Natural Cures for Asthma

Asthma is an ancient Greek word meaning 'panting or short drawn breath'. It is an allergic condition resulting from the reaction of the body to one or more allergens, and is the most troublesome of respiratory diseases. An asthma patient gets frequent attacks of breathlessness, in between which they may even be completely normal.

Asthma Symptoms:
Patients suffering from asthma appear to be gasping for breath. They actually have more difficulty in breathing out than breathing in, and this is caused by spasms or sudden involuntary muscular contractions of the smaller air passages in their lungs.

Asthma Causes:
Asthma is caused by a variety of factors. It can be due to an allergy caused by weather conditions, food, drugs, perfumes, or other irritants. Allergies to dust are the most common.

Asthma treatment using Honey:
Honey is one of the most common home remedies for asthma. It has been said that if a jug of honey is held under the nose of an asthma patient and he inhales the air that comes into contact with it, he starts breathing easier and deeper.

Asthma treatment using Figs:
Figs have proved very valuable in asthma. They give comfort to the patient by draining off the phlegm. Three or four dry figs should be cleaned thoroughly with warm water and soaked overnight.

Asthma treatment using Lemon:
Lemon is another fruit found beneficial for treating asthma. The juice of one lemon, diluted in a glass of water and taken with meals, will bring good results.

Asthma treatment using Indian Gooseberry:
Indian gooseberry has also proved valuable for asthma. Five grams of gooseberry mixed with one tablespoon of honey forms an effective medicinal tonic for the treatment of this asthma. It should be taken every morning.

Asthma treatment using Bitter Gourd Roots:
The roots of the bitter gourd plant have been used in folk medicine for asthma since ancient times. A teaspoon of the root paste, mixed with an equal amount of honey or juice of the holy basil leaves, given once every night for a month, is an excellent medicine for this disease.

Asthma treatment using Drumstick Leaves:
A soup prepared from drumstick leaves, and taken once daily, has been found beneficial in the treatment of asthma. This soup is prepared by adding a handful of leaves to 180ml of water and boiling it for five minutes. After being allowed to cool, a little salt, pepper, and lime juice can be added to this soup.

Asthma treatment using Ginger:
A teaspoon of fresh ginger juice, mixed with a cup of fenugreek decoction and honey to taste, acts as an excellent expectorant in cases of asthma. The decoction of fenugreek can be made by mixing 1 tablespoon of fenugreek seeds in a cupful of water. This remedy should be taken twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening.

Asthma treatment using Garlic:
Garlic is another effective home remedy for asthma. Ten garlic cloves, boiled in 30 ml of milk, make an excellent medicine for the early stages of asthma. This mixture should he taken once daily by the patient. Steaming ginger tea with two minced garlic cloves in it, can also help to keep the problem under control, and should be taken twice daily once in the morning and once in the evening.

Asthma treatment using Bishop's Weed:
The herb bishop's weed has been found valuable in asthma. Half a teaspoon of bishop's weed should be mixed in a glass of buttermilk and taken twice daily. It is an effective remedy for relieving difficult expectoration caused by dried-up phlegm. A hot poultice of the seeds should be used for dry fomentation to the chest twice daily. The Patient can also inhale steam twice a day from boiling water mixed with carom seeds. It will dilate the bronchial passages. Twice daily = once in the morning and once in the evening.

Asthma treatment using Safflower:
Safflower seeds are beneficial in the treatment of bronchial asthma. Half a teaspoon of powder of the dry seeds, mixed with a tablespoon of honey, can be taken once or twice a day in treating this disease. This acts as an expectorant and reduces the spasms by liquefying the tenacious sputum. An infusion of five grams of flowers mixed with one tablespoon of honey, taken once daily, is also very useful in treating this disease.

Diet for Asthma:
The patient should avoid common dietetic errors. Ideally, the patient’s diet should contain a limited quantity of carbohydrates, fats and proteins which are 'acid-forming' foods, and a liberal quantity of alkali-forming foods consisting of fresh fruits, green vegetables, sprouted seeds, and grains. The patient should avoid foods which tend to produce phlegm, such as rice, sugar, lentils, and yoghurt. He should also avoid fried and other difficult to-digest foods, strong tea, coffee, alcoholic beverages, condiments pickles, sauces and all refined and processed foods.

Other Suggestions for Asthma:

Fasting and exercises:
The patient should also follow the other laws of nature. Air, sun, and water are great healing agents. Regular fasting once a week, an occasional enema, breathing exercises, fresh air, a dry climate, light exercises, and correct posture go a long way in treating asthma and many other diseases.

Taking care of you naturally, the way life was meant to be!

Natural Cures for Anxiety

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety disorders come in two basic forms;
The chronic form involves a recurring sense of worry accompanied by mild physical symptoms.
A panic attack comes on suddenly and unexpectedly, with symptoms that are often mistaken for heart attack or other life-threatening conditions. There is sometimes a feeling of not being able to get a full breath of air. Symptoms come on suddenly and diminish suddenly.
Some research suggests that the central nervous systems of people with anxiety disorders may overreact to stress and take a longer time than most to return to a their calmer state.
Symptoms may begin with an upsetting event such as an accident, divorce, or death. Sometimes there is no obvious cause.
There may also be a biochemical basis. Studies have shown that people who are prone to panic attacks have higher blood levels of lactic acid, a chemical produced when muscles metabolize sugar without getting enough oxygen.
Other research suggests that anxiety may be the result of an overproduction of stress hormones by the brain and adrenal glands.
It is normal to feel anxious from time to time, but if you feel anxious without reason and if these worries persist and affect your day-to-day life, you may have generalized anxiety disorder.
Symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder can include restlessness, feeling tense and or on edge, irritability, impatience, and or poor concentration.
You may also notice changes in your physical health such as headaches, jaw pain, muscle tension, difficulty falling or staying asleep, dry mouth, fatigue, chest tightness, indigestion, bloating, or excessive sweating.
It's always important to be evaluated by your doctor for a proper diagnosis and to rule out other medical problems.

The natural way
You can do a lot to support a healthy ability to relax and slow down. One way of doing this is to keep your mind producing its own natural feel good chemicals by eating lots of fresh fruit and vegetables and whole grain foods. Also getting plenty of fresh air, sunshine and exercising regularly.
Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or taking time for a walk on the beach can all help to reduce stress levels.
Natural remedies can also help to support the nervous system and to enable us to cope more easily with the everyday stresses of our modern existence. In fact, natural remedies have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years.
In recent times, research has confirmed this in traditional wisdom. There are now many published clinical studies demonstrating the ability of a range of herbs to support the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system and maintain a healthy equilibrium.

Natural Remedies for Anxiety:
These are some of the natural herbs and remedies that are being explored for anxiety.
• Passionflower
The herb passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) was used as a folk remedy for anxiety and insomnia.
Side effects of passionflower may include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, and rapid heartbeat. The safety of passionflower in pregnant or nursing women, children, or people with kidney or liver disease has not been established.
Passionflower should not be taken with sedatives unless under medical supervision. Passionflower may possibly enhance the effect of pentobarbital, a medication used for sleep and seizure disorders.
• Valerian
The herb valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is best known as a herbal remedy for insomnia. Valerian is also used in patients with mild anxiety, but the research supporting its use for anxiety is limited.
Valerian is usually taken an hour before bedtime. It takes about two to three weeks to work and shouldn't be used for more than three months at a time. Side effects of valerian may include mild indigestion, headache, palpitations, and dizziness. Although valerian tea and liquid extracts are available, most people don't like the smell of valerian and prefer taking it in capsule form.
Valerian shouldn't be taken with many medications, especially those that depress the central nervous system, such as sedatives and antihistamines. Valerian shouldn't be taken with alcohol, before or after surgery, or by people with liver disease. It should not be used before driving or operating machinery.
• Kava
Native to Polynesia, the herb kava (Piper methysticum) has been found to have anti-anxiety effects in humans.
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has issued an advisory to consumers about the potential risk of severe liver injury resulting from the use of dietary supplements containing kava.
• Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA)
GABA is an amino acid that is known to play a role in the physiology of anxiety. Some prescription drugs for anxiety work by affecting GABA receptors in the brain. The degree to which orally ingested GABA supplements can reach the brain, is not known.
• Bodywork
Massage therapy, shiatsu, and other forms of bodywork are widely used to diminish muscle tension, relieve stress, and improve your sleep.
• Mind/Body Techniques
Mind/body breathing exercises, physical exercise, yoga, tai chi, self-hypnosis, meditation, and biofeedback are just some of the stress reduction techniques used for anxiety. Try different techniques and determine which routine works for you and you can stick to with a hectic schedule.
• Aromatherapy
Plant essential oils can be added to baths, massage oil, or infusers. Essential oils that are used for anxiety and nervous tension are: bergamot, cypress, geranium, jasmine, lavender, melissa, neroli, rose, sandalwood, ylang-ylang. Lavender is the most common and forms the base for many of the relaxing blends.

Some Other Natural Remedies for Anxiety:
Pantothenic acid
Calcium
Magnesium
B vitamins
Chamomile

Herbs for Anxiety
Herbal Remedies For Anxiety Has also Traditionally Included Some of the Following:
CATNIP Tea has soothing effect, relieves anxiety.
PASSIONFLOWER used in tea or as tincture to promote relaxation and calm. (See above)
FENNEL Tea relieves gastrointestinal upset.
ST. JOHN'S WORT tincture helps restore emotional stability and ease depression.
KAVA Tincture or capsules help minimize anxiousness. (See above)
HOPS can have a relaxing effect on nervous system.
MOTHERWORT Tincture helps stabilize emotions and has a calming effect.
SKULLCAP Tincture or capsules help relax and nourish nervous system and induce sleep.
VALERIAN Tincture or capsules aid with sleep. (See above)
And again, many people find relief from anxiety by using Aromatherapy.

Commonly used essential oils for anxiety:
Bergamot
Cedarwood
Geranium
Lavender
Lemon
Neroli
Patchouli
Sandalwood
Sweet Marjoram

As always, consultation with a qualified health practitioner is recommended before adding herbals remedies to one’s daily routine.

Taking care of you naturally, the way life was meant to be!

Vitamins to Increase Energy

Do vitamins give you energy? This is a question that confuses millions of people.

Well, vitamins do not directly serve as a source of energy, but they aid the enzymes that generate energy from the energy producing nutrients like protein, carbohydrates and fats. They also play a major role in helping out in the chemical reaction that leads to fruitful generation of energy, which enables you to perform your daily activities effectively.

Adequate vitamin intake promotes your health fitness, by strengthening your bones and teeth. It makes your immune system strong, thereby enabling you to overcome various kinds of infections. Talking about what vitamins provide energy, vitamin B3 works in combination with coenzyme Q10 and contributes a great deal in boosting your energy levels.

Vitamin B6 plays a vital role in human metabolism. Vitamin B12 acts as an active participant in the biochemical reactions that lead to the production of energy. In fact, it is for this reason that vitamin B12 is sometimes also referred to as the energy vitamin. Vitamin C is requisite for the synthesis of a small molecule named carnitine that helps in transporting fat to the cellular organelles called mitochondria, for its conversion into energy. It is of prime importance to consume vitamins so as to enhance your energy levels.
Lack of energy and the feeling of fatigue is an age-old complaint. Vitamins boost the energy levels of the human body. Vitamin B is known as the ‘energy vitamin’ and is vital for an energetic and long life. Although Vitamin B is abundant in a variety of natural foods, the typical American diet is deficient in Vitamin B. B-Vitamins can and are easily flushed out of the body. Alcoholics and people on weight-loss diets are more prone to Vitamin B deficiency.
The B-complex vitamins are a group of eight vitamins, which include thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pyridoxine (B6), folic acid (B9), cyanocobalamin (B12), pantothenic acid and biotin. Each vitamin plays a significant role in energy production. Deficiencies usually include more than one type of B-vitamin. To increase your energy levels, a supplement of B-complex must be taken along with any single B-vitamin.
The B1-Thiamin vitamin plays an important role in the metabolic process of food and alcohol. It improves the function of the adrenal gland and boosts immunity. Low levels of the B2-Riboflavin cause fatigue, blindness and anemia. Riboflavin is required for the production of energy. Doctors may also prescribe riboflavin for migraine and arthritis pain.
The vitamin B3-Niacin also helps the body produce energy. Niacin is used for treating neurological diseases and high cholesterol. In combination with Vitamin C, Niacin reduces the production of lipoproteins, which is a major risk factor in heart patients.
B5-Pantothenic acid is one of the main energy boosters. Also referred to as the ‘anti-stress’ vitamin.
Vitamin B12 also helps fight fatigue. It is a vital nutrient for the formation of red blood cells. Red blood cells, are linked to our energy levels.
The B-complex vitamins work to keep the energy levels high. They can help prevent diseases since they are capable of repairing nucleic acids and immune cells. These vitamins are the foundation of good overall health and nutrition.
We need all vitamins and minerals for good health, well being and energy.
However, particular nutrient deficiencies are associated with reduced energy and chronic tiredness. These include iron, magnesium, B12 and folic acid.
Iron:
Iron is an essential mineral needed for the manufacture of haemoglobin, the part of red blood cells that carries oxygen and is needed for energy production. When your iron levels are low, red blood cells can't carry enough oxygen to the body's tissues, causing fatigue. When haemoglobin levels are low, anaemia occurs.
There are two types of iron: haem iron (from animal sources) and non-haem iron (from plant sources). The body absorbs haem iron much more easily than non-haem iron.
Symptoms of deficiency: fatigue; pale lower eyelids, palms, tongue; brittle nails; headaches; constipation; inflamed tongue.
Testing for deficiency: iron levels are tested easily with blood samples.
Caution: Excess iron absorption (called haemochromatosis) also causes chronic tiredness so therefore it is important to check your iron levels before using an iron supplement.
Vitamin B12:
Vitamin B12 is needed for manufacture of red blood cells (along with folic acid). B12 helps the body's use of iron and is also required for proper digestion, the absorption of foods, the synthesis of protein and the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. It is often observed that taking B12 (especially via injections) reduces fatigue, even when a deficiency isn't found.
B12 deficiencies are common due to declining B12 levels in food, increased use of antibiotics and digestive problems. This is because B12 is produced in the digestive tract as well as being absorbed from food. Those most at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency are usually vegetarians and people with digestive disturbances.
Symptoms of deficiency: fatigue, weakness, dizziness, sore tongue, memory problems, confusion, irritability, depression, moodiness, paleness.
Testing for deficiency: B12 levels can be measured with a blood test.

Folic Acid:
Folic acid is a B vitamin (also called B9 or folate) needed for the manufacture of red blood cells. Deficiency can lead to a condition called megaloblastic anaemia.
Fatigue is associated with both a simple folic acid deficiency as well as megaloblastic anaemia. Because folic acid is easily destroyed during cooking, it is one of the most common vitamin deficiencies in us.
Symptoms of deficiency: fatigue, digestive disturbances, insomnia, memory problems, weakness, shortness of breath, recurrent miscarriages, mental confusion, paranoid delusions, sore tongue, anaemia.
Testing for deficiency: folic acid levels can be measured with a blood test.
Caution: if folic acid is given to someone who is B12 deficient and B12 isn't given at the same time, the symptoms of a B12 deficiency can be masked. Only take folic acid if a B12 deficiency has been ruled out.
Magnesium:
Magnesium is needed for the production of ATP, which is the main energy-producing molecule in the body. Therefore, when magnesium is deficient our cells are less able to produce energy and we can experience chronic tiredness. It has been found that nearly all people with chronic fatigue syndrome are magnesium deficient and for about 80 per cent of people given magnesium their energy improves. Magnesium is the most common nutrient deficiency in all people. Most of us would benefit from supplementation even if magnesium levels are unable to be checked.
Symptoms of deficiency: fatigue, irritability, spasms, muscle cramps, rapid or irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure and insomnia.
Testing for deficiency: magnesium is not generally tested by blood test. Hair analysis is the most readily available test. The hair analysis test can be performed through specialist laboratories.
Caution: if magnesium supplements worsen your symptoms (especially cramping, twitching and muscle spasms), calcium is probably your deficiency, not magnesium.

Please note: The information in this article is not intended to take the place of a qualified health practitioner nor is it intended as medical advice.

Taking care of you naturally, the way life was meant to be!

Vitamin Fact Sheet

Vitamin A
Function:
• healthy eyes, skin, and bones
• hormone synthesis
Sources:
• dairy products
• dark green leafy vegetables
• deep orange fruits and vegetables
• eggs
• liver
Deficiency (Not enough):
• poor teeth and bone development and grwoth
• visual changes
• diarrhea
Toxicity (Too much):
• joint pain
• dry and itchy skin
• dry, cracked lips
• nausea / vomiting
• weight loss
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
Functions:
• used in amino acid and fatty acid metabolism
• helps form red blood cells
• healthy nervous system
Sources:
• meat
• poultry
• fish
• whole grains
• enriched bread and cereal
• legumes
• green, leafy vegetables
Deficiency (Not enough):
• skin disorders
• anemia
• cracks in the corners of the mouth
• convulsions
• muscle twitching
Toxicity (Too much):
• damages nerves
Vitamin B12
Functions:
• helps form new cells
• helps support a healthy nervous system
Sources:
• meat
• poultry
• fish
• eggs
• milk
• cheese
Deficiency (Not enough):
• anemia
• fatigue
Toxicity (Too much):
• no toxic side effects
Daily Allowances:
• 300mcg
Thiamin (Vitamin B1)
Functions:
• energy metabolism
• proper nerve and muscle function
Sources:
• pork and organ meats
• legumes, nuts and whole grains
• enriched cereals
Deficiency (Not enough):
• body swelling
• heart damage
• weakness and paralysis
• mental status changes
Toxicity (Too much):
• rapid heart rate
• weakness
• difficulty sleeping
• muscle weakness
Daily Allowances:
• 50mg
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
Functions:
• energy metabolism
• healthy skin
• maintain and supports good vision
Sources:
• dairy products
• leafy, dark green vegetables
• whole grains
• enriched grains and cereals
Deficiency (Not enough):
• sunlight sensitivity
• skin rash
• cracks in the corners of the mouth
Toxicity (Too much):
• no toxic side effects
Daily Allowances:
• 50mg
Niacin (Vitamin B3)
Functions:
• energy metabolism
• healthy skin, digestive system and nervous system
Sources:
• meat
• milk
• eggs
• poultry
• fish
• whole grains
• enriched bread and cereal
• nuts
Deficiency (Not enough):
• weakness
• dizziness
• loss of appetite
• confusion
• diarrhea
• rash
Toxicity (Too much):
• swollen tongue
• rash
• low blood pressure
• nausea / vomiting / diarrhea
Daily Allowances:
• 100mg
Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5)
Functions:
• used in energy metabolism
Sources:
• meats
• eggs
Deficiency (Not enough):
• fatigue
• vomiting
Toxicity (Too much):
• diarrhea
Daily Allowances:
• 100mg
Vitamin C
Functions:
• antioxidant
• helps with wound healing
• strengthen resistance to infection
Sources:
• citrus fruits
• broccoli
• tomatoes
• melons
• dark green leafy vegetables
• cabbage
• strawberries
• potatoes
Deficiency (Not enough):
• anemia
• increased incidence of infection
• sore gums
• muscle pain
• joint pain
Toxicity (Too much):
• nausea / diarrhea
• fatigue
Daily Allowances:
• 3000mg
Vitamin D
Functions:
• strong bones and teeth
Sources:
• fortified milk
• eggs
• liver
• made by the body from sunlight
Deficiency (Not enough):
• bones disorders such as misshapen bones (in children), soft bones (in adults), and spontaneous bone fractures
Toxicity (Too much):
• kidney stones
• calcium deposits in soft tissue
• fatigue
Daily Allowances:
• 400IU
Vitamin E
Functions:
• functions as an antioxidant
• helps maintain healthy cell membranes
Sources:
• vegetable oils
• green, leafy vegetables
• whole grains
• egg yolks
Deficiency (Not enough):
• low blood count (anemia)
• weakness
Toxicity (Too much):
• dizziness
• weakness
• increases the effect of anti-clotting medications such as Coumadin
Daily Allowances:
• 400IU
Special Warning:
A recent report revealed that people taking over 400IU of Vitamin E per day have a 10% higher risk of death than those people taking less than 400IU per day. Use caution when taking Vitamin E supplements.

Vitamin K
Functions:
• important in blood clotting process
Sources:
• leafy green vegetables, cauliflower, and cabbage
• liver
• produced by bacteria in the intestinal tract
Deficiency (Not enough):
• prolonged bleeding time
• uncontrolled bleeding
Toxicity (Too much):
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
• interferes with anti-clotting medications such as Coumadin
Daily Allowances:
• 100mcg
Folate (Folic Acid)
Functions:
• helps form new cells
Sources:
• legumes
• liver
• leafy green vegetables
• beans
• nuts
Deficiency (Not enough):
• anemia
• smooth red tongue
• diarrhea
• constipation
• infections
• confusion
• weakness
Toxicity (Too much):
• diarrhea
• problems sleeping
• can mask a B12 deficiency
Daily Allowances:
• 800mcg
Biotin
Functions:
• used in energy and amino acid metabolism
• fat synthesis and breakdown
Sources:
• liver
• egg yolk
• green vegetables
Deficiency (Not enough):
• fatigue
• loss of appetite
• muscle pain
• dry and scaly skin
Toxicity (Too much):
• no toxicity side effects
Daily Allowances:
• 300mcg


Taking care of you naturally, the way life was meant to be!

Natural and Herbal Remedies for Depression

In any given year, nearly 20 million adults in the United States alone have depression. Most people with depression do not seek treatment, although the majority can be helped with treatment. The first step is to talk with your doctor, because depression is a serious illness that shouldn't be self-treated. Always consult your doctor before taking herbal remedies.
Natural and Herbal Remedies for Depression:
Listed are natural and herbal remedies that are used for depression.
1) St. John's Wort
St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) has long been used in folk medicine for sadness, worry, nervousness, and poor sleep.
The results of over 20 clinical trials suggest that St. John's wort works better than a placebo and is as effective as antidepressants for mild to moderate depression, with fewer side effects, but is not effective for major depression.
St. John's wort can take 4 to 6 weeks to notice the full effects. Side effects may include dizziness, dry mouth, indigestion, and fatigue. St. John's wort increases photosensitivity, so extra caution should be taken to protect skin and eyes from sunlight.
St. John's wort appears to be reasonably safe when taken alone, but it can interfere with the effectiveness of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, such as antidepressants, drugs to treat HIV infections and AIDs, drugs to prevent organ rejection for transplant patients, and oral contraceptives.
St. John's wort is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women, children, or people with bipolar disorder, liver or kidney disease..
2) Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of good fat needed for normal brain function. Our bodies can't make omega-3s on their own, so we must obtain them through the food we eat.
Studies have shown that depression is linked with low dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids. In countries with higher fish consumption, like Japan and Taiwan, the depression rate is 10 times lower than in North America. Postpartum depression is also less common.
Studies have shown that omega-3's together with antidepressants may be more effective than antidepressants alone.
Cold water fish such as salmon, sardines, and anchovies are the richest food source of omega-3 fatty acids. But instead of eating more fish which as we know contain mercury, PCBs, and other chemicals, fish oil capsules are considered to be a cleaner source of omega-3 fatty acids. Many companies filter their fish oil so that these chemicals are removed.
Fish oil capsules are sold in most all health food stores, drug stores, and online. Most brands should be stored in the fridge to prevent the oil from going rancid. When comparing brands, the key active components for depression are EPA and DHA.
Fish oil capsules may interact with blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin and aspirin. Side effects may include indigestion and bleeding. Fish oil should not be taken 2 weeks before or after surgery. Fish oil can also cause a fishy aftertaste. So to prevent this, try taking the fish oil just before meals which can help cover the taste.
3) SAM-e
SAM-e, pronounced "sammy", is short for S-adenosyl-L-methionine. It's a chemical that's found naturally in the human body and is believed to increase levels of neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine.
In North America, SAM-e is available as an over-the-counter supplement in most health food stores, drug stores, and online. It should be enteric-coated for maximum absorption. Although it's one of the more expensive supplements, it is popular as a remedy for depression and osteoarthritis.
Side effects can include nausea and constipation.
4) Folic Acid
Folic acid, ( folate,) is a B vitamin that is often deficient in people who are depressed.
Folate is found in green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, fruit, beans, and fortified grains. It's one of the most common vitamin deficiencies because of poor diet but also because of chronic conditions and various medications such as aspirin and birth control pills which can also lead to deficiency.
Besides certain food, folic acid is also available as a supplement or as part of a B-complex vitamin.
Researchers at Harvard University have found that depressed people with low folate levels don't respond as well to antidepressants, and that taking folic acid in supplement form can improve the effectiveness of antidepressants.
5) 5-HTP
5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan). It is produced naturally in the body and is used to make the neurotransmitter serotonin. Although taking 5-HTP in supplement form may theoretically boost the body's serotonin levels, many experts feel there is not enough evidence to determine the safety of 5-HTP. It should never be combined with antidepressants.
6) Diet
• Reduce your intake of sweets
Sweets will temporarily make you feel good as blood sugar levels soar, but may worsen your mood later on when they plummet.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol
Caffeine and alcohol both dampen mood. Alcohol temporarily relaxes us and caffeine boosts energy, but the effects of both are very short-lived. Both can worsen mood swings, anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
• Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is needed to produce the mood-enhancing neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. Although a deficiency of vitamin B6 is rare, a borderline deficiency may occur in people taking oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, and drugs for tuberculosis.
• Magnesium
Most people do not get enough magnesium in their diets. Sources of magnesium are legumes, nuts, whole grains and green vegetables. Like vitamin B6, magnesium is needed for serotonin production. Stress does deplete magnesium.
7) Exercise
Regular exercise is one of the most effective and inexpensive ways to improve mood.
Exercise, particularly aerobic cardio exercise, helps release mood-elevating chemicals in the brain and can decrease stress hormones.
Try taking a brisk walk outside each morning for at least 30 minutes five days a week.
What's important is that you choose something you enjoy and will stick with, whether it's going to the gym, signing up for dance classes, playing tennis, or gardening.
8) Light Therapy
Getting enough sunlight has been shown to be effective for seasonal mood changes that happen in the darker winter months.
Exposure to light in the morning helps the body's sleep/wake cycle work properly. Production of serotonin, a brain chemical that is key in influencing our mood, is turned on in the morning upon exposure to light, but during the winter when there is less sunlight, serotonin levels can drop, making us feel tired and prone to seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
One of the most simple ways to increase your exposure to light is to walk outdoors in the morning. Just be sure to use sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays.

Taking care of you naturally, the way life was meant to be!

Home Remedies for Sore Throat

Sore Throat Home Remedies

Warm milk with one tablespoon of butter and one tablespoon of honey added to it. Then drink it while it is still very warm. This will coat your throat making it feel better, and the heat will make swelling go down. This is not only effective but also very tasty.

Take regular size shot glass, fill half full of vinegar, half honey, and 1/2 teaspoonful of cayenne pepper. Warm it all up and swallow in one drink. In minutes your sore throat will start to feel better.

Gargle

Boil water and add some smashed ginger, powered cinnamon and cloves. Add two spoons of honey to it and sip it slowly. Tie a scarf around the throat also. It will give you relief very quickly.

Soak 3 tbsp of freshly grated ginger in a pint of hot water for 5-8 minutes. Strain and drink before bedtime. Add lemon juice if sore throat is accompanied by chesty cough. Drinking the ginger infusion throughout the day and at bedtime for 1-2 days will give relief to your sore throat. You will see a noticeable difference after the first cup. Ginger is an anti-inflammatory, anti-viral painkiller and mild sedative. Lemon reduces the production of mucus so is helpful for the cough.

Gargle every hour with vinegar water or salt water.

Gargle with cayenne pepper and water mixture: 1/2 - 2 tsp. cayenne per glass of water, as strong as you can stand. Repeat as necessary, multiple times a day. Numbs and relieves sore throats.

Add 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar into 1 cup of warm water. Gargle and swallow each mouthful till gone. Repeat as necessary.

For Sore Throat:
get a small Dixie cup
pour cultured buttermilk in the cup
slowly swish and gargle it in your mouth, slowly drink a small cup of it every hour for a day and sore throat will be gone within the next day...its gives the throat a coating…

Drink marjoram tea with a little lemon and honey to relieve throat pain and reduce coughing.

Drink Aloe Vera juice twice a day to aid the healing process.

Gargle with salt water, bayberry, bistort, cayenne, eucalyptus, fenugreek, horehound, liquorice, lobelia, myrrh, peppermint, red sage, spearmint, wintergreen, witch hazel, or yarrow tea. Any of the above is beneficial…

Lemonade with fresh lemons will help soothe a sore throat.

Place a warm cloth on the throat that has been soaked in cayenne extract, garlic oil, lobelia extract, salt water, comfrey or chickweed tea, help gives your throat relieve…

Did I mention to Gargle, Gargle, Gargle!

Natural Remedies for High Blood Pressure

What is High Blood Pressure?

Also known as: Hypertension

According to the American Heart Association, nearly one in three adults in the United States has high blood pressure. But nearly one-third of those people don't even know they have high blood pressure, because it's a silent disease. People can have high blood pressure for years without experiencing symptoms or knowing they even have it.

• Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg.
• Prehypertension is systolic pressure that's between 120 to 139 or diastolic pressure between 80 and 89.
• Stage 1 hypertension is systolic pressure between 140 to 159 or diastolic pressure between 90 and 99.
• Stage 2 hypertension is systolic pressure higher than 160 or diastolic pressure of 100 or higher.

High Blood Pressure Symptoms

High blood pressure usually doesn't cause any symptoms in the early stages. Symptoms associated with high blood pressure can include the following:

• Dizziness or dizzy spells
• Headache
• Nosebleeds

Causes of High Blood Pressure

In most cases of high blood pressure, the American Heart Association says there is no one identifiable cause. It is usually a combination of factors, such as:

• Stress. Stress can raise blood pressure.
• Weight. The greater your body mass, the more pressure there is on your artery walls. That's because more blood is produced to supply oxygen and nutrients to tissues in your body.
• Age. The risk of high blood pressure increases as you get older.

• Activity level. Lack of physical activity tends to increase heart rate, which forces your heart to work harder.
• Tobacco use. Chemicals in cigarettes and tobacco can damage your artery walls.
• Sodium intake. Excessive sodium in the diet can result in fluid retention and high blood pressure.
• Potassium intake. Low potassium can result in elevated sodium in cells, because the two balance one another.
• Alcohol consumption. Excessive alcohol intake can, over time, increase the risk of heart disease.
• Family history. High blood pressure often runs in families.

High blood pressure can also be caused by an underlying condition, such as kidney disease, thyroid disease, hormonal disorders, adrenal gland disease, and the use of certain drugs, such as oral contraceptives, or herbs such as licorice.

Natural Remedies for High Blood Pressure

Lifestyle changes and natural remedies may help to control high blood pressure, but your doctor may also recommend medication to lower high blood pressure. It is important to work with your doctor, because untreated high blood pressure may damage organs in the body and increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, brain hemorrhage, kidney disease, and possible vision loss.

· Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

There is some evidence that the supplement CoQ10 may help to reduce high blood pressure.

· Garlic

Garlic supplement may be of clinical use in patients with mild high blood pressure.
Garlic supplements should only be used under the supervision of a qualified health practitioner. Garlic can thin the blood (reduce the ability of blood to clot) similar to aspirin. Garlic may interact with many drugs and supplements such as the prescription of "blood-thinners" drugs such as Coumadin (warfarin) or Trental (pentoxifylline), aspirin, vitamin E, gingko. It is usually recommended that people taking garlic stop in the weeks before and after any type of surgery.

· Hawthorn

Hawthorn is often used by traditional herbal practitioners for high blood pressure.

· Fish oil

Fish oil may have a modest effect on high blood pressure. Although fish oil supplements often contain both DHA (docohexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), there is some evidence that DHA is the ingredient that lowers high blood pressure.

· Folic acid

Folate is a B vitamin necessary for formation of red blood cells. It may help to lower high blood pressure in some people, possibly by reducing elevated homocysteine levels.

· Diet

Changing your diet is an important part of lowering high blood pressure. The Dash diet has shown to help many people.

The DASH diet includes fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy foods, beans and nuts. Sodium is limited to 2,400 mg per day.

Studies have found that the DASH diet can reduce high blood pressure within two weeks. These are the daily guidelines of the DASH diet:

• 2 to 3 servings of fats and oil
• 2 or less servings of meat, fish, or poultry
• 2 to 3 servings of low-fat or non-fat dairy
• 4 to 5 servings of vegetables
• 4 to 5 servings of fruit
• 4 to 5 servings per week of nuts, seeds, and dry beans
• 7 to 8 servings of grains
• Less than 5 servings a week of sweets

Serving Sizes
1/2 cup cooked rice or pasta
1 slice bread (100% whole grain, whole wheat)
1 cup raw vegetables or fruit
1/2 cup cooked vegetables or fruit
8 oz. of milk
1 teaspoon olive oil
3 ounces cooked meat
3 ounces tofu

A related diet called the DASH-Sodium reduces sodium to 1,500 mg a day, which is approximately equal to 2/3 teaspoon from all sources. Patients following the DASH-Sodium diet had a significant reduction in high blood pressure.

· Calcium, Magnesium, and Potassium

Calcium. Calcium supplementation appears to have a modest but statistically significant reduction in systolic blood pressure, however better quality studies are needed.

Potassium. A meta-analysis of five trials indicated that potassium supplementation compared to a control resulted in a large but statistically non-significant reduction in systolic blood pressure.

Magnesium. In 12 randomized controlled trials, participants receiving magnesium supplements did not have a significantly reduction in systolic blood pressure, but they did have a statistically significant reduction in diastolic blood pressure.

· Mind-Body Interventions

Mind-body interventions, particularly autogenic training, biofeedback, and yoga, have been found to modestly reduce high blood pressure.

Autogenic Training
Autogenic training is a technique used for stress reduction and relaxation. It involves a series of sessions in which people learn how to control breathing, blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature. It requires regular practice.

Biofeedback
Biofeedback is a technique in which people learn how to gain control over internal body processes that normally occur involuntarily, such as blood pressure, heart rate, muscle tension, and skin temperature.

Biofeedback is primarily used for high blood pressure, migraine, tension headache, chronic pain, and urinary incontinence.

Thermal feedback (which measures skin temperature) and electro dermal activity feedback (which uses a probe that responds to your sweat) may be more effective than direct blood pressure feedback or electromyography (EMG), which measures muscle tension.

Yoga
Preliminary studies have found that yoga may lower blood pressure.

· Aerobic Exercise

Aerobic exercise is an important part of the natural approach to lower high blood pressure..

People with high blood pressure should speak with their doctor first before embarking on a new exercise program.

· Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurveda, is a traditional medicine of India, high blood pressure is treated according to each person’s dosha, or constitutional type.

The pitta type may have a flushed face, red eyes, headaches, light sensitivity, irritability, and nosebleeds.

The kapha type may have excess weight, water retention, high cholesterol, sluggishness.

The vata type may feel cold, has gas, bloating, or constipation, insomnia, or nervousness, worry, or anxiety.

· Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine finds that high blood pressure is often attributed to a problem with the circulation of vital energy (qi) in the body. Chinese medicine practitioners believe that depression, anger, obesity, and high intake of fatty foods are some of the causative factors.

A combination of acupuncture and herbs is often recommended. Foods thought to have medicinal properties that may help high blood pressure include but not limited to; water chestnut, turnip, honey, Chinese celery, hawthorn berries, and mung beans.

Your emotions also play a role in our health.

· Herbs and Supplements to Avoid

Herbs that have been found or suspected to cause high blood pressure include the following:
Licorice
Ephedra
Asian Ginseng
Rosemary essential oil

Taking care of you naturally, the way life was meant to be

Facial Aspirin Recipe

Basic Facial Aspirin Recipe

• 5 to 10 of plain aspirin- (cheap generic is fine)
• Crush aspirin tablets into a fine powder- (a coffee grinder works well if you are making a large batch)
• Mix in your favorite fruit acid, squeezing the juice from a lemon, lime, or orange.
• To use as an aspirin scrub make a thick paste using only a few teaspoons of the fruit juice.
• To make an aspirin toner use a least 1/3 cup of fruit juice an make a thin solution that you can saturate a cotton ball with an apply.

Experiment by adding 3 to 5 crushed aspirin tablets to their favorite skin care recipe for the added rejuvenation potential.

Different skin types should tailor the aspirin recipe to meet their particular skin care needs. It is beneficial for dry and sensitive skin types to add a teaspoon of honey or Aloe Vera pulp to the basic aspirin facial recipe.

A dairy product such as yogurt, cream, or milk can be substituted for the fruit acid or used in combination with the basic aspirin facial recipe for oilier skin types.

This is truly some of the best recipes for facial rejuvenation.

Natural Weight Loss

1.) Listen to your body. Stop eating when you feel satisfied.

2.) Eat smaller portions. You will in time become full eating less food. This will help you to become smaller. Remember, eating large portions will make you larger.

3.) Drink plenty of water.

4.) Avoid high calorie drinks!

5.) Avoid foods with a high fat content.

6.) Eat a slice of 100% Whole Grain Whole Wheat Bread with Extra Virgin Olive Oil before your meal. The bread will help fill you up and the oil will brake down the food for quicker processing of the body.

7.) Take your time.

8.) Include green vegetables and fruit into every meal. Fruits and vegetables help the body to heal, as well as become healthy and thin.

9.) Exercise every day. Choose an activity that you enjoy and make it your daily routine. Exercise does not have to be hard; it can be easy and gentle to your body. Exercise helps your metabolism to work properly in the process of burning fat during and after. It also improves mental health and well being.

10.) Set mental goals to lose weight. Pick easy goals, baby steps that will help you to feel good and positive about weight loss.

11.) Visualize yourself thin. This can be very powerful and motivating. Remind yourself daily with positive affirmations that you will lose the weight, day by day, step by step. The mind believes what you teach it.

WAYS TO LOSE WEIGHT WITHOUT LOSING MONEY

Chemical energy is stored in chemical bonds, and there are a lot of chemical bonds in fat. So, if you are overweight, you contain a lot of stored energy.

1.) The only way to lose weight is to burn more calories than you take in. This means either eat fewer calories, or exercise more. Do both!

2.) It is not how much you eat that puts on the pounds, but what you eat a lot of. You cannot get fat on a mostly raw food diet. This means you can eat all of the raw veggies, sprouts, salads and fruits that you want. You don’t need to be hungry while losing weight.

3.) An easy way to lose weight even if you don't want to become a raw food vegetarian is to become a regular vegetarian. Meat contains fat, and even lean meat is over 10% saturated fat. Drop meat, and you drop weight or try eating more fish and or skinless chicken, but not fried!

4.) Another easy way to slim down: skip desserts. Doing so could result in a one-pound-a-week weight loss. Remember that it means 10 pounds off in 2 1/2 months; over 50 pounds in a year. End your meal with fruit. Yes, they do contain sugar, but no fat. Just try eating two handfuls of raisins or dates.

5.) Sweeten with honey or molasses. Again, these are sugar sources but healthier for you.

6.) Want to control your appetite without even giving up dessert? Eat dessert first. If you eat a bit of sweet food about 15 minutes before your meal you will eat less at the meal. This is at least partly because appetite is linked to blood sugar levels. Do you remember what your mother said? "Don't eat that candy now; it will spoil your appetite." Very true!

7.) Yoga stretches are one of the best forms of exercise to do. Learn some basic yoga.

8.) Did you know that a mile of walking burns just as many calories as a mile of running? And the walking is easier on your knees and ankles. Get out and walk daily.

9.) Good weight loss need only be one, perhaps two, pounds per week. Crash diets often crash right back, with weight gained back almost as quickly as it was shed. Take your time.

10.) The ultimate weight loss plan is vegetable juice fasting. It is nourishing, safe, and feels great. As with any weight loss diet, vegetable juice fasting results in permanent weight reduction only when combined with regular exercise. Exercise seems to reset the appetite at a lower point.

11.) Remember that if you walk away from all of this at some point, you have not failed. You only fail by not coming back. We're in no hurry. Nature has been patient with us for years.

There is no trick to losing weight. It is simply a matter of deciding to, knowing how, and following through. The side benefits are tremendous: more energy, better self-image, and a longer, healthier life.

Taking care of you naturally, the way life was meant to be.

Natural Cure for Acne

Acne is caused by over-production of sebum. Sebum blocks pores. A variety of factors can lead to production of excess sebum including: fluctuating hormones, stress, medications, tight fitting clothing and genetics. Over the counter and prescription products can treat acne, But, those products may also come with a list of warnings and side effects. You can treat acne naturally with significant results. Natural remedies are much safer for your health and the environment.

Step1
Zinc. People with acne tend to be zinc deficient. Eating foods naturally rich in zinc, such as beef, chicken, yogurt, many nuts and beans will boost your zinc level. Zinc supplements also works well.

Step2
Omega-3. Omega-3 fatty acids give the skin healing power. Omega-3 helps to clear up acne by thinning the sebum that clogs the pores. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids include fish and fish oils and vegetable oils. Salmon and flaxseed oils are known for boosting Omega-3. Flaxseed oil is highly recommended.

Step3
Tea Tree Oil. Apply tea tree oil to the area several times each day. Some research indicates that tea tree oil is just as effective as benzoyl peroxide, the number one over-the-counter acne treatment. This works well.

Step4
Chasteberry Tea. Women who have acne flares up during their menstrual cycle, chasteberry tea is the recommended treatment. It has been shown, in studies, that chasteberry tea helps regulate female hormones. One cup per day is plenty. It is important that you don’t over-do this remedy. Drinking excessive amounts of the tea may worsen your acne.

Step5
Sugar. Cut the sugar out of your diet. Replaced the sugar in your diet with honey or molasses. Believe it or not, refined sugar is processed to remove the nutrients. The bi-product is molasses, which retains all the nutrition lost in the processing. If you must eat sugar, eat brown unrefined sugar and cut back when your acne flares up. Artificial sweeteners come with a variety of warnings and health risks. Splenda does not currently contain warning labels, but it is highly processed and refined and simply not what nature intended. You may also try stevia.

Step6
Vinegar, Lemon Juice and Aloe. Each of these may be used with positive results on acne. The vinegar and lemon juice work to clean your pours. The aloe works to heal skin damage. Studies have shown that treating the sores with aloe will reduce scars and speed healing. Aloe is very beneficial.

These are only a few natural remedies for treating Acne.

Taking care of you naturally, the way life was meant to be.

Olive Oil Speculation

Everything you need to know to choose the healthiest, tastiest oil

By Sylvia Geiger, M.S., R.D. & Carolyn Malcoun, EatingWell.com

There are lots of good reasons to stock your pantry with olive oil. Long the most commonly used oil in the Mediterranean (as much as 25 to 40 percent of calories consumed in this region come from olive oil), extra-virgin olive oil’s healthful properties come from rich levels of monounsaturated fat, which promote “good” cholesterol, as well as abundant polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that may help prevent cardiovascular disease and lower blood pressure.

But when confronted with dozens of olive oils at the grocery store, labeled with terms like “cold-pressed” and “unfiltered” on their labels—and priced from $5 to $50, what’s a quality-minded, health-conscious grocery shopper to do?

What the Labels Mean

• Extra-virgin and virgin olive oils are processed by crushing olives into a mash, which is pressed to extract the oil (this is called the first press) without the use of heat (called cold pressing). Extra-virgin oils are of higher quality, as the olives used to make them are processed within 24 hours of picking—the longer olives go between picking and processing, the higher their free fatty acid content (extra-virgin olive oil can have up to 0.8 percent, virgin oils 2 percent). Extra-virgin oils also have more polyphenols than virgin oils.

• Oils can be filtered—or not. Unfiltered oils have tiny particles of olive flesh in them, which reduces shelf life, and may appear cloudy if those particles haven’t settled at the bottom of the bottle.

• Pure olive oil or simply olive oil are below extra-virgin and virgin standards and are heavily processed to remove off flavors and aromas. Though the oil still is a source of monounsaturated fat, its been stripped of healthful polyphenols.

• “Light,” “lite” and “extra-light” are purely marketing terms used on highly refined oils that refer to mild flavor and/or color, not reduced calorie content.

• “Product of Italy” means the oil was processed in Italy, not necessarily that the olives were grown there.

• You can find oils that use solely Italian olives—or olives from Greece or California. Often made from olives from single estates or particular growing regions, these high-quality artisan oils have more distinct flavors—and are more expensive. When seeking out these oils, look for seals and designations as helpful indications of quality. Denominazione d’Origine Protetta (DOP) in Italy, Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) in France and Denomination of Origin (DOP) throughout the European Union (EU) identify products produced, processed and prepared in regions known for expertise in that particular product. The California Olive Oil Council (COOC) and International Olive Council (IOC) certify and give their mark to quality extra-virgin olives oils, from California and the EU respectively, based on taste and quality.

General Shopping Tips

• Light exposure causes the oil to become rancid and lose its healthful properties—buy extra-virgin olive oil in dark glass bottles and metal cans and store it in a cool, dark place.

• Bottling and/or expiration dates provide guidance on how long the oil will keep.

• If you don’t use extra-virgin olive oil regularly, buy small bottles—polyphenols and flavor can diminish as the oil is exposed to air.

• The color of the oil doesn’t indicate its quality—rather the variety and ripeness of olives used to make it.

What We Like at EatingWell

In the EatingWell Test Kitchen, we like to use extra-virgin olive oil for both its healthful properties (we often use it to replace butter or other fats) and its flavor. Consider keeping two types on hand: a less expensive variety for cooking and an artisanal oil for dipping. We recently held a blind tasting of 10 different inexpensive oils. Four of the six tasters preferred Spectrum Organic Extra-Virgin Olive Oil ($11/12.7 oz.) for its fruity olive flavor and well-balanced finish. We also tried a variety of artisanal oils. Comments on the flavors and aromas of the artisanal oils ran the gamut from “grassy, green and bitter” to “buttery with a green-apple finish.” There were two that we liked best. L’Estornell Organic Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil ($33/25.3 oz.) is a well-balanced oil made from Arbequina olives, the variety used to make most oils from California and Northeast Spain. A lovely single-estate oil from Tuscany, Altomena Extra-Virgin Olive Oil ($18/8.45 oz.) is grassy and peppery with loads of olive flavor.

The Smoke Point Controversy

You might have heard that you can’t cook with extra-virgin olive oil because it breaks down when heated, creating harmful substances and destroying its beneficial properties. But all oils break down when they are heated to their smoke point or reheated repeatedly. However, an oil’s smoke point is really a temperature range (olive oil’s is between 365-420°F), not an absolute number because many factors affect the chemical properties of oil. You can safely and healthfully cook with any oil by not heating it until it’s smoking—to get your oil hot enough to cook with, just heat it until it shimmers.

Taking care of you naturally, the way life was meant to be.

Natural Backache Cures

Backache Cure:

Back pain is one of the most common ailments of mankind.

Ever since human beings stood upright they have been having trouble with their backs. In fact, experts estimate that roughly 80 percent of people will experience back pain at some point in their lives, and slightly more men suffer from it than women.

What Causes Backache?

• Weak abdominal and back muscles
• Poor posture
• Prolonged sitting, standing or stooping in one position, Sudden vigorous jerking or twisting of the trunk
• Menstrual pain indirectly causing backache in women

What You Can Do to get relief from backaches?

When standing:

For prolonged standing in one position, raise one foot on a platform or stool.

When sitting:

Put a cushion in the hollow of your back if your chair has poor back support.

When sleeping:

• Sleep on a firm mattress.
• Avoid sleeping face down.
• Sleep lying on your back or on your side with one knee slightly bent.

Change the activity that causes the pain
If you have to sit, stand or stoop for long periods, change your position occasionally.
Lift heavy loads the proper way. Keep your knees bent and your back straight. Hold the load close to your body and straighten your knees as you lift the load.

Lessen the pain with rest, massage or medication

• Rest in bed to allow the injured muscle to heal.
• Place a hot towel over the aching area for 15 to 30 minutes. Take care not to scald yourself.
• Gently massage the aching area.
• Take a painkiller like aspirin (adults only) or paracetamol.

Exercises to strengthen abdominal and back muscle

Do these exercises daily, 10 times each. Increase the number of times as your strength increases. Stop if the exercise causes pain.

Step 1 Lie on your back with your knees bent. Press your back against the floor by contracting your abdominal muscles. Hold for 5 counts and relax.
Step 2 Lie on your back with knees bent. Raise your head and shoulders as far as you can. Hold for 5 counts and relax.
Step 3 Lie on your front. Lift your right leg as far as possible, keeping your knee straight. Hold for 5 counts and relax. Do this 5 times for each leg.

When to see a doctor for backache:
Go to your family doctor or a government clinic:

• If the pain doesn’t go away.
• If diffuse backache is associated with a back that “locks” when you try to stand up after stooping.
• If the pain shoots from the back down one leg.
• If backache is associated with bloodstained or foul-smelling urine.

Go for an examination to the nearest hospital if:

• If back pain follows a fall or blow of the spine.
• If severe back pain shoots down one or both legs and is accompanied by muscle weakness or bladder and bowel incontinence.

Courtesy: Health Promotion Board and http://www.indianchild.com/backache.htm

Home Remedy for Backache:
A dose of powdered Sonth, Meetha soda and Namak ( salt), if consumed with hot milk or water, redresses backache.

Reposted: http://allnaturalways.com/natural-backache-cures/

Benifits of Almonds

Remember, eat only raw, uncooked and unsalted Almonds. Once they have been roasted the properties of the nut have been cooked out, they may taste better, but are not as beneficial!

Heart Smart: Nine different studies over the last thirteen years have shown that almonds can lower cholesterol as part of a diet low in saturated fat. These studies were an integral part of the data submitted to the FDA for the first authorized qualified health claim: “Scientific evidence suggests but does not prove that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, such as almonds, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease.” And, because people love to eat almonds, almonds are an ideal way for cholesterol-conscious patients to maintain healthy numbers. Of the 14 grams of fat found in one ounce of almonds, nine grams are monounsaturated. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend that the majority of fat intake be monounsaturated.

A one-ounce serving of almonds contains a similar amount of total polyphenols as one cup of green tea and 1/2 cup of steamed broccoli.

Nutrient Rich: A one-ounce serving of almonds (about 23 almonds) is an excellent source of vitamin E, magnesium and manganese, and a good source of fiber, copper, riboflavin, and phosphorus. Not to mention, every ounce has 6 grams of protein, and 12 grams of heart-healthy unsaturated fats.

Antioxidant Source: Almonds are one of the leading food sources of alpha-tocopherol vitamin E. Alpha-tocopherol is the kind of vitamin E the human body absorbs best. Data shows that most Americans get only half of their recommended vitamin E per day and almonds are the ideal way to close that gap. So eat up!

Satisfying: Almonds may also help to stave off hunger .Making almonds a good fit with many popular weight loss programs. Protein, fiber and monounsaturated fat found in foods, such as almonds, help to make meals more satisfying. Further, almonds offer great taste and crunch.

Almonds are packed with protein and help to prevent diseases such as gallstones, type 1 diabetes, colon cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, cholesterol and aid weight loss. They are a good source of manganese, copper and vitamin B2 which help to fight against the health damaging free radicals and increase oxygen-based energy production which promotes the antioxidant molecule, glutathione. The flavonoids in the skin of the almonds, together with the vitamin E which is in the flesh of the nut, make almonds when eaten with the skin on, an extremely powerful antioxidant food.

Nutrients

• Calcium
• Dietary fiber
• Folic acid
• Magnesium
• Phosphorus
• Potassium
• Tryptophan
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
• Vitamin B3
• Zinc

Benefits

• Good source of protein and minerals especially for vegetarians
• Contains the anti-cancer agent leatril
• Very alkaline
• Excellent source of vitamin E and B vitamins thiamine and niacin

A handful of almonds well help rid you of headaches!