Therapies aim to increase intake of iron and improve its absorption into the blood
A practitioner may suggest adding iron rich herbs such as parsley, dandelion and watercress to salads and soups. Infusions of raspberry, burdock and nettle may also be prescribed. Caution: do not take medical doses of raspberry in early pregnancy.
As well as a diet of iron rich foods, a practitioner is likely to prescribe herbal remedies to help the process of iron absorption. Malabsorption may be attributed to a failure of the spleen to process. You may be asked to take “Return Spleen” tablets. The Tang Kuei Four formula may also be suggested for blood deficiencies along with a qi (life energy) tonic such as ginseng.
Caution: do not take ginseng during pregnancy or if you have high blood pressure.
In Ayurveda, anaemia is thought to be due to an imbalance of pita, one of the three “vital energies”. Purging is the usual treatment and Punarvara Mandura, a mild laxative rich in iron, is often given. Sour or fried foods that might impair liver function are prohibited and iron-rich green vegetables and til seeds are recommended.
Practitioners tread anaemia with dietary advice and supplements of iron, folic acid or vitamin B12. You may be advised to eat foods with a high iron content and to take supplements of vitamin C and zinc, which aid absorption of iron.
Do you… Frequently or urgently need to urinate Often only pass small amounts of urine Have Pain or burning sensation when urinating These can be symptoms of urinary tract infections. There
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