Anxiety Not Always Harmful: Yoga, Aromatherapy and Home Remedies for Treating Anxiety Disorders

As per a latest report by the Global Industry Analysts, the worldwide sales of pharmaceutical drugs related to anxiety are forecasted to grow to $5.9 billion by 2017. Current estimates suggest that U.S. has the highest number of recorded anxiety related cases annually. Anxiety is not all bad and optimum level of anxiety is essential for survival. Home remedies, diet and homeopathy have been found effective in treating anxiety disorders or conditions associated with uncontrollable and abnormal anxiety levels.

Anxiety not always harmful

Psychologists in early twentieth century had described the role of anxiety (arousal) against performance. It was observed that optimum level of anxiety is crucial for performance.

In a recent study published in the journal Nature Neuroscience, researchers from Stanford University try to reconfirm these claims. They observed that individuals with an active anterior insula (a part of the brain) were less likely to suffer from financial losses in future compared to individuals with less active anterior insula. This study reiterated the role of anxiety in rational decision making and improving performance. However, overactive insula was associated with chronic anxiety and phobias.

Anxiety hence should not be treated as all bad condition; but it is important to positively channelize anxiety and prevent an anxiety disorder.

Treating Anxiety Disorder: Yoga and Aromatherapy

Bhujangasana to
treat anxiety

There are various ways to treating anxiety disorder naturally. Yoga, an ancient Indian system of deep breathing and exercising, which has spiritual roots, is considered very beneficial. 

1. Deep breathing exercises like pranayama and meditation tend to have a soothing effect on the mind. It helps declutter negative emotions and thoughts and is effective in reducing stress and anxiety.
2. Some Yoga postures are considered very beneficial in treating anxiety. These include, 

• Bhujangasana (also referred to as the Cobra pose) has profound benefits as it enhances concentration and tones up the body. The posture involves raising the upper portion of the body, with the support of the arms, in a typical presentation that represents the “cobra” (the most dangerous and dreaded Indian snake).
• Sarvangasana: A posture where the entire body rests on the neck and the upper part of the back and is perpendicular to the ground. This posture inculcates a sense of control and discipline in the body which in turn helps deal with anxiety effectively.

Combining meditation techniques with the use of essential oils have miraculous benefits. Lavender, Sandalwood, Rose, jasmine and cypress essential oil extracts have profound benefit on reducing stress, instilling calmness, aiding emotional stabilization and manage anxiety effectively.

Home Remedies to Treat Anxiety disorder

Home remedies have also been found to contribute equally to the treatment of anxiety disorders. Here are some simple remedies, 

Milk can treat
anxiety disorders

• Milk is very effective in treating anxiety disorders. Milk is the only source of Vitamin B12 in a vegetarian diet. In addition milk contains a host of other vitamins and minerals that are effective in soothing the nerves and managing anxiety
• Roots of asparagus have been found to be associated with reduced levels of anxiety and stress. The active ingredient of asparagus is ‘Asparosides’ which performs immuno modulatory functions. For several centuries, Asparagus has been used for management of nervous and psychological disorders in Ayurveda.
• Licorice tea has a substance known as glycyrrhizin which is about fifty times sweeter than sugar cane juice. It is considered highly protective against anxiety disorders and panic attacks. 

Treating Lower Back Pain: Homeopathy and Home Remedies for Backache

Lower back pain (LBP) is associated with disabling pain and is responsible for approximately $26.3 billion lost annually due to loss of productivity. It affects approximately 25% of American population and is the fifth most common cause for physician visit in the United States, as per University of Missouri- Columbia. Fortunately there are certain options of self therapy and homeopathy which have been found to be effective in the management of LBP

Lower Back Pain Causes

Lower back pain is a symptom which is associated with a wide range of conditions. It should be noted that in 85% of the patients with lower back pain, no organic cause can be identified. Some of the leading causes include,

Lower Back pain

• Nerve root syndrome: Herniation of the disc, spinal disc degeneration, Spondylosis and cauda equine syndrome are some of the identified causes
• Fibromyalgia and Musculoskeletal pain syndromes are another common cause of lower back pain
• Infection of the bones can result in inflammation and subsequently result in lower back pain. non infectious inflammation as observed in ankylosing spondilitis is another common cause
• Tumors of the spinal cord and injuries have also been associated with lower back pain
• Pressure from the surrounding organs including conditions like uterine prolapsed in females; pelvic inflammatory disease, etc result in pull on the ligaments, which is associated with lower back pain.
• Obesity and pregnancy are also associated with lower back pain, due to change in the body contour and undue strain on the lower back

Homeopathy to treat lower back pain

Homeopathy is been practiced for over a century now and is considered to be a very beneficial complementary system of medicine. Homeopathy provides great relief in musculoskeletal disorders and helps patients avoid the use of non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs.

• Bryonia Album: A homeopathic drug with profound influence on muscular and skeletal system is considered very beneficial for lower back pain. Bryonia aids in muscle relaxation and also helps in reducing edema and inflammation in joints and thereby alleviates pain
• Rhus Tox: Rhus Tox is a drug that complements the action of Bryonia and also aids in muscle relaxation. The indications for use of Rhus Tox are ideally when the pain is associated with a trauma or injury.
• Arnica Montana: Arnica is also useful in reliving joint and back pain. Arnica is useful in managing lower back pain associated with blunt trauma, especially when associated with a possibility of intramuscular bleeding or edema

Home Remedies for Lower Backache

Here are some simple home remedies that have been found effective in the management of lower back pain,

Massage is beneficial
for LBP

• Research has shown that massage has been very beneficial in the management of lower back pain. Massage with clove oil is considered very beneficial. Clove oil helps in muscle relaxation and alleviates pain. Massaging with turpentine oil is also considered beneficial
• Khaskhas has been known to be beneficial in relieving pain. Khaskhas has a sedative action and helps in muscle relaxation and alleviating the pain
• Hot water fermentation helps increase blood circulation to the affected area which in turn helps improves the condition and reduce the inflammatory reaction.
• Rest is crucial to recover from back pain. A diet rich in calcium and vitamins is an integral part of back pain management. Calcium helps improve the strength of the bone and manages osteoporosis which is also a leading cause of back pain
• Yoga or simple exercises targeted on the back region also help increase the range of movement of the lower back region and aid in lower backache relief 

Athlete’s Foot Symptoms and Treatment: Home Remedy and Natural Cure for Fungal Foot Infection

The commonest fungal infection of the skin, athlete’s foot, characteristically starts between the toes, and results in itching and scaling, and occasionally painful breaks in the skin too.

Fungal Foot Infection

The medical terminology for athlete's foot is tinea pedis. The fungus that causes the ailment is normally found on the skin of all humans. They tend to multiply out of control under certain conditions. The fungus thrives in moist, damp and cramped places, such as, the inside shoes and socks. Poorly ventilated shoes and sweaty socks are an excellent breeding ground for the fungi.

It is relatively contagious, and can spread from individual to individual, via direct contact or through use of belongings of an infected person.

Athlete’s Foot Symptoms: Foot Fungal Infection Symptoms

The common manifestations of athlete’s foot are:

• Scaling and peeling in between the toes.
• In sever cases, cracks between the toes.
• Itching, burning and redness.
• Blisters along the sides and soles of the feet.
• The skin becomes soft and painful.
• Toe nails may become discolored and crumbly.

Fungal Foot Treatment

 Doctors prescribe anti fungal medications to mange the case effectively. However, there are a host of natural cures and home remedies that successfully manage athlete’s foot.

You could opt for these treatment options. Although, in case, you observe no improvement within 7 to 10 days, visiting the doctor is recommended.

  

Home Remedy for Athlete’s Foot

1. Tea Tree oil: Tea tree oil is an excellent anti fungal essential oil. The tea tree oil makes the environment of the foot inhospitable for fungal growth. Clean and dry your feet well; then dab on a few drops of the essential oil on to the affected part. Also, you could add about 20 drops of Tea Tree oil in to a tub of water and immerse your feet in it.



Apple Cider Vinegar is very beneficial

2. Garlic oil: rubbing garlic oil all over the infected part is advocated too. It is the best infection fighter and eliminates fungal infection efficiently.
3. Apple cider vinegar: Apply directly over the infected part or dilute it with equal quantity of warm water, and soak your feet in.
4. Epsom salt and boric acid: add 1/4th cup of Epsom salt and 5 spoons of boric powder. Immerse your feet in this solution daily for 15 minutes. 

Natural Cures for Fungal Foot Infection

• Keep your feet clean and dry. Maintain strict levels of hygiene.
• Always wear clean, dry socks.
• Air your shoes after each use. Never wear the same pair everyday. Whenever possible, opt for well ventilated shoes that allow your feet to breathe.
• Keep toe nails clean. Cut them straight across the top to prevent and check fungal infection.
• Importantly, ensure that you consume large amounts of vitamin C rich foods (limes, lemons, oranges, bell peppers, etc.) everyday. Vitamin C promotes immune function and assists the body in fighting the infection faster.

Natural Home Remedies, Diet and Yoga Deep Breathing to Cure Chronic Sinusitis

The sinuses are small cavities that tend to get blocked as a result of inflamed nasal passages, more often than not, due to an allergen such as, dust, animal dander or pollen. As the nasal passage gets occluded, the bacteria attack the mucus membrane of the sinus and this causes sinus infection. Certain foods are known to treat sinus infection efficiently. They help alleviate the symptoms of the infection, and also reduce the intensity and frequency of the complaint. Also, aromatherapy and Pranayama have been proved to be significantly helpful in sinusitis.

Sinusitis has emerged as a very common upper respiratory tract disorder that has a tendency to wards chronicity. The following home remedies and natural treatments promise to manage the case successfully.

X ray image of Sinusitis

Chronic Sinusitis Symptoms
By and large, people complain of:

•  Headaches
• Sneezing and nasal discharge
• Nose block
• Watering of the eyes
• Fever and weakness

Sinus Infection Diet and Home Remedy

•  Garlic: Garlic is an infection fighter. It effectively combats microbial activity and eliminates infection promptly. Soak 2 flakes of grated raw garlic in half a bowl of honey. Let it sit for 2 hours. Consume this mixture everyday, for at least a week.
• Ginger: ginger halts the process of inflammation. It clears up the sinuses, reduces swelling and inflammation and drains mucus. Grate half an inch of ginger in a glassful of water and boil for 15 minutes. Consume this decoction, twice daily.
• Lime: limes are chockfull of vitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerful anti oxidant that perks up the working of the immune system and makes the body less vulnerable to infections. Have the juice of freshly squeezed lime everyday.

 Natural Remedy for Sinus Infection

Steam inhalation is the best natural remedy for sinusitis. It helps to unclog the blocked nasal passages and helps in sinus drainage. Take a bowl of water and let it boil. Bow your head over the bowl of water and inhale the vapors. Inhale the vapors for about 5 minutes. Also, adding a drop of two of essential oils like, Eucalyptus oil or Peppermint oil has miraculous benefits.

 Sinusitis Cures: The Complete Breath or Yoga Deep Breathing

Deep Breathing Yoga

The most effective and permanent cure for sinusitis is Pranayama. Pranayama means regulated and controlled breathing. Breathing right helps to improve lung capacity, enhance lung power, and fight respiratory disorders and enhances immunity

1. Sit comfortably, in a cross legged position. Close your eyes.

2. This Pranayama technique is divided in to abdominal breathing, thoracic breathing and clavicualr breathing.

3. Inhale and be conscious of the air entering your abdomen, then your chest, and then the clavicular portion of the lungs. Hold the breath for 2 seconds, then exhale, such that the air leaves the clavicular portion first, then the thoracic and then the abdomen.

Home Remedies for Gassy Stomach: Aromatherapy and Yoga to treat Gas Bloating and Stomach Pain

Gaseous distention is a common problem which can be treated effectively using natural techniques like yog, aromatherapy and home remedies. Most humans pass wind a total of 14 times per day, for a total of 1 pint. About half the wind is swallowed air and another 40 % is carbon dioxide produced by the intestinal bacteria. The remaining 10 % is a mixture of hydrogen, methane, sulphur compounds and by products of bacteria, like ammonia, hydrogen sulphide and indoles. This last fraction is responsible for the offensive odor.

What Causes Gas: Foods and Other Causes

Gassy stomach pain

An inconsistent lifestyle, irregular sleep and poor dietary habits, result in a host of gastric derangement; the commonest being, dyspepsia or indigestion and flatulence.

The most common food that causes flatulence and abdominal gas is legumes. Legumes cause increased intestinal flatulence, stomach pain and intestinal discomfort. Oligosaccharides in the legumes are the flatulence causing compounds. Fiber rich foods such as oats, barley, soy, whole wheat, and fresh vegetables also produce gas. The soluble fibers are easily fermented by the bacteria and they release a great deal of gas.

Home Remedies for Gassy Stomach and treating Stomach Pain

There are a host of home remedies and natural techniques that help relieve wind and allay stomach discomfort. Certain specific food prescriptions, using essential oils and performing specific Yoga postures daily will help manage excessive flatulence effectively and keep your digestive tract functioning optimally.

• Cinnamon: this spice stimulates the gastrointestinal system, improves digestion and reduces excessive gas bloating and abdominal distension. Consume a pinch of powdered cinnamon after meals to prevent gaseous distension.

• Mint: Mint is the most beneficial wind reliever. It is a carminative and digestive, and decreases stomach bloating appreciably. The herb helps reduce spasms of the gastro-intestinal tract and combats flatulence. Boil about 10 leaves of mint in a bowl of water; consume this decoction, once daily.

• Fennel seeds: fennel seeds have warming and aromatic properties; invigorating the GI tract. The seeds enhance digestion and relieve wind and flatulence. Munch on a spoonful of fennel seeds after your meals.  

Gas Bloating and Its Management: Aromatherapy and Yoga

Aromatherapy: Essential oils exert a potent effect on the GI tract. An aromatherapy massage alleviates discomfort associated with flatulence and indigestion, almost instantaneously.

Take a drop of Ginger Essential Oil or Peppermint Essential Oil and rub it around the navel or belly button. Use gentle, circular movements during the massage. This massage technique eliminates wind within half an hor.

Yoga for gas bloating problems

Yoga: yoga asanas have a wonderful impact on the physical, mental and subtle levels. Cetain postures stimulate abdominal functioning, help eliminate wind and pep up digestion. The Pawanmuktasana is an excellent yoga posture for a bloated belly.

1. Lie down on your back.
2. Raise your left leg up, and fold it on to your abdomen. Clasp your fingers around the knee of the bent leg, and press the leg down on to your abdomen.
3. Hold the pose for 10 seconds. Then release. Repeat for the other leg.

Effective Natural Home Treatment for No Monthly Periods: Diet for Amenorrhea

In a study published in the Obesity journal in 2009, generalized and central obesity is frequently associated with menstrual irregularities. Amenorrhea or absence of monthly periods is considered to be one of the most common menstural irregularity which affects thousands of women. Amenorrhea is not only associated with pscyhological problems but can also be attributed to a host of other factors which include infectious disease, endometriosis, etc. Monthly cycles can be regularized using dietary measures and simple home remedies

Understanding Mensturation Cycle: Monthly Periods

Menstruation is an integral part of a female’s life especially between the age of 12 to 50 years. Menstruation or menstrual cycle refers to the discharge of blood from the vagina which occurs in cyclic pattern once each month. This bleeding through the vagina is attributed to the breakdown of endometrial tissue, during the menstural cycle was preparing for pregnancy. These monthly periods are attributed to a host of cyclic hormonal changes, namely changes in the balance between estrogen and progestrone. 

What is Amenorrhea? : Causes for No Periods


Amenorrhea is very distressing

Amenorrhea is associated with complete absence of periods. It should be noted that amenorrhea is normal during pregnancy, before puberty and after menopause but abnormal when it occurs otherwise during the reproductive age of a female.

Amenorrhea can be referred to as primary (when the female has never menstruated) or secondary (when the menstrual cycle is interrupted after previously menstruation). The causes of primary amenorrhea can be associated with congenital anomalies like absence of uterus or obstruction of the vaginal passage. The causes of secondary amenorrhea include,

• Nutritional deficiencies mainly anemia is responsible for lack of regular periods. Nutritional deficiencies can set in after a major surgical intervention or pregnancy and needs to be treated promptly
• Hormonal disturbances due to endocrinal disorders like polycystic ovarian disease,pituitary disorders, adrenal gland disorders and hyperthyroidism are also associated with amenorrhea
• Being underweight or overweight are also key factors responsible for lack of monthly periods. Attaining normal weight is crucial in management of no periods associated with abnormal body weight.
• Psychological stress and depression is also considered to be another cause of lack of normal menstrual cycles
• Endometrial damage or ectopic pregnancy can also be some of the pathological causes of amenorrhea. Conditions like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease can often be associated with no periods, though the primary symptom in these cases is severe abdominal pain and colic.
• Menopause, which marks the end of the reproductive life of the female is also associated with absence of periods.

 Diet to Treat No periods: Treating Secondary Amenorrhea Naturally 

Dietary correction is crucial for treating amenorrhea is primarily focused at correcting the nutritional deficiency.

1. Iron deficiency anemia is most important cause of amenorrhea. Including iron rich foods like liver, sea foods, kidney beans and soy beans, green leafy vegetables like spinach, turnip, kale, broccoli, parsley, Brussels sprouts, etc.
2. Weight management is crucial in managing absence of periods. If you are overweight, avoid going for a crash diet but rather follow a more realistic diet plan, as a crash diet may further result in nutritional deficiencies which in turn can amplify the problem of amenorrhea. Avoid high fat foods including cheese, butter, hydrogenated vegetable oils, etc. Use olive oil to cook food, as it is considered beneficial in weight loss. Include foods rich in dietary fiber, to aid the process of weight loss.
3. Underweight individuals should gain healthy weight. Include healthy foods that are high in protein content but low in fats. White of the egg, low fat dairy products, legumes, cereals, pulses, fish, etc provide essential nutrients which help in weight gain in a healthy way.
4. Include calcium, Vitamin B complex and folic acid supplements in your routine, as females are prone to these deficiencies

Home Remedies for Regular Monthly Cycles: Natural Treatment for Lack of Monthly Periods

Though diet is the underlying and most effective treatment for amenorrhea, here are other simple home remedies that might be beneficial.

Saffron is beneficial in Amenorrhea

1. Half teaspoon of cinnamon mixed with a glass of warm milk (preferably cow's milk) each day is considered beneficial. Studies have shown that cinnamon plays a crucial role in weight loss as it helps burn sugar over twenty times faster. Optimum weight is crucial to ensure regular monthly cycles
2. Add a few strands of saffron to half a cup of water. Boil the water and consume it about three to four times a day. Saffron benefits in management of amenorrhea in several ways. Packed with anti-oxidants, saffron is useful in managing acute or chronic inflammatory conditions and induces sleep which helps in the management of stress. This in turn can tackle the problem of lack of monthly periods.
3. Beet root juice or fresh beet root helps in regulating the menstrual cycle and is considered highly beneficial in treatment of amenorrhea.
4. Sesame seeds, papaya, bitter gourd and ginger are known to increase the internal temperature of the body by enhancing metabolism. Elevated body temperature is associated with ovulation and hence these foods promote ovulation, which in turn can subsequently result in a normal menstrual cycle. 

Treating Hair loss in Women: Diet and Home Remedy for Fast and Thick hair growth

As per the American academy of dermatology, losing fifty to hundred hairs per day is normal. As per estimates about ninety percent of an individual’s hair are in growing phase and only ten percent of the hair are in resting phase, at any point in time. However, factors like pollution, psychological and mental stress, chemicals, faulty diet, etc interfere with the normal hair growth process and are responsible for hair loss or lifeless and scanty hair. Here are some simple dietary recommendations along with home remedies for effective hair care.

Hair loss in Women

Eight percent of hair loss in males are attributed to genetic and heredity and there is little that can be done about it. However, for females, healthy hair is a sign of beauty and hair loss can be very stressfull and traumatic experience. Some of the common factors responsible for hair loss among women include,

Hair loss in Women can be distressing

• Endocrinal disorders including thyroid disease
• Certain medications including birth control pills have been known to cause hair loss. Chemotherapy (i.e. treatment for cancer) has been commonly associated with hair loss
• Dietary insufficiencies like low iron, inadequate intake of proteins, etc are also responsible for hair loss in women. Convalescence phase after a major surgery or a major illness is also responsible for hair loss
• Fungal infection of the scalp can cause hair loss

Fortunately, most of the causes of hair loss are reversible. Dietary correction, home remedies and homeopathy can help in growth of thick and lustrous hair.

Diet for Fast Hair Growth

Dietary insufficiencies are one of the leading cause of hair damage and lifeless hair in women. Including certain foods to correct the deficiency disorders can promote normal and healthy hair growth

Milk is important for Healthy Hair

• Green leafy vegetables like lettuce and spinach, fish, poultry, cereals, sprouts, etc supply required iron to the body. Heavy menstrual bleeding is often responsible for anemia in women and inclusion of these foods in the diet can address to the deficiency of iron
• Milk and dairy products, poultry, cereals, legumes and pulses and eggs are rich in proteins, which are an essential constituent of healthy hair and promote hair growth
• Carrots, capsicum, spinach, broccoli, pumpkin, liver and fish are rich sources of Vitamin A. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in ensuring a healthy scalp. Dandruff has been identified as the leading cause of hair loss and dietary intake of Vitamin A is crucial to address to the problem of dandruff and unhealthy scalp

 Home Remedy for Quick Hair Growth

Simple home remedies can promote quick hair growth by promoting blood circulation to the hair and eliminating dandruff.

• Lemon juice has potent ingredients which help fight dandruff and in turn prevent hair loss. Local application of freshly squeezed lemon juice for about fifteen minutes each day before going to bath can have beneficial results
• Regular massaging of the scalp with coconut oil and herbal application improves the circulation of blood to the scalp and promotes hair growth.
• Vinegar is an anti-septic and kills bacteria and germs. Local application of vinegar mixed with egg yolk is beneficial. Vinegar is gentle on the scalp and doesn’t cause damage to the skin, while egg yolk provides nutrients to the hair follicles, which further promote quick growth of hair
• Consuming specially prepared ‘hair drinks’ comprising of a mixture of equal portions of alfalfa, lactuca sativa and carrot have been known to prevent hair damage and promote the growth of healthy hair. 

Get White Teeth: Home Remedies, Diet and Regimen to get Rid of Tooth Discoloration

Teeth Discoloration is a common dental problem and can be managed with home remedies and dietary corrections. As per a study published in the Journal of Dentistry in 2004, it was observed that half the sample considered their teeth to be discolored and about six percent considered their teeth to the severely discolored. This self evaluation study suggested that general public was dissatisfied even with the slightest discoloration of teeth. This in turn has steadily increased the demand for teeth whitening procedures especially in the United States.

Why is Teeth Whitening needed?: How to Get White Teeth


White teeth look attractive



Tooth discoloration can be extrinsic (stains on the outer surface of the teeth) or intrinsic (stains in the inside of the tooth from a source within the tooth). Toothpastes only help remove the external stains on the tooth. Simple home remedies can help whiten the teeth and make them stronger. Poor dental health is associated with increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disorders, as per a study conducted by American Association of Periodontology

There are several factors which result in yellowish discoloration of the teeth. Over consumption of coffee, tea, chocolates, soda drinks, etc can result in yellowish discoloration of the teeth. Improper oral hygiene, diseases of the gums and smoking are also factors that contribute to discoloration of the tooth enamel. Teeth whitening comprises of various procedures through which the natural white color of the enamel is restored.

White Teeth Home Remedy: Get Whiter Teeth Naturally

Home remedies have been found to be effective and safe procedures for teeth whitening. Further, these techniques are inexpensive compared to the various dental work procedures that can cost anywhere between $50 to $600 per session. Here are some simple home remedies and solution for white teeth,  



Lemon is a natural bleach

 

• Brushing the teeth with a mixture of lemon juice and salt has been found to be highly beneficial. Lemon juice is a natural bleach while salt helps alkaline the oral eco-system, which prevents the growth and proliferation of bacteria responsible for tooth discoloration
• Walnut tree bark contains potassium peroxide which is useful in whitening the teeth. However precaution should be taken while using walnut tree bark, as scrubbing too hard or for prolonged period of time may damage the tooth enamel
• Using a mixture of vinegar with salt and baking soda can also have profound benefits. Apple cider vinegar helps remove tartar deposits on the teeth and also enhances calcium metabolism of the body. Baking soda on the other hand is an alkali, which neutralizes acid levels in the oral cavity and thereby prevents the growth of microbes and bacteria responsible for yellowish discoloration of the teeth

Get White Teeth: Diet and Regimen for Whiter Teeth

The role of an appropriate diet and a oral hygiene regimen can’t be underestimated for management of yellowish discoloration of teeth and whitening the teeth. Here are some simple tips,

• Increase intake of calcium rich foods. Milk and milk products, green leafy vegetables, soy and jaggery are high in calcium content.
• Clenching of teeth during sleep also referred to as Bruxism can result in damage to the teeth and tooth fracture.
• Check for fluoride content in the water. Excessive fluoride in the water can result in yellowish discoloration
• Reduce intake of coffee, aerated drinks, tea and tobacco. Also avoid consuming very hot or very cold foods/ drinks.
• Drinking plenty of water helps rinse the oral cavity and prevents the accumulation of bacteria, which are responsible for yellowish discoloration and tooth problems including toothache
• Regular brushing and flossing can help in maintaining a healthy oral cavity and white teeth. 

Diet and Home Remedy for Removal of Moles

Moles are very common skin lesions which are almost always benign (i.e. non cancerous). Most moles develop between the ages of 10-40 years. As one grows older, the moles change color and may become elevated or may gradually fade off.

Mole are harmless skin lesions

What are moles?
Moles comprise of a bunch of dark brown pigmented cells which are usually flat but can occasionally be raised. Moles are common on the arms, face and legs. Moles are often painless. Clinically referred to as melanocytic naevus, moles is the result of proliferation of pigment cells, located in deeper layers of the skin. Some moles may be present at birth, while others may develop after birth, primarily caused due to exposure to sun rays.

Mole Removal Home Remedy
Since most of the moles are harmless and painless, trying out home remedies for removal of moles has been practiced and found to be very effective. Here are a few herbs that have been found effective in the management of moles at home,

• Flax seed oil has been extremely beneficial in removal of moles. Applying a mixture of flaxseed oil with raw honey on the affected site is very useful
• Garlic has been found to have profound benefits when applied locally on the moles. Apply freshly squeezed garlic juice on the affected part and leave it on for about twenty minutes. Rinse the site with cold water after applying garlic for the stipulated period of time




Flax Seed Oil is useful in Mole Removal


• Fig stem juice and raw pineapple have soothing effect on the skin and aid in the removal of moles. It also alleviates symptoms like itching and burning which are often associated with moles
• Local application of Tea tree oil is considered very beneficial for the skin lesion. Tea tree oil has anti bacterial and anti microbial properties which help in hastening the removal of moles

Mole Removal Diet
The role of an appropriate diet in the removal of moles has often been underestimated. Here are simple dietary guidelines beneficial in the removal of moles

• Potassium has been found to be beneficial in management of moles. Increased consumption of fruits and vegetables rich in potassium is recommended
• Consume fruits like grapes, banana, apples, avocado, etc.
• Increasing the intake of fresh vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, beans, spinach, etc also provide the essential supply of potassium to the body
• Vitamin C is considered to be beneficial in management of moles. Vitamin C supplements or increased intake of citrus fruits has been found to be beneficial

Home Remedy for Allergies: Homeopathy for Allergy

Garden flowers rarely cause allergy as their pollen are quite heavy and can’t be carried by air alone. The culprit is often grass pollen, ragweed, mould and dust, along with an overactive immune system. Homeopathy and home remedies provide complete solutions for effective management of all forms of allergies.

What is Allergy?

Child with Allergic Rhinitis

Millions of people suffer from different forms of allergies, often acquired by performing simple tasks like dusting the shelves, petting a cat, eating certain foods, etc. Allergies are caused primarily due to an overactive immune system, which reacts to the various allergens in a distorted manner. Fortunately, there are simple and effective home remedies that are useful in the management of most types of allergic conditions.

Allergy Symptoms

Allergies normally affect the skin and the respiratory system. Depending upon the severity of the allergic reaction, the common allergy symptoms include,

• Skin Symptoms like itching, eczema, urticaria, etc
• Upper Respiratory Symptoms like nasal congestion, nose blockage and congestion,
• Lower Respiratory Symptoms like breathlessness, wheezing, asthma,etc
• Other symptoms include headache, burning and watering of the eyes, etc
• In severe cases allergic reaction can be associated with anaphylactic shock.

Allergy Causes

Allergic Reaction on Skin

Under normal conditions, the human immune system only responds to bacteria, viruses or other harmful substances that enter the body through different sources. However, in individuals with an overactive immune system, the body tends to respond to even harmless particles such as pollen, dust, moulds, etc. Some common allergy causes include,

• Seasonal allergies triggered by grass pollen or ragweed
• Perennial allergies triggered by household dust, animal hair, molds, etc
• Allergy causes include harsh chemicals, food ingredients like seafood, preservatives, etc
• Some experts believe that an inadequate intake of nutrients and exposure to pollutants also contribute to development of allergy.
• Heredity is also considered as one of the leading allergy causes

Home Remedy for Allergies

• Vitamin A and Vitamin C help in strengthening the immune system. Vitamin C has anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine effects; while Vitamin A specifically acts on the respiratory passages and reduces congestion. Pantothenic Acid helps reduce nasal congestion.
• Ephedra, an herb is considered to be very useful in decongesting the respiratory passage and helps alleviate symptoms associated with allergy.
• An infusion of Eyebright or Elder, in 5 ml of hot water, taken thrice a day is considered to be highly beneficial.



Herbal Tea for Allergies

• Herbal tea made from ginger, peppermint or anise has a strong decongestion effect. Consuming four cups of herbal tea daily is decidedly beneficial. 

Homeopathy for Allergy

Homeopathy has been found to be fairly effective in the treatment of different forms of allergic reactions:

• Homeopathic drugs like Apis Mel (in case of weal formation) and Sulphur (in case of severe itching) taken in low dosages, repeated over six times a day, have shown positive results in the treatment of skin allergies.
• Euphrasia and Allium Cepa have proven beneficial in the management of upper respiratory symptoms, namely, burning of eyes, watery nose, sore throat, etc. Belledona manages headaches associated with allergic symptoms promptly.
• Biochemic drug Silicea, taken in low potency, up to eight times a day, boosts immunity and hastens recovery.