Long used in ayurvedic medicine, podophyllum is a natural remedy sometimes touted as a natural treatment for the genital warts associated with human papillomaviruses (HPV). The roots of podophyllum contain podophyllotoxin, a substance thought to treat a range of skin disorders when applied topically (but known to act as a poison when consumed orally).

To date, very few studies have looked at whether podophyllum can fight HPV-associated genital warts. However, a small study published in the journal Sexually Transmitted Diseases in 2011 indicates that a podophyllotoxin 0.5% solution may be safe and effective in treatment of this condition.

While HPV infection often leads to the development of genital warts, other people with HPV show no symptoms of infection. Therefore, it's important for women to get screened for HPV on a regular basis. It's important to note that although usage of latex condoms can greatly reduce HPV risk, condoms do not eliminate the risk of catching or transmitting HPV. Read the article: Podophyllum - What You Need to Know.

A chemical element found naturally in foods like garlic and onions, sulfur shows promise in the treatment of arthritis. For instance, studies indicate that taking supplements that contain methylsulfonylmethane (or MSM, a form of sulfur) may offer relief of osteoarthritis of the knee. Found to fight inflammation, MSM may help lessen osteoarthritis-related pain .

There's also some evidence that soaking in sulfur-rich waters may benefit people with osteoarthritis. In a 2007 study from the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, investigators determined that balneotherapy (a therapeutic form of bathing that often involves sulfur-rich waters) may tame pain and improve quality of life in osteoarthritis patients.

For more help in treating arthritis, consider taking supplements that contain avocado/soybean unsaponifiables or glucosamine. In addition, practicing yoga, taking up tai chi, and/or undergoing acupuncture may help alleviate arthritis pain and enhance functioning. Read the article: Sulfur - What You Need to Know.

A substance found naturally in a number of foods and widely available in supplement form, rutin is said to treat varicose veins and protect against major health issues like heart disease and stroke. Many proponents claim that rutin can help enhance health by strengthening the blood vessels.

To date, very few clinical trials have tested the potential health benefits of rutin. However, there's some evidence that rutin may fight chronic venous insufficiency (a condition in which the veins do not efficiently return blood from the legs to the heart) and, in turn, help treat varicose veins. In addition, preliminary research indicates that rutin shows promise in the relief of arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

An antioxidant known as quercetin is sometimes said to be responsible for rutin's health effects. To boost your quercetin intake in the everyday, try loading up on quercetin-rich foods like black tea, citrus, red onions, and apples. Read the article: Rutin - What You Need to Know.

A type of tropical plant long used in herbal medicine, ivy gourd is often touted as a natural remedy for diabetes. Many proponents suggest that ivy gourd can help treat diabetes by protecting against spikes in blood sugar (also known as "glucose").

So far, there's very little scientific support for the claim that ivy gourd can help manage diabetes. Still, a number of small studies (including a 2008 report published in Diabetes Care) indicate that ivy gourd may help regulate glucose levels in diabetes patients.

Several other natural substances and alternative therapies may help enhance health in people with diabetes. For instance, some research shows that sipping tea, maintaining optimal vitamin D levels, and practicing yoga may be beneficial for diabetes patients. Before using any form of alternative medicine to manage diabetes, talk to your doctor to make sure the treatment is safe for you. Read the article: Ivy Gourd - What You Need to Know.