Mint Tea is a popular herbal tea, frequently used to make iced tea as well as hot tea. Mint tea has a cooling quality and makes a particularly refreshing iced tea, both when used alone or when blended with other herbs or with green or black tea.
Varieties of Mint:
There are many varieties of mint, including both natural species, and hybrids and cultivars. Spearmint (Mentha spicata) and peppermint (Mentha x piperita) are the most common types of mint used in tea. Apple mint (Mentha suaveolens) is also common, and resembles spearmint in flavor although it has fuzzy leaves. Usually when the term "mint tea" is used and no variety of mint is specified, it means spearmint tea. The mint family also contains a number of other species used in tea, including lemon balm, oswego tea, and many culinary herbs. Cultivars such as pineapple mint and orange mint can also be used in tea, although they are less widely available commercially.
Health Benefits of Mint Tea:
Many mints have numerous traditional medicinal uses. The research on the health benefits of mint tea is young and few human studies have been done--it is not fully known the degree to which various benefits shown in lab studies actually transfer to people drinking mint tea. However, there is preliminary evidence suggesting that mint may have a variety of benefits:

• Caffeine free - Like most herbal teas, all plants in the mint family are 100% caffeine free.


• Antioxidants - Spearmint, peppermint, and other mints have been found to be rich in antioxidants, a broad class of chemicals thought to promote overall health by preventing damage to the body and protecting against cancer and tumors.


• Iron absorption - There is evidence that mint tea can improve the body's ability to absorb iron. In middle eastern countries, it is common to brew black tea together with spearmint. Black tea is known to inhibit iron absorption; mixing mint with black tea can mitigate these effects.


• Antibacterial and antifungal activity - In vitro studies have found spearmint, peppermint, and other mints to inhibit the growth of, and kill, harmful bacteria, including MSRA (a dangerous antibiotic-resistant strain of bacteria). Spearmint also has been shown to prevent the growth of a number of types of harmful fungi.


• Stomach & gastrointestinal benefits - Peppermint has been traditionally used to settle the stomach and treat certain gastrointestinal problems. There is some evidence that it is effective at treating irritable bowel syndrome.

It is not fully clear the degree to which these health benefits are available to those drinking mint tea. Some of the human trials that have been conducted used capsules of concentrated essential oils, which likely lead to greater concentrations than what would typically be found in mint tea.
Safety of Mints and Side Effects:
Most mints (including spearmint and peppermint) are safe for use as a food seasoning or herbal tea, but the mint family is large and diverse and contains some plants which are less safe. A few species, including pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium), can be poisonous in large doses.
Buying or Growing Mint for Tea:
Dried spearmint and peppermint for use in tea are widely available from a number of online tea retailers, but the best mint tea is made from fresh leaves. Although fresh mint can be purchased at some supermarkets, it is expensive and it is usually easier to grow the plant yourself. Almost endless varieties of mint plants are available at nurseries. Plants in the mint family also can be grown very easily from cuttings. Mints are very easy to grow (and can easily take over your yard or garden) in moist temperate climates. They are not quite as vigorous in hotter or drier climates, but can be grown outside their preferred range with some extra car

By Alex Zorach 

Nowadays there exist a great number of different cosmetic products. Companies, which produce skin care cosmetics, are advertizing and presenting their goods as the best and most astonishing. We can see perfect compositions of different skin care products. They include all the best ingredients such as: useful oils, great number of vitamins in combination with natural essences of vegetables and fruits. They all promise to help you to reduce of wrinkles and to become younger, to get rid of acne forever. Of course, all these ingredients are very useful for your skin but we must know for sure how do they function and what impact will they produce on your skin.
There are seven basic ingredients which are included almost in every composition of the skin care cosmetic product. Let`s see what skin type they are best for.
Vitamin C
Products with Vitamin C make your skin brighter and add brilliance to it. It also prevents from influence of free radicals on your skin. If you will try to use it for a long time, then your skin will become more shining. It perfectly suits to dry and normal skin.
Vitamin E
Premature aging can be easily fought with the help of products containing Vitamin E. It is rich in nutrients which helps to avoid damage caused by free radicals, such as smoke and pollution. When using Vitamin E you can remove signs of aging. It suits to every type of skin, especially for normal.
Seaweed
For those who have combination skin, products containing seaweed are perfect. It means that your skin is not oily, but you may have some oily areas. Seaweed is full of vitamins and minerals from the ocean. It is so useful because they are cleaning the skin thoroughly and don`t have drying effect on your skin.
Aloe
If you have too sensitive skin, then products containing aloe are just for you. People, who often have irritation or red skin, will appreciate aloe. We all know that it is a very gentle ingredient and it helps to soothe the skin. It is also suitable like start point for teenagers skin care.
Shiitake Mushrooms
It may sound surprising but nowadays one of the major natural ingredients that serves as anti-age cosmetic product is shiitake mushroom. Thanks to them skin looks much younger because it promotes the renewal of skin cells. It protects your skin from premature aging by blocking proteins that are responsible for this. Also it provides your skin with anti-oxidants and that makes your skin look more fresh and shining.
Oil of tea tree
If you have an oily type of skin than you should definitely use tea tree oil. It removes oil from your skin and functions as an antiseptic. It is very effective in treatment of acne and it also helps to reduce or even remove blemishes. To achieve maximum effect you should use it for a long period of time. As for application on dry skin it will be rather harsh and is able to dry up your skin even more.
Argan oil
It is extracted from a fruit tree which grows in Morocco. It is often used in order to moisturize your skin, to remove scars left from acne, to avoid stretch marks. Nowadays it is often used in protection of elasticity of hair and in order to support its health.
 By Maria K. Garcia 

Sinus infection congestion is the worst! The unbearable sinus pain. The oh-so-attractive mouth breathing. We've all been there...an estimated 37 million people get at least one infection a year. That's a lot of tissues! There are ways to ease the discomfort without running to the doctor for antibiotics or developing an addiction to decongestant nasal sprays. After suffering with sinus congestion for years, I've compiled my top 3 go to remedies whenever my sinuses start to ache.

1. Hot Toddy! Yes, hot toddy is number one. Why? Because warm booze is the best thing ever when you feel like crap and have sinus infection congestion! And also, because they do work. A hot toddy is basically liquor, honey, lemon, and either warm water or tea mixed together. I usually reach for the Jack Daniels, but you can use any kind of brandy, whiskey or rum you like. I also don't feel like reaching for the measuring cup when I'm super congested, but if you must measure, here is a go-by:

The World's Best Hot Toddy

1 ounce brandy, whiskey or rum (or 2 ounces if you really want to knock this sinus infection congestion out!) 1 tablespoon honey 1/4 of a lemon 1 cup of hot tea or hot water

Hold your nose and throw it down the hatch! A cinnamon stick, six to ten cloves, or a couple of teaspoons of brown sugar can be added to the mix if you're not as experienced with the hot toddie, or drinking for that matter. You should feel relief immediately, and if you don't, rinse and repeat!

2. The Newly Popular Neti Pot - I have to be honest. I don't understand what all the hype is about the neti pot. Although it does feel great, the relief is very short lived. In my experience, I'm congested again in about 5 minutes, no exaggeration. However, I am including it on my list because it has helped keep my allergies, cold, etc from turning into a full blown infection when used as soon as the tell tell symptoms appear - dripping nose, sinus congestion, etc. The neti pot has never done much of anything for me if I already have an infection. So, as soon as your nose starts to drip, use your neti pot twice a day or more.

3. Mucinex! Mucinex! Mucinex! People don't realize how important mucinex is when you have an infection. When I go to the doctor for a sinus infection, and I used to alot, he would prescribe me mucinex and send me home. That's right, no antibiotics, mucinex. Why? First, antibiotics are not the sinus cure like we once thought. More studies are showing that antibiotics may shave one day off the infection time, if that. In my experience, doctors try to avoid giving you antibiotics. So, back to the mucinex. If you have sinus problems yearly like I do, take mucinex as directed on the box as soon as your nose starts to drip. Most of the time the mucinex will prevent your cold or allergy from becoming a full on infection. Why? Because the bacteria that causes the infection lives in your mucus. Mucinex thins your mucus, making it easier for your body to get rid of, therefore, getting rid of the infection. Also, removing the mucus eases the sinus infection congestion

By Bethany Ravan

Many people faced with the problem of wrinkles join the search for the best wrinkle treatment each day. Growing numbers of health and beauty conscious men and women are looking for the right treatment to help reduce and remove their wrinkles that are brought on by aging, stress and dry skin. They often have a hard time choosing from the many hundreds of available treatments for wrinkles, from creams to oils to injections.

Of the many anti-wrinkle treatments that are available commercially, many are formulated using a combination of natural ingredients and synthetic substances. These treatments are often viewed as being unnatural as they contain artificial ingredients and some people are unwilling to use such treatments. They prefer to use natural treatments instead. One of these natural treatments that is worth considering is the use of castor oil as an anti-wrinkle treatment.

Castor oil, which is produced from the seed of the castor plant, is usually taken as a health supplement. However, many people do not realize that it can be an effective form of wrinkle treatment as well. By simply applying castor oil to your skin, you help to soothe your skin, restoring its natural youthful appearance and helping to diminish unsightly wrinkles.

One of the properties of castor oil that makes it an effective form of anti-wrinkle treatment is that it is very effective at moisturizing your skin. Castor oil has many antioxidant properties and helps defend your skin against oxidizing agents. It also cleanses and heals your skin even as it hydrates your skin. Also, castor oil does not leave an oily feeling on your skin after you use it. Simply wash it off with some warm water or even some gentle facial cleanser and it will leave your skin feeling smooth and supple. People with dry skin will benefit greatly from the application of castor oil to areas of the skin affected by wrinkles.

Castor oil also helps increase the flow of blood to the skin that it is applied to. Increased blood flow means that the skin receives more nutrients and oxygen, making skin healthier and fuller, helping to erase wrinkles and fine lines. Even heavy wrinkles respond well to the increased circulation of blood and lessen or fade.

Many people who use castor oil on their skin on a regular basis report that the treatment leaves them feeling younger and their skin looking healthier. Castor oil also has a positive effect on wrinkles and fine lines, reducing the severity of wrinkling and also giving skin a natural healthy glow. While it must be said that no treatment available today can completely eliminate wrinkles, regular treatment with castor oil will help to keep wrinkles at bay, and to help reduce the formation of wrinkles, keeping you looking younger, longer.

By Ryan English

If you suffer from muscle or joint pain you know how much it can impact your life. From not being able to play active sports to missing out on family fun - the effects can be far-reaching and upsetting. So, its natural that we search for pain remedies.
Almost everyone is familiar with pain relief formulas. Over 30 billion over-the- counter tablets and 70 million prescriptions are sold annually just in the USA. Known as 'Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs' (NSAIDs), a few commonly known names include Aspirin, Ibuprofin, Advil, and Motrin as well as prescription products like Celebrex and Vioxx. What most people might not know is that over 16,000 Americans die from NSAIDs a year and approximately 107,000 patients are hospitalized annually for NSAID related gastrointestinal complications.(1)
There is an alternative. Natural pain relief therapies can decrease inflammation and help repair tissues. The following are some starting points for investigating natural solutions further:
1. Get 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night: During the deeper stages of sleep the human body produces growth hormone, which results in tissue healing and repair. Inadequate amounts of sleep contribute to pain. Natural sleep remedies that can help you get a deep and restorative sleep are Melatonin, Hydroxy L- tryptophan (5-HTP), Calcium, Mangesium and colloidal gold. You can also listen to relaxing music - try searching on iTunes for ocean sounds.
2.Take a green-lipped mussel oil supplement: If you suffer from pain, swelling or other symptoms commonly associated with arthritis, you may benefit from taking green-lipped mussel oil from New Zealand. In a clinical trial conducted at the Glasgow Homeopathic Hospital in Glasgow, UK, preparations of green-lipped mussel extract were shown to benefit 76 percent of rheumatoid arthritis patients and 70 percent of osteoarthritic patients (2) The omega-3s contained in green-lipped mussel oils (more potent than fish oils) cannot be manufactured by our body and decrease inflammation. The EPA and DHA essential fatty acids have been so effective that some people have been able to discontinue their use of other medications altogether.3. Take MSM, or "organic sulphur". It can lessen inflammation, pain, and stiffness due to arthritis, muscle, or back pain and helps to balance the blood chemistry in these conditions. MSM helps supply the sulfur amino acids needed for healing.
4. Massage a blend of essential oils of arnica, Calendula and St John's work into the affected painful area. Applying essential oils directly on the area nourishes cells and enables the body to metabolize waste and heal injuries more quickly. Herb Pharm makes a a blend called "Trauma Oil" which is very effective. Essential oils can help relax tense muscles and improve circulation.
5. Eat a whole food, mineral rich diet with plenty of vegetables and whole grains. Vegetable juices and green chlorophyll-rich foods can help relieve muscle inflammations by promoting the elimination of toxins from the body. Cut back on the amount of meat containing large amounts of saturated fat, which impacts the effective functioning of the liver - possibly leading to inflammation and irritation. Animal fats also contain arachadonic acid which can stimulate inflammation.
6. Take Glucosamine sulfate: Glucosamine is a naturally occurring element in the body that plays a crucial role in the building and healing of cartilage. Glucosamine may be efficient in treating and even delaying the progression of osteoarthritis. Some studies have hinted that glucosamine may be as effective as NSAIDs in treating joint conditions, while having fewer gastrointestinal side effects.
7. Magnetic therapy: Magnetic therapy is a safe method of applying magnetic fields to the body for therapeutic purposes. It helps speed the healing process and improve quality of sleep without any adverse side effects. A study from the University of Virginia showed that that a magnetic field of moderate strength can result in significant reduction of swelling when applied immediately after an inflammatory injury. Dilation of blood vessels is a major cause of swelling, and it's thought that the magnets worked by limiting blood flow to the affected area. Individuals wearing magnetic jewelry have reported diminished muscle soreness and lessening of cramps. Try sleeping on a magnet mattress pad to help ease the pain of muscle soreness or apply magnet straps to sore muscle or tendonitis areas.
8. Take Vitamin D: Researched conducted by the University of Minnesota found that 93% of all subjects with non-specific musculoskeletal pain were vitamin D deficient. Taking Vitamin D and CoQ10 can help alleviate muscle pain caused by cholesterol-lowering statin drugs. Vitamin D can also be synthesized naturally by the body upon exposure to sunlight.
9.Cayenne pepper: A teaspoon of cayenne shaken in 2 ounces of olive oil can be used as an ointment and rubbed directly into sore muscles. Cayenne contains capsaicin which eventually inhibits secretion of the neurotransmitter Substance P, that transmits pain to the brain, lessening muscle soreness, sprains and cramps.
10. Try an Epsom salt bath: The magnesium sulfate of Epsom Salt acts as a muscle relaxant, and by easing muscle pain it helps the body to eliminate harmful substances. Due to changes in agriculture in the past century, most Americans are deficient in Magnesium. Studies show increased magnesium levels from soaking in a bath enriched with Epsom salt! Magnesium and sulfate are both easily absorbed through the skin. Fill a bathtub with water as hot as you can stand. Add 2 cups of Epsom salts. The heat of the bath will increase circulation and reduce inflammation.
About Alchemy Radiant Health:(Alchemy Radiant Health offers services to help people achieve premium physical performance, mental clarity, and well-being through holistic wellness programs that promote radiant health and longevity. Our approach and philosophy is based on ancient Chinese nutrition combined with the latest developments in super-foods.
Sources Used in this article:
(1) July 1998 issue of The American Journal of Medicine
None of the statements in this article have been approved by the FDA. Any products or services referred to are not intended to treat, diagnose, prevent or cure any disease or health condition.
All content in this article is commentary or opinion and is protected under Free Speech. The information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice of any kind. Alchemy Radiant Health assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material. Your use of this article indicates your agreement to these terms.

By Josse J. Ford 

When you are dealing with cancer it is not uncommon to wonder about natural kidney cancer cures. More and more people are starting to look for natural treatments to their cancer. This is because the chemicals in chemotherapy, a widely used treatment, destroy the cancer cells as well as healthy cells. If you have seen a loved one suffer through a battle with cancer using chemotherapy then you know just how devastating this treatment can be. If you have not then you should know that chemotherapy can cause hair loss, weight loss, nausea, fatigue, and many more side effects that are very unpleasant for the patient and their family. This is where the natural remedies come in to play.
Different Natural Cancer Cures
There are many different cures for cancer that are completely natural. You should know however that these treatments might be great for preventing and curing many other types of cancers as well. These are not necessarily specific to the kidney cancer alone.
One of the main stream natural ways of treating cancer is by the use of vitamins, herbs, and changes in your diet. There are many different vitamins and herbs that can be used in conjunction with others or that may be used by themselves to help treat cancer. Some of these are garlic, calcium, folic acid, vitamin C, and vitamin D. These however are only a few of the many different herbs or vitamins that you may use. As far as a diet goes it has been said that eating a diet that is high in fiber is a great way to cure cancer. One of the main foods that many have been using is brown rice. This is extremely high in fiber. In severe cases of cancer it might be recommend by a natural remedies' expert that you limit yourself strictly to brown rice for a period of time.
Living with Cancer
Though you may be struggling with the daily battle of cancer you should know that this battle does not have to be fought alone. You should also know that you do not have to go through the chemical treatments for cancer should you not want to. Though a decision like this should take a lot of time to make and you should certainly involve your medical professional in any decision like this. They may suggest that you try both treatments at the same time. This decision however is solely yours to make. So know there are many different options should you opt out of medical intervention or should medical intervention not cure you from this horrible illness called cancer. You have many options out there from herbal remedies to vitamins to other medical treatments like detoxification or oxygenation that are natural treatments that your doctor may offer. Detoxification can also be preformed by you using different products on the market should you be looking to not involve the medical profession with any of your treatments.

By Ty Daniel

Many changes in the body take place when a woman is pregnant such as hormonal as well as physical changes. There is also notable change to the skin during pregnancy due to a surge of hormones in the body. Many women develop skin blemishes, pigmentation, acne and itching during pregnancy. Usually these symptoms disappear after the delivery. During the first and second trimester many pregnant women suffer from dry skin which in turn causes the skin to itch.

Not only during pregnancy but after the deliver women tend to experience itching which is caused by postpartum hives or rashes. There are several reasons why a woman may develop itching during and after pregnancy. Some pregnant women may experience mild itching and others may experience sever itching which in turn causes stress. One of the most common causes of itching during pregnancy is high levels of estrogen. An increase in hormones can result in redness of the soles of the feet as well as the palms of the hands.

Once the mother has delivered the hormones return to normal and the itching disappears. As the baby starts growing in the mother's womb, the skin starts stretching and skin contains natural oil glands which in turn start to dry out which leads to the skin becoming itchy. In the final trimester many women start developing skin rashes which appear as large bumps referred to as pruritic urticaria papules and causes severe itching. This type of rash occurs on the abdominal region and can spread to the upper and lower parts of the body.

Another common ailment in pregnant women is vaginal itching resulting from an infection causing microbes. Another cause for vaginal itching is a drop in the pH levels. Some women also form a rare condition known as Pemphigoid gestationis which appears as blisters on the abdomen. These types of lesions resemble hives and this condition is indicative of complications related to the fetus such as the risk of premature labor as well as impaired fetal growth.

During pregnancy there are occasions where the bile duct fails to function properly and in turn lead to salts accumulating on the surface of the skin which causes itching. This can occur during the second or third trimester and is known as intrahepatic cholestasis. Other causes of itching during pregnancy are skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis and others. These types of disorders are inclined to flair when a woman is pregnant and usually reduced after delivery.

However, there are several remedies that can be used to relieve this discomforting condition. For instance avoid wearing clothes that are tight especially during the last stages of pregnancy as the skin needs to breathe and be free of excess moisture. If one suffers from dry skin then make sure you apply ample moisturizers to the skin to keep it moist. Drinking plenty of water also helps keep the skin well hydrated.

Being pregnant is a wonderful phase of any women's life, so don't allow itching during pregnancy to spoil this happy occasion. Even after moisturizing the skin or trying various remedies the skin is still itching, then consult with your doctor.

By Gerree McGonagal

Discover the incredible weight loss benefits of turmeric, how to best prepare them and how much you should eat to get maximum benefit from turmeric - one of nature's amazing fat burning foods.

Turmeric, an herb used to spice many Middle Eastern and Asian recipes, is also known as curcumin. Powdered turmeric is made by grinding the curcurmin plant, a type of parsley. The deep yellow color of curry powder is attributed to turmeric.

Turmeric is a rhizome that is smaller than ginger. Its flavor is delicate and pleasing. Turmeric comes in a number of varieties and colors - from white to deep orange. It is the dark, orange color of curcumin that causes soups, stews, curries, and rice dishes to have a deep, yellow color. The flavor of turmeric is gingery, peppery, and earthy.

Saffron is more expensive that turmeric, so turmeric is often used in its place. You can find powdered turmeric for sale throughout the year at your local market. You can find fresh turmeric rhizomes in specialty Asian markets and sometimes in the grocery store.

Fat Burning Benefits of Turmeric

It is a healthy and powerful spice that helps to burn fat.

You will find dietary fiber, potassium, vitamin B6, iron, and manganese in turmeric.

Both potassium and manganese are helpful in reducing cholesterol levels and blood pressure, as well as regulating bodily fluids. Potassium aids in blood glucose metabolism and it helps the body to produce energy.

Hemoglobin contains iron. Hemoglobin is very important for carrying oxygen throughout the body via the bloodstream.

We need iron for the function and development of the brain, as well as to regulate body temperature, metabolize muscle activity, and protect the immune system, among other things.

The fiber in your diet will make stools bulkier to get rid of toxins quicker. When you eat foods that are high in fiber, you will feel full without overeating.

Curcumin is the main ingredient in turmeric. It is this that causes turmeric to be such a deep yellow color. This is also the ingredient that imparts health benefits.

In Ayurvedia Medicine and Chinese Medicine, turmeric has been traditionally used to treat the following: menstrual difficulties, toothaches, colic, chest pains, bruises and hemorrhage, blood in the urine, jaundice, and gas. Those are only a few of the conditions it helps treat.

What does turmeric contain that makes it so good for health?

Curcumin is the yellow orange pigment found in turmeric. An overwhelming number of studies have proven that this is the main anti-inflammatory agent found in this spice. As a matter of fact, the anti-inflammatory nature of curcumin, combined with curcumin's antioxidant and cancer-preventing qualities, is absolutely phenomenal.

Curcumin contains an anti-inflammatory property that can be compared to strong prescription medicines and readily available over-the-counter drugs. And it doesn't have any of the harmful side effects.

Researchers have reported that curcumin might be able to help in treating inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis.

Curcumin contains antioxidants that can help in the metabolism of free radicals before they can harm the cells of the body. The harmful effects of free radicals is evident in such diseases as arthritis.

There are many suffering from arthritis who report relief of symptoms when they add turmeric frequently to their foods. This relief of symptoms may include the being able to walk further and longer without pain, a reduction in the severity and duration of morning stiffness, and reduced swelling of the joints.

According to a 2004 issue of Science, animal research indicated that curcumin might be capable of correcting the genetic defect that is mainly accountable for causing cystic fibrosis, a deadly disease of the lungs that is identified by thick mucus that triggers an extremely dangerous infection.

Mucus is damaging to the pancreas and also interrupts the body's digestive processes and the proper absorption of necessary nutrients.

Curcumin's antioxidant characteristics help the colon to ward off the harmful effects of free radicals, which are responsible for damaging the DNA composition found in cells; this damage can lead to cancer of the colon. Curcumin can actually destroy mutated cancer cells as well as preventing them from moving throughout the body.

Curcumin also improves liver function.

Frequent use of turmeric has been linked to a lower instance of the formation of tumors, as well as cancer of the colon, prostate, lung, and breast.

A study done at the University of Texas suggests that curcumin has the ability to slow down the growth of breast cancer cells found in mice, even when the mice had already contracted the disease.

Turmeric and Quercitin (an antioxidant found in onions) are both phytonutrients which, when combined in recipes, have demonstrated an ability to lessen precancerous lesions in the intestinal tract. There was a reported reduction in both the occurrence and size of these lesions.

Turmeric contains curcumin and phenethyl isothiocyanates, two phytochemicals that are plentiful in vegetables belonging to the cruciferous family (brussels sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, turnips, kohlrabi, and kale), and these phytochemicals are very helpful in limiting the development of cancerous prostate cells in human beings. They can even help in preventing the spread of prostate cancer that has already become established in the body.

And even more than this, current research shows that eating foods with turmeric can decrease the chances of getting childhood leukemia.

Turmeric helps your body to increase detoxification, which leads to faster fat burning, as well as offering a general improvement in your health to its life-saving anti-oxidant properties.

Curcumin, which is found in turmeric, might be helpful in preventing the oxidation of cholesterol in the body, which helps to prevent the plaque build-up in arteries that often leads to heart attacks or strokes; it can also help in reducing symptoms of arteriosclerosis and heart conditions due to diabetes.

Turmeric is gaining support for its potential protection against Alzheimer's Disease, too.

Preparing Fresh Turmeric

It is difficult to find fresh turmeric, but you can find ground turmeric in many places. It is often found in the spice aisle at your grocery or super store. Look for this item in ethnic markets and spice stores. It may be possible to buy turmeric fresh. Naturally, it is preferable to get turmeric that is organically grown. Don't be swayed by the color - the color may differ because there are many turmeric varieties.

Fresh turmeric should be stored in a container with a tight seal. Store it somewhere cool and also free of dampness and direct light. Be sure to keep your fresh turmeric rhizomes refrigerated.

Take precautionary measures with this spice, because the dark yellow color can readily stain your hands or clothes.

The following are a few ideas for cooking with turmeric.

It has an intense taste, so take care to use sparingly. Turmeric is great in pasta, seafood, tomato dishes, egg salad, or just sprinkled over eggs.

Try turmeric mixed with sour cream as a sauce for shellfish. It is delicious.

You might discover that turmeric is frequently an ingredient in pickles and mustard.

Include some turmeric when you prepare dressing to pour on salads. The taste and appearance will both benefit from the bright yellow color.

You can use turmeric in relishes, marinades, and savory breads.

Try adding a bit of the spice to legumes such as lentils, or to some cooked winter squash; Thai cooks use turmeric extensively in appetizers, stir-fried dishes, curries, soups, and desserts.

You can spice your green tea with turmeric to enhance its cancer fighting properties.

You can try turmeric with tofu recipes.

You can sprinkle turmeric on a variety of dishes to add a cheerful burst of color and an array of healthy, fat burning benefits.

By Steve O'Connor

Food Therapy should be followed under the supervision from your doctor. Check your sugar level frequently so that sugar levels do not go beyond the recommended level
Foods to avoid
It is always advisable to avoid some foods if you are diabetic such as refined sugar, sweets, syrups, glucose, jam, molasses, fruit sugar, ice-cream, cakes, pastries, sweet biscuits, chocolates, soft drinks, condensed milk, cream and fried foods. Fats like butter, ghee and hydrogenated vegetable oil should also be avoided. White sugar and white flour should be reduced drastically. Avoid all processed foods, junk food, pastries, cookies, canned and preserved foods. They contain harmful preservatives and lot of salt. Avoid soft drinks since these have a lot of sugar. Try to avoid fried foods from your diet.
Smoking results in the using up of oxygen in the body. It will result in less of oxygen needed by the body to metabolize glucose. So smoking should be avoided.
Foods to be limited
Salt consumption should be reduced to a minimum. You will get enough salt form the vegetables and fruits you eat. Reduce animal foods especially red meats. Reduce poultry and egg. Reduce caffeine and alcohol. Do not drink tea and coffee more than 2 cups a day. Try to replace it with green tea or herbal teas like Parsley tea, Blueberry leaf, Tea made of tender walnut tree leaves, Water in which kidney bean pods have been cooked is good diabetes.
Do not consume alcohol in empty stomach. Alcohol on an empty stomach can cause low blood glucose or hypoglycemia.Foods that should be consumed in moderation are honey and other natural sugars like palm sugar, dates which can be used instead of white sugar. Remember these should be consumed in very little quantity only.Pasta, coconut, other nuts, unsweetened juices, eggs should be limited. You can replace it with whole grain, unpolished rice and Soya products. Try to eat whole grain bread instead of white flour. Fats like olive oil and peanut oil are more advisable that hydrogenated fats. Low fat food like skimmed milk and low fat home made cottage cheese can be taken in moderation. You can also substitute it with yoghurt. Sea food and fish also can be taken in moderation.
Foods to be taken
Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
An alkaline diet with natural food is recommended. Wholegrain, fruits, nuts, vegetables, and dairy products form a good diet for the diabetic. Raw vegetables can be taken in high quantities. It has been found that cooked foods raise blood glucose higher than raw, unpeeled foods. Cooking destroys many of the enzymes and some vitamins and minerals.
Eat at least five fruits every day. Fruits like grape fruit, pomegranate juice, Indian blackberry, banana, granny smith apples, fig, cranberries, black berry, kiwi fruits, and citrus fruits are highly recommended. It can be taken as a snack. Cucumber, Lettuce, onion, garlic string beans cucumber radish, tomato, carrot, leaves; spinach turnip, cabbage and Jerusalem artichoke are good for diabetes. Colorful vegetables are good for the functioning of pancreas. Drink Fruit juices without sugar. Brewer's yeast and sprouted alfalfa and mung beans are good for the body. Unripe banana also can be cooked and eaten.
The most important of all is eating high fiber diet which lowers need for insulin. It releases energy into the body slowly. It has also been found that diabetes decreases and may even disappear in people eating a high fiber or whole food diet. High fiber diet has more chromium and chromium is very good for people with diabetes.
Eat lot of potassium rich foods like raw peanuts, tomato, bananas, melons, dried peas, potatoes, apple cider vinegar, skimmed milk powder, wheat but do not take potassium supplements.
Include soluble fiber in your meals like barley, oatmeal, almond meal, dried beans, kidney beans, cooked black beans, peas, cereals, chickpeas, Bengal gram which has low glycemic index, , Black gram, lentils and corn or garbanzo beans to helps considerably in reducing blood sugar levels. Soy products like tofu, tempeh, soymilk, soya powder, soy bean sprouts, nuggets etc are also very good in containing neurological complications in diabetes. You can make bread out of any of the whole grains. Get a lot of soluble fiber into your diet. When you eat lots of bread, cereal and starchy vegetables you will get enough of starches which is very helpful for diabetes. Insoluble fibers, found in bran (oat bran, wheat bran), whole grain breads, whole grains and nuts, act as intestinal scrubbers by cleaning out the lower gastrointestinal tract. Fiber cleans your intestinal tract by moving out the food so that it wouldn't stay there and putrefy. Butter milk and yoghurt diet are very beneficial.
Helpful herbs and vegetables
1. Bitter Gourd (Karela): Bitter gourd Momordica-charantia or bitter melon juice contains plant insulin and should be taken 2 ounce 2 times daily on an empty stomach. It is found to be very effective for diabetes.
Or
It can be cooked as any vegetable and eaten.
Or
The bitter melon powder can be made by drying. Take bitter gourd powder I teaspoon daily in empty stomach.
2. Taking half a teaspoon of cinnamon a day may help prevent the onset of diabetes. Even soaking a cinnamon sticks in your tea, could also benefit non-diabetics who have blood sugar problem but are unaware of it.
3. 30 gram fenugreek seeds can be soaked in a glass of water at night and after 12 hours take it and grind it into a paste with the soaked water and drink it on a empty stomach.
Or
2 teaspoon if powdered seeds can be taken with water or milk.
Or
You can add fenugreek into anything you cook.
4. Eating upto 3 grapefruits a day has also been helpful.
5. 1 tablespoon of amla (Emblica officinalis) after removing the seeds extract the juice and mix with a cup of bitter gourd juice and take daily for 2months in a empty stomach.
6. Gymnema Sylvestre a traditional ayurvedic herb the leaf of which is to be taken up to 4 grams per day.
7. Indian blackberry seeds or Jamun seed powder (scientific name of Jamun is Eugenia jambolana or Syzygium cumini L and) is very good for diabetes. Take 1/4th teaspoon with 1 teasoon honey for 50 days.
8. Eating freshly crushed raw garlic 3-4 grams a day lowers blood sugar. You can wash it down with a glass of water.
9. Neem seeds daily 2 times a pinch. Taking a gram of neem leaf daily helps in diabetes.
10. Bael (Aegle marmelos) : The leave of the bael tree when chewed are very useful in diabetes. Pulp of this fruit could be dried and taken in doses of 5 to 10 gms a day.
11. A pinch of pure turmeric powders mixed in amla juice (Indian goose berry) and eat daily in empty stomach.
12. Use of turmeric and gooseberry in equal quantities in powder form taken with warm water is very useful in this behalf. These activate the pancreatic cells and more insulin is produced.
13. Wild jeerakam cumin seeds black colored 60 gm in 1 liter and boil a reduce it ti 1/4th liter and take half divide it into two equal parts and drink one part in the morning and one in the evening 2 times daily.
14. Grind (Bacopa monnieri )Bhrahmi and add a teaspoon of it to milk and drink.
Vitamins that help
Supplements in natural forms are more conducive to the body.
Magnesium supplementation has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity.
Vitamin C: 500 mg is recommended. Vitamin E: This vitamin is very valuable for diabetes. A daily dose of 200 i.u. of Vitamin E is recommended for a fortnight at a time.
Chromium: Whole grains, seeds, mushrooms, corn oil and brewer's yeast are relatively good sources of biologically valuable chromium.
Vitamin A:. Take A dose of 15,000i.u. on alternate days.
Vitamin B: Avoid large dosage of vitamin B because this vitamin interferes with the absorption of insulin by cells.
Things to do
Controlling your Weight is the best way to treat diabetes. Exercise improves the body's response to insulin. An exercise program should be started only with the advice of a doctor to avoid unnecessary complications. Walking, light games, jogging and swimming are also good.
Yoga can help a lot. To relieve stress do meditation once a day for 10 to 40 minutes. Yogic asanas like Siddhasana, Vajrasana, Talasana, Yastikasana,, like Yogamudra, Hastapadasana, Paschimottanasana, Chakrasana, Ustrasana, Bhujangasana, Sarvangasana and Viparitakarani, as halasana, shalabhasana, dhanurasana, Pratipaksabhavana and shavasana will also be beneficial.

By Anita Cherrys

Pimples are nothing but a blockage in your skin. These blockages are caused due to various reasons. The main causes of pimples are dust and hormonal change. It's a fast growing world and people cannot avoid using cars, bikes, bus etc.

Each and everyday pollution is increasing in air and it affects people in many ways. There are pores in skin through which dust can enter a body. It gets accumulated in the skin thus resulting in the cause of pimple.

There are various cells in our body which will be affected because of these dust and all these dead cells combine together and forms a blockage. These blockages generally become thicker at puberty. Even stress is one major cause which causes pimples.

Teenagers face major problem in removing pimples. Pimples are common among teenagers. People who get pimples have sensitive or oily skin and it is really necessary for people who have oily skin to wash their skin properly and use prescribed cream.

 
How to remove pimples is a common question.

There are different types of treatments available to remove pimples. They are Allopathic, Homeopathic, Home remedies for pimples etc. There are herbal products available which uses natural ingredients to cure pimples. There are various home remedies which can be followed to remove pimples.

They are drinking lot of water and juices, eating healthy food. Tea tree oil and papaya help in the removal of pimples. It is advised to use preventive measures rather than taking pills and cream after you are affected with pimples.

It is advised to clean your face with clean water, drink lot of water and maintain proper diet. It is suggested to start medication as soon as you find a pimple rather allowing it to grow to the fullest and then treating it.

People who have oily skin must make sure they clean their face regularly with mild soap and keep it clean without oil formation. Applying fresh lemon juice over the pimple and then cleaning with warm water is also one suggested method to remove pimples.

Toothpaste can also be used to get rid of pimples. People can apply it over night over the pimple and wash it the next morning.

By: Ricky Lim

Gout can be an extremely debilitating condition that leaves the sufferers with red, inflamed painful joints, using in the foot and ankle. There are a number of ways to treat gout, but if you want to avoid medication then why not try these gout pain natural remedies.

Firstly, a brief outline of what causes gout. In essence gout is caused by the build up of uric acid crystals in the blood that are then deposited in the joints and soft tissues surrounding the joints. Uric acid naturally occurs in our bodies, the problems start when there is excessive levels present.

Your body can have an excess of uric acid for a number of reasons:

- It's can be down to a hereditary condition whereby your body struggles to process uric acid efficiently.

- Your diet is high in purine-rich foods. Purine, when metabolized, produces uric acid, so if you're eating lots of purine-rich foods the body struggles to expel the resulting high levels of uric acid.

- Some medications can lead to increased levels of uric acid.

- Being obese can also increase uric acid levels

- Impaired kidney function can hinder the process of eliminating uric acid in via the urine.

There are a number of gout pain relief natural remedies that you can use to reduce the swelling and relieve the pain of a gout flare-up.

1. Water

The simplest of the home remedies is water. We all know that we're supposed to drink 6 - 8 eight ounce glasses of water a day, but we don't all do it! However, as a gout sufferer it is vitally important to keep your fluid intake up. Keeping the body hydrated dilutes the uric acid and allows it to be easily processed by the kidneys and eliminated in the urine.

If drinking that much water isn't very appetizing to you then fruit juices and tea are okay alternatives. But try to drink as much pure water as you can.

2. Icing

When you have a gout flare up a great way to reduce the swelling and accompanying pain is to ice the area. Keeping a cold compress pack in the freezer makes this an easy task when gout strikes.

3. Warmth

Conversely, other gout sufferers report experiencing relief when keeping the affected area warm. Try wrapping a warm towel around the joint or applying a warm wheat bag to the area. This can help to alleviate the pain and many gout sufferers say it's a good way to help you get to sleep.

4. Diet

changing your diet is a longer-term remedy. It won't bring you immediate relief, but it will reduce the uric acid in your system over time and help prevent further attacks.

The focus of a gout friendly diet is to avoid food with very high purine levels and replace them with foods which moderate to low purine levels. Here are a few examples of what to eat and what not to eat:

Gout Friendly Foods:

Fruit & fruit juices

Most vegetables

Eggs

Dairy products

Cereals

Foods to avoid:

Meat extracts

Shellfish (ie scrimp & mussels)

Offal

Gravies

Dried legumes.

5. Cherry Juice

1950 was the year that cherries were discovered to bring relief from gout symptoms. Furthermore, recent studies on the anti-inflammatory properties of cherries have produced similar positive effects. Cherry juice is not a drug and therefore has not been submitted to the clinical trials that medications have, however, many gout sufferers have found relief from their gout symptoms while drinking
or taking cherry juice or extract.

By Lisa McDowell

These homemade detox drinks for weight loss are a natural way to melt the fat fast. Detoxification removes toxins and helps you reach your weight loss goals in a relatively short period of time. So naturally it's a good idea to detox your body on a regular basis.
It's important to note, if you plan on drinking only detoxification drinks for more than a few days, make sure your current health status allows you to change from your normal diet to a detox diet. Before doing any kind of long-term or drastic detox you should consult with a doctor.
With that said, here are 7 homemade detox drinks to help you lose weight:

1. Tea: Tea is a natural detox drink that expels toxins from your system. Dandelion tea, green tea, peppermint tea, and ginger tea are especially effective in supporting weight loss. Drink 3-5 cups of tea daily to support your weight loss efforts.
2. Cranberry Juice: Cranberry juice enhances the body's metabolism, which is essential to converting fats into energy instead of excess weight. Along with eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, drinking cranberry juice is a very effective way to lose weight. Plus, this detox drink also helps clear nicotine and alcohol from your system in just about four days. Drink at least 32 ounces of 100% natural organic cranberry juice every day.
3. Cabbage Juice: Cabbage is very effective for detoxifying your liver. And because your liver is responsible for the detoxification of your body, it is an essential part of your detox and weight loss plan. If you have a juicer, juice up some cabbage, carrots and pears for a deliciously refreshing detox drink.
4. Cabbage Broth: For a satisfying hot drink, simmer a head of cabbage along with carrots, onions and a pinch of salt, then strain and drink. You can also add other vegetables to pack more nutrients into this hot detox drink, which is very effective for detoxifying your liver.
5. Cucumber and Lemon: This might seem like a surprising combination, but the effects of these two ingredients was tested by professional nutritionists and found to be a very effective detox and weight loss drink. All you have to do is use a blender to mix 1 cucumber sliced into tiny pieces and the juice half a lemon. Drink at least 2 times per day. This detox drink boosts your metabolism, which is essential for losing weight quickly, and you'll notice how it loads you with energy.
6. Master Cleanse Lemonade: This is probably the most popular detox drink for weight loss in the industry. It was made famous by celebrities like Angelina Jolie and Beyoncé Knowles because it is an extremely effective detox drink for weight loss and for improving your skin complexion. This is a perfect homemade detox drink to lose weight fast. Mix lemon juice, organic maple syrup and a dash of cayenne pepper into a 10 oz. glass of water. Sip on this drink all day for best results.
7. Salt Water Cleanse: At the start of your detox, you might want to do a salt water detox to cleanse your digestive system and prepare your body for weight loss. Do this on a day when you have plenty of time to stay home near the bathroom as it will run through your body very quickly. Mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of natural sea salt into one quart of lukewarm water. Do not use table salt; it will not have the same effect. Stir or shake until the salt is dissolved. Drink and then relax. Most people report a bowel movement within 30 minutes to two hours and several more may follow. Once you have cleansed your system, restore it by eating yogurt to replenish the beneficial bacteria in your digestive tract, drink juice, and eat fresh, soft-cooked and steamed fruits and vegetables.

In addition to these detox drinks, make sure to eat lots of veggies, fruits and whole grain foods that fill you up and give you the best chance for quickly losing weight.

By Beth Winter

Are Your Teeth Really Stained?
First, you need to figure out what is causing your yellow teeth. In some cases, your teeth might have a yellow tint to them as your natural color. Not all teeth start off as bright white, and some people's natural tooth color tends to be more yellow than white. You can usually determine if this is the case for you because your teeth will all be the same color. If your teeth vary in color or shades of yellow, then they are probably stained.
What Causes Stained Teeth?
Tetracycline, an antibiotic, can cause discoloration of teeth in children, making them appear blotchy. This is more and more uncommon now, as doctors realized that prescribing the medication to children could cause this reaction. Most drinking water has fluoride added to it, which is a good thing, because it helps to prevent cavities. However, if there is too much fluoride in the water, this could cause your teeth to turn yellow too. There are also some medical conditions which will make your teeth change color.
In most cases, however, yellow teeth are caused by food, drinks, or tobacco staining the surface enamel of the tooth. Smokers almost always have yellow stained teeth, as well as people who drink large amounts of coffee. Soda and tea are also responsible. Although these are the main culprits, any type of food can stain your teeth if they are not properly brushed. Underneath your tooth enamel is a material called dentin. Dentin is naturally yellow, and as you age your tooth enamel becomes worn down, exposing the dentin. This is why some people notice a color change in their teeth as they grow older.
How to Prevent Stained, Yellow Teeth
Proper dental hygiene is one of the most important things you can do to prevent stained teeth. You should be brushing at least two or three times a day. Remember, the longer that a food or beverage remains in contacts with your teeth, the better chance you have of them turning yellow. Ideally, you would want to brush your teeth within an hour of eating or drinking anything that may stain them. You also need to remember to have dental cleanings at least once a year. Avoiding beverages that might stain your teeth is your best bet, but if you must have your soda, consider drinking it out of a straw and chasing it with a glass of water.
Getting Rid of Yellow Teeth
If you have yellow teeth, you've probably realized that there is a wide selection of products available for you to try. They include:
# Whitening Mouthwash
This is perhaps the easiest method. All you need to do is swish it around your mouth for about a minute. However, these are usually only effective if your teeth are only very mildly stained because the whitening agents are only on your teeth for a short amount of time.
# Whitening Toothpaste
There are many brands out there on the market. Again, for mildly stained teeth you might see an effect. These are best used as stain prevention, rather than stain removal.
# Paint On BleachThese over-the-counter bleaching products look almost like nail polish. You simply "paint" your teeth with the bleach and let it sit. These have been shown to work on teeth that are not very badly stained. They can be somewhat messy, and you need to be sure not to miss parts of your teeth or they will be bleached unevenly. Also, some tooth sensitivity and gum discomfort is a common side effect.
# Whitening Strips
Working under the same principles as the paint-on bleach, these strips have the whitening agent included right on them. You simply place the strips on your teeth, usually once or twice a day. These can work quite well. They typically cost anywhere from $20 to $50 dollars and your color change should last about a year. Again, you might experience some tooth pain or sensitivity or some pain in your gums from the solution. You should also be careful not to use the strips too often, as overbleaching of your teeth can cause them to look blue. If you have uneven or crooked teeth, strips probably won't work for you because it will be hard to make sure the strip is evenly covering your teeth. This could cause the color change to appear uneven.
# Bleaching Trays
Bleaching trays are given to you by a dentist. They are typically molded to fit your mouth which allows the bleaching agent to more effectively coat each tooth. They also contain a higher concentration of the bleaching agent, so you get a brighter smile quicker. However, you might notice more side effects and you will be required to make at least one trip to the dentist. This is an effective option though, and can be a good option if your teeth are more than mildly stained.
# Blue-Light Technology
You can find many of these teeth-whitening salons in malls and office parks around the country. One popular company is Brite-Smile. These procedures use a combination of a hydrogen peroxide bleaching agent and blue-light technology. It takes about an hour, but many claim the effects are dramatic. There are also supposed to be fewer side effects than other methods, and the color change should last a few years. It costs between $400 and $600 dollars in most locations.
# Dental Veneers
Veneers are typically made from porcelain and are applied in thin layers on top of the tooth surface. This can be one of the most effective ways to get rid of your yellow teeth. First used to improve the look of movie star's teeth, veneers have been around for many years. Now anyone can get veneers, but there are some disadvantages. First, a dentist must do them for you, and they typically cost around a thousand dollars per tooth. They also only last around ten to fifteen years, and after that you will need to replace them. This can be quite an expensive option. Most insurance plans will not cover veneers which are done strictly to improve the look of yellow teeth. There are few side effects with veneers, but care must be taken by the dentist to make sure that the veneers fit properly in the mouth and that the bite is adjusted so that they do not become easily chipped.
# Home Remedies for Yellow Teeth
There are tons of home remedies that you can use to try to whiten your teeth, although none have yet proven to be successful. Here's a few:
* Rub the white part of an orange peel along your teeth.
* Brush your teeth with baking soda.
* Using a Q-Tip, dab hydrogen peroxide onto the surface of your teeth, being careful to avoid your gums or you might have irritation.
* Strawberry pulp is supposed to have a natural bleaching effect, and it tastes better than baking soda.
* Salt can be used to brush your teeth. You can also try mixing salt, baking soda and water together. But be careful, because the salt is very abrasive and could cause mouth pain and weakened enamel.
* Rinse your mouth with a vinegar/water solution.
You should consult a dentist before trying and of the above remedies. Your tooth enamel is rather fragile, and you don't want to do too much to your teeth because it can really wear down the enamel, causing you even more problems. Remember, yellow teeth are really just a cosmetic issue and you don't want to cause permanent damage in your quest to have a bright smile.

By Janice Mccain

Hemolysis is the premature destruction of red blood cells (erythrocytes) and it leads to hemolytic anemia, when bone marrow activity cannot compensate for the erythrocyte loss. This condition can be caused by a large number of hereditary and acquired disorders, which number more than 200. Symptoms include anemia, breathlessness, leg ulcers and in severe cases, angina and heart failure. Treatment consists of blood transfusions for severe acute anemia, and avoiding known causes. This includes drugs, chemicals and known offending food products. Folic acid, steroids, immunoglobin, and iron therapy are commonly used, while surgical splenectomy is required rarely.
Ayurvedic treatment is aimed at treating the cause of hemolysis, reducing the anemia and treating the associated symptoms. Medicines like Punarnavadi Mandur, Tapyadi Loh, Arogya Vardhini and Lohasav are used to increase the red blood cell count. Medicines which act on the "Rakta" and "Majja" dhatus (tissues) of the body are used for this condition. These medicines include Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia), Patol (Tricosanthe dioica), Saariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Patha (Cissampelos pareira), Musta (Cyperus rotundus), Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa), Guduchi (Tinosporia cordifolia) and Amalaki (Emblica officinalis).
In addition, medicines which act on the bone marrow are given in an attempt to improve the production of healthy red blood cells and also to reduce the tendency for hemolysis. These medicines include Guduchi, Amalaki, Musta, Laxadi Guggulu, Suvarna-Malini-Vasant, Heerak Bhasma and Panch -Tikta -Ghrut -Guggulu.
Additional treatment needs to be given for associated symptoms. Triphala Guggulu and Mandukparni (Centella asiatica) are used for leg ulcers. Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) and Laxmi Vilas Ras are used for angina and heart disease.
The overall results of treatment in this condition depend upon the cause of hemolysis. However, in most of the conditions related to hemolytic anemia, the outcome is usually quite good. Acute or emergency cases need to be treated by a Hematologist.

By Abdulmubeen Mundewadi

It really is no joke to break out into a sweat when you're feeling tense and stressed out. In a similar manner, the sweat outbreak that results from menopause is no laughing matter. Menopause Sweating is a serious concern among women aged 45 and up.
What triggers Menopausal Sweating
Once the menstrual cycle stops, a woman goes through a series of body changes. Stress and sweat still work together in a continuous cycle, but now they interact for the worse. The sweat attacks that menopausal women suffer can either manifest as hot flashes or cold sweats. Hot flashes can even be accompanied by night sweats.
These symptoms are not only uncomfortable. They are also disturbing and distressing for someone who is going through enough hormonal changes as it is.
How to Cure Menopausal Sweating
Many women would be glad to know that sweating during menopause can be cured and lessened naturally. Naturally there will be some do's and don'ts, so here they are:
1. Do abstain from alcohol and other hard drinks completely. They warm up your body and cause you to sweat.
2. Do avoid caffeine in your coffee and go for the decaffeinated type. Caffeine-related products trigger night sweats that cause you more discomfort.
3. Do lessen your intake of food and drinks which would raise your blood sugar. A high level of sugar in your blood would trigger episodes of menopausal night sweats.
4. Don't indulge in hot and spicy foods. They heat up your body and cause you to break out into uncontrollable sweating.
5. Don't consume salty and artificially processed foods as well as fatty and deep-fried dishes. They will only get in the way of your metabolism and make your sweating irregular.
A woman's internal makeup becomes a little more erratic, and a lot of changes happen with the onset of menopause. As one of these changes, Menopausal Sweating can be remedied naturally. Just a few minor changes in your lifestyle and diet can make that significant difference.

By Chris Bryce

Do not belittle influenza. Especially for you who are old, influenza can be harder to fight than influenza that attacks young men. It is because the immune system of old men usually goes down and the types of influenza virus that attack people are usually different.
There are three types of influenza virus; type A, B, and C. Each of them has its own family. Avian influenza for example includes type A. The types of influenza virus are also not same in their fierceness. Influenza that commonly attacks Europeans for example includes the vicious influenza virus.
That is why, not all types of influenza virus have antibiotics. However, you can prevent them. There are only two ways; increasing your immune system and reduce the possibility of your body to be entered by a virus.
The followings are 10 tips to prevent influenza:
1.Ask for influenza vaccine.
This way should be done especially for you who are old. However, not all types of influenza virus can be avoided by influenza vaccine. That is why, this vaccine is perfected over time.
2. Stay away from coldness.
The longer you catch cold by air, water, air conditioner, cold drink, or wind, the weaker your immune system is and the easier you come down with any virus. The only way to avoid the virus is by increasing your immune system. You should prevent the influenza virus to round into other diseases like laryngitis, throat infections, catarrh, bronchopneumonia, or pneumonia.
That is why, when you come down with influenza, you should stay at home. This way is not only beneficial to you, but also other people, so they are not contaminated with the virus.
3. Strengthen your body.
Strengthen your immune system by taking a rest and having nutritious foods, especially high protein foods. You can also warm your body by drinking hot water, taking a bath with warm water, etc.
4. Avoid going downtown.
This way should be done to prevent you to be contaminated by influenza virus because this virus easily contaminate through air. Thus, if you really do not need to go downtown, it is better for you to stay away from it.
5. Reduce smoking and drinking alcohol.
Those activities lean to reduce your immune system. Smoking can hurt the mucous membrane of your bronchus, so your bronchus is easily entered by virus. Smoking can also weaken the bronchus of passive smokers.
6. Wash your hands frequently with soap.
This way should be done to prevent your hands and fingers become the virus transfer source. Your hands may touch anything that is touched by influenza sufferer, so you might be contaminated by the virus.
7. Clean your nose when you are home.
This way should be done to make sure that you are not contaminated by influenza virus.
8. Gargle.
Influenza virus enters your body through your nose and mouth. Thus, you should keep them clean. On of the ways to clean your mouth is by gargling. You should also wash your teeth, especially before you sleep at night.
9. Do breathing therapy.
Your immune system needs sufficient oxygen and breathing therapy can cool down your lungs and finally increase your immune system. In this breathing therapy, you should drag in open fresh air as much as you are able and keep your breathing as long as you are able. You can add some body movements like taking a walk and doing gymnastics to perfect the result.
In addition, this therapy is also useful to heal you from physical and mental stress that also can reduce your immune system.
10. Sleep sufficiently.
Do not be fixated by interesting television programs, entertainments, and outdoor activities in your spare time at night. You should use your spare time to take a rest after your tiring time at noon. The insufficient sleep and excessive tiredness can reduce your immune system.

By Stewart B Johnston

Stomach cancer is common throughout the world and affects all races, it is more common in men than women, and has its peak age range between 40 and 60 years old. Mortality is higher in Japan and Chile, presumably because of the different diets in those countries where they are less dependent on red meat.

Over the last 25 years the incidence of this type of cancer in the western world has decreased by 50% and the resulting death rate is less than a third of what it used to be but in less developed countries it is still a major cause of death, probably because in these countries by the time the disease is diagnosed (usually by means of a Barium meal) the stomach cancer is at a very advanced stage.

TYPES OF STOMACH CANCER

There are several different types of stomach cancer, some of which are very rare. The most common types start in the glandular cells of the stomach lining (adenocarcinomas), this is where stomach acid and digestive enzymes are made, and where most cancers start. When the tumor becomes more advanced, it can travel through the bloodstream and spread to organs such as the liver, lungs, and bones. Cancers that start in the lymphatic tissue (lymphoma), in the stomach's muscular tissue (sarcoma) or in the tissues that support the organs of the digestive system (gastrointestinal stromal tumors) are less common and are treated in different ways.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Early clues to stomach cancer are chronic dyspepsia and epigastric discomfort, followed in later stages by weight loss, anorexia, a feeling of fullness after eating, anemia and fatigue. Blood in the stools may also be present and if the Cancer is in the Cardia (top) vomiting may occur.

CAUSATION
The exact cause is unknown although the presence of the Helicopter pylori bacterium seems to be a major factor. Predisposing factors include environmental influences such as smoking and high alcohol intake. Because stomach cancer is more common amongst those with a family history and with people with type A blood, genetic factors are also implicated. Dietary factors, particularly methods of food preservation such as pickling, smoking or salting also have an influence on the prevalence.

DIAGNOSIS
Stomach cancer is diagnosed through an examination that may include an upper gastrointestinal (GI) series; endoscopy or gastroscopy where a thin flexible tube is passed down the throat so the doctor can see into the stomach, esophagus and upper part of the bowel Barium meals and Barium swallows. Because the cancer can spread to the liver, the pancreas, and other organs near the stomach as well as to the lungs, the doctor may order a CT scan, a PET scan, an endoscopic ultrasound exam, or other tests to check these areas.

The cancer can spread (metastasize) to the esophagus or the small intestine, and can extend through the stomach wall to nearby lymph nodes and organs. Metastasis occurs in 80-90% of individuals with stomach tumors, with a five year survival rate of 75% in those diagnosed in early stages and less than 30% of those diagnosed in late stages.

TREATMENT
Although the cancer may be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, in many cases surgery is the treatment of choice. Even in patients whose disease is not considered surgically curable, resection offers a palliative effect and improves potential benefits from chemotherapy.

The nature and extent of the cancer determines what kind of surgery is most appropriate. Common surgical procedures include, partial and total removal of the stomach.
Antiemetics can control nausea, which increases as the cancer advances. In the more advanced stages, sedatives and tranquilizers may be necessary to control anxiety. Narcotics are commonly necessary to control sever and unremitting pain.
In some cases of advanced stomach cancer, a laser beam directed through an endoscope can vaporize most of the tumor and relieve obstruction without an operation.

PROGNOSIS
Stomach cancer is curable if detected early, but most people don't seek medical help until the disease is quite advanced, possibly because symptoms occur late and are often vague and non-specific. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables that contain antioxidant vitamins (such as A and C) appears to lower the risk of stomach cancer. The rate of cancer is about doubled in smokers so the cessation of smoking is essential.

In the United States and most of the Western world, the 5-year survival rate ranges from 5-15%. In Japan, where stomach cancer often is diagnosed early, the 5 year survival rate is about 50%. Five year survival rates for more advanced stomach cancers range from, around 20% for those with regional disease to almost nil for those with distant metastases.

Treatment for metastatic stomach cancer can relieve symptoms and sometimes prolong survival, but long remissions are not common. The survival of inoperable stomach cancer is usually only a few months if untreated. With chemotherapy the average survival is about 12 months. If cancer is found before it has spread, the five-year relative survival rate is about 61%.

Stomach cancer is common throughout the world and affects all races, it is more common in men than women, and has its peak age range between 40 and 60 years old. Mortality is higher in Japan and Chile, presumably because of the different diets in those countries where they are less dependent on red meat.
Over the last 25 years the incidence of this type of cancer in the western world has decreased by 50% and the resulting death rate is less than a third of what it used to be but in less developed countries it is still a major cause of death, probably because in these countries by the time the disease is diagnosed (usually by means of a Barium meal) the stomach cancer is at a very advanced stage.
TYPES OF STOMACH CANCER
There are several different types of stomach cancer, some of which are very rare. The most common types start in the glandular cells of the stomach lining (adenocarcinomas), this is where stomach acid and digestive enzymes are made, and where most cancers start. When the tumor becomes more advanced, it can travel through the bloodstream and spread to organs such as the liver, lungs, and bones. Cancers that start in the lymphatic tissue (lymphoma), in the stomach's muscular tissue (sarcoma) or in the tissues that support the organs of the digestive system (gastrointestinal stromal tumors) are less common and are treated in different ways.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Early clues to stomach cancer are chronic dyspepsia and epigastric discomfort, followed in later stages by weight loss, anorexia, a feeling of fullness after eating, anemia and fatigue. Blood in the stools may also be present and if the Cancer is in the Cardia (top) vomiting may occur.
CAUSATION
The exact cause is unknown although the presence of the Helicopter pylori bacterium seems to be a major factor. Predisposing factors include environmental influences such as smoking and high alcohol intake. Because stomach cancer is more common amongst those with a family history and with people with type A blood, genetic factors are also implicated. Dietary factors, particularly methods of food preservation such as pickling, smoking or salting also have an influence on the prevalence.
DIAGNOSIS
Stomach cancer is diagnosed through an examination that may include an upper gastrointestinal (GI) series; endoscopy or gastroscopy where a thin flexible tube is passed down the throat so the doctor can see into the stomach, esophagus and upper part of the bowel Barium meals and Barium swallows. Because the cancer can spread to the liver, the pancreas, and other organs near the stomach as well as to the lungs, the doctor may order a CT scan, a PET scan, an endoscopic ultrasound exam, or other tests to check these areas.
The cancer can spread (metastasize) to the esophagus or the small intestine, and can extend through the stomach wall to nearby lymph nodes and organs. Metastasis occurs in 80-90% of individuals with stomach tumors, with a five year survival rate of 75% in those diagnosed in early stages and less than 30% of those diagnosed in late stages.
TREATMENT
Although the cancer may be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, in many cases surgery is the treatment of choice. Even in patients whose disease is not considered surgically curable, resection offers a palliative effect and improves potential benefits from chemotherapy.
The nature and extent of the cancer determines what kind of surgery is most appropriate. Common surgical procedures include, partial and total removal of the stomach.
Antiemetics can control nausea, which increases as the cancer advances. In the more advanced stages, sedatives and tranquilizers may be necessary to control anxiety. Narcotics are commonly necessary to control sever and unremitting pain.
In some cases of advanced stomach cancer, a laser beam directed through an endoscope can vaporize most of the tumor and relieve obstruction without an operation.
PROGNOSIS
Stomach cancer is curable if detected early, but most people don't seek medical help until the disease is quite advanced, possibly because symptoms occur late and are often vague and non-specific. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables that contain antioxidant vitamins (such as A and C) appears to lower the risk of stomach cancer. The rate of cancer is about doubled in smokers so the cessation of smoking is essential.
In the United States and most of the Western world, the 5-year survival rate ranges from 5-15%. In Japan, where stomach cancer often is diagnosed early, the 5 year survival rate is about 50%. Five year survival rates for more advanced stomach cancers range from, around 20% for those with regional disease to almost nil for those with distant metastases.
Treatment for metastatic stomach cancer can relieve symptoms and sometimes prolong survival, but long remissions are not common. The survival of inoperable stomach cancer is usually only a few months if untreated. With chemotherapy the average survival is about 12 months. If cancer is found before it has spread, the five-year relative survival rate is about 61%.

By Dick Aronson