Monday, October 19, 2015

Monday, May 20, 2013

Home Remedies for Memory Loss/ ഓ൪മക്കുറവ്



1. Indian pennywort/കൊടങല്/Mandookparni
Leaves of Indian pennywort are considered favourable in boosting retentiveness. The pulverisation of the leaves consumed with milk in small doses for this purpose helps in correcting the disorders.

2. Brahmi/ Thyme leaved gratiola/ Herb of grace
Chewing a few Brahmi leaves on an empty stomach enhances memory and rectifies speech disorders.

3. Snake Gourd/പടവലങ
Snake gourd is a good resource of minerals like magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus. So its regular consumption improves memory power.

4. Ginseng

Ginseng has long been used to boost energy and vitality. According to a Chinese study announced by the American Stroke Association, ginseng may also have a positive effect on the memory. The study monitored 40 patients with mild dementia cause by strokes. The subjects showed improved memory after taking a daily ginseng compound for 12 weeks. More studies are needed to confirm those findings.

5. Rosemary

The smell of rosemary may increase your memory, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The essential oil of Rosemary, used in aromatherapy, may increase concentration as well. Aromatherapy is the use of highly concentrated aromatic extracts of plants and herbs. Scientific tests confirming the effectiveness of rosemary essential oil in treating memory loss are lacking.

6. Oregano
It has anti platelet properties which helps circulation and improves irrigation of brain helps in improving memory. Infusions of 1 tsp per cup of water- take two cups a day.

7. Thyme
Is rich in niacin (vitamin B3) a compound important to the supply of glucose in brain and the preservation of blood vessels. Infusions of 1 tsp of dried plant per cup of water- take two cups a day.

8. Nuts
If your memory loss is the result of a thiamine deficiency, pistachio nuts can help. One of the richest sources of thiamine, 1/2 cup supplies 0.54 mg of thiamin. The RDA for thiamine is 1.5 mg for men and 1.1 for women age 50 and younger; slightly less for those over 50.
Soak 7 Almonds in water overweight, make a paste of this, and add to warm milk, and drink this milk daily.
Walnuts are also beneficial to improve memory.

9. Wheat germ
Wheat germ is a good source of vitamin E, which may help with age-related memory loss.

10. Artichokes
These are thought to increase your mental acuity. Prepare and eat them as you normally would or follow this recipe for an elixir of artichoke: Pull the artichoke apart, leaf by leaf, then put the pieces into a jar and add enough water to just barely cover. Cover the jar with a lid or saucer, and place in a pan with water. Boil for two hours, adding more water to the pan (not the jar) as necessary. Then strain the contents of the jar and give the artichoke leaves a good squeeze to get out all the juices. Take 3 to 4 tablespoons four times a day.

11. Blueberries
These luscious little fruits are the richest source of antioxidants, and recent studies have shown that blueberries may help improve short-term memory.

12. Carrots
They contain carotene, which is a memory booster. Eat them raw, cooked, or in casseroles, or make a juice with carrots and apricots. The apricots are used to add a little compatible juice to the dry carrots.

13. Eggs
These have lecithin, which keeps the memory nerve cells healthy. Lecithin is also found in sunflower and soybean oils and can be purchased in capsule form, too. Studies indicate that taking up to 70 grams a day may improve memory.

14. Okra/ Ladies finger
If not a memorable food, this is at least a memory-enhancing food. So are sweet potatoes, tapioca, and spinach. Fresh fruits, especially oranges, and vegetables, almonds, and milk are also good for stimulating the memory.

15. Herbal teas
Any of these will help a weak memory: sage, rosemary, marjoram, basil. Use 1/4 teaspoon in a cup of boiling water. Steep for five minutes. These herbs, in an essential oil, can be added to olive oil and massaged over the neck and forehead. Add these oils to bath water, too: 5 drops to a tubful.

16. Indian Gooseberry
Antioxidants help to boost memory. So take Amla or Indian gooseberry powder or juice daily. This is also available as supplements.

17. Cumin & Honey
Intake of mixture of ¼ teaspoon of black Cumin in little amount of honey is advisable.

18. Oily Fish (Omega 3)
The brain contains tremendous amounts of fats, so it comes as no surprise that healthy fats in the diet benefit your “think tank.” Brain cells are lines with omega-3 fatty acids in fish oils that help reduce inflammation. Researchers have noted that high blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids are associated with preserved brain function.

19. Apples
Could a daily apple in your lunch bag help sharpen your memory skills? It’s possible, especially if you eat the skin, where most of the apple’s quercetin is stored. In at least one study, this antioxidant proved more effective than vitamin C at protecting brain cells from oxidative damage.

20. Turmeric

The bright yellow spice called turmeric, used in traditional Indian curries and other dishes, gets its lovely hue from an antioxidant compound called curcumin. Animal studies have shown that curcumin helps prevent the formation of amyloid, the gummy protein buildup that can clog neural pathways in the brain. Curcumin also helps prevent oxidation and inflammation.

21. Oatmeal, high-fibre, whole grains

Where memory is concerned, the best breakfast cereal may be good, old-fashioned oatmeal. Scientists suspect that it may be the high fiber and protein content of oatmeal and whole-grain cereals that helps slow digestion, releasing glucose (blood sugar) more gradually into the bloodstream. The brain uses glucose as a source of energy, and a steady flow appears to help the brain retain information for tasks that require memory skills.

22. Leafy greens, lentils, fish

Folate (also known as folic acid) and vitamins B6 and B12 help lower levels of homocysteine, an amino acid in blood that has been linked to an increased risk of dementia. High levels usually signify a deficiency of B vitamins. One study showed that people with high homocysteine levels and low folate levels had difficulty remembering words and details from a short story.

23. Holy Basil/ Thulsi
Prepare a decoction of holy basil leaves and drink it once it cools. If you are suffering from amnesia, you can eat these leaves after washing them properly.

24. Drink plenty of hot beverages
It is advisable to drink plenty of hot beverages as coffee and tea encourage the brain and also help in
improving memory more efficiently and effectively.

25. No Fast & fried Food
Keep off from eating fast food, fried food, foods with saturated fats or processed food.

26. No Alcohol & Smoke
Do not smoke and drink alcohol.

27.  Be Active
Keep your brain active. You can play word games such as Sudoku, or thinking games such as Scrabble to exercise your brain. Hold a positive approach to everything happening around a person.

28. Water
Drink sufficient water. Drink at least 8 glasses of clean water daily.

29. Exercise
Exercise to keep your brain healthy.

30. Relax
Minimize stress. Try to alleviate stress through meditation or relaxation.

31. Sleep
Practice a regular sleep schedule. Wake up and go to bed at the same time every day

Monday, May 13, 2013

Home Remedies for Hair Fall/മുടികൊഴിച്ചില്‍



1. Apple Cider Vinegar

A. Rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar after washing your hair. Wash your hair as you normally do, using your regular shampoo and hair conditioner. Follow up by
running a cupful of apple cider vinegar through your hair. Rinse with warm water. Gently, run a wide tooth comb through your hair and dry on the lowest hair dryer setting or allow your hair to dry naturally.
B. Rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar and sage tea. Wash your hair as you normally do, using your regular shampoo and hair conditioner. Follow up by running a mixture of equal parts of apple cider vinegar and sage tea throughout your hair. Rinse your hair with warm water.
C. Mix 1 tsp. of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water. Stir and drink. Drink this mixture two to three times a day. You may not see a noticeable difference in the thickness of your hair for about two months.
D. Take apple cider vinegar pills. These can be bought at most health food stores and most pharmacies. These are ideal for the people who cannot stomach drinking the apple cider directly. Make sure the pills are all natural.
E. Purchase specialized shampoos or rinses that contain apple cider vinegar. These can be found at specialized health and beauty stores, both online and at your nearest shopping mall.
F. Make your own apple cider hair rinse. Mix 1 cup of apple cider vinegar and 1 cup of tea tree oil. Apply to your scalp, massaging the mixture into the scalp. Leave the mixture on for 10 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

2. Coconut Milk
Massage coconut milk into your scalp, leave on for 30 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Repeat 3 times per week until your hair loss decreases and healthy hair grows in.

3. Coconut Oil
Mix coconut oil with avocado and spread on hair. This combination eliminates flaking and gives your hair a healthy boost — good for natural regrowth.
Apply king coconut oil/ coconut oil mixed with olive oil everyday; keep for at least 2 hours before washing off.

4. Hibiscus/ ചെമ്പരത്തി
Simmer hibiscus flowers in coconut oil and spread on hair to condition it. Rinse lightly and style as usual.
Apply a few drops of almond oil to hair every day.

5. Gooseberry mix/ നെല്ലിക്ക
Mix 2 tablespoons of amla (Indian gooseberry), reetha (from the soapnut tree), and shikakai, which comes from a shrub native to India. Add egg and form a paste. Apply on scalp and massage throughout hair. Let sit for 25 to 30 minutes, then rinse and cleanse with a mild shampoo. Try this 3 times per week for one month to help hair regrow naturally.

6. Ginseng
This Chinese herbal medicine is said to rejuvenate the scalp, increase blood flow, and help regrow hair.

7. Exercise
Daily exercise improves circulation throughout your body, including your scalp, which can result in faster hair growth. Be sure to get your heart pumping at least 3 to 4 times each week.

8. Jojoba
Jojoba oil may help with hair loss when applied to the scalp.

9. Emu Oil
Emu oil, or kalaya oil, is recommended as a moisturizer and hair-root stimulant to promote hair growth.

10. Licorice
Licorice also contains a chemical that prevents testosterone from being changed to dihydrotestosterone. You can add licorice tincture or extract to your favorite shampoo.

11. Rosemary
Rosemary has long been believed to keep hair healthy and lush. Add one part rosemary oil to two parts almond oil and massage the mixture into your scalp for twenty minutes a day.

12. Sage/സല്വിതുളസി
Sage has been believed for centuries to help prevent hair loss. Like licorice, sage extract can be added to your favorite shampoo. Or you can use double-strength sage tea daily as a hair rinse to encourage hair growth.

13. Safflower
Safflower is considered to be a good vasodilator. Massage your scalp with safflower oil for twenty minutes a day to increase local blood flow and stimulate hair growth.Jojoba oil may help with hair loss when applied to the scalp.

15. Aloe Vera/ കറ്റാര്‍വാഴ
Aloe Vera is considered the mother herb in this regard. The gel extracted from the leaves is applied to the hair and after some time rinsed well with water. Some people also add hair oil into the gel, make a mixture and then apply it to the hair. Oil addition will be more soothing to the hair, which will make it more silky, shiny and stronger.
Its juice is also taken in order to make your hair healthy and full of strength. It is recommended to take the juice daily for about three months. After completing the treatment period you will be the one with beautiful hair.

16. Green leafy vegetables and fruits
Green vegetables are rich in iron and fruits are rich in fiber. Both are really needed for the growth and strength of hair from roots to tips. They are best solution to prevent hair loss.

17. Yogurt/ തൈര്
Yogurt is an awesome diet for your hair. The intake of yogurt everyday adds great health to your hair and body. You can also apply a mixture of yogurt, egg and oil to your hair to make it soft and smooth. It also helps in the reduction of hair fall.

18. Sesame/ എള്ള്
Sesame seeds are rich in calcium and magnesium, which are essentially required by our hair. So intake of white sesame seeds every morning in the quantity of about half of a cup will be enough to provide you with lovely hair.

19. Garlic / വെളുത്തുള്ളി
“When massaged into the scalp, garlic juice extract is thought to be able to block the formation of DHT, which is known as the male baldness hormone.”

20. Egg Yolk
The individual should take an uncooked egg yolk and massage it thoroughly through the scalp. Leave the egg mixture in the scalp for 1 hour and then wash.

21. Castor Oil/ ആവണക്കെന്ണ
Another home remedy for hair loss is to cover the scalp and hair roots with castor oil. Do not place it on the actual hair. After completion wrap the hair with a newspaper and tie it up with a cloth. Leave the treatment in overnight and wash it out in the morning. Do these every 7-10 days and it promises results after 6-7 treatments.

22. Mustard/ കടുക്

Boil a cup of water and add a tsp of mustard seeds. The mixture should cook for 5 minutes and then be set aside to cool. After the mixture has cooled the individual should drink the liquid.

23. Olive oil Massage
Massage the back of the head, area just above the backside of the neck in slow circular motions with pre-heated warm olive oil for 20 mins everyday. OR
Apply oilive oil on your scalp and massage.

Sunday, May 12, 2013

Home Remedies for Immunity Boost/രോഗപ്രതിരോധശേഷി



1.  Lemon
Lemon is an easy way to start. Add lemon juice to a glass of water or your cup of tea daily to help maintain your body’s internal “climate” at a pH that supports healthy bacteria instead of the viruses and harmful bacteria which thrive in more acidic environments.

2. Holy Basil/ Thulsi
It raises the human body immunity by increasing the antibody production. Take two to three leaves daily first thing in the morning.
3. Thyme
Using a decoction prepared by boiling six tablespoons of thyme in about three liters of bath water for 15 to 20 minutes on the body improves immunity. Follow this procedure just a couple of times in a month. Another simple way to incorporate this therapy is to add three to five drops of thyme essential oil in 200g bath water.
4. Rosemary
Regularly having rosemary tea sweetened with honey boosts the immune system and aids in digestion. To prepare rosemary tea, you need to boil two teaspoons of dried rosemary (fresh rosemary leaves can also be used) in a cup of water. You can also add ginger in it.
5. Aswagandha
It is a general stimulant of the immune system. This herb is known to counteract the effects of stress and promote general well- being.

6. Ginseng
It is known not only prevent illnesses but also to treat immunity related diseases.

7. Flax seed
Make powder of flax seeds and take about three grams of it in a bowl. Add sesame seeds about three grams, paste of two almonds and honey into it. Taking this mixture early morning on an empty stomach will boost your immunity level. It is also effective if you will just add some flax seeds and sesame seeds to your morning breakfast and eat it.

8. Astragalus root
Astragalus root are also useful in building the immune system, as they increase the production of white blood cells. Many people make paste of astragalus root and eat it to treat their cold and flu.

9. Almonds
Eat a handful of almonds for your daily dose of vitamin E. An immune-strengthening antioxidant, studies have found that vitamin E deficiency causes major problems in the integrity of the immune system.

10. Crab
A zinc deficiency can zap your immune system. Zinc acts as a catalyst in the immune system's killer response to foreign bodies, and it protects the body from damage from invading cells. It also is a necessary ingredient for white blood cell function. Nosh on 3 ounces fresh or canned crab and you've got one-third of your recommended daily allowance (RDA) of this immune-enhancing nutrient.

11. Beans and lentils
Everybody needs a little folic acid. And not getting enough of this vital nutrient can actually shrink vital immune system fighters like your thymus and lymph nodes. To make sure you're getting your fill of folic acid, try to include beans & Lentils in your diet.

12. Guava
Go a little tropical with this tasty fruit and get more than twice your daily vitamin C needs. Vitamin C acts as an immune enhancer by helping white blood cells perform at their peak and quickening the response time of the immune system.

13. Chicken
Selenium is a trace mineral that is vital to the development and movement of white blood cells in the body. A 3-ounce piece of chicken will give you almost half your daily needs.

14. Wine
Have a glass of red wine and you may help your body take out a few potentially harmful foreign bodies. Certain components in wine seem to be helpful in killing infectious bacteria, such as salmonella. But be careful. Drinking too much alcohol can cause your immune system to become depressed, leaving you more open to infection. A glass a day should do the trick.

15. Yogurt
Yogurt seems to have a marked effect on the immune system. It strengthens white blood cells and helps the immune system produce antibodies. One study found that people who ate 6 ounces of yogurt a day avoided colds, hay fever, and diarrhea. Another study found that yogurt could be an ally in the body's war against cancer.

16. Carrots
Carotenes, like the beta-carotene found in carrots and other red, yellow, orange, and dark-green leafy vegetables, are the protectors of the immune system, specifically the thymus gland. Carotenes strengthen white blood cell production, and numerous studies have shown that eating foods rich in beta-carotene helps the body fight off infection more easily.

17. Garlic
Garlic is well-known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties. It's even been thought to help prevent cancer. Researchers think these benefits stem from garlic's amazing effect on the immune system. One study found that people who ate more garlic had more of the natural killer white blood cells than those who didn't eat garlic.

18. Kale
A cup of kale will give you your daily requirement of vitamin A. Vitamin A is an antioxidant that helps your body fight cancer cells and is essential in the formation of white blood cells. Vitamin A also increases the ability of antibodies to respond to invaders.

19. Shiitake mushrooms
Throw a few shiitake mushrooms in your stir-fry and you may prevent your yearly cold. Scientists have discovered that specific components of shiitake mushrooms boost your immune system and act as antiviral agents.

20. Blueberries
Drinking juice of fresh blueberry on a daily basis is one of the very effective home remedies for low immunity.

21. Broccoli/ Cabbage/ Cauliflower
Vegetables belonging to the Cabbage family like – cauliflower, radish, turnip, broccoli and turnip are said to be immunity boosters and should be include in daily diet.  

22. Tea
Both green and black varieties have immune system-boosting properties due to the high presence of antioxidants. Tea is considered to have as many antioxidants as some of the healthiest vegetables.

23. Ginger
This root has been used by the Chinese for thousands of years as a digestive and immune system tonic. It can be boiled and taken as a tea, or cooked in meals, to which it adds a characteristically tangy flavor.

24. Milk
Milk is considered as immunity booster in Ayurveda. Take glassful of milk with little sugar at bedtime. This will improve your immunity and is also considered as one of the good home remedies for low immunity.
25. Yoga
Latest research says that practicing Yoga and meditation regularly in a proper method will boost immunity without taking any internal medications.

26. Pranayam/ Breathing Exercise
Breathing techniques like ‘Pranayama’ is now considered to be one of the excellent methods to restore your energy level and to boost up your immunity.

27. Sleep
Proper sleep or rest also strengthens your immunity level. Take proper rest and sleep to restore your energy level and to make your body functioning well.
IMMUNITY BOOSTING JUICE
Take carrots, peel them well, and add Indian gooseberry, ginger, beetroots and pinch of rock salt. Crush them well to make a juice. Have two cups daily. This is one of the best home remedies for increasing immunity.
Do's and Don'ts
  • Avoid sugar. Sugar may keep your white blood cells from being their strongest. Keep the sweet stuff to a minimum if your immune system isn't working like it should.
  • Avoid fat. Polyunsaturated fats in vegetable oils such as corn, safflower, and sunflower oil seem to be a deterrent to an efficiently running immune system.
  • Reduce weight. Being overweight has a major effect on your immune system. One study found that the white blood cells in overweight people weren't as able to fight off infection as those of their healthy-weight peers.
  • Relax. If stress causes you to lose your cool, you could be impairing your immune system. Chronic stress can even shrink your thymus gland, creating major problems in your body's ability to fight off infection.
  • Exercise is a proven immune system booster. Don't overdo it, though. Too much can wear you down and create immune system problems.
  • Drink at least 10-12 glasses of water per day to boost the immune system and flush out toxins.
  • Control Coffee – as caffeine depletes the minerals and vitamins in your body and dehydrates you. If you have to drink a cup of coffee, then add 2 more glasses of water to your daily water intake to counteract the downside of the coffee.
  • No smoking including second hand smoke – when you introduce cigarette smoke to your body, you are inviting multiple invaders for your immune system to chase, catch and remove. The more you smoke, the harder your immune system has to work. So of course your immune system is going to be weakened
  • No alcohol and drugs – low or moderate alcohol consumption will stimulate immune functions in a positive way but excessive consumption depresses immunity. All drug abuse will cause immune dysfunction.
  • Keep away from processed food and saturated fat. If you can boost your immune system by following many of these suggestions, you are much less likely to become sick.  You have a good chance of avoiding those other conditions that can rear their ugly heads when your immune system is compromised.
  • Keep proper gap between two meals. Let the prior meal get digested fully before you take your second meal. Keeping proper gap will allow body to absorb nutrients in proper way and this will boost up your energy level as well as your immunity.

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Diet Soda-Danger


Super Foods


Natural remedies for Body Odour



Body odour starts with certain types of sweat. Eccrine glands pour out clear, neutral-smelling sweat, which cools your body as it evaporates. Apocrine glands, concentrated in your underarms and genitals, secrete a substance that bacteria feast upon, causing strong odours. Stress, ovulation, sexual excitement and anger can cause apocrine glands to kick into high gear. Some diseases cause the body to produce particular odours, 

Natural remedies for body odour

  1. Apply a solution of vinegar and water to your armpits while bathing.
  2. If you do not wish to use deodorants, you can apply a solution of apple cider vinegar and water to the underarm area. This regulates the pH balance of the skin and also gets rid of odor.
  3. Most people sweat excessively during summers. Therefore it is important to bathe at least twice or thrice a day during this time.
  4. Sprinkle talcum powder or baby powder on the underarm region instead of using deodorants. This will soak up excess sweat and keep the skin cool and dry.
  5. Use an antibacterial soap when bathing and make sure to cleanse the underarm and groin areas.
  6. Cotton is a natural fiber and it helps absorb moisture, allowing your skin to breathe, restricting a buildup of moisture. Therefore opt for cotton clothing and avoid synthetic fabrics. Also wear cotton undergarments.
  7. Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight or body hugging. Also change your clothes daily as body odor can leave behind traces.
  8. Many people face the problem of sweaty feet and the resulting bad odor. To combat this problem, wear comfortable footwear that allows circulation of air between the toes.
  9. Applying turmeric paste in body before bath would eliminate body odour. 
  10. Adding tomato paste to bathing water also would make you free from bad odour.
  11. Dust baking soda or cornstarch on any odour-troubled part of your body. Both of these powders absorb moisture, and baking soda also kills odour-causing bacteria.
  12. Shave regularly under your arms. Underarm hair can increase body odour because it traps sweat and bacteria.
  13. Apply tea-tree oil to problem areas, as long as it doesn’t irritate your skin. This oil, from an Australian tree, kills bacteria and also has a pleasant scent.
  14. Essential oils of lavender, pine and peppermint fight bacteria. They also smell nice. Since some people have a skin reaction to certain oils, test the underarm area or a small patch of skin before using.
  15. Delightfully fragrant, sage can fight bacteria and reduce perspiration. You can purchase a solution of sage tincture or diluted sage oil, or brew some sage tea that you cool and store in a bottle. Any of these liquids can be used in the underarm area, but not around the genitals. And after using sage, wash your hands before touching your face.
  16. A citrus fruit like lemon changes the pH level of your skin, making it more acidic. All bacteria, including the odour-causing kinds, have a hard time surviving in a highly acidic environment. Just rub on some lemon and pat dry.

Eat the right foods to counteract body odour

  1. Eat plenty of spinach, chard and kale. Green, leafy vegetables are rich in chlorophyll, which has a powerful deodorizing effect in your body.
  2. Have a few sprigs of parsley, credited with anti-odour properties. Or make parsley tea by steeping a teaspoon of chopped fresh parsley in a cup of boiling water for five minutes. Let it cool a bit before you drink it
  3. Drink plenty of water daily as it helps to flush out toxins and waste products from the body
  4. Restrict your red meat consumption. Red meat is often difficult to digest and tends to stagnate in the digestive tract. As a result toxins may be released in the bloodstream.
  5. Avoid eating processed foods that are high in white flour, sugars and fats.
  6. Make sure you get enough soluble fiber through your diet. Fiber helps to regulate bowel movements and prevents constipation, which can sometimes lead to body odor.
  7. Reduce your intake of foods such as fish, legumes and eggs. Some people are not able to process these foods properly and this can contribute to body odor.
  8. Avoid intake of spicy foods and those which contain a lot of garlic and onion.
  9. Lower your intake of caffeinated beverages and alcohol.
  10. Avoid eating baked and deep fried foods that contain rancid oils.