DIY REMEDIES

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Health Remedies

10 Best Superfoods to Cleanse your Arteries

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Artery Cleansing Superfoods

The blood vessels which deliver oxygen-rich blood from the heart to various parts or tissues of the body are termed as arteries. Each artery is composed of three layers – the intima (inner layer), the media (handles high pressure from the heart) and the adventitia (connective tissue linking arteries to nearby tissues).

Aorta is the largest artery that spread throughout the body with its network of smaller arteries (arterioles and capillaries).

A healthy artery has smooth inner walls in which the blood easily flows through it but the buildup of plaque (made of fat, calcium, fibrin, cholesterol or cellular waste that circulate in the blood) on the inner walls will clog the artery and obstruct the blood flow.

People with high levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and low levels of HDL (good cholesterol) are more prone to these clogged arteries. High blood pressure, smoking, certain health problems (carotid artery disease, heart attack, coronary artery disease or cerebrovascular accident), diabetes, etc. can also result in clogged arteries.

Hence it is essential to maintain healthy arteries which are free from blockages. There are so many superfoods that help you to keep the arteries clean and unclogged.

Artery Cleansing Superfoods:

Here is the list of superfoods that cleanse your arteries and allows the oxygen rich blood to flow freely. All you need to include these foods in your diet and also follow a healthy lifestyle to get rid of this problem.

1. Almonds:

Almonds are very effective in lowering the LDL and raising the HDL levels, which in turn reduces the buildup of plaque in your arteries. Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats and magnesium in almonds help to decrease the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries.

It’s best to have 3 – 5 servings of almonds each week but be sure that 1 serving is equal to a handful of almonds. For overall health, consume soaked or roasted almonds.

2. Avocadoes:

Avocado reduces LDL and increase HDL levels in the body to prevent the buildup of plaque along the walls of the artery with its essential content of vitamin E and other healthy fatty acids. It has potassium that lowers your high blood pressure and eliminates cholesterol oxidization.

So, consume 1 avocado daily (or) substitute your butter or cream with avocado on toast and bread (or) include avocado in your side dishes, sandwiches, soups, and salads.

3. Asparagus:

Asparagus is a green vegetable that boosts up the production of an antioxidant (glutathione) which helps to fight against inflammation and thus stops damaging oxidation to prevent blocked or clogged arteries.

Alpha-linoleic acid and folic acid in asparagus will prevent hardening of your arteries. Consume asparagus which is prepared by steaming, grilling, roasting, and stir – frying. Also, eat this healthy vegetable by using it in soups or salads.

4. Broccoli:

Broccoli has a rich content of sulforaphane that prevents the formation of plaque in the arteries. It inhibits the calcium from damaging the arteries with its vitamin K content. It is also high in fiber that lowers your cholesterol levels and high blood pressure.

So, consume 2 – 3 servings of broccoli each week but make sure that each serving should include 1/2 cup of raw broccoli. Prefer grilled, roasted or steamed broccoli to grab the healthy benefits.

5. Garlic:

Garlic prevents the hardening of the aorta and thus cleanses your arteries. So, include garlic in your daily diet to get rid of blockages in the arteries and also to improve the cardiovascular health. It has many amazing properties that reduce the LDL cholesterol levels.

Consume 1 – 4 cloves of raw garlic daily (or) include garlic in your soups, casseroles, stews and salad dressings (or) try a garlic supplement after consult your doctor for proper dosage.

6. Olive Oil:

Extra virgin olive oil has rich content of antioxidants (polyphenols) and healthy fats (monounsaturated fats) that reduce LDL levels, improves your HDL levels and thus removes the buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Include olive oil as your cooking oil (or) use it make healthy salad dressings (or) replace your butter or ghee with olive oil while preparing any food items.

7. Pomegranate:

Pomegranate is an exotic fruit that has rich content of antioxidants in the form of vitamin C and polyphenols, which help to stimulate the production of nitric oxide (used to keep the blood flow by opening the arteries). It also effectively reduces the existing plaque in the arteries.

Drink freshly prepared pomegranate juice (or) use it to make fruit salads (or) smoothies (or) consume it once daily to get rid of the problem. Consult your doctor before drinking this juice, as it may not be suitable when taken with some medications.

8. Salmon:

Salmon is a healthy fish that is enriched with omega – 3 fatty acids like docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) that increase the HDL cholesterol levels, decrease triglyceride levels and reduces the inflammation of the blood vessels and formation of blood clots in the arteries.

It helps to keep your arteries free from plaque buildup and also lowers your blood pressure. It is recommended to have 2 – 3 servings of salmon every week. Prefer baked or grilled salmon dishes for grabbing overall health. Also, include other cold water fatty fishes in your diet.

9. Turmeric:

Curcumin in turmeric exhibit many properties like antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory that lowers the inflammation and keeps your arteries free from any blockages. It also reduces the fat deposits in the arteries for a free flow of blood.

It contains vitamin B6 that maintains optimal levels of homocysteine, as excess will result in the buildup of plaque and thus damages the blood vessels. It also lowers the LDL levels. So, include turmeric spice in your daily diet (or) drink 1 glass of warm turmeric milk every day.

10. Watermelon:

Watermelon is an excellent fruit that reduces atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries). It also contains L-citrulline (amino acid) that lowers your high blood pressure and also stimulates the production of nitric oxide, which in turn widens the blood vessels.

Eat 1 cup of fresh watermelon pieces (or) drink 1 glass of watermelon juice (or) include watermelon in your fruit salad in your daily diet to maintain the arteries free from plaque and also to have good cardiovascular health.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. Drinking 1 – 2 cups of green tea daily will help to improve blood lipid levels with its high amounts of antioxidant catechism and thus reduces arterial blockage.
  2. Drink plenty of water and other healthy liquids to stay hydrated and to flush out the wastes from your body to clear clogged arteries.
  3. Also, include persimmons, cinnamon, chia seeds, flax seeds, cranberries, coconut oil, spinach, orange juice, spirulina, whole grains, etc. in your daily diet to get relief from the blocked or clogged arteries.
  4. Consult your doctor if you’re experiencing any health problems that result in clogged arteries.
  5. Not only diet, you have to change your lifestyle habits like consuming less quantity with high nutritious meals, have a sound sleep, relieve your stress levels with exercise, yoga, and meditation, avoid late night eating foods and maintain a proper schedule and follow according to it.

Try to include these super foods in your diet to cleanse your arteries. Do you know any other superfoods that deal with artery cleansing? Then share it with us the below comments box.

How to Get Rid of Muscle Cramps

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Natural Home Remedies for Muscle Cramps

Everyone experience the muscle cramp at least once in their lifetime and it is most common in sports people. In research, it is stated that about 39% of marathon runners, 60% of cyclists and 79% of athletes will suffer from this muscle cramp remedies.

Sudden and involuntary contractions occur most commonly in the back muscles of the lower leg, front muscle or back muscles of the thighs. It may also occur in the areas like arms, abdominal wall, hands and feet.

Sudden and intense sharp pain, soreness, swelling and inflammation is some of the symptoms experienced by people with muscle cramps. These cramps will last for few seconds to 15 minutes or longer.

Over usage of the muscle is the main cause for this cramp and other reasons include poor circulation, dehydration, muscles injuries, poor diet (lacking in the calcium, potassium or magnesium), certain medical problems (restless leg syndrome, spinal nerve compression, pregnancy, diabetes, kidney failure, alcoholism, hypothyroidism), pregnancy, alcoholism, etc.

However, medicines are not needed to treat an ordinary muscle cramp but you can reduce the discomfort and speed up the recovery time with some natural home remedies.

Natural Home Remedies for Muscle Cramps:

Here are the best natural ways that widely used to treat muscle cramps and strengthen your muscles to get rid of the problem. Have a look at these remedies and follow them.

Remedy – 1: (Hot and Cold Compress)

Applying heat on the affected muscles will relax them and relieves you from the tightness, pain, and cramping. Cold compress will numb the pain, reduce inflammation and soreness by constricting the blood vessels.

  • Dip a clean towel in hot water and squeeze it to remove excess water.
  • Place this hot towel (or hot water bottle wrap in a thin towel) over the affected tense muscle area for few minutes.
  • Take out the towel and repeat the same process for few times a day.
  • Then after that, wrap a handful of ice cubes in a thin towel and place it on the tight muscles.
  • Gently rub the area for 10 – 15 minutes and repeat the same for few times.
  • Continue doing the same process regularly till you get complete relief from the muscle cramps.

Note: Or taking hot or cold showers will improve the blood circulation and relaxes your sore muscles.

Remedy – 2: (Massage)

Massage your affected muscle using long strokes will ease the stiffness and soreness. For best results, wrap the affected area with a warm towel. Here wintergreen has methyl salicylate that relieves pain and thus stimulates blood flow.

  • Add 1 part of wintergreen oil with 4 parts of vegetable oil and stir well.
  • Apply this mix on the affected muscles and massage gently for few minutes.
  • Leave it on for few minutes and wipe it off to clear the excess oil.
  • Continue this massage regularly to get complete relief from the muscles and leg pains.

Note: Or massage the affected area with any warm carrier oil (like clove oil) using a firm strokes for few minutes before bedtime will relax the strained muscles and to get rid of the problem.

Remedy – 3: (Epsom Salt Bath)

Epsom salt has rich content of magnesium that relaxes your tense muscles to get rid of muscle cramps. It soothes the muscles, eases stress and detoxifies your body to get rid of the tightness in your muscles.

  • Pour 2 cups of Epsom salt in your bathtub and run warm water over it.
  • Stir well and soak yourself in this bath water for 15 – 20 minutes.
  • Repeat this bath for 2 – 3 times a week, if you’re suffering from frequent muscle cramps, to get rid of the problem.

Note:

  • For best results, massage your affected muscles using a pain-killing or muscle relaxing essential oils after having a hot shower.
  • Also, people suffering from high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes should avoid using Epsom salt bath.

Remedy – 4: (Apple Cider Vinegar)

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a powerhouse of several nutrients like potassium which helps to relieve muscle cramps. It also balances your fluid levels to get rid of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance causing muscle cramps.

  • Add 1 teaspoon each of organic ACV and raw honey and 1 tablespoon of calcium lactate in 1/2 glass of warm water.
  • Stir well and drink this mix at night about 30 minutes before bedtime.
  • Continue the intake of this liquid for once daily at night times to get relief from the nocturnal leg cramps.

Note:

  • Also, mix 1 tablespoon of raw ACV in 1 glass of warm water and drink it for once daily till you prevent these muscle cramps.
  • Or taking vitamin E will help to improve the blood flow through the arteries and prevent nocturnal leg cramps.

Remedy – 5: (Rosemary)

Rosemary has anti-inflammatory property and provides a warming effect on the affected muscle, which in turn promotes relaxation by reducing soreness and swelling.

  • Place 1 ounce of rosemary leaves in a 1-pint jar filled with boiling water.
  • Cover it and allow it to steep for about 30 minutes.
  • Then soak a washcloth in this warm liquid and wring the cloth to remove excess water.
  • Place the cloth on the affected muscle for 10 – 15 minutes and remove it.
  • After the pain improves, you can go for a cold compress.

Note: Or pour 1 – 2 teaspoons of dried rosemary in 1 cup of hot water. Let it steep for about 10 minutes and strain it. Drink this herbal tea for 2 – 3 times daily. Also, drink any herbal teas to get rid of cramps.

Remedy – 6: (Blackstrap Molasses)

Blackstrap molasses is enriched with calcium and potassium that helps to maintain strong and healthy muscles and thus prevents cramps.

  • Add 1 tablespoon of blackstrap molasses to 1 glass of warm milk (or water) and stir well.
  • Drink it daily to get quick relief from the pain and treats muscle cramps.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. Yellow mustards promote the production of acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter that makes muscles to work properly) with its acetic acid content, which in turn relieves you from the soreness and cramps. Consume 1 teaspoon of yellow mustard followed with warm milk.
  2. Regularly perform some simple yoga and stretching exercises like swimming and other stretches to reduce pain and inflammation on the affected muscles.
  3. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other healthy drinks (fruit juices, herbal teas or soups) to get rid of muscle cramping and other health problems. Also, drink 1 glass of warm milk at night before bedtime will help the body to absorb the calcium to prevent leg cramps.
  4. Include magnesium and calcium along with vitamins (A & E) to prevent muscle cramps.
  5. Consult your doctor to get a multivitamin and mineral supplement to reduce the muscle cramps and make the muscles strong.
  6. Fix your posture perfectly to get rid of muscle pain or spasms, as bad posture will cause muscle cramps. Practice posture exercises to maintain good posture as a part of your workout routines.
  7. Wear a proper footwear (prevent extra pressure on the muscles) and avoid tight leggings or jeans to get relief from the muscle or leg cramps.

Stop suffering from leg or muscle cramps and start using these natural remedies to get rid of muscle cramps. Do you know any other effective remedies for muscle cramps? Then share it with us.

How to Heal A Stiff Neck Naturally

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Do you have any difficulty in moving your neck or feeling pain while turning your head? Then you might be suffering from a stiff neck.

Stiff neck is a most common complaint by many of us, which was caused due to improper sitting or sleeping posture, tension headache, arm or shoulder pain, staying in same posture for a prolonged period, too much exercise, carrying heavy loads which put more pressure on the shoulders, stress and anxiety, etc. which creates tension or injury to the neck nerves.

It is a painful problem which can lead to doctor’s appointment if you didn’t get relief from pain within a week or suffering from high fever.

Don’t panic, it is not a serious health problem but it disturbs our daily activities, including sleep. Rather than choosing over the counter medications or treatments, just give a trial to natural home remedies which are safe and give you long lasting results.

Home Remedies for Stiff Neck:

Here are the best natural ways which help you to relieve your stiff neck using simple home based ingredients. Let’s get started.

Neck Exercises:

Neck exercises will relieve the stress and tension caused by the strained, tight neck muscles which in turn help you to get rid of stiffness on your neck.

  • Sit straight with your relaxed body.
  • Nod your head forward (towards chest) and backward (towards upside). Repeat it for few times.
  • Then tilt your head towards right and left shoulders. Repeat it for few times.
  • Now without turning your body, slowly turn your neck towards your left side and right side. Repeat it for few times.
  • Finally, stop this exercise with a few gentle shoulder rolls.
  • Continue doing the same process few times daily till you get complete relief from the stiff neck.

Note:

  • Swimming is the best exercise for the people who are suffering from stiff neck, as it improves the overall strength of the neck and back.
  • Don’t perform any neck exercises if it hurts you too much.

Cold or Heat Compress:

A cold compress will numb the pain and limit your buildup of lactic acid (a byproduct of muscle metabolism that causes soreness) and thus soothes your stiff neck. Heat therapy will increase the blood flow which in turn reduces stiffness.

  • Wrap few ice cubes in a thin towel as a compress (or use a bag of frozen vegetables or peas).
  • Hold it against the affected neck area for about 10 – 15 minutes.
  • Repeat it for every 3 – 4 hours daily for 2 – 3 days.
  • If you didn’t get any relief from the stiff neck after 2 days application of cold compress, then try heat therapy.
  • Place a hot compress in the form of cloth soaked in hot water or heating pad or heat wrap or hot water bottle on your neck for at least 10 minutes.
  • Also, place your head below the shower and run warm to slightly hot water on your neck for about 5 minutes. Don’t move your neck while doing this process.
  • Continue applying this hot compress for 2 – 3 times daily to get relief from a stiff neck.

Massage:

Massage will definitely relax your sore and stiff neck muscles by increasing the proper blood circulation. Regular following will treat your stiff neck and enhance for better sleep.

  • Have a hot shower or bath to relax your muscles.
  • Warm some natural oil (like olive or coconut or mustard oil) slightly.
  • Then apply this warm oil on your stiff neck area and massage gently for few minutes using firm gentle strokes.
  • Wipe off the excess oil and leave it like that.
  • Continue doing this massage for twice daily till you get relief from your stiff neck.

How to Heal A Stiff Neck Naturally

Epsom Salt Soak:

Epsom salt has a chemical compound called magnesium sulfate which relaxes your muscles and relieves you from a stiff neck. It regulates the activity of various enzymes in the body and thus improves circulation to reduce the muscle stress and tension.

  • Pour 2 cups of Epsom salt to your bathtub which is filled with warm water.
  • Stir well and soak in this water with your neck area submerged for 15 – 20 minutes.
  • Finally, rinse your body with lukewarm water and dry your body.
  • Do the same process for thrice a week till you get relief from the problem.

Note: Avoid using this soaking process if you’re suffering from kidney problems or diabetes.

Apple Cider Vinegar:

Apple cider vinegar has essential enzymes, nutrients, amino acids, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory property that helps to treat your stiff neck. It is effective in providing relief from muscle strain and pain caused due to nutritional deficiency.

  • Soak a clean cotton ball in raw, organic and unfiltered apple cider vinegar for few seconds.
  • Place it on the affected neck area and leave it on for few minutes.
  • Take out the cotton ball and repeat the same process twice daily for few days till you feel better.

Note:

  • Or drink 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar mixed in 1 glass of lukewarm water to get rid of the problem.
  • Also, mix 2 cups of apple cider vinegar in your bathtub filled with lukewarm water. Soak in it for 15 – 20 minutes.

Peppermint Oil:

Menthol in peppermint oil helps a lot in soothing your stiff muscles of your neck. It also has an analgesic property that reduces your pain and other discomforts.

  • Slightly warm 2 teaspoons of olive oil for few seconds and add few drops of peppermint essential oil in it.
  • Stir well and apply it on your neck.
  • Massage your stiff neck gently for few minutes and then wipe off the excess oil.
  • Follow this remedy for twice daily till your stiff neck is cleared completely.

Note:

  • Or mix 3 – 5 drops of peppermint oil in a bowl of cold water. Soak a clean washcloth in water and place it on the affected neck for 10 – 15 minutes. Repeat it regularly.
  • Remember that peppermint oil is not suitable for people with sensitive skin or children.

Cayenne Pepper:

Capsaicin in cayenne pepper exhibits analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the pain and stiffness.

  • Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper powder in 2 tablespoons of warm olive oil.
  • Stir well to make a fine paste and apply it on the neck affected area.
  • Massage gently and cover it with a bandage.
  • Let it sit for a few hours and rinse off with water.
  • Regular follow – up of this process for few days will help you to cure stiff neck problem.

Note: Or include cayenne pepper in your cooking to get faster relief (or) apply the capsaicin-containing over the counter cream or lotions on the neck to relieve stiffness.

Turmeric:

Turmeric has curcumin that exhibits anti-inflammatory property and enhances proper blood circulation that relieves you from pain and other discomforts caused due to your stiff neck.

  • Add 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder in 1 cup of milk.
  • Stir well and heat it on a low flame for few minutes.
  • Let it cool for few minutes and drink it by adding a little honey.
  • Repeat it for twice daily for few days until you cleared your stiff neck problem.

Note: Make sure that people suffering from bile duct obstruction and gallstones should not use turmeric.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. Acupressure (especially Luo Zhen) is also used to get rid of a stiff neck. It is a pressure point that located in the depression between two bones near the knuckles of the middle and pointer fingers. Remember to apply pressure on the opposite hand (left side neck stiff – pressure on right hand).
  2. Go for the skin scraping technique to enhance the blood circulation into aching area and relieve your stiff neck.
  3. Never ever sleep on your stomach, always sleep on your side or back to prevent stiffness on your neck. Also, try to sleep without a pillow for few nights, if you’re suffering from severe stiffness of your neck.
  4. Get plenty of sleep for about 7 – 8 hours which in turn boost your immunity and helps your body to heal itself quickly.
  5. Stop placing any kind of strain on the neck muscles, as it may increase the pain and thus delays the healing process.
  6. For faster relief, try some relaxation techniques to combat stress which in turn relieves muscle tension and stiff neck.
  7. It’s best to take some breaks while at work and perform small neck exercises to reduce stress and strain on the neck.
  8. Always practice a good posture throughout the day while standing or sitting or sleeping to prevent stiff neck now and then.
  9. Performing heavy physical exercises or crimping your phone between your neck and shoulders or being overweight or have stress, etc. will result in a stiff neck.
  10. Drink plenty of water, use horseradish or celery leaves, consume fresh fruits and vegetables, etc. in your diet to get rid of a stiff neck.

Try these remedies to get relief from the stiff neck. Or did you find any remedy missed in this article? Then share it with us.

DIY Electrolyte Energy Drink Recipes

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DIY Electrolyte Energy Drink Recipes

Do you know that electrolytes are basically salts? Our body contains potassium, sodium, bicarbonate, phosphate, magnesium, calcium, sulfate and chloride as major electrolytes. They are essential for regulating the functioning of the nerves and muscles.

In general, the body’s cells use these electrolytes to maintain voltage and carry the electrical impulses across the cell membranes to other cells. Whenever there is a loss of electrolytes in the body then you suffer from diarrhea, heavy sweating, fatigue, certain health problems, and illness.

So, to maintain a proper balance of these electrolytes and thereby for the proper functioning of the body, we need an electrolyte drink. However, there are many commercial drinks in the market, which may contain sweeteners and other preservatives that might harm your health rather than boost it.

Do you know that we can prepare our own electrolyte energy drink at home? Surprising!  Isn’t it? Yes, we can prepare this energy drinks at home with simple ingredients.

DIY Homemade Electrolyte Energy Drinks:

Always remember that anything made at home will always make you healthy and refreshed. Here are the ingredients that help you to prepare an energy booster at home.

Drink – 1: (Ginger Electrolyte Drink)

Ginger helps to soothe your stomach and aids in proper digestion along with treating intestinal disorders. It has anti-nausea, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help to clear the microbes causing infections and when ginger mixed with sea salt, it acts as a powerful concoction to make you feel rejuvenated.

Salt helps a lot to replenish the sodium levels to reduce you’re sweating and thus helps to maintain the cell voltage in the body. It also helps to balance the stress hormone which in turn helps to reduce adrenaline fatigue.

Honey is a natural sweetener that enriched with enzymes and essential minerals to help the body absorb the richness of salt components. It not only enhances the taste but also helps to heal soothing sore throats, cold and cough.

Lemons are rich in vitamin C, calcium, potassium and citric acid that help to boost the immune system by replenishing the lost electrolytes in the body. It also enhances the energy boosters during a workout and thus speeds up the recovery of your lost electrolytes.

Here is the recipe…

  • Pour 1 cup of water in a pan and heat it.
  • Then add 3 – 5 ginger slices to it and boil it for 5 – 7 minutes.
  • Steep it for a couple of minutes and strain the water.
  • Then add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon of unrefined salt and 1 – 2 tablespoons of raw honey to it.
  • Stir all these ingredients well and enjoy this sweet, salt and sour flavored energy drink to balance your electrolytes.
  • Repeat the intake of this drink regularly during or after your workout session to make a refreshing start of the day.

Note: Or replace ginger with orange juice. Pour 1/2 cup of fresh orange juice, 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice, 2 – 4 tablespoons of raw honey and 2 cups of water in a jar. Then add 1/4 teaspoon of unrefined salt and stir all these ingredients to enjoy the refreshing energy drink to boost up your energy and mood.

Drink – 2: (Coconut Water with Green Tea)

Plain water alone doesn’t contain any electrolytes and minerals to replace that lost during exercise. So, drinking electrolyte will help to rehydrate and replace the lost minerals.

Coconut water contains potassium and other natural sources of sodium that helps to replace the lost minerals and keep you hydrated in this summer.

Here is the recipe…

  • Mix 1/8 – 1/4 teaspoon of high-quality sea salt and 1 teaspoon of calcium magnesium powder in 1 quart of coconut water.
  • Then add 1/4 cup of lemon juice (or use apple, pineapple, grape juice) and 1 – 2 tablespoons of honey (or use stevia) to it.
  • Stir all the ingredients well and cool it by refrigerating it, as it lasts for 3 – 4 days.
  • Drink it after your workout or whenever you feel fatigue to rejuvenate and energize your body.

Note:

  • Or you can also use plain water, brewed green or herbal teas instead of coconut water for preparing this energy drinks.
  • Also, pour 1 cup of strawberries, 1/8 teaspoon of sea salt, 1 cup of ice, 3 cups of coconut water, 2 tablespoons of natural sweetener and 1 cup of water in a blender. Blend all these ingredients well and enjoy your natural electrolyte drink.
  • Or simply pour pieces of 1/2 a cucumber, juice of 2 limes and 1 ½ cups of coconut water in a blender. Blend all these by adding some ice and drink this electrolyte refresher regularly.
  • Also, mix 1/4 of a watermelon, a pinch of Himalayan sea salt and 2 large glasses of coconut water in a blender. Blend them and consume this electrolyte booster to get rid of the problem.

Drink – 3: (Cranberry Sports Drink)

Cranberry rejuvenates the depleted electrolytes and also helps to cleanse your kidneys and bladder along with detoxifying the lymphatic system. If it is blended with star anise then it makes the drink palatable for people with low levels of electrolyte.

Here is the recipe…

  • Mix 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, 1 star anise, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup (or honey) and 3 cups of unsweetened cranberry juice in 5 cups of water.
  • Stir all these ingredients and let it sit for 30 – 45 minutes aside.
  • Strain the mix and refrigerate it.
  • Drink this electrolyte sports drink to rejuvenate yourself and make you feel refreshed.

Drink – 4: (Chia Seeds)

Chia seeds are loaded with omega – 3, potassium, calcium, fiber, proteins and have antioxidants that help to restore the essential electrolyte and make you stay hydrated and refreshed.

Here is the recipe…

  • Warm 1 cup of water and pour in a cup filled with 3 tablespoons of chia seeds.
  • Stir well and keep it aside till the seeds starting to swell.
  • Then cover it and refrigerate them for overnight.
  • Take out in the next day to check whether the seeds are blown up in size and the water becomes a thick gel.
  • Now mix this chia seed gel to 1 glass of your favorite juice and drink it by stirring well.

Note: Or simply mix this soaked chia seeds in 1 glass of coconut water to make it as your power booster electrolyte.

Tips and Precautions:

  • Prefer to use sea salt or real salt instead of table salt and also pure water for preparing these electrolyte drinks.
  • Also, you can replace water with an herbal tea infusion like peppermint or spearmint for proper digestion and also hydrates the body.
  • Choose honey instead of sugar as your natural sweetener. Also, prefer mashed mango (mango pulp) or slices of certain natural sweet fruits to get a natural sweetener.
  • Or you can simply mix 1/4 cup each of fresh lemon juice and lime juice, 1/8 teaspoon of sea salt, 2 tablespoon of honey and 1 – 2 cups of water. Stir well and drink this electrolyte energy drinks to stay hydrated along with replacing the lost electrolytes.
  • Drink plenty of water along with these electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated and to flush out the toxins from the body.
  • Avoid the intake of caffeine and carbonated drinks, as they result in dehydration and makes you feel thirsty.
  • Summer is the best season to enjoy these electrolyte drinks (for normal people but not for sports people), as we easily lose these electrolytes due to the high intensity of sun’s harmful UV rays.

Have you made your own electrolyte drink? What’s your favorite drink? Share your experience with us in the below comments box.

Health and Beauty Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

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Apple cider vinegar acts as a great remedy for treating various health, hair and beauty ailments along with helping you in cleaning your home and garden. It is a well known natural ingredient that used for centuries to get rid of various health and beauty disorders like weight loss, reducing blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels, acne, hair fall, warts, cellulite, sunburn, etc.

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is made from apple cider which has undergone the fermentation to form health-promoting enzymes, proteins, amino acids, and probiotics or friendly bacteria. Either intake or topical application of ACV regularly will become a sure fire way to improve every aspect of the health and beauty.

To grab the benefits from this ACV then you have to use raw, organic, unfiltered and unpasteurized ACV with the mother content why because it is enriched with raw enzymes and beneficial bacteria.

Always remember that never ever drink ACV straight without diluting it. Here in this article, we are providing you what are the benefits obtained by using ACV and how to use it. Read on for more reasons to keep ACV in your pantry and use it regularly.

Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for Health and Beauty:

Here are some ACV benefits for health and beauty are explained. Try to include this ACV in your daily life to grab these benefits naturally. Let’s get started…

1. Maintain a Healthy Alkaline (pH) Levels:

Most of us have more acidic body rather than alkaline but the acid-alkaline balance is necessary for performing various bodily functions. So, the body constantly try to achieve this state of equilibrium why because a small change in pH will have a profound effect on body functioning.

Do you know that research says that high acid levels will lead to lack of energy and thereby higher incidences of infection? So, it’s essential to turn your body alkaline to make various enzymes and chemicals work best.

Most of us think that raw organic ACV is acidic in nature and how it balances the pH levels. Right? The only thing is that ACV becomes alkaline when consumed. So, regular intake of ACV will keep the body alkaline and thus keep the energy levels up. This will be able to make the body fight against illness and disease.

2. Regulate Blood Sugar:

In a study conducted in Arizona State University says that the therapeutic effects of ACV will help to reduce various health ailments (particularly the risk of type – 2 diabetes). Ingesting ACV at meal time will help to increase the satiety and thereby reduces the postprandial glycemia (that helps with prediabetes and diabetes).

The researchers have found that consuming 2 tablespoons of ACV in water before bed will lower blood sugar levels up to 4 – 6% by morning. So, try taking ACV regularly to regulate your blood sugar levels.

3. Lower Blood Pressure:

High blood pressure will become a risk factor for heart disease, as it forces the heart to work harder and thereby causes heart muscles too weak. The potassium-rich content of ACV will help to balance the body’s sodium levels and thereby maintains an optimal blood pressure and protect your heart healthy and strong.

The magnesium content in ACV will help to relax the blood vessels walls and thereby lowers your blood pressure to maintain proper blood pressure levels and heart functioning.

4. Improves Heart Health:

Other than lowering the blood pressure, it also reduces the risk of getting heart disease by lowering the cholesterol levels. We know that cholesterol is a fat-like substance that builds up in the arteries and makes them hard and narrow. High blood cholesterol will put the strain on the heart and force it to work harder.

The intake of ACV will keep the cholesterol levels low by reducing the bad LDL cholesterol and increasing the HDL cholesterol. Simply include 1 – 2 tablespoons of ACV in your daily diet to lower the cholesterol fast and consume foods which are high in healthy fats.

5. Liver Detoxification:

Other than balancing the body’s pH, ACV also works for detoxifying the body. It detoxifies the liver and helps for proper circulation. It aids in a variety of healing process and helps to remove harmful toxins that build up in the body by flushing out them and enhancing natural blood filtration process to detox the liver and also boost your energy levels.

It breaks up the mucus and cleanses the lymph nodes for better lymph circulation to detox the body and when this lymphatic system is healthy then it effectively removes the toxins from the cells and thereby improves the immune system functioning.

6. Eliminates Candida Overgrowth:

ACV has a rich content of natural enzymes, antifungal and antimicrobial properties that help to eliminate candida in the body. Candida causes fatigue, depression, poor memory, headaches, yeast infection and sugar cravings. The intake of sugars, refined carbs, processed foods, etc.

The prebiotic for healthy bacteria in the gut will help to replace the lost good bacteria and also eliminates the harmful foods that feed yeasts like candida.

Read More on How Apple Cider Vinegar helps to treat Yeast Infection.

7. Eases Digestive Ailments:

ACV stimulates the digestive juices that help the body to break down the food easily and thereby clears various digestive disorders like upset stomach, bloating, indigestion, constipation, stomach gas, diarrhea, gastritis, and heartburn. Consuming ACV by stirring 1 teaspoon of vinegar with 1 glass of water will help up to get quick relief from heartburn and acid reflux attacks.

The healthy acids like lactic, acetic, propionic and isobutyric acids will aid in better digestion and thereby controls the growth of unwanted bacteria and yeast in the body (especially in the stomach). The only drawback of ACV is that it won’t bring relief from the ulcer why helps a lot in dealing with other digestive ailments.

8. Weight Loss:

Most of the natural health and fitness experts suggest ACV diet for a quick drop of unwanted pounds. It curbs your appetite and increases the feeling of satiety and thereby makes you consume fewer calories. It also reduces the water retention and the water weight of your body.

In a study, it is found that people who drank ACV for 12 weeks have low waist circumstance, less visceral fat and low BMI when compared with others who don’t drink ACV. Mix 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder (or honey) and 1 – 2 tablespoons of ACV in 1 glass of water and stir well. Drink it 30 minutes before each meal to get rid of your excess calories and overweight.

Click here to know more about How to Lose Weight by using ACV.

9. Prevent Osteoporosis:

As per statistics, more than 1 in every four women in America over 65 years are diagnosed with osteoporosis and also estimated that this condition affects 200 million women worldwide. So, prevention is always better than cure.

ACV will help you in not getting into this problem with its essential nutrients like calcium that help to prevent osteoporosis. Drink ACV along with each meal will help to ensure proper absorption of calcium to strengthen the bones and thus reduce the risk of getting this disorder.

10. Slows Down the Aging Process:

The antioxidant property of ACV will help to prevent the premature aging signs and also helps to slow down the aging process like wrinkles, fine lines or sagging skin. It aids in slowing down the aging process and thereby maintains the stability of the pH balance in the body and clears the damage of free radicals.

11. Fights against Free Radical Damage:

Free radicals are continually created to carry on the metabolic activity of the body and also there are essential to life. You can handle these free radicals by the rich content of enzymes or antioxidant nutrients. The free radicals cause oxidative damage to cell membranes, proteins, tissues and even DNA and thereby results in arthritis, emphysema, ulcers and immune disorders.

Apple cider vinegar is one of the best antioxidants that help to reduce the free radicals in the body and thereby clears the extensive damages.

12. Hair Care:

Apple cider vinegar is to remove excess buildup of mineral deposits and improves blood circulation to the hair follicles to encourage the hair growth and prevent loss. The only thing you have to do is to rinse your hair regularly with ACV to remove tangles from the hair and close the cuticles to improve porosity and thus encourage strong strands of the hair.

Regular follow up will definitely help you in the reduction of hair breakage and split ends. Simply mix 1/4 cup of ACV in 1 cup of water and use it to a final rinse your hair and massage gently on the scalp for a couple of minutes and rinse off with water. Repeat this action regularly to get rid of hair related problems and to have a healthy hair growth.

Have a look at How to use ACV for Faster Hair Growth.

Other Effective ACV uses include…

Sunburn – ACV exhibits anti-microbial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to promote healing, relieves your pain, redness, and irritation. Simply mix 1/2 cup of ACV in 4 cups of water and dip a clean washcloth in this mix and apply it on the affected areas (or) pour this ACV water in a spray bottle and spray it on the affected areas.

Warts – ACV is acidic in nature that clears the flesh forming into wart and thereby peels off the skin along with clearing the virus to prevent its recurrence. Soak a cotton ball in a small bowl filled with 2 tablespoons of ACV and let it saturate and squeeze the ball to remove excess. Apply it on the wart and secure it with a bandage. Repeat regularly until you get rid of warts.

Know More about

How to use ACV to Remove Moles.

How to Remove Warts using ACV

Toner – Mix equal parts of ACV and water to prepare an ACV toner and apply it to even out your skin tone, balance the pH levels of the skin and prevent breakouts. The acetic and malic acid contains antibacterial, antifungal and antimicrobial properties that heal various skin ailments like acne and make your skin free from microbes and infections.

Go through the below-mentioned links to know some Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits for Health and Beauty.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. Not only used for clearing your health or beauty ailments but also ACV used to clean the stubborn stains on the toilet or floor and disinfect the area. All you need is to pour 2 cups of undiluted ACV before going to bed and avoid flushing. Let it sit overnight and clean the area to disappear.
  2. It also helps for your plants to grow healthy, as some plants need more acidic soil and thus ACV helps to adjust the pH level of the garden and make them grow properly. Mix 1 gallon of water in 1 cup of ACV in a watering can and then pour this slowly over the soil. You can also use it as a great fertilizer.
  3. The best way to take this ACV is to mix some ACV and honey (or maple syrup) in lukewarm water and consume it (or) pour some ACV in your fruit or vegetables juices or smoothies (or) prepare a delicious tea by mixing a dash of cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of ACV and 1 teaspoon of honey in1 cup of water. Stir and heat the mix till it reaches boiling point. Let it cool and drink this tea regularly.

Final Word:

All these ACV remedies will work well in treating your Health and Beauty problems but the only thing is that you have to follow them regularly until you get a complete relief from the problem. Do you know any other successful remedies of ACV to get rid of any other health or beauty problem? Then share your experience with us in the below comments box.

Health Benefits of Used Teabags

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Health Benefits of Used Teabags

Tea is not only a beverage used for refreshment but it can be used to treat a variety of problems at home, especially health problems. Usage of a tea bag is not meant for only one time, as you can use pre-brew tea bags for getting many health benefits.

It has antioxidants, flavonoids, tannins, polyphenols, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help you to get rid of many skin and health problems. Make sure that you have to follow these methods regularly but not for one-time usage.

Read on to discover the amazing ways to reuse the old tea bags for grabbing those benefits.

Sunburned Skin:

  • We all know how irritating is the sunburnt skin but don’t worry, used tea bags are very effective remedy for treating the sunburned skin.
  • It soothes the skin, prevents blistering and relieves you from the irritation.
  • Simply place few chilled used tea bags on the sunburn areas of the skin.
  • Leave it for few minutes till you get some relief from the pain.
  • Remove the tea bags and have your shower with cold water.
  • Repeat the same regularly to get rid of the problem.

Used Teabags for Sunburned Skin

Note:

  • Usage of these tea bags will also give relief from minor burns or stinging sensations.
  • Or have a bath by placing some tea bags in your bath water. Soak in this water for 10 minutes to get rid of irritation caused by a sunburnt skin.

Tired Eyes and Dark Circles:

  • This is a common complaint from many of us, which is caused mainly by spending long hours in front of computers or any other electronic devices.
  • Tea bags have tannins that reduce the puffiness, dark circles and soothe the tired eyes.
  • Refrigerate 2 used tea bags for few minutes and place them over your closed eyes.
  • Leave it for few minutes and remove the bags to get relief to your eyes.

Razor Burn:

  • Ouch! razor burn while shaving? Then use tea bags to soothe the razor burn and get relief from painful nicks and cuts.
  • Simply apply chilled tea bag on the affected area and let it sit for few minutes.
  • Remove the bag and repeat it regularly.

Gray Hair:

  • Rather than using expensive chemical based products for darkening your hair, just try the tea bags and make your own natural dye.
  • Steep 3 teabags in 1 cup of boiling water and then add 1 tablespoon each of rosemary and sage herbs.
  • Stir it and leave it for overnight and strain it.
  • After shampooing, pour this mix on all your hair and massage gently to saturate thoroughly.
  • Don’t rinse and let it air dry naturally.
  • Repeat for several times to achieve the desired results.

Note: Or condition your dry hair by rebrewing an unsweetened tea in 1 quart of water and use it as a final rinse after shampooing.

Boils:

  • Drain a boil without any pain by using a boiled tea bag.
  • Cover the boil with a wet tea bag and secure it with a bandage or gauze.
  • Leave for overnight to drain the boil.
  • Remove it in the next morning and continue this process till you get relief.

Note: It also removes blisters and draws out any infections like cancer sores, cold sores, plantar warts, pinkeye, etc. from the body. It reduces pain and speed up the healing process.

Bleeding Gums and Toothache:

  • Tea bag soothes the bleeding gums by reducing the pain caused by a lost or pulled tooth.
  • Tannins in tea help constrict the blood vessels and stop bleeding along with reducing the swollen tissues causing pain.
  • Place a cool tea bag on the affected tooth or bleeding gums.
  • Press it gently and leave it on for few minutes to get relief from the pain.
  • Remove it after few minutes and rinse your mouth with water.

Baby’s Pain from Injection:

  • Tea bag helps a lot to stop your baby crying from recent inoculation shot. Tannic acid in tea helps to soothe the soreness.
  • Simply wet a tea bag and place on the area where your baby had the injection.
  • Gently hold it for few minutes to get relief from the pain on their arm.

Poison Ivy Rash:

  • Poison ivy rashes can be healed easily with a strongly brewed tea.
  • Dip a cotton ball in tea and squeeze gently to remove excess tea.
  • Dab it on the poison ivy rashes and leave it for few minutes.
  • Repeat it for 2 – 4 times daily to get relief from the poison oak rashes.

Foot Odor:

  • Foot odor occurs due to many reasons like not proper washing and drying the feet, without proper ventilation, not changing the shocks regularly, etc.
  • To get rid of the foot odor, just simply soak your feet in a bowl filled with strongly brewed tea (tea dipped in warm water).
  • Soak for about 20 – 30 minutes and gently dry your feet to stop foot odor.

Mouthwash:

  • Tea is used as a soothing mouthwash that prevents bad breath, toothache, cavities and other mouth pain.
  • Mint is one such effective tea which has antiseptic and menthol that helps to alleviate the pain.
  • Dip 1 peppermint tea bag in 1 cup of hot water and steep for few minutes.
  • Then add a pinch of salt in this tea and use it as your mouthwash.
  • Rinse your mouth to get relief from many teeth and mouth problems.

Menstrual Cramps:

  • Every woman knows how painful is their period time. But using tea will soothe the cramps caused during the period.
  • Tea (especially chamomile tea) raises their glycine levels (an amino acid) that calm the muscle spasms and thus reduces the stomach and back pains.
  • Brew a cup of chamomile tea by simply dipping a chamomile tea bag in 1 cup of hot water.
  • Drink it once or twice daily at the time of your menstrual to get relief from the pain.

Indigestion and Upset Stomach:

  • Tea is a super remedy to ease stubborn indigestion, relieves gas and thus gives relief from nausea and vomiting.
  • Just brew a mint tea by using 1 tablespoon of mint leaves in 1 cup of boiling water.
  • Strain the tea and drink it after having heavy meals for easy digestion.
  • Intake of this mint tea whenever you’re suffering from indigestion and upset stomach symptoms will help you to get quick relief from the problem.

Weight Loss:

  • Green tea boosts the fat burning hormones and has antioxidant property in which EGCG helps to reduce the excess weight.
  • It has catechins, theanine, and other flavonoids that boost up the metabolism and aids in proper weight loss.
  • Dip a green tea bag in 1 cup of boiled water and let it steep for few minutes.
  • Remove the bag and drink it to get relief from the overweight.
  • Regular follow-up will definitely help you to get relief from the obesity by suppressing your appetite.

Wrinkles and Aging Signs:

  • Tea (prefer green tea) has anti-aging and antioxidant properties that improve skin’s elasticity and delays the signs of aging like sagging skin, age spots, wrinkles and fine lines.
  • Pour stuff of 2 used green tea bags in a bowl and mix it with 1teaspoon of honey and few lemon juice.
  • Stir well and apply it on the face and neck thoroughly.
  • Rinse off with lukewarm water after 5 – 10 minutes.
  • Continue this face mask for once or twice a week till you got relief from aging signs.

Exfoliate the Skin:

  • The rough texture of the contents of used tea bags will help to exfoliate the skin, which in turn removes dead cells, excess oil and other impurities from the skin.
  • It also soothes the skin and gives an amazing glow with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Place the contents of 2 used green tea bags in a bowl.
  • Mix with a little of olive oil and honey in it till it forms a paste.
  • Apply it on the face and neck and leave for 10 minutes.
  • Then scrub it gently using circular motions for a couple of minutes.
  • Rinse off with warm water and do it for once or twice a week to remove impurities on the skin.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. Pre-brewed tea bags is used as a deodorizing hand scrub, especially after handling foods like onions, fish or garlic. Just pour tea on your hands and scrub gently to remove the lingering scents.
  2. Tea has antioxidant property, so have an antioxidant bath by hanging few pre-brewed tea bags in the bath water to get relief from many skin problems.
  3. It is also used to cure certain problems such as cold and flu, dizziness, acne, stuffy nose, sore throat, headaches, gas, bloating and other intestinal problems.
  4. A pre-brewed tea bag can be used as a moisturizer to your skin and as a facial toner. Just wipe your face with the cooled tea bag brewed water using a cotton pad.

Finally, tea is much more than just a beverage. Try these tea remedies and let us know how they worked for you. Or do you think anything missed here? Then share it with us.