Nigerian Home Remedies For Common Ailments
Not everyone visits a doctor when they are ill. In Nigeria and in some other parts of the world, people depend on herbs and other natural remedies for sicknesses.
Some of these home remedies have been known to work for the treatment of common illnesses like aches and pains, malaria, cough and many others.
People often use these remedies not just for the treatment of illnesses but to maintain a quality and a healthy life.
Below are some of the remedies:
Treatment of Malaria:
Malaria is one of the most important killer diseases in Africa causing more than 1 million deaths every year.
Lemon grass and lime is used for the treatment of malaria. The lemon grass is boiled together with the lime. After it cools, the water can be drunk, a cup twice a day could do the magic.
Another multi-herbal combination is the mixture of paw paw leaves, lemon grass and cashew leaf which is boiled in a big pot and then the patient is covered with a thick blanket and made to inhale the vapour from the cooking pot.
Treatment of cough:
Chewing bitter kola relieves coughs, hoarseness, bronchial and throat troubles. The chemical Saponin in bitter kola is responsible for its cleansing effect.
Treatment of Mumps in children:
Mumps is a contagious viral infection common in children and is most recognisable by the painful swellings at the side of the face under the ears (the parotid glands), giving a person with mumps a distinctive "hamster face" appearance.
People use bitter kola for the treatment of mumps. The bitter kola is chewed and then applied the mump.
Blood tonic:
When one looks pale and is lacking blood, rather than take the blood capsules, some resort to home remedy of vegetable.
Vegetable (popularly called ugwu) is washed thoroughly and then blended with a lot of water. It is then sieved and the water is taken as a blood tonic.
Swallowing Poisonous substance:
Often times when a child swallows a poisonous substance in the home, the child is given a teaspoon of palm oil to drink to neutralize the effect of the poison.
reatment of Ringworm:
Raw papaya (paw paw) is one of the most effective home remedies for ringworm. The water from the stem is applied on the ringworm patches. Also, paste is made from dried paw paw seeds and can be applied beneficially on the ringworm patches.
It could be said that the use of medicinal herbs to cure common ailments would continue to be a major part of the health care system in many societies. This may be related not only to cost and difficulty in obtaining modern orthodox medical care but also the proven efficacy and tolerability of these remedies which has been for ages.
Natural Remedies For Malaria In Nigeria | Malaria Cure
Symptoms of Malaria
Before we go further in discussing the various Natural Remedies for Malaria in Nigeria; here are the most common symptoms of malaria: fever, chills, loss of appetite, general body weakness, headache,
Natural Remedies for Malaria in Nigeria
Here are Natural Remedy lab’s collections of most common and effective Natural Remedies for Malaria in Nigeria.
Alstonia boonei (Stool wood) / Yoruba (Ahun) / Igbo (Egbuora)-50%
Azadirachta indica (Neem) / Nigeria (Dongoyaro)-30%
Viscum album (Mistletoe)-20%
Solvent: Water
Dosage: 100ml 3 times daily
Application:
After getting the leaves and clean water separately, wash the leaves with water to get rid of foreign bodies. Make a decoction by boiling in clean water for at least 10 minutes. Drink between 60-100ml 3 times daily.
Lemon Neem in Natural Remedies for Malaria:
Recipe:
Cymbopogon citratus (Lemon grass) – 50%
Azadirachta indica (Neem leaves) / Nigeria (Dongoyaro) – 50%
Solvent: Water
Oral Dosage: 100ml 3 times daily
Application:
Leaves should be thoroughly washed to remove foreign properties.
Boil the leaves in water for 10 – 15 minutes with high quantity of clean water.
Part of the decoction should be kept separate for oral administration.
The remaining parts should be kept in a bowl while still hot and the patient should face the bowl in a sitting position.
The patient and the bowl should be fully covered with an air tight blanket for like 5 minutes to ensure he or she sweat profusely.
The concoction should be used to bath when cold.
Neem+ in Natural Remedies for Malaria:
Recipe:
Azadirachta indica (Neem leaves) / Nigeria (Dongoyaro)– 50%
Psidium guajava (Guava leaves) – 25%
Magnifera indica (Mango leaves) – 25%
Solvent: Water
Dosage: 100ml 3 times daily
Application:
Wash leaves with clean water to remove foreign properties.
Boil leaves in water for at least 10 – 15 minutes.
Drink from decoction 100-200ml 3 times daily till symptoms disappear.
Scent Leaf in Natural Remedies for Malaria in Nigeria:
Recipe:
Ocimum gratissimum (Scent leaf) / Yoruba (Efinrin)
Dosage: 60ml 3 times daily
Application:
Fresh leaves should be washed clean.
Pound or squeeze out the juice.
Filtrate should be taken in moderate quantity daily.
Lemon Stool in Natural Remedies for Malaria:
Alstonia boonei (Stool wood) – 50%
Cymbopogan citratus (Lemon grass) – 50%
Solvent: Water
Dosage: 100ml 3 times daily
Application:
Wash fresh leaves with clean water.
Boil leaves in water for at least 15 minutes
Drink 100-200ml of filtrate 3 times daily
Herbal Mix in Natural Remedies for Malaria:
Recipe:
Carica papaya (Pawpaw leaves) – 20%
Azadirachta indica (Neem leaves) / Nigeria (Dongoyaro) – 20%
Anacardum occidentale (Cashew leaves) – 20%
Tilia europoea (Lime leaves) – 10%
Cymbopogan citratus (Lemon grass) – 10%
Magnifera indica (Mango leaves) – 10%
Solvent: Water
Dosage: 100ml 3 times daily
Application:
Wash the leaves properly with clean water.
Boil the leaves with water for at least 15 minutes.
Drink from the concoction 100-200ml 3 times daily.
Take bath with the concoction twice daily.
Bitter leaf & Brim in Natural Remedies for Malaria:
Recipe:
Morinda lucida (Brimstone) / Yoruba (Oruwo) / Igbo (Eze ogwu) – 50%
Vernonia amygdalina (Bitter leaf) / Yoruba (Ewuro) / Igbo (Onugbo) / Hausa (Chusar-doki) – 50%
Solvent: Palm wine
Dosage: 100ml 3 times daily
Application:
Leaves should be properly washed with clean water.
Squeeze out the juice of the leaves with palm wine.
Filter to remove residue of leaves.
Drink 100-200ml of filtrate 3 times daily.
7 Herbs in Natural Remedies for Malaria:
Recipe:
Morinda lucida (Brimstone) / Yoruba (Oruwo) / Igbo (Eze ogwu)
Cymbopogon citratus (Lemon grass)
Carica papaya (Male pawpaw leaves)
Moringa oleifera (Moringa leaves)
Mangifera indica (Mango leaves & bark)
Garcinia kola (Bitter kola powder)
Psidium guajava (Guava leaves)
Solvent: Water
Dosage: 100ml 3 times daily
Application:
Leaves should be properly washed.
Boil all components in water for at least 15 minutes.
Drink from concoction regularly.
This list is just few among the abundant Natural Remedies for Malaria that is readily available and easily made at home in Nigeria. Herbs are effective in prevention and treatment of infections & diseases. It should however be used wisely.
How To Cure Diabetes Permanently | Diabetes Treatment At Home
Natural Remedies for Diabetes in Nigeria: Diabetes occurs when the pancreas is not producing enough insulin or the body is not properly utilizing the insulin optimally in the body. Our body and brain cells need glucose to perform the daily task they perform.
Whenever there is inadequate glucose, there will be malfunction in the body, alternatively, when there is excess of blood sugar, it may lead to serious lif
Early Symptoms of Diabetes
Let us briefly look at the signs and symptoms of diabetes before delving into the Natural Remedies for Diabetes in Nigeria. The following are what you should watch out for as signs of diabetes:
Close relative once had diabetes
Frequent excessive urination
Excessive drinking of water due to abnormal thirst
Slow healing of wounds
Precautions: How To Avoid Diabetes Naturally
Avoid unhealthy diet especially those foods rich in sugar or processed carbohydrates.
Maintain regular exercise
Avoid processed foods or meat.
Quit smoking & avoid alcohol.
Natural Remedies for Diabetes in Nigeria | Best Herbs For Diabetes
Here are Natural Remedy Lab’s combinations of most effective Natural Remedies for Diabetes in Nigeria.
Spices That Cure Diabetes
Recipe:
Bay leaves (1 tablespoon)
Turmeric (1 tablespoon)
Cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
Aloe vera (2 tablespoon)
Dosage: this portion to be divided into two & to be taken twice daily
Application:
Mix all items together
Take with hot pap
Bitter Leaf Diabetes Therapy
Recipe:
Vernonia amygdalina (Bitter leaf)
Solvent: Water
Dosage: Small glass cup 3 times daily
Application:
Wash fresh bitter leaves with clean water
Squeeze out the juice by adding little water
Filter to remove leaves concentrate
Drink juice regularly
Note: Leaves can be eaten raw or used as vegetable in soup (taste is bitter).
Scent Leaf Therapy As Natural Remedies for Diabetes:
Recipe:
Vernonia amygdalina (Bitter leaf) – 50%
Ocimum gratissimum (Scent leaf) – 20%
Honey – 30%
Dosage: 3 tablespoon twice daily.
Application:
Wash both leaves with clean water and drain the water afterwards.
Squeeze out the juice adding very little water or no water at all.
Mix juice extract with honey.
Guava Leaf Therapy As Natural Remedies for Diabetes:
Recipe:
Psidium guajava (Guava leaves) – 60%
Ocimum gratissimum (Scent leaves) – 40%
Solvent: Water
Dosage: 100ml – 200ml twice daily
Application:
Wash leaves in clean water
Make decoction by boiling leaves in water for at least 15 minutes.
Drink filtrate regularly
Ewedu Leaf Therapy For Natural Remedies for Diabetes:
Recipe: Corchorus olitorius (Jute leaves) / Yoruba (Ewedu)
Dosage: 1 or 2 teaspoon twice daily.
Application:
Dry the jute leaves
Grind it after drying
Take small quantity with hot papa or beverage regularly.
Best Herbs For Diabetes
Recipe:
Tinospora cordifolia (Heart leaves) – 25%
Anacardium occidentalale (Cashew bark) – 25%
Bay leaf – 25%
Syzygium aromaticum (Clove) – 25%
Solvent: Water
Dosage: 100ml twice daily
Application:
Wash leaves gently with clean water
Make a decoction from all items by boiling in water for at least 15 minutes.
Allow to settle for a while
Drink from solution regularly.
New Diabetes Treatment
Recipe:
Tridax procumbens (Coat buttons) – 20%
Zingiber officinale (Ginger) – 25%
Magnifera indica (Mango leaves) – 20%
Viscum album (Mistletoe) – 35%
Solvent: Water
Dosage: 100 ml twice daily
Application:
Wash herbs with clean water
Make a decoction by boiling in water for at least 15 minutes.
Drink from this solution regularly.
Bitter Gourd Therapy As Natural Remedies for Diabetes:
Recipe: Bitter Gourd
Solvent: Water
Dosage: A glass cup every morning
Application:
Cut bitter gourds and remove the seeds
Gently wash the bitter gourd with clean water
Blend the bitter gourds with a juicer by adding little water
Filter to remove residue
Drink once in a day
Mango Leaf Therapy As Natural Remedies for Diabetes:
Recipe: Magnifera indica (mango leaves)
Solvent: Water
Dosage: ½ tablespoon daily 2 times daily
Application:
Get the tender mango leaves and dry in a shade
Blend the dry leaves to form powder
Add ½ tablespoon of the powder leaves to pap or water
Alternatively, soak soft mango leaves in water overnight and drink from water first thing in the morning.
Neem Dosage For Diabetes
Recipe: Azadirachta indica (Dongoyaro)
Solvent: Water
Dosage: 100 – 200 ml once daily
Application:
Get the young leaves of neem and wash with clean water
Squeeze out the juice from the leaves by adding little water
Drink solution on an empty stomach daily
Bottom Line:
People living with diabetes need certain lifestyle changes including their diet. As you eat daily, you need to check what you are consuming in order not to give your body toxins instead of nutrients. As regards diabetes, here are suggested options you should consider:
Vitamin C: having adequate quantity of vitamin c regular intake will assist you to regulate your blood sugar level. Fruits such as orange, blueberry & tomato are good source of vitamin c.
Regular Exercise: Making sure you exercise regularly will complement your diet to prevent obesity which is one of the leading risk factor of diabetes.
20 Natural Home Remedies That Work
Here's the next best thing: all-natural, expert-recommended ways to treat ailments quickly, safely, and effectively at home. So clear some space in your bathroom cabinet, refrigerator, and kitchen cupboard for these surprisingly effective (and inexpensive) remedies. The following 20 home remedies are like having a doctor on call 24 hours a day.
Try frozen ginger chips. First, infuse fresh ginger in hot water. Strain, then freeze the concoction in ice cube trays.
Crush the cubes and suck the icy chips throughout the day to provide your tummy with a steady soothing dribble. Ginger's antinausea properties are particularly effective during pregnancy or after surgery.
–Expert: Eric Yarnell, ND, faculty member of the department of botanical medicine at Bastyr University
Swallow 1 to 2 teaspoons of sugar. The dry granules stimulate and reset the irritated nerve that is causing the spasms of the diaphragm. Any coarse substance, such as salt, can work in a pinch, but sugar tastes best.
–Expert: Jacob Teitelbaum, MD, medical director of the Fibromyalgia and Fatigue Centers and author of From Fatigued to Fantastic!
Gargle twice daily with a solution of six pressed garlic cloves mixed into a glass of warm (not hot) water. Follow the regimen for 3 days. Research shows that fresh garlic juice has antimicrobial properties that fight pain-causing bacteria. The warm liquid soothes inflamed tissue.
–Expert: Ronald Hoffman, MD, medical director of the Hoffman Center in New York and author of Alternative Cures That Really Work
Indulge in a square or two of dark chocolate. Researchers found that chocolate's theobromine compound is more effective than codeine at suppressing persistent coughs without the side effects of drowsiness and constipation.
To calm a nagging cough that keeps you awake at night, take 2 teaspoons of honey (1 to 2 teaspoons for kids; don't give to children younger than 1), along with 500 mg of Ester C 30 minutes before bed. The vitamin C (nonacidic Ester type won't upset stomachs) boosts the immune system in the early stages of your cough. Research shows that honey works better than either a cough suppressant or no treatment at all for relieving children's nocturnal cough and promoting sleep.
–Experts: Jacob Teitelbaum, MD; Mark Moyad, MD, MPH, Jenkens/Pokempner director of preventive and alternative medicine at the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor
Sip linden flower tea, which works in two ways: It stimulates the hypothalamus to better control your temperature, and it dilates blood vessels, inducing sweating. Steep 1 tablespoon of dried herb (available in health food stores) in a cup of hot water for 15 minutes, then sip. Drink three to four cups a day. If you still run hot after a day of sipping tea, seek medical attention.
For a high fever (above 102°F), take a tepid bath, which simply cools the body to match the water temperature. Bathe until your temperature decreases to 101° to 102°F, then sip linden flower tea to lower it even more.
–Expert: Eric Yarnell, ND
If you grazed your skin with a hot-from-the-oven cookie pan, apply aloe vera gel to the burn as needed. The soothing and anti-inflammatory gel creates a second skin to protect the burn from air, which irritates exposed nerve endings.
–Expert: Laurie Steelsmith, ND, is in private practice in Honolulu and is the author of Natural Choices for Women's Health
Take two enteric-coated peppermint capsules (500 mg each) three times daily. Peppermint kills bacteria that cause bloating and relaxes gastrointestinal muscles for smoother, spasm-free digestion. The enteric coating prevents capsules from opening in the stomach and increasing discomfort by causing heartburn and indigestion. The peppermint releases and goes to work lower in the gastrointestinal tract, where gas-plagued people need it most.
Stop foot odor
Soak feet nightly in 1 part vinegar and 2 parts water to eliminate odoriferous bacteria. Or take a daily foot bath in strong black tea (let it cool first) for 30 minutes. Tea's tannins kill bacteria and close the pores in your feet, keeping feet dry longer; bacteria tend to thrive in moist environments. You'll see results in a few days to a week. One caution: Do the soak only when your feet are free of cuts.
–Expert: Laurie Steelsmith, ND
Sip a faux hot toddy. Cut a vitamin C–rich lemon in half and squeeze the juice from one half into a cup. Studies show that vitamin C taken before the onset of a cold shortens its duration and severity. Drop the lemon half shell into the cup. Add boiling water and a teaspoon of organic raw honey, an immunity booster that also coats painful throat tissues. Breathe in the healing vapor to open sinuses, and sip a cupful two or three times daily to fight the bug. (To make a traditional hot toddy, add a half shot of brandy.)
–Expert: Ellen Kamhi, PhD, RN, clinical instructor at Stony Brook Medical School and co-author of Alternative Medicine Definitive Guide to Arthritis and The Natural Medicine Chest
Gargle with a small cup of acidic lemon juice to kill odor-causing bacteria. Then eat a bit of plain unsweetened yogurt, which contains beneficial lactobacillus bacteria. These so-called probiotics compete with and replace the reeking bacteria.
The lemon-yogurt combo instantly neutralizes odor and lasts 12 to 24 hours.
–Expert: Mark Moyad, MD, MPH
Rub on anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and moisturizing olive oil two or three times a day to soothe, soften, and lubricate. Your lips will feel immediately better, but it will take a few days before they start to heal on their own. Some research suggests that applying extra virgin olive oil to skin after sunbathing may help prevent skin cancer.
–Expert: Laurie Steelsmith, ND
A stiff neck results from slowed circulation and lymph flow to muscle tissues. Use contrast hydrotherapy—a quick blast of hot, then cold water—to get the blood pumping again. In the shower, first run hot water over your neck for 20 seconds to increase blood flow, then switch to cold for 10 seconds to constrict blood flow. Alternate three times, always ending with cold. When you get out of the shower, your body will send the blood back out to the skin, which results in a final dilation of blood vessels and—voilĂ !—a looser neck.
–Expert: Laurie Steelsmith, ND
Before bedtime, eat a handful of cherries (or drink tart cherry juice), which scientists discovered are jam-packed with melatonin, the same hormone created by your body to regulate sleep patterns. Then steep yourself in a hot bath to relax your muscles and your mind. In bed, rest your head on a lavender-filled pillow—the fragrance induces sleepiness. (Bonus: Cherries can help prevent gout attacks.)
–Experts: Mark Moyad, MD, MPH; Jacob Teitelbaum, MD
Black tea is chock-full of astringent compounds called tannins that can help deflate and tighten the bags under your eyes. (Not to mention black tea is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes.) Activate the tannins in a tea bag by dipping in a cup of hot water for several minutes. Cool in the fridge, then apply the damp bag as a compress to the closed eye for 10 minutes.
–Expert: Ronald Hoffman, MD
Crush a few fresh strawberries into a scrubbing pulp that you mix with a pinch of stain-removing baking soda and enough water to make a paste. Apply the mixture to a soft-bristled toothbrush and polish for a few minutes once every 3 or 4 months. (More often can erode tooth enamel.) The astringent malic acid in strawberries helps buff coffee and red-wine stains from teeth.
Try relaxing magnesium (200 to 400 mg) to reduce the muscle tension and spasms that can cause your noggin to throb. But not any type will do. Make sure the supplement contains at least 200 mg of active elemental magnesium. Because magnesium is more preventive than curative, the treatment works best on, say, premenstrual headaches because you can predict when they're coming and take a dose a day in advance. Those with kidney problems should consult a health care practitioner before taking
Because excess alcohol depletes the body of essential B vitamins (they help break down alcohol in the body), before going to bed take a B-50 complex supplement, which will ensure that the metabolism of alcohol continues apace. Also, rehydrate by drinking plenty of water.
Take ½ to 1 teaspoon of crampbark tincture every 2 hours on the days of your worst cramps. Test-tube studies show that this North American plant works as a muscle relaxant to quickly relieve painful spasms.
–Expert: Eric Yarnell, ND
Bathe in your breakfast. Although oatmeal is a centuries-old skin soother, researchers only recently recognized the avenanthramides in oats as the key compounds that calm inflamed, itchy skin. Put whole oats in a clean, dry sock. Seal the open end with a rubber band, and then drop the sock into a warm or hot bath. Soak yourself for 15 to 20 minutes. (Winterize your skin care routine with our best cold-weather tips.)
–Expert: Laurie Steelsmith, ND
Douse a cotton makeup pad with isopropyl alcohol, hold it up to your nose, and take a few deep breaths (no more than three in a 10-minute period). According to a recent study, emergency room patients who inhaled the isopropyl alcohol–saturated pads saw a 50% reduction in nausea, compared with patients who sniffed pads doused in saline solution.
-Source: Annals of Emergency Medicine
5 Home Remedies Using Essential Oils
Calm Your Nerves
A popular choice among essential oils is lavender oil. This lovely smelling oil is great at calming stress and helping you relax for a better sleep. The Makeup Dummy says its one of the best essential oils for your skin, soothing irritated and sensitive skin issues.
How to use it?
Massage 1-2 undiluted drops into your temples and/or behind your ears to relieve tension and get a better night’s sleep
Breathe Easier
There’s a good reason why eucalyptus is commonly associated with cold medicines. Its natural antimicrobial properties help clear up respiratory issues like the common cold. It also makes a great ingredient in all-natural home cleaners and, as Chicago Eco House notes it works as an organic insect repellent.
How to use it?
Add around 5 drops to a hot bowl of water, drape a towel over your head, and spend a good 10-20 minutes (or longer if you like) inhaling this oil to clear up a stuffy nose and head.
Get Rid of Germs
Tea tree oil is essential to every medicine cabinet. Behind its strong scent is stronger germ-killing properties. This makes it a great aid in healing cuts, relieving infections and rashes, and clearing up blemishes.
How to use it?
Add one undiluted drop to cuts to quickly clean the wound and to rashes to relieve the itching.
Peppermint oil is as good as it sounds (just don’t get it too close to your eyes). It works wonders in helping relief nausea and headaches.
How to use it?
Mix 1 drop with a carrier oil (like almond oil) and rub into your temples or forehead to relieve a headache. Or breath it in directly from the bottle if you are feeling nauseous.
Make It Smell Good
Did you know that bergamot oil is a key ingredient in many beauty products? You’ll likely recognize its fresh lively scent, which is in everything from perfumes to Earl Grey tea. This citrus oil not only makes everything smell better, it is also anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, can improve circulation, and is a natural mood uplifter. As with all citrus oils, never apply undiluted directly to the skin as it can increase your sensitivity to the sun.
How to use it?
Add three drops to a carrier oil or an all-natural unscented lotion and apply to your body to feel fresh and exhilarated (and smell good) all day long.
And, remember, always read what precautions are needed for each essential oil you use.
Natural Remedies For Sports Injuries
Natural remedies are more popular than ever before; around a third of Americans use natural remedies to cure their ailments, and it isn’t hard to see why. Lots of modern remedies are simple, inexpensive and easy to use, but most importantly they are free from unnatural chemicals. And there are home remedies for nearly everything, from boosting your metabolism to getting rid of acne! If you are looking for natural remedies that can help with sports injuries, you’re in the right place. Here are three natural remedies for most sports injuries.
Pineapple
Pineapple contains a protein-digesting enzyme called Bromelain which can help to reduce inflammation and prevent swelling. One study even found that Bromelain can make a bruise completely disappear in four days! This is very useful in the immediate weeks after a sports injury, especially if inflammation is keeping you up at night.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is one of the most important nutrients when it comes to healing wounds. Various studies have found that vitamin C can speed up the process of healing wounds and it can even play a role in preventing future injuries. If you want to use vitamin C to help with your sports injury, invest in a daily vitamin C supplement.
Turmeric and Theracurmin
Turmeric contains curcumin, which has wonderful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It has been found to be equally as effective as cortisone in animal studies, but unlike cortisone, there are no side effects to curcumin. This means it is a great natural alternative to conventional medicine, but it can be difficult for your body to absorb curcumin without help. If you want to make sure you get the most of the curcumin, consider buying Theracurmin as it has 27 times more curcumin!
Importance of a proper workout plan and physical treatment
Various studies have found natural remedies can help your body to heal, but it is also important to establish a proper physical treatment plan for your injury. This is very important if you have a sports hernia, as they cannot heal themselves. This means that physical treatment is essential, so if you have a sports hernia you should speak to a doctor about setting up a realistic treatment plan.
This will help to speed up your recovery, and once you are well again you should also set a sports workout plan to reduce the chance of injuries in the future. All of these natural remedies will help to speed up recovery from a sports injury. However, it is important to make sure that you also undergo medical treatment so that your injury heals properly.
Natural Remedies for Boosting Spiritual Wellness
We are all aware of the importance of creating harmony between the mind, body, and spirit. Nonetheless, it is easy to only focus our attention on health when it is negatively affecting our bodies in some way. Utilizing home remedies for physical issues is a wonderful way to fix physical ailment—but what about our mind and spirit?
The connection between our spirituality and our health cannot be underestimated. The mind and harmony that we feel with our inner selves directly affects the way that we handle medical concerns and degenerative diseases. In addition to using natural remedies to alleviate physical ailments, we should also seek organic ways to boost our spiritual wellness for the benefit of our overall health.
Holistic Ways to Explore Your Inner Self
Examining your inner self or spiritual core is it essential to understanding your life’s meaning. If you are ever feeling extremely anxious or unsettled about some issue in your life, it is crucial for you to explore the root of that problem. One way to do so is by seeking out the help of a psychic, whether in person or over the phone.
Even if you have never been to a psychic, you may find that their guidance and willingness to listen will be beneficial to your spiritual health. Sometimes, all we need is a caring, open-minded person to be that holistic springboard for our thoughts and feelings. By getting in touch with your inner self, you can determine the best way for you to reach spiritual fulfillment.
Take Time for Meditation
Since spirituality can boost your overall health, it is also important to exercise your inner self by meditation. Meditation is one of the best tools for creating self-awareness. By surveying your morals, emotions, thoughts, and present circumstances, you can holistically discern what your troubles are and find remedies for them.
Meditation is also crucial to manage stress, sleep issues, and even depression. This means that meditation can be used as an at-home remedy for some of the mental health issues that people are currently facing in our world today. It can be challenging to keep up with your daily routine and all of the mundane tasks that come with it, but meditation can infuse more relaxation into your lifestyle and allow you to strengthen your spiritual well-being.
By examining your inner self with the help of a spiritual guide and integrating meditation into your routine, you can boost your spiritual health with holistic methods while at home.
Home Remedies for Boosting Your Metabolism
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have found that over a third of all American adults are obese, which is closely related to heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer, which in turn are the leading causes of preventable death. Fasting, going on a liquid diet temporarily and adopting a sound Mediterranean style diet as a rule will go a long way towards keeping you at a healthy weight, but did you know that there are many steps you can take to boost your metabolism and speed up weight loss?
Table of Contents [hide]
1 Healthy, Inexpensive Home Remedies for Daily Use
2 The Importance of Exercise and Muscle Building
2.1 Cold Induced Thermogenesis
2.2 Water is Life
Healthy, Inexpensive Home Remedies for Daily Use
Research carried out at the University of Geneva has shown that specific foods and beverages can raise the metabolic rate and speed up fat oxidation; try to drink two to four cups a day, using around a teaspoon and a half of green tea leaves for every cup of water. Allow the tea to steep for around five minutes, and sweeten with stevia or raw honey if required.
Ginger, which increases the sense of satiety, is another powerful metabolism booster that has thermogenic properties (meaning that when it is consumed, it can slightly increase body temperature). Add a tablespoon of freshly squeezed ginger to your tea, bearing in mind it takes a little longer to steep (around 15 minutes).
If you love cool fruit juices, try a shot of 100% fresh ginger juice; you’ll love the zing and energy it gives you.
Another food that has a powerful effect on thermogenesis is cayenne; just add a little powder to your daily meals or take it as a supplement if you are not into spicy foods.
The Importance of Exercise and Muscle Building
Boosting our metabolism isn’t just about what we eat; it also involves exercising every day, performing a blend of cardiovascular and strength training exercises. At rest, a pound of muscle burns 250% more calories than a pound of fat, while exercises such as High Intensity Interval Training, will keep your metabolic rate going, hours after your workout has finished.
Cold Induced Thermogenesis
To promote thermogenesis (a rise in body temperature, as mentioned above), try putting your body in a cold environment, to encourage your metabolism to work harder. Go for a cool swim, give cryotherapy a try, or enjoy contrast showers daily.
Water is Life
Research has shown that drinking 16 ounces of water temporarily boosts the metabolism by around 30%. By drinking around six more glasses of water a day, you will encourage your body to burn more calories. Give your body an extra reason to work harder to heat up by ensuring the water is ice-cold.
While supplementation to replace items such as green tea or cayenne are available, there is no need to go into a store to purchase items that will boost your metabolism. Ensure you exercise daily, follow a sound diet, and include a few homemade remedies that will enable your body to increase its metabolic rate gently and naturally.
Home Remedies for Toothache
Table of Contents [hide]
1 What to do for a bad toothache
2 Causes of Sensitive Teeth?
2.1 Learn How To Stop a Toothache at Home
3 Home Remedies for Toothache
3.1 Salt Paste a best remedy for toothache pain
3.2 Clove is the best thing for severe toothache
3.3 Rinse Mouth with Salted Warm Water to get pain relief for toothache
3.4 Guava Leaves with Anti-inflammatory Power
3.5 Chew Spinach for immediate toothache relief
What to do for a bad toothache
how to relieve tooth pain ? Almost everyone would have at least once bear the toothache more likely in childhood days. Toothache is quite common in kids rather than in adults. The reason is obvious that kids don’t take good care of their teeth and it feels them a burden to brush teeth daily. They find ways to avoid this practice even I used to do this when I was a kid. Toothache can be very light or it can be so severe that even adult starts crying. When it’s severe, not just the tooth but the whole jaw feels it and swelling can be observed sometimes in the jaw. In some more severe cases the patient may feel the temperature in body as well. Here are some common Home Remedies for Toothache to relief toothache.
Causes of Sensitive Teeth?
Other causes can be gum disease or some problem with jaws and joints.
Learn How To Stop a Toothache at Home
Whatsoever is the reason, here are some home remedies for toothache so you may start your treatment at home from your kitchen items.
Home Remedies for Toothache
Another spice easily available in your kitchen can do some great magic and the pain in your tooth will vanish. Clove has been used to treat most of the tooth pains since hundreds of years. It has antiseptic and antibacterial agents in it which can treat your teeth even if there’s some infection in teeth. Get clove powder and mix it in few drops of olive oil. Now apply the paste on the affected tooth. This simple home remedy for toothache can make you fall in love with clove.
Rinse Mouth with Salted Warm Water to get pain relief for toothache
For the instant relief from toothache, the easy and best home remedy is a glass of water with half a teaspoon of salt added to it. It should be warm not boiling. Take a sip, don’t swallow rather rinse your mouth thoroughly with this warm salted water. It is very effective treatment. Whenever you feel pain in tooth, do this for severe toothache pain relief instantly. If there’s swelling due to pain, it will help in reducing that too and you will feel instant relieve.
Guava leaves are said to be very effective for toothache pain relief and can be found very easily. The juice of guava leaves has been used for toothache treatment for centuries. Boil guava leaves in water and add some salt. When the solution gets cool, wash your mouth with it.
Another very easy and best toothache remedy is chewing spinach leaves. Take few leaves of fresh spinach. Put one leaf in mouth and chew it till the saltish juice of leaves starts flowing in mouth and touches the affected tooth. This juice will treat the toothache magically and hence this simple home remedy for pain in tooth can give you some instant relief.
There are other home remedies for toothache as well but here we mentioned only the most effective ones which are proven in medical studies and tests. Whenever you feel pain in tooth, before visiting dentist and spending sum bucks, try these home remedies for toothache at home and get relief without going to any dentist.
Natural Home Remedies to make Your Feet Healthy
Our feet get tired and pained after spending all the day in walking or standing. A feet spa can be very much soothing treatment to get rid of tiresome of feet and having beautiful and softer skin of feet. Following are few Natural Home Remedies to make Your Feet Healthy.
Feet Spa Remedies
Water and apple cider foot soak is another good treatment as foot spa. Just add ample amount of apple cider vinegar to warm water and mix well. Soak your feet in this water solution for 25 minutes. Use pumice stone to remove dead skin of feet. Rinse well with fresh water and apply good hand and body lotion for moist of feet.
Follow the above mentioned Natural Home Remedies to make Your Feet Healthy.
Home Remedies for Headaches
Common Causes of Headache
There can be several causes for the headache. The list of reasons for headache is too long to be mentioned here. Very common causes of headache can be lack of sleep, anxiety, hypertension, hangover, suffocation and many more.
How to Treat Headache
As it is a very common problem, the treatment is very common as well. You can even treat it at home. Here are mentioned few home remedies for Headache:
Natural Headache Remedies
1. Smell Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil has refreshing fragrance and it gives you instant relief from headache. What all you have to do is to put the bottle of peppermint oil near your nose and take deep breath from nasal side so you may inhale the fragrance of peppermint oil. Peppermint oil home remedy for headache is very effective. It normalize the blood flow and you get rid of headache.
2. DIY Massage for Headache
There are many natural remedies for headache but DIY Massage is something that can give you instant relief from headache. If you have nothing at home or you are away at some place where you can’t have any medicine or headache home remedy then DIY massage can be very effective. Close you eyes and start massaging the sides of your forehead and eyes area. Do it gently in circular motion. It will give you some instant relief from headache.
3. Cloves and Clove Oil for headache relief
Cloves are the easily available item in almost every kitchen. If you are restless due to severe headache then get some cloves, grind or crush these cloves and put them in some tissue paper or cotton or even in some piece of cloth. Now smell it. It will bring your blood pressure to normal level and you will feel better.
If you have clove oil at home then it would be better to have a little clove oil massage on your head or forehead.
4. Apple and Apple cider vinegar to cure a headache
Most of the times the headache arise in your body due to unbalanced combination of acid and alkaline in your body. To bring it back to normal position, eat apple by adding salt to it. Or you may use apple cider vinegar as headache home remedy. Take 2 tsp of vinegar and put it in a glass of water. Now fill the glass with water and drink it in sips. It can give you relief from headache in a couple of minutes.
5. Acupressure Point
Very easy and very effective headache home remedy is acupressure point massage. To get instant relief from headache stretch you index finger and thumb of left hand and press the fleshy part between both with right hands index finger and thumb. Apply gentle pressure and keep massaging for a minute or two. Now do the same with right hand. It will make you feel better as your headache would have gone.
6. Basil Oil
Basil oil, like peppermint oil have some great relaxing fragrance. Smelling basil oil can make your muscles relaxed and you will feel clam. It can reduce your headache magically.
7. Flaxseed As Headache Home Remedy
Omega 3 fatty acids can cure the headache as most of the time headache is caused by some inflammation. The easily available kitchen item enriched with Omega 3 is flaxseed. If seeds are not available, you can use the oil as well to get relief from headache.
So using any of these home remedies for headache, you can get rid of headache.
Home Remedies for Acne
It’s more than a shock when you see a pimple appearing on your skin. The situation is worse when it appears on facial skin area. When some acne appears on the skin, it feels like there’s nothing on the face, not the beautiful lips, no magical deep eyes nor even the cute nose. If there’s something on the face, that’s the ugly acne. You want to cry, you want to scream and you want some overnight acne treatment so when you wake up next morning, you may not see this ugly pimple on your face.Home remedies for acne is good way to get rid from this problem.
Identifying the Type of Acne
For how to get rid of pimples overnight you must know first that which acne type actually appeared on your skin. It is not hard to identify the type of acne. Just take a close look and observe the affected area of skin carefully. It will be white head, black head, pimple with yellowish pus, nodules cysts. Once you identify the acne type, it will become obvious to you that what you have to do for overnight acne cure.
Whiteheads appear on your skin when dirt of oil is locked under your skin. It appears as a white tiny bump on your skin and it appears in group mostly on your nose or cheeks area and sometimes at chin area too.
How to Treat Acne
Your skin is sensitive and so are the skin problems. But acne has become so common issue that lots of acne treatments are available very easily. But care must be taken while treating acne because if it is treated badly, it may get worse and then it will leave some marks on you skin which will look ugly. These marks takes a good time to vanish but there are some best spot treatment for acne as well which can help in how to remove pimples from your skin.
If you just noticed a pimple on your skin, you don’t need to worry. Just choose one of these three acne treatments that work and learn how to get rid of acne overnight:
Home Remedies for Back Pain
Backache/Back pain
It is the one of the most common complaint that affects the lives of almost every person. People feel pain, stiffness and tension in the back and especially lower back of the body. It is normally due to bad posture adopted for sitting, laying, standing, and lifting or in bending. It varies from person to person depending upon the region involved from neck area, cervical to the lower back hip bone.
Most of the experts are of the view that it is strongly associated with pain in bones, muscles or ligaments of the joints. Pain in the lower back is connected with muscles, nerves and abnormality in the location of spine and vertebrae. While in the upper region is associated with disorder of aorta or tumors in the chest or inflammatory action in spine. Following are the causes, symptoms and home remedies for back pain.
Back Pain Causes
One of the main reasons for having the back pain is weak immune system.
Poor physical conditions and wrong posture also put constant strain on the back that will cause back ache
In some cases cushions lying in between the internal vertebrae that is supporting disks are damaged or ruptured. The actual position or condition is cleared after spine x-rays.
In case of osteoarthritis, the space around the spinal cord gets tapered, known as Spinal Stenosis.
Sometimes, bones get porous and brittle, so there are chances that spines get fractured. This is the condition of osteoporosis.
Back Pain Symptoms
One of the most common symptoms is reflected from the name that pains in the back while other signs and symptoms are as follow:
Muscular pain
Loss of weight
Pain goes down to the legs
Unable to stand up straight
Face difficulty in urination
lack of feeling and sensation around the buttocks
loss of control on bowel
Home Remedies for Back Pain
Most of the backaches get relieved after continuous rest, cessation and also there are some home remedies for back pain. In this regard numerous over the counter medicines are suggested that mainly comprised of pain killers like Tylenol, ibuprofen, or naproxen. But try to avoid it over usage that causes serious side effects. In case of severe pain, it is strictly instructed that stop light activities like walking and daily activities.
Similarly physical therapies are suggested that ensure the tranquil movement. In this context, heating, ultrasonic treatments, electrical stimulations and muscle release techniques are suggested that help to reduce the backache. Regular therapies help to increase the flexibility plus strengthen the back and abdominal muscles. This will help to improve the posture.
One other common recommended remedy is the cortisone injections that help to lower down the inflammatory feeling around the nerve roots. But the actual backache will rectify in few months. This injection is injected near the joints thus allow flexibility.
The last option is the surgery, which removes the problem of nerve compression that weakens the muscles. But after this intensive therapies are required to ensure frequent and easy movements.
Home Remedies for Scalp Itchy
It becomes very embarrassing when you are always engaged in scratching your scalp all the time. Itchy scalp is a big disorder, but you can prevent and treat this problem if you make use of following home remedies for scalp itchy.
Add apple cider vinegar to last rinsing water to get rid of itchy scalp. Rinse your scalp with this water and do this remedy daily for the best results.
Lemon juice is also very effective to cure itchy scalp. Lemon juice can directly be applied to the scalp, and you can also rinse your scalp with lemon water.
Follow the above mentioned home remedies for scalp itchy to get instant results.
10 Home Remedies You Can Find in Your Kitchen
You already know that consuming the right foods can boost your intake of minerals, vitamins, and nutrients. But there are a few out there that could also alleviate some of your most pesky daily problems, like hiccups or even rashes like eczema. Though it's important to keep in mind that serious conditions need the attention of a doctor, it might not hurt to reach for one of these 10 items the next time you have a minor health problem.
GINGER FOR MENSTRUAL CRAMPS
Traditional Chinese medicine has relied on ginger for more than 2,000 years. "Ginger can improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in your muscles, including those in the uterus where cramps originate," says Mary Rosser, MD, PhD, assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, New York.
What's more, a preliminary study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine even found that ginger was as effective as ibuprofen for relieving period pain (more research is needed). To make your time of the month a little more bearable, try brewing up a cup of warm ginger tea.
CRANBERRIES FOR URINARY TRACT HEALTH
Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins, a compound that fends off the bacteria that cause urinary tract infections (UTI). "E. coli is one of the top offenders in triggering a UTI," Dr. Rosser says. "This substance has been shown to prevent infection by keeping the bacteria from attaching to the bladder walls." If you already have a UTI, cranberries probably won't cure it, but consuming cranberries daily may help protect against future infections. About 20% of women who get a UTI will contract another one, so drinking one to two glasses a day of 20% pure cranberry juice will help prevent recurrence, Dr. Rosser says.
Prone to irritability and mood swings before your period? You're not alone. About 85% of menstruating women experience at least one PMS symptom each month. The good news is tweaking your diet might help lessen your symptoms. "It's been shown that people with PMS have lower blood calcium levels than those without PMS," Dr. Rosser says. The National Institutes of Health recommends adults consume about 1,000 milligrams of calcium a day. You probably already know that dairy products are rich in calcium, but so are almonds, broccoli, leafy greens, and sardines.
Calm itchy, inflamed skin using this breakfast food. Oatmeal soothes rashes because it's packed with phytochemicals that have anti-inflammatory properties. Create a soothing bath by grinding 1/3 cup of plain oatmeal (no flavors!) into a fine powder using your blender; pour the powder into lukewarm water and stir in evenly with your hands until the water is a milky color, suggests Kavita Mariwalla, MD, a New York City-based dermatologist. Another option: use 1/4 cup of oatmeal and enough water to make a paste that you can apply directly to the skin for 10 minutes, she says.
You don't need an expensive skincare product to treat rough patches on your knees, elbows, and heels. A sea salt scrub made at home will work just as well. "Sea salt is a good exfoliator because it has thicker grains that do a good job of clearing away dry skin," Dr. Mariwalla says. Just mix one cup of sea salt with 1/2 cup of a light massage oil. "Use a bowl to make sure the mixture stays moist, like wet sand, and not runny," Dr. Mariwalla says. It's best to keep this scrub away from your more sensitive areas like your face and the back of your arms, though. It can be harsh on skin that doesn't require as much exfoliation.
Laying cold cucumber slices over your eyes may look a little silly, but the age-old beauty trick really does reduce puffiness. Cucumbers, which are 95% water, offer a nice cooling sensation and the cold temperature causes blood vessels to constrict and reduce inflammation. And there's a reason why cucumbers in particular work even better than ice packs. "Cucumber slices perfectly fit to the contours of your eyes to help reduce swelling," Dr. Mariwalla says. You'll only need to leave them on for 10 minutes for fresher-looking eyes.
Dried plums are rich in insoluble fiber, a key nutrient to help fight constipation. "Insoluble fiber doesn't dissolve in water and creates more bulk so waste can push through the digestive system," says Wayne Andersen, MD, medical director of Take Shape for Life, a weight loss program from Medifast. Prunes also contain two substances that act as natural laxatives, sorbitol and dihydrophenylisatin, which will work much better for your system over time than drugstore constipation aids. "The body can become desensitized over time to over-the-counter laxatives," Dr. Andersen says. Start with just one prune a day first and bump up your intake to two if you don't see a response.
When you hiccup, the diaphragm undergoes a series of spasms, but you can fool your body into stopping that reaction by putting a teaspoon of sugar underneath your tongue. The sweet sensation is strong enough to stimulate the vagus nerve. That's the longest cranial nerve in your body, starting at your brain stem and extending as far down as your diaphragm to control the stomach. "Keep the sugar under your tongue until you stop hiccupping, and then swallow to fill the back of your throat with even more sensation," Dr. Andersen says.
Avoiding trigger foods like soda, high-fat beef, and anything fried is the best way to deal with acid reflux. One food that should keep in your diet: apples. "Apples have pectin, a soluble fiber that's really great at absorbing stomach acid," says Dr. Andersen. Plus, the fruit contains two types of acid (malic and tartaric) that work to beat back any juices that flow up from your stomach. "Buy organic red or golden delicious apples that are sweeter than the tart granny smiths," Dr. Andersen suggests. "Sweet apples are considered alkaline foods that work at a cellular level to restore pH balance and prevent GERD."
Turmeric is revered in India as a "holy powder" that can be used to prevent infections and treat wounds. That's thanks to a compound called curcumin. "Foods with curcumin have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties so they can help with cleansing and healing," says Dr. Andersen. A study in the Biochemical Journal even found that curcumin has the ability to stop bacteria from multiplying. If your medicine cabinet is running low on antibiotic ointment, try dabbing a little turmeric on your cut or scrape instead, but only for minor or superficial wounds. Dr. Andersen suggests using half a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a drop or two of water to make a paste, or if the wound is still bleeding a bit, you can apply the powder without water. After the area is dry, cover with a dressing and let the healing begin.
Your grandmother grew up with these common cures but they've long since fallen out of fashion. We asked medical experts which ones we'd be wise to rediscover.
Salt water for a sore throat
Ginger for nausea
Cool tea for eye bags
Prunes for constipation
When you just can’t go, try a home remedy for constipation like prunes. They sound gross—probably why the California Prune Board got them renamed as “dried plums”—but if they were good enough for Grandma, they’re good enough for us.”A high fiber diet, along with adequate fluid, can be effective at helping to alleviate constipation,” Palinski-Wade says. “Prunes are an all-natural source of fiber, with three grams of fiber per serving and only 100 calories, making them an easy way to boost the fiber content of your meal plan.”
Oatmeal bath for skin ailments
Cranberry juice for UTIs
Honey for coughs
Lavender for trouble sleeping
Aloe for burns
Chicken soup for colds
Witch hazel for hemorrhoids
Lemon for motion sickness
Duct tape for warts
Originally invented during World War II, duct tape was also found to have a host of genius first aid uses along with home projects. The weirdest one? To cure warts! This low-tech method is actually endorsed by the American Academy of Dermatology, and has research to back it up. Although doctors aren’t exactly sure why it works, one study found that placing duct tape over warts was 25 percent more effective than freezing them—and much cheaper to boot.
Petroleum jelly for wounds
Apple for cleaning teeth
Cod liver oil for inflammation
Licorice root for bad breath
Ice for headaches
Baking soda for whiter teeth
Avoid the cold to fight off colds
Tennis ball for achy feet
Chewing gum for stress
Home Remedies for Depression
Reviewed by Dr. Melody Keller
This brain disorder can make life very distressing. Some types of depression occur under special circumstances. They are persistent depression, postpartum depression, psychotic depression, and seasonal affective disorder (1).
There are many factors that contribute to depression, including biological, environmental, and psychological. Researchers now believe a person can have a genetic predisposition to depression—a reason why it tends to run in certain families. People of all ages are prone to depression. Even alterations in brain chemistry can lead to depression.
Other contributing factors include anxiety, tension, mental stress, low self-esteem, childhood abuse, neglect, chronic illness, drug addiction as well as deficiencies of vitamin B-complex and omega-3 fatty acids. Also, women are 70 percent more likely to have depression than men. Stressful life events can also lead to depression.
But everything about depression need not be depressing! There is still hope–depression is one of the most treatable mental diseases. Around 80-90% people with depression recover well with treatment and proper support.
Here are the top 10 home remedies for depression.
1. St. John’s Wort
St. John’s wort is a popular herbal treatment for mild to moderate depression. It is a herb that is native to Europe, West Asia, and North Africa. In Europe, people often use it to treat depression however it is not approved by the FDA for the treating depression. It has chemical constituents like hypericin and hyperforin that work like antidepressants, blocking re-uptake of serotonin and serotonin receptors (2).
A systematic review done in 2016 of 35 studies that investigated around 6993 patients concluded that therapy exclusively with St John’s wort for depression was superior to that of placebo in improving depression symptoms and comparable to antidepressants. The adverse effects due to treatment with St John’s wort was less than that of the standard antidepressants and comparable to the placebo (4).
However, researchers suggest using caution as there are conflicting reports and more studies need to be carried out to establish its effectiveness and safety.
Add one or two tablespoons of dried St. John’s wort to a cup of hot water and let it steep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink this tea twice daily. Follow this routine regularly to lift your mood.
Alternatively, you can take 300 milligrams of St. John’s wort supplement three times a day.
Consult a doctor before beginning regular use of St. John’s wort. Do not take with Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI) medications. It can interact with the activity of birth control pills, cyclosporine, digoxin, cancer medications, warfarin, HIV drugs, etc. It can also cause dizziness, indigestion, headaches, dizziness, dry mouth, etc.
2. Cardamom
Cardamom is an aromatic spice that can help detoxify the body and rejuvenate the cells, in turn helping improve your mood and treat depression. In addition to its use as a flavoring in food, this “queen of spices” has been used popularly for helping digestion, reducing fat, mouth freshener, perfume, etc.
The major active compounds in cardamom are cineole, pinene, limonene, methyl eugenol, etc. (6). Cardamom extract has been demonstrated to enhance the memory and learning in animal models in a recent study published in 2018 (7).
Add one-half teaspoon of cardamom powder to one cup of warm water or milk. Drink it once daily.
You can also add a few drops of cardamom oil to your bath water. Soak yourself in this uplifting aroma-filled bath for 30 minutes daily.
3. Nutmeg
Nutmeg works like a brain tonic and helps stimulate your brain, eliminate fatigue and stress, and improve your mood. Studies on nutmeg reveal that it can soothe stomach aches, stop diarrhea, and also help in lowering blood pressure.
According to a study done in 2006 to investigate the effect of nutmeg seed extract on depression in animal models; nutmeg extracts brought about a considerable reduction in depression symptoms in mice. The antidepressant activity of nutmeg extract was mediated by its interaction with adrenergic, dopaminergic and serotonergic systems (9).
Mix one-eighth teaspoon or a dash of nutmeg powder in one tablespoon of Indian gooseberry juice.
Drink this two times daily to calm the mind and relieve depression.
Note: Do not take raw nutmeg in large doses as it has psychoactive effects. It also helps with sleep, so take it before bedtime, and limit daytime use if you do experience this sleep effect.
4. Saffron
This highly prized spice not only adds flavor and aroma to your food but also has medicinal benefits. Saffron is high in carotenoids and B vitamins that help increase the levels of serotonin and other chemicals in the brain.
Many studies have investigated the antidepressant activity of saffron and saffron compounds in treating mild to moderate depression both in human subjects and animal models. In fact, a study published in Journal of Ethnopharmacology has found saffron to be as effective as fluoxetine (Prozac) in reducing mild to moderate depression (11).
These studies also stressed the potential of saffron as a natural relatively safe alternative to synthetic antidepressants which are often accompanied by side effects (12).
Take 15 mg of dried extract of saffron twice daily to fight depression.
You can also use a little bit of saffron in cooking, milkshakes or smoothies.
Caution: Avoid consuming too much of saffron. Taking doses of more than 10 g of saffron may cause nausea, drowsiness, vomiting, abortion, decreased appetite, uterine bleeding, vertigo, and dizziness.
5. Cashews
Cashew nuts are nutrient dense foods. It has a fat content of 46%, which mostly consists of beneficial fats like monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) mostly linoleic and linolenic acids (13).
Potassium is the most abundant mineral in cashews. They also contain calcium, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, and sodium (14). Tree nuts like cashews are also reported to be good for mental health. A diet supplemented with nuts reduces the risk of depression (15).
Add one teaspoon of cashew nut powder to one cup of warm milk. Drink it once daily.
You can also eat a handful of dry roasted cashews as a healthy snack to lift your mood.
You can also drink cashew milk, available at most grocers, or turn it into a beverage of your choice. It makes great hot cocoa – just use a mug of cashew milk, heat, and add in 1 tsp to 1 tbsp cocoa or raw cacao powder. Cocoa also improves mood!
6. Fish Oil
Studies have found that people with depression usually have a low intake of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are required for normal brain functioning, and is highly recommended for people with depression.
Take a daily supplement of fish oil to fight depression. Fish oil supplements are sold in health food stores, drug stores, grocery stores and online. A minimum safe dosage for almost everyone is 1000 mg daily, but for many people, 2000 mg -3000 mg daily is a safe and healthy dose. For post-partum depression or other use, dosages may run much higher; consult your natural health practitioner for advice.
Alternatively, you can eat cold water fish like salmon, sardines, and anchovies that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed and soy products are also good sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
7. Apples
Nutritious food plays a significant role in the prevention of depression. An apple a day–helps keep depression at bay. Apples are a rich source of phytochemicals.
Antioxidants as supplementation therapy are said to play an essential role in reducing stress-related disorders like depression and anxiety (18). All these nutrients help your brain repair damaged nerve cells to improve its functioning, in turn helping fight symptoms of depression.
Chop one apple and put it in a blender or juicer to extract its juice.
Add the apple juice and one tablespoon of honey to one cup of warm milk.
Drink this twice a day.
Also, you can eat one apple daily to prevent depression.
8. Honey
Honey is a sweet concoction of natural sugars, vitamins, minerals, acids, and enzymes. The natural sugars present in honey helps fight the low feelings of depression. Plus, honey can relax frayed nerves.
Gently crush five to 10 almonds and mix it with one tablespoon of honey. Eat one teaspoon of this mixture twice daily, once in the morning and again before going to bed.
Mix one tablespoon of honey and one teaspoon of ginseng powder. Add one cup of hot water to this mixture and let it stand for five minutes. Drink it twice a day.
9. Asparagus
Asparagus contains several powerful compounds that can help lift your spirits and fight various symptoms of depression.
A study published in 2009 concluded that the aqueous extract of asparagus stem containing sarsasapogenin possessed very powerful anxiolytic (anxiety reducing ability) activity in experimental animal models and hence could serve as an alternative method of managing anxiety disorder (21).
The high folate content in asparagus improves brain functioning, while its vitamin E helps put you in a good mood. Plus, the tryptophan present in asparagus produces serotonin in the brain that stabilizes moods.
To fight depression, eat asparagus fresh, steamed or grilled three or four times a week.
You can also take one-half or one teaspoon of powdered asparagus root with a glass of water daily to beat depression.
10. Chicken
Lean meat protein sources like chicken are excellent in balancing the levels of serotonin. Chicken is also rich in the amino acid tryptophan, which gets transformed into serotonin—the feel-good factor of the body.
Chicken is best for you when baked in the oven or stir-fried with your favorite vegetables. You can also have a bowl of chicken soup. Avoid eating the skin or fried chicken, which can cause other health problems. Eat chicken two or three times a week.
Along with these remedies, do some practical things to lift your mood like get enough rest, avoid junk foods, abstain from alcohol, exercise daily, socialize, laugh, and think about things that make you happy. If you suffer from depression, avoid trying to treat it on your own and seek professional help. If depression persists or makes you feel as if life is not worth living, see a doctor immediately.
Resources:
1. NIMH » Depression. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml. Accessed March 16, 2018.
Nilius B, Szallasi A. Are Brain TRPs Viable Targets for Curing Neurodegenerative Disorders and Improving Mental Health? In: TRP Channels as Therapeutic Targets. Elsevier; 2015:419-456. doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-420024-1.00023-0.
Linde K, Berner MM, Kriston L. St John’s wort for major depression. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. October 2008. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD000448.pub3.
Apaydin EA, Maher AR, Shanman R, et al. A systematic review of St. John’s wort for major depressive disorder. Syst Rev. 2016;5(1):148. doi:10.1186/s13643-016-0325-2.
Sengottuvelu S. Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum Linn. Maton) Seeds in Health. In: Nuts and Seeds in Health and Disease Prevention. Elsevier; 2011:285-291. doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-375688-6.10034-9.
Korikanthimathm V, Prasath D, Rao G. Medicinal properties of cardamom Elettaria cardamomum. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/D_Prasath/publication/267307145_Medicinal_properties_of_Elettaria_cardamomum/links/546454300cf2c0c6aec5068b.pdf. Accessed March 17, 2018.
Abu-Taweel GM. Cardamom ( Elettaria cardamomum ) perinatal exposure effects on the development, behavior and biochemical parameters in mice offspring. Saudi J Biol Sci. 2018;25(1):186-193. doi:10.1016/j.sjbs.2017.08.012.
Agbogidi OM, Azagbaekwe OP. Scientia Agriculturae. 2013;1(2):40-44. http://pscipub.com/Journals/Data/JList/Scientia Agriculturae/2013/Volume 1/Issue 2/2.pdf. Accessed March 17, 2018.
Dhingra D, Sharma A. Antidepressant-Like Activity of n -Hexane Extract of Nutmeg ( Myristica fragrans ) Seeds in Mice. J Med Food. 2006;9(1):84-89. doi:10.1089/jmf.2006.9.84.
Melnyk JP, Wang S, Marcone MF. Chemical and biological properties of the world’s most expensive spice: Saffron. Food Res Int. 2010;43(8):1981-1989. doi:10.1016/J.FOODRES.2010.07.033.
Noorbala AA, Akhondzadeh S, Tahmacebi-Pour N, Jamshidi AH. Hydro-alcoholic extract of Crocus sativus L. versus fluoxetine in the treatment of mild to moderate depression: a double-blind, randomized pilot trial. J Ethnopharmacol. 2005;97(2):281-284. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2004.11.004.
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Rico R, BullĂł M, Salas-SalvadĂł J. Nutritional composition of raw fresh cashew ( Anacardium occidentale L.) kernels from different origin. Food Sci Nutr. 2016;4(2):329-338. doi:10.1002/fsn3.294.
Sanhueza C, Ryan L, Foxcroft DR. Diet and the risk of unipolar depression in adults: systematic review of cohort studies. J Hum Nutr Diet. 2013;26(1):56-70. doi:10.1111/j.1365-277X.2012.01283.x.
Adams PB, Lawson S, Sanigorski A, Sinclair AJ. Arachidonic acid to eicosapentaenoic acid ratio in blood correlates positively with clinical symptoms of depression. Lipids. 1996;31 Suppl:S157-61. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8729112. Accessed March 19, 2018.
Boyer J, Liu RH. Apple phytochemicals and their health benefits. Nutr J. 2004;3(1):5. doi:10.1186/1475-2891-3-5.
Gautam M, Agrawal M, Gautam M, Sharma P, Gautam AS, Gautam S. Role of antioxidants in generalised anxiety disorder and depression. Ind
10 Foods to Eat to Fight Depression
Feeling depressed once in a while is normal when it is related to loss, life’s struggles or an injured self-esteem.
However, when intense sadness and feelings of being helpless, hopeless and worthless become a part of your life and prevent you from functioning normally, you may be suffering from clinical depression, a common but serious mood disorder.
Depression can cause severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating or working. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, depression affects one in 10 Americans.
Dealing with depression is not easy for the person as well as their family members and friends. However, there is no need to suffer in silence. You can turn to different therapies, medications, meditation, physical exercise and even diet to help combat the condition.
Many foods have been scientifically proven to lift a person’s mood, and you should include them in your diet to help ease your depression in a safe and natural manner. Foods containing nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, tryptophan, vitamin D or B vitamins, have a direct impact on mood.
These foods even boost the effectiveness of antidepressants and also help prevent relapses of depression in the long run.
Here are top 10 foods to eat to fight depression.
1. Green Tea
A 2009 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that more frequent consumption of green tea was associated with a lower prevalence of depressive symptoms in the older population living in the community.
A 2014 study published in Public Health Nutrition even shows that higher green tea consumption was associated with a lower prevalence of depressive symptoms. When compared with participants consuming just one cup of green tea per day, those consuming more than four cups per day had a 51 percent significantly lower prevalence of depressive symptoms after adjustment for potential confounders.
Theanine, the amino acid component of both green and black tea, is highly beneficial in psychiatric conditions. This amino acid has psychoactive properties that reduce stress and increase dopamine levels in the brain.
A 2014 study published in Nutritional Neuroscience highlights the positive neurobiological effects of the green tea constituent theanine and its potential role in the treatment of psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, including depression, schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and bipolar disorder.
Enjoy 3 to 4 cups of green tea daily to help lift your mood and improve your overall health as well.
2. Almonds
In fact, a low magnesium level in the body is linked to depression and other mood disorders.
A 2006 study published in Medical Hypotheses found that magnesium deficiency is the cause of most major depression and related mental health problems. Magnesium-rich foods can help treat the depression symptoms to a great extent.
Another beneficial nutrient in almonds is selenium, which can help decrease depressive symptoms. Selenium plays a role in producing thyroid hormones to combat decreased thyroid functioning that is positively associated with depressive symptoms.
Additionally, almonds are a good source of zinc, a mineral that can protect brain cells from free-radical damage and boost neurotransmitter production and functioning.
Snacking on about 23 almonds daily will allow you to see positive changes in your mood. You can enjoy almonds as a healthy snack and also mix them with your favorite low-fat yogurt or choice of fruit.
3. Salmon
People with depression usually have low intake of omega-3 fatty acids, which support normal brain functioning by reducing inflammation.
The two main types of omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Both EPA and DHA are found in very high concentrations in brain tissue and play an important role in nerve function and mood regulation.
A 2004 study published in Lipids in Health and Disease reports that there is enough epidemiological, laboratory and clinical evidence to suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may play a role in certain cases of depression.
A 2009 study published in CNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics reports that omega-3 fatty acids were more effective than a placebo for depression in both adults and children.
Another study published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity in 2014 reports that although there are many effective treatments for depression, dietary recommendations suggesting proper intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids can result in substantial benefits.
Salmon is also good for overall health, as it improves circulation and reduces your overall risk of heart disease.
Along with salmon, other cold-water fish like tuna, sardines and anchovies are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
4. Dark Chocolate
In addition, dark chocolate slows down the production of stress hormones, which in turn reduces anxiety.
A 2011 study published in the ASEAN Journal of Psychiatry found that trainee nurses who consumed 50 grams of dark chocolate for three days had fewer symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression. This study suggests that dark chocolate may have a more prominent role in improving emotional and mood generally.
Another 2012 study published in the Malaysian Journal of Psychiatry found that cancer patients who consumed 50 grams of dark chocolate for three days had fewer depression and anxiety symptoms.
Dark chocolate consumption may even reduce the effects of chronic fatigue syndrome, due to its flavonoid content.
To help treat your depression, satisfy your cravings with a sweet treat of 1 to 1½ ounces of dark chocolate a day.
5. Eggs
Eggs are a good source of zinc, an essential micronutrient that is needed by the body to boost neurotransmitter production and functioning.
By eating foods rich in zinc like eggs, you can fight zinc deficiency as well as depression and possibly other disorders.
Along with zinc, eggs are one of the few foods that contain vitamin D, the deficiency of which is linked to depression and other mental health problems.
A 2013 study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry reports that low vitamin D concentration is associated with depression, and highlights the need for an increase in vitamin D for the prevention and treatment of depression.
In addition, eggs are rich in vitamin B12, which helps form red blood cells and maintain a healthy nervous system.
When it comes to eating eggs, you can try hard-boiled eggs, omelets, scrambled eggs and so on.
6. Bananas
Bananas contain high amounts of tryptophan, which is known for raising the body’s serotonin level. This is just one mood-boosting component in bananas.
Also, it aids in producing tyrosine, the building block for norepinephrine and dopamine, two important neurotransmitters that can influence mood.
Additionally, bananas provide vitamin B6, which your body needs to manufacture serotonin from tryptophan.
They also contain four other B vitamins: thiamin (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3) and folate (B9).
Insomnia, another common symptom of depression, can be treated with bananas. The tryptophan in them can help you fall asleep more easily.
Hence, try to eat a banana followed by a glass of warm milk shortly before going to bed to enjoy better sleep.
7. Avocados
Avocados also contain potassium, which is important for mental health and brain function. It aids transporting serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of well-being and happiness. In fact, a low potassium level can contribute to confusion, mood swings and depression.
A 1992 article published in Neuropsychobiology reported a relationship between sodium, magnesium and potassium in depressed patients.
In addition, the monounsaturated fat in avocados in the form of oleic acid can improve your mood, and help treat depression and postpartum depression.
Avocados are also rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that helps reduce stress and induce relaxation.
Aim to eat ½ or 1 avocado daily, by including it in your salads or smoothies.
8. Blueberries
In a recent 2016 study by the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology, researchers conducted a series of studies in rats and found that eating blueberries could help reduce the genetic and biochemical drivers behind depression and suicidal tendencies associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Eating blueberries can also trigger the growth of new brain cells. In fact, the flavonoids found in blueberries help dopamine neurons in the brain survive much longer.
Also, blueberries contain mood-boosting nutrients like B-complex as well as selenium, zinc and potassium. All these nutrients have a positive effect on neurologic and brain health.
9. Spinach
Spinach is filled with nutrients, such as folic acid, magnesium, and zinc, which are important for brain health and fighting depression symptoms. These nutrients also ensure the proper functioning of the nerves and muscles.
Folic acid elevates a low mood and reduces fatigue. In fact, people who have low folic acid in the body are likely to experience depression symptoms, such as fatigue and apathy.
The folate in spinach aids serotonin regulation, which plays a major role in determining mood and regulating social behavior. Folate is also known to boost the effectiveness of antidepressants.
Magnesium, another nutrient in spinach, is needed for maintaining a proper serotonin level in the body. A low magnesium level can cause a drop in serotonin, leading to depression.
Try to eat more spinach by using it as a salad or green smoothie ingredient or adding it to your hot meals.
10. Asparagus
A 2002 study published in the BMJ states that folic acid is important in the nervous system at all ages, and its deficiency is linked to depression and dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, as well as vascular disease.
Asparagus also contains B vitamins, which are important for boosting mood. A 2005 study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology reports that it is important to consider folic acid and vitamin B12 for treatment of depression.
Plus, asparagus contains tryptophan, which increases serotonin in the brain and helps prevent depression and anxiety. A 2009 study published in the World Journal of Biological Psychiatry states that tryptophan works as an evolutionarily conserved signal to brain serotonin.
It is time to consider adding more asparagus to your home-cooked dishes to ward off negative thoughts and feelings.
Resources:
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC533861/
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19499625
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3976923/
http://www.aseanjournalofpsychiatry.org/index.php/aseanjournalofpsychiatry/article/view/57
http://www.mjpsychiatry.org/index.php/mjp/article/viewFile/170/135
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3796297/
http://bjp.rcpsych.org/content/202/2/100
http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/90/6/1615.full
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23453038
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23883567
http://www.medical-hypotheses.com/article/S0306-9877%2806%2900103-4/abstract?cc=y
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1123448/
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15671130
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19921967
http://www.york.ac.uk/news-and-events/news/2007/folate-depression/
http://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/118914
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/04/160405175653.htm
Top 10 Herbs for Weight Loss
Weight gain and obesity are a matter of concern for many. For some, it can be a constant battle to try to burn off the calories they take in through exercise and normal daily activities.
Genetics and hormonal fluctuations can contribute to weight gain or a person’s ability to lose weight. Other causes are inactivity, an unhealthy diet or eating habits, lack of sleep, excessive stress and certain medications. Even some medical conditions can lead to added weight.
Being overweight puts you at higher risk of developing a number of health problems, such as high cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, strokes, sleep apnea, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and osteoarthritis.
A healthy diet and exercise program can help you manage your weight. At the same time, you can try some herbs to help lose weight.
Here are the top 10 herbs for weight loss.
1. Ginger
Ginger can be effective in promoting weight loss. A 2012 study published in the Metabolism: Clinical and Experimental journal found that ginger consumption enhances the thermic effect of food and promotes feelings of satiety. This prevents unnecessary snacking and compulsive eating of high-calorie foods.
In addition, ginger improves digestion and boosts your metabolism.
Drink 2 to 3 cups of ginger tea daily.
Chew small pieces of ginger between meals or add grated ginger to main dishes.
You can also take ginger capsules, but only after consulting your doctor.
2. Green Tea
Drink green tea to boost your metabolism and burn more calories. The antioxidant called catechins in green tea stimulate the fat-burning process.
A 2014 study at Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences found that mice fed a high-fat diet that also consumed decaffeinated green tea extract and exercised regularly experienced weight loss and significant health improvements. Researchers suggest that green tea looks promising for people who wish to lose weight.
Put 1 to 2 teaspoons of good quality green tea in a cup and pour hot water over it.
Let it steep for 2 to 3 minutes, then strain it.
Drink 3 to 4 cups of green tea throughout the day.
3. Turmeric
This herb also can help you reach your weight loss target. Curcumin, one of turmeric’s most thoroughly studied active ingredients, helps increase the flow of bile. This is important in breaking down fat.
It also improves insulin resistance as well as treats inflammatory symptoms associated with obesity and metabolic disorders.
Prepare a detox drink by mixing 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, juice from 1 lemon, a pinch of cayenne pepper and a little raw honey (for taste) in 1 cup of warm water. Drink this once daily.
You can also drink turmeric tea. To make the tea, add ½ teaspoon each of turmeric powder and dry ginger powder to 2 cups of boiling water and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Strain, add lemon juice for taste and drink it twice daily.
Another option is to take curcumin supplements after consulting a doctor.
4. Hibiscus
This beautiful herb is loaded with nutrients, flavonoids and various minerals that help lower the body’s absorption of fats and carbohydrates. This in turn aids weight management. In addition, its diuretic nature helps you shed water weight.
In a 2014 study published in the Food & Function Journal, researchers found that people who took tablets made from hibiscus extracts for 12 weeks showed reduced waist circumference, body fat percentage and hip-to-waist ratio.
You can drink 2 to 3 cups of hibiscus tea daily. To make the tea, add 2 tablespoons of dried hibiscus petals to 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain and add honey and lemon juice for taste.
You can also take hibiscus in supplement form after consulting a doctor.
Note: If you are a pregnant or nursing woman or taking medication, consult your doctor before taking this herb.
5. Korean Ginseng
Korean ginseng, also known as Panax ginseng or Asian ginseng, is valued for its ability to boost energy levels and speed metabolism, which help with weight loss. In addition, it improves insulin sensitivity as well as stress management.
You can drink 2 cups of Korean ginseng tea daily. The tea is readily available in the market.
Alternatively, take 1 to 3 capsules of 500 mg Korean ginseng daily for 3 months or less.
Do not take this tea or supplement without your doctor’s permission.
Note: Avoid using Korean ginseng for extended periods. Do not use this herb if you have hormone-related conditions.
6. Dandelion
Dandelion is another useful herb for overweight people who wish to shed some pounds. The phytochemicals in dandelion give it diuretic and laxative properties. It increases the volume and frequency of urination, which helps get rid of water weight.
In addition, this herb helps normalize blood sugar, remove toxins from the body, suppress appetite and fight inflammation.
Drink a cup of dandelion tea daily prior to each meal. To make the tea, add 2 teaspoons of dried dandelion root to 1 cup of water and boil it for 1 minute. Remove from heat and steep for about 10 minutes. Strain and drink your tea.
You can also add fresh dandelion greens to salads or soups.
Avoid taking this herb for extended periods.
Note: As this herb can interact with certain medications, consult your doctor before using it.
7. Oregano
Oregano also helps you lose weight. It has an active component called carvacrol that helps dissolve fat. This herb also aids digestion and reduces bloating. In addition, it helps fight depression and stress, two common causes of overeating and weight gain.
Drink a few cups of oregano tea daily. To make the tea, steep 3 teaspoons of oregano leaves in 1 cup of hot water for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain and drink it.
Alternatively, add 4 or 5 drops of oil of oregano to a glass of low-calorie fruit juice and drink it once daily.
You can also take oregano capsules with at least 70 percent carvacrol. Consult your doctor before taking this supplement.
8. Sage
Sage is another great weight-loss herb, thanks to its stimulant, diuretic and antioxidant properties. Being a stimulant, it boosts your metabolic rate to help you burn more calories. In addition, it helps reduce inflammation, treat anxiety and promote sound sleep.
Put 1 tablespoon of fresh sage leaves (or 1 teaspoon of dried sage) in a cup.
Pour boiling water in the cup, cover and steep for 5 minutes.
Strain and add lemon juice for taste.
Drink this tea 2 or 3 times daily.
Note: Do not consume sage if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
9. Peppermint
Plus, the calming, soothing scent of peppermint helps reduce stress, one of the reasons behind weight gain.
Drink a few cups of peppermint tea daily. To make the tea, steep 1 tablespoon of fresh peppermint leaves in a pot of hot water for 10 minutes. Strain, allow it to cool and drink it.
Also, put a few drops of peppermint oil on a clean handkerchief and inhale it. This will help reduce food cravings.
10. Milk Thistle
By boosting toxin removal through detoxification, this herb also helps restore metabolism and increase fat loss.
You can take milk thistle in capsule form or as a tincture. For proper dosage, consult your doctor.
Note: Seek medical advice before taking milk thistle if you have a medical condition.
Additional Tips
Start your day with a glass of lemon water.
Practice oil pulling to get rid of toxins and improve metabolism.
Drink water and other healthy fluids to help your body burn fat faster.
Soak in early morning sunlight for a few minutes daily to help your body make vitamin D. This vitamin is essential for weight loss.
Start your day with a healthy breakfast.
Eat smaller meals (healthy foods) 4 or 5 times throughout the day instead of 2 large meals.
Eat healthy snacks between meals.
Enjoy regular exercise and play some sports on weekends.
Avoid stress as it can cause weight gain.
Get enough sleep. Lack of sleep can increase your appetite and lead to weight gain.
Stay away from cigarettes, alcohol, refined sugars and saturated fats.
Resources:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22538118
http://news.psu.edu/story/310179/2014/04/02/research/research-suggests-green-tea-exercise-boost-weight-loss-health
http://www.foxnews.com/health/2014/08/27/hibiscus-may-enhance-weight-control/
Home Remedies for Obesity & Weight Loss
Did you know that more than 1 in 3 Americans are obese? Obesity is a health disorder in which there is excessive accumulation of fat in the body. This results in being overweight and associated health problems.
Obesity is determined by measuring a person’s Body Mass Index (BMI) — the measure of body fat based on one’s height and weight. Generally, a BMI between 18.5 and 25 is considered desirable. If your BMI is between “25 – 29.9”, then you are deemed overweight; if it is 30 or more, you are considered obese.
You can calculate your BMI using the following:
BMI=(Weight in lbs / (Height in inches x Height in inches)) x 703, or if you measure with the metric system use BMI= Weight in kg / (Height in meters x Height in meters), or
the U.S. National Institutes of Health’s online BMI calculator.
This problem is mostly attributed to poor lifestyle choices, such as an unbalanced diet, eating processed foods high in fat, oversized food portions, overeating, excessive drinking, lack of physical activity, lack of sufficient sleep, hypothyroidism, insulin resistance, polycystic ovarian syndrome, Cushing’s syndrome, medications, psychological issues, social issues etc.
Genetic factors and hormonal problems also tend to increase the risk of developing obesity. Obesity is a great concern not merely because of the excess weight, but also because it puts you at risk for a number of serious health problems such as insulin resistance, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, gallstones, gout, arthritis, certain cancers, and other chronic illnesses.
It is important to adopt healthy lifestyle changes to combat this problem. It might be reassuring to know that if you are determined to lose at least 5% of your weight, you will be rewarded with decreased risk of heart disease, blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer as per the findings of a recent study published in 2016 (1). In addition, you can use some easy yet effective natural remedies to help with your weight loss efforts.
Here are the top 10 home remedies for obesity.
1. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is one of the best home remedies for fighting obesity. It is rich in fiber, vitamins like vitamin B and C, minerals including calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and phosphorus.
It helps improve digestion and aids in detoxification. Healthy digestion is an essential pre-requisite for weight loss as it helps your body get the nutrients required to burn fat. The citric acid present in lemons is very effective in burning fat (2).
Furthermore, it helps remove toxins from your body that slow down your metabolism. A recent study published in the journal of Nutrition Research in 2015 showed that a lemon detox program was very effective in reducing fat and insulin resistance in a group of overweight Korean women in comparison to the control group (3).
Mix three teaspoons of lemon juice, one teaspoon of honey, and one-half teaspoon of black pepper powder in one glass of water. (If you use freshly ground black pepper, then just add a quarter teaspoon.)
Drink it in the morning on an empty stomach.
Do this daily for at least three months.
Alternatively, you can simply have a cup of warm water mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice.
Note: Deseed lemons before using as seeds of all citrus fruits and apples are poisonous and can be dangerous if ingested even in small quantities at times.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar is another popular home remedy to reduce excess weight. Though the actual weight loss benefits of it are still unknown, preliminary research has shown that it can help protect against obesity.
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) was found to decrease cholesterol in animals fed high cholesterol diet in comparison to the controls in animal models (4).
The use of vinegar as part of a healthy diet can in the long run help in weight loss and diabetes (5). It helps break down fat and hence prevents the accumulation of body fat.
Mix two teaspoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a glass of water. Drink it daily in the morning and preferably before meals.
You can also drink a glass of water mixed with one teaspoon each of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and lemon juice.
You can have up to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a day. Do not exceed this amount, as it may reduce your blood potassium levels over time and lower your bone mineral density.
3. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is useful in treating obesity because it stimulates metabolism, increases energy consumption, and mobilizes unused fat in the body.
Aloe vera contains more than 75 different biologically active substances. This plant has been used in traditional medicine for wound healing, anti-inflammatory activity, antiseptic properties and also as a laxative (6).
A study done in 2008 showed that phytosterols isolated from Aloe vera was effective in reducing body fat accumulation in obese diabetic animal models (7).
This evidence was supported by results from another study done in 2012 which suggested that treatment with dried Aloe vera gel reduced the accumulation of body fat in diet-induced obese animal models (8).
It contains natural collagen proteins that make the body work harder in order to absorb the proteins. In addition, it helps remove toxins from the digestive system and colon.
Take two fresh Aloe vera leaves, peel them, and scoop out the pulp.
Put it in a blender along with one cup of citrus juice, like grapefruit juice, or simply water. Blend it for two to three minutes.
Drink this daily for at least a month.
4. Green Tea
Green tea is another popular natural remedy to promote weight loss. Green tea is rich in polyphenols like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), epigallocatechin, and epicatechin gallate which are beneficial for health.
A study at Penn State revealed that epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a compound found in green tea, helps slow down weight gain by limiting fat absorption and increasing the body’s ability to use fat (9).
Another report from Penn State showed that decaffeinated green tea along with exercise helped in achieving weight loss in mice (10).
While another study published in 2009 showed that the catechins present in green tea had a small positive effect on weight loss and weight management (11).
Furthermore, green tea is packed with nutrients such as vitamin C, carotenoids, zinc, selenium, chromium, and other trace minerals.
Drink about three to four cups of green tea daily to combat obesity. You can also combine it with ginger tea or cayenne pepper.
5. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper helps control obesity and aids in weight loss. It contains capsaicin that stimulates your body to burn fat and increase energy expenditure.
Other than capsaicin, chilies have vitamin C, β carotene, and lutein which are well-known antioxidants (12).
A review paper published in 2012 looked into the potential medicinal uses of capsaicinoid compounds in relation to the regulation of weight. Capsaicinoids were found to increase energy expenditure, lipid peroxidation, and also reduce the appetite (13).
In addition, it stimulates digestion and suppresses excess appetite caused by malabsorption of nutrients in the body.
Make cayenne pepper tea by pouring a glass of hot water over cayenne pepper (start with one-tenth of a teaspoon or just a dash of cayenne pepper and gradually increase its quantity to one teaspoon). Squeeze the juice from half a lemon in it. Drink this tea regularly at least for a month.
Mix two tablespoons each of lemon juice in 10 ounces of water (one glass contains 8 ounces). Stir in a dash of cayenne pepper and drink it.
Use cayenne pepper and other spices, such as ginger, black pepper, and mustard seeds, generously in your meal preparations.
6. Curry Leaves
Eating 10 fresh curry leaves daily in the morning works as a great Ayurvedic remedy to deal with obesity and diabetes caused by obesity.
Curry leaves, which are lavishly used for garnishing and flavoring dishes, are rich in proteins, carbohydrates, fiber, minerals, carotene, nicotinic acid, vitamins A and C, calcium and oxalic acid.
It is a rich source of biologically active compounds like koenigin, girinimbin, koenidine, triterpenoids etc.
The leaves are traditionally used for its stomachic, tonic, antihelminithic, antidiabetic, antidiarrheal, and carminative properties (14).
In a 2014 report: extracts of curry leaves were reported to remarkably reduce body weight gain, total lipids when given orally to rats fed a high-fat diet.
These curry leaves contain mahanimbine, an alkaloid that has anti-obesity and lipid-lowering effects. Thus, it helps lower body weight and reduces total cholesterol and triglyceride levels (15).
Continue eating these leaves regularly for at least three to four months.
7. Tomatoes
Tomato is an excellent natural medicine bursting with goodness that can help you in your battle against obesity. Tomato is rich in vitamin A and C, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron that are required for normal activity of nerves and muscles.
They fight cancer by blocking powerful carcinogens like nitrosamines. Tomatoes also have anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic properties. The bioavailabilty of lycopene and other nutrients increases upon cooking and processing (16).
Campari tomatoes which contain very high amounts of lycopenes, were shown to lower lipid levels in diet-induced obese zebrafish models in a paper published in 2011 (17).
Eat a couple of tomatoes every morning on an empty stomach. Make sure you eat the peels and seeds as well because they contain dietary fiber. Tomatoes contain compounds that tend to alter the levels of hormones that affect your appetite.
Furthermore, being rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and magnesium, manganese, choline, folate, and other nutrients, they are good for your health. Also, they are packed with antioxidants that protect against cancers.
8. Cabbage
Cabbage has been used as a remedy for weight loss and obesity. Being a cruciferous vegetable, it contains phytochemicals that help improve the imbalance of estrogen metabolism.
These plants protect the body from chronic diseases and are also said to decrease the risk of certain type of cancers. Studies conducted on various brassica members, suggests that they can be safe and effective anti-obesity agents.
A study published in 2012 demonstrated that rats fed an anthocyanin-rich red cabbage diet had lower levels of tissue lipids than the control group (19).
9. Fennel
Fennel seeds are believed to be useful in weight loss because of their diuretic properties. Fennel seeds have that wonderful aroma around them, which make them great for flavoring dishes.
The biological properties of fennel are attributed to its volatile and non-volatile compounds in it. It is useful for the treatment of stomachic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties (20).
A diet of fennel seeds was shown to improve weight loss and decrease leptin (a hormone linked to body weight) concentration in obese animal models in a study published in 2017 (21). Diuretics help you lose weight quickly by reducing water retention. They do not cause long-term weight loss though.
Slightly dry roast and grind fennel seeds. Sieve the powder. Take one-half teaspoon of this powder twice daily with warm water. This remedy will also help relieve abdominal gas, indigestion, and constipation.
You can also drink fennel tea 15 minutes before meals.
10. Honey and Cinnamon
Include honey and cinnamon tea in your diet to boost your metabolism, increase your energy, and detoxify your body. All of these effects support weight loss.
Organic honey is a highly nutritious product that contains vitamins and minerals. It is an energy booster and has antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used to treat respiratory illnesses and for wound healing (22).
Honey fights obesity by promoting fat metabolism. In a study published in 2017, rats that were fed with honey for four weeks had a significant reduction in excess weight gain in comparison to rats that were on a high-fat diet (23).
Cinnamon helps you avoid overeating by fighting insulin resistance and also reduces oxidative stress associated with metabolic syndrome. Sri Lankan or Ceylon cinnamon is the true cinnamon that is well tolerated and safe when used in therapeutic doses. It is traditionally used for a number of ailments including dyspepsia, flatulence, diarrhea, vomiting, bronchitis, stomach cramps, toothache etc. Cinnamaldehyde and gallic acid are some of the major active constituents.
The traditional use of cinnamon for the weight loss has recently been established in a study published in 2017. The findings of this study conclude that cinnamon may be used as a dietary supplement for the management of obesity (24).
Pour a cup of hot water over a half teaspoon of cinnamon powder (you can also use cinnamon sticks). Let it steep for half an hour.
Mix in one teaspoon of organic honey.
Drink half of it in the morning on an empty stomach, about half an hour before breakfast. Store the rest in the refrigerator and drink it at night before going to bed.
Tips
Along with these remedies, make sure you drink half of your body weight in ounces of water to flush toxins out of your body. For example, if you weigh 100 pounds, you should drink 50 ounces of water per day.
Studies have found that plant-based foods can help fight obesity because they contain phytochemicals that prevent oxidative stress, which contributes to obesity. Opt for more plant-based foods rather than processed, fast foods. Plus, include grapes, peaches, figs, carrots, and blueberries in your diet.
Another very important yet ignored tip to fight obesity is to have a proper breakfast. Research shows that those who have a big breakfast are more likely to lose weight and even a few inches off their waistline compared with those who eat a large dinner. Your breakfast should be protein and fiber-rich, rather than high in carbohydrates. It is also important to relax, exercise regularly along with mindful eating to achieve a desirable healthy weight.
Resources:
Magkos F, Fraterrigo G, Yoshino J, et al. Effects of Moderate and Subsequent Progressive Weight Loss on Metabolic Function and Adipose Tissue Biology in Humans with Obesity. Cell Metab. 2016;23(4):591-601. doi:10.1016/j.cmet.2016.02.005.
Mohanapriya M, Ramaswamy L, Rajendran R. HEALTH AND MEDICINAL PROPERTIES OF LEMON (CITRUS LIMONUM). Int J Ayurvedic Herb Med J Homepage. 2013;31095(1). http://interscience.org.uk/index.php/ijahm. Accessed March 8, 2018.
Kim MJ, Hwang JH, Ko HJ, Na HB, Kim JH. Lemon detox diet reduced body fat, insulin resistance, and serum hs-CRP level without hematological changes in overweight Korean women. Nutr Res. 2015;35(5):409-420. doi:10.1016/j.nutres.2015.04.001.
Budak NH, Kumbul Doguc D, Savas CM, et al. Effects of Apple Cider Vinegars Produced with Different Techniques on Blood Lipids in High-Cholesterol-Fed Rats. J Agric Food Chem. 2011;59(12):6638-6644. doi:10.1021/jf104912h.
Budak NH, Aykin E, Seydim AC, Greene AK, Guzel-Seydim ZB. Functional Properties of Vinegar. J Food Sci. 2014;79(5):R757-R764. doi:10.1111/1750-3841.12434.
Surjushe A, Vasani R, Saple DG. Aloe vera: a short review. Indian J Dermatol. 2008;53(4):163-166. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.44785.
Misawa E, Tanaka M, Nomaguchi K, et al. Administration of phytosterols isolated from Aloe vera gel reduce visceral fat mass and improve hyperglycemia in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats. Obes Res Clin Pract. 2008;2(4):I-II. doi:10.1016/j.orcp.2008.06.002.
MISAWA E, TANAKA M, NABESHIMA K,
10 Proven Weight Loss Tips That Actually Work
Whether or not you believe in Santa Claus, most of us will still be (secretly) wishing for a miraculous weight-reduction for Christmas this year!
Packing on the pounds during the holidays is common. The festive season brings with it plenty of parties and potlucks that put your diet efforts on the backburner.
Sometimes, even with a rigorous adherence to a weight-loss plan, the results you seek take their own sweet time to show. This can be frustrating, and often, highly demotivating.
While expecting rapid results is unrealistic, it just so happens that people often do not pay attention to the little things that might aid their weight-loss efforts in major ways.
Following a few simple tips can make a world of difference.
Adopting some new habits can head off the weight-loss inhibiting activities you might be unknowingly engaging in, boost the calorie-burning process and keep the nutrients flowing into your body.
Here are 10 weight-loss tips that work.
1. Keep Yourself Hydrated
Water induces body thermogenesis – a process that revs up the metabolism and aids the calorie-burning process.
Drinking 500 ml (a little more than 2 cups) of warm water (22 to 37 degrees C) boosted the metabolic rate in study subjects by 30 percent, according to a 2003 study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism.
Furthermore, drinking water before meals suppresses hunger and significantly reduces food intake during meals.
Drinking 2 cups water/day 30 minutes before breakfast, lunch and dinner for 8 weeks significantly reduced the body mass index (BMI), body weight and body composition of 50 overweight girls, according to a 2013 study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research.
2. Never Miss Breakfast
Furthermore, when you go without food for too long, your body releases ghrelin (the hunger hormone) into your blood. This explains the hunger pangs you get by lunchtime when you skip breakfast. It also exacerbates cravings for fatty foods.
Study subjects who skipped breakfast, when showed pictures of high-fat foods like pizza, cake and chocolate, reported a significantly increased craving for these high-calorie foods, according to a 2010 study published in The Endocrine Society.
Even if you consider yourself to have strong will power, capable of warding off starvation-induced cravings, a healthy breakfast is still a critical part of a well-balanced diet.
Compromising your nutritional intake is bound to slow down, if not completely hamper, your weight loss.
3. Eat More Fruits
Getting yourself in the habit of snacking on fruits instead of cookies, candy and chocolate bars will give your weight-loss effort the boost it needs.
Even if you are not struggling with sweets, increasing your daily fruit consumption will significantly help you lose weight.
An increase in fruit intake significantly reduced BMI and induced weight loss in overweight and obese subjects, according to a 2010 study published in Nutrition.
Fruits like blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, avocados, grapefruits, bananas, watermelons and kiwis promote weight loss due to their nutritional profiles and their ability to keep you feeling full longer.
4. Watch Your Alcohol Intake
While drinking alcohol may not bloat you up, and giving it up alone may not transform your body, studies indicate that alcohol intake may hamper the weight-loss process in a number of ways.
Moderate alcohol consumption increases caloric intake and the appetite, according to a 2005 study published in Critical Reviews in Clinical Laboratory Sciences.
We often hear the term “beer belly”. It is self-explanatory – drinking beer results in abdominal fat accumulation. Not only is this counterproductive to weight-loss efforts, abdominal fat is a high-risk factor for heart disease. It is also the hardest kind of fat to get rid of.
Out of 148 subjects who regularly drank alcohol (especially beer), 50 percent were either obese or overweight, according to a 2009 study published in The International Journal of Nutrition and Wellness.
5. Turn off the TV
Furthermore, it might hamper your post-meal workout plan if you become too engrossed and decide to skip the day’s session, as often happens.
Therefore, mindful eating and avoiding watching TV during meals could reduce your calorie intake and protect your diet efforts.
6. Get on the Scale
Getting on the scale and keeping a check on your weight every day is likely to help aid your weight-loss efforts and enable you to reach your target weight sooner.
Weighing yourself every day is a personal feedback mechanism that can keep you informed about which behaviors (lifestyle and dietary) are helping you lose weight, making you gain weight or keeping your weight stagnant.
In fact, a 2013 study published in Obesity notes that daily self-weighing for self-monitoring can help with clinically significant weight loss.
The daily-weighing subjects also cut back on eating at restaurants, mid-meal snacking and watching TV, as well as increased their physical exercise, the study further notes.
Another study published in 2008 in Contemporary Clinical Trials found that regularly recording dietary patterns and self-reporting eating tendencies result in improved weight loss.
7. Get Enough Sleep
Loss of sleep suppresses the production of leptin (the hunger-controlling hormone), promotes the production of ghrelin and increases food intake, according to a 2010 study published in Best Practice and Research: Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.
In addition, leptin increases energy. Lack of sleep, and the consequent suppression of the hormone, directly contributes to the fatigue and inactivity that follows a poor night’s sleep.
This could drastically affect your weight loss by keeping you from physically exercising.
8. Beware of “Diet”and “Sugar-free” Foods
Diet foods and beverages, such as refined-grain breakfast cereals, gluten-free foods, agave nectar, salad dressings, low-fat yogurt and diet sodas, contain fructose and added sugar.
Added sugar and fructose are extremely harmful, as they flush the body with excess sugar that is ultimately stored as fat.
Many of you might be making the mistake of drinking a diet soda with your lunch. The artificial sweetener in diet sodas is not digested by the body the way normal sugar is.
Instead, it is channeled into the intestine where it changes the behavior of bacteria, triggering a glucose tolerance. This, too, raises the blood sugar to abnormal levels, which is then converted to body fat.
9. Beware of “Quick-Fix” Products
There is no shortcut to health and fitness.
In fact, if you scrutinize these products’ packaging, you will see that a lot of them state (in fine print, of course) that they do not guarantee results, and a healthy diet and exercise are still important to losing weight.
Realize that the perfectly shaped celebrities endorsing these products have a whole fitness and health team working with them to keep them fit, and they probably didn’t end up looking like they do by swallowing a miracle pill every day.
Instead of spending your hard-earned money on these products, spend it on whole, natural foods that will actually help you shed pounds.
10. Consult Your Doctor
Diabetes medicines like rosiglitazone, glyburide, glipizide and glimepiride may pose a significant risk of weight gain.
Rosiglitazone was positively associated with significant weight gain in Type 2 diabetes patients, according to a 2006 study published in The New England Journal of Medicine.
Others may induce weight gain by interfering with your pituitary gland, which regulates the production of hormones including ghrelin, and exacerbating hunger.
As a side effect, some prescription medications make you lethargic and inactive.
If you are on prescription drugs and think they might be inhibiting weight loss, ask your doctor to prescribe an alternate medication for your condition, or a lower dose of the same medicine, if possible.
Resources:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14671205/
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3809630/
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/08/100823142929.htm
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1038/oby.2008.409/abstract
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/06/100621091201.htm
http://www.jahonline.org/article/S1054-139X%2806%2900264-3/abstract
http://www.nutritionjrnl.com/article/S0899-9007%2809%2900343-8/abstract
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16047538
http://ispub.com/IJNW/10/1/11878
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3788086/
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2860431/
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17702667/
http://www.bprcem.com/article/S1521-690X%2810%2900072-2/abstract
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18929315/
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18564298/
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2892765/
http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa066224
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11903412?dopt=Abstract
Top 10 Superfoods to Reduce Belly Fat
Belly fat, also known as visceral fat that accumulates around the midsection, is a major concern for many. Not only does belly fat make your figure unattractive, it also increases your risk of high blood pressure, diabetes and fatty liver disease.
Many people try dieting to lose belly fat, but this is not the optimal solution. The ideal way to get rid of belly fat is to choose your foods wisely and do some physical exercise daily.
Knowing what to include in your diet is half the job, the other half is doing exercises daily that suit your body type. Certain foods actually help reduce stubborn belly fat and will get you well on your way to enjoying a slimmer physique.
Here are the top 10 superfoods to reduce belly fat.
1. Almonds
Almonds contain a good amount of healthy fats — polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. Both fats help prevent you from overeating. A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has proven that eating almonds suppresses hunger. They also help fight against heart disease.
High in magnesium, almonds are a key component for muscle building, and having more muscle will help you burn more belly fat.
In addition, the high fiber content in almonds will keep you feeling full for a longer time. Because almonds contain few calories, they will not contribute to belly fat. So, always keep roasted almonds handy and enjoy them as a snack or in salads or other dishes.
2. Watermelon
The American Dietetic Association declares watermelon as a perfect food to reduce belly fat. Watermelon contains 91 percent water and when you eat it at the beginning of a meal, it fills you up without adding a substantial amount of calories to your meal.
Plus, it keeps you feeling full longer and also helps combat water retention. This juicy fruit is also rich in vitamins B1, B6 and C, as well as potassium and magnesium. It is a great addition to a low-calorie and low-fat diet.
An interesting study done at the University of Kentucky revealed that drinking two glasses of watermelon juice every day for eight weeks reduces body weight (especially the fat around the belly) without altering muscle mass. Regular consumption of watermelon also lowers the risks associated with coronary artery plaque accumulation and heart disease.
3. Beans
Regular consumption of different types of beans helps reduce body fat, develop muscles and improve the digestion process. Beans also help you feel full for a longer time, thus keeping you from overeating.
This happens as beans are an excellent source of soluble fiber. This fiber especially targets belly fat, helping to break it down so the fat can be eliminated from the body. Plus, the protein in beans provides energy to your body. You can easily include beans in your daily meals by adding them to salads, soups or side dishes.
4. Celery
To get a flat tummy, fill your plate with green leafy vegetables like celery. Celery is extremely low in calories, full of fiber, and contains calcium and vitamin C that aid in weight loss.
You can drink half a glass of celery juice before eating your lunch or dinner to help cleanse your system. You can also add celery to salad or soup. An additional benefit of celery is that it contains apigenin, a natural compound that reduces the risk of ovarian cancer in women.
5. Cucumbers
Cucumbers are an extremely refreshing and low-calorie food. 100 grams of cucumber contains approximately 96 percent water and only about 45 calories. They are packed with minerals, dietary fibers and vitamins.
Eating a plate of cucumber salad daily is an effective and healthy way to cleanse your body of harmful toxins released by the digestive system and lose weight. As an added benefit, eating cucumbers daily can give you radiant, glowing skin because they are rich in vitamins B and C.
6. Tomatoes
One large tomato has just 33 calories. It contains a compound known as 9-oxo-ODA that helps reduce lipids in the blood, which in turn helps control belly fat. This compound also fights chronic diseases associated with obesity.
Plus, the powerful antioxidant lycopene in tomatoes offers plenty of additional health benefits like reducing wrinkles, fighting cancer and reducing cholesterol levels. Tomatoes are an excellent source of nutrients like iron and potassium and are rich in vitamins A and C. So, to enjoy a healthy body, include tomatoes (in both raw and cooked form) in your daily diet.
7. Avocado
Its rich fiber content also helps keep hunger at bay and keep you from overeating. Plus, avocado has anti-aging, antifungal and antibacterial properties that provide many beauty and health benefits.
8. Apples
These cherries reduce cholesterol levels in the body and can reduce body fat to a great extent. Tart cherries also have antioxidant properties that have anti-aging benefits, making you look younger and feel better.
10. Pineapple
A study done at the University of Maryland revealed that bromelain’s antibacterial properties also help combat the bacteria that causes diarrhea and is also very effective in healing bowel disorders. Relief from stomach conditions can result in less abdominal bloating and a slimmer waistline.
Plus, pineapple contains vitamins B-6 and C, manganese, thiamine, copper, and fiber that provide a number of health benefits.
With these superfoods, you can fight that belly fat and enjoy a slimmer waistline. However, these foods will only play a major role in attaining a better figure when coupled with regular exercise.
Resources:
http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/89/3/794.full
http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/supplement/bromelain
Home Remedies for Asthma in Children
Few things are scarier than watching your child wheeze and pant due to asthma, an inflammatory disease of the lungs that is very common in children.
Approximately 25 million Americans have asthma and about 1 in every 10 children in the United States has asthma, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (1).
The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology states that asthma is the most common chronic illness in childhood, accounting for 13.8 million missed school days each year. It also accounts for 14.2 million lost work days for adults (2).
In children suffering from asthma, the lungs and airways become easily inflamed when exposed to triggers like inhaling airborne pollen or catching a cold or another respiratory infection.
The underlying cause of asthma in children is not fully known. However, an overly sensitive immune system has a major role.
Some other factors that can lead to this condition are some types of airway infections at a very young age and exposure to environmental factors like cigarette smoke or other air pollutants. Also, a family history of asthma or obesity can increase the risk of developing asthma at an early age.
Common asthma symptoms in children are frequent coughing, a whistling or wheezing sound when exhaling, shortness of breath, chest congestion and chest pain (particularly in younger children).
Other symptoms may include trouble sleeping, bouts of coughing or wheezing that get worse with a respiratory infection, delayed recovery or bronchitis after a respiratory infection, and fatigue.
Symptoms vary from child to child and may get worse or better over time.
Seeing your child suffering from asthma can be very painful, as the symptoms can interfere with play, sports, school and sleep. All these elements can have a huge impact on your child’s growth, both physically and mentally.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for asthma. But with the right home treatment and lifestyle changes, it is possible to keep symptoms under control, improve your child’s quality of life and prevent damage to his growing lungs.
Here are the top 10 home remedies for asthma in children.
1. Control Asthma Triggers
As asthma in children is triggered by certain factors, it is important to be aware of the triggers and avoid them as much as possible. This is one of the most important steps in controlling asthma attacks.
Common asthma triggers in children are:
Colds or other respiratory infections.
Allergens, such as dust mites or pollen.
Pet dander.
Exercise.
Cold weather.
Mold and dampness.
Cockroach exposure.
Cigarette smoke and other irritants in the air.
Severe heartburn (gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD).
Triggers vary from child to child, so you need to work with your child’s doctor to identify their specific triggers. Once you are aware of them, it becomes easy to make an action plan regarding how you can help your child avoid them.
2. Ginger
A very well-known herb used for treating asthma in children is ginger. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce airway inflammation and inhibit airway contraction.
A 2008 study published in the Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology shows that ginger inhibits airway contraction and aids in treating respiratory illnesses like asthma (3).
According to a 2013 study presented at the American Thoracic Society’s International Conference, several compounds in ginger may help relax smooth muscle tissue in the airways, which is constricted during asthma attacks. However, further studies are still required (4).
Make your child drink 2 to 3 cups of ginger tea daily. To make the tea, add 1 inch of ginger (cut into small pieces) to a pot of boiling water. Simmer for 10 minutes, strain it, allow it to cool, then give it to your child.
Alternatively, mix equal amounts of ginger juice, pomegranate juice and honey. Give your child 1 tablespoon of this mixture 2 or 3 times a day.
You can even give you child ginger candies.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric is another effective herb for preventing asthma attacks in children.
It contains the active ingredient curcumin, a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that helps fight asthma symptoms.
A 2014 study published in the Journal of Clinical & Diagnostic Research reports that curcumin capsules help improve airway obstruction and are considered effective and safe as an add-on therapy for the treatment of bronchial asthma (5).
Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder into 1 cup of milk and boil it. Allow it to cool a bit, then give it to your child to drink twice daily.
You can opt to give curcumin supplements to your child, only after consulting a doctor.
4. Honey
Honey is another natural cure for asthma. The alcohol and ethereal oils in honey help reduce asthma symptoms.
Honey soothes the mucous membranes in the airways. Mucus accumulation in the bronchial tubes is one of the causes of asthma symptoms.
It also helps fight coughing and the subsequent wheezing associated with asthma
A 2014 study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found aerosolised honey to be effective in treating and managing asthma in rabbits. It could prove to be a promising treatment for asthma in humans. Future studies with a larger sample size are needed (6).
Mix 1 teaspoon of organic honey into a glass of warm water. Give it to your child to drink 2 or 3 times a day.
Also, mix ½ teaspoon of cinnamon powder with 1 teaspoon of organic honey. Give it to your child right before bedtime.
Caution: Do not give honey to children younger than age 1, due to the risk of infant botulism.
5. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is effective for treating asthma. In fact, vitamin D deficiency may be at fault for asthma.
A 2016 study published in the European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences found that the frequency of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency was higher in children with asthma, compared to the controls. Therefore, the study suggests that lower levels of vitamin D are associated with poor asthma control and increased asthma severity (7).
A 2017 study published in Cureus reports that vitamin D is of particular interest in asthma, due to its immunomodulatory effects (8).
Another study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine in 2017 found that vitamin D supplementation reduced the rate of asthma exacerbations requiring treatment with systemic corticosteroids overall (9).
Taking vitamin D supplements is the easiest way to help your child get this important vitamin. Consult your child’s doctor for the right dosage.
You can also make your child enjoy the sun for at least 10 minutes a day early in the morning, when the sunrays are not too harsh on the skin. This helps the body produce vitamin D.
Also, include in your child’s diet foods fortified with vitamin D, such as orange juice, milk, yogurt, and almond milk fortified with vitamin D.
6. Garlic
Garlic is also an effective cure for asthma attacks. Garlic can help treat asthma as well as reduce and cure symptoms associated with other respiratory ailments.
It can promote histamine breakdown and reduce the histamine released in the body. Histamine is known to promote inflammation in asthma sufferers.
Garlic also has vitamin C that helps neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that cause the contraction of smooth muscles in the airways in asthma sufferers.
A 2008 study published in the Iranian Journal of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology suggests that aged garlic extract has the potential to attenuate inflammatory features of allergic airway inflammation in murine model (10).
Just boil 2 cloves of garlic in ¼ cup of milk.
Allow it to cool down to room temperature.
Give it to your child to drink once daily.
7. Exercise
Encourage your child to be active, as it is important for his overall growth. Regular physical activity can condition the lungs to work more efficiently, which helps reduce asthma symptoms.
Before doing any exercise, make sure you child does a warm-up period.
Gentle biking, moderate-to-brisk walking, and sports like golf, swimming, gymnastics, tennis and other racquet sports are good options. These exercises involve short and intermittent periods of exertion.
Make your child exercise inside on very cold or very warm days. If your child exercises outside, make him wear a mask or scarf over the mouth.
While exercising, ask your child to breathe through his nose instead of his mouth.
Caution: If your child suffers from exercise-induced asthma, do not over burden him.
8. Yoga
Yoga is very effective when it comes to controlling asthma, as the breathing technique is important. The right breathing technique can help the lungs function properly. There are several yoga poses that can help cure breathing difficulty caused by asthma.
A 2009 study published in the International Journal of Yoga reports that breathing exercises (pranayama), mainly expiratory exercises, help improve lung functioning and should be a regular part of asthma treatment (11).
Another study published in the Cochrane Library in 2016 suggests that yoga may have a beneficial effect on symptoms and quality of life in people with asthma, but the effects on lung functioning and medication use are uncertain (12).
While there are different yoga poses for children suffering from asthma, there is one pose that children love to do. It is the Butterfly Pose (Baddha Konasana), which stimulates the heart and improves circulation in the entire body, including the lungs.
Do this yoga pose daily with your child to encourage them and soon you will notice the change in your child’s health.
To do the Butterfly Pose:
Sit up straight with your legs spread straight out.
Bend your knees and bring your feet inward.
Place the soles of your feet together, about 6 inches away from your pelvis.
Hold your feet tightly with your hands.
Inhale deeply, pressing the thighs and knees down toward the floor.
Taking normal breaths, start flapping both legs up and down.
Start slowly and gradually increase the speed, continuing for 5 to 10 minutes.
Slow down and then stop.
Take a few long, deep breaths and slowly straighten your legs back out in front of you.
9. Air Quality
To reduce asthma attacks, you must pay attention to the air quality that your child is breathing. Extremely hot, humid weather and poor air quality can trigger symptoms in children. Also, avoid exposing your child to highly polluted areas, as it can trigger an asthma attack.
Use an air conditioner in your child’s bedroom to lower indoor humidity and reduce airborne pollen from trees, grasses and weeds that finds its way indoors.
Keep the windows and doors closed during pollen season.
Consider installing a small-particle filter in your ventilation system.
If you live in a damp climate, consider using a dehumidifier.
If possible, move to a location where your child can enjoy fresh, dry air.
Avoid exposing your child to varying temperatures within a short time.
10. Dietary Changes
A good diet is important for everyone, including children suffering from asthma. A diet high in vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, flavonoids, magnesium, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids is good for asthma patients.
Include plenty of fresh and organic fruits and vegetables in your child’s diet.
Give him more foods with omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, tuna, flaxseed and more.
Include herbs and spices like sage, oregano, ginger and turmeric in your cooking.
Avoid processed and packaged foods with artificial additives and preservatives.
Avoid milk and dairy products if your child is allergic to milk proteins or is lactose intolerance.
Avoid serving heavy and fatty meals, as they increase airway inflammation and inhibit relief provided by common asthma medications.
Additional Tips
Massage the chest with warm sesame oil to help loosen the phlegm deposited in the chest.
Obesity is a major risk factor for developing asthma so avoid a diet high in calories that can lead to weight gain.
As food allergies – the most common being peanuts, shellfish, eggs and milk – can trigger asthma attacks, you need to keep an eye on what your child is eating, especially when eating out.
Don’t allow smoking around your child. Exposure to tobacco smoke is a common trigger of asthma attacks.
If your child is allergic to dander, it’s best to avoid pets with fur or feathers.
If you have a pet at home, regularly bathing or grooming your pet also may reduce the amount of dander in the surroundings.
Keep others informed about your child’s problem to help manage asthma.
Resources:
Vital Signs. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/VitalSigns/Asthma/index.html. Published May 03, 2011.
Asthma Facts. ACAAI Public Website. https://acaai.org/news/facts-statistics/asthma. Published June 13, 2018.
Ginger attenuates acetylcholine-induced contraction and Ca2+ signalling in murine airway smooth muscle cells. Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18432287. Published May 2008.
Ginger compounds may be effective in treating asthma symptoms, study suggests. ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130519145647.htm. Published May 19, 2013.
Evaluation of Efficacy of Curcumin as an Add-on therapy in Patients of Bronchial Asthma. Journal of Clinical & Diagnostic Research. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4190737. Published August 2014.
Inhalation of honey reduces airway inflammation and histopathological changes in a rabbit model of ovalbumin-induced chronic asthma. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4048365. Published 2014.
Effects of vitamin D levels on asthma control and severity in pre-school children. European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26813450.
A Review on the Role of Vitamin D in Asthma. Cureus. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5491340. Published May 29, 2017.
Vitamin D supplementation to prevent asthma exacerbations: a systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data. The Lancet Respiratory Medicine. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanres/article/PIIS2213-2600(17)30306-5/fulltext.
Purified aged garlic extract modulates allergic airway inflammation in BALB/c mice. Iranian Journal of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18780948. Published September 2008.
The effect of various breathing exercises (pranayama) in patients with bronchial asthma of mild to moderate severity. International Journal of Yoga. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3017963. Published 2009.
Yoga may have health benefits for people with asthma. ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/04/160426215441.htm. Published April 26, 2016.
Home Remedies for Ulcers
An ulcer is a kind of erosion (open sore) on the surface of an organ or tissue. Ulcers most commonly occur in the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. Such types of ulcers are known as peptic ulcers.
A peptic ulcer in the stomach is called a gastric ulcer. A duodenal ulcer is a type of peptic ulcer that develops in the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). An esophageal ulcer develops in the lower part of the esophagus.
An estimated 4 million Americans every year suffer from a peptic ulcer, and it is the most common form of stomach disease (1).
Most ulcers are actually caused by bacterial infections (primarily Helicobacter pylori) and regular use of medications that irritate the sensitive lining of the stomach. Also, drinking too much alcohol, radiation therapy, burns and physical injuries can cause ulcers.
Peptic ulcers can be very painful and progressively worsen over time. The pain is caused by stomach acid interacting with the affected area, which can be felt anywhere between the navel and breastbone.
Other symptoms include unexplained weight loss, changes in appetite, dark blood in stools, nausea and vomiting red or black blood.
People of any age can get stomach ulcers and women are affected as frequently as men. It must be treated immediately. If left untreated, it can result in bleeding or even a hole in the stomach or bowel.
Conventional ulcer treatment typically relies on medications that can cause negative side effects like headaches and diarrhea. However in some cases you just cannot avoid the conventional medications. Make sure to discuss with your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
You can try some simple but effective home remedies also to help relieve the pain and heal the ulcer.
Here are the top 10 home remedies for ulcers.
1. Cabbage
Cabbage is a great remedy for ulcers in the stomach.
Being a lactic acid food, cabbage helps produce an amino acid that stimulates blood flow to the stomach lining. This aids in the healing process.
Plus, cabbage contains a good amount of vitamin C, which is beneficial for fighting an H. pylori infection.
A 1949 study published in the Western Journal of Medicine found rapid healing of peptic ulcers was observed radiologically and gastroscopically in 13 patients treated with fresh cabbage juice. This indicates that the anti-peptic ulcer dietary factor may play an important role in the genesis of peptic ulcers (3).
A 2014 study published in Medicinal Chemistry Research reports that the aqueous cabbage plant extract increased the pH value of gastric juice, and hence it could be used for healing an acute gastric ulcer (4).
Cut half of a head of cabbage into chunks and throw it into a blender with a bit of water.
Blend until it makes a sort of juice.
Drink the fresh juice before each meal.
Repeat daily for a few weeks.
Note: Be sure to use fresh juice each time.
2. Bananas
Bananas can help heal a stomach ulcer by promoting cellular proliferation in the stomach. There are also certain antibacterial compounds in bananas that inhibit the growth of ulcer-causing H. pylori. Also, bananas help reduce inflammation and strengthen the stomach lining.
A 1986 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology suggests that banana powder treatment not only strengthens mucosal resistance against ulcerogens but also promotes healing by inducing cellular proliferation (5).
A 2001 study published in the Indian Journal of Experimental Biology suggests that the antioxidant activity of bananas may be involved in its ulcer-protective activity (6).
In a 2013 study published in Pharmacognosy Research, researchers suggest the anti-ulcer effect of bananas may be due to its antisecretory and cytoprotective activity. The healing of the ulcer base might be connected to the basic fibroblast growth factors responsible for epithelial regeneration in the case of acid-induced ulcers (7).
To treat a stomach ulcer, both ripe and unripe bananas are very effective.
Simply eat at least 3 ripe bananas a day.
Alternatively, peel 2 or 3 bananas and cut them into thin slices. Put the slices in the sun until they become dry. Grind the dried banana pieces into a fine powder. Mix together 2 tablespoons of this powder and 1 tablespoon of honey. Take this mixture 3 times a day for 1 week.
3. Garlic
Another good remedy for ulcers is garlic.
Garlic is rich in sulfur compounds that are responsible for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. All these properties help keep the level of the ulcer-causing bacteria H. pylori in check.
A 2002 study published in Biotechnology Progress highlights the optimization of garlic extraction for the inhibition of in vitro growth of H. pylori to help fight or prevent peptic ulcers, as well as other pathologies associated with H. pylori infections, such us gastric cancer (8).
A 2016 study published in the Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine reports that raw garlic has antibacterial effects against H. pylori residing in the stomach and may be prescribed along with routine drugs for the treatment of a gastric H. pylori infection (9).
Eat 2 to 3 crushed garlic cloves followed by a glass of water daily on an empty stomach.
You can opt to take garlic supplements, but do so only after consulting your doctor.
4. Fenugreek
Fenugreek is another good remedy that you must definitely try if you’re suffering from an ulcer.
Being rich in a mucilaginous compound, fenugreek protects the stomach’s lining by coating it like mucus, thereby helping the healing process.
A 2002 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology reports that the aqueous extract and a gel fraction isolated from fenugreek seeds showed significant ulcer-protective effects. The cytoprotective effect of the seeds seemed to be not only due to the antisecretory action but also to the effects on mucosal glycoprotein (10).
Boil 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in 2 cups of water. Strain it, add a little honey and drink it. Do it twice daily.
Another option is to mix 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seed powder in milk and drink it twice daily.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar, being a probiotic liquid, is naturally rich in live bacteria and yeast that provide many benefits to your digestive health.
It helps restore the pH of your stomach, which in turn helps treat the ulcer and relieve the pain.
A 2016 study published in Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine highlights the possible use of probiotics in H. pylori eradication, one of the main causes of ulcers (11).
Mix 2 teaspoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar into a glass of warm water.
Add some honey and mix it well.
Drink it immediately.
Do this twice daily.
6. Cayenne Pepper
Capsaicin in cayenne pepper can ease discomfort and treat a stomach ulcer naturally.
Capsaicin soothes the mucosal lining of the stomach and increases the release of alkali, which help ease the discomforts and aid in the treatment of ulcers.
A 1997 study published in FEMS Microbiology Letters found that capsaicin supplementation or consumption inhibited the growth of H. pylori, the most common cause of stomach ulcers (12).
According to a 2006 review published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, the compound capsaicin present in cayenne pepper inhibits the secretion of stomach acids, boosts the production of alkali, and stimulates mucus secretions and gastric mucosal blood flow, thereby preventing and healing ulcers (13).
Mix ⅛ teaspoon of cayenne pepper into a glass of warm water. Drink it twice a day for 3 days. Gradually increase the amount of cayenne pepper up to ¼ teaspoon for the rest of the week.
Alternatively, take cayenne capsules that you can buy at health food stores. Consult your doctor for the right dosage.
7. Licorice Root
The roots of the licorice plant are used to treat many kinds of ailments, including peptic ulcers.
Its main constituent, glycyrrhizin, turns into glycyrrhetinic acid when metabolized by the body. This acid, which is absorbed into the blood, is very effective against H. pylori infections, especially strains that cause peptic ulcers.
This herb also enhances the secretion of stomach mucus and prevents the formation of ulcers.
A 2013 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology reports that deglycyrrhizinated licorice might help ulcers heal by inhibiting the growth of H. pylori (14).
Add 1 teaspoon of licorice powder to 1 cup of water. Bring it to a boil, then let it simmer for 5 minutes. Strain it, allow the tea to cool a bit and add a little honey. Drink the tea 2 or 3 times daily.
Alternatively, you can chew and then swallow deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) tablets. Consult your doctor for the correct dosage.
Note: Licorice herb may not be suitable for people with high blood pressure because of its glycyrrhizin content.
8. Honey
Raw honey has potent healing properties that help a lot in the treatment of stomach ulcers. An enzyme called glucose oxidase in honey produces hydrogen peroxide, which in turn kills harmful bacteria that cause ulcers.
Honey also soothes and reduces the inflammation of the stomach lining.
A 2006 in vitro study published in the Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal found honey to be effective against H. pylori and inhibit the growth of the bacteria (15).
Again, a 2013 study published in the Iran Journal of Basic Medical Sciences reports that oral administration of honey can treat and protect against gastrointestinal infections, such as gastritis, duodenitis and gastric ulceration caused by bacteria (16).
Another study published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity in 2016 highlights the gastroprotective effects of manuka honey against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats (17).
Consume 2 tablespoons of raw honey daily, early in the morning on an empty stomach.
Another option is to add 1 tablespoon of honey and a pinch of cinnamon to a glass of warm water. Mix well. Drink it twice daily.
9. Low-Processed, Nutrient-Dense Diet
The diet you follow plays a huge role in how your ulcer is healing. While there are certain foods that can help soothe the inflammation, other foods can aggravate the symptoms.
You must try to avoid a diet that includes lots of packaged and processed foods, which promote inflammation and hinder immune functions.
Also, avoid foods that can aggravate the symptoms like black pepper, chili powder, caffeine, decaffeinated coffee or tea, alcohol, cocoa, chocolate, cola beverages, citrus fruits, fatty and fried foods, tomato products and peppermint.
Instead, eat foods rich in flavonoids, as such foods prevent inflammation and soothe the intestinal lining. Foods and drinks rich in flavonoids include soybeans, legumes, red grapes, kale, broccoli, apples, berries and herbal teas, especially green tea.
Also, probiotic foods that are rich in healthy bacteria are good for your gut health, including when you have an ulcer. Some common probiotic foods are yogurt, buttermilk, miso, kimchi and kefir.
10. Manage Stress
To deal with ulcers, it is important to manage your stress level.
Stress is one of the risk factors for ulcers and also can aggravate the symptoms and delay the healing process. Stress weakens the immune system and worsens digestion, making it more likely that you’ll catch the bacteria or microbes that cause ulcers.
A 2015 study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology reports that psychological stress increased the incidence of peptic ulcers, in part by influencing health risk behaviors. Stress had similar effects on ulcers associated with H. pylori infection and those unrelated to either H. pylori or use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (18).
A 2016 study published in BMC Gastroenterology reports that the highest level of perceived everyday life stress raised the risk of either receiving triple treatment or being diagnosed with a peptic ulcer during the following 33 months more than twice that of the lowest level of perceived stress (19).
To help better manage stress, try exercising, meditating or deep breathing, getting good sleep and using relaxing essential oils for anxiety.
Additional Tips
Do not skip meals.
Instead of two or three large meals, have five small meals a day.
Do not eat spicy foods, which can make the symptoms worse.
If your ulcer causes nausea and vomiting, prevent dehydration by drinking plenty of water.
Maintain a healthy weight and watch out for nutritional deficiencies.
Quit excessive alcohol use and stop smoking, which irritates the gut lining.
Resources:
Peptic ulcer – Harvard Health. Harvard Health Blog. https://www.health.harvard.edu/digestive-health/peptic-ulcer-overview.
Systematic review: the global incidence and prevalence of peptic ulcer disease. Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19220208. Published May 01, 2009.
Rapid Healing of Peptic Ulcers in Patients Receiving Fresh Cabbage Juice. Western Journal of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1643665. Published January 1949.
Effect of garlic and cabbage on healing of gastric ulcer in experimental rats. SpringerLink. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00044-014-1092-z. Published June 27, 2014.
Anti-ulcerogenic effect of banana powder (Musa sapientum var. paradisiaca) and its effect on mucosal resistance. Egyptian Journal of Medical Human Genetics. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0378874186900413. Published November 18, 2002.
Role of gastric antioxidant and anti-Helicobactor pylori activities in anti ulcerogenic activity of plantain banana (Musa sapientum var. paradisiaca). NOPR. http://nopr.niscair.res.in/handle/123456789/23847. Published July 01, 2001.
Anti-ulcer and ulcer healing potentials of Musa sapientum peel extract in the laboratory rodents. Pharmacognosy Research. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3719258. Published 2013.
Optimization of Allium sativum solvent extraction for the inhibition of in vitro growth of Helicobacter pylori. Biotechnology Progress. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12467456.
Assessment of antibacterial effect of garlic in patients infected with Helicobacter pylori using urease breath test. Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5052411. Published 2016.
Gastroprotective effect of fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum graecum) on experimental gastric ulcer in rats. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874102001174. Published May 16, 2002.
Potential role of probiotics in the management of gastric ulcer. Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4906699. Published July 2016.
Capsaicin as an inhibitor of the growth of the gastric pathogen Helicobacter pylori | FEMS Microbiology Letters | Oxford Academic. OUP Academic. https://academic.oup.com/femsle/article-abstract/146/2/223/489538. Published January 01, 1997.
Capsaicin and gastric ulcers. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16621751.
In vitro anti-Helicobacter pylori activity of a flavonoid rich extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra and its probable mechanisms of action. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23220194. Published January 30, 2013.
The Antibacteri
Home Remedies for Xerosis
Xerosis is the medical term used to describe very dry skin, which affects a lot of people, especially during the dry and cold winter months. It happens when your skin lacks moisture in its outer layer.
According to the American Skin Association, xerosis occurs due to the combination of low humidity levels and cold temperatures sucking the moisture out of your skin during the winter months. Additionally, the use of heaters and air ventilation during the winter can further dehydrate your skin (1).
Some of the other causes of xerosis include use of harsh soaps, overly long showers or baths, extended sun exposure, poor diet, dehydration and swimming frequently in chlorinated pools. It can also be a side effect of aging, diabetes and some medications.
While xerosis is a temporary problem, it may cause a lot of discomfort. Symptoms of xerosis include red, irritated or inflamed skin that’s scaly, rough and itchy or painful.
If left untreated, it can lead to more serious problems like bleeding, cracked and scaly skin. Also, it may lead to atopic dermatitis (eczema) or infections.
In most cases, xerosis responds well to lifestyle measures and home remedies. Home treatment for xerosis is aimed at relieving your symptoms and keeping the skin moisturized.
Note: See your doctor immediately if your skin is oozing, large areas of your skin are peeling and there are ring-shaped rashes.
Here are the top 10 home remedies for xerosis.
1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a popular and effective remedy for xerosis. It contains ample amounts of fatty acids that can compensate for any loss of moisture from the skin.
It also has vitamin E that helps retain moisture in your skin.
A study published in Dermatitis in 2004 found coconut oil as effective and safe as mineral oil when used as a moisturizer (2).
Another study published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology in 2016 reports that long-chain saturated fatty acids found naturally in coconut oil aid in skin barrier functions, eicosanoid production, membrane fluidity and cell signaling (3).
Again, in a recent 2018 study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, experts highlight the anti-inflammatory and skin-protective benefits of virgin coconut oil and give the green light for the use of this oil in skin care formulations (4).
Warm up some extra-virgin coconut oil and apply it on your skin before bathing. Massage it gently so that the oil penetrates into the skin. Wait 10 minutes, then take a bath or shower. Repeat this remedy once daily.
When suffering from extremely dry skin, you can apply extra-virgin coconut on your somewhat damp skin after taking a bath.
2. Honey
Honey serves as a natural moisturizer and is loaded with antioxidant, antimicrobial and humectant properties. All these properties make honey a good remedy to fight skin dryness.
It helps lock in moisture to alleviate dryness and make your skin extra soft.
In a 2012 review published in AYU, researchers found honey to be beneficial for many types of skin diseases, including skin dryness (5).
Before taking a bath or shower, rub some raw honey all over your body and massage gently using circular motions. Wait 10 minutes, then take a bath or shower. Do it once daily.
Alternatively, mix equal amounts of honey and glycerin. Apply it on your body, wait 10 minutes and then rinse it off with lukewarm water. Do it once or twice daily.
Another option is to mix equal amounts of honey, beeswax and olive oil. Melt the beeswax, then add the honey and olive oil. Store in a container in a cool place. Apply this blend on your body and massage for 5 minutes, then just leave it on for the rest of the day. Repeat this once every day.
3. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is another natural ingredient that can help treat dry skin. It is a natural cleansing and exfoliating agent that helps combat dryness by removing dead skin cells.
Also, the protein in it helps prevent water loss and keeps the skin moisturized. It also helps soothe itchy and irritated skin.
A 2009 study published in the Journal of American Academy of Dermatology reports that colloidal oatmeal contains a number of components that bind to the skin to provide a protective barrier against skin dryness (6).
A 2014 study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology reports that the active colloidal oatmeal moisturizer helps a lot in reducing skin dryness (7).
Add 1 cup of ground oatmeal and a few drops of lavender oil to your bathwater and stir thoroughly.
Soak in this soothing water for at least 15 minutes.
When you’re done with the bath, rinse your body well with fresh water.
Gently pat dry your skin and apply a light moisturizer.
Enjoy this hydrating bath once or twice a week.
4. Aloe Vera
To fight skin dryness, aloe vera is just the right ingredient.
Being a great natural moisturizer, it keeps the skin well-hydrated and enhances its elasticity. It also helps restore the pH balance of the skin. Plus, it does not give your skin a greasy look.
A 2003 study published in the American Journal of Infection Control reports that aloe vera gel may help provide relief from dry skin (8).
A 2006 study published in Skin Research and Technology reports that freeze-dried aloe vera extract is effective at improving skin hydration, possibly through a humectant mechanism. Consequently, it may be used in cosmetic products and also as a complement in the treatment of dry skin (9).
Extract the gel from an aloe vera leaf.
Apply it all over your body.
Massage for a few minutes to help the gel penetrate deep into the skin.
Wait 30 minutes, then rinse your body with lukewarm water.
Do this once or twice daily.
5. Avocado
To nourish dry skin, avocado is also very beneficial. It helps soften and hydrate dry skin. The fatty acids in it easily penetrate deep into the skin to make up for any loss of moisture.
The high vitamin A and E content in it help in skin maintenance and repair to restore smooth and silky skin.
A 2018 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences reports that avocado oil is an excellent source of enrichment for dry, damaged or chapped skin (10).
Mash 2 to 3 ripe avocados with a fork until you have a smooth texture.
Mix in a little honey to make a mask.
Apply the mixture on your skin and leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes.
Rinse it off with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry.
Repeat 2 or 3 times a week.
At the same time, do not forget to include avocados in your diet.
6. Milk Cream
Milk cream is another great natural ingredient that helps fight skin dryness. It quickly gets absorbed into the skin pores and keeps it moisturized for longer periods of time.
A 2006 study published in Skin Research and Technology reports that freeze-dried aloe vera extract is effective at improving skin hydration, possibly through a humectant mechanism. Consequently, it may be used in cosmetic products and also as a complement in the treatment of dry skin (9).
Extract the gel from an aloe vera leaf.
Apply it all over your body.
Massage for a few minutes to help the gel penetrate deep into the skin.
Wait 30 minutes, then rinse your body with lukewarm water.
Do this once or twice daily.
5. Avocado
To nourish dry skin, avocado is also very beneficial. It helps soften and hydrate dry skin. The fatty acids in it easily penetrate deep into the skin to make up for any loss of moisture.
The high vitamin A and E content in it help in skin maintenance and repair to restore smooth and silky skin.
A 2018 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences reports that avocado oil is an excellent source of enrichment for dry, damaged or chapped skin (10).
Mash 2 to 3 ripe avocados with a fork until you have a smooth texture.
Mix in a little honey to make a mask.
Apply the mixture on your skin and leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes.
Rinse it off with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry.
Repeat 2 or 3 times a week.
At the same time, do not forget to include avocados in your diet.
6. Milk Cream
Milk cream is another great natural ingredient that helps fight skin dryness. It quickly gets absorbed into the skin pores and keeps it moisturized for longer periods of time.
Home Remedies for TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome)
TMJ (temporomandibular joint syndrome) means there is inflammation and tightness of the temporomandibular joint that connects your mandible (lower jaw) to your skull. The problem can take a toll of your health, as the affected joints allow your jaw to open and close, enabling you to speak and eat.
TMJ is very common. It affects about 10 million Americans. Also, the problem is more common in women than men, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (1).
Trauma to the jaw or joint may play a role in the development of TMJ. Several other health conditions also may contribute to its development. These include arthritis, erosion of the joint, habitual grinding or clenching of the teeth, and structural jaw problems present at birth.
At the same time, certain factors can make you more prone to this kind of problem. Such risk factors include the use of orthodontic braces, poor posture that strains the muscles of the neck and face, prolonged stress, poor diet and lack of sleep.
Common symptoms of TMJ are pain in the face or neck, stiffness in the muscles of the jaw, popping or clicking sounds, and limited movement in the jaw area. Symptoms may show up on just one side of the face or both.
In most cases, the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ is temporary and can be relieved with self-managed care or home remedies. In fact, there are several home remedies for TMJ that are highly effective for fast relief from the symptoms.
Here are the top 10 home remedies for TMJ.
1. Give Your Jaw Some Rest
To deal with TMJ symptoms and prevent them from getting worse, the first thing you need to do is give your jaw some rest.
You can rest your jaw and ease the pain by:
Not eating foods that require a lot of chewing or are quite tough or crunchy. Instead, follow a soft diet and include soups, pastas and other easy-to-eat foods.
Avoiding taking big bites. Cut your food into smaller portions, so you don’t have to overwork your jaw.
Not chewing gum.
Not biting your fingernails or chewing on a pencil.
Sleeping on your back or side.
If you spend a lot of time working at a desk, maintain the correct posture and do no talk on your mobile phone for long hours.
2. Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress to the side of your face will help alleviate pain you may be experiencing due to TMJ. The cold temperature has a numbing effect on the nerves, thus dulling pain messages that go to your brain.
Put ice into a plastic bag.
Wrap it in a thin cloth.
Apply the ice pack to the jaw area for 10 minutes.
Take a break for 10 minutes before reapplying the ice pack.
Caution: Do not apply ice directly on your skin, as it can pose a risk of frostbite.
3. Warm Compress
Applying warm compresses over the jaw, temples and neck region will allow the muscles to relax and ease the symptoms.
In fact, it reduces jaw stiffness and pain by increasing blood supply to the region. It also provides a soothing distraction from the pain.
However, this simple remedy should be done as a preventive measure for a week or so, rather than doing it when the pain is at its peak.
Soak a washcloth in hot water and wring out the excess water.
Hold the moist washcloth around the jaw area for 5 to 15 minutes.
Repeat a few times a day for a few days.
Note: Before applying a warm compress, check the temperature on your hand to avoid burning your jaw area.
4. Massage
Massaging the areas around the jaw is another effective way to relieve muscle tightness and enhance blood flow to the area.
A 2007 study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies found that Western massage and strain-counterstrain techniques can improve jaw range of motion, and alleviate the intensity and reduce the frequency of TMJ-related pain without surgical or pharmacological intervention (2).
Another study published in the International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork in 2011 reports that massage provides positive results, but more extensive studies are needed to understand the effects of massage on temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) (3).
Apply some warm coconut or olive oil on your jawline.
Massage the area using your index and middle fingers, making circular motions for 5 minutes.
Take a break and try to open and close your mouth 4 or 5 times.
Repeat this process a few times.
5. Jaw Exercises
To deal with TMJ symptoms, you must exercise your jaw muscles.
Certain exercises help strengthen the jaw muscles, stretch the jaw, relax the jaw, increase jaw mobility, reduce jaw clicking and promote jaw healing. All these help reduce the pain caused by tight muscles.
A 2010 study published in the Journal of Dental Research reports that performing TMJ exercises increases mouth-opening range more than using a mouth guard in people with TMJ disc displacement (4).
Open your mouth as wide as you can without feeling pain, then move your jaw to the right and hold for 10 seconds. Do the same with the left side. Repeat the cycle 5 times.
Press the tip of your tongue against the roof of your mouth, then slowly open your mouth as wide as you can without it becoming painful. Do this simple exercise as many times as you can. If you feel pain, stop performing the exercise.
6. Acupuncture
Acupuncture can also be used to treat TMJ and provide comfort from the painful symptoms. The acupuncture points lie along meridians in your body, where a specialist trained in acupuncture inserts hair-thin needles to treat pain.
A study published in the Journal of Dentistry in 2007 reports that acupuncture had a positive influence on the signs and symptoms of TMJ myofascial pain. In addition, this study provides evidence that the Park Sham Device was a credible acupuncture control method for trials involving facial acupoint (5).
A 2017 study published in Medicine (Baltimore) indicates that conventional acupuncture therapy is effective in reducing the degree of pain in patients with TMD, especially those with myofascial pain symptoms (6).
When it comes to acupuncture, always see a specialist trained in acupuncture or acupressure, who are experts in treating TMJ.
7. Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is an increasingly popular natural treatment for treating jaw pain associated with TMJ.
In chiropractic care, different techniques like palpation, pressure, massage, exercise programs and lifestyle counseling are used together to help reduce pain, swelling and inflammation. The techniques help a lot in improving the range of motion by loosening the tight muscles, aiding circulation and reducing pain.
A 2003 study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that TMD symptoms of participants improved following a course of treatment using chiropractic care (7).
Another study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine in 2015 reports that chiropractic care showed a reduction of temporomandibular dysfunction symptoms (8).
For the treatment of TMJ, always make sure that you choose a qualified and reputable chiropractic center.
8. Capsaicin Cream
Capsaicin has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce jaw pain due to TMJ.
When applied topically, capsaicin cream produces a warming sensation that helps reduce the pain.
Over-the-counter pain-relieving topical capsaicin creams are available in concentrations ranging from .025 percent to .075 percent capsaicin. All you need to do is apply the cream to the jaw area 2 or 3 times a day.
However, be sure not to apply capsaicin cream on broken or irritated skin.
9. Magnesium
As TMJ may be caused by muscle tension and spasms in the jaw, foods high in magnesium can be beneficial in controlling the symptoms.
Magnesium helps relax muscle tension and helps maintain normal muscle and nerve functioning. In fact, a deficiency of this mineral is linked to spasms, cramps, tension and other muscle problems.
To get more magnesium in your body, eat foods like spinach, chard, pumpkin seeds, yogurt, kefir, almonds, black beans, avocados, figs, dark chocolate and bananas.
You can opt to take a magnesium supplement, but only after consulting your doctor.
Along with magnesium, be sure to eat calcium-rich foods. Calcium works with magnesium to aid in muscle relaxation.
10. Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Inflammation around the joints in the jaw can worsen the pain and other TMJ symptoms. To reduce inflammation, following an anti-inflammatory diet can help a lot.
For instance, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids help fight inflammation naturally and can help improve circulation.
To get omega-3 fatty acids, eat more wild-caught fish, such as salmon, sardines and mackerel, as well as olive oil, walnuts, flaxseeds and so on.
Anti-inflammatory herbs and teas like green tea, turmeric, raw garlic and ginger can also benefit a lot.
No matter what, you need to choose easy-to-chew cooked foods. Such foods are easy to eat with minimal jaw movement, which in turn will help reduce swelling and joint deterioration.
At the same time, you must avoid foods that can worsen inflammation, such as added sugars, refined grain products, alcohol and too much caffeine.
Additional Tips
Eat small meals to help stabilize your blood sugar and prevent fluctuations that can trigger increased grinding of the teeth.
Avoid chewing gum at any cost.
If nightly teeth grinding or clenching is contributing to your TMJ, consult your dentist about wearing a mouth guard.
If you see someone yawning, resist the temptation to join in.
Resources:
TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint and Muscle Disorders). National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tmj/more-info.
Massage therapy decreases frequency and intensity of symptoms related to temporomandibular joint syndrome in one case study. Egyptian Journal of Medical Human Genetics. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1360859207000381. Published May 23, 2007.
Changes in Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Symptoms Following Massage Therapy: A Case Report. International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3242647. Published 2011.
Randomized Clinical Trial of Treatment for TMJ Disc Displacement. Philosophy of the Social Sciences. http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0022034510378424.
The efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of temporomandibular joint myofascial pain: a randomised controlled trial. Journal of Dentistry. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17095133. Published March 2007.
Acupuncture therapy in the management of the clinical outcomes for temporomandibular disorders. Medicine (Baltimore). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5340435. Published March 2017.
Chiropractic treatment of temporomandibular disorders using the activator adjusting instrument: a prospective case series. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12975628. Published September 2003.
Chiropractic Treatment of Temporomandibular Dysfunction: A Retrospective Case Series. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4688559. Published December 2015.
Home Remedies for a Dry Cough
Coughing is a common reflex action that occurs when mucus drains down into your air passages. It helps clear your airways of irritants and mucus.
According to a 2015 study published in Lung India, coughing can be a warning sign of several respiratory and non-respiratory diseases and is one of the most common reasons for adults seeking medical treatment (1).
Basically, there are two types of coughs: productive and nonproductive. While a productive cough produces phlegm or mucus, clearing it from the lungs, a nonproductive cough (dry cough) doesn’t produce phlegm or mucus.
A dry cough poses a great diagnostic and management challenges, due to myriad etiologies and its many possible causes.
Some common causes of dry cough are asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), postnasal drip and some kind of viral infection.
Other less common causes of a dry cough are environmental irritants like smoke, pollution, dust, mold and pollen that can irritate your airways; living in a dry climate; use of ACE inhibitors; whooping cough; collapsed lung; and even lung cancer in some cases.
Regardless of the cause, an ongoing dry cough can have a huge impact on your day-to-day life. It can make it especially difficult to enjoy sound sleep at night.
To treat a dry cough, there are many over-the-counter and prescription drugs available, but they come with a lot of side effects. You can get rid of your persistent and dry cough with some effective cough remedies.
Caution: Always seek emergency medical help if you are having trouble breathing or are coughing up blood.
Here are the top 10 home remedies for a dry cough.
1. Honey
Honey is a very effective natural cure for a dry cough.
According to a 2007 study published in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, parents rated honey as more effective for a cough and sleep difficulty associated with childhood upper respiratory tract infections than over-the-counter medicines that contain dextromethorphan (DM), a cough suppressant (2).
Honey triggers the salivary glands to produce more saliva, which in turn lubricates your airways, easing your cough. It also has antioxidant properties that fight inflammation and boost immunity.
Mix equal amounts of raw honey, ginger juice and pomegranate juice. Consume 1 tablespoon of this mixture 2 or 3 times a day.
Alternatively, add 1 tablespoon of honey to a cup of hot water or herbal tea and drink it twice daily.
Caution: Do not give honey to children younger than age 1 because of an increased risk of botulism.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Another simple, yet effective home remedy for an irritating dry cough is raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar. This remedy is very effective if your dry cough is caused by heartburn or acid reflux.
Tonic: Mix 2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon of raw honey into a cup of warm water. Drink this tonic twice daily.
Steam inhalation: Mix together ½ cup each of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and water. Bring the mixture to a boil and remove it from the stove. Put a towel over your head and inhale the steam for 3 to 5 minutes through your nose with your mouth and eyes closed. Repeat a few times a day.
Gargle: Mix 3 teaspoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper into a cup of warm water and stir well. Use the mixture to gargle 2 or 3 times a day to get relief from a dry, continuous cough.
3. Steam Inhalation
Inhaling steam helps reduce inflammation in your respiratory tract and this helps in the treatment of a dry cough. It also aids in mucus drainage.
You can add a few drops of an essential oil of your choice to the water to increase the antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects.
Boil enough water to fit in a medium-sized bowl.
Pour the water into the bowl.
Add 8 to 10 drops of essential oils to it.
Give it a quick stir to release the vapors.
Cover your head with a towel and lean over the bowl to inhale the steam.
Do this for 5 to 10 minutes, 2 or 3 times a day.
Also, a hot shower can help a cough by loosening secretions in the nose.
4. Salt Water Gargle
Another popular remedy for a dry cough is gargling with salt water.
Salt water eases the discomfort caused by a cough and helps a sore throat-through osmosis. It helps dislodge any phlegm that’s hanging out and allows you to expel it easily.
The warm water also has a soothing effect on the throat.
Add ½ teaspoon of salt to 1 cup of warm water.
Stir it until the salt mixes in properly.
Gargle with this solution for a few seconds, then spit it out.
Do this at 2 or 3 times a day for a few days.
5. Ginger
Ginger is also effective for a dry cough. Being an expectorant, it helps you expel any mucus and phlegm as well as reducing the intensity and duration of coughing bouts. It also helps reduce airway inflammation and inhibit airway contraction.
Moreover, it has immune-boosting properties that help promote quick recovery.
Cut fresh ginger into small slices and crush them slightly. Put 1 teaspoon of the slices and 1 cup of water in a pan and bring it to a boil, then strain it. Drink it up to 3 times a day.
Alternatively, mix together 1 tablespoon each of freshly extracted ginger juice and raw honey. Take this twice daily for a few days.
Another option is to chew fresh raw ginger on and off throughout the day.
6. Licorice
Licorice works as an expectorant and demulcent, thus helping soothe your airways while loosening and thinning the mucus, easing a dry cough.
Its anti-inflammatory properties also help reduce irritation in the throat that causes coughing fits.
Add 2 tablespoons of licorice root to a cup of hot water. Cover and let it steep for 10 minutes. Drink this tea up to 2 times daily.
You can also mix ½ teaspoon of licorice powder with a little honey and have it twice daily for a few days.
To soothe a dry cough, you can also suck on some licorice candies.
7. Fluid Intake
To soothe a dry cough, you need to increase your fluid intake.
Drinking more water helps thin out the mucus and keeps the mucous membranes moist. This is particularly helpful if you live in a dry climate.
Experts recommend drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water a day for optimum health. When you have a dry cough, drink about 2 glasses more than your usual daily water intake until your symptoms subside.
However, you must avoid cold water. Opt for clear broth or warm lemon water, green tea or warm milk. At the same time, avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.
8. Moist Air
Humidifiers may also help with a dry cough. In a dry environment, nasal secretions can become dried out and uncomfortable, which can worsen the symptoms.
By putting moisture back in the air, you can reduce the discomforts. Moist air helps ease breathing and lessens the intensity of coughing fits, especially when you’re sleeping at night.
Use a humidifier wherever possible in your home and especially in the room where you sleep. For best results, add essential oil to the water to further calm a cough.
Another option is to place a bowl of hot water in the room to increase the moisture in the air. You can also place a pot of water on the radiator in your room.
Whether you are using a humidifier or a bowl of hot water, be sure to place it in a safe place to prevent accidents.
9. Avoid Irritants
Environmental and other irritants are one of the main causes of a dry cough, and avoiding the irritants is a must if you wish to treat a dry cough naturally.
The worst irritant that causes a dry cough is, of course, smoke. The harmful smoke from cigarettes may cause airway irritation. Almost all smokers suffer from this irritating problem from time to time. So, stop smoking and avoid places where you get exposed to secondhand smoke.
At the same time, you need to avoid dust and other pollutants in the air. You may wear a face mask when you have no choice but to be in the presence of such irritants.
Also, look out for perfumes and scented bathroom sprays that may cause sinus irritation and lead to a dry cough.
10. Sleep Upright
If your dry cough is more persistent during the night when you’re trying to sleep, try keeping your upper body in an upright position while sleeping.
Keeping yourself in an upright position can help make breathing easier and relieve a dry cough. On the other hand, lying flat can lead to coughing fits, which will only aggravate the condition.
Also, it can help ease a dry cough due to acid reflux. A completely flat posture can give way to acid reflux, triggering a cough.
To keep yourself elevated while sleeping, place a high pillow under the mattress.
Additional Tips
No matter what, avoid giving cold and cough medicine to children under age 4, as they can cause serious side effects in young children.
If a dry cough is due to some underlying medical problem like allergies, asthma or acid reflux, you need to treat that problem.
Eat homemade chicken soup to soothe a dry cough.
If possible, stay home and rest if you have a fever or a bad cough.
Avoid exposure to cold, as it can worsen the condition.
Cover your mouth while coughing and wash your hands often.
When going out, wear a mask.
Include vitamin C-rich foods in your diet to shorten the duration of a cough.
If you have pets, regularly bathe or groom them to reduce the amount of dander in your surroundings.
Resources:
Chronic dry cough: Diagnostic and management approaches. Lung India. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4298918. Published 2015.
Effect of honey, dextromethorphan, and no treatment on nocturnal cough and sleep quality for coughing children and their parents. Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18056558. Published December 2007
Home Remedies for Sinus Drainage
Ongoing mucus or phlegm problems can make your life hell. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, about 12.5 percent of Americans suffer from at least one bout of sinusitis each year (1).
Sinuses are air-filled cavities located on either side of the nose. Due to certain allergies, cold, viral or bacterial infections, the sinuses may become clogged or infected.
The Infectious Diseases Society of America states that 90 to 98 percent of sinusitis cases are caused by viruses (2).
When the sinus cavities become inflamed or irritated, they swell and secrete more mucus, making proper drainage difficult.
Also, smoke, environmental pollution as well as dietary irritants like dairy, gluten and artificial additives all can trigger changes in mucus that can make you feel uncomfortable and frustrated at the same time.
Clogged sinuses can lead to various symptoms and related issues, such as headaches, snoring or difficulty breathing. In serious cases, a sinus infection may even lead to brain fever or meningitis.
For sinus drainage, there is no need to see your doctor. In fact, you can use some simple and effective home remedies to open up your sinuses and relieve the discomfort.
Here are the top 10 home remedies to promote sinus drainage.
1. Steam Inhalation
Whether you use plain water or infuse it with herbs or essential oils, steam inhalation is effective at promoting sinus drainage.
It works as a natural expectorant to clear the blockage. It also soothes the inflamed blood vessels in the sinuses by keeping them moist.
them moist.
Fill a pan with water, heat it until it boils and then turn the heat off. Add a few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus essential oil to the hot water. Put a towel over your head, lean over the pan and inhale the steam for a few minutes. Do this 2 to 4 times a day.
Alternatively, close the bathroom door, run a hot shower and breathe in the steam vapors for 5 to 10 minutes. Do this daily for a few days until the symptoms clear.
Caution: Steam inhalation is not recommended for small children, pregnant women and those suffering from high blood pressure, a heart condition or a central nervous system disorder.
2. Nasal Irrigation
Nasal irrigation is very effective for aiding sinus drainage and relieving nasal congestion and irritation.
Also known as saline irrigation, this involves gently flushing out your nasal passages with a saline solution. This helps break up the congestion by thinning out the mucus. It also increases the moisture in your nostrils, which in turn helps reduce the inflammation of your blood vessels.
A 2008 study published in WMJ, the journal of the Wisconsin Medical Society, reports that hypertonic saline nasal irrigation is beneficial for relieving daily sinus symptoms (3).
Mix 3 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of baking soda.
Transfer the mixture to an airtight container.
Mix 1 teaspoon of this mixture into 1 cup of lukewarm boiled water.
Fill a bulb syringe with this solution.
Lean your head over a basin and gently squirt the solution into one nostril, while keeping the other one closed with your finger.
Allow the solution to drain from the other nostril by removing your finger.
Repeat the process with the other nostril.
Use this remedy once or twice daily.
3. Warm Compress
Another effective way to keep mucus thin to promote sinus drainage is applying a warm compress.
The warmth from the compress also provides comfort from any pain and helps relieve the inflammation in the nostrils.
Soak a towel in a bowl of hot water.
Squeeze the excess water out of the towel.
Fold it and place it over your nose and forehead.
Do it for 3 to 5 minutes.
Repeat as often as necessary until all the mucus has cleared.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Another good remedy for blocked sinuses is apple cider vinegar. Its high potassium content helps thin the mucus.
Also, the acetic acid in it prevents bacterial growth and speeds up the healing process.
Mix 2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon of raw honey into a cup of warm water. Drink this tonic twice daily.
Also, pour ½ cup each of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and water into a pan. Bring the mixture to a boil and remove the pan from the heat. Put a towel over your head and inhale the steam for 3 to 5 minutes with your mouth and eyes closed. Repeat a few times a day.
5. Chicken Soup
Another tried-and-true remedy for sinus blockage is chicken soup. The steam combined with the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the soup’s ingredients help clear the sinuses.
Several studies have concluded that chicken soup inhibits the production of inflammatory compounds that are released in response to a viral infection. One 2015 study found chicken soup helps clear nasal congestion better than hot water (4).
(4).
Chicken soup also improves the immune system functioning. Plus, chicken soup is a light and nutritious food that you can always have when you are sick.
To ease your symptoms, have a bowl of homemade chicken soup twice daily. To reap the maximum benefits, make it at home using organic chicken and vegetables, such as carrots, beetroots and spinach. To boost its effects, add chopped garlic or red pepper flakes to the soup while preparing it.
If making homemade chicken soup is not possible, you can have canned soup also.
6. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is a natural decongestant, meaning it helps loosen mucus and promote sinus drainage.
The natural chemical capsaicin in cayenne pepper will help relieve the swelling and inflammation that is narrowing your nasal passages.
Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper powder to a cup of boiling water. Sip a cup of this tea a few times a day.
You can also sprinkle cayenne pepper on your favorite meals.
7. Massage Therapy
To aid sinus drainage and improve breathing, massaging the nostrils is a simple yet highly effective remedy.
Massage improves circulation to the area, and this helps thin out the mucus.
Warm up some olive oil.
Sit in a semi-reclining position and apply the oil on your nose.
Using your left thumb and index finger, massage both sides of your nose and the bridge of the nose for 1 minute.
Take a break of 1 minute and do it again.
Repeat the cycle 5 to 7 times.
Do this several times daily.
When performing this massage, breathe through your mouth, not your nose.
8. Fluid Intake
For sinus drainage, nothing works better than increasing your fluid intake. Drinking more fluids helps thin the mucus and drain your sinuses. They also lubricate your sinuses and keep the lining hydrated.
On the other hand, reduced fluid intake can cause dehydration and ultimately lead to thickening of the mucus. It can even increase the risk of infection.
Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.
Drinking hot liquids, such as herbal teas, may also help loosen and thin out the mucus.
To know whether your body is hydrated, check the color of your urine. If your urine is clear, you are sufficiently hydrated.
9. Raise the Humidity
Increasing the humidity in your home or the room in which you sleep can aid in sinus drainage. The sinuses prefer a moist, warm environment. Moist air can soothe irritated tissues and swollen blood vessels in your nose and sinuses.
On the other hand, lack of moisture in the air can irritate the sinus cavity further, causing more congestion. So, try to run a humidifier and maintain a humidity level of 45 to 50 percent.
Make sure to put a humidifier in your room where you sleep. But bear in mind that keeping the machine clean is of the utmost importance, or else the growth of bacteria and mold will only serve to exacerbate your condition and contribute to further mucus formation.
10. Vicks VapoRub
Vicks VapoRub, a popular over-the-counter decongestant, can also aid in sinus drainage.
It has active ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil and menthol that help clear the congestion and make breathing easy and comfortable.
Before going to bed, rub this topical cream gently on your chest, back and throat as well as your nose to make breathing easier and help you sleep properly.
Also, boil some water in a pot. Turn off the heat and put a small amount of Vicks VapoRub in it. Stand over the pot with a towel over your head and try to inhale the steam for 1 to 2 minutes. Repeat as needed.
Caution: Do not use Vick VapoRub on children under age 2. Also, do not use steam inhalation for children under age 12.
Additional Tips
The most obvious way to clear mucus from the nasal passages is to blow your nose on a regular basis.
Sleeping with your head elevated is a great way to relieve congested nasal passages and enjoy a good night’s sleep.
Boost your immunity by including more foods rich in vitamin C in your diet.
Animal dander, dust, mold spores and pollen are the most c
Additional Tips
The most obvious way to clear mucus from the nasal passages is to blow your nose on a regular basis.
Sleeping with your head elevated is a great way to relieve congested nasal passages and enjoy a good night’s sleep.
Boost your immunity by including more foods rich in vitamin C in your diet.
Animal dander, dust, mold spores and pollen are the most common airborne irritants that cause sinus inflammation and congestion, so keep your house clean as much as possible.
Pollen, smog and car exhaust are some common outdoor irritants that can worsen your symptoms. Hence, consider wearing a mask when going out to keep them out of your airways.
If you are sensitive to gluten, dairy and sugar, try eliminating these foods.
Drink ginger tea 2 or 3 times a day.
Include raw garlic in your diet as much as possible.
Eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids to fight inflammation.
Get plenty of rest for a few days to help your body recover quickly.
Avoid certain foods to reduce mucus, such as dairy products, grains, sugar, and potatoes and other starchy root vegetables.
Do not smoke, as it can worsen the condition.
Resources:
Chronic rhinosinusitis: epidemiology and medical. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21890184. Published October 2011.
Most Sinus Infections Don’t Require Antibiotics. IDSA : Infectious Diseases Society of America. http://www.idsociety.org/2012_Rhinosinusitis_Guidelines.
Nasal irrigation for chronic sinus symptoms in patients with allergic rhinitis, asthma and nasal polyposis: a hypothesis generating study. Wisconsin Medical Society. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2755042. Published April 2008.
Chicken soup clears congestion and helps the immune system fight infection. Daily Mail Online. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-3371839/Why-chicken-soup-really-help-cure-cold-Comforting-broth-clears-congestion-helps-immune-fight-infection.html. Published December 23, 2015.
Home Remedies for Pinworms
The thought of being infected by worms can be a little scary, but humans suffering from worm infestations are common.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pinworm is the most common type of human worm infections in the United States (1). These worms are thin, white and ¼ to ½ inch in length.
It is common in children between the ages of 5 and 10. Also, people who live in institutions and those who have regular, close contact with individuals in these groups are at a higher risk.
In some cases, a pinworm infection may not cause any symptoms. However, you may have symptoms like frequent itching of the anal area; restless sleep due to anal itching; pain, rash or other skin irritation around the anus; and the presence of pinworms in the area of the anus or stool.
Additional symptoms include irritability, restlessness, abdominal pain, nausea and loss of appetite.
A pinworm infection is highly contagious and one becomes infected by unintentionally ingesting or inhaling pinworm eggs, which are usually deposited onto a surface or object by an infected person. Pinworms can also spread through eating contaminated foods, such as undercooked meats like beef, pork or fish.
The cycle of infection begins with the ingestion of the eggs. Once ingested, the eggs remain in the intestine until they hatch and mature. The presence of these eggs in the body means you are suffering from a pinworm infestation.
Delaying treatment can put those around you at risk for this highly contagious infection. If you or other family members are plagued by the formidable parasites, you can use some home remedies to quickly put a stop to the problem and prevent the parasites from coming back.
Here are the top 10 home remedies to treat a pinworm infection.
Caution: Consult your doctor if your symptoms persist and blood is present in your urine or stool.
1. Good Hygiene
To treat and prevent pinworms from spreading, you must make adjustments to your personal hygiene and home care.
In fact, a good regimen of hygiene and household cleaning can help you completely eliminate the pinworm eggs and prevent the infestation from spreading.
Wash your hands regularly with mild soap and hot water. Wash your hands after using the bathroom, after changing a diaper, before eating and before touching your mouth.
Shower daily in the morning to wash away pinworm eggs that may have been deposited overnight.
Keep your nails short, as pinworm eggs can become trapped under your nails. Also, make sure to avoid biting your nails.
Wear tight underwear and wash them in hot water each day.
Wash all linens and bedding in hot water.
Change your sleepwear regularly.
Mop or vacuum the floors in all living spaces, especially carpeted areas.
Thoroughly clean any surfaces that may be infected, including toys, floors, countertops and toilet seats.
Clean surfaces in the kitchen and bathroom daily, especially faucet knobs and the toilet flush handle.
2. Raw Garlic
Garlic is an excellent remedy for pinworms. The organosulfur compound allicin that is present in it works against intestinal worms.
Its antiparasitic nature can help kill any existing eggs and prevent female pinworms from laying more eggs. Not just pinworms, garlic is effective at getting rid of roundworms and hookworms, too.
Eat 2 or 3 cloves of raw garlic on an empty stomach every day for 1 week.
Alternatively, you can boil 2 crushed garlic cloves in ½ cup of milk and drink it on an empty stomach. Do this once daily for 1 week.
Also, mix 2 or 3 garlic cloves (minced) with a small amount of petroleum jelly. Dip a clean cotton swab into the mixture and apply the salve on your anus before going to bed. The next morning, wash the area thoroughly with cool water.
3. Coconut Oil
Coconut has antibacterial and antiviral properties that may help get rid of a pinworm infection. It also acts as a very strong antiparasitic agent that helps expel parasites from your body and boosts your immune system to fight them.
You can use both the fruit and oil to treat a pinworm infection.
Eat 1 tablespoon of fresh coconut flesh at breakfast. After a couple of hours, have 1 teaspoon of castor oil along with a glass of warm milk. Repeat daily until the infestation disappears.
Alternatively, consume 1 to 2 teaspoons of extra-virgin coconut oil each morning.
Also, before you go to bed, rub a small amount of coconut oil on your anus.
4. Pumpkin Seeds
You can use pumpkin seeds for treating pinworms.
The compound curcurbitin in pumpkin seeds has antiparasitic properties. It can paralyze the pinworms and prevent them from holding on to the intestinal walls, so they can easily be eliminated from the body.
A 2016 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that pumpkin seed extracts may be used to control gastrointestinal nematode (worm) infections (2).
After fasting for 12 hours, consume 2 tablespoons of dry, roasted pumpkin seeds. After 1 hour, drink a glass of warm water or milk. Do it daily for 1 week.
Alternatively, mix together 1 tablespoon of roasted and crushed pumpkin seeds with an equal amount of honey. Eat this mixture each morning on an empty stomach for 1 week.
5. Indian Lilac
Indian lilac, also known as neem, is another effective remedy to deal with pinworms.
It has antiparasitic properties that help kill intestinal worms like pinworms. Not just that, it also helps remove the toxins they leave behind.
A 2015 study published in the Journal of Parasitic Diseases concluded that crude neem leaf powder has an anthelmintic property, and it can further be studied to isolate the active component to produce herbal anthelmintics (3).
Wash 1 cup of neem leaves.
Process the neem leaves with 1 cup of water in a blender until you have a smooth consistency.
Strain the mixture using a muslin cloth.
Drink this juice daily on an empty stomach for a couple of weeks.
6. Bitter Gourds
Bitter melons, also called bitter gourds, contain anthelmintic compounds that help kill intestinal worms, including pinworms. They also help get rid of the toxins that these parasites leave behind as they die.
A 2017 study published in Pharmacognosy Reviews highlights the anthelmintic activity of bitter gourd and concludes that it could be further explored for the development of a potential anthelmintic drug (4).
Remove the seeds from 2 bitter gourds.
Extract the juice from the gourds.
Drink small amounts of the bitter gourd juice 3 or 4 times a day, for at least 1 week.
7. Green Papayas
Papayas, especially the green ones, have a strong anthelmintic property,
They contain papain, an enzyme that can help combat intestinal worms. Not just the flesh, even the seeds of green papayas have anthelmintic and anti-amoebic properties.
A 2007 study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food reports that air-dried papaya seeds are efficacious in treating human intestinal parasites without significant side effects. The study s
The study says that their consumption offers a cheap, natural, harmless, readily available monotherapy and preventive strategy against intestinal parasitosis, especially in tropical communities (5).
Mix 1 tablespoon each of fresh raw papaya juice and honey with 3 tablespoons of hot water. Drink it in the morning on an empty stomach. After 2 hours, drink a glass of warm milk with 2 tablespoons of castor oil mixed in it. Do this daily for 2 or 3 days.
Alternatively, grind papaya seeds into powder form. Mix 2 teaspoons of this powder into 1 cup of warm milk. Drink it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach for 3 days.
8. Raw Carrots
Carrots are another very effective traditional remedy for pinworms.
Carrots work as a natural deworming agent, as they help expel the pinworms. Being rich in beta-carotene, a precursor for vitamin A, carrots can also destroy the eggs of pinworms. The fiber-rich carrots also improve digestion and promote bowel movements.
Plus, carrots are a great support for the immune system to help fight off parasites quickly.
According to herbalists, the vitamin A and beta-carotene present in carrots may provide resistance against worm infestation.
Grate 2 or 3 carrots.
Eat them on an empty stomach first thing in the morning.
Avoid eating anything else for a few hours.
Do this every day for 1 week to get rid of pinworms.
9. Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
Food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) can be used to treat a variety of parasitic infections, including pinworms.
It is a sedimentary, chalky rock that is made from fossilized small algae called diatoms that can dehydrate pinworms and slowly kill them. It is effective at killing pinworm larvae as well as adult pinworms.
Add 1 teaspoon of food-grade DE to at least 12 ounces of water.
Drink it immediately, on an empty stomach.
Repeat daily for 3 or 4 days.
Caution: Make sure to use only food-grade diatomaceous earth, as other varieties can be toxic to humans.
10. Dietary Changes
Another simple way to help remove pinworms from your body is making certain dietary changes.
For instance, pinworms thrive on starches and sugar, so the more starches and sugary foods that you eat, the longer they are going to hang around. So, limit the carbohydrates and sugar in your diet.
On the other hand, add more fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as high-fiber foods like bran, whole wheat or raisins to your diet. Consuming more high-fiber foods will help add bulk to your stool and flush the pinworms out of your system.
Also, include plenty of probiotics like yogurt or kefir in your diet to support the growth of good bacteria in the intestines. Good bacteria in the intestines will create a hostile environment for the pinworms to grow.
Additional Tips
Keep rooms well-lit during the day because eggs deposited on surfaces are sensitive to light.
Do not shake things that may have eggs on them, such as clothing, underwear, pajamas, bed linen or towels. Instead, put them directly in the washing machine.
Airborne eggs can land on your toothbrush, so store it in a closed cabinet.
Avoid scratching the anal area, as it will only cause more discomfort.
Resources:
Parasites – Enterobiasis (also known as Pinworm Infection). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/pinworm/gen_info/faqs.html. Published January 10, 2013.
Evaluation of Anthelmintic Activity and Composition of Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) Seed Extracts—In Vitro and in Vivo Studies. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5037735. Published September 2016.
Anthelmintic efficacy of crude neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf powder against bovine strongylosis. Journal of Parasitic Diseases. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4675597. Published December 2015.
An Update Review on the Anthelmintic Activity of Bitter Gourd, Momordica charantia. Pharmacognosy Reviews. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5414453. Published 2017.
Effectiveness of dried Carica papaya seeds against human intestinal parasitosis: a pilot study. Journal of Medicinal Food. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17472487. Published March 2007.
Home Remedies Using Honey
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When it comes to natural sweeteners, the first thing that strikes the mind is definitely honey.
A sweet liquid, honey is made by bees from the nectar of flowers. Organic honey is collected from wild bee colonies or domesticated beehives.
Honey is a delicious and natural sweetener that many of us prefer in our milk, juice, tea, lemon water or simply on our bread.
A rich source of natural sugars, honey contains antioxidants and flavonoids that are beneficial for health. Its potent antibacterial and antiseptic properties help keep bacterial and fungal infections at bay.
Other nutrients that honey has are riboflavin, niacin, vitamins B12 and C, calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus and magnesium.
Looking at the nutritional profile of honey, it would not be wrong to say that it is nature’s answer to many health problems. This is why honey has indeed been a favorite among nutritionists, dieticians, beauty experts and Ayurvedic practitioners.
In fact, for centuries, honey has remained an integral part of our lifestyle and especially for taking care of our health.
Caution:
Raw honey can carry harmful bacteria that can cause botulism, which is particularly dangerous for babies. You should never feed raw honey to babies under age 1.
In adults, botulism symptoms are similar to food poisoning, including nausea, vomiting and fever. Consult your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms after eating raw honey.
Here are the top 10 home remedies using honey.
1. Heals Wounds
Minor wounds, grazes, skin abrasions and cuts are common in everyday life. Now, when you need to treat a minor wound or cut, just grab your jar of honey.
Honey works as a natural antiseptic and has many antimicrobial properties that can sterilize wounds and promote healing, while also reducing pain, odor and the size of the wound.
Also, it has an enzyme that produces hydrogen peroxide, which adds to honey’s wound-healing capabilities.
A 2006 study published in the International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds highlights the effectiveness of honey in assisting wound healing (1).
Another study published in the BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2010 shows that Manuka honey can boost healing time and reduce infections in wounds (2).
A 2011 study published in the Scientific World Journal supports the use of honey for wound healing, as it stimulates tissue growth. It also reduces the risk of developing an infection, thanks to its antioxidant and hydrogen peroxide content (3).
Again, a 2012 study published in AYU reports that there was significant improvement in the healing process of wounds due to honey’s antibacterial, wound-cleansing and wound-healing properties (4).
Simply put a layer of pure honey on the site of the wound. Cover it with gauze and a bandage, if needed. Replace it a few times a day, as needed.
Alternatively, mix equal amounts of honey and turmeric and apply it on the wound 2 or 3 times a day. You can leave it on for at least 30 minutes before rinsing it off.
2. Soothes Minor Burns
Many of us experience minor burns, and there is nothing to worry about if you have a jar of honey at home.
Raw honey can soothe and heal the skin, and its natural antibacterial properties effectively prevent infection.
A 2007 study published in the Annals of Burns and Fire Disasters reports that honey is effective for burn treatment because of its antibacterial action, low pH, high viscosity, hygroscopic effect and hydrogen peroxide content (5).
Another study published in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery in 2011 found that honey dressings sterilize the wounds in burn patients in less time, enhance healing and produce better outcomes in terms of hypertrophic scars and post-burn contractures, as compared to silver sulfadiazine dressings (6).
Again, a study published in the Annals of Burns and Fire Disasters in 2014 draws the attention of both medical staff and patients to the benefits of using honey in burn treatments (7).
Immediately after getting a burn, rinse it under cool running water.
Simply dab some honey onto a minor burn.
Lightly cover the affected area with a gauze bandage.
Repeat as needed until the wound is healed.
3. Treats Sore Throats and Coughs
When you’ve got a sore throat or a cough, you don’t need over-the-counter medicines. A spoonful of honey can provide you instant relief. Even the World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend honey as a natural cough remedy.
Honey works as a cough suppressant. It also helps clear out the mucus and soothe your throat.
A 2010 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine demonstrated that a 2.5-mL dose of honey before sleep had a greater alleviating effect on coughs due to upper respiratory infections compared with the commonly used dextromethorphan and diphenhydramine medications (8).
Also, a 2013 study published in Pediatric Reports recommends honey for its topical demulcent effect in treating a cough (9).
Another study published in 2014 in Canadian Family Physician concludes that honey can be recommended as a single dose of 2.5 mL before bedtime for children older than 1 year of age who have a cough (10).
You can use honey in various ways to treat coughing and a sore throat.
Drink a cup of hot milk or soothing herbal tea with 1 tablespoon of honey twice daily to soothe a sore throat.
Have 2 teaspoons of honey 30 m
Also, a 2013 study published in Pediatric Reports recommends honey for its topical demulcent effect in treating a cough (9).
Another study published in 2014 in Canadian Family Physician concludes that honey can be recommended as a single dose of 2.5 mL before bedtime for children older than 1 year of age who have a cough (10).
You can use honey in various ways to treat coughing and a sore throat.
Drink a cup of hot milk or soothing herbal tea with 1 tablespoon of honey twice daily to soothe a sore throat.
Have 2 teaspoons of honey 30 minutes before bed to enjoy less coughing and better sleep at night.
Put 1½ tablespoons of lemon zest, ¼ cup of sliced ginger, 1 cup of water and ½ cup of lemon juice in a small pan. Bring it to a boil, then let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Strain and add 1 cup of honey to the liquid. Give ½ teaspoon to 1 tablespoon of this solution every 2 hours, depending upon the person’s age.
4. Cures Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that affects the skin cells and causes redness, blisters, itching and even lesions.
You can always rely on honey to get fast relief from the irritating symptoms of psoriasis.
Its moisturizing property forms a protective layer on broken skin and helps relieve the dryness, patching and peeling away of the skin. Plus, it has anti-inflammatory compounds that fight inflammation and boost the immune system.
A 2003 study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine reports that topical application of a natural honey, beeswax and olive oil mixture of equal amounts is useful in the management of psoriasis vulgaris as well as dermatitis (11).
A 2014 study published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine Open found that Kanuka honey may have similar efficacy to aqueous cream in the management of psoriasis. However, this requires confirmation through further study (12).
Rub some honey on your dry, patchy skin. Let it sit for about 30 minutes before washing it off. Do it 1 or 2 times a day, as needed.
Alternatively, put 1 teaspoon each of honey, olive oil and beeswax in a microwave-safe bowl. Warm the mixture in the microwave until the beeswax melts. Stir the mixture and allow it to cool down. Apply it on the affected area as a lotion a few times a day.
5. Improves Memory
If you’ve recently started to forget things or you’re unable to recall things, honey can save you from this problem.
This natural sweetener can improve both short-term and long-term memory.
In a 2011 study published in Menopause, researchers found that postmenopausal women who were given Tualang honey for 16 weeks showed much improvement in their immediate memory as compared to women who were given estrogen and progestin hormone therapy (13).
Another study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2014 found that honey polyphenols are useful in improving memory deficits and can act at the molecular level (14).
Another study published in 2015 in Medical Sciences reports that improvement in learning and memory following Tualang honey supplementation is due to the significant improvement in brain morphology and enhancement of the brain cholinergic system, which is possibly secondary to reduction in brain oxidative damage and/or up regulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor concentration (15).
The simplest remedy is just to take 1 to 2 tablespoons of local honey, either in the morning 30 minutes before breakfast or just before going to bed.
Alternatively, mix 1 teaspoon each of honey and powdered ginseng. Add 1 cup of lukewarm water to the mixture. Mix well and drink it while it is still warm, once daily.
6. Fights Digestive Problems
Honey is also good for the overall digestive system. Whether you have gas, indigestion, acid reflux or diarrhea, honey can rescue you from the discomforts.
Honey aids in cleansing the colon by eliminating the toxins. It helps promote good bacteria in the colon, resulting in better digestion. This in turn helps prevent and treat symptoms of bloating, gas and acid reflux.
A 2006 study published in the Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal reports that honey can help shorten the time required to eliminate H. pylori from the stomach lining of patients with gastritis or a duodenal ulcer caused by H. pylori infection (16).
Another 2006 study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports that substituting sugars with honey in processed food can inhibit the harmful and genotoxic effects of mycotoxins, and improve the gut microflora (17).
Also, a 2017 study published in Food Quality and Safety highlights the positive effect of honey in improving the gut microbial balance (18).
Take 1 to 2 teaspoons of honey on an empty stomach to soothe abdominal pain and prevent gas and bloating.
Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon powder on 1 tablespoon of honey. Take this mixture before your meals to prevent digestive problems.
7. Combats Insomnia
If you need help getting quality sleep or want to treat sleep apnea naturally without taking pills, honey is the right solution.
Honey promotes sleep by ensuring an adequate supply of liver glycogen while you sleep at night. If your body has inadequate liver glycogen, your brain will trigger an emergency search for fuel, which can lead to disturbed sleep.
Honey also stimulates the release of insulin and allows tryptophan to enter the brain easily. This contributes to the release of melatonin in the brain. Melatonin is a hormone necessary for restorative sleep.
For sleep apnea, honey helps reduce swelling around the throat area that can obstruct airways. In addition, it lubricates the throat to prevent snoring, one of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea.
Before going to bed, drink a cup of herbal tea or a glass of warm milk with 1 teaspoon of honey in it.
Another option is to mix 1 teaspoon each of honey and black pepper powder in a glass of warm water. Sip it slowly before going to bed.
8. Fights Acne
Honey is often used in skin care products and is commonly used to treat acne that mainly occurs due to excessive oil secretion and bacteria and trapped dirt clogging the skin’s pores.
It also has antimicrobial properties that help fight bacteria that cause acne. And its anti-inflammatory property helps reduce acne symptoms and prevent infections.
Plus, honey keeps your skin moisturized and prevents clogged pores.
Apply raw honey on your acne and the skin around it. Allow it to sit for 20 to 30 minutes. Rinse it off with lukewarm water. Repeat 2 or 3 times a day.
Alternatively, thoroughly mix 1 tablespoon of honey and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon powder. Apply it on the acne-affected area. Allow it to sit for 15 minutes, then rinse it off well with warm water. Repeat once or twice a day. This remedy, however, may not suit those with sensitive skin as cinnamon can be too strong for some skin types.
9. Boosts Immunity
Honey is also effective at boosting the immune system.
High-quality honey contains many important antioxidants, such as phenols, enzymes and compounds like flavonoids and organic acids. These antioxidants help protect your body from cell damage due to free radicals.
Free radicals not only accelerate the aging process but also contribute to the development of chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.
A 2010 study published in the African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines shows that polyphenols in honey may play a role in preventing heart disease (19).
Honey also has antibacterial and antiviral properties that help the body fight and kill harmful bacteria and viruses.
Mix 1 tablespoon of organic honey into a glass of lukewarm milk.
Add ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon powder and mix well.
Drink it once daily before going to bed.
10. Good for Hair Health
Honey is simply good for your hair health.
It is an emollient, which means it seals moisture into your hair, keeping it conditioned. This in turn reduces breakage and improves hair growth.
Honey also has rich antioxidant properties that prevent damage, keeping your scalp and hair healthy.
It can also control dandruff, one of the reasons behind hair loss. A 2001 study published in the European Journal of Medical Research concluded that crude honey could markedly improve seborrheic dermatitis and associated hair loss and prevent a relapse when applied weekly (20).
Prepare a hair mask with equal amounts of honey and plain yogurt. Apply it on your wet hair. Wear a shower cap for 30 minutes, then shampoo your hair. Use this hair loss treatment 2 or 3 times a week.
Mix ½ cup of raw, organic honey and ¼ cup of extra-virgin olive oil in a bowl. Warm this mixture in the microwave. Apply it on your scalp and work it through to the ends of your hair. Allow it to sit for 20 minutes. Wash your hair with a mild shampoo. Use this dandruff remedy twice a week.
Resources:
The Evidence Supporting the Use of Honey as a Wound Dressing. International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds. http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1534734605286014.
Comparison of the antimicrobial activity of Ulmo honey from Chile and Manuka honey against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine. https://bmccomplementalternmed.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1472-6882-10-47. Published September 02, 2010.
Honey for wound healing, ulcers, and burns; data supporting its use in clinical practice. Scientific World Journal. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21479349. Published April 05, 2011.
Wound healing activity of honey: A pilot study. AYU. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3665090/. Published 2012.
Topical Application of Honey for Burn Wound Treatment – an Overview. Annals of Burns and Fire Disasters. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3188068/. Published September 30, 2007.
Honey Dressing Versus Silver Sulfadiazene Dressing for Wound Healing in Burn Patients: A Retrospective Study. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3263128/. Published 2011.
Up-to-date use of honey for burns treatment. Annals of Burns and Fire Disasters. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4158441/. Published March 31, 2014.
A comparison of the effect of honey, dextromethorphan, and diphenhydramine on nightly cough and sleep quality in children and their parents. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20618098. Published July 2010.
Feasibility Study: Honey for Treatment of Cough in Children. Pediatric Reports. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3718232/. Published June 13, 2013.
Honey for treatment of cough in children. Canadian Family Physician. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4264806/. Published December 2014.
Topical application of natural honey, beeswax and olive oil mixture for atopic dermatitis or psoriasis: partially controlled, single-blinded study. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15022655. Published December 2003.
A randomised controlled trial of topical Kanuka honey for the treatment of psoriasis. Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine Open. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4012670/. Published March 2014.
Improvement in immediate memory after 16 weeks of tualang honey (Agro Mas) supplement in healthy postmenopausal women. Menopause. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21926932. Published November 2011.
Neurological Effects of Honey: Current and Future Prospects. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2014/958721/. Published April 27, 2014.
Potential Role of Honey in Learning and Memory. Medical Sciences. h
Home Remedies for Red Eyes
Waking up with red and bloodshot eyes is not a great way to start the day, but many people experience this problem.
When the whites of the eyes turn red, you may feel worried. Well, red or bloodshot eyes are not always a serious problem, but anything related to the eyes should not be ignored.
The whites of the eyes appear bloodshot or red due to changes to the blood vessels that supply the membrane covering the front of the eye.
This can happen due to an infection like conjunctivitis. Several other common conditions that may cause redness in the eyes include blepharitis, a sty, a chalazion and dry eyes.
There are some serious conditions linked to red eyes, which include corneal scratches or abrasions, uveitis and glaucoma. Such serious conditions should be diagnosed and treated by an eye doctor.
Other day-to-day activities, habits and illnesses can lead to red eyes.
People who are constantly surrounded by allergens, such as pollen or smoke, may have red eyes. Dry air, humidity, wind and exposure to sunlight can also have an effect. Too much coughing or even suffering from a cold or flu can cause red blotches to appear in your eyes. However, it clears up soon.
Also, working for long hours in front of a computer, wearing contact lens for an extended period of time, excessive drinking and rubbing the eyes vigorously can lead to red eyes.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, red eyes can also feel uncomfortable, itchy or watery (1).
In most cases, the conditions that cause eye redness aren’t serious and will clear up without medical treatment within a week or two. Meanwhile, there are several home remedies that can help relieve any symptoms you may be experiencing.
Caution: If you have red eyes that are also painful and sensitive to light, see a doctor immediately.
Here are the top 10 home remedies for red eyes.
1. Frequent Rinsing
If you have red eyes due to exposure to dust, harsh sunrays, pollen or any chemical, avoid constantly rubbing your eyes as it will only increase the inflammation and cause more redness.
Instead, to relieve this discomfort, rinse your eyes several times a day.
To do so, simply splash some cool water on your eyes. Do it several times to soothe your eyes and help get rid of the irritant that’s causing the eye redness.
2. Warm Compress
Placing a warm compress over your eyelids can also help deal with bloodshot eyes.
The heat from the compress increases blood circulation to the area and promotes the formation of tears, which in turn reduces eye dryness.
A warm compress will also soothe eye irritation.
Dip a lint-free cloth in warm water and wring out the excess water.
Lie down comfortably, close your eyes and place the warm towel over your eyelids for 1 minute.
Change the washcloth and repeat the process 3 or 4 times.
Finally, give your eyes a nice rinse with lukewarm water.
Use this treatment 1 or 2 times daily.
Caution: As the eyes are very sensitive, check the temperature of the cloth before applying it over the eyelids. It is always best to use separate washcloths for each eye.
3. Cold Compress
Cold compresses are also very effective at treating inflammation and swelling in your eyes that can cause redness.
The cold temperature will help tighten up the skin around your eyes as well as relax the blood vessels. This in turn will reduce eye redness.
Dip a soft washcloth in cold water and wring out the extra water. Place the cold washcloth on your closed eyelids for 5 to 10 minutes. Repeat as needed.
Alternatively, wrap a few ice cubes in a clean cloth. Place it on your closed eyelids for 1 minute. Take a 5-minute break, then reapply the compress for 1 minute. Do it 2 or 3 times a day.
4. Rose Water
Rose water has a soothing and relaxing effect on your eyes. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation and irritation in your eyes, which in turn reduces the redness.
A 2010 study published in Ophthalmology and Eye Diseases reports that when used in eye drops to treat conjunctivitis, the antiseptic and analgesic properties of rose water help a lot (2).
Soak 2 cotton pads in rose water. Place the soaked pads on your closed eyes. Leave them on for 15 minutes. Do this once or twice daily.
Another option is to put 2 or 3 drops of rose water in your eyes twice a day. Make sure you are using pure and good-quality rose water.
5. Tea Bags
Do not throw away used black tea bags. You can use them to reduce eye redness.
Tea is rich in tannins and bioflavonoids that can be effective in treating red eyes.
A 2012 study published in the Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry highlights the astringent properties of tannins, which are present in abundance in tea (3).
Put 2 used black tea bags in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Lie down and put the chilled tea bags over your closed eyelids.
Leave them in place for 10 to 15 minutes.
Repeat a few times a day or until the redness goes away.
6. Cucumber
Cucumber is another excellent cure for red eyes. It helps shrink the blood vessels in your eyes and treats the condition. The soothing nature of cucumber relaxes strained eyes and even reduces the uneasy feelings caused by red eyes.
A 2014 study published in the International Journal of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences highlights the hydrating, nourishing and astringent properties in cucumber (4).
Cut a few slices of a refrigerated cucumber.
Place a slice on each eye.
Leave it on for about 30 minutes.
Repeat 2 or 3 times daily for best results.
7. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help in dealing with red and irritated eyes. Its ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts are often used in eye drops to prevent inflammation.
A 2012 study published in Pharmaceutical Biology reports that aloe vera contains multiple pharmacologically active substances that are capable of modulating cellular phenotypes and functions. Aloe vera ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts may be used in eye drops to treat inflammation and other ailments of external parts of the eyes, such as the cornea (5).
Blend together equal amounts of aloe vera gel and water.
Refrigerate the mixture for 1 hour.
Soak 2 cotton pads in the cool mixture and place them over your closed eyes.
Leave them on for 20 to 30 minutes.
Do this 2 or 3 times a day.
8. Blink More Often
Regular blinking can improve the flow of tears to help moisten the eyes. It will even help get rid of irritants that may be causing bloodshot eyes.
Blinking also helps reduce symptoms of dry eyes as well as eye strain.
Close your eyes fully and count to 2.
Then, squeeze the eyelids together and again count to 2.
Finally, open your eyes and count to 2.
Do this 5 or 6 times to complete a set.
You can do this blinking exercise a few times a day.
9. Drink More Water
A good way to get rid of red eyes that are due to crying or too much alcohol is to drink water. Crying and drinking in excess can cause dehydration, and drinking water will help keep the body hydrated.
When the body is well-hydrated, blood vessels that supply the membranes covering the front of the eyes will function properly. Water also helps flush toxins out of the body.
Sip on water at regular intervals. If you don’t like plain water, squeeze in a bit of lemon juice or try flavored water.
At the same time, avoid coffee, alcohol and soda. They have a dehydrating effect on the body.
10. Chamomile
Due to its powerful anti-allergenic effects, chamomile tea can also be used as a cold compress or eyewash to help reduce eye redness. It inhibits the release of histamine, which helps prevent an allergic reaction that can lead to red eyes.
Chamomile also benefits strained and dry eyes.
Steep 1 chamomile tea bag in a cup of hot water for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bag and allow the tea to cool. Use the cool tea as homemade eyewash, 2 or 3 times a day.
Alternatively, put used chamomile tea bags in the refrigerator. Put the chilled tea bags over your closed eyelids for about 10 minutes. Do this 3 or 4 times a day for fast recovery.
Additional Tips
Always wash your hands if you’ve been in contact with anyone who has an eye infection.
Never go to sleep without removing your eye makeup.
Do not wear contact lenses for prolonged periods. Always clean your contact lenses before and after using them.
Avoid sitting in front of your computer for long hours, as it may strain your eyes. Make sure you take breaks to give your eyes a rest.
Avoid contact with substances that may cause irritation to your eyes.
If any foreign substance or irritant enters your eyes, splash cool water on your eyes immediately.
Drinking and smoking can also aggravate your eyes and cause redness.
Resources:
Home Remedies for Bloodshot Eyes – And When to See a Doctor. American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/home-remedies-bloodshot-eyes-when-to-see-doctor. Published January 22, 2018.
Anti-inflammatory and Antihistaminic Study of a Unani Eye Drop Formulation. Ophthalmology and Eye Diseases. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3661513/. Published 2010.
Tannins are Astringen. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry. http://www.phytojournal.com/vol1Issue3/Issue_sept_2012/8.1.pdf.
Invigorating Efficacy of Cucumis Sativas for Healthcare. International Journal of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences. http://www.pharmaresearchlibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/IJCPS2001.pdf.
Aloe vera extract activity on human corneal cells. Pharmaceutical Biology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22338121. Published February 2012.
Home Remedies for Itching in Private Parts
Itching in your private parts is an embarrassing topic to discuss, but it’s more common than you think.
While both men and women can experience itching in their private areas at some point in their life, women are more prone to this problem.
Genital areas are the most delicate areas of our bodies. And itching in the sensitive areas like the vagina and vulva can be very uncomfortable. It can drive the sufferer insane with the constant urge to itch.
Some common reasons behind this problem include yeast infection, irritants (any sort of chemical, whether acidic or basic, coming in contact with the private parts), bacterial vaginosis, menopause, skin diseases (like eczema and psoriasis), vulvar cancer and sexually transmitted diseasess
Diseases like diabetes, tuberculosis and cancer; infestation of pinworms; and drugs like steroids, antibiotics and anticancer drugs increase the chance for infection in the private parts.
Sometimes itching can be due to poor hygiene or simply an allergy to undergarments made with polyester. Excessive stress and a weak immune system also might act as a catalyst to this problem.
Apart from itching, there can be other symptoms like vaginal pain, redness, slight bleeding in the area, foul and smelly discharge from the vagina, and painful urination in some cases.
If you are suffering from itching in your private parts, it’s time to take serious action. In most cases, you can treat the problem without any medical intervention. There are several effective and simple home remedies to treat itching down there.
Here are the top 10 home remedies for itching in your private parts.
1. Hygiene
Maintaining proper hygiene is a prerequisite to prevent itching in your private parts. Proper hygiene will prevent harmful microbes from growing in the sensitive area and causing a yeast or bacterial infection.
Also, good hygiene practices help maintain the proper pH level of the vaginal area.
Take a shower daily, but don’t wash or scrub your private parts excessively, as it results in dry skin that in turn causes more itching.
After a bowel movement, remember to always wipe from front to back.
Change menstrual pads and tampons frequently during periods to prevent itching.
Avoid douching at any cost.
Avoid products that have fragrances added to them, such as toilet paper, bubble bath and laundry detergent.
Avoid using soaps and feminine hygiene sprays to clean your vagina. The vagina is a self-cleaning organ and water is sufficient to clean it.
2. Cold Compress
For quick and fast relief from itching in your genital area, try a cold compress.
It can relieve itching by numbing the nerves that cause the itching sensation. It will also help reduce swelling and inflammation.
Wrap some ice in a clean cloth and lay the compress on the itchy areas for 5 to 10 minutes at a time. Repeat as needed.
If ice cubes are too cold to use, you can soak a cotton cloth in cold water and apply it on the affected area for a few minutes. Take a short break and do it again.
3. Garlic
When it comes to home remedies for itching in your private parts, garlic is very effective. This is mainly due to its excellent antibiotic and antimicrobial properties.
It also improves the immune system and helps the body fight infections.
A 2005 study published in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy highlights the antifungal activity of fresh garlic extract against C. albicans biofilms (1).
A 2014 study published in the Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine explained the therapeutic benefits of garlic in combating various microbial infections (2).
Another 2014 study published in the Iranian Red Crescent Medical Journal found that garlic could be a suitable alternative for metronidazole in treating bacterial vaginosis in those interested in herbal medicines or those affected by side effects of metronidazole (3).
For topical use: Dilute a few drops of garlic oil in 1 teaspoon of vitamin E oil. Apply it on the affected area. Wait 10 minutes, then rinse it off with warm water. Use this remedy twice daily for a few weeks.
For consumption: Chew 3 raw garlic cloves daily. Alternatively, you can take garlic supplements after consulting your doctor.
4. Greek Yogurt
For mild itching in the private parts, Greek yogurt is an excellent natural remedy.
Greek yogurt is a probiotic, as it contains live bacteria, such as lactobacillus acidophilus. These bacteria are essential to creating a healthy environment in your vagina. They can help treat an overgrowth of microbes and help maintain the pH balance.
A 2006 review of research published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy found that some probiotics can be effective against C. albicans (4).
A 2012 study published in the Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine reports the effectiveness of using yogurt to treat the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis (5).
For topical use: You can apply raw Greek yogurt directly in your vagina. To apply, soak a tampon in plain, Greek yogurt and insert it into your vagina. Leave it for 2 hours, and repeat the process twice a day until the itchiness stops.
For consumption: Eat 1 to 2 cups of Greek yogurt daily. However, make sure that the yogurt doesn’t contain added sugar, which can lead to growth of the candida fungus.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar
To stop the itching sensation in your private parts, you can use raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar too.
It contains antifungal and antibacterial properties, thus it can help kill the microbes that can cause an infection in the sensitive area and lead to intense itching. It also helps restore the natural pH balance of your vagina.
For topical use:
Soak a tampon in a diluted mixture of equal parts of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and water. Insert it into your vagina for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the tampon, rinse the genital area with warm water and dry it completely. Do it twice daily.
Alternatively, add 2 cups of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar to your bathwater and soak in it for about 20 minutes.
For consumption:
Add 1 tablespoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon of raw honey to a glass of warm water. Drink it twice daily.
6. Tea Tree Oil
To get relief from itching in the genital area, use tea tree oil.
It contains strong antibacterial properties. Tea tree oil not only helps relieve itching, it’s also effective in treating a yeast infection.
A 2006 study published in Clinical Microbiology Reviews reports that the medicinal properties of tea tree oil are due to a chemical compound called terpinen-4-ol, which is effective against germs causing bacterial and yeast infections (6).
A 2015 study published in Phytotherapy Research confirms the efficacy of tea tree oil to prevent acute or recurrent vaginal candidiasis (7).
For topical use only:
Add 4 to 6 drops of tea tree oil to your bathwater. Soak in this water for 10 to 15 minutes. Do this once daily until you get relief from the itching.
Alternatively, add 4 to 6 drops of tea tree oil to 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel and mix well. Apply this mixture on your genital area. Wait 15 minutes, then rinse it off with water. Do it twice daily.
7. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is also effective in treating infections in the private parts that can cause intense itching.
It is rich in antiviral, antifungal and antimicrobial properties that help fight the growth of microbes. Also, coconut oil taken internally helps boost the immune system.
The fatty acid content of coconut oil helps soothe itchy skin and even helps fight vaginal dryness.
A 2009 study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food confirms the effectiveness of virgin coconut oil in combating fungal infections (8).
A 2016 study published in Scientifica reports that coconut oil is effective against C. albicans (9).
For topical use:
Apply coconut oil around the affected area and allow it to sit for 30 minutes. Wash it off with warm water and pat dry the area. Do it 2 or 3 times daily.
Add 2 tablespoons of coconut oil to 3 cups of lukewarm water. Use this mixture to rinse your private parts, 2 or 3 times a day.
For consumption:
Consume 2 tablespoons of coconut oil daily by adding it to your salad, sou
2 tablespoons of coconut oil daily by adding it to your salad, soup or use it for cooking.
8. Boric Acid
Boric acid contains antifungal agents and is very effective in treating yeast infections of the private parts that cause intense itching.
According to a 2009 study published in Sexually Transmitted Diseases, topical boric acid showed encouraging results as a treatment for vaginal infections (10).
In a 2011 scientific review of studies published in the Journal of Women’s Health, experts suggest that boric acid is a safe, alternative, economical option for women with recurrent and chronic symptoms of vaginitis (11).
For topical use only:
Add ¼ teaspoon of boric acid to 1 cup of water. Mix it well. Rinse your private parts with this solution. Do this twice daily until the itching subsides.
Alternatively, you can use boric acid vaginal suppositories that are available in the market. Use it as directed.
Caution: Do not take boric acid orally. If you’re pregnant, you should not use boric acid in any form.
9. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is another good home remedy for keeping a check on the growth of microbes, especially candida growth that causes yeast infections and intense itching.
It contains antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties and helps balance the pH level of the vagina.
A 2001 study published in Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry found that wild oregano oil could stop or slow the growth of C. albicans, depending on the dosage used (12).
For topical use: Mix 2 or 3 drops of oregano oil into 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil. Apply it on the itchy area. Leave it for 2 hours before rinsing it off with warm water. Repeat the remedy once or twice daily until any itchiness and signs of infection have gone.
For consumption: Add 5 drops of oregano oil to a glass of warm water. Drink it 1 or 2 times a day.
Caution: Do not take oregano oil if you take blood thinners for another health condition. Also, avoid oregano oil if you are pregnant.
10. Indian Lilac
Indian lilac, also known as neem, is a great home remedy for genital infections.
It contains strong antifungal and antibacterial properties that help fight the infection and reduce itching and other discomforts.
For topical use:
Put a handful of neem leaves to 4 cups of water and boil it for 10 minutes. Allow the water to cool down, and use it to rinse your private parts twice daily.
Alternatively, mix a few drops of neem oil in coconut oil and dab it on your private parts. Gently wipe it off after 20 minutes. Do it 2 or 3 times a day.
For consumption:
You can drink neem tea a couple of times daily, or take neem capsules after consulting your doctor.
Additional Tips
Avoid whirlpool baths, as they help bacteria grow in the vagina all the more.
When suffering from itchiness in your private parts, try sleeping without wearing underwear.
Only wear cotton underwear, as the fabric is light in weight and allows the area to breathe as well.
Avoid thong underwear and nylon or silk underwear.
As much as possible, wear loose clothing to allow more air flow around the infected area and to prevent a buildup of moisture.
Drink an ample amount of water throughout the day to help your body flush toxins out of your system and balance the pH levels in the body.
Don’t be tempted to scratch the affected area, which will only cause more itchiness and redness.
Eat a healthy and balanced diet, and avoid junk food.
Avoid consuming refined carbohydrates and sugar.
Consume lots of fermented foods, such as kefir, probiotic yogurt and miso.
Cut down on smoking and drinking alcohol.
Avoid any triggering allergens that may cause itching in the private parts.
If you face itching while having intercourse, wait a few days to have sex, until the itching calms down.
Maintain good hygiene, always wash your vagina and keep your vagina dry.
After exercising or swimming, take a shower immediately.
Resources:
Effects of Fresh Garlic Extract on Candida albicans Biofilms. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC538912/. Published January 2005.
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