Alternative Therapies #002: The Drunken Raisin

Golden Raisins soaked in Gin have an overwhelming reputation as a remedy for arthritis related pain. Not just a random amount either.....9 raisins daily. What's the science? Theories:  Gin contains Juniper Berries which Terpenin, a natural anti-inflammatory agent. Golden raisins contain sulfites added to stop them from becoming dark in the drying process. Grapes/Raisins are also thought to have some anti-inflammatory effect naturally as well. Placebo? Maybe. There have been no major trials to compare results to but maybe there should be!! (Send me an email if you fancy a study on this)

Competition Alert:

Got Mad App-Making Skills? Try your hand at the 2012 Mobile Clinicians Voice Challenge. This contest aims to "mobilize" apps for use on the go. You could be a millionaire ;)

Medicine in the News: Genetically modified mosquitos?

In the era of being able to genetically modify everything.....are we completely aware of the long term effects on the fine balance of our ecosystem?? Genetically Modified mosquitos are programmed to die before reaching adulthood. The plan is that they will mate with other mosquitos and spread their early death capabilities. The intention being a safer way of mosquito control than spraying. Also, potentially eradicating diseases spread by adult mosquitos such as Malaria, Dengue Fever etc. I see the positives, now what are the negatives??? See what the NY Times has to say on the subject!

Funny of the Day

In one ear, out the other

Funny of the Day

Medicine In The News: Bad Science List 2011

Check out the 2011 "Bad Science" List  which is really a "Celebrities & Science" List of the biggest blunders re: real science peddled by people whose words (sadly) are disseminated to lots and lots of people very quickly- and an article with some funny selections from it...Sad, but True.

App Alert - Vitality GlowCaps

Vitality GlowCaps, Internet connected caps that attach to regular prescription pill bottles are capitalizing on evidence that technology really can improve adherence to medication regimens and may even help by providing incentives as such. Wireless reminder lights and ringtones, Push button refill service, Medication adherence progress reports ( sent to patient and doctor) and smartphone apps which even call the house to remind you to take tabs if all other signs are missed. Annoyance or Innovation?