The Best Home Remedies For Sinus Infection

Runny nose, facial pain, difficulties breathing, headaches and fatigue were marking days as of late. The reasons stretch from air pollution, stress (the omnipresent cause of uncountable health problems) and weather changes, to a lowered immune system contracting a viral or bacterial infection.

Sometimes a lifestyle change is required to eliminate the substances and factors that cause the infection, such as not using chemical cleaning products or starting to meditate. how to get rid of the nuisance. The antibiotics work (with side effects) only if the cause is bacterial, but not if it’s viral.

home remedy for sinus

Garlic, honey and apple cider vinegar – the three natural remedies are found to be the cure to almost everything.

how these wonderful products can help you cure uncomfortable, repetitive, tiring, suffocating, embarrassing (I’m sure I left out some unpleasant descriptive adjectives, but you get the idea) sinus infections.

Inhalation with garlic

If the infection is not fully blown yet, inhalations should be your first course of action to alleviate discomfort. Boil a pot of water and then add minced fresh garlic to it (3 to 4 cloves should do). Get yourself comfy, cover your head and pot with a towel and start inhaling. It might be uncomfortable at first, but it will help. The steam alone is an amazing decongestant and helps to clear the breathing pathways. When you add other healing ingredients, the positive effects multiply. Garlic is an extremely potent natural antibiotic, and is antiviral and antifungal. see also my article how to make garlic syrup for chest infections.

Inhalation with apple cider vinegar

Instead of fresh garlic, you can also use apple cider vinegar. A 1:1 proportion with steaming water will create a powerful mix. Apple cider vinegar thins the annoying mucus.

Inhalation with essential oils

Some swear by adding tea tree oil (a few drops will suffice), as the oil is another strong natural antibiotic and antifungal. By inhaling it, you deliver the antibiotic directly to your suffering nasal membranes. Also eucalyptus essential oil helps clear nasal and chest congestion caused by colds and sinus infections, so you can use it instead or with tea tree essential oil

Add honey

Make sure to only use raw honey. If filtered (often done for appearances’ sake), the honey loses most of its healing properties. We really have our priorities wrong these days! Raw honey is a magnificent antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal bee creation, and boosts the immune system. Followers of Ayurvedic medicine suggest starting the day with honey water. You simply mix a teaspoon of honey into a glass of warm (not hot!) water. Your body is then geared to start the day. Now, for maximum therapeutic kick to get over a tenacious sinus infection, you can try out this combination:

  • – a glass of warm water
  • – 1 teaspoon of honey
  • – 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
  • – 3 cloves of minced raw garlic

Mix well and drink to your sinuses’ health!

Or, if the abundance of tastes (or garlic breath), slightly scare you, just try mixing apple cider vinegar and raw honey, and consuming that 3 times a day. Two tablespoons of vinegar and 1 teaspoon of honey will send your sinusitis packing.

Neti Pot

One of the most popular treatments using a salt and water solution to flush out the nasal passages is the neti pot. This is a small ceramic pot that you fill with a mixture of 1 pint of lukewarm water with 1 teaspoon of salt. You need to use previously boiled water to prepare the solution. Don’t use tap water.

Once you’ve filled the neti pot, tilt your head over the sink at about a 45 degree angle. Place the spout into your top nostril, and gently pour the saline water into that nostril. The saline water will flow through your nasal cavity and out the other nostril. Blow your nose to get rid of any remaining water, then refill the neti pot and repeat the process on the other side.

The basic explanation of how the Neti pot works is that it thins mucus and helps flush it out of the nasal passages. People suffering from daily sinus symptoms found relief from using the neti pot on a daily basis. Once the symptoms subsided, you can reduce it to three times a week.

Elderberry Infusion

The elderberry is a bush that can reach to a great height with small white flowers and dark purple sweet-sour fruit. You can also make an infusion from the flowers of the elderberry plant, which has been shown to prevent inflammation and infection in the respiratory system and is effective against winter ailments including sinusitis. Use 1 heaped teaspoon of dried flowers per 1 cup of boiling water. Simmer for approximately 10 minutes. Allow tea to cool, strain the tea and drink.

If you consume these beautiful gifts of nature regularly, your immune system bolstered, there is a fighting chance the sinus infection will stay clear of you for the foreseeable future

Source: healthy and natural world


Homemade cream that make wonders – get rid of wrinkles in 7 days

Make Natural Wrinkle Cream which will revive your face.
The recipe is simple and miraculous.

Ingredients:

  • – 1 egg yoke,
  • – 2 tablespoons of almond or olive oil,
  • – ½ tablespoon honey,
  • – 2 teaspoons of Vaseline (medical).

Homemade cream that make wonders

Preparation:
Melt the vaseline on steam. When vaseline when fully melted, remove it from the heat and add remaining ingredients. Mix it until you get a smooth mixture. Place the cream in a suitable container and store in refrigerator.

You can use this cream as a daily moisturizer, but is recommended to use it before bed time.
This home cream is an ideal for skin care: moisturizes your skin, evens the complexion, reduces wrinkles and aging.

Natural Wrinkle Cream

  • Suitable for all skin types.
  • Visible results are noticeable after only 7 days of regular use.

Source: secretly healthy


Home remedies to remove blackheads

Home remedies to remove blackheadsBeing Healthy and fit is the significant challenges that most of us face today. The age old proverb that ” Health is Wealth” is the gateway to happiness holds good for varied reasons. You know how, your pants falls down when you are leaning a little bit and a millimeter of your crack shows? A millimeter and even the person in the space station can see that? Yes indeed we are taking about blackheads and they are annoying for sure. You can see them and you want them to be banished from the front of your eyes. Let us make it happen by implementing the following home remedies

1. Toothpaste – is an effective blackhead remover. Apply a thin paste to your affected areas and then sit on the paste for close to 25 minutes. One may feel a burning sensation when they apply the toothpaste, but hold on it will eventually pass of within a few seconds. Once the toothpaste is removed, the blackheads will be removed, but you still to wash your face to remove the buildup. Ideally for effective results this home remedy should be implemented on alternate days.

2. Rice- Soak rice in milk for 5 hours and grind it till it resembles the form of a paste like in consistency. Use the paste as a scrub to the affected areas of the body.

3. Tomatoes– have natural antiseptic healing properties that dry up blackheads. Peel and smash a tomato and apply the pulp to the blackheads before going to bed. Make it a point to leave the tomato pulp on your face and then wash your face in lukewarm water in the morning.

4. Almond– Mix almond with enough amount of rose water to make a suitable paste. Apply it to the affected areas with your fingertips and then apply it to the rest of the face. Let it set for 15 minutes and then rinse it off with cold water.

5. Baking soda- Prepare a mixture of equal parts of baking soda and water and rub it on to your face or other areas prone to blackheads. Leave it on for 15 minutes and then rinse it off with lukewarm water.

Have any of you tried any of the sure shot ways of getting rid of blackheads from the comfort of your home? If not try it now and the results are bound to be seen.

Source: world factualy


Home Remedies for Stomachache due to indigestion

Home Remedies for Stomachache due to indigestion

If your abdominal pain is due to an upset stomach or indigestion, you might feel such symptoms as belching, nausea, bloated stomach and a general discomfort in your upper abdominal area including pain. You might be having indigestion and resultant stomach ache and discomfort due to one or many reasons including overeating, having spicy oily food, GERD, peptic ulcer and even smoking or anxiety. Certain medicines like antibiotics too lead to indigestion. Here are some home remedies for stomach ache or discomfort due to indigestion.

1. Cumin Seeds

Cumin has been long used for its fine properties that aid in digesting food. If you use cumin seeds in your cooking, you might not even suffer from indigestion at all. However, if anyway you feel uncomfortable due to all the food there in your stomach not getting digested, you may then take help of cumin seeds. This Mediterranean spice has been traditionally used as a treatment for inflammation and gastritis. Some people may feel symptoms of indigestion, abdominal pain or heartburn with gastritis. Cumin may help relieve these symptoms and grant relief from abdominal pain. The aroma of cumin due to its compound ‘cuminaldehyde’ activates secretion of saliva thus helping in digestion. Another compound of cumin called ‘thymol’ too activates gastric secretion for improving digestion. The method of consuming cumin given here is an Ayurvedic way of getting relief from stomach ache.
Get this:

  • Cumin seeds- 2 tbsp
  • Water- 4- ½ cups
  • Do this:
  • Add cumin seeds o the water.
  • Now boil this water for five minutes.
  • Let the cumin water cool down.
  • Now strain it and have this water everyday.

2. Lemon Juice
Citric acid in lemon juice triggers the production of hydrochloric acid in your body which breaks down the food. Not being able to break down the food to digest it properly is one of the main causes of Indigestion. Along with this,when you take lemon juice, you are helping your body keep itself hydrated enough to function smoothly.

Ways to have lemon juice for stomach ache

  • Get 1 glass of warm water, 1 tsp of lemon juice and 1 tsp of honey. Mix them well and have this lime-honey warm drink after each of your meals.
  • Get half a cup of water, 2 tsp of lemon juice and ¼ tsp of rock salt. Mix them well and have this lemon drink thrice a day.
  • Get 1 tsp of lemon juice, 1 tsp of mint juice, 1 tsp of ginger juice and a pinch of black salt. Have this mixture for immediate relief from discomfort in stomach due to indigestion.

3. Homemade Probiotic Drink

Probiotics, as you may be knowing, are the good bacteria that help your stomach do its job smoothly by digesting foods that you eat. When you suffer from indigestion, there are enough chances that these probiotics have diminished in amount leading to your indigestion and the resultant stomach discomfort and pain. Yogurt, the plain one without any flavor or sugar, is one of the best natural probiotics. Why mot combine it with some really effective ingredients for digestion and have it to get relief from stomach problems!

Get this:

  • Yogurt- 1-2 tbsp
  • Coriander leaves- few of them (enough to get 3 tsp of juice)
  • Salt- a pinch of it
  • Cardamom powder- ½ tsp
  • Do this:
  • Add the yogurt in your cup of water.
  • Add salt and mix well to get a buttermilk type of drink.
  • Crush the coriander leaves and place them on sieve, then press to extract out their juice.
  • Add 3 tsp of this coriander leaves juice to your yogurt-water mix.
  • Add cardamom powder to this and mix well.
  • Have this excellent probiotic drink one hour after each of your meals.

Remember to use only plain yogurt having live culture bacteria in it

4. Fennel Seeds

In India, it is a tradition to chew fennel seeds or have betel leaf prepared with various ingredients along with fennel seeds. Fennel seeds excellently cure indigestion by triggering off the secretion of digestive juices. This happens due to the compound of fennel seeds called anethole, a volatile oil. Anethole can cure inflammation of the stomach lining and give you relief from pain occurring due to this.

Ways to have fennel seeds for stomach ache

  • Chew half to one teaspoon of fennel seeds after your meals. Do this at least when you eat heavy, spicy, oily food.
  • Make fennel tea to get relief from stomach ache as well as cramps. Put 1 tsp of fennel seeds in a cup and pour hot water over it. Cover and let steep for 8-10 minutes. Strain and have this digestive tea thrice a day.
  • You can even have raw fennel instead of fennel seeds. Take a fresh slice of raw fennel bulb and chew this after meals.

5. Rice Tea
If your stomach ache is due to indigestion and you also suffer from diarrhea at the same time, you may consider using rice in various forms for alleviating your stomach problems. What we call rice tea is actually the left out water we get after cooking the rice. This rice water acts as a demulcent by reducing inflammation as it creates a barrier over a membrane, the lining of your stomach.
Get this:

  • Rice- ½ cup
  • Water- 6 cups
  • Honey (optional)- 1-2 tsp
  • Do this:
  • Wash the rice and keep aside.
  • Boil water.
  • When it starts boiling, add rice to it.
  • Cover and let it boil for 15 minutes or till the rice becomes tender. Keep stirring in between.
  • Once the rice gets cooked, strain and save the rice for later use.
  • Let the water drained from cooked rice cool down a little. You have to make it warm.
  • Add honey if needed and sip this warm rice tea to relive stomach ache.

Home Remedies for Stomach Ache due to Gas Formation

When your stomach growls, groans, churns, turns, bloats, burns, or aches with intolerable cramps and pains, this may be due to formation of gas. You may feel uneasiness, bloating, nausea, headache, irritability and even chest pain as if you have got a heart attack! Gas formation is mainly caused due to indigestion of carbohydrates and cellulose along with other reasons like air swallowing when eating or talking. While you need to watch what you eat and drink, here are some remedies for such stomach ache due to gastric troubles.

6. Baking Soda for Stomach Ache due to Gastric Trouble
Any of the antacids that you buy from market to get relief from that bloating stomach, indigestion or accompanying nausea, it uses baking soda as its basic ingredient. So, why not use baking soda to make your own homemade antacid! Baking soda decreases excessive amounts of hydrochloric acid in your stomach. When the acid in your stomach acid combines with baking soda, it creates a chemical reaction which neutralizes the effect on the acid, thus giving you relief from stomach ache.

Ways to use baking soda for stomach ache

  • Mix ½ to 1 tsp of baking soda with 1 cup or 1 glass of water (whichever you can finish), and have this to get instant relief from gas-causing stomach pain.
  • You may also use warm water with baking soda. Mix ½ to 1 tsp of this soda with a cup of warm water and have it.
  • Make your own homemade antacid with baking soda. Squeeze lemon juice of half or 1 lemon in half glass of water. Now add 2 tsp of baking soda and a pinch of salt to this lemon water. Mix and have it. You’ll burp after a while pushing out all the gas from your stomach which was causing pain. This will even cure headache which you get due to gas.

However, you need to exercise a caution while using baking soda. Baking soda is nothing else but sodium bicarbonate, a sodium compound, a salt. If you suffer from high blood pressure or have been told by your physician to restrict sodium in your diet, you better use some other remedies for stomach ache.

7. Ginger for Stomach Ache due to Gas, Indigestion
Ginger, like some other home remedies, has been used since a long time to treat stomach ache. While our grandma or mama didn’t know and used it as a tradition, we know that ginger has in it the compounds called gingerols and shogaols. These compounds aids your muscles of intestinal track relax. This in turn, gives you relief from stomach ache occurring due to indigestion as well as gas.

Ginger also gets you rid of nauseating feeling accompanying your stomach ache. While you can have ginger in any form, raw ginger is far more beneficial than the dry one. Also, ginger ale is better avoided because it has more artificial flavors and sugars than having real ginger. Ginger candies too have a lots of sugar that may aggravate your problem. Instead, have ginger tea or use one of these ways to have ginger for stomach ache

Ways to use ginger for stomach ache
Make ginger tea by chopping a 1-2 inches piece of fresh ginger root after washing and peeling it. Boil 1-2 cups of water and add the ginger pieces to it. Let it boil for 2-3 minutes. Put off the flame and let it steep for another couple of minutes. Strain and add 1-2 tsp of honey which is entirely optional. You can have ginger tea without mixing honey too.

  • If you can’t get the raw ginger or you can’t stand the strong flavor of raw ginger, use 1-2 tsp of ginger powder to make your tea and have it.
  • Adding ginger powder to a glass of plain water and having it will also relieve you of stomach ache.
  • You can simple chew on a fresh piece of ginger though it will be a lot spicy so do it if you can stand it. If you want, sprinkle a little black salt before chewing the ginger pieces.
  • You may also crush a little piece of fresh ginger and extract its juice. Mix 1 tsp of such ginger juice with ½ tsp of ghee (clarified butter) and get relief from abdominal pain the Ayurveda way.
  • Fresh ginger juice can also be rubbed on the bottom belly to cure stomach ache, especially in children as they may not be able to ingest ginger.

8. Ajwain, Caraway and Other Seeds for Stomach Ache
There are certain herbs that are known as carminatives. They are great for digestion. For example, caraway seeds loaded with vitamins and minerals stop the growth of bad bacteria causing indigestion,gas and bloating. Some of such other seeds include cumin seeds, fennel seeds, coriander seeds, anise seeds, dill seed, and ajwain (sometimes called carom seeds).

Ways to use herbal seeds for stomach ache

  • Chew on some caraway seeds after every meal. A generous pinch or two can do. You can also chew them when you feel gas in your stomach.
  • Make a herbal tea by boiling 1-2 tsp of any of the seeds like cumin, fennel, coriander, anise, dill, ajwain or caraway seeds in 1-2 cups of water. You can even use a mixture of two or more of these seeds. Let the drink cool down and sip it to get relief from indigestion or gas induced stomach ache.
  • Take ½ tablespoon of water and add ajwain (sometimes also called bishopweed) and black salt in it. Take ajwain in four parts and black salt in one part. Mix them well with half tablespoon of water and have this to get instant relief from stomach pain and bloating.
  • Take ½ cup of warm water. Add 1 tsp ajwain, 8-10 drops of lemon juice and a pinch of black salt to it. Mix well and have it to relieve of stomach pain.
  • Make caraway seeds tea. Add a cup of hot water to 1 tsp of caraway seeds. Cover and steep for 8-10 minutes. Strain and drink this herbal tea thrice a day.

9. Mint Tea for Stomach Ache due to Indigestion and Gas
This is a folk remedy for stomach ache and it works. Fresh mint tea or peppermint tea, if you prefer to call it like this, can relax your stomach muscles and help smooth flow of bile (the digestive juice) so that you can digest your food properly and do not have stomach ache. This is equally true in case of gas and bloating and that’s why you find so many mint flavored antacids in market. Chewing some fresh mint leaves can do the wonders. You can even mix juice extracted from mint leaves in some water and have. However, mint tea not only cures your stomach ache but also refreshes you up so make mint tea for yourself.

Get this:

  • Fresh mint leaves- handful of them OR dried mint- 1-2 tsp
  • water- 1 cup
  • Do this:
  • Boil the water.
  • Add mint leaves to this.
  • Cover and steep for 5-10 minutes.
  • No need to strain if you have used fresh leaves.
  • Sip the tea slowly feeling that your pain is going away.
  • Chew the leaves too, if you can.

Home Remedies for Stomach Ache due to Stomach Ulcers
Most of the time stomach ache is due to gas formation in your stomach and some other times it is due to heartburn. The home remedies cited above will be enough to give you relief from stomach ache that you get from either cases. However, if the pain doesn’t go away, it could be due to stomach ulcers. It can be misunderstood as heartburn as you get a burning sensation along with acute pain usually in the upper abdomen and this can last for upto three hours. You get stomach ulcers when the mucous lining of your stomach is damaged either by hydrochloric acid present in digestive juices or Helicobacter pylori, an infection causing bacteria. Here are some home remedies for your stomach ache that you get from stomach ulcers.

10. Dandelion Root Tea for Stomach ulcer related Abdominal pain
Any part of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) plant can be used as a remedy for stomach ulcers. You can add dandelion in your salads or vegetables stir fries. However, the juice extracted from the root of dandelion is the most effective thing to have. You can make dandelion tea for this effect.
Get this:

  • Dandelion root herb- 1-2 tsp
  • Water- 1-2 cups
  • Do this:
  • Boil the water.
  • Add dandelion herb
  • Cover and let steep for 5-10 minutes.
  • Strain and have the tea
  • Have this tea for 2-4 weeks to cure stomach ulcers and then stop taking it. You will get rid of stomach ache due to ulcers. However, avoid having dandelion root tea if you have an allergy to such plants as ragweed, marigolds, daises or chrysanthemums.

11. Potato Juice for Stomach Ache due to Ulcers
Against the popular belief that potatoes are not good for health, this vegetable actually can relieve you of various stomach related ailments. Potatoes have in them, a unique antibacterial molecule which can treat stomach ulcers. What is interesting that the bacteria present in stomach cannot resist potato juice. Although all potatoes are good, the types of potatoes recognized as Maris Piper and King Edward are best suited to cure stomach ulcers. Potato juice can, in fact, apart from peptic ulcers, can cure heartburn, constipation and even gout and Rheumatism!

  • Get this:
  • Potatoes- enough to get ¼ cup of juice
  • Water- ¾ cup
  • Lemon juice (optional)- 1-2 tsp
  • Honey (optional)- 1-2 tsp
  • Do this:
  • In the morning, crush or grind the potatoes and extract their juice to get ¼ cup of potato juice.
  • Add ¾ cup of water to the potato juice. Now you have 1 cup of diluted potato juice.
  • Have this on an empty stomach every morning.
  • If you cannot stand the taste of raw potato juice, mix lemon juice and honey to this and have it.

When you suffer from stomach ache, this is a sign that your stomach needs some rest. Be kind to your digestive system and eat light and simple foods. Avoid having spicy and hot foods and also those made in too much of oil. Follow the rule of having simple diet like rice, toast, bananas, herbal tea, yogurt, buttermilk, lemon juice etc. Use spices like cumin seeds, ajwain, caraway seeds etc. in your dishes. Chew mint or fennel seeds after your meals. If you suffer from gas, try doing exercise regularly even if simple walking for 30 minutes a day. Taking these measures will keep your stomach ache at bay. However, if your abdominal pain persists and you do not get relief from any number of home remedies for stomach ache, you should consult your doctor because then your stomach ache can be a symptom of certain serious ailment which may need medical intervention


10 Natural Remedies For The Most Common Complaints

10 Natural Remedies For The Most Common Complaints

Herbs have been used for centuries by many cultures to help alleviate common complaints, but nowadays we are much quicker to rush to the medicine cabinet than our herb gardens. It’s time to go back to basics and see how much nature can heal you, naturally!

Rosemary
Coughing? Add Rosemary!
The eycalyptol in this aromatic herb is proven to loosen chest congestion, making phlegm easier to expel. Plus, rosemary is rich in anti-inflammatory tannins, which soothe a sore throat.

Mint
Upset Stomach? Add Mint!
Peppermint contains menthol, a natural plant compound that relaxes pain-inducing intestinal spasms. This reduces belly discomfort by 40 percent

Oregano
Menstrual Cramps? Add Oregano!
Enjoying 2 tsp of fresh oregano daily during menstruation can reduce or eliminates cramps. That’s because this herb’s thymol and carvacrol, relax uterine muscles to prevent painful contractions.

Curry Powder
Achy joints? Add Curry Powder!
The curcumin in curry inhibits the body’s production of prostaglandin E2, an inflammatory compound that over-sensitizes nerves. This blunts joint and muscle pain as effectively as prescription medications.

Dill
Upset G.I. Tract? Add Dill!
Indian scientists found that dill’s limonene works as well as prescription antibiotics at killing harmful intestinal bacteria such as E. coli.

Parsley
Bloated? Add Parsley!
Thanks to its stores or apiol and myristicin, parsley is a natural diuretic that relieves bloat-inducing water retention by preventing salt from being reabsorbed into bodily tissue.

Cayenne
Congested? Add Cayenne!
The fiery capsaicin in cayenne deactivates substance P, a neaurotransmitter linked to inflammation. The result is less sinus congestion and pressure

Basil
Feeling Down? Add Basil!
The eugenol and rosmarinic acid in basil boost the brain’s production of dopamine and seratonin. According to Indian researchers, this could lead to sunnier moods in as little as three days.

Cilantro/Corriander
Feeling Tired? Add Cilantro/Corriander!
The carboxylic acid in cilantro binds to heavy metals such as mercury in the blood and carries them out of the body. Their removal reverses the toxin buildup that causes chronic fatigue, joint pain and depression.

Ginger
Having Nausea? Add Ginger!
Ginger’s gingerol and shogaol calm digestive tract spasms to reduce nausea better than motion-sickness drugs.

There you have it, nature’s medicine cabinet. Not only are herbs very healing but they are also nutritional powerhouses! I believe everyone should be growing their own little herb gardens on their windowsills, as they have so many uses and health benefits.

Source: collective evolution

 


Home Remedies for Arthritis in Hands

arthritic-hands

Arthritis in the hands is the most common type of arthritis. It occurs as a result of the breakdown of the cartilage that support the bone structure.

Since we use our hands and fingers in most activities, arthritis in the hands can be a cause of discomfort and uneasiness. Swollen fingers, joint inflammation, stiffness and pain are some of the symptoms of hand arthritis.

Advancements in the medical field have led to the development of many methods for controlling the various arthritis symptoms. Along with medications, you can also try some easy yet highly effective natural remedies to improve the condition of your fingers and hands.

Here are the top 10 home remedies for arthritis in the hands. Also, consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

1. Ice Pack
Cold therapy is good for those suffering from hand arthritis. You can use ice packs, a plastic bag filled with crushed ice or a bag of frozen vegetables. Regular application of ice packs on the affected hands and fingers will lessen irritation and reduce soreness. However, it is important to bear in mind that different people may respond differently to cold therapy.

Simply put the ice pack on the affected area for a few minutes and then repeat. Continue this home treatment for about 20 minutes, several times a day. Apply the cold compress to only one or two joints at a time, and be sure to put a thin towel between the ice pack and the skin to prevent frostbite.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has anti-inflammatory and alkaline-forming properties that help reduce pain and stiffness in the hands from arthritis.

Drink a glass of warm water mixed with one tablespoon of organic apple cider vinegar and some honey every day.
Alternatively, mix one-quarter or one-half teaspoon of cayenne pepper in one cup of warm apple cider vinegar. Soak the painful joint in it for about 15 minutes and then rinse it off. Repeat daily until you see improvement.

3. Ginger
Ginger contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce arthritis pain and inflammation. You can add this herb in your foods and also drink ginger tea to derive its benefits.

To make ginger tea:

  • Cut up a small piece of ginger.
  • Boil it in one cup of water for 10 minutes.
  • Strain and drink this tea two or three times a day until you get relief.

4. Honey and Cinnamon
The combination of honey and cinnamon powder is a good natural way to treat arthritis in hands and help relax stiff muscles due to their excellent healing properties. Also, honey has antiseptic qualities, while cinnamon has good anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Mix one tablespoon of honey and one-half teaspoon of cinnamon powder.
Eat this mixture every morning on an empty stomach for several weeks or until you get encouraging results.

5. Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is good for reducing the stiffness, inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. It is a rich source of magnesium which is important for bone mineralization; most arthritis patients have demineralized bones. Moreover, magnesium helps decrease nerve pains.

  • Mix two cups of Epsom salt in warm bath water
  • Soak your hands in it for 20 to 30 minutes.
  • Do this three times a week for several weeks or until you are satisfied with the results.

6. Olive Oil
There is a strong connection between olive oil and inflammation caused by arthritis. A special compound known as oleocanthal present in olive oil helps prevent the production of pro-inflammatory COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes.

Olive oil can be used as a massage oil for your hands and fingers. Add a few drops of lavender oil to some warm olive oil and massage the affected area with gentle strokes to alleviate discomfort and inflammation.
You can also use olive oil for cooking food to help reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.

Source: top 10 home remedies


15 Home Remedies for Neck Pain

15 Home Remedies for Neck Pain

“This job is a pain in the neck” may be more than just a saying. Tension on the job or at home, tasks that require a lot of leaning over a work surface, poor posture, and even a too-soft mattress can cause neck pain and stiffness. Of course, some neck pain is the result of injury or disease, but the vast majority of neck pain is due to simple muscle tension.

The neck, with its intricate structure and wide range of mobility, is particularly vulnerable to stress and strain. The head, which weighs between 10 and 20 pounds, is supported by a stack of seven small bones called vertebrae and held in place by 32 complex muscles.

Attached to and between the vertebrae are pads of fibrous cartilage called discs that act as cushions, or shock absorbers. Eight nerves, which relay sensations (including pain), and four major arteries, which carry blood, run through the neck and connect the head with the shoulders, chest, and arms. The delicate spinal cord runs through the center of the stack of vertebrae and is protected by it. Add to this complex structure the fact that the neck moves more than any other part of the body, and you’ve got a formula for trouble.

It’s a vicious cycle. When our muscles tense, either because of physical or emotional stress, the blood supply to the muscles decreases, causing pain. And that pain causes the muscles to tense further. That’s why the best way to relieve neck pain is to try to eliminate or ease the physical or emotional stress in addition to treating the muscles.

Get rid of that pain in the neck by heeding the home remedies that follow.
Take a load off. One of the simplest ways to relieve the pain is to lie down and give your neck muscles a chance to recover. But don’t use a thick pillow that crimps your neck.

Ice it. Ice effectively numbs pain and decreases inflammation. Put crushed ice in a plastic bag and cover the bag with a pillowcase (a terry towel is too thick to effectively transmit the cold). Apply the icepack to your painful neck for 15 minutes at a time.

Heat it up. Heat increases circulation and can be effective for easing stiff muscles. Use a wet towel or a hot water bottle, or stand in a hot shower. But don’t keep it up for too long. Too much heat can aggravate symptoms and cause more pain. You might even want to try following up your heat application with a few minutes of cold treatment.

Relax. Emotional stress can trigger muscle tension. Pay attention to what stresses you: your drive to work, your rush to get dinner on the table each night, meetings with your boss, and so on. After you’ve identified your common stressors, think creatively about ways to reduce your stress. One way to manage stress is through relaxation techniques, such as progressive relaxation or abdominal breathing.

To perform progressive relaxation, find a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed. Sit or lie down and close your eyes. Then, starting with your head and neck and working down the entire body, consciously tighten, or tense, and then completely release the muscles in the area.

To perform abdominal breathing, sit quietly and take a slow, deep breath all the way into your abdomen; place a hand on your abdomen to feel it expand and confirm you are breathing deeply enough. Then exhale completely, gently sucking in your stomach. Breathe slowly and deeply like this for several minutes (if you do this too quickly, you may begin to hyperventilate).

Other relaxation techniques include meditation, yoga, and exercise. In addition, you may want to develop some of your own methods of relaxation, such as engaging in a hobby or listening to peaceful music. Do whatever works for you.
Use massage. Massage can help ease tense muscles and give temporary relief, and it may help you sleep better. First, take a hot bath or shower to relax the muscles. Then, have your partner use oil or lotion and rub your neck and shoulders using the fingers to apply gentle pressure in small circular motions. Next, have your partner rub your neck and shoulders using firm pressure and long, downward strokes. Don’t forget the chest area. If you don’t have a willing partner, try rubbing your own neck and chest area with oil or lotion for 10 or 15 minutes.

Take a nonprescription pain reliever. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin and ibuprofen can ease the pain and reduce inflammation. If you can’t take these medications because of allergies, stomach upset, or any other reason, try acetaminophen; it won’t calm inflammation, but it should help relieve pain.

Practice good posture. Posture has more to do with neck pain than people realize. The head and spine balance in relation to gravity. When poor posture pulls the curve of the lower back forward, the upper back curves farther backward to compensate. In response, the neck curves forward, in a strained position.

You can use a wall to help align your body properly and improve your posture: Stand with your back to a wall, heels several inches from the wall. Your buttocks and shoulders should touch the wall, and the back of your head should be close to the wall. Keep your chin level. Now, step away from the wall. Step back and check your position. Try to carry this posture throughout the day.
Get and stay trim. Being overweight strains all of the body’s muscles, including those in the neck.

Strengthen stomach muscles. Just as poor posture and obesity can cause straining of the neck muscles, poor tone in the stomach muscles forces the upper back to curve farther backward and the neck to curve forward. Do exercises such as bent-knee curls (they’re basically sit-ups, but you only lift your head and upper back, rather than your whole back, off the ground) to strengthen abdominal muscles.

Do neck exercises. Two types of neck exercises can help ease and prevent neck pain: gentle range-of-motion exercises and isometric exercises. Apply moist heat to the neck before performing the exercises. Each exercise should be done five times per session, three sessions per day.

Range-of-motion exercises help stretch neck muscles. Sit erect but relaxed. Slowly turn your head to the right as far as you can, hold, and return it to the center. Repeat to the left. Then drop your chin down slowly toward your chest, hold, and relax. Bring your head back up. Now tilt your head toward your left shoulder, hold, and return to the center. Do the same on the right side.

Isometric exercises are performed against resistance but without actually moving your head. Try this routine:

Sit erect and relaxed, hold your hand up to your forehead, and press your forehead into your palm, using your palm to resist the motion.
Place your right hand against the right side of your head, and press your head against your hand (as if trying to bring your right ear to your right shoulder), but use your hand to resist your head’s motion. Do the same on the left side.

Press both hands against the back of your head as you try to push your head backward; resist your head’s backward motion with your hands.

Press your hand against the right side of your face as you try to turn your head to look over your right shoulder; use your hand to resist the turning motion. Repeat, pressing your left hand to the left side of your face as you attempt to look over your left shoulder.

Stay in shape. The stronger and more flexible you are overall, the less likely you’ll suffer from neck pain. Swimming is one of the best all-around exercises for strengthening the neck and back.

Work at eye level. If your neck discomfort comes on toward the end of the workday, chances are good that your workstation or your work habits are causing the problem. People often get “desk neck” from looking down for long periods or from reaching up to work. If possible, always keep your work at eye level. Change the height of your chair, desk, or computer screen; use an upright stand to hold reading material; and use a stepladder, stool, or raised platform instead of reaching up.

Take frequent breaks. Change your body position often, especially if you have to be in a physically stressful position. Get up and walk around at least once an hour.

Unlearn “neck-bashing” habits. Do you crimp the phone between your neck and shoulder? Do you often fall asleep sitting up in a chair and wake with your head tilted way back or your chin to your chest? Do you shampoo your hair in the sink? All of these habits can cause neck strain. Become aware of habits that strain your neck and replace them with neck-healthy ones.

Sleep on a firm mattress. If you wake in the morning with a stiff or sore neck, your mattress, pillow, or sleeping habits are probably the culprit. Use a firm mattress and keep your head aligned with your spine. Don’t sleep on your stomach, since it forces your head up. Avoid pillows that are too thick and firm; try feather or crushed-foam pillows rather than those of solid foam rubber.

As you can see, several of your everyday habits can contribute to neck pain. Take the home remedies listed in this article to keep your neck held high and healthy.

Source: how stuff works

Source: how stuff works


Heal mouth ulcers naturally with honey

heal-mouth-ulcers-with-honey

Mouth ulcers are really painful and can even affect your eating and talking ability. Most of the times they go away on their own but if they are totally ruining your daily life, try this effective home remedy for ulcers – honey.

We all know that honey is anti-bacterial in nature. But it does not work like an antibiotic drug. Honey’s anti-bacterial property is attributed to its highly hygroscopic nature. This means that it has a special property of absorbing water molecules or retaining moisture from the environment. As a result, bacteria that might have caused infection, resulting in ulcers, get killed due to dehydration. Apart from that, it also has a high sugar content which is detrimental to the growth of microbes. It helps in reduction of scarring of the ulcer and stimulates the process of new tissue growth. This, along with its anti-microbial property makes sure that your mouth ulcer heals quickly.

Tip to use honey for ulcers: Dab a little honey onto the area having the mouth ulcer. Alternatively, you can mix a little turmeric with honey and make a paste to apply it directly on the affected area. Here’s another effective remedy for your ulcer: Chew tulsi leaves to get rid of mouth ulcers.
Source: the health site


Super tonic sore throat

32a4c939cf1483d54944e4adcb854b61Ingredients and Directions:

  • 1 30 oz. bottle Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
  • -1/4 cup chopped Garlic
  • -1/4 cup Onions
  • -1/4 cup Habanero peppers (or hottest peppers you can find)
  • -1/4 cup grated Ginger
  • -1/4 cup grated Horseradish
  • -2 T Turmeric
  • -1/4 cup elderberries

Preparation

  • Blend ingredients together for a couple of minutes
  • Then add a 1/4 cup of Elderberries.
  • let stand 6 weeks then strain. Pour liquid in dark bottle. You can store the tonic in a cupboard for long periods of time.No need to keep in the refrigerator.
  • You can also use it mixed with olive oil for a salad dressing.
  • Or a shot full on you stir fry.

*For sore throat, gargle a bit in the mouth and swallow.

*For an illness, such as a cold or flu, take about 2 droppers full or a Tablespoon every couple of hours.

*For daily immune support drink 2 droppers full/ 1 Tablespoon every day.
Build up tolerance to a shot glass full.

*Eat an orange, lemon, or lime slice after to ease the heat.

Source: secretly healthy


Varicose veins Treatment

VaricoseVeins-564x600Varicose veins are the superficial venous system disease. With associated symptoms and complications they make the most frequent disease of the blood vessels of the legs.

The treatment of varicose veins should be comprehensively.

Therefore, it would be the best addition to the medical treatment that was recommended by a doctor, in a battle with the disease using some folk medicine resources.

We give you the most efficient and most effective methods of folk medicine intended for the treatment of varicose veins.Treatment for varicose veins.

One of the most effective treatments for treating varicose veins is the garlic oil.
Garlic oil should be gently rubbed into the varicose vein, then put a nylon bag over it and wrap it with a bandage or a warm cloth.

The treatment is done in the evening and left for overnight. In the morning, wash your feet and put something warm over that.

varicose-vein-treatment

Apple Cider Vinegar – the simplest, but most effective way of treating varicose veins.

Apple cider vinegar contains a large amount of vitamins, minerals, macro and micronutrients, including potassium, calcium, iron and iodine.

If properly used apple cider vinegar will help you to deal with varicose veins, without any negative side effects. Results are visible after 3-4 weeks.

The simplest way to use apple cider vinegar is rubbing the diseased veins with that. This is done in a very simple way:

Soak a piece of cotton wool in apple vinegar and gently rub it on the problematic parts of the vein.

The treatment should be done at least twice a day – morning and evening. You can do this treatment several times a day. Treatment is necessary to take at least a month.

Nettle is also very effective in the treatment of varicose veins.

This treatment requires patience and accuracy in the implementation. You can combine it with other methods in the treatment of this disease.

In the course of 6 months, it is necessary to drink this beverage which is prepared in the following manner:

– Pour 1 tablespoon of nettle 1 cup of water, and bring to a boil on lower heat.
– After cooled, drain it and divide into three equal parts. Drink three times a day before meals.

Source: secretly healthy