How to Make Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief Turmeric Ginger Tea

How to Make Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief Turmeric Ginger Tea

Turmeric and ginger are botanically related to each other and have both been used for centuries as spices in cooking and as medicinal herbs. These herbs are recommended for treating gastrointestinal problems, inflammatory conditions and several other conditions

The strong anti-inflammatory properties of ginger are excellent for dealing with muscle and arthritic pain. Ginger contains powerful anti-inflammatory substances called gingerols. These have been tested in various research of rheumatic diseases such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. The participants in the research reported a gradual reduction of pain, improving agility and movement and reduction in swelling when using ginger regularly. The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger also promote digestion and soothes colic, relieve nausea and intestinal gas, and also as a treatment for colds and other respiratory conditions

Anti-Inflammatory Ginger Turmeric Tea Recipe

For 1 cup of water use 1 teaspoon each of fresh grated turmeric and ginger roots. If you use ground turmeric and ginger, use 1/3 teaspoon each.
Add raw honey to taste, and a slice of lemon if you want.

Preparation

In a small saucepan, bring water to boil. Add fresh grated turmeric and ginger, reduce heat, and simmer for 15-20 minutes. If using ground turmeric and ginger, boil for 10 minutes. Then strain the tea and add the honey and lemon to taste.

How much and how often

There are no official dosing instructions exist for ginger and turmeric tea. You can drink 1 cup of it on days you feel extra achy.

Side effects

Although these herbs are considered safe and without significant side effects when used appropriately by adults, each may interact with certain prescription medications. For example both may not be safe if you have a bleeding disorder or take blood-thinning drugs. Therefore talk with your doctor before deciding if one or both herbs might be useful for your situation. Also taking these herbs by mouth in medicinal amounts is likely unsafe in pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Source: healthy and natural world


Home Remedies for Arthritis in Hands

arthritic-hands

Arthritis in the hands is the most common type of arthritis. It occurs as a result of the breakdown of the cartilage that support the bone structure.

Since we use our hands and fingers in most activities, arthritis in the hands can be a cause of discomfort and uneasiness. Swollen fingers, joint inflammation, stiffness and pain are some of the symptoms of hand arthritis.

Advancements in the medical field have led to the development of many methods for controlling the various arthritis symptoms. Along with medications, you can also try some easy yet highly effective natural remedies to improve the condition of your fingers and hands.

Here are the top 10 home remedies for arthritis in the hands. Also, consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

1. Ice Pack
Cold therapy is good for those suffering from hand arthritis. You can use ice packs, a plastic bag filled with crushed ice or a bag of frozen vegetables. Regular application of ice packs on the affected hands and fingers will lessen irritation and reduce soreness. However, it is important to bear in mind that different people may respond differently to cold therapy.

Simply put the ice pack on the affected area for a few minutes and then repeat. Continue this home treatment for about 20 minutes, several times a day. Apply the cold compress to only one or two joints at a time, and be sure to put a thin towel between the ice pack and the skin to prevent frostbite.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has anti-inflammatory and alkaline-forming properties that help reduce pain and stiffness in the hands from arthritis.

Drink a glass of warm water mixed with one tablespoon of organic apple cider vinegar and some honey every day.
Alternatively, mix one-quarter or one-half teaspoon of cayenne pepper in one cup of warm apple cider vinegar. Soak the painful joint in it for about 15 minutes and then rinse it off. Repeat daily until you see improvement.

3. Ginger
Ginger contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce arthritis pain and inflammation. You can add this herb in your foods and also drink ginger tea to derive its benefits.

To make ginger tea:

  • Cut up a small piece of ginger.
  • Boil it in one cup of water for 10 minutes.
  • Strain and drink this tea two or three times a day until you get relief.

4. Honey and Cinnamon
The combination of honey and cinnamon powder is a good natural way to treat arthritis in hands and help relax stiff muscles due to their excellent healing properties. Also, honey has antiseptic qualities, while cinnamon has good anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Mix one tablespoon of honey and one-half teaspoon of cinnamon powder.
Eat this mixture every morning on an empty stomach for several weeks or until you get encouraging results.

5. Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is good for reducing the stiffness, inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. It is a rich source of magnesium which is important for bone mineralization; most arthritis patients have demineralized bones. Moreover, magnesium helps decrease nerve pains.

  • Mix two cups of Epsom salt in warm bath water
  • Soak your hands in it for 20 to 30 minutes.
  • Do this three times a week for several weeks or until you are satisfied with the results.

6. Olive Oil
There is a strong connection between olive oil and inflammation caused by arthritis. A special compound known as oleocanthal present in olive oil helps prevent the production of pro-inflammatory COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes.

Olive oil can be used as a massage oil for your hands and fingers. Add a few drops of lavender oil to some warm olive oil and massage the affected area with gentle strokes to alleviate discomfort and inflammation.
You can also use olive oil for cooking food to help reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.

Source: top 10 home remedies


Health Benefits of Eggplant

Health Benefits of Eggplant

 

1. The iron, calcium and other minerals in eggplant supply the essential nutrients required by the body.

All this, while relishing a highly flavorful veggie, is a good deal, indeed! Stuff, grill, bake, roast, stew your eggplants—they’re delicious in most avatars!

2. Eggplants contain certain essential phyto nutrients which improve blood circulation and nourish the brain.
But remember—these nutrients are concentrated in the skin of the eggplant, so don’t char and throw it away.

3. They provide fiber, which protects the digestive tract.
In fact, regular intake of eggplants can protect you from colon cancer.

4. Eggplant is low in calories, with just 35 per cup.
It contains no fat and its high fiber content can help you feel full.

5. For centuries, eggplants have been used for controlling and managing diabetes.
Modern research validates this role, thanks to the high fiber and low soluble carbohydrate content of the eggplant.

6. Eggplants have a role in heart care, too.
Research studies show they can lower ‘bad’ cholesterol. But you must cook them the right way to get these benefits. Fried eggplant soaks up a lot of fat, making it harmful and heavy. Instead, bake it at 400 degrees, which brings out glorious flavor and gives you all the goodness an eggplant holds!

7. Control high-blood pressure and relieve stress.
The heart-healthy benefits of eggplant don’t end with limiting cholesterol. Eggplants are high in bioflavonoids, which are known to control high blood pressure and relieve stress.

8. Regular consumption of eggplant helps prevent blood clots.
Thanks again to Vitamin K and bioflavonoids, which strengthen capillaries.

Source: health digezt


French Fries – The Danger Effects

french fries dangers

Therefore, think again before you start preparing your fryer or pan for usage.

1. Bad fatty acids

The fried foods are delicious, but the bad saturated fat turns the potatoes into a ticking time bomb for your heart, diabetes and cancer.Bad and saturated fats are contained even in the margarine and all products labeled “partially hydrogenated”.

Bad fats raise cholesterol levels and elevate triglycerides. The human body needs Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, so it is very important to pay attention in what type of oil are the french fries fried. Sunflower and corn oil are good for use, while palm and sesame are always the best choice for frying.

2. They contain bad carbohydrates

The potato in its natural state is really good for the human health, but it can be dangerous if its prepared in a wrong way.
In its composition contains carbohydrates and sugars and when we intake carbohydrates in our body they become rapidly absorbed, which later can be used as a source of energy or get stored as fat deposits.

Once you eat one fries serving it is mandatory to make some exercise or take a walk , because otherwise you will surely raise few grams from only this one meal. The scariest part that adversely will affect your body line is actually that delicious crust generated during frying.

3. Contain trans fats

The french fries have trans fats that are common triggers of multiple types of cancer. Therefore it is best to avoid or limit the consumption of these foods.

One serving per week will be good enough for you, and for the children between 3 and 5 years it is highly recommended only one serving in period of 10 days. The French fries have enormous concentrate of salt, bad fats and carbohydrates, and worse than that is the potato chips.

4. Be careful with the packed french fries

When you get hungry and you are not at your home, you’re probably opting for some packed french fries, without knowing in what kind of oil they`re fried.

Another thing that you should have in mind is to eat it while is still hot. That means that before it gets consumed it has not enough time to stand in a place and then start storing dome extra fat.

Replacement for the french fries?

The best option would be – baked potato.

Baked_Potato-300x226

Cut the potatoes as fries, preheat the oven and on the baking pan place some sheets of paper. Well arrange the potatoes, bake it and spice up as desired.

Source: only pure nature


Best 10 health benefits of eating ivy gourd

Best 10 health benefits of eating ivy gourd

Ivy gourd or coccinia grandis is also referred as baby watermelon, gherkin, gentlemen’s toes or little gourd. The skin of the ivy gourd is smooth with the blend of green and white colors. It consists of white flesh that is similar to the taste and appearance of a cucumber. Their taste is good and consists of many health benefits as described below.

Health benefits of ivy gourd

This vegetable improves the bowel movements of the body due to because it has the laxative qualities, which are resulted due to the existence of vitamin A and beta-carotene in the vegetable. With this property it also cures gonorrhea.

Controls blood sugar levels
Ivy gourd has the ability to control blood sugar levels in a natural way. This is because of the liver enzyme in the vegetable that controls the metabolism rate of sugar in the body with the process of improving glucose production. Hence it is highly recommended for diabetic patients to assist them in a strong way.

Health vitamins
As it is loaded with high amounts of vitamins it got the name of healthy food in various parts of India. Every vitamin is essential for the proper body functioning and is helpful for the defense mechanism. The abundant amount of vitamin C present in the vegetable helps to condition your bones and it also plays a vital role in the development of general structure of the body. On top of the above it is filled with the set of vitamins such as beta-carotene, vitamin A, vitamin B1 and B2, in addition it is thought to have the properties of anti anaphylactic as well as anti-histaminic. It is also believed that consumption of Ivy gourd along with the meals help to lower fever.

Some studies have noticed the presence of anti-oxidants in this veggie, and it assists our body by eliminating various illness conditions.

Heals certain diseases
Ivy gourd has been utilized as a medicine to cure asthma, bronchitis, jaundice and leprosy since time immemorial. The plant of this vegetable is used to control high fever and bowel problems. Also it is added in the diet to heal specific kind of blood diseases. People who are suffering with high cholesterol levels and asthma are suggested to intake the ivy gourd along with their diet inorder to hold it in control.

Include your diet with the Ivy gourd to lock the caring effects of the vegetable on your eyes, kidney, liver and heart. The regular intake of it gradually eliminates negative effects on your kidneys and it aids for the proper functioning of the kidneys. This particular veggie is utilized for the preparation of medicines that cure cough, hepatic problems, anorexia and diabetic wounds.

Ivy gourd is featured with the ability of detoxification and it acts ideal in cleaning our blood also. Ivy gourd not just has the anti-bacterial properties but also the pain killing and anti-ulcer properties. Leaves and the root of Ivy gourd are also responsible for the production of medicinal properties. The plant also got the advantage in the preparation of herbal supplements.

Source: beauty health tips


Amazing Health Benefits from Green Papaya

Amazing Health Benefits from Green Papaya

The unripe green fruit of papaya has a mild flavour. Green papaya has a smooth white flesh and is a rich source of vitamin C. Papaya offers an excellent source of potassium and fiber and is low in calories. It has a high amount of pectin which helps in digestion.

Health Benefits from Green Papaya:
The anti-inflammatory virtue from the papain in papaya greatly reduce inflammation in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout and asthma.

The rich fiber in papaya bind to cancer-causing toxins in the colon and is eliminated from the body during bowel movements.
Papaya is commonly known for its fine and natural laxative virtue which aids digestion. Taken regularly, it can help habitual constipation, bleeding piles and chronic diarrhea.

The three very powerful anti-oxidants in papayas help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol. Oxidized cholesterol forms dangerous plagues that can eventually cause heart attacks or strokes.

Vitamin A available in papaya helps to reduce lung inflammation. So it is useful for active as well as passive smokers.
The papain in unripe papaya is extremely beneficial for those who are deficient in gastric juice, have excess of unhealthy mucus in the stomach, dyspepsia and intestinal irritation.

Consumption of unripe papaya juice help to contract the muscle fibers of the womb, resulting in proper and regular menstrual flow. It is especially helpful in cases of menstruation cessation in young ladies due to cold or trauma.
The juice from unripe papaya is highly beneficial in treating skin disorders like acne and psoriasis. When applied to wounds, it prevents pus formation and swelling. Paste made from unripe papaya when applied to the face, may remove pigmentation or brown spots, and making the skin smooth and delicate. Try it.
Immerse cut ripe papaya in vinegar for a week, then consume twice a day with meals until spleen is normalized.

Drink honey mixed in fresh juice from unripe papaya regularly over inflamed tonsils for diphtheria and other throat disorders. It dissolves the membrane and prevents infection from spreading.

Health Hazards :

Anti-estrogen effects have been noted as well. Green papaya (unripe) can cause abortion due to the presence of a plant compound, benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC), found primarily in the latex of green papaya tissue, Food forms of papaya, containing papain, are best avoided by pregnant women. This warning does not extend to a fully ripe fresh fruit, which contains much lower levels of papain and is considered very healthy for pregnant women with it’s rich antioxidant and vitamin content.

There are mixed reports from health resources regarding papaya and ulcers. On the one hand, people suffering from severe stomach ulcers are sometimes advised to avoid the fruit, particularly when it’s green, as well as any digestive enzymes with papain. On the other, eating papaya with its many nutrients and enzymes is often said to help prevent stomach ulcers and heal minor ones. It may do this by both increasing the protective mucus secretions in the stomach and, due to its ability to speed up the break down of protein, lessening the amount of time hydrochloric acid sits in the stomach. While the occasional ripe fruit should not cause problems. Doctor,s advice must be solicited in case to case basis.

Papain may increase the blood thinning effects of medications such as Warfarin and other anticoagulants, including daily aspirin taken for this purpose. As such it is not recommended for use at the same time as a course of these drugs. It is best not to take papain for several days before major surgery for the same reason.

People with blood clotting disorders, such as thrombosis and hemophilia, are also advised to avoid papain and green papaya. In cases like these, and any of the above, it is best to discuss using papain enzymes with a knowledgeable healthcare professional.

Papaya and especially the green fruit should be avoided by anyone with a latex allergy. Papaya allergies are rare, but people who experience allergic reactions to papaw may also have an adverse reaction to pineapples, avocados, bananas, figs, kiwi fruit, melons and possibly other tropical fruit as well and should use these with caution and watch for symptoms.

Source: health digezt


15 foods that will keep you calm

15 foods that will keep you calm

Stress and anxiety are nothing but an invitation to disaster. And a mind which is cool, relaxed and calm can take one places. Make sure that necessary changes are made in your eating habits and go for foods which can ensure that the mind stays relaxed and free of stress.

Did you know that what you eat can greatly affect the way you think and feel? Here are the top 15 foods that help you develop a calmer mind and deal with stress better:

1. Chocolates

Give in to your darkest desire by indulging in chocolates. Their anandamine content keeps the dopamine levels of the brain in check, thereby ensuring the mind stays relaxed and free of stress.

2. Nuts

Nuts contain selenium, a mineral whose deficiency causes crankiness, anxiety and fatigue. Therefore, a handful of nuts help you stay calmer.

3. Spinach

Popeye’s favorite food is also rich in magnesium, which keeps the mind from overreacting. The correct dosage of vitamins A and C as well as iron ensures a healthy diet intake as well.

4. Pasta

Pasta made from whole grain is rich in magnesium, the deficiency of which increases stress levels.

5. Whole-Grain Bread

Bread made from whole grain has the same effect as pasta, that is, the reduction of magnesium deficiency. So, make sure you include toasts or sandwiches in breakfast to lead a stress-free day.

6. Blueberries

A delicious fruit, blueberries are also packed with antioxidants, which are known to be highly effective in relieving stress.

7. Almonds

The zinc and vitamin B12 content of almonds makes them super-eligible to make it to this list. These nutrients help maintain a balanced mood and keep anxiety at bay.

8. Green Tea

Nothing can have a calmer effect on the human mind than a cup of green tea to kickstart the day. In fact, it is known to have an immediate relieving effect on many.

9. Fish

Fish types such as salmon and mackerel are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which provide selenium and tryptophan to the brain, thereby helping it stay calm.

10. Oats

Greatly beneficial in enhancing the levels of serotonin required by the body, oats are a great way to lower cholesterol levels as well as spend a calm-minded day.

11. Milk

Surprised again? Well, milk contains tryptophan, which helps in the build-up of serotonin, thereby helping the mind stay relaxed.

12. Broccoli

Go green! With broccoli, you get your required dose of potassium, the low levels of which can cause tiredness and stress.

13. Kiwi Fruit

Kiwis are also known to convert tryptophan into serotonin, thereby inducing anxiety-relieving experience for the brain.

14. Bananas

Low in fibre, bananas reduce the risk of gas, thereby increasing chances of staying calm and stress-free through the day.

15. Rice

A carbohydrate that has an immensely calming effect, rice is also easy to digest and low in fat.
The above is a list of some of the foods you can include in your daily diet to ensure your levels of anxiety stay low. In addition, remember to drink plenty of water to keep flushing out those toxins and stay healthier and happier!

Source: health digezt


Swinging arms most efficient way to run

Swinging arms most efficient way to run

Ever tried running without swinging your arms? New research has shown that the swing in your arms counter balances the movement of your legs and saves energy at the same time.

“We know from the literature that arm swinging plays an important role in balancing the motion of the swinging legs,” said Christopher Arellano from the Brown University.

Arellano studied 13 runners and measured their oxygen consumption rates and carbon dioxide that they exhaled.

He asked them to run without swinging their arms by holding the arms loosely behind the back, crossing the arms across the chest, and holding the hands on the top of the head.

He found that swinging the arms reduced the runners’ energy costs by three percent (as compared to when they held their arms behind their backs).

Arm swinging also saved energy an impressive 13 percent compared with when they held their hands on their heads.

“I think everyone conceded that the most challenging run was the one with the hands on the top of the head,” Arellano added, recalling how runners complained about how tired their arms were at the end of the session.

The study appeared in the journal of Experimental Biology.

Source: darpan magazine


Starvation effects pass on to next 3 generations

Starvation effects pass on to next 3 generations

Starvation may affect the health of at least the next three generations, says a study.

“Events like the Dutch famine of World War II have compelled scientists to take a fresh look at acquired inheritance,” said Oliver Hobert from the Columbia University Medical Centre in the US.

Starving women who gave birth during the famine had children who were unusually susceptible to obesity and other metabolic disorders, as were their grandchildren.

Starvation induces changes in the cell structure, specifically in the RNAs (Ribonucleic acid) and these changes are passed on for at least three generations, the findings showed.

The research team starved roundworms for six days and then examined their cells for molecular changes.

The starved roundworms were found to have a specific set of small RNAs which persisted for at least three generations, even though the worms were fed normal diet.

The researchers also found that these small RNAs target genes with roles in nutrition.

The study was published in the journal Cell.

Source: business standard


Puerto Rico declares chikungunya epidemic

Puerto Rico declares chikungunya epidemic

The health officials in Puerto Rico declared an epidemic of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne virus that has been confirmed in more than 200 cases across the island as of late last month.

Health Secretary Ana Rius said the majority of those cases were reported in the capital of San Juan and nearby areas.

The virus was introduced into the Caribbean region late last year and the first case in Puerto Rico was reported in late May.

Meanwhile, Jamaican health officials reported the nation’s first confirmed case on Thursday. Dr Kevin Harvey, chief medical officer for Jamaica, said chikungunya was found in someone who had recently travelled to a country where the virus has been transmitted locally.

As of July 11, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) recorded more than 354,000 suspected and confirmed cases of chikungunya across the Caribbean.

The first locally-transmitted case in the Western Hemisphere was confirmed in December in the French Caribbean territory of St Martin.

Chikungunya symptoms take three to seven days to appear in those who have contracted it. The virus results in high fever for up to five days and a longer period of severe joint pain in the extremities that renders patients largely immobile.

Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Younger patients usually make a full recovery in 5 to 15 days. Older patients can take up to two months to regain full strength, and elderly patients even longer.

The virus is rarely fatal, according to health officials. There is no vaccine yet, so treatment largely consists of pain medication.

Source; caribbean news now