DIY REMEDIES

Radiant Wellness: Empowering Your Health and Beauty

Remedies

Best Health Hacks for Healthy Living

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Easy Healthy Hacks for Healthy Living

Health is really a wealth to us but most of us are not concentrating on the health and practicing unhealthy habits.

However changing the lifestyle completely is difficult but you can implement some changes in your lifestyle and diet to make yourself live healthy and happy.

Here are some small changes that have to be incorporated into your daily routine for a better health and fitness.

Easy Healthy Hacks for Healthy Living:

These are some easy and effective health hacks that are backed by science. So, start building this small foundation for a better health in future.

1. Oil Pulling:

Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that helps for overall health. This process helps to reduce the formation of plaque and plaque – induced gingivitis.

We all know that each section of the tongue is connected to different organs like liver, lungs, kidneys, colon, small intestine, stomach, and colon. So, in this way, the oil pulling helps to remove toxins from your entire body.

Here is the detailed process of doing oil pulling.

  • Place 1 tablespoon of extra – virgin coconut oil into your mouth in morning with an empty stomach.
  • Swish it all around the mouth for 15 – 20 minutes.
  • After that spit the oil out and rinse your mouth with warm water.
  • Now brush and floss your mouth daily.
  • Do this oil pulling as the first thing in every morning to detoxify your body.

2. Prefer to take Stairs:

We all know that elevators and escalators will not only save our time but also makes us more sedentary. So, it’s best to climb the stairs whenever possible instead of using elevators, as it is the best exercise for people of all ages (except aged people, patients, and pregnant women).

Opt for the stairs which will help to strengthen the muscles, burn fat, tone your legs, improves your energy levels and a healthy heart. It also lowers the risk of high blood pressure, heart diseases, osteoporosis, diabetes, etc.

3. Cold Shower before Bedtime:

Taking a cold shower at night before bedtime will help to improve blood circulation, reduces your stress levels and thereby relieves you from the strain and depression.

This cold shower will send the electrical impulses from peripheral nerve endings to the brain which in turn results in an antidepressant effect.

Adequate sound sleep is essential for maintaining proper physical and mental health and inadequate sleep can result in hypertension, diabetes, heart diseases, obesity, etc.

So, whenever you’re going to sleep, take a cold shower, read a book to enhance your sleep, turn off your electronic gadgets and listen to music and go to deep sound sleep.

4. No Sugar – Use Cinnamon:

Use a cinnamon powder instead of using sugar or cream to give a sweet flavor to your tea or coffee. Cinnamon not only has fewer calories but also exhibits numerous health benefits like relieving congestion, reduces muscle and joint stiffness, restricts diabetics and weight gain, supports your digestive health, fights inflammation, boosts your brain function.

Avoid taking sugar alternatives or corn syrup or maple syrup as sugar substitutes, as they also cause some health problems.

5. Carry Water and Snacks:

Munching on unhealthy snacks like doughnuts, rolls, pizzas, wraps, hamburgers, French fries, etc. (high in calories and low in nutritional value) and not drinking enough water are two main causes for many health problems.

So, carry a bottle of water to prevent dehydration and thereby to regulate body temperature, detoxification, aids in proper digestion, effective joints lubrication, etc. Also, for best results, opt for drinking warm water occasionally.

Also munch on some healthy snacks like oranges, roasted nuts, a whole apple, homemade juice, etc. which offer the correct nutrients and also prevents your hungry.

6. Proper Eye Care:

Taking care of eyes is essential in these days, as most of us will spend a lot of time in front of laptops, systems, television, electronic gadgets like smartphones, video games, etc. They cause a lot of strain to your eyes and results in eye fatigue.

This further results in itchy eyes, headaches, dry eyes, blurred vision, poor concentration and sensitivity to light. So, follow the rule of 20/20/20 for proper vision and eye care.

For every 20 minutes you spend in front of any screen, take 20 seconds break and then focus your eyes on something at least 20 feet away. Also blink your eyes frequently.

7. Lemon Water:

Most of us have made a habit of drinking lemon water in the morning with an empty stomach instead of coffee or tea as first thing in the morning, which helps for proper detoxification of the body.

Lemon has rich content of vitamin C and citric acid that aids in proper digestion and flush out harmful toxins. Also, it is low in sugar content and high in alkaline mineral content that helps to alkalize the body.

So, just squeeze the juice of 1/2 a lemon in 1 glass of lukewarm water. Stir well and drink it warm to grab these health benefits. You can also add honey to this drink.

8. Meditation:

Meditation helps to reduce stress and produces a deep state of relaxation, which in turn helps to calm the mind and stimulates both physical and emotional well-being.

So, do regular meditation for at least 10 minutes daily to improve your focus, concentration, and memory and also enhance your immunity. Simply start by focusing on a particular object (like your breathing or any sensation in the body or any other object) as a part of meditation.

9. Choose Fresh rather than Canned Products:

For a healthy living, always try to consume fresh produced fruits and vegetables rather than canned ones. Fresh ones will offer more of nutritional values whereas canned products have high sodium and sugar content along with some harmful chemical preservatives.

So, choose the organic and fresh fruits and vegetables and consume them after washing them thoroughly to prevent dust, dirt and other micro-organisms to grab their health benefits.

10. Go with Smaller Meals:

Taking a smaller plate for the meals is very effective to get rid of any digestive problems, as it cut down the intake of more calories and also prevents overeating and treats diabetes.

We won’t eat food by counting the calories every time. So, take small meals for 5 – 6 times a day rather than 3 big meals helps to restrict unintentional overeating, which in turn help to get rid of digestive problems, obesity, and high cholesterol.

Some Tips:

  1. Do some regular exercises like walking, running, jogging or go with some aerobic exercises to cut down the extra calories in our body.
  2. On weekends or holidays, enjoy playing your favorite games to make yourself relaxed from the stress and calm down your mind.
  3. If you’re observing any symptoms that affect your health and daily routine, then consult your doctor for a proper diagnose to detect that health problem.
  4. Consume a healthy and well balanced nutritional diet regularly to prevent any nutritional deficiency and thereby health problems.

Follow these natural health tips regularly for a healthy well being. Do you know any other health tips? Then share it with us in the below comments box.

DIY Remedies for Eczema

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Eczema is a non-contagious inflammatory skin disorder which affects epidermis and results in rashes and skin scaling on different body parts. It exhibits symptoms like dryness, itching, swelling, flaking, rough, blistering, redness, crusted sores, etc.

It can be acute or chronic and most common in children and people living in dry areas. It is caused due to weak immune system or inheritance which makes the skin to produce less oil and reduces the skin’s ability to lock the moisture. This widens the skin cells and that space is filled with bacteria or irritants causing eczema.

Allergies, stress, sweating, environmental irritants, hormonal imbalance, etc. are some reasons that trigger eczema. However, there is no complete cure for eczema but you can reduce the symptoms to a great extent with some natural home remedies along with your doctor advice.

Home Remedies for Eczema:

Listed below are some effective natural remedies for eczema that gives safe and long lasting results. Let’s get started.

Remedy – 1: (Coconut Oil)

Coconut oil has antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that remove bacteria and reduces inflammation. It penetrates deep into the skin to prevent dryness.

It has essential medium chain fatty acids and vitamins (E & K) that boost your immune system, soothes the skin by reducing the itching and irritation.

Steps to be followed…

  • Clean your hands and eczema affected area with lukewarm water.
  • Dry the area and apply some virgin coconut oil on eczema affected areas.
  • Massage it gently to get well absorbed into the skin and leave it on.
  • Repeat the application throughout the day on daily basis to get rid of eczema.

Note:

  • Or consume 2 – 4 tablespoons of coconut oil regularly to reduce eczema outbreaks.
  • Alternatively, pour 1 cup of melted coconut oil in your bathtub, which is filled with lukewarm water. Stir it and soak yourself for 30 – 45 minutes to reduce eczema.
  • Or use other natural oils like olive oil or jojoba oil or Shea butter or a combination of these oils instead of coconut oil for treating eczema.

Remedy – 2: (Aloe Vera)

Aloe vera has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that prevent skin infections and soothes the itching and irritated skin. It acts as a humectant that holds the moisture and prevents dryness and burning sensation. Also, it boosts up your immune system.

Steps to be followed…

  • Mix few drops of vitamin E oil in fresh aloe vera gel.
  • Apply it on eczema affected skin areas and massage gently.
  • Let it sit for few minutes and rinse off with water.
  • Dry the skin and continue applying this combination regularly for few days to get relief from eczema.

Note: Or simply apply fresh aloe vera gel (or) consume aloe vera juice by mixing in your favorite fruit or vegetable juices.

Remedy – 3: (Oatmeal)

Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that relieve itching, pain, and irritation caused by eczema. It also moisturizes the skin to reduce dryness, flaking and other discomforts associated with eczema.

Steps to be followed…

  • Add 1 – 2 cups of colloidal oatmeal to your bath tub (either tie it or pour it).
  • Fill the bath tub with lukewarm water and stir well.
  • Soak in this water for at least of 15 – 20 minutes and pat your skin dry gently using a soft towel.
  • Finally, apply some mild moisturizer on the eczema area and do the same regularly.

Note: Or simply mix 1 tablespoon of cold milk to 2 tablespoons of oatmeal to make a fine thick paste. Rub it on the affected areas and rinse off with cold water after 15 – 20 minutes.

Remedy – 4: (Chamomile Tea)

Chamomile has effective skin soothing and antioxidant properties that reduce the irritation, itching and inflammation caused due to eczema. It enhances your weak immune system and fights against the germs causing eczema.

Steps to be followed…

  • Add 1 tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers (or 1 teabag) in 1 cup of boiling water.
  • Allow it to steep for 15 – 20 minutes and strain the tea.
  • Then soak a clean piece of cloth or cotton ball in this tea and dab it on eczema affected areas.
  • Leave it on for 10 – 15 minutes and rinse off with water.
  • Repeat the same process for 2 – 3 times a day until your eczema symptoms have reduced greatly.

Note:

  • Or drink 2 – 3 cups of chamomile tea regularly to reduce swelling and irritation.
  • Alternatively, mix few drops of chamomile oil in 1 teaspoon of olive oil and apply it on the affected areas of the skin. Massage gently and repeat it twice daily.
  • Or have chamomile bath by placing a tie off some chamomile herb in muslin over the bath tub. Fill the tub with lukewarm water and soak yourself for 10 – 15 minutes. Dry your skin and apply some natural moisturizer.

Remedy – 5: (Turmeric)

Curcumin is an active ingredient in turmeric which exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that protect the skin by neutralizing the free radicals and prevents pain and irritation.

Steps to be followed…

  • Mix 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder in enough of milk to make it a fine paste.
  • Apply it on the affected areas and wait for few minutes to dry completely.
  • Rinse off with water and do the same process for twice daily till the itching and redness has cleared completely from the skin.

Note:

  • Or mix 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder to 1 cup of boiling water. Simmer it for 10 minutes and let it cool for few minutes. Drink this mix or use it to wash the affected areas.
  • Or internal intake of turmeric will provide best results against eczema. So, include turmeric in your daily diet.

Remedy – 6: (Epsom Salt Bath)

Epsom salt has magnesium that soothes the skin and makes the eczema patients to get more relaxed. It reduces itching and irritation along with the removal of toxins from the body. Bathing allows the moisture into the skin and applying moisturizer after bathing will seal the moisture properly.

Steps to be followed…

  • Add 1 – 2 cups of Epsom salt in your bathtub, filled with warm water.
  • Then add 10 – 15 drops of lavender oil in it and stir well.
  • Soak yourself in this water for about 15 – 20 minutes.
  • Dry your skin and apply some natural moisturizer.
  • Continue doing this same process for 3 times a week till your symptoms has reduced greatly.

Note: Or mix 1 – 2 cups of Epsom salt (or magnesium flakes), 1/2 cup of sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 10 – 15 drops of essential oil in your bathtub filled with warm water. soak in it for few minutes to get rid of the problem.

Remedy – 7: (Indian Lilac)

Indian lilac (or neem) has antimicrobial, analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that relieve you from redness, swelling, itching and irritation. It has vitamin E that moistures your dry skin.

Steps to be followed…

  • Add 1 tablespoon each of turmeric root, sesame oil and neem leaves in a blender.
  • Make it a fine paste and apply it on eczema affected areas.
  • Wait for few minutes till it gets dried and rinse off with warm water.
  • Repeat it once daily for few days to get relief from eczema symptoms.

Note: Use neem oil by pouring few drops in your bath tub, filled with warm water. Soak in it for few minutes and pat your skin dry. Apply moisturizer and repeat regularly.

Remedy – 8: (Diet Plan)

  • Fish oil has some essential fatty acids like omega – 3 fatty acids, which break down into their metabolites and thus close the skin surface. So, consume fish oil (with orange juice) or take capsules to get rid of eczema.
  • Regularly consume omega – 3 fatty acids like flaxseeds, nuts, fatty fish (salmon, herring, sardines, mackerel or tuna) as a part of your diet but avoid taking omega – 6 fatty acids.
  • Fermented cheese, alcohol, saturated fats, dairy products, wheat, sea foods, refined carbohydrates and sugars, strawberries, spicy & oily foods, animal protein, caffeinated beverages and carbonated drinks should be avoided or consume less to get rid of eczema.
  • Apples, brown rice, cucumber, carrots, cilantro, celery, complex carbohydrates, grapes, goat milk, kale, mushrooms, nuts, potatoes, pears, oolong tea, probiotics, parsley, raw fruits & vegetables, seeds (pumpkin, sunflower or sesame), spinach, garlic family, vitamins (A, C, D & E), zinc rich foods should be taken to prevent eczema.
  • Drink plenty of water and other liquids which hydrate your body and avoid any artificial foods or sweets.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. Apply some thick and greasy vegetable shortening / corn starch + olive oil mix topically on eczema and cover it with a plastic wrap. Leave for 2 – 4 hours and repeat daily till the rashes calm down on the skin.
  2. Vitamin E oil plays an important role in protecting the body from free radicals and other damages. So, apply it regularly on eczema affected skin areas.
  3. Avoid hot baths or showers while suffering from eczema, as it worsens the skin and dries out the moisture levels. So, always opt for lukewarm water baths with mild cleansers or soaps.
  4. Spend some time under direct sunlight at the time of sunrise and sunset to grab vitamin D into the skin which improves immunity and to reduce eczema breakouts.
  5. Topical application of some combinational natural remedies like baking soda + water, honey, apple cider vinegar + water, warm carrier oils, lavender oil + olive oil, calendula herb, evening primrose oil, sandalwood, etc. will give relief from eczema and its symptoms.
  6. Always use organic and raw natural ingredients rather than its supplements or over the counter steroidal creams for treating your eczema.
  7. Make sure to keep a track record on all your daily activities like food, usage of any new products, etc. to know what causes any allergic reaction to your skin and then avoid eating or using those products.
  8. Regular application of moisturizing skin lotions which are free from fragrance or other irritating ingredients will help to hold the moisture and hydrate you.
  9. Avoid wearing tight – fitted, rough or scratchy clothes which are made of wool and other irritating fibers. Always choose loose fitted cotton or soft cloths.
  10. Try not to scratch your rashes especially at night time (being unconscious in sleep) to minimize the skin damage.
  11. Anything causing sweat will irritate the rash. So, always be in fresh without any excessive sweat on the body to get relief from eczema flare ups.
  12. Stress might worsen your eczema problem. So, always be in a relaxed mood and reduce your stress levels by doing yoga, deep breathing, and meditation.
  13. Consult your doctor for regular checkups to get rid of eczema along with its symptoms. Also, use a humidifier to add moisture to the air inside the room.
  14. Apply cold milk using a cotton ball to reduce the itching sensation and also prevents dryness.

DIY Home Remedies for Eczema
Soothe your eczema and calm down your angry skin by using these natural remedies at home. Let me know which one worked well in reducing your eczema by sharing your experience.

Natural Drinks to Reduce Belly Bloat

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Do you often feel bloat? Although it is not a serious health problem, they make you feel uncomfortable especially when you’re going for a date or a meeting.

Belly bloat occurs due to the buildup of gas in the small intestine that in turn makes the abdomen feels full and tight. However, there are many home remedies to reduce bloating but natural drinks will give even faster relief from bloating.

Natural Anti-Bloat Drinks:

Sip these natural drinks to beat your belly bloat and to feel comfortable by looking slimmer and healthier.

Drink – 1: (Lemon Peppermint Ice Cubes)

Peppermint has menthol that helps to stimulate proper digestion and relieves spasms in muscle tissues which in turn release the buildup of gas. Lemon juice is acidic in nature that helps to break down the food and eases proper digestion.

This combination reduces bloating that caused due to constipation, trapped air, and indigestion

  • Squeeze few lemons to extract 2 – 3 cups of fresh lemon juice.
  • Put 15 chopped peppermint leaves in the lemon juice and stir well.
  • Place this mix into your ice cube tray and freeze it for few minutes.
  • After that, add 3 – 4 lemon – mint ice cubes in 1 glass of water and drink it.
  • Regular intake of this drink for at least 3 times a day (either normally or with meals) will reduce your belly bloat.

Lemon Peppermint Ice Cubes Drinks to Reduce Belly Bloat

Note: Or simply add fresh lemon juice and freshly chopped mint leaves in 1 glass of water. Stir well and drink it to get relief from abdomen bloating.

Drink – 2: (Pomegranate with Tabasco and Ginger Ale)

Pomegranate has potassium and magnesium that relieves you from belly bloat by retaining water and trapped gas from your body. Tabasco contains capsaicin that increases your urine flow and clears excess salt, which causes bloating. Ginger ale (non-alcoholic) helps for proper digestion and relieves you from trapped gas in your body.

  • Mix 1/8 teaspoon of Tabasco sauce, lime juice extracted from 1 lime, 1/2 cup of ginger ale and 1 cup of pomegranate juice (prefer low sugar).
  • Mix all these ingredients and pour it in a glass.
  • Sip it to get relief from bloating and repeat the intake for another 2 times to get faster relief from bloating.

Drink – 3: (Chocolate Berry Smoothie)

Constipation and indigestion are two common culprits causing your belly bloat. High fiber content in berries prevents constipation and caffeine content in chocolate helps to stimulate your bowel movement.

Also, some people have difficulty in digesting lactose in milk which in turn results in bloating. So, use almond milk as it is lactose-free.

  • Pour 1 cup each of strawberries and raspberries, 2 tablespoons of dark chocolate chips, 1 cup of almond milk and some ice in a blender.
  • Blend it for a couple of minutes and pour it into a glass.
  • Have this smoothie to get rid of bloating.
  • Continue the intake of this drink, once again after few hours, if you didn’t get any relief from your belly bloat.

Drink – 4: (Cucumber with Celery and Apples)

Celery and cucumber have high water content that flushes out the salt, regulates your bowels and relieves you from intestinal gas. Apple aids for proper digestion and lemon adds flavor along with enhancing proper bowel movement.

  • Add 1 cucumber (sliced), 2 celery stalks (chopped), 1 lemon (peeled and chopped) and 2 apples (sliced) in a blender.
  • Blend it in a juicer and pour the juice into a glass.
  • Drink it immediately and repeat it as needed, if you didn’t get relief in few hours.

Note:

  • Or blend 1 raw garlic clove, 1 sprig of celery, handful of alfalfa and 1 cup of fresh carrot juice in a blender and drink it to get relief from the bloating problem.
  • Also, prepare juices with celery, lemon, cucumber or watermelon which acts as anti-bloat beverages.

Drink – 5: (Apple with Flaxseed and Verbena Juice)

Apple aids in proper digestion along with relieving you from the pain and cramps caused due to belly bloat. Flaxseed has high fiber content that promotes bowel movement. This is an effective anti – bloat beverage.

  • Pour 2 fresh apples, 1 tablespoon of flaxseed and 1 cup of verbena and fennel tea in a blender.
  • Blend them thoroughly and drink it to get relief from bloating along with cramps.
  • This drink not only relieves you from bloating but also gives relief from gastritis or colon issues.

Drink – 6: (Papaya with Mango and Flaxseed)

Papain is an enzyme present in papaya which acts as a mild laxative (eliminates excess water) and also has high fiber content. Mango has potassium and amino acids that flush out the excess liquid from your system.

Flaxseed has a rich amount of fiber that aids in proper digestion. This anti-bloat drink is used to clear bloat that caused by poor digestion and constipation.

  • Add 1 mango (chopped), 1 large piece of papaya, 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed, a little honey and 1 cup of water in a blender.
  • Blend it for a couple of minutes and drink it to get relief from the problem.
  • Regular intake for 1 – 2 times in a day will definitely help you to get relief from the problem.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. Lemon juice has natural diuretic and gentle laxative property that reduce the salt and excess water retained in the body. So, squeeze fresh lemon juice in 1 glass of warm water and drink it either in every morning or whenever you feel bloated to get rid of the problem.
  2. Be sure that you’re near to your restroom for a couple of hours why because the diuretic effects of these fruits and veggies will make you, urinate frequently.
  3. Other than juices, you can also drink herbal teas (like ginger tea, bilberry tea, hibiscus tea, fennel tea, lemon tea or mint tea, cinnamon tea, green tea or chamomile tea), yogurt (or probiotic-rich foods), natural diuretic or laxative containing fruit or vegetable juices and natural coconut water to get relief from bloating.
  4. Bloating relief water can also be prepared by mixing 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger, 1 cucumber (peeled and sliced), 1 lemon (sliced), 12 spearmint leaves and 2 liters of water in a glass container. Refrigerate for few hours and then strain the liquid. Drink it to get rid of belly bloat.
  5. Consult your doctor, if you didn’t get any relief from your belly bloat or suffering too often from bloating for proper diagnose and treatment.
  6. Drink plenty of water, avoid salt or processed foods, limit your carbonated and alcohol beverages, consume fiber rich foods along with fresh fruits and veggies, eat 6 small meals rather than 3 big meals in a day, etc. should be included in your daily lifestyle to get rid of bloating.
  7. Cut down your excess calories and maintain perfect weight by doing exercises, yoga, and a healthy lifestyle.

Try these natural drinks to reduce your belly bloat. Do you know any other effective natural drinks to blast your belly bloat? Then share it with us in the comments box.

Warning Signs and Nutritional Deficiencies causing Depression

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Warning Signs and Nutritional Deficiencies causing Depression

As per World Health Organization (WHO) estimation, around 350 million people of various ages all over the world are suffering from depression. Shocking? Isn’t it? If they left untreated, the final result is suicide (ending their life).

Although, it is quite normal to feel down whenever we face challenges in our daily life and these feeling will be reduced with the time and should not alter the life negatively and leads to ending the life.

Depression is a mental or mood disorder that characterized by anxiety, loss of appetite, lack of interest in life, chronic sadness, anger, stress, significant changes in abdominal weight, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep pattern, unexplained pains and aches in the body, etc. are some signs and symptoms of depression.

Social isolation, financial strain, alcohol or drug abuse, relationship problems, stress, family history of depression, certain chronic health problems, etc. are some risk factors for depression.

Ignorance and flippancy are the two main reasons that cause more harm to the depression patients and makes them depressed even more. Lack of trained medical professions, poor or wrong diagnoses, lack of information is some of the factors that half of the depressed people unable to get proper treatment for their problem.

The main step to combat any disorder is to identify the symptoms and having some general awareness about that particular problem. So, first, we will discuss the warning signs of depression.

Warning Signs of Depression:

Here are some of the warning signs of depression. If you or anyone around you are suffering from these signs, then immediate diagnose and treatment should be done without getting worse.

Low Self-Esteem and Hopelessness – Lack of self – confidence, a feeling of guilt and empty vision of the future are main symptoms of depression patients. Some people blame themselves for their past mistakes (self – blame) and some blame others or express negative feelings towards them.

Fatigue – Serotonin (a neurotransmitter creating happiness) and epinephrine (a neurotransmitter creating energy). Depression suppresses these neurotransmitters and thus causes chronic fatigue. Depressed people will feel tired (both physical and mental) even without any physical activity or having adequate sleep.

Anxiety – Anxiety disorder interferes with the person’s peace of mind and thereby makes it obsess over small things to the point of paranoia. This problem will make the depressed person even to get into darkness, as they unable to distract themselves and get panic with sweating and palpitations.

Insomnia – People suffering from depression will get a disturbance in both homeostasis process (maintaining constant internal environment) and circadian process (sleep – wake up cycle) and thereby results in insomnia and affect the quality of their life. Insomnia will worsen the depression problem.

Anger and Irritability – Prolonged anger and irritability is another emotion as an initial stage of depression. Even they burst for tiny and harmless things without any feel of shy in front of their friends and family members. They also maintain anger internally, if they are not verbally expressive and trigger other disorders.

Short Term Memory Loss – Due to constant miserable feeling, you’re unable to concentrate on a single small thing for a longer time. They also unable to recollect the information properly and thereby results in less productive in their work and forget important things like documents, keys, etc. easily.

Reckless Behavior –  People suffering from depression will behave in such a way that they not used to be in the past like getting interested in alcoholism, substance abuse, gambling, risky sexual behavior, etc. and make themselves a way of escaping unpleasant feelings.

Changes in Body Weight – Most people suffer from appetite loss and a thought of consuming meal will make them queasy and thereby lose their weight in an unhealthy way. Contrarily, some begin to gain their body weight (mainly abdominal weight) due to binge eating to make themselves comfortable.

Not Interested in Pleasurable Activities – Depressed people will show less interest in any social activity or contact and thereby unable to experience pleasure. They isolate themselves and spend most of the time alone without doing anything, as they can’t seem to get pleasure from any activity.

Getting Thought of Suicide and Death – It is quite common to get the thought of suicide or death. This should be addressed urgently, as they associated with mood disorders. Clinical depression will make them harm themselves in such a way that they unable to live in this world.

Are you one among those who suffer from these signs and symptoms of depression? Then make yourself strong and get some medical help along with your family support to get rid of this problem.

Do you know at certain times, nutritional deficiency can also contribute to this depression? Shocking! Isn’t it? Yes, it’s true and many researchers have told that mood disorders or depression in people are a result of a deficiency in several nutrients.

Remember that what we eat (food) will feed the brain and body and how we balance all the nutrients will depend on their functionality. So, the next topic we will discuss is the nutritional deficiency that causes depression.

Nutritional Deficiencies Causing Depression:

Have a look at these nutrients and include them more in your diet to prevent yourself getting depressed.

1. Omega – 3 Fatty Acids:

Omega – 3 fatty acids will help for the proper development and functionality of the central nervous system. Omega – 3 DHA (crucial for brain cell structure) and EPA (helps with neuron function and reduces inflammation). It is also essential to lower your bad cholesterol levels and thereby contribute to overall heart health.

In a study, it is found that proper intake of omega – 3 fatty acids will help you to treat and prevent depression. It also reported that the deficiency of this nutrient is due to the interaction between diet and a genetically determined abnormality in phospholipid metabolism.

So, include an adequate amount of omega – 3 fatty acids into your diet. Consume fatty fish (like salmon, tuna), walnuts, flaxseeds, omega – 3 fortified eggs, etc. Also, consult your doctor to take an omega – 3 fatty acid supplements.

2. Magnesium:

Magnesium helps to activate certain enzymes which are essential for the production of dopamine and serotonin. The deficiency of this nutrient will influence several systems which are associated with increasing depression. It helps to maintain healthy bones, lower blood pressure levels, reduce your anxiety, etc.

In a study, it is proved that magnesium deficiency will result in major depression and other related mental health problems. So, include magnesium rich foods like almonds, seaweed, pumpkin seeds, banana, soy milk (tofu), avocado, beans, bran, whole grains, leafy greens, etc. in your diet.

Make sure to limit your intake of salt, soda, alcohol, sugar, coffee, etc. which lowers the body absorption of magnesium. Consult your doctor for its supplements.

3. Zinc:

Zinc is required for the body to reduce the risk of depression, as it plays a major role in neuronal functions. It helps to boost the production and functioning of neurotransmitter to prevent you from getting depressed.

In a study, it is showed that zinc plays a major role in neurodegenerative inflammatory pathways in depression and low levels of zinc in peripheral blood will result in causing depression.

To prevent zinc deficiency, you can include foods like eggs, legumes, red meat, shellfish, pulses, whole grain cereals, nuts, dairy products, seeds, etc. in your diet. Consult your doctor for its supplements.

4. Vitamin D:

Vitamin D helps in producing serotonin (a brain hormone) used to elevate your mood and happiness. An ample level of this brain hormone will help you to prevent and treat depression along with strengthening your immunity and bone health.

In a study, it is stated that there is a connection between seasonal affective disorder and lack of sunlight (vitamin D). So, people who are having a deficiency of vitamin D will be a higher risk for depression. Also, this vitamin is involved in the production of dopamine and serotonin within the brain and thereby prevents you from depressed.

Sunlight is the main source of vitamin D, so spend at least 15 – 20 minutes of time by walking in the morning sunrise and in the evening sunset. You can also consult your doctor to know about vitamin D supplements and dosage before taking it.

5. Selenium:

Selenium is an essential nutrient used for proper brain functioning and to enhance your mood and thereby to get rid of depression. It also aids in proper functioning of your thyroid which in turn enhance proper mental health.

The antioxidant and selenoproteins content in this nutrient will help to manage the depression. In a study, it is stated that intake of less selenium will raise the risk of depressive disorder and thus results in negative moods.

Get more of selenium from dietary sources like seafood, peas, turkey, Brazil nuts, beans, lean meats, eggs, shellfish, chicken, etc.

6. Vitamin B12:

Vitamin B 12 is essential for forming red blood cells and maintaining a healthy nervous system. Intake of B vitamins will help for the maintenance of both physical and mental health.

This vitamin B12 helps a lot in lowering the homocysteine (a byproduct of protein metabolism) levels, which in turn reduces the risk of getting depressed. In a study, it is published that deficiency of vitamin B12 will cause a major depressive disorder. People showed an improvement in their depressive symptoms when taking this vitamin B12 along with antidepressants.

Consume foods such as eggs, lean meats, nutritional yeasts, fish, dairy products, poultry, soy milk, fortified cereals, etc. as a part of your diet. Consult your doctor to take vitamin B supplements daily to get relief from your depression.

7. Iron:

The deficiency of iron will cause an insufficient number of red blood cells and thereby leads to symptoms like brain fog, loss of appetite, fatigue, and irritability. It also results in social-emotional development and functioning.

Its deficiency will increase the risk of unipolar depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, ADHD, bipolar disorder, mental retardation, delay in their mental development, etc. Also, remember that for better absorption of iron, you have to consume vitamin C rich foods.

Consume foods that are rich in iron such as beetroots, oatmeal, spinach, red meat, fish, peanut butter, eggs, soybeans, beans, pomegranates, etc. to strengthen you from depression.

8. Folate:

Folate is a water-soluble B vitamin that is essential for the proper biosynthesis of neurotransmitters like dopamine, epinephrine, and serotonin. So, if you won’t get enough folate in the diet then it affects your mental health and even results in depression.

Do you know that low level of folate in the body will slow down the effect of antidepressant medicines? It also controls the effect of birth defects, cancer, blood disorder medicines affect in the body. A study suggests that the intake of both vitamin B12 and folic acid will improve the depression treatment and heals quickly.

So, consume folate – rich foods like citrus fruits, dark & leafy green vegetables, legumes, beans, etc. in your diet to get rid of the problem.

9. Vitamin B6:

Vitamin B6 helps to create neurotransmitters and brain chemicals, which in turn helps to influence your mood. This vitamin helps the body to absorb vitamin B12 effectively and thereby to prevent depression.

Excellent sources of vitamin B6 include poultry, cottage cheese, meat, potatoes, fish, spinach, legumes, watermelon, sunflower seeds, bananas, etc.

10. Amino Acids:

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins which are used by the brain to manufacture neurotransmitters needed for the optimal functioning. So, its deficiency will result in a variety of mood disorders.

In general, there are 9 essential amino acids that aids in various functions in the body, including the rise of serotonin levels in the body to improve your mood and keep you away from getting depressed.

The good source of amino acids will include seeds, beans, eggs, fish, nuts, etc. which has to be added to your diet.

Final Word:

Remember that nothing is important than a life. So, it’s in your hands to make your life beautiful and colorful. Anxiety and depression is a part of your life and takes it positively to achieve your desired goals. Strengthen yourself with best nutritional diet, water, medical help and family support to beat this awful problem.

How to Treat Head Lice using Olive Oil

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How to treat Head Lice using Olive Oil

Head lice (or pediculus humanus capitis) are tiny parasites infest the scalp and hair by leaving the infected person scratching all the day till they cleared from the hair.

This infestation is caused at any age but most commonly in children up to an age of 14 years, as it can transfer easily from one to another’s hair through close personal contact, sharing hair accessories (like combs, hair bands) or usage of contaminated furnishing or beds of an infected person.

They lay eggs (nits) and feed on blood for its survival. Itching, red rashes and scratching on the scalp are some symptoms experienced due to head lice infestation. If one person suffers from this problem then the whole family should take preventive measures to get rid of the problem.

Natural remedies are the best ways to clear the problem and here we are going to know all about olive oil for treating head lice.

Is Olive Oil good for Removing Head Lice?

  • Olive oil deprives the oxygen to the lice which in turn makes it unable to breathe properly. This will eventually kill the head lice and clears it easily from the hair.
  • It acts as smothers that suffocate the lice and makes it easier to remove it while combing the hair.
  • It soothes the itching and irritation caused by the head lice on the scalp.
  • It restricts the free movement of lice by making the hair greasy, which in turn makes it easy to remove the lice while combing.

How to treat Head Lice using Olive Oil:

Here, we are going to know about the 3 best olive oil methods that widely used to treat this embarrassing hair problem. These methods not only remove head lice but also make your hair well nourished.

Method – 1: (Olive Oil)

Applying olive oil will suffocate the head lice and remove the dead lice easily from your hair.

  • Apply enough olive oil to the dry hair by massaging it thoroughly on the scalp.
  • Wrap your head with a plastic bag or shower cap and then with a towel.
  • Leave it on for about 8 hours or overnight.
  • After that, remove the towel and shower cap and place the towel on the shoulders.
  • Comb the hair thoroughly for few minutes till you remove the traces of head lice.
  • Finally, rinse your hair with mild shampoo followed by conditioner.
  • For best results, repeat the process for every 4 days of 6 treatments over a 21 day period (life cycle of head lice) to get rid of head lice completely.

Note: Or mix 1/2 cup each of olive oil and conditioner with a small amount of liquid soap. Apply it on the scalp and rinse off with a shampoo after an hour. Comb your hair thoroughly to remove dead lice.

Method – 2: (Olive Oil with Tea Tree Oil)

Tea tree oil has insecticidal properties that kill the head lice and the strong smell of tea tree oil repels the lice from transferring from one to another.

This combination will help to dissolve the gummy texture (connects the nits and hair shafts) and thus makes it easy to remove head lice and its nits (eggs) from the hair while combing.

  • Stir 1 teaspoon of tea tree oil and 3 tablespoons of olive oil in 1 ounce of natural shampoo.
  • Apply it on the scalp and cover it with a shower cap and rinse off your hair with warm water after 30 – 40 minutes.
  • Comb your hair to remove dead lice and repeat it regularly for twice a week for quick removal of head lice.

Note:

  • Also, mix few drops of lavender oil and tea tree oil in olive oil and apply it on the hair and scalp. Cover it with a shower cap for few hours or overnight. Then comb your hair and rinse off thoroughly.
  • Or else, mix 1 part of tea tree oil, 2 teaspoons of olive oil in 4 parts of neem oil. Apply it on the scalp and hair and comb your hair after few minutes to remove the lice. Shampoo your hair and repeat it regularly.

Method – 3: (Olive Oil with Apple Cider Vinegar)

Apple cider vinegar has acetic acid and other acids that kill the lice and remove it effectively. This combination will clear both lice and its nits.

  • Add equal quantities of olive oil and vinegar and give it a nice stir.
  • Apply this mix on the scalp and hair.
  • Cover it with a shower cap or towel for an hour and wash your hair thoroughly with a shampoo and conditioner.
  • Comb your hair and repeat the same regularly for once a week.

Note: Or mix few drops of tea tree oil in enough olive oil and apply it on the scalp and hair. Rinse off your hair with shampoo after 45-60 minutes and use vinegar as a final rinse. Comb your hair and repeat regularly.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. Olive oil doesn’t work best in clears nits, as it is unable to penetrate into the hard shell of the nit but the oil application will loosen the grip of nits with the hair shaft and makes it easy to remove from hair using a nit comb.
  2. It’s always recommended to rinse the clothes, bed sheets, towels, hair accessories, etc. in hot water to kill the lice and its infestation.
  3. Avoid head – head contact with lice-infected people and stop sharing your combs, clothes, bed sheets, sweatshirts, hair accessories with other (especially those who have lice infestation).
  4. Use any cheap virgin olive oil for treating this head lice problem and for best results, follow these methods regularly till you get complete relief from the lice and its nits.
  5. It’s best to use natural remedies for treating head lice like coconut oil, tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar for treating head lice, as they become resistant to the chemicals or toxins used in head lice killing products.
  6. Always take preventive steps like cover the seats with sweatshirt or jacket in the public places like in the bus, movie theater or airplane and also keep away from the infected person till they get rid of head lice.
  7. However, head lice won’t cause any health problem but be sure to consult your doctor if this problem becomes like an infection and causing any bumps or rashes with a pain for treatment.

Try these olive oil methods to get rid of head lice. Do you know any other olive oil methods for removing head lice? Then share your experience with us in the below comments box.

Home Remedies to Get Rid of Plugged Ear Naturally

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Home Remedies for Plugged Ears

Did you felt that anything has obstructed in your ears and affecting your hearing capability? Then you’re suffering from plugged ear problem. The middle part of the ear is connected to the back of the nose through Eustachian tubes.

This tube drains the fluids out of the ears and thus equalizes the pressure between the middle and outer ear. It also helps for proper functioning and this problem arises when this tube gets blocked due to the sinus infection, rapid changes in pressure, allergies, excessive buildup of ear wax, etc.

Blocked nose, accumulation of water within the ear, cold, flu, etc. are some other triggers for plugged ears. You will experience certain symptoms like getting a severe earache, itching in the ear, trouble in hearing, ringing sounds (tinnitus), loss of balance or dizziness, bleeding, discharge from the affected ears, etc.

Stop worrying about your plugged ear, as there are many natural remedies and tips to unplug the ears and make it function normally.

Home Remedies for Plugged Ears:

Here are some best natural remedies that effectively work well in treating your plugged ear. Let’s have a look at these remedies and follow them regularly to get rid of the plugged ears.

Here we are discussing plugged ears that are caused due to the sinus infection, ear wax and excess pressure in the ear in a detailed way.

Remedies for Plugged Ear that caused due to Sinus Infection:

Sinus infection is caused due to the blockage of sinuses with fluids where there is a growth of bacteria and other microbes causing swelling and irritation.

Remedy – 1: (Apple Cider Vinegar and Rubbing Alcohol)

The combination of apple cider vinegar and rubbing alcohol has a disinfectant property that effectively clears the bacterial and viral infections like the sinus infection and its symptoms.

  • Mix equal parts of organic ACV and alcohol in a bowl.
  • Lie down on your side and pour few drops of this mix into the affected ear by using a dropper.
  • Then place a cotton ball in the ear to prevent it from spilling out.
  • Also, avoid raising your head and rest yourself for 10 minutes.
  • Now remove it using an ear bud and repeat the same for the other ear, if it also clogged.
  • Continue the same process daily till you get rid of plugged ear caused due to the sinus infection.

Remedy – 2: (Nasal Saline Spray)

Nasal saline spray is a mild decongestant that unblocks the clogged nose and thereby clears plugged ears. It also treats sinusitis by clearing the virus or other impurities from the respiratory system.

  • Boil 1 cup of water and let it cool for few minutes.
  • Pour this mix into a sterilized container and then add 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon of non – iodized salt and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder in it.
  • Stir well and pour this mix into a dropper or squeeze bottle.
  • Now tilt your head at 45 degrees and pour this mix gently into your nostrils.
  • Wait till the mix drain through the nose or mouth and spit out the mix.
  • Blow your nose before repeating the same on the other nostril.
  • Continue this nasal spray for 2 – 3 times daily.

Note: Or mix 1 teaspoon of salt in 1 glass of warm water and use this mix to gargle for 20 – 35 seconds. Then after, spit it out without swallowing. Do it twice daily till you cleared sinusitis and clogged ears.

You can also pour garlic oil into the affected ear (or) a mix of tea tree oil in warm olive oil (or) allow the steam of tea tree oil mixed in hot boiling water into the affected ear to get rid of clogged ears.

Remedies for Plugged Ear that caused due to Pressure:

Whenever there is an imbalance of pressure in ear drum then it gets clogged. So, when you’re planning to fly or drive up or down the mountains then you have to follow these remedies to get rid of plugged ears.

Remedy – 1: (Valsalva Maneuver)

This technique helps to equalize the pressure in your middle ear and clears plugged ears. It relieves your stuffiness and pain in the ear.

  • Close your mouth and pinch the nostrils closed by using your fingers.
  • Then try to blow through the nose until you get pop sound in the ear.
  • Make sure that not to blow too hard, as it damages the ear canal.
  • Do it at anytime and anywhere whenever you suffer from plugged ear due to the imbalance of pressure.

Remedy – 2: (Toynbee Maneuver)

You should swallow the water with your mouth and nose closed. Try this technique to get faster relief from the problem.

  • Sip some water and close your mouth and pinch your nose with your fingers.
  • Swallow the water still closing the nose.
  • This will help to equalize the pressure in the ears and thereby unplug them.
  • Do the same process as needed to get rid of the problem.

Remedy – 3: (Otovent)

Otovent is another easy technique used to equalize the pressure by simply inflating a balloon through the nose to clear the clogged ears.

  • Take a small balloon and place it on one nostril and hold the other nostril.
  • Inhale through your mouth and close it.
  • Then blow the air out through nostril to inflate the balloon.
  • Do the same by closing other nostril to get rid of plugged ears.

You can also follow jaw wriggle methods by widely open the mouth and wriggle the jaws by moving it from one side to another (OR) Chewing gum, swallowing or yawning are some tips to equalize the pressure in the ears.

Remedies for Plugged Ear that caused due to Earwax:

In some cases, earwax can also lead to clogged ears, not because of cleaning but due to over-cleaning. Our body will automatically clear the ear wax and when we are cleaning it with a q-tip or other devices the wax will be pushed near to the ear canal and makes it difficult to clear.

Remedy – 1: (Olive Oil)

Olive oil helps to soften the ear wax and removes it easily. You can use any natural oil for removing ear wax and thereby clearing plugged ears.

  • Warm some extra virgin olive oil slightly and pour few drops of this lukewarm oil into the affected ear using a dropper.
  • Let it sit for 10 minutes so that the wax gets soft.
  • Then keep the head sideways to remove the oil and ear wax using ear buds.
  • Continue doing the process gently that not to cause any damage to the delicate organs.

Remedy – 2: (Warm Compress)

A warm compress is an effective remedy that clears plugged ears that caused due to the sinus infection, an improper balance of pressure and buildup of earwax.

  • Soak a clean washcloth in warm water and squeeze it to remove excess water.
  • Hold the cloth over the affected ear for 5 – 10 minutes.
  • This process helps you to ease the pain and thus promote fluid drainage.

Note:

  • Or simply wrap a hot water bottle in a thin towel and place it on the clogged ear for 5 – 10 minutes to relieve the pressure and thereby to open up the clogged ears.
  • Also, inhale the steam (or) take a hot shower to get rid of plugged ears.

Tips and Precautions:

  1. Hydrogen peroxide (3%) also helps to unclog the ears by clearing the accumulated wax. Pour 2 – 3 drops of peroxide into the affected ear and wait for few minutes till the fizz stops and then tilt your head to clear the solution and earwax.
  2. Never ever place too cool or too hot temperatures on the ear.
  3. Drink plenty of water and include garlic, radish, jalapeno, onions, chilies, pepper, warm soups, herbal teas, etc. to clear the congestion and thereby plugged ear.
  4. Avoid scratching the eardrum or using any Waterpik or other devices on the ear, as they cause damage to the ear drum.
  5. Consult your doctor if you didn’t get any relief from the problem or suspecting if there is any foreign object in the ear causing the blockage.
  6. It’s best to use earplugs to filter the air pressure changes while traveling in planes.

Try these natural ways to get rid of plugged ears. Do you know any other successful plugged ear remedies? Then share it with us in the below comments box.