Saturday, October 19, 2013

Home Remedies To Easily Solve Your Piles Problem

Home Remedies To Cure Piles

What Is Piles?

Piles are nothing but painful and enlarged veins that you find in your rectum. It is also known as hemorrhoids and is a medical condition in which the veins around the lower rectum or anus gets enlarged and inflamed than normal. Piles are both internal as well as external. The internal hemorrhoids cannot be seen or felt unless they are severe. External hemorrhoids can be seen outside of the anus. It is an uncomfortable and unpleasing medical condition. But, it is not a serious medical condition and arises due to increased pressure of the external and internal veins around the rectum canal. The causes of plies are: low fiber diet, ageing, hereditary and pregnancy as well as severe constipation. There are a lot of home remedies that can prevent piles.

Home Remedies To Cure Piles / Hemorrhoids

1 Black Cumin Seeds

This is a common piles remedy which practiced in India.
•  Take 1 table spoon of roasted black cumin seeds and mix it with1 tablespoon of unroasted black cumin.
• Powder them together and take ½ tsp of this powder with one glass of water every day

2 Shallots

This is another effective remedy for piles.
• Peel 20-25 shallots cut into smaller pieces.
• Fry this in butter or oil and consume it every day.

3 Radish Juice

This remedy will reduce the swelling and pain associated with piles.
•  Take the radish juice in the morning and at night
• Start with ¼ cup and gradually increase to ½ cup over a period of one month.
• Continue the remedy till there is relief from piles.

4 Banana

The banana has fiber in it and acts as a laxative. It helps to improve the bowel movements, so that you don’t have to strain when you are in the toilet. When your bowel movements are proper the problem will get reduced.
•  Boil 1 banana with 1 cup of milk.
• Mash well and take this mix three to four times a day

5 Leaves Of Bitter Gourd

Bitter gourd leaves have medicinal value. This will help to reduce the pain and swelling.
• Crush the leaves of bitter gourd and extract the juice.
• Mix three teaspoons of this juice with one glass of buttermilk
• Drink this mixture on empty stomach, daily morning for at least one month.

6 Egg Of Duck

This is a highly helpful and easy to follow home remedy for piles.
• Boil 2-3 eggs of duck
• Eat only the white portion
• Continue this remedy till you find changes in piles condition.

7 Lemon Juice

Though this remedy will cause some discomfort and burning sensation it is very effective in reducing the pain caused by hemorrhoids.
• Take some freshly squeezed lemon juice.
• Soak a clean cotton ball in this juice.
• Apply the cotton ball to the anal area for five minutes.
• You will see faster relief from pain and swelling.

8 Aloe Vera

This remedy work wonders for swollen and painful veins. It also reduces bleeding piles. It can be used in different ways.
•  You can cut the leaf of Aloe Vera into half and slightly heat. Apply this to the affected area before you go to bed.
• You can also freeze the leaves and apply them on painful piles to reduce pain, itchiness or burning sensation.

9 Warm Bath Or Sitz

Soaking in a warm bath or Sitz is a good home remedy for piles. Sitz baths are available in drug stores.
• Soak the anal area in plain warm water for about 10-15 minutes
• Do this remedy 2-3 times a day.
• You can also add Epsom salt to the water.
• Epsom salts make the hemorrhoids shrink.

10 Ginger

This is a naturally available treatment to get relief from the piles problem.
• Mix 1 teaspoon of ginger extract with mint extract, one tablespoon of honey and lime juice.
• Take this mixture every day to get relief from piles.

11 Teabag

Tea contains tannin which is a natural astringent. This will help to reduce the swelling and pain.
• Apply warm wet tea bag to the affected area. The warmth will soothe the area
• You can apply the teabag while sitting on the toilet.

12 Witch Hazel

This is another tannin rich herb which will help you to get rid of the pain and discomfort caused by the hemorrhoid.
• Take a cotton ball soaked in undistilled witch hazel
• Dab the hemorrhoids with witch hazel using the cotton ball to reduce swelling and itching.

13 Eat Fiber Rich Food

The most important natural home remedy for piles is consuming the right food. To treat the piles or to prevent piles one should have a proper diet which is rich in fiber.
• Include more fruits and vegetables in your diet.
• Use brown rice instead of white rice
• Include oatmeal, wheat bran, pulses etc in your diet.

14 Ring Cushions

Using ring cushions to sit can take off the pressure on the piles. This remedy will be highly useful if you have inflamed and thrombosed piles. Avoid sitting for long hours as this can cause pressure to the anal area.
•  If you are lightweight you can use the pool inflatable for children
• There are round cushions available in memory foam for piles patients.

15 Do Not Strain

Lifting heavy objects can cause more pressure on the piles. It is also necessary to avoid strained bowel movements. Try to let the bowel movements pass without forcing. The unnecessary buildup worsens the hemorrhoids.
• Do not lift heavy items and use the correct posture to lift the things from the ground.
• You can prevent straining in the toilet by using the correct posture. You can reduce the strain on the rectum by placing your feet up on a small stool.
Apart from these remedies, you can also use some prevention methods to avoid the piles.  Preventing the hemorrhoids avoids the need to treat them and suffer the pain and discomfort. Drink 8-10 glass of water every day to avoid hard stools and ease the movement of the bowel. Do not scratch the area with hemorrhoids using toilet paper. Use wet tissue with alcohol to wipe the area.  If you want to avoid piles, wear cotton undergarments which are less irritating than artificial fabrics. Doing regular exercise helps in proper digestion and easy movement of bowels.
Are you a person suffering from the itching, pain or swelling caused by the hemorrhoids in the anal area? Do you want to get rid of the bleeding piles? Are you looking for the methods to prevent or treat the piles? Then you can use the methods suggested here. It is necessary to continue the remedies for two to three months to get complete cure.

How To Eliminate A Tooth Infection At Home

Tooth Infection
A common form of tooth infection is a tooth abscess. It is a collection of infected material, commonly known as pus, which is formed due to bacterial infection. This occurs in the center of a tooth. Tooth infections are usually caused by bacterial infections though the causes may be several. The symptoms however, are usually common with certain differing symptoms. No matter what kind of tooth infection one is suffering from, there are many effective home remedies that one can resort to in order to find relief from such painful conditions.

Causes Of Tooth Infection

When one is suffering from a tooth abscess, it is a complication that arises out of tooth decay. It may arise from:
•    Trauma that comes to the tooth when tooth is broken or chipped
•    There might be openings formed in the tooth enamel which allows bacteria to infect the center of the tooth or the pulp
•    Infection might spread from the root of the tooth to the bones that support the tooth
•    Due to the collection of pus there is swelling of the tissues inside the tooth which causes tooth infection

Symptoms Of Tooth Infection

The symptoms of tooth infection can be several. Indeed, no matter what causes the tooth infection, many find the symptoms to be extremely painful and unbearable:
•    Bitter taste forms in the mouth
•    When there is severe toothache the nerves get sensitized to the pain and produces a shooting or throbbing pain in the temples
•    Breath odor might develop due to infection
•    Fever might come on
•    There is general discomfort even if the pain is slight
•    Teeth becomes sensitive to hot or cold items consumed
•    Gum might swell up and look like a pimple
•    Upper or lower jaw might swell up

Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Tooth Infection

There are many home remedies that one can resort to for obtaining relief and getting rid of the tooth infection.

1. Avoid Hot Items

It is necessary to avoid consuming hot items which will aggravate the tooth infection:
• Consume beverages at room temperature
• Avoid drinking or eating too hot beverages and food items

2. Try Ice

If you have a swelling on the jaw, you could use an ice pack:
• Placing it on the cheek right above the infected area will provide relief
• The cold will help to numb the pain to some extent

3. Try Gargling

When one gargles with salt and tepid, clean water it can help to ease the inflammation:
• When on gargles with salt and water solution the salt acts as a gentle antiseptic
• The inflammation is controlled by frequent gargling

4. Use Peroxide Solution

Peroxide is known to be a great antiseptic for treating tooth infections:
• A solution of peroxide can be used to rinse the mouth frequently
• Salt and peroxide solution can help to control the infection

5. Using Baking Soda And Aztec Bentonite Clay Mixture

Many households have Bentonite toothpaste for ensuring tooth health. When one is suffering from tooth infection they can use it in the following manner:
• The clay can be mixed with baking soda in order to make a thick paste
• The blob should be placed on the affected area
• If one is having pus coming out then it should be removed with clean and damp cotton balls
The above method will take time if the infection is severe. But it will get the infection under control within a day or two.

6. Try Alcohol

It is known that alcohol has antiseptic properties:
• One can take a swig of whisky or any other alcoholic drink and swirl it in the mouth
• The alcohol will help to control the infection and reduce the inflammation

7. Try Some Kitchen Ingredients In The Form Of Extracts

When the toothache is severe and you need something to control the inflammation you could use:
• A swab of cotton dipped in vanilla extract
• Peppermint extract
• Lemon or almond extract

8. Tea Tree Oil

When one has a tooth infection they can control it with tea tree oil:
• Add a few drops to lukewarm water
• Swirl the solution in the mouth for a few seconds

9. Oil Of Oregano

The oil of oregano is known to work wonders when it is used against the infected tooth or gum:
• One could add a few drops of olive oil to a cotton swab
• To that add a few drops of oil of oregano
• The cotton swab could also be dipped in lukewarm water
This should be held against the infected tooth for sometime to provide relief.

10. Apple Cider Vinegar

ACV which is the short form of apple cider vinegar, is known to work wonders on infected tooth and help to reduce the toothache:
• A cotton ball soaked in apple cider vinegar and held in the place of the infected tooth will provide relief
• One could also try the regular vinegar that is available in most kitchens

11. Try Ginger

One could get relief from the juice of ginger:
• Take a fresh piece of ginger
• Chew on it to release the juices

12. Try Potato Mash

One could try getting relief from the juices of raw potato:
• A fresh piece of potato should be cut and skinned off
• The raw potato slice should be pounded and added salt to it. This placed against the infected tooth will help to reduce the infection.
Have you suffered from toothache? You will know the kind of suffering that it brings on. However, with the help of simple and effective home remedies one can surely find relief. It is more important to reach the root cause of the infection and to heal it from the source. Are you not aware of what can cause a tooth infection? Read the above information to find the possible causes. The symptoms and remedies will help you to address the problem by yourself at home.

How To Get Rid Of Acne Fast

How To Get Rid Of Acne
Acne is a very common problem that is seen in people of all age groups. But, it would be seen prominently in teenagers as there is increased production of hormones in their bodies during their puberty stage. Acne usually sets of as blackheads that are formed when oil, dirt along with dead skin cells gets stuck in the pores of your skin. This blackhead will tend to inflame after some time and turn reddish leading to the acne outbreak. There are no definitive cures for acne but a lot of simple and natural cares will help in reducing acne problems.

Causes Of Acne

It is believed by experts that the main reason for people to develop acne is due to the rise in the androgen levels. The androgen hormone will rise in human bodies when a person attains adolescence. When androgen hormones rise, it will make the oil glands under the skin grow and excessive sebum is produced which will break down the cellular walls in your skin pores and become a breeding center for bacteria.
Some of the other factors that cause acne are:
  • Medications that is rich in androgen and lithium.
  • Greasy cosmetics that are not washed off properly
  • Acne is also being indicated to be a genetic problem.
  • Overproduction of the sebum or oil in the oil glands of the skin
  • Irregular shedding of the dead skin

Symptoms Of Acne

Acne is seen to be predominantly occurring on the face, neck and the shoulders. But, it can also occur on the arms, legs, buttocks and trunks. Some of the symptoms that you can associate with acne are:
  • Pustules
  • Cysts
  • Whiteheads
  • Blackheads
  • Redness around the skin area where eruptions occur.
  • Small red colored bumps
  • Crusting of skin bumps

Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Acne

There are a lot of home remedies that you can try out to reduce acne on your face and neck. The following are the home remedies that are quite effective.

1. Cleansing With Mild Soap

It is highly important for you to keep your face and neck area dirt free.
• Make sure that you use a mild and a non dry soap.
• Wash your face at least three times a day.
• Make sure that you clean your face after exercise routine.
• If you have oily hair, then it is ideal that you shampoo your hair daily to prevent oil formation on the face that will lead to acne formation.

2. Grapes

Grapes are a rich source of vitamin C and help in prevention of acne. It is ideal that you include grapes in your daily diet to reduce the occurrence of acne.
• If you find an acne development on your face and neck you can reduce its effect by cutting chilled fresh grapes into halves and apply the freshly cut end over the affected area of your face and neck.
• Keep it there for about minutes for the grape juice to react with the affected area.
• You can now wash your face with cold water.

3. Toothpaste

Toothpaste is considered to be an excellent home remedy when it comes to treating acne.
• Herbal white toothpaste or white toothpaste would be an ideal choice to treat acne.
• Take a small amount of white toothpaste and apply it on the affected areas of your face and neck and leave it on the area overnight.
• The toothpaste has powerful ingredients that will dry out the acne and reduce inflammation due to acne.
• You can wash it off with cold water the next day morning.

4. Cucumber

Cucumber is a well known vegetable that offers cooling and soothing effect for the skin. It is also an effective remedy to treat acne.
• Take a piece of cucumber and extract its juice with the help of a blender.
• Now add a teaspoon of curd or yoghurt to this paste and mix it well. Add a pinch of turmeric powder to this paste as turmeric has antiseptic properties.
• Apply this paste generously over the affected areas and leave it there for an hour.
• Wash this paste off and repeat this procedure for two to three days to eliminate acne.

5. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice has acidic properties that help in cleaning dirt accumulated in the pores and will also help in reducing the production of sebum.
• Cut a fresh lime piece in half and apply the fresh juicy part on the affected areas.
• Leave it there for a few hours and rinse it off with clean cold water.

6. Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe Vera is rich in medicinal properties that can effectively treat acne and acne scars.
• Extract fresh Aloe Vera juice from the plant and apply it on the affected areas of your skin two times a day.
• Keep it there for an hour and then wash it off. You can also leave it on the affected area overnight.
• Repeat this process for three days to effectively remove acne scars on your face and neck.

7. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has antiseptic properties and is very effective in removing dry and dead skin cells on your skin.
• Apply generous amount of teat tree oil with the help of a cotton ball on the acne on your face and skin for three times a day.
• Rinse it off after some time.
• The antibacterial properties will work to fight bacteria and treat acne.

8. Honey

• Apply generous amount of honey on the affected areas of your skin for about 30 to 45 minutes and then wash it off with cold water.
• Two to three day application is needed to effectively remove acne.

9. Orange Skin

Orange and its skin are a vital source of Vitamin C and is loaded with acidic properties.
• Orange peel has to be dried in the sun and then made into a fine powder.
• Add required amount of water to this dried orange peel powder to make a smooth paste.
• Apply on affected area and leave it to dry on the area.
• Wash it off with cold water and repeat two times a day to get rid of acne.

10. Neem

Neem leaves are well known to treat a lot of skin problems.
• Make a smooth paste of tender neem leaves in a blender with some water.
• Add a pinch of turmeric powder to this paste and apply on the acne on your face and neck.
• Wash it off after 20 minutes. Repeat three to four days to effectively remove acne.

11. Curd Or Yoghurt

The lactic acid present in the curd prevents bacterial growth and cleanses the skin
• Mix one teaspoon of curd with one teaspoon of turmeric or honey and apply it on the face for 10-20 minutes before taking bath.

12. Fenugreek Leaves

• Add a little bit of water to fresh and tender fenugreek leaves and blend it to make a smooth paste.
• Apply this paste on your face and skin as a face mask and leave it for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Rinse off with cold water to effectively remove acne in three days.

13. Cinnamon And Honey Paste

• Mix fine cinnamon powder with honey to make a smooth paste.
• Apply to the affected area and leave it for 20 minutes or even overnight.
• Do this regularly for two to three days to remove acne.

14. Green Tea Cubes

• Apply refrigerated green tea ice cubes on the affected areas of the skin for a few minutes.
• Green tea will help in reducing acne swelling and soothing the skin.

15. Fresh Strawberry

• Cut fresh strawberries in half and apply juicy part on the affected area on your skin.
• Keep it there for a few minutes, remove it and then again press it on the affected area for some more time.
• It will help in reducing acne.

16. Turmeric

Turmeric has anti bacterial or anti septic property. They prevent the infection of the skin. It can be used in different ways.
• Take 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder and add a teaspoon of honey to it
• Make a smooth paste and apply it on the acne affected areas
• Leave it for 20-30 minutes and wash with water.

17. Garlic

• Mash garlic with the help of a hard steel hammer and apply this crushed garlic on the affected area.
• Leave it for a few minutes and then take it off.
• Repeat three times a day for two days to see visible results.

18. Papaya

Papaya helps to prevent acne and reduces the acne already present on the skin
• Apply mashed papaya on the skin and wash it off after the paste dries up.
Are you worried seeing acne on your face? Do you want to get rid of acne scars? If you are looking for easy home remedies, then you can try out some of the above home remedies to get rid of acne effectively.
             
     
 

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 Vera
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
How to Get Rid Of Itching
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.

Simple Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Oily Skin


Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Oily Skin

There are different kinds of skin textures that people have. Some people are blessed to have normal skin which has a balanced oil and dry combination while other skin types are oily, dry and combination skin. Every type of skin has its characteristic feature. While dry skin ends up looking dull and cracked and needs moisturizing when it is cold and dry, the oily skin needs to be looked after as it is prone to develop acne and become ugly. Among all the skin types, those who have oily skin suffer the most during their puberty and even in later years, this kind of skin is sure to trap dirt due to the oil content and leads to the formation of whiteheads, blackheads, pimples and so forth.

Causes Of Oily Skin

Oily skin is usually the genetic makeup of a person for which the sebum cells which secrete oily under the outer skin layer secrete excess oil to moisturize the skin above. The causes for oily skin are several:
  1. Genetics is the main reason for one having oily skin. If parents have oily skin, the children are likely to develop oily skin as well. Oily skin is characterized by larger sebaceous glands that lie below the skin cells and secrete excess oil.
  2. Often the overuse of skin care products, such as harsh cleansing product, exfoliation and scrubbing may lead to excess oil being secreted by the sebaceous glands and leading to oily skin
  3. Seasonal variation also has a lot to do with skin types. If there is high level of heat and humidity, there will be a rise in the oil production in the skin in order to protect the skin from the heat and the sun. Again, when the air is dry in winter, the skin gets dehydrated and the oil secreted is required to compensate for the dryness felt.
  4. Oily skin could also be caused by birth control or other hormonal control pills. Any medication could causes dehydration and that would lead to an excess oil secretion in order to compensate for the dryness felt
  5. Stress also has a role to play. The androgen hormones lead to more oil production when the body is stressed and that could lead to excess oil on the skin.

Symptoms Of Oily Skin

It is known that oily skin is easy to spot. Those who have oily skin, usually have shiny skin that shines with sweat and oil when exposed to the heat. There are certain characteristics of oily skin which makes it easy o spot:
•    The oily skin will have a shine on it especially when the sun or the heat leads to sweating
•    The pores are larger on such skin
•    The blemishes or the blackheads that form on this skin make it easy to spot
•    The skin often has a coarse texture specially with age
•    Oily skin is usually full of blemishes specially if one has acne when they were young
•    Acne scars are predominant on such skin

Simple Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Oily Skin

1.    Cleansing Routine

The one way to keep oily skin under control is to have a proper cleaning ritual set up. This has to be followed with regularity.
•    A mild soap should be used to wash the face at least two to three times in a day
•    If one has been out, the face and the neck should be washed after coming in from outdoors
•    If the rest of the body has oily skin too, proper cleaning should be done with mild soap during bath

2.    Use Of Astringent And Toner

It is necessary not only to wash one’s face but to follow the three step process:
•    One needs to use an astringent to remove the dirt on the surface
•    After that a mild soap or face wash should be used and the face washed with tepid water
•    The toner should be used to close the pores after the face is dried

3.    Use Of Water Based Moisturizer

•    Those who have oily skin usually stay away from moisturizer as their skin is oily
•    After washing the face and body, one could apply a water based moisturizer to retain the moisture content in the body

4.    Use Of Sunscreen

The sun is known to play havoc on the skin. It dries up the skin and makes the sebaceous glands secrete excess oil.
•    It is important to use water based sunscreen to protect oneself from the sun
•    The sunscreen should be chosen such that it does not clog up the pores and lead to formation of pimples

5.    Diet Changes

It has been seen that a lot depends on the diet that one follows. If one has oily skin, one has to take care of the following points:
•    Fried food and fatty food leads to excess oil secretion on the skin
•    Intake of high calorie or sweet food items also increases the chances of excess oil and pimple formation

6.    Intake Of Fresh Fruits And Vegetables

•    It is necessary to consume a balanced diet consisting of fresh fruits and vegetables
•    Food that is lightly cooked and nutritious will go a long way to maintain healthy looking skin

7.    Fluid Intake

The skin develops pimples due to the clogged pores which are covered with dirt and grime. If the blood circulation is increased then the detoxification process shows its results on one’s face.
•    It is beneficial to drink lots of water to flush out toxin
•    Fluid such as fresh fruit juices and others help to keep the skin hydrated an cool

8.    Caffeinated Beverages To Be Avoided

•    Intake of caffeinated drinks like tea and coffee needs to be moderated
•    These drinks heat up the system and cause excess oil to be secreted

9.    Carbonated Drinks To Be Avoided

•    Drinks like fizzy drinks and others high on sugar content should be avoided
•    Sweet and carbonated drinks are often linked to pimple formation on oily skin

10.    White Flour Based Food Products Should Be Avoided

White flour based food products usually consist of easy carbs that load up and increase the blood sugar levels in the body. It is better to opt for the whole grain versions like:
•    Multi gain or whole grain bread, pasta or brown rice consisting of complex carbs and fibers
•    These food items provide the necessary fiber to the system which also helps to detoxify the system

11.    Fried And Fat Food Items Need To Be Consumed In Moderation

It has been seen that, those in their puberty and having oily skin usually suffer from acne problems the most. While for them fried and junk food is hard to stay away from, they could make healthier choices like:
•    Opting for a wholegrain burger with lean meat
•    Opting for gilled dishes than fried ones

12.    Treatment Of Acne

While there are many over-the-counter medications which one can opt for, it is best to use masks or cleaning solutions that are prepared with beneficial natural ingredients.
•    Use of cucumber, lemon and other citric based fruits as masks is known to show effects
•    These masks will help to control the oil as well as they reduce the blemishes on the face

13.    Use Of Lime Or Lemon

•    It is beneficial to drink lemon juice with warm water and honey to cleanse the system
•    One could even use the lime juice as a mask along with ingredients like gram flour and cold milk
•    Lemon juice drinks is a great alternative to drinking fizzy drinks to help quench the thirst and balance out the excess oil content

14.    Egg Whites

While many might think that it is messy, however, a face mask of egg white is a great way to firm up the skin and to reduce the excess oil content from one’s face:
•    One would need to break an egg in such a way that the white is separated from the yolk
•    The yolk can be mixed with lime juice and pasted all over the face and neck as a mask
•    After the skin tightens up in ten or fifteen minutes, it can be washed off to reveal youthful and former skin.

15.    Use Of Clay Masks

•    There are many clay masks that are found in stores to help remove the excess oil from the skin
•    Not only is the excess oil removed, the clay mask tighten up and closes the pores

16.    Use Of Orange Peel

There are many readymade face masks that are available in stores but one can even make an orange peel face mask at home:
•    The orange peel need to be collected and dried
•    The dried orange peel can be made into a powder
•    This can be made into a paste for a great homemade mask

17.    Ensuring Physical Activities

There is nothing like sweating it out to get the oil and the dirt out.
•    When one does exercises the blood circulation helps to improve blood circulation to the face
•    The excess sweat drives out the dirt from the pores and makes them open up
•    A proper cleaning routine followed afterwards leads to fresh and less oily skin

18.    Rest Is Required

•    Increase of stress leads to build up of excess oil and clogged pores
•    Rest and sleep habits should be proper to keep stress and pimples at bay
Have you been on the lookout for oil free skin? How about remedies that are easily followed at home? Try the above tips for your benefit.

Home Remedies To Cure Anemia

ANEMIA
Anemia is a medical condition where the red blood cell count or hemoglobin is usually found to be less than normal. When the hemoglobin level in men is found to be less than 13.5 gram/100 ml and less than 12 gram/100 ml in women, such men and women are found to be anemic. Anemia is a condition that is caused by the destruction of the red blood cells or hemoglobin or an increase in the loss or the destruction of the red blood cells. Those who have anemia are often unaware of their condition. However, there are some symptoms that are apparent in anemic patients. It is important to understand the causes and symptoms of anemia and take steps accordingly to resolve the problem.

Causes Of Anemia

Anemia is not an ailment by itself. Any physiological process can disrupt the life span of the red blood cells and that in turn can cause anemia. The normal life span of a red blood cell is usually 120 days. These cells are manufactured inside the bone marrow.
•    Any physiological process that results in the decrease of production of red blood cells can cause anemia
•    If there is an increase in the rate of loss of the red blood cells it will lead to anemia
•    When the average volume of the red blood cells is low, denoted by Mean Corpuscular Volume, it is known as microcytic anemia
•    When MCV value is within normal range, it is known as normocytic anemia
•    When MCV is high, the condition is denoted as macrocytic anemia
•    Iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 deficiencies can lead to anemia
•    Any other underlying illness could lead to anemia being one of the symptoms
When every component of the complete blood count is looked at, then only the physicians can gather knowledge as to what is causing anemia in a patient.

Symptoms Of Anemia

The symptoms of anemia are often difficult to discern. Many people confuse the signs and symptoms of anemia with any other ailment. However, when a complete blood count is taken, then anemia will become apparent. Some common symptoms that the patients experience are:
•    Feeling tired and fatigued easily – as the hemoglobin count is low in such people, they usually feel tired and fatigued easily with little work done
•    There is a paleness of skin that is apparent in those who suffer from anemia
•    Shortness of breath is a condition that is associated with anemic patients
•    Feeling the heart racing, increase in probability of heart problems are symptoms that are associated with anemia
•    Other symptoms of severe anemia are ringing sound in the ears, bluish fingertips, confusion, swelling of tongue, irritability

Home Remedies To Cure Anemia

When one is diagnosed with anemia, they can take certain precautions which will aid them to overcome the disease. When anemia is uncomplicated, simple home remedies and a stress on one’s diet to cover up certain deficiencies will ensure that anemia is reduced and kept under control.
1.    Increase Iron Rich Food
It is seen that those who suffer from iron deficiency usually exhibit the symptoms of anemia. You could take up:
•    Food that is rich in iron content
•    Vitamin supplements
These steps will ensure that you step up the iron content in the body which is the main element needed to produce hemoglobin.
2.    Taking Epsom Salt
It is necessary to increase the salt content in your body. If you are suffering from iron deficiency or are prone to anemia, you could:
•    Soak in a bath with Epsom salt added to the water
•    Soak your feet in such solution for a period of ten to fifteen minutes
3.    Take A Cold Bath
In order to get the blood flowing effectively one should take a cold shower.
•    A cold shower should be taken with the breath held and let out slowly
•    A vigorous scrub and who don will help to keep up the blood circulation
4.    Get A Massage
When you are feeling down or fatigued, you need to get the blood flowing. A great way to do this is to take a massage:
•    Get your hands, arms and legs massaged
•    It is a great home remedy that helps to overcome stress, fatigue and get the blood flowing
5.    Eat Apples
Apples are rich in micronutrients including iron. Thus, if you are anemic you need to intake:
•    Fruits of different kinds
•    Consume more than one apple a day
6.    Consume Citrus Fruits
It is necessary to have citrus fruits which increase the iron content in the body and the absorption of the micronutrient.
•    Have at least more than one citrus fruit a day
•    Choose between limes, lemons and other fruits
7.    Consume Honey
Honey is known to be an excellent source of cure for anemia.
•    A concoction of honey, lemon juice and apple cider vinegar will prove to be ideal to combat the anemic conditions
•    Such a mixture is known to be a powerful antioxidant and will help to address general health issues as well
8.    Avoid Caffeinated Drinks
It is best to avoid coffee as the caffeine increases the heart rate and might not be ideal for anemic patients.
•    Try and consume decaf version
•    Limit the number of cups of coffee consumed
9.    Try Figs
•    Figs are seen to be excellent remedy for anemia
•    One should consume three to four figs daily in order to combat anemia
10.    Taking Up Vitamin B12
It is seen that anemic patients are usually low on their vitamin B12 content. This can be increased by:
•    Consuming fruits and food items rich in such a micronutrient
•    Taking up supplements rich in this complex micronutrient
11.    Watch What You Eat
When you are anemic, it is best to look into your diet and ensure that you eat the right food.
•    One need to ensure that fruits and vegetables are consumed everyday as part of the meals
•    These are essential to ensure that the vitamin and iron content is added of the right amount to one’s system
As one eats healthy, it would be apparent the changes coming on and one is sure to feel stronger, less fatigued, more energetic and other positive side effects of following a healthy diet.
12.    Consume Beetroot Juice
It is imperative that one know the vegetables that are rich in iron content.
•    Beetroot is one such vegetable which is beneficial for those who have low iron content and suffer from anemia
•    Beetroot can be had as a cooked vegetable or in the form of beetroot juice which is more effective
13.    Try Bananas
It is important to incorporate bananas in one’s diet.
•    It is known to be a good source of magnesium
•    Banana combined with honey will surely help one to step up the necessary salt content for increasing hemoglobin in the blood
14.    Currants In The Morning
One could soak currant and consume them to feel the benefits:
•    About ten currants should be soaked overnight
•    The seeds should be removed
•    They should be eaten first thing in the morning
This should be done for a period of three to four weeks
15.    Increase Red Colored Fruits And Veggies In Your Diet
The red colored fruits as well as vegetables contain the necessary vitamins which will enrich the blood of hemoglobin and reduce anemia:
•    Have apples
•    Use tomatoes in your diet
•    Consume beetroot as vegetable or in juice form
16.    Consume Green And Leafy Vegetables
One should consume green and leafy vegetables as that helps to step up the level of micronutrients in the body:
•    Increase iron content
•    Increase salt content
17.    Honey Should Be Your Friend
It is necessary to increase honey intake as it is beneficial for the anemic persons:
•    It is rich in iron
•    Manganese
•    Copper
These micronutrients are known for their necessity to step up the hemoglobin content in the bloodstream.
18.    Stay Active
The more active one stays the more the capability of the blood to circulate and keep one healthy:
•    Regular exercises should be done
•    Strength training will increase muscle mass and help keep up strength and keep away fatigue
Thus, the home remedies are numerous when it comes to combating anemia. Do you feel low and depressed often? Are you irritable, fatigued most of the time? It is time to look into your diet in order to combat such signs of anemia. While anemia is not an ailment, it is a sign of robust health. It needs to be taken into consideration in order to avoid other health issues from coming up like heart diseases and others. A regular blood count should be taken to monitor the progress in alleviating the condition of anemia. If you are on the look out for effective home remedies, there are many useful and easy to implement tips suggested above. These will surely make a difference in one’s health.

How This Very Popular Cereal Is Exploiting Americans & What You Can Do About It


Cheerio-Alternatives

When I saw Cheerios in my parent’s pantry, my stomach dropped to the floor, steam came out of my nose and I almost flipped a lid. But then I reminded myself that my Dad who bought this very popular cereal isn’t on Facebook, so he hadn’t seen my posts about how Cheerios can contain several different GMO ingredients nor had he seen that I was actively involved in a campaign as a Steering Committee member of GMO Inside to get GMOs removed from Cheerios.
It wasn’t his fault that he was buying this stuff, he was in the dark, like many of us still are. I mean, this cereal is even sold at places like Whole Foods for goodness sakes! It is estimated that 6.4 million people in the US start their day with a bowl of Cheerios. Geez.

Cheerios Can Contain Several GMO Ingredients

Cheerios is one of the first solid foods introduced to most children when they start to eat. To expose our children and ourselves to GMOs is a big mistake, considering all the health implications that are being seen with their introduction to the food supply.
The commercials talking about how wholesome Cheerios are and how your grandparents ate Cheerios and how they are the same today make me want to hurl something at the TV because they are all marketing lies. Cheerios have been in fact changed through out the years to include genetically engineered ingredients. These ingredients were added after it was introduced into the United States & Canada sometime after 1996, right under our noses.
The report titled “Deception at General Mills: The Real CSR Report” by Green America & GMO Inside revealed a startling comparison. Take a look at what Cheerios was made with in 1945 and what it is made with now:
1945 ingredients: oat flour, salt, sugar, sodium phosphate, malted wheat flour, calcium carbonate, iron, niacin, thiamine (Vitamin B1), and riboflavin
2013 Ingredients: whole grain oats (includes the oat bran), modified corn starch, sugar, Salt, tripotassium phosphate, wheat Starch, vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) added to preserve freshness. (Likely GMO ingredients in bold and red).
General mills claims to manufacture wholesome and healthy products when, in reality, its brands have changed over time to include GMOs. While General Mills promotes Cheerios for its use of whole grain oats, stating, “the whole grain oats in Cheerios cereal are natural,” it is silent about the fact that many of the other ingredients in Cheerios sold in the U.S., including modified corn starch, sugar, vitamin e, canola, and natural flavors, are at high risk of being genetically modified.
See all the potential sources of GMO ingredients in a sampling of Cheerio products here (GMO ingredients are listed in red):
Cheerios Have GMOs

General Mill’s Voluntarily Removed GMOs From Their Products In Europe But Not For The US or Canada

When Europe decided to enact GMO labeling, General Mills voluntarily removed GMOs from all their Cheerios products overseas. The report details out the difference in ingredients and exposes General Mills for exploiting Americans & Canadians by using GMOs here but not in Europe. This is the same stuff Kraft pulled with their Macaroni & Cheese, when Europe enacted GMO labeling. Instead of labeling their European products with “contain genetically engineered ingredients” – they voluntarily took the GMOs out and replaced them with natural conventional ingredients.
Take a look at some example Cheerios products from Europe below – none of them contain GMOs. This makes you wonder how you can trust a company that is feeding our friends across the pond safer foods, while feeding us untested and harmful ingredients back home – and to their own fellow citizens! Is it too much to ask the same for us in the United States of America? How much do our sickness, obesity, and mortality rates have to worsen before they respond to us?
GMO Cheerios

General Mill’s Cheerios Parent Company Is Giving Millions Of Dollars To Prevent GMO-Labeling

Adding insult to injury, General Mills has spent $1.1 million to oppose GMO labeling legislation in CA, thus perpetuating consumer deception.  In Washington State, General Mills is covertly funding the campaign opposing labeling initiative 522 through the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA). (Breaking – The GMA is getting sued for hiding the sources of these funds right now). General Mills’ CEO Ken Powell is the vice chair of the GMA, which to date has given $7.2 million to fight I-522.  Polls of Americans demonstrate that more than 93 percent support the labeling of GMOs. General Mills has ignored growing consumer concerns about GMOs and failed to even label their products that contain GMOs.  Instead, the company defends GMOs as safe and beneficial.

Vote With Your Dollars, Choose Safe Brands

I understand many people have grown up with Cheerios and want alternatives and they are wondering what to do next considering this startling deception by General Mills. This chart below details out good alternatives to Cheerios that are both non-GMO and organic. It also shows you other brands that don’t make the cut. Please share with your family and friends and encourage them to stop buying Cheerios.
Cheerio Alternatives

5 Ways To Take Action Now

So what else can you do about this? Take at least one if not all of the actions below:
  1. Sign petition to General Mills’ CEO
  2. Call General Mills at (800) 248 – 7310
  3. Post on the Cheerios Facebook page
  4. Read the full report “Deception at General Mills: The Real CSR Report” 
  5. Watch a new video about the concerns with GMOs in Cheerios

When you sign the petition, you are asking General Mills to be a leader by:

  1. Removing GMOs from all General Mills products - Starting with Cheerios (by 2015), General Mills will responsibly source its products’ ingredients from sources that are certified non-GMO or organic.General Mills will commit to and publish a timeline with incremental deadlines to shift its entire portfolio to non-GMO sources by 2018 (Including all Cheerios varieties, all cereals, and all other food categories.)
  2. Testing for and Labeling GMOs - During the transition period from its current GMO-intensive supply chain to a non-GMO supply chain, General Mills should test its supply chain for GMOs and voluntarily label its GMO ingredients in all products that contain or likely contain GMOs.
  3. Ending all opposition to GMO labeling - General Mills will commit to spend no money against state and federal GMO labeling initiatives. General Mills will encourage the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) to end its opposition to GMO labeling. General Mills will offset its contribution through the GMA to “No on I-522” (Washington State’s ballot initiative for GMO labeling) by contributing the same amount to “Yes on I-522” or in support of a future state labeling initiative.

Holding these companies accountable is just as important as voting with our dollars.

If you know someone who might still be buying and consuming Cheerios – please share this post with them. And if you know anyone in Washington State, make sure you tell them how important it is to vote yes on 1-522! 
Thank you for your support. You are the Food Babe Army – and I love you!