Aging is inevitable. Whether you like it or not, you can’t turn back time and stay young forever. But, the main question arising here is: How do you want your aging process to look like? Do you want to maintain your physical health and keep your skin in good condition as you age?
Because with time, your skin will begin to reflect your experience, your wisdom, and the stories of your life. Your skin will change because aging has a direct effect on it. Aging along with other external factors, such as sun exposure, nutrition, pollution, cosmetics usage, and the stress and problems you’re faced with daily, causes your skin to become dry and thin and to lose fat and elasticity as well.
You’re probably wondering if there’s a way you can reverse the aging process and make sure your skin stays glowing and youthful for longer. Well, here’s some good news: There is a way you can do this. You can slow down a lot of aspects of aging and rejuvenate your skin by using organic skincare products that you can easily make at home.
There are many reasons why you should use homemade natural skincare products instead of cosmetic brands of products sold at drugstores and department stores. The latter are packed with hazardous synthetic chemicals, artificial colors, and toxic ingredients – things you wouldn’t want to apply on your skin for sure. Moreover, some of them can be ludicrously expensive.(1)
One more reason why you should use homemade organic skincare products is that such products abound with proteins, vitamins, essential oils, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds.
And if you think that making organic skincare products at home is difficult and requires a lot of money, you’re wrong. It’s pretty cheap and all you need are a couple of things that you already have in your kitchen, pantry, or bathroom. So, without further ado, let’s discuss a couple of types of skincare and some of the best homemade natural skincare products:
The word holistic means whole. So, if one takes a holistic approach to something, that means that they’re treating it or dealing with the whole of it, not only parts of it. So, taking a holistic approach to beauty or skincare refers to treating your skin both from the outside and the inside by using solely organic skincare products. In this way, your skin will remain healthy, hydrated, glowing, and nourished for longer.
But, a holistic approach to skincare includes other routines besides using organic products. Exercising, consuming healthy foods, lowering the level of stress you’re daily exposed to, and getting the right amount of sleep are all important routines you need to follow so that your skin remains beautiful and youthful for longer. So, let’s explain further each of these:
As we already said, such products are packed with many vitamins, antioxidants, and proteins. All of these play an important role in hydrating and nurturing your skin. They’re free of synthetic chemicals and parabens that can harm your skin.
Doing physical exercises positively affects both your skin and overall health as it helps bring nutrients and oxygen to the cells in your body and improves your immune system. Also, because exercising makes you sweat more, this helps your body eliminate toxins.
Skin reflects your diet, meaning if you consume foods that are rich in nutrients, this will reflect on your skin, i.e. make it healthy too. That said, make sure you consume raw fruits and vegetables as they’re loaded with all the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants your skin need so as to stay hydrated and nourished. Consume, too, oily fish, since the omega-3 fatty acids present in them helps your skin stay moisturized.(2)
Then, you need to know that consuming dairy products is linked to the appearance of acne and skin rashes, so if you have this kind of problem, you should lower the amount of dairy you consume. In addition, consuming white sugar, processed foods, and white bread can increase your blood sugar levels and cause inflammation, thereby making your acne problem even worse. To prevent this, try to consume more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, or beans.
Experiencing stress for a long period of time can definitely show signs on your skin. Stress can cause many skin conditions, such as hives, hair loss, acne, and rashes and it can deteriorate existing psoriasis. You can lower your stress levels by exercising regularly, practicing a hobby, doing yoga, meditating, or deep breathing.
Having healthy sleep patterns and getting at least 8 hours of sleep a night helps your skin regenerate and rejuvenate. Whereas, lack of sleep leads to saggy skin and dark circles under your eyes. Lack of sleep can also increase the levels of your stress hormones, which can in turn deteriorate existing problems, such as psoriasis and eczema.
Those who practice Ayurveda believe that stress, lifestyle, and diet can have an influence on your skin. Ayurveda is a natural system of medicine that started in India in ancient times. This practice includes treatments for various skin conditions, facial skincare, and skincare formulations.
In the Ayurvedic practice, the skin is treated based on its type, and according to this practice there are three types of skin: vata, pitta, and kapha. Vata skin is cold, rough, dry, and ages fast. Pitta skin is oily and sensitive, and people having this type of skin are prone to rosacea, acne, and moles. And kapha is oily or normal, and smooth. It ages slowly and people having this type of skin are prone to whiteheads and pimples.
Ayurvedic practice includes homemade natural skincare remedies which can be used to treat various skin conditions. Thus, those who practice Ayurveda recommend using almond oil for pitta and vata skin types, and they recommend sesame oil for all three skin types. For facial massage, they recommend Manjistha (a herb) oil.
You can make a traditional Ayurvedic face mask at home too. To do this, you need flour and chickpea. Mix the two ingredients and add a pinch of milk and turmeric and rose water to the mixture. The end result will be a nourishing paste that will greatly benefit your skin.(3)
Forget about buying amazingly expensive face cleansers at your local drugstore. You can make an organic facial cleanser at home. To make this product, all you need is apple cider and ground oats. Why? Because they’re rich in alpha-hydroxy acids and saponins respectively which are natural cleansers.
So, to make this recipe, mix ¼ teaspoon of apple cider with 3 teaspoons of ground oats and stir the mixture until it becomes smooth. Then add ½ tablespoon of brown sugar and ¼ tablespoon of lemon juice and thoroughly stir the mixture. Apply the paste on a previously washed face and allow it to sit for around 10 minutes. Then rub making circular motions and in the end, rinse using warm water.
If the skin on your face is dry and you’re looking for a natural moisturizer that will hydrate your skin and make it smooth and that won’t clog your pores, search no more. Here’s one simple and yet effective recipe you can try making at home: Add 10 drops of lavender essential oil, 2 oz of argan oil, and 15 drops of frankincense essential oil to a glass dropper bottle. Close the bottle well and shake it before each use. Store it in a dry, cool spot.
This homemade natural moisturizer is very effective due to its ingredients. Lavender essential oil can greatly benefit your skin, especially when it’s exposed to the sun. Argan oil is packed with carotenes, vitamin E, and fatty acids and it hydrates your skin. And frankincense essential oil makes your skin look healthy, glowing, and youthful.
And here’s one more recipe for a homemade natural face moisturizer: Mix together 1 tablespoon of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder, 1 egg white, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Apply the paste on your face and let it dry for about 10 minutes. In the end, rinse thoroughly. Not only will this moisturizer hydrate your skin, it’ll tighten it too.
Who said that you need to spend a lot of money on an organic eye cream? The eye cream presented here will help you get rid of dark circles under your eyes and it’ll revitalize skin cells, fight wrinkles around your eyes, and reduce puffiness. Here’s the recipe:
Grate one cucumber over a napkin. Then wrap the pieces of cucumber in the same way you wrap burritos and firmly press it. Apply the paste on closed eyes and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. You’ll be amazed to see how greatly it will soothe the skin around your eyes.
Sudden weight gain causes stretch marks to appear most commonly on the breasts and stomach, and women find them especially annoying. But, you can get rid of this problem by making a natural stretch mark cream at home. Here’s how you can prepare it:
Combine 2 tablespoons each of cocoa butter and shea butter with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Stir the mixture thoroughly and add 1 teaspoon of vitamin E oil to it. Then stir the whole mixture again over low heat until it melts. Once it’s melted, add 1/2 teaspoon of lavender essential oil and thoroughly whip the mixture with a whisk. The cream should be stored in a glass jar. Regularly apply the cream on any spot where you want to treat or prevent stretch marks.
It seems like men nowadays take care of their skin more than ever. So, if you’re a guy and searching for face washes, cleansers, and moisturizers and after-shave balms that don’t smell like lavender, know that you can prepare these at home.
For instance, to make a soothing after-shave balm, combine 1 teaspoon of vegetable glycerin, 3 drops of sandalwood essential oil, 1 cup of witch hazel, and 6 drops of sweet orange oil. Stir the ingredients well and then pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Apply it on your face after you shave.
And if you want to make a skin moisturizer, try making the following recipe: Combine 2 tablespoons of ground oats, ½ teaspoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of warm water, and ½ teaspoon of honey and stir the ingredients well until you form a smooth mixture. Apply the paste on your face and rub making circular motions. In the end, rinse using warm water.
According to the National Kidney Foundation, over half a million people every year ask for a medical help for symptoms of kidney stones. Passing kidney stones causes a lot of discomfort and pain, which is why this can prevent you from fulfilling normal, everyday responsibilities both at home and at work.(1)
In the majority of cases, pain medications are used to treat kidney stones, but this is not the only way one can speed up their removal. If you have kidney stones, you can get rid of them by making certain changes to your diet and lifestyle.
In this article, we’re going to explain what kidney stones are, what natural home remedies you can use to successfully deal with them, what risk factors for kidney stones exist, and when you should consult your doctor. So, without further ado, let’s get to it.
Kidney stones, also known as nephrolithiasis or renal stones, are hard deposits that are made of salts and minerals which accumulate in the kidneys. There are four types of kidney stones. Most of them are calcium stones and other forms include uric acid stones, cysteine stones, and struvite stones.
Smaller stones don’t normally cause a problem as they can pass by themselves without causing pain. However, bigger ones may block the normal urine flow which leads to pain in the bladder as well as increase the amount of minerals in the urine as they build up and can’t be passed. Larger kidney stones may cause symptoms, such as strong pain in your lower abdomen or back, pain while you’re urinating, vomiting, nausea, and blood in your urine.
Once kidney stones are passed, they don’t usually cause damage in the urinary tract. However, in some cases, untreated kidney stones may damage the kidneys and even lead to kidney failure. In this case, surgery is required.
The acetic acid which is present in apple cider vinegar can help break up kidney stones. Not only does apple cider vinegar help flush kidney stones out of your body, it also helps alleviate pain associated with the stones.
One study has found that apple cider vinegar combined with wood apple prevent calcium oxalate crystals from aggregating and nucleating (2).
However, apple cider vinegar shouldn’t be consumed undiluted. If you have kidney stones, dilute 2 tablespoons of this vinegar with 6-8 ounces of plain water and drink this mixture several times during the day. You shouldn’t drink more than 8 ounces of the mixture daily. In addition, you can add the mixture to your favorite salads.
It’s worth mentioning that apple cider vinegar is thought to help dissolve and flush out gallstones, but more research is needed to determine whether this vinegar really has this effect.
An important note we need to make here is that if apple cider vinegar is consumed in large quantities, it can decrease potassium levels and cause osteoporosis. Additionally, people suffering from diabetes should observe the level of their blood sugar when drinking apple cider vinegar throughout the day. And last but not least, those who are taking diuretics, insulin, and digoxin should not drink apple cider vinegar.
Staying hydrated plays a crucial role in passing kidney stones as well as hindering the formation of new stones. Drinking a lot of fluids, such as plain water, fruit-infused water, or herbal tea, helps flush kidney stones and toxins out of your body. Drinking such hydrating drinks is especially important if your diet is high in sodium. Although your fluid intake depends on your body weight, the climate where you live, your diet, and how much you’re physically active, make sure you drink 8-12 glasses of water a day.
It’s worth mentioning that compared to other fluids, tea, orange juice, coffee, wine, and beer are associated with a reduced risk of formation of kidney stones, whereas consuming punch and sodas that are sweetened with sugar is related to an increased risk of kidney stone formation (3).
In addition, sugar-sweetened beverages contain fructose whose intake may raise the excretion of uric acid, calcium, and oxalate in the urine, which are all factors related to a risk of kidney stone formation (4).
Many people think that they should avoid eating foods rich in calcium so as to lower the risk of calcium stone formation. But this is wrong. Foods packed with calcium have been actually related to a lower risk of kidney stone formation in some studies (5).
One study which included 120 men who had hypercalciuria and calcium oxalate stones divided participants into two groups. Men in one group were asked to have a diet which contained 30 mmol of calcium a day, but had a reduced amount of salt and animal protein, and men in the other group were asked to eat diet containing 10 mmol of calcium daily.
After 5 years passed, the results showed that excretion of oxalate in the urine increased in men in the second group and decreased in those who consumed 30 mmol of calcium a day (6).
However, it should be noted that calcium supplement intake may raise the kidney stone risk (7).
Foods that are packed with calcium include cheese, yogurt, and milk. In addition, for the majority of adults, it’s recommended that they take 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily, whereas those who are over 70 and women aged over 50 should take 1,200 milligrams of calcium daily.
Citrate, a compound present in lemons, can dissolve small kidney stones, thereby enabling them to flush out of your body more easily and it can also hinder the formation of calcium stones.
You can squeeze as many lemons as you want, (although a good amount of lemons is required to make a great effect), to make lemon juice and you can consume it every day.
Studies have shown that taking vitamin C supplements are related to an increased risk of kidney stone formation in men and children (8,9).
Additionally, due to the fact that vitamin C (ascorbic acid) increases oxalate absorption from foods and is converted to oxalate in your body, taking vitamin C supplements may raise the risk of kidney stone formation (10).
It should be noted, too, that in one study, dietary intake of vitamin C wasn’t related to risk of kidney stones among women or men (11).
A study has shown that eating foods low in salt and a normal intake of calcium offers higher protection of kidney stone formation than a diet which is low in calcium(12).
Similarly, another study has found that a diet which is low in salt can lower the excretion of calcium in people with hypercalciuric stones (13).
It’s worth mentioning that the Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggests adults should consume less than 2,3oo milligrams of salt, i.e. sodium, daily, which is actually approximately 1 teaspoon of salt. Nevertheless, a majority of people eat way more than that amount of salt globally.(14)
The best way to limit your intake of sodium is to eat less processed foods.
Oxalate is a compound present in a lot of foods, such as beans, leafy greens, cocoa, chocolate, berries, nuts, and sweet potatoes, to name just a few. Your body also produces oxalate.
Too much oxalate may lead to kidney stone formation. For instance, one study has found that oxalate present in foods contributes to excretion of oxalate in urine and its absorption may lead to formation of oxalate stones (15).
Nevertheless, foods that are loaded with oxalate are also very healthy and therefore it’s not recommended that you have a strict diet low in oxalates. This type of diet is recommended for people suffering from hyperoxaluria, which is a condition that occurs when one has a large amount of oxalate in their urine. So, if you have kidney stones, before deciding to cut down on foods high in oxalates, consult your doctor to see if this step may benefit your health.
Celery juice is believed to help your body pass kidney stones and remove toxins which contribute to the formation of kidney stones.
To make celery juice, just mix 1-5 stalks of celery with water and drink this mixture several times a day. However, we advise you not to drink celery juice if:
Citric acid is present in many vegetables and fruits, especially citrus fruits, such as limes, lemons, oranges, and grapefruits. Studies have found that this acid may help hinder the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones (16,17).
This juice has been used to enhance function of the kidneys for many years. Pomegranate juice helps your body flush out toxins and kidney stones. It is rich in antioxidants which play an important role in keeping the kidneys healthy and they may also play a role in hindering the formation of kidney stones.
Pomegranate juice also decreases the level of acidity in the urine, which, in turn, decreases the risk of forming new kidney stones.
More research is needed to establish the effect of pomegranate juice on kidney stones, however one pilot study has shown that taking pomegranate extract doesn’t raise the kidney stone risk and it may be a useful tool for lowering supersaturation of calcium oxalate in patients with raised levels of paraoxonase1 (18).
However, it’s not recommended that you drink pomegranate juice if:
An effective home remedy to make kidney stones pass more quickly is to consume plenty of water, orange juice, and lemon water. By consuming plenty of fluids a day, you’ll urinate more, and as a result, prevent the stones from getting larger and help them move. Try to drink 2-3 quarts of water or juices daily.
There are a few home remedies that may help quickly break up kidney stones, but it should be clear that they might not work for everyone
The acetic acid found in basil may help ease pain and break down kidney stones. Drinking one glass of basil juice or one teaspoon of extract from basil may help you deal with kidney stones.
The citric acid present in lemon juice may help dissolve kidney stones and olive oil may help flush them out.
Those who support this method claim that once you feel the first symptoms of kidney stones, you should mix ¼ cup of lemon juice with ¼ cup of olive oil. You should drink one glass of water once you drink the mixture, but you also need to make sure that you drink a lot of water during the entire day. You can make and consume the same mixture again in the afternoon.
To flush out kidney stones, consume steamed asparagus as this will cause you to urinate more. Eating watermelons or cucumbers may have the same effect as well.
Apple cider vinegar may help break down kidney stones due to the acids present in it. Moreover, this vinegar hinders kidney stone formation by making your urine and blood more alkaline and stimulating your body to produce hydrochloric acid.
Those who support this method recommend that you dilute 2 tablespoons of this vinegar with 8 ounces of water and often consume this combination during the day, particularly before eating meals.
As we already said, you can have kidney stones without symptoms. But the symptoms can begin appearing once your kidney stone starts to move within your kidney or through your urinary tract. These symptoms include:
- beets
- nuts
- sesame seeds
- buckwheat flour
- chocolate soy milk
- tahini
- swiss chard
- antiseizure medications
- diuretics
- calcium-based antacids
- HIV treatments
When You Should See Your Doctor
If you can’t pass your kidney stone in a 6-week period or the following symptoms start appearing, make sure you see your doctor:
Conclusion
Two household ingredients that are used even in school projects - coconut oil and baking soda. They are all natural, and they are even edible. But, how can we use them out of the kitchen? Have you wondered what is the best face anti-wrinkle mask? Well, these two household products have the answer – you can make with them a skin mask that will reverse your age in seconds and your skin will look younger, fresher, and healthier. And you do not need those awful chemicals to prepare it, just use these two precious products you can find at home. Let’s learn how can you can rejuvenate your hair, teeth, and skin with these two precious household products!
Baking soda is a household material that has been used for culinary purposes for centuries. It is a natural product and it is mostly used for leaving bread in the kitchen.
It is the best alternative to chemical household cleaners as well.
It has very high PH values and it has alkaline properties. So, you can use it internally, to make your PH reach the perfect level ( between 7.35 and 7.45). Balancing the acidity in your body is very important as it is a key to the prevention of many diseases, including cancer. Still, there is no medical research made to support this claim.
Nevertheless, in 2009 a study made found that injecting baking soda reduced tumor pH levels and slowed the progression of metastatic breast cancer when given to mice. (1)
This solution has numerous benefits such as:
Baking soda as an alkaline product can help:
Coconut oil comes from coconut palm trees (Cocos nucifera). Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids that can help you to improve many body functions. It is especially known for improving the health of your skin and hair and can ameliorate your body’s metabolic and cognitive functions.
1.It improves good cholesterol levels. This claim is supported by a study where coconut fat and safflower oil were compared and it was found that it can lower the bad LDL. (4)
2. It contains ketones, chemicals that boost brain function. Still, more research should be conducted to support this claim
3. It may increase the feeling of fullness and it can reduce your appetite. Plus, it contains lauric acid that travels to the liver and transforms the fat into energy. So, this means it can help you with weight loss
4. It is mostly known for improving the health of your skin and hair. It is a great moisturizer, especially for dry skin and dry hair (5)
As we have seen the main benefits from these two healthy and organic products, let’s see how you can use them as beauty products in your home and prepare some really easy to make and cheap products out of them. You will definitely love them and you can use them daily as a safe and natural replacement of the ones you buy at the store and are full of chemicals.
You are probably buying too many face masks to beautify and reduce the wrinkles on your face. But, now you can make a natural homemade face scrub, without any chemicals, and prepare it in a second just by combining these two products in a paste. This paste does not just fight wrinkles, it can help you with acne and pimple problems and keeps your skin shiny and clean from any dirt and bacteria.
Just get a tablespoon of each of these two ingredients and mix it all together until making a smooth paste.
Put it on your skin and gently rub for about 15 minutes in a clockwise motion and wash it with cold water. Dry it with a towel and you can see the immediate results.
If you are a teenager and you are facing acne problems almost every teenager has, you can use this scrub before having a bath. You can use it twice or three times per week to improve the blood flow and exfoliate the skin off the dead cells.
Have you ever thought you can brush your teeth with coconut oil and baking soda? Well, yes, you can!
We offer you a simple way to make homemade toothpaste with 3 ingredients only, which saves your monthly budget.
It has a sweet taste and it can be used by your kids with no problem at all. It is all-natural and safe compared to the toothpaste bought at the stores with the warning label: not to be swallowed which can scare you.
This toothpaste can easily neutralize any bad odor and is not harmful even if swallowed. You get the pearly smile you ever wanted to have and keep it white for a long period of time.
The important thing is to note that this toothpaste doesn’t contain sodium sulfate, so it won’t foam in your mouth. So, if you like that foam-filled feeling when you brush your teeth, this toothpaste is not for you.
You will need:
You should get a solid mixture out of these ingredients, by melting 3 tablespoons of coconut oil on low heat. Add the other ingredients until they got smoothly mixed. Add some 15 drops of essential oils (you can mix two of them if you like).
You can make a bigger dose but please always follow the proportion 1:1:5.
In the end, put in a small jar. Let it harden and keep it in a cold and dry environment. It can last up to 3 months.
You can use coconut oil and baking soda for teeth whitening and they also improve gum health, prevent building cavities, fight all bad odor and bacteria in your mouth, reduce the stains on your teeth, and can whiten them. These two products are absolutely great!
Just put in one cup of warm water ¼ teaspoon of baking soda and rinse your teeth daily to see the results. And add a little bit of salt inside to get better results. This is a proven and effective antimicrobial mouth rinse and you can even ask your dentist about it.
What is great about this deodorant?
It doesn’t contain that toxic ingredient found in most of the deodorants on the market – aluminum. This chemical ingredient is believed to be harmful to the endocrine system and has cancerogenic properties.
And the parabens and synthetic fragrances? All these block the natural body systems that release the toxins to come out. Keep this in mind if you hesitate to make this all-natural and organic deodorant.
Why use baking soda and coconut oil as ingredients?
So, this deodorant will have your own personal touch and you will love it when wearing it.
Melt the coconut oil and add the other corn starch and the baking soda. Mix it well until you get a nice structure and add the essential oil at the end.
You can get a more creamy mix if you put 2 extra spoons of cornstarch and baking soda.
Put it in a glass container and keep it in a dry and cold place. Cover it with a lid. You can use it and it will last for about 3 months.
This deodorant works fine and will become part of your daily routine quickly. Do not get judgmental and try this natural product and be open-minded, we shall all take care of what we are putting on our skin outside, as we care about the products we take inside.
It can be really difficult to get rid of the dark spots on your skin that can appear as a result of sun exposure, hormonal changes, medication side effects, irritation, diabetes, or sometimes from some insect bites.
Best results can come from a mixture of combining these two products (baking soda and coconut oil) with lemon juice.
Now let’s see how to get rid of the dark spots using a combo of lemon juice and baking soda.
Lemon juice is a rich antioxidative beverage and prevents the negative effects of the free radicals in the body. This is especially good for the skin and it slows the aging and gives a radiant glow and can whiten your patches. It has whitening abilities and is a perfect remedy for hyperpigmentation, melasma, and dark patches.
The baking soda exfoliates your skin and cleans your pores.
You will need:
Mix it very well and apply it to the dark spots. Leave it for a few minutes and wash your face thoroughly.
Clean the skin regularly to see the results.
Now, let’s look at the other combination, which is very useful as well and that can brighten your skin as well.
As mentioned, lemon juice has incredible whitening abilities and a huge amount of vitamin C that is so needed for your skin to look radiant.
Coconut oil can neutralize its acidity and prevents complications that can appear due to its acidic effects. It also has whitening properties as it contains vitamin E and fatty acids.
So, this is a perfect combination for whitening the black patches and making your skin’s face flawless and radiant.
You will need:
Mix it well and apply it to your dark patches. Massage it for some time and leave it for another 20 – 25 minutes to get the best results. Rinse it off with lukewarm water.
Coconut oil is very effective against sun damage and skin dehydration as well.
Use it daily to see how your dark patches fade away.
We offer you a great mask you can use for dry hair and will deeply moisturize it and you will love it for sure.
All you need are the following ingredients:
Before the mixture, please melt the coconut oil until it gets the liquid state, but it should not get too hot.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and add the coconut oil. Whisk it together and at the end, add the honey. Mix it all very well together.
Then, gently massage your dry hair and apply it to each section. Cover the hair with a towel or shower cap and leave it for 30 minutes. Rinse it thoroughly with your favorite shampoo.
Baking soda is recommended to be used as clarifying shampoo and dissolved in water. Actually, it is believed that it will wash away from your hair all the accumulated oil, waxes, silicones, and pollution.
But, baking soda is high in PH (very acidic – almost 8), as already mentioned and this breaks down the bonds between the protein molecules your hair has and leads to hair damage.
There was also a study that claims that using anything on your scalp with a pH above 5.5 might be harmful to it and for your hair. (6)
So, please use baking soda with caution to your hair and if you think moreover, you will find out that the baking soda actually consists of tiny crystals that if you massage them deep onto your scalp can even damage it and have an abrasive effect.
You should be very careful when using baking soda if you have colored hair.
It can easily remove the color from it! Actually, baking soda is a great solution to get rid of the hair color you are desperately trying to change. It is very effective if baking soda is mixed with apple cider vinegar as both are cleansing agents.
This decolorization will leave your hair dry, so you have to moisturize it afterward.
We offer you a quick and easy recipe for you to have in case you want to decolorize your hair at home and quickly with these cheap home products.
Note: Please consult a hair specialist and be careful with this recipe it is not scientifically supported and there is not so much evidence that it can easily decolorize your hair.
1. Mix the baking soda with ½ cup of water.
2. Put this mixture on your wet hair.
3. Massage the hair and leave it on it for about 10 minutes.
4. Rinse the hair thoroughly.
The vinegar and the essential oil should be put in the rest of the water. In the end, rinse your hair with this solution.
To moisturize the dry hair left after this decolorization method, you can use the coconut mask hair we offered you above.
Have you felt depressed lately due to some personal or medical reasons, or just you feel too emotional with no reason at all? You probably had some mood swifts. There is one natural remedy that can you help you with negative thoughts and moody blues, the cashew. And you can find it in various forms such as cashew butter, cashew yogurt which are so beneficial and healthy, especially if you are a vegan and they are healthy for diabetics too!
Cashews are tropical nuts that come out of cashew apples and they can easily be called fruit. They come in several varieties and in various colors, so you find them from bottom green to grayish brown. One interesting fact is that they are the nuts the mostly produced on the planet. They originate from Brazil but were introduced to India, a country that became the biggest producer of this delicacy along with Nigeria, Vietnam, Ivory Coast, and Brazil.
The cashew kernel is the processed cashew nut that is very nutritious, and there is a long process of fabrication to produce it. Being rich in nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, fiber, and anti-oxidants, it is unbelievably good for your brain function and your overall health. It is advisable to eat soaked cashew to boost your brain activity.
One of the biggest benefits is being a great booster of brain activity and it is a natural anti-depressant as it contains mood-stabilizing vitamin B6 and tryptophan, an amino acid that regulates moods. So, this product is a must on your everyday diet if you have felt depressed lately. It is the best alternative to antidepressant drugs.
Plus, it is a great food for vegans, since it can substitute some dairy products.
Let’s see some of its benefits, compare with it some other healthy nuts, and learn about the healthy cashew milk yogurt, low fat and rich in probiotic cultures, and some other products made out of this nut such as cashew butter.
If you eat nuts, you do not get nuts, as simple as that.
According to some nutritionists, two handfuls of cashews eaten daily can really reduce your anxiety, level of stress and ameliorate your sleep. It contains tryptophan, an essential amino acid that is a precursor to serotonin and can be bought in capsule form. We get depressed when the level of serotonin in our body is low and cashew can easily boost this transmitter in our body that affects our mood.
It was stated in the media that it can replace Prosac and it was great news for people who cannot tolerate this antidepressant. Still, this statement should be taken with caution, as it does not come from a clinical study or research.
Nevertheless, research was conducted and stated that dietary consumption of tryptophan produced notable effects in patients who suffered from neuropsychological disorders or had a history of such disorders, rather than in healthy individuals (1) .
In fact, a 3-week clinical trial conducted in Malaysia has shown that consuming Talbinah, food rich in tryptophan had positive effects on depressive and anxious elderly patients. (2).
So, we may conclude that taking tryptophan as a dietary supplement may boost the level of serotonin in your body and it is healthy and very helpful. So, this nut is recommended on your diet list if you feel down lately, and you want to improve your mood.
On the other hand, the statement that two handfuls of cashews per day can replace the prescribed drug Prosac should be taken with caution, and it is potentially dangerous, as it is not supported with medical studies.
Like other nuts, cashew is healthy, and it is highly recommendable to be part of your everyday diet to induce longevity. The Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend a daily serving of 30g of nuts. According to experts, roasted cashew is better than the raw one, as it may last longer and its abilities to lower the cholesterol levels remain the same as the raw one.
They can become easily a habit and the more you eat them they become tastier and that can give you more cravings.
It has a low glycemic index and most of the carbohydrates in it are starch. The cashew nutrition in one cup is as follows:
For a Serving Size of 1 cup (137g)
* The Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet, so your values may change depending on your calorie needs.
The cashew has monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, and this helps with lowering cholesterol levels and triglyceride levels. This may also help your heart and its function. They are gluten-free and high in calories and there are 25 calories in 5 cashews. This makes them an excellent substitute and a healthy snack at work or between meals (3).
It has a huge amount of protein in it, and it is essential for your body. So, there is a 5,17 g of protein in just 1 cashew. This is especially good for your brain function.
Anyway, this protein that comes from nuts and cashew, cannot replace the essential amino acids you can get from meat. But, if you are a vegan, you can add some extra rice or black beans and complement the proteins the cashew is lacking.
There are five cashews that are high in protein, and they ranked as follows per 100 gr.:
1. Nuts, cashew nuts, raw: 18.22g (33%RDA)
2. Nuts, cashew butter, plain, without salt added: 17.56g (31%RDA)
3. Nuts, cashew butter, plain, with salt added: 17.56g (31%RDA)
4. Nuts, cashew nuts, oil roasted, without salt added: 16.84g (30%RDA)
5. Nuts, cashew nuts, oil roasted, with salt added: 16.84g (30%RDA)
As mentioned above, cashew is rich in healthy fatty acids. But the omega – 3 fatty acids content in these nuts is low compared to some other nuts. According to an article in the October 2004 issue of the "Journal of the Canadian Medical Association," 100 g of cashew oil contains only 0.14 g of Omega-3 fatty acids (6).
On the other hand, the ratio between Omega 6 and Omega 3 is quite favorable and according to a 2007 article published in the "Pakistani Journal of Nutrition," this helps in lowering the omega 6 fatty acids that are harmful to your overall health.
They are also rich in Omega 9 fatty acids that can be found in olive oil.
Almonds are rich in magnesium and daily intake of magnesium may reduce the development of diabetes 2. Cashew is also rich in magnesium, similar to almonds and they are most beneficial as a brain booster, and it is highly favorable as lowering blood tension.
Almonds are rich in vitamin E and are the best source of this vitamin this is a good vitamin to lower some heart diseases, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease and have more fiber than cashew.
Almond can reduce appetite and it is a great calorie intake. As a plus, vitamin E dissolves fat. It is used for producing marzipan, a delicious confection used in sweets.
Cashew, as mentioned, is the best alternative to antidepressants as they are rich in mood-stabilizing vitamin B6 and tryptophan, an amino acid that regulates moods. It is also very rich in zinc and iron that help your immune system and healthy vision.
The best solution is to mix the nuts and try to eat them unsalted of course, as this is a healthier version.
Cashew butter is made in the same way as peanut butter. The only difference is the nuts used. Cashew butter has fewer calories and more protein than almond butter for example. It is richer in iron than other nut butter so, it is a great solution as an iron supplement. But be careful as cashew butter is rich in sodium and this may lead to high blood pressure.
The table below presents the nutrition facts of single-serving of 2 tbsp of cashew butter.
Serving Size 2 Tbsp
Cashew is not as popular as other nuts for making milk yogurt that can substitute ordinary cow milk, but this nut offers a unique creamy dairy-like taste experience. It has a very thick and velvet structure, so it will remind you of crème fresh when you get it prepared. It offers a richer consistency than almond milk, for example.
You already know all the benefits the cashew offer, so the yogurt offers them as well. It is lower in fat and contains all the minerals needed for the day plus is rich in iron and zinc. They are important for your overall health and immune system and can fight anemia.
It contains many probiotic cultures to protect your digestive system. It is so easy to make it and you need 3 ingredients only: water, probiotics, and cashew.
Stress is something we experience every day. Whether it is a financial, health, or relationship problem you might be facing, some mistakes or personal failures that worry you and keep you up at night, the countless responsibilities you have to fulfill every day, or the hectic schedule at work, these things affect your mental and physical health.
When you feel stressed, tense, or anxious for a longer period of time, this causes you to become less productive, both personally and professionally, and more prone to making wrong choices and unwise decisions. It simply prevents your body and mind from functioning properly.
And for your mind and body to function the way they should, you need to create a balance between them. You need to create a balance between your emotions and energy so as to be more productive and live a happier and more fulfilling life.
You can do this by practicing a simple hand exercise which belongs to the ancient Japanese practice that is called Jin Shin Jyutsu. (1)
This ancient health practice is used to balance energy and emotions in the body, which improves one’s well-being on a mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual level. The hand exercise is actually a technique that incorporates holding each of your fingers and breathing deeply. The good thing is that this technique can be used by grown-ups as well as children and you can use it on your own or with another person.
The hand exercise is founded on the belief, which originates from the traditions of Eastern medicine, that our bodies have energy which moves from our internal body organs to our toes and the fingers on our hands. When an emotion doesn’t flow through your body, this causes your energy to get blocked. Another good thing about this exercise is that you can do it anywhere you want for 5 to 15 minutes depending on how long it’ll take you to feel its positive effects.
This technique combined with deep, slow breathing can greatly help you when you’re struggling with stress or feelings of anxiety and depression.
Practitioners of Jin Shin Jyutsu believe that there’s a close connection between every finger and different parts of your body as well as emotions. Gently touching the meridians of your hands can help relieve tension, i.e. balance your emotions and unblock your stagnant energy.
To practice Jin Shin Jyutsu effectively, you first need to know what emotion or organ each finger is connected with. We’ve presented that in what follows:
The thumb is associated with stress, grief, anxiety, emotional pain, tension, depression, skin conditions, stomach aches, and headaches.
The index finger is associated with panic, frustration, fear, confusion, digestive conditions, back aches, muscle pain, addiction issues, and teeth problems.
The middle finger is connected with resentment, rage, irritability, anger, fatigue, menstrual problems, blood circulation problems, headaches, and eye issues.
The ring finger is related to anxiety, negativity, preoccupation, and respiratory, digestive, and skin problems.
The little finger is associated with self-doubt, insecurity, bloating, blood pressure, heart diseases, and sore throat.
You can practice the hand exercise when you find yourself in a difficult situation or when you know you’ll soon find yourself in one. Practicing Jin Shin Jyutsu will help you feel calm, less stressed, and less tense. Of course, this technique won’t change the main cause of your problem or make it go away entirely, but it will certainly alleviate feelings of anxiety and tension and lower your stress levels. If you are a parent, you can teach your child how to use this technique by herself/himself if, let’s say, they’ll soon face a new situation, such as speaking in public, going to the doctor, or taking a test at school. (2)
Additionally, you can do the hand exercise before you go to bed as this can help you relax both your body and mind and fall asleep more easily.
If you see that this practice is working well for you, you can share it with a friend or family member who you know has been under stress lately and help them reduce it. For example, you can tell them: “I’ve found it helpful to hold and gently press my little finger and breathe slowly when I’m feeling insecure and doubting myself. You should give it a try.” Moreover, to teach them what emotion or organ each of the fingers is associated with, you can write the names of the emotions and organs on each finger or put stickers on them.
We hope that this simple yet powerful practice will help you balance your emotions and energy when you’re feeling anxious, tense, or stressed. But, we’d also like to mention that not everyone can reap the benefits of this practice. Moreover, you may find it effective once or several times and then discover that it doesn’t work anymore.
The first thought that pops into your head when you think of losing weight is probably cutting down on cakes and chocolate and going to the gym regularly. And you’re right. But, did you know that including certain beverages into your diet can greatly help you shed pounds and get a flat belly? Well, if your answer is no, then continue reading …
If you’ve already decided to make changes to your diet and lifestyle, that’s great – you’ve taken the first step of reaching your goal to lose weight. The next step you should take to successfully achieve this goal is to add certain drinks to your daily menu. Drinks, such as protein shakes, apple cider vinegar, coffee, and green tea, have been indicated to boost satiety, alleviate hunger, and improve digestion, which in turn can promote a healthy weight loss.
Apple cider vinegar is helpful in promoting weight loss since it may help lower the level of triglycerides in the blood and improve your metabolism. In addition, the acetic acid, present in apple cider vinegar, may reduce the level of blood sugar in your body.
Drinking 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar mixed with 1 cup of water before meals can make you feel full and it can burn fat deposits in your body. And one more benefit this vinegar has is that it can detox your body. That said, the next time you’re preparing yourself salad for lunch, add this vinegar to it instead of regular one.
Being a rich source of nutrients and antioxidants, green tea is undoubtedly the best tea for weight loss. Thanks to the antioxidants, known as catechins, and caffeine that are present in green tea, consuming this drink can improve your metabolism and help you burn body fat and shed pounds.
Since there are many who find its taste strong or not that pleasant, the good thing is that apple cider vinegar is available in various flavors. Additionally, adding one teaspoon of honey to it, not only will it make sweeter and tastier, it’ll turn it into a powerful health shot.
Perhaps you like drinking coffee because it helps you feel energized and alert or simply because you like the way it tastes. Whether in the morning or in the afternoon and whether you like to drink it with milk, sugar, and cream or just plain, coffee is an inseparable part of your everyday diet. But, has it ever occurred to you what effect does drinking coffee have on your body?
Well, if you’re trying to lose weight, know that black coffee should be your go-to detox drink. Besides being free of fats and carbohydrates, it has antioxidants which are helpful in promoting weight loss. It also has chlorogenic acid that slows the production of glucose in the body.
Black coffee is also a good source of caffeine, and as a result of this it boosts your level of energy and enhances your metabolism, thereby making you feel satiated. Moreover, coffee is also known to have a diuretic effect, which means that drinking this beverage can help you eliminate excess water from your body more easily, and as a result, lose weight temporarily.
And last but not least, if you don’t like drinking your coffee plain, instead of adding cream, sugar, or milk to it, add one teaspoon of lemon juice. The mixture of coffee and lemon does not have any effect on weight loss, but it does make for a refreshing, pleasant, and tasty drink. And besides being rich in vitamin C, lemons contain citric acid which can be helpful in improving your digestive system.
Black tea is one more fat cutter drink. It’s a rich source of polyphenols which encourage weight loss through promoting fat dissolving, decreasing the intake of calories, and increasing the growth of good bacteria in the gut. So, if you want to squeeze into a smaller size of jeans, you now know what you should drink.
If you’re trying to shed a few pounds, make sure you include protein shakes in your everyday diet. These drinks are a mixture of protein powder and water (they can be mixed with other liquids too). And they are known for their ability to reduce weight by suppressing appetite and relieving hunger. They also make you feel satiated for longer.
One study that included 90 obese participants has shown that fat mass and body weight of the participants who consumed wheat protein for 23 weeks were lower by 2.3 kg and 1.8 kg respectively than those of the other two groups of participants who consumed an isoenergetic amount of carbohydrate and soy protein.
Some of the best protein shakes for weight loss include:
Besides the top 5 above-mentioned drinks, there are several other detox drinks for weight loss that you can prepare at home.
Not only is a healthy substitute for fizzy, sugary drinks, lemon water can help improve your metabolism and boost satiety, which can in turn lead to weight loss. To prepare this drink, just add a few slices of lemon or some lemon juice in one cup of water and stir the mixture.
Water is undoubtedly the most overlooked drink when it comes to our diet. It seems like we’ve forgotten the great importance of water regarding our health. Not only does water help us digest food more easily and properly, it also plays a vital role in the transportation and absorption of carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, proteins, and minerals in our bodies. It also prevents bloating and constipation and helps us eliminate toxins from our bodies. And last but not least, water can curb appetite as well.
Cumin is known for its ability to reduce cholesterol levels, improve our metabolism, and regulate blood sugar levels. Eating a healthy, balanced diet, regularly doing physical exercises, and consuming cumin twice or thrice a week can gradually help fight inflammation and reduce fat deposits in your body. All you need to do to prepare this drink is to add 1 teaspoon of cumin in one cup of water. To make it tastier, you can add cinnamon and boil the mixture for around 5 minutes. After the water cools, you can consume it right away.
Psyllium is a type of fiber made from the seeds of a plant known as Plantago ovata. Not only can this drink help eliminate toxins from your body, it can make you feel full for longer. To prepare this drink, just add 1 tablespoon of psyllium powder into 350 ml of water. You can consume it right away.
And last but not least, cucumber water is one more detox drink.
Besides being a refreshing and pleasant-smelling drink, cucumber water helps eliminate toxins from your body, thereby improving your gut health and preventing any digestive problems. To prepare this drink, mix several slices of cucumber with water and consume the mixture every day.
Meet (and taste!) the new trend among food lovers that has invaded Instagram, and everyone is obsessed with it. I mean, who doesn’t like tasty, fluffy, Japanese cheesecake with a cloud-like texture?
A Japanese cheesecake is a delicious twist of the original cheesecake recipe which is a traditional western dessert. The Japanese cheesecake comes in two types.
The first version is a souffle cheescake that needs to be baked, however, unlike the American version of it, the cream mix needs an addition of a meringue egg white batter. All this is cooked in a bain-marie as to keep its consistency without curdling or breaking them. Plus, a layer of apricot jam can be used as a topping on the molten center that can be also formed.
The second version of the Japanese cheesecake is actually a remake of the Western raw cheesecake, i.e an unbaked cheesecake. This version uses gelatin as a setting ingredient, with yogurt base cream cheese, unlike just the cream base that is in the original American recipe.
However, perhaps the main difference between the Japanese and American cheesecake is that the latter one has more cream and sugar in it which makes it sweeter and also high in calories. Therefore, the Japanese version is known to be lighter, with a lower intake of calories, and thus preferred by most people who are on diets or don’t want to eat “heavy” desserts.
So, if you are looking for a lighter dessert with fewer calories, you should try Japanese cheesecake! And we have the easiest recipe for you with only 3 ingredients.
The Japanese souffle cheesecake is ultra-light and airy. It melts in your mouth and is extremely delicious. And with only three ingredients that you need to make it, it is an easy to make desert that you can flavour it and customize it by your own liking.
This recipe is for 6 servings. You will need an hour to get it done. The preparation time is 15 minutes, and the cooking time is 45 minutes.
If you want to keep your cheesecake safe from breaking, then make sure to bake your cheesecake in a humid environment. Gentle cooking reduces the chances of breaking. However, if you do notice a small crack - don’t panic. Just cover the crack with dusting powdered sugar on it and top it with fresh fruits.
This Japanese cheesecake is very versatile. You can be creative when it comes to how you serve it since it doesn’t have any additional flavors. It basically goes with everything. From strawberry, raspberry, and caramel sauce to fresh fruits with powdered sugar - the choices are endless.
But what about calories?
For everyone out there interested in how healthy actually this sweet pleasure is, we have good news for you.
The Japanese cheesecake has fewer calories as opposed to classic cheesecake recipes. It is considered the “lighter” version of it. So, when a classic cheesecake has approximately 590 calories per serving, the Japanese version has about 380.
So, in a way, the Japanese cheesecake can be considered as a ‘healthier’ version of the cheesecake family.
Bon appetite!
Whether you prefer consuming them in lemonade, cocktails, salad dressings, sauces, desserts, marinades, or just raw, lemons are an inseparable part of your everyday diet. But how many times have you ended up feeling disappointed when preparing a meal around your last lemon just to realize it had dried out and lost all of its juiciness? If you ask me the same question, I’d answer countless times.
I’ve thrown a lot of lemons away so many times when they could have been included in some super tasty cake or a refreshing cocktail. And recently I’ve discovered why this juicy fruit often ends up in the garbage bin. Lemons need to be stored properly in order to last for longer. So, let’s see how you can do this.
Many of us love decorating our kitchen countertop or dining room table with a nice bowl full of fresh, juicy lemons. But, this is the wrong way to store lemons. When this fruit is stored at room temperature, it does not take it long to dry out and become hard and lose all of its juiciness. So here’s one little and yet important tip: To keep lemons fresh for longer, store them in sealed plastic bags in the refrigerator. Never store them at room temperature!
If you want to make sure you preserve your lemons safely for longer, it is best to store them in a zip-lock plastic bag or sealed container in the refrigerator or freezer. Kept this way, they can stay fresh and preserve their juiciness for around a month. Whereas, they can never stay fresh at room temperature for this period of time. Keeping them in a bowl on your kitchen countertop makes them last only for one week. And in case this is the way you want to store lemons, then make sure you do that properly.
To keep lemons from going bad at room temperature, all you need to do is wash them thoroughly and put them in a glass jar or bowl full of water. The water won’t let moisture escape the lemons, which means they’ll stay juicy for longer and you can use them whenever you want. And here’s one more useful tip: Never store lemons with fruits that produce ethylene, a gaseous hormone that begins the ripening process of a lot of fruits, as lemons are sensitive to it. Storing lemons with ethylene-producing fruits will cause the lemons to rot more quickly. Ethylene-producing fruits are apples, bananas, grapes, avocados, kiwis, mangos, peaches, watermelons, and limes.
Who said that lemon slices and lemon halves serve no purpose and should be tossed? You can store them in a zip-lock plastic bag or a sealed container and put them in the fridge. Or, you can also wrap the exposed part of the lemon in foil. Stored this way, lemon slices and lemon halves will preserve their juiciness and they can be used within a couple of days.
And for those of you who are wondering how you can properly store other citrus fruits, such as limes, the same above-mentioned rules apply for this fruit as well.
The secret to lengthening the life of limes by three to four weeks is, again, storing them in a sealed container or air-tight bag in the refrigerator or freezer. In this way, the limes will preserve their juiciness and all of their minerals and vitamins. Now that you know how to keep limes fresh, we’d just like to remind you not to store limes and lemons together in one container, whether at room temperature or in the refrigerator, because limes are ethylene-producing fruits and lemons are sensitive to this hormone.
We can’t finish this article without mentioning the health benefits of consuming lemons. So, let’s dive right into it:
Being a rich source of citric acid and vitamin C, lemons prevent you from developing anemia. These two compounds help your body better absorb iron from other fruits and vegetables.
Consuming fruits that are high in vitamin C lowers your risk of stroke and cardiovascular conditions. Lemons are a rich source of this vitamin. They contain fiber as well, which could have a positive effect on your heart and lower your level of cholesterol in the blood.
Citric acid can be helpful in preventing kidney stones formation by raising the pH of your urine and increasing its volume, thereby creating a less welcoming environment where kidney stones could be made.
Lemons contain fiber, known as pectin, which can slow the digestion of starches and sugars and enhance your gut health. All of this can lead to lowering your sugar levels in the blood. But, it’s important to mention that if you want to obtain this benefit from lemons, you’re required to eat the pulp.
Having a good amount of antioxidants and vitamin C, lemons boost your immunity and help protect your body from viruses that cause influenza and the common cold.
Eating lemons whole could help you shed a few pounds by making you feel satiated for longer. So, if you’re someone who has an enormous, insatiable appetite, remember: One lemon a day keeps the appetite away.
To conclude, when life gives you lemons, make sure you know how to store them so as to keep these super healthy fruits fresh for longer and derive all the health benefits from them.
Tonsillitis is a painful infection of the tonsils (two small, oval-shaped organs sitting at the back of the throat). The function of the tonsils is to help your immunity fight off viral infections and bacteria. This function can make the tonsils especially susceptible to inflammation and infection.
Tonsillitis can affect any person at any age. However, it most commonly affects small children and teenagers aged 5-15.
Depending on the causes of tonsillitis and the number of times a person may get tonsillitis, this condition can be classified into several types:
In 70 percent of cases, tonsillitis is caused by flu or common cold.
Group A Streptococcus bacteria are responsible for approximately 15-30 percent of cases of tonsillitis.
When symptoms of tonsillitis last longer than ten days, this is known as chronic tonsillitis. A person with this type of tonsillitis can also get tonsil stones (small, hard lumps that form when saliva, dead cells, and food accumulate in the nooks and crannies of the tonsils).
When symptoms of this condition last approximately ten days, it is known as acute tonsillitis. This type of tonsillitis can be treated with antibiotics, but home remedies may also improve its symptoms.
When a person gets tonsillitis 5 to 7 times, or more, in one year, they are diagnosed with recurrent tonsillitis.
Of course, it’s always better to consult your doctor if you have tonsillitis so as to make sure you treat the condition safely and effectively. However, some home remedies can be quite helpful in treating tonsillitis or relieving its symptoms.
Gargling and rinsing with salt water for 5 seconds can help ease pain or relieve itching on the back surface of the throat. Add ¼ teaspoon of salt to 1 cup of water and stir the mixture well. Gargle with the mixture for several seconds and then spit the water out. You can repeat this process every few hours.
Additionally, many people choose to use Betadine Sore Throat Gargle in order to treat tonsillitis and temporarily relieve irritation of the throat, but this solution must not be used without medical supervision since it contains ingredients that you may be hypersensitive or allergic to.
Consuming warm drinks, such as teas, broths, and soups can help alleviate the symptoms of a sore or swollen throat. Teas that contain glycerine, pectin, herbs, or honey can help relieve the discomfort and irritation that tonsillitis can cause.
Instead of drinking hot tea, consume it warmly and add raw honey to it. Raw honey is known for its antibacterial properties, which may be helpful in treating the viral infections that cause tonsillitis. Many herbal teas can help alleviate symptoms of tonsillitis, but types of tea that certainly stand out are fennel, chamomile, and ginger tea as they have anti-inflammatory nature.
When your throat is irritated and your voice becomes hoarse, you might be easily tempted to raise the voice so as to get rid of the problem. But, know that straining your voice may cause additional discomfort in the throat and further irritate it. So, instead of doing this, rest your voice for as long as you can. It is also recommended that you consult your physician if besides having a hoarse voice, you have trouble speaking so as to ensure that there are no other complications.
Yes, you read that right. You probably think that consuming cold foods can cause an achy throat, but this can actually numb the pain in the throat and temporarily relieve it. Ice cream, popsicles, frozen yogurt, water with ice, milkshakes, or cold smoothies can all have this effect. In addition to these, chewing gum or candies containing menthol or mint can have a numbing, soothing, and cooling effect on the throat as well.
Humidified air may help people having tonsillitis. If you happen to be one of them, know that dry air can cause a sore throat to get more irritated. To lessen the discomfort in the throat and reduce the irritation, you should use a mist humidifier to moisturize the air. We also recommend that you clean humidifiers regularly in order to stop bacteria and mold from accumulating.
Sucking on lozenges made with menthol or benzocaine may help reduce irritation, numb pain, and cause swelling to subside. One good characteristic of medicated lozenges is that they directly bring relief to the part that is inflamed.
Nevertheless, young children should not use throat lozenges since they run the risk of choking.
Consuming hard foods can irritate even more an already irritated, scratchy throat and even cause further inflammation. So, if you’re struggling with this problem, avoid eating hard foods, such as toast, French fries, dry cereal, apples, crackers and chips, and carrots. Instead, eat soft, smooth foods, such as broths, soups, juices, and smoothies, which are easy to swallow, until the throat gets less irritated or inflamed.
Getting a good rest daily can help your body gain strength to combat bacterial or viral infections. If you have tonsillitis and you keep going to work, not only will this prolong this condition, it can also make other people contract the infection.
Medications, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen, can ease throat discomfort and pain. But, be careful when it comes to aspirin since it’s not recommended for children.
Swollen tonsils, a sore throat, and tonsil stones are three of the most common symptoms of tonsillitis. So, let’s take a look at how you can treat them effectively:
In addition to all of the above-mentioned remedies, to get rid of throat pain, you should:
Besides, lemons are rich in vitamin C which can improve your immune system and give it strength to combat the infection.
It’s no wonder this is on the list since hot peppers contain capsaicin which can be helpful in relieving pain and reducing inflammation.
Maybe you don’t like the way it smells, but garlic has antibacterial nature. It can combat infections and alleviate symptoms of sore throat.
If you’re allergic to mold, pollen, and dust mites, your throat is likely to get inflamed since allergies commonly lead to postnasal drip that may in turn cause pain in the throat.
Because in addition to its antibacterial nature, it may suppress cough.
This liquid can help loosen and clear mucus and prevent bacteria from accumulating. Just mix 1 or 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of water and gargle with the mixture. You can do this once or twice an hour.
If you have a sore throat as a result of bacterial infection, your toothbrush can be prolonging the condition as the bristles collect germs, which can easily enter your system if you injure the gums while brushing your teeth.
We emphasize again that you should consult your physician if besides having a sore throat, you also have trouble swallowing, difficulty breathing, or fever or you can’t drink liquids. These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition.
Tonsil stones don’t usually cause grave complications, but they can be quite annoying to deal with. And some complications they can cause are: difficult breathing, swelling, unpleasant breath, difficulty swallowing or eating, and feeling like something is obstructing your throat.
Tonsil stones can be removed with a medical procedure, but you can get rid of them at home too.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic.org - Symptoms & Causes Diagnosis & Treatment
Health Line.com - Home Remedies For Tonsillitis
Medical News Today.com - How To Treat Tonsillitis Symptoms At Home
Alcohol addiction is a challenging condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Recovery from alcohol addiction is a complex and ongoing process that requires more than just medical treatment and personal determination. One of the most crucial factors in successful recovery is having a strong support network. This article explores the importance of building a robust support network in alcohol addiction recovery, highlighting its benefits, key components, and strategies for establishing and maintaining this support.
Recovering from alcohol addiction is an emotional journey filled with highs and lows. A strong support network provides the emotional backing necessary to navigate these challenges.
- Encouragement: Positive reinforcement and encouragement from family, friends, and support groups can boost an individual's motivation to stay sober.
- Empathy and Understanding: Being surrounded by people who understand the struggles of addiction fosters a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of isolation.
Support networks also offer practical assistance, which can be crucial during the recovery process.
- Accountability: Supportive individuals can help keep the person accountable to their recovery goals, such as attending therapy sessions or support group meetings.
- Guidance and Resources: Experienced members of the support network can offer advice and share resources, such as information on local support groups or addiction counselors.
Having a strong support network significantly reduces the risk of relapse. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), social support is a critical component in preventing relapse.
- Relapse Prevention Strategies: Friends and family can help the individual identify triggers and develop strategies to avoid or cope with them.
- Immediate Help: In moments of crisis or intense cravings, having someone to call or lean on can make the difference between relapse and maintaining sobriety.
Family and friends are often the first line of support in recovery. Their involvement can be pivotal in providing a safe and understanding environment.
- Open Communication: Encouraging open and honest communication helps build trust and ensures that the individual feels supported.
- Education on Addiction: Educating family and friends about the nature of addiction and recovery can foster empathy and reduce stigma.
Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and SMART Recovery, offer peer support and a sense of community.
- Shared Experiences: qrq42Being part of a group where others have similar experiences can provide comfort and validation.
- Regular Meetings: Regular meetings create a routine and offer continuous support and reinforcement of sobriety goals.
Professional support from counselors, therapists, and healthcare providers is essential for addressing the underlying issues of addiction and maintaining recovery.
- Therapy and Counseling: Individual and group therapy can help individuals explore the root causes of their addiction and develop coping strategies.
- Medical Support: Healthcare providers can monitor the physical health aspects of recovery and manage any medication needed for withdrawal symptoms or co-occurring disorders.
Building a support network starts with reaching out and connecting with others. This can be challenging but is a crucial step in recovery.
- Initiate Contact: Reach out to trusted family members and friends to let them know about your recovery journey and how they can support you.
- Join Support Groups: Attend local or online support group meetings to connect with others who are also in recovery.
Honesty is vital in building a strong support network. Being open about your struggles and progress helps create a supportive and trusting environment.
- Share Your Journey: Share your experiences and challenges with your support network to Zkeep them informed and engaged.
- Ask for Help: Don't hesitate to ask for help when needed, whether it's emotional support, advice, or practical assistance.
Maintaining regular contact with your support network helps reinforce your commitment to recovery and provides ongoing encouragement.
- Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular check-ins with your support network to update them on your progress and maintain strong connections.
- Participate Actively: Actively participate in support group meetings and therapy sessions to stay engaged and benefit from collective wisdom.
Research consistently shows that individuals with strong support networks have higher rates of long-term sobriety. According to a study published in the *Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment*, individuals with robust social support systems are more likely to maintain abstinence and experience fewer relapses.
A supportive network contributes to better mental health outcomes. Emotional support from family, friends, and peers can reduce feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness, which are common during recovery.
Overall, a strong support network enhances the quality of life for individuals in recovery. It provides a sense of community, belonging, and purpose, all of which are crucial for sustaining a healthy, sober lifestyle.
Building a strong support network is fundamental to successful alcohol addiction recovery. Emotional and practical support from family, friends, support groups, and professionals plays a vital role in preventing relapse, maintaining sobriety, and improving overall well-being. By actively reaching out, being open and honest, and staying connected, individuals can create and sustain a robust support network that supports their recovery journey. Ultimately, this network not only aids in recovery but also enriches the individual's life, fostering resilience and a renewed sense of hope.
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). (2020). Alcohol Use Disorder: A Comparison Between DSM-IV and DSM-5. Retrieved from [NIAAA](https://www.niaaa.nih.gov)
- Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment. (2019). Social Support and Alcohol Use Disorder Recovery. Retrieved from [ScienceDirect](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0740547219301234)
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2021). The Role of Social Support in Recovery. Retrieved from [SAMHSA](https://www.samhsa.gov)
