DIY REMEDIES

Radiant Wellness: Empowering Your Health and Beauty

Beauty

Top 10 Surprising Beauty Benefits of Tomatoes

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Top 10 Surprising Beauty Benefits of Tomatoes

Tomatoes are most commonly available ingredient in every kitchen. It is not only used to improve flavor to the food but also possesses many health and beauty benefits.

It is very effective in enhancing eyesight, intestinal system, prevents urinary tract infection, reduces blood pressure, protects against cancer, controls heart rate, lower cholesterol, anti-inflammatory, eliminates blood clots, etc.

Besides health benefits, you can also grab many beauty benefits from this staple kitchen ingredient.

Tomato is a huge reservoir of beauty enhancing properties. Here, we are going to know about few ways of using tomato to improve our beauty.

Lycopene (a powerful antioxidant) is the major compound in tomatoes which protects the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, fights against free radicals to delay the aging of the skin, and protects the skin from cancer attacks.

Other than lycopene, tomatoes are enriched with vitamins A & C along with some astringent and cooling properties.

Let’s have a look at these methods to know how to include tomato in the beauty routine to grab skin and hair benefits.

1. Acne:

Tomato has salicylic acid that cleanses and exfoliates the skin to remove dead cells and toxins from the pores. It acts as an astringent that shrink the skin pores and remove excess oil to clear acne and its scars.

  • Mash a ripe tomato into a puree and apply it on the acne affected areas.
  • Let it sit for 20 – 30 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water.
  • Continue the same process once or twice daily till you get rid of acne.

Note: Or mix equal quantities of cucumber juice and tomato juice in a bowl. Soak a cotton ball in this mix and apply it on the acne affected skin. Wash it with lukewarm water after it gets dried.

2. Suntan:

The high content of lycopene in tomatoes protect the skin from sun’s harmful UV rays and also cools to neutralize the skin’s surface.

  • Place 2 medium sized tomatoes and 1/2 cup of plain yogurt in a blender.
  • Blend it to make a smooth paste and apply it on all over the sunburned or suntanned areas of the skin.
  • Wait for 15 – 20 minutes and rinse off with cold water.
  • Do the same process once daily till you get rid of a suntan.

Note:

  • Or mix 2 tablespoons of tomato juice in 4 tablespoons of buttermilk and apply it on the skin. Rinse off after 30 minutes and repeat regularly to soothe the sunburned skin.
  • Include tomato in your daily diet to protect the skin against the UV light –induced erythema.

3. Large Open Pores:

Tomato shrinks big pores to prevent the easy access to dirt or grime into the skin which causes blemishes and acne breakouts. It has an astringent property that tightens your skin pores and also lightens the dark spots to leave your skin young and glow.

  • Mix 2 – 4 drops of fresh lemon juice to 1 tablespoon of tomato juice in a bowl.
  • Stir well and rinse your face thoroughly with water.
  • Dip a cotton ball in this mix and apply it on your face where you found large pores.
  • Leave it on for at least 15 minutes and rinse off with cold water.
  • Dry your face with a clean soft towel and repeat it twice a week to get relief from the problem.

4. Uneven Skin Tone:

Tomato exhibits natural bleaching property that lightens your skin tone. Vitamin C content in tomato helps for collagen production, fights cellular damage by preventing free radicals.

  • Mix 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of milk cream in 3 tablespoons of tomato juice till it forms as a face mask.
  • Apply this mask on all over your clean face and neck.
  • Wait for 15 minutes and rinse off with cool water.
  • Twice a week application will yield best skin lightening results.

Note: Or mix 2 tablespoons each of raw honey and fresh tomato juice. Apply it on the face and rinse off with cool water after 10 minutes. Repeat it once in every other day.

5. Excess Oil Secretion:

Tomato reduces excess oil from the skin naturally with its astringent property. So, regular usage of tomato is the best remedy for oily skin people to combat excess oil, acne, and blemishes.

  • Take a ripe tomato and cut it into a half.
  • Then rub the half tomato piece on all over your face and neck.
  • Allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes and wash it off with cold water.
  • Dry your skin with a clean soft cloth and continue it for once daily.

Note: Or extract the juice of 2 tomatoes and mix it with 2 – 3 tablespoons of cucumber juice. Apply it on the face and massage it in circular motions. Rinse with cool water after 10 minutes and do the same once daily at night before bedtime.

6. Blemishes:

Blemishes occur anywhere on the body like dark spots, discoloration of skin or scars and damages our skin’s beauty. Tomatoes treat clogged pores and blemishes with its skin lightening and astringent properties.

  • Mix 1 teaspoon each of oatmeal and yogurt in 2 teaspoons of fresh tomato pulp to make a paste.
  • Apply it on the affected area and rub it gently for few minutes.
  • Wait for 20 minutes and wash it off with cool water.
  • Do the same process for once or twice a week till you get rid of these blemishes.

7. Healthy Hair:

Tomatoes are enriched with nutrients that make it as excellent stimulants for healthy hair. It strengthens the hair strands and promotes its growth. It also balances the scalp pH level and adds a natural shine to the dull and lifeless hair.

  • Place 2 tomatoes, 2 teaspoons of aloe vera gel and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a blender and blend it to a fine paste.
  • Apply it on the scalp and cover it with a shower cap for about 30 minutes.
  • After that, rinse off your hair and repeat the same hair mask regularly for once a week.

Note: Or simply mix 1 tomato paste with 2 tablespoons of castor oil and apply it on the scalp. Rinse off your hair with mild shampoo and lukewarm water after 30 – 45 minutes. Continue it once a week regularly.

8. Skin Aging:

Tomato helps to delay the aging of the skin with its antioxidant property that reduces the damage of free radicals to keep your skin looking healthy and young. Lycopene helps the skin to absorb enough oxygen which in turn delays the skin aging and thereby wrinkles.

  • Place 1 ripe tomato and 1 ripe avocado in a blender and blend it to make a smooth paste.
  • Apply it on all over the face and neck and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
  • Wash with lukewarm water and dry your skin using a soft towel.
  • Apply this anti – aging face mask regularly for once a week to get rid of the aging signs and wrinkles.

Note: Also, the intake of 1 glass of tomato juice daily will help to nourish your skin and prevent many skin problems, including aging.

9. Dead Skin Cells:

Accumulation of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin will put down your skin’s glow. The regular usage of tomato will clear the dead skin cells and make your skin clean and glow. The vitamins (A, C & K) in tomato will nourish your skin to smoothen it.

  • Mix 1 tablespoon each of tomato juice and bentonite clay (or any clay powder) and 2 tablespoons of honey in a bowl.
  • Stir well to make a fine scrub paste and apply it on your skin using a brush.
  • Let it sit for about 15 – 20 minutes and then wet your fingers to scrub the skin for a couple of minutes.
  • For best results, use this exfoliating scrub for once a week.

Note: Or cut a tomato into 2 pieces and sprinkle some powdered sugar on one piece. Use it to rub your face using circular motions till you get rid of the problem.

10. Oily Hair:

Tomato not only treats oily skin but also treat oily hair with its acidic nature that helps to balance the pH of the scalp. It effectively controls the oil secretion, prevents dandruff (bad odor) and thus helps you to get rid of oily hair.

  • Wash your hair thoroughly and apply freshly extracted tomato juice on all over your scalp.
  • Let it sit for 10 minutes and rinse off with cool water.
  • Continue the same process for once or twice a week till you get rid of the oily hair and dandruff.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. Simply consume a tomato or its juice for twice daily to get rid of unwanted fat that deposited in the body.
  2. Rubbing the skin with tomato slices will help you to get rid of blackheads by shrinking the skin pores.
  3. It’s a wise advice to do some skin patch test to know whether you’re allergic to tomatoes or not before applying on the skin.
  4. Always prefer to prepare the fresh batch of tomato mix for best results rather than storing and reusing it.
  5. Avoid leaving tomato mix on the skin longer than then recommended time, as it causes itching, redness, dryness and other irritations on the skin.
  6. People who have dry or sensitive skin should avoid using pure tomato on the skin, they have to mix it with other soothing ingredients like a little of water, yogurt, aloe vera, rosewater, etc.

Try these tomato methods to grab all these beauty benefits. Do you know any other tomato methods to enhance beauty? Then share it with us in the below comments box.

6 Best Ways to Get Rid of a Swollen Lip

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Home Remedies for Swollen Lips

A swollen lip is really an embarrassing and painful condition which causes difficulty in drinking, eating, talking or even opening the mouth properly.

The skin tissues in our lips are soft and delicate, so they get hurt quickly and swollen up. The reasons for this swelling include trauma, dryness, allergies, extreme weather conditions, insect bite, poor diet, dehydration, viral infection or usage of poor quality lip care products.

You should consult your doctor if you’re suffering from a swollen lip that caused due to an allergy, serious injury or any chronic medical problem for proper diagnose and treatment.

For other cases of a swollen lip, you can go through these natural home remedies rather than using any over the counter cosmetic medications.

Home Remedies for Swollen Lips:

Here are the best remedies that are widely used to reduce the swelling of your lips. Follow them regularly for quick and effective results.

Remedy – 1: (Cold or Warm Compress)

Cold or warm compress will improve the blood flow and thus lessens the accumulation of blood in the swollen area, which in turn, reduces the swelling and inflammation.

Placing cold compress as soon as you notice swollen lips will help to reduce the swelling that caused by the lip piercing. Hot compress will reduce the accumulation of blood flow in the swollen areas and thereby reduces the pain and swelling.

  • Wrap some ice cubes in a washcloth (for cold compress) or soak a washcloth in warm water and wring to remove excess water (for warm compress).
  • Place any of this compress on the swollen lip area for 5 – 7 minutes and remove it for a minute.
  • Repeat the application again and continue this process for few times a day till you get rid of a swollen lip.

Note:

  • Avoid applying ice cubes directly on the swollen lips, as it results in mild frostbite and also never apply compress on the lips if you’ve any cuts on the skin.
  • Also, instead of ice cubes wrap, you can use a cold spoon or a bag of frozen peas.
  • For best results, use a cold compress for initial 1 – 2 days and then go for a warm compress.
  • If you’re having any breaks or cuts in the skin then avoid placing a warm compress. Also, use cold and hot compresses alternately for every 4 – 5 hours till you get relief from swollen lips.

Remedy – 2: (Aloe Vera)

Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and skin soothing properties that reduce pain, burning sensation, and swelling of the lips. It works best in treating swollen lips that caused by insect bites, mosquito bites or some kind of allergic reactions.

  • Extract aloe vera gel freshly from an aloe vera leaf.
  • Apply a fresh aloe vera gel on the swollen lip using your fingers.
  • Massage the area gently for a minute till aloe vera is absorbed by the lip.
  • Continue this application for 2 – 3 times daily.

Remedy – 3: (Turmeric)

Turmeric contains curcumin, which exhibits antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that heal your swollen lip that caused by any bacterial or viral infections.Cold water and fuller’s earth used in this process will enhance the healing process.

Here is the detailed process to prepare a turmeric herbal ointment used to get rid of a swollen lip.

  • Add a pinch of turmeric powder in 1 teaspoon of fuller’s earth.
  • Stir well by adding enough cold water till it forms a paste.
  • Apply this herbal paste all over the affected lip.
  • Let it dry for few minutes and rinse your lips using lukewarm water.
  • Continue the application of this ointment for twice daily until you get complete relief from the swelling and pain of your lips.

Remedy – 4: (Black Tea Bag)

Black tea has tannins which exhibit an astringent property that reduces your pain and swelling in the soft tissues of the lips.

  • Place a black tea bag in warm water for about 10 minutes.
  • Take out the tea bag and squeeze it to remove excess water.
  • Let it cool for few minutes and place this black tea bag over the swollen lip.
  • Let it sit for 10 – 15 minutes and take it out.
  • Do the same process for several times a day till you get relief from the lip swelling.

Note: Also, use chamomile tea bags or green tea bags instead of black tea bags for preventing swollen lips.

Remedy – 5: (Tea Tree Oil)

Tea tree oil exhibits antimicrobial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to treat swollen lips (especially caused by cuts or infections).

  • Dilute few drops of tea tree oil in 1 teaspoon of any natural or carrier oil (like coconut oil, almond oil or olive oil or jojoba oil).
  • Apply this mix on the lips and massage gently.
  • Rinse off after 30 – 45 minutes with water.
  • Pat dry your lips and repeat the same process for few times daily.

Note:

  • Or use aloe vera gel instead of any carrier oil to get rid of this problem.
  • Also, avoid applying undiluted tea tree oil directly on the affected area. Never use tea tree oil on children and also rinse them immediately if it causes any irritation on the applied area.

Remedy – 6: (Witch Hazel)

Witch hazel has an astringent property that soothes your pain, reduces swelling and also cleans the cut or infection causing swollen lip.

  • Mix 1/2 tablespoon of salt in 1 tablespoon of witch hazel and apply it on the affected lip using a cotton ball.
  • Allow it to sit for about 30 minutes and rinse off with cold water.
  • Repeat the same process regularly till you notice the reduction in your swollen lip.

Some Other Effective Remedies:

  • Honey has humectant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that moisturize your lips and reduce pain and swelling. Apply some raw honey on the affected lip using a q-tip or cotton ball and rinse off with cold water after 20 minutes. Repeat it 2 – 3 times daily to get rid of the problem.
  • Application of baking soda paste (mix 3 teaspoons of baking soda in 1 teaspoon of water) will help you a lot in relieving your swollen lip that caused due to fever blisters, allergic reaction, or insect or mosquito bites. Rinse off after few minutes with cold water. Do it few times daily till the swelling subsides.
  • Salt acts as a natural disinfectant that reduces the swollen lip caused due to some cuts or infection, as it kills the germs causing infection in the cuts. Mix 1 tablespoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water and apply it on the affected lip using a cotton ball. Initially, you experience a stinging sensation but it heals. Repeat once or twice daily.
  • Placing thin slices of potato or a paste of apple butter (apple pulp mixed in butter) on the swollen lip will help to treat the problem effectively.
  • Using Epsom salt will help to reduce swelling effectively, f it is caused due to any cuts or bruises on the lips. It reduces the swelling with its anti-inflammatory properties. Stir 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt in 1 cup of warm water and soak a cloth in this water. Squeeze it to place on the swollen lips for 15 minutes and do it daily.

Do’s and Don’ts:

  1. Application of natural oils like coconut oil or almond oil or arnica oil or castor oil or vitamin E oil on your swollen lips will help to reduce the pain and swelling of your lips. Make sure to massage for few minutes and leave for a couple of hours to overnight. Do it daily for best results.
  2. Make sure to consult your doctor if your experience swelling repeatedly for proper diagnose and treatment.
  3. Drink plenty of water and consume a healthy and well-balanced diet that includes vitamins (A, B & C) rich foods to get rid of swollen lips.
  4. Never ever lick your lips, as it worsens your problem and also, coat your lips with lip balm to moisturize and prevent swelling.
  5. Use milk cream or petroleum jelly to treat dry or chapped lips which in turn prevents swollen lips.
  6. Always maintain proper lip care hygiene to prevent this problem like regular scrubbing, protecting them from weather conditions, etc.
  7. Avoid the usage of harsh chemical based cosmetics on your lips which causes and worsen your swollen lips.
  8. Drink plenty of water and consume healthy food that is rich in vitamin C, green and other immune boosting foods to fight the infection and to reduce the pain and swelling of your lips. Also, avoid the intake of any allergic food items causing swollen lips.

Final Word:

So, you came to know how to get rid of swollen lips naturally with simple home ingredients. Try these natural remedies for treating swollen lips. Do you know any other successful remedies to get rid of swelling lips? Then share it with us in the below comments box.

FAQ’s:

1. Are there any symptoms to recognize the swollen lips?

The swelling of lips may or may not be accompanied with pain that in turn results in difficulty in eating, talking, drinking or opening the mouth. Discharges from pus filled bumps, lips feeling numb, nasal congestion, itchiness, tingling and tightening sensation, fat or enlarged lips.

You may experience other symptoms like blisters, headache, lip discoloration, chapped skin, tiredness, fatigue, dried and painful lip peeling, etc.

2. How long will it take to heal this swelling on the lips if you cut it with the tooth?

You may develop a bruise or cut at the site of injury on the lip and the healing time will depend on how badly the lips injured. It may take you from 7 – 10 days of time to heal your lips completely.

3. I heard that apple cider vinegar works but it is acidic in nature. Is it effective to apply on the swollen lip?

You can use ACV for treating swollen lips. Even though it is acidic in nature but it has an excellent antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help a lot in relieving your pain and swelling by fighting against the microbes causing swollen lips.

Coming to burning or tingling sensation, you have to dilute ACV in water before applying. Mix 1 teaspoon of organic ACV in 1 tablespoon of water and apply it on the swollen lips with a cotton ball. Leave it for few minutes and rinse with water. Continue this for 1 – 2 days daily till you get relief from swollen lips.

4. Is there any chance for my lips to swell after lip piercing?

There is a chance for swelling your lips after lip piercing why because the harmful bacteria or microbes may enter into the site and causes infection. This will result in lip swelling and hurt with a lot of pain. So, take proper care and maintain oral hygiene to get rid of this problem.

5. When to take medical care while suffering from lip swelling?

When you’re experiencing extreme symptoms like tight throat, fingernail discoloration, tongue swelling, distress, breathing difficulties, rash or hives or recurrence of this swelling on your lips, etc. then you should immediately consult your doctor for proper diagnose and treatment.

6. Are they any foods that cause these swollen lips?

In general, people who consume foods that are allergic to them then they experience swollen lips. Although, there are some common foods that cause swollen lips like melons, banana, pineapples, avocado, apples, etc. You will observe less effect when you consume this food in cooked form.

7. How many days the fat lip takes to return to normal position?

It is a tricky question why because there are many factors that determine the time for the returning busted lips to normal lips. The factors include the cause of your swelling, the severity of the affected areas of the lips, allergic reactions, insect bites, etc. So, the healing time may differ from 2 days to a month.

5 Best Methods of Apple Cider Vinegar to Treat Body Odor

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How to use Apple Cider Vinegar for Body Odor

Body odor after a good workout or working for a long day in the heat (or) at outside is quite common, but unpleased or excessive body odor without much work is quite embarrassing.

In general, the body releases sweat from the pores and when this sweat gets contact with the bacteria (on the skin’s surface), then it results as body odor.

In some people, the apocrine sweat glands produce more of sweat and the bacteria will grow quickly in these moist, warm areas of the skin. So, this combination will cause body odor.

There are many internal and external causes for this body odor like emotional stress, certain foods, overweight, certain medical problems (kidneys or liver disorder, diabetes), genetics, poor hygiene, gastrointestinal problems, nutritional deficiencies, etc.

Unusual pungent smell, excessive sweating, cold hands, night sweats, etc. are some symptoms of body odor.

However, the usage of antiperspirants and deodorants will give temporary relief but the usage of natural remedies helps to control the growth of bacteria and thereby excessive sweating.

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is one among those natural remedies that widely used to treat body odor with its amazing properties. Here, in this article, we learn how to control body odor with ACV.

Is Apple Cider Vinegar good for Body Odor?

  • Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is acidic in nature that neutralizes the alkaline environment and balances the pH levels to prevent over sweating and also creates a hostile environment for the formation or growth of the bacteria.
  • It acts as a powerful bacteria-fighting ingredient that effectively eliminates the body odor causing bacteria.
  • It contains many essential enzymes, trace minerals, pectin and beneficial bacteria that aids in proper digestion. This, in turn, prevents body odor caused by digestive or gut disorders.
  • It also controls excessive sweating and removes toxins from the body with its astringent property.
  • The buildup of toxins in the body will slow down the functioning of the liver and kidneys, which in turn results in foul body odor. Here ACV acts as a tonic that detoxifies your body and thus boosts up the functioning of the liver to prevent body odor.

How to use Apple Cider Vinegar for Body Odor:

Apple cider vinegar can be used in many ways for treating body odor, but here we are going to know a few effective methods to get control over body odor.

Method – 1: (Apple Cider Vinegar – External)

Applying ACV will prevent the body to emit excessive sweating and thus reduces body odor.

  • Pour some ACV in a bowl and soak a cotton ball in this ACV.
  • Apply it on all over your underarms and wait for 2 – 4 minutes.
  • Then after, take your shower to get rid of body odor.
  • Repeat the same process twice daily (once in the morning and once at night before bedtime) to get relief from body odor.

Note:

  • If you’ve dry or sensitive skin then dilute ACV with some water and apply it on your underarms.
  • Or mix 1 tablespoon each of ACV and lemon juice to 1 cup of lukewarm water. Apply it on the skin using a cotton ball and take your shower after it dries.

Method – 2: (Apple Cider Vinegar Bath)

This bath will help to get rid of toxins and bacteria on the skin along with neutralizing the body’s alkaline nature to prevent body odor.

  • Pour 1 cup of organic ACV in your bathtub, which is filled with warm water.
  • Stir well and soak in this water for 10 minutes.
  • Repeat this ACV bath regularly for once or twice a week to get relief from the problem.

Note: Or mix 1/2 cup of ACV with 1 cup of water and pour this mix into an empty spray bottle. Use it to spray this mix on the odorous areas after taking your bath.

Method – 3: (Apple Cider Vinegar – Internal)

Consumption of ACV drink will flush out toxins from inside the body and helps to get relief from the foul body odor.

  • Mix 1 tablespoon of raw ACV and a little honey in 1 glass of lukewarm water.
  • Stir well and drink it to get control over the problem.
  • Continue the intake of this drink for 2 – 3 times daily before taking meals.

Note: ACV is acidic in nature, which may erode your tooth enamel. So, drink it using a straw to prevent this problem.

Method – 4: (ACV with Baking Soda)

Both baking soda and ACV helps a lot in flushing out the toxins from the body and also prevents excessive sweating.

  • Mix a pinch of borax, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of ACV in 1 liter of water.
  • Stir well and sip it slowly throughout the day.
  • Repeat drinking it for 3 – 5 days and then take a break of 2 – 3 days and again take it to relieve your body odor.

Method – 5: (Apple Cider Vinegar with Essential Oils)

This combination helps a lot in preventing the body by reducing the production of sweat and preventing bacteria causing odor. Here are few ways of using essential oils with ACV.

  • Mix 10 drops of witch hazel oil and 1 tablespoon of ACV in 1 cup of water. Soak a cotton ball in it and dab it on your underarms. Dry it for few minutes and rinse it off with water.
  • Stir 5 – 7 drops of rosemary oil and 2 tablespoons of ACV in 1 cup of water. Pour the mix into a spray bottle and use it as your deodorant after the bath to get rid of body odor.
  • Pour 4 – 5 drops of tea tree oil, 1 tablespoon of ACV and 1 cup of water in a spray bottle. Shake it well and use it after your shower or whenever your underarm stinks to get rid of the problem.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. ACV acts as a drying agent, so it’s recommended to apply a moisturizer after using it on the body to prevent skin dryness.
  2. Always use raw, organic, unpasteurized and unfiltered apple cider vinegar with its mother content for grabbing its amazing benefits.
  3. Rinse your underarms with a mix prepared by adding 1 tablespoon of ACV in 1 cup of sage tea to reduce the overproduction of sweat by sweat glands.
  4. Applying apple cider vinegar on open wounds or freshly shaved areas will cause a stinging sensation. So, avoid applying it on those areas.
  5. Regular application of ACV will increase the skin’s sensitivity to sun rays. So, it’s always recommended to apply sunscreen before stepping out.
  6. Drink plenty of water, consume a healthy diet, do some regular exercises to reduce your stress and anxiety, reduce your overweight, take your bath daily, eliminate caffeine content, quit smoking, avoid the intake of certain spicy foods (onions or garlic), etc. has to be included in your daily lifestyle to prevent body odor.
  7. Wash your clothes regularly after wearing them once to get rid of bacteria and thereby body odor.
  8. Also, wear fabrics that observe your sweat and moisture to prevent you from foul body odor. It is must to keep yourself dry and clean.

So, stop worrying about this embarrassing problem and start using apple cider vinegar to get rid of body odor. Do you know any other effective methods for treating body odor? Then share it with us in the below comments box.

How to Get Rid of Puffy Eyes using a Potato

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How to use Potato for Puffy Eyes

Waking up with puffy eyes is really frustrating, which makes the person look tired, dull, ill and wrinkled. The puffiness is caused due to the excess buildup of lymphatic fluids or water under the eyes.

Excessive crying, genetics, hormonal changes, sinusitis, hangovers, poor diet, allergic reactions, stress and anxiety, weather changes, lack of enough sleep, smoking, dehydration, alcohol, etc. are some causes for puffy eyes.

Dark circles, mild swelling and saggy or loose skin are some symptoms of puffy eyes. Other than using cosmetic products to cover puffy eyes, just try some natural remedies to get rid of puffy eyes.

Potato with its amazing properties will work well in treating puffy eyes and dark circles. Here, we learn how potatoes are used to treat puffy eyes in detail.

Does Potato treat Puffy Eyes?

  • Potato has enzymes called catecholase that help to reduce the water retention under your eyes to get rid of puffiness.
  • It exhibits an astringent property that tightens your skin under the eyes to reduce puffiness.
  • It contains starch which has an anti-inflammatory property that reduces the pain and swelling under the eyes.
  • Essential nutrients and antioxidants in potato help to reduce puffiness and keep the skin smooth.

How to use Potato for Puffy Eyes:

There are many ways of using potato for treating puffy eyes but here we explained a few effective methods. All you need is to follow them regularly without any interruption.

Method – 1: (Potato Slices)

This is a most widely used method of potato for treating dark circles and puffy eyes.

  • Take a cool potato and cut it into 1/3 inch slices.
  • Then take a relaxed position and close your eyes to place these slices on each eye.
  • Wait for 10 – 15 minutes and remove it.
  • Rinse off with water and pat dry your eyes.
  • Continue the same process for 2 – 3 times daily.

Note:

  • Or simply cut the potato into thin slices and place it in cool water for few minutes and then take it out to place this cold potato on your eyes for cooling effect.
  • Also, grate a medium potato and wrap it in a clean cloth like a poultice. Place it over your closed eyes for 20 minutes and repeat regularly for 2 – 3 times daily.
  • Or else, use freshly extracted potato juice on your eyes using a cotton pad and leave it on for about 10 – 15 minutes.

Method – 2: (Potato with Cucumber Juice)

Both cucumber and potato have an astringent and cooling property that soothes the skin to get rid of pain and swelling along with tightening the skin by reducing water retention under the eyes.

  • Blend 1 small potato and extract its juice and do the same with 1/2 a cucumber.
  • Then add equal quantities of this fresh potato juice and cucumber juice.
  • Stir well and apply it on your eyelids using a cotton ball.
  • Let it sit for few minutes till it dries completely.
  • Wipe it off and do the same regularly for 2 – 3 times daily till you get rid of puffy eyes.

Method – 3: (Potato Peel)

Do you know even the potato peel can also be used to reduce your eye’s puffiness? So, instead of throwing out the potato skin, just use it to get clear from puffy eyes and dark circles.

  • Peel the potato and rub the inside of the potato skin gently around the eyes.
  • Then after place the peel on your closed eyes.
  • Let it sit for about 10 – 15 minutes and discard the potato’s skin.
  • Continue the same process thrice a week regularly to get relief from puffy eyes.

Do’s and Don’ts:

  1. Sweet potatoes are also used to treat puffy eyes with its anthocyanin compound that reduces swelling. Place a slice of sweet potato under your eyes and take out after 15 minutes.
  2. Rinse your eyes thoroughly if potato (in any form) gets into your eyes.
  3. Along with the usage of potato, get plenty of sleep, avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, do yoga and meditation to manage your stress, etc. should be done to get quick relief from the problem.
  4. Drink plenty of water and consume a healthy diet that includes food rich in iron, vitamins A, C & E. Avoid artificial sweeteners and lessen your salt intake to get rid of puffy eyes now and then.
  5. Moisturize your eyes regularly and rinse off while going to sleep to get rid of strain on your eyes and also do some eye exercises and take some breaks while working on computers.
  6. Always remove your makeup before going to sleep.
  7. Avoid over exposure of eyes to the sunlight, as it causes eye bags. So, apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses while going out.
  8. Consult your doctor if you’re suffering from puffy eyes that are caused due to cold, allergies, upper respiratory problem or hypo nature of thyroid glands, for proper diagnose and treatment.

Try these natural potato methods to get rid of puffy eyes. Do you know any successful potato methods? Then share it with us in the below comments box.

How to use Baking Soda for Skin Whitening

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How to Whiten your Skin with Baking Soda

Everyone desires to have a flawless and gorgeous skin but due to many factors like pollution, poor diet, sunrays, stress, aging, scars, freckles, dry skin, skin irritations or allergies, rashes, genetics, etc. will increase the melanin production and results in dark and uneven skin tone.

However, there are so many skin whitening products available in the market but they contain some harsh chemicals which harm your skin in the longer run.

Stop worrying and start following the natural ways to lighten your skin. Baking soda will stand as one of the best natural remedies that treat your uneven skin tone. In this article, we will let you in detail about baking soda for skin whitening.

Before going to the methods of using baking soda, we will discuss its properties used for whitening your uneven skin tone.

Does Baking Soda Whiten your Skin Tone?

  • Baking soda (or sodium bicarbonate) acts as an excellent exfoliant that removes dead skin cells and cellular damages throughout the applied skin.
  • It balances your pH levels with its amphoteric property that helps to neutralize the acid – alkaline nature of the skin.
  • It has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that treat all the infections on your skin.
  • It has anti-inflammatory properties that calm down your irritation, pain, and inflammation on the skin.
  • It removes excess oil from the skin with its good oil – absorbing property and thus cleanses your skin deeply to prevent the buildup from clogged pores.
  • Regular usage will keep your skin softer and whiter with an even skin tone.

How to Whiten your Skin with Baking Soda:

Dark and uneven skin tone can be really embarrassing. So, here we are going to know few methods of using baking soda for whitening your skin.

Method – 1: (Baking Soda)

Baking soda mixed with water will give many amazing results that include even skin tone.

  • Add 2 parts of baking soda in 1 part of water and stir well to make a fine paste.
  • Apply this paste on the affected areas and massage gently.
  • Let it sit for few minutes till it dries.
  • Rinse off with lukewarm water followed by cold water.
  • Repeat it 2 – 3 times a week till you rid of uneven skin tone.

Whiten your Skin with Baking Soda

Note:

  • Also, use rosewater (or) honey (or) almond milk (or) hydrogen peroxide (or) buttermilk instead of water for preparing the paste.
  • Or scrub the affected area with baking soda paste gently (or) mix baking soda in your cleanser before using.
  • Or simply mix 1 – 2 cups of baking soda and 2 cups of Epsom salt in your bathtub filled with warm water. Soak in this water for about 30 minutes and then rinse with normal water to eliminate toxins.

Method – 2: (Baking Soda with Apple Cider Vinegar)

Both these ingredients will exfoliate the skin and balances its pH levels to prevent dark and uneven skin tone.

  • Add 3 tablespoons of organic apple cider vinegar in 2 tablespoons of baking soda and stir well to make a paste.
  • Apply it on the dark areas of the skin and rinse off with warm water followed by cold water after 15 minutes.
  • Dry your skin and apply moisturizer.
  • Continue this process regularly for once or twice a week.

Baking Soda with Apple Cider Vinegar For Skin Whitening

Note:

  • Or instead of 3 tablespoons of ACV, you can use 2 tablespoons of cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon of water, if you’ve sensitive skin.
  • Also, add some fresh lime or calamansi or lemon juice in this mix before applying.

Method – 3: (Baking Soda with Lemon Juice and Coconut Oil)

Lemon has vitamin C and citric acid that treats your irregular pigmentation, enlarged pores and thus whitens your skin. Coconut oil and tea tree oil soothes and fights against the skin problems.

  • Mix 1/8 tablespoon of coconut oil, 1/2 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and 2 – 4 drops of tea tree oil in 1 tablespoon of baking soda to make a paste.
  • Apply it on the skin and scrub it after a couple of minutes.
  • Rinse off with water and repeat it regularly for once or twice a week.

Note:

  • Or mix 2 tablespoons each of baking soda and lemon juice and 1 egg in 1/4 cup of plain yogurt. Apply it on the skin and rinse off with warm water and then with cold water after 15 – 20 minutes. Dry the skin and moisturize it.
  • Also, mix enough freshly extracted lemon juice in 1/2 cup of baking soda. Spread it on your skin and rub it gently. Rinse off after few minutes and repeat it for whitening your skin.
  • Or simply mix 1 teaspoon each of lemon juice and baking soda in 2 teaspoons of warm water. apply it using a cotton ball.
  • Replace the lemon juice with no pulp grapefruit juice or orange juice.

Method – 4: (Baking Soda with Strawberries)

This combination will eliminate dead cells, excess sebum, and other impurities effectively from your skin. It lightens up your skin by reducing the melanin production.

  • Firstly mash a ripe strawberry and mix it well in 1 tablespoon of baking soda to make a paste.
  • Spread it on the affected skin and wait for 5 – 10 minutes.
  • Then start scrubbing it gently in circular motions for 2 – 3 minutes.
  • Wash your skin with cool water and continue this process regularly.

Note: Or use tomato instead of strawberries. Simply stir 1 teaspoon of baking soda with enough freshly extracted tomato juice. Apply it on your skin and rinse with water after 15 minutes.

Method – 5: (Baking Soda with Corn Flour and Turmeric)

This face pack will bleach your skin to lighten up the dark spots, acne scars, freckles and other scars on the skin.

  • Add 1 teaspoon each of baking soda and turmeric, 1 tablespoon of corn flour, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and few drops of rosewater.
  • Stir to make a pack and apply it on your face and neck.
  • Rinse off with cool water after 20 – 30 minutes and dry it to apply any facial moisturizer.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. You can also mix equal quantities of organic coconut oil and baking soda and a little of warm water to make a paste. Apply it on your face and massage gently. Rinse off after few minutes.
  2. It’s always recommended to do a skin patch test before applying baking soda to know whether it irritating the skin (especially on sensitive areas).
  3. It’s best to apply moisturizer after applying baking soda and also start using baking soda in small amounts and then gradually increase its quantity and frequency.
  4. Drink plenty of water, do some regular exercises to avoid stress, follow some skin care hygiene, consume a healthy diet, etc. to get rid of toxins and to enhance your skin tone.
  5. Avoid over usage of baking soda on the skin, as it causes dryness and irritation on the skin.
  6. Don’t apply baking soda on burns, sores, bruises, sunburn, cuts or on any damaged skin, as it results in irritation.
  7. Consult your dermatologist before using any natural remedies to know all about your skin and then follow these remedies for best results.

Try baking soda methods for whitening your skin and share your experience with us in the below comments box.

Natural Ways to Get Rid of Black Eyes

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Natural Ways to Get Rid of Black Eyes

Black eyes are a common complaint faced by the people those who met with an accidents, allergic reactions, cosmetic surgery, nasal and face injuries, skin infection, dental problems, bug bites, etc. in which the blood pools around the affected area (especially eye area) and turns the skin color from red, purple and black.

A blow to the face, nose or any other parts around the eye will result in the collection of the blood and other fluids around your eyes that appears as black eyes. Pain and swelling around the eye area, blurry vision, headaches, inability to move the eyes, etc. are some of the symptoms of black eyes.

Be sure to consult your doctor if you’re suffering from symptoms like vomiting, nausea, dizziness or vision problems along with any cut around the eye area for proper diagnose and treatment.

Here we are going to know about some natural home remedies that reduce pain, swelling, and black eye effectively.

Remedy – 1: (Cold and Warm Compress)

This is the first and foremost thing to be done after you’re injured with black eyes.

Applying icy-cold compress on the injured skin will constrict the blood vessels and thus prevents internal bleeding. It also numbs the area to reduce the pain and swelling along with speeding the healing process.

On the 2nd day, apply a warm compress which increases blood circulation into the damaged blood vessels and thus heals your black eyes.

  • Firstly, wrap some ice cubes in a clean cotton cloth and hold this cloth over the affected eye for 10 minutes.
  • Then take a break of few minutes and then continue applying this ice pack for few times a day during the first 36 hours.
  • Then after go for a warm compress prepared by dipping a clean cloth in warm water and squeeze out the excess water.
  • Place this warm cloth on the affected eye till the cloth becomes cool.
  • If you’re not getting any pain, then massage the area gently to improve the blood circulation and also to remove the dried blood that accumulated under the skin.
  • Do the same process for several times a day till you get relief from the problem.

Note:

  • Or you can use a pack of frozen vegetables or chilled metal spoon instead of ice pack but don’t use beefsteaks or raw meat on the black eyes, as it results in getting an infection.
  • Never wash your eye with hot water or use a heating pad on the black eye, as it damages the injured skin and eye.
  • Avoid applying ice directly on the skin, as it damages your skin’s tissues.

Remedy – 2: (Comfrey Root)

Comfrey root herb has small organic molecule allantoin that stimulates the cell growth and repairs the affected skin area. It is also effective in reducing the pain and inflammation.

  • Crush 1 teaspoon of comfrey root with 1/2 teaspoon of water and mix it to make a paste.
  • Apply this paste on the affected area and rinse off after 5 minutes.
  • Continue doing the same process for once daily till you get relief from the black eyes.

Note:

  • Or mix 1 teaspoon of comfrey root herb in 1 glass of water and boil it and strain the mix to cool down. Then dip a clean cloth in this water and apply it on your black eye to get rid of this problem.
  • Never ever ingest comfrey root (or) use it for a longer time, as it is toxic to the skin.

Remedy – 3: (Witch Hazel)

Witch hazel reduces the pain and inflammation by tightening the veins. It also refreshes the tired eyes and widely used to cure bruises, sores, and swelling.

  • Mix 10 drops of witch hazel extract in 100 ml of water.
  • Soak a cotton ball in this mix and squeeze it remove excess solution.
  • Place the ball on the affected black eye and rinse off with water after 5 – 7 minutes.
  • Regular application of this mix for 2 – 3 times daily will help you to get relief from the black eye.

Note: Or mix witch hazel with chamomile essential oil and water and do the same process as above.

Remedy – 4: (Arnica)

Arnica is an herbal remedy that widely used to treat strains, bruises, swelling, sprains, muscle soreness and inflammation. It fights off the infection and eliminates congested blood and fluids causing inflammation.

  • Mix 1 ounce of dried arnica herb to 1 cup of olive oil and pour in a container.
  • Keep it aside for 6 weeks but be sure to shake the jar daily.
  • After that, strain the oil and pour this mix into a double boiler.
  • Warm it to add 1 ½ ounce of beeswax and stir continuously till it melts.
  • Then add few drops of wintergreen essential oil and warm it for about 5 – 7 minutes.
  • Now pour this arnica salve into a storage container and wait till it cools down.
  • Apply this salve on the affected area for 2 – 3 times daily till you notice desirable results.

Note: Children, pregnant and nursing women should not use this arnica, as it may harm to their skin and health.

Remedy – 5: (Diet Plan)

Planning your diet properly as per your health problem, which you’re facing will help to give quick relief from the problem and keeps you healthy.

  • Intake of vitamin C rich foods will help to thicken the walls of blood vessels ad produces collagen to prevent it from bleeding. Also, the deficiency of vitamin C will cause black eyes. So, consume vitamin C rich foods like Indian gooseberries, lemon, oranges, kale, broccoli, papaya, berries, chili pepper, kiwi, mango, guava, etc.
  • Vitamin K has antioxidants that accelerate blood circulation, reduces pigmentation and thus repairs the damaged capillaries and blood vessels to prevent black eye. So, consume vitamin K rich foods like cabbage, Brussels sprouts, prunes, asparagus, paprika, spring onions, dark leafy vegetables like cress, mustard, kale, spinach, mustard greens, beet greens, lettuce, etc.
  • Both papaya and pineapple have an enzyme called bromelain that helps to reduce the inflammation and swelling. They are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that reduce black eye problem. So, consume these fresh fruits or apply it on the affected skin.
  • Drink plenty of water to increase blood circulation and to remove toxins from the affected areas.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. Elevate your head (especially at the first signs of the black eye) to limit the blood flow to the sensitive eye area and thus prevents swelling. So, use an extra pillow while sleeping and also avoid looking down while sitting or standing.
  2. Applying potato (or cucumber) juice or its cold slices on the affected eye will reduce swelling and pain.
  3. Massaging the affected area with some natural oils like olive oil, coconut oil, vitamin E oil, almond oil, etc. using gentle pressure will improve blood circulation and cures black eye.
  4. Refrigerate calendula flowers tea and soak a clean cloth in this mix. Place it on your eyes for about 5 – 7 minutes. Do it several times daily for faster relief from black eyes.
  5. Avoid putting pressure or rubbing on the eyes, as it results in worsening your problem.
  6. Get a sound sleep of about 7 – 9 hours per day which helps you to relieve stress, relax your tired eyes and to heal the problem.
  7. Take some preventive steps like wearing goggles, seat belts or helmets while in driving.

Stop worrying about black eyes and start using these natural remedies to get relief from the problem. Let me know if you have any queries regarding these black eyes.