Ayurved Doctor

Category: Herbs

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Herbal Plants Herbs

All that you need to know about black Cardamom

All that you need to know about black cardamom

Black cardamom is termed as greater cardamom and in Sanskrit it is termed as Brihad ela. Its Botanical name is Amomum subulatum which is an herb mentioned in Ayurveda. It is very useful to treat any kind of pain, increase appetite, eradicate bad odor, treat nausea and skin disease. It is also known as puta in Sanskrit due to its pod like shape and size.

Brihad ela or black cardamom is a short plant that grows up to a height of 1-1.5 meters in the Himalayan regions of Northeast India, Assam and Bengal. The flowers of the plant are densely formed and whitish. The fruit pods are near about 2-3-centimeter-long and are reddish brown in color.

Black Cardamom: chemical composition

The seed of black cardamom contains some important elements like cardamomim, petu-nidin-3, a flavonoid alpinetin, leucocyanidin glucoside and 5-diglucoside. Essential oil prepared with this seed contains cineole.

Various uses of black cardamom

  • Cold infusion found in the seeds of black cardamom can be used for gargling to cure diseases related to oral cavity like inflammation of gums, dental caries, etc.
  • If you apply the paste of the seeds of Brihad ela on skin diseases like ringworm or eczema it will be treated faster.
  • Headache can also be treated by applying the paste of the seeds of it.
  • You can easily reduce foul breath by chewing the powder of the seed.
  • You can also treat motion sickness and nausea by consuming the powder of black cardamom in a dose of 2 to 3 g.
  • Using the cold infusion of Brihad ela (black cardamom) in a dose of 10-15 ml you can treat distention, anorexia and indigestion.
  • The powder of the seed is mixed in a dose of 3-5g with honey to treat cough.
  • Prepare an oil mix with seeds of black cardamom and apply it over the body parts having swelling and pain.
  • Make a paste with the seeds of black cardamom and apply it over external pile mass in order to reduce it.
  • The seeds are used to prepare an aromatic oil that can be used to treat sinusitis.

Bottom line

No grave side effects are indicated by the use of Black cardamom. However, persons suffering from hyper acidity must minimize the usage. Excess use of the same might cause mouth ulcer and hyper acidity. Apart from the above mentioned uses, some Ayurveda medicines are there where black cardamom is used as an ingredient.

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Herbs Home Remedies

Health benefits of Fitkari (Alum)

Fitkari has much usefulness in our day to day life health issues. Fitkari is the local Indian term where its original chemical name is Alum or Potassium Alum or Potassium Aluminum Sulphate having chemical formula KAl(SO4)2. Its a hard crystal compound naturally found, is very beneficial health-care thing as per Ayurveda. Fitkari or Potash alum acts as a all-in-one solution for health related problems in our daily life. You can find it as small pieces in grocery shops at very nominal prices.

Notable uses

Some of the notable usefulness of Fitkari Alum is described below :

  • Its very useful to get relief from teeth pain or gum pain. The powder of Fitkari and Reetha pip mixture, if applied on teeth, can heal your toothache.
  • If we prepare a mixture of fine fitkari powder and fine jambul wood powder and massage our gums and teeth then we can escape from the problem of pyorrhoea.
  • 200gms of fitkari taken and transformed into ash. Take 2gm of this ash, mix with a spoon of honey, extract of radish and carrots and then apply on the affected area of leprosy skin disease.
  • When your eyelids get inflammation trouble then you can cure it by the help of fitkari. A filtered mixture containing 20gm fitkari, 20gm suhaga, 5gm kalmishora, if applied on your eye 2-3 drops regularly, twice a day, can cure the “Aankh ke rohe” problem. You can also heal your fever by taking the mixture of fitkari, dried ginger and batasha.
  • You can control your jaundice by drinking cow milk mixed with small crystals of fitkari, twice or thrice daily.
  • If you get any external injury then the fastest wound healer will be the fitkari. Fill your wound by some fitkari powder and you will get relief very soon. It also prevent the injured area from fungus and bacteria attack. It also prevents various kinds of skin disease problems. Almost all barber shops use fitkari as after shave skin caring agent.
  • Fitkari with haldi(turmeric) and milk will cure your internal wounds too. Boil milk mixing turmeric powder and after the mixture come down at room temperature mix some fitkari with it, which will heal your internal injuries too.
  • In winter season, you can get rid of inflammation in palm and feet, with the help of boiled fitkari. Boil some fitkari crystal with water and wash your hand and feet with this solution.
  • You can get rid of nits and lice of your hair by washing your head with the mixture of water and alum powder.
  • If you are suffering from kidney stone problem, if you feel blockage to pee, then regularly drink alum water mixture which will prevent your kidney from precipitation of stone in it, and also will clear the urination blockage.

Thus, in day to day life, fitkari arise as a god crystal and prevents enormous health issues of human being. We must have some fitkari in our home so that we can take very initial treatment as soon as possible in case of serious or light injuries.

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Herbs Home Remedies

Health benefit of natural honey

Natural honey is found in a thick liquid form and is sweet in taste. In India it is also known as Madhu and Shahad in Hindi. Honey is made by honey bees by using nectar of the flowers. Honey bees transforms nectar of the flowers into honey via a process known as Regurgitation. Natural honey is a great source of energy and sugar without any additional additive or flavor. Bees store honey as a food reserve to use in cold weather or during times when food availability fell short. Collection of honey from a bee’s nest inside the forest has been happening since ancient times. Honey bees make honeycomb at some high place mostly on the trees around some water body.

The process of collection honey from the wild honey comb is quite dangerous as there are always chances of stings from honey bees. So, to collect honey people divide themselves into groups to two or three and began the search at night. All of them wrap themselves in clothes from top to bottom and use camphor to ward off the bees. At first a person uses a long, sharp wooden stick to penetrate the honey comb and check if the honey is ready inside or not. The wooden stick is them examine to see if the honey is mature enough for extraction. If the honey is ready for extraction, then one person creates smoke to ward off bees from the honeycomb. Then another person climbs and cut the honeycomb with a sharp knife or any other instrument. Then the whole honeycomb is collected in a basket and then the honey is collected from the honeycomb. To get the honey out of the honeycomb, it is pressed by hand and filtered twice or thrice. Honeycomb has different pores that contain honey. Natural honey itself has unique flavor, so, doesn’t require any artificial flavor or preservative.

Honey is also produced at farms by beekeepers. But this honey is not natural as most of the honey is created by honeybees by using the sugar provided by the beekeeper.

Natural honey is one of the best natural treatment for cough. Using a mixture of natural honey with ghee is quite effective in treating cough. Do not use the same amount of honey and ghee together as it is not good for health. This remedy can be used for any type of cough and using this mixture about 3 to 4 times a day can help significantly in reducing cough.

Natural honey is used for weight reduction also. In the Ayurvedic system of medicine, natural honey is also a main ingredient for many medicines. For losing weight honey can be used every day with hot water. Use the mixture of honey and warm water every morning before meal to get best results. Some people also use honey with lemon juice to get faster results.

Honey is also used as eye toner. Many people apply honey to their eyes to improve eyesight. It has natural eyesight improving properties.

Honey also has strong healing properties, so it is widely used to treat wounds. It also acts as best heart tonic and blood purifier. According to Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev taking a spoon of honey daily helps in attaining long and healthy life. In summer, honey can also be used as a delicious and healthy drinking by mixing it with water and milk. Honey is a good source of energy. It contains many vitamins and vital nutrients that are useful in keeping your body fit. Honey also offers effective health solutions and display unique medicinal properties so it is quite effective in treating diseases like mouth ulcer, night blindness, dysentery, paralysis, malaria, tuberculosis, pyorrhea, skin disorders and infertility.

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Herbal Plants Herbs

Cardamom and its Health benefits

Cardamom is one of the most commonly used item in the kitchen. It is mainly used in avoiding bad breath and imparting delicious flavor to the food. Cardamom due to its unique essence is used in food and drinks for imparting unique fragrance and flavor. Cardamom seeds and pods from the plant are used in various home remedies. Cardamom originally originated in India, Bhutan and Nepal but today it can be found in most tropical places in Asia like India, China, Bhutan, Malaysia, Japan, Korea and Vietnam. It is also sometimes regarded as Queen of all spices as it is one of the most expensive spices, just on the third spot after saffron and vanilla.

Cardamom is available mainly in three different varieties, these are Madagascar cardamom, Black cardamom and green cardamom. Cardamom is mostly known as “Chhoti Elaichi” in Hindi in Indian homes. In this post we will be discussing the health benefits of consuming cardamom.

Nutritional content of Cardamom

According to US department of Agriculture and US government’s Nutrient Database for Standard reference states that each 100 g of cardamom contains about 300 kcal of energy, 68 g carbohydrate, 11 g protein, 28 g fiber and 0 g Cholesterol.

Cardamom is also rich in various vitamins like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, etc. it is also quite rich in micronutrients like pyridoxine, riboflavin, niacin, potassium, thiamine, copper, manganese, iron, calcium, magnesium zinc and phosphorous.

Health benefits of consuming cardamom

The health benefits of cardamom include cholesterol control, cancer control, gastrointestinal protection, cardiovascular issue relief and improvement of the blood circulation. It is also quite useful in treating dental diseases and problems in urinary tracts such as nephritis, gonorrhea and cystitis. It also holds aphrodisiac properties and is also used in treating erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation and impotency.

Cardamom is quite useful for health, let us discuss a few ways by which it can be used effectively.

  • If you are suffering from burning sensation while urination then you can use a blend of cardamom and amla powder in equal amount twice a day. This mixture will act as a remedy against burning sensation.
  • For nocturnal emission you can use the mixture or cardamom, Amla and Isbgol. You use this mixture twice a day, i.e. in the morning and in the evening with cold water. This mixture is quite helpful in curbing nocturnal emission.
  • Cardamom is also quite useful in treating mouth ulcers. Make powder of the cardamom and mix the powder with the honey. Lick this mixture occasionally to get rid of mouth ulcers.
  • Cardamom is also quite helpful in the treatment of fever. You can boil a few cardamom seeds, fruit of Bilva (Aegles marmelos), Punarnava (spreading hog weed) and milk along with water. Boil the mixture until all the water evaporates and the only milk solution is left behind. Using this solution will help you in getting relief from fever.a
  • Cardamom is also known to possess digestive properties. Consuming cardamom after meals helps in improving digestion.
  • If you are facing some cough problems, then cardamom can help you in getting good relief. Roast cardamom and prepare powder. Now mix this powder with natural honey and use it for getting relief from cough.
  • Cardamom is also quite useful if you are facing sperm discharge in urine. Take about 2 grams of Hing (Asafoetida) and cardamom powder and mix them with Ghee (clarified butter). Use this mixture daily to witness the improvement.
  • Cardamom tea also offers several health benefits and can be used just like a normal tea. You can start using cardamom tea instead of normal tea to witness its benefits. Cardamom tea offers freshness and cure any headache. It is also quite effective in treating skin disorders. You can easily blend cardamom tea into your daily routine to see the effects.
  • If your kid is suffering from hiccups and you have tried to do everything to stop it then you should try using cardamom. Take some pods of cardamom and boil them in water. Consuming this water will help in getting rid of hiccups.
  • Cardamom has also been used in Ayurveda and in Chinese medicines as an effective ingredient to treat dental problems.

You can easily apply these home remedies using cardamom in your day to day life and can treat many common diseases by using this herb.

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Herbs

Shilajit and its anti-aging properties

Shilajit is one of the most effective anti-aging agents and rejuvenators available in the market. Shilajit is basically found prominently in the Himalayan region around the borders of India, China, Tibet and parts of central Asia. It is primarily acquired from humus, which is an organic compound. Humus contains humic acid and fulvic acid that is mainly attributed to the therapeutic effects of the Shilajit. Shilajit contains over 85 minerals in the form of ions, fulvic acid, vitamins are some of the vital phytonutrients in Shilajit. The ionic nature of the minerals allows easy absorption by the body cell and tissues. These minerals also act as catalyst and helps in absorption of vitamins.

The Fulvic acid inside Shilajit is in its purest natural form. Fulvic acid is quite useful in dilating cell walls and helps in deep transportation of minerals inside the cells. Mineral supplements cannot be fully effective unless they reaches deep inside the cells. It can run through thick walls of the cell and transport minerals. Apart from supplying minerals, it also effectively prolongs the cell life and keep them healthy.

As the name Shilajit suggests, it has the power to make the body stronger and helps in fighting against any illness. Shilajit is quite effective as rejuvenator and its anti-aging property helps in reversing the aging process and restores youth. Ancient Yogis and Ayurveda terms it as ‘Elixir’ of healthy and long life. The composition of Shilajit is governed by the environmental factor as well as plant and geology of the rock.

How Shilajit is formed?

Shilajit is basically a concentrated plant life form from the Himalayan region. Himalaya has been home to a number of plant species from prehistoric times. These plants absorbed various minerals and nutrients from soil to main green vegetation. Once the plant life is over, it returns back to earth along with the minerals and the same process continues over the centuries. The remains of these plants and mineral forms mineral pitch which is also known as Shilajit.

Anti-Aging property of Shilajit

Following factors contribute towards anti-aging properties of the Shilajit.

  • It contains over 85 minerals that are transferred from plants in ionic form with vital phytonutrients and vitamins.
  • It maintains potency of the cells and helps in the prevention of damage, decay and death of the cells.
  • Shilajit is one of the purest natural source of the fulvic acid. Fulvic acid helps in transporting of essential minerals through the thick cell walls and helps in maintaining and restoring the potency.
  • It also helps in balancing the energy metabolism process like anabolism and metabolism.

Although Shilajit is mainly used in the treatment of various diseases in humans, it has remarkable anti-aging property. The rich anti-oxidant property in the Shilajit helps in slowing down the oxidation of the cells and tissues and hence controls the aging process. Aging is a natural phenomenon that starts with the wrinkles, fine lines, blemishes, dark circle around eye, scars, etc. as the aging happens the out layer of the skin i.e. epidermis layer loses collagen that is the main structural support for the skin. The loss of collagen means saggy skin, wrinkles and fine lines. Skin starts to lose its elasticity which also causes acne, scars, dark circles and marks.

Benefits of using Shilajit

Shilajit offers therapeutic as well as preventive values. It is regarded as the best rejuvenating, restorative and adaptogen due to its high medicinal property. It offers a single solution for multiple problems. It also helps in increasing stamina and energy, hence enhances your sexual performance.

Aging treatments with Shilajit

Shilajit is one of the best natural anti-aging medicine. This unique herb mineral substance and its fulvic acid content play a vital role in the reduction of aging. It is also quite effective in maintaining healthy skin and protects the cells and tissues from further damage and skin decay. Its unique properties also allow it to act as a natural skin rejuvenator. The various humic compounds present in the Shilajit are highly enchanted for the free radicals and hence it exculpates harmful free radical. This helps in improving blood circulation and provides a more youthful glow to the skin.

These harmful free radical in your body makes it old, anti-aging property of Shilajit helps in removing them. These free radicals facilitate accumulation of fecal matters and toxins inside your body cells. Fecal matter is basically a waste material that assembles inside cell and decreases the pressure on the cell membrane, this deprives the cell body of the nutrients and nourishment. Shilajit helps in restoring the permeability of the cells. It also facilitates maintenance of the cholesterol level, which is also quite vital for maintaining cell membrane structure to ensure that each cell can get equal nourishment. Healthy, well-nourished cell will attribute to younger and healthier skin.

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Herbs Home Remedies

Benefits of Aromatherapy in treatment of Children’s illness

Aromatherapy can be used as an effective and safe treatment method for treating minor health issues in children. It has no side effects so you don’t have to worry about the unknown side effects. The studies have also revealed that the natural vitality and immune system of the children allows them to be highly receptive to aroma therapy. Aromatherapy can be quite handy in day to day life. This therapy is quite important in dealing with the day to day issues concerning your child. Simple medical conditions like diaper rash can be treated with lavender sitz bath or you can also use lavender and cider vinegar to stimulate the healing of bruised knees. Tea tree oil can also save your child from the mosquito attack during your outing.

Natural remedies are quite helpful when you use at the start of the aliment. Some of the oils that can treat illness in the children are lavender oil, peppermint, tea tree, sandalwood, eucalyptus, bergamot, mandarin and St John wort. These herbal oils are quite effective in treating children’s illness.

How to use aromatic oils for treatment?

The best way to use the oil for treatment is to dilute it in carrier oil; however tea and lavender are  exception to this. The dosage for the child should just half of the dosage used for the adults. The dosage also depends upon the weight and physic of the child. For younger children, it is recommended to use 1 to 3 drops of aromatic oil in about an ounce of the carrier oil. Then you can allow your child to sniff the oil. It is also recommended to carry on an allergy test beforehand to know if the child is allergic to any oil. Chamomile and Lavender can be used even for a child who is highly sensitive.

Use of Oil for different medical condition in children

For diaper rash

Diaper rash is often caused by the yeast overgrowth. Candida can be eliminated and irritation can be soothed by daily use of the lavender sitz bath. Before giving a bath to your child just put few drops (1 to 3 drops) of lavender oil into the bathtub, filled up to baby’s hip level with lukewarm water. Churn the water so that disperse the oil. Let the baby sit in the tub for about 5 to 15 minutes.

For treating wounds

You can mix one part of tea tree oil to sixteen parts of water and mix it. This solution can be used to clean the wound. Wash and clean the wound by using this mixture. This mixture can be quite useful even when you are travelling in the woods where no such sanitary facility is available then also it can be used as an effective disinfectant. It can be quite useful in treating bruises and skinned knees. You use a bowl filled with water with equal part of apple cider vinegar and about six drops of lavender. You can use a diaper to dip it into the water and use the excess liquid for applying to the bruised area.

For treating insect bites

Lavender oil is extremely important in healing burns and rashes from insect bites. You can use the oil by applying it directly to the area of the bite. It provides immediate relief from insect sting.

Helps in Teething

Chamomile is quite beneficial in teething, as it soothes pain and calms your baby’s nerves. You can use a solution of an ounce of carrier oil along with six chamomile drops. Before applying the oil to your baby, just warm it up a little and apply it along the baby’s jaw and around his/her ears.

For treating burns

Lavender oil has always been known to be effective for healing burns. For emergency burn cares take undiluted lavender oil and apply to the affected area. For small burns you can put few drops of lavender oil into a tub and let your child sit in it for some time.

For treating pain in the ear

If your child is witnessing some ear trouble, all you need to do is to mix about 3 drops of chamomile into 2-3 cups of lukewarm water. Then you can use this solution to apply a compress over the ear. Keep on applying as the compress cools. You can also add a few more drops of chamomile if needed.

You can also dip a cotton ball into a solution of 3 drops of lavender, 3 drops of chamomile and about 1 ounce of carrier oil. You can put this cotton ball into the ear. Remember to replace it thrice a day. You can continue the same process until the pain is totally gone. If your child is quite prone to ear infections or troubles then you can use oil of St John’ wort for the preventive care.

To provide relief from stomach ache

Once your child is in his/her bed you can use about 4 drops of chamomile blended into an ounce of carrier oil to massage him to sleep.

To provide relief from cold and fever

Add two drops of tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil into bath water for your child. You can also use a few drops of eucalyptus oil in a diffuser or air vaporizer in your child’s bedroom to purify the air and induce a soothing aroma into the room.  Eucalyptus and peppermint oils are known for their cooling properties so it can be used to provide comfort during fever. However, you should keep one thing in your mind; peppermint can be stimulating so use just 1 or 2 drops of it. To bring down the fever you can also use a solution of about 2-3 teaspoonful of peppermint in a bowl of water. Soak  a sponge or cloth in the solution and apply it on your child’s forehead. If your child has some skin irritation then you should refrain from using peppermint oil.

For getting relief from respiratory tract infection you can bath your child with water mixed with about 3-6 drops of eucalyptus oil. Eucalyptus oil is good for sore throat also and inhaling it with steam could give you immediate relief.

If the baby is suffering from cold form a solution of about 2 drops of lavender, a drop of eucalyptus, 2 drops of chamomile and an ounce of carrier oil. Use this solution to give a gentle massage to your child. You can massage the oil on the back and chest of your child. The unique medicinal properties present in the oil help in loosening the mucus and guide the child to a faster recovery.

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Herbal Plants Herbs

Indian Gooseberry -Ayurvedic health benefits

Phyllanthus emblica also known as Indian Gooseberry or Amla in Hindi is commonly found in India. Amla is basically a deciduous tree reaching to a maximum height of 18m. The leaves are quite simple looking and are pinned together just like pinnate leaves. The Amla tree is basically categorized into two types; these are the one that grows in the forest and the other one that’s grown in Indian villages. The trees in the forest bears fruits which are much smaller in size and have thicker skin while the village gooseberries are bigger and softer. According the some people the gooseberries grown in the villages possess far more medicinal values than the one that grows in the forests.

Let us look at some of the prominent medical benefit of Indian gooseberry.

  1. Act as a hair tonic

Amla offers excellent nutrition to the hair. It can be used as a paste or can be eaten to get the desired effect. Several herbal hair care product in the market has amla as their main ingredient.

  1. Relieves from sore throat

Amla has unique property that relieves you of sore throat. Mix equal amount of carom seeds, turmeric and amla powder. Use 1 to 2 gm of the mixture with honey, this will help you in getting relief from the sore throat.

  1. Benefits Eyes

Amla behaves as an excellent eye coolant and helps in removing dark circles. You can nurture your eyes by using a mixture of 20 to 50 grams of amla in half liter of water, then you can use this solution as an eye drop

  1. Helps with breathing problems

Take about 10 to 20 grams of amla and extract its juice. Now mix the juice with 2 to 3 grams of honey. Consuming this mixture will help you in getting relief from any breathing problems.

  1. Pitta dosha

For long term relief from Pitta dosha, all you need to do is to mix amla with honey and ingest it on a regular basis.

  1. Nausea

Intake of 10-20 grams of amla juice helps in soothing nausea. If you continue to intake the same for 2-3 times a day, it will help in the stopping the nausea.

  1. Clear Urine retention and Urine Infection

There is a simple yet effective method to clear urine retention. Just have some dried amla and soak it in water for some time. Then boil the water along with the amla extracts. Consuming this potion twice a day will clear all your urine retention problems.

Make a mixture of about 10-20 grams of Indian gooseberry juice, about 2 grams of turmeric powder and 10 grams of honey. Intake of the mixture twice a day can offer immense relief from urinary infections.

  1. In treating Jaundice

A mixture of amla and honey when consumed in semi-liquid form twice a day has a medicinal impact on internal organs like liver and helps in treatment of Jaundice.

  1. Indigestion and Constipation

Boil amla until it turns into a semi liquid form. Dry it properly with sun ray.  Make a powder of pepper, ginger, cumin seeds and black salt and previously prepared dried Amla. Eating it with a little asafoetida powder for a few days will remove any indigestion problems.

Mix about 3-6 grams of amla powder with water and consume it on a regular basis. Regular consumption relief you from constipation, piles and headache.

  1. Cures Diarrhoes

Mixing 5 grams of amla and a teaspoonful of ginger extract with water can help in curbing diarrhea.

  1. Cures wounds

Amla juice massage on the wound place provides an immediate relief from the pain.

  1. Builds Endurance

Mix 3 to 6 grams of powdered amla and amla juice, along with a teaspoonful of ghee, two teaspoons of honey. The mixture when consumed on a regular basis, with a glass of milk, helps in building endurance and longevity.

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Ayurved Herbs

Ayurvedic and Natural Ways To Detoxify Liver

The liver is the primary organ through which body expels toxins from the system. The liver performs many important functions in the body. It is responsible for bile production necessary for the breakdown and assimilation of fats and proteins. When the liver is affected due to stress and is unable to flush out toxins functioning of the whole body may be compromised. Hence it becomes extremely important to take a well balanced nutritious diet.

Go Green!

Eat plenty of fresh green leafy vegetables.  Green leafy vegetables that contain plant chlorophylls that effectively eliminates environmental toxins from the blood. Vegetables like bitter gourd, dandelion greens, arugula, mustard greens, and chicory have cleansing compounds and help to neutralize heavy metals. Eating vegetables aids the flow of bile and helps to remove herbicides and pesticides from the body. Cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbage can increase glucosinolatein the body, promotes enzyme production and helps to flush out carcinogens from the system. Brussel sprouts have glucosinolate and sulfur, which aid in the release of enzymes by the liver and prevents damage from dietary toxins and environmental factors.

Eat plenty of fresh fruits 

Eat plenty of fresh fruits like apples, avocados, grapefruit and lemons. Grapefruit consists of antioxidants and natural vitamin C. It also has compounds that helps to produce detoxification enzymes of the liver. The presence of flavonoid known as naringenin causes liver to burn fat instead of storing it. Avocados are rich in glutathione-producing compounds that guards against toxin overload and repair a damaged liver. As rightly said  “ An apple a day keeps doctors a day “ apple contain a high amount of pectin that aids the release of toxins from the digestive tract.

Drink fresh water and juices 

Drink fresh water and juices whenever possible. Use a water filtration system to remove chlorine and carbon particles before drinking it. You may add the juice of a lemon to add more alkalizing and cleansing properties to the water. There are plenty of minerals and Vitamin C in lemon and citrus fruits that boost bodily functions and helps in the cleansing process. Starting the day with a glassful of hot water mixed with lemon juice is also a good alternative. Other healthy options to drinking water can be drinking herbal tea that is free from caffeine, coconut water and freshly squeezed juices.

Avoid Alcohol 

Apart from diet simple lifestyle changes like avoiding alcohol, drinking plenty of water, eating the best possible foods and eating the right fats and taking smart supplements can also help in the detoxification of the liver. Many believe that red wine is good for the heart, but it is an established fact that alcohol is a toxin. The liver uses large amounts of energy to eliminate alcohol so that it can purify the blood.

Change your recipes

It is important to take care of the kinds of fats you include in your diet.  Choose from healthy fats such as almonds, coconut, almonds, walnuts, hemp, flax, Chia, and along with sunflower and pumpkin seeds, avocado and olives. Choose the right supplements those with selenium and B vitamins. Artichoke leaf and milk thistle are also used in supplements that are effective liver cleansers.

Go organic

Organic foods are easily available nowadays in super stores, always prefer organic foods where ever possible. Add Coriander and Ginger to your food. They help in cleansing the system, are powerful antioxidants and regulate immunity.

Herbs help

Use these safe herbs to cleanse your liver.

Phyllanthus (Hindi Name : Bhumi amla)

This is a small plant which can be grown easily in small pots. When the plant is matured, uproot it and shade dry. Use a small quantity while cooking.

Licorice (Hindi name: Mulathi)

This is commonly available in Indian herbal shops. It is sweet in taste. Take a small piece of Licorice and break it into two. Dip it in 2 glasses of water and leave it overnight. Filter this water in the morning and drink empty stomach. This not only cleanse the liver, but also reduce symptoms of upper respiratory tract allergies.

Curry Leaves (Hindi Name: Kadi Patta):

Must use ingredient of many dishes in South India and gaining popularity in the world over, this is easily found in all over India. It has a characteristic flavor which makes it special to add in various dishes especially Sambhar. It is easily available in Indian Shops. It not only detox liver, but also is used in many skin diseases.  Very useful in controlling blood sugar levels. Latest research shows, it is effective in weight loss also

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Herbs Home Remedies

Natural Oils for Hair Care

Beautiful, strong and long tresses are a dream of every woman. Everyone dreams of the perfect hair with volume, luster, smoothness and strength. For men, there is nothing better than strong and healthy hair which can be styled in a multiple number of ways.

Unfortunately, due to increasing pollution, poor diet, lack of nutrition and irregular eating habits have resulted in the type of hair, just as opposite. Hair, today, is more to become weak, dull and lose their sheen and luster resulting in premature graying, dandruff, thinning and even early baldness.

Ayurveda believes in a holistic approach towards hair care. It exerts pressure on the importance of the Ahara – Vihar which means a healthy diet and lifestyle. These are the two major factors that greatly affect the quality of hair and hair growth of an individual along with the type and application of the oil you use.

Ayurveda advocates the use of natural and herbal oils to allow your hair to come back to life. Regular massage with warm oils make the scalp rich in essential nutrients, allowing healthy growth of hair with the improvement in its sheen, luster, color and vitality.

Oils of coconut, sesame seeds, mustard, amla, almond, need seeds and Brahmi are widely used for hair care treatments. They are completely jam-packed with the required nutrition for a healthful and robust hair growth. Their application can result in the cure of multifarious hair problems and it is advised that they should be applied on a daily basis for long lasting results.

Some of the natural hair oils and their benefits for encouraging healthy hair care are mentioned below. The natural oils and their application techniques are recommended by Ayurveda for regular usage to provide you with a satisfactory outcome.

Almond Oil

Almond oil hair treatment is best suited for hair which are predominated by vata. You can judge if your hair falls under the vata type, if your hair is thin, frizzy and dry along with being prone to split ends. Vitamin E, magnesium and calcium are profoundly fused in the almond oil, which does wonders to this type of hair.

You can directly use it to massage your hair to promote hair growth and retain its luster and shine. It is advisable to apply warm almond oil on your hair at night, followed by a warm water bath the next morning. Almond oil is also beneficial for curing hair loss and eliminates premature graying.

Sesame Oil

According to the ancient text of Ayurveda, Sesame oil is considered to be the king of oils. It has always been an ideal choice of Ayurvedic monks to treat diseases related to hair and body. Apart from curing a number of physical ailments, sesame’s antifungal and antibacterial properties can help your hair stay fit against the damaging chlorine water. While it is safe for massaging babies, it infuses a sense of relaxation and can help you get rid of a headache instantly.

It is used for the treatment of kapha type hair,  which are thick and oily in nature. Application of sesame oil gives rise to black, shiny and deep rooted tresses. It helps fight against premature graying, hair fall, dandruff and baldness.

Amla Oil

Since centuries, amla has been an efficient tool in the treatment of hair and is known to make them healthy and robust. Amla, which is also known as Indian gooseberry, is a bundle of vitamin C and antioxidant properties which makes it best suitable for hair care.

You can prepare a pack of amla for the application on your head and hair for maximum benefits. To make the pack, take powdered amla and mix it with equal proportions of henna and Brahmi powder along with curd. Apply the pack on your head for about 30 minutes for satisfying results.

Coconut Oil

One of the lightest of natural oils is the coconut oil. Extensively used in India, coconut oil is used as a conditioner to promote hair growth and strengthen hair from the roots to the tips. It prevents the scalp from being flaky, dry and dull which reduces the chances of having dandruff. It is best suited for people having pitta hair type, that is, thin and fine hair which is prone to premature graying.

Being an outstanding coolant, people living in hot climatic regions generally use coconut oil for hair nourishment. To maximize the hair benefits of coconut oil, massage your head regularly and preferably in the morning, by preparing a weather proof mix for all types of climate applications. Take 100ml pure coconut oil and mix a teaspoon of black pepper to it. Heat the mixture and filter it for use. Apply the oil when it turns lukewarm.

Neem Oil

Neem has been known to man for its greatly effective medicinal values. Oil made up from the neem seeds has all the vital properties of this wonder plant. Neem oil consists of commendable properties such as its antifungal, antioxidant and antibacterial nature will save your head and hair from many types of hair diseases. It is abundant in Vitamin E and strengthens the hair from inside out while stimulating hair growth and preventing dandruff recurrence.

Neem oil has a nature of being solidified at room temperature and thus, it is advisable to mix the neem oil with other essential hair oils such as olive oil or carrier oil so that it can be easily applied.

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Herbs Home Remedies

Ayurvedic Benefits of Rose Water

Since ages, elegant rose flowers has been a symbol of love, friendship and is one of the most popular flowers in the world. On one hand, people have always enjoyed its freshness and sweet aroma while on the other, ancient monks have always been plucking, grinding, juicing, drying and preserving the rose petals. It is because of its properties such as being a medicinal flower, it is anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-hemorrhagic in nature.

Roses have been largely used in Ayurvedic treatments. The cooling effect provided by this delicate flower results in the balancing of Sadhaka Pitta, that is, an emotion that governs feelings and its effect on the heart. This is probably the reason why rose has been closely associated with romance. It ideally balances the body and mind of an individual. Roses are also widely used in aromatherapy where spices are mixed with rose oil, water and rose paste to make a tonic that helps cure digestive imbalance and hormones. The outcomes of the therapy involve cooling effect along with moisturized and toned skin.

rose water

One of the multiple wonder products that rose provide us, is the rosewater. This little bottle of health and treatment can work wonders to help beat stress and depression as well as tackle various ailments. Rosewater is good for various parts of the body and perform specific functions in each of them. It is a fact that it improves the texture, complexion and glow of the skin. In a long run, rosewater can keep the skin under check and pacify recurrent eruptions. When consumed regularly with milk, it is known to drive the digestive flow inside the body perfectly and pacifies your Sadhaka Pitta all year long.

How to Prepare Rose Water?

Rosewater can either be prepared at home by a simple method or can be purchased by any of your nearby supermarket. It is a common household item and is always ready to use in a single go. An easy step by step method to prepare rose water is mentioned here which can help you prepare fresh rose water anywhere, anytime.

  1. Early morning, precisely after sunrise, pick some fresh roses or rose petals.
  2. Thoroughly wash the petals with clean water.
  3. Take a large pot and place the petal inside it along with distilled water.
  4. Pour water in the pot such that the petals are all soaked in it.
  5. Cover the pot with a lid and keep the flame low to boil the mixture.
  6. Let the water convert into steam until its color is that of the rose petals.
  7. Strain the water from the mixture and let it cool down.
  8. Store the rosewater in a container

Benefits of Rose Water

Rosewater is in fact a common household item that has many health benefits. Here is a list of how can rosewater help you to practice radiant and ailment-free lifestyle.

Skin

Rosewater provides a list of beauty regime for men and women. It provides stunning results for every skin type and helps eradicate bacterial infection. It is an amazing skin toner that gives a soothing effect on the skin and improve its appearance by making it radiant, smooth and free from acne. It helps regulate the pH balance of the skin and stimulate circulation in the body. It is proven to work adequately on wounds and can reduce the impact of sunburns.

Apply two or three rosewater drops on a cotton swab to remove dirt or make-up from the face and neck. You can use it every morning for a long-lasting radiant effect. You can also put a few drops of rose water in your bath tub or bathing water for a soothing and relaxing outcome. In order to cogently remove sun tan, add two drops of rose water and two drops of tomato juice in a cotton ball and apply it. You can wash it off after 15 minutes for best results.

Eyes

Rosewater is best known for removing dark circles while refreshing tired and stressed eyes. One should prefer smearing the eyes with rose water before sleeping for a long lasting effect. You can mix a tiny bit of sandalwood to it and apply it over the eyelids. Wash it off after 15 minutes in order to get fresh and sparkling eyes.

Hair

Rosewater is known for promoting hair growth and improves the blood circulation. We can use it in order to get rid of dandruff and inflammation on the scalp. You can also use it as a conditioner for dry and mismanaged tresses. Rosewater soothes the hair naturally, provides them a fresh scent and makes them strong and flexible.

Teeth

It can be surprising to many that rose water is widely used for treating dental problems. Inflammation in the gum can be eliminated with the help of this rose bi-product. You can get rid of bad odor and foul breath by rinsing every now and then with rose water to quickly get rid of it. Regular rinse with rosewater strengthens teeth and eradicates gum pain.

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