DIY REMEDIES

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Home Remedies

Health Benefits of Asparagus

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Health Benefits of Asparagus

Asparagus is a spring vegetable that comes in green, purple and white colors. It is a tasty and delicious vegetable that commonly served as side dish or appetizer.

Stir frying, grilling, lightly steaming or oven-roasting are some asparagus cooking methods.

Do you know that this delicious vegetable has many health benefits? Yes, if you see its nutritional profile then you definitely thankful to this amazing vegetable.

  • It is enriched with vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B6, C, E & K), minerals (calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, folic acid, manganese, potassium, and phosphorus), amino acids, carbohydrates, dietary fiber, healthy fats, and proteins.
  • It is high in water content and low in calories and sodium content.
  • It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that give relief from the attack of free radicals and inflammation in the body.

To grab all these nutrition’s, you have to include this in your diet. Now, let’s take a look at some health benefits of asparagus in detail.

1. Prevents Cancer:

It has antioxidants and glutathione (a detoxifying compound) that breaks down and destroys carcinogens and cell – damaging free radicals to fight against cancer.

It is also stated that deficiency of glutathione will contribute to oxidative stress, which in turn result in aging and pathogenesis of various cancer problems.

Consumption of asparagus will help you in protecting against certain forms of cancer like breast, colon, bone, lung and larynx cancers.

2. Maintains Healthy Bones:

Vitamin K is very effective in maintaining bone mineral density and also reduces the risk of bone fracture. Asparagus is rich in vitamin K that keeps your bones healthy by repairing the damages of joints caused by wear and tear.

The iron in asparagus helps to maintain the elasticity and strength of your joints and bones. In addition to this, it also possesses anti-inflammatory property that relieves your joint pains.

So, regular intake of asparagus will help you to keep your bones healthy and thus prevents the risk of facing problems like osteoarthritis or osteoporosis.

3. Aids in Proper Digestion:

It contains dietary fiber and laxative property that helps to maintain a proper functioning of the system by moving the food through the gut. It has inulin (a prebiotic which is a non-digestible food ingredient) that feed the good bacteria in your gut and thus improves the health of the digestive system.

It has inulin (a prebiotic which is a non-digestible food ingredient) that feed the good bacteria in your gut and thus improves the health of the digestive system.

It also keeps your constipation, bloating and other abdominal problems at bay, when consumed in moderation.

4. Supports Heart Health:

Asparagus has vitamin B6, B12 and folic acid which help to maintain proper levels of homocysteine to prevent any serious cardiac disorders like coronary artery disease or clogged arteries.

It has vitamin K (prevents hardening of the arteries), anti-inflammatory property (heals any inflammation) and natural diuretic property (treats high blood pressure or any other heart-related problems) will support the functioning of your heart.

5. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels:

Asparagus acts as a powerful weapon that keeps your blood sugar level under control and thus manages your diabetes. The B vitamins boost up the insulin hormone that aids in the proper absorption of glucose.

It has chromium that improves insulin’s ability to move glucose from the bloodstream into cells. It is stated that asparagus officinalis extract will control the blood glucose by enhancing the insulin secretion and β-cell function in streptozotocin – induced type-2 diabetes.

6. Brain Booster:

Asparagus has folate that when mixed with vitamin B12 (found in meat, poultry, dairy, and fish) will help to prevent cognitive impairment and enhance the functioning of your brain.

Many studies have found that asparagus racemosus is very effective in treating neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s diseases. Make sure to consume asparagus to slow down the brain aging in older adults.

7. Prevents Birth Defects:

Asparagus is an excellent food to be included in the diet for those who are pregnant or trying to conceive. Folate and other essential nutrients in asparagus will regulate the fetal and embryonic nerve cell formations.

It helps in the proper formation of nerve cells in the fetus, prevents premature births and thus lowers the risk of autistic disorders in your babies. It reduces the neural tube defects in the fetuses.

Iron content in asparagus helps to support the overall growth of your baby. So, consume asparagus to give birth to a healthy baby.

Tips and Precautions:

  • The only drawback of using asparagus is that it causes an odor in urine. During the process of digestion, the sulfurous amino acids will break down into smelly compounds that cause disagreeable smell in the urine.
  • It contains certain compounds like raffinose and fructans which may result in abdominal gas if it is over consumed.

Start consuming asparagus by making it in your favorite recipe to get benefited. Do you know any other health benefits of asparagus? Then share it with us in the below comments box.

Top 10 Home Remedies for Stomach Gas

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An uncontrollable fart at an inconvenient time will make a joke for years to come. However, the production of gas is generally a natural part of the digestive process in the body but most people dread to pass gas in front of others why because it can be embarrassing.

Passing gas is a normal affair but do you know how this gas is formed in the stomach? The main reason is when the bacteria in the colon ferment carbohydrates, which won’t digest properly in the small intestine and thereby forms the gas (or flatulence) in the stomach.

Causes of Stomach Gas:

The other triggers causing stomach gas includes…

  • High fiber foods (fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, and peas)
  • Excessive drinking
  • Improper chewing of food
  • Consuming spicy and gas forming foods
  • Stress & anxiety
  • Bacterial infection
  • Digestive disorders
  • Intake of artificial additives by food
  • Constipation
  • Food intolerance
  • Swallowing air through mouth while consuming food or drinking water

Symptoms:

Here are some symptoms which are experienced by a person suffering from this stomach gas disorder.

  • Frequent flatulence
  • Lack of appetite
  • Abdominal bloating
  • Bad breath
  • Belching
  • Sharp cramps in the abdominal area
  • A coating on the tongue
  • Jabbing pain felt in the chest

Stomach gas pain can be experienced whenever the gas buildup in the intestine and unable to expel this and hence thereby experience the gas pain. People at any age can suffer from this stomach gas problem, especially, those who are lactose or gluten intolerant, consuming high fiber foods, drinking excess amounts of carbonated beverages or suffering from chronic intestinal conditions (irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease).

At certain times, gas pain is treated as chest pain or gallstone or appendicitis or any other stomach ailments. So, get proper diagnose with your doctor, especially if you’re suffering from this pain for a long time why because it may an underlying cause for any serious health problem.

Instead of taking antacids why don’t you take natural remedies which are available at home to get quick and long lasting results from this stomach gas and flatulence?

Home Remedies to Get Rid of Stomach Gas:

Have a look at these sure-fire natural remedies which help you to deal with stomach gas at any time with simple home ingredients.

Let’s get started…

Remedy – 1: (Yellow Mustard)

Yellow mustard is a basic household ingredient that can be found in the refrigerator. The rich content of acetic acid in this mustard helps to lower the acidity levels in the stomach and thereby gives you instant relief from the gas and its pain.

It also contains turmeric (in a small amount) that helps a lot in clearing digestive system and also enhances the gut health.

  • Take 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon of regular yellow mustard.
  • Consume it straight and drink 1 glass of warm water immediately to wash down the mustard.
  • Sit and relax to get relief from this gas problem within 5 – 10 minutes.
  • Repeat this process whenever you suffer from stomach gas or flatulence.

Remedy – 2: (Apple Cider Vinegar)

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) helps a lot in dealing with various digestive disorders, including stomach gas with its natural enzymes, acetic acid and natural pH balancing property. It aids in proper digestion and helps to alkalize the body to get rid of excess gas. It makes you feel comfortable and gives instant relief by soothing the irritated stomach.

ACV is safe to use for pregnant or expectant and breastfeeding mothers and for best results, always use raw, organic, unfiltered and unpasteurized ACV.

  • Mix 2 teaspoons of ACV in 1 glass of warm water and stir well.
  • Let the ACV water cool to reach room temperature.
  • Then stir and drink it to get relief from the abdominal gas.
  • Continue drinking this ACV water for twice daily whenever you suffer from this problem.

Note: If you don’t have ACV then try regular vinegar to get relief from stomach gas.

Remedy – 3: (Ginger)

Ginger (in any form) will aid in relieving your stomach gas and indigestion problem due to its antiemetic power. It has a carminative effect that makes the body expel the intestinal gas. It accelerates the process of gastric emptying and thus improves the digestion process by relaxing and soothing the intestinal tract.

Here are some best ways of using ginger to combat gas and other digestive disorders.

  • Mix equal quantities of powdered fennel, cardamom and ground ginger in a small bowl and stir well. Then take 1 teaspoon of this mix and add it to 1 cup of water along with a pinch of asafetida. Mix thoroughly and drink this once or twice daily to get soothing and quick relief from abdominal gas.
  • Simply extract some fresh ginger juice and mix it with a pinch of asafetida. Consume it to beat your stomach gas and flatulence problem.
  • The simplest way to use ginger is to chew a fresh piece of ginger thoroughly after your meals on regular basis to prevent the excess production of gas. Or simply add a small amount of dried or fresh ginger to the food.
  • Take 1 tablespoon of ground ginger and pour it in a pan filled with 1 ½ cups of water. Boil it and simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. Strain the mix and drink this ginger tea for 2 – 3 times daily. If you want, add some fresh lemon juice and honey to enhance the taste of your ginger tea.
  • Add a few drops of ginger essential oil to any base oil. Rub it gently on your abdomen and repeat it regularly to get rid of the problem.

Remedy – 4: (Baking Soda & Lemon)

Baking soda acts as a natural antacid that helps to expel the stomach gas and thereby relieves your problem effectively. Lemon with its citric acid content helps to relieve your abdominal gas. So, this combination works well in treating your stomach gas and flatulence along with its symptoms.

  • Take 1/2 a piece of lemon and squeeze it thoroughly in 1 glass of warm water.
  • Then add 1 teaspoon of baking soda and stir well.
  • Drink this water immediately to get instant relief from the gas and its pain.
  • Repeat the same process of drinking this baking soda – lemon water whenever you suffer from this problem to get quick relief.

Note:

  • If you don’t have a lemon then simply stir 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 6 ounces of water and consume it to relieve your gas in the abdomen.
  • Always remember that not to make a habit of intake of baking soda every time why because it causes a temporary relief but can cause some harm to the health if used for a long run.
  • Avoid using baking soda, if you’re on sodium restricted diet and simple drink lemon or other citric fruit juices (or papaya juice).

Remedy – 5: (Activated Charcoal)

Activated charcoal is an excellent remedy for gas and bloating with its intense adsorption capacity. It has a porous structure that helps to trap your excess gas in the intestine and thereby help to get rid of this stomach gas or flatulence quickly.

  • Take 500 mg of activated charcoal 2 hours before or after your meals to reduce the gas & its formation.
  • Remember to drink a large glass of water after taking this activated charcoal/
  • You can also take activated charcoal in the form of powder or tablet or capsules but make sure to consult your doctor for the exact dosage, as per your health condition.

Remedy – 6: (Cinnamon)

To soothe your irritated stomach and to prevent the buildup of stomach gas, cinnamon acts as an effective remedy. It reduces the secretion of pepsin and gastric acid from the stomach walls and thereby provides instant relief from the gas related problems.

  • Take 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon powder and add it to 1 cup of warm milk.
  • Stir well and drink this cinnamon milk to get relief from the problem.
  • If you want, you can add a little raw honey to this milk and consume it.

Note: Or simply prepare a cinnamon tea by mixing 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon powder (or a few cinnamon sticks) in 1 cup of boiling water. Steep for 5 minutes and strain it to drink this cinnamon tea whenever you suffer from this problem.

Remedy – 7: (Fennel)

Being carminative, fennel acts as the best remedy to give a faster relief from the gas and bloating. It helps the body to expel the gas in the gastrointestinal tract and also it works well in treating baby colic.

  • Crush 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds thoroughly and stir well by adding 1 cup of hot water. Cover and steep it for 5 – 7 minutes. Strain and drink this fennel tea for once or twice daily. Or simply drink this tea after having a heavy meal to prevent the bloating and stomach gas problem.
  • If you bear the taste of fennel then simply chew a few fennel seeds or fresh fennel leaves after having your meals.
  • Stir equal quantities of fennel, cardamom and mint leaves in a pan filled with 2 cups of water. Boil it for a few minutes to prepare a concoction and consume it to get rid of stomach gas.

Note: Also, the intake of chamomile tea will help a lot in aiding proper digestion and to prevent stomach gas. So, consume it to get rid of the problem.

Remedy – 8: (Asafetida)

Asafetida exhibits antispasmodic & antiflatulent properties that make it work effectively in alleviating the intestinal problems like intestinal gas, indigestion, bloating and upset stomach.

Have a look at some best ways of using asafetida for getting rid of stomach gas.

  • Simply add a pinch of asafetida in 1 glass of warm water and stir well. Consume this water for 2 – 3 times daily whenever you suffer from abdominal gas.
  • If you want to bear the taste of asafetida then place a small quantity of asafetida in a ripe banana and consume it. Repeat this process for twice a day to cure your abdominal gas and flatulence problem.
  • Mix asafetida in a little water to make a fine paste and spread this paste topically on the stomach with a gentle massage. Leave it for a few minutes to dry naturally and wipe off the area to clear the applied paste and the gas. Follow this topical application to dissipate the gas quickly.

Remedy – 9: (Peppermint)

The menthol in peppermint exhibits the antispasmodic property that helps a lot in soothing and relaxing the stomach muscles. It eases the gas pains by expelling the painful digestive gas. Regular usage of peppermint will definitely help you to get rid of stomach gas and other digestive problems.

In a study, it is stated that regular intake of peppermint will help to clear the symptoms like gas, bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, pain or urgency at defecation, etc.

You can use peppermint in different ways and some best ways are explained below to treat your gas problem.

  • Prepare a peppermint tea by mixing 1 teaspoon of fresh peppermint leaves in a cup of boiling water. Allow it to steep for 10 minutes and strain. Add some honey and drink this tea for 2 – 3 times daily.
  • Stir 2 drops of peppermint essential oil in 1/2 cup of cool water. Drink this water for once or twice a day whenever you suffer from this intestinal gas.
  • Chew a few fresh peppermint leaves thoroughly to relieve your gas and the discomforts caused by it.

Remedy – 10: (Buttermilk)

Buttermilk is an excellent Ayurvedic remedy that helps to expel your intestinal gas with its rich content of probiotic microbes. It promotes proper digestion and prevents excessive gas or its formation. It also soothes the stomach intestine to reduce the acidity and stomach bloating.

To grab maximum benefits from buttermilk, you have to mix it with carom seeds and black salt for treating gas and flatulence.

  • Add 1 teaspoon each of black salt and carom seeds in 1 cup of buttermilk.
  • Stir well and drink it twice daily to get relief from the stomach gas.

Note:

  • Or simply use celery seeds instead of carom seeds in the above process to get rid of the problem.
  • Also, mix a pinch of dry ginger powder and a little rock salt in 1 glass of buttermilk and stir well to drink it once or twice daily to get complete relief from the gas and its discomforts caused by intestinal gas.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. If you’re suffering from gas due to lactose sensitivity then take lactase supplements that help to digest the lactose and reduce your gas along with its symptoms. Make sure to consult your doctor before taking these supplements.
  2. Reduce the intake of dairy products and quit fried or fatty foods which cause intestinal problems.
  3. Always make sure to keep a track on the foods which trigger gas and intestinal problems. So, try to avoid foods which causing intestinal gas.
  4. Remember to consume 4 – 5 small meals per day instead of having 3 large meals. Also, be sure to eat slowly and chew the food thoroughly without a gulp.
  5. Drinking with a straw or chewing gums will make you swallow air and thereby contribute to form the gas.
  6. Quit smoking and reduce the intake of alcohol and carbonated drinks to reduce swallowing air and thereby increases the accumulation of gas.
  7. Also, limit the consumption of foods which are high in sulfur (like garlic) to reduce the odor and formation of gas.
  8. Regular exercises and other physical activities help to move the gas easily through the digestive tract. So, perform yoga (wind – releasing pose, mountain pose, and downward facing dog pose), walking, jogging, playing outdoor games, etc. will help to relieve your abdominal gas.
  9. Lie down by elevating your head while suffering from the discomfort in the stomach due to the accumulation of gas and rest in that position for some time till you get rid of the discomfort. Also, lie down on one’s side while suffering from bloating during pregnancy.
  10. The intake of certain spices like turmeric, cumin, fennel or cardamom will help you in dealing with digestion and stomach gas.
  11. Increase the intake of water and other fluids (hot fluids like herbal teas or coffee or smoothies or fresh fruit and vegetable juices) to aid proper digestion (especially when consumes fiber-rich foods) and to flush out the waste or toxins from the body and to prevent the formation of gas.
  12. Drinking warm water mixed with 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds or black seeds in 1 cup of boiling water and steeping for 10 minutes to strain it. Drink this water right before eating to get rid of the formation of stomach gas.
  13. Probiotics help to enhance good bacteria in your gut and keep its functioning normally. So, consume probiotic-rich foods to enhance bowel movement and to get complete relief from the stomach gas.

Final Word:

Are you one who suffers from stomach gas frequently? Searching for natural ways to get rid of stomach gas and flatulence, then simply follow the above mentioned natural home remedies and tips to get rid of the problem. Do you know any other successful remedies for relieving your stomach gas? Then share your experience with us in the below comments box.

8 Best Ways to Reduce Cholesterol Naturally

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Are you experiencing easy tiredness after walking few miles or doing some work? Then be careful that it might be cardiovascular disease. Do you know that more than 60% of people die because of heart problems every year?

Thinking what the culprit? It’s none other than cholesterol. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that found in the fats (lipids) in the blood. In general, the cholesterol is used to build healthy cells in the body and helps to maintain the cell membranes, convert the sunshine into vitamin D and perform other important functions in the body.

A rise in cholesterol levels is caused due to unhealthy lifestyle choices (poor nutritional diet + rich junk or saturated fat foods + less physical activity). Certain factors like smoking, aging, obesity, excessive alcoholic or carbonated drinking, genetics, certain underlying problems like high blood pressure, diabetes, liver or kidney problems, stress, etc. will increase the risk of developing this problem.

High cholesterol (or hypercholesterolemia) will result in any serious or even fatal health problems. A high-level of cholesterol will accumulate along the artery walls and thereby increase the risk of developing heart disease. The cholesterol deposits (or plaques) reduce the blood flow through arteries and results in many complications like brain or heart stroke, kidney problems, chest pain, etc.

Cholesterol is carried away through the blood that attached to proteins. The blood cholesterol levels should remain below 200 mg/dL and when it is 200 – 239 mg/dL then it is considered borderline high and if it is 240 or higher mg/dL then it is considered as high cholesterol.

The combination of protein and cholesterol is called a lipoprotein. The lipoprotein profile is the only test done to understand the cholesterol levels in terms of HDL, LDL, and VLDL & triglycerides.

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is the good cholesterol that carries cholesterol to the liver for breaking and reprocessing. It is also used by the body to perform its functioning properly.

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is bad cholesterol that transports cholesterol particles throughout the body. It builds up along the inner walls of the arteries and thereby causes narrowing of the blood vessels.

Very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) contains triglycerides (a type of fat attached to protein in the blood) that causes blood vessel narrow by making LDL cholesterol larger in size. So, people who are taking medications to lower their cholesterol levels should take medications to lower their triglycerides first and thereby for cholesterol.

If you’re one among those lists of people suffering from high cholesterol, it’s time to take a special care of your health in order to clear many health issues. Don’t panic and rush to your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. There are many natural ways to lower your high cholesterol in a safe and effective manner.

Home Remedies for High Cholesterol:

Here are some best natural ways that help you a lot in reducing the high cholesterol levels. All you need is to follow them regularly.

Remedy – 1: (Coriander Seeds)

Coriander seeds lower the bad or LDL cholesterol levels and triglycerides to get rid of the health risk associated with high cholesterol. these seeds exhibit hypoglycemic effects on the body, which is used for managing diabetes.

  • Pour 1 glass of water in a pan placed on the heat.
  • Then add 2 tablespoons of coriander seeds to it and stir.
  • Let it boil for about 15 – 20 minutes and remove it from the heat.
  • Strain the mix and allow it to cool down for few minutes.
  • Finally, drink this coriander water for 2 – 3 times daily to reduce your cholesterol level.
  • Or simply mix sugar, cardamom, and milk to coriander water and drink it as coriander tea.

Note: Or replace coriander seeds with coriander seeds powder to grab its benefits.

Remedy – 2: (Basil and Margosa Leaves)

Basil has an antioxidant and hypolipidemic activity that helps a lot in lowering the cholesterol levels. this basil has the lipid lowering effect that increases the cholesterol absorption to prevent gaining cholesterol levels in the blood. Neem or Margosa leaves reduces the bad cholesterol levels in its alcoholic extracts.

  • Mix equal quantities of fresh basil and neem leaves.
  • Crush them finely to make it like a paste and then place this paste in a sieve.
  • Press it gently to extract its juice and then add 1 glass of water to this juice.
  • Stir well and drink this water on an empty stomach in the morning to get control over your cholesterol levels.
  • Continue doing the same process for once daily to reduce the bad cholesterol in the blood.

Remedy – 3: (Onions)

Red onions are very effective in dealing with high cholesterol levels, as they not only reduce bad cholesterol but also raises the levels of good cholesterol for the proper functioning of the body and thereby lowers the risk of developing health problems.

  • Chop an onion finely into pieces.
  • Then add 1/4 teaspoon of pepper powder and chopped onion pieces in 1 cup of buttermilk.
  • Stir well and consume it to get rid of the problem.
  • Regular consumption will definitely help you to get control over your blood cholesterol.

Note:

  • Also, mix 1 teaspoon each of onion juice and honey in a small bowl. Stir and drink it once daily to get rid of high cholesterol levels in your blood.
  • Or include ginger, garlic other than onion in your diet to get relief from the problem.

Remedy – 4: (Oatmeal)

Oats are full of soluble fiber-rich food that reduces the absorption of cholesterol in the blood and body, which in turn helps to lower the bad cholesterol levels.

  • Take 1 ½ cups of cooked oatmeal (or 1 cup of oat bran) in a bowl and add finely chopped fruits (apple, strawberries, banana, berries) and nuts (almonds, walnuts, hazel nuts).
  • Stir and consume these oats to reduce your cholesterol levels.
  • Daily intake will definitely add an advantage of not only lowering your cholesterol levels but also lowers your risk of getting many health issues.

Remedy – 5: (Indian Gooseberry)

Indian gooseberry (or amla) helps to promote the lipid concentration reduction in the serum and thereby reduces your cholesterol levels. it exhibits anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-atherogenic and hypolipidemic effects that lower your high cholesterol levels.

  • Add 1 teaspoon of amla powder in 1 glass of warm water.
  • Stir well and drink this amla water in the morning on an empty stomach.
  • Repeat the intake of this amla water regularly to keep the cholesterol levels less and perfect.

Remedy – 6: (Turmeric)

Turmeric lowers blood cholesterol (both LDL & triglycerides) with its rich content of curcumin. This compound communicates to liver cell genes to increase the production of messenger proteins and thereby increases the production of LDL receptors in the liver.

  • Mix 3/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder to 2 tablespoons of cooked and mashed eggplant.
  • Stir well and add 1 ½ tablespoon of boiling water and stir to make a fine paste.
  • Then apply this paste on a whole wheat bread and spread it evenly on the bread slice.
  • Consume this bread piece after having a heavy fat meal.
  • Do it regularly for best and effective results.

Note: Or simply include turmeric in your daily cooking (or) supplements to get clear this LDL cholesterol.

Remedy – 7: (Watermelon Seeds)

The lycopene is a carotenoid pigment present in watermelon seeds that helps you a lot in reducing the cholesterol levels. it prevents the heart diseases, clogged arteries and boosts up the health boosting properties. So, consume a watermelon fruit or its seeds to lower LDL and to have healthy blood flow.

  • Take some watermelon seeds and dry them thoroughly in the sun for few hours.
  • Then dry roast these seeds and crush it properly by using a grinder into a fine powder.
  • Add 1 teaspoon of this watermelon seed powder to 1 glass of water.
  • Stir and drink it directly to cut down your high cholesterol levels in the body.
  • Continue doing it once daily to get rid of the problem.

Remedy – 8: (Diet)

A healthy and well-balanced diet represents healthy mind and body. Here we are providing you some diet tips which guide you in maintaining proper cholesterol levels.

1. Omega – 3 Fatty Acids:

It lowers LDL and triglycerides levels in the body to reduce heart or other health problems. Fish is the best source of omega – 3 fatty acids but make sure that not to add saturated fat while cooking, as it this won’t change the LDL levels.

Salmon, Herring, Mackerel, Lake trout, Bluefish, Sardines, Albacore Tuna, Halibut or fish oil supplements (or) Walnuts, Canola, Soybeans, Flaxseeds, etc. are some best source of omega – 3 fatty acids.

2. Fiber Rich Foods:

Foods that are enriched with fiber will bind with the intestinal bile acids and thereby clears the cholesterol out of the body. In a study, it is stated that the intake of 10 – 15 grams of soluble fiber per day will help to lower your LDL levels up to 10% of the total level.

Dried beans, barley, apples, pears, oatmeal, prunes, beans (black, pinto & kidney), brown rice, grapefruits, whole grains, etc. are some best source of fiber and low in calories, saturated fats, and cholesterol.

3. Saturated & Trans Fats:

Saturated and trans fats increase dietary cholesterol and thereby raises LDL and triglycerides in the blood. In general, we should not exceed more than 7 – 10% of daily calories from the saturated fats. So, check the ingredient labels before purchase or consume. Remember there are some products labeled as trans fat-free but do you know that 0.5 gms of trans fat contained in each serving.

Also, make sure that if you found any label as trans fat-free then check whether partially hydrogenated oil (contains trans fat)  is there in that ingredients list. Butter, meat, full-fat dairy products, lard, vegetable oil, margarine, commercially baked cookies, crackers, cakes, and snacks, etc. are high in saturated and trans fats.

Prefer to use healthier fats like polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats rather than saturated fats to get control over your cholesterol levels and to maintain a healthy body.

4. Monounsaturated & Polyunsaturated Fats:

Monounsaturated fats lower the LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol in the blood to reduce the cholesterol levels in the body. So, shift to healthy fats like using olive oil, avocados, nuts, peanut oil, canola oil, etc.

Polyunsaturated fats reduce high levels of cholesterol and keep the blood vessels healthy. A handful of nuts which converts good fat into good HDL cholesterol is essential to grab this healthy fat during the day. So, consume some raw nuts like almonds, pine nuts, pecans, walnuts, hazel nuts, peanuts, pistachio nuts, etc. to get rid of high cholesterol.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. The LDL or bad cholesterol will be reduced if you lose your excess weight. Exercise or physical strain is the best ways to reduces your LDL and enhance HDL to keep the proper functioning of your heart and other body parts. So, choose to walk, run, jog, swim, play, dance, aerobics or yoga to reduce your cholesterol levels.
  2. Green tea is another effective cholesterol lowering agent, which you have to include it as your daily beverages by replacing your sodas, tea, coffee or carbonated beverages with this green tea. So, drink 2 – 3 cups of green tea daily to get rid of cholesterol and include black tea to decrease the blood lipids.
  3. Drink plenty of water and other healthy liquids to flush out the toxins and thereby to lower the bad cholesterol levels.
  4. The intake of apple cider vinegar (ACV) water by mixing 1 teaspoon of ACV In 1 glass of lukewarm water will help to lower the total cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
  5. The rich source of vitamin C, folate and flavonoids in orange juice helps a lot in reducing the blood cholesterol levels naturally. So, drink 2 glasses of this plant sterol contained orange juice daily to reduce your cholesterol levels. also, include other vitamin C rich foods in your diet.
  6. Take a note on the food items which you’re consuming will give you an idea of how much cholesterol you’re taking into the body and in what form. So that, you can plan your exercises to clear these deposits without storing as cholesterol in the blood and body.
  7. People with 30 or greater BMI (body mass index) are considered at the risk of high cholesterol.
  8. Boiling and streaming are preferred best ways of cooking foods, as they don’t require any additional fat for cooking.

Follow these natural ways to get rid of high cholesterol. do you know any other successful natural remedies to get complete control over cholesterol levels? then share it with us in the below comments box.

Natural Remedies to Treat Constipation

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Natural Home Remedies for Constipation

Everyone will experience constipation in their lives. Do you know that 63 million Americans are affected with constipation each year? The main reasons are the intake of unhealthy food, dehydration, lack of physical exercises and improper lifestyle habits.

However, there are many medications, herbs and natural remedies that claim to cure constipation but how do we know which one is the best method to get rid of constipation.

Most of the people want a quick fix with minimal work and taking laxatives to get relief from constipation. But do you know that they do more harm than good to our body? So, it’s best to stay away from laxative medications.

What to be avoided during Constipation?

You should avoid the intake of over the counter laxatives, high fiber content foods, intake of unhealthy foods, etc. Lets us know all about these things in detail.

Laxatives make the body lose all essential vitamins, water weight, electrolytes and other minerals in the colon (large intestine) and thereby causes some imbalances in the body. This will activate the threat and result in dangerous health issues like sudden confusion, severe muscle weakness, seizures, irregular heartbeats or chest pain.

There are mainly three types of laxatives used for treating constipation.

Osmotic Laxatives work by pulling the fluids into the intestine and thereby to flush out the hard stools to clear constipation. It results in certain side effects like diarrhea, dehydration, painful cramps, electrolyte imbalances, and bloating.

Bulk – Forming Laxatives make the small hard stools to increase in mass and thus makes it move easily from the colon, but it can also result in more blockages. It results in certain side effects like painful passage, fecal impaction, and anal bleeding due to the addition of more mass to already clogged stool.

Stimulant Laxatives will activate the unnatural spasms and contractions of the lining of the colon. It results in certain side effects like dehydration, diarrhea, bloating and painful cramping.

Although the long term usage will result in lazy bowel syndrome which in turn leads to depending on this laxatives to get rid of constipation and to have regular bowel movement.

Apart from constipation, fiber is another culprit for constipation. Most people think that intake of fiber will help for healthy digestion and thereby stool formation and regular bowel movement but too much intake of fiber can actually result in constipation, painful gas pains, and bloating.

So, fiber makes the stool tough and bulky. There are two types of fiber – dietary and functional (or isolated fiber). Dietary fibers found naturally in food and functional on are unnaturally extracted from plants. So, too much of functional fiber will cause strains, hemorrhoids, tears inside the intestinal tract, and anal bleeding. It’s always best to consume daily recommended fiber but not in overdosage.

Don’t worry, constipation is not a life threatening problem but the only thing is that it makes you feel uncomfortable and ruin your perfect good day. It prevents the body from getting rid of toxins, which in turn results in colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal disorders.

Remember that everyone’s body works differently, so one remedy that works for you will not work for another. Let’s look at some remedies that help to treat constipation. Be sure that they should be used for 2 – 4 days but no longer than 2 weeks at a time.

Natural Home Remedies for Constipation:

Here are some home remedies for constipation that works naturally to get rid of the problem.

1. Magnesium:

We all know that magnesium is an important electrolyte that is essential for proper functioning of the bones and body cells. It regulates the muscles, bowels, immune system, and heart rhythm. It exhibits some laxative effects that relax your intestinal muscles and attract water back into the colon.

Don’t use more magnesium than the recommended dosage (or use it as your daily bowel regulator) why because the abundance of the electrolyte can cause some serious disruptions in the body. Mostly the magnesium interferes with certain medications like chemo drugs, diuretics, calcium drugs, and antibiotics. Also, people suffering from kidney problems should avoid taking these supplements, as it is excreted through the kidneys.

 Method to use Magnesium for Constipation:

Consume a magnesium supplement of 300 – 400 milligrams daily at night before bedtime with water and have a nice sleep to have a bowel movement by the morning time. Make sure to consult your doctor before taking this magnesium supplement.

Suggestions for Best Relief:

2. Oils:

Oils such as virgin coconut oil, castor oil, extra virgin olive oil or almond oil can be widely used to treat constipation. These oils help to lubricate the digestive tract and thus make a smooth passage of stool through the colon due to its texture and consistency.

They also provide essential nutrients, antioxidants, and omega – 3 fatty acids that aids in proper digestion, stimulate the gallbladder to release bile and thereby regular bowel movements. Try to take pure organic oils rather than oils which have a mix of pesticides, artificial agents, chemicals and fillers of other cheaper oils.

Method to use Oils for Constipation:

Consume 1 – 2 teaspoons of the oil for once or twice daily. You can drink it on an empty stomach either by mixing it with water, coffee, juice, smoothies or sprinkled over salads. Also, mix oil in the flaxseeds but not take flaxseed oil because it doesn’t have high amounts of dietary fibers (as seeds have).

If you have a sensitive stomach then try not to use this oil on an empty stomach, as it results in slight stomach pain, queasiness. For treating constipation (or gas pains) in babies, you can mix 2 teaspoons of coconut oil with homemade formula and feed them to get rid of the problem.

Suggestions for Best Relief:

3. Probiotics:

Probiotics help to clear constipation naturally due to its rich content of intestinal flora (good bacteria). This good bacteria helps to keep the stool loose and retains moisture in the intestine. In many times, we wipe out good bacteria accidentally by taking antibiotics, diarrhea, surgeries, colon cleanses, too much intake of fiber, protein deficiency, etc.

Intake of commercial yogurts will not be a good substitute for probiotics, as they undergo high – heat sterilization process during their manufacturing to get longer shelf life and thereby the active bacteria will be lost by the time we eat it. Probiotics are a safe remedy for treating constipation in pregnant ladies.

Before taking any probiotic supplements, you have to test them for live bacteria.

Testing Probiotic Pills – Toss 1/2 cup of milk in a container and pour the contents of 2 – 3 pills into the milk. Stir well and wait for overnight (8 – 10 hours). The live bacteria in the pills will make the milk to form as curdles or clumps.

Testing Yogurt – pour 1 part of yogurt and 2 parts of milk in a container. Wait for overnight (or 8 – 10 hours). The live bacteria in the yogurt should cause the content to grow and multiply in quantity.

Suggestions for Best Results:

4. Organic Blackstrap Molasses:

Molasses has low sugar content and high nutritional value along with high doses of potassium and magnesium, which are essential to fight against constipation. It hardens the poop by drawing fluids into the bowels and thus moistens the hard stool.

It is alkaline in nature that makes the intestine to form stools by regulating digestion. It has other essential nutrients iron, manganese (regulate the nervous system), copper (clears cancer-causing free radicals), calcium (remove waste and toxins from the colon), and vitamin B6 that relieves you from constipation.

Method to use Blackstrap Molasses for Constipation:

Consume 1 – 2 tablespoons of blackstrap molasses directly or mixed with warm water, juice, organic ACV or simply use it as your sweetener for food. Always use organic molasses to get best results. Continue the intake of this remedy for few weeks at a time.

For treating constipation (or gas pains) in babies, then mix 1 teaspoon of molasses in 1 ounce of cooled boiled water and feed them 3 times a day (prefer right before regular feedings).

Suggestions for Best Relief:

5. Water to Flush the System:

Drinking 2 full glasses of water as soon as you wake on empty stomach will help to stimulate the bowel movement. There should be a gap of 20 – 30 minutes to take your breakfast after drinking water. While we are asleep, everything will slow down and water is the only thing that stirs up and enhances your sleepy bowels.

Also, remember that the intake of too much water will result in dehydration and constipation with a simple logic that the more water we drink the more of essential nutrients (like calcium, potassium, magnesium, etc.) will be flushed away with the urine.

So, drink enough water to prevent the imbalance of electrolytes in the body and thereby it causes digestive disorders, dehydration, and constipation. It is shown in some study conducted in Japan that constipation is not caused due to low water intake or fiber intake but it associated with low intake of water from foods and low magnesium intake.

6. Acupuncture/Massage:

The Acupuncture/massage is a Traditional Chinese Medicine’s (TCM) effective technique recommended for treating constipation. In general, the blockage is caused by the reduction in the flow of Qi, excess hot or excess cold in the body.

Qi (vital energy) is influenced by two life forces – Ying and Yang. Whenever these forces are blocked or interrupted, then it affects the overall health. So, consult a reputable acupuncturist or masseuse and ask them for a specialized treatment for proper digestion and constipation.

7. Never Delay When Nature Calls:

Never ever delays or hold the stool in the colon. If you have the urge to go to the bathroom then simply go and clear the problem. If you hold it then the fluids from the stool are reabsorbed by the colon and make it hard to pass after a time.

If you’re in a position that not having any access to go bathroom throughout the day, then it’s better to train your body to have a bowel movement at the same time every day like having your bowel movement daily at the beginning or end of the day.

8. Positions:

The position also helps to enhance your bowel movements. However, the invention of modern flush toilets is new and causes more strain to poop. Most of the experts are saying that squatting reduces the strain, anal fistulas, constipation, and hemorrhoids, as squatting opens up the puborectalis muscle and thus allows for complete emptying of your bowel movement.

Method:

Place a stepping stool under each of the foot while sitting on the toilet. Then prop your legs up as high as possible to mimic a squatting position. You can also try using a squatty potty to make most natural and comfortable squatting position.

These squatty pottys comes in different heights that range from beginners – level squatter to a more experienced squatter, which is placed underneath the toilet seat and out of the way.

Final Word:

Constipation can be a sign that something is not running right and it is an underlying warning to the bigger issue. It is not fixed overnight but with these natural remedies, you will definitely felt happy for regular bowel movements in a few days.

How to Remove Blemishes from Your Face

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Are you afraid to meet people just because of blemishes on your face? Sitting alone at home and hiding your face to the world is not a good solution to your problem. You need to find a solution to your problem. You may herd about surgical treatments or ointments, but treating such facial problems with home remedies is the best choice and does not have any side effects.

Do you really want to use natural ingredients for your face blemishes? If Yes, then you have come to a right place. Here in this article we will let you how the natural home ingredients like Baking soda, Lemon juice, Turmeric, Aloe vera, Apple cider vinegar, Egg white, Strawberries, Papaya, Oranges, Banana peels and Potatoes work well for your face blemishing problem.

Before we discuss about all these home ingredients in detail, you must know about blemishes, symptoms and cause for it that are given below…

What are Blemishes?

Blemishes are the skin imperfections like dark spots, acne, pimples and pigmentation marks caused naturally on your face. It can also be due to the over stress levels and oil- clogged pores.

Blemish= A small mark that spoils the appearance of your face

Symptoms for Blemishes

  • Change in skin texture.
  • Dark or brown color patches on your skin.
  • Stretched and painful pimples on your face.
  • Dryness or itchiness on blemish affected areas.
  • Discoloration of your face skin during winter or spring season.
  • Appearance of bumps, elevations or filled with pus on facial skin. 

Causes for Blemishes

Here are some reasons that explain you why the blemish problem affects badly on your face.

  • Over stress.
  • Genetic factors.
  • Change in hormones.
  • Using new skin care products.
  • Excess oil production on your face.
  • Change in your surrounding climatic conditions.
  • If you do not wash your face every day and night.
  • When you expose your face to too much of sun (hotness).
  • Eating too much of dairy products can cause blemishes on your face.

Home Remedies to Remove Blemishes on Face

Here are some simple and effective natural remedies that will definitely help you to get rid of these blemishes on your face.

Let’s get started…

Baking soda

Baking soda is an essential ingredient that neutralizes the pH of your skin and wash away the dead cells present on the skin. Multiple dosage of baking soda on blemish prone areas can deter the problem completely. Here are few baking soda combinations that work well to treat blemishes on your face.

Method-1 (Baking Soda and Lemon)

Requirements

  • Baking soda- 1 tbsp
  • Lemon- 1
  • Small bowl-1

What to do

Squeeze lemon juice and dilute it with water. Now add 1tbsp of baking soda to the lemon extract and stir well. Apply the solution on blemish affected areas with the help of cotton. Leave it for some time to dry and wash your face with water. Use this process once in every 2-3 days by storing the solution in an airtight container  for healing blemishes quickly.

Method-2 (Baking Soda and Honey)

Honey is 100% pure and is free from artificial colors, flavors and additives. It is a special gift from nature and is too good for children and adults. When you use baking soda and honey as a combination, it cures the severe burns on your beautiful face.

Requirements

  • Baking soda- 1tbsp
  • Honey- 2-3 tbsp
  • Small bowl-1

What to do

Take both the ingredients- baking soda and honey in required amounts. Mix well in a bowl to form thick paste using a spoon. Massage your face with this solution in circular motion for 15-20 minutes smoothly. The soothe nature of honey helps to relieve skin burns and makes you look fresh. 

Method-3 (Baking Soda and Vinegar)

Baking soda and vinegar is a bubbling combination. Here we discussed a simple procedure to make use of these ingredients as a  remedy for blemishes.

Requirements

  • Baking soda- 1 tbsp
  • Vinegar- 2-3 drops
  • Water- ¼ cup
  • Small bowl-1

What to do

Generally baking soda is highly concentrated. To make it diluted, add with a cup of water and is ready to use now for  face treatment. Take 1 tbsp of baking soda and add it to the diluted vinegar solution in a bowl.  Make a pack on your face with this solution and allow it to dry for 30 minutes. When you rinse with clean water and repeat the course twice a week, you can observe the dark spots vanishing slowly. It makes you look fresh and confident.

Method-4 (Baking Soda and Olive oil)

Requirements

  • Baking soda- 1 tbsp
  • Olive oil- 2-3 drops
  • Small bowl- 1

What to do

Take 1 tbsp of baking soda and 2 drops of olive oil in a small bowl. Now mix both the ingredients until it  forms a thick paste. Apply the paste on blemish affected areas and leave it for 5-10 minutes. Clean your face with cool water and repeat the process twice as a week for better results.

Lemon juice

Instead of looking for a combination you can directly apply on your face. The antioxidants, citiric acid and vitamin C found in lemon juice removes blemishes and skin tan when mixed with tomato and honey. Within weeks, your skin may look clean and shiny.

Method-1 (Lemon and Tomato)

Requirements

  • Lemon-1
  • Tomato-1

What to do

Take 1 medium sized lemon and tomato. Squeeze out the juice of both lemon and tomato in separate bowls. Stir well and apply it on your face. Leave it for 15-20 minutes to dry and rinse it with water. Do this daily at night times. For exfoliation purpose, you can add extra 1 tbsp of oatmeal to the lemon and tomato mixture.

Method-2 (Lemon and Honey)

Another way is to make use of lemon and honey. This duo combination is very simple to prepare at home by following the steps given below.

Requirements

  • Lemon- 1 tbsp
  • Organic Honey- 1 tbsp

 What to do

Combine 1 tbsp of lemon juice and 1 tbsp of pure honey. Rub the solution on your face skin in circular motion for 5-10 minutes. Let the mixture on your face be dry for some time. Repeat the Process daily for a month or so till you see the improvements.

Turmeric

Women mostly prefer turmeric for their facial beauty because of its antioxidant and antiseptic properties. It is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine (compound called curcumin) to treat various diseases especially the skin and hair. Here we illustrated turmeric with wonderful combinations yogurt, lemon and honey.

Method-1 (Turmeric and Yogurt)

Requirements

  • Turmeric powder- ½ tbsp
  • Yogurt – ¼ cup
  • Rose water- 1 tbsp

What to do

Blend all the ingredients i.e. turmeric powder, yogurt and rose water in a bowl. Apply it on your face making a pack that not only cure blemishes, but also eliminates acne and pimple problems naturally. Let the mixture be dry for 10-15 minutes and clean with cool water.

Method-2 (Turmeric, Honey and Lemon)

Requirements

  • Turmeric powder- ½ tbsp
  • Honey- 2 tbsp
  • Lemon-1

What to do

Take the 3 ingredients turmeric powder, honey and lemon in a small bowl. Stir well to make a thick paste. Apply the mixture every alternative day on your face prone to blemishes smoothly with a cotton pad. At first rinse with warm water and then with cool water to remove the applied mixture completely.

Aloe vera

Plant aloe vera in your house that has tremendous health benefits. The aloe vera gel extracted from the aloe leaf has antioxidants and polysaccharides responsible for the effects on your skin and has healing & rejuvenating properties.

Requirements

  • Aloe vera-1 medium sized leaf
  • Lemon juice- 2 tbsp

What to do

Take aloe vera leaf and cut the thorns from both the sides. Also slice the aloe vera leaf into small pieces and carefully extract the gel from it. Add 2 tbsp of lemon juice to the aloe vera extract  and is collected in a small bowl. You can apply the mixture immediately to the blemish prone areas on your face. This mixture can withstand in fridge for a week and use when needed.

Apple cider vinegar

ACV solution is loaded 0% of fats, cholesterol and proteins. Since it is highly acidic in nature cannot be used directly. For better results it is diluted with water and used as face beauty remedies.

Requirements

  • Apple cider vinegar- 2tbsp
  • Water- 2 cups
  • Spray bottle- 1 (medium sized)

What to do

For this method, first dilute the apple cider vinegar simply by adding water to it in a bowl. Still the solution is too strong then you can more water to it. Transfer the  solution from bowl to a spray bottle.  Spray it on your face and dry naturally. After some time wash with cool water and clean your face with a damp towel to get rid of dust or unnecessary particles.

Egg white

Egg white contains 90% of water and 10% of proteins naturally. The enzymes in egg white have the ability to tane the skin and cure blemishes and acne scars. For best outcome egg white ingredient can be used alone.

Requirements

  • Egg white- ¼ cup
  • Face pack brush- 1

What to do

Take an egg and separate egg yolk & white from it using egg white separator machine. Now apply the white on your face with a brush or fingers twice a week. It is better to use brush because it releases pungent smell that cannot deter easily from your hands until you use a mild soap. Allow it to dry for 15 minutes and rinse it with cool water.

Strawberries

Strawberries are a wonderful source of nutrients, antioxidants and widely appreciated for its sweet aroma and bright red colo fruit. Being rich in vitamins, it has the ability to vanish the dead skin, fights against acne scar problems.

Requirements

  • Strawberries- 2-3
  • Honey- 2 tbsp
  • Yogurt- ¼ cup

What to do

Crush  strawberries using fork in a small bowl. In another bowl, add 2 tbsp of honey, ¼ cup of yogurt  and stir well. If necessary, you can also add 1 tbsp of oatmeal to the solution. Rub the obtained solution on your face properly and then wipe off with warm water after 15 minutes. Do this once in a week for skin rejuvenation that makes you look young.

Papaya

Enzymes in papaya exfoliate the skin and brings the oil production under control. When you apply papaya pulp on your face makes you look fresh and young. Here is the simple procedure you must know how papaya slices can be used as a blemish-free skin.

Requirements

  • Papaya pieces- 4-6

What to do

Squash the papaya pieces to make a solution and apply it directly on your face gently with fingers. Let it be dry and then wash with cool water. Repeat the process daily or twice a week for smooth skin on your face and to prevent blemish problem.

Oranges

Oranges loaded with citric acid lightens your skin tone and as a natural bleach for your skin. It helps to treat acne scars, pimples and fight against aging because of its high antioxidant properties. You can purchase orange peel powder from a store or make drying orange peels in sunlight for 4-5 days and then  make a fine powder using Mixer.

Requirements

  • Orange peel powder- 1 tbsp
  • Organic Honey- 2 tbsp
  • Yogurt- ¼ cup

What to do

Mix 1 tbsp of orange peel powder, 2 tbsp of honey and ¼ cup of yogurt in a small container. Spread the paste on your face prone to blemishes. Leave it for 15 minutes before you rinse with cool water. Do it for 2-3 times in a week for positive results on your face skin.

Banana peel

Banana peels are packed with potassium, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce skin burns, redness, pimples, acne and blemish problems.

Requirements

  • Banana peels

What to do

Rub inside peel of a banana on affected areas of  your face gently. Leave it for some time and then wash with clean water. Repeat this process 3 times a day until you get rid of blemishes.

Potato

Potato peels on your face is worth beneficial. It contains several compounds like vitamin C and antioxidants is responsible for treating blemishes and other face related problems.

Requirements

  • 1 medium sized potato

What to do

Peel out the skin from the potato veggie and extract the juice simply by placing it in a mixer. Now apply it on your face twice a day and clean with water. Though you may not see changes at the beginning but slowly get rid of blemishes.

Tips

  • Make fiber-rich fruits and vegetables as a part of your regular diet to stay strong and healthy.
  • Better to consult a cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist before you go for a medication or treatment.
  • Do facial exercises prescribed by the doctor that helps to detoxify the blood and clear your skin.
  • For dry or sensitive skin people its better to use lemon and honey combination on blemish affected areas.
  • Do not allow any sort of ingredient based mixture on your face for more than 30-45 minutes as it can cause allergic reactions.
  • Before you go to bed, change your pillow cover every day as it may can contain bacteria that spoils your beautiful face.
  • Drink plenty of water about 2-3 liters per day to prevent from the occurrence of pimples and skin rashes.
  • Do not poke or squeeze on affected areas of your face with fingers if they are dirty, as it can prolong that particular symptom to some extent.
  • Do not use rough cloths, oil-soaked pads and sponges your face as it can cause irritations which results in forming a new blemishes.
  • Use sunscreen lotions with SPF 15 or higher when you go outside as the rays from sunlight can make blemishes worsen.
  • Massage your skin with oil-free and alcohol-free moisturizers (preferably alpha-hydroxyl acids is good for you) after you take a bath every day or even when you put makeup.

Follow our simple home remedies to cure blemishes on your face and makes you look gorgeous. If you use any other home remedy other than the above mentioned, please share your experience in the comment section given below.

9 Best Ways to get rid of Crickets Naturally

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Did you get annoyed after seeing crickets inside the basement furniture or simply creeping over the wall? Are you disturbed by their irritating sounds of crickets in the middle of the night or in the early morning?

Crickets are the world’s most worrisome pest but the thing is that they chew holes in the furniture and clothes in the home and nipple your vegetable garden along with disturbing your sleep. Before going into the article on how to get rid of crickets, let’s know what are crickets and its types.

What are Crickets?

Crickets are small grasshoppers like species that are well known for its constant chirping and irritating sounds. Remember that when they are small numbers then it won’t trouble you much but in no time they multiply themselves and cause a threat to your health and comfort.

These jumping insects can be seen in two colors – brown and black and they are commonly found in yards, house, barns, and basements. The eggs hatch in spring or early summer and thereby take a time period of 45 days to 3 months to become an adult cricket (Gryllidae).

Types of Crickets:

There are mainly 4 types of crickets – House crickets, camel crickets, field crickets & mole crickets. Field crickets are outdoor crickets that feed on decaying materials, seedlings & fungus whereas House crickets are indoor crickets that cause serious infestation inside the home. These crickets will damage drapes, clothing, wallpapers and causes stains from their feces or vomit.

Causes of Cricket Infestation:

Here are some reasons that explain to you why these crickets will settle in the house.

  • Very bright lights (especially outdoor lighting)
  • Nearby garbage dumps
  • Damp, unclean and dirty house
  • Unclean or dirty surroundings
  • Presence of cold and dark areas
  • Nearby wild bushes
  • Open or easy entries to inside the house like soffits, windows, garage doors or cracks on the walls.

These crickets can grow easily in cool and dark places and when once they enter into the home then they multiple themselves and destroy things like furniture, fabrics, papers, clothes, woolens, walls, home decors, etc.

Don’t worry, there are many natural ways that help you to chuck out these pests easily from your home and keep your house safe and free from crickets. Just give a trial to these natural remedies before giving a call to pest control to kill crickets.

Home Remedies to Get Rid of Crickets:

Here are some simple yet effective natural remedies that definitely help you in getting rid of these crickets in your garden or house or field.

Let’s get started…

Remedy – 1: (Molasses)

Go for a sweet trap why because these crickets are easily attracted by the sweet smell. Crickets love molasses and can easily get into the trap. They go into the trap and drown to never come back out of it.

  • Pour 3 – 4 tablespoons of molasses in a bowl filled with half of the water.
  • Stir well and place this bowl in a room where you find more crickets.
  • The crickets get easily attracted towards this molasses bowl and soon you see these crickets inundating the bowl.
  • Replace the contents of this bowl frequently to send these crickets to their graveyard.

Remedy – 2: (Sticky Glue Trap)

In general, we use sticky glue traps to catch rats and other rodents but these traps can also be used to eliminate crickets from your surroundings like corners, below furniture and along the walls.

  • Pour some cornmeal into the glue boards or sticky traps to acts as bait.
  • Place this where you suffer from these crickets like walls or corner of the home.
  • Soon, you will see these crickets get trapped in this trap and send them out of your house.
  • Repeat this traps (if needed) until you get rid of this cricket infestation.

Note: Also, use pitfall trap by making a hole or pit with a slippery edge around walls, windows or doors. Make sure that the pit is filled with some soapy water that clears the pest insects.

Remedy – 3: (Pepper Spray)

We generally love the spicy hot dishes made with pepper or chilies but no insects, including crickets, will not like this hotness. The main reason is that capsaicin in pepper or chilies will act as irritants for them. Then why don’t we make a hot & spicy spray by using this pepper to repel the insects or crickets?

Have a look at how to prepare a DIY homemade pepper spray to clear crickets.

  • Pour 1/2 a cup of dry pepper in a pan filled with 1 liter of water.
  • Heat them until the water reaches boiling point and then turn off the heat.
  • Allow the water to cool down and strain it into an empty spray bottle.
  • Before spraying this, mix a few drops of dish soap liquid to make it work more effectively.
  • Protect yourself by wearing gloves, eye, nose protection and mouth and shake the bottle before using.
  • Make sure to spray this outdoors only like at the entries or garden and that too in the morning and evening times why because the crickets are active at that time only.
  • Also, avoid spraying it directly on the plant leaves, near waterways or pools or lakes and use inside with caution.
  • Spray it as needed to get rid of these crickets.

Remedy – 4: (Diatomaceous Earth)

Diatomaceous Earth (DE), a powder that derived from the skeletons of primordial microscopic algae and contains a rich source of silicon. This silicon will do wonders for clearing and killing the crickets. It effectively dehydrates crickets and thereby eventually kills it.

  • Buy a food grade diatomaceous earth (not the one used to clear pools) why because it won’t do any harm to the humans and animals.
  • Sprinkle a generous amount of this powder all over the areas where you found crickets
  • Leave it like that to get relief from crickets.

Note: However, this DE is harmless but it may cause respiratory problems. so, be cautious while using this DE powder and avoid using if you’re suffering from asthma or any other respiratory problems.

Remedy – 5: (DIY Pesticide)

You can easily prepare an organic pesticide with some natural ingredients at home and use it to get rid of crickets from your home or surrounding.

All you need is some fragrance-free dish soap, eugenol (found in the oil of cloves) and some water. The eugenol is the main ingredient in which it affects the neurotransmitters of crickets and thereby causes confusion in them. This dish soap will help in killing these crickets.

  • Fill an empty spray bottle with 10 – 12 drops of eugenol and 8 – 10 teaspoons of dish soap.
  • Then fill the bottle with 2 liters of water and cover it to shake the bottle until they all mixed properly.
  • Now use this to spray in the areas where you find these crickets or at the places where they enter the house.
  • Spray it as needed until you clear these crickets completely from your home.

Note: Or simply mix a handful of soap and water in a spray bottle to create a simply pesticide. Spray this on the crickets wherever you see them. The blubber in this soap will go deep inside the shells and cause their cell damage.

Remedy – 6: (Essential Oils)

Do you know that the fragrance of essential oils will act as a repellent to insects (that includes crickets)? This will make you use essential oils as a weapon to kill the crickets. Essential oils like rosemary, thyme or clove oil are generally used in most of the commercial pesticides to repel these crickets.

Here is the detailed process that helps you to make this DIY pesticide using essential oil to clear crickets.

  • Pour 10 drops each of rosemary oil, eucalyptus oil, thyme oil and clove oil in an empty spray bottle.
  • Then fill the bottle with 1 liter of water and 1 teaspoon of dish soap.
  • Cover and shake the bottle to mix all these ingredients.
  • Use this to pesticide spray on all over the house and outdoors where you’re facing problems with these crickets.
  • Continue this spray after every 3 – 4 days till you get complete relief from these crickets.

Remedy – 7: (Growing Plants)

Do you know there are some plants which act as repellants to crickets? They won’t come near to the places where these plants are growing. So, simply go green and plant the cricket repelling plants all around the house.

Nitrogen fixing plants which draw nitrogen from the air and store in their roots will act as repels to crickets. Cilantro, beans, legumes, cloves, garlic and sweet peas are some nitrogen-fixing plants which mitigate this infestation.

Remedy – 8: (Vacuum Cleaner)

You will be in a dangerous situation if the crickets have chosen your home to lay eggs. So, as an emergency, you have to confiscate these eggs to avoid the severe attack of crickets in your home. To overcome this operation, you have to take the help of a vacuum cleaner which is equipped with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to clean the walls, corners, dark areas and all over the house to remove their eggs.

Remember that this operation will be completed only when you successfully disposed of the vacuumed contents in a sealed plastic bag.

Remedy – 9: (Commercial Borax Method)

This is another trap that helps you to get rid of crickets. Here is the process on how to get rid of these insects by using borax.

  • Mix 2 teaspoons of borax in 2 cups of cornmeal and stir well in a bowl.
  • Transfer a small amount of this mix into a shallow dish (small plates or saucers).
  • Now place this dish the bait near the areas where you suffer from this crickets problem.
  • Continue placing these dishes all around the house (different places) to trap them and thus to clear them from home.
  • Clean the dead crickets and replace the mix regularly till your problem subsides.

Note: Or mix 1 teaspoon of borax in 1 cup of beer and stir well till the borax dissolves completely. Pour some mixture into shallow dishes and place it all around the house. The crickets will die when they came into contact with the beer. Check the dishes and replace the mix as needed to clear these crickets from home.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. Pets like dogs or cats will kill these crickets due to their natural instincts. So, allow your pets to clear these crickets from your house or surrounding.
  2. Always keep your home and surroundings like garden or field clean. Avoid any dampness in your house, which may attract crickets and make you suffer from cricket infestation.
  3. Use store-bought bug sprays to kill crickets. All you need is to spray this in the areas where you find crickets but be careful while spraying, as you should not to get into contact with this spray.
  4. Allow the natural predators such as lizards, spiders, etc. do their job of killing and eating crickets. But make sure that not to apply any sprays inside and around the home, as this will affect the predators too.
  5. Bright and dazzling lights will attract the crickets. So, replace them with LED lights and sodium vapor lamps for not to invite these crickets into your home or garden. Also, make sure to keep the entrance area dark at night and close all your doors and windows.
  6. Always clean the cluttered areas and its surrounding by simply removing debris, water puddles (moist damp place), cutting weeds, clean the bowls regularly after using, keeping your garbage bins always sealed, cleaning the drains regularly to keep it free of debris, etc.
  7. To get rid of crickets, you have to pay some attention to your garden by trimming the plants, grasses, and vegetation regularly to prevent crickets build their nests. Also, keep things like leaf litter, lumber, firewood, brick piles, mulch, old logs, rock piles, sealed garbage cans, etc. away from your home to prevent crickets entering and attacking your house.
  8. Always seal your house properly to prevent the crickets from entering by simply following these tips – seal your doors and windows, fill the cracks or crevices in the walls using a caulking gun, fill the cracks in the entry points for utilities like electricity or plumbing, prefer to use weather stripping for doors and caulk or screen patches for screens and windows, etc.
  9. Be sure to check the clothes dryer vents, foundation vents and other vents have screens and there are working properly or not.
  10. We all know that crickets will thrive in damp and moist areas. So, to get rid of this cricket infestation you have to install a vapor barrier to prevent the moisture in the house. Also, it’s must to clean the moisture prone areas like basements and other dark areas regularly to get rid of these crickets.

Final Word:

All these natural remedies are effective in clearing the crickets from your house and garden. So, try these natural remedies and preventive measures to keep your house free from crickets infestation.

Do you know any other successful ways to get rid of these crickets from your home and surrounding? Then share your experience with us in the below comments box.

FAQ’s:

1. Do crickets get into the home on the top floor of the building easily?

Crickets can easily climb up with their sticky legs. So, spray a bug spray all around the windows to keep them not to enter them into the house and also follow the above remedies and tips suggested in the article.

2. Could crickets live in hot climates (summer)?

Yes, of course, they can survive easily in extreme temperature. Also, remember that they attack the home in the night or early morning hours.

3. How do I make sure that my house is free from crickets?

Seal all the holes and leaks in your house, spray bug spray all over the home where you find that crickets are entering into the home. Also, follow the above-suggested remedies and tips like catching and killing them along with disinfecting the house.

4. Is there any reason for crickets to make weird noises?

They chirp for different reasons but the main one is that the male one singing to attract a female for mating purposes.

5. Are crickets bite humans and is it harmful?

Yes, they bite both humans and pets. The cricket bites are not harmful but it causes pain on the skin. So, avoid picking them up with your hands without wearing gloves.