Hot New Food as Medicine Trend: The Benefits of Turmeric

A quote from Daniel Gilbert tells us: “The secret of happiness is variety, but the secret of variety, like the secret of all spices, is knowing when to use it”. Just a decade or so ago, it was hard to find anyone in your social circle that would be willing to try the natural route with many ailments you can encounter in your day-to-day medical life. Some of them are serious, and some not so serious, but as of late, many around the globe are looking for additional ways to feel better, battle depression, perhaps boost their immunity, and bolster their overall vitality without always relying on man-made chemicals. As we eagerly gleaned the web to learn more about this ancient spice, the knowledgeable folks at Dr. Axe had some good insight about the healing spice.

Turmeric actually comes from the root of the Curcuma longaplant, which is boiled, dried, and then meticulously ground down to the powdered form you find it in at the store. The Chinese and Indian cultures had the most knowledge of how to use it and the benefits of the spice, and for many years in medieval England, the health benefits of the spice were not understood. The flavor is a bit like ginger, and can be found in many curry dishes in places such as the crowded streets of Bombay and the lush green districts of Darjeeling, where the Himalayan Railway rushes hurriedly amongst the hills.

The chemical compound curcumin is where much of the very powerful healing elements of Turmeric lie, and one very important study by the NCBI found that it has very far-reaching antioxidant properties. Outside of the holistic health community, it has taken quite a bit of time for medical practitioners in the Western world to agree with the benefits the spice has, but the discoveries are fairly amazing. As of late, there have been thousands of scientific articles that clearly outline the benefits of use, and one of the most Earthshaking was that it actually had the power to cure bladder cancer cells. The spice was used by the Chinese to cure infections and many other types of dental inflammations, and here are some other benefits of its use:

The ability to battle cancer:studies have shown that around 2,000 milligrams of curcumin inhibited the enzymes that promote cancer in subjects who were already affected by head and neck cancer.

The ability to kill fungus:It’s not just athlete’s foot that thrives on fungus: candida, other skin infections, and jock itch are all products of fungus that can be very uncomfortable. Turmeric and nutmeg have been found to be the most powerful in the fight against fungus when weighed up against 20 other common spices.

Destroying cells that cause lung cancer:Many who never have even used tobacco products still get lung cancer, and it can be very devastating when you first get the news. Some are surprised to learn that turmeric has been proven to destroy the cells that eventually band together and strike one down with this condition.

Increasing lifespan:This is one attribute that many talk about! It seems these days that everyone is wondering what they can truly do to live longer. Studies have shown that Turmeric not only corrects a key step in the citric acid cycle and helps to release additional energy, but also permanently corrects the morphogenetic process.

Lowers blood cholesterol levels:After giving mice 10% Turmeric extract, it was noted that on the 15th day of a 60-day study, their levels of cholesterol had dropped significantly. While it can vary from individual to individual, this is still quite a breakthrough trait for the spice.
If you just ingest Turmeric by itself for the health benefits, you can mix it with a little bit of black pepper; this helps the body absorb it at a faster rate. We know it may seem strange that this additive to a food from faraway lands has this many health benefits, but it does! Also used for toothaches, colic, jaundice, and general hemorrhage, this is one spice that some say is nothing short of a miracle. Everyone should do their own research before taking the plunge and ingesting Turmeric daily, but we sure were curious about this powder’s powerful potential.

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15 Superb Benefits Of Cardamom Tea For Skin, Hair And Health

Cardamom is extensively used for culinary purpose for its strong aroma and unique flavor. Also referred to as ‘Queen of Spices’, it is well known for its medicinal value and has been an integral part of traditional medicine for curing several ailments. Cardamom oil is used in aromatherapy for its refreshing and relaxing nature. The aromatic and intoxicating cardamom tea is an integral part of the diet for those living in the eastern side of the world. The many benefits of cardamom tea for skin, hair and health are described below.

Benefits of Cardamom Tea

Fights Free Radicals

The antioxidants present in cardamom tea helps in eliminating free radicals thereby reducing the risk of developing ailments like cancer.
Skin Problems

Cardamom tea is packed with anti-microbial agents, vitamins and minerals. Hence, it helps fix various kinds of skin problems like acne, eczema etc.
Delays Premature Ageing

Cardamom is an excellent detoxifying agent. It removes toxins and reduces free radical damage thus delaying premature ageing.
Strengthens Your Hair

Regular intake of cardamom tea will strengthen weak strands and makes it shiny and healthy. This is possible due to the anti-oxidative property of the cardamom seeds.
Scalp Infections

The anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties of cardamom will protect the scalp from various types of infections..
Improves Digestion

Cardamom tea boosts digestion and fights problems such as constipation, bloating, heartburn, acidity and nausea. It also enhances the flavor of the food and increases appetite.
Aphrodisiac

Cardamom tea has excellent aphrodisiac agents such as eucalyptol, camphor and borneol. Hence, it works as an aphrodisiac agent. Also, it is used to increase and sustain libido. It increases sperm and egg count too.
Blood Pressure

The diuretic property of cardamom and the presence of mineral potassium make cardamom a great remedy for those suffering from high blood pressure. Diuretic property helps in maintaining normal blood pressure while the potassium lowers high BP.
Prevents Cold

Cardamom is known for its warming properties. Hence, it is used to fight ailments like flu and cold. It is an excellent home remedy to treat sore throat and congestion.
Improves Blood Circulation

Cardamom is used to treat symptoms associated with bronchitis and asthma. It improves blood circulation in the lungs thereby giving relief to the patient.
Anti-Depression

The detoxifying property of cardamom helps in removing toxic waste from the body. It helps in rejuvenating the cells and enhances its performance. The ingredients found in the cardamom tea helps in improving oxygen supply to the brain cells. Hence, it is used to fight depression effectively.
Oral Health

Cardamom has a strong aroma. This is used in the treatment of bad breath. The aroma of cardamom tea will instantly refresh your mouth and keep bad odor at bay. The tea is beneficial for treating tooth decay, gum bleeding and oral infections. The antibacterial effects of cardamom have been used in the Chinese medicine since centuries to cure oral problems.
Relieves Acidity

Cardamom tea fortifies the mucosal lining present in the stomach and increases the saliva secretion. Besides stimulating the salivary glands, it also stimulates the stomach lining to function in a better way.
Cardiovascular Health

Regular intake of cardamom tea will enhance cardiac health. It regulates the blood pressure and helps maintain a regular cardiac rhythm. It is a natural cure for hypertension and heart diseases. It minimizes the possibilities of developing blood clots in the blood stream and lessens the risk of stroke.
Relieves Headache

Are you suffering from headache? Well, just have a cup of aromatic cardamom tea or chew on cardamom seeds. This will relieve your headache quickly.

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Turmeric Benefits for Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer affects the ovaries that are situated on either side of the uterus. This cancer is not easily detectable until it has spread to the abdomen and pelvis. Once it has spread, it is difficult to treat and usually proves fatal. Unfortunately symptoms of ovarian cancer often mimic other conditions. Some of them are – abdominal pressure, bloating, pain, pelvic discomfort, persistent gas, indigestion or nausea, constipation, frequent urination, loss of appetite etc.
Some factors may increase the risk of contracting ovarian cancer like family history, gene mutation, increasing age, women never being pregnant or previous cancer of the breast, rectum, uterus or colon. Pelvic examination, tissue testing and ultrasound are some ways to detect ovarian cancer and treatment consists of chemotherapy and surgery.

Turmeric & Ovarian Cancer

The usage of turmeric and its chemical compound curcumin is not unknown for it is popularly used as a spice and for medicinal purposes in many Asian countries. Researchers are conducting studies on the various benefits that curcumin offers in protecting the immune system and fighting different types of cancer.

According to studies turmeric can interfere with molecular pathways which are responsible for cause and growth of cancer. I have already discussed this in my previous article on Cancer. Here are some of the studies which are done to explore relationship between turmeric and ovarian cancer.

In a 2007 report on the in-vitro research on ovarian cancer, it was concluded that curcumin mayturmeric for ovarian cancer offer therapeutic benefits. These were test tube studies when specific cancer cells were targeted. When curcumin and chemo were given together, it was found to be less drug resistant. Curcumin is an anti-inflammatory agent that can inhibit COX-2 enzyme, therefore benefiting various cancer therapies. Further human studies are required.

Studies have found that when ovarian cancer cells receive pre-treatment from curcumin they seem more vulnerable to chemotherapy. The delivery could be in the form of turmeric nano-particles that make the cancer cells less resistant to chemotherapy. This pre-treatment with curcumin also means that lower doses of radiation and Cisplatin are required to suppress proliferation of ovarian cancer cells. This helps patients suffer from fewer side effects and lesser toxicity.

For this study, ovarian cancer cells resistant to Cisplatin were pre-treated with turmeric and this was followed by exposure to radiation or Cisplatin. Then colony formation and MTS (biochemical cell) assays were examined to determine the effect of curcumin on cancer cell growth. The curcumin that was administered was a special nano-particle formulation that was conjugated specifically for cancer cells with monoclonal antibody. Results showed that pre-treated cancer cells required lower radiation levels and lower doses of cisplatin to inhibit growth. Apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells occurred after pre-treatment. The conclusion was that pre-treatment with turmeric increases chemo/radio sensitization of ovarian cancer cells resistant to cisplatin via multiple molecular mechanisms. Hence, using curcumin could provide therapeutic benefits for patients with ovarian cancer.

Another study was conducted to demonstrate that curcumin could inhibit transcription factor NF-kB, therefore suppressing angiogenesis and inflammation. An orthotopic murine ovarian cancer model was used to study the benefits of turmeric in this study. The study was performed on laboratory mice. It was found that curcumin suppressed proliferation and activation of NF-kB in vitro. In vivo dosages of 500mg/kg were found sufficient to suppress NF-kB, decrease angiogenic cytokine expression etc. There was a 49% and 55% reduction in tumor growth in the 2 in vivo curcumin models compared with control group. When curcumin was combined with docetaxel, there was 96% and 77% reduction in tumor growth compared to the control group, therefore showing its benefits for ovarian cancer.

Based on these studies role of turmeric in ovarian cancer looks positive and promising.

Dosage

General dosage (not only for ovarian cancer) of standardized curcumin powder is 400-600mg thrice daily. You can also take cut root – 1.5-3g daily, fluid extracts – 30-90 drops daily or dried, powdered root 1-3g daily. The specific dosage for each illness can be prescribed by a doctor.

Precautions

Turmeric is safe when used it in appropriate doses. When taken in excess, it can cause nausea, indigestion, diarrhea or dizziness. Pregnant women can suffer from over stimulated uterus or menstrual bleeding and must avoid turmeric supplements. Those with symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), bile duct obstruction or gallstones, those on diabetes medication or taking anti-coagulation drugs must avoid turmeric supplements for their conditions could worsen. Turmeric could slow clotting of blood, hence those undergoing surgery must refrain from using turmeric for a few weeks before and after surgery.

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Ginger Root Tea for Liver Health

Brewing a cup of ginger root tea is a simple, inexpensive practice that imparts a substantial health benefit to the liver. Of particular value to those with excessive fat in the liver, ginger possesses several therapeutic qualities that can prevent or even reverse fatty liver disease.

About Ginger Root

Easy to locate in the produce section of most supermarkets in the U.S., ginger root is one of the most favored spices in the world. Grown throughout most tropical and subtropical regions, ginger is the underground root of the plant Zingiber officinale. Ginger owes its unique sweet and spicy flavor and aroma to several different essential oils:

• Gingerol
• Shogaol
• Zingerone

Considered to be a valuable herb in several types of traditional medicines, ginger is used for:

1. Improving digestion
2. Boosting immunity
3. Reducing inflammation
4. Fighting pathogens (anti-parasitic, anti-fungal, antiviral and anti-bacterial)
5. Easing asthma
6. Aiding cardiovascular health
7. Stopping nausea
8. Relieving cold and flu symptoms

In addition, ginger root plays a valuable role in keeping the liver functioning optimally.

About Liver Health

The liver is an extremely underrated organ. We cannot live without our liver. The liver performs hundreds of vital functions, with some of the most important including:

• detoxifying (cleansing) the blood
• producing hormones and other substances needed by the body
• digesting and metabolizing fat, carbohydrates and protein
• storing and releasing energy

Liver disease progressively damages liver cells, which impedes all of these functions. Even if a person does not have liver disease, exposure to harmful toxins or excessive fat accumulation can injure liver cells. A healthy liver can typically regenerate new cells to replace damaged ones. However, damage from continual toxin or fat exposure can outpace the liver’s ability to regenerate – and liver scarring (fibrosis) can result.

Ginger Supports Liver Health

A daily cup of ginger root tea offers liver health benefits. Ginger’s spicy taste is indicative of its thermogenic properties, which improve blood circulation and the delivery of oxygen, minerals and vitamins to all cells in the body. In addition, ginger root naturally has a high antioxidant content, which reduces cellular damage.

• Liver Fibrosis – According to a study published in the June 2011 issue of the journal Nutrition and Metabolism, ginger may protect against liver fibrosis. Researchers tested several extracts of ginger and found that all extracts increased levels of antioxidant enzymes used by the liver, including glutathione and superoxide dismutase. Thus, ginger has the capability to protect liver cells against damage by free radicals.
• Fatty Liver – According to a study published in the January 2011 edition of the World Journal of Gastroenterology, ginger may protect against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). A condition that affects an estimated 33 percent of American adults, NAFLD is associated with obesity and insulin resistance. The researchers believe that ginger may help prevent or treat this liver condition by reducing oxidative stress on the liver, decreasing insulin resistance and inhibiting inflammation – all contributing factors to NAFLD.
• Fatty Liver – According to a study published in a March 2016 edition of the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, ginger essential oils can reduce levels of fat accumulation in the liver. In an animal model, researchers found that administering ginger essential oils significantly reduced levels of fat accumulation in the liver. The researchers suggest that ginger essential oils are an effective dietary supplement to ameliorate NAFLD.

More About Ginger Root Tea

Brewing ginger root tea can be done in 3 simple steps:

1. Peel and slice three to six slices of fresh ginger.
2. Simmer ginger slices in two cups of water for approximately five to ten minutes.
3. Strain and add honey to taste (if desired).

Although ginger root is considered extremely safe, it is not for everyone. Certain sensitive individuals may experience side effects such as heartburn, diarrhea and mouth irritation. In addition, those with a bleeding disorder or anyone taking blood thinners, diabetes medications or high blood pressure medications are advised to discuss daily ginger tea consumption with their physician.

Besides reducing inflammation in the body, stimulating digestion, aiding blood flow and boosting immunity, ginger protects the liver from scarring and fat accumulation. Thus, for a relatively low cost and minimal effort, incorporating ginger root tea into your routine can help improve overall health and promote optimal liver function.

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17 Simple Home Remedies for Removing Tartar and Plaque for Shinier Teeth

Tartar and plaque are normal dental conditions that result not because of infections and pathogens, but due to the common chemical reactions that place between food, saliva and enzymes secreted by the gums. Though plaque and tartar don’t cause serious diseases themselves, they do act as precursors to a number of known dental ailments. Also, if left unattended they can cause discoloration, bad odor, and formation of hard crystalline deposits on the interface between teeth and gums. Plaque build-up on teeth initially forms as a sticky layer on the surface of teeth and slowly deposits over time near the gums. Tartar on the other hand forms due to binding of calcium and phosphate leading to hard crusty deposits. Numerous home remedies for getting rid of plaque and tartar exist, which are discussed here.

Possible Causes for Tartar and Plaque

• DiscolorationSugary foods
• High fat content foods
• High calorie beverages
• Improper brushing habits
• Lack of regular flossing
• Regular red meat consumption
• Lack of a balanced diet

Symptoms

• Formation of a sticky layer
• Bad odor
• Bleeding of gums
• Visible deposits at the bottom of teeth
• Darkening of gums
• Severe yellowing of teeth

Home remedies for Getting Rid of Plaque and Tartar

1. Baking soda

The bleaching effect produced by baking soda can help remove discoloration and also the hard deposits that form of the gums. To make an effective home remedy, mix a heap of baking soda with a pinch of salt and add few drops of water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the teeth using a toothbrush and rinse off completely. Repeat the procedure at regular intervals till the whiteness of your teeth is restored.

2. Silk Thread Floss

The natural strength and the biocompatible properties of silk make it an excellent flossing material. And it has been in use for ages before the dental floss was invented. Unlike synthetic floss material, silk is believed to strengthen the gums than just clean it. Grab a few strands of silk fiber and use it like regular floss material to watch plaque deposits fade away.

3. Salsa

The fiery hot sauce from the Mexican cuisine not just adds spice to your food but is effective at cleansing your teeth as well. Salsa sauces stimulate the secretion of saliva which when combined with the active ingredients of the sauce such as salt, chilies, tomato etc. form an active plaque removal compound.

4. Pineapple

Rich in vitamin C, pineapples are the perfect super foods for an overall oral hygiene. Besides preventing gum disease, pineapples also help cleanse the teeth of plaque and tartar. Simply include a few portions of pineapple to your daily diet to remove the deposits and discoloration resulting from plaque.

5. Green Tea

It has been known for centuries that consuming tea on a regular basis is one of the best home remedies for getting rid of plaque. Also when used as a hot rinse, green tea can be effective at removing the yellow phosphates formed on the surface of the teeth that cause discoloration. To prepare the hot rinse, brew the tea at least for six minutes to extract all the fluorides and use it when it’s lukewarm to get the best results.

6. Aloe Vera Scrub

To effectively clean tartar at home without having to undergo painful dental procedures, aloe can be the perfect ingredient. Mix half a cup of baking soda in a cup of water, and add one teaspoon of aloe gel, four teaspoons of vegetable glycerin, and few drops of lemon oil to create a rinse liquid. Use it to cleanse mouth every day to remove calculus on teeth.

7. Green Leafy Vegetables

Lack of a balanced diet, especially one that does not include a lot of vegetables can accelerate plaque formation. So, counter the formation of plaque by consuming raw leafy greens such as cabbage, lettuce, spinach, etc, which possess natural enzymes that retard the formation of plaque. Also they help in keeping the gums healthy.

8. Sesame Oil Rinse

A technique that has gained widespread popularity due to its numerous health benefits is oil pulling.It is believed that the technique can eliminate toxins from the body and ensure a picture perfect oral hygiene. To perform oil pulling, take one teaspoon of sesame seed oil and rinse your mouth for 20 minutes on an empty stomach. This will flush out all the toxins, plaque and tartar deposited in your teeth and gums.

9. Apple Cider Vinegar

Of the numerous health benefits Apple cider vinegar has to offer, oral hygiene tops the list. The mild acidic action of vinegar serves to cleanse plaque, remove bad odor and also provide relief from toothache. Though an undiluted preparation will increase the efficiency, it recommended to dilute the vinegar to prevent a sore throat later.

10. Cheese

Contrary to popular belief, cheese is actually quite beneficial to health when consumed in smaller proportions. In terms of oral hygiene, it is one of the best home remedies for getting rid of plaque and tartar. It can destroy cavity causing bacteria and protect the enamel of the tooth. Just take a small chunk of cheese right after a meal to ensure healthy teeth for a lifetime.

11. Orange Peel

Another vitamin C rich remedy that’s sure to knock plaque right out of your teeth. Simply rub freshly obtained orange peels directly on to the teeth and gums and allow it act overnight. Rinse off in the morning to see visibly clean and whiter teeth. The technique also helps to remove yellowish stains on teeth.

12. Cloves

Cloves contain eugenol that is known to benefit oral health for centuries. Chewing one or two cloves on a regular basis helps to remove the bad odor produced by tartar and kill bacteria that might be growing around you gums due to plaque. But chewing too many cloves can hurt your gums too, so keep it to a minimum.

13. Banana Peel Rub

The unsung hero of oral health, banana peels are one of the lesser home remedies for getting rid of plaque and tartar. Banana peels have an active ingredient that can scrub out plaque and also whiten teeth. Peels with dark spots on them are considered to best for teeth whitening.

14. Coriander

Coriander has natural anti-bacterial properties that can help in cleansing your mouth of any bacterial infection. Also when combined with thyme, and green tea and used as rinse it acts an active teeth whitening agent too.

15. Strawberries

To instantly get sparkling white teeth, simply take a few slices or cold strawberries and gently apply them on the plaque affected region. Leave the extract to act on your teeth and rinse off completely, you should visible removal of plaque. Also adding baking soda to the pulp enhances the effect as well.

16. Lemons

Lemon is considered as an active ingredient in fighting off plaque, gingivitis, tartar, and an array of other gum diseases. Just take a slightly concentrated portion of lemon juice each day to get rid of plaque and tartar.

17. Ginger Oil

Clear any plaque buildup and bacterial infection in your teeth with a simple garlic oil mouth rinse. Chewing raw garlic is also known to help in preventing tartar buildup.

The right way to use these remedies and preventing plaque and tartar

Rinse properly after using these home remedies

• Do not swallow these edible items; chew instead
• Discontinue if gums begin to bleed
• Do not use these remedies right after brushing
• Avoid eating acidic foods

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10 Natural Ways To Treat Vaginal Discharge (Leucorrhoea)

Vaginal discharge is a whitish liquid that is produced in the uterus and is discharged by way of vagina. It is a normal process and it generally begins in a girl life when she is due to attain puberty or prior to menstruation. It is the nature’s way of keeping the vagina healthy and lubricated. Women experience vaginal discharge all through their lives though it reduces after they reach the menopausal stage.

Normal vaginal discharge helps to keep the vagina clean and healthy. It does not have a bad odour or you can say that it has no smell at all and you may see the traces of discharge on your under garment. It is normal for vaginal discharge to increase under certain conditions like- A few days before menstruation During pregnancy During ovulation Hormonal treatment Sexual excitement Emotional stress

Tips To  Deal With The Normal Secretion

You can use panty liners to prevent the fluid from escaping and spoiling your clothes. It is also hygienic as the liners will absorb extra moisture and will keep you dry. Wear under garment that are made with cotton yarn as this will keep your skin dry and the discharge will not cause any kind of skin allergy When you have increased discharge, avoid wearing tight clothes like skin fitted jeans or slacks to let the skin breathe. Keep yourself clean and wash the vaginal area with mild soap and water twice a day. When the secretion is more than normal and it creates irritation or emanates a bad odour, it indicates the presence of infection in the vaginal tract. This condition is commonly known as Leucorrhoea.

Symptoms Of Leucorrhoea

Constant discharge which is thick and sticky.
• Irritation and itching in the genitals.
• A strong and foul smell.
• In acute infection the discharge make carry traces of blood and appears pinkish in tone.
• Constant fatigue and discomfort with pain in calves.
• Fever in case the infection is severe.
You can treat leucorrhoea with natural ways at the onset of the problem and avoid harmful side effects of medicines.

Natural Ways To Treat Leucorrhoea

Amla

Amla or Indian gooseberry helps to cure leucorrhoea. Take 3 grams amla powder and 6 grams honey, mix them to make a paste and take it two times a day for 30 days.

Take 20 grams amla juice mixed with ½ tea spoon honey for one month for positive result.

Banana

You should eat banana every day when you are suffering from leucorrhoea. Eat one banana with milk and honey in the morning.

You can cook raw banana to make vegetable and eat it with your meals. Mash two ripe bananas and mix it with 3 teaspoons of honey and take it two three times a day.

Pomegranate

Pomegranate is beneficial when eaten as a fruit or consumed as juice but for leucorrhoea its leaves also holds medicinal value.

Take 30 fresh pomegranate leaves, wash them thoroughly and grind them with 10 black peppercorns. Mix the paste with half a glass of water and strain it. Drink this liquid in morning and evening fo three weeks.

Dry Ginger Powder (Sonth)

Take 2 teaspoon of dry ginger powder and boil it in 250ml. Of water till the water is reduced to half. Drink this decoction for three weeks and you will be relieved of leucorrhoea.

Basil (Tulsi)

Basil or tulsi has marvellous medicinal value. It has the power to cure several diseases and it can also prevent many ailments. You can use tulsi to cure leucorrhoea in many ways.
Mix the juice of basil leaves and honey in equal proportion and take it in the morning and evening for two weeks. Mix 1 tea spoon tulsi juice with 1/2 tea spoon cumin powder and consume it with cow’s milk for three weeks. Take tulsi juice with crystallized sugar (Mishri).

Alum (Phitkari)

Alum is a natural antiseptic and it can be taken orally or can be used externally to treat leucorrhoea. Take ¼ tea spoon of alum powder with water two times a day to cure excessive vaginal discharge.

You can dissolve alum powder in water and use it as vaginal douche for treating the infection. This is a very effective remedy to cure various type of infections related to genitals.

Lady‘s Fingers

Prepare a decoction with 200 grams lady finger and one litre water. Boil till the water is reduced to half and divide the potion in two or three doses. Follow the treatment at least for a week for positive results.

Rice Starch

Rice starch helps to treat leucorrhoea as well as stomach ailments. Boil rice and keep the strained water aside and drink it in small doses when suffering from leucorrhoea.

Fenugreek

Soak 1 tea spoon fenugreek seeds in water overnight and strain the water in the morning. Add ½ tea spoon of honey to it and drink it on an empty stomach in the morning. You can prepare a decoction of fenugreek seeds to be used as vaginal douches. Boil two tea spoon fenugreek seeds in a litre of water for 30 minutes and strain it. Use when it is cool.

Guava

Boil a few guava leaves in one litre of water till the water is reduced to half. Cool it and strain it. Use the water for vaginal douches twice a day.

Medical care is necessary in the case of acute infection. It may become chronic if proper care is not taken to deal with the problem. Leucorrhoea is related to increased stress level and a sedentary life style. You must follow a regular exercise regimen and keep yourself occupied in some creative or constructive activity to maintain physical fitness and to reduce stress. Eat a healthy dietconsisting of fresh vegetables like cucumber, spinach, tomato, radish, onion, carrots etc. Add fresh fruits and especially citrus fruits in your daily diet to maintain good health. Eat yogurt and avoid milk for some time till the discharge is severe. Avoid fried foods and reduce the consumption of tea and coffee as they cause irritation and burning in the genitals.

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Top 10 Home Remedies For Menstrual Cramps

Menstrual cramps are one of the most irritating and painful disorder that can affect a woman at the time of the periods. This is mainly because; menstrual cramps not only cause a lot of physical problems to the woman but also cause a lot of mental problems as the woman has to suffer a lot of stress.
Majority of women due to embarrassment don’t visit any doctor and hence live with the condition. This further aggravates the problem for the woman as they have to live in frustration. If you are also one of those women who suffers from menstrual cramps then you must know that you can treat them from the comfort of your home with some useful home remedies.

The main attractive feature of these home remedies is they offer you complete privacy as you don’t need visit any doctor for treatment. Also, these home remedies are very affordable and you also save a lot of money. Let us take a look at some of the highly effective home remedies that will help you to get rid of menstrual cramps.

Home Remedies For Menstrual Cramps

Treat Menstrual Cramps With the Help Of Hot Water

This one is one of the simplest home remedies that you can use to get rid of menstrual cramps. To make use of this home remedy you just need to take some hot water in a bottle or rubber bag and place it on your stomach. Doing this regularly can ease the menstrual cramps.

Treat Menstrual Cramps With the Help Of Mint Leaves

This is also one of the best home remedies that you can use to get rid of your menstrual cramps. All you have to do is take some peppermint leaves and dissolve them in water or tea and consume on a regular basis. This will definitely help you to get rid of the pain occurring due to the menstrual cramps.

Treat Menstrual Cramps With the Help Of Yoga

Practicing yoga on a regular basis can also help you to get rid of menstrual cramps. Practice some yoga poses such as Cobbler’s pose daily and see how you will be able to get rid of the menstrual cramps almost instantly.

Treat Menstrual Cramps With the Help Of Parsley

Parsley is known for its medicinal properties and is also very effective in treating menstrual cramps. All you have to do is take some parsley and make a juice out of its leaves and drink it at the time of your periods. It is one of the best home remedies as it not only helps you to get rid of menstrual cramps but also cures irregular periods.

Treat Menstrual Cramps With the Help Of Ginger

The spice ginger is known for its medicinal properties. It is also a good home remedy that can help you to get rid of your menstrual cramps. All you have to do is take some ginger and extract a tsp of its juice. Pour this juice in a cup of warm water and drink it on a regular basis and see you will be able to get rid of menstrual cramps almost instantly.

Treat Menstrual Cramps With the Help Of Holy Basil

This is another good home remedy that you can use to get rid of menstrual cramps. There are various ways through which you can make use of holy basil to treat your condition. You can either chew the leaves of holy basil raw or can add them in your tea or as a spice in your food. You can also dissolve them in warm water and then drink the water to get rid of your menstrual cramps.

Treat Menstrual Cramps With the Help Of Cinnamon

This is another good home remedy that you can use to get rid of your menstrual cramps. This is mainly because; Cinnamon is known for its anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties of Cinnamon make it one of the best home remedies for menstrual cramps. You can either consume Cinnamon in its raw form or can add it in your tea or food as spice.

Treat Menstrual Cramps With the Help Of Vitamins

This is also one of the best home remedies that can help you to get rid of your menstrual cramps. All you have to do is include foods that are rich in vitamins. These include fresh fruits. Eat more and more fresh fruits such lime and orange. These fruits contain lots of vitamins and hence when consumed on a regular basis can help you to keep the menstrual cramps at bay.

Treat Menstrual Cramps With the Help Of Exercise

Exercising on a regular basis can help you to get rid of your menstrual cramps. A simple brisk walk or some simple exercises when practiced daily can prevent menstrual cramps in the first place.

Treat Menstrual Cramps With the Help Of Minerals

Increasing the intake of minerals in your diet can also help you to get rid of menstrual cramps. Minerals such as calcium and potassium are good for reducing the intensity of the menstrual cramps. All you have to do is include foods that include these minerals into your daily diet.

These were some of the most effective home remedies that can help you to get rid of your menstrual problems. It is important to note that these home remedies should not be followed only at the time of periods. In fact, if you follow them daily then you can lead a better and healthy life. Don’t forget to exercise on a daily basis, take point of the Pubococcygeous muscles or PC muscles and then try to exercise them on a daily basis.

These muscles are the ones, which contract at the onset of menstruation cycle. Nourishing these muscles will not only help you to get rid of the menstrual cramps but will also provide you relief from some of the sexual disorders such as Vaginismus as well. So don’t wait for long, use these home remedies and get rid of the menstrual cramps instantly.

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What Are the Benefits of Cardamom Fennel?

Cardamom and fennel are two separate herbs. They are often combined together in supplements and teas because they both provide compatible benefits. Many of the benefits provided by fennel and cardamom help with the digestive system and pain regulation. None of the benefits of cardamom or fennel have been certified by the FDA. Always consult with a doctor before taking any supplements or herbs for healing.

Digestive System

Both cardamom and fennel are beneficial to the digestive tract. Cardamom is often used to relieve nausea symptoms and even vomiting. Fennel is used to help increase digestive functions and to reduce pain of all kinds, including stomach pain. Drinking fennel and cardamom tea during pregnancy and during times of stomach upset can help relieve the symptoms of nausea.

Soothe Stomach

Cardamom has the benefit of soothing a sour stomach. Indigestion, heartburn, cramps and nausea symptoms can be reduced when cardamom is taken. Cardamom should only be taken by healthy adults and should never be used to cure any medical issue. Always tell your doctor if you are taking any external supplements or teas like cardamom.

Expectorant

Cardamom can be taken to loosen mucus in the chest during times of congestion. The cardamom encourages the body to eliminate the harmful bacteria from the body through the expelling of loose mucus through coughing. Taking several doses of cardamom can encourage the body to cough, which can speed up the healing process. Do not take cardamom in conjunction with other medicines, even over-the-counter medicines.

Dulls Pain

Fennel was often used in the past to dull pain. Fennel can be used to dull any kind of pain, but the results will probably not be noticeable for severe pains. Fennel should only be taken to relieve the pain from mild headaches, cramps and other aches. Any severe pain should be investigated by a doctor.

Blood Pressure

Fennel can sometimes help reduce blood pressure. This benefit has not been evaluated by the FDA and if your doctor has prescribed a blood pressure medication you should continue to take it. Fennel can be used, however, to help keep blood pressure low. A cup of fennel tea can help keep regular blood pressure below the high pressure line.

Depression

Fennel is also documented as aiding in reducing depression symptoms. Fennel should never be taken as a cure for depression, but a daily dose of fennel can help keep depression symptoms at bay. If you are taking a depression medication, consult with your doctor before adding fennel to your diet.

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The Health Benefits of Eyebright Herb

Eyebright is a plant which belongs to the Figwort family and is said to be originated in Europe. The herb’s name comes from its common use as an alternative treatment for eye related ailments.  Its flowers are arranged in a spike; the white petals often have a red tinge, but may be purple-veined or have a yellow spot on the lower petal. The flowers have the appearance of bloodshot eyes. It contains vitamins B, C, E, and beta-carotene, alkaloids and antioxidants.

The nutritional and herbal ingredients make it beneficial for many eye problems including ophthalmia (severe inflammation of the eye), blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), conjunctivitis (pink eye), cataracts, weeping eye, and bloodshot or strained eyes. Thanks to eyebright’s astringent tannins and flavonoids, the herb can help minimize unpleasant allergy symptoms, including runny noses and watery eyes. The astringent tannins tighten mucus membranes, which helps to reduce discharge. If you are using eyebright to treat eye problems, it is essential that the eye compress or drops are prepared in a clean, sanitary environment.

It is used as an anti-inflammatory for hay fever, sinusitis, upper respiratory tract infections, and catarrh (inflammation of the mucous membranes). Eyebright is able to be purchased in the forms of teabags, loose dried leaves, capsules, liquid, tablets, powder, tincture, and oil.

“In addition to its eye care benefits, eyebright may have hepatoprotective benefits. Healthline.com says eyebright contains aucubin, a promising liver-protecting iridoid glycoside. However, Healthline.com also indicates that the promotion of eyebright’s hepatoprotector activity remains limited due to insufficient scientific evidence”.

Side effects of topical eyebright may include itchiness, increased sensitivity to light, swollen eyelids, changes in vision, watery eyes, or changes in eye pressure. Nausea, sweating and confusion have also been reported with oral eyebright use and as such eyebright must be administered with caution, it’s always a better choice to contact a health care provider before use.

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Benefits From Drinking Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe vera has been known for centuries as an effective topical skin treatment, offering a variety of healing and soothing benefits. Aloe vera juice offers even more health benefits, and is increasingly recognized as the ultimate health drink. According to HerbWisdom.com's aloe vera report, over 200 scientific research papers have been published worldwide pertaining to its health benefits. The many vitamins and minerals of aloe vera juice address a large number of body parts and body functions that maintain overall health and well-being.

Nutrients of Aloe Vera Juice

In addition to being highly valuable in health benefits, the composition of aloe vera juice is interesting in that it cannot easily be duplicated in a lab. The power of aloe vera juice doesn't come from one or two particular nutrients, but from its total combination of minerals and vitamins. Aloe vera contains protein, zinc, magnesium, calcium, germanium, amino acids, essential fatty acids and enzymes, and vitamins A, C, E, and B12.

Detoxification

Similar to the anti-bacterial properties aloe vera offers the skin as a topical treatment, aloe vera juice is highly effective as an internal body cleanser. It detoxifies unhealthy cell matter in the stomach, kidneys, spleen, liver, bloodstream, and bladder. It is best known, however, for its ability to clean out the colon. HerbWisdom.com identifies aloe vera juice as the finest known colon cleanser. NatauralNews.com reports that aloe vera juice can actually halt colon cancer.

Immune System Benefits

The vitamins, mineral, and enzymes of aloe vera juice help the strengthening of the immune system, which not only helps battle existing viruses and diseases, but helps resist the contraction of new ones. Aloe vera's anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties help sustain the immune system. Also, an extract of aloe vera, called carrisyn, helps stimulate the production of infection-fighting blood cells.The United States Food and Drug Administration approved aloe vera for HIV treatment in 1994, since it stimulates white blood cell production and fights viruses and tumors when taken in high doses.

Digestive System Benefits

Aloe vera juice helps the functioning of the digestive tract, relieving intestinal or stomach problems. Its healing and soothing benefits alleviate ulcers and other problems with stomach distress. Aloe vera is also used to ease heartburn, diverticular disorders, Crohn's disease, colitis and other types of digestive upset, and reduce the secretion of stomach juices that cause digestive upset. The juice also improves and eliminates constipation. If taken daily, aloe vera aids overall digestion to ensure its smooth and proper functioning.

Circulatory Improvements

Aloe vera juice improves circulation with vitamin C, which promotes healthy circulation and maintains the tone of blood vessels, and germanium, which aids circulatory disturbances. Other components help dilate the capillaries and support new cell growth. Aloe vera juice also regulates blood consistency, which affects circulation, as the juice helps repair and replace unhealthy, abnormal cells with healthy ones, preventing thick "sludge" blood. High blood pressure contributes to poor circulation, and aloe vera juice reduces high blood pressure by boosting blood oxygenation, and offering therapeutic benefits that protect the body from oxidative stress. Some components of aloe vera juice help the metabolism of carbohydrates, protein, and fat, preventing a buildup of fat in the arteries. This benefit contributes to improved circulation, but also to preventing cardiac arrest.

Anti-inflammatory Aid

Aloe vera's anti-inflammatory properties work just as well on the inside of the body as they do outside of the body, on the skin. Aloe vera juice promotes the healing of bones and joints, reducing swelling caused by arthritis, in addition to healing internal tissue damage.

Aloe's Aid in Other Health Conditions

HerbWisdom.com reports that a lab study conducted at the University of San Antonio in 1997 revealed that daily intake of aloe vera reduces the risk of leukemia, kidney disease, and heart disease. Aloe vera juice is also used to help treat and heal asthma, prevents kidney stones, and stabilize blood sugar levels for diabetics. It is used to prevent and treat candida infections, hemorrhoids, insomnia, vaginitis and leg cramps.

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Medicinal Benefits of Turmeric Root

Turmeric root looks similar to ginger and belongs to the same family of spices. You may know it as a yellow-orange powder that's used as one of the spices in curry. Even though the current research on turmeric and health involves mostly lab animals, not people, one of turmeric's components, curcumin, is popularly credited with providing individuals several health benefits, from reducing minor inflammation to inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.

Anti-carcinogenic

Knowing that turmeric has been used for centuries as an anti-inflammatory in certain societies and that inflammation plays a role in cancer development, researchers at the Department of Experimental Therapeutics, MD Anderson Cancer Center at the University of Texas decided to study the effects it would have on cancer cells. Their research revealed that curcumin, a component of turmeric, suppressed the spread of breast cancer cells to the lungs in mice.

Anti-inflammatory

In the book, "Turmeric: The Genus Curcuma," the authors refer to research that indicates turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory. They claim that turmeric oil and curcumin exhibit potent anti-inflammatory effects. Oral administration of curcumin in instances of acute inflammation was found to be as effective as cortizone.

Diabetes Preventive

In one study published by the National Institutes of Health, researchers at the Columbia University Medical Center Diabetes and Endocrinology Research Center found that curcumin treatment of obese mice reduced inflammation and diabetes.

Deepak Chopra, in "The Chopra Center Herbal Handbook," recommends that anyone with adult-onset diabetes include turmeric in his daily diet.

Heart Support

According to the Journal of Clinical Investigation, researchers studied the effects of turmeric's curcumin on the hearts of rats. Researchers gave laboratory rats curcumin and then operated on their hearts to make them susceptible to heart failure. They submitted another group of rats that didn't receive curcumin to the same procedure.

The curcumin not only prevented heart failure, it also reversed heart enlargement in the first group of rats.

Cold Remedy

In the "Chopra Center Herbal Handbook," Deepak Chopra recommends mixing turmeric in coriander or cinnamon tea to treat colds, the flu and fevers. You can also sprinkle the spice on a teaspoon of honey and take it to stop coughing.

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How to Get Rid of Pimples Overnight Using Home Remedies

Getting pimples can be disconcerting at any age. Before resorting to high-priced, over-the-counter treatments, you might prefer to try treating pimples at home. If you need to get rid of pimples overnight, try using home remedies that can be made using ingredients from your kitchen. If you don't have these items, you can find them at your grocery store.

Things You'll Need

• Basil
• Water
• Cotton balls
• Lemon juice
• Face cleanser
• Egg whites
• Honey
• Cinnamon
• Washcloth

Step 1

Concoct a pimple treatment at home using basil and hot water. It’s often used in aromatherapy as an acne treatment. Basil also has antibacterial properties. Put 2 to 3 tbsp. basil into 8 oz. hot water. Let the mixture sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Dip a cotton ball into the liquid; then apply it to your pimples. Leave it on overnight. You don't need to wash it off in the morning.

Step 2

Apply lemon juice to pimples. Lemon juice is an effective overnight remedy to treat pimples because it contains alpha hydroxy acids, an ingredient that is in many expensive skin care products. To use it as an overnight treatment, first wash your face with a gentle face cleanser. Pour or squeeze 1 tsp. lemon juice into a bowl. If you have sensitive skin, also pour 1 tsp. water into the bowl and mix it with the lemon juice. Use a cotton ball to absorb the liquid, and apply the mixture to your pimples. Leave the lemon juice on your skin overnight. Wash it off in the morning.

Step 3

Prepare an egg white mask to treat pimples overnight. Egg whites not only help to heal the pimples, they also reduce inflammation and make them less noticeable while healing. All you need is 2 to 3 egg whites. There is no need to add anything to them. Pour them into a bowl. Use a cotton ball to apply the egg whites to the affected areas. Wash them off in the morning using warm water.

Step 4

Mix together a paste of honey and cinnamon, and apply it to pimples. Honey has moisturizing properties as well as antibacterial properties. Cinnamon is often used in ayurvedic medicine as it also has healing properties. Put about 2 tsp. honey in a bowl. Add 1 to 2 tsp. cinnamon to the honey and mix them together to form a paste. Wash your hands, and then apply the mixture to your pimples using your fingers. Leave it on your skin overnight. Wash it off your skin in the morning using warm water and a washcloth.

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How to Use Ginger to Treat High Cholesterol

If your cholesterol is over 200, you should takes steps to lower your numbers. While diet and exercise can treat high cholesterol, consider getting extra help from ginger. Ginger is a commonly used spice found in many dishes all over the world. It adds flavor to food and can help you treat your high cholesterol.
Look for whole ginger root that is light brown and knobby in appearance.

Store the ginger wrapped in a paper towel and sealed in a plastic bag. Keep this bag in the vegetable bin of your refrigerator.

Peel fresh ginger before you use it. Instead of peeling the whole root, only peel the portion that you cut off to use.

Look for recipes that call for ginger. Go to Ginger People for Thai, Indian and other fun recipes (see Resources below).

Add ginger to a variety of foods to lower your cholesterol. Use ginger that is grated, minced or chopped in homemade ice cream, soups, salads, marinades and vegetable dishes.

Take ginger root juice to treat high cholesterol. Insert ginger into your juicer or add the juice to a vegetable-juice cocktail.

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Natural Ways to Cleanse Colon and Stomach

Almost everyone knows the importance of a healthy digestive system. When our insides function at their best, it shows in our skin, our hair and even our happy smiles. Keeping your digestive system healthy involves getting rid of unhealthy toxins and trapped food particles. Three of the best ways to naturally cleanse cost relatively little and are readily available.

The Problem

Many individuals worry about colon health only after experiencing unpleasant digestive issues. Unfortunately, Martin Zucker argues, American eating habits “eventually [turn] the colon into a waste dump for toxins.” All-natural foods or unrefined foods usually take about 30 hours to digest, while unhealthy foods, such as those high in fat and low in fiber, may take more than two days to digest. Our digestive system constantly breaks the food down to smaller and smaller bits, some of which remain trapped in the colon along with millions of harmful bacteria. According to an article in the February 1999 issue of "Natural History," the average colon contains as many as 100,000,000,000,000 microorganisms, some of which are harmful bacteria.

Fiber

Cleanse your digestive system naturally by changing your eating habits. Foods high in fiber—the portion of the plant the digestive enzymes in the human body cannot break down—make for natural cleansers. In the colon, fiber absorbs water and swells, making it easy for the muscles in the intestinal wall to grab on and push it through. On its way, the fiber acts as a broom for small particles. High-fiber foods good for digestion include whole grains, vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans and fruits.

An article in the October 2, 2003 issue of "The New York Amsterdam News" touts the benefits of brown rice, a bulky food high in fiber, as an all-natural colon cleaner. By cleaning the colon, brown rice helps reduce the risk of developing serious conditions including colon cancer, colitis and diverticulosis. Eating plenty of brown rice will help you lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL), which in turn lowers your risk for developing heart disease. It may also inhibit your intestines' ability to absorb estrogen, which lowers your risk for breast cancer.

Water

Drink plenty of water. Water helps move food and wastes through the digestive system. It creates a sense of fullness and helps wash the food on its way. Water also stimulates the hormone that causes muscular movement in the intestines, helping push the food and waste along rather than becoming trapped as toxic waste. It also helps separate sticky waste from the lining of the colon. Drink half of your body weight in ounces of water each day (i.e., if you weigh 150 lbs., drink 75 oz. of water a day) to keep your body clean and in good working condition.

Herbal Solutions

Natural supplements detoxify the digestive system without causing the pain harsher medication cleansers cause. One solution, triphala, comprises three Indian fruits. A mild supplement available in both capsule and powder form, triphala rids the colon of toxins that can lead to diseases and chronic health conditions. Other herbs that promote cleansing and healthy digestive functioning include cumin, cardamom, fennel seeds, ginger and rhubarb root.

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