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Home Remedies

Natural home remedies for Gum problems

Swollen and bleeding gums are mainly caused by the accumulation of tartar under it. This can also indicate gingivitis whih is a kind of gum problem. A healthy gum tissue is stiff and pink. If your gums are going fluffy, dull or red in color, it’s time for you to see your dentist. Untreated gum ailments can cause serious problems, with the following home remedies you can help in dealing with your gum swelling.

Reasons for swollen gums and bleeding

  1. Gingivitis: One of the primary cause of swollen gum can be gingivitis. It is a condition in which gum becomes irritated due to poor oral hygiene and tartar build up.
  2. Malnutrition: Some people didn’t receive enough nutrients required for growth, lack of Vitamin B and C usually results in swollen gum.
  3. Wisdom Tooth: When a wisdom tooth grows, it also causes swollen gum in order to make way for the new tooth that is about to come out.
  4. Periodontitis: This condition occurs due to deterioration of the soft tissue and bone in the mouth. If not treated immediately, this may cause loss of teeth.

Many other possible factors can contribute to the swollen gums. If you are feeling pain or the deterioration of the gum is quite severe then you should consider consulting a dentist. Let’s have a look at some of the natural remedies that can help you to tackle your pain.

Natural home remedies for swollen and bleeding gums

  1. Garlic

Garlic is one of the best natural medicine for swollen gum. Garlic contains antibiotic and other medicinal properties that can provide instant relief.

Take few garlic cloves and put it directly on the affected area on the gums. You can repeat this a couple of times until you get some relief.

  1. Onion

Onion is quite effective against the bacteria and germs that cause the swollen gums. It can also help in providing instant relief.

If you can’t withstand biting a raw onion, cut it into small pieces. Chew the onion near the infected gums. If you find it difficult to chew the raw onion, then mash onion pieces and place it on the affected area. You can repeat the same until you get the relief.

  1. Ginger

Apart from the fact that ginger can help in getting rid of the throat problems, it can also act as an effective medicine for inflammation and gum swelling. It provides relief from swollen gums.

Grind a small piece of ginger and mix it with the salt until it forms a paste. Apply this paste directly on the swollen gum. You can also rub the paste on the gum with gentle hands for a little massage. You can repeat the process until you feel relief.

  1. Castor Seeds/Oil

Castor seed oil is one of the most sought after ingredient in the preparation of any home remedy. This is mostly because of the healing properties that can help in offering immediate relief. It also helps in reducing the swelling of the gum.

Take some caster seeds and grind it until it becomes powder. Then mix this powder with some camphor. Use this paste on the affected area. You can use this mixture twice a day, once in the morning and next one in the evening. You can also use castor oil instead of castor seeds.

  1. Lemon

You can use lemon to get instant relief from the pain. Take a glass of warm water and squeeze a whole lemon in it. You can also add honey for taste. You can use this water for gargling a couple of times per day for relief.

  1. Bergamot oil

Bergamot oil has powerful antiseptic properties. With its anti-bacterial properties, it can help in curbing the pain in the swollen gum.

Mix bergamot oil with peppermint oil and use this mixture on your gum. You can also use this as mouthwash.

  1. Rose water

Rose with its antibacterial properties can help in reducing the gum inflammation and helps in relieving pain. Mix rose water with half lemon and mix them together. Put the liquid in your mouth and try to hold it there for as long as possible. Spit the liquid out and gargle with warm water. You can use this solution three times a day for better result.

  1. Mehandi

Mehandi also commonly known as Henna contains several healing properties that can help in reduction of swelling and pain. Henna can act quite fast for swollen gums. So, if you are looking for instant relief, it’s better to try Henna.

Get some Henna leaves and place them in a bowl with boiling water. Let them boil for about 15 minutes. Filter the leaves out of the solution and let it cool. Use this solution for gargling. It is quite useful in offering instant relief.

  1. Saltwater

Saltwater is one of the most widely used home remedies for swollen gum. If you are experiencing severe pain but don’t want to opt for medicine, then using saline solution can be your best option for instant relief. Saltwater quite helpful in providing temporary relief from the pain.

Mix salt in a little warm water. Use this solution for gargling. Swirl it in your mouth for few minutes and throw it out. You can use it several times a day.

  1. Peppermint

Peppermint tea is quite effective in treating the gums. Just have some peppermint tea and drink it slowly. Take about 5 grams of peppermint in a cup of water and boil it for some time. Add about a pinch of salt to it. Let it cool down a little bit and consume it.

You can also use Peppermint oil. It is effective in curbing pain in the gum and other mouth ailments. Take a cotton swab and dip it in the peppermint oil and apply it on the affected area.

These are some of the home remedies that you can use for instant relief from your gum problem. If your problem persists or is in a seriously bad condition, you should probably consider seeing a dentist.

 

Categories
Ayurved

Importance of Ghee in Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, milk is the nectar for humans. When a child is born, the mother automatically gets her breast filled with the milk for her newborn child. Anywhere in the world, milk has always been an integral part of human diet. Milk has many other forms that can be used in the diet. Ghee is more like a super concentrated form of milk. Aryans used to keep large herds of cows with them that ensures a continuous supply of milk and ghee. They believe that they will live long and healthy life if they always include milk in their diets.

According to Ayurveda, cow’s milk and ghee are believed to be the best for the human consumption. It is rich in nutritional values and is an ideal diet for patients who suffer from excessive cholesterol levels. Its regular consumption also helps in enhancing physical and mental strength and increasing the potency of the body. It doesn’t only supply’s nutrition, but also helps in eradicating impurities from the body. It also helps in enhancing eyesight, muscles, bones and tendons.

How to make ghee?

Take about 1 pound of unsalted butter and put it in a saucepan over low heat. Allow the butter to melt completely, then raise the heat a little. When the butter starts to boil, it will keep on releasing its water content. This is the time to lower the heat a little and cook the same for another 5 to 10 minutes. When all the moisture has been cooked out and only the milk solid remains. The milk solid will settle at the bottom of the saucepan having a light brown/ golden color with a nutty aroma. Be careful about over burning it. Once the ghee has been settled down in the pan, remove it from the heat and let it cool. Then you can filter the ghee using a strainer and throw out all the impurity that is left behind (coffee colored stuff). Keep the content into a clean glass jar or bowl. It doesn’t need a cold storage or refrigeraton, you can also keep it at room temperature.

Ghee benefits, according to Ayurveda

  • Sacrificial rites or Yagna with the cow’s ghee has great potential to remove the harmful radiation from the atmosphere.
  • Adding about 1 Tola that is approximately equal to 11.66 grams in to alter, can help in the production of about 1 ton of fresh oxygen in the atmosphere. This is one of the reasons why Hindus use cow’s ghee to lighten up lamps in the temples.
  • Cow’s ghee is also considered to contain good cholesterol and is regarded as an excellent tonic for the people suffering from high cholesterol.
  • Cow’s Ghee also helps in balancing Tridosha i.e. Vata, Pitta, and Kapha if a few drops are applied three times a day to the nose doing Nasya.
  • It is also helpful for the people suffering from psoriasis or any skin disorders. Instead of using expensive ointments one can use cow’s ghee on the place to get relief. It works like a charm because of its detoxification property.

Goat’s milk is also considered as useful as it is light on the human digestive system, has a cooling effect and is easily ingestible. It has a slight insipid tinge and is sweet in taste. For the patients suffering from the digestive disorders, it is quite an effective drink to strengthen your body. It is as effective as any medicated milk to the children below ten years of age and the people above 45 years old. It is helpful for general maintenance and upkeep of the body.

Buffalo’s milk is more viscous than cow milk and has a sweet taste. It has unique properties that help in enhancing sexual potency in the male. Due to its viscous nature, it’s quite a heavy potion and hence little difficult to digest. It is quite useful and has more nutritional value than cow’s milk. Consumption of the buffalo’s milk should be combined with regular exercise to for proper digestion or else it will make one obese.

Sheep’s milk has a little salty tinge and is also sweet in taste. It is quite heavy, but is useful in the treatment of gastric. It helps in making one more sexually potent and enhances libido. However, patients suffering from heart-related disorders should avoid consumption of this milk. This milk is quite helpful to the person suffering from diabetes, kidney stones or injury. It also produces more phlegm and bile in the body.

According to Ayurveda, one of the most valuable products of the milk is ghee. By the term ghee we are not referring to the hydrogenated butter but pure ghee. Although ghee has very high-fat content, it is an ideal medium for cooking. It is a form of natural fat, which has quite a constructive effect on the human system if taken in regulated quantity. Ghee is also used with vegetable and pulses and is often regarded as an ultimate tonic for the human body.

Milk as well ghee is often used as a medicine for curing different diseases like anemia, acidity, antidote for poison, bilious eruption, blood impurity, dysentery, bleeding, burning of eyes, chronic cough, constipation, chronic fever, chilblains of sole, dark freckles on face, dark complexion, diarrhea, epilepsy, diabetes, gout, gonorrhea, debility, jaundice, sleep disorder, nose bleeding, rashes from biliousness, piles etc.

Ghee also helps in increasing the Agni without affecting the Pitta. Ghee is actually considered as a good medicine for controlling pitta. Kapha type persons are advised to avoid too much oil, but ghee is also effective for them. Ghee can be used as a replacement for cooking oil. A Little amount of ghee is also quite useful in saturating vegetables. Ghee doesn’t work as good as butter with the baked bread as it needs moisture and milk solid.

Categories
Ayurved

Different type of Ayurvedic massages one need to know

Ayurveda is a traditional Indian medical system, which is also used as a balancing therapy. Ayurveda strongly focuses on balance and moderation in search of the longevity. Most of the Ayurvedic treatment relies on balancing of chakras within the body to enhance equilibrium and reinstate symmetry.

If you ever have read about Ayurvedic massage, you might have come across several massages and therapies. The Ayurvedic form of massage mostly works by balancing chakras and help in restoring health. Ayurvedic treatments are primarily a holistic therapy which can work along with the other treatments. Massage system in Ayurveda comprises of vibrations, pressure and different motions along with some herbal oil for relief. Massage helps in increasing blood circulation in the body, hence reducing stress and pain. Let’s have a look at few massages that are commonly used in Ayurveda.

  1. Pizhichil

This massage uses a particular type of vessel called Kindi to pour warm oil from several inches above the body while a masseur does the massage. This massage mainly works on by balancing Vata Dosha. The herbal oil used in the process depends primarily on the condition of the patient. The heat from the oil helps the patient in perspiration, which is quite important to balance Vata Dosha. This type of massage is quite helpful for the people suffering from fractures, stiffness, paralysis, paraplegia, hemiplegia and monoplegia.

  1. Shirodhara

Shirodhara a kind of head massage in which the nerves in the scalp are stimulated by a continuous stream of herbal medicated oil on the head. This steady stream is also known as “Dhara”. It helps in relieving stress and helps in increasing focus and clarity. It also helps in getting relief from headaches.

  1. Njavarkijhi

This type of massage is mainly targeted to increase perspiration in the patient. This massage is mostly practiced in Kerala where they apply medicated oil and use pressurized massage is performed by using small cotton cloth packed with special rice type called Njavara. While performing the massage, it is dipped in cow’s milk and unique mixture of herbs are used. This type of massage is not only beneficial for the skin, but it also helps in de-stressing and vitalizing human body and mind.

  1. Ubtaan and Elakijhi

This type of massage uses various animals and herbal materials for the creation of beauty and skin care solutions. This treatment helps in energizing the skin, improves skin texture, improves blood circulation, nourishes the body and helps in enhancing external beauty.

  1. Udvartana

This massage is designed to improve blood circulation and helps in the release of toxins from the body. It is quite an effective treatment for controlling cholesterol level, improving skin complexion and balancing Kapha Dosha. During this massage, a paste of dried herbal powder is applied on the body in the upward direction, i.e. in opposite to the hair growth. This helps in breaking down Kapha and adipose tissues.

  1. Abhyangam

It is a full body massage by using herbal medicated oil in the doshas based on the medical condition of the patient. The room is maintained at a comfortable, warm temperature. With the motions, actions on the pressure points and different application of pressure energy point stationed at various part of the body is stimulated. This helps the body in releasing deep sitting toxins and at the same time, it also helps in enhancing the blood circulation in the body. This massage also helps in strengthening the muscles, bones and joints. In old days massage was done every day before taking a bath, this makes the body active and awakened before the start of the day.

  1. Garshana

Garshana massage doesn’t involve any herbal powder or oil. In this massage, the body is stimulated by using raw silk gloves without application of any lubricant or oil. Light vigorous, continuous movement of this massage helps in stimulation the lymphatic system which helps in the elimination of the toxins from the body. The dynamic nature of the massage also helps in breaking down the fat cells in the body. Exfoliation occurs on the outer part of the body where dead cells removed, making the skin look cleaner and radiant. Since the massage helps in invigorating the body, use of oil and carrying out Abhyangam after this massage offers greater benefits. This happens because, after Garshana, the skin pores opens up and hence are ready to absorb any oil or herbal paste in a much better manner.

Categories
Ayurved

Chakras and their effect on human body

Ayurveda believes that there are seven Chakras in the human body. These Chakras play a vital role in determining the health. These Chakras literally translate to ‘Wheel’ or ‘Circle’. These are the energy center of the body and absorbs and circulate Prana or life energy across the body. There are numerous mini Chakras present across the various parts of the body like feet, palms, elbows, etc. While these mini chakras may be scattered across the body, the seven primary chakras are present along with the spine in the region where five vital nervous plexus are present.

These chakras also act as a base for three vital Naadis; Pingla, Ida and Sushumna to form a concentrated Pranic energy or life energy region. Another important work of these chakras is to connect mind and body. Most of the human being never think about this omnipresent source of energy, but tuning into them and maintaining their overall functionality is vital for health.

Let’s have a look at each of these chakras and diseases that can occur due their malfunction.

Mooladhara Chakra

It is also known as ‘Root Chakra’,  it is present at the base of the spine. It also corresponds to the coccygeal plexus and also has control over the adrenal glands. It also supports muscular and skeletal system, spine, blood production, temperature, kidney health and energy. It also has an influence on emotions like survival instinct, fear, preservation, insecurity, etc. a person who possesses healthy chakra is usually healthy, robust and full of energy. So, keeping root chakra in healthy working condition is quite vital for your overall health.

Ailments caused by the malfunctioning of the Mooladhara Chakra

Spinal diseases, arthritis, blood disorder, cancers like leukemia and bone cancer, growth problems, allergy, slow wound healing, etc. can be attributed to the malfunctioning of this chakra.

Swadhisthana Chakra:

This chakra is also known as the Sacral Chakra or sexual chakra and is present near the pubic area just below the navel. This chakra controls the working of gonads and also corresponds to aortic plexus. This chakra is also responsible for governing organs such as the testicles, ovaries, seminal vesicle, prostate glands, kidneys, Cowper gland, adrenal glands, large intestine, blood pressure, rectum, bladder, anus and uterus. It also transfers vital life energy via back Hara chakra and spleen chakra.

Ailments that occur due to malfunctioning of this chakra

A person with improper functioning of Swadhisthana Chakra can suffer from sex-related issues, high blood pressure, kidney diseases, lower back problem, constipation, prostate problems, uterus, menstrual irregularity and bladder ailments.

Solar plexus chakra

It is also known as Manipura Chakra. It is located slightly above the navel and just below the ribs. This chakra controls epigastric plexus and is also responsible for the pancreas. It also governs working of various organs like stomach, spleen, intestines, diaphragm, bladder, pancreas and liver. This chakra also governs some emotional outcomes like fame carving, ego, ambitions and negative emotions like anger, envy, jealousy, greed, cruelty and violence.

Ailments that are caused due to malfunctioning of this chakra

Malfunctioning of this chakra causes some digestive disorders, ulcers, constipations, hepatitis, diabetes, colitis, skin problems, heart problems, high blood pressure, asthma and allergies.

Heart chakra/ Anahata chakra

It is present near the center of the chest. This chakra mainly relates to cardiac plexus. It also administers the working and functionality of the thymus and controls lungs, circulatory system, and heart. It also works on controlling the emotions like compassion and love. It is also the center of the higher and more refined emotions. This chakra is the one that makes us more human and helps us to feel emotionally connected with people.

Ailments that are caused due to malfunctioning of this chakra

Improperly working of this chakra leads mostly to the heart problems and respiratory disorders like asthma, tuberculosis, and bronchitis.

Vishuddhi Chakra or Throat chakra

It is also known as throat chakra and is present near the throat and relates to carotid plexus. It is also responsible for the functioning of the thyroid gland and also helps in governing the voice box, throat, trachea, thyroid, parathyroid, arms, lymphatic system, arms, mouth, hand, neck, and tongue. It also controls emotions like speech, communication, self-expression, communication, sense of aesthetics and creativity.

Ailments that are caused due to malfunctioning of the chakra

Most of the throat related disorders can be attributed to this chakra. Goiter, speech problems, sore throat, voice problems, cervical pain, and tonsillitis are some of the most common ailments that occur due to malfunctioning of this chakra.

Anja Chakra/ Third Eye Chakra

This chakra is present between the eyebrows and corresponds with the nasociliary plexus. It contacts organs like pituitary glands, hypothalamus, etc. and is also responsible for functioning of the nervous system, lower brain, nose, ear and left eye. It helps facilitates emotions like intellect and intuition. This chakra is also known as master chakra, and it governs all other chakras.

Ailments that occur due to malfunctioning of this chakra

The malfunction of this chakra leads to diseases that are related to the endocrine glands, lower brain, autonomic nervous system, smell related disorder and hearing disorders.

Sahasrara Chakra

This chakra is also known as the crown chakra. It situated at the top of the head. It corresponds to the pineal gland, and it also governs the working of the gland, higher or upper brain, and the right eye. It also manages the emotions like self-realization and consciousness.

Ailments that occur due to malfunction of this chakra

The disease that is related to the cerebral cortex and pineal gland can be attributed to the malfunctioning of this chakra.

Categories
Ayurved

Home remedies for insect bites

Many people suffer from bites of different insects. Some of these insects can carry enough toxin to impart unbearable pain and swelling if they bite you. An encounter with the insects are inevitable as you are ought to find some bugs, insects here and there. Some bugs may be repelled with insect repellent, but most of them are exceptionally bold to get offended by repellents. In this post, we will discuss some natural ways to treat insect bites and protect yourself and your skin from affronts.

  • If the honey bee has bitten you then the pain and swelling can become unbearable. To get instant relief, prepare a mixture of Rock Salt (SendhaNamak) and Fennel Seed (Saunf). Apply this mixture on the place of the sting. The Honeybee often attacks people who collect natural honey from honey bee nest, they use camphor on their skin to ward away the bees.
  • If a centipede attacks you, then in such a case use onion and garlic extract on the bitten place. This will help you to get instant relief from the centipede venom.
  • Applying a drop or two of peppermint oil on the area bitten by a bug also helps in getting quick relief. It also offers cooling effect and increases the blood circulation, which in turn speed up the healing process.
  • There are many times that people found themselves face to face with a monkey and ended up getting bitten. For treating the animal bite, make a paste of onion extract and natural honey and apply the paste on the wounded area. In case you are bitten by a dog or a Jackal then the use of onion extract on the injured area may help in ending the effect of the venom.
  • In the case of mosquito bites applying kerosene on the bitten places can be effective. Mosquito bites are although not that much dangerous, but mosquitoes can carry dangerous pathogens that can cause illness. To prevent mosquito bites applying mustard oil on the skin can be quite useful.
  • Stings of wasp are more common in the village areas, every day many people are attacked by these tiny creatures. Yellow wasp is quite common in Indian villages, few stings are not very dangerous, but if you got yourself with several stings, then it can be painful. Swelling, pain, headache, fever, etc. are some of the aftereffects of the sting attack. For treating wasp sting you can use these home remedies for a wasp bite. Rub the area with some iron piece to remove the sting from the skin. Rub some sour pickle or any marinated thing in the area for treating wasp bite.
  • Applying kerosene on the sting bite area also gives relief.

In the cases of sting bites, like honeybee or wasp bite, try to remove the sting from the skin immediately after the attack, this will save you from a lot of pain and swelling. This will prevent the spread of venom in the body.

Categories
Ayurved

Ayurvedic principle for Pitta body types

Pitta controls digestion, energy production, and metabolism. The prime function of pitta is to transform. People with Pitta predominance have fiery nature which manifests both mind and body.

Pitta is considered as hot, sour, pungent, penetrating and sharp. To balance Pitta, use substances that are sweet and have a cooling and stabilizing effect.

What are the symptoms of Imbalanced Pitta?

Several symptoms implicate the presence of imbalanced pitta. Some of these are; swelling and sweating and burning sensation.

  • Rashes and cold sore
  • Gastric or peptic ulcer
  • nausea and discomfort
  • Uncontrollable feeling of heat inside your body
  • Irritation, anger, and frustration
  • Inflamed red and light sensitive eyes.
  • Inflammation in body and joints.

Classification of Pitta types

Ayurveda classifies types of pitta into five distinct types, these are:

  • Pachak Pitta
  • Ranjak Pitta
  • Sadhak Pitta
  • Alochak Pitta
  • Bhrajak Pitta

What is the recommended diet for vitiated Pitta?

Food types that are sweet or have a cooling effect on the body are considered as a good choice against Pitta.

Other than these one can also consume grains like wheat, barley, rice, oats, etc. People are also advised to eat fruits like oranges, grapes, pomegranate and vegetable/fruit juice. Drinking lots of milk, cold water, juices and coconut water is also beneficial. Some people may also find relief by a cold massage with sandal paste or medicated oil.

Food that should be avoided when you are suffering from vitiated pitta

You should refrain from eating food that is bitter, acidic or hot. Spices such as garlic, potato, ginger, pepper and tamarind can increase bile. So, spicy, acidic or sour food items are a strict no with vitiated pitta. Liquor, carbonated drinks and caffeine are few other drinks that contribute to Pitta. Milk items such as Yogurt and buttermilk should be avoided along with excess oil from your diet. Moreover, please try to avoid any food item that increases internal heat.

Ayurvedic tips for reducing vitiated pitta dosha

Ayurveda offers several effective tips to help in balancing pitta. It also helps in keeping you calm and cool during summer. Inducing a routine can also assist in reducing pitta. Maintaining your bedtime and eating regular meal helps in controlling pitta. Oil message is also quite effective and helps in balancing pitta doshas.

Some extra tips that can be used to reduce the effect of vitiated bile are as follows:

  1. Food and drinks having a cooling effect on the body are effective against pitta dosha. While you include these foods in your diet, try to cut on your consumption of pungent, salty and sour items. Massaging your scalp with coconut oil also helps in inducing a cooling effect on your body.
  2. A healthy liver helps in keeping you healthy. You can use a mixture of grated apple along with lemon juice and one tablespoon of olive oil. Use this drink every day during breakfast to see the result. If you have Kapha/Vata, then try adding some cayenne, garlic, and ginger to the drink.
  3. Try to avoid excessive use of hot foods as much as possible. It is also advisable to avoid intense sauna, hot tub bath, and sunbath.
  4. If your work puts a lot of stress on your mind and body, then it is advisable to take few short breaks. Taking short breaks between you work helps in keeping you calm and conditioned.
  5. Avoid excessive exposure to chemicals, heat or flames.
  6. Avoid sunbathing during and try having a moon bath. Cold night air will help in reduction of pitta.
  7. You can also include some of the Yoga asanas in your daily routine. Some asanas that are effective against Pitta are; uttanasana, moon salutations and spinal twist. Try to consult a good Yoga practitioner for asanas.
  8. You can also take help of meditation. It can act as an effective medium to channelize your pitta.
Categories
Home Remedies

Benefits of using Asafoetida or Hing

Ferula Foetida or Asafoetida also known as Hing in Hindi is one of the most commonly used spice in the Indian kitchen. It is basically dried resin of asafoetida plant and is available in small solid pieces. Hing is specially used to impart flavor to various Indian dishes like Tadka or Daal (pulse). In Tadka the spices are fried with along with Hing and oil or delicious taste. Hing is also one of the main ingredients of the pickle and imparts a strong smell to it. Due to its digestive properties it is also used in almost all vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Other than just acting as a flavor enhancer it also has health benefits.

Hing is quite useful in treating digestive disorder. Fried hing when taken with water helps in curing diarrhea. It also acts as digestive drug hence its application over the umbilical region helps in relieving gastric pain. Hing when mixed with Sonth and mulethi in same quantity and is taken with honey provides natural treatment for constipation.

Gargling with the boiled hing water gives instant relief from toothache. Hing is also useful in treating Epilepsy. Just boil the mixture of sendhanamak, Hing and about 10g of Ghee in 100 ml of milk. Boil the mixture until just ghee is left, then it can be used for treatment. For treatment of swollen glands, using ground hing with hot water proves to be very effective.

Other health benefits of hing:

  • Tackles Indigestion: Hing has been used as a home remedy for indigestion. Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant property of Hing gives relief from stomach upset, intestinal worms, intestinal gas, irritable bowel and flatulence.
  • The anti-inflammatory property helps in offering quick relief from menstrual cramps, dysmenorrhea and irregular period.
  • Hing with its unique property is also used to treat impotency in men. Just a pinch of this spice in food will help in preventing many sexual problems. If you drink a glass of warm water mixed with hing it will help in increasing your libido.
  • With the respiratory stimulant properties it helps in relieving chest congestion and release phlegm. Using hing with honey and ginger also helps in getting quick relief from whopping cough, bronchitis and dry cough.
  • It also helps in lowering your blood sugar levels. Just add hing into your food to experience its anti-diabetic properties. Hing also helps in stimulating the pancreatic cells that are responsible for the secretion of insulin, this decreases the blood sugar level.
  • Hing also helps in curbing high blood pressure. It is packed with a compound call coumarins that helps in improving blood flow and prevent unwanted blood clotting. This spice also helps in lowering blood cholesterol and triglyceride from your body.
  • Hing also works as wonder in relieving from pain from aching tooth, menstruation, headache and migraine. This herb is filled with powerfullantioxidents and pain relievers. To use it for relieving pain, mix a little pinch of powdered hing into a glass of warm water and drink it. This act as an instant reliever of pain. For tooth ache make a thick paste of hing and lemon juice and apply on the affected area.
  • The powerful anti-oxidant property in hing also provides protection against cancer when taken on a regular basis. The anti-carcinogenic property of Hing also plays a significant role in restricting the growth of the malignant cells, therefore protecting the healthy cells against cancer.
  • Hing also provides relief from any skin ailments. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties it is also found in many skin care products. It also acts as a home remedy for treating calluses and corns. This spice offers a cool effect on the skin and it also inhibits the growth of bacteria responsible for the ailment.

How to use hing for reaping maximum benefit?

  • Add about a half teaspoonful of hing powder in a glass of warm water. Consuming this solution in empty stomach provides most benefit.
  • You can also add 2-3 pieces of hing in buttermilk and consume it.
  • The best way to use the spice is to add it while cooking, it will impart its unique flavor to the food item as well as the health benefits.
Categories
Yoga

Yoga and its benefits for Children

In today’s world yoga has become a lifestyle statement as more and more people are using it for its health and emotional benefits. Adults may have entered into an agreement to do yoga as a part of their life, but most of them are still unable to understand the importance of Yoga for their children. Yoga helps adults in reducing stress, enhancing physical strength and building a connection between mind and body, it can also benefit children in dealing with the ever growing competitive world. Even if your child can easily handle his school and competitive environment, then also Yoga can prove to be an effective physical activity to keep them fit.

Yoga being the only sport that doesn’t induce competition, it can really help kids in developing their well-being with easy pose like sun salutations and dog pose in the school itself or at any Yoga center. Although the yoga for kids and adults can be quite different, but the basics still remain the same. Whether it is used for adult or for the kid, it still emphasizes on the mind body connection. The main difference is the creativity and playfulness that are involved in the Yoga taught to the children.

Is it important for kids to learn Yoga?

When kids are asked to imitate the instructor while performing Yoga poses enhances their learning ability and teaches them to control and channelize their energy and hence focus better on other things.

Moreover the kids in today’s world are experiencing a lot of pressure in school and society and Yoga helps in relaxing them.  Numerous researches and studies have shown that yoga can successfully calm children, helps in reduction of obesity, enhances concentration, and helps in maintaining health conditions and getting relief from irritating bowel syndrome and headache. Yoga also helps children with eating disorder by lowering their preoccupation with food and also helps them in relieving from various physical and mental disorders.

Choose the right instructor for your kid

If your child is interested in taking yoga lessons, try looking for a program or session from an experienced instructor who has been training yoga for kids. Verify the instructor’s experience in handling the children of your child’s age. Also have a look at the goal and other details of the class before enrolling your child. Review the activities and make sure that you are comfortable with the activities involved in the class, size of the class and the environment. Make sure to contact and explain instructor all the details if your child is suffering from any kind of medical condition and ask him/her about the way in which he/she will be dealing with your child.

Yoga session for Children

A typical yoga session for children, mainly starts with gentle warm up routine and breathing exercises. Most of the postures that are taught to children involves gentle, non-exhaustive movements like stretching, sitting, standing, twisting, balancing, bending, etc. during each pose the child may be asked to breath in and out in the rhythm according to the activities performed. After completing a series of postures the child may be asked to lie down on the yoga mat on his back and relax, he can visualize some relaxing experience such as flying, floating in the sky, moving through the cloud, etc. as the session proceeds towards the end the child may be asked to perform re-awakening process to get up from the floor.

Some of the Yoga like Ashtanga and Bikram yoga are not recommended for children.

Safety aspects that need to be considered

There are some safety aspects that also need to be followed strictly, to avoid any injuries or trouble. The foremost requirement is finding a safe place to perform yoga. The place should have a level ground and the temperature of the room should be at a comfortable level. Use of yoga mat will help in reducing slippage. Yoga should be practiced with empty stomach. There are certain poses that puts pressure on the stomach and cause your kid to vomit if they have a full stomach. To remain on the safe side, do not allow your child to go to their yoga class after having a meal. Wait for about 2 to 4 hours in case of large meals and about an hour in case of light meal or a little snack.

Make sure that the child doesn’t over perform the postures. They should be constantly told to avoid putting pressure and keep their movement slow and steady. The poses that involves activities such as raising the leg or extending their leg above the heart or the head or inverted poses that induces pressure on the head and neck should be carried out with extreme care and should not be forced. If a child suffering from any medical condition puts up extra pressure on the head or neck, he could injure himself or complicate his medical situation. If your child is sick do not allow him to perform yoga.

After the realization of the huge influence of yoga and the advantage of it in overall growth and development of children, it is the time when yoga needs to be added as a part of the school curriculum. Many schools have already taken the initiative and others will follow the steps soon.

Categories
Home Remedies

Home remedies for Gout pain

Gout is basically a type of arthritis that are mostly caused by the buildup of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is formed in the blood by the breakdown of the waste elements called purines in the body. These are usually dissolved in the blood and processed through the kidney and excreted via urine. However, some people may form an extra uric acid that remains in the blood and forms crystals. These crystals coagulate in the joints.

This causes severe pain, swelling and redness in the joints, particularly at the joints of the big toe. These problems are quite common in overweight male over 40 years of age. There may be other causes for gout such as genetics, excessive consumption of alcohol, excessive protein consumption, less physical work or high level of stress. It is also linked to other health problems such as diabetes, kidney stones, hypertension etc.

Symptoms of Gout

  • Sudden attack of unbearable pain
  • Inflammation in the joints
  • Gout pain usually occurs at midnight or in the morning
  • The area of the attack becomes swollen and sensitive to touch
  • Pain occurs again at the same place
  • Pain and swelling takes about a week or two to fade awaygout

Effective home remedies for Gout pain

  1. Ginger

Ginger contains anti-inflammatory property that helps in reducing pain and inflammation

Take about an equal quantity of ginger powder, turmeric powder and fenugreek powder. Mix all these powders together and consume 1 tablespoon daily with a cup of warm water.

In another method you can take about ½ tablespoon of ginger root and add it to a cup of boiling water. Stir the mixture and consume it at least once a day. You can also add some ginger in your food.

You can also use ginger as a paste. Take a little water and raw ginger to form a paste. Apply the paste on the affected area and leave it there for about 30 minutes. After sometime rinse off with clean water. Repeat this daily to get rid of gout pain.

  1. Cherries

Cherries are a rich source of anthocyanin and antioxidant, which helps in reducing the inflammation and also are quite effective in minimizing gout flare. Cherries helps in removal of toxins from the body and assists in cleansing of the kidney.

Include cherries in your regular diet. You can consume about 20 fresh cherries every day in the morning to instigate maximum health effect. Canned cherries also have a similar effect.

Taking a glass of cherry juice with a few cloves of crushed garlic every day. You can also consume cherry compote, jam, tea or a cherry pie. Pineapples are also considered as effective as cherry.

  1. Lemon Juice

Alkalizing the body can help you in getting relief form the gout pain. Lemon helps in neutralizing the excess uric acid in the blood stream. This can be easily carried out by using fresh lemon juice with baking soda. Other than lemon juice, you can also consume other fruits that are rich in vitamin C.

Take a lemon and squeeze all its juice. Add about a half tablespoonful of baking soda in the lemon juice. Put the mixture in a glass of water and stir well. Drink the solution immediately for maximum relief. You can repeat this regularly for result.

You can also drink lemon juice by mixing it with water and using it about 3 times a day.

  1. Epsom Salt

Epsom salt is also quite effective ingredient for home treatment of gout or any other form of arthritis. High magnesium content in the Epsom salt helps in lowering high blood pressure. Soaking the affected area in the warm water solution helps in relieving pain.

Add about 2 cups of Epson salt in a bucket of warm water. Keep affected body part in the water until it cools. Repeat this once a week for better result. If the gout pain is severe you can use this more often.

  1. Apple Cider Vinegar

It is used in the treatment of several ailments. It is also quite effective in treating arthritis and gout. Acidity in the vinegar helps in reducing severe pain. You can also use honey along with the Cider vinegar to boost anti-inflammatory response of the body.

Add about 1 tablespoonful of apple cider vinegar in a cup of water and drink it about 2 to 3 times a day. If you find it useful you can increase the dose to 2 tablespoons.

Another method to use cider vinegar is to mix it with equal quantity of honey. Honey helps in boosting anti-inflammatory response of the body and you can drink this mixture twice a day. You can continue with the mixture until relief is received from the pain.

  1. Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal can absorb uric acid, so, it is quite effective in treating gout. People suffering from gout can take a charcoal bath 2-3 times per week to get relief.

Take about ½ cup of charcoal powder and mix it with little warm water to make a fine paste. Pour this paste into bath water. Now soak the affected body part in the water for about 30 minutes. This remedy is quite helpful for big toe or ankle joint. Repeat the same for about 2 to 3 times per week. You can also apply this paste directly on the affected area and leave it there for about 30 minutes. Once done, you can rinse off with lukewarm water. This remedy can be repeated on a regular basis for gradual relief.

  1. Apples

Apple contains malic acid, which is quite helpful in neutralizing uric acid in the body. The neutralization of uric acid helps in reducing inflammation and pain.

You can consume apple directly. You can also try apple juice or food containing apples.

  1. Banana

Banana are also quite effective in treating gout. High potassium content in bananas helps in conversion of uric acid crystal present in the body in liquid form, which can be easily flushed out of your body your urination at a later stage. Banana also contains a moderate amount of Vitamin C and it can be quite effective in managing swelling and pain.

You can have 1-2 banana every day to witness some improvement. You can also consume banana with yogurt for maximum benefit.

  1. Baking soda

Baking soda can help in reducing the uric acid amount in the body. This will result in less swelling and pain.

Take about ½ tablespoon of baking soda and mix it with a cup of water. Stir this solution well and drink it. You can consume this solution up to 3 times every day for 2 weeks. Do not consume more than 3 times per day. If you are suffering from Hypertension, then please avoid this remedy.

  1. Use Cold water

Placing the affected area in cold water helps in reducing the swelling and pain. If you are suffering from gout do not apply ice directly on the skin, it can cause damage to the skin and worsen your condition.

Put the affected part in the cold water for about 10 to 15 minutes and repeat the process several times a day. You can also use an ice pack for about 15 minutes, but as mentioned earlier do not apply it directly on the affected area rather wrap it with a towel before placing it. You can use this twice a day, but excess usage of it may increase the crystallization of uric acid.

Some effective ways to reduce Gout pain

  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle
  • Maintain a balance diet
  • Keep yourself properly hydrated
  • Avoid alcohol
  • If joints are in pain do not put any weight on the joint and keep them little elevated. Avoid any type of itching, heating or ice application
  • Eat grapes
  • Use decaffeinated drink to lower uric acid.
  • Make and drink thyme tea by adding 1-2 teaspoonful of thyme powder in a cup of boiling water

If you still suffer from high fever/chills and your symptoms are not improving then please contact a doctor immediately for medical attention.

 

Categories
Home Remedies

Home remedies for cracked heels

Dry, cracked heels can be a nightmare for many people. If it continues, it will cause pain and irritation. Most of the time lack of proper attention towards foot care can lead to this problem. Cracked heel can have different severity, from minor cosmetic issue to severe chronic injury. Heel cracks are caused due to deficiency of the vitamin, age, unhealthy diet or lack of moisture. The skin on the feet is usually dry compared to the other parts of the body. It doesn’t have any oil glands, and it takes several sweat glands to maintain the moisture. When heel becomes crumbly and dry; the pressure from your body weight forces it to expand horizontally causing the cracking.

Causes of cracked heels:

  • Standing for long hours.
  • Less humid surroundings
  • Overweight can cause excess pressure on the feet pad that results in cracking
  • Eczema, psoriasis or any other skin diseases may also cause cracked heels
  • Wearing uncomfortable footwear

Home remedies to get rid of dead skin from the feet

In this post, we will discuss about simple homemade remedies that can help in preventing cracked heels.

Warm water

Warm water can help in relaxing the feet. It also helps in loosening the dead skin cells that may be causing the feet to become dry.

Fill a bucket or tub full of warm water. Place your feet inside the bucket for about 20 minutes. Use a scrub to brush out dry skin cells, then dry your feet properly with a towel.

Scrub to soften your feet

A homemade scrub can be used to soften feet with minimal effort.

Take two tablespoons of brown sugar, one tablespoon of lemon juice, one tablespoon of honey and one tablespoon of olive oil. Take a bowl and mix all the ingredients. Mix them together until they form a thick paste. Now soak your feet in warm water for about 10 to 15 minutes to remove any minute dust particles. While keeping feet inside the tub, spread over it with the exfoliating agent and gently scrub your foot with moving your hand. After you are done rinse your feet. This scrub nurtures the dry skin and at the same time removes all the dead skin from your feet.

 

Foot Moisturizer

Foot moisturizer can help in smoothening the irritating and dry feet. Using this daily can also help in getting rid of the cracked heel as early as possible.

You can make your own homemade foot moisturizer by mixing one tablespoon full of petroleum jelly with 2 to 3 drops of lime juice. Before using this moisturizer soak your feet in lukewarm water for about 10 to 15 minute and then dry it using a towel. After your feet is dry, apply the moisturizer on your feet and cover them with cotton socks. With the regular application of the moisturizer, you can easily get rid of cracked feet.

Banana pulp mask

Banana is an excellent moisturizer and using it as foot scrub can help you in fetching good results. Take a banana and mash it up using a fork. Use this pulp on your feet. Keep the pulp on your feet for about 10 to 15 minutes and then wash it off with some lukewarm water. The pulp of avocado can also be added to the banana to compliment the effects.

This is quite straightforward and effective method. When used it will act as a good moisturizer and will offer much smoother and softer skin for your feet.

Homemade moisturizing cream

Take about 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add about 2-3 drops of lavender oil or lemon juice to it. Shake the mixture for some time so that they form a thick and milky solution. Apply this solution on your feet when needed.

This cream helps in nourishing and moisturizing your feet and you can apply it anytime of the day. But keep in mind to shake the mixture before application.

Paraffin wax

Paraffin wax is quite effective in getting rid of the dead skin cells and can help in lessening the effect of cracked and dry feet. It also helps in making skin softer by retaining the natural oil of the skin.

Heat some paraffin wax in microwave or a pan. Add a few drop of coconut oil in it. Mix them together to form a paste. Apply the paste while it’s a little hot on your feet. Leave it there for over a night and wash them off in the morning.

Glycerin and Rosewater

Glycerin helps in softening the skin and rosewater offers Vitamin A, B3, C, D, and E, which helps in moisturizing and preventing infections.

Mix equal quantities of rose water and glycerin and massage the solution on your heels before going to bed. Leave it there for overnight. Repeat the same until cracks starts to reduce.

Lemon

The acidic nature of lemon makes it a perfect tool for getting rid of the dead skin cells. It can also help in cleaning the dead skin cells from your feet and helps in making your feet naturally smooth.

Take some warm water and add few drops of lemon juice in it. Keep your feet in the solution for about 15 minutes. Use a foot brush to scrub your feet to remove any dry skin. Once you are done wash and dry your feet.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is quite useful for dry feet. You can use oatmeal for making foot scrub that can help you in removing dead skin cells. It also helps in keeping your feet moisturized.

You can mix oatmeal with rosewater or milk. Use this mixture on your feet for about 30 minutes and then start scrubbing. Place the mixture on the lower portion of your feet and then scrub. You can also use a foot brush to scrub effectively. After you are done risen off with cold water. Pat your feet with a towel to dry. For more benefits, you can use it on alternate days.

Rice flour

Rice flour exfoliates dead skin cells and helps in keeping skin soft and smooth. Grind about a cup of rice into flour. Add about one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, one tablespoon of honey and one tablespoon of olive oil. Mix all the ingredients together to make a uniform mixture. Keep your feet in warm water for about 15 minutes and then dry it with a towel. Gently massage rice powder paste on the heels for about 5-6 minutes. Rinse your feet with water and apply moisturizer. You can use this mixture daily until your crack heals.

Diet for cracked heels

As already discussed maintaining proper diet can also help in countering the situation. Some of the nutritional deficiency can also be stated responsible for cracked heels. Consuming foods that are rich in Vitamin A/E, iron, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids and zinc helps in healing process. Food such as carrots, vegetable oil, cereals, grains, whole grain bread, nuts, yogurt, milk, chicken, beans, fish, flaxseed oil and brown rice are good sources of some of these nutrients. Further consumption of plenty of water is also advised for keeping yourself hydrated.

These homemade scrubs and creams help you in healing your cracked feet without any side effects. You don’t always need to spend huge money on expensive spa treatments. Giving a little attention to your feet can help in getting rid of the cracks.