Herba Urticae dioicae in acute arthritis: A pilot study [ref.4]. It is also used as a tool against springtime lethargy and anemia. In Dimkov's recipes, nettle is found as an integral part of tinctures or cosmetic formulas, in decoctions to alkalize the body and accelerate hair growth.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) - the beautiful yellow herb is beneficial as a tincture for nervous disorders and nerve diseases, and these effects are described in a small number of publications [ref.5]. The herb can also be enjoyed as a tea or baths can be made on half the body.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Yellow yarrow (Achillea clypeolata) -this perennial plant promotes normal digestion, can be applied topically to relieve skin rashes and itching [ref. 7, 8], it also relieves allergy symptoms, lowers high temperature, counteracts menorrhagia (abnormally profuse or prolonged menstrual bleeding), muscle spasms and others.</li>
</ol>

The-twelve-"golden-herbs-of-Petar-Dimkov"_3_4

There are six more amazing golden herbs, which we will present to you in the second part of this topic. Now enjoy the majesty and beauty of St. John's Wort.

The-twelve-"golden-herbs-of-Petar-Dimkov"_3_5

The-twelve-"golden-herbs-of-Petar-Dimkov"_3_6

Sources-used

Sources used

A measure of every meal and positive thinking on every issue. Cultivating kindness and preserving positive thoughts and actions. Faith in the natural healing and recovery of the body. Faith in the gifts of nature and medicinal herbs. Release anxiety and life without stress. Instead, a life of understanding and helping our neighbour - a legacy that Peter Dimkov left for all of us and we will always remember and pay it forward.