Allergic rhinitis results when allergies like dust, pet dander, pollen, smoke attack your immune system and cause congestion, stuffy/runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing. It also involves itchy eyes and nose. Treatment involves easing the symptoms and avoiding exposure to irritants and allergens. It is a very common problem in pollen season and that's why is often referred to as 'hay fever'. People having chronic / perennial allergic rhinitis suffer these symptoms throughout the year. Mild cases can be treated with antihistamines available over the counter. However if the symptoms are severe then allergy shots may be prescribed.
Prevention
In most countries, allergic rhinitis is at its peak and very common during pollen season. Hence it is advisable to be cautious and begin the required medication and treatment before the beginning of the season and prepare yourself. Most important is to fortify your immune system for which most important is vitamin C. Have vitamin C rich foods in your daily diet such as freshly squeezed orange juice, pineapples, tomato soup. Vitamin A is also very important for strengthening mucus membranes. Include carrots in your daily diet.
Avoid inflammation aggravating foods such as dairy products, meat, wheat, sugar and lots of salt. And have foods that are anti-inflammatory and have antioxidants including beans, vegetables and fruits.
9 home remedies for allergic rhinitis
1. It is vital to avoid exposure to allergens and to create allergen free environment.
2. Your room, furniture, sofas, mattresses, carpets, rugs should be dusted and cleaned regularly.
3. Place air purifiers and humidifiers/dehumidifiers in your room. The correct humidity level of 45% - 50% should be maintained inside. Too much humidity and too less are both bad for this condition and aggravate symptoms.
4. Use saline nasal wash to keep your nasal passage moist and to clear mucus.
5. Steam inhalation has been used for hundreds of years to clear nasal passage and loosen mucus. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil or peppermint to the steaming water and inhale the vapors.
6. Keep yourself hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, 6-8 glasses of room temperature water, soups, broth.
7. Having freshly produced unfiltered honey relieves allergic rhinitis.
8. Make a mixture of 1 tablespoon each of honey and lemon and briefly heat it. Have 1 teaspoon of this mixture three times daily to treat your hay fever.
9. Consult a practitioner before having any supplements. For instance probiotic supplements are known to ease the severity of the condition. Herbal preparation such as biminne has been known to effectively relieve symptoms. Indian gooseberry and Echinacea pills available over the counter are also known to naturally strengthen immune system. But it is recommended to consult your physician before doing self medication.
Hence you can effectively address allergic rhinitis through a natural course of therapy including lifestyle changes, dietary plans and alternative medicine which can relieve symptoms and build a stronger immune system to fight against allergens.

By Stephanie Harper

When you get wrist pain, it can feel sad and frustrating. You start to worry about carpal tunnel syndrome. Will you need to wear a brace, or worse, get surgery? Luckily, there are some simple wrist exercises that can relieve your pain and your worries.

Muscle, bone and fascial restrictions.
Carpal tunnel symptoms develop from repetitive wrist movement, and keeping your hands in awkward positions. Over time, your forearm muscles become overworked. The bones in your hands and wrists shift positions. Your connective tissue, or fascia, becomes tight and restricted.

As these tissues change, they restrict blood-flow and nerve conduction. Your arms and wrists can get feelings of:

o muscle tension,
o sharp or shooting pains,
o dull aches or nagging soreness,
o numbness and tingling, and
o muscle weakness.

Movement and therapeutic exercises.
One common movement that causes these problems is wrist extension. Your arms are pointed down (toward a keyboard or desk, e.g.), while your hands stay lifted up. The angle of your wrist is compromised.

Holding your wrist in extension for long periods of time, like continuous workday hours without breaks, will quickly give you problems.

But if wrist extension is the root of your pain, then you can prevent these problems and give yourself immediate relief with a few exercises. These exercises will flex the wrists, giving your muscles the opposite workload and maintaining a balance.

Isometric resistance means you do not need weights, tubing, or any fitness equipment. Practice them throughout your day, as often as you need them.

1st Wrist Flexion exercise- Sit at a desk, stand by a countertop, or position yourself next to a flat surface. With your palm-side up and your wrist flat, press your fingertips against the under-side of the flat surface. Keep your fingers straight and flat so the focus is on the wrist. Press firmly against the surface. Hold for 10-20 seconds.

2nd Wrist Flexion exercise- Similar to the 1st exercise, find a flat surface where you can press on its under-side, like your desk, a countertop or a table. Instead of pressing your fingertips, you will press with the heels of your hands. Initiate the pressing from your palms, keeping your wrists straight or slightly-flexed. Again, hold for 10-20 seconds. You should feel this in your forearms more than the 1st exercise.

Feeling it.
You should feel these exercises in your forearm muscles and wrists. Check that your wrists and fingers are straight and flat. The intention of these exercises is wrist- and arm-strengthening, but not finger strength.

If you feel any sharp pains, reposition your arms and wrists so they are straight or slightly flexed. Avoid wrist extension, as described earlier in this article. If you still get pain while maintaining the proper position, try to use less force as you press up. Start gently and increase force as you practice.

If your wrist pain comes from work, then print this article and keep it handy during your workday so you can easily and properly follow these exercises for faster relief.

By Nina Schnipper

If you don't know how to stop a stuffy nose, all you need to do is try some of the techniques below and you will surely find some relief.

Step 1: Keep your head elevated. When you're in bed, be sure to use more than one pillow so your head is raised. This is done so the mucus doesn't collect in your sinuses and allows your nose to dry. Standing or walking can also help clear your nose.

Step 2: Use a hair dryer. Turn on the hair dryer and breathe its hot air. The idea is similar to covering your face with hot towels. The hot air will dilute the mucus. This is similar to being in a sauna without increasing the temperature of your entire body.

Step 3: Purchase products like Tiger Balm containing high levels of menthol and camphor. Vicks VapoRub can also be used, but Tiger Balm is much better. Rub it gently on the nose area, chest and throat. Tiger Balm can cause the skin to become hot and red, but it's not dangerous. The steam rising from the menthol and camphor will warm the face and nose so that the respiratory tract becomes more relieved.

Step 4: Use a Nasal Spray. Spray works very well and will not go into your throat. Sprays can be found easily at grocery stores and drug stores. However, keep in mind that the use of many sprays is only a short term fix, because they are addictive.

Step 5: Use items that stimulate the olfactory. Squirt some essential oils, like peppermint, eucalyptus or rosemary on a handkerchief and breathe the smell. You can also spread peppermint oil on the part under your nose. The smell may sting but it will help to relieve your stuffy nose.

Step 6: Use vinegar mixed with hot water. Add vinegar into water, boil and then smell the fumes. Be careful with the sharp smell and stinging.

Step 7: Cough drops. This is just a reminder. Now days cough drops come in a wide range of flavors, so you're almost guaranteed to find some that you like.

Step 8: Massaging the bridge of your nose. Massage the area between your eyebrows and the bridge of your nose. This will help to break up the mucus. Repeat the massage as often as necessary.

Step 9: Chewing gum. Chewing gum, especially peppermint scented, will help relieve your nose. This activity can be done anywhere and without side effects. The only drawback is if you wear braces, this may not be for you.

Step 10: Open your vehicle's window. Open the window of your vehicle slightly when you drive. This may be less convenient than using the AC or heater, but you need to replace the air inside your vehicle which will provide fresh air for your nose.

By Christopher R. Taylor

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

There are plenty of home remedies to stop sweating that you can begin implementing today with items you'll find in your house or just across the street at the local grocery store. Some work well, some not so well, some work only for some people and not for others. The key is to try as many methods as possible, find the ones that work best for you and stack them. When I say stack, I mean do multiple methods all at once, this is one of the best way to see results from this kind of treatment. With that said, here are a few home remedies to stop sweating from getting the best of you.

1. Vinegar

Believe it or not, regular vinegar can work to close up those pores and prevent excessive sweating. All you have to do is get some vinegar and wet a cloth with it. Take that cloth and wipe your underarms or any other area you want to reduce sweating for. There is something about the vinegar that works to close off the pores, not sure what, but try it and see how it works for you.

2. Wheat Grass

If you haven't heard of wheat grass before, it is a concoction that is very high in vitamin B. In fact it contains many of the B vitamins, from B1 all the way up to B12. Why does this matter? Well, vitamin B supplementation on this level has been shown to have an effect on how much you sweat. So search for this product over the Internet and once you have it shipped to you, drink about a glass of this a day.

3. Tomato Juice

Tomato juice, it's good for when you get sprayed by a skunk and also when you want to stop from smelling like one! Blend some tomatoes or buy some tomato juice from the store and drink a glass of this a day. Re-asses your results after at least one week.

4. Potatoes

Out of all other home remedies to stop sweating, this one is one of the strangest. Just buy a potato, any potato will do. Cut it in half and rub the insides of it on your armpits. That's it! Again, I'm not sure how or why it works, but people have had success with this.

While these treatments are good, if you have a severe case of Hyperhidrosis these may not be quite enough. I've only come across one powerful natural cure thus far.

By Renard Muldrake

A healthy diet is essential regardless of an individual's cardiovascular risk profile. Many studies, including Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), have provided evidence of the heart and vascular benefits of specific dietary guidelines. An early adjustment in dietary choices may prevent and/or improve high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and consequently other health-related problems. If a rise in blood pressure with age could be prevented or diminished, many conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart, vascular and kidney disease, and stroke, could be prevented.
Dietary Restrictions
1) Low sodium intake: The main source of sodium in Western diets is processed food, for instance, excessive quantities of salt are contained in packaged food and in food eaten outside the home. The DASH trial evaluated the effects of varying sodium intake in addition to the DASH diet and found that lowering sodium intake reduces blood pressure levels. Mean sodium intake is approximately 4,100 mg per day for men and 2,750 mg per day for women, 75% of which comes from processed foods.
Recommended Daily Sodium Intake
Dietary sodium should be reduced to no more than 100 mmol per day (2.4 g of sodium). 2)
2) Alcohol: Alcohol intake should be limited to no more than 1 oz (30 mL) of ethanol, the equivalent of two drinks per day for most men and no more than 0.5 oz of ethanol (one drink) per day for women and lighter-weight persons. A single drink is equivalent to 12 oz of beer, 5 oz of wine, or 1.5 oz of 80-proof liquor.
3) Caffeine: Caffeine may result in high blood pressure; however, this effect is usually temporary. Moderate intake of caffeine per day does not significantly increase blood pressure.
Recommended Daily Coffee Intake Coffee intake should be less than two cups per day.
Dietary Restrictions
1) Low sodium intake: The main source of sodium in Western diets is processed food, for instance, excessive quantities of salt are contained in packaged food and in food eaten outside the home. The DASH trial evaluated the effects of varying sodium intake in addition to the DASH diet and found that lowering sodium intake reduces blood pressure levels. Mean sodium intake is approximately 4,100 mg per day for men and 2,750 mg per day for women, 75% of which comes from processed foods.
Recommended Daily Sodium Intake Dietary sodium should be reduced to no more than 100 mmol per day (2.4 g of sodium).
2) Alcohol: Alcohol intake should be limited to no more than 1 oz (30 mL) of ethanol, the equivalent of two drinks per day for most men and no more than 0.5 oz of ethanol (one drink) per day for women and lighter-weight persons. A single drink is equivalent to 12 oz of beer, 5 oz of wine, or 1.5 oz of 80-proof liquor.
3) Caffeine: Caffeine may result in high blood pressure; however, this effect is usually temporary. Moderate intake of caffeine per day does not significantly increase blood pressure.
Recommended Daily Coffee Intake Coffee intake should be less than two cups per day.
Dietary Supplements
1) Potassium supplementation: Lower potassium intake (i.e., below 40 mEq) is thought to be associated with high blood pressure.
2) Fish Oil: According to a meta-analysis of 36 trials of fish oil, the consumption of high doses of fish oil with a median dose of 3.7 g per day provided a significant reduction in systemic blood pressure. Fish oil consumption has also shown to reduce triglycerides.
Recommended Daily Fish Oil Intake A median dose of 3.7 g per day provided a significant reduction in systemic blood pressure.
3) Folate: A small randomized study reported that short-term folic acid supplementation could reduce blood pressure significantly. It has been suggested that a daily intake of 5 mg of folic acid could be beneficial in reducing systolic pressure.
4) Flavonoids: A Cochrane meta-analysis looking at multiple randomized controlled trials reported that flavanol-rich chocolate and cocoa products may have a small but significant effect in lowering blood pressure by 2-3 mm/Hg in the short term.
5) Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): Some studies suggest that CoQ10 may have the potential to reduce systolic pressure by up to 17 mm Hg and diastolic pressure by up to 10 mm Hg without any significant side effects. The average dosage used in these studies were around 217 mg/day.

By Homayoun L. Daneschvar, M.D.

The senses of sight is perhaps the most important of the five senses nature has give to man. A sightless man is a pitiable sight. Anything that interferes with your vision is irritating and a danger to the capacity to see is the most serious danger of all. You must, therefore, take care of your eyes.
Sometimes eyes do the job of the tongue: a mere flickering of the eyelids may express volumes. They reflect your inner mind. Whether the eyes are big or small is not in your hands, but do care of them. Large eyes ringed with dark circles are ugly, but sparkling eyes, even if they are small, are beautiful. You can disguise your face under a coat of make up, but the only thing that can make your eyes beautiful is their constant care.
The beauty of the eyes depends on cleanliness of the body. Constipation, for example, makes the eyes dirty. The white of the eyes no longer remains white; inadequate intake of water may give them a yellow tinge. In sufficient perspiration gives rise to a accumulation of poisonous humours in the body and dark circles appear around the eyes.
Proper diet:
It is the inner cleanliness, which is the key to the beauty of the eyes. Improve your diet, enjoy sunshine and fresh air. Spend at least 15 to 20 minutes in the sun with the minimum of clothing so that fresh air can get into your pores and the heat of the sun can bring out the perspiration.
You food must have all the necessary vitamins. Vitamin A is to be found in abundant quantities in spinach, leaves of turnip, sweet potatoes, milk, butter, cabbage, tomatoes, peas, gourds and carrots.
Vitamin B is to be found in the husk of the wheat seed, soyabeans, milk, peas, unpolished rice, toasted rice, raisin, cucumber, oranges, spinach, cabbage, carrot and pineapple.
The source of Vitamin C are: Green chillies, juice of lime, orange, leaves and stalk of the mustard plant, spinach, leaves of turnip, papaya, leaves of beet root plant, cabbage, tomatoes, mangoes and myrobalan.
The cheapest sources of natural Vitamin D are: milk, butter, and sunlight.
Exercises- some exercises for eye care also suggested:
Fold your arms with your hands under the armpits and stand in a relaxed manner. Take your shoulders back in a circular motion and resume the earlier position.
Touch the underside of the neck with your chin and then move your head as far back as you can. Move your head in a circular motion so that it touches first the right and then the left shoulder. Then move in the reverse direction touching first the left and then the right shoulder.
Move your head from side to side without moving your body. Keep your head stationary and then move your eyes upward and then downwards. Move your eyes left and right. Repeat this process at least half a dozen shoulder.
Concentrate your gaze on your index finger extended outward and try to view a distant object across it just as you are taking aim. Repeat it twenty times.
Stand with your feet one foot from each other. Close your eye and move your body from right to left. This should be done as you face the early morning sun. Sprinkle cold water over your eyes and then dry them with a soft piece of cloth.
Put your palms on your eyes. Sit with your elbows on your knees and palms on your closed eyes. Do it softly so that no pressure is exercised on the eyeballs.
All the exercises suggested here should be done while your body is completely relaxed and your mind free from worries or thought of things that you have to do during the day. They will help to make the eyes healthier and more beautiful.
By Dr John Anne

Years of walking and running can wear down our feet, and can be hard on our heels. Likewise, poor circulation, improperly trimmed toenails, disease and tight fitting shoes all contribute to pain in the heel.
1. Massage with water
This treatment is ideal for any type of foot or heel pain and only needs a container of hot and cold water. Here's what you do:
a. Soak your foot for 5 minutes in cold water
b. Move the foot to a container of hot water of a tolerable temperature. The temperature of the water should not be cool or even lukewarm
c. Soak the foot in the hot water for 5 minutes
d. Return to the cold water
Repeat the procedure until the pain is gone. This process has a massaging effect that revitalizes feet by opening and closing blood vessels.
It is also a great idea to rub moisturizing lotion into your feet before getting into bed. The lotion makes feet easier to massage and therefore bring relief faster.
2. Put some heat on your feet
Using ointments enriched with capsaicin, an active natural ingredient in hot peppers also helps in relieving foot pain.
These products are excellent in cooling the pain caused by burning feet particularly for diabetes patients. Initial application of the ointment may cause some burning sensation for many people, but when used regularly, the burning effect is likely to lessen.
Moreover, people who been using the capsaicin in treating their burning feet have experienced great improvement and were able to walk more easily compared to those using other types of creams. Best of all, since these are topical medicine, patients tend to avoid a lot of side effects that usually happen when taking pills.
Most ointments are available over the counter, however it is important to talk with your doctor before you begin, as this type of therapy is not right for everyone.
3. Avoid high-heeled shoes
For recreational walkers and runners it is important to temporarily lower how much you're walking or running when you're about to use brand new shoes. This will help you to eliminate many of the break-in pains. Advances in shoe development have made modern athletic footwear much less likely to cause a problem than ever before.
4. Stretch out your calf
Stretching the heel cord at the back of the foot can relieve heel pain.
Start by:
a. Standing three feet away from a wall, place your hand on the wall.
b. Lean in to the wall, bringing one leg forward and bending at the elbows.
c. Keep your back leg straight with the heel on the floor and then gently stretch the calf muscle.
d. Repeat for the other foot.
e. Buy shoes that fit the shape of your feet.
Shoe size is considered to be the most important aspect in buying shoes -- but the shoe shape is equally important. You read it right; the shape of the shoe is also an important factor to consider.
There three basic foot shapes -- curved, slightly curved and straight. Although, there may be some variations, generally those individuals with high arches need a curved shoe; those with flat feet need a straight shoe and those who have neither flat or high arches need a slight curve.
When buying running or walking shoes it is best to select shapes that fit the curve of the arch on the inner side of the foot.
Before you try any of the remedies discussed here, consult your own doctor for the treatments that will be best for your unique situation.

By Dave Wilson

Neem needs no introduction in today's world. A very famous herb of India with worldwide fame and having magical properties known for its miraculous medicinal values from past 5000 years. Neem is known as free tree of India as it is found almost everywhere in India. It is considered as a magic tree, which has properties that not only relieves but also cures from illness. Neem tree is commonly known as margosa tree in English language and Azadirachta indica in biological terms. It is part of every Indian home due to its great application and hence is considered as a place of worship.

Margosa tree attains a maximum height of 40 to 50 fts. It is an evergreen tree whose branches spread all over. It is a very densely crowned tree, which may reach to a diameter of 30 to 40 fts. The trunk is relatively straight. Bark is thick and rough with whitish to reddish brown in appearance. A fluid called neera excrudes out of the bark. Leaves are pinnate 12 to 15 inch long with about 20 to 31 green colored leaflets, which are about 3 to 5 cm in length. Flowers are small and white in colour that blossom in spring i.e. February to march. Fruits are oval in appearance green in colour, when in raw form and turns pale yellow when it ripes. Every fruit contains one seed, which contain oil. Neem tree fruits in summers i.e. in May to July. Neem has been used as pesticide since early ages because of its remarkable property of fighting away with pest and microorganism, that are supposed to be harmful for agricultural and homely purpose and hence makes neem the most wonderful partner of human in his evolution.

Margosa tree possesses the sheet (cold) virya potency. It contains tickt and kashaya rasa, it possesses the laghu (light) gunna (property). Combination of these makes neem a unique herb. Due to tickt rasa it suppresses kapha and due to sheet virya potency it suppresses pitta dosha. Chemically neem contains complex compounds called triterpenes, limonoids, nonterpenoids, hexanortriterpenoids, and pentattriterpenoids. The most important active ingredient of neem is azadirachitin, which makes neem possess the power, what it projects in its usage. Every part of the plant is used i.e. flower, leaves, bark, seed, oil, branches and the excludant called neera, which flows out of the bark

Neem is a multipurpose herb, which is recommended in every type of ailment. Following are the wonders of neem, which ayurveda has to offer to this world and modern life style of living.

Local action:

· Neem act as anti bacterial, anti parasitic, anti fungal, anti protozoal and anti viral thus helps in protection from all the microorganisms, which are always ready to invade in our body causing serious ailments.

· Local application of neem powder or neem oil has miraculous results. As it is a famous anti microbial herb, it renders all the microorganisms inactive therefore helping in proper healing of wound without causing any infections and septic conditions.

· Taking bath of neem leaves water is a very common sight in Indian homes that helps our body to counter mild infections, which our body might get in day-to-day activity.

· Its tropical application makes us relieved from acne, eczema and even ringworms

· In skin related diseases, neem works as blessing of God on mankind. It has an action on almost every kind of skin disease thus making its indication in eradicating every kind of itch, rash, infection and allergy.

· Neem water is extensively used in burn injuries, thus to protect them from any kind of infection and also promote healing.

· Neem oil is extensively used in hair fall and early graying of hairs with very satisfying results. It also find its application in dandruff and in lice growth

· Its local application on arthritic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, Osteoarthritis, lower back pain, and musculo skeletal pains is highly recommended with good results

Internal action:

· Due to presence of tickt rasa it is beneficial in indigestion, constipation and restoring taste of mouth.

· It helps in fighting with the intestinal worms there by act as a deworming agent

· It is highly recommended in hyperacidity and epigastric pain as it suppresses pitta that is the main culprit in the aggravation of such illness.

· Good results have also been seen in gastritis

· Widely and extensively used as blood purifier as it possess the properties like tickt rasa which helps in detoxifying any toxins floating in our blood stream which may lead to illness.

· It gives wonderful results in diabetes incipidus and diabetes mellitus due to presence of tickt rasa.

· It is very helpful in curing urinary tract infection

· It stimulates liver for proper functioning therefore helps in maintaining proper secretions of liver

· It acts on all kinds of skin disorders and provides great relief.

· It works as an anti inflammatory and pain relieving agent

· It also helps in suppressing extra heat generated in body due to any reason thus helps in maintaing normal condition in hyperthermia. Very useful in suppressing fever.

· Anti malarial action of neem has also been seen

· Since old times neem leaves have been used as an agent that helps in increasing vision as it helps in suppressing kapha disorders thus releasing congestion on eyeballs caused due to mucus accumulation in sinuses.

· Coughing is relieved by use of neem water

· It helps in reducing excess micturation

· It has given very good results in diseases like gonorrhea and syphilis

· It works as an immunoboosting agent therefore making our immune system very strong and efficient to fight against any foreign invasion making our body strong and disease free

Author: Dr John Anne

The neck is never something you think about until it's too late. Younger looking skin on your face is always a priority, since you don't want people to guess how old you are. But as the years pass by, your neck starts to be the bad guy, alerting everyone to your "secret." Because it doesn't usually receive the same amount of care as your facial skin, it's easy for neck wrinkles to sneak up on you. Here are a few of the causes, and what you can do to prevent your neck from looking older than your face.
Aging
Unfortunately you can't stop the march of time, but that doesn't mean you have to accept the hand you're dealt! Prevent sagging skin due to loss of collagen and elastin by using your anti wrinkle face creams and anti aging skin care products on your neck every time you use them on your face. This doesn't just go for anti aging skin creams either; your exfoliants, face masks and cleansers should all be used on your neck just as often as you would use them on your face.
Weight Changes
Many times when you lose weight, your skin's collagen allows it to "bounce back" into shape so skin doesn't hang loosely. However, if your weight is frequently fluctuating up and down 20 pounds, over time it becomes harder for skin to keep springing back. For firm skin on your neck, commit to making a lifestyle change. Choose healthy meal options that will fill and satiate you, and ensure your meals contain plenty of fresh fruits and green vegetables. Not only do these foods contain detoxifying antioxidants, they also often contain quantities of water to keep skin hydrated.
Sun Damage
When you use an SPF moisturizer on your face, how often do you smooth it onto your neck as well? Unfortunately, the neck is often forgotten, and therefore it absorbs unfiltered UV rays, which can cause wrinkles and age spots. These can easily be avoided; simply smooth your daily anti aging moisturizer onto your throat after slicking it onto your face, and avoid excessive sun exposure without a heavier sunblock.
Poor Posture
If you slouch in your chair all day long or sleep with your head tilted toward your chest, you may experience horizontal lines across your neck from poor posture no matter how young or old you are. Make an effort to sit up straight, stand tall with your head up when walking, and try sleeping on your back. (Bonus: this also prevents facial wrinkles from sleeping on a creased pillow.)
Smoking
Smoking dramatically increases chance of early wrinkles, including on the neck (though smoke isn't picky, and will ravage your skin in any location). The only way to prevent damage from the chemicals and toxins in cigarettes or cigars is to quit.

Use natural & organic beauty products for firm skin! Wrinkless Cream provides one of the best anti-aging skin cream with our natural beauty products which are able to make your skin firm for long terms perspectives.

By Samir Patil

Have you ever wanted to look and stay young and beautiful? You're not alone. Everywhere people are clambering to get hold of the latest---and possibly the best anti-aging skin care product that's made available in the market today. Most people would even go great distances just to achieve that desired beauty back, resorting to cosmetic procedures such as facelift. Nobody wants to look pretty old, right?

But what if you have a sensitive skin that cannot withstand the strong chemicals present in the anti-aging products and your budget don't allow you to undergo that quite expensive facelift surgery? Do not be in vain because simple remedies have always been there to help you maintain that young and vibrant look you've always wanted. So if you want to be young and beautiful again the natural way, here are some things that you might need to consider.

• Water is definitely the universal solvent as it is also the best remedy to help you stay healthy and maintain that natural glow on your face.
• Drinking at least eight glasses of water everyday can help properly hydrate your skin because it keeps moisture as well as your skin elasticity.
• Eating fruits and vegetables can help you stay fit and healthy as well as keep the nutrients and fluids that your skin needs.
• Not only tomatoes, but practically all fruits can make your skin smooth and young-looking.
• Always see to it that you eat enough servings vegetables such as carrots, beets and cucumbers for you to achieve that natural inner glow.
• If you want to go after a more natural face lift, then a paste made from turmeric powder and sugar cane juice is one of the best options that you could apply on your face for you to have a rejuvenated and smooth skin.
• Moisturize your skin and reduce those dreaded sagging skins on your face with an Aloe Vera gel, an emulsifying oil or perhaps a flax seed oil.
• Applying castor oil on your face can also help you reduce the visible wrinkles on your face as well as those fine lines that make you look older than you actually are.

These are just some of the proven effective home remedies that you might want to try for yourself. There are literally hundreds of ways that you can do to achieve that natural lift on your face and thus achieve a younger, more beautiful skin. Sometimes, you don't have to buy synthetic anti-aging products or undergo a knife to feel good about yourself again. Try one or all of the home remedies above and you're sure to achieve that facelift you've always wanted--- the natural way.

By Rafaelle M Paras

You wince at the pain. You cry at the ache. You tremble at the torture. No, you are not pregnant (thank goodness guys!) but you are suffering from kidney stones. Did you know that women report kidney stone pain to be more torturous than childbirth? Can you say, "OUCH?" But you are suffering for NO reason!

And almost one in every 20 people will develop a kidney stone sometime in their life. And if the pain is not the worst part, you can actually be part of the millions who spend thousands of dollars on hospital visits, various treatments, harsh side-effect medication and surgery. And the best or worst news (depending if you have spent the thousands of dollars on kidney stone treatment or not), you can treat kidney stones naturally with a simple home remedy for kidney stones. In fact, the body can naturally pass your stones with no medication, no surgery and not using 2 months of your salary.

If you are a kidney stone sufferer, here are 10 remedies that could be the difference between misery and bliss. I hope your treatment starts in the next 2 minutes.

10 Remedies to Treat Kidney Stones Naturally

1. Water! Typically, kidney stones are caused by dehydration (not getting enough water). If you live in an area with hot, humid weather or where clean water is rare, your odds of getting kidney stones are tripled. Therefore, you must begin your natural treatment with drinking at least 10 tall glasses of water a day. A good tip is to compete against a friend or spouse. Who can drink the most water?

2. Distilled! If you live in a country with the option of distilled water, buy it! Distilled water is pure from any and everything including minerals that could aid in the formation of kidney stones. Distilled water is almost perfect for flushing your system and passing stones.

3. Citric Acid! Did you know that lemons are potent with citric acid? And citric acids and lemons have been known to dissolve hard materials, even stones. Add a lemon to your drinking water to spruce things up.

4. Play again! Get outside or in the gym and do a little exercise. There are thousands of reasons to exercise but besides feeling better about yourself, you can actually give your body a boast of overall health. And overall health includes flushing the kidneys.

5. Cranberry juice from concentrate! By drinking cranberry juice, you can maintain your urinary tract which will help prevent kidney stone formation.

6. Citrates! Citrates reduce the build up of uric acid and eliminate the build-up of calcium salts which cause the formation of kidney stones. To get an adequate amount of citrates, drink plenty of fruit and vegetable juices such as carrot, grape and orange juices.

7. Drink Soda! If you drink at least 10 glasses of water a day, then a daily soft drink could possibly prevent future kidney stones by dissolving the stones. A recent study proved this theory and a natural cure working in 2 hours will pass kidney stones in less than one day. Discover more at our website.

8. Sugar! High sugar intake is associated with increased risk of kidney stones. You can cut hundreds of calories and prevent future kidney stones by staying away from sugary drinks and foods.

9. Flush! No, not your toilet! But you need to flush your liver, kidney and gallbladder with a simple water-soluble fiber vegetable that has been labeled a miracle by my customers.

10. Believe! I know it sounds corny but you need to believe in yourself! We preach it to our kids but it is time you practice what you preach. If you are serous about treatment, start today!

What is your next move?

You might be thinking yourself, "These remedies seem too simple?" And they are but they are the beginning of an effective treatment because your miraculous body wants to heal itself. And these simple tips are the beginning of what your body needs.

By Joe Barton

The common cold is a major concern for people from all over the world and hence the need to look at different kinds of cold remedies. The average person will get between 2 and 4 colds in a year. It can also manifest together with a cough which with time can cause chest pains and a general discomfort. There are a number of remedies including medications, over-the-counter pills and medications. Most people prefer natural remedies to avoid the side effects of medications.

The most common signs of a cold include but not limited to runny nose, nasal congestion, mild or strong head ache, sneezing, coughing, fever watery eyes, and congestion. You should note that a good diet is vital to support the remedies.

Below are some of the proven cold remedies:

Zinc lozenges

Zinc is a vital mineral needed by over 300 body enzymes. It's abundant in foods like seafood, eggs, liver, and meat. Zinc can be gotten as lozenges in health shops. Research has indicated a high efficiency among those who took zinc 24 hrs after initial signs of the cold. It also impairs the ability of the virus to multiply.

Vitamin D

Of all people, those found with higher vitamin D levels are less susceptible to catching the cold. Apart from that, it's a common ingredient among remedies for colds.

Astralagus

A traditional Chinese root, astralagus has been proven to increase immunity to contracting colds and flu. It doubles up as an anti viral and anti oxidant that will provide relief to those with heart conditions. Health stores stock it in capsule and tea form. It also prevents colds before they occur. It also increases efficacy of other medication

Garlic

Popular home cure for a wide range of issues. It can be taken in soup, chewed or made as garlic juice. Its compound allicin has antiviral and fungal properties. Potency is at a maximum when the garlic is raw and fresh.

Vitamin C

It's a very popular cold remedy. It also protects from colds and ensures severity; occurrence and duration of colds are reduced dramatically. It should however be used in moderation as large amounts can cause diarrhea.

Honey

Probably the most used across various cultures around the world. Research has shown it reduces coughs among kids significantly and assists them to sleep well. It carries anti oxidant and antiseptic properties. It may however be unsafe in kids younger than a year old.

Echinacea

It's a very popular herb touted by herbalists as having the ability to cure and prevent colds. The suggested dosage is taking after every 3 hours for several days to alleviate all the symptoms.

Ginseng

There is a variety of ginseng for sale but the North American type has gotten a good reputation when it comes to healing and preventing colds. It has been noted that it could reduce the effect of medications like blood thinners, anti-psychotics and diabetes medications. People with hormone related conditions are advised to steer clear of Ginseng

Ginger

Its one of the most popular remedies for colds throughout the world. It treats runny noses, coughs, white tongue aches and general body aches. It can be brewed into a tea which is a popular cold management home remedy. You can add honey and lemon to soothe the throat. some people report disturbances like heartburn when used excessively so practice some moderation.

Elder berry

It has a long history in treating flu, colds and sinus infections. Its extracts have indicated ability to fight viruses. Its compounds strengthen the immune system while blocking flu infection at the same time. It is distributed as juice capsules or a syrup.

Eucalyptus steam inhale

Eucalyptus oil in boiling water provides steam that can help calm flu and cold symptoms. Cover your head with the steam under a blanket to reap the full benefits.

Lemon

Boil a glass of water and put in a fresh lemon. Lemon contains medicinal qualities and it can help you to get rid of cold.

Other remedies like the legendary chicken soup and broth have proven to have good levels of success in combating colds. You should be sure before you attempt any of the above of their compatibility with any drugs you are taking to avoid conflicts and side effects. The best thing would be to consult your doctor so he/she can advice you on the best remedy. You can use one or several of the above cold remedies for best results.

By Sammy JayJay