Aloe vera - nature’s beautician

Aloe vera, which is mostly used to treat various skin conditions and topically heal wounds, can be traced back to early Egypt where it was called the ‘plant of immortality.’

What is aloe vera?

Aloe vera, (pronounced alo vera) which is said to have originated from Africa, is a stem-less or very short-stemmed succulent plant with fleshy green leaves.

Aloe vera, which is also called the ‘burnt plant’ with its anti-inflammatory, anti-healing, healing and cooling properties, is the main ingredient in several skin care products. In addition, aloe vera is rich in amino acids, vitamins A, F, C and B.

For years researchers have been conducting studies to learn the benefits of aloe vera and have found that the plant does have properties that can be effective in treating several skin conditions, minor skin infections and also burns and wounds.

Aloe vera gel is the transparent, juicy substance found in the long thick-skinned leaves of the plant. This gel is suitable for all skin types. Even people with sensitive skin can use the aloe vera gel.

Various uses of aloe vera

Anti-aging agent: Aloe vera protects, nourishes and moisturizes your skin. According to a study published in the Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry magazine, aloe vera, when applied topically, improves the levels of collagen. Aloe vera also protects your face from developing fine lines.

Before going to bed, gently massage a thin layer of fresh aloe vera on your face, around the eyes and the corners of your mouth. This will keep your skin younger looking.

Aloe vera as moisturiser: Apply aloe vera on the skin before the application of make-up. This will prevent your skin from drying. Even men can use the aloe vera gel like an aftershave. The healing properties will help in treating the minor nicks and cuts caused while shaving. During winter your skin tends to dry more often. To keep your skin hydrated, make a mask by mixing equal parts of honey and aloe vera gel (pure extract from the plant) and apply on your face. Wash it off with warm water after 15 minutes for a glowing, soft skin.

Aloe vera for treating acne: For those suffering from acne, aloe vera with its anti-inflammatory properties is a blessing. According to a study conducted by the University of Maryland Medical Center, aloe vera gel has more anti-inflammatory properties than one percent of cortisone cream. It also has strong antibacterial properties, which will heal the skin quickly and naturally with very little scarring.

Aloe vera to reduce stretch marks: Want to get rid of those ugly stretch marks you gained due to weight gain or pregnancy? Hundreds of women try scores of cosmetics to hide these scars, but in vain. Stretch marks are nothing but tiny tears in the skin caused due to sudden and excessive stretching. Aloe vera gel can help you with that. Regular application of aloe vera gel helps in hiding these marks by healing the wounds.

Aloe vera for sunburns: Application of aloe vera gel on sun burns will reduce the pain as well as the swelling and keep your skin moisturised. Recovery will be quicker if your skin retains its moisture.

In addition, aloe vera also acts as a brightening gel by removing dead cells and keeps oiliness under check.

So go ahead and make aloe vera a part of your daily beauty regime for a glowing, supple and spotless skin!

Article Source: http://in.lifestyle.yahoo.com/beauty-splash-aloe-vera-nature-beautician-110019077.html

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Useful Natural Healing Chart

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Top 5 HIV Myths Busted

The word HIV still causes unease among a lot of us. There are a lot of myths and misconceptions around this infection; including the one that it is not safe to share food with someone who has contracted the virus.

According to Dr Shivi Jaggi, a sexologist, one of the causes of HIV or Human Immunodeficiency Virus is unprotected sex. “It gradually destroys the immunity of your body, but a person infected with HIV can lead a normal life,” he says. So, Let's take a look at few HIV myths which are busted.

Myth 1: HIV is the same as AIDS

HIV is not the same as AIDS! Period. HIV can lead to AIDS or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. A person could get or become more susceptible to AIDS only when their immunity is lowered. “However, proper precautions and medication can delay or even prevent an HIV positive person from getting AIDS,” says Dr Jaggi.
Myth 2: I am faithful to my partner, I cannot get HIV

The HIV virus can be transmitted through other mediums like use of infected needles, transfusion of infected blood, unprotected oral sex, anal sex, etc. “Being monogamous does not necessarily make you safe,” says Mumbai-based sexologist, Dr Ketan Parmar. However, it can reduce your chances of getting infected
Myth 3: People with HIV cannot hug or share food

HIV can be contracted through unprotected sex with an infected or multiple partners, sharing needles, transfusion of infected blood and unprotected oral and anal sex. Your saliva contains very minute traces of the virus which means kissing cannot transmit the virus. "Unless one of the person has cuts or sores in their mouth," says Dr Parmar. Sharing food, and utensils does not put you at risk .
Myth 4: Women infected with HIV cannot have children

Women who are infected by the HIV virus are afraid they might pass on the infection to the infant. “But with antiretroviral therapy, the chances of transmitting from mother to child is very low,” says Mumbai-based gynaecologist Rishma Dhillon Pai. This gives many women a chance to conceive in spite of being infected. The medication should be taken through pregnancy and after, as recommended by your doctor. “If there are any complications, one may have to opt for a caesarean,” she says. Mothers should however avoid breast feeding as that could pass on the infection to the child.
Myth 5: You don’t need a condom for oral sex

HIV can be contracted through oral sex. “If semen from an infected partner enters your mouth and you have cuts, sores or bleeding gums, you are at risk,” says Dr Jaggi. This could also mean that you could pass on the virus if you are infected. You could get infected with HIV through anal sex as well. 

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STROKE - Top Ten Facts

Stroke is the third most common cause of death, after cancer and ischemic heart disease.

It is also the most prominent cause of physical deformity

Stroke has a yearly incidence of 180-300 per 100,000, in the United States. 

Its incidence is accelerating in developing countries due to unhealthy lifestyles. 

2/3 of stroke victims are above 60 years old.

1/5 of the victims die within a month of its occurrence. Half the survivors become physically deformed.

A damage in the left side of the brain may result in paralysis of the right side of the body; a damage on the right side, paralyzes the left side. 

Hypertension accounts for 30-50% of stroke risk.

Patients with diabetes mellitus are 2-3 times more predisposed to stroke.

Stroke can occur due to a disruption in blood supply or due to a blood vessel damage.

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How Soft Drinks Impact Your Health?

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Facts about Human Brain

Human brain if the most interesting and complicated organ. And these facts only prove this statement.

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Health benefits of spinach

1. PROTECTS AGAINST CANCER – Spinach contains a strong antioxidant called kaempferol, which helps prevent the formation of cancerous cells in the body.

2. BRAIN FOOD – These leafy greens will help slow the effects of ageing on the brain due to its folic acid conten, a B vitamin which also assists the body in maintaining a healthy heart.

3. NUTRIENT-DENSE – Low in calories and high in vitamins, just one cup of spinach contains more vitamin K and vitamin A than your daily requirement and nearly 40% of your magnesium requirement.

4. LOWERS BLOOD PRESSURE – Just a single portion of spinach will help lower high blood pressure within hours due to the mineral magnesium, which helps prevent cardiovascular disease.

5. ALLEVIATES FATIGUE – Spinach holds high levels of iron, which carries blood and oxygen throughout the body and is responsible for lessening fatigue and giving you that added energy boost.

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Top 12 anti asthama foods

TOP 12 ANTI-ASTHMA FOODS

There might not be a perfect cure for asthma, but we can find many superfoods with a nutrient profile that is particularly well suited for preventing and alleviating asthma symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing and chest tightness. Let’s take a look at 12 such foods and their asthma fighting qualities.

1. AVOCADOS - is one of the prime source of Glutathione, which has been shown to protect cells against free radical damage and to detoxify foreign substances such as pollutants. Without glutathione, other antioxidants would not be able not function efficiently. Avocados are also a good source of vitamin E, particularly for people whose asthma is linked to a nut allergy (nuts are one of the most common sources of vitamin E). However, if you have been diagnosed with a latex allergy, you may want to be careful with avocados, particularly non-organically grown produce. Many suggests that people who are allergic to latex are often also allergic to avocados and other foods that may contain substances called chitinases. Organically grown avocados not treated with ethylene gas contain lower levels of chitinases.

2. BROCCOLI SPROUTS - are true nutritional treasure and a great addition to your diet if you suffer from asthma. A recent study found that the study participants who ate broccoli sprouts for 3 days had an increase in antioxidant compounds that control the airway inflammation associated with bronchial asthma. The effect was most pronounced in those who ate the most broccoli sprouts. Available at many health food stores and grocery stores, broccoli sprouts make a great addition to salads, soups, salsa-topped dishes, and sandwiches.

3. APPLES - Studies show that apples possess some extraordinary properties that may provide protection against asthma. One study discovered that pregnant women who ate apples protected their child from developing asthma. Another study found that by drinking apple juice daily children could reduce their chance of suffering from wheezing by 50%. These beneficial effects of apples may be linked to their high concentration of bioflavonoids, such as quercetin. Quercetin is known to possess strong anti-histamine, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. When buying apples, be sure to purchase organically grown fruit: together with peaches, conventionally grown apples top the list of fruits that contain the highest levels of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.

4. BANANAS - Including bananas in your diet may help you breathe easier. According to a British study, children who ate just one banana a day had a 34% lower chance of developing asthmatic symptoms such as wheezing. The results where not surprising considering that bananas are one of the best sources of pyridoxine, commonly known as vitamin B6. Pyridoxine plays a critical role in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), molecules that have been shown to help relax bronchial smooth muscle tissue.

5. GINGER - one of the oldest spices in the world, is well known for its cold treating powers, but it may also help alleviate asthma symptoms. Its asthma fighting properties are thought to be attributable to gingerols, strong anti-inflammatory substances that also give ginger its distinctive flavor. Fresh ginger, which is said to be the most effective form of ginger, is available year round in the produce section of your local supermarket.

6. SPINACH - Popeye was right about one thing: you'd better eat your spinach! The nutritional profile of spinach makes it an excellent health food and an important functional food to be included in any anti-asthma diet. One study with 68,535 female participants found that women with a high intake of spinach had a lower prevalence of asthma. This is not surprising considering that spinach features a host of important asthma preventing nutrients, including beta-carotene (spinach is one of the best sources of beta-carotene there is), vitamin C, vitamin E, and magnesium. It also has a substantial potassium content in proportion to its calorie content: a 100 calorie serving provides about 40% of the reference daily intake for this important anti-asthma mineral.

7. ROSEMARY - It contains rosmarinic acid, that may help alleviate asthma symptoms due to its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The antioxidant power of rosmarinic acid is believed to be even stronger than that of vitamin E. In addition, rosmarinic acid encourages cells to create prostacyclins, which help keep the air passages of the lungs open and thus promote easy breathing. Rosemary can be used to flavor fish, roast meats, and tomato sauces, but also fruits, especially oranges.

8. SUNFLOWER SEEDS - are brimming of anti-asthma nutrients, as these mild nutty tasting seeds are loaded with vitamin E, potassium, and magnesium. They are also a good source of selenium, with 1 cup providing more than 1/3 of the recommended daily intake for this important mineral. Furthermore, sunflower seeds are among the seeds and nuts that are least likely to cause allergic reactions in people. But, be careful while consuming them, as they are quite calorie-dense.


9. SWEET POTATOES - are one of the oldest vegetables known to man and one of the most nutritious too. Sweet potatoes are one of the foods that are least likely to cause allergic reactions, which is great news since asthma is often linked to allergies. What’s more, sweet potatoes contain plenty of vitamin C and potassium as well as unique root proteins which, according to preliminary studies, may have significant antioxidant properties. The pink, orange, and yellow varieties are also one of the most concentrated food sources of beta-carotene (the more intense the color, the more beta-carotene).

10. KALE - This relatively unknown member of the cabbage family is a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins and other phytochemicals that have been shown to alleviate symptoms associated with asthma. Not only is kale a great source of vitamin C, it is also one of the most concentrated dietary sources of beta-carotene (kale contains 10 times the beta-carotene of broccoli). Kale can be eaten raw, for example as a substitute for iceberg lettuce in salads. The beautiful green leaves of kale can also be transformed into a savory warm dish by sautéing the leaves and mixing them with chopped onions, crushed garlic and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

11. TURMERIC - a spice that lends its yellow color to curries and many other foods, has long been used in traditional Asian medicine to treat asthma and many other conditions and diseases. In recent years, western medicine has started to pay greater attention to this extraordinary spice. Recent research suggests that turmeric possesses strong anti-inflammatory properties. Although best known for its use in Indian style curries, turmeric can also be used to add flavor and color to fish, seafood, meat, rice, vegetable, and pasta dishes.


12. MUSTARD GREENS - Chock-full of antioxidants and nutrients, mustard greens can make an excellent addition to your diet if you are susceptible to asthma attacks. In addition to being one of the best sources of beta-carotene, they provide a good amount of vitamin C and vitamin E. The nutrients in mustard greens can remove free radicals that cause smooth muscle contraction and airway constriction in people with asthma. Moreover, they may aid in the breakdown of histamine. Mustard greens with their distinctly peppery flavor are available throughout the year and can be found in the produce section of your local supermarket.

Like said before, no food can actually “cure” asthma; but only provide relief for asthma symptoms, in a long run of consumption. So, if you are asthmatic, or prone to frequent attacks, don’t forget these nutrient-rich foods that may help alleviate your asthma symptoms.

Photo & Source: healthytimesblog.com

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Compulsary Care for your Precious Eyes

During a recent visit to an optician, one of my friends was told of an exercise for the eyes by a specialist doctor that he termed as 20-20-20.'

It is applicable to all of us, who spend long hours at our desks, looking at the computer screen.

I Thought I'd share it with you. 20-20-20 


Step I :-

After every 20 minutes of looking into the computer screen, turn your head and try to look at any object placed at least 20 feet away.

This changes the focal length of your eyes, a must-do for the tired eyes.

Step II :-

Try and blink your eyes for 20 times in succession, to moisten them.

Step III :-

Time permitting of course, one should walk 20 paces after every 20 minutes of sitting in one particular posture.

Helps blood circulation for the entire body.

Circulate among your friends if you care for them and their eyes. They say that your eyes are mirror of your soul, so do take care of them, they are priceless.....

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Importance of having Breakfast

You may not be the only one, as many people, who know the benefits of eating a healthy meal, still leave the house in the morning without having consumed a filling or adequate breakfast.

Most people who skip breakfast or who eat an unhealthy one use either lack of time in the morning or weight watching as their excuse.

We will explain further on in the article that skipping breakfast in order to lose weight is a total misconception that holds absolutely no truth and in fact the opposite is true, in that skipping breakfast, in some cases, could cause you to become overweight.

What happens to our body first thing in the morning?

If you consider that when we wake up in the morning, for the majority of us, our body and brain have been without food for around 10 - 12 hours and for children it may be longer.

Our body is similar to a car in the fact that it needs fuel to run, and like a car, the better you look after your body, the longer and better it will run.

Our bodies must be fuelled several times each day so that we function efficiently and carry out our daily tasks as best we can. In the morning, after many hours without food, it is essential to refuel in order to provide the necessary nutrients and energy to get us through the first part of the day.

Why is it important to fuel our brain?

It is from our brain that messages are sent to other parts of the body to get them moving and working well.

If our brain is not fed, it will act in a slow and sluggish manner, which will impact greatly on the rest of our body.

The brain requires glucose or blood sugar to provide it with energy to function, whilst the muscles of our body need glucose to activate them and get the body working physically.

To work and feel well, our blood sugar levels must be maintained at a certain level. After long periods without food, our blood sugar levels fall, causing tiredness and irritability amongst other symptoms that occur when you need food.

The disadvantages of not having breakfast

If you deprive your body of food in the morning you may find that you feel tired, dizzy and irritable and that your concentration is poor. It may take you longer to carry out tasks or you just might not feel up to anything mentally strenuous let alone physical. You will probably find yourself snapping at people unintentionally, especially if under stress and you will no doubt soon start to feel pangs of hunger as the morning wears on.

If you don't eat anything in the morning, you will most likely find yourself craving something sweet to eat, as your body cries out for a quick fix to boost energy levels. If you are at work and it is not yet time for lunch, this is one of the moments when you may find yourself reaching for something very unhealthy such as a chocolate bar, croissant, cream cake or other unhealthy snacks. For those who are watching their weight, this is disastrous.

It is also possible that you may become so hungry that you grab twice as many unhealthy snacks to eat before lunch or even end up eating all of your packed lunch by 11.30 am.

No breakfast does not equal losing weight

Some people erroneously think that by skipping breakfast, they will reduce their calorie intake for the day and that it will help them to lose weight.

Not only are you giving your body the worst possible start in the morning and putting it under unnecessary pressure, this is also not the case.

Missing breakfast often leads to overeating at some point later on in the day, usually snacking on unhealthy foods, which are high in calories and fat. You may also become over hungry mid-morning and by lunchtime could end up eating twice as much than if you had eaten a healthy breakfast that released energy slowly throughout the day.

Three healthy square meals or six smaller meals a day should keep you going throughout, without having the need to snack in between.

The disadvantages of not eating an adequate breakfast

People who start the day with a strong, sweet cup of coffee and a croissant, Danish pastry or bowl of sugar-loaded cereal, may think that because they have eaten something, that they are starting the day well, and providing their body and brain with a good start to the morning. They may also wonder why, their energy boost doesn't last very long and why they are ravenous mid-morning even after having consumed breakfast first thing.

This is because although they did make time to have breakfast, their breakfast choice was very poor.

Caffeine, as we all know, gives you instant energy and many people feel that they cannot start the morning or even go through the day without at least several shots! In actual fact, caffeine produces adrenaline, which sends some of the body's stored glucose to the brain.

Cereals high in sugar have very little nutritional value. When eaten their high amounts of sugar are released almost immediately into the bloodstream (sugar fix) and provide an instant energy boost.

Together with the caffeine, blood sugar (glucose) levels rocket and energy levels soar.

The downside of this effect is that the energy boost is extremely short-lived. As the pancreas responds to this surge of glucose, it produces insulin in order to bring the levels back down to a reasonable amount.

This means that a few hours after this unhealthy breakfast, you are left feeling tired and hungry again and in need of another quick sugar fix.

The advantages of a healthy and nutritious breakfast

After a good night's sleep and with an empty stomach in the morning, it makes sense that the best way to start the day and to energize and revitalize your body, is with a filling, nutritious and healthy breakfast that will keep you satiated until the next meal.

Our body needs a healthy breakfast packed full of vitamins and nutrients whilst also providing energy and fuel for the brain.

The best types of foods to be eaten at breakfast are complex carbohydrates such as whole grains including oats, rye bread and millet together with a small amount of dried fruit and freshly squeezed juice.

These foods have a low GI (glycaemic index), which means that they release glucose steadily and slowly into the bloodstream, unlike the unhealthier breakfast choices mentioned earlier. Consequently, these foods will keep you fuller for longer, prevent unhealthy snacking, keep energy levels steady without dipping and provide you with essential vitamins and minerals that may be missed at other meals.

Many people like to consume some form of protein in the morning, as protein balances blood sugar levels and recent studies have also proven that concentration levels are enhanced if some form of protein in consumed during the breakfast meal.

Excellent sources of protein, which can be incorporated into the breakfast meal are eggs, fish, nuts and seeds. Eggs are a particularly rich source of choline (B vitamin), which the body converts into acetyl-choline, a neurotransmitter found in the brain.

Studies show that adults and children who eat breakfast in the morning perform better at school and at work. It is proven that with breakfast, concentration and memory improve, mental performance and problem-solving ability is better and learning ability is increased.

Not only this but studies generally prove that most people who eat breakfast manage their weight better, are not obese or overweight, have lower levels of cholesterol, which means they are less likely to suffer from heart disease and are generally in better health overall, not to mention in better mood.

In children, their concentration and productivity at school is better and they are more creative, interested and alert.

Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.

This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor.

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