Amazing health benefits of beetroot

We have all seen our mothers and grandmothers talk about the all important root – beetroot. The purplish-red root is a well know antidote for anaemia in many Indian households. With the Romans relying on it to maintain their sexual health to Indians using it to treat conditions like anaemia and fatigue, the humble beetroot has been known to have multiple benefits. Here are some reasons you should include them into your diet:

Helps reduce blood pressure: According to the British Heart foundation, eating vegetables rich in nitrates could help reduce blood pressure drastically.

This statement was backed up by research done at the Queen Mary’s University in the year 2010. The research studied the relationship between beetroot and its effect on one’s blood pressure. Beetroot is a great source of nitrates, which when consumed, is converted to nitrites and a gas called nitric oxides. Both these components help to widen the arteries and lower blood pressure. Researchers also found that having just about 500 grams of beetroot every day reduces a person’s blood pressure in about six hours. Another important effect of beetroot was that on consumption, the higher the person’s blood pressure the greater the drop. 

Prevents plaque formation and reduces ‘bad’ cholesterol: Beetroot is known to contain large amounts of soluble fibres, flavanoids and betacyanin. Betacyanin is the compound that gives beetroot its purplish-red colour and is also a powerful antioxidant. It helps reduce the oxidation of LDL cholesterol and does not allow it to deposit on the walls of the artery. This protects the heart from potential heart attacks and stroke reducing the need for medication.

Is great for pregnant mums: Another amazing quality of the root is that it has an abundant supply of folic acid. Folic acid is important for pregnant mums and unborn babies because it is an essential component for the proper formation of the unborn child’s spinal cord, and can protect the child from conditions such as spina bifida (is a congenital disorder where the child’s spinal cord does not form completely and in most cases looks like it has been divided into two at the base). Beetroot also gives mums-to-be that extra energy boost required during pregnancy.

Beats osteoporosis: Beetroot is packed with mineral silica, an important component for the body to use calcium efficiently. Since calcium makes up our bones and teeth, having a glass of beetroot juice a day could help keep conditions such as osteoporosis and brittle bone disease at bay. Here’s some information on how you can prevent osteoporosis.

Keeps diabetes under check: For all you diabetics out there, fulfil your sweet craving with a little beetroot. Since it contains sugars, is fat free, low in calories and has a medium glycaemic index it is just what the doctor ordered. A medium glycaemic index means that it releases sugars very slowly into the blood. This property helps keep a person’s blood sugar levels low while satiating that sugar craving.


Treats anaemia: It is a common myth that because beetroot is reddish in colour, it replaces lost blood and is therefore good to treat anaemia. While this may sound a bit outrageous to many, there is a partial truth hidden in the myth. Beetroot contains a lot of iron. Iron helps in the formation of haemagglutinin, which is a part of the blood that helps transport oxygen and nutrients to various parts of the body. It is the iron content and not the colour that helps treat anaemia. Read more about the causes of anaemia.


Helps relieve fatigue: A study presented at the American Diabetics association’s conference stated that beetroot helps boost a person’s energy. They said that due to its nitrate content it helped dilate the arteries thereby helping in the proper transportation of oxygen to various parts of the body, increasing a person’s energy. Another theory was that because the root is a rich source of iron, it helps in improving a person’s stamina. Whatever the source, a pick-me-up at the end of a tiring day can be just what one needs.

Improves sexual health and stamina: Also known as ‘natural Viagra’, beetroot has been commonly used in a number of ancient customs to boost one’s sexual health.  Since the vegetable is a rich source of nitrates it helps release nitric oxide into the body, widening the blood vessels, and increasing blood flow to the genitals – a mechanism that medicines like Viagra seek to replicate. Another factor is that beetroot contains a lot of boron, a chemical compound that is important for the production of the human sex hormone. So the next time, ditch the blue pill and have some beetroot juice instead.

Protects you from cancer:  The betacyanin content in beetroot has another very important function. In a study done at the Howard University, Washington DC, it was found that betacyanin helped slow the growth of tumours by 12.5 percent in patients with breast and prostate cancer. ##  This effect not only helps in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers but it also helps cancer survivors remain cancer-free longer.


Beats constipation and keeps the stomach healthy: Because of its high soluble fibre content beetroot is a great laxative. It cleanses the colon and clears out the stomach helping in regularising one’s bowel movements. Here are a few home remedies to relieve constipation.

Boosts brain power and may treat dementia: A study performed by the University of Exeter, UK, showed that drinking beetroot juice could increase a person’s stamina by 16 percent, because of its nitrate content. Known to increase the oxygen uptake by the body, the study also found that because of this one factor, it could also help in the proper functioning of the brain and beat the onset of dementia. It has also been seen that nitrate when converted to nitrite helps in the better transmission of neural impulses, making the brain work better. Here’s how weight loss can help you to boost memory.

10 reasons to drink warm water with lemon and honey in the morning

We all have heard that drinking a glass of warm water with honey and lemon early in the morning is good for health. Some also believe that it might help in weight loss as well. If you are one of those people who are skeptical of most things, here are 10 reasons why drinking warm water with lemon and honey is great for your health.

Helps improve digestion:

 Lemon, honey and warm water combined help give your digestion an instant boost. Apart from the fact that the components of lemon stimulate your liver to produce more bile, lemon also helps your digestive system by adding to the already present acid and assists it in flushing out unwanted toxins. Honey acts as an antibacterial and beats any infections that might be present in your body. It also helps in the production of intestinal mucus which aids in the flushing out of toxins from the body. Read about yoga asanas that can help improve digestion.

Cleanses the stomach improving the functioning of the colon: Beats constipation : 

 In Ayurveda it is believed that we tend to have a buildup of toxins or ‘ama’ in our stomach. This product of undigested food, intestinal cells and dead bacteria often coats the inner lining of our stomach and is thought to lead to diseases. By drinking Lemon and honey in warm water the walls of the intestine – especially the colon – get stimulated; leading to the expulsion of this ama. If understanding Ayurveda is not your thing, allopathy describes it as a cleansing of the colon, which allows it to function much better. Thereby, helping your body absorb nutrients, get rid of toxins and stay hydrated. The build of toxins often lead the feeling of bloating. Here are  10 reasons for bloating you might not have known about.

This mixture is a great and almost instant remedy for constipation. 

It helps stimulate the bowels helping you pass motion. It also aids in the  production of intestinal  mucus, hydrates the colon and infuses water into dried stool. All this put together helps you pass motion easily. Read more about the other natural methods to relieve constipation.

Helps in cleansing the lymphatic system:

According to various deciplines of medicine a dehydrated lympthatic system is one of the leading causes of illness. Lack of water and essential fluids in the lymphatic system can make you feel sluggish and fatigued, lead to constipation, disturbed sleep, high or low blood pressure, stress and an all-round lack in mental function. The benefit of drinking this mixture early in the morning is that it helps hydrate your entire lymphatic system that not only beats all the above symptoms but also improves your immunity. You can find out about other foods that can boost yout immunity.

Gives you an instant boost of energy and improves your mood:

Feeling low and tired? This mixture is for you. The honey present the concoction acts as an instant energy booster – minus the calories. Water helps clear your mind by providing fresh blood to your brain, and lemon activates negatively charged enzymes in your stomach – a great way to combat positively charged enzymes that react with the food you eat adversely, leading to it being digested poorly. Moreover the scent of lemon is known to be a natural relaxant and can help uplift your mood. Read about yoga asanas that can help you beat stress.

Cleans your urinary tract and acts as a diuretic:Improves oral health: 

 Honey is a very potent antibacterial agent, that has the capability to beat a number of common infections. When mixed with lemon and water – two agents that act as excellent diuretics (agents that flush out water from your body) – this concoction is the best way to cleanse your urinary tract. For women who suffer from frequent UTI (urinary tract infection) this juice is a boon and is known to keep recurrent infections at bay.

The acidic nature of lemon combined with the innate properties of honey and water can help beat bad breath almost instantly. The lemon cleanses the mouth, activating your salivary glands and killing offensive bacteria. When added to honey and water, it help wash down bacteria and degraded food that is usually present in your mouth and throat early in the morning. Another reason for bad breath is the formation of a white film on your tongue (mainly consisting of decaying food and bacteria), this juice effectively gets rid of that film making your breath fresh – naturally. Read about other natural ways to beat bad breath naturally.

Increases your chances of weight loss:  

Apart from its properties of cleansing the stomach, lemon present in the mixture contains a type of fiber called pectin, that helps make you feel full and keeps cravings at bay. The warm water, honey and lemon  also creates a more alkaline atmosphere in your stomach helping  you lose weight faster. Want to lose weight? Here are all your questions about weightloss answered.

Can give you clear skin:

The benefits of lemon on your skin are aplenty, but apart from that, its cleansing action also helps in purifying your blood, also aiding in the production of new blood cells that acts as potent cleaning agents. The water and honey lend a unique restorative, antibacterial and collagen boosting properties to your skin as well. So, if having naturally glowing skin is your aim, have this drink is for you. Read about the amazing benefits lemon has on your skin.

Tips to make and drink this mixture:

You must drink this concoction first thing in the morning. You may choose to brush before you drink it, but it is recommended that you drink it without brushing or gargling. To make the mixture

Take a tall glass of warm (not hot) water, add the juice of half a lemon and one tea spoon of honey to it. Mix well and drink it quickly. Remember not to drink coffee or tea for at least one hour after drinking this mixture.

8 reasons why chia seeds are the new superfood!

hia seeds are either brown or black coloured whole seeds that have gained much popularity recently. These mighty seeds are not only power-packed with a brilliant nutritional profile but are also a must-have for reducing your waistline. Chia seeds are generally soaked in water and consumed after they swell up. They are tasteless by itself and can can be added to almost anything without altering the taste of the dish. In Hindi, these seeds are called sabja or even falooda (once they swell up). 
 

Benefits of chia seeds or sabja

Chia seeds have a balanced proportion of carbohydrates, protein and fats which makes them an excellent source of energy-boosting food. 

These seeds do not require any processing to be consumed. Unlike other seeds, chia seeds are absorbed by the body in the whole form and they can be eaten without any further preparation.

Chia seeds are a great source of dietary fibre. They provide 34g of dietary fibre per 100g and have a high soluble fibre content. This provides satiety and slows down the process of digestion which may prove to be beificial for diabetics.

They have omega-3 fatty acids which makes them heart healthy. They are a vegetarian powerhouse of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids that helps fight inflammation and ward off cardiovascular disease, arthritis and ageing. They are also a great protein source for vegetarians. 

These seeds when soaked in water, take up water to expand and form a gel-like substance. This gel on consumption can keep you hydrated for a long time. This swelling capacity helps the detoxification and cleansing of toxins from your body.

Chia seeds being low in calories and supplier of soluble fibre, healthy fatty acids and high protein makes for a must-eat food for people on a weight loss regime.

They are also a great source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C,iron, calcium, magnesium and zinc.

These seeds keep your skin glowing radiantly and promote healthy hair and nail growth.

How to use chia seeds

Chia seeds can be added to almost everything from your breakfast menu to your dessert. Kickstart your day by adding chia seeds to your oatmeal or add chia seeds to your juices or smoothies. They can be a great addition to your puddings and muffins giving it a texture twist as well as making it nutritious. Sprinkle it on top of your salads, yoghurt or sandwiches to add that extra crunch.

3 easy home remedies to reduce cholesterol levels

I am a 55-year-old man and have high cholesterol. I have had a bypass surgery in 20011, and now regularly exercise five times a week. I am 174 cm tall and weight 74 kg. Although I am extremely cautious about my diet and exercise, my cholesterol levels don’t seem to be reducing. Can you tell me about some home remedies to lower my cholesterol?

Often even after trying everything possible, one’s cholesterol levels don’t seem to budge. While medication is one way, eating the right kinds of food also go a long way in bringing down the numbers. Here are three common foods that can actually help reduce your cholesterol levels.

Methi seeds: 

Fenugreek or methi seeds are a rich source of constituents known as steroidal saponins that help to reduce the body’s absorption of cholesterol coming in through the fat-rich foods we eat. To make the most of this food place methi seeds in a skillet and dry roast using medium heat for about two minutes, with constant stirring. Allow the seeds to cool and then powder; add one teaspoon of this powder to hot or cold water and drink this once or twice in a day. You could also sprinkle a little of this powder at the end of cooking vegetables in gravy if you do not mind the slight bitter taste it gives. Still wondering if you should try this wonder food? Here is some more proof:

Researchers also speculate that the saponins contained in methi may have a role to play in reducing the body’s production of cholesterol. This, along with the fibre present in the fenugreek seed coat makes methi a valuable weapon in the fight against high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.

Flaxseed: Here is how you can use it: Grind flaxseeds and add the powder into your food towards the end of the cooking process. Although it will not be damaged by heat, the fiber present in the flaxseeds can absorb liquid and cause a thickening of the gravy if added early in the cooking process. Sprinkle a little flaxseed powder over breakfast cereals, cooked vegetables, or mix in with your chutney powder.

Also called linseed, flaxseed is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids that have a protective action on heart health. Like fenugreek, these seeds also contain a lot of fiber and this binds with cholesterol, preventing its absorption. The regular use of flaxseed is said to prevent the arteries from hardening due to the deposition of cholesterol; it also helps reduce the risk of coronary artery disease and hypertension. Flaxseeds also have the effect of increasing the concentrations of apolipoprotein A1 which goes to form HDL cholesterol.

Onion:

 Onions contain a constituent called quercetin that is known to be a strong antioxidant; this means it can prevent the damaging effects of free radicals on human tissues. Researchers have linked quercetin of onions with increased levels of HDL cholesterol as well as low levels of LDL cholesterol. To help bring down your cholesterol levels, consume onion raw in the form of salads. Make a juice out of it by steaming and squeezing. If you can manage the raw smell of onion, just cut the onions without steaming and extract the juice and drink, or mix in a few other vegetables while juicing.

How flaxseeds can help control diabetes, heart disease

With the increasing emphasis on eating and living healthy, there has been a lot of talk about including flaxseed into one’s diet. This tiny, brownish, flat seed is packed with nutrients and could help eradicate a number of lifestyle diseases that are on the rise these days.

Flaxseed is considered healthy due to the fact that they contain Omega-3 fatty acids, also known as ‘good fat’, Lignans, rich in antioxidants and estrogen content; and Fiber. Here are a few ailments flaxseed can help fight:

Diabetes:

Lignans present in flaxseed, are known to improve the blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetics. A daily intake of flaxseed can help to maintain a normal blood sugar level over an extended period of time. Read more about tips to prevent diabetes.

Heart Disease:

Antioxidants in flaxseed help the heart due to their anti-inflammatory properties, blood pressure lowering effects and are known to normalize a person’s heartbeat. Flaxseeds also help to reduce the formation of plaque in the arteries and reduce the hardening of the arteries. They keep the LDL levels or ‘bad cholesterol’ levels under check and can beat conditions such as diabetes, obesity and heart disease.

Cancer

The high content of antioxidants and Omega 3 fatty acids protect against breast cancer, prostate cancer and colon cancer. The lignin content in flaxseed especially protects against tumours that are hormone sensitive eg: estrogen-sensitive breast tumours. Here are all the common questions about cancer answered by a specialist doctor.

Inflammation: 

The omega 3 fatty acids and lignans present in flaxseeds along with a component known as ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) have a dramatic effect on inflammation in the body. They work by blocking the release of inflammatory agents and are especially beneficial to patients who suffer from diseases such as arthritis, and Parkinson’s disease.

Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are a problem that is commonly associated with menopausal women. Its occurrence can be reduced with the inclusion on one tablespoon of flaxseed into their diet. According to a study, women who followed this regime showed a 57% drop in the occurrence and intensity of hot flashes. It is believed that the antioxidant properties in flaxseeds help to regularize the hormonal imbalance, leading to a drop in the occurrence of hot flashes. Here are some tips to deal with symptoms of menopause.

Tips to include flaxseeds in your diet:

You could start off by having one tablespoon of ground flaxseed powder every morning on an empty stomach, to get maximum benefits. Alternatively, add it to your energy drink or fresh juice. If you want to include it into your cooking, sprinkle one tablespoon of flaxseed powder on the dish you prepare. Remember not to put the powder directly into hot oil, because this can cause your dish to get an unusual flavour. The excess heat tends to deactivate the beneficial properties of flaxseed as well. However, like everything in excess is bad, so are flaxseeds. Experts recommend not more than 2 tablespoons should be consumed in a day.

Curry spices could help relieve hypertension — in rats that is

Indian medical researchers say they have successfully tested a blend of curry spices that lower blood pressure in lab rats, raising hopes for a natural and affordable drug to treat the chronic disease. S. Thanikachalam, a cardiology expert who headed the research, said his team had tested a mixture of ginger, cardamom, cumin and pepper — common ingredients in Indian kitchens — along with white lotus petals and others on the rodents.
‘We saw tremendous positive changes in rats induced with high blood pressure during our laboratory experiments,’ said Thanikachalam, who heads the department of cardiology at Sri Ramachandra University in the southern city of Chennai. ‘The drug was very effective in reducing the blood pressure and bringing down oxidative stress in rats,’ he told AFP. The study said the spices were successful at reducing renovascular hypertension, a secondary form of high blood pressure caused by a narrowing of the arteries in the kidneys.
Indians are genetically predisposed to hypertension with one in four people in cities suffering from the disorder, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Hypertension is mostly treated with modern pharmaceuticals but high costs and the possibility of side effects deter many from taking daily medication. The latest research is not the first time a curry ingredient has been associated with healthy benefits. In February 2011, scientists released a study suggesting a new hybrid drug tested on animals, made in part from the chemical in the yellow spice turmeric, could help regenerate brain cells after a stroke. Thanikachalam said the herbal treatment tried by his team, known as venthamarai chooranam, was a combination mentioned in ancient Indian literature. ‘It’s been passed on from one generation to the other. It’s just that it’s not been validated scientifically,’ he said.
The researchers want to expand the animal study to see if the herbal medicine works for chronic conditions before turning to human clinical trials, a mandatory step before any new drug can be brought to market. ‘We will be observing the rats in the long run and see if it sustains. Our goal is to develop a drug that is effective and cheap,’ he said.’ The results of the study were published in the June edition of the medical journal Experimental Biology and Medicine.

10 amazing health benefits of aloe vera

We have all heard about the amazing benefits aloe vera has for one’s skin and hair. But did you know that it can do wonders for your entire body? Right from aiding in proper digestion to helping you beat conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and constipation, aloe vera boasts of many benefits. 
 
Improves digestion:  Aloe vera is packed with nutrients and some of the most effective ones are the eight enzymes that it contains – aliiase, alkaline  phosphatase, amylase, carboxypeptidase, catalase, cellulase, lipase and peroxidase – all of which help immensely with digestion. These enzymes are the main components in the breakdown of sugars and fats, enhancing digestion and nutrient absorption. If indigestion is something you struggle with, then eating either aloe vera pulp or drinking its juice everyday can do you a great deal of good. This property of aloe vera also makes it a very potent antidote against IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and acid reflux.

Is a great laxative: A very potent adaptogen (a compound that helps the body adapt to changes in the environment that affect the body’s functioning), aloe vera helps the body deal with stress and improves digestion by acclimatizing the body to dietary changes. Apart from that, it also increases the ability of your gut to absorb nutrients and digest foods – helping immensely in relieving constipation, the symptoms of IBS and acid reflux.

Rids your body of intestinal worms:  Aloe vera is known to be a great vermifuge and is very effective in killing worms within the stomach. The reasons for this is that it exhibits strong anti nematidal (worm killing) activity and helps maintain the balance of the natural flora within your stomach, helping it keep infections at bay.

Detoxifies your body: Made mainly of gelatinous material, aloe vera is a great way to help detox your body. This material when eaten, passes through your stomach and absorbs all the toxins. What’s more it even helps in the proper removal of these wastes as feces making sure none of the toxins remain in the body. In the practice of  Ayurveda, aloe vera is used as a compound to get rid of ‘ama’  or the toxic waste that commonly adheres to the intestinal walls and causes diseases.

Lowers cholesterol levels and protects your heart : A study published in the British Medical Journal found that beta sitosterol helps in reducing ones cholesterol levels, and aloe vera is packed with this compound. Apart from that, aloe vera also contains a large number of fatty acids that aid in the breakdown of fats in the body – helping in the overall reduction of cholesterol. All these actions also help improve circulation and regulates blood pressure, in turn protecting the heart from the ill effects of cholesterol.

Enhances the immune system: Aloe vera is rich in both polysaccharides and monosaccharides. Both these compounds when put together are highly effective in boosting your immune system by strengthening macropahges (white blood cells), which helps fight against bacteria and viruses.

Is an effective antioxidant : Packed with anti oxidants and adaptogens, aloe vera is great to beat oxidative stress. Not only does it boost your immune system and balance out all the bodily systems, but it also helps repair any damage due to stress and oxidation.

Acts an anti bacterial, anti fungal : Aloe vera’s active ingredients are sulphur, lupeol, salicylic acid, cinnamic acid, urea nitrogen and phenol prevent the growth of disease causing microorganisms and act as a strong antimicrobial agent helping in keeping infections at bay. These compounds are also very effective against fungus and viruses making aloe vera a very potent anti fungal, anti bacterial and anti viral agent.

Reduces joint inflammation and improves joint flexibility:  Packed with a large number of anthraqunones (compounds like aloetic acid and cinnamonic  acid) that are very effective in easing inflammation both internally and externally, aloe vera is highly effective in reducing joint inflammation. These anthraquinones when ingested help reduce the swelling caused due to various stomach disorders like ulcerative colitis, ulcers, acidity etc. and when applied externally work just as well on skin infections, burns and joint pain. Moreover studies have shown that the aloe vera can also help lubricate the joints making them less prone to pain due to arthritis and other joint disorders.

Improves skin health: Aloe vera is very soothing for the skin and does not cause any irritation. It’s anti-inflammatory properties help in treating blemishes, acne and other skin problems. A minor cut or wound, a burn or a rash can be effectively treated with aloe vera. The gel is extracted from the leaves of the plant and when applied to the skin, softens dead skin cells leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth upon regular use. It also delays visible signs of ageing like fine lines and appearance of wrinkles.

5 home remedies for mouth ulcers

Mouth ulcers can be quite painful and depending on their specific location in the oral cavity, often interfere with your ability to eat and speak. Often, these ulcers put in an appearance at times of extreme stress and the discomfort they cause only adds to your misery. Sometimes, such an ulcer indicates the deficiency of certain vital nutrients and therefore, taking multivitamin supplements can be useful; however, it can take a few days for the effects to start showing. In such situations, it is possible to find relief faster by using a few of these home remedies.

Remedies to Reduce Pain

If the mouth ulcer is causing a lot of pain, gently rub a small ice cube over the spot or rinse your mouth with ice-cold water. This won’t make the ulcer disappear, but it can help reduce the pain. Similarly, you could also chew on a clove bud (lavang) and direct the juice so generated to the area where the ulcer is located. The mild anaesthetic effect of the clove will reduce the pain you feel. To prevent the ulcerated area from getting infected, make it a point to rinse your mouth with a little salt water.

Tulsi

The leaves of the tulsi plant have amazing medicinal properties and one of the important actions of tulsi is as an adaptogen – a substance that aids the body to adapt to stress. Chew a few leaves of tulsi along with some water about three to four times every day. This will help the ulcers go away faster and also have a preventive action against their recurrence. (Read: Top 10 health benefits of tulsi)

Honey

Honey is a natural humectant – that is, it helps to retain moisture and prevent dehydration. It also helps reduce scarring and hastens the process of new tissue growth. This, along with its anti-microbial effect ensures faster healing of the mouth ulcer. You can either dab a little honey onto the mouth ulcer or mix in a little turmeric to make a paste that can be applied to the affected area.

Poppy Seeds

Poppy seeds – khus-khus in Hindi – are said to have a cooling effect on the body. According to Ayurveda, too much heat in the body manifests as mouth ulcers and therefore, poppy seeds are a good remedy to overcome this problem. Read how can you actually use poppy seeds to treat your ulcers.

Coconut

Dry coconut, coconut oil and coconut water are the three products of the coconut tree that are very useful in treating mouth ulcers. Drinking tender coconut water helps to cool the body down. Applying a little coconut oil directly onto the mouth ulcer or chewing some coconut (fresh or dry) helps to reduce pain and inflammation and this helps the ulcers heal faster. (Read: The coconut controversy – is it really all bad?)

Licorice

Called Mulethi in Hindi, Yashtimadhu in Sanskrit and Adhimadhuram in Tamil, licorice has several medicinal properties. Scientific studies have found that it contains ingredients with marked anti-inflammatory properties which are responsible for its action against painful mouth ulcers. Mulethi is available as stem pieces as well as in powder form. Rub the stem with a little water on a grinding stone and apply the paste to the ulcerated area. Or, if you buy the licorice powder, disperse it in some honey or medicinal quality glycerin and apply to the mouth ulcer. You can also mix a little licorice powder with turmeric into a glass of warm milk and drink three or four times in a day for good results.

Other Cooling Agents

In keeping with the logic that mouth ulcers are due to excess body heat, other substances with cooling properties can help get rid of them. For example, you could apply a little ghee directly to the ulcerated area, or drink a glass of butter milk two or three times everyday. Castor oil also has wonderful cooling property; apply a little oil to your scalp and the soles of the feet, allow the oil to soak in for a few hours and then wash with warm water using shikakai and reetha paste. Read additional benefits of castor oil for healthy hair.

Mouth ulcers left untreated generally go away in a week or so; with these home remedies, you can expect faster relief. However, if you notice an ulcer in the mouth that is persistently present although it does not cause you any pain, do not neglect it or try to treat it with home remedies beyond a few days. Make it a point to see a doctor soon because often, a painless mouth ulcer is one of the earliest signs of oral cancer. Read more about Oral cancer: Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Garlic: A natural pill for a healthy heart

Being one of the most important organs in the body the heart is one of those organs that works non-stop. It circulates oxygen in the body and takes away the toxins produced, without which all other organs would shut down leading to death. So wouldn’t you like to take care of this organ? Well, there are some natural remedies that can help protect the heart, and one of them is garlic.

Garlic is known to protect the heart against cardiovascular problems like heart attacks and atherosclerosis. It protects and restores the elasticity of the arteries, saves the heart from damage due to the effects of free oxygen radicals, prevents the formation of blockages in the arteries due to its high sulphur content and reduces the chances of blood clots within the arteries.

Here is how you can reap its benefits

The best way is to crush two pods of medium sized garlic pods, and have it with warm water, first thing in the morning. Remember that you must be on an empty stomach. If you don’t want to try eating raw garlic, add it to your food. You can have it either as tadka or as a part of the meal itself.

In the end, garlic can be your heart’s best friend, along with regular exercise and a healthy diet  just remember to include garlic in your diet on a daily basis and watch your heart beat at its best!

Know your heart, love your heart

More and more Indians are falling prey to heart disease. There are various reasons for this including a sedentary lifestyle, genetic predisposition, pollution, smoking, drinking, a fatty diet and a general ignorance about what causes heart ailments. However, we at www.thehealthsite.com intend to fight that by covering every aspect of cardiovascular health including diet, expert advice, exercise, natural remedies, diagnosis and treatment, specific heart advice for women and more this month.

Top 10 home remedies for constipation

Constipation is a condition that can cause the person suffering from it a lot of trauma. Although constipation can be a sign of a bigger problem like we explained in our previous post,  if your  medical check up has cleared you of any serious conditions, you could use simple home remedies to relieve the discomfort. Here are a few of them  that can work wonders:

1. Triphala powder or Triphala  Churna, consists of three fruits - Amla or Indian gooseberry (read about the amazing benefits of amla), Haritaki (Chebulic Myrobalan) and Vibhitaki (Bellirica Myrobalan). It is a great laxative and helps to regulate digestion and bowel movements. You can either have one teaspoon with warm water or mix the powder with honey. Having this mixture either before going to bed or early in the morning on an empty stomach can relieve constipation almost instantaneously. The advantage of this powder is that it is not habit forming and a completely natural alternative to chemical laxatives. Read about other ways to beat constipation with triphla.

2. Raisins (kishmish) are packed with fiber and act as great natural laxatives. Soak a handful in water overnight and have them first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. This remedy also works wonders for pregnant woman, without the side effects of medication. Raisins are also known to be better energy boosters than energy bars, so using them not only gives your health a boost it also relieves constpation.

3. Guavas (amrood or peru) have soluble fibre in the pulp and insoluble fiber content in the seeds (find out why guavas are great for your health). They also help with the mucus production in the anus and with peristalsis (a series of contractions within the intestinal lining that helps the passage of food in the stomach). Guavas are also a natural way to boost your immunity, find out how.

4. Lemon (Nimbu) juice is recommended by most Ayurvedic practitioners as a quick and simple remedy for constipation. A warm glass of water with lemon and salt, first thing in the morning not only acts as a cleansing agent for the intestines, the salt content helps in quick and easy passage of stool. All you need to do is mix one teaspoon of lemon juice in a glass of warm water. Add a pinch of salt to the solution. Drink this juice on an empty stomach to relieve constipation. This juice also is a great way to detox your body. Read about a step-by-step guide to detoxing your body the Ayurveda way.

5. Figs (Anjeer), either dried or ripe, are packed with fiber and act as a great natural laxative. For relief from constipation, boil a few figs in a glass of milk, drink this mixture at night before bed. Make sure the mixture is warm when you drink it. Using a whole fruit for this purpose is much better as compared to syrups that are available commercially.

6. Flax seeds (Alsi) are known for their fiber content, and can very well help you when it comes to constipation. You can mix flax seeds in your cereal every morning or just have a handful with warm water early in the morning. Fiber is an essential addition to your diet, not only does it neat constipation it also keeps hypertension at bay, fights diabetes, staves off heart disease, fights off obesity and can reduce your risk of suffering from cancer.

7. Castor oil (Arandi ka tel) has been used for centuries as a sure shot remedy for constipation and has properties that can kill intestinal worms. If drinking a spoon of castor oil alone is not something you’d like to do, you could add a tablespoon of it in a warm glass of milk.  Have this mixture at night before bed to relieve constipation.

8. Spinach (Palak) have properties that cleanse, rebuild and renew the intestinal tract (read why palak can do much more for your body than relieve constipation)You can have about 100 ml of spinach juice mixed with an equal quantity of water twice daily. This home remedy is the most effective method to cure even the most stubborn cases of constipation. Read about why you suffer from constipation.

9. Oranges are not only a great source of Vitamin C but also have a large amount of fiber content (read why you should incude oranges into your diet). Eating two oranges every day, once in the morning and once in the evening can provide great relief from constipation. Read about what the best food sources for various vitamins are.

10. Seed mixtures with 2-3 sunflower seeds, a few flax seeds, til or sesame seeds and almonds ground together to a fine powder can help relieve constipation (read about how til or sesame seeds can benefit your all-round health). Have one tablespoon of this mixture everyday, for a week. You can add it to your salad or cereal every morning. This mixture not only provides the necessary fiber content to relieve constipation but it also helps in rejuvenating the intestinal walls.

Diet tips to avoid constipation:
In order to avoid and cure constipation, it is essential that you maintain healthy food habits. Here are a few changes you could make in your diet to cure constipation:

• Avoid foods that contain white flour like maida, white sugar and other processed foods. Read abou the food combinations that are bad for your health.
• Eat light regular meals, and make sure you eat at least 3-4 hours before you go to bed. Regular meals not only keep constipation at bay, they also increase your metabolism and help you lose weight. find out exactly how
• Include fruits and vegetables into your daily diet.
• Adding condiments like jeera, haldi and ajwain in your food while cooking it is a great way to help digestion. Read about the other health benefits of jeera, haldi and ajwain
• Drink at least eight glasses of water every day. Make sure you have a glass of warm water every morning and before you go to bed. Read about why water is the fuel that keeps your body fit.

Top 6 natural remedies to keep your liver healthy

The liver is one of our body’s busiest organs, with a role to play in most of the biochemical processes that sustain life. It produces bile that is vital to digestion, produces plasma proteins, stores iron, regulates the clotting of blood, synthesizes cholesterol, stores glucose as glycogen, regulates the levels of amino acids in blood, is involved with clotting of blood, removes toxins from the body and produces immune factors that help prevent infections. With our modern-day food and lifestyles (think greater junk food, alcohol, smoking, stress and medication) we put a greater pressure on our liver and this can cause several health problems right from allergies and migraines to obesity and indigestion. Here are a few herbal remedies that can help your liver stay healthy.

Amla or Gooseberry

The Indian gooseberry or amla is known as one of the richest sources of vitamin C. What is less well-known is its ability to keep the liver functioning at optimal levels. This herb has been used extensively in Ayurveda for treatment of a sluggish liver; now researchers are finding in laboratory studies that extracts from amla have liver-protective function. However, there is no clear indication of whether it is useful to treat hepatitis B infection. Amla is one of the important components in Chyawanpraash that has immunity boosting, digestive and liver-protective action. The best way to consume it is raw as small pieces in your salad or by making a raitha with grated amla and curd. Here are amazing health benefits of amla.

Jethimad or Licorice

People with non- alcoholic fatty liver disease show increased levels of the transaminase enzymes called ALT and AST. Studies have found that the use of licorice (Jethimad or Mulhati in Hindi) extracts led to reduced concentrations of these enzymes indicating that licorice has beneficial effects on the liver. Although licorice is more well-known for its sweet taste and anti-ulcer action, it has been used in Ayurvedic remedies to cure liver ailments. Licorice is available at stores selling Indian medicinal herbs; get the root, powder it at home and make a tea by pouring boiling water into the powder, steeping for a few minutes and then straining the liquid.

Amrith or Guduchi

Yet another herb that Ayurveda considers to have rejuvenating properties, Amrith is commonly grown in many kitchen gardens. It is said to have the ability to clear toxins from the liver as well as strengthen its functioning; more importantly, it does not cause any significant complications even on using long-term. However, Ayurvedic physicians warn that using this herb can precipitate a liver crisis if the patient has a large amount of toxins in the liver; therefore, it is best to use this only under an Ayurvedic practitioner’s guidance.

Haldi or Turmeric

Full of valuable antioxidants, turmeric is an important herb that improves liver health. No wonder then that people in Asian countries use it so extensively in their cooking. Now, it is being recognized even in western countries for its liver-protective value. Some studies have also found that the antiviral action of turmeric is effective in preventing the multiplication of the viruses causing hepatitis B and C. The easiest way to take turmeric is to include it in your cooking; you can also make it a practice to drink a little turmeric-flavoured milk on a regular basis to get its benefits. Here are more health benefits of turmeric.

Flaxseeds

Certain receptor sites normally bind hormones and keep them circulating in the blood. This puts a strain on the liver which has to filter out these excess hormones. Studies have found that the phytoconstituents in flaxseeds have the capacity to bind with such receptor sites and this prevents hormonal binding, and this means less work for the liver. Just sprinkling a few crushed or whole flaxseeds on your toast, salad or cereals can help you make use of their liver-protective effect. Read more health benefits of flaxseeds.

Vegetables

Certain vegetables contain ingredients that help the liver secrete greater concentrations of important enzymes; in turn, these enzymes help to excrete potential carcinogens (cancer-causing substances) from the body. Beet, cabbage, carrot, broccoli, onion and garlic are important vegetables with such an action. Broccoli, onion and garlic are believed to provide sulfur to the body; this helps in the detoxification reactions the liver carries out and prevents damage to the liver. Read more about foods that can keep your liver healthy.

Along with the use of these natural remedies, it is also important to avoid foods that cause damage to the liver. Here are 10 things that can cause liver disease. If you eat foods that are highly processed with a large number of additives, or if you take too many medications, your liver has to work overtime to tackle this greater chemical load and this can cause damage. Food that is rich in hydrogenated oil, high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweetening agents and alcohol are some of the other substances that can put a greater load on your liver. Along with consuming of liver-protective herbs, it is also important to make sure you avoid the foods that cause it harm.