Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, can be used as a natural remedy to treat or prevent a variety of conditions in the body. It is used in more ways by the body than almost any other single nutrient. It affects both physical and mental health.
It is helpful in the treatment of water retention, and is necessary for the production of hydrochloric acid, as well as for the absorption of fats and protein. It also helps in maintaining the body's critical sodium/potassium balance, and helps with the formation of red blood cells.
Pyridoxine is needed by the nervous system and is required for proper brain function, as well as for the formation of RNA and DNA. It activates many enzymes, aids in the absorption of vitamin B12, in immune system function, as well as in antibody production.
Vit B6 plays an important role in cancer immunity and aids in the prevention of arteriosclerosis. It inhibits the formation of homocysteine, which is a toxic chemical that attacks the heart muscle and allows cholesterol to be deposited around the heart muscle. Pyridoxine acts as a mild diuretic, reducing the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, and it has been shown to be helpful in the prevention of calcium oxalate kidney stones as well. It is also helpful in the treatment of allergies, arthritis and asthma.
A deficiency of vit B6 can result in anemia, convulsions, headaches, nausea, flaky skin, a sore tongue, and vomiting. Other possible signs of deficiency can include acne, anorexia, arthritis, conjunctivitis, cracks or sores on the mouth and lips, depression, dizziness, fatigue, hyperirritability, impaired wound healing, inflammation of the mouth and gums, learning difficulties, impaired memory or memory loss, hair loss, hearing problems, numbness, oily facial skin, stunted growth, and tingling sensations. Carpal tunnel syndrome has also been linked to a deficiency of vit B6.
All foods contain some vit B6, however, the foods containing the highest amounts are brewer's yeast, carrots, chicken, eggs, fish, meat, peas, spinach, sunflower seeds, walnuts, and wheat germ. Other sources include avacadoes, bananas, beans, blackstrap molasses, broccoli, brown rice and other whole grains, cabbage, canteloupe, corn, dulse, plantains, potatoes, rice bran, soybeans, and tempeh.
Herbs that contain vit B6 include alfalfa, catnip, and oat straw.
The use of antidepressants, estrogen therapy, and oral contraceptives may increase the body's need for pyridoxine. Diuretics and cortisone drugs block the body's absorption of vit B6. The use of high doses of vit B6 (more than 1,000 mg per day) for extended periods of time can be toxic, and may result in nerve damage and loss of coordination.
This information is not intended to diagnose or treat any specific condition, nor is it intended to replace the advice of your healthcare professional.
Sources
Balch, Phyllis A., CNC. "Prescription for Nutritional Healing". Garden City, NY.: Avery Publishing Group, 2006
Ritchason, Jack, ND. "The Little Herb Encyclopedia". Pleasant Grove, UT.: Woodland Health Books, 1995
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