Tuesday, November 26, 2013

home remedies to get rid of itching

Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Itching Itching is an irritating and uncomfortable sensation that makes the person to scratch any area of the body. Itches can be restricted to any particular area of the body or they can occur all over the body. In medical terms itching is known as pruritus. Sometimes itching is accompanied by visible skin abnormalities like rash, blisters or bumps. In some cases itching worsens at night. The causes of itching may vary in each person. Infections, insect stings, bites, sun exposure, dry skin, any chronic diseases, skin conditions like eczema, allergies etc can cause itching in people. The scratching of the skin may disrupt the skin and may lead to infections. The itching caused by bites, stings, dry skin, sun exposure etc can be effectively treated with various home remedies. It is necessary to understand the underlying cause and use appropriate home remedies. Some of the important home remedies for itching caused by different reasons are given below. Home Remedies For itching 1. Baking Soda Baking soda can cleanse the skin. It can be used in different ways to get rid of general and localized itch. • Add one cup of baking soda to the warm bathing water. • Soak your body in this water for at least 30 minutes • Pat dry the skin • For localized itching, make a paste of the three parts of baking soda with one part of water and apply to the affected area. 2. Lemon Juice Lemon juice acts as a cleanser and also has antiseptic properties. This can reduce the itching and prevent any infections of the skin. • Extract the juice from lemon. • Apply it directly on the affected area. • If you have scratched the skin this will cause a burning sensation, but it will heal the scratches and scars faster. 3. Essential Oils The itching of the skin caused by the dryness of the skin and some fungal infections can be easily removed using essential oils. Some of the essential oils such as lavender oil, rosemary oil, basil oil, clove oil, chamomile oil have anti- inflammatory and soothing properties which will alleviate the irritations. • Add essential oils to the bathing water. • Instead you can directly apply it on to the skin and wash it off after 30 minutes. 4. Olive, Sesame Or Almond Oil These oils reduce the dryness of the skin and relieve you from the itch caused by dry and flaky skin. This remedy will be extremely helpful in winter season. • Heat any of these oils and apply to the whole body or to the particular areas as required. 5. Coconut Oil This remedy will be extremely useful for night time itch. Coconut oil has antiseptic properties and it also moisturizes the skin. • Soak your body in warm water for 20 minutes. • Pat dry the skin and apply a thick layer of coconut oil on the dry skin areas. • Cover the areas with warm clothes and go to bed • You will be having an itch free-sleep at night and your skin will look very fresh the next day. 6. Apple Cider Vinegar This remedy can relieve you from itching more effectively. • Apply vinegar using a cotton ball to the affected areas • Add 2-3 cups of vinegar in the bathtub and soak your body for 15-20 minutes. 7. Aloe Aloe Vera gel can moisturize the skin and hydrate it. It will protect your skin from any infections. • Take the gel out of the fresh leaf of Aloe Vera and apply to the itchy skin • Let it dry for some time and wash it off with lukewarm water. 8. Honey And Milk Honey has anti microbial property and milk has anti inflammatory property. Honey and milk moisturizes the skin as well. • Make a mixture of milk and honey using equal quantities. • Dip a washcloth in this mixture and apply to the affected areas of the skin 9. Beeswax This remedy will be very effective for people suffering from itching due to psoriasis or eczema. • Mix honey, olive oil and melted beeswax. • Apply this mixture to the itchy areas of the skin when it is warm. • Repeat the remedy till you get relief from itching. 10. mint Mint has anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of menthol in it. Mint also has antiseptic properties • Boil 1 cup of mint leaves in 2cups of water • Allow the mixture to cool and strain it • Apply this mint tea to the affected areas of the skin 11. Basil The eugenol present in basil has anesthetic properties which help to relieve itching. • Prepare a brew of the basil leaves and water • Allow the preparation to cool and apply to the itchy skin 12. Cold Compress This is an easy way to reduce itching caused by bites or stings • Apply ice pack or washcloth containing ice to the itchy areas 13. Witch Hazel This astringent cleanses the skin and reduces itching. • Boil the bark of witch hazel in water and apply the cold mix to the skin • You can also use the witch hazel in the astringent form available from drugstore. 14. Oatmeal Oatmeal works as exfoliate and removes the dead skin cells. • Add 2 cups of oatmeal to the bath water. • Soak the body in this water or 15- 30 minutes. • Wash off with water after rubbing the skin. 15. Vaseline Or Petroleum Jelly Petroleum jelly helps to prevent itching caused by the dryness of the skin. Vaseline coating helps to hold the moisture within the skin. • Take a bath in hot water using mild soap. • When the skin is damp apply the Vaseline. Are you suffering from any kind of itching sensation? What are you waiting for? Stop scratching and try any of the above given home remedies to get rid of itching. Find out which method will be most suitable for you to get relief from the itch

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Best Home Remedies For Chest Congestion

Best Home Remedies For Chest Congestion Many people suffer from chest congestion. This is a common problem and this condition indicates other health conditions or diseases. Chest congestion can be caused by ailments affecting the respiratory system, due to common cold or due to heart diseases. The feeling of tightness, heaviness or pressure in the chest region is considered as chest congestion. Breathing becomes difficult due to the tightness or pressure in the chest. There will be restarted air flow through the air passages. Chest congestion implies to the obstruction in the flow of oxygen in to the lungs. Since chest congestion actually indicates the underlying health condition it is necessary to seek medical diagnosis as some of the causes may be life threatening. The buildup of mucus or fluids in and around the lungs results in chest congestion. The inflammation in the lower respiratory tract is an immune response to any infection, allergy, foreign body, bacteria or virus. The mucus accumulates in the chest region causing congestion. The Causes of Chest Congestion There are a number of causes for chest congestion. They are • Common cold • Bronchitis • Flu • Asthma • Gastro esophageal reflux • Pneumonia • Pulmonary edema • Lung cancer • Cystic fibrosis • Airborne allergies • Heart problems Of these causes the most common one is common cold. The Symptoms Of Chest Congestion It is easy to identify the symptoms of chest congestion. The labored breathing and restricted supply of oxygen to the lungs due to chest congestion makes a person feel tired. Cough and chest pain are the common symptoms associated with the condition. Cough is the natural method through which the body tries to get rid of the accumulated mucus or phlegm from the lungs. The mucus in and around the lungs trap the pathogens and pollutants entering through the respiratory tract. The important symptoms of chest congestion are • Coughing • Shortness of breath • Chest pain • Runny nose • Labored breathing • Wheezing • Dizziness • Discomfort in the chest • Blood in phlegm • Crackling noise while breathing As chest congestion is a symptom of other disease or medical condition it may be accompanied by several other symptoms as well. If the chest congestion is caused by flu the associated symptoms include • Fever • Chills • Body ache • Malaise If the breathing of the patient becomes more difficult or if there is blood present in the mucous while coughing, the condition may be serious and it is better to get medical consultation. So, the symptoms of chest congestion mainly depend on the cause. The above symptoms either appear in isolation or sometime occur together. If you make sure that the chest congestion is not due to any serious health conditions, you can opt for home remedies for chest congestion. What Is The Role Of Chest Mucus? Mucus has an important role to play in our respiratory system. • They protect the walls of the respiratory system. • They contain antiseptic enzymes and immunoglobulins which protect the system from infections and lung irritants. • When we have infection of the respiratory system the mucus is produced in large amounts and the immunoglobulins present in it fights with the foreign bodies invading the system. • This mucous along with the dead immune cells and the invaded bacteria and virus is expelled out though coughing. Chest Congestion in Children Even small children suffer from chest congestion. They are more susceptible to infections which cause the chest mucus production. They are unable to clear the congestion or to avoid the discomfort. Try to reduce the mucus entering the chest of the children or babies by timely removal of the mucus buildup in the nose. You can use the home remedies for chest congestion removal if the problem is due to cold. Methods to Remove the Chest Mucus It is necessary to remove the mucus deposited in the chest region to get relief from chest congestion. Here are some tips to clear mucus from chest. • If you are a smoker, stop the habit. Smoking can aggravate the respiratory problems infections and lung problems. Smoking irritates the mucus membranes and causes the excess production of chest mucus. • It is necessary to treat nasal and sinus infections as early as possible to prevent chest infections and deposition of phlegm in the chest. • Some cough suppressants cause the build–up of phlegm in the lungs and this leads to prolonged chest infections. • Drinking plenty of warm water will loosen the phlegm and helps them to get removed from the system. • Practicing ‘pranayamam’ in yoga helps to improve breathing and increases the lung capacity. The Importance of Home Remedies for Chest Congestion The natural treatments or home remedies are extremely useful if the chest congestion is not due to any serious conditions or if the problem is not persistent. The chest congestion due to common cold or flu can be easily relieved by home remedies. • These remedies are effective in people of all ages. • In situations where the use of pharmaceutical products has to be avoided such as pregnancy home remedies are the best options. • They are safe to use as there are no side effects associated with it. • They are easily available Diet for Reducing Chest Congestion A weak immune system causes the infections like flu, pneumonia etc. consume a balanced diet to improve the immune system and to get rid of congestion. Diet rich in vitamin C and vitamin E can boost your immune system. The mucus production in the body can be reduced by proper diet. Avoid dairy products if you are having cheat congestion. Dairy products increase the mucus production. Onions, celery and garlic are effective in reducing mucus production in the body. Opt for warm foods when you are having chest congestion. Warm foods and drinks help to open the airways and this result in the easy elimination of mucus from body. Home Remedies for Chest Congestion Home remedies are the treatments which are used by people generation after generation and they are the best way to treat non- serious ailments. Here are some of the options that have been around for years to cure chest congestion. Onions Onions can be used cooked or raw for reducing chest congestion. You can use the raw small onions or the shallots along with sugar to thin the mucous present in the chest. Chew and swallow about 5-6 shallots along with sugar before you go to bed at night. You can also use the big onions sautéed or curried to treat this problem. This is one of the most effective home remedies for chest congestion. The sulfur and quercetin present in the onion helps to break down the mucus and eases the chest congestion. The next day morning you will be feeling better. Hot Water Whenever you feel thirsty drink hot water, anything hot will dissolve the thick phlegm associated with congestion. So, when you cough the phlegm will come out. You can also keep a hot water pack over the chest to ease of chest pain and to loosen the phlegm. Gargling with salty hot water for three to four times a day is also effective in reducing the mucus deposition. Chicken Soup This one of the common home remedies for chest congestion. Drinking hot chicken soup reduces the inflammation in the lungs. The black pepper used in soup reduces the production of mucus and soothes cough. Chicken soup helps to speed up the movement of mucus through body and it get eliminated quickly. Lemon and Honey Lemon and Honey is a well known cough suppressant. You can drink a teaspoon of honey alone or you can mix honey with warm water and drink it. This will reduce the congestion and cough for several hours. Honey has antibacterial properties which reduces the infection of the respiratory tract. You can mix a glass of hot water, a teaspoon of lemon juice and honey and drink it like tea. Breathing the steam helps to open up the nasal passages. Drink the mix three to four times a day to loosen the congestion. Black Coffee If you are suffering from cough and shortness of breath due to asthma attack then black coffee is good remedy for your problem. Drink one or two cups of strong black coffee to get relief from breathing problem. Do not drink more than two cups as more caffeine can create adverse effect in asthma patients. Excess caffeine can increase your blood pressure and heart rate. Honey and Red Hot Chili Peppersoney and pepper are effective in reducing the thickness of phlegm and helps in the easy removal of the phlegm from the respiratory tract and from lungs. Honey again help in reducing the infections as they have antiseptic properties. Take half a teaspoon of powdered black pepper and mix it with honey to make a paste. Swallow this paste at least thrice a day to get faster relief from the chest congestion problem. Ginger Tea Ginger tea helps in reducing the inflammations in the respiratory tract as it has analgesic and antibacterial property. Ginger candies can be used to soothe the cough due to cold. You can also take powdered ginger along with honey to reduce the problem of throat infections and chest congestion. Increasing the Humidity of the Room To reduce congestion and cough and to breathe properly add humidity to the room used by the person with chest congestion. Running a humidifier at night in the room, adds more water vapor to the air. When this water vapor reaches the lungs, it helps to loosen the mucus and thus removal of mucus is made easy. Inhaling Eucalyptus Oil Eucalyptus oil also has antibacterial properties and analgesic properties. Heat water in a pot and add three to four drops of eucalyptus oil in to it. Cover your head as well as the pot containing the inhalation solution using a bath towel. This helps the vapors from the pot to reach in to your nostrils. Breathe in, to get the vapors into your lungs. Repeat this treatment twice daily to get faster result. Lemon Drink lemon juice mixed with hot water and salt for three to four times a day. The vitamin C present in the lemon improves the immunity of the body and helps the body to fight against the virus causing cold. The acidic nature of the lemon water also reduces the thickness of the mucus. Licorice Licorice is considered as a natural expectorant. Drinking tea made with ½ tsp licorice root thrice a day can soothe the irritated throats and inflamed lungs. If you have blood pressure, does not use this remedy. Increase the Fluid Intake Drinking more fluids helps to break up the congestion caused by mucus. You can take soups, juices or tea to increase your fluid intake. This prevents the mucus from coagulating. Coagulated mucus is difficult to get removed. When you drink more fluids, it will be easier to cough up the loosened mucus. Have Spicy Food When you have spicy food containing ginger, garlic chili or black pepper they act like decongestants. You can get rid of unwanted bacteria from the body using the spicy food. The spicy foods loosen the phlegm. This is the reason why you have a runny nose when you eat the spicy food. Parsley This natural herb helps to break up the mucus associated with cold and chest congestion. You can add this herb to a variety of dishes. They release the histamines which help in healing ailments. Most of these home remedies for chest congestion help in reducing the pain and discomfort caused by chest congestion. One has to find out which one is effective for them by using different remedies. Are you a person regularly suffering from the chest congestion due to common cold? Are you looking for best ways to get rid of the chest congestion without the use of prescribed or over the counter medicines? Try the above methods to find the most suited method for removing cough and chest congestion.

Home Remedies That Will Help In Getting Rid Of Erectile Dysfunction

Home Remedies That Will Help In Getting Rid Of Erectile Dysfunction What Is Erectile Dysfunction? Erectile dysfunction is the condition in which a man is unable to maintain an erection of the penis that is sufficient for sexual intercourse. It is also known as impotence. In some people erectile dysfunction occurs only in certain situations. A person may be able to get an erection while masturbating but fails to get an erection when he is with the sexual partner. There are many reasons for this condition. It includes narrowing of the blood vessels to the penis, changes in hormones, anxiety, depression, relationship problem or any injury. According to the cause of the erectile dysfunction different remedies are available. The erectile dysfunction caused by poor blood supply to the penis or due to anxiety and depression can be cured using various home remedies. In some men there will be erection which will last for hours without sexual stimulation. This condition is painful. It is necessary to consult the medical practitioner if the erectile dysfunction lasts for more than 2-3 weeks. The home remedies for erectile dysfunction are safe to try. Natural Home Remedies Getting Rid Of Erectile Dysfunction There are a few tried and tested home remedies that will help in easily getting rid of erectile dysfunction in men without any medication or surgery. 1. Drumstick Flowers in milk one of the easiest and cheapest ways to fight erectile dysfunction from home is to use a mixture of milk and drumstick flowers. It is said that drumstick has certain aphrodisiac properties and is quite effective home remedy for erectile dysfunction. • Add a handful of drumstick flowers in a glass of milk. • Heat the milk with the drumstick flowers until it boils. • Allow this mixture to cool down till it is lukewarm and then drink it. • Try his home remedy for one or two months continuously to see good results. 2. Carrots, Honey and Egg Another home remedy to treat erectile dysfunction and to develop sexual desire in men is to feed the person with a mixture of honey, egg and carrots. • Add 2 tablespoons of honey, a half boiled egg and half a cup of finely chopped or grated carrots in a bowl. • Mix this mixture very well and have it once every day. • Consume this mixture daily for 30 to 45 days and you will find great improvements in your sexual desire. 3. Ginger and Honey Mixture Ginger is a well known natural ingredient to treat a lot of health problems and it does wonders for erectile dysfunction also. • Take cleaned ginger pieces and crush it to make a paste. • Now, extract the ginger juice from this paste. • Take 2 teaspoons of ginger paste and mix it well with 2 teaspoons of honey. • Consume this mixture for three times a day for a month to see visible results. 4. Dried Dates and and Nuts Dried dates offer good strength to the body and have the ability to increase sexual drive in humans. • Mix a handful of dried date, pistachio nuts, almonds and quince seeds in equal proportions and then pound them into fine powder. • Mix this powder in a glass of milk and consume it daily to see effective results. 5. Black Raisins Black raisins are said to be a very good ingredient that helps in improving sexual vigor. • Wash about 30 grams of good quality black raisins in lukewarm water. • Now boil these raisins in 200 ml of milk and the raisins will get swollen. • Now eat these raisins and then drink the glass full of this milk. • Take this mixture for three times a day to see effective results. 6. Lady Finger with Candy sugar Lady’s finger is also known to be a wonderful vegetable that will arouse sexual desire in humans. • Mix 5 grams of the root powder of lady’s finger with a glass of lukewarm milk. • Add two teaspoons of candy sugar to the milk and mix well. • Consume this every day to see the symptoms of erectile dysfunction disappear. 7. Asparagus roots The white musli or dried roots of asparagus are known to be an aphrodisiac and will help in getting rid of erectile dysfunction easily. • Add 15 grams of dried roots of asparagus to a cup of milk. • Boil this milk and consume it when it is lukewarm. • Repeat this process twice a day to see satisfactory results. 8. Saffron Saffron is a well known ingredient that arouses sexual desire and also relaxes your nerves. • Consume saffron in food to increase sexual desire. • You can also add it to massage oil and apply it all over your body to relax your nerves and to drive sexual desire. 9. Garlic Garlic is known to be a really effective natural vegetable for sexual impotence. It is an antiseptic as well as an immune booster and can help people to improve their sexual activities. • Chew three to four raw fresh garlic cloves daily for effective results. • Eating garlic bread with a whole lot of grains will also help in improving sexual desires. 10. White Onions Onions are well known to have aphrodisiac properties and also help in enhancing libidos. • Peel white onion, crush it and make it a smooth paste. • Fry this paste in a teaspoon of butter and then add this mixture to a spoonful of honey. • You need to take this medicine on an empty stomach or you should not eat for at least two hours before taking this medicine. • With regular use, you will find remarkable changes in your attitude towards sex. 11. Relaxing Your Body • Try to have a relaxed mind when indulging in sex. • Too much of performance anxiety thoughts can make you a bad player in bed. • Try relaxation exercises like muscle relaxation and breathing exercises to calm your body and mind. This will help you to be a better performer in bed. 12. Quit Smoking • Try to use nicotine replacements like gums or electric cigarettes if you cannot quit smoking all of a sudden. • You will find yourself a better performer in bed once you quit smoking. 13. No Drink before Sex • Never drink before sex as alcohol has the ability to weaken your sexual functioning. 14. Vitamin A Rich Foods • Eat foods that are rich in vitamin A to help in reducing sexual dysfunction. This has to be done on a daily basis. 15. Fiber Rich Foods • A diet of fruits and vegetables that is rich in water soluble fibers will help in reducing the erectile dysfunction. Are you not getting the right mood to satisfy your wife in bed? Are you fed up of taking the ineffective pills and syrups in the market? Then, try out the above mentioned home remedies to easily get rid of erectile dysfunction problems.

Parkinson’s Disease – Signs, Symptoms & Siddha Treatment

Parkinson’s Disease – Signs, Symptoms & Siddha Treatment Causes : Deficiency of Dopamine, a neurotransmitter which produces smooth controlled movements is the major cause of onset of this disease. Slowly, neuro- degeneration occurs causing secondary symptoms like anxiety, stress, confusion, memory loss, dementia, depression, male errectile dysfunction etc. Symptoms : Main symptoms are : Rigidity : Stiffness of limbs and trunk which increases during movements. Muscle pain may be present due to rigidity. Cogged-wheel rigidity of upper limbs and Lead-pipe rigidity of lower limbs are seen. Bradykinesia : Weakness of muscles leading to reduced voluntary movements. Short- Stepping Gait or Shuffled gait with diminished or absence of arm swing seen. Mask like face, Indistinct speech. Patient tends to fall due to postural instability. Balancing of body becomes difficult. Diagnosis : Early diagnosis may be difficult and sometimes misinterpreted or inaccurately diagnosed but for a good treatment early and accurate diagnosis is very neccessary. On basis of medical history, symptoms, family history, types of medication, history of head trauma or any toxin exposure, neurological examination, this disease can be diagnosed. If any of the two symptoms among the triad i.e tremor, rigidity and bradikinesia is seen, Parkinson disease is diagnosed. Usually its starts on any one side of the body first. Treatment : No treatment or cure as per Modern Science. Therapies to increase Dopamine in brain or replace Dopamine resembling transmitters. Leva dopa (sinemet) is most commonly used and effective therapy for Parkinson as per modern science. Long term medication can produce side effects like painful cramps and involuntary movements. Other side effects include fluid retention in body tissues, drowsiness, constipation, dizziness, hallucination, nausea etc. Siddha Concept & Treatment : According to Siddha this disease is classified under Vatha ailment. It may be compared to ‘Sira-kamba Vatham’ or ‘Naddukku Vatham’ as per Siddha. The term ‘Sira-kamba vatham’ is used as degeneration of nerves in brain is caused due to derranged Vatha humour affecting Motor movements and muscle control. The term ‘Nadukku vatham’ is used for this disease due to its charecteristic feature or symptom ‘tremor’ which is seen even during rest. Siddha treatment has very effective response towards this disease. The symptoms gets well controlled and slowly with prolonged course of medication it is found that patients can even survive on minimum dose of allopathy drugs without any side effects. Basic line of treatment involves 3 steps : First and foremost step is to normalise the derranged vatha humour, there by correcting the 3 doshas. First and foremost way to normalise the vatha humour is to induce purgation. Drug of choice is done according to patient’s age, physical condition, disease etc. Then digestion has to be corrected. Second Step is administration of Internal medicine : Poonaikkali or Macuna pruriens : An internal medicine for parkinson disease is prepared from processed seeds of this plant as it contains natural dopamine, known as Poonaikkali Choornam. Dose: 1/2 to 1 teaspoon with hot milk twice daily. Amukkura Choornam : Siddha medicine given as Nervine tonic and general body nourisher. Poorna chandrodayam, Rasa gendhi mezhugu, Karisalai karpam, Thanka Parpam, Armugha chendooram, Ksheerabala thaila Capsules etc are other important medicines given for this. Third step or External Treatment or Thokkanam : Regular Varma massage of Head and body with oil like Ulunthu Thailam, Ksheerabala Oil etc along with steam bath allows the toxins to flush out of body and improve motor movements, reduce tremors and improve balancing the body. Advices : With proper treatment, most individual can lead long productive lives for many years.

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Home Remedies For Treating Liver Disease

Home Remedies For Treating Liver Disease What Is Liver Disease? Any disturbances in liver function that can lead to an illness of a person is known as liver disease. The liver is the organ responsible for a number of critical functions in the body. When they get injured or diseased it will affect the proper functioning of the body. Liver disease is otherwise known as hepatic disease. The liver plays an important role in the metabolism of sugar, fat and iron. It produces bile which helps in fat digestion. It is also involved in protein production and the production of blood clotting factors. Symptoms of liver diseases include fatigue, weakness, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, yellow discoloration of the skin known as Jaundice etc. It requires more than 75% of the liver tissues to be damaged to affect the function of the liver. The liver can easily regenerate the damaged cells but if more and 75% of the cells are lost, it may not be able to meet the needs of the body. Some liver problems can be treated with home remedies. Some may require medication and liver failure may require liver transplant. Home Remedies to Treat Liver Disease 1. Milk Thistle This herb is effective for a wide variety of liver diseases. There are evidences suggesting that this remedy is beneficial for viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, alcoholic hepatitis, the toxicity caused by chemicals, mushrooms etc. • Take 900 milligrams of this remedy twice a day at mealtimes. 2. Apple Cider Vinegar This remedy helps to detoxify the liver. If taken before meals, it will help in metabolizing fat easily • Mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in one glass of water • Add one teaspoon of honey to this mix • Drink this mixture three times a day to cleanse the liver 4. Amla or Indian Gooseberry This is one of the richest sources of vitamin C and it helps to keep the liver function at optimal level. Studies have proved that amla has liver-protective functions. • You can eat 4-5 raw amlas a day • Instead you can use them in salads or grate them and eat with curd and salt. 5. Licorice This is an excellent remedy for non-alcoholic fatty liver conditions. This remedy is used in siddha preparations to cure liver ailments. • Powder the licorice root • Make a tea by pouring boiling water into the powder • Keep it for a few minutes and strain the liquid • Consume this tea once or twice a day. 6. Turmeric Turmeric has antiseptic properties and also acts as an antioxidant. They can improve the liver health considerably. The antiviral action of turmeric prevents the multiplication of viruses causing hepatitis B and C • Include turmeric in your cooking • You can mix ½ tsp turmeric with milk and drink it every day • You can take half teaspoon turmeric mixed with 1 teaspoonful of honey everyday. 7. Flax Seeds The liver removes the hormones which are circulating in the blood. This causes strain for the liver. The phytoconstituents in flax seeds prevents the hormones from circulating in the blood and reduces the strain on the liver. • Use whole or crushed flax seeds on your toast or salads. • You can also use them along with your cereals. 8. Papaya Fruit Papaya fruit is an effective remedy for liver cirrhosis. This is one of the safest natural remedy for liver disease. • Add half teaspoon of lemon juice to two teaspoons of papaya juice and consume it every day • Take this mixture for three-four weeks to completely cure the problem. 9. Spinach and Carrot Juice This home remedy is also effective for liver cirrhosis • Mix half glass of spinach juice and half glass of carrot juice • Drink this natural juice every day for at least for three hours 10. Avoid Alcohol • If you want to keep your liver healthy avoid taking alcohol. Alcohol puts strain on the liver. 11. Avocados and Walnuts If you want to protect your liver from diseases include avocados and walnuts in your diet. • The glutathione present in avocados and walnut cleanses the toxins deposited in the liver 12. Apples and Leafy Vegetables Leafy vegetables stimulate the flow of bile and pectin present in the apple remove toxins from the digestive tract. This will help to protect the liver. 13. Drink Fluoride Free Water Drink plenty of fluoride free water. Water helps to cleanse your system. • Drink 10-12 glass of water daily to keep your liver healthy and free from toxins. 14. Exercise Regular exercise stimulates the proper digestion of food and the elimination of fat from the body. Exercise increases sweating which helps to remove the toxins through the skin. This relieves the strain on the liver. • At least 40 minutes of exercise for 5 days of the week is necessary to get the benefits. 15. Green Tea This is an excellent remedy for liver problems. Green tea contains high amount of catechins which supports the liver functions. • Drink 3-4 cups of green tea every day to get relief from liver disease and to protect your liver. Apart from these remedies, avoid the use of cigarettes and the excess use of iron supplements, if you want to protect your liver from diseases. Are you suffering from any kind of liver diseases? Are you looking for the home remedies to clear the toxins from the liver which are affecting the functioning of this organ? If you feel that your liver diseases is not a severe problem which requires immediate medical attention, you can opt for any of the above given home remedies. Not all home remedies work similarly for everyone, so by trial and error find out which one is effective for you.

Monday, September 2, 2013

natural foods to clean colon

[10 Foods To CleanseColon] Colon is the last and most important part of the #digestive system. It extracts the water and salt from solid wastes. To have a healthy digestive system then colon cleansing is very important. It also prevent colon cancer. Here we list the top 10 foods to cleanse the Colon 1. #Lemon : Citrus fruits are very effective in cleansing the colon, especially a lemon. Drinking a glass of lemon juice in the morning helps to cleanse and detox the body. 2. #Spinach : Spinach helps to protect the digestive tract from ailments and can cleanse the colon. 3. #Green #Tea : Green Tea is enriched with lot of health benefits. It will be good if we drink green tea to detox the liver. 4. #Legumes : Kidney beans and Lentils are good to cleanse the colon and promotes healthy digestive system. 5. #Whole #Grains : Grains are low in calories and cholesterol.You must include grains in your diet to cleanse the colon. Due to their high fiber content, it is also good for digestion. 6. #Avocado : The Omega-3 oils in the Avocado helps to cleanse the colon. The Omega-3 oils acts as a lubricant to the intestine walls and removes all the toxins and waste food particles. 7. #Fish : The Omega-3 fatty acids and oils in the fish helps to cleanse the system and also improves digestion. 8. #Garlic : Garlic is an herb which has lot of health benefits. It is also one of the foods for cleansing the colon. 9. #Fruit Juice : Fruit Juices are rich in fiber which helps in cleansing salts that detoxifies the system. So include fruit juices in your diet chart. 10. #Broccoli Sprouts : Broccoli Sprouts detoxifies the colon and keeps it clean. It also cleanse the liver and promotes healthy digestion.

Consuming sprouts is like eating live vegetable food. Think for yourself, how nutrient-dense a growing food could be…

Consuming sprouts is like eating live vegetable food. Think for yourself, how nutrient-dense a growing food could be… It is said that sprouts ‘represent the miracle of birth’. They are in the true sense, super foods. They are alkaline, whole, pure, and natural foods. It is inexcusable that though aware of their miraculous effects, we do not take full advantage of them. We scour departmental and organic stores, looking for health foods and recipes, but forget to eat ordinary sprouts on daily basis – considering them a poor cousin of high-fashion health foods. Sprouts are the cheapest and most convenient source of complete nourishment. They are food for long-term health and wellness. If consumed judiciously and chosen over other foods, they can prevent diseases and lifestyle-related ailments. Sprouting a seed enables it to produce an enormously enhanced bundle of nutrients. A sprout is at the transitional stage between seed and plant. It is, to put it simply, a baby plant. These are essentially pre-digested foods as the seeds’ own enzymes do most of the work. The nutritional changes that occur during sprouting primarily happen because complex compounds get broken down into simpler forms. This, added to development of some essential nutrients, constituents, and breakdown of anti-nutrients, makes the whole phenomenon of sprouting possible. Metabolic activity in dormant seeds is initiated as soon as they are hydrated during soaking. Sprouted seeds acquire natural increased digestibility and nutrients as compared to unsprouted seeds. They provide us with all the essential minerals and vitamins, and must ideally form a part of our daily diets. The sprouting process: On sprouting, grains, legumes, and seeds turn into super foods. They then become an extremely sound source of protein, fiber, and vitamin B. All edible grains, legumes, and seeds can be sprouted. The following are generally used for sprouting: Grains: Wheat (wheat grass is the sprouted form of wheat. It must be juiced. Soak hard wheat grains for 12 hours and then grow in soil. It will be ready in 12 days’ time), maize, ragi, barley, bajra. Seeds: Alfalfa seeds (sensitive to heat, ready in seven days), sesame seeds, radish seeds, fenugreek seeds (bitter in taste. To be mixed with milder sprouts to tone it down, ready in 9 days’ time), coriander seeds, pumpkin seeds, and musk melon seeds, groundnut. Legumes: Green gram, Bengal gram, chickpea, kidney beans, dried peas. Oats: (oat groats) to be used -- ready in 3 to 4 days), buckwheat, quinoas are foods which are lesser known as sprouts, but are at the same time, highly nutritious. They should be sprouted and consumed if readily available. Alfalfa is called the ‘father of all foods’ or the ‘king of sprouts’. It is highly rich in minerals like manganese and is also a rich source of vitamins A, B, C, E, and K. It also contains all the essential amino acids. Alfalfa contains most of the essential amino acids and has a higher concentration of calcium than milk. The lesser explored sesame seed sprouts are also said to be great source nutrients. They too, contain most of the essential amino acids and are high in vitamin E and vitamin B complex, apart from other nutrients. The sprouting process Firstly, one has to ensure that the seeds, legumes or grains will easily sprout. (For instance, soyabeans are said to become sour and do not sprout too well; and wheat has to be grown in soil). The seeds should be thoroughly washed and then soaked in fresh water overnight. The time span of soaking is mostly 12 hours, though it depends on the size of the seeds. Next morning the seeds should be rinsed and the water drained off. Soaking turns the seed soft and laden with water. They eventually germinate and become sprouts in two to three days’ time, depending upon the temperature and humidity. One should not soak the seeds for a longer period than required, as the seeds may rot and ferment. After they sprout, they should be stored in a refrigerator. Nutritional Benefits: The ISS (International Speciality Supply, USA) is a company that supplies sprouts to many countries. It describes in detail, the nutrient changes which occur during the process of sprouting. On sprouting, there is a tremendous increase in nutrients as compared to the dried embryo. The vitamins, minerals and protein content substantially increase with a simultaneous decrease in caloric and carbohydrate content. Pulses and seeds show a very low water content. This, however, tends to increase tenfold when converted into sprouts. The ISS elaborates that sprouted green gram (mung beans) have an 8.3 percent increase of water content over dried beans. Hence the nutritional value of sprouted and dried mung beans can be compared by multiplying the analyzed nutrients of sprouted mung beans by the factor of 8.3. Based on this criterion, the changes found in sprouted mung beans when compared with the figures for the beans in the dried state are as follows: Energy content - calories Decrease 15 percent Total carbohydrate content Decrease 15 percent Protein availability Increase 30 percent Calcium content Increase 34 percent Potassium content Increase 80 percent Sodium content Increase 690 percent Iron content Increase 40 percent Phosphorous content Increase 56 percent Vitamin A content Increase 285 percent Thiamine or Vitamin B1 content Increase 208 percent Riboflavin or Vitamin B2 content Increase 515 percent Niacin or Vitamin B3 content Increase 256 percent Ascorbic acid or Vitamin C content An infinite increase The increase in protein availability is of great significance. It is a valuable indicator of the enhanced nutritional value of a food when sprouted. The amazing fact is that sprouts are a food -- very easily available to all sections of society, and yet the biggest storehouse of all nutrients. The reduction in carbohydrate content indicates molecules being broken down during sprouting to allow absorption of atmospheric nitrogen and re-formation of amino-acids. The resultant protein is the most easily digestible of all proteins available in foods. Grains, legumes are nowhere even near to be considered a source of vitamin C. However, when sprouted, they reveal significant quantities of this vitamin. The infinite increase in Vitamin C or ascorbic acid derives from their absorption of atmospheric elements during growth. Sprouts supply food in a pre-digested form -- food, which has already been acted upon by enzymes and simplified. During sprouting, much of the starch is broken down into simple sugars such as glucose and sucrose by the action of the enzyme ‘amylase’. Proteins are converted into amino acids and amides. Fats and oils are converted into simpler fatty acids by the action of the enzyme lipase. Also, during sprouting there is s reduction in the gas producing quality of beans. Mainly oligosaccharides have been held responsible for gas formation. As the process of germination ends and sprouting begins, the content of oligosaccharides is reduced by 90 percent. The content of fiber and water increases tremendously, which is a boon for a healthy digestive system. Sprouts are a good source of chlorophyll, said to have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. They are highly beneficial foods for losing weight too. They keep one full for a long time and also prevent over-eating as one feels satisfied on consuming just a handful. Sprouts are an extremely inexpensive method of obtaining a concentration of protein, vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Eating sprouts is the safest and best way of getting the advantage of complete nutrition. Cooking with Sprouts: Sprouts could be eaten in various ways, other than just the standard salads that we generally know of. They could be used in the following ways: To make hummus to be used as dips, for sandwich fillings (sprouted chickpea is best suited for this). To make healthy vegetables and curries. To be crushed lightly and added to pancakes, or used as a filling for pancakes. To prepare a variety of stir fries. To cook and serve with rice. To be added to yoghurts. To be juiced up (wheat grass is a sprout). To be dried and turned into malt. This is called malted flour. It is especially given to babies in the form of porridge as it is easily digestible and has a high nutrient density. Ragi malt (Red millet malt) is very commonly prepared in southern India. It’s highly rich in calcium and iron, and is relished by all age groups. The dry ragi sprouts are roasted with wheat, green mung dal, and almonds, and are then ground and cooked with milk and sugar. Malted multigrain flours are also readily available. They can be had as porridge, they can be mixed in flour, or can be added to various food preparations. Consuming sprouts is like eating live vegetable food. Think for yourself, how nutrient-dense a growing food could be… It is said that sprouts ‘represent the miracle of birth’. They are in the true sense, super foods. They are alkaline, whole, pure, and natural foods. It is inexcusable that though aware of their miraculous effects, we do not take full advantage of them. We scour departmental and organic stores, looking for health foods and recipes, but forget to eat ordinary sprouts on daily basis – considering them a poor cousin of high-fashion health foods. Sprouts are the cheapest and most convenient source of complete nourishment. They are food for long-term health and wellness. If consumed judiciously and chosen over other foods, they can prevent diseases and lifestyle-related ailments. Sprouting a seed enables it to produce an enormously enhanced bundle of nutrients. A sprout is at the transitional stage between seed and plant. It is, to put it simply, a baby plant. These are essentially pre-digested foods as the seeds’ own enzymes do most of the work. The nutritional changes that occur during sprouting primarily happen because complex compounds get broken down into simpler forms. This, added to development of some essential nutrients, constituents, and breakdown of anti-nutrients, makes the whole phenomenon of sprouting possible. Metabolic activity in dormant seeds is initiated as soon as they are hydrated during soaking. Sprouted seeds acquire natural increased digestibility and nutrients as compared to unsprouted seeds. They provide us with all the essential minerals and vitamins, and must ideally form a part of our daily diets. The sprouting process: On sprouting, grains, legumes, and seeds turn into super foods. They then become an extremely sound source of protein, fiber, and vitamin B. All edible grains, legumes, and seeds can be sprouted. The following are generally used for sprouting: Grains: Wheat (wheat grass is the sprouted form of wheat. It must be juiced. Soak hard wheat grains for 12 hours and then grow in soil. It will be ready in 12 days’ time), maize, ragi, barley, bajra. Seeds: Alfalfa seeds (sensitive to heat, ready in seven days), sesame seeds, radish seeds, fenugreek seeds (bitter in taste. To be mixed with milder sprouts to tone it down, ready in 9 days’ time), coriander seeds, pumpkin seeds, and musk melon seeds, groundnut. Legumes: Green gram, Bengal gram, chickpea, kidney beans, dried peas. Oats: (oat groats) to be used -- ready in 3 to 4 days), buckwheat, quinoas are foods which are lesser known as sprouts, but are at the same time, highly nutritious. They should be sprouted and consumed if readily available. Alfalfa is called the ‘father of all foods’ or the ‘king of sprouts’. It is highly rich in minerals like manganese and is also a rich source of vitamins A, B, C, E, and K. It also contains all the essential amino acids. Alfalfa contains most of the essential amino acids and has a higher concentration of calcium than milk. The lesser explored sesame seed sprouts are also said to be great source nutrients. They too, contain most of the essential amino acids and are high in vitamin E and vitamin B complex, apart from other nutrients. The sprouting process Firstly, one has to ensure that the seeds, legumes or grains will easily sprout. (For instance, soyabeans are said to become sour and do not sprout too well; and wheat has to be grown in soil). The seeds should be thoroughly washed and then soaked in fresh water overnight. The time span of soaking is mostly 12 hours, though it depends on the size of the seeds. Next morning the seeds should be rinsed and the water drained off. Soaking turns the seed soft and laden with water. They eventually germinate and become sprouts in two to three days’ time, depending upon the temperature and humidity. One should not soak the seeds for a longer period than required, as the seeds may rot and ferment. After they sprout, they should be stored in a refrigerator. Nutritional Benefits: The ISS (International Speciality Supply, USA) is a company that supplies sprouts to many countries. It describes in detail, the nutrient changes which occur during the process of sprouting. On sprouting, there is a tremendous increase in nutrients as compared to the dried embryo. The vitamins, minerals and protein content substantially increase with a simultaneous decrease in caloric and carbohydrate content. Pulses and seeds show a very low water content. This, however, tends to increase tenfold when converted into sprouts. The ISS elaborates that sprouted green gram (mung beans) have an 8.3 percent increase of water content over dried beans. Hence the nutritional value of sprouted and dried mung beans can be compared by multiplying the analyzed nutrients of sprouted mung beans by the factor of 8.3. Based on this criterion, the changes found in sprouted mung beans when compared with the figures for the beans in the dried state are as follows: Energy content - calories Decrease 15 percent Total carbohydrate content Decrease 15 percent Protein availability Increase 30 percent Calcium content Increase 34 percent Potassium content Increase 80 percent Sodium content Increase 690 percent Iron content Increase 40 percent Phosphorous content Increase 56 percent Vitamin A content Increase 285 percent Thiamine or Vitamin B1 content Increase 208 percent Riboflavin or Vitamin B2 content Increase 515 percent Niacin or Vitamin B3 content Increase 256 percent Ascorbic acid or Vitamin C content An infinite increase The increase in protein availability is of great significance. It is a valuable indicator of the enhanced nutritional value of a food when sprouted. The amazing fact is that sprouts are a food -- very easily available to all sections of society, and yet the biggest storehouse of all nutrients. The reduction in carbohydrate content indicates molecules being broken down during sprouting to allow absorption of atmospheric nitrogen and re-formation of amino-acids. The resultant protein is the most easily digestible of all proteins available in foods. Grains, legumes are nowhere even near to be considered a source of vitamin C. However, when sprouted, they reveal significant quantities of this vitamin. The infinite increase in Vitamin C or ascorbic acid derives from their absorption of atmospheric elements during growth. Sprouts supply food in a pre-digested form -- food, which has already been acted upon by enzymes and simplified. During sprouting, much of the starch is broken down into simple sugars such as glucose and sucrose by the action of the enzyme ‘amylase’. Proteins are converted into amino acids and amides. Fats and oils are converted into simpler fatty acids by the action of the enzyme lipase. Also, during sprouting there is s reduction in the gas producing quality of beans. Mainly oligosaccharides have been held responsible for gas formation. As the process of germination ends and sprouting begins, the content of oligosaccharides is reduced by 90 percent. The content of fiber and water increases tremendously, which is a boon for a healthy digestive system. Sprouts are a good source of chlorophyll, said to have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. They are highly beneficial foods for losing weight too. They keep one full for a long time and also prevent over-eating as one feels satisfied on consuming just a handful. Sprouts are an extremely inexpensive method of obtaining a concentration of protein, vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Eating sprouts is the safest and best way of getting the advantage of complete nutrition. Cooking with Sprouts: Sprouts could be eaten in various ways, other than just the standard salads that we generally know of. They could be used in the following ways: To make hummus to be used as dips, for sandwich fillings (sprouted chickpea is best suited for this). To make healthy vegetables and curries. To be crushed lightly and added to pancakes, or used as a filling for pancakes. To prepare a variety of stir fries. To cook and serve with rice. To be added to yoghurts. To be juiced up (wheat grass is a sprout). To be dried and turned into malt. This is called malted flour. It is especially given to babies in the form of porridge as it is easily digestible and has a high nutrient density. Ragi malt (Red millet malt) is very commonly prepared in southern India. It’s highly rich in calcium and iron, and is relished by all age groups. The dry ragi sprouts are roasted with wheat, green mung dal, and almonds, and are then ground and cooked with milk and sugar. Malted multigrain flours are also readily available. They can be had as porridge, they can be mixed in flour, or can be added to various food preparations.