Home remedies to ease the common cold!

Almost everywhere you look, you’ll find someone sneezing, sniffling or stifling a sneeze. It’s like everyone has a cold that they’re just waiting to spread to you!

The common cold

The common cold is one of the most widespread and prevalent viral infections out there. It can affect any human being irrespective of age, sex, heredity and geographical location. Although this infection is not considered very serious, it can be a reason for severe discomfort to the individual.

The immunity levels of the person play the most vital role in how frequently an individual contracts a cold. The trouble is that this infection is caused by so many viruses that it is not possible for our body’s immune system to develop immunity against each and every type of virus.

While there is no cure for the cold, there are some precautions and home remedies that can be very helpful in symptomatic relief.

Ease that cold – home remedies

Here are some simple home remedies that’ll help ease the symptoms of the common cold:

Lemon and honey - Lemon in warm water with one teaspoon of honey can be taken three times daily. Lemon increases the body’s resistance against the cold and its vitamin C content can be useful in washing out toxic components from the body and decreasing the duration of the disease.

Go for garlic - Garlic has antiseptic and antispasmodic properties. Boil 4 to 5 cloves of garlic in water and ingest the mixture three to four times daily. Garlic oil also helps in opening the respiratory passage. 3 to 4 drops of garlic oil mixed with 4 to 5 drops of onion can be very helpful in flushing all the toxic materials from the body, hence lowering the fever.

Ginger to the rescue - Ginger is an excellent remedy for the common cold. Boil it with water to make a decoction, which can be taken thrice daily, along with half a teaspoon of sugar. Add ginger to your tea for a soothing a delicious beverage.

Other tips to get over your cold

The best precaution you can take to avoid getting a cold is to eat a nutritious and healthy meal that enhances your immunity. It is better to avoid alcohol andcigarettes.

Use a towel or handkerchief while sneezing or coughing to check the spread of infection to others.

Avoid taking antibiotics, as they have no role in the treatment of these viral infections. They may weaken the body’s natural immunity and kill the healthy bacteria of the body, which will create a further favorable ground for the virus to multiply, with more virulence making the condition worse.

Drink lots of water and try to rest as much as possible. It is advised that when the acute symptoms of the disease are present, like soreness of throat, running nose, fever, chills, congestion of nasal passage etc., the food eaten should be light and diluted. After the acute symptoms are gone, go back to your normal well-balanced diet of seeds, nuts, cereals, grains vegetables and fruits. Avoid fish meat, cheese, and starchy foods.

Happiness Food!

1.    Strawberry is a good source of potassium, which helps in the generation of nerve impulses. It is also a rich source of Vitamin C. These also change our mood for the better.

2.    Like Strawberries, Bananas are also rich in potassium. It is also a good source of Magnesium. Also the natural sugars in bananas when released quickly into the bloodstream makes you feel energetic. Bananas contain starchy carbohydrate which helps in sustaining your good mood.

3.    Sunflower seeds contain Selenium and Magnesium. These compounds are believed to give us the instant feel-good. Also seeds are rich in amino acids that help in serotonin production, which is good for one’s mood.

4.    Tomayto or Tomahto- actually is does not matter, ‘cause whichever way you say it- tomatoes are always music to your brain. They are a rich source of lycopene. Lycopene is an antioxidant. It fights brain-inflammation and is good for general brain-health.

5.    Oregano is good for more than just Pizza seasoning. It contains caffeic acid, quercitin and rosmarinic acid. These compounds are known to be effective in combating depression. They also help you in rejuvenating and calming down.

6.    Of course, you knew this one. Dark chocolate has anadamine which improves the blood-flow to the brain. Chocolate is good for an instant boost in concentration, mood and energy. However, as chocolate is also rich in calories you must not go overboard.

  

Asparagus is rich in folate and tryptophan. According to recent research, low levels of folate is a condition found common in half of the cases of depression. Our Brain uses Tryptophan to make serotonin, which is mood-stabilizing neurotransmitter.

Eggs contain Zinc, Vitamin B, Iodine, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and protein. All these compounds present in Eggs in various amounts are good for brain activity and also give you an energy boost.

Honey scores over regular sugar when it comes to health issues. Honey contains compounds such as kaempferol and quercetin, which reduce brain-inflammation. This helps in preventing depression and keeps brain healthy. Honey is also better on your blood sugar levels.

Coconuts contain medium-chain triglycerides. These are special fats that generate better moods and are good for general health of the human brain.

Fish, Poultry and Meat You can count on proteins! Protein is made up of amino acids. One specific amino acid, called tyrosine is known to stimulate production of neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine. These chemicals help boost alertness and energy levels. So choose from a host of protein rich foods such as fish, poultry and meat. Legumes, cheese, milk and curd too are super good if you want to feel better.

Get some carbs! Carbohydrates stimulate the production of the feel-good hormone, serotonin. Research has shown that those on a diet tend to get depressed, a week or two down the line. About the time their serotonin levels dip, owing decreased carbohydrate intake. The next time you’re feeling low, turn to some healthy carbs: whole-wheat bread, rice, cereal, rotis, parathas and fruits like banana, pear, apple. You’ll feel an instant lift.

Caffeine: Despite the bad reputation it has earned, a little caffeine can be an effective antidepressant to treat mild depression. Additionally, it remains effective without having to increase its dosage daily. There is evidence to support that a cup or two of coffee/tea a day is safe to drink. Remember, too much caffeine can make you nervous, irritable and oversensitive, bring on headaches, and also lead to an addiction.

Anything that tastes good! Eating anything that tastes good boosts endorphin production, the happiness chemical that triggers that same kind of reaction as opiate drugs. So eat what you like for a legal high!

Add some eggs! One nutrient that many of us could be lacking is a B-complex vitamin called choline. Choline is concentrated in high cholesterol foods like egg yolk and liver. A lack of this nutrient can cause impairment of memory and concentration, leading to irritability. So eat that yellow in the egg (that you so like) without any guilt to reduce irritability and feel refreshed.

Try some chocolate! The next time you’re feeling low, treat yourself to some chocolate. This sweet stuff boosts endorphin levels, the brain’s natural happy hormones. So eat ‘em and feel happy!

More folic acid: A deficiency in folic acid has been linked to depression. This deficiency leads to a decrease in serotonin levels. If you’re feeling low, squeeze out a glass of orange juice or indulge in some palak paneer, because spinach and oranges have folic acid in plenty.

You may need selenium: Research attributes bad moods to a lack of selenium, a trace mineral. People suffering from a lack of selenium have been shown to be more anxious, irritable, hostile and depressed in comparison to those who have healthy selenium levels. Taking in adequate amounts of this mineral can correct the deficiency, stabilize your mood and even better it further. You can get your dose of selenium every day from tuna, whole-grain cereals, swordfish and sunflower seeds.

Indian foods that help with weight loss!

Cardamom: Cardamom aids the digestive process, helping the body break down and assimilate nutrients. It is also known to boost metabolism and burn body fat, aiding with weight-loss. Toss in a few cloves of cardamom into your evening tea for a steamy cup of good health.

Garlic: Garlic has long been used in cooking, for both its full-bodied flavor and its healthy properties. Garlic has strong anti-bacterial effects, helps reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) and unhealthy fat levels in the body. Now there’s a good reason why the ubiquitous ginger-garlic paste is found in dishes across every region in India.

Buttermilk: Buttermilk is a drink full of good health, and easy to make at home. It provides the body with essential nutrients and is very low on fat and calorie content. Chop up from fresh coriander and green chilies to it, add a little salt and pepper, and you have a refreshing, healthy homemade drink.

Cabbage: Cabbage is a great antioxidant, and makes a great accompaniment to heavy meat dishes. It also slows down the conversion of carbs and sugar into fat, so makes for a great aid to your weight loss plan. Eat it raw or cooked, but make sure it’s a part of your meal.

Cinnamon and cloves: Both these spices aid the production of insulin and help control blood sugar levels in the body. Highly beneficial to people with type 2 diabetes  it is recommended to sprinkle cinnamon powder into your cup of tea of coffee, and include cloves when you make rice or dal.

Chillies: Chillies are another great ingredient to ramp up your metabolic rate and burn that excess fat. The component capsaicin generates heat and boosts metabolism, helping burn calories for upto 20 minutes after your meal. So slice ‘em up and toss ‘em in!

Curry leaves: Curry leaves help reduce LDL levels in the body and are a great way to detox. They also help reduce fat deposits in the body, a great aid to any weight-loss program. So add a few curry leaves into your curry or dal for a dose of great flavor and good health.

Honey: A spoonful of honey with warm water is a great way to start your mornings. Honey helps burn fat and is a widely used home-remedy for obesity.

Millets: Coarser grains like millets, jowar, ragi and bajra are high on fibre-content and great for controlling cholesterol and melting fat.

Moong dal: Moong dal brings you your required dose of vitamins and minerals. Rich in Vitamin A, B, C, and E, as well as calcium, iron and potassium, it is a great source of protein and fibre, with very low fat content. Moong dal helps lower cholesterol, and control blood sugar levels in the body. A cup of dal to accompany your rotis is a great way to plan dinner.

Mustard oil: Mustard oil is one of the healthiest oils to cook in, as it contains lower levels of saturated fat. It also provides antioxidants and essential vitamins to the body, lowering cholesterol levels and improving heart health. Switch to mustard oil today!

Turmeric: Turmeric contains curcumin, a constituent that protects the heart. It helps reduce the levels of bad cholesterol (LDL), bring down high blood pressure, prevent clotting and reduce the risk of heart attacks. Include a sprinkle of turmeric in your meats and masalas; it will bring you a host of good health.

Six habits that ruin our looks

Sleeping, face first

When you sleep on your side, or on your stomach, the skin on your face gets pushed into the pillow and undergoes a lot of contortions. Over a period of time this pressure can cause wrinkles. Also, using a moisturizer before hitting the sack helps. “Men are strong, men don’t use no moisturizer,” you might say. But if you don’t want to end up with leathery, rough skin any time soon, start using a good moisturizer today. You should apply it right after your shower or every time you wash your face.

Get rid of soaps

Soaps are your enemy, except a few others. Most soaps make your skin highly dry and prone to wrinkles and aging. Even if you apply a face cream post using soap, it is still no good because it completely exhausts your skin of all moisture. Switch to a good face wash and a body wash. There are a million products for men in the market: Nivea, Old Spice, Gillette, and so many more. 

Cut down on smoking

You've probably heard this a gazillion times and shrugged, like you always do. “Bullshit,” you’ll say. It isn't  It will be great if you can completely quit, but if you can’t, start cutting back, apart from causing cancer and impotency, smoking will also cause lines and wrinkles to form around your mouth. If you want to stay looking young and wrinkle-free, kick the butt.

Our mobiles are brimming with bacteria

I read in a science journal that our phones are dirtier and unhygienic than our toilet seats. The reason being, we keep our phones on restaurant tables, public bathrooms, we lend it to others, leave it in the car. We never really clean our phones, do we? Imagine the amount of bacteria that is transferred to our faces every time we speak on our phones. That definitely takes a toll on our skin: spots, blemishes, infections. The way around this is to use antibacterial 

Clean hair

Dandruff doesn’t just cause an itchy scalp. Every time a flake falls on your face, it causes infection. Add oily skin to the equation, and you are in some real trouble. You use the same fingers to scratch your scalp and then touch your face with the same hand. We don’t even realize it because it all happens to quickly. More infection, more skin problems. So use a good dandruff shampoo, an organic one and keep your hair itch free.

Sun exposure

No, you’re not bullet proof. And no, sun rays don’t only affect female skin; they affect male skin too. The more exposed you are, the more you’re at risk of contacting skin cancer, and other side effects. Hence, apply sunscreen lotion before 30 minutes of stepping out. It will protect your skin and keep wrinkles at bay.

Foods to boost your workout

Easily digestible fruit: Fruit is nature’s answer to a healthy sugar high, and it provides carbohydrates to boost your energy levels. Fresh fruit such as bananas and apples are loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber  making this a fantastic way to give you a natural boost of energy before your workout. Make sure you opt for easily digestible fruit as those that are hard to digest – such as those from the citrus family – could hinder your exercise by causing stomach cramps.Bowl of fruit.

Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a great pre-workout treat as it contains twice the protein than normal yogurt and provides you with good carbs, which are beneficial for exercise energy requirements. The combination of protein and carbohydrates in yogurt are also great for muscle growth. Add in a few of your favorite tasty berries for extra nutrition and a natural energy boost.

Bran cereals: Bran cereals are a winning choice when it comes to enhancing physical performance. They are high in fiber and the betaine chemical found in bran foods enhances your physical performance and boosts your metabolic rate. Bran also helps with cell function and prevents dehydration during exercise. For a healthy, pre-exercise breakfast, fuel your body with bran flakes topped with fruit to get half your recommended daily serving of fruit and whole grain before you've even had chance to change out of your pajamas.

Chicken: For up to one hour after exercise, your body will be craving the nutrients it has lost, so this is the most important time to replenish your body and re-build your depleted muscles. Eating protein such as chicken, eggs or fish will provide your muscles with amino acids that help them to grow back stronger and bigger, so it’s essential that you’re consuming protein-rich foods to enhance the effects of your workout.

Liquid meals: Liquid meals such as smoothies and nutrient-rich shakes allow you to get all the essential post-exercise nutrients in just a few gulps, making this the perfect way to provide your body with essential nutrients in the one hour post-exercise recovery period. Most people find the thought of a big meal daunting after exercise, so topping up on essential muscle-repairing nutrients in liquid form is a quick and easy way for your body to access these useful nutrients. Plus, the faster these nutrients enter your body the more successful you will be in building muscle and recovering from your workout.

Oatmeal: Oats are your best friend when it comes to prepping your muscles for a workout, as they provide glucose to fuel your muscles. Oats are also a great choice for losing weight, as they encourage the body to burn fat quicker in order to fuel your muscles. Try oatmeal pancakes around three hours before exercise for a tasty treat that is sure to enhance the effects of your workout by slowly releasing sugar, ultimately keeping energy levels on an even keel during your workout.

Trail mix: Nibbling on trail mix is an excellent way to top up on the minerals lost during exercise. Indeed, a well-prepared trail mix includes a well-rounded mix of nutrients that are essential for maintaining optimum energy levels throughout your workout. Trail mix provides protein too, which is essential for building muscles and prolonging optimum energy levels so this is the perfect go-to snack before, during, and after your exercise.

Almonds: Don’t misjudge them as fattening because the fats that almonds contain are monounsaturated fats. The kind of fats you should completely avoid before workout would include butter or cheese products as they will make you lazy and tired. Almonds also contain omega 3s that instantly energize your mind.

Banana: Banana contains carbohydrates that can be easily digested. Banana also contains potassium which improves the nerve functions. Potassium also helps you during your workout by keeping your muscles strong during your weight training  You can also eat any other fruit that contains natural sugar and will not add calories but at the same time provide you with enough energy to keep you going through your workout.

Chocolate: When you need an instant energy boost, chocolates can come in really handy. Chocolates contain compounds that help you gain energy. But watch it and eat only a little, as a bar of chocolate abounds in sugar, fat and calories. Opt for dark chocolate as it contains lesser calories than all the other chocolates.

Lentils: Lentils contain Vitamin B, fibre, carbs, magnesium, zinc, potassium and calcium. Lentils contain all the contents that we told you individually in the above ingredients. Apart from this, it is very low on calories. Eat a small bowl of sprouted lentils and add a pinch of rock salt for taste. But don’t overdo it as you might end up getting an upset stomach.

Home-made hair packs for luscious hair in winter

A good hair care routine is a must during the winter months.  Lack of moisture in the air coupled with decreased humidity and pollution makes your hair weak causing split ends and damage. To regain the nourished and glossy look of your hair, try some of these time-tested beauty regimes, formulated by our experts especially for this season.

Home-made hair care packs for winter

1. Strawberry pack – You will need: One cup crushed strawberries, half cup rosemary shredded and one tablespoon vinegar. Mix the above ingredients well in a bowl and apply to your hair. Leave it on till its dry (about half an hour) and rinse. This pack works well even on colored hair.
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3. Egg and banana pack – Bananas make for wonderful hair conditioners. Use ripe ones for maximum benefit. You will need:  two ripe mashed bananas, two eggs beaten well, juice of one lime and two vitamin E capsules. Mix all the items in a bowl, apply to your hair and wear a shower cap, keep it on for about thirty minutes, then shampoo. This pack can be used as often as twice a week.
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5. Fuller’s earth pack – Fuller’s earth or multani mitti is a must in beauty regimes of Indian women. You will need:  two tablespoons each of Fuller’s earth and gram flour (besan) and half cup vinegar. Mix well and apply for twenty minutes, then rinse. For very dry hair, you can apply hair oil before putting on the pack.
6. Shikakai pack – You will need: two to three tablespoon shikakai powder, two tablespoon each of fenugreek seeds and green gram (soaked the previous night and blended together). To this add one whole egg, mix well and use like a shampoo. This pack makes hair soft and shiny.
7. Egg pack – You will need: two eggs and three tablespoons olive oil. Blend both the ingredients well and apply to your hair leaving on for twenty minutes. Cover your hair with a plastic wrap for maximum benefit.
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9. Beer pack - Use flat beer to get lustrous tresses. Simply apply the required quantity onto your hair, leave on for ten minutes and wash with a mild shampoo.
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11. Egg and yogurt pack - You will need: one cup yoghurt, yolk of one egg and one teaspoon lemon juice. Mix the first two ingredients and to it add the lemon juice slowly. Leave it on your hair for about half an hour, then wash. Unhurt also takes care of dandruff while egg is a great moisturizer.
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13. Castor oil and honey pack - You will need: one tablespoon honey, two tablespoon castor oil and one egg. Mix them and apply to hair. Leave on for about an hour, then shampoo.
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15. Aloe Vera pack – You will need: one tablespoon aloe vera gel, one teaspoon lemon juice and two tablespoon coconut or olive oil. Mix the ingredients, apply well and leave it on for about forty-five minutes, then rinse off with  shampoo.
16. Avocado and milk pack – You will need: one cup milk, one cup water, some dried rose petals, a ripe avocado, two teaspoon almond paste, and two teaspoon honey. Boil the first three items, allow to cool, and then blend. While blending add the remaining ingredients, apply to hair and leave on for thirty minutes, then rinse off.

Top 10 Best Winter Foods

Apples
Apples are great all year round, known for its properties that boost cardiovascular health and prevent dementia. Winter is the season for apples, and eating seasonal fruits is both healthy and affordable. So stock up on juicy apples and enjoy the winter chill.

    

      Oranges 
You would need these and loads of them. Rich in Vitamin C, oranges consumed whole or in the form of juice help build immunity against common cold and cough. Keeping a good stock of oranges may not require you to depend on antibiotics.

Spinach 
This load of green is possibly the most awaited gift of the season. Spinach adds that dash of taste and health to your diet and is an extremely nutritious green vegetable. You can even get a little creative with the preparation, so as to not let the food get boring.

Peanuts
Fried, salted, or plain, peanuts are a must-have for the winters. The sugary ‘chikki’ that you may find in the local market should be kept handy. Peanuts in every form are a welcome food for body heat and proteins.

                    

Kiwi 
This exotic fruit is another rich source of Vitamin C. A pinch of salt added to freshly cut kiwis may make for a grand entry to your breakfast or evening tea time. Furthermore, this may become a sweet addition to a variety of winter salads.

Cocoa 
A mug of brimming hot cocoa does not just sound wonderful, but can work wonders for your winter diet too. Cocoa is known to help the cardiovascular functioning of the body since it is a food rich in flavonoids. So, keep a tin of drinking cocoa for a sip after each sumptuous meal.

Carrots
Probably one of the only gifts of nature that is rich in more than one form of Vitamin, carrots complete your body’s requirement of vitamins B, C, D, E and K, while the carotene gets converted to Vitamin A later. It is no wonder that a plate of heartily made ‘gajar ka halwa’ is to die for.

Nuts & Dried Fruits
Dried fruits are known to retain a large amount of the nutritious quotients of fresh fruits. Therefore, they are essential providers of nutrients in the absence of their fresher counterparts. Together with other nuts, they up the quality of diet and their regular consumption, especially in winter, helps combat risks to health.

The above list is sure to keep you hearty and healthy during this winter. So, make sure you skip none of these food items and enjoy a healthy winter!

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15 Benefits of the Holy Basil (Tulsi)

Tulsi leaves have medicinal powers

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The tulsi or holy basil is an important symbol in the Hindu religious tradition and is worshiped in the morning and evening by Hindus at large. The holy basil is also a herbal remedy for a lot of common ailments. Here're top fifteen medicinal uses of tulsi.

1. Healing Power: The tulsi plant has many medicinal properties. The leaves are a nerve tonic and also sharpen memory. They promote the removal of the catarrhal matter and phlegm from the bronchial tube. The leaves strengthen the stomach and induce copious perspiration. The seed of the plant are mucilaginous.

MUST WATCH: Top 4 Videos on the Healing Powers of Tulsi

2. Fever & Common Cold: The leaves of basil are specific for many fevers. During the rainy season, when malaria and dengue fever are widely prevalent, tender leaves, boiled with tea, act as preventive against theses diseases. In case of acute fevers, a decoction of the leaves boiled with powdered cardamom in half a liter of water and mixed with sugar and milk brings down the temperature. The juice of tulsi leaves can be used to bring down fever. Extract of tulsi leaves in fresh water should be given every 2 to 3 hours. In between one can keep giving sips of cold water. In children, it is every effective in bringing down the temperature.

3. Coughs: Tulsi is an important constituent of many Ayurvedic cough syrups and expectorants. It helps to mobilize mucus in bronchitis and asthma. Chewing tulsi leaves relieves cold and flu.

4. Sore Throat: Water boiled with basil leaves can be taken as drink in case of sore throat. This water can also be used as a gargle.

5. Respiratory Disorder: The herb is useful in the treatment of respiratory system disorder. A decoction of the leaves, with honey and ginger is an effective remedy for bronchitis, asthma, influenza, cough and cold. A decoction of the leaves, cloves and common salt also gives immediate relief in case of influenza. They should be boiled in half a liter of water till only half the water is left and add then taken.

6. Kidney Stone: Basil has strengthening effect on the kidney. In case of renal stone the juice of basil leaves and honey, if taken regularly for 6 months it will expel them via the urinary tract.

7. Heart Disorder: Basil has a beneficial effect in cardiac disease and the weakness resulting from them. It reduces the level of blood cholesterol.

8. Children's Ailments: Common pediatric problems like cough cold, fever, diarrhea and vomiting respond favorably to the juice of basil leaves. If pustules of chicken pox delay their appearance, basil leaves taken with saffron will hasten them.

9. Stress: Basil leaves are regarded as an 'adaptogen' or anti-stress agent. Recent studies have shown that the leaves afford significant protection against stress. Even healthy persons can chew 12 leaves of basil, twice a day, to prevent stress. It purifies blood and helps prevent several common elements.

10. Mouth Infections: The leaves are quit effective for the ulcer and infections in the mouth. A few leaves chewed will cure these conditions.

11. Insect Bites: The herb is a prophylactic or preventive and curative for insect stings or bites. A teaspoonful of the juice of the leaves is taken and is repeated after a few hours. Fresh juice must also be applied to the affected parts. A paste of fresh roots is also effective in case of bites of insects and leeches.

12. Skin Disorders: Applied locally, basil juice is beneficial in the treatment of ringworm and other skin diseases. It has also been tried successfully by some naturopaths in the treatment of leucoderma.

13. Teeth Disorder: The herb is useful in teeth disorders. Its leaves, dried in the sun and powdered, can be used for brushing teeth. It can also be mixed with mustered oil to make a paste and used as toothpaste. This is very good for maintaining dental health, counteracting bad breath and for massaging the gums. It is also useful in pyorrhea and other teeth disorders.

14. Headaches: Basil makes a good medicine for headache. A decoction of the leaves can be given for this disorder. Pounded leaves mixed with sandalwood paste can also be applied on the forehead for getting relief from heat, headache, and for providing coolness in general.

15. Eye Disorders: Basil juice is an effective remedy for sore eyes and night-blindness, which is generally caused by deficiency of vitamin A. Two drops of black basil juice are put into the eyes daily at bedtime

Look fresh in a jiffy! 10 quick face packs for the winter

As you enjoy the dipping temperature of the winter, pay a little attention to your skin as well. Here are 10 quick and effective face packs to keep your skin fresh and healthy

Skin care in the winterWinter calls for extra care for your skin. While the rest of your body is bundled up, your face is exposed 24 hours a day, and so it takes the brunt of the harsh climate most of all and requires additional pampering apart from the usual day and night creams.

Homemade face packs are simple to make and easy to apply. All you need are the ingredients from your fridge or larder; the fresher, the better!

10 quick face packs for the winter

1. Papaya pack – Cut a ripe papaya into pieces after removing the skin. Mash it with your fingers or a fork, apply on your face and rinse off after ten minutes with cold water. 

2. Grape pack –  Mash some grapes into a pulp, apply on the face and leave on for a quarter of an hour. Then rinse off. Strawberries can also be used instead of grapes.

3. Milk cream (malai) mask – Collect malai from the milk, apply carefully on the face, avoiding eyes and keep on for about ten minutes. Rinse off, first with warm water, then cold water.

4. Coconut milk mask – Grate a fresh coconut, then grind it with very little water to extract thick milk. Spread it on the face for fifteen minutes for best results, rinse face with cold water.

5. Avocado mask – Mash a few pieces cut from an avocado and spread it on the face and neck for fifteen minutes. Wash off with cold water. 

6. Honey face pack – Mix one teaspoon of rose water with two tablespoons of honey and apply to face and neck. Honey makes the skin soft and is good for dry skin.

7. Honey and lime juice pack – Take two teaspoons each of honey and lime juice and leave on the face for ten to fifteen minutes. Alternatively, yoghurt can be used in place of lime juice. Wash off after 15 minutes.

8. Aloe gel mask – Extract fresh aloe vera from a juicy leaf and apply to the face. Leave on for fifteen minutes and then splash face with cold water. This mask may irritate sensitive skin so test it first on the arm.

9. Carrot honey mask – Take twice the quantity of honey as compared to carrot juice, mix well and apply on face and neck. Keep it for twenty minutes.

10. Almond oil mask – Mix a little almond oil with milk cream or malai and leave on the face for at least ten minutes. Rinse off with warm water. This is not suitable for oily skin.

Best Recommended methods of Cancer Prevention!

Add Garlic to Your Meals: Garlic has very powerful antioxidant properties. It also strengthens the immune system and helps to prevent cancer. Various studies have shown that garlic can exponentially decrease the odds of stomach cancer.

Eat Broccoli: Broccoli is one of the super foods which can help you effectively prevent cancer. However, it is not recommended to microwave broccoli as it destroys its anticarcinogenic flavonoids. It is best to boil broccoli or eat it raw as a snack.

Pick power fruits: "I make smoothies with pomegranates and blueberries because my research shows that both these fruits contain compounds that can slow the growth of certain types of cancer cells." -Shuian Chen, Ph.D., director, Tumor Cell Biology Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope

Steer Clear of Carcinogens: It is quite obvious that to prevent cancer, you need to strictly avoid all things that can cause cancer. Alcohol, cigarettes and other recreational drugs are among the top causes of cancer.

Avoid Processed Foods: Numerous studies have shown that processed foods and sugar can significantly increase the risk of cancer. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in all nutrients and supplements is one of the basic steps to fight cancer.

Eat Dark Chocolate: Flavonoids like pentamer, present in cocoa, has cancer-fighting properties. Dark chocolate is rich in cocoa and is certainly one of the tastiest ways to help you stay away from cancer. Pollution, radiations and bad living habits pave the way for various kinds of cancer. To effectively combat cancer, adopt a way of living that is pure and simple.

Get Some Exercise: An inactive lifestyle with no exercise can drastically increase the odds of cancer. Regular exercise strengthens the immune system and helps in the regulation of chemicals, enzymes and hormones in the body.

Keep the scale steady: "More than 90,000 cancer deaths a year occur due to being overweight. Carrying as little as 10 extra pounds may increase your production of sex hormones like estrogen, raising your risk for breast and uterine cancers. I step on the scale every few days. If the number creeps up, I try to exercise a little more or eat a little less to get back on track." -Ann Kulze, M.D., director, Prevent Cancer Foundation

Go Greek! "My diet is mostly Mediterranean-plenty of fruits, vegetables, fish, olive oil, whole grains, nuts, and legumes. People who eat this way, exercise regularly, and don't smoke cut their odds of getting cancer by at least 60 percent."-Lorenzo Cohen, Ph.D., director, MD Anderson Cancer Center's Integrative Medicine Program

Watch your mouth: "Oral cancers are on the rise among people ages 20 to 40, which we believe is because of HPV spread through oral sex. I always look for unusual changes in my patient's mouth, like sores or blisters on the cheeks, tongue, or lips. It usually takes less than two minutes. If your dentist doesn't already do this, ask her to start." -Gigi Meinecke, D.M.D., a dentist in Potomac, Maryland

Spice things up: "Cooking meat over high temps creates carcinogenic compounds called heterocyclic amines, or HCA. I marinate meat and add herbs before grilling. Our studies show that doing this can slash levels of HCA by 40 percent." -J. Scott Smith, Ph.D., chair, Kansas State University's Food Graduate Program 

Sleep Soundly: The human body requires a minimum of 8 hours of sleep to regulate all of its functions properly. Regular sleep helps in maintaining a healthy endocrine system and its ability to fight cancer. It is also essential to sleep in complete darkness to promote a healthy endocrine system.

Reduce Hazardous Interactions: There are a variety of environmental factors that can cause cancer. Radiation from mobile phones and other electronic devices can increase the chances of cancer. Limit your exposure to the minimum to combat cancer.



With Lots Of Good Wishes To All The Visitors!:)

10 IMPORTANT ways to slim without the gym!

Don’t cut the dairy 
Although the high levels of fat in dairy products make those who want to get slim without hitting the gym wary, it turns out that eating cheese, milk and other dairy products actually promotes weight loss. The study was conducted in Australia and the researchers suggest that the protein levels in dairy products may help people feel fuller for longer and therefore make them less likely to snack on calorific foods.

Variety 
If you find yourself regularly going on health kicks only to find that in a few weeks or months time you've gone back to your old, unhealthy ways the likelihood is you've become bored. Doing the same exercise and eating the same foods is dull and even the most disciplined of people would struggle to maintain their new regime. Instead, try to eat new, healthy foods on a weekly basis and mix up what you eat. You should also do a variety of exercise, like running, dancing, Pilates and skipping.

Join a club 
If you want to slim without the gym then you might benefit from joining a club. Clubs are great because they’re social, they typically have equipment to lend to you and they are great for boosting people’s motivation. Before joining a club you need to first work out what sport suits you. If you like being in a team you could join a hockey club or a netball club. If you like working solo then a running, canoe or climbing club might be more suited to you. Remember, clubs typically offer beginners taster sessions and these will typically be free of charge, so always test out the club before you pay for membership.


Have a treat in the week 
When you’re super strict with yourself during the week it can be easy to let the rules from the week slip when the weekend arrives. Studies have found that this is true and that people who follow extremely healthy diets during the week actually lose weight more slowly compared to those who eat reasonably healthily all week. Therefore if you want to slim without the gym, have a treat now and then.

Fun equipment 
Spending hours of your week silently running on a treadmill isn't much fun, but exercise doesn't have to be like that. There are loads of fun ways to work out. You could buy some gymnastics rings to work on your upper body and your core. Or if the rings aren't for you buy a hula hoop to tone your waist area. If you get creative and have fun with your exercise you’ll find that you will be more motivated to stick at it and do more, which in turn will help you get slim and ditch the gym.

Shopping 
It is thought that the average woman burns 48,000 calories a year from shopping alone; that works out at around 385 calories per week. If you get that shopping-guilt almost all women feel when they wander into a store then don’t panic. Just think the money you saved from the gym can go towards this new dress or new pair of boots.

Stock up on the liquids 
What do you do before a meal? Wash your hands and scout out a good TV show to watch during your meal? Well, although we think you should definitely still wash your hands before you eat, if you want to slim without the gym you should also try having a light soup before eating. This light course will help fill you up, yet is relatively low in calories. Having soup before your main course will also help you to stop yourself from overeating.


Eat before you train 
When you have a gym membership you will often find yourself rushing to the gym before or after work. You race there, have a workout and then grab a quick shower before shooting off. What you probably won’t do though is make enough time to eat before you go. This is important if you want to slim down because eating an hour before exercise ensures that you perform to full capacity during your training session and therefore you will burn a greater amount of fat.

Yoga 
Grab your yoga mat and do some yoga poses three or four times a week. Although it doesn't feel very strenuous yoga helps to sculpt your body and helps you get slim without the gym. Some great moves that help to tone include the Downward Dog Split and the Temple Pose. It may be best to go to a yoga class or get a yoga DVD if you’re not sure what you are doing, but remember the perfect pose we may see others doing might be a long way from what our own body can currently achieve.

Skipping 
Thought your skipping days were over? Think again. Skipping isn't just for eight year old girls. It's no coincidence that boxers, who are arguably some of the fittest athletes around, regularly perform skipping drills. Skipping is in fact a great exercise and there are lots of benefits. To make sure that your rope is the correct length for your height, stand on the middle of the rope and pull the handles upwards until the rope is taut. The handles should line up with the middle of your chest.