How to Get Rid of Body Odor Naturally

Unpleasant body odor could be embarrassing to the person concerned and great discomfort to others. It may embarrass you to the extent of forcing you to minimize your social interactions. A variety of deodorants and body sprays are available to camouflage the body smell. The parts of the body which produce more sweat like armpits, breast and groin are sources of bad odor, because they produce more sweat. The sweat by itself has no odor. But if you do not wash it off for sometime, bacteria begin to feed on it. The byproduct of their feeding produces the foul smell. There are several methods to get rid of body odor naturally. 

So to control the body odor it is essential to keep these parts clean.  Whenever you take a bath, use antibacterial soap and scrubber to clean your body. People who have the problem of body odor should take a shower, more often than others.  It is necessary to dry with a clean towel after the shower and apply antifungal powder to the body. Wear clean fresh clothes after the bath.  Wash your clothes well so they are rid of all body odors.

Body Odor  Remedies

White Vinegar

Spray some white vinegar under the armpits after taking bath. Dab some deodorant made with an essential mineral oil on it with a cotton ball. This helps to destroy the foul smelling bacteria and also camouflage the foul smell.

Potato Slices

Make some potato slices.  Rub them under the arm pits and other sweaty areas. This would help to keep the excessive sweating and the body odor in check.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is a very good anti-odor agent.  Add some lemon juice to baking soda and make it into a paste. Apply the paste to your arm pits and other parts of the body where you are sweating excessively. This would help to get rid of the bad odor.

Lavender Oil

Add some lavender oil to your bath tub. You can also apply lavender oil with a cotton ball to your arm pits and other parts of the body where there is excessive sweating.

Herbal Remedies

Ginger Ale

Drink ginger ale or ginger tea after food once every day.  His would help to reduce amount of sweat by keeping the sweat glands in check.

.

Sage Herbal Tea

Sage herbal tea helps to reduce excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis). Add some  water and boil it. Strain it and drink it after it cools down. Sage contains vitamin B and magnesium which help to reduce excessive sweating.

Wheatgrass Juice

Wheatgrass juice is rich in vitamin C, vitamin B12 and folic acid which help to control excessive sweating. Drink a glass of wheatgrass juice every day. This helps to reduce sweating and hence the body odor.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Take 2-3 tsp of apple cider vinegar every day on empty stomach. This will reduce excessive sweating

Alcohol and tobacco are the major causes of bad body odor. They combine with sweat and produce a distinctive bad odor. So avoid alcohol and tobacco.

Spices and red meat increase sweating. Reduce these foods in your diet.

These are some of the methods to get rid of body odor naturally.

Natural Antihistamines Foods for Allergies

Generally antihistamines are a class of drugs. Antihistamines block the release of histamines in the body. But several natural foods and herbs contain antihistamines. These natural antihistamines block the release of histamines without the side effects of drugs. 

 Goldenseal:Source: Wikimedia Commons 

Your body releases histamines when you eat or inhale a substance for which you are allergic. Generally your immune system protects you against harmful foreign substances. But at times the immune system reacts to harmless substances like pollen, dust, insect bites and even against medications. This leads to the production of histamines in the body. This will result in inflammatory response by the body like itching, respiratory problems, sneezing, vomiting and diarrhea.

Herbs with Antihistamines

Some of the following herbs have properties of antihistamines

Goldenseal

Goldenseal is a plant found in North America. The root of the plant has a variety of medicinal uses. It contains a compound called berberine. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It is especially effective against the infection of the mucus membranes. It is also used to treat eczema, heartburn and infections of the throat, urinary tract and stomach. It can be used to cure minor cuts and bruises. It is very effective against chest congestion. But it is advisable to take goldenseal for short periods of not more than three weeks. It might become toxic if it is taken for longer periods.

Green Tea antihistamine

Green tea is a very strong antihistamine. It is particularly helpful to treat  allergic skin reactions. It helps to treat hives. Hives is an allergic reaction which causes itchiness, redness and swelling of skin. Green tea helps to reduce the skin reaction. It is necessary to drink 3-4 cups of green tea every day to reduce hives. Green tea helps to minimize the reaction.

Ginger antihistamine


Ginger is a very good antihistamine. It is very helpful in treating respiratory disorders. It acts as a natural decongestant and expectorant.It helps to fight allergic colds, sinus infections and flu.It can ease breathing by dilating the bronchial tubes. Ginger tea is a very good remedy for hives.

Chamomile antihistamine

Chamomile contains a compound called quercetin. It has antihistamine properties. Chamomile tea can be prepared with the addition of ginger and honey. As all three of them have antihistamine properties and will give good results. Aroma therapists use chamomile tea to massage the skin to cure skin allergies.

Stinging Nettle antihistamine

Stinging nettle is a perennially flowering plant which grows in Europe, Asia and America. It has very good anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to reduce the effects of hay fever and seasonal allergies. But stinging nettle should not be used if you have kidney problem, heart disease or diabetes.

Licorice root

Licorice root is a very effective remedy for bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis and hay fever. Drinking licorice root tea is recommended for a variety of diseases. It helps to loosen the phlegm and reduce congestion for bronchial asthma patients. It inhibits the release of histamines and also has expectorant properties. 

These are some of the natural anti histamine foods for allergy

Antioxidants in Green Tea Health Benefits

Antioxidants in green tea helps to reduce cholesterol levels and reduces the age related problems. Lemon green tea improves the digestive system and liver function
                                                                                                     Steaming hot cup of green tea to start the day is not only refreshing but also is very healthy. Green tea comes from the leaves of the plant, camellia sinensis. It is rich in antioxidants. Did you know herbal green tea can be prepared at home with the addition of a few easily available herbs? Herbal green tea combines the health benefits of green tea with added to that of the herbs.

Green Tea
Wikimedia Commons

Origins of Tea

Tea has been used as a beverage in China for thousands of years. It was discovered when a Chinese emperor dropped some tea leaves in boiling water. When he drank, he found it refreshing. The taste of green tea is often described as light.

Green Tea

Green tea is dried but not wilted. It has a more delicate flavor than black tea. It is said to be more beneficial for health. It contains small amounts of caffeine. The chance of dental cavities is reduced by drinking green tea as it contains fluorine. It helps to prevent blood clots as it is a blood thinner. It contains minerals and salts in plenty

Benefits of Antioxidants in Green Tea

The antioxidants in green tea will

- Lower the LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, helping to prevent

heart disease

- Reduce the incidence of age related degenerative diseases

- Help skincare with its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancerous properties

- Help the sugar metabolism process as it contains polyphenols

- Lower the blood sugar levels in diabetics

- Reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in healthy people

- Lower the risk of cancer by inhibiting the production of cancerous cells

Preparation of Herbal Green Tea

Cardamom green tea

Cardamom powder can be added to green tea when it is boiled. It nor only gives it a distinct flavor and aroma but also has health benefits. It helps to
improve digestion. Cardamom is a herbal spice which has detoxifying properties. It is also helpful in controlling the symptoms of asthma and bronchitis. It
helps to relieve sore throat. Cardamom is also an antacid and is a stimulant.

Cloves green  tea

Add 4-5 cloves to the boiling tea and take it out after a few minutes. Cloves add a distinct peppery taste to the tea. They are very good antioxidants.
They help to relieve tooth ache. Cloves contain flavonoids which have anti-inflammatory properties. They help to fight respiratory infections like asthma
and bronchitis.

Ginger green  tea

Add a few slices of ginger to the boiling tea and take it out after 5 minutes. Ginger is an excellent remedy for indigestion. It has antiviral,
anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. It relieves the symptoms common cold. It helps to get rid of nausea. It also helps to get rid of diarrhea.
Ginger lowers cholesterol levels and reduces the chances of blood clot.

Lemon Green Tea

Lemon tea is not only very tasty but also very healthy. Add a few drops of lemon juice and a tsp of honey to the green tea. It gives a distinct flavor and
taste. Lemon is rich in vitamin C and fights infection. It reduces blood pressure and lowers LDL levels. It also helps to clean up the digestive system and
purify liver.

All these herbal additives added to green tea make the herbal green tea not only tasty but also the healthiest drink.

Raw Almonds Nutrition Facts

Raw almonds provide excellent nutrition as they are protein rich. Almonds help to improve memory. They are good for constipation, diabetes and weight loss.

Raw almonds are the seeds of the almond fruit from the almond tree. They are available all round the year. They are rich in calcium, magnesium, iron and phosphorous. They are very tasty. One of the major benefits of eating almonds is their high nutrition value. They are also protein rich.

Two varieties of almond are available. The sweet variety and the bitter. Sweet almonds are edible and the bitter variety is toxic.

Raw Almonds
 Creative Commons : mynameisharsha

Raw almonds are more beneficial for health if they are eaten with the skin. They can be eaten on an empty stomach. This will help the body to absorb their nutrients better. They can be eaten raw or roasted. They can also be soaked in water overnight and eaten in the morning.

Vitamin E almonds

Sweet almond contains vitamin E which is a fat soluble antioxidant. Just about 20 nuts a day can provide all your antioxidant requirements and give protection from a variety of chronic diseases.

Almonds Good for Brain almonds

The nutrients contained in raw almonds are considered to be good for the brain. Children are given almonds which are soaked in water overnight. Eating 4-5 almonds a a day, will help them to develop higher intellectual capability. It is also a very good energy booster. They will help to stabilize your mood and slow down the aging process.

Reducing LDL Cholesterol almonds

Almonds are rich in monounsaturated fats. These fats promote health and reduce the levels of LDL cholesterol in the body. They also help to increase the levels good cholesterol HDL. The risk of heart disease is reduced as it slows down the clogging of arteries.

Magnesium and Potassium almonds

Almonds contain magnesium and potassium. Magnesium improves blood circulation. It also helps improve the circulation of oxygen in the body. Potassium helps to improve the nerve functioning and muscle contraction. Blood pressure and heart functioning depend on the presence of adequate quantities potassium in the body.

Weight Loss almonds

Almond is rich in fiber and proteins. Including almonds in the diet helps you to lose weight. It helps to satisfy appetite easily. It is a very good substitute for high calorie snacks.

Diabetes almonds

One major concern of diabetics is the blood sugar spikes. The sudden increase of level of blood sugar immediately after meals could lead to complications. Taken along with your normal food, almonds help to control blood sugar spikes.

Constipation almonds

Almonds are fiber rich. They are a very good remedy for constipation. When you eat almonds, you should also drink sufficient quantities of water.
Almond butter is very delicious, somewhat akin to peanut butter. Almond milk prepared with addition of ground almonds with milk is very tasty and nutritious.

These are some of the health benefits of eating almonds.

Having Trouble to Sleep at Night?

Having trouble to sleep at night (insomnia) can adversely affect the quality of your life. It is a very common disorder. It is essential to get 8-9 hours of sleep a day. But many people are unable to get enough sleep. Some of the causes for insomnia are depression, hectic work schedules, physical illness and abnormal working hours. It is possible get rid of insomnia without taking prescription sleeping pills. Whether you are suffering from temporary or chronic sleeplessness, it is very difficult work and take care of other your responsibilities. Some natural remedies for insomnia can help you to get a better sleep.

Types of Insomnia

- Difficulty to fall asleep

- Difficulty in sleeping

- Getting up too early

Aromatherapy for Insomnia

Essential Oils to Induce Sleep

Essential oils can be used on the skin, diluted with almond oil or sunflower oil. You can add 8 to 10 drops of an essential oil to 25 drops of almond or sunflower oil. They can also be used in the bath. You can add 7-10 drops of an essential oil to the bathtub.

Chamomile oil

Chamomile oil helps to calm the nerves and induce sleep. It helps to reduce anxiety. 

Lavender oil for Insomnia

Lavender oil is a fragrant, sweet smelling oil that soothes the nerves. It is a pain reliever and an anti-depressant which lowers blood pressure. It is also useful for depression, nervous tension and headache.

Sandal wood oil

Sandalwood oil is extracted from the bark of the sandalwood tree. It is used in the manufacture of perfumes and cosmetics. It has many medicinal uses. It is somewhat costlier compared to the other essential oils. It is an anti depressant and aphrodisiac. It helps you to get sound sleep.

Sweet Marjoram Oil

It is a very good oil to treat insomnia. It induces a hypnotic effect. As it induces sleep fast, you should  use it just before going to bed.

Herbal Remedies for Insomnia

For chronic insomnia, you can use herbal remedies along the essential oils. It would take a few days for these herbal remedies to start working.

Valerian for Insomnia

Valerian is available in certain countries of Europe, as over the counter remedy for insomnia. Valerian is not addictive. Valerian should be taken an hour before going to bed. It may take 3-4 weeks to start taking effect.

Chamomile for Insomnia

Chamomile flowers are used as a remedy for various illnesses. It is a mild sedative. Chamomile tea made from chamomile flowers is a very good remedy for insomnia

Passion Flower for Insomnia

Passion flower is a tranquillizing herb. It is a sedative and a spasmodic.  It relaxes the muscles and calms the nerves. Add a spoon of dry passion flowers to water. Boil it and make tea. Drink it an hour before going to bed.

Meditation for Insomnia

Meditation helps to calm the mind. It removes the stress and leads you to deeper level of relaxation. It will take some time and practice to master the techniques of meditation. Once you start meditating on a regular basis, you can sleep better.


If you are having trouble to sleep at night these are some of the natural remedies that can provide relief

Stopping Diarrhea Naturally

Diarrhea is caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites and even by medications. It is possible to stop diarrhea naturally. The symptoms of diarrhea are frequent watery bowel movements. Certain illnesses like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease could also cause diarrhea. Diarrhea can cause abdominal pain, stomach cramps and blood in the stools. Several natural diarrhea remedies for quick relief are available.

Drinking Water for Diarrhea

When you are suffering from diarrhea, your body loses water and electrolytes. It is necessary to drink at least 2-3 liters of water a day to replenish the loss. Drink oral re-hydration solutions that contain salts and electrolytes that are sold in the pharmaceutical shops.

Banana for Diarrhea

Banana is a very effective remedy for diarrhea. Banana is rich in potassium and pectin. The loss of electrolytes from the body can be made up by the fruit. Potassium helps the stomach to relax. Intestine has certain beneficial bacteria. Banana contains a soluble fiber called in inulin. It helps to promote the beneficial bacteria in the intestine.

      Psyllium Seed Husk

          Source:  Wikimedia Commons: Bastique 

Psyllium Seed Husk for Diarrhea

Psyllium seed husk is used as dietary fiber. It is rich in soluble fiber and absorbs lots of water and makes the stools firmer. It is a very good intestinal cleanser. It is good for a variety of intestinal disorders. It helps to stabilize the bowel movements.

Brown Rice for Diarrhea

Brown rice is a good natural diarrhea remedy. It is rich in dietary fibers. Whole wheat toast is also a very good remedy. Toast and rice are low carbohydrate foods and help to get rid of the symptoms.

Apple Sauce for Diarrhea

Apple sauce is a very effective remedy for diarrhea. It helps to firm up the liquid bowel movements.

Chamomile Tea for Diarrhea

Chamomile tea is made from the flowers of the plant. It helps to reduce the intestinal inflammation and provide relief.

Peppermint Teafor Diarrhea

Peppermint tea soothes the gastrointestinal system and helps to provide relief from the spasms.

Apple Cider Vinegar for Diarrhea

Apple cider vinegar has a high pectin content which soothes lining of the colon, acting as protective coat. Add three tsp of apple cider vinegar to water and drink it three times a day.

Diet for Diarrhea

When you are suffering from diarrhea you should take foods which are easily digestible. Properly cooked carrots can be included in the diet. You can include bananas, white rice, mashed potatoes, apple sauce, white toast, yogurt, blueberries and steamed chicken. If your are allergic to certain foods they have to be avoided.

Foods to Avoid for Diarrhea

Certain fruit juices and soft drinks have to be avoided as they are hard to digest. Also avoid apple and pear juice. You should abstain from drinking coffee and alcohol. Oil rich and spicy foods should also be avoided.

These are some of the natural diarrhea remedies for quick relief.

Homemade Face Moisturizer Recipes

Moisture is absolutely essential for the skin. Dermatologists recommend use of a moisturizer daily for facial skincare. If the skin become dry and flaky your looks will suffer. If the subcutaneous glands are not functioning properly, the skin will become dry. The loss of moisture may lead to premature wrinkles. Hydrating face mask restores the lost moisture of the skin. A face mask has the multiple tasks of getting rid of the dead cells on the face, cleansing, moisturizing and rejuvenating the skin. It would also be necessary to restore the lost ph balance of the skin by using the required antioxidants and nutrients. Facial masks are the most effective method to nourish and restore the health of the skin. It is the best way bring back the glow, lost due the to exposure to sun, pollution, stress and loss of sleep. Drinking  8-10 glasses water every day also helps to keep the skin moist. 

To restore the skin to its original condition and make it glow, there are several homemade face moisturizer recipes  which use natural ingredients

Recipe 1

Honey           -  1 tsp

Coconut oil    -  ½ tsp

Egg              -  1

- Take an egg and beat it till it is fluffy.

- Add a tsp each of coconut oil and honey to it.

- Beat it further till they mix well and form a paste.  

     

- Store it in a tight container and keep it in the freezer overnight. Apply it to your face and neck next morning. Wash it off after half an hour with warm water.

Source:Wikimedia Commons :Yasuda

Another effective homemade moisturizer recipe for face mask uses yogurt as the basic ingredient.

Recipe 2

Yogurt acts as a deep cleanser and lactic acid as a moisturizer. High fat content in yogurt has to be used as it softens the skin. Take

- 2 tsp of yogurt

- 2 tsp of cooked oatmeal  

  

- 2 tsp of honey

Mix it well. Apply the mixture to your face after the mixture cools down. Wash it off with warm water after 30 minutes. Your skin will be soft and smooth and well hydrated.

Recipe 3

- 1    Ripe banana 

- 10 Ground almonds

-      Water 

               

- 2   tsp Honey  

       

Take a ripe banana in a bowl and mash it well. Add ground almonds and honey. Add some mineral water and make a paste. Apply the paste to your face and wash it off after 30 minutes. Dry your face with a soft towel. It will not only hydrate your skin but will make it soft and supple

Recipe 4

- 1/2 cucumber

- 2 tsp yogurt

- 1 tsp Honey

Mix all the three ingredients in a blender. Make a fine paste apply it to your face. Wash it off with warm water after 30 minutes. Dry your face with a soft towel.

Before applying any of these face masks wash your face thoroughly with a cleanser. The ingredients of the facemask may not penetrate the skin if the skin pores are blocked by sweat, dirt and grime. Steam your face after the process is complete. Facial mask has to be applied at least one a week. These are some of the homemade moisturizer recipes for face mask, which will give you radiant, glowing and beautiful skin. 

How to Make Your Hair Thicker Naturally

Hair is an important part of your appearance. A thick, flowing, vibrant hair adds to your appearance. Thinning hair could be due to a variety of reasons including heredity. If your parents or grand parents are bald you are likely become bald as well. Hair loss can also occur due to environmental factors, exposure to dust and chemicals. It could also be a symptom of some underlying disease. Several treatments to grow hair are available. Most of them are quite expensive. There are several methods to make your hair thicker naturally. They do not cost you the earth.

Wikimedia Commons: Jeanne Bolevin

 Natural Methods to Make Your Hair Thicker


Scalp Massage 
   
Several natural oils help to make your hair thicker. The most important oils are coconut oil, almond oil and olive oil. Heat any one of these oils and apply it to your scalp. You should apply the oil with constant massage so as to cover the entire scalp. The oil penetrates to the hair follicles and stimulates it. After the completion of the application, cover your head with a hot towel. The towel will absorb all the excess oil. Wash it off with shampoo after an hour. This process has to be repeated every week. This will help your hair to grow thick.

Coconut Kernel


One of the best methods to promote hair growth and make your hair thicker is to apply coconut kernel to your hair. Grind coconut kernel and make a paste. Apply this paste to your scalp with a gentle massage before going to bed. Wash it off next morning with shampoo. Repeat the process twice a week. This would not only make your hair thicker but also soft, smooth and shiny. Coconut kernel is s very good moisturizer. It would also get rid of dandruff. 


Diet

Just as our body, hair also requires certain nutrients to grow. It requires adequate quantities proteins, minerals and vitamins. Your diet should include foods that can provide adequate supply of all these nutrients. Fish, milk, eggs, cheese and poultry are considered complete proteins. They help hair growth. Some of the foods containing vitamin A like carrots, tomato, apricots, cherries, orange and lemon can be included in the diet

Moisturizing

You have to keep the hydration levels high by drinking adequate quantities of water.

Washing hair

- Frequent hair shampooing may strip the hair of its moisture and make it dry

- Wash your hair twice a week, as daily shampooing and washing may damage the hair

- Hair should be washed with warm water instead of hot water.

- Home made natural shampoo has to be used, as chemical based shampoos available in the market are likely to damage your hair.

- You should not cover the hair after shampooing with a towel as it might get the hair into tangles and cause damage

- You should let the hair dry on its own. Using a hair dryer is also not recommended.

- Hair has to be combed after it is dry.

Other Remedies

- Henna can be used once a month as a hair conditioner

- Apply egg white to the hair and wash it off after 30 minutes

- Apply aloe vera gel once a month. It is a natural conditioner and helps to strengthen the hair follicles

Life style

Smoking may result in hair loss. Adequate sleep is also essential.

It is possible to avoid thinning hair due to hair loss and make your hair grow thicker naturally by following these methods. 

What Causes Cracked Fingers and Heels: Home Remedies

There are several causes of cracked skin fingers and heels. Cracked dry skin is a very common problem. Women seem to be more prone to the problem than men. Hands and feet are common areas that suffer from cracked skin. At times it could just be a cosmetic problem. But if left unattended cracked dry skin may bleed and lead to infection.

Some of the reasons for the condition are

-       Frequent hand washing

-       Use of harsh detergents

-       Extreme winter and prolonged dry conditions

-       Prolonged standing on hard floor

-       Open backed footwear

-       Diabetes

-       Skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and contact dermatitis

 Home Remedies for Cracked Fingers

It is necessary use a moisturizer on the skin. Petroleum jelly is very useful for the purpose. It is essential to apply it generously to the affected skin. It is advisable to wash your hands with mild soap before the application of the jelly. The hands can be covered with gloves after the application.

Almond oil, coconut oil and olive oil are also very good moisturizers. They can be used instead of petroleum jelly. Using hot water may aggravate the problem. Before going out in cold weather, it is better to cover your hands with gloves

Some of the other remedies for cracked fingers are   

-       Mix vitamin E with almond oil and apply it

-       Mashed banana is a very good remedy. It can be applied on the affected skin

-       Mashed avocado can also be used. It helps to produce body oils

-       Castor oil, bees wax and lanolin can be mixed and melted together and applied

-       Honey can be mixed with egg yolk and applied

-       Yogurt and lemon juice are a very good combination to cure cracked skin.

If the reason for the condition is cold weather or detergents the above remedies can cure the condition. If it is due some underlying illness a doctor has to be consulted.

Home Remedies for Cracked Heels

-       Apply mashed ripe bananas over the cracked heels and wash it off after half an hour

-       Glycerin is an excellent moisturizer. It can be mixed with rose water and applied to the heels

-       Mix lemon juice with petroleum jelly and apply it to the affected skin

-       Petroleum jelly can be substituted by coconut oil, almond oil or olive oil, all of which are very good moisturizers.

-       Coconut oil can be melted together with paraffin wax and applied.

Cracked skin on the heels can be prevented by using footwear which covers the feet properly. Feet have to thoroughly cleaned at night before going to bed. A thick layer of moisturizing cream or lotion has to be applied to get rid of the cracked dry skin.