Melatonin
I didn't mention it in the new COPD post on EC, but while melatonin is useful for COPD, it is also useful for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)! Here is a link to the new COPD article :
https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/melatonin-for-copd.html
Here are links to studies of melatonin and IPF :
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29567077/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30445883/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26122220/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16313495/
Melatonin is not a one trick pony and has shown efficacy in multiple health issues, yet doctors seem to mainly prescribe it as a sleep aid! If melatonin could become a patented prescription drug, it would be a blockbuster drug for what ever drug company held such a patent!
Art
(Mississippi)
08/23/2022
T,
In the following review they describe the use of NAC for IPF at 600 mg three times per day in divided doses for a total of 1800 mg/day.
Here is a relevant quote from the review :
' The most commonly used oral dose [76.19% (16/21)] was 600 mg three times a day (1, 800 mg per day). Combined therapy frequently included corticosteroids (13 studies) and pirfenidone (two studies). '
Regarding the use of melatonin for IPF, no dosing schedule has yet been established. I can't give a dosage recommendation since I am not a doctor, but I can mention studies where melatonin was used for Parkinson's disease at 10 mg/day and 50 mg/day to good effect in the study participants. Here is a link to the 10 mg study :
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0303846720302213?via=ihub
Here is an important quote from the study :
' Compared with the placebo, melatonin supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in serum high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (β -0.94 mg/L; 95% CI, -1.55, -0.32; P = 0.003) and a significant elevation in plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (β 108.09 mmol/L; 95% CI, 78.21, 137.97; P < 0.001) and total glutathione (GSH) levels (β 77.08 μmol/L; 95% CI, 44.29, 109.86; P < 0.001). Additionally, consuming melatonin significantly decreased serum insulin levels (β -1.79 μIU/mL; 95% CI, -3.12, -0.46; P = 0.009), homeostasis model of assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (β -0.47; 95% CI, -0.80, -0.13; P = 0.007), total- (β -13.16 mg/dL; 95% CI, -25.14, -1.17; P = 0.03) and LDL- (β -10.44 mg/dL; 95% CI, -20.55, -0.34; P = 0.04) compared with the placebo. '
Here is a link to the 50 mg/day study :
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8545577/
In the above study they found that melatonin at the dosage used, returned oxidative stress levels similarly to healthy control levels.
Here is a quote from the study :
' Taken together, our data showed that melatonin supplementation recovers mitochondrial function and diminishes oxidative stress. '
To get a better idea of exactly how much melatonin reduced oxidative stress markers in the study participants, take a look at "Figure 1". Here you can see how close melatonin got to control levels :
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8545577/figure/fig1/
The importance of lowering oxidative stress markers in IPF is outlined in detail in this article :
Here is an important quote from the article :
' Oxidative stress arises as a result of an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) production and antioxidant defence that leads to cellular dysfunction and tissue damage (Hosseinzadeh et al., 2018b). '
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Art
T,
I forgot to include the last study which gives you a very good idea of why the well established mitochondrial protective effects of melatonin are important :
Here is a relevant quote from the study :
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis fibroblasts have increased mtDNA damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, impaired mitochondrial biogenesis, and increased rate of senescence. '
The following article goes into significant detail to describe the mitochondrial protective effects of melatonin :
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28864909/
A relevant quote :
' Thus, melatonin is not only taken up by mitochondria but these organelles, in addition to many other functions, also probably produce melatonin as well. Melatonin's high concentrations and multiple actions as an antioxidant provide potent antioxidant protection to these organelles which are exposed to abundant free radicals.
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Art
(IL)
01/12/2023
Pier L.
In the two studies I linked to for melatonin in people, one study used 10 mg/night and the other study used 25 mg at noon and 25 mg before bed for a total of 50 mg/day.
I know several people who use more than that dose, including myself. I use 132 mg of melatonin each night. I don't recommend that dose to anybody, that's just what I currently use after using 120 mg/night for one year and around 90 mg/night for one year. I intend to complete a year at 132 mg/night and likely increase further in my effort to try and get all of the multitudes of health effects from melatonin that I possibly can. I have written about many of these benefits on EC.
In the following study, they used 300 mg/day in the form of a suppository in ALS patients for up to 2 years. This is very significant because suppository melatonin is thought to have significantly higher bioavailability than oral melatonin, which has poor bioavailability estimated at 3 to 15% of total dose consumed, so the actual dose compared to oral dosing could potentially be significantly higher :
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17014688/
You may also be interested in my newest article about PF/IPF :
https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/five-supplements-for-pulmonary-fibrosis.html
Art
Melatonin
There have been quite a few posts on EC about people looking for help for IPF, but I have not seen any posts discussing melatonin and IPF.
Here are some fairly recent studies suggesting that melatonin may offer some help in this area. Melatonin has a very good safety profile and is naturally produced by the human body suggesting a lower potential for adverse reactions. Melatonin is also readily available here in the states and is fairly inexpensive.
http://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/19/4/1118/htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26122220
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/jpi.12302
http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0097266
https://www.atsjournals.org/doi/abs/10.1164/ajrccm-conference.2016.193.1_MeetingAbstracts.A4169
Given the severe nature of IPF, it may be beneficial to look at as many options as possible and determine their relevance for your particular situation!
Art
Melatonin and NAC
Bear,
Please look into melatonin and NAC for IPF. Check out these research studies for melatonin:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30445883/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5979295/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29567077/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27878256/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26122220/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16313495/
And for NAC:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=N+acetyl+Cysteine+idiopathic+pulmonary+fibrosis&size=20
Good luck!
Art
Multiple Remedies
Hello. I am wondering if anyone might know of anything to help my grandfather whom is 77 years old and suffers from Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension as well as from Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. For the IPF, we have been doing the Hydrogen Peroxide inhalation method, along with colloidal silver, several different supplements, (such as seaweed, vitamin C, collagen, etc. to name a few) along with his prescription medications that are prescribed to him by his lung doctor, and of course he is also following these treatments with a healthy organic food diet along with exercise. Seems to be working well for him as far as treating the IPF.
My reason for this post is to ask if anyone is aware of anything we could be doing to treat the PAH....As it seems to be the more threatening or problematic of the two diseases. His heart doctor has suggested he use Sildenafil, however it's been about a year now that we've been waiting on the doctors and insurance to get everything approved for him so that he can finally get this medication, and still don't have the authorization yet. PLEASE HELP!! My grandfather is a wonderful man and we need help to fight this. We are about four years post diagnosis and times ticking. I have faith that someone somewhere might know something, anything, that can help with fighting and treating this PAH.
Thank you. God bless.
Some possible options, Gingko baloba, astragalus, vitamin E, coq10, see further suggestions and consider all interactions with meds.
Https://europepmc.org/articles/pmc6055327
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6055327/
https://www.epainassist.com/amp/chest-pain/lungs/how-to-treat-pulmonary-hypertension-naturally
Hawthorn is readily known for its heart health properties. More heart health boosters, you will see some are suggested for heart and lung support. http://greenpathherbschool.com/herbs-for-the-heart/
Keep researching, be aware of contraindications, you might also like to consult with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Best to you
Multiple Remedies
My response to all the people whose loved ones are having lung issues.
Listed below are some remedies,
- Exposure to sunlight.
- Body Massage.
- Yoga.Meditation.
- Castor oil packs.
- Serrepeptase-an enzyme.
- Turmeric taken with oil and pepper.
- Aloe Vera.Pineapple.Cod Liver Oil, Fenugreek, Tulsi, Figs, Liccorice, Onions.Garlic,
- Ginger.Black Pepper.Ginseng.Ajwain seeds.Star Anise.
- Quercetin-is a flavanoid found in fruits and vegetables.Quercetin supplements can be purchased online.
- Nigella Sativa(Kalonji or Black seeds).
- Honey.Vitamin C.Vitamin A.Zinc.
- 6-8 glasses of spring water.
- NAC- this is a supplement. it helps to produce Glutathione, a master antioxidant in the body..It can be purchased online from Amazon or IHerb.
Multiple Remedies
My wife was recently diagnosed with IPF. We are currently doing a series of Hydrogen peroxide IVs and Taking Serrapeptase,MSC and COQ10. She is also on nightly Oxygen. I am concerned that the oxygen may become habitual and may even be a detriment. We are hoping for a cure or at least a stop in progression. What do you recomend? Thanks Jack.
(Austin, Tx)
10/05/2009
(Houston, Texas)
09/01/2010
Since my letter of 6/1/09 we have been doing a variety of remedies for my wife's IPF. I feel we are progressing slowly with NAC, Enzymes, MSM etc. I can't say it's a cure but we couldn't do nothing. I am hoping for several more years together and am still looking for more methods to make her life better. The cooler weather will be a plus.
NAC
IPF: After a triple coronary bypass about 2011 about 3 months later I noticed a continuing discomfort around my upper left side of my chest. A referral by my cardiologist to a pulmonary specialist discovered my IPF. He prescribed an albuterol compound for my nebulizer and to sleep all night with oxygen. By my second lung function text it showed a rapid deterioration in my ability to process ambient air. The Dr. arranged for me to receive a new medication called Esbriet (54 mg daily)with little results.
I located a holistic doctor who is a board certified doctor of internal medicine with 29 years of experience caring for mostly refinery workers which fit my life profile perfectly. She put me on 1800 mg of Nac daily and later Nac liquid for my nebulizer. My last lung function test after about 3 months on this protocol showed about 7% improvement across the board, which pleased her greatly. She recommended that I consider 35% food grade hydrogen peroxide intravenously 2 times a week for the next 10 weeks. I have located someone who will do this and I will begin this treatment as soon as I save up the money. I'l let ya'll know what happens. I'll see what my JESUS wants, (amen)
(Illinois)
01/07/2023
NAC
Please check this link about NAC for lung diseases including IPF. http://www.lef.org/Magazine/2010/5/N-Acetyl-Cysteine/Page-02
NAC
NSIP Pulmonary Fibrosis:
Just diagnosed at mild to moderate stage, but had been taking NAC with Selenium twice a day and also herbal Clear Lungs, very helpful with breathing. I need it in the emergency dose of every 4 hours. The product does not claim to be a cure, but does claim to help breathing and it does and acts quickly as it claims. No side effects. My MD recommended Selenium via Brazil Nuts. My specialist prescribed more NAC, but also Prednisone, Azathioprine,whose side effects sound so horrific it seems I would be sicker than I am now.
The Albuterol spray was given at the testing site, to which I immediately felt ill and had a severe headache. I have severe congestion of the tonsils. Is this usual, the doc thought it was unrelated. I have to avoid wind, fans, forced hot air etc because it sets me off, also I have allergies.Particularly to dust and dairy.
I certainly intend to try your suggestions. Would love any input and advice. Blessings to all.
EC: NSIP = Non-Specific Interstitial Pneumonia
NAC = N-Acetyl-Cysteine
Neprinol (Systemic Enzymes)
I have pulmonary fibrosis and have been treated (without result) by the standard medical method and I am now trying systemic enzymes (dispensed by capsule containing various enzymes combined in a very specific amounts for each of the dozen or so enzymes). This treatment has only been going for 2 weeks and although there are some positive signs it is still too early to make a definitive assessment. For instance, my voice has almost returned to normal and I can now sing once more.
(Washington, DC)
04/22/2008
There was a comment from a gentleman dated 04/16/08 for the IPF. He stated that he was on some enzymes (for 2 weeks) and has seen some improvement. I would like to know what they are: my father has IPF and I am trying to figure out what to use. thank you.
(Cessnock, NSW, Australia)
04/24/2008
To Tonja via Deirdre,
Although I have been on Neprinol for a matter of weeks I have seen some very positive improvement in my condition (IPF) and also some bonus changes unconnected to IPF.
In the matter of IPF I was having great difficultywalking any real distance 200/300 yards,especially on flat amd hilly ground and light activity in the garden (digging,weeding and moving the wheel barrow around with light loads) and 15 minutes or so would find me very breathless.Whereas, now I can work for at least 40minutes with the mower/chopping with the axe/digging with the mattoch etc and whilst I will then be quite puffef out my recovery time only takes about 7/10 minutes.
As for the "bonuses" -these can be seen in the slow dissappearence of a scar on my upper lip that has been there for many many years (I am 82 ) ,my right wrist which was fractured badly some decades ago and only had about 75% rotational movement is now as mobile as my other wrist, also I am noticing a vast improvement in my ability while driving my car,to turn and twist my neck and head to look left and right over either shoulder to check for traffic.Prior to this my flexibility in this area was quite restricted due to R/A,This brings me to another bonus ie; I no longer take anti-steroidal drugs for R/A and have no real pain in my feet and hands.
I hope my experience gives you some insight into what course of action you should take for your father,keeping in mind that all meds do not work for everyone in an identical way,but I do feel that ,as the old saying goes "If it wont help, it wont hurt".It certainly is helping me.I am looking forward to my next chest x-ray to see if there has been any significant improvement in my lung condition(about 3 months time).
(Austin, Tx)
10/05/2009
Nitrium Phos 200
Anyone want to get rid of IPF (Idiopathic Fibrosis of lungs), please try homeopathic medicine....Nitrium Phos 200. Take this medicine everyday and be happy and trust in God. Please try to be happy all the time. Worries only add to the disease.
(Florida)
01/13/2017
(In)
01/14/2017
Stacey, Amazon and 1 800 homeopathey are some sources.
Although I would read through Teds remedies here on Earth Clinic.
He is spot on with his remedies.
Janet
https://ted.earthclinic.com/cures/pulmonary-fibrosis-lung-disease-remedies.html
OFEV Side Effects
 (2) |
100% |
I also have IPF, for 4 years now. They put me on OFEV. I took it for a couple of years but I just got tired of all the side effects. As to the cost, $9000.00 a month but I paid nothing. Have your Doctor contact the company that makes it and they will give you a grant for the cost.. Good Luck.
(Fl)
03/04/2018
Hello, my husband was diagnosed with IPF about 7 years ago. The first doctor put him on Prednisone for about a year, which did nothing except suppress the cough and his symptoms. Plus, it gave him serious mood swings and gained about 30 pounds. There are only two drugs for IPF Esbriet (which gave him horrible side affects of extreme itching and discolored skin when he went in the sun). I should say even in low light his skin turned a purplish red and unbearable itching.
He has now been on OFEV (another approved drug for IPF. Although it doesn't stop or improve the progression, it does seem to help. However, you have to do more than take these drugs for IPF. Whether it is a homeopathic treatment or oxygen, these two drugs don't seem to be enough. I am researching into herbal medicine in addition to OFEV in the hopes of improving lung function. One thing for sure is to keep away from others with colds or flu. When you have IPF and are exposed to colds or flu, it seems to intensify ones IPF symptoms and can linger for weeks.
(Australia)
12/12/2022
Ofev is a terrible drug with horrific side effects.
My dad has had it for over 3-5 years now. Lost so much weight, no appetite etc. Had a heart attack a few weeks ago from it. Another side effect. Has not taken it for several weeks now and has got his appetite back and colour in his skin. Figuring out another natural remedy as im sure theres plenty out there. WOULDN'T IHALLING PURE OXYGEN DO THE TRICK, CONSIDERING the lungs can start to heal from ovygen getting into the blood stream???? These drugs they have designed for this illness aren't a cure only trying to stop the immune system from creating scarring on the lungs. Doesn't seem to be working in year 4-5 of the condition. I recommend stem cell therapy but I'm not sure a doctor studying medicine wont like that word. (stem cell therapy)
OFEV Side Effects
My husband was just diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis, although I hear he is at beginning stage. Just out of the hospital a few days ago and we are doing our first follow up with our Pulmonary doctor tomorrow. He has talked about Ofav, however, here in the states it's outrageously expensive, $2000-$5000 for 60 tablets. How in the world can you afford it? I see you are out of the country. What is your cost where you are. Hope you will respond.
Pauline
If you are looking for alternative remedies for Pulmonary Fibrosis, it will be worthwhile to look into Melatonin :
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=melatonin+pulmonary+fibrosis&sort=date&size=20
And N Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) :
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=N+Acetyl+Cysteine+pulmonary+fibrosis&sort=date&size=20
Both have very good safety profiles with melatonin having the better safety profile and both are inexpensive and readily available. Good luck!
Art
I forgot to mention that it may also be worthwhile to know the side effects of Ofev before you use it :
https://www.drugs.com/ofev.html#side-effects
Now compare those to the side effects of Melatonin and NAC.
https://www.drugs.com/mcf/melatonin-side-effects-what-are-the-risks
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327219#risks
Art
Simone,
Unfortunately, melatonin is only at the animal stage of testing, so a human dose has not yet been established for Pulmonary Fibrosis. Dr. Neel is effectively using melatonin at 1 mg per kilogram of body weight in over 2000 of his Covid-19 patients. Dr. Shallenberger gives all of his patients 180 mg/day and for his stage 4 cancer patients he gives over 300 mg/day. I take 120 mg+ per night myself. If you would like to contact him to see if he has treated PF patients with melatonin, his number is (775) 884 - 3990.
Not everyone can tolerate melatonin every day so for those who plan to test it, working your way up slowly to the desired dose is a good idea. If a person does not tolerate oral melatonin, they can naturally increase their melatonin levels significantly by exposing themselves to the earlier morning sun. When melatonin is increased naturally in the body, it does not have side effects other than improved health.
On the other hand, NAC has moved past animal studies to human studies in people with Pulmonary Fibrosis to good effect and the dose that has been used is 600 mg given three times per day for a total of 1800 mg/day.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6566037/
Another consideration is bringing your vitamin D level well up into the reference range of 30 ~ 100 ng/ml.
This study suggests that vitamin d may have positive effects on Pulmonary Fibrosis and has the relevance to potentially have predictive value. Many people are insufficient or deficient in their vitamin D levels.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30659895/
Lastly, Red Light Therapy has shown some benefit in lung protective effects as discussed in the following article, but importantly, while you are getting morning sun exposure to naturally increase your melatonin levels, you can also get the full spectrum of red light that the sun radiates upon the earth including the infrared range of red light which is not visible to the human eye.
Importantly, red light from the sun is stronger than many units sold online and it is free for the taking from earlier morning sunlight and later afternoon sunlight which will also help to limit UV light exposure that is stronger at mid-day.
Art
(MS)
07/26/2022
Tan,
Amazon made a decision to stop carrying NAC awhile back, but it is readily available from multiple supplement suppliers so don't waste your time looking for NAC on Amazon. Here is a link to one supplier out of many that carries many different brands of NAC :
https://www.vitacost.com/productsearch.aspx?t=NAC&mp=1
I do not have a brand to recommend.
Art
(MS)
07/27/2022
GREAT! Thank you.
Oil Pulling
I have pulmonary fibrosis a lung disease that HAS no cure.Yet, since I have been on Sunflower Oil (cold pressed & Unrefined) my lungs within 4 days begain to have a healing effect that even the Doctor's don't quite understand?! What this oil is doing for my Lungs is or has brought back my Breathing as I have never expected. I had Cancer in my right lung and this oil has completely healed it completely... Amen! If you are interested in the healing of your lungs... please go to the health store and purchase one (1) bottle of this oil and place it within your mouth and swish it around until it turns white; spit it out and then brush your teeth and wash your mouth with tooth paste... As well look on the Net for: "Oil Pulling Cure" and learn what it will do for you... Jimmy.
(Bangalore, Karnataka, India)
09/13/2010
I have seen three letters from Jimmy of Dallas, Texas who has informed that he has been cured from his pulmonary fibrosis by taking 35% food grade H2O2 in his two letters, at the same time he has written in one of his letter dated 05. 17. 2008 that he has been cured through oil-pulling. Are all these 3 letters written by the same person? In case oil-pulling method, how long Jimmy had been suffering from the disease and how long it took to him for complete healing? Is there any other testimonials on the success of oil pulling method for treating pulmonary fibrosis. Kindly inform. Thanks.
(Gurgaon, India)
02/21/2012
(Chennai)
05/04/2015
Thank u Jimmy for posting info on oil pulling!! It really is a miracle as I have fibrosis too and I can feel the better effects of oil pulling...
Proning (Laying on Stomach)
In reply to Anita from Maryland (2018) in the Oil Pulling Thread, who wrote:
"My husband has Pulmonary Fibrosis and I am looking for remedies to help him. He can no longer sit up for more than a minute. But laying in bed on his back is how he gets the best oxygen. He also suffers from anxiety and depression. He has a lot of back pain from a fall in 3 years ago. On his back his oxygen level is any where from 86 to 91% at level 2-1/2 to 3. When he panics the level goes down and we have to turn the concentrator up to 5. I am looking for any help to keep him safe and alive. Sincerely, Anita"
I was on oxygen recently and the doctors told me about proning. You lay on your stomach and the front of your lungs do not have to work so hard since your body is using the back of your lungs. My oxygen levels would go from 89 to 93 in under a minute (on oxygen ) It might work better since I had pneumonia. However the doctors at the hospital all day to prone for hours in the icu.
Also, check and see if his breathing gets worse after certain medications or food..I get chest pain right after I take some medications for pain and processed food ...I'm serious. I will pray for you all that you find relief.
