Remedies

DIY Homemade Hand Sanitizer

April 7, 2020 By Sruthika Leave a Comment

Hand hygiene is essential for staying healthy and leaves you free from infection along with preventing its recurrence. We generally touch most things which are filled with tons of bacteria and use sanitizers to clean the hands.

Most of us are using commercial hand sanitizers, which are filled with alcohol. Do you know that the usage of commercial hand sanitizers will affect the acid mantle of the skin?

The acid mantle is a fine, slightly acidic firm on the skin’s surface that generated by sebaceous glands to act as a barrier for protecting the skin from harmful bacteria, virus, and other germs. But the usage of chemical based sanitizers will harm this acid mantle and make germs to thrive easily into the skin.

FDA has raised some alarming concerns about the safety of using these commercial hand sanitizers. Here are some effects caused by using commercial sanitizers.

Almost all sanitizers contain triclosan and triclocarban chemicals, which are harmful to the health.
Regular usage of hand cleansing products will make the bacteria or other microorganisms resistant to it and can easily thrive into the skin.
Triclosan will affect the immunity of a person in a longer run and thus makes you susceptible to numerous bacterial infections. It also increases the resistance to good bacteria, which are required for several bodily functions.
They lessen the effect of medicinal antimicrobials which we take to treat contagious bacteria like salmonella and E.coli.
Other chemicals like propylene glycol and isopropyl myristate will make the skin susceptible to absorbing countless environmental contaminants.

So, change your thoughts from the situations where a commercial hand sanitizer is the only way to clean your hands. You can also use a natural sanitizer that is free of harmful chemicals and can conquer the germs.

Do you think it’s best to prepare a DIY homemade natural (non – toxic) hand sanitizer? If yes, then it is the right place for you to get a detailed explanation on how to prepare a natural hand sanitizer at home, which is chemical free and gentle on hands.

DIY Homemade Hand Sanitizer Recipes:

Here are some best recipes to prepare a hand sanitizer at home. Let’s get started.

Sanitizer – 1: (Aloe Vera with Essential Oils and Vitamin E Oil)

Aloe vera has an effective antibacterial and antimicrobial property that kills off the infection causing germs and it also moisturizes the skin. Essential oils have antibacterial, antiseptic and antimicrobial properties that help to clear the germs.

Rubbing alcohol helps to kill the germs and prevent the recipe from degenerating. Vitamin E oil acts as a moisturizing agent and also helps to lessen the harshness of alcohol on the skin.

Steps to be followed…

Add 2 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol, 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel, 1/2 teaspoon of vitamin E oil, 10 drops each of tea tree oil and cinnamon oil and 5 drops each of rosemary oil, clove oil and eucalyptus oil in 1 cup of distilled water.
Mix all these ingredients and pour it in an empty spray bottle by using a funnel.
Fix the cap and shake it well to mix all the ingredients.
Your homemade hand sanitizer spray is ready to use.
Just spray some on your palm and rub it all over your hands to make them free from germs.

Note:

Or use vegetable glycerin in the place of vitamin E oil, as both acts as moisturizers.
Also, pour this sanitizer in a regular non – spray bottle and use it as a hand sanitizer gel instead of spray.
Or mix 10 drops each of cinnamon and tea tree oil, 1/2 teaspoon of glycerin, 1 tablespoon of rubbing alcohol, 1/4 cup of aloe vera gel in 1 cup of distilled water (or colloidal/ionic silver) and transfer it into a spray or pump bottles. Use it as needed.
Alternatively, mix 5 drops of tea tree oil, 1 teaspoon of vitamin E and 1 tablespoon of filtered water in 3 tablespoons of aloe vera gel. Stir well and pour this mix in dispenser tube and use it as needed.

Sanitizer – 2: (Witch Hazel with Aloe Vera and Essential Oils)

Witch hazel acts as alcohol to kill the germs on your hands. Essential oils exhibit antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties that clear the infection causing germs and keep your hands and health free from infections.

Steps to be followed…

Add 30 drops of tea tree oil, 5 – 10 drops of lavender oil and 1/4 teaspoon of vitamin E oil in a bowl.
Stir well and add 1 tablespoon of witch hazel extract and 8 ounces of pure aloe vera gel in it.
Stir all these ingredients and pour it in a clean squirt bottle.
Shake it gently before each use and pour it into your hands.
Rub it all over the hands to make it clean and free from infections.

Note:

Or use high proof vodka in the place of witch hazel and also use clove oil instead of vitamin E oil.
Also, replace lavender oil with rosemary, sage, peppermint or sandalwood oil.
Alternatively, mix 5 drops each of lemongrass essential oil and rosemary oil, 20 drops of tea tree oil, 1 tablespoon of vegetable glycerin and 2 tablespoons of vegetable glycerin and witch hazel in a bottle. Shake well and use it as needed.

Sanitizer – 3: (Aloe Vera Sanitizer Gel with Essential Oils)

Essential oils like orange, cinnamon, clove, lavender and rosemary oils have antibacterial, antiseptic and antimicrobial properties that help to clear the germs.This is good for children who play at park or outside.

Steps to be followed…

Add 10 drops each of cinnamon oil and lavender oil, 20 drops of orange oil and 5 drops each of clove oil and rosemary essential oil in 1/4 cup of aloe vera gel.
Stir all these ingredients and store this in a reusable silicon tube.
Use this sanitizer as needed to remove the germs naturally from the hands.

Sanitizer – 4: (Essential Oils)

Only essential oils are enough to make your hands free from germs. Here we are preparing DIY hand sanitizer using essential oils without aloe vera.

Steps to be followed…

Add 10 – 20 drops each of lavender and rosemary essential oils in an empty spray bottle.
Fill the bottle with water and shake it well.
Use this hand sanitizer spray to make yourself free from bacteria or other germs.

Note: Or mix some raw coconut oil (or apple cider vinegar or the mix of hydrogen peroxide with lemon juice) to this essential oil sanitizer and use it regularly.

Sanitizer – 5: (Castile Soap with Tea Tree Oil)

Tea tree essential oil is very effective antibacterial and antiseptic that kills off the germs. Castile soap will help to moisture the skin and acts as a surfactant to dissolve the oil.

Steps to be followed…

Mix 10 drops of tea tree oil and 1 teaspoon of castile soap in 6 ounces of water.
Stir well and pour it into an empty bottle.
This natural sanitizer won’t have any negative effects or side effects and use it as needed.

Note: If you want, you can also add vitamin E oil or aloe vera gel to this hand sanitizer.

Tips and Precautions:

If you’re new to using any essential oils, then perform a skin patch test (apply a drop of essential oil in 1 teaspoon of olive oil on the elbow) to know whether you’re allergic to that oil or not before using it in hand sanitizers.
Check with your doctor before using essential oils, especially for children, pregnant women or if you’re suffering from a medical condition.
Always carry the natural hand sanitizers to where ever you go and use it to get rid of skin and health problems.
Almost all hand sanitizers will last longer. So, use it at any time to clean your hands.

Try these DIY natural hand sanitizer at home and share your experience with us in the below comments box.

Facial Exercises to Lose Weight

February 26, 2020 By Gnanika Leave a Comment

Face is by far the most important part of the body that people notice at first. But unfortunately, some people carry extra weight on their cheeks and chin which gives a chubbier and rounded appearance of the face.

Genes largely determine the shape of your face, but in some cases, overweight or age can be the main reason.

Changing your genes or age is impossible but reducing your over all weight can burn the fat in your face. And you can achieve this by performing correct facial exercises along with a proper healthy diet.

Facial exercise is equally important as regular physical exercises as they help to reduce weight, improve blood circulation, increase glow to your face and slow-down ageing.

Before considering a cosmetic surgery, which will definitely have side effects, know that there are natural ways to reduce the fat face.

Exercises for Weight Loss in Face (Face Slimming Exercises):

1. Chin Lift Exercise:

Chin lift exercise is the very effective way to reduce double chin. Jaw, throat and neck are the areas that will be stretched by this exercise.

Procedure:

Start this exercise by lifting your head towards the ceiling.
Keep your eyes in a fixed position towards ceiling.
Perform the exercise in sitting posture or standing posture.
Then tighten the lips as if you are trying to kiss the ceiling.
Hold in the position for 10 seconds then relax.
Repeat this for 10 times by holding for 10 seconds.

Note: while doing this exercise do not to stress any other facial muscle other than lips.

2. Lips Pull:

Lips pull exercise is the most effective yoga exercise, when practiced regularly it can assist in lifting up the facial muscles. This exercise removes age from your face, and makes you look young with good cheekbones along with a perfect jaw line.

Procedure:

Do the exercise by either standing position or sitting position with normal head posture.
Lift up your lower lip as much as can and push the lower jaw outside.
You will feel the stretched stress in the jaw lines and chin muscles.
Stick for it about 10-15 seconds and then relax.
Repeat this 10 times by holding for 10-15 seconds.

3. Jaw Release

This Jaw release exercise gives you impressive, good cheekbones and a perfect jaw line. Jaw release helps in stretching the muscles and reducing fat around your cheeks, jaws and lips.

Procedure:

Start this exercise with sitting position or standing position.
Now, close your lips and move your jaw in circular motion as if you are chewing something.
Then breathe air deeply and breathe out while chewing like that.
Press your bottom lower teeth with the help of your tongue and open your mouth wide.
Hold on in this state for about 5 seconds.
Then breath air in and out again.
Repeat 10 times by holding for 5 seconds.

4. Fish Face:

Fish face exercise, also called as “smiling fish face” is easiest and one of the best cheek exercise. This exercise can be done anywhere e.g., when you are watching T.V or listening to your favourite song.

Procedure:

Squeeze in your cheeks and lips inside the mouth.
Then try smiling like this.
Hold on in this posture for about 5 seconds.
Now you can feel the burn in your jaws and cheeks.
Repeat it 10 times by holding for 5 seconds.

Note: Fish face will help in reducing the fat in cheek muscles quickly and toning.

5. Blowing Air:

Blowing air is one of the effective facial exercises to decreases double chin, reducing chubby cheeks. It gives impacts on the neck muscles, jaws, cheeks and tones them to give a natural face-lift to provide a slender appearance.

Procedure:

Take a chair and sit on it by keeping your spine straight.
Lift your head backwards so that you should face the ceiling.
With the help of your lips blow out the air from your mouth.
Do it for few seconds and then relax.
Repeat it 10 times by holding for 10 seconds.

6. Tightly close the eyes:

This simple technique of closing eyes helps you out by creating some kind of force on your eye nerves as well as cheek muscles.

Procedure:

With the assistance of the muscles in your cheeks close your eyes firmly.
Feel the contraction of your facial muscles on the face.
Stay in the position for 10 seconds and then relax.
Repeat this technique 5 times a day at least.

7. Stretch Your Face Muscles:

Stretching your face muscles will be another important face exercise. It helps to lose unwanted fat in the face immediately.

Procedure:

With the assistance of your hands, stretch your face muscles.
Make sure that your lower chin touches the chest.
Now pull the skin so that it moves below cheekbones.
After getting into the perfect position then you should pronounce “Ah”.
Stay in same position for a few minutes.
Repeat the procedure for 3 times.

8. The Eye Brow-Raiser:

Regularly do this eyebrow raiser exercise to keep your eyebrows in exact position. This prevents or reduces eyebrow sagging.

Procedure:

Close your index and middle fingers together.
Slowly push the skin down by resting your fingernails on your eyebrows.
Create resistance with the help of your fingers weight and lift your eyebrows up and down.
Repeat this exercise for 10 times.

10. The Cheekbone Lift:

Cheekbone lift exercise gives you a slim cut for your face by reducing the fat in it.

Procedure:

Put your fingers on each of your cheekbone.
Softly push your skin upwards until it is enough stretched.
Open your mouth in such a way that it forms “O”.
You will feel resistance in your cheek muscles
Hold on for 5 Seconds.
Complete this exercise by repeating it for 10 to 15 times.

11. The Chipmunk Cheek Squeeze:

Procedure:

You can do this exercise in any comfortable position.
Now bend your head backwards and push your chin forward.
Squeeze your cheeks inside your mouth to the maximum level.
Hold for 5 seconds.
Complete this exercise by repeating for 10 to 15 times.

12. The Jaw Flex:

This Jaw Flex exercise makes you lose your double chin, trim your face fat and get a slimmer look.

Procedure:

Bend your head backwards until you look at the ceiling.
Push your lower lip upon your upper lip as long as you can.
You should feel this stress near your ears in the jaw muscles.
Hold for 10 seconds.
Complete the exercise by repeating it for 10 to 15 times.

13. The Puffer Fish Press:

This Puffer Fish Press exercise will help you reduce the laugh lines appearance around your mouth.

Procedure:

Puff up your cheeks to maximum level.
Move the air from one side of the cheek to another one.
Repeat for 30 seconds.
Complete this exercise by repeating for 5 to 10 times.

14. Blow Balloons:

Blowing Balloon is very effective way to slim your chubbiness and tone your cheeks. Leave the balloon until air goes out and blow it again.

Procedure:

Buy a balloon and blow air into it.
While you are blowing, you can feel your cheeks muscle extending.
Now, release the air from the balloon and continue the exercise for 10 times.
Repeat this process for 5 days.
You can observe a difference within few days in your cheeks size.

15. Rotating Tongue Exercise:

This exercise is an easy and powerful thing to get rid of fat in face.

Procedure:

Rotate your tongue in circular motion, with the mouth closed.
The tongue should be able to touch the outer surface of your upper teeth and lower teeth, while rotating.
Perform this exercise 15 times in clockwise direction and anticlockwise direction.
Do this exercise regularly to see a reduction in your face fat.

16. Hot Towel Treatment:

Hot Towel Treatment helps to reduce fat in your cheek. Facial steam makes the face heated and produces sweat which in turn clears fat which is storing in your facial cells

Procedure:

Take some water and boil it in a bowl.
After few minutes, take it away.
Allow it to cool down slightly.
Now take a towel and dip that into the warm water.
Squeeze the towel to remove the excess water from it.
Slowly, Place this hot towel onto the facial fatty areas.
Repeat this exercise for 5 times.
Before going to bed do this exercise for 1 hour.
Facial steam will open your skin pores and reduces your chubby cheeks.

17. Chewing Gum:

Chewing gum is a very effective facial exercise to eliminate calories from the cheeks and slimmer your chubby cheeks. This exercise melts fat cells present in your face and makes your face thinner and toned.

Procedure:

Take a sugar-free gum.
Start chewing it for about 20 minutes.
Repeat this two times a day.
Perform this for 30 minutes after having your lunch and dinner.

18. Face Massage:

Facial massage is one of the important exercise to reduce cheek fat, and shape your face. Swelling on your face and neck is due to the excess fluid build up

Doing massage for your face daily with wheat germ oil or ginseng oil improves blood circulation, dries up lymphatic build-up and decreases water retention.

Procedure:

Take either wheat germ oil or ginseng oil, any oil of your choice.
Apply it on your face and neck.
Start moving your palms in an upward direction.
Begin from your chin and slowly move upwards in a circular motion.
Repeat this for five times.
Now, with your fingers except the thumb finger move along your jawline firmly by giving upward strokes.
Repeat this exercise 5 to 6 times daily.

19. The Gargle Exercise:

Gargling is the most powerful technique to lose fat in your face, which gives a good amount of exercise for the nerves around your mouth.

Procedure:

Take mouthful of warm water.
Swirl around your mouth.
Gargle 3 to 4 times.
You can do anytime, anywhere.
Repeat the process 5 times you want in day.

Note: Do this before going to bed.

20. Keep Smiling:

Smiling is the best way to slim down your cheek fat. You can do this effective and easiest workout for reducing fat in your cheeks. Stretching of the the muscle while smiling helps your cheeks to lose the fat in it.

Additional Tips for Reduction of Facial Fat:

Following simple tips given below along with the above-mentioned exercises can help in reducing flab (soft loose sagging) from your face.

FOOD:

Fix a diet, which is low in fat and sugar. Sugar assists in breakdown of collagen, which supports your skin structure, that in turn causes skin to sag and fat to hang more readily.
Choose fruits and vegetables that are abundant in phytonutrients and antioxidants that helps you for your healthy weight and your complexion’s health.
Include serving of few grains at some meals, which are packed with fibre, nutrients.
Prefer nuts, seeds, olive oil and avocado, which also helps in skin health.
Do not skip your breakfast, which will boost up your metabolism for weight loss.
By making the best quality food choices you can lose weight in your face and your whole body by trimming your calorie intake.
Fish and seafood, low-fat dairy, lean beef and white-meat chicken are good sources of food.
Keep a distance with high-sodium foods like processed snacks, soups in cans and fast food stuff as they contain excess sodium, which causes water retention, and show extra fat in your cheeks and under the eyes.
Complete your dinner 2 hours before your bedtime.
Do not eat food, which contain excess amount of sugar, oil and starch.

Sleep:

Avoid sleep in the afternoon if you want to get rid of facial fat.
Do not forget that a regular quality sleep plays an important role in the appearance of your face.
Have a good sleep for seven and nine hours daily.
Avoid sleeping immediately after having your dinner, this build up’s fat in your cheeks.

Water:

If you are thirsty, take a glass of warm water and drink.
Keep your body hydrated to keep circulation and to remove toxins from your body.
A bloated face might be a result of dehydration.

Other:

Use cool-toned foundation, contouring cream or powder (Especially when you do not have time to reduce your face fat) in a shade, which is darker than your natural skin tone so that it will help you to look your face slimmer.
Stay active and do any physical activity daily for 30 minutes.
Avoid smoking and alcohol.
Purchase a skipping rope and do skipping 100 times per day. It is very beneficial in reducing facial fat.
Good lifestyle strategies help to promote a healthy face and reduces the effects of aging and genetics.

Conclusion

These facial exercises remove fat from the face can be done at any time and in any place to reduce the cheek fat.

Though they look easy, it will have big impact on the appearance of the face.

If you do facial exercises daily, they will not only slims down the face, but also help to increase facial muscles firmness and tone the their elasticity.

Did you find any of these facial fat exercises helpful in reducing your facial fat?

Then let me know which exercise worked for you. I look forward to hearing from you!

Remedies for Dark Circles

February 23, 2020 By Gnanika Leave a Comment

Dark circles (or dark shadows or rings) are simply termed as dark discoloration of the skin under the eyes. In these days, dark circles are a common complaint from many of us, which makes the people look tired, unhealthy, dull, exhausted and older.

Lack of sleep, stress, heredity, aging, vitamin deficiencies, environmental irritants, dry skin, certain health problems, prolonged crying, hormonal imbalance, over-exposure to the sun or electronic screens, etc. will cause dark circles to all of us irrespective of age group.

Actually, the skin around the eyes is delicate and thinner than remaining parts of the body. The veins in the area are closer to the skin’s surface resulting in a bluish or dark tint called dark circles around the eyes.

There are many natural remedies available at home that works excellently in treating dark circles around the eyes. Let’s have a look on it.

Home Remedies for Dark Circles:

It’s time to follow these amazing DIY natural remedies for dark under eye circles regularly at home to diminish those ugly dark circles.

Method – 1: (Almond Oil)

Almond oil has vitamin K & E that improves clotting, reduces discoloration under the eyes. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that contract the dilated blood vessels causing discoloration under the eyes.

Steps to be followed…

Apply a little almond oil on all over the dark circles at night before going to sleep.
Massage it gently for few minutes to get well absorbed into the skin.
Leave it on for overnight and rinse off in the morning with cold water.
Pat dry your eyes and repeat the same process daily till you get relief from dark circles and puffy eyes.

Note:

Or apply a mix prepared by mixing 5 – 7 drops of almond oil in 1 teaspoon of raw honey at night before bed time. Rinse off in the morning with lukewarm water. Repeat it daily.
Alternatively, use any natural carrier oil like coconut oil, castor oil, olive oil or jojoba oil instead of almond oil for treating dark under eye circles.

Method – 2: (Cucumber)

Cucumber has rich content of water that hydrate and moistures the skin. It has vitamins A, C, E and K that helps to restore the skin’s elasticity, reduces inflammation and soothes the skin. It has antioxidant, astringent property that lightens the dark circles effectively.

Steps to be followed…

Cleanse your face along with eyes and dry it.
Cut cucumber into thick slices and place it over the eyes (preferred chilled cucumber pieces).
Let it sit for about 15 – 20 minutes and remove it.
Rinse your eyes with cold water and dry it.
Repeat the same process daily for at least a week to diminish the dark circles under the eyes.

Note:

Or simply apply grated cucumber or cucumber juice over the eyes to clear dark rings under the eyes.
Alternatively, mix cucumber juice with any of these ingredients like fresh lemon juice, sandalwood powder, potato juice, honey, rosewater, aloe vera gel, etc. and apply it on the eyes to get rid of dark under eye circles.

Method – 3: (Potato)

Potatoes act as natural bleaching agents that lighten the skin under the eyes. It has vitamins (A, C), enzymes, starch and catecholase that reduce dark circles and rejuvenate the skin by providing essential moisture to the eye areas. So, potatoes are effective in diminishing dark circles.

Steps to be followed…

Grate a chilled potato to extract its juice and dip a cotton ball in it.
Dab it on the dark circles affected eye areas.
Let it sit for about 10 – 15 minutes and rinse off with cool water.
Repeat the same regularly until the results are visible to you.

Note:

Or simply grate a frozen potato and store it in a thin cloth. Place it as a cool poultice over your eyes for 10 – 15 minutes and remove it. Or place chilled potato slices on the eyes.
Alternatively, mix potato juice with any of the following ingredients like cucumber juice, fresh lemon juice, tomato puree, yogurt, honey, etc. and apply it on the dark circles to get rid of it.

Method – 4: (Rosewater)

Rosewater has skin soothing and lightening properties that fade away the dark circles. It restores the skin pH balance and hydrates the skin by penetrating deep into the skin pores. It has antibacterial and antioxidant properties that protect the eyes from contaminations, itching, dust and redness.

Steps to be followed…

Cleanse your eyes and hands and pat dry the area gently.
Dip a cotton ball on rosewater and apply it on the clean under eye skin.
Let it sit for about 15 – 20 minutes and rinse off with cold water.
Dry the area and continue doing the same process regularly till you get complete relief from dark circles.

Note: Or mix organic rosewater with either lemon juice, sandalwood powder, almond oil, etc. and apply it on the dark under eye circles regularly.

Method – 5: (Tomatoes)

Tomato has many essential vitamins (A, B, C & K), potassium, iron, sulfur, and calcium that reduce the dark circles. It has natural skin lightening, moisturizing and regenerating properties that fade away the dark circles.

Steps to be followed…

Grind a chilled tomato into a thick paste.
Apply it on all over the dark under eye circles.
Let it sit for few minutes and rinse off with water.
Do the same process regularly to get rid of dark circles.

Note:

Or drink regularly a glass of tomato juice by adding some lemon juice and a pinch of salt to it.
Alternatively, mix tomato juice with either lemon juice, mint leaves extract, potato juice, aloe vera juice, pineapple juice, curd, honey, etc. and apply it on the dark circles to diminish them completely.

Method – 6: (Lemon Juice)

Lemon has natural bleaching property that lightens up the skin. It moisturizes the skin, reduces swelling and prevents accumulation of fluids to prevent dark under eye circles. Vitamins and citric acid helps to lighten and tightens skin to reduce dark circles and puffy eyes.

Steps to be followed…

Squeeze the juice of a fresh lemon and dip a cotton ball in it.
Dab it on the dark under eye circles and let it sit for about 10 – 15 minutes.
Wash off with water and repeat it regularly to observe visible results of disappearing of dark circles.

Note:

Or simply drink warm lemon water in the morning to prevent dark shadows under the eyes.
Or else mix fresh lemon juice with either almond oil, tomato juice, turmeric, potato juice, milk or milk cream, egg white, honey, olive oil, etc. and apply it on the dark circles regularly to prevent them completely.

Method – 7: (Cold Compress)

A cold compress helps to constrict the blood vessels under the eyes and thus reduces dark circles and puffiness of the eyes.

Steps to be followed…

Soak a clean wash cloth in cold milk or water and place it directly on the affected areas after wringing the cloth to remove the excess water or milk.
Let it sit for about 5 – 7 minutes and remove the cloth.
Do the same process for 2 – 3 times daily to get rid of dark circles and puffy eyes.

Note: Or simply place either a bag of frozen peas, cool metal spoon, chilled tea bags or a cloth wrapped with ice cubes, etc. and place it directly on the affected areas regularly.

Method – 8: (Mint Leaves)

Menthol in mint leaves helps to improve the blood circulation, even out the skin tone, soothes and rejuvenates the skin. It removes the toxins that damage the under eye skin with its natural astringent, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Steps to be followed…

Blend few fresh mint leaves to make it a fine paste.
Apply it on the clean under eye skin and let it sit for 10 – 15 minutes.
Wipe it off with a damp clean cloth and dry the area.
Regularly follow – up of this process will definitely help you to get rid of dark circles.

Note: Or simply mix mint juice with either olive oil, fresh potato juice, lemon juice, rose water, cucumber juice, egg white, mint tea bags, etc. and apply it on the dark circles around the eyes to diminish it.

Tips and Precautions:

Applying either cold milk (milk cream) or used chilled tea bags (prefer green or chamomile tea) or turmeric powder with buttermilk or raw honey or fenugreek seeds paste or orange juice with glycerin or aloe vera gel, etc. on the dark circles affected eye area regularly to prevent dark circles and puffy eyes completely on the skin.
Rinse your eyes with warm water followed by cold water to improve blood circulation and cleanse the dirt particles. Also, never ever sleep with a make-up on your face (eyes).
Stay hydrated, sleep for at least 7 – 8 hours every night, consume a healthy diet (like fresh fruits and vegetables), do some regular yoga and exercise to prevent stress, etc. should be included in your daily diet to prevent dark circles now and then.
Avoid applying facial masks under and around the eye areas. Also, apply a natural good moisturizer before going to bed for proper hydration.
Consult your doctor to know whether you’re suffering from any health problems or medications causing dark circles to you.
Always prefer to use fresh ingredients rather than bottled or stored one to grab maximum results and to get rid of dark circles quickly.
Quit smoking and drinking alcohol for proper blood circulation which in turn helps to get rid of dark circles and puffy eyes.
Avoid over rubbing your eyes too often, as it causes the blood vessels to dilate and thus results in appearing dark under eye circles.

This is all about Natural Home Remedies for Dark Circles and hope you’ll give a trial to these remedies. Don’t forget to share your queries or experience with us.

How to Reduce Breast Size Naturally at Home

February 20, 2020 By Gnanika Leave a Comment

How to Reduce Breast Size at Home?

Breast development is a natural process in women that starts right from fetal development and breast changes continue to happen throughout a woman’s life.

Having well-shaped and toned breasts that are proportionate to the body is the dream of each and every woman, but the problem arises when the breasts start growing out of proportion and begin to interfere with your day-to-day activities, health and dressing.

Excessive breast growth happens due to a number of reasons such as – hormonal changes, excessive weight gain or obesity, genetics, pregnancy or as a sideeffects of certain medications.

Overly large breasts not only makes a woman self-conscious, but also gives rise to various health issues such as back and neck pain, breast tenderness, shortness of breath, skin rashes, etc.

Although, breast reduction surgery is a quick solution to this problem, but it comes with a lot of baggage such as scarring, uneven shaped breasts, wound healing problems, etc.

So, the best and safest way to reduce breast size is to reduce overall body weight and tone the chest muscles through exercise. In this article, we have put together some effective exercises to reduce breast size along with a healthy diet and home remedies.

Natural Ways to Reduce Breast Size at Home

Weight Training – Anaerobic exercises that make use of either body weight or external weight help to tone the muscles present underneath the breasts and give them a smaller appearance.

Push Ups – This is one of the most common body weight exercises that target the chest, arms, shoulders and back.

Lie down of the floor on your stomach
Place your arms on the sides
Lift up your body from the floor using your hands
Your entire body should be in a straight line at all times
Lower your body towards the floor by bending your arms and push it up again
Do 12 to 15 repetitions at a stretch

Chest Press – This is yet another effective exercise that helps to reshape the breasts. It makes use of a set of dumbbells.

Take two lightweight dumbbells in both hands
Lie down on a bench with our feet on the floor
Now, hold the dumbbells close to your chest
Lift them up straight over the breast without locking the elbows
Hold the dumbbells in this position for 2-3 seconds
Slowly lower the arms to the starting position
Do 10 repetitions at a time

Chest Fly – This exercise also makes use of external weights and it targets the breast muscles from a different angle.

Hold two lightweight dumbbells in both hands
Lie down on a bench while holding the dumbbells close to your breast
Life the dumbbells straight up and then spread both arms to your sides
Stay in this position for 2-3 seconds and then lift up the arms and bring then down close to your chest
Do 10 repetitions at a time

Wall Press – This is an easy and simple variation of push ups that you can do standing up.

Stand facing a wall and place your palms to the wall
Now, lean towards the wall by pressing on your palms and keep your feet fixed
Stay in this position for 2 seconds and then push away from the wall
Do 10 to 15 repetitions at a time.

Upright Rows – This exercise makes use of barbells to tone the shoulders, chest and arms. It gives a lift to your breasts which makes it appear smaller.

Stand straight holding a barbell with light weights
Lift the barbell up straight to your breasts and hold for 2 seconds
Lower down the barbell to your waist
Repeat this lift 10 times at a time

Aerobic Exercises – Aerobic exercises such as jogging, swimming, cycling, stair climbing etc. burn a lot of body fat and speed up the metabolism which helps to reduce breast size.

Jogging – Jogging not only helps to reduce breast size by also tones the entire body by burning excess fat. Just 20 minutes of jogging every day can give you noticeable results within a few days.

Swimming – This is a high calorie burning exercise that helps to tone the entire body and give perfect firm shape to your breasts, arms, legs, etc.

Stair Climbing – Climbing strains works out the entire body right from the breasts to the legs and helps to gives a toned look to the whole body.

Diet – Other than exercise, your diet also plays a major role in determining your breast size. An unhealthy diet that is rich in sugar, simple carbs and unhealthy fats leads to excessive weight gain which is one of the main causes of large breasts.

Be in calorie deficit – This is the first step towards losing weight. Plan out a calorie deficit diet in which you consume fewer calories than those required by the body. This will force your body to start utilizing fat as a source of energy. This is a temporary step and you can get back to a normal balanced diet once you reach your target weight.

Cut out fat, sugar and excess salt from your diet – Minimize the intake of salt, unhealthy fats and sugar in order to speed up your weight loss process. Salt causes water retention and bloating and gives your body a fluffy appearance while sugar increases your hunger. Unhealthy fats such as trans and saturated fats only add to your bodyweight. So, strat eating clean and healthy and cut out red meat, butter, fried foods, candy, soda, fruit juices, chips, etc. from your diet.

Follow a nutritious and balanced diet – A diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, poultry, seafood and dairy products helps to keep you satiated and aids in weight management.

Citrus Fruits – Citrus fruits such as orange, sweet lime, grapefruit, etc. helps to reduce breast size because of their vitamin C content. Vitamin C in these fruits help to burn stored fats by boosting metabolic rate of the body.
Fruits and Vegetables – fresh fruits and vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, cabbage, etc. are low calorie foods that contain high level of dietary fiber which helps to keep you satiated for a prolonged period of time without adding empty calories.
Nuts – Nuts like almonds, walnuts, etc. contain healthy fats that helps to energize the body. They also boost the metabolism process in the body and burn accumulated fat in different parts of the body.
Fish – The healthy omega-3 fatty acids present in fish helps to reduce estrogen levels in the body which is one of the causes of large breasts. Grilling and baking are the healthiest options for preparing fish.

Breast Massage – While breast massage is an age old remedy for increasing breast size, it can also help to reduce breast size by burning accumulated fat in the breasts.

Procedure:

Take a few tablespoons of coconut oil or olive oil in a dish
Warm the oil slightly
Take some of the oil in your palms, dip your middle and ring finger in the oil and use these two fingers to massage each breast in circular motions in the upward direction
Repeat this motion for 5 minutes
Massage your breasts twice every day for a couple of months to see noticeable results

Home Remedies to Reduce Breast Size

Green Tea – Green tea is an effective natural remedy for reducing breast size. It works by promoting weight loss. The catechins present in green tea boost metabolism which in turn speeds up the calorie burning process.

Usage:

Prepare green tea by adding a teaspoon of green tea leaves in a cup of hot water
Cover the cup and let the leaves steep for a few minutes
Strain the tea and add a little honey to it
Drink this tea 3 to 4 times a day for a few months

Ginger Tea – This is yet another useful remedy for reducing breast size that works by speeding up the metabolic rate of the body. Weight loss reduces the size of the fatty tissues which make up the breast and make it smaller.

Usage:

Grate some fresh ginger and add it to 1 cup of hot water
Let it steep for 10 minutes
Strain the water and add a teaspoon of honey to it
Drink ginger tea 2 to 3 times a day for a couple of months

Flaxseed – Flaxseed is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids that reduces estrogen levels in the body. Excessively high level of estrogen is one of the main causes of enlarged breasts.

Usage:

Take a tablespoon of ground flaxseeds and add it to a glass of hot water
Mix it using a spoon and drink it once daily for a few months
You can also consume 1 to 2 tablespoons of flaxseed oil on a daily basis.

Neem and Turmeric – This is an age old Ayurvedic remedy that helps to reduce breast enlargement caused by inflammation. Anti-inflammatory properties of Neem and turmeric help to sooth the inflamed tissues and once the swelling subsides the breast size also returns to normal.

Egg Whites – The natural firming and toning properties of egg whites helps to tone the sagging skin of the breasts and makes it appear smaller.

Usage:

Crack a couple of eggs and separate the egg yolks from the whites
Beat the egg whites thoroughly till it develops a cream-like texture
Apply it to the breasts in an upward direction
Wait for 30 minutes and then rinse it off with water
Repeat it once every day for a few weeks

If done in the right way, these exercises combined with a balanced diet and home remedies can help to reduce your breast size naturally without any side effects and give you a positive body image.

Natural Remedies to Treat Cold, Cough and Flu

February 12, 2020 By Sruthika Leave a Comment

With the starting of winter, people suffer from an inevitable cough, runny noses, flu, fevers, and thereby miserable sick.

Are you one among those people who always get a cold or flu in every winter season? Do you feel that your immune system is getting weak?

Winter is coming soon, so to avoid those cold, coughs and flu, you have to follow some effective ways, which we are about to discuss in this article.

The first and foremost defense system to stay free from germs is hand washing. This hand washing will help not only to clear the germs but also prevents the transmission of germs from a sick person to you.

We, in general, touch so many things throughout the day like phones, ATM buttons, keyboards, pens, door or furniture’s, money, poles, etc. in which the germs can be easily passed from one to another person in every second.

If your immune system is weak due to your poor diet, chronic stress and other factors then the cold virus will easily thrive in your body and causes this cold and runny nose.

The intake of all essential vitamins, minerals, and herbs will help you to alleviate the symptoms of cold, cough and flu. Most people prefer to use OTC medications to get rid of their weakness and desperation. But do you know those OTC meds will cause some side effects and harm your body in the long run?

The reason is that they are designed to mask up the symptoms but not to deal with the root cause or the killing the germs which make you sick.

Then why don’t you give a chance to Mother Nature to alleviate these worst symptoms of your cold or a cough without any side effects and also to strengthen your immunity?

Now we are going to know some effective natural remedies that work best in treating your problem and also you can use them at any time, even if you’re not sick (as a preventative measure).

Let’s get started…

Home Remedies for Cold, Cough and Flu:

Here are the best remedies you can follow it at home to build a strong immunity and to stay healthy without much attacks of cold, cough and flu in the coming winter season.

1. Probiotics:

Do you know that our immune system will work mostly as per the functioning of the digestive system? Yes, so you should maintain enough good bacteria (probiotics) in our system or else the pathogens will take over and make us weak and susceptible to many diseases and disorders.

Live and active bacteria in the gastro-intestinal system will make a healthy gut by preventing an invasion of pathogens causing sick and weak.

So, the intake of probiotic – rich foods will improve the digestion, relieves you from constipation, synthesize vitamin K and keep a well-balanced pH level in the body. At certain times, we wipe out the beneficial microbes along with the bad bacteria causing the problem in the body. Those accidental things include antibiotics, recent surgeries, colon cleanse, protein deficiency, diarrhea, too much intake of fiber, etc.

Methods to use Probiotics for Cold, Cough & Flu:

Include natural probiotic – containing foods like milk or water kefir, plain yogurt, fermented foods, kombucha drinks, sauerkraut, etc. as a part of your daily diet to strengthen your immune system.
Also, take quality probiotic capsules, which can be found easily at the local health stores or in online stores. But consult your doctor before using these probiotic supplements.

Suggestions for Best Results:

16 Strain Probiotic Capsules

2. Apple Cider Vinegar:

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) exhibits antiviral and antimicrobial properties that kill off the microbes causing this cold, cough and sore throats. It helps to loosen and expel the excess mucus from the chest and allows you to breathe normally.

It has prebiotic inulin that helps to boost your immunity by sending certain signals to white blood cells to fight against the microbes causing the problem. It helps to balance the pH levels of the body, which in turn makes the body a less appealing for the bacteria or cancer cells to thrive.

Method to use ACV for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

Add 2 teaspoons of ACV in 1 cup of filtered warm water and stir well. You can add a dash of Ceylon cinnamon powder (antiseptic), some fresh lemon juice (vitamin C) and raw honey (soothes the throat and clears inflammation). Stir well and drink it to get relief from cold, cough and flu in the winter season and also it helps you to stay warm.
Repeat drinking this ACV water for up to 3 times daily till you get complete relief from the problem.

Suggestions for Best Results:

Organic Raw Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar (Bragg)

3. Echinacea:

Echinacea is a common flower that widely used in the United States and Germany. In studies, it has been proved that Echinacea will help a lot in reducing the inflammation, boost up the immune system, relieves your pain and prevent the cold and flu virus from getting into the body.

In exhibits antiviral, antibacterial and blood cleansing properties that work well in fighting the virus causing cold or flu by increasing levels of properdin (a chemical in the body that helps to fight off the virus and bacteria).

It also reduces the chance of catching a cold virus by 60% and shortens the period of cold attack by 1 – 4 days instead of 5 – 7 days.

Method to use Echinacea for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

Echinacea Tincture – Mix 2 dropper fulls of this tincture in 1 cup of water. Stir well and drink it to prevent further onset. Continue the intake for 3 times a day till you cleared the problem.
You can also use other Echinacea supplements in the form of capsules, tinctures or teas.

Suggestions for Best Results:

Echinacea Extract (Now Foods)

4. Cayenne Pepper:

Cayenne pepper helps to break the congestion by warming your body. It also reduces the pain and inflammation with its capsaicin content and also has high levels of vitamin C to give complete relief from cold and flu.

The pepper also helps to boost the metabolism, increases blood circulation, quicken blood clotting (for nose bleeds or any other internal bleeding), maintain proper blood sugar and blood pressure levels, etc.

Capsaicin in the main thing in cayenne pepper that works by inhibiting the substance P (a chemical in the body that aids in inflammation) and also this capsaicin are used to prepare many OTC creams to inhibit the body pains.

The cayenne pepper in capsule form is not considered as an effective as the powder form. It is generally rated according to its heat index. So, start taking 40000 SCUs and eventually raise up to 90000 SCU’s.

Method to use Cayenne Pepper for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

Take 1 teaspoon of organic cayenne pepper once a day and slowly increase the quantity by 1 teaspoon for 3 times a day. Repeat the process daily till you get complete relief from the problem.

Suggestions for Best Results:

Organic Ground Cayenne Pepper

5. Olive Leaf Extract:

Olive leaf extract (OLE) helps to fight cancer cells, increase the energy levels, enhance your cardiac health, prevents cancer, improves the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, and lower your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels.

It exhibits antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to clear the virus or germs causing cold, flu and cough along with soothing the irritated parts.

Oleuropein (a polyphenol in OLE) helps to clear the tumor cells and thus prevent them from replicating, moving and growing. So, it helps to maintain overall health including the treatment of cold, cough & flu.

Method to use Olive Leaf Extract for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

The recommended dosage of OLE is 500 milligrams for once daily. You can also take it in tea or capsules form.
Be sure that you have to take capsules that contain oleuropein.

Suggestions for Best Results:

Olive Leaf Extract Capsules

6. Turmeric:

The curcumin in turmeric exhibits many amazing properties like antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that make it as a disease preventing and tumor fighting spice.

It effectively treats the respiratory problems like cold, flu and cough with its properties and also clears microbes and mucous causing the problem. There are many ways to enjoy turmeric to get rid of the problem.

Methods to use Turmeric for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

Turmeric Drink – Simply mix a little turmeric powder to your favorite tea or warm milk and drink it by flavoring it with raw honey and ginger (for tea).
Turmeric Syrup – Sprinkle some turmeric powder into a spoonful of raw honey. Stir and consume it to get soothing relief from an infected throat.
Turmeric Paste – Mix enough water in 1 tablespoon of ground turmeric and stir well to make a fine paste. Apply it as a paste under the nose, throat and chest area (or other painful areas) to get rid of the pain and relieves you from the congestion.

Suggestions for Best Results:

7. DIY Detox Bath:

This detox bath will help to cure a cold, wheezing cough, and body pains. Here we are using some simple home ingredients like hydrogen peroxide (3%, used to oxygenate the body and eliminate toxins. It has antibacterial and antiviral properties that fight off the virus and bacteria) and ginger (produce heat and increases blood circulation and thereby purge toxins through sweat).

Method to follow Detox Bath for Relieving Cold, Cough, and Flu.

Run hot water in your bathtub and the steam from this water will open the pores and thus prepare the body for cleansing.
Then pour 3 pints of hydrogen peroxide and 2 ounces of ground ginger in this bath tub.
Stir well and soak in this water for about 30 minutes.
Remember that, within 5 minutes of soaking, your body will start sweating from every pore of the skin.
Rinse your skin and drink 2 – 3 large glasses of water to replenish the body.
Prefer to do this detox bath at night and sleep well to get relief from cold, cough, flu and sinusitis.
Continue this detox bath regularly for 3 days, if symptoms persist.

8. Onion & Garlic:

Garlic & onion are full packed with antioxidants, antiviral, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help to fight against the virus causing cold and flu.

Allicin is a strong compound which appears soon after you sliced open the onion or garlic and before it is cooked.

Methods to use Garlic for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

If you’re unable to consume a whole garlic clove then hold a slice of this garlic clove in your mouth and suck the juice for about 15 minutes.
Mince 1 – 2 cloves of garlic and mix it in 1 glass of water. Stir well and drink it.
Simply place the finely minced garlic cloves on a piece of fruit and cover it with raw honey. Consume it to get rid of cold, cough and sore throat.

Methods to use Onion for Cough, Cold and Flu:

Place sliced onions all around the house (especially in the room where the sufferer is staying), as it is an old belief that onion will attract the bacteria and cleanse the air to prevent the infection.
Simply place sliced onions (raw) in a jar and pour organic honey over it and leave it for overnight. Then take 1 teaspoon of this juice in the next day like a cold and cough syrup to get rid of the problem.
Also, use more onions in your cooking when you’re sick until you get proper relief from the problem.

Suggestions for Best Results:

9. Ginseng:

Ginseng is a traditional Chinese medicine that used to increase the immune system to fight against the bacteria and virus. In a study, it stated that ginseng extracts will help to raise the immunity and prompted the body to send out the natural killer (NK) cells during a microbial invasion.

It helps to strengthen the body to combat diseases, endure physical tension and also increases the mental sharpness. Asian and American ginseng contains more of the ginsenosides that have more of medical purposes.

Method to use Ginseng for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

Use 400 milligrams of Panax ginseng daily for 4 months to boost up your immunity and to get rid of cold or flu.
If you’re using ginseng herb as a daily preventative then take the recommended dosage of 100 milligrams for twice daily.
Remember that over dosage of ginseng will interfere with a lot of pharmaceutical drugs and can be harmful to the body. So, it’s best to consult your doctor to know about the herbs or supplements you’re taking to get rid of this problem.

Suggestions for Best Results:

10. Elderberry (Sambucus Nigra):

Elderberry is widely used as antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that help to treat your upper respiratory infections and allergies. In a study published in the BioMed Central’s Journal in 2011, it is found that this elderberry is very effective in defending the influenza virus, certain gram positive and gram negative infections along with MRSA.

This herb helps for proper blood circulation and protect the inside layer of blood vessels from stress and anxiety with its anthocyanins content. The berries and flowers of this elderflower herb are only used for medicinal purposes and the berries must be cooked before using. The bark, roots, and leaves should be avoided due to its toxicity.

Method to use Elderberry for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

Edible elderberry is generally available in different forms like lozenges, tea, and syrup. However, the recommended dosage will differ by depending on the form which you’re using for treating this problem. So, consult your herbalist or doctor to know the correct dosage to clear the upper respiratory problems.
If you’re using this elderberry herb to combat flu, cough or cold then you have to use it within 48 hours of any symptoms to get complete relief.

Suggestions for Best Results:

11. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus Globulus):

Eucalyptus essential oil and its leaves have endless benefits, as they are used to treat pain, infections, diabetes, cancer, digestive problems, upper respiratory infections, sore throat, cold, flu, dermatitis, asthma, etc.

In a study, it is proved that Eucalyptus globulus natural antibiotic effect will help to combat the gram-negative bacteria (E. coli) and gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus), which are life threatening (resilience against antibiotics) for people those who have weakened the immune system.

Method to use Eucalyptus Essential Oil for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

Eucalyptus oil can be used either topical (or) a spray (or) a humidifier additive (or) as an aromatherapy (or) inhale it in the form of the stream to get rid of the problem.
Use it regularly till you get complete relief from this cold, cough and flu.

Suggestions for Best Results:

Eucalyptus Oil (Now Foods)

12. Goldenseal:

Goldenseal exhibits antiseptic and antimicrobial properties that help to boost up the immune system, clear the congestion and fight against the virus causing cold and flu along with soothing the irritated throat.

It activates the spleen, which helps to defense fighting cells to clear the infection. Goldenseal contains Berberine that activates macrophages (specialized white blood cells that attack virus, bacteria and cancer cells) to clear the problem.

Method to use Goldenseal for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

The recommended dosage of goldenseal will be 10 – 15 drops for 2 to 3 times daily for 10 days to get cleared from this problem.

Suggestions for Best Results:

Goldenseal Root (Nature’s Answer Alcohol – Free)

13. Vitamin D:

We all know that vitamin D is the only vitamin produced by our body in sufficient amounts and it gets multiplied after its exposure to sunlight.

Vitamin D is essential to make calcium move into the bones and boost the immunity to clear the germs causing the infection in the respiratory tract. Also, many researchers have stated that vitamin D blocks the replication of multiple strains of the flu and thereby reduces the risk of the flu by 50%.

So, try to get at least 30 minutes of direct sunlight per day and also consume food that is rich in vitamin D or take its supplements for the proper functioning of the body.

Method to use Vitamin D for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

If you’re planning to take vitamin D in supplements then make sure that you should get D3 (Cholecalciferol) but not D2 (ergocalciferol) and the recommended daily dosage will be 2000 IU.

Suggestions for Best Results:

Extra Strength Vitamin D3 (Kirkland Signature)

14. Zinc:

The intake of zinc has proved scientifically that it reduces the symptoms of cold and flu effectively. It is responsible for the proper functioning of 3000 proteins in the body and also helps to maintain proper blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

Method to use zinc for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

The recommended dosage of zinc is at least 75 milligrams per day till you get relief from cold. Also, zinc is safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Suggestions for Best Results:

Zinc Picolinate (NOW Foods)

15. Ginger:

Ginger exhibits antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties that help to clear the cold, cough and flu. It also helps to boost the immune system, warm up your body and helps to get rid of the toxins in the lungs and sinuses.

It acts as an excellent remedy to treat the respiratory illness like a cough, cold, asthma, upper respiratory problems, etc. It fights off the germs causing cold or flu and clears the congestion. It has a soothing effect on the body and aids in proper digestion along with relieving the feeling of nauseous.

Methods to use Ginger for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

Pour 1 cup of freshly peeled and sliced ginger, 1 pear and 1 lemon (with some rind) in a pot filled with water. Boil it for at least an hour and turn off the heat. Stir well by adding raw honey and drink it to get relief from the problem.
Simply chew some ginger slices or a mix of ginger and honey to get relief from upper respiratory problems.
You can also take ginger supplements after consulting your doctor for proper dosage.

Suggestions for Best Results:

Solaray Organic Ginger Root Supplement

16. Cinnamon:

Cinnamon is an effective spice for treating respiratory and digestive problems. However, most people believe that cinnamon as a sweet holiday spice but it is also packed with many nutrients like calcium, manganese, and fiber.

It has antimicrobial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties which help to clear congestion, controls blood sugar, protects against the heart diseases, improves colon health and boosts up your brain function.

There are two kinds of cinnamon – Ceylon Cinnamon (pure, sweeter and more nutrient dense) and Cassia Cinnamon (cheap and toxic when taken in large amounts). It is low in calories and acts as a natural sugar substitute.

Methods to use Cinnamon for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

Mix 1 teaspoon of raw honey in 1/4 teaspoon of organic Ceylon cinnamon. Stir well and consume it to get rid of cold, flu and cough. Take it twice daily till you get complete relief from the problem.
You can also prepare a tea that consists of honey, lemon juice, cinnamon and ginger and have it.

Suggestions for Best Results:

Natural Cinnamon, Organic Ground Ceylon

17. Oregano Oil:

Oregano is a natural antibiotic and its oil contains natural chemicals called carvacrol and terpene, which fight off the virus, bacteria, yeast, fungus and parasites causing infection.

In a study, it is proved that oregano oil has a robust reaction against the germs that effectively kill the salmonella and E. coli infections. So, regular usage of this oregano will help to clear the congestion and relieves you from these health problems.

Method to use Oregano Oil for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

Take 2 – 3 drops of oregano oil with a glass of water to wash it down. Consume it 3 times a day until your cold and flu have cleared.
Remember that certain oregano oils don’t get diluted easily. So, it is advised to pour 5 – 6 drops of this oil into an empty vegetarian capsule and take it 3 times daily for the duration of cold or flu.

Suggestions for Best Results:

Oil of Oregano (NOW Foods)

18. Coconut Oil:

Coconut oil has medium chain triglycerides (MCT) that exhibit antiviral, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties which are used to clear the microbes, toxins and other impurities causing infection. It also cleanses the liver and gets converted into energy.

It has lauric acid that helps to destroy the virus, bacteria, pathogens causing the flu, herpes, liver diseases, sinus infections, ringworm, lung problems and other life-threatening infections. The saturated fats in coconut oil help to maintain proper cholesterol levels by reducing LDL (bad cholesterol) and raising HDL (good cholesterol).

Method to use Coconut Oil for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

Consume 1 – 2 tablespoons of organic coconut oil daily to maintain a good immune system. Be sure to take 2 tablespoons at the first sign of your cold or flu to prevent the spread or further health problem.

Suggestions for Best Results:

Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (Carrington Farms)

19. Nasal Rinse:

Nasal irrigation is a very effective remedy for treating your cold, cough or flu. It clear and unclogs the nasal passageways by removing the debris and irritants.

It also helps to soothe the inflamed mucous lining and moisturize the nasal passageway to get rid of the infection effectively.

Methods to use Nasal Rinse for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

Add 1 teaspoon of sea salt, 6 – 8 drops of betadine and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda in 1 cup of warm water. Stir well and pour this mix into a neti pot or a bulb syringe. Use it to rinse out each nostril with this mix. Repeat this nasal irrigation for thrice daily.
For additional benefits, you can add 1 – 2 drops of diluted oregano oil (antimicrobial) to this mix before using.

Suggestions for Best Results:

Himalayan Institute Ceramic Neti Pot

20. Green Tea:

We all know that green tea is one of the healthiest drinks on the planet. Regular intake of green tea will help for prolonged life without much health problems. It has 6 different kinds of antioxidants that make it as an effective antiviral drink, which in turn, helps to fight against the cold or flu -causing germs.

It has certain compounds like Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), flavonoids, catechins (reduces free radicals), chlorophyll (blood cleanser), L-theanine (boosts energy and reduces anxiety) and theophylline (opens your airways) will help to keep you healthy by enhancing your immune system.

It helps to fight against the cold & flu causing virus along with soothing the irritated throat and clears congestion to get rid of the problem.

Methods to use Green Tea for Cold, Cough, and Flu:

Place 1 green tea bag in 1 cup of warm water and dip the bag for several times to get infused. Drink that green tea for once or twice daily.
If you’re already drinking this green tea then make it as your daily routine
Simply mix 1 teaspoon of matcha green tea powder in 1 cup of warm filtered water. Have this green tea daily to boost up your immunity and thereby to relieve your cold, cough, and flu.

Suggestions for Best Results:

Green Tea Powder (Organic Matcha)

21. Foods to Avoid:

Even diet will play an important role in clearing these upper respiratory problems. So, follow the below-mentioned diet to get clear the infection and to boost up your immunity.

Fatty foods, processed/refined foods, dairy products, oily foods, etc. should be excluded from your diet when you’re not feeling ill.
A diet which is high in sugar will suppress your immune system and also they cause even more inflammation throughout the body.
Consume lean proteins, herbal teas, broth-based soups, bland or easy to digest foods to enhance the immune power and clears congestion.
People who smoke are more susceptible to developing these respiratory infections and smoking also drags out the period of cold and thereby worsens its symptoms.
Drink plenty of water and other healthy fluids along with vitamin C rich foods to stay hydrated and to enhance your immunity to fight against the problem.

Final Word:

If you want to avoid getting any cold, flu or a cough in this winter or cold season, then you have to take proper care of your immune system along with following the above mentioned natural home remedies. Build a strong immunity and don’t forget to share your experiences with us in the below comments box.

Top 10 Remedies for Beautiful Skin

February 9, 2020 By Sruthika Leave a Comment

Every woman desires to have a picture-perfect, flawless skin but in this modern world, we generally depend upon the cosmetic creams, lotions, makeups, etc. to get a fair and flawless skin.

Although they provide us with an instant glowing skin but definitely cause side effects when used in a longer run. Always remember that healthy skin will make you feel clear and beautiful. The healthy diet, skin care regimen and lifestyle habits will resemble your skin’s health.

Stress, pollution & external environmental factor, smoking, intake of alcohol, poor nutrition, exposure to sun’s harmful UV rays, lack of sleep, improper skin care hygiene, etc. will make your skin look dry and dull with uneven skin tone.

Instead of relying on the cosmetic skin and beauty care products, you can try some best natural remedies at home to improve your skin’s health and appearance to make it clear and spotless.

Home Remedies to Get Beautiful & Clear Skin:

Here are the simple yet effective remedies that help you to grab beautiful and clear skin. All you need is to follow them regularly along with some regular exercise and healthy diet.

Remedy – 1: (Lemon)

The presence of citric acid and vitamin C will help you in exfoliating the skin and clears dead skin cell, impurities, and excess oil. It also enhances the collagen production and exhibits skin lightening property to increase the cell renewal process.

Have a look at how to use lemon to grab beautiful skin.

Take a lemon and squeeze it freshly. Apply this fresh lemon juice on all over the clean face & neck. Wait for 10 minutes to rinse the area with lukewarm water. Pat dry the skin and rub some cucumber slices over the skin to moisturize and soften the skin. Do the same process daily to get rid of uneven skin patches.
You can get beautiful skin by applying the mix prepared by stirring the juice of 1/2 a lemon in 1 – 2 tablespoons of raw honey on all over the face. Rinse with water after 15 – 20 minutes. Do it daily.
Mix 2 teaspoons each of fresh lemon juice and sugar in a small bowl. Apply it to the clean face, neck and other parts of the body. Scrub it gently in a circular motion and wait for 10 minutes to rinse off with lukewarm water. Repeat it 1 – 2 times a week regularly to get glowing skin.
Oatmeal acts as a natural exfoliator that cleanses the impurities, grime, and excess oil. Mix 1 tablespoon each of fresh lemon juice and mashed oatmeal (cooked) to make it a paste. Spread it on the skin and massage gently. Rinse off with water after 20 minutes and dry the skin.

Remedy – 2: (Turmeric)

Turmeric is a natural antibiotic, antiseptic and skin lightening agent that minimizes the scars and other marks effectively on the skin. It alleviates allergic, infectious and inflammatory skin disorders which makes the skin look dry, dull and lifeless.

Regular follow up of any of the below-mentioned turmeric methods will help you to get a beautiful clear skin.

Gram flour (besan) exfoliates & lightens the skin and inhibits the growth of facial hair. Mix equal quantities of turmeric powder and gram flour in a bowl. Stir well by adding some milk (or water) till it forms a fine paste. Slather this mixture evenly on the skin and wait until it dries. Rinse the area with lukewarm water by scrubbing the skin gently. Continue it once a week to lighten the skin.
Mix enough pineapple juice (or tomato juice) in 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder to make a fine paste. Apply it on the clean face and neck and wash the area with lukewarm water after it dries completely. Do it 3 – 4 times a week till you get rid of spots, scars and uneven patches of the skin.

Remedy – 3: (Honey)

Honey is a natural humectant and moisturizer that helps to keep the skin moisturized and beautiful. It exfoliates the skin to remove dirt, dead cells and tan on the skin’s surface.

Want to know how to use honey to get beautiful skin? Have a look at these methods.

Take some raw honey and apply it directly on the skin. Leave it for few minutes till it gets dried naturally. Rinse the area with lukewarm water and dry the skin. Repeat it once daily to get clear skin.
Stir 1 teaspoon each of raw honey and gram flour in 2 teaspoons of milk. Mix well to make a fine paste and spread it all over the clean face as a mask. Wait for 20 minutes and wash the area with warm water. Do it once a week to get a clear and radiant skin.

Remedy – 4: (Aloe Vera)

Being rich in antibacterial, astringent, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera acts as the best remedy for getting clear skin. It soothes the irritated skin, moisturizes it effectively and heals your scars. It stimulates the growth of new skin cells and enhances the collagen production.

Take an aloe vera leaf and extract its gel freshly.
Apply it on the clean face by using your clean fingers or cotton ball.
Leave it for about 30 minutes and rinse the area with lukewarm water.
Continue this aloe gel application daily or several times a week on the regular basis until you get rid of the dull, dry and lifeless skin.

Remedy – 5: (Yogurt)

The lactic acid and probiotic-rich content of yogurt will help you to get rid of the dry, dull and lifeless skin. It moisturizes and nourishes the skin to give cure from acne and other irritating skin disorders. Regular usage will definitely help you in giving clear and flawless skin.

Orange peel has vitamin C that makes it work as a natural skin tonic and help your skin to get rid of many ailments. Grind some dried orange peels and mix 1 tablespoon each of orange peel powder and yogurt to make a paste. Apply it on the skin and rinse off with water after 15 – 20 minutes.
Stir 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice in 1 tablespoon of fresh plain yogurt and spread this mix onto the clean skin. Rinse the area with water after 15 – 20 minutes to get not only the fair skin but also clears your scars, marks, and spots on the skin.
Stir 1 teaspoon of mint powder in 1 tablespoon each of plain yogurt and fuller’s earth in a bowl. Leave it aside for 30 minutes and stir well to apply it on the clean face and neck as a face pack. Let it sit till the mask dries naturally and rinse off with lukewarm water. Do it once a week till you enjoy the clear skin.

Remedy – 6: (Tea and Rice Flour)

The antioxidants in tea will help to flush out the toxins and free radicals from the skin and rice flour act as an excellent scrub that exfoliates the skin to remove dirt, dead cells, and impurities. So, this combination will make your skin look healthy and glowing.

Here are a few ways of using tea to get a beautiful glowing skin.

Add 2 teaspoons of rice flour and 1/2 spoon of honey in 1 cup of cooled tea. Stir well and apply it on the skin. Let it sit until the mask dries completely and start massaging the area gently in circular motions. Finally, rinse the area with cold water and repeat the same process for a few times per week.
Steep 1 green tea bag in 1 cup of hot water for a few minutes and take out the bag. Add some fresh lemon juice and raw honey to it and stir well to sip this warm tea 2 – 3 times daily to get flawless skin.

Remedy – 7: (Milk)

The lactic acid in milk exfoliates and locks the moisture in the skin to get a fair and flawless skin. It acts as a physical barrier that protects the skin from the damage caused to the skin by external environmental factors (pollution).

Have a look at how to use milk for beautiful skin.

Mix 1 teaspoon each of honey, fresh lemon juice and milk (or milk powder) in a bowl till it forms a fine paste. Apply this paste to the cleansed skin thoroughly. Wait for about 15 – 20 minutes and rinse off with water. Repeat it regularly.
Saffron is an excellent skin care ingredient that effectively used for skin glowing. Place 5 – 6 strands of saffron in 2 – 3 teaspoons of cold, raw milk. Let it sit for about 3 – 4 hours and apply it on the clean face and neck. Wait for about 15 – 20 minutes and rinse the area with lukewarm water. Do it daily to get the soft, smooth and beautiful skin.

Remedy – 8: (Papaya)

Papaya has natural bleaching property that helps to reduce the appearance of scars and improves the skin’s texture to get clear skin. The papain is an enzyme present in papaya exhibits antibacterial and wound healing properties that aids in removing dead and damaged skin.

Take a ripe papaya and chop it into small pieces.
Then mix 1 teaspoon each of sandalwood powder and honey in this papaya pieces and grind them to make a fine paste.
Spread it on all over the face and neck thoroughly as a mask.
Wait for 30 minutes and rinse the area with cool water.
Dry the skin to apply rose water on the face and neck.
Let it dry naturally and repeat it once a week regularly to notice changes in your skin tone.

Remedy – 9: (Walnuts)

The antioxidants in walnuts help to repair the skin cells and promote the radiant skin. Walnut powder exfoliates the skin and removes dirt and impurities by acting as a natural exfoliator and cleanser. Regular usage will definitely bring you a beautiful glow to your dry, dull and lifeless skin.

Here are a few ways of using walnut for the healthy & beautiful skin.

Mix 2 teaspoons of walnut powder in 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt to make a fine paste. Apply this paste to the clean face and neck. Scrub the mix around the face after it dries and finally, rinse off with lukewarm water. Repeat this face mask for once a week regularly.
Take 3 walnuts and soak them in water overnight. In the morning, grind them to make a fine paste by adding 1 teaspoon of rose water. Slather this mix on the face and rinse with lukewarm water after an hour. Do the same process for once a week on regular basis.
Eat 2 – 4 walnuts with 1 glass of milk in every morning to strengthen your immune system and to have healthy skin.

Remedy – 10: (Diet Plan)

Consuming a well-balanced diet will definitely help you to keep the skin young, healthy and beauty naturally. Here is the list of healthy foods which keep your skin clear, flawless and beautiful. Have a look at this list and include them in your diet.

Consume whole grains which are enriched with fiber (reduces inflammation and stabilizes blood sugar levels), zinc (repairs skin damage and regulate sebum production) and B-vitamin (helps the skin cells to process fats without drying).
Drink plenty of water and other healthy fluids like herbal teas or green tea, soups, fresh fruit or vegetable juices, smoothies, etc. to flush out the toxins from the skin and to stay hydrated. But avoid the intake of caffeinated, carbonated, alcoholic and sugary beverages.
Include parsley in your diet, as it has a rich source of vitamin K (helps for promoting elasticity and good skin tone), vitamins A & C (clear blemishes and encourage collagen production) and volatile oils (disinfect pores and prevent acne).
The intake of selenium, antioxidants, and vitamins (A, C & E) rich foods like nuts (Brazil nuts, walnuts), seeds (pumpkin, sunflower & Chia), wheat grass, meat, carrots (beta-carotene), spinach, etc. will help you to get rid of the problem.
Vitamin C rich foods will help to support the immune system and thereby heals the skin and gives you a glowing skin. So, consume foods rich in vitamin C like berries (blackberries, strawberries, blueberries, raspberry), black currants, spinach, tomatoes, oranges, kiwi, etc.
Omega – 3 fatty acids and vitamin D rich foods (wild salmon, tuna, spinach, etc.) will protect your skin from sun exposure. So, try this grilled, baked, in sushi, with a salad, in pasta with a side of asparagus.
Consume zinc-rich foods (like oysters, beans, mushrooms, lamb, spinach, squash seeds, dark chocolates, chicken, pork, etc.) which aids in the skin cell renewal and repair.
Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, fat-free milk or miso will help to reset your system and helps to cleanse your system.

Tips and Precautions:

Cucumber has nourishing, hydrating and astringent properties that improve the overall appearance by removing the dead skin cells, repairing damaged skin cells and thereby gives an instant fresh glow. Simply rub cucumber slices or apply cucumber juice on the affected skin areas.
Avoid rinsing your face with hot water, as it causes redness and irritation on the skin along with drying out the delicate facial skin. So, rinse your face with lukewarm water rather than hot water.
Use some natural oils like coconut oil, almond oil, olive oil, argan oil, sesame oil, castor oil, sea buckthorn oil, etc. will moisturize the skin and provides flawless skin.
Don’t scrub the skin too frequently, as the store-bought chemical and toxic packed scrubs will harm and dry your skin. So, instead choose natural fresh fruits like mango, pineapple chunks or mashed strawberries on your face.
Not enough rest will definitely reflect on your face, as it looks tired and irritated. So, sleep for at least 7 – 8 hours to undergo restoration, rebalancing and repairing.
Regular exercise will boost up the blood circulation, remove cellular debris and free radicals and thereby cleanse the body. It distresses and tones up the body to look beautiful.
Rinse your face at night before bedtime to remove makeup and impurities and apply moisturizer to get the nourishing skin.
Protect your skin from harmful sun’s UV rays by applying sunscreen before stepping out in the sun and reapply it for every 4 – 5 hours.
Apply baking soda paste on the clean face and neck to exfoliate the skin and clear spots and scars.
Prevent acne by following small daily life hacks like changing pillowcases every 4 – 5 days, reduce stress levels, tie your hair back before going to sleep, keep your hands and surrounding clean, avoid placing the hands on the breakouts, avoid consuming oily or fast foods, etc.
Also, use other natural remedies like rose water, potato, cod liver oil, drink fresh carrot or orange juice, banana paste with milk, avocado paste, etc. to get the beautiful and fair skin.

Final word:

All you need is to use these natural remedies regularly to change your skin tone and make it look clear, beautiful and healthy. Do you know any other successful natural remedies to grab beautiful skin? Then share your experience with us in the below comments box.