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    10 Tips to Prevent Heartburn

    1. Eat smaller, more frequent meals
    A full stomach can put extra pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which will increase the chance that some of this food will reflux into the esophagus.

    2. Avoid foods and beverages that can trigger reflux of stomach contents
    Some foods and beverages increase the risk of reflux by relaxing the LES. These include alcohol; beverages containing caffeine, such as coffee, tea and cola drinks; carbonated beverages; citrus fruits and juices; tomatoes and tomato sauces; chocolate; spicy and fatty foods.

    3. Don’t eat within two to three hours before bedtime
    Lying down with a full stomach can cause stomach contents to press harder against the LES, increasing the chances of refluxed food.

    4. Elevate your head a few inches while you sleep
    Lying down flat presses the stomach’s contents against the LES. With the head higher than the stomach, gravity helps reduce this pressure. You can elevate your head in a couple of ways. You can place bricks, blocks or anything that’s sturdy securely under the legs at the head of your bed. You can also use a wedge-shaped pillow, to elevate your head. Read this article for more tips on easing nighttime heartburn.

    5. If you’re overweight, lose the extra pounds
    Obesity increases abdominal pressure, which can then push stomach contents up into the esophagus.

    6. Don’t wear belts or clothes that are tight fitting around the waist
    Clothing that fits tightly around the abdomen will squeeze the stomach, forcing food up against the LES, and cause food to reflux into the esophagus. Clothing that can cause problems include tight-fitting belts and slenderizing undergarments.

    7. Avoid alcohol
    Alcohol relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus. It also increases the production of stomach acid. If you want to consume alcohol, follow these tips: Dilute alcoholic beverages with water or club soda, drink moderate amounts of alcoholic beverages — the suggested amounts are 1-2 mixed drinks, 12-16 ounces of wine, or 2-3 beers, drink white wine instead of red, choose non-alcoholic beer or wine whenever you can.

    8. Don’t smoke.
    Nicotine relaxes the esophageal sphincter. Smoking also stimulates the production of stomach acid. Read this article to learn other ways smoking can worsen heartburn.

    9. Relax.
    While stress hasn’t been linked directly to heartburn, it is known that it can lead to behaviors that can trigger heartburn. Follow these relaxation tips to alleviate stress, and thus make stress-related heartburn less likely.

    10. Take your medication at the same time every day.
    It is very important to take your medication every day. If you are prone to forgetting, leave yourself a note to remind you or take your medication when you do another daily activity that you don’t forget doing, such as brushing your teeth or washing your face.
    Sources:
    http://heartburn.about.com/od/preventingheartburn/tp/heartburn_tips.htm
    http://www.cooperaerobics.com/Health-Tips/Prevention-Plus/5-Common-Digestive-Problems-and-How-to-Prevent-The.aspx

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    9 Ways to prevent dry cracked Hands, Legs and Skin

    1. Exfoliate
    We have learned to exfoliate our faces, but we often neglect our hands. Yet the skin on the hands—especially on the back of them­—is thin, fragile, and even more susceptible to damage than some areas of the face. Exfoliating helps you get rid of old, dry, dull skin cells so the newer, fresher ones can take their place. If you’re severely dry and calloused, try a pumice stone after bathing. If you’re dry but have sensitive skin, try our Dead Sea Facial Scrub—it’s equally effective for hands.

    2. Avoid soap if you can
    Avoid formulas with synthetic fragrances, preservatives, and sulfates, as these are all drying. Foaming and antibacterial types are also likely to strip your skin of its own natural fats and oils. Choose moisturizing cleansers instead, and be sure you rinse thoroughly.

    3. Use a Moisturizer with Sunscreen.
    Find a moisturizer with at least an SPF 15 that you love and apply at least two times a day if not more. Keeping moisturizer on your hands is essential, especially after washing your hands, but moisturizers without sunscreen will lead to aging. Sun exposure damages collagen which gives your skin that “plump” look. When collagen breaks down, wrinkles and thin skin appear. UVA rays (which break down collagen) are equally as strong from summer to winter, so lather on that sun screen year round! Many conventional sunscreens only protect against surface, sun-burning UVB light, while others are counter–intuitive for people prone to acne or closed pores. Consult with your Bella Sante esthetician for the sunscreen right for you.

    4. Wear Gloves.
    Wear gloves whenever possible outdoors. Gloves not only protect your skin from the harsh winter elements but when worn in public places they negate the need to regularly apply hand sanitizers which sap your hands of moisture via the germ-preventing alcohol ingredient. For the text-happy, treat yourself to a new hybrid of gloves that protect your hands while simultaneously allowing you to text on a touch-screen phone.

    5. Wear gloves to bed
    Damaged hands need serious moisturization, so it’s time to deep-treat overnight. Apply a super thick moisturizer like our Coconut Honey Mask, some jojoba oil, or vitamin E, then go soak in the bath or the sauna, or better yet, put on some cotton gloves or wool socks and go to bed. You can also try placing Ziploc bags around your hands with rubber bands around your wrists to lock in the moisture. Rinse off in the morning.

    6. Use a Humidifier.
    The best way to prevent dry skin is to keep moisture in the air! Hot, dry indoor air can dry out skin and promote itching and flaking. By keeping a humidifier in the rooms you frequent most you’ll keep moisture in the air and therefore in your skin as well. Portable home humidifiers come in many varieties. You can also attach a humidifier to your furnace to accommodate the whole house. Choose the humidifier that suits your personal needs and be sure to keep it clean to ward off fungi and bacteria.

    7. Avoid Hot Water and Harsh, Drying Soaps.
    Hot water removes important oils from your skin, use warm, not hot, water when you bath. If you have dry skin, it’s best to use cleansing creams or gentle skin cleansers and bath or shower gels with added moisturizers. Choose a mild soap like the Phytomer Exfoliating Shower Gel that has added oils for cleaner, softer skin.

    8. Invest in some pure aloe
    This natural substance is a miracle worker when it comes to healing wounds and providing moisture. Especially if your hands are sunburned, cracked, or bleeding, use aloe to encourage faster healing.

    9. Pure coconut oil
    This stuff is magic for skin because of its unique combination of fatty acids. Apply it directly onto skin and wear gloves for the best results.

    Sources:
    http://www.annmariegianni.com/10-solutions-rough-overworked-dry-hands-male-female/
    http://bellasante.com/five-tips-to-cure-dry-cracked-hands-and-nails-in-the-winter/
    http://www.havelian.com

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    Cure and Prevention For Cracked Heels

    1. Lemon, Salt, Glycerine, Rose Water Foot Mask:
    One of the first steps towards having a pair of beautiful feet is to heal them, and that is why this foot mask is absolutely perfect home remedy for cracked heels.

    2. Vegetable Oil
    Combine a spoonful of olive oil and a few drops of lemon or lavender oil to create a moisturizing cracked-heel cream. Shake the ingredients until they form a thick, milky solution and use when needed. Shake before each use.

    3. Vaseline and Lemon Juice
    Combine one teaspoon of Vaseline and juice from one whole lemon. Wash your feet and pat them dry before applying. Apply to the dry areas and heels of your feet until you’ve used the entire batch. You should do this just before bed and wear wool socks to lock in the moisture. The wool will also prevent your sheets from becoming stained. The oils in the mixture will soften the dry areas.

    4. Honey:
    Honey is great to moisturise your feet and has great antibacterial properties.

    5. Rice Flour:
    Make this scrub that’s great for scrubbing your feet.

    Preventions
    1. Do not rub or scratch the affected area. Instead, try applying cold compresses or ice packs to the itchy area for a few minutes at a time.
    2. Do not wash too often. Avoid bubble baths, fragrant soaps, and other products that may dry your skin. Pat your skin dry when you are finished instead of rubbing the towel over your body. Use lukewarm water instead of hot water. The heat from the water can contribute to your dry feet.
    3. Avoid saunas and steam baths if possible.
    4. Moisturize after each shower or every time your feet come into contact with water.
    5. Wear shoes that allow your feet to breathe. Avoid excessive sweating.
    6. Avoid blasting the heater in your home, or use a humidifier to help keep moisture in the air. Heating units are notorious for drying out the air in a home or office.
    7. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can cause the itchy feeling to worsen.

    Sources:
    http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/simple-home-remedies-for-cracked-heels/
    http://www.footvitals.com/skin/dry-feet.html
    http://www.top10homeremedies.com

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    Tips to Get Rid of Headache (Due to Workload or Stress)

    1. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever
    Most painkillers won’t kick in for about 1-2 hours, so take a dose as soon as you start feeling the headache coming on. Earlier treatment is always better to address a headache. Even if you’re already in the depths of misery, a quick dose of ibuprofen, acetaminophen, naproxen, aspirin or even a capsaicin nasal spray can take the edge off.

    2. Know when to seek medical assistance immediately
    If your headache includes other symptoms, it may be a sign of a more severe condition, such as stroke, encephalitis, or meningitis. See a doctor immediately or call the emergency services.

    3. Find a quiet, dark place to take a break
    If you can, try to lie down and relax for at least 30 minutes. Shut the blinds, turn off the lights, and focus on your breathing. This sensory reduction can help you relax and heal.

    4. Practice progressive muscle relaxation.
    Progressive muscle relaxation can help ease headache pain. Other exercises focused on relaxation, such as gentle yoga or meditation, can also help.

    5. Use a cool compress
    Placing something soft and cool over your forehead and eyes can help the blood vessels constrict, which will reduce inflammation and may ease your headache pain. This works particularly well if the problem is concentrated in your temples or sinuses.

    6. Do neck exercises
    Stretching and strengthening your neck muscles can help relieve chronic headaches,but they may help in the moment as well. Here is a simple routine to stretch your neck muscles:

    7. Massage your neck and shoulders
    Tension in your neck and shoulders can cause headaches. Fortunately, although tension headaches are the most common type of headache they’re also one of the easier headaches to treat.

    8. Massage your face and scalp
    Particularly if you suffer from tension headaches, massage can help improve circulation and relieve tension, which will help relieve the pain of your headache. Tension headaches can be caused by a variety of things, from poor posture to jaw clenching to strained muscles. Anxiety and depression may also trigger tension headaches.

    9. Water
    If the cause of your headache is dehydration, you can easily get relief from the pain by rehydrating your body.

    10. Ice Pack
    Placing a cold compress like an ice pack on your forehead will numb the pain, help shrink the blood vessels and improve circulation to the area. This particular remedy works well for headaches due to stress or sinus problems.

    11. Hot Water
    Applying heat on the back of your neck can relieve headaches caused by stress. Heat relaxes tense muscles, thus alleviating the throbbing pain.

    12. Lemon
    Lemon is a very effective and powerful ingredient to treat headache because it is refreshing and relaxing. Plus, it helps maintain the acid-alkaline balance in the body.

    13. Apple
    Both apples and apple cider vinegar can be used to fight off a headache. They help restore the acid-alkaline balance in the body. Furthermore, simply the smell of green apples can help reduce migraine headaches.

    Sources:
    http://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-a-Headache
    http://www.top10homeremedies.com/how-to/how-to-get-rid-of-a-headache-fast.html
    http://www.ritchiechirohealth.com

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    Cause and Prevention tips for Bleeding Gums

    Cause

    1. Gingivitis
    Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. Plaque on your teeth and at the gumline that is not removed by brushing and flossing can infect the gums and lead to the symptoms of gingivitis. When gingivitis occurs, your gums may become swollen, tender and sometimes bleed during brushing. This early stage of the disease responds well to good brushing and flossing habits and regular dental checkups.

    2. Poor oral hygiene
    Gums may bleed when they get inflamed and this occurs when people fail to keep their teeth clean. A lot of people don`t brush or floss properly and this leads to build up of plaque and tartar on the teeth. The gums get irritated and are red, swollen and painful. The gums may then bleed at the slightest provocation. (Read: 8 tips to improve your oral hygiene)

    3. Medications
    Medications decrease the blood’s ability to clot, which can lead to easier bleeding. Let your dentist and doctor know about your experience and any medications you may be on.

    4. New Flossing Routine
    Changing your flossing routine can also lead to bleeding gums. For example, if you haven’t remembered to floss in a few days or if you have begun to floss more frequently to help remove food and plaque from between your teeth, then you may notice some bleeding. This should clear up within a week.

    5. Crooked or mal-positioned teeth
    This may make cleaning teeth very difficult through routine brushing and may lead to gum bleeding. The crooked teeth can also lead to food getting trapped between two teeth. This again causes the gum to become inflamed and bleed easily. (Read: How crooked teeth may cause gum disease)

    6. Trauma to the gums
    This may occur due to overzealous brushing or using a hard bristled toothbrush which may traumatize the gums. Hence one should use a soft bristled brush and change a toothbrush every 3 months.

    7. Vitamin C deficiency
    Medically called scurvy, this occurs when one doesn’t include ample fruits and vegetables in one’s diet. This leads to swollen, painful gums which bleed easily.

    8. Vitamin K deficiency
    This vitamin is an important factor in the clotting process of blood in our body. Hence, when it is deficient, the tendency to bleed from any site in the body – including the gums – increases. The main source of this vitamin in our body is the intestinal microflora or the bugs in our gut. If you’ve been on a long course of oral antibiotics which end up destroying the gut microflora, it could increase the tendency to bleed.

    9. Bleeding disorders
    There is a whole array of bleeding disorders – genetic and idiopathic (of unknown origin) – including thrombocytopenic purpura, Von Willebrand’s disease etc. which increases our general propensity for bleeding. These may first manifest through bleeding from gums. So never ignore bleeding gums as they might be the mirror to a more serious problem.

    10.Liver disease
    Our liver is a major organ which produces a lot of factors which once again form an important part of the clotting process in our bodies. So any kind of liver disease or chronic alcoholism which disturbs liver metabolism may lead to bleeding gums.

    11. New Toothbrush
    Switching from a soft-bristled toothbrush to a firm brush may also result in gums that bleed. Try returning to a soft or medium-bristled brush and talk to your dentist about what toothbrush is right for you at your next appointment.

    12. Pregnancy Gingivitis
    Some pregnant women experience swollen gums and bleeding during brushing. This is known as pregnancy gingivitis. Hormonal changes during pregnancy alter the body’s response to the bacteria that causes gum disease. According to the American Pregnancy Association, symptoms should clear up after pregnancy. A dental checkup and regular brushing and flossing can help to prevent gum problems from becoming worse.
    Preventions
    1. Eat a Healthier Diet
    Improving your diet can go a long way toward improving your oral health and stopping bleeding gums. A diet full of whole foods, such as vegetables and fruits, gives your gums the nutrients they need. If your diet is packed with nutritionally deficient, sugary foods, such as candy, soda and refined breads, your gums aren’t getting the nutrition they need to stay healthy and intact. An article on The Dr. Oz Show blog recommends boosting the amount of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium and magnesium in your diet to improve the state of your gums.

    2. See your dentist more frequently
    Most people have been programmed to see their dentist every 6 months. This seems to be engrained into Western health culture as some sort of golden rule. And it is actually – for people with perfectly healthy teeth and gums!

    3. Improve Your Dental Care Routine
    Taking good care of your mouth at home can also help stop bleeding gums. Brushing and flossing regularly removes bacteria from the mouth that can inflame your gums, and using the right devices and brushing properly can also help improve the overall health of your mouth and reverse early gum disease. For example, a medium- or firm-bristled toothbrush can be damaging to the gums when pressure is applied during toothbrushing. Instead, choose a soft-bristled brush, such as the Colgate® 360°® toothbrush. Brush gently, using short strokes, to effective brush the teeth and gum line.

    4. Relax
    If you’re always on the go or always up against a deadline, the amount of stress in your life could be causing your gums to bleed. High levels of stress can affect your oral health in a number of ways. First, stress increases inflammation in your body, which makes your gums more likely to bleed. Too much stress also reduces your immune system’s functionality, making it more difficult for your body to fight infection and to heal. A 2006 study, published in the Journal of Periodontology, found that women with stress-related depression had higher levels of inflammation in the gums and increases levels of plaque buildup.

    5. Quit Smoking
    Smoking is terrible for your health. Along with increasing your risk for certain cancers and heart disease, it plays a big role in the development of gum disease, according to the American Academy of Periodontology. The toxins in tobacco smoke keep your gums from getting the nutrition that they need, and can lead to inflammation. Quitting can be tough, but it’s one of the most important things to do if you want to protect your oral and overall health.

    6. Stop Sharing
    Gum disease and bleeding gums are contagious. If your partner has a lot of bacteria in his or her mouth, then you’re likely increasing your risk for gum problems. Avoid sharing anything that comes into contact with another person’s mouth, from toothbrushes to water glasses.

    7. Periodontal intervention (a.k.a. periodontal treatment)dentist-mirror-probe
    Routine cleanings are for people with healthy teeth and gums. Infected gums require specialized care, often utilizing advanced instruments and medicaments as well as treatment protocols that are specifically tailored for the periodontally involved patient (this usually means a different type of cleaning and more often).

    8. Brush your teeth…. Properly!
    If you are already brushing often enough and long enough, then perhaps it is your technique that is suffering. Many people use brushes that are too stiff and they brush their teeth like they are trying to clean their BBQ grill.
    Sources:
    http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/conditions/gum-disease/article/sw-281474979280563
    http://dentalcarematters.com/how-to-stop-bleeding-gums-once-and-for-all/
    http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/conditions/gum-disease/article/sw-281474979159620
    http://www.thehealthsite.com/oral-health/top-10-causes-of-bleeding-gums/
    http://www.pouritup.org

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    12 Preventive tips for Dengue fever

    1. Turn over empty pails and buckets, so that they do not collect excess water. If the container that contains water cannot be emptied, remember to cover it well when not in use.

    2. Always sleep under a mosquito net (especially small children as they sleep during the day and hence, the chance of mosquito bite is high during this time). Know in detail how to save your baby from mosquito bites.

    3. Avoid mosquito bites even during the day.

    4. Wear long sleeves shirts and long pants outdoor.

    5. Use mosquito repellent on skin and clothing.s

    6. Eliminate mosquito breeding sites around homes.

    7. Regularly change water in animals and pets container

    8. Using camphor as a repellent also works wonders. Light camphor in a room and close all the doors and windows. Leave it this way for about fifteen to twenty minutes to have a mosquito free environment.

    9. Remember to clean out empty flower pots and not to over water potted plants. It is advised to not have any stagnant water around as it acts as breeding ground for the mosquitoes.

    10. Make sure your window and door screens do not have any holes. If so, block those areas properly to eliminate mosquitoes.

    11. If someone at home is ill with dengue, try to not let the mosquitoes bite them or others in the house.

    12. A natural method to keep mosquitoes at bay is to plant tulsi near your window. The plant has properties that do not allow mosquitoes to breed. Read about 10 natural ways to keep your home mosquito-free.

    Sources:
    http://jis.gov.jm/tips/tips-prevention-of-dengue-fever/
    http://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/prevent-dengue-with-these-10-practical-tips/
    http://www.inhabitat.com

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    13 Digestion tips for better health

    1. Master Your Digestion Treatment Plan
    Your doctor will determine the reasons for your digestive problems and will prescribe a treatment plan. This may involve taking medication, avoiding certain foods, and adopting some new habits. It may take a while for you to absorb all of this information. Try organizing your notes in a file folder or notebook, along with any instructions and resource materials from your doctor. Review the information regularly and jot down questions you want to ask your doctor.

    2. Eat on schedule
    Adams says that consuming your meals and snacks on a regular schedule can help keep your digestive system in top shape. Aim to sit down for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks around the same time each day.

    3. Stay hydrated
    Drinking plenty of water is good for your digestive health, according to Adams. Water in your digestive system helps dissolve fats and soluble fiber, allowing these substances to pass through more easily.

    4. Prepare for Digestive Emergencies
    No matter how well you plan, accidents may happen. Be prepared by keeping emergency supplies on hand at home, work or school, and on the road. Discrete, portable packaging is available for many products.

    5. Exercise regularly
    “Regular exercise helps keep foods moving through your digestive system, reducing constipation,” says Adams. And exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, which is good for your digestive health. Make it a point to work regular exercise into your weekly schedule.

    6. Manage stress
    Too much stress or anxiety can cause your digestive system to go into overdrive, according to Adams. Find stress-reducing activities that you enjoy and practice them on a regular basis.

    7. Seek Support for Digestive Problems
    Don’t try to hide your digestive problems from family, friends, and caregivers. Help them understand how, when, and why digestive problems affect you. Explain what they can do to support you emotionally and practically. Let them know what your self-care plan is. Inform them that problems such as diarrhea or gas pains may strike unexpectedly when you’re with them.

    8. Take Charge of Your Digestive Problems
    Partner with your doctor by providing detailed feedback and asking questions about your condition and treatment program. If the medication your doctor prescribed isn’t effective or has unacceptable side effects, speak up. There may be other medications you can try. Before trying over-the-counter remedies or supplements, check with your doctor or pharmacist about possible side effects and drug interactions. Keep track of your experiences and questions so you can discuss them with your doctor.

    9. Beware of Miracle Cures for Digestive Problems
    Alternative digestive treatments such as colon cleansing and fasting are widely touted in some articles and advertising. Although some alternative treatments show promise, many are expensive, ineffective, or downright dangerous. Always consult your doctor before trying any alternative therapy or supplement.

    10. Get insoluble and soluble fiber
    It is important to consume both types of fiber, which each help your digestive system in different ways. “Insoluble fiber, also known as roughage, can’t be digested by the body and therefore helps add bulk to the stools,” says Adams. “Soluble fiber draws in water and can help prevent stools that are too watery.” Good sources of insoluble fiber include wheat bran, vegetables, and whole grains; get soluble fiber from oat bran, nuts, seeds, and legumes.

    11. Limit foods that are high in fat
    “In general, fatty foods tend to slow down the digestive process, making you more prone to constipation,” says Adams. But since it is important to get some fat in your diet, Adams says that pairing fatty foods with high-fiber foods can make them easier on your digestive system.

    12. Choose lean meats
    Protein is an essential part of a healthful diet, but fatty cuts of meat can lead to uncomfortable digestion. When you eat meat, select lean cuts, such as pork loin and skinless poultry.

    13. Skip the bad habits
    Smoking and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol. Liquor, coffee, and cigarettes can interfere with the functioning of your digestive system, and lead to problems like stomach ulcers and heartburn.

    Sources:
    http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/diarrhea-10/daily-tips?page=4
    http://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/healthy-eating/tips-for-better-digestive-health/
    http://www.huffingtonpost.com

     

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    9 Health support tips for Respiratory Support

    1. Lungwort
    Lungwort clears catarrh from the upper respiratory tract, nose, throat, and upper bronchial tubes, while helping the body soothe the mucous membranes in these regions and lessening coughs. It is also good for bronchitis. Lungwort combines well with coltsfoot, lobelia, and horehound. As an infusion, mix one to two teaspoons of dried herb per cup and drink one cup three times a day. Alternatively, take a quarter to one teaspoon of tincture three times a day.

    2. Oregano
    Although oregano contains the vitamins and nutrients required by the immune system, its primary benefits are owed to its carvacrol and rosmarinic acid content. Both compounds are natural decongestants and histamine reducers that have direct, positive benefits on the respiratory tract and nasal passage airflow. Oregano has so many health benefits that a bottle of organic oregano oil should be in everyone’s medicine cabinet. I recommend you check out this article to learn all the uses for organic oregano oil.

    3. Plantain Leaf
    The plantain leaf has been used for hundreds of years to ease cough and soothe irritated mucous membranes. Clinical trials have found it favorable against cough, cold, and lung irritation. Plantain leaf has an added bonus in that it may help relieve a dry cough by spawning mucus production in the lungs. Good stuff!

    4. Elecampane
    The Greeks, Romans, Chinese, and even Indian Ayurvedic medicine have cited elecampane for respiratory support and, since the 1800’s, lozenges and cough drops have been produced from elecampane root. The reason? Elecampane has a relaxing effect on smooth tracheal muscles. There are two active compounds in elecampane root that provide the beneficial effect — inulin, which soothes bronchial passage, and alantolactone, an expectorant with antitussive action.

    5. Chaparral
    Chaparral, a plant native to the southwest, has been appreciated by the Native Americans for lung detoxification and respiratory support. Chaparral contains powerful antioxidants that resist irritation and NDGA which is known to fight histamine response. Chaparral is also an herb that fights harmful organisms. The benefits of chaparral are most available in a tincture extraction but chaparral tea may support respiratory problems by encouraging an expectorant action to clear airways of mucus.

    6. Peppermint
    Peppermint, and peppermint oil, contains menthol — a soothing ingredient known to relax the smooth muscles of the respiratory tract and promote free breathing. Paired with the antihistamine effect of peppermint, menthol is a fantastic decongestant. Many people use therapeutic chest balms and other inhalants that contain menthol to help break up congestion. Additionally, peppermint is an antioxidant and fights harmful organisms.

    7. Osha Root
    Osha is an herb native to the Rocky Mountain area and has historically been used by the Native Americans for respiratory support. The roots of the plant contain camphor and other compounds which make it one of the best lung-support herbs in America. One of the main benefits of osha root is that it helps increase circulation to the lungs, which makes it easier to take deep breaths. Also… when seasonal sensitivities flare up your sinuses, osha root, which is not an actual antihistamine, does produce a similar effect and may be help calm respiratory irritation!

    8. Lobelia
    Lobelia is an excellent herb for lung concerns, coughs, infections, bronchial asthma, and excessive phlegm. It helps alleviate bronchial spasms, making it useful for asthmatics. It is an extremely strong herb and should therefore be used with caution. Follow package directions. Do not exceed recommended dose.

    9. Mullein
    The leaves and flowers of the mullein plant soothe mucous membranes in the respiratory tract while clearing excess mucus. It lessens inflammation and pain, including within the nasal lining, throat, bronchial tubes, and digestive tract. Mullein is also mildly cleansing for the urinary tract. It is helpful for coughs, sore throats, and bronchitis. Use one to two teaspoons of dried herb per cup of water to make infusions. Drink one cup three times a day. Alternatively, take a quarter to one teaspoon of tincture three times a day.

    Sources
    http://www.care2.com/greenliving/7-natural-lung-healing-remedies.html
    http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/9-best-herbs-lung-cleansing-respiratory-support/
    http://www.scienceclarified.com

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    11 Home remedies for Joint Pain

    1. Massage
    Massage therapy helps relieve joint pain by improving circulation and soothing inflammation. In fact, several studies indicate that regular massage can improve pain, stiffness and range of motion in the affected joint.

    2. Feast on Carrots
    Did you know that carrots have been used for centuries in Chinese medicine as an effective remedy for aching joints? Simply grate a carrot in a bowl, and squeeze some lemon juice on it. Enjoy raw or steamed. Carrot nurtures the ligaments, bringing relief from pain.

    3. Drink more water
    Among the lesser-known benefits of drinking more water is that it softens cartilage and keeps it hydrated. Water helps you maintain an adequate blood volume so that nutrients can move through your blood and into your joints. It also moves waste away from your joints, making them less likely to ache.

    4. Eat More Onions
    They are a famous anti-inflammatory food. They contain phytochemicals that improve your immune system. The sulfur compounds in onions inhibit the enzymes that trigger pain. A study establishes that fresh onions have an analgesic effect similar to that of morphine.

    5. Try a simple yoga pose
    For tennis elbow, bhujangasana or the Cobra pose works well. This asana helps stretch out your aching elbows, and also opens up stiff muscles in the shoulders and back. If your knees hurt, weight-bearing exercises can make things worse. So, gentle yoga exercises can come to your rescue. I found this wonderful resource for knee-friendly asanas.

    6. Hot and Cold Compresses
    Alternating hot and cold compresses can also help ease joint pain. Heat therapy helps decrease pain, increase blood flow and relax sore muscles and joints. Cold therapy reduces inflammation and numbs the areas around the affected joint.

    7. Fenugreek
    Fenugreek is a popular home remedy for joint pain due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is particularly beneficial for those suffering from arthritis.

    8. Turmeric
    Turmeric is an excellent Ayurvedic remedy for joint pain. It contains an active ingredient called curcumin with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

    9. Epsom Salt
    Epsom salt baths facilitate easy absorption of magnesium through the skin. Joint pain is often associated with low levels of magnesium. Moreover, magnesium helps reduce inflammation and aids in detoxification of cells.

    10. Garlic
    Being rich in sulfur and selenium, garlic is beneficial for those suffering from arthritis and joint pain. Sulfur helps relieve joint pain and inflammation and, according to research, selenium may have an antirheumatic effect. Also, arthritic patients tend to have low levels of selenium in the blood.

    11. Ginger(ginger tea)

    Ginger is an excellent natural remedy for muscle and joint pain, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers studied its effects on osteoarthritis patients
    with knee pain and saw encouraging results.

    Sources
    http://www.top10homeremedies.com/home-remedies/home-remedies-joint-pain.html/3
    http://www.care2.com/greenliving/6-easy-home-remedies-for-joint-pain.html
    http://www.mensproblem.com

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  • Disease and Care Home Remedies
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    7 Home Remedies of Allergies

    1. Quercetin
    Quercetin is a natural bioflavonoid that is said to help stabilize mast cells to keep them from releasing histamine. It is also a potent antioxidant that is said to help reduce inflammation. It is best used as a long term remedy and many people start taking it about 4-6 weeks before allergy season to help prevent allergy symptoms.

    2. Nettle Leaf
    Nettle leaf is another natural antihistamine that can be very effective as it naturally blocks the body’s ability to produce histamine. It grows in many places and can be made in to a tincture or tea, but for allergy relief, capsules made from dried nettle leaves are the easiest and most effective option. Nettle leaf can also be used in combination with other herbs to make a soothing herbal tea for allergy relief. It is often mixed with peppermint leaf and sometimes red raspberry leaf to make a refreshing allergy relief tea.

    3.Probiotics
    Allergies are the result of an imbalance in the immune system that causes the body to react too strongly to a stimuli. New research links the presence of beneficial bacteria in the gut with reduced incidence of allergies. Evidence is even emerging that a mother’s gut bacteria during pregnancy and nursing can impact a child’s likelihood of getting allergies throughout life. While we can’t do much about our mothers’ diets while they were pregnant, balancing gut bacteria now and consuming enough beneficial bacteria can have a positive effect on allergies now. Fermented foods and drinks like Kombucha or Kefir can hep boost gut bacteria, as can a high quality probiotic capsule.

    4. Local Honey
    There isn’t much scientific evidence to back this one, but there seems to be a lot of anecdotal evidence from people who have tried it. (Even Mark Sisson weighed in on the subject here). The theory is that consuming local honey from where you live will help your body adapt to the allergens in the environment there. This is supposed to work like a natural allergy “shot” and doesn’t seem to have a downside.

    5. Refreshing Citrus Drink
    Since many allergies peak in the spring and summer, they happen to coincide with warm, sunny days that you want to enjoy by frolicking in the great outdoors. As healing as tea is, sometimes you just need that tart, cool, refreshing drink at your side. This citrus filled drink contains plenty of vitamin C, which can provide relief from seasonal allergies, thanks to its incredible ability to nourish the immune system. Since the immune system is struggling to function right when you experience allergies, the benefits of this are obvious!

    6. Red Onion Water
    Onions contain a water soluble chemical compound called quercetin, which has been demonstrated in preliminary studies to reduce the amount of histamine produced by the body, therefore reducing symptoms of allergies. It is, essentially, nature’s version of an anti-histamine. Quercetin itself has also been shown to inhibit inflammation, as well as act as a bronchodilator, opening up airways and helping you breathe easier.

    7. Apple- Walnut Trail Mix
    This mix will help you hit the trail in no time, without the sneezing and itching. Walnuts are a daily snack that you can enjoy to help ease allergy symptoms. High in magnesium, they help tamp down any wheezing or coughing that’s taking place, while their vitamin E content can boost immunity and protects your body from reacting to allergens. Apples, like onions, contain quercetin, and naturally reduce the production of histamine. Several studies have confirmed that an apple a day really does keep allergies at bay.

    Home Tips
    -Be aware that line drying your clothes can contribute to allergies as all of the pollen sailing around sticks to it (and consequently, sticks to you.)
    -If you simply must open your window, don’t fling it open all the way. Allergens will fly into the house and settle on everything.
    -At the end of the day, briefly rinse off with cool water. Doing so will rinse any pollen stuck in your hair or on your skin off, and also ensures you don’t transfer a bunch to your bedding!

    Sources
    http://wellnessmama.com/8370/allergy-relief-remedies/
    http://everydayroots.com/allergy-remedies
    http:// www.bachelor-mag.com

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