Backache : Causes and Home Remedies for Backache

Backache

Backache is one of the most common ailments prevalent today. Sedentary living habits, hazardous work patterns and psychological conditions associated with emotional stress, which bring about spasm of the muscles, cause backaches. As the back bears the weight of the entire body, overweight persons feel the strain on the back when they have to carry an extra load.
In most cases of backache, the pain is usually felt either in the middle of the back or lower down. It may spread to both sides of the waist and the hips. In a condition of acute pain, the patient is unable to move and is bedridden.

Causes of backache:

1.Muscular tension, straining of the joints, poor posture.
2.Acute or chronic illnesses like kidney or prostate problems, female disorders, Influenza, and arthritis, may also lead to backache.
3.Stress and strain resulting from sitting for a long time.
4.Improper lifting of weights.
5.Emotional problems which may cause painful muscle cramping.
6.High heels.
7.Incorrect nutrition resulting from dietetic errors.
8.Lack of exercise.


Remedies for backache:

1.The most important home remedy for backache is the use of garlic. Two or three cloves should be taken every morning to get results. An oil prepared from garlic and rubbed on the back will give great relief. This oil is prepared by frying ten cloves of garlic in 60 ml of oil in a frying pan. Any of the oils which are used as rubefacients, such as mustard oil. sesame oil, and coconut oil can be used according to one's choice. They should be fried on a slow fire till they are brown. After the oil has cooled, it should be applied vigorously on the back, and allowed to remain there for three hours. The patient may, thereafter, take a warm-water bath. This treatment should be continued for at least fifteen days.

2.Raw potato is an ancient home remedy for backache, characterised by incapacitating pain in the lumbar region, especially in the lower part of the back. Application of raw potato in the form of a poultice has been found very effective in this condition.

3.Vitamin C has proved valuable in case of severe backaches. About 2,000 mg of this vitamin should be taken daily for treating this condition. Considerable improvement will be noticeable within two days.

4.Lemon is another useful remedy for backache. The juice of one lemon should be mixed with common salt and taken by the patient twice daily. It will give relief.

5.Avoid fatty, spicy, and fried foods; curd, sweetmeats and sugar; condiments; and tea and coffee. Foods that have been processed for preservation have few nutrients and should also be eliminated from the diet.

Dark Circle : Causes, Treatments and Natural Home Remedies

Dark circle

Dark circles can make a beautiful face very ugly. Dark blemishes are formed under the eyes due to various reasons. Heredity is believed to be one of the major reasons for its formation. Dark circles are also considered to be a sign of unhealthiness.

Dark circles are very visible as darkened areas around or under the eyes. Apart from that, there are no other symptoms to this problem. You may also experience water discharge from your eyes in excess which may later give rise to dark circles.


Causes of dark cicles

1.Aging is the main factor for the development of dark circles. As you age, the skin becomes dry and the dark circles become very prominent.
2.People who do not get their share of 8 hours of sleep on a daily basis will develop dark under eye circles.
3.Sometimes, there may be an excessive loss of water from the body, which could make your skin dry and weak.
4.Stress is also considered to be another common cause of dark circles. Dark circles are developed due to stress which includes excessive workload, family problems, and many more.
5.Dark circles can also be formed due to lack of healthy diet. It is very important to consume a meal that is rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals that are extremely essential for the body’s development.


Home remedies for dark circles

1.Application of a thin sliced cucumber on top of each eye for 15 to 20 minutes, twice a day, relieves stress and cools down the eyes.

2.A mixture of almond oil and honey should be applied on the affected area every night before bedtime. You will see a remarkable improvement in two to three weeks.

3.Consume at least two to three liters of water on a daily basis. Water is a very essential remedy in this case and it flushes out the toxins present in the body.

4.Tea bags are known to be very effective in curing dark circles. A cold tea bag should be put on top of each eye for 10 to 15 minutes everyday.

5.Make a paste of fresh mint leaves and add a few drops of lime juice in it. Apply the mixture on the eyes and the dark circles for 10 to 15 minutes everyday and see the difference in two to three weeks.


Treatment for dark circles

1.A healthy diet for dark circles which is full of nutrients is the most essential thing in this case.Some of the essential nutrients can be found in fresh fruits , vegetables,cereal crops such as oats, barley, wheat and millets.

2. A breakfast is the most important meal of the day and should be consumed before starting any kind of work.

3.Daily eight hours of sleep is very essential for the body and the eyes. It is very important that you sleep without being disturbed at all. This is not only good for the eyes but also for the body as you will not have any health problems in the future.

4.Exercising is also very important and should be added to your daily regime. If you remain healthy at all times, you will not encounter any health problems.

Arthritis : Causes and Home Remedies for Arthritis

Arthritis

It is, generally, a chronic disease process. Arthritis occurs in various forms, the most frequent being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease which usually occurs in the older age-group. Rheumatoid arthritis is a serious disease which affects not only the joints of the fingers, wrists, hips, knees, and feet, but also the muscles, tendons and other tissues of the body.


Causes

Osteoarthritis results from structural changes in the articular cartilage in the joints, usually those which are weight-bearing, such as the spine and knees.

Rheumatoid arthritis is due to an inflammation of the synovium or lining of the joints. This is accompanied by swelling and eventually leads to deformity. The condition may be caused by hormonal imbalance, physical and emotional stress, infection, severe fright, shock, and injury.


Remedies

1.Studies have shown that calcium can help arthritis. Several patients have discovered that joint pains have either been relieved or have disappeared entirely after taking calcium. This mineral should be taken in the form of calcium lactate. Two teaspoons of calcium lactate, each teaspoon providing 400 mg of absorbable calcium, may be taken three times daily in water, before meals for at least four months.

2.Garlic is another effective remedy for arthritis. It contains an anti-inflammatory property which accounts for its effectiveness in the treatment of this disease. Garlic may be taken raw or cooked according to individual preference.

3.Bananas, being a rich source of vitamin B6, have proved useful in the treatment of arthritis. A diet of only bananas for three or four days is advised in treating this condition. The patient may eat eight or nine bananas daily during this period and nothing else.

4.Lime has also been found beneficial as a home remedy for arthritis. The citric acid found in lime is a solvent of uric acid which is the primary cause of some types of arthritis. The juice of one lime, diluted with water, may be taken once a day, preferably first thing in the morning.

5.Studies have shown that calcium can help arthritis. Several patients have discovered that joint pains have either been relieved or have disappeared entirely after taking calcium. This mineral should be taken in the form of calcium lactate. Two teaspoons of calcium lactate, each teaspoon providing 400 mg of absorbable calcium, may be taken three times daily in water, before meals for at least four months.

6.A teaspoon of black sesame seeds, soaked in a quarter cup of water and kept overnight, has been found to be effective in preventing frequent joint pains. The water in which the seeds are soaked should also be taken along with the seeds first thing in the morning.

Recipe - Shaking Beef

Shaking beef

Ingredients:

750 gram lean beef fillet
1 1/2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
6 garlic cloves - crushed
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons rice vinegar
2 teaspoons lime juice
3/4 teaspoons ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoons salt


Methods:

1.Cut the beef fillet into cubes and place in a bowl.Combine the fish sauce,sugar,garlic,1 teaspoon oil,black pepper and salt.
2.Pour over the meat and toss together so that the meat is well coated and refrigerate for 1 hour.
3. Heat a wok over high heat and add 2 tablespoon of the oil. Stir fry the beef quickly and cook for about 3 - 4 minutes for medium rare. Put the lime juice,rice vinegar,and soy sauce.
4.Remove from the wok and serve immediately with steamed rice.

Cracked Heels : Causes and Home Remedies For Cracked Heels

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Cracked Heels

Cracked heels are a sign of lack of attention to foot care rather than just over exposure or lack of moisturizing. As the skin, surrounding the sides of the feet are dry they crack and cause cracked heels. Appearances of cracked heels also indicate zinc and omega-3 fatty acid deficiency.

Cracked heels are a common occurrence for senior citizens or people who are constantly on their feet thus exerting pressure on the feet pad. It can affect either both the heels or one of the heel. But most commonly, cracked heels affect both the feet.

Causes

1.Naturally dry skin or thick dry skin around the heel that is more likely to crack is often due to excessive feet activity.
2.Prolonged standing at work or home .Hard floors may also cause cracks in the feet.
3.Being overweight may increase the pressure on the normal fat pad under the heel, causing it to expand sideways and if the skin lacks flexibility the pressure on the feet lead to cracked heels.
4.Back-open sandals or shoes allow the fat under the heel to expand sideways and increases the possibility of cracks on the heels.
5.Disease and Disorders-Athlete’s foot, Psoriasis, Eczema, Thyroid disease, Diabetes and some other skin conditions may also cause cracked heels.
6.Thick dry scaly skin lose elasticity with age and thus cracks have higher incidence with age.
7.Ill fitting shoes, or change in walking posture.
8.Unhygienic circumstances or conditions
9.Unhealthy, dry scaly skin due to climate or diseases
10.Deficiency of vitamins, minerals and zinc.



Remedies

1.Soak the feet in lemon juice for about 10 minutes. Follow this therapy on a weekly basis until one finds a change.

2.Apply the pulp of a ripe banana on the dry or cracked area of the heel. Leave it on for 10 minutes and rinse it clean.

3.A regular application of a mixture of glycerin and rosewater is known to soothe and cure cracked heels.

4.It is essential to have a diet rich in vitamins, minerals and zinc. Omega-3 fatty acids are not naturally produced by the body, therefore it has to be ingested from food or supplements.


5.Apply any shortening or hydrogenated vegetable oil after washing the feet clean on dry and cracked areas of the feet. After applying a thick coat of shortening on the feet, wear a pair of thick socks.

6.Use mild soap and wash your feet gently with lukewarm water. Scrub it lightly using a pumice stone and remove the dead skin. Apply any vegetable oil to the cracked area and wear thick cotton socks.

7.Rub (one teaspoon Vaseline and the juice of one lemon)this mixture onto the cracked heels and other required areas of the feet till it is thoroughly absorbed.

8.Soak your feet in warm water for at least 10-15 minutes before going to bed. Massage it with mustard oil and wash it in the morning.

9.Apply oil based moisturizer on your feet, twice daily if possible.

10.Pamper your feet by giving it a pedicure either at home or at a parlor. If you are too lazy to go to the parlor wash your feet in sea salt water and scrub it.

Sore throat : Causes,Treatments and Home Remedies

Sore throat refers to the inflammation of the pharynx or back of the throat. A sore throat is discomfort, pain, or scratchiness in the throat. It occurs frequently when a person has a cold or an attack of influenza.A sore throat often makes it painful to swallow.
The lymph glands along the sides of the neck may become swollen and tender. The back of the throat may become very red and even covered with a grayish-white membrane.Most of the time the soreness is worse in the morning and improves as the day progresses.


Causes

1.Common cold
2.Influenza
3.Sinusitis
4.Breathing through the mouth which can cause drying and irritation of the throat
5.Foreign substance stuck in the throat such as chicken and fish bone



Treatments and Home remedies

1.Drink warm liquids such as honey or lemon tea.

2.Tamarind is also beneficial in the treatment of sore throat. Drink a glass of tamarind water twice a day.

3.Sucking on hard candies or throat lozenges can be very soothing, because it increases saliva production.

4.Gargle several times a day with warm salt water .

5.Drink fresh carrot juice (as much as possible) and within a day or two, it should be gone.

6.Try over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen.

7.Take a tall glass of hot water as you can stand it squeeze 2 lemons and add some honey and drink.

8.Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and warm water. Gargle every 15 minutes.

9.Gargle with old fashion Listerine mouthwash.

10.Eat natural yogurt when you get a sore throat, it helps the sore throat go away.

Recipe - Steamed fish

Steamed fish

Ingredients

1 white pomfret

2 inches ginger - shredded

1 pack soft tofu - cut into cube

1 stalk spring onion - cut 2cm strips

2 tablespoons light soy sauce

2 tablespoons soy sauce



Methods

1.Make a cut on the surface of the fish.Place the fish in a large plate.

2.Combine the sauce and pour onto the fish.

3.Garnish with shredded ginger,cubed tofu and spring onion.

4.Steam fish until cooked and tender.

5.Serve hot.

Premature Grey Hair : Causes, Treatments and Home Remedies

The term ‘premature grey hair’ is used for persons who begin having grey hairs before the age of 25 or 30 years. Premature greying is a morbid condition and it makes even the young look older.
The pattern of developing grey hairs varies from people to people. In most individuals, the greying is maximum at the top of the scalp, while in some others it is maximum at the frontal line or the sides of the scalp.

Causes

1.Heredity
Premature greying is often seen in families. If a parent has grey hairs at an early age, the children also tend to have grey hairs at an early age. It seems this tendency is hereditary.
2.Scalp condition
An unclean condition of the scalp, washing the hair with hot water, drying it with an electric dryer, and use of hair dyes can cause premature grey hair.
3.Diet
A faulty diet is one of the causes of premature grey hair.
4.Mental worries
Mental worries produce extraordinary tension in the skin of the scalp; this interferes with the supply of vital nutrition necessary for the health of the hair.
5.Lack of vitamins
Lack of some of vitamins such as the B vitamins, iron, copper, and iodine in the daily diet is said to be a contributory factor of premature grey hair.


Treatments

1.Dyeing
This is one of the most common ways of treating grey hair. Though it is the most opted way, some people do not prefer it due to the reaction of its chemical properties on the hair and scalp.

2.Henna colouring
It is one of the natural and traditional ways of treating grey hair. Henna cools the body as well as renders softness apart from colouring the hair.

3.Healthy diet
Avoid devitalising foods such as white flour, refined sugar, soft drinks, pastries, jams and jellies.

4.Almond oil
Always massage the scalp with almond oil.

5.Curry leaves
Liberal intake of curry leaves is considered beneficial in preventing premature greying of hair. The leaves can be used in the form of chutney,squeezed in buttermilk.

6.Yoghurt
Taking a sufficient quantity of yoghurt daily and a tablespoonful of yeast before each meal is an excellent remedy for the prevention and treatment of premature greying of hair.

7.Massage
Massaging the forehead, nearer to your hairline improves circulation, by removing blocks. Rubbing the nails against each other helps circulation thereby reducing grey hair.

8.Cold tea
Use cold tea as a final rinse after shampooing two times a week to reduce premature grey hair.

9.Take vitamins
Take enough vitamins such as iron, copper,iodine and vitamin B12 to prevent premature grey hair.

Snoring : Causes and Treatments

Snoring is the vibration of respiratory structures and the resulting sounds due to obstructed air movement during breathing while sleeping.

Causes
1.Blockage of airway
Anything that obstructs your airway will also contribute to snoring. You are more likely to snore if you have large adenoids or a large tongue or if your nasal passages are swollen from a cold or allergies. Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are the primary cause of snoring in children.
2.Age
Older people tend to snore more because muscle tone tends to decrease with age.
3.Muscle tone in the tongue
During sleep the muscle tone in your tongue and soft palate tends to decrease. They become more relaxed and can collapse together. This contributes to snoring.
4.Physical exhaustion
Sheer physical exhaustion may be associated with heavy snoring.
5.Other
Other factors also aggravate snoring are alcoholic beverages,overweight and certain medications.

Treatments for snoring

1.Lose weight
Losing weight can reduce or even end snoring and possible obstructive sleep apnea.

2.Avoid smoking
Stop smoking because smoking weakens and clogs the throat.Breathing through the nose is more effectual way to bring air into the lungs than mouth breathing.

3.Reduce alcohol
Reduce your alcohol intake because it can cause relaxation in the soft tissues and muscles in the throat. This will result in snoring.

4.Sleep on your side
Sleep on your side to prevent the tongue from blocking the throat. This will stop the snoring.

5.Olive oil
A sip of olive oil will help to ease the snoring.

6.Enough sleep
Even lack of sleep causes snoring. So, take a good amount of sleep of almost 6-7 hours daily.

Recipe - Stir-fried noodles

women health beauty

Ingredients

500 g. precooked yellow noodles
300 g. chicken breast-cut to small pieces
5 dried mushrooms-soak until soft then slice
¼ head onion-sliced
½ cup shredded carrot
3 green onions-cut 1" length
5 leaves cabbage-sliced
3 Tbsp soy sauce
3 Tbsp oyster sauce
1 Tbsp tomato sauce
2 Tbsp sugar
2 Tbsp vegetable oil


Methods

1.Heat oil in a wok on medium heat. When oil is hot, add sliced onion. Fry until fragrant. Then add cut chicken.
2.Put soy sauce,oyster sauce,tomato sauce and sugar. Stir fry until the chicken cook.
3.Then add sliced mushrooms and shredded carrot.
4.Stir fry until all ingredients mix well, add yellow noodles and mix together.
5.Add sliced cabbages, stir well, before remove from heat, add cut green onion and mix thoroughly.

6.Put on a serving plate and serve immediately.



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Wrinkles : Causes and Home remedies

Wrinkles are delicate creases caused by thin, sagging skin. Wrinkles visible on the face, neck and hands. Wrinkles appear when the collagen and elastin present in the connective tissue of the skin is weakened. Skin that has suffered such damage appears thinner, loses fat content, elasticity and smoothness.

Causes

1.Over exposure to sun.The damage caused by the ultraviolet rays of the sun is known as photo ageing.
2.Smoking hastens the ageing process. The large amount of free radicals produced by cigarette smoke is one of the biggest culprits for premature wrinkles.
3.Environmental factors such as exposure to air pollutants, dust, chemicals and harsh lights can cause wrinkles on skin over a period of time.
4.Repeated motions such as squinting can cause wrinkles around the eyes. These are referred to as "crow's feet".
5.Smiling and frowning can also cause laugh lines around the mouth or frown lines on the forehead.
6.Stress.
7.Rapid weight loss can cause wrinkles as the volume of the fat cells are drastically reduced. This causes the skin to sag and crease.
8.Depletion of vitamin E can cause the skin quality to deteriorate.



Home Remedies

1.Apply egg whites to the skin under your eyes.

2.Empty the contents of 3 Vitamin E capsules into a small bowl. Add to this 2 tsps plain yogurt, 1/2 tsp honey and 1/2 tsp lemon juice. Apply this mixture on the face using a cotton ball. Leave it on for 10 minutes and rinse.

3.Cut a green Thompson seedless grape in half and gently crush it on your face on the wrinkles. Leave it for 20 minutes and rinse with warm water and let it dry in natural air.

4.Gently massage coconut oil on portions of skin prone to wrinkles every night a bedtime.

5.Rub the core of pineapple on the face and leave it for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off. This works well on fine wrinkles.

6.Application of pure castor oil regularly prevents wrinkles.

7.Use natural moisturizing creams and lotions or anti wrinkle cream regularly. Light massage with cream every night can keep your skin soft and supple.

8.Apply avocado oil daily on the face and keep it for 5-8 hours.

9.Using Vitamin C and skin care products together can fight the signs of aging caused by the action of free radicals.

Vomiting : Symptoms, Causes and Home Remedies

Vomiting is a forceful expulsion of the stomach contents due to the contraction of stomach muscles. Vomiting is also known as emesis. Vomiting may or may not be accompanied by nausea.

Symptoms

.Increased saliva.
.Dizziness.
.Light-headedness.
.Difficulty in swallowing food or liquid.
.Changes in skin temperature.
.Increase in heart beat rate.


Causes

.Overeating.
.Drinking excessive alcohol.
.Pregnancy.
.Migraine.
.Infections.
.Flu.
.Stomach upset.
.Stomach virus.
.Food poisoning.
.Poisoning.
.Accidental poisoning.
.Acute gastritis.
.Reflux.
.Intestinal obstructions.
.Chronic digestive conditions.
.Peptic ulcers.
.Stomach cancer.
.Intestinal obstruction.
.Kidney failure.
.Cholera.


Home Remedies

.Have a cup of ginger tea.

.Eat a mixture of honey and powder of 2 roasted cardamoms.

.Have a glass of chilled lime juice.

.Have a mixture of 1 tsp mint juice, 1 tsp lime juice, 1/2 tsp ginger juice and 1 tsp honey.

.Slowly sip a glass of honey water.

.Have one tsp onion juice in regular interval.

.Slowly sip a glass of chilled cola.

.Avoid solid food.Eat boiled rice with chicken soup without cream.

.Avoid citrus juices and dairy products for the first 24 hours.

.Relax for some time.

If vomiting continues then it is advisable to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Recipe - Stir-fried bak choy with mushrooms

women health beauty


























Bak Choy

Ingredients:

1 bunch of bak choy, trimmed, cleaned and cut into 2 parts of the same length(optional)
1/2 cup of dried shrimp, soaked in water for 10 minutes, drained
1 cup dried Chinese mushrooms, soaked in water until softened, drained, sliced
2 cloves of garlic, crushed or finely sliced
1 tbsp oil



Directions:

1. Heat oil in a wok at medium heat. Add in garlic. Do not let it brown. Add in dried shrimp and mushrooms and stir fry until there's an aroma.
2. Add the bak choy and toss it with tongs until it has slightly wilted.

3. Serve with rice.

Hair Loss : Causes and Home Remedies

Although hair is not essential to life, it is of sufficient cosmetic concern to provoke anxiety in anyone when it starts thinning, falling, or disappearing. To a woman, the sight of a comb or brush covered with lost hair can cause intense mental strain.

Hair is formed in minute pockets in the skill called follicles. An upgrowth at the base of the follicle, called the papilla, actually produces hair when a special group of cells turn amino acids into keratin, a type of protein of which hair is made.

The rate of production of these protein 'building blocks' determines hair growth. The average growth rate is about 1.2 cm per month, growing fastest on women between fifteen to thirty years of age. Seeing hair on your clothes, after you comb, bald patches appearing gradually, receding hairline. Symptoms are pretty obvious for hair loss!

Causes

.Inadequate nutrition. Persons lacking in vitamin B6 lose their hair and those deficient in folic acid often become completely bald. But the hair grows normally after the liberal intake of these vitamins.

.Stress such as worry, anxiety, and sudden shock, general debility caused by severe or long standing illnesses like typhoid, syphilis, chronic cold, influenza, and anaemia.

.An unclean condition of the scalp which weakens the hair roots by blocking the pores with the collected dirt; and heredity.


Home Remedies

1.Rubbing of scalp
A vigorous rubbing of the scalp with fingers after washing the hair with cold water is one of the most effective among the several home remedies for the prevention and treatment of hair loss. The scalp should be rubbed vigorously till it starts to tingle with the heat.

2.Amla oil
Prepared by boiling dry pieces of amla in coconut oil, is considered a valuable hair tonic for enriching hair growth. A mixture of an equal quantity of fresh amla juice and lime juice, used as a shampoo also stimulates hair growth and prevents hair loss.

3.Amaranth
Amaranth is another valuable remedy for hair loss. Its fresh leaf juice should be applied to the hair. It will help the growth of the hair and keep it soft.

4.Mustard oil and henna leaves
About 250 ml of mustard oil should be boiled in a tin basin. About sixty grams of henna leaves should be gradually put in this oil till they are burnt in the oil. The oil should then be filtered using a cloth and stored. Regular massage of the head with the oil will produce abundant hair.

5.Coconut milk
It nourishes the hair and promotes hair growth. Coconut milk is prepared by grinding the coconut shavings and squeezing them well.

6.Onion
Onion has also been found beneficial in patchy baldness. The affected part should be rubbed with onions morning and evening till it is red. It should be rubbed with honey afterwards.

7.Daily diet
The healthy condition of the hair depends, to a very large extent, on the intake of sufficient amounts of essential nutrients in the daily diet. Persons with a tendency to lose hair should take a well-balanced and correct diet, made up of foods which, in combination, should supply all the essential nutrients.

Dandruff : Causes, Treatment and Home Remedies

Dandruff is a condition in which flakes and chunks of dead skin are shed from a persons scalp. Contrary to popular belief, it is not always caused by a dry scalp, many people with oily scalps are also afflicted.

Causes

1. Dry scalp
Often caused by overly dry environmental conditions or the overuse of cheap hair care products, this condition can be cured by moisturizing.

2. Oily scalp
People who have oily scalps can also get dandruff. The exact cause has not yet been proven, but has been speculated to be due to the excessive oil promoting the growth of yeast and fungi that can irritate the scalp.

3. Seborrheic dermatitis
It is a skin condition that effects the scalp, face and upper-body. Symptoms include scaly or flaky skin that is itchy and red. It is believed to be caused by the fungus.

4. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a skin condition that can cause silvery, flaky patches of skin on different areas of the body. It is commonly seen on the scalp, creases of the nose, eyebrows, elbows, knees and arms.

5. Environment
Dry environments that lead to dryness of the scalp. Consider humidifying your living space if you have dry skin elsewhere on your body.

6. Food allergies
Poor nutrition and food allergies have been blamed for dandruff .

7. Cheap hair care product
The use of cheap hair care products that dry or irritate the scalp as well as chemical and mechanical over styling.


Treatment



1. Dandruff shampoos
Use anti-dandruff shampoos which used active ingredients such as Zinc pyrithione, Ketoconazole, Selenium sulfide, Coal tar and Salicylic acid .

2. Tea tree oil
Massage the mixture into the scalp and let it sit for 15 minutes prior to rinsing clean.

3. Vinegar rinses
Rinse your hair with white or apple cider vinegar prior to bathing. It may have something to do with correcting your hair’s PH balance.

4. Aloe Vera
Put aloe Vera gel into the scalp and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Then shampoo your hair with baby shampoo.

5. Coconut oil
Massage the scalp with coconut oil once or twice a week before shampooing.

6. Olive oil
Massage the scalp with olive oil for 10-15 minutes before shampoo your hair.

Recipe - chicken curry

Chicken Curry























Ingredients:

10 shallots - grounded

1 clove garlic - grounded

4-5 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 star anise

50g curry powder (refer to recipe above), mixed with ½ cup water

750-800g meaty chicken pieces with bones

2 sprigs curry leaves

500ml water

2 potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges

125ml thick coconut milk (from ½ coconut)

salt to taste




Method :




1. Pound or grind the shallots, garlic to a smooth paste.

2. Heat the oil in a wok or roomy saucepan, add the star anise and fry over low heat for 5 seconds. Add the shallot paste and fry, stirring continuously, until fragrant and oil starts to separate.

3. Mix the curry powder with enough water to form a thick paste - about 125ml - add this to the wok. Stir fry for 5-10 minutes or until curry paste is fragrant.

4. Add the chicken, curry leaves and water; simmer for 10 minutes. Add potatoes and simmer until potatoes are tender.

5. Add coconut milk, season to taste with salt and bring curry back to a boil before turning off the heat.

6. Serve with steamed rice.

Insomnia : Causes, Prevention and Treatments

Insomnia is the inability to fall asleep and not being able to get enough sleep.This can make you permanently tired. It can last for days or weeks but if it lasts for months ,it is considered chronic.

Causes

1.Stress or anxiety

2.Physical illness such as asthma or pain

3.Drugs or medication

4.Lifestyles habits or changes

5.Environment factors such as noise,hot and cold.


Treatments

1.Take prescribed medicines

2.Avoid too much caffeine such as coffee,soda

3.Stop smoking

4.Exercise daily but not immediately before sleep

5.Do not take heavy meals before bed

6.Make sure your bed is comfortable

7.Do not take naps during the day

8.Take a warm bath before bed

9.Drink warm milk before going to bed

10.Listen to soothing music which can help to fall asleep.

Bad Breath : Causes,Prevention and Home Remedies

How do you know if your breath is less than pleasant? Without actually being told, you can't be certain. The common methods used are to blow into your cupped hands and smell quickly, floss your teeth and smell the floss afterwards or lick the top of your hand and take a whiff.

Causes Of Bad Breath

1.Plaque is a film of odor-producing bacteria that forms on your gums, teeth and tongue. Poor dental hygiene can result in tooth decay and gum disease.

2.Foods with strong odors such as garlic, onions and spices are absorbed into your body and exhaled out of your lungs. Acidic foods and beverages can promote sour breath.

3.Coffee and fruit juice can also cause an undesirable smell. Tobacco and excessive alcohol are not only detrimental to your health, they will wreak havoc on your breath and leave a bad taste in your mouth.

4.There may be an underlying health problem such as a stomach, intestinal or bowel infection that may cause less-than-favorable breath.

5.Sinus and throat infections are common and often cause a bad odor.


Home Remedies

1.Practice good oral hygiene and keep everything in your mouth as clean as possible. Brush and floss your teeth twice a day to get rid of plaque and food between your teeth.

2.Use baking soda toothpaste or household baking soda to freshen up. Brush white film on your tongue to reduce the bacteria residing there. Try to reach as far back as possible without gagging. A tongue-scraper is handy. Follow up with an antiseptic mouthwash to kill germs and give your breath a boost.

3.Drink some water, particularly after you've finished eating and keep some on your nightstand at home for a quick drink. In the day hours, chew on some sugarless gum or candy to keep the saliva flowing and enhance your breath.

4.Eliminate spicy and acidic foods. If you have stomach cramping, gas, bloating or diarrhea, reduce or cut out dairy products to see if you are lactose intolerant.

Home Remedies for Whiter Teeth : How To Get Whiter Teeh

Home Remedies For Whiter Teeth

1. Baking soda

Baking soda has many purposes including teeth whitening. It is safe to use and works fairly quickly.

You can use it alone on a damp toothbrush or mix it with toothpaste to help neutralize the salty taste.

2. Hydrogen Peroxide
Peroxide is cheap and most people have it. You will feel some burning in your gums but your teeth will be clean and whiter.
Deep a cotton swap in the solution and gently rubbing it into your teeth. Another way is by brushing your teeth as you normally do and swish for a minute Then spit it out and rinse with water.

3. Strawberries
Strawberries contain natural teeth whitening agents. The seeds work great for cleaning. You can either rub the strawberry against your teeth or mash it up and use it like toothpaste.

4. Wood ash
Hard wood ash can help whiten your teeth. Avoid using it for long periods of time because scrubbing too hard can wear down your tooth enamel.
Put the ash directly on your toothbrush or you can mix it with a small amount of toothpaste.

5. Homemade toothpaste
Mix a dab of toothpaste with baking soda,hydrogen peroxide and table salt. Mix them together and brush away stains.

Recipe - easy stir fried beef

Easy Stir Fried Beef












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Ingredients:

1 pound boneless tender beef

2 tablespoons soy sauce


2 tablespoons vegetable oil


3 cups cut-up capsicum (red and green)


2 tablespoons soy sauce


1 tablespoon oyster sauce






Directions:




.Slice beef into very thin strips. Set aside.


.Heat oil in skillet. Add beef and stir-fry until browned and juices evaporate.


.Add soy sauce and oyster sauce. Stir fry for one minute.


.Add capsicum and stir-fry until tender-crisp.

.Serve hot

Recipe - malay fried rice

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Malay Fried Rice

Ingredients

5 Tablespoons oil
3 eggs -- beaten
1 Small onion -- thinly sliced
1/2 Cup chopped dried shrimp/dried anchovies
4 Cups cooked rice
1 Cup frozen mixed vegetables -- thawed
Salt to taste
Hot pepper-soy sauce to taste
Chili powder to taste
Shredded lettuce

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil.
Add eggs and fry in an even layer until firm.
Remove and cut into strips.
Add onion to skillet and cook until golden brown; remove and set aside.
Heat remaining 3 tablespoons oil and fry shrimp/anchovies for one minute.
Add rice, vegetables, mushrooms, half of the egg strips, the onion, and seasonings;stir fry for 3 minutes.

Add a little water if rice is too dry. Serve on a bed of shredded lettuce and top
with remaining egg strips.

Makes 8 servings.

Healthy Hands : How To Get Healthy Hands

Healthy Hands

Our hands are the first to show signs of aging. They are constantly exposed to all sorts of chemicals and elements. Here are a few things that we can do to protect our hands.

1.Don't forget to apply SPF daily.

2.Cuticles function as barriers to bacteria and fungus, but they can often overgrow. Use a cuticle pusher after a shower to keep them in line.

3.Doing your own nails is economical and practical, but a professional manicure every two or three months is a welcome bit of pampering.

4.Long nails tend to look garish, and invite breaks that can be painful. File nails to a quarter-inch above your fingertips.

5.Always keep your hands moisturized. Whenever you do the dishes, or exposing your hands to a lot of water, be sure to wear gloves.

High Blood Pressure : How To Prevent High Blood Pressure

How To Prevent High Blood Pressure

* Eating healthy diet. Following a healthy eating plan can both reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure and lower an already elevated blood pressure.

* Reduce salt. For someone with high blood pressure, the doctor may advise eating less salt and sodium. These lower-sodium diets also can keep blood pressure from rising and help blood pressure medicines work better.

* Maintain healthy weight.Being overweight increases your risk of developing high blood pressure. Blood pressure rises as body weight increases. Losing even 10 pounds can lower blood pressure.

* Exercise. Exercise is the most important step to prevent or control high blood pressure. It also helps reduce your risk of heart disease.

* Stop smoking. Even though smoking does not cause high blood pressure, it is bad for anyone, especially those with high blood pressure. Once you quit, your risk of having a heart attack is reduced after the first year.

* Decrease the amounts of alcohol intake.Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure. Alcoholic drinks also contain calories, which matter if you are trying to lose weight. Have only a moderate amount.

* Avoid stress. Stress can make blood pressure go up for a while, and it has been thought to contribute to high blood pressure.

Recipe - scones

Scones




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Ingredients:

2 cups flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
5 tablespoons sugar
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/8 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup milk
1/2 cup golden raisins
1 egg, lightly beaten

Directions:

Sift the flour and baking powder together into the container of a food processor with the metal blade in place; add sugar and butter. Pulse until mixture resembles fine crumbs, about 30 pulses. Place the flour mixture in a medium bowl. Make a well in the center; add the milk and raisins. Gently stir, being careful not to over mix.


Place dough on lightly floured surface; knead lightly two or three times. Roll dough to 3/8-inch thickness. Cut out scones with a 2 1/2-inch round cookie cutter. Leftover dough scraps can be rerolled for cutting. Place rounds on a greased baking sheet; brush egg on tops with pastry brush. Let stand 15 minutes.

Heat oven to 400 degrees F. Bake scones until lightly browned, 15 minutes. Serve warm.

How To Lose Weight : Tips That Will Help You Eat and Lose Weight

How To Lose Weight

Here are some of the best lose weight tips that you can find to help you lose those extra pounds you have:

1.Walk for 45 minutes a day.

Daily walking is enough to prevent weight gain in most relatively sedentary people, exercise beyond 30 minutes results in weight and fat loss. Burning an additional 300 calories a day with three miles of brisk walking (45 minutes should do it) could help you lose 30 pounds in a year without even changing how much you're eating.

2.Eat five or six small meals or snacks a day instead of three large meals.
A 1999 South African study found that when men ate parts of their morning meal at intervals over five hours, they consumed almost 30 percent fewer calories at lunch than when they ate a single breakfast. Other studies show that even if you eat the same number of calories distributed this way, your body releases less insulin, which keeps blood sugar steady and helps control hunger.

3. Downsize your dinner plates.

The less food put in front of you, the less food you'll eat. Conversely, the more food in front of you, the more you'll eat. So instead of using regular dinner plates range, serve your main course on salad plates . The same goes for liquids. Instead of glasses and oversize coffee mugs, go for coffee cups.

4. Avoid white foods.

Large amounts of simple carbohydrates from white flour and added sugar can wreak havoc on your blood sugar and lead to weight gain. While avoiding sugar, white rice, and white flour, you should eat plenty of brown rice and whole grain bread.

5.Eat cereal for breakfast five days a week.
Studies find that people who eat cereal for breakfast every day are significantly less likely to be obese and have diabetes than those who don't. They also consume more fiber and calcium -- and less fat -- than those who eat other breakfast foods. Pour out a high-fiber and low-sugar cereals.

6.Eat fruit instead of drinking fruit juice.

For the calories in one kid-size box of apple juice, you can enjoy an apple, orange, and a slice of watermelon. These whole foods will keep you satisfied much longer than that box of apple juice, so you'll eat less overall.

7. Use flavorings such as hot sauce, salsa, and Cajun seasonings

Besides providing lots of flavor with no fat and few calories, many of these seasonings -- the spicy ones -- turn up your digestive fires, causing your body to temporarily burn more calories.

How To Get Rid of Scaly Lips : Lips Care

How To Get Rid Of Scaly Lips

If you suffer from scaly lips, a simple do-it-yourself trick to exfoliate them. Takes only a finger scoop of Vaseline and an old toothbrush.

1: Slather lips with petroleum jelly

2: Use a toothbrush to massage in the jelly in a circular motion.

3: Wipe off the excess petroleum jelly.

Take a toothbrush to your lips, massaging in the jelly in a circular motion. Wipe off any excess petroleum jelly.

The toothbrush exfoliates lips while the petroleum jelly leaves lips extra soft. Repeat a couple times a day until your lips are no longer scaly.

Recipe - baked chicken wings

Baked Chicken Wings





recipes health beauty

Ingredients:

• 15 chicken wings
• 1 tablespoon honey or syrup
• 4 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 3 tablespoons warm water
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 scallion (green onion, spring onion), finely minced
• 1 slice fresh ginger, minced

Preparation:

Marinate chicken wings for 15 minutes in a mixture of hoisin sauce,honey, water, salt, pepper, garlic, scallion, and ginger.

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Place chicken wings on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, brushing occasionally with marinade.

Turn oven to broil and broil chicken wings five more minutes. Turn wings every two minutes to avoid burning.

To serve: Transfer chicken wings to a serving platter and serve hot or at room temperature.

Cellulite : Causes and Treatments

Cellulite is lumpy substance that is found on abdomen,buttocks and thigh which become dimpled after puberty. You would know if you have cellulite by pinching the skin around you thigh.

Causes of cellulite

.Smoking
.Lack of exercise
.Wear tight clothes
.The excessive amounts of fat in the body
.Wear high heels
.Stress


How to treat cellulite

.Stop smoking
.Stop eating foods high in saturated and hydrogenated fats.
.More exercise
.Use cellulite lotions
.Eating in a healthy manner