Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Herbs for Sciatic Pain

Sciatic pain can be unbearable, causing pain to radiate down the leg and up the hip and back area. Sciatica is not an actual condition but a set of symptoms. The symptoms can be dealt with, in many cases, with herbs that help to relieve the inflammation of the tissues surrounding the sciatic nerve. Many patients have found that the herbs provide the relief they have been in search of but have not been able to find through modern medicine.

Stinging Nettle Bath

    Those suffering from sciatic pain may find that they benefit from a bath prepared with an herb called stinging nettle. This herb is a traditional choice for dealing with pain. To prepare the bath start with four cups of cold water and as many leaves as will fit into the water fully submerged. Soak the leaves for up to 12 hours. After soaking the leaves, strain the mixture keeping only the water and then heat. Run a hot bath and pour the stinging nettle bath into the water. Soak in the hot bath for 20 minutes. Upon exiting the bath wrap in a warm bath towel or robe and lie in a bed for one hour under covers to induce a sweat and allow for the herbal treatment to take effect.

Help from Chamomile

    Chamomile is an herb that is known for calming and healing the body. The herb can be added to a small amount of olive oil to create a topical product that can be massaged onto the affected areas. In addition, you can also make a tea out of chamomile herbal extract by adding 20 drops to a tea or any liquid. Chamomile can be used daily to help soothe the affected areas of the body.

St. John's Wort Massage Oil

    St. John's Wort is an herb that has been found to be very effective in relaxing and soothing the nerves. Many people have found that combining 10 drops of St. John's Wort with a couple tablespoons of olive oil makes a great massage oil that can easily be rubbed onto the back of the leg or the back to provide some relief from sciatic pain.

Soothing the Nerves

    Emotional stress often causes the muscles and nerves of the body to become tense, eventually causing pain. Herbs to help both the emotions and the nerves include borage, lemon balm, and valerian. These herbs can be found in tea form and can be consumed up to three times per day while suffering from sciatica. Not only will the herbs help to calm the emotions but it will also help to relieve inflammation and tension in the muscles and nerves, helping to relieve sciatic pain. These teas are especially effective when combined with other herbal remedies aimed at relieving pain.

Scabies Relief

The term scabies is associated with an infestation of Sarcoptes scabei, a type of mite that generally cannot be seen by the naked eye. These eight legged mites actually burrow under the skin of the human they have infested and they cause an intense itching. Scabies can be caught from other individuals who are infected whom you have come into contact with such as children, friends, or sexual partners.

The Symptoms of Scabies

    The symptoms of scabies generally cannot be ignored. When one is infected with scabies they will experience an intense itching, making itself more apparent at night. After the itching begins, small bumps will show up in between the fingers, around the waist, in the armpits, the buttocks, and the elbows.

Prescription Treatments for Relief

    If you visit your doctor and you are diagnosed with scabies they will quickly put you on a topical insecticide such as permethrin, lindane, or malathion. These medications are used to rid the body of the mites. While effective, those with sensitive systems may experience dizziness and even seizure from the medication. Speak with your doctor about whether or not the benefits outweigh the risks associated with these medications. In conjunction with the pesticide the doctor will likely prescribe an antihistamine, which will help quiet the intense itching.

Natural Scabies Relief

    If you are diagnosed with scabies you can get some relief by taking an antihistamine. These are available over the counter and come in both liquid and capsule form. You can also apply a baking soda paste to the itchy areas, which will help provide some relief from the itching and rash, but only temporarily.

    To rid your body of the scabies you need to head to your local drug store and pick up neem oil. This is widely available and is a natural treatment choice for those who want to stay away from the prescription medications that many people are sensitive to. Simply apply the neem oil like you would a lotion. The oil usually needs to be applied twice, once a day for two days but can be repeated as often as is necessary. Neem soaps also seem to be a viable solution.

Tea to Cure Smelly Feet

Foot odor is caused by the bacteria that builds up from sweaty feet. To prevent smelly feet, wear cotton socks to absorb sweat and allow the feet to breathe. Air out feet and shoes frequently to let sweat evaporate and prevent bacteria growth. Soaking agents such as tea can help keep feet dry and control odor.

Using Tea to Cure Smelly Feet

    Tea contains tannins which are astringent plant polyphenols that can be used to absorb odor-causing perspiration. Boil 1 quart of water and then add five teabags and brew for 10 minutes. Let the water cool so that you can place your feet in the water comfortably without causing additional perspiration. Soak your feet for 20 to 30 minutes and dry thoroughly. Apply foot powder to keep feet dry. Repeat twice a day until foot odor is under control and then reduce to twice a week to keep smelly feet from reoccurring. For additional benefits, use flavored teas like lemon, peach or mango to allow a pleasant scent to emit from your feet.

Flax for Menopause

Flax for Menopause

Flax and flaxseed are considered the best source available for components called lignans, which have strong anticancer and phytoestrogenic qualities. Flax has a greater concentration of lignans than almost any other food, including grains, fruits and vegetables.For this reason, flax can be a powerful tool when it comes to treating the symptoms of menopause. Flax is also an excellent source of fiber as well as omega-3 fats.

Lignans

    Lignans contain phytoestrogens which are quite powerful when it comes to reducing some of the bothersome symptoms of menopause. For women who consume flaxseed, significant changes take place in hormone levels, similar to the effect consuming soy has for menopausal women. Estrogen levels become balanced and better regulated. This action makes flaxseed a good option for women who cannot tolerate soy products or want another option for a source of phytohormones.

Fiber

    Flaxseed also contains beneficial amounts of fiber. It is rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber. Adding flax to a daily diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains will ensure a smooth-flowing digestive system. When combined with fluid, the fiber in flax forms a mucilage that can greatly reduce the incidence of diabetes and cardiovascular problems in women during perimenopause and menopause. The fiber contained in flax also helps to reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the bloodstream.

Omega-3 Fats

    Omega-3 fats are an important component in flax and have the ability to benefit cells throughout the body, including the brain and heart. Omega-3 fats are an important part of treating depression symptoms in menopausal women. A deficiency in omega-3 fats can lead to depression and anxiety during menopause along with hormone imbalances. Flaxseed meal is an excellent source of omega-3 fats, provided it is freshly ground. Flaxseed oil provides similar benefits, but without the added boost of fiber. Be sure to refrigerate flaxseed oil, as it may become rancid without proper storage.

More Benefits

    Flaxseed may have the added benefit of preventing or helping with treatment of breast cancer in women who are post-menopausal, although this warrants further research. The lignans contained in flax may be the key component in preventing breast cancer in post-menopause.

How to Use

    Flaxseed can easily be incorporated into your daily lifestyle. Optimally, try to consume about a quarter cup of ground flaxseed three to seven days a week. You can grind flaxseed at home in a standard coffee bean grinder, or buy it already ground. It may be stirred into soups and beverages. You may also sprinkle it onto salads, or add it to meat loaves. Perhaps the most tasty way to add flaxseed to your diet is to add it to baked goods.

Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Rectal Cleansing

Although you may not exactly spend a lot of time daily thinking about your colon and rectum, you shouldn't take the health of these organs for granted; and key to keeping them healthy is regular cleansing. Because these organs are responsible for expelling wastes from your body and are connected to your digestive system, establish a routine to cleanse them and keep them healthy.

Food for Cleansing

    Besides drinking lots of water (the ideal is 8 glasses a day), pay attention to what you eat in order to maintain a clean rectum. Avoid oily and fatty foods. Also, fresh fruits and vegetables are great for your rectum since they contain minerals, and some have natural antioxidants that help rid the body of toxins and waste.

    Some other herbs that you should take are flaxseed and ginger. Flaxseed helps your intestines move processed food a lot quicker and more smoothly, which aids in digestion and movement through your bowels. Ginger helps reduce bloating and inflammation in your rectum along with stimulating your rectum's processes. Aloe leaf, also great for rectal cleansing, can be used to detoxify your rectum, or used as a laxative--and there are no side effects.

Enemas/Colonics

    Enemas and colonics are medical procedures that clean out your colon and rectum. No actual surgery is involved, but they are both typically done at a specialist's office and sometimes you are put asleep for the procedure since it can be uncomfortable. A small tube is inserted in the rectum, and water is pushed through your intestines to ultimately clean out your bowels. Colonics are usually more effective since they are a one-time procedure that pushes between 30 and 50 gallons of water through your digestive tract to clean it out. Once done, you do not have to return again for a year or more. Enemas use a lot less water, and usually need to be repeated 3 times or so in order to have the full cleansing completed.

Alternative Bone Cancer Treatment

Primary bone cancer (cancer originating in the bone) is relatively rare, affecting about 2,000 people in the United States annually. Standard treatment usually consists of chemotherapy, radiation and prescription drugs to protect the bones during treatment. Alternative therapies as a sole cancer treatment are controversial and are best used in conjunction with standard treatments. If you are interested in using natural therapies, it is best to seek out an oncologist knowledgeable about and open to integrating natural methods into your treatment plan. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the following treatments might be of benefit for bone cancer.

Supplements

    Calcium citrate and vitamin D provide bone support; take 1,000 milligrams and 400 IU daily respectively. Probiotics support immunity and gastrointestinal health, both of which can be compromised by conventional cancer treatments; take as directed on the label. Omega-3 fatty acids fight inflammation and strengthen immunity. Take one to two capsules of fish oil or one tablesppon of oil one to three times a day. Vitamin C provides antioxidants and boosts immunity; take 500 to 1,000 milligrams up to three times a day. Lycopene provides antioxidant and anticancer activity; take 5 milligrams three times a day. Alpha lipoic acid and resveratrol are rich in antioxidants and fight inflammation; take 50 milligrams twice a day and 200 milligrams a day respectively. Glucosamine and chondroitin in a combination supplement supports bone and connective tissue. Use 500 to 1,000 milligrams three times a day with food. Coenyzme Q10 and melatonin support immunity. Use 200 milligrams and two to six grams respectively at bedtime.

Herbs

    Green tea, reishi mushroom and cat's claw exhibit anticancer effects and strengthen the immune system; take 250 to 500 milligrams daily, 150 to 300 milligrams three times daily; and 20 milligrams three times daily respectively. Milk thistle provides detoxification support; take 80 to 160 milligrams three times a day. Fermented wheat germ extract contains cancer-fighting and immune-boosting properties. Dissolve one packet into a beverage once a day.

Homeopathy

    Professional homeopaths might recommend the following treatments to address bone cancer. Homeopathy is a highly individualized system of medicine that bases treatments on a number of factors in addition to the main condition. Consult with a homeopath experienced in treating cancer if you are interested in making homeopathic remedies part of your treatment strategy.

    Arnica Montana treats bruising and restlessness. Bryonia is best for fractures with stitching pains that worsen with movement. Eupatorium is for intense bone pain that worsens with movement and comes with stiffness and chills. Symphytum treats fractures that do not heal well and cause persistent pain.

Acupucture and Chiropractic Care

    These treatments will not directly treat your bone cancer but can address problems associated with cancer and its treatments. Acupuncture is proven to alleviate nausea, vomiting, pain and shortness of breath. Chiropractors will not treat areas where bone cancer is present but can work on other parts of the body to relieve pain associated with this type of cancer.

Dietary Suggestions

    Eating well is vital when you have cancer. Regularly consume foods like broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower as well as foods rich in antioxidants like berries, tomatoes and peppers. Make lean meats, tofu and beans your primary protein source and cut down on red, fatty meats. Soy milk promotes bone health.

Medical Use of Collodial Silver

Colloidal silver consists of small particles of silver delicately suspended in water. It is considered an alternative remedy, and is used as a natural antibiotic meant to kill off the body's invading microbes. Since the 1940s, when the FDA banned the use of colloidal silver, there's been a string of controversy regarding its toxicity. Still, certified doctors have proven its medical uses, but only when given in preferred, carefully administered and controlled doses. Never take colloidal silver in any form without consulting your trusted doctor.

Fights Fungus

    Colloidal silver is typically used on the skin, to fight fungal infections. Some find that this topical treatment aids in the healing of your burns, rashes, sunburns and other skin problems. It can also be used to fight gingivitis, mouth sores and tooth decay. It has even been implemented in the eyes. Mostly, it fights infection on any part of the body, but only by the use of small and specific doses, and even then, it is controversial and must be carefully administered. Too much colloidal silver can be lethal.

Bactericide

    For centuries, colloidal silver has been used to fight off bacteria, as an alternative to traditional antibiotics. Its small structure is unique: The minute particles of silver can travel very fast in your body, killing off bacteria and viruses, yet some find it to be tolerated with less intestinal stress than standard antibiotics.

AIDS-Related Pneumonia

    Some types of AIDS-related pneumonia can't be helped with the standard antibiotic. Staphylococcal, pneumocystis, streptococcal, klebsiella and fungal infections that fail to respond to regular antibiotics are sometimes addressed with alternative medicines like colloidal silver, especially if the patient has a weakened immune system. Some hospitals now give oral dosages for therapy in such cases.

Monday, November 28, 2016

Does Green Tea Detox Your Body?

Does Green Tea Detox Your Body?

The drinking of tea leaves steeped in boiling water goes back at least 5,000 years to India and China, where ancient cultures cultivated tea plants. A University of Maryland study reports that China, India, Japan and Thailand have consumed green tea and used it for medicinal purposes for centuries. Green tea has grown in popularity in recent years as a mild alternative to coffee and strong teas, as well as for its healing qualities, now documented in studies.

The Facts

    Camellia sinensis is the tea plant from which all teas derive. Of the black, oolong and green tea groups, green is the only one made from unfermented leaves and the least processed, leaving more polyphenols, tea's antioxidant chemicals, intact. These polyphenols fall into six main catechin compounds, the subject of much research. Green tea has the lowest caffeine level as well.

    Traditional medicinal uses of green tea in India and China include drinking it as a stimulant and diuretic, to heal wounds, for heart health, as a digestion aid and for mental clarity.

Detox Agent

    Our bodies produce free radicals---unstable molecules or oxidants---that "damage cell proteins and genetic material," making the body "vulnerable to cancer," according to the National Cancer Institute. Catechins (antioxidants) deter free radicals' enzyme and DNA damage that sometimes leads to cancer.

    Green tea's detoxifying properties have links to weight reduction and fat burning, and they can fight bacteria, liver disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis and inflammatory bowel disease.

    Drink two to three cups of green tea per day for the recommended amount of polyphenols, or take 100 to 750 mg of green tea extract. Choose decaffeinated products if you prefer to avoid the buzz.

Cancer Studies

    The University of Arizona studied 42 healthy volunteers who took daily doses of "green tea polyphenol intervention" for four weeks. The result showed an increased level of GST in blood, "providing beneficial detoxifying enzymes to the subjects."

    China and Japan have lower rates of cancer than those seen in the United States, sparking interest and studies by the National Cancer Institute of the capsule form of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) found in green tea.

Bacterial Studies

    Egyptian researchers presented evidence at the Society for General Microbiology that green tea boosts the effectiveness of antibiotics, up to three times, even against so-called "superbugs." It even helps antibiotics beat drug-resistant bacteria. Also, catechins themselves restrain bacterial enzyme growth, researchers from the National Institute of Chemistry in Ljubljana, Slovenia, discovered, justifying the ancient tea-drinking tradition.

Cautions

    Consider a few side effects along with the good. Even the low level of caffeine may affect some people adversely, especially if combined with other caffeine products. Don't give tea to infants. Avoid green tea if you are pregnant or breast- feeding or if you have anxiety or problematic heart, kidney or stomach conditions. Consult with a doctor for interactions with prescriptions and chemotherapy. Studies are ongoing and not conclusive at this time.

Holistic Weight Loss

If you one of the 60 percent of Americans that are overweight, you have probably been seeking ways to drop those extra pounds. Many natural strategies exist that address both the body and the mind and offer a holistic approach to weight loss. You must remember that healthy eating and exercise is the cornerstone of any successful weight loss plan. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the following treatments have varying amounts of clinical evidence behind them but none are sufficient on their own with many showing mixed results. Consulting with a health care practitioner experienced in natural medicine can help you design an effective treatment plan that incorporates multiple strategies.

Supplements

    The following supplements have been studied clinically, but some have produced mixed results. They might be of benefit for you.

    5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) boosts serotonin levels that can help to reduce appetite and food cravings. 5-HTP has been linked with the rare blood disorder eosiniphila myalgia. Take 600 to 900 mg daily.

    Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) has shown modest benefit in reducing body fat and increasing lean mass. Discuss appropriate dosages with your doctor.

    Zinc increases the level of leptin, a hormone that promotes fullness. It can increase lean body mass and decrease fat. Take 15 to 20 mg daily. Pyruvate occurs naturally in the body and might fight body fat by increasing metabolism; take 22 to 44 g daily. Glucomannan is a form of insoluble fiber that lowers blood sugar levels and might promote weight loss; take 1 g three times per day one hour before eating.

Herbs

    Psyllium husks can fight hunger by promoting a feeling of fullness. Take as directed on the product label. Green tea contains polyphenols, which might burn fat and boost metabolism; take 250 to 500 mg daily. Guggul is commonly used in Indian medicine to fight excess weight and has been shown to promote weight loss; take 25 mg three times a day. It can cause diarrhea and nausea; do not use if you take birth control, blood-thinning drugs, thyroid hormone or estrogen or have hormone-dependent cancers. Preliminary studies find that capsaicin, the substance that makes chili peppers hot, reduces hunger and burns body fat; take 6 to 10 g at each meal. Hoodia might be an effective diet supplement but research is limited and many supplements on the market contain little of the herb; wait until more research is done and trusted sources become available before using this herb.

Acupuncture and Acupressure

    According to the University of Maryland Medical Centers, several studies have confirmed these techniques aid in weight loss but only slightly. They appear to boost serotonin levels, which naturally suppress the appetite.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

    This form of psychotherapy helps you identify triggers for unhealthy behaviors, put new healthier behaviors into place and reduce stress. In regards to weight loss, you can work on things like setting weight loss and exercise goals and finding ways to reward yourself that do not involve food.

Hypnosis

    Studies examining hypnosis as a weight loss aid have been mixed. It is most successful when used along with behavioral therapy, diet and exercise. Hypnosis aims to change mental programming at a subconscious level to help implement new beliefs and behaviors.

Dry Flaky Scalp Remedy

Dry Flaky Scalp Remedy

A dry and flaky scalp can be caused by an array of different things from too much blow-drying to improper shampooing. Luckily, there are several home remedies to help alleviate the condition. If the situation persists, it may be necessary to contact a physician.

Shampoo Remedies

    Avoid applying shampoo in hot water. Set the water temperature to lukewarm. When rinsing out the shampoo, change the water temperature to cool. This will help alleviate some of the creation of dry skin on the scalp that hot water promotes. You should shampoo on a daily basis with a mild type of shampoo. If you are not seeing good results, switch to an anti-dandruff shampoo that contains the ingredient ZPT (zinc pyrithione). It will take approximately four to six weeks to see an improvement; however, the time may vary as the skin reacts differently with everyone. If this does not solve the issue, it may be necessary to contact a dermatologist. You may suffer from a skin problem such as psoriasis, which requires a specified treatment that a doctor will recommend. It is important to avoid using alcohol-based hair products that build residue on the scalp and dry out the skin. Check the ingredients in your hair gel, mousse, or hairspray to see the alcohol content.

Folk Remedies

    There are some applications for your scalp that have been shown to work for some people. One such treatment is aloe vera. Rub a thick coating of the aloe vera onto your scalp and keep it there overnight. Rinse it out with your shampoo application in the morning.

    Apple cider vinegar is said to be another good cure for dandruff. It helps rebuild the correct level of acid-to-alkaline ratio to the scalp. It also kills bacteria that builds up and clogs your pores, which prevents the normal release of oil to keep your scalp from drying out. The proper application consists of a mixture of apple cider vinegar that is diluted by 50 percent water. Rinse this into your scalp and allow it to dry without rinsing it out. You can also pour two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar into a cup and directly apply it without dilution. This method requires that you leave the apple cider vinegar on your scalp for 15 minutes to three hours before you shampoo. You may also use lemon juice applied in the same manner instead of the vinegar if you choose.

Herbal Remedies

    Create a tea using sage or burdock. Use this as your rinse directly after the completion of shampooing. You can also create a rinse that requires you to boil four large teaspoons of dried thyme. Place this into two cups of water for a period of 10 minutes. Strain the mixture and let it cool before applying. You will directly apply this into your clean and slightly damp hair. There is not a need to rinse this out. Another herb you can use is thyme, which contains oil that has antiseptic properties.

Home Remedies for Eye Infections With Colloidal Silver

Eye infections can be caused by a variety of factors including exposure to viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Eye infections also can occur when you are taking certain medications like AK-Dex, Decadron, Otodex, Framycetin, and Sofra-Tulle among other medications. Oral or topical treatment of eye infections at home with colloidal silver is usually successful in quickly managing many types of eye infections.

The Process

    Colloidal silver acts as a germicidal treatment for eye infections. It binds to proteins and makes certain enzymes inactive. If consumed internally, colloidal silver concentrates in the adrenals, in the spleen, and liver. The ingredient has a half-life that can range from a few days to a few months. Colloidal silver is passed from your body during bowel movements. The silver in colloidal silver hinders bacteria growth by interfering with the oxygen metabolism enzymes that allow an infection to fester, spread, and thrive. The silver is also useful in destroying the cell membranes in bacteria and for hindering the bacteria's ability to replicate.

Oral Use of Colloidal Silver

    Colloidal silver is used to treat eye infections of all kinds as well as ear infections, fungal infections, infections of the sinus, and upper respiratory infections. The substance has natural antibacterial agents that encourage fast healing and reduce inflammation. For oral use, consume no more than 14 micro kilograms per day for every kilogram of your body weight.

Topical Application of Colloidal Silver

    Colloidal silver liquid can be applied to a cotton ball and used to gently wash an affected eye. Apply two to three drops on a cotton ball and gently wipe the surface of the affected eye or eyes three times a day until the infection subsides. After a day or two, you should notice positive results. You also may place two to three drops of the liquid directly into the eyes three times daily for the treatment of eye infections. Treatment with colloidal silver is generally positive and rapid healing can occur in as little as 24 hours.

Precautions

    Overuse of colloidal silver can result in a condition identified as argyria; the condition is irreversible and can result in the appearance of one's skin turning blue. Do no consume more than 14 micro kilograms per day for every kilogram of body weight when taking colloidal silver orally. Limit your use of colloidal silver topical applications to one or two days at most. The onset of argyria can be identified in the sudden appearance of gingival: a slate/blue silver line on the skin. A discoloring of the fingernails also could result, and excessive use of colloidal silver may also overstimulate melanin production in your skin; any skin areas exposed to the sun will become discolored by the exposure.

Sunday, November 27, 2016

How to Use Calcium Bentonite Clay for Healing

For centuries, women have used mud and clay as part of their beauty regimen. In recent years, it's been found that some clays are beneficial to a person's health; not just by applying it directly to the skin, but by ingesting it as well. Also, some research shows being beneficial in the treatment of autism. Here are the details of how to use calcium bentonite clay to heal your body.

How the Clay Helps

    Almost all aspects of the natural world have a magnetic charge to them. Even water has what's known as a "highly polar" molecule, which is why it's so good as a cleansing agent.
    The same is true of calcium bentonite clay. Many of the natural toxins we encounter in our lives, such as heavy metals and bacteria, are positively charged. As the natural lifestyle website naturalnews.com makes clear, the calcium bentonite clay has a very high negative charge to it. As a result, if you eat it--yes, eat it--it'll draw all of these toxic materials out of your system. Since the human body can't digest the clay, it's not harmful to you at all.

    According to the book "Living Clay: Nature's Own Miracle Cure", you should eat 2 ounces of the clay each day for two weeks to help purge your body. Then, after that initial treatment, just 1 ounce is enough to maintain your system.

    Then there's the external means for how to use calcium bentonite clay for healing. If you take a clay bath two times a week, the clay will draw many of your body's toxic substances right out your pores. Run a nice bath and then add 2 cups of the clay in a powder form. The clay should be well dissolved with no lumps. Use your hand to swirl it around in the water. After that, sit and soak in the water for about 15 to 20 minutes, and be sure to get as much of your body submerged as possible.

Treating Autism

    The disease impacts children and their mental and emotional development, but no definite cause has yet been found. However, as mentioned on the site blog.regardingme.com, Dr. Miriam Jang, author of "Breakthroughs in Autism," believes that heavy metals, such as lead, aluminium, mercury, and cadmium are contributing factors. By making use of calcium bentonite clay in a bath, she found that she was able to lower the levels of these metals in autistic patients. She found improvements in their physical health resulted after three months, but it remains to be seen as to whether it'll also lead to improvements in the children's mental faculties. Still, it is a treatment worth investigating.

How to Benefit from Neem Home Remedies

Neem is a large semi-evergreen tree of East India, and has been used for herbal remedies for centuries. Its trunk exudes a tenacious gum, its bitter bark is used as a tonic and its seeds yield an aromatic oil. It is mostly used as a medicine and the following are its medicinal benefits.

Instructions

    1

    Heal wounds with neem remedies. When neem is applied in form of powder or oil on external wounds, it has exceptional results that fight all kinds of germs and ease recovery of the affected area. It also heals the skin very fast and prevents any kind of allergy or infection.

    2

    Treat scabies. The extract of leaves, seeds as well as barks is effective in treating scabies, a transmissible skin infection and a great substitute for permethrin, though scabies do not resist the biochemical properties of neem, but in a prolonged complication of scabies neem is found effective.

    3

    Prepare a neem poultice to treat boils and animal's bites. Neem extract possess a lot of significant pharmacological properties. Thus, neem is bitter and alterative whose poultice is used in treating boils, as antiseptic and as a stimulant hence very useful in snake bite, scorpion sting and hypoglycemic.

    4

    Cleanse your blood with neem. The tea made from the neem leaf has been found essential in boosting the immune functioning and for the blood cleansing. It is also effective in improving the general skin health and combating all bacterial infections e.g. acne and ulcers.

    5

    Cure and protect against malaria. Neem has both curative and preventive effects on the malaria parasite. It consist of two compounds (quinine and chloroquine) which have been clinically proved to be effective against the malaria parasite since the leaves can be chewed and consumed to heal the disease.

How to Benefit from Nutmeg as an Herbal Remedy

Nutmeg, which is the dried seed kernel of an evergreen tree, is widely used in herbal remedy preparations. It has a strong aroma and slightly bitter taste. The following are the medicinal benefits of nutmeg.

Instructions

    1

    Alleviate diarrhea. Mixing about 15 grams of powdered nutmeg with apple juice or banana, can be used as an effective herbal remedy for diarrhea that is caused by indigestion. Similarly, 15 grams of powdered nutmeg mixed with one tablespoon of fresh amla juice helps to relieve hiccups and morning sickness.

    2

    Relieve nausea. Powdered nutmeg added to baked fruits, milk and desserts is an aid for indigestion and helps to relieve vomiting and nausea as well as flatulence. A small amount of nutmeg may also be taken to relieve your chronic nervous problems, as well as heart problems stemming from poor circulation.

    3

    Increase blood circulation. Nutmeg oil is a good herbal stimulant, not only for the mind but also for the entire body. Its relaxing aroma comforts the body, increases blood circulation, and improves the condition of those with poor blood circulation.

    4

    Ease joint and muscle pain. This herb has anti-inflammatory properties, which can be used to treat joint and muscle pains. Nutmeg essential oil is massaged on the affected area for immediate relief, relaxing the body and removing stress.

    5

    Allay mental exhaustion. Nutmeg is a potent brain booster; it increases circulation in the body and allows a better concentration. It also works by stimulating the brain and thus removing any mental exhaustion and stress leaving one with a clear thinking.

Saturday, November 26, 2016

How to Benefit from Sage as an Herbal Home Remedy

Sage is a popular culinary and medicinal herb, used in a variety of herbal remedies. The word Sage was derived from a Latin word, meaning to save or to heal. There are a number of medicinal benefits from sage.

Instructions

    1

    Reduce lung hemorrhage. Hemorrhage from the lungs can be relieved using sage. It is also used to heal coughs, colds, throat infections and laryngitis. Smoke from dry sage leaves are used to relieve asthma. The aromatic property can also help in lung disorders and in sinusitis.

    2

    Use sage as a natural tooth cleaner. Sage leaves are good tooth cleaners. The top side of the leaf is rubbed over the teeth and gums. The purple leaved sage is the best teeth cleanser as its leaves are tougher. The antiseptic properties of the leaves heal diseased gums.

    3

    Prevent miscarriage. Sage is important in maintaining pregnancies. It strengthens the uterus during pregnancy. It prevents miscarriage while relieving congestion of the ovaries and the uterus. It is used to treat vaginal infections due to its antiseptic properties.

    4

    Enhance brain function. Sage is an outstanding memory enhancer and is said to boost wisdom. It has been used to treat cerebrovascular disease for over one thousand years. It is taken together with soups, stews or casserole recipes.

    5

    Treat stomach disorders. Leaves from the sage herbs are chewed to relieve indigestion and gastrointestinal disorders. They also help to relief diarrhea, stomach aches and stomach cramps. The leaves would be chewed raw or the juice would be extracted and taken together with tea.

How to Make a Kidney Cleanse Tea

This kidney cleanse tea recipe uses celery seeds for their medicinal properties. Celery and its seeds contain sodium and potassium, and have proven helpful for a myriad of conditions, including high blood pressure, gout, asthma, arthritis, flu, indigestion and gallstones. The diuretic effect of celery seeds helps cleanse the kidneys, which is important since they are a vital part of the body's detoxification system. As always, check the tips and warnings section for more information.

Instructions

    1

    Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 teaspoon celery seeds. (Use 2 for a stronger tea.)

    2

    Let it steep for about 10 to 15 minutes.

    3

    When it's cool enough, strain out the seeds and drink.

    4

    To enjoy more of the benefits of celery, drink the juice of fresh stalks, add them to salads and soups, or just munch on one for a snack. They are a good source of insoluble fiber as well as magnesium and phosphorous.

How to Cure Jock Itch The All-Natural Way

How to Cure Jock Itch The All-Natural Way

Burning, itching, and raw - it feels like someone lit a blowtorch and pressed it to your crotch. You want to make this stop, but you don't want to use OTC remedies with unpronounceable chemicals. Here's how to deal.

Instructions

    1

    Jock itch, like many of these annoyances from Satan, is a fungal attack. What do fungi need? Darkness, warmth, and moisture. You're going to get rid of that. Take a hot shower and wipe down dry. If you can, grab a towel and head to a private place for a sun bath. Light and air are deadly for this fungus.

    2

    Make a mixture of tea-tree oil, water, salt, and some strong black tea. Dab it on twice a day with a cotton ball. The tannic acid from the tea will make the jock itch scream for mercy. Make sure to dilute the tea-tree oil well or YOU will scream for mercy.

    3

    Try a garlic compress. Hey, maybe you're lucky - your lady might be a garlic fiend! Whatever the case, crush two cloves of garlic. Mix it with olive or grapeseed oil. Pour this mixture on a washcloth and press it for 5 minutes on the affected area once a day. As tempting as it is, DON'T wipe it off. Yeah, it stings. Deal.

    4

    Apply a tincture of Listerine twice a day. Yeah, it hurts like crap. But the alcohol will kill the jock itch fungi while the antibacterial qualities of the Listerine take care of any bacteria.

    5

    Wear loose-fitting underwear. Now is not the time for a macho Speedo. Till your jock itch clears up, it's cotton briefs.

    6

    Dust your undies with baby powder. It'll make you smell like you're taking care of kiddies in the church nursery, but this stuff works. Trust me. Jock itch hates it when you wick away moisture.

    7

    Look for other good herbal jock itch remedies at your health food store. Unlike most of these things, natural remedies do actually work for jock itch.

    8

    Keep applying any remedy for at least two weeks. Even OTC jock-itch products like Lamisil and Lotrimin tell you to do this. Lots of people try the natural route for two days and then give up. Don't do this. Your skin will thank you.

How to Benefit from Green Bananas for Home Remedies

The banana is like no other fruit. It is actually the fruit of a giant herb. Each bunch of bananas can be up to fourteen bananas and weight up to 100 pounds. Both the skin and inner part of the banana can be eaten raw or cooked. Commonly sold while they are still green, there is recent evidence that eating green bananas has health benefits.

Instructions

    1

    Add green bananas to your weight loss diet. The growing interest in green bananas is principally due to their ability help the body burn fat and beat hunger. Green bananas have a type of dietary fiber that helps the body feel satisfied while it burns fat.

    2

    Eat green bananas as a source of low calorie carbs for diabetics. It is difficult for diabetics to get sufficient carbs without gaining weight. Green bananas are high in potassium, which provides an energy boost, but are lower in calories than other complex carbohydrates.

    3

    Use green bananas as a source of beneficial "fiber." Green bananas contain short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are indigestible to humans. This is very beneficial, because the indigestible parts of the banana pass through the stomach and lower intestine and benefit the large intestine, or colon. After soluble and insoluble fiber, SCFAs are thought of as the "third" fiber.

    4

    Alleviate symptoms of shigellosis, a childhood disease that is common in the summer months. This disease is caused by the bacteria shigella, which infects the intestinal tract and causes vomiting and diarrhea. There is increasing scientific interest on the effect of green bananas on diarrhea. One study showed that consumption of mature green bananas dramatically decreased levels of mucus and blood in stools.

    5

    Prevent colon Cancer with green bananas. Since short term fatty acids pass through the stomach and small intestine, they stimulate colonic blood flow and fluid and electrolyte intake. The role that SCFA's play in nourishing the tissues of the colon actively prevents cancer by encouraging normal growth and differentiation of cells.

Friday, November 25, 2016

Natural Cures for Skin Parasites

There is a wide variety of parasites that can invade your skin, causing a plethora of troubles. There are also a number of natural cures for skin parasites that can help give you some relief. And humans aren't the only ones to be troubled by skin parasites---pets, including cats and dogs, can suffer from them as well, and there are simple natural cures for skin parasites that are appropriate for them, too.

Skin Rashes

    One of the most common results of a skin parasite is a rash. According to the website Buzzle.com, there are several natural treatments you can try. Many people find aloe to be very effective, and it doesn't have to be in the form of some store-bought, processed lotion. Simply cut lengthwise down each of a few leaves from an aloe vera plant, and carefully remove the colorless pulp from each leaf (not the yellow fluid, which is closer to the skin, but the thicker pulp). This is the gel of the aloe, and applying it to the affected area three to four times each day can clear up the skin. As a side note, only use fresh leaves.

    Another of the natural cures for skin parasites is simple olive oil. Like the aloe, you apply it to the affected area, and it often gives relief immediately. Along the same lines is good old vitamin E, which you can find in cod liver oil. In the case of this treatment, you can either apply it as a topical ointment or take a vitamin supplement that has vitamin E in it. Also, vitamin C is good for the skin; so eating citrus fruits and vegetables, like broccoli and yams (sweet potatoes), can also clear up the skin parasites.

    For a rash that is very extensive, such as associated with chicken pox, you can soak in an oatmeal bath. Run some hot water into a tub, add a cup of oatmeal (uncooked), and then let it "cook" for 10 minutes. Then take a bath, but be sure to not use any soap.

Helping Your Pet

    When looking to help your pet with skin parasites, there are at least two natural cures you can use. The web site nativeremedies.com lists neem and garlic as excellent choices, and including them in your pet's diet can help eliminate the parasites. Also, wormwood, agrimony and lemongrass can be used to clean the skin and help clear parasites away.

Natural Ways to Stop Menstrual Cycle

Heavy menstrual flow is a problem that many women face silently. In addition to pain and cramps, a heavy menstruation can leave a woman physically drained and exhausted. Natural remedies abound the Internet with ways to at least curb the menstrual flow, and at best stop it all together.

Squaw Mint Tea

    Squaw Mint, or hedeoma pulegiodes, can be made into a tea that is full of flavor. Native American women used it to help stop menstruation, and many believed it could prevent pregnancy if consumed daily. According to the National Library of Medicine's MedlinePlus website, although effective at stopping menstrual flow, this tea can be deadly if even consumed in even small amounts and should be avoided until further research is complete.

Reduce Menstrual Flow

    Author Deb Soule describes a specific technique for reducing the flow of menstruation in the book "The Roots of Healing: A Woman's Book of Herbs." To begin, you must first eliminate aspirin, caffeine, salt, red meat and any pills or supplements which include estrogen from your daily diet. Next, make a mixture of the following which will be dispensed out of an eye dropper and which can be purchased at most any herbal store. Put together two parts of Shepherd's Purse, two parts of Ladies Mantle leaves and flowers, three parts of Yarrow, one part Partridgeberry. The author recommends 20 to 60 drops be placed on the tongue four to six times a day while bleeding to help minimize the strength of the menstrual flow.

Sanqi Zhixie

    According to HerbalRemedies.com, Sanqi Zhixie follows an ancient formula used in Chinese medicine to stop all types of bleeding including menstrual flow. Marketed under the name Stop Bleeding, these capsules are formulated from notoginseng extracts, baked fossilized bone, frankincense, myrrh, purple gromwell root, dragonis blood, pearl, deer horn glue, mentha, catechu, astragalus and corydalis. The manufacturer recommends taking three to five capsules three times per day.

Homemade Denture Adhesives

Dentures are false teeth that are made out of plastic or porcelain. They are used to replace teeth that are lost. To hold the dentures in place, an adhesive is used on the inside of the denture to ensure the device sticks to the gums. For those looking to save money or need a quick adhesive in a pinch, temporary denture adhesives can be made at home.

Peanut Butter

    Peanut butter will provide a temporary alternative to store bought denture adhesive. Combine 15 ounces of roasted peanuts that have the skin and shells removed, 1 tsp. of salt and 1 tsps. of honey in a food processor. Blend for one minute, scrape the mixture off of the sides of the food processor and blend for two minutes while slowly adding 1 tbsps. of peanut oil. Remove 1 tbsp. of the peanut butter from the processor and spread onto the inside of the denture. Place the denture in the mouth and bite down to secure the denture into place. If the peanut butter does not hold the denture into place, add more honey to the peanut butter, tsp. at a time, until the denture stays firmly in place. Store any leftover peanut butter in an air tight container in the refrigerator.

Bubblegum

    To make a bubblegum denture adhesive, heat 1/3 cup of gum base in a microwave safe bowl for one minute. Stir the gum base and set aside. Pour cup of powdered sugar on a cookie sheet and make a well in the middle using your finger. Pour the gum base into the well of the powdered sugar and knead together using your hands. Once the powdered sugar is kneaded into the gum base, the mixture will feel stiff and the gum will be formed. Cut an inch by inch piece of the gum. Wet the inside of the denture with a damp paper towel so the gum will stick. Spread the cut piece of gum onto the inside of the denture, making sure it is spread across the entire denture. Place the denture in your mouth and bite down. If the gum is not sticky enough to hold the denture in place, add more heated gum base, a tsp. at a time until the desired stickiness is met. Leftover gum needs to be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.

Thursday, November 24, 2016

Hemp Seed Health Benefits

One of the most nutritious and easily digested foods on the earth is the hemp seed. Hemp seeds contain all of the following: protein, essential amino acids, and essential fatty acids. Hemp is truly a food that can sustain all of man's dietary needs. Hemp seed has many health benefits, which can be easily obtained by adding hemp seed to the diet.

Benefits

    One of the most important features of hemp seed is that is a superior source of protein. It also contains a wide variety of minerals and vitamins, but its most distinctive property is that it provides both omega-6 and omega-3 essential fatty acids, or EFAs. These acids are known as linoleic and alpha-linolenic, respectively. What makes these essential oils crucial is that they are not manufactured in the human body, and must be consumed as food. Hemp has an optimal ratio of these two fats at 3:1. According to a Greek research study, a health-promoting ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fats is no higher than 4:1.

Function

    Essential fatty acids are critical for keeping the heart healthy. Substituting healthy fats which are polyunsaturated like hemp oil for fats that are saturated can dramatically reduce the chance of having a sudden heart attack or even fatal cardiac arrhythmia. These healthful fats also help to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood and remove cellular buildup in the arteries that is often paired with atherosclerosis.

    Hemp seed also contains something called phytosterols, which can help to reduce blood cholesterol levels.

Types

    Hemp seeds can be pressed into a high quality polyunsaturated oil, and are also made into a seed cake. Hemp seed oil can be eaten plain or mixed into other food items such as salads and breads. Hemp seed cakes can be ground and made into hemp flour to be used for baking.

    Hulled hemp seeds, or nuts, can be widely used in recipes.

Hemp Oil

    Hemp seed oil is highly emollient and can be used directly on the skin to nourish and regenerate. Hemp seed oil is capable of deeply penetrating the skin, rather than just sitting on top of the skin. This action works to prevent the aging of the skin, by allowing the essential fatty acids to fully penetrate the outer layer of skin, and encouraging a healthy moisture balance.

Effects

    Hemp contains more of the beneficial amino acids than proteins such as milk, eggs or meat.

    Hemp is a complete source of protein and is easily digestible.

    Hemp seed contains almost seven times more omega-3 fatty acids than fish. It also provides an option for those unable to eat gluten, meat, sugar and milk. It is a good addition to a diet for those concerned about avoiding carbohydrates.

Alternatives to Estrogen Cream

Menopause in women can cause a variety of symptoms, such as fibrocystic breasts, insomnia and PMS. Estrogen cream is a popular type of hormone replacement therapy or HRT, designed to relieve these symptoms. Many doctors contend that all women should undergo some type of HRT to help prevent Alzheimer's, heart disease and osteoporosis. Estrogen cream is inserted into the vagina via an applicator and is then absorbed by the vaginal lining and carried into the bloodstream. Although it is effective for many women, it can produce both mild and severe side effects. Milder alternatives are available for women who prefer natural medicine.

Why Natural?

    While most doctors prescribe synthetic hormones to women, these often have severe side effects and may even increase a woman's chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer. Some drugs containing synthetic estrogen, such as Premarin and Povera, have side effects, including blood cots, liver and gall bladder damage and depression.

Options

    Many synthetic hormones cause devastating reactions because they are simply too concentrated and powerful. There are many natural types of HRT that run the gamut from mild to moderate and often have fewer--if any--side effects.

Diet

    Diet can make a world of difference in treating menopausal symptoms. Sufferers should avoid processed foods and focus their diet on fats and proteins. This will help decrease the body's sex hormone levels. Sufferers should also reduce their intake of alcohol, nicotine, soda and caffeine while maintaining high-intake levels of vegetables, fruits, low fat yogurts and grains. Antacids and diuretics should be avoided, and supplementing your diet by taking fish or flaxseed oil and a multivitamin is often beneficial.

Herbs

    The Chinese have used herbs for treating symptoms of menopause for centuries.
    The herbs work by enhancing and rejuvenating glands and organs, and even help make bones stronger. Herbal remedies are recommended for women who have had cancer or are at risk, or who in general have mild menopausal symptoms. Even if you are already taking hormones, Chinese herbs can help with symptoms that are not disappearing. A strength of herbal treatment is that works on the whole body.

Natural Creams and Pills

    Natural estrogen creams and pills do exist on the market. They are typically made of Mexican wild yam root, licorice and soy. For a lot of women, these natural creams and pills can help relieve symptoms of menopause.

Estriol

    More commonly used in Europe, estriol is the weakest form of estrogen created in the body. It is extracted from wild yam root. Since it is natural estriol cannot be patented by pharmaceutical companies and therefore is not suggested to US doctors like many new drugs usually are. Milder and safer than other types of estrogen, estriol is thought to help weaken tumors and prevent cancer.

Lemonade Colon Cleanse Recipe

Lemonade Colon Cleanse Recipe

Lemon is a popular ingredient in colon cleanse recipes. Lemons contain potassium, phosphorus, folate, vitamin A and calcium as well as the vitamin C for which citrus fruits are well known. There are several different recommendations for ways to perform a colon cleanse using lemons or lemonade, but the recipes are essentially the same.

Basic Recipe

    Maple syrup

    The basic recipe for the lemon or lemonade colon cleanse is 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice (about half of one lemon), 8 to 10 ounces of very warm spring or distilled water and 1 to 2 tablespoon of real maple syrup. Mix this thoroughly, then add a pinch of cayenne pepper (the ground spice) or to taste. Grade B maple syrup is recommended; it contains trace minerals that are considered beneficial. Drink one glass of this mixture every few hours, for a total of 8 to 10 glasses daily. The lemonade colon cleanse may last from 1 day to several days.

Recipe Variations

    Fresh cayenne peppers

    Some recipes call for using the entire lemon half, without seeds, rather than just the lemon juice; organic lemons are recommended. Other recipes call for the lemon juice and zest, but avoid the seeds and pith, which are bitter. Some sources recommend using a vegetable laxative when taking the lemonade colon cleanse as a source of fiber.

Cautions

    When you are performing a colon cleanse, avoid becoming dehydrated. If you become weak or light-headed, you may wish to discontinue the cleanse earlier than planned; you should also avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how you react to the cleanse. You may find a morning glass of warm water, lemon juice and honey or maple syrup every day is more manageable and beneficial. If you have hypoglycemia or diabetes, a colon cleanse of this type may be harmful to your health. If you are under a doctor's care or taking prescription medication, talk with your doctor before beginning any colon cleanse regimen.

Wednesday, November 23, 2016

Causes of Excess Sweating

Excess sweating is a miserable condition that can cause emotional distress and social embarrassment for an individual. It is a condition that affects men and women alike, and can develop at any age. There are a number of factors that are believed to cause excess sweating.

Hyperthyroidism

    This is a medical condition in which the thyroid gland secretes excessive amounts of thyroid hormones, causing excess sweating, tremors and heart palpitations.

Menopause

    Excess sweating, particularly at night, is a common symptom of menopause. It results from hormonal changes in a woman's body during the menopausal transition.

Hyperhidrosis

    Excess sweating may be caused by hyperhidrosis, a medical condition in which the sweat glands produce sweat in significantly larger amounts than needed to regulate body temperature.

Pharmaceutical Drugs

    A number of prescription and non-prescription medications can cause excess sweating as a side effect. These include Cialis, Celebrex, Levitra, Ambien and Zoloft.

Underlying Conditions

    Another reason for excessive sweating is an underlying disease or condition such as diabetes mellitus, leukemia and Parkinson's disease. In this case, excessive sweating is a symptom and will stop once the disease or condition is cured.

Addiction

    Alcoholism and addiction to cocaine, amphetamines and other stimulant drugs are another reason for excessive sweating.

Natural Ways to Relieve Back Pain

Natural Ways to Relieve Back Pain

Depending on the severity of pain, back pain can be a debilitating condition that causes sleepless nights, difficulty in movement and missed days of work. There are numerous causes of back pain, including poor posture, repetitive movement like stooping or typing, incorrect lifting of objects and overexertion during exercise. If you experience back pain, you don't have to just suffer through it. There are several natural ways that back pain can be relieved.

Exercise

    No matter what may be the cause of your back problems, the stretching techniques found in slow-moving exercise programs, such as Yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi, can help reduce the pain. Yoga and Pilates help increase flexibility in the body and improve oxygen levels in the blood and body tissues, which can help aid in healing and recovery. Yoga and Pilates also help to strengthen the muscles, especially those in the core or torso, which then provide continuous support to the back.

    Tai Chi is a martial arts technique involving slow, nonstrenuous movements of the body and proper breathing techniques. Like Yoga and Pilates, the combination of slow movements and deep breathing found in Tai Chi can help fuel the body with oxygen and stretch sore back muscles.

Reflexology and Acupuncture

    Two back pain relievers that involve the pressure points of the body include reflexology and acupuncture. Reflexology is the act of applying pressure to areas on the hands and feet that are linked to other parts of the body, including the back. Pressing on these points can increase circulation to the back and lessen pain in the area.

    Similar to reflexology, acupuncture targets certain pressure points on the body. Unlike reflexology, though, acupuncture involves the actual puncture of the skin with needles and should be done by a professional.

Get an Adjustment

    One common cause of back pain is spinal misalignment. Getting a chiropractic adjustment can help realign the spine, eliminating much of the pain. Chiropractic adjustments have low risk of side effects for patients and have high patient satisfaction, according to Orthopedics Today.

Diet

    Since a lot of back pain is caused by abuse of the back muscles, keeping those muscles in their best shape can help reduce pain substantially. Fueling the body with all of the necessary vitamins and minerals is an easy way to keep muscles healthy.

    B vitamins are known to help reduce chronic pain, and omega-3 fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help eliminate the inflammation that leads to pain. Omega-3s can be found in seafood and are added to a variety of other food items, such as eggs and milk.

Natural Antibiotic for a Sinus Infection

A sinus infection occurs when the hollow cavities in the skull become infected by viruses, fungi or bacteria. Sinus infections usually follow a bout of the common cold or allergic rhinitis and may include symptoms like sinus pressure, headache, stuffy nose, dizziness, sore throat and fever. While treatment with antibiotic medication is the only proven cure for a sinus infection, there are a variety of natural remedies that can ease symptoms and help speed recovery.

Herbal Antibiotic Remedies

    Natural antibiotic preparations can be taken in a variety of forms, including oral supplements, steam inhalation mixtures and topical applications. The oral route of administration is the most direct and is only suitable for herbs that aren't toxic when taken internally.

    Garlic is among the most popular oral sinus infection remedies. According to MedHerb.com, allicin--the active compound in garlic--has the broadest range of antimicrobial properties of any compound known, killing parasites, bacteria, fungi, viruses and protozoa alike. Cayenne pepper is an excellent nasal decongestant, and oregano oil can be taken internally for its potent antibiotic and antifungal properties.

    If steam or vapor is your chosen method of administration, eucalyptus and tea tree oils are two excellent choices. Tea tree has potent antibacterial and antifungal properties, while eucalyptus is great for opening nasal passages and soothing a sore throat. To make an herbal steam inhalation with these herbs, dissolve two drops of tea tree oil, teaspoon of vapor rub with eucalyptus and clove of garlic in boiled water and inhale for three minutes.

    Tea tree oil can also be added to lotions or body creams and applied topically, as can cayenne powder. Cayenne contains the pain-killing substance capsaicin, which can ease the aches and pains that often accompany sinus infection.

Additional Support

    To heal a sinus infection as quickly and completely as possible, it's important to boost immune function however you can. Aim for at least eight hours of sleep each night and take naps as needed until you are well. Eat as healthfully as possible, and take a daily multivitamin plus extra vitamin C for its immune stimulating properties. Avoid allergens like mold and irritants like cigarette smoke, and rinse nasal passages with a neti pot or similar apparatus daily.

Safety Considerations

    Sinus infection is a serious condition that can lead to sepsis, brain inflammation or death if not properly treated. The only cure for a sinus infection is treatment with antibiotic medications. See a doctor immediately if you think you have a sinus infection.

How to Benefit from Chia Seeds for Home Remedies

Chia seed has been a food of native peoples in the Americas for centuries. Called "the running food," it provides so much energy that it was said that warriors could eat as little as a teaspoon of chia during a 24-hour march. Chia seed is rich in antioxidants, fiber, vitamins and minerals. First studied by commercial grocers, the research community has begun to study the astonishing benefits of chia seed.

Instructions

    1

    Add chia seed to your diet for its nutritional value. Numerous investigations have focused on analysis of the contents of chia seed. Chia seed is the highest known plant source of omega-3 fatty acids, with no cholesterol content, unlike sources like fish oil. The amount of protein in chia seed is higher than most common grains, such as corn, rice, wheat and oats. It also provides antioxidants, fiber and minerals.

    2

    Manage blood sugar levels for diabetics. Chia is digested more slowly than other carbohydrates, maintaining blood sugar at a healthy level. Research indicates that white chia seeds improve cardiovascular risk factors in type 2 diabetics, including reduced blood pressure.

    3

    Aid digestion using chia seeds. Chia seed's ability to absorb water is an aid to digestion. The seeds facilitate rapid absorption, which is important during growth periods, especially for young children and adolescents.

    4

    Get full faster when you are losing weight. A unique gel is formed when the chia seed is exposed to water. It has no calories or flavor, and yet adds bulk to foods and enhances satisfaction of hunger. It helps dieters fill up faster and remain satisfied longer. It can even be used as an alternative to fats and oils used in baked goods.

    5

    Improve your energy levels. Like the ancients, modern day athletes can improve energy levels while obtaining high levels of nutrition by consuming chia seeds. The seeds not only provide endurance through nutrition, but also help the athlete remain hydrated during long periods of exercise.

Tuesday, November 22, 2016

How to Benefit from Black Seed Oil Herbal Remedies

Black seed oil, also known as black cumin, is pressed from the seeds of the black seed plant, which is in the ranunculaceae (buttercup) family. Components of black seed oil are nigella and melatin. These substances are believed to have cures for numerous ailments. Linoleic acid found in black seed oil has anti-inflammatory properties.

Instructions

    1

    Boost the healthy functioning of the immune system. Black seed oil is high on the list of treatments for immunodeficiency treatments and has been proven clinically to be beneficial. Black seed is key to the healthy function of the immune system and maintaining its optimum strength.

    2

    Lower the risk of cancer. One of the applications of black seed is an anti-tumor properties. Black seed raises the production of interferon and enhances the health of bone marrow. It also protects normal cells against harmful cell growth.

    3

    Alleviate inflammation. Black seed also contains substances that synthesize prostaglandin, which protects the body against inflammation. Inflammation causes a host of chronic illnesses and disease of advancing age, such as heart disease and cancer.

    4

    Control allergic reactions. Black seed oil controls allergic reactions. This is believed to be because of its anti-histamine effect. Black seed oil is also brocho-dialator.

    5

    Aid digestion. The nigella and melatin components of black seed oil are what aids digestive benefits. They promote detoxification and healthy elimination.

Shoulder Arthritis Exercises

Shoulder arthritis can be excruciating because almost every time you move, your shoulders move. If you have not been able to achieve much relief from medications, begin exercising the shoulder to strengthen and stretch it. Often, adding exercise into your regimen will help to ease the pain of arthritis. The exercises are very simple and in most cases you do not need any equipment, or you can use things that you have around the house.

Shoulder Cradle

    Hold one of your arms near the elbow with the opposite hand and then raise the arm over your head. Hold the arm as high as it will go and then bend and straighten the elbow you are holding. Some people find that this exercise is more comfortable when they lie down as it lends a bit more support to tight or extremely painful shoulders.

Pendulum

    This is one of the better exercises for a shoulder that has a limited range of motion or is very painful. The pendulum can be done sitting or standing. To complete the exercise, lean forward slightly, letting your arms hang in front of you. Simply relax and feel the weight of your arm as you lean forward. Make small circles in front of you, keeping the arm relaxed. Gradually make the circles bigger and bigger. This should be slightly uncomfortable, but if it becomes too painful make smaller circles. Complete 25 circles.

Wand Exercise

    This exercise can be done sitting, standing, or lying down. It is a good exercise for those who have a very tight shoulder or if both shoulders are affected by the arthritis. For this you'll need a cane, and a mop, broom handle or yardstick. To complete the exercise, place one hand on either side of the stick and then raise the wand as high over your head as possible. Hold for a deep stretch and release. Repeat five times.

Warnings

    If you have shoulder pain and do not have a diagnosis, do not complete these exercises until you have seen a doctor. If you have pain and it has not been diagnosed as arthritis these exercises, and those like them, could cause further damage and pain to the shoulder area. A diagnosis from a qualified doctor is always important before starting any exercise or stretching routine.

Unconventional Cancer Cures

A number of people diagnosed with cancer are turning away from traditional approaches to treatment. Traditional approaches such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, can harm vital organs and lead to a poor quality of life because of their severe side effects. Spiritual, herbal and dietary approaches have become quite commonplace. Although medical experts still do not fully support these efforts there seems to be a changing trend as more information is discovered about unconventional approaches to cancer treatment.

Spiritual Approaches

    The most common unconventional approach to treating cancer is a spiritual approach. Not only is it a treatment method but for many people it is a reaction to a diagnosis that is frightening and difficult to accept. Some methods for spiritual healing are prayer, anointing with oils and laying on of hands. For many this type of treatment works very well although medical experts usually call it a coincidence that the patient went into remission at the same time they began to rely on faith to cure their terminal disease.

Psychological Approaches

    Many psychological approaches to cancer treatment are now not only accepted in the medical mainstream but are also highly respected. These approaches include hypnosis, biofeedback, group and individual therapy, imagery and self-exploration. These approaches are beneficial in helping the patient deal with the trauma of diagnosis, alleviating anxiety and helping the patient cope with the side effects of medical cancer treatment. Medical experts agree that this kind of unconventional approach to treating cancer will no doubt help to improve a patient's quality of life.

Nutritional and Dietary Approaches

    Dietary and nutritional approaches to cancer are gaining quickly in popularity. The reason for this is that it has been proved that diet and cancer are related, especially with some of the most common types of cancer including breast, colon and prostate cancers. While this is still considered an unconventional approach to treatment, changing the diet of a cancer patient has proved to slow and in some cases even stop cancer growth. The dietary approaches that are most respected as of 2009 are the Hippocrates wheat-grass diet, the macrobiotic diet, the Livingston-Wheeler nutritional program, the Gerson diet and the Kelley-Gonzalez nutritional program.

Herbal Approaches

    Herbal therapies for cancer are becoming increasingly popular and are being retrieved from all parts of the world. It is likely that the most used herbal approaches come from traditional Chinese medicine. More people are beginning to use herbs as a front-line approach to combating not just cancer but a number of health conditions and diseases. Fu Zhen therapy is a very common herbal approach because it protects the immune system, leading to higher survival rates. The essential herbs that make up Fu Zhen are ginseng, ganoderma, astragalus, atractylodes, ligustrum and codonopsis. The combination of these herbs is believed to increase T-cells while boosting the immune system.

Pharmacological Approaches

    There are many pharmacological approaches to treating cancer. The pharmacological approach of using or combining nutritional supplements and herbs in conjunction with other pharmaceutical means has proven to be successful and very popular. Some of the pharmacological treatments include such items as Vitamin C, hydrazine sulfate, mistletoe extract and Iscador.

Monday, November 21, 2016

Home Remedies for Face Mole Removal

Many times, moles on the face can be removed using home remedies instead of using conventional methods. Home remedies to remove moles on the face range from using apple cider vinegar to garlic. With a little bit of diligence and patience, small moles can easily be removed using safe, proven home remedy methods.

Apple Cider Vinegar

    Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy to treat moles on the face. Apply apple cider vinegar to the mole right before retiring for the night, by saturating a cotton pad with apple cider vinegar, put over the mole and cover with a bandage. Protect the skin directly around the mole with petroleum jelly, so the apple cider vinegar will only affect the mole itself.

    Leave the apple cider vinegar soaked cotton pad on over night. Remove the cotton pad and bandage in the morning and continue to dab some apple cider vinegar on the mole about 4-5 times during the day. Repeat this procedure for between 5-7 to see results. The mole should begin to darken and start to flake off for easy removal.

Garlic

    Garlic can be used in a similar way like apple cider vinegar to treat and remove moles on the face. Use caution as excessive use of garlic can cause burning of the skin surrounding the mole.

    Chop up a couple of peeled garlic cloves and place in a small bowl. With a spoon or pestle, mash up the cloves until they start to release juices into the bowl. Put this garlic juice onto a cotton pad and apply directly to the mole. Place a bandage over the cotton pad and leave on for ten minutes. Repeat this procedure daily for 3-4 days to see results. Again, the facial mole should begin to darken, and start to flake off completely, revealing smooth pink skin underneath.

Iodine

    Iodine is another home remedy that is useful in eliminating moles from the face. Apply the iodine to the facial mole with a cotton ball 2 to 3 times a day. Make sure the area surrounding the mole is protected with petroleum jelly. Eventually after repeating this treatment for about one week, the skin on the mole will begin to darken, flake and gently fall away.

    As with any home remedy that is used to treat facial moles, take care to prevent burning or irritation of the skin. Apply petroleum jelly to the skin area surrounding the mole for extra protection. If you experience burning of the skin, discontinue your home remedy program and seek medical attention.

Uses for Used Tea Bags

The next time you remove your tea bag from a steamy cup of herbal refreshment and throw it in the trash, think again. A used tea bag can reinvent itself as a natural healer for a variety of bodily ailments, a furniture cleaner and even a healthy treat for your garden. So use it before you lose it.

Healing the Body

    One of the more commonly known uses for used tea bags is soothing puffy, tired eyes by placing the bags on them. Green tea is especially good for bodily ailments, as it contains a high dose of tannins, which are used to protect plants from predators. But for humans, tannins can act as a champion against insect bites, razor burns and sunburns due to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial components. Tannins in tea can also help combat warts when reapplied a few days in a row.

Cleaning Furniture

    Oddly enough, used tea bags can be used for cleaning your house or even getting rid of old furniture polish. Place a couple of old tea bags in a quart of boiled water, and let it cool. Then dip a rag or cloth into the tea water to remove dirt or ugly polish and varnish from wood furniture and floors.

    Used tea bags can shine a mirror, too. Just dampen a soft cloth with warm water that contains used tea bags, and wipe the mirror to get streak-free results.

Gardening and Recycling

    Recycle your tea bags by dropping the remnants of the tea into your soil in the backyard, which are healthy for your plants and allow them to grow. Mix leftover tea-bag contents with charcoal or ash, and use it in the soil of your potted and ground plants.

    Used tea bags can also be helpful in helping speed up the decomposition process of your compost pile. Pour some warm hot tea on the pile to "draw acid-producing bacteria," according to "Reader's Digest."

Dangers of Senna Tea

Senna tea is a popular herbal laxative used for the relief of constipation. Many people find it very effective as a natural solution to constipation problems. The problem is that there are several dangers associated with consuming senna tea.

Allergies

    Some people are allergic to senna tea. Some users have experienced serious allergic reactions. You should always take senna tea in small amounts the first time and watch for reactions such as swelling of the tongue face or lips and difficulty breathing and swallowing.

Digestive Issues

    Senna tea can worsen digestive issues instead of improving them. These problems are often from overuse. The digestive issues include chronic diarrhea, nausea and stomach cramps. This can lead to dehydration and an electrolyte balance disturbance, which can be fatal.

Laxative Dependency

    Overuse of senna tea can damage the colon and rectum as they become desensitized to the need to defecate. This will cause a strong dependency of more laxatives and cause a recurring long-term issue.

Finger and Toe Enlargement

    An odd side effect of senna use is the growth of the fingers and toes, which become clubbed. This is visible in people with anorexia who abuse the herb. Fortunately, the symptom is reversible when use is discontinued.

Organ Injury

    Overuse of senna tea in known to damage the organs. It can cause Pseudomelanosis coli, a condition that turns the intestines black. This may can cause colorectal cancer. It may cause liver enzyme altercation, chronic liver disease and liver failure. Senna tea can also damage the kidneys and cause renal failure.

Drug Interactions

    Anyone who senna tea must inform their doctor to avoid dangerous drug interactions. There are at lease 123 drugs that cause bad reactions when mixed used with senna tea. Some common drugs that react with senna tea are aspirin, Lasix, Lexapro, Milk of Magnesia, Prilosec and Tylenol. Vitamins C and D may also cause adverse drug interactions when taken with senna tea.

Pregnancy

    Pregnant women should not take senna tea because it can cause premature contractions and miscarrage. Lactating mothers should also avoid it to prevent it from causing a laxative effect in the baby's digestive system.

Substitutes for Preparation H

Hemorrhoids. No one likes to talk about them--those enlarged, painful blood vessels in an around the anal area. But according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, about 50 percent of the population over age 50 finds itself with hemorrhoids. And for sufferer, the only question is how to relieve hemorrhoids.

If you have hemorrhoids, you've probably used the old stand-by for relief--Preparation H. But did you know that a substitute for Preparation H can work as well, or even better? There are also methods that can help prevent hemorrhoids.

Preparation H

    There are several Preparation H medications including ointment, cooling gel, medicated wipes, suppositories, anti-itch cream and maximum strength cream. Each product, with the exception of the anti-itch cream and the medicated wipes contains Phenylephrine HCl as its active ingredient. Phenylephrine is commonly used to relieve stuffy noses, and sinus and ear symptoms that are caused by colds, allergies or flu. It works on hemorrhoids because it decreases swelling in tissues.

    The active ingredient in the Preparation H anti-itch cream is hydrocortisone, and in the medicated wipes it is witch hazel--a known natural cure for hemorrhoids.

Causes of Hemorrhoids

    According to MayoClinic.com, the basic cause of hemorrhoids is increased pressure on the lower rectum. This can occur with the following:

    Straining on the toilet
    Sitting on the toilet for extended periods of time
    Chronic diarrhea
    Chronic constipation
    Obesity
    Pregnancy
    Anal intercourse
    Hereditary tendency

Substitutes for Preparation H

    One great substitute for Preparation H is witch hazel. Witch hazel is the extract from the Hamamelis virginiana plant, and is usually mixed in a solution with alcohol. Tucking a cotton ball soaked in witch hazel up close to the affected area can relieve pain and itching and reduce swelling, according to MotherNature.com .

    A sitz bath can also work wonders because it increases blood flow to the area, expediting healing. Sit in a few inches of warm water with your knees elevated for several minutes to a half hour, several times a day.

Natural Ways to End Hemorrhoids

    The natural cure for hemorrhoids begins with taking proper care of your digestive system so that bowel movements are easy. Drink lots of fluids, especially water, and make sure you're getting plenty of fiber from fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

    To keep your digestive system moving smoothly, take psyllium with juice or water every day. Note that you must keep your liquid intake high when you are using psyllium.

    Consuming a diet that is fiber-rich and provides plenty of water will help prevent hemorrhoids from developing.

When to see your doctor

    If you have a hemorrhoid that is bleeding a lot, as in more than just a bit when you have a bowel movement, you'll need to see your doctor. Sometimes, the only way to relieve hemorrhoids is to surgically remove them.

Sunday, November 20, 2016

Benefits of Himalayan Salt

Benefits of Himalayan Salt

Himalayan salt is mined at the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains, deep inside the earth. It is found on the largest salt range in the entire world. These salts, which date to the Precambrian age, are completely pure and free from the polluting agents that are found in most of today's environments. Himalayan salt is mined by hand, like it has been done for thousands of years. This preserves its pureness and increases its natural health benefits.

Negative Ions

    According to Denise Mann, a writer for Webmd.com, "negative ions are odorless, tasteless and invisible molecules that we inhale in abundance in certain environments. Think mountains, waterfalls and beaches." Mann writes that these negative ions produce positive biochemical reactions that can increase serotonin levels. This helps alleviate depression, relieve stress and boost energy levels.

    Himalayan salt produces negative ions because it comes from an environment rich in dry iron. This kind of environment is able to kill the harmful bacteria and microbes that are found in other salts. Himalayan salt is beneficial to patients who suffer from chronic illness of the bronchial system or allergies.

Unrefined

    Because Himalayan salt is not chemically refined, it is completely pure. It contains all of its original natural minerals. Replacing ordinary table salt with Himalayan salt can reduce edema in the body tissue, as well as reduce the formation of cellulite.

Minerals and Trace Elements

    Himalayan salt contains at least 84 minerals and trace elements, many of which are beneficial for human consumption:

    Calcium, which is important for the development and protection of bones and teeth, is found in this salt.

    Chromium is also in Himalayan salt. It aids in metabolizing and regulating blood glucose.

    Cobalt, which helps produce red blood cells, is also abundant in Himalayan salt.

    Iron, another important mineral that is necessary for cell formation, is a key element in this particular salt.

    Some of the other beneficial minerals that are found in Himalayan salt include magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, sulfur and molybdenum.

Salt Lamps

    Pierce J. Howard, Ph.D., and author of "The Owner's Manual for the Brain: Everyday Applications from Mind Brain Research," states on WebMD that ionizers "may protect against germs in the air, resulting in decreased irritation due to inhaling various particles that make you sneeze, cough or have a throat irritation."

    Himalayan salt lamps act as ionizers in the home. When a salt lamp heats up, it absorbs any moisture that is inside the salt. This causes the lamp to be warm on the inside and damp on the surface. This contrasts works together to build an ion field. The lamp then releases negative ions into the air.

Placement

    Spring Mountain Naturals recommends that Himalayan salt lamp ionizers should be placed anywhere serenity is desired. Bedrooms, living rooms, offices and hallways are all good choices. Lamps should also be placed near electronic devices to reduce electromagnetic pollution.

Poultice Pain Relief

Poultices has been used for centuries to relieve pain for complaints such as ear aches, boils and sprains, to name a few. A poultice is comprised of whole herbs and is applied much the same as a compress, and often involve yeast products or mashed potatoes as a conductor for herbal infusions or oils.

What is a Poultice

    An herb powder when mixed with hot water will form a paste that can be smeared onto a soft cloth or gauze and applied directly to the affected area. When applied directly to the skin, a light coating of vegetable or olive oil will prevent the poultice from sticking .

Preparation

    Based on the size of the affected area, a sufficient amount of herb should be simmered for two minutes after which the herb should be squeezed to eliminate any excess liquid. Place the herb as hot as can be tolerated onto the affected area. Wrap the poultice in gauze or soft cloth strips and leave on for a maximum of three hours. A cold poultice can be prepared using the same method, but leave in the excess liquid and soak bread or mashed potato in the herbal infusion. When cool, spread on gauze or soft cloth and wrap affected area.

Common Poultices

    Sage and Vinegar Poultice: A treatment for sprains and bruising. Flatten leaves but do not break them, and cover with vinegar in a sauce pan. Simmer slightly for five minutes then remove and place leaves on a soft cloth. Work quickly, folding the cloth to form an envelope large enough to cover the affected area. Poultice should be applied as hot as is tolerable, and covered with cloth to retain heat. Swelling should subside in one hour.

    Onion Poultice: A treatment for bronchitis and lung congestion. Slice three large fresh onions thinly and saute half in small amount of water until the onions are transparent. Fold into a cloth, making an envelope-shaped packet, and lay the poultice across the chest, covering to retain heat. Prepare the remaining onions and repeat the process when the first poultice is cooled.

Brandt's Vestibular Exercises

Brandt's Vestibular Exercises

If you belong to the millions of people who suffer from some form of vertigo, dizziness or balance disorder related to problems in the inner ear, it is, unfortunately, unlikely that these symptoms will be explained or treated in a timely fashion. While you wait, you may wish to try to fix your symptoms. One of the simplest and lowest-risk remedies you can try is the Brandt-Daroff series of exercises.

What to Do

    Note what side your vertigo is on. Sit on the edge of your bed. Lean to the side your vertigo is on, until you are lying on your side, on the bed. If this causes vertigo, wait for it to pass. Slowly return to a seated position. If this causes vertigo, wait for it to pass. Repeat.

Why It Works

    Otolith Crystals in Place

    Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and labyrinthitis are two of the most common of the ailments, which include the above symptoms, and no others (see link in References). In BBPV, otoliths (crystals lodged deep within the labyrinth of the inner ear), which are necessary for balance, become displaced by a virus or a physical trauma, such as a sudden motion or a blow to the head. This disorder can cause vertigo, dizzy spells, loss of balance, nausea and even falls. The vertigo is often one-sided, with a sensation of the head or even the body spinning clockwise or counterclockwise. In labyrinthitis, the inner ear is inflamed or irritated, causing similar symptoms.

Treatment's Worth

    While it will help you to understand the "shape" of your vertigo--when it happens--and maybe to reduce symptoms, the Brandt-Daroff series is not as effective as a more-complex related treatment--the Epley maneuver. This is because the Epley maneuver more specifically repositions your otoliths, closely following the twists and turns of the anatomy of your inner ear. However, the Epley maneuver should be prescribed by a doctor in case your vertigo is caused by an issue untreatable by guided shifts in position.

    Blue Cross of California states that there is no risk if you do the Brandt-Daroff series and recommends that if you are getting relief from this, you practice it up to 20 times a day (see link in References).

Saturday, November 19, 2016

Home Remedies for Swelling & Redness

Swelling and redness often occurs with sprains, strains and overuse of muscles or other conditions such as allergies or insect bites. Numerous home remedies exist, however, be advised that swelling or redness that does not improve through home remedies or treatments should be discussed with a family medical provider.

RICE

    The RICE method for relief of swelling and accompanying redness stands for rest, ice, compression and elevation. Give the injured area plenty of rest. Use ice packs to relieve swelling and follow with a compression bandage or wrap if possible, especially in the case of sprains to the ankle, wrist or shoulder. Then, elevate the affected area, which will reduce swelling caused by injury to tissues or broken blood vessels.

Antihistimines

    Sometimes, swelling and redness, especially in the nasal passages, is caused by allergies. In such cases, an antihistamine may help reduce symptoms and provide much needed relief. Antihistamines should contain diphenhydramine or chlorpheniramine maleate for optimal benefit.

    Antihistamines can also treat insect bites, which may cause the skin to swell and engorge with blood, giving the skin a red appearance.

Baking Soda Poultice

    For swelling and redness caused by spider or insect bites, mix a baking soda poultice made of three parts baking soda to one part water. Spread the poultice over the affected area.

What Is DMSO Gel?

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) gel is a colorless, faintly oily gel created as a byproduct of wood pulp. DMSO gel is typically used as a industrial solvent, but is also used to relieve pain caused by arthritis or an autoimmune disorder. According to PainEase.com, DMSO gel is used in Europe for the treatment of arthritis and bursitis, but is not FDA approved for topical use in the United States because it is not clear how it affects the body.

Benefits

    DMSO gel is used to treat pain associated with many illnesses, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, tendinitis, and arthrosis. According to a study reported by the National Institutes of Health, 44% of participants who experienced tendinitis, alleviated their pain within two weeks after using DMSO gel. Positive results were experienced within three days to one week of use.

Features

    According to Racoon.com, DMSO gel can penetrate the blood stream through application on the skin, allowing it and any other substances that touch the affected area to absorb into the blood. DMSO gel tastes like garlic or oysters. It can make the application area smell like garlic after it is absorbed into the bloodstream.

Controversy

    According to the University of Alaska, the FDA has not approved DMSO gel for topical use because it causes significant side effects. It is only approved for limited use for treating interstitial cystitis. The extent of its side effects are not known and more clinical testing is required to verify the safety of DMSO gel.

Types

    DMSO gel is sold commercially as an industrial solvent. It is sold in jars mixed with additional gel for topical use. Aloe vera, fragrances, or distilled water is also mixed with the gel.

Side Effects

    According to eVitamins.com, DMSO causes stomach pain, headache, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances. Skin irritation or burning can occur at the application site. Racoon.com also states DMSO gel causes dizziness and nausea. It can damage the liver, kidneys, and the central nervous system.