GRAEDONS | People's Herbal Pharmacy For raisin arthritis remedy, go with real gin

Q. You have recommended soaking golden raisins in gin for arthritis relief and suggested that cheap gin would work fine. I spent several years in the distilled spirits business. It was said that the cheap gins are not true distilled gin, but neutral spirits (like vodka) with a gin flavoring added.
It might be better to use a real gin containing juniper. It should say "distilled" gin on the label, and is usually found in the middle (and upper) price ranges.
A. We don't know what it is about golden raisins soaked in gin that helps some people with joint pain. We have heard from so many folks who benefit that we suspect there is something to this combination. It might be the juniper, or it might be something else entirely.
Thanks for the word on "cheap" gin. The difference is that in "distilled gin," the botanicals that give the drink its flavor are distilled with the alcohol. In cheaper gin, separate extracts are added. Whether this makes a difference in the effect on joint pain is unclear.
The recipe calls for covering golden raisins with gin in a shallow pan. Let the gin evaporate, then keep the raisins in a closed container. Eat nine daily.
We give more details on this recipe and other arthritis remedies in our Guide to Home Remedies. Anyone who would like a copy, please send $2 in check or money order with a long (No. 10), stamped (60 cents), self-addressed envelope to: Graedons' People's Pharmacy, No. R-1, P.O. Box 52027, Durham, N.C. 27717-2027.
Q. I'm a type-2 diabetic. I read that cinnamon can reduce blood sugar levels, but it doesn't work for me. I've been having two cinnamon buns for breakfast every day, and my blood sugar has gone up. (JUST KIDDING!)
Actually, I've been adding half a teaspoon of cinnamon to my lunchtime sugar-free shake four or five times a week, and there's been a noticeable reduction in my readings the next morning.
A. Thanks for the report. Your joke does point up the importance of sticking to a sensible diet even if you are also taking something to get blood sugar down. Research suggests that cinnamon might improve glucose control for some type-2 diabetics. Monitoring blood sugar is also essential for determining the effectiveness of cinnamon or any other dietary supplement.
Q. What can you tell me about guggul? I read that it can lower cholesterol, and I'd like to try it. I just wonder if it is safe.
A. Guggul is a traditional product derived from the resin of a tree native to India (Commiphora mukul). Research from Baylor University revealed that this herb works by reducing cholesterol absorption from the digestive tract (Science, May 31, 2002). A placebo-controlled trial showed, however, that guggul is not very effective (Journal of the American Medical Association, Aug. 13, 2003).
Some people are allergic to guggul and develop a skin rash. A new study also shows that this herb can reduce the effectiveness of many prescription drugs, including some statins. On the other hand, it might make acetaminophen (Tylenol) more toxic. Until there is more evidence that it is helpful and not harmful, we would discourage its use.
Q. What can I use in my bath water that will not bring on bladder infections?
A. Doctors used to warn that bubble bath could increase the risk of urinary tract infections, but the data are not convincing. Avoid harsh cleansers that can irritate sensitive tissue. Plain bath water is best.
XIn their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of King Features Syndicate, 888 Seventh Ave., New York, N.Y. 10019, or e-mail them at pharmacy@mindspring.com or via their Web site: www.peoplespharmacy.org.
& copy; 2004 King Features Syndicate, Inc.