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Thursday, September 8, 2011

Garlic medicinal Benefits


 

Garlic is an important medicinal herb that is available in all places, like a number of the other herbs mentioned on these pages. It is one if not the safest herbs, and as such can be taken often.

 

Scientifically-proven garlic has medicinal properties. A substance called Allicin, is found with it, that has anti-bacterial properties that are equivalent to a weak penicillin. Considerably cooked garlic weakens the anti-bacterial effects, so don't count on cooked garlic with meals for much in the way of a healing.

 

Garlic appears to have anti-bacterial & anti-viral properties. The list is long when it comes to its makes use of as a treatment. This list includes wounds, ulcers, skin infections, flu, athlete's foot, some viruses, strep, worms, respiratory illnesses, hypertension, blood thinning, cancer of the stomach, colic, colds, kidney issues, bladder issues, & ear aches, to name a few. It is believed to cure worms in both people & animals - try giving the dog a clove of garlic every day. But the problem won't like it.

 

Make a cough syrup out of garlic for cough, flu, & respiratory illnesses. Boil a one pound slice of fresh garlic with quart water. Sit for 12 hours, add sugar until you reach the consistency of a syrup. Add honey for better taste, if desired.

 

For other internal issues, eating garlic raw is probably the most potent way to take it. But, because of bad odors associated with this, a tincture can be made by soaking 1/4 pound of peeled & separated garlic cloves in 1/2 quart of brandy. Seal tightly & shake every day. Strain & bottle after weeks of this, & take in drops - 25-30 a day, if desired.

 

In sore throat problem, make a garlic tea by steeping several cloves of garlic in half a cup of water overnight.

 

Externally, garlic is a known anti-bacterial & anti-infection agent. An fascinating use for ear aches is to slice a garlic clove, heat briefly in a little amount of virgin olive oil, & let cold. Then use a drop of in the affected ear.

 

An Ointment out of garlic from cloves in lieu of leaves, stems, or flowers as described in Ointments, for wounds, cuts, athlete's foot, or any other outside skin irritation, fungus, or infection. Try also a few drops of Oil on a toothache for pain relief.

 

Garlic is best for treatment and remedies but its draw back is the strong odor associated with that you might get.

 

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Natural Remedies for Treating a Cold

I want to share with you this good article I have found Natural Remedies for Treating a Cold, this is very useful specially this time that we easily got sick due to unpredictable weather condition.

 

Sometimes it can be hard to escape that shivery feeling that happens when you get too cold. A good immediate remedy for this is to wrap yourself up in a duvet and stick a hairdryer up it, (making sure the air flow is not restricted) until you feel warmed up.

 

Colds are the body's escape mechanism. When the whole system is overloaded it crashes. The body stresses out and the immune system drops its threshold. The nose releases toxic wastes in the form of mucous and the body often aches and feels exhausted. Pay attention to what your body is saying because an unchecked cold can become far more serious if you keep it buried.

 

If you are one of those people who can tell when you have a cold coming on, then it can be stopped, or at least minimized, in several ways. Firstly, rest is essential. There is no way your body will self-heal in a stressful situation. If you have to work, take it easy or delegate a bit more. Lemon juice, rose hips, parsley (not if you're pregnant) and fresh orange all contain vitamin C, so take them.

 

Some colds can actually be completely stopped dead by gently sniffing a mixture of lemon juice and warm water up your nose, if you are brave enough. Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds contain zinc which is important in cold prevention so take some of those. Otherwise its time to sweat those built up toxins right out through the skin. Start with a peppermint tea and take some garlic or garlic capsules. Then boil a large onion in milk for an hour, eat it, and drink the milk. Follow on with a steaming cup of lemon juice, honey, cinnamon and grated ginger which will stimulate circulation and sweating. Enjoy it in a mustard footbath which will also warm up the blood - use multiple and layered remedies and take them as an opportunity to treat yourself.

 

For a mustard footbath, take 1 tsp. yellow powder mustard and one of household soda (if you have hard water) and put them in a deep basin with some water as hot as you can stand. Keep your feet and lower legs in for about ten minutes, topping the bath up with fresh hot (not boiling) water. Dry off, put on thick socks and climb into a freshly warmed bed, the earlier the better.

Source:

 

http://alternativemonster.info/Natural-Remedies-For-Treating-a-Cold.html

 

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Honey! Natural Treatment for Gum Disease

 

Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues and bone that support the teeth. Untreated gum disease can become very serious, causing teeth to become loose or fall out.

Gum disease is usually caused by a buildup of plaque, an invisible sticky layer of germs that forms naturally on the teeth and gums. Plaque contains bacteria, which produce toxins that irritate and damage the gums.

Below is an article on simple and Natural Treatment for Gum Disease that uses honey.

 

There is quite a bit of talk going on about the antimicrobial properties of the sweetener, Xylitol, which is a product manufactured from cornstalks. The dental hygienist community (discussion groups) is where I am seeing most of this and my understanding is that it is a pretty good product as a sweetener and good for your teeth and gums. Something made me think, however, about going more natural and 'honey' came to mind. I wondered about the antimicrobial properties of this natural and healthy food and what I found really surprised me!

I was able to learn quite a bit about honey's properties - Yes, honey is a good antimicrobial and have a great number of applications for treating all sorts of ailments aside from gum disease. Everything from eczema to prostate problems is being effectively treated with honey... Honey!

 

Before you run to the cupboard, however, you should know that the variety of honey's are widely varied in their effectiveness, so not all types are the same.

Some honeys are apparently no better for your teeth than refined sugar, but at the other end of the spectrum, there are varieties which are outstanding for their antimicrobial properties. It appears that the majority of research on honey's antimicrobial properties and effectiveness in treating gum disease come out of New Zealand in the past dozen years. Most of this may be attributable to Dr. Peter C. Molan, Associate Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Waikato, New Zealand.

 

"Honey contains an enzyme that produces hydrogen peroxide which is believed to be the main reason for the antimicrobial activity of honey. Types of honey differ greatly in their antimicrobial potency, varying as much as a hundred fold. The research has shown that honey not only stops the growth of the dental plaque bacteria, it reduces the amount of acid produced, which stops the bacteria from producing dextran. Dextran, a component of dental plaque, is the gummy polysaccharide that the bacteria produce in order to adhere to the surface of the teeth."

 

Honey derived from the Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) tree, found in abundance in New Zealand, claims the highest potency of antimicrobial properties. In fact, Manuka honey's antibacterial factor is unaffected by enzymes in the body that destroy hydrogen peroxide components. (Normally, peroxide isn't considered a good antimicrobial, orally, because the body quickly dilutes it.) It also has an exceptionally high level of plant-derived antimicrobial activity. Antioxidants in honey also prevent the formation of free radicals and the nutrient supply of honey is an important factor in new tissue re-growth, having been damaged by infection.

 

In addition, a 'medicinal' honey has been developed in New Zealand and Queensland, Australia to fight against 'superbugs,' such as multiple-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), attributable to a reported 100 deaths a week in the UK, according to one report.

"Laboratory testing is required to establish the level of anti-bacterial activity in honey. The honey is compared with a standard reference antiseptic (phenol) for potency. So, for example, a honey with a rating of four would be equivalent in antiseptic potency to a four percent solution of phenol (carbolic disinfectant). Honey should have a rating of four or higher before it can be regarded as a 'Active Honey'. Laboratory tests have shown to be very effective against bacteria, the rating should be at least ten but does not need to be any greater. Honey New Zealand produces a range of Active Honeys: Manuka, Rewarewa and Wild Flora.

 

"Manuka honey has UMF (this stands for Unique Manuka Factor) in addition to the usual hydrogen peroxide anti-bacterial activity making it doubly potent. UMF honey is more effective than hydrogen peroxide against some types of bacteria. The level of UMF activity is found in laboratory testing by removing the hydrogen peroxide from the honey and using the same test method for testing an 'active honey'. A rating is found describing the anti-bacterial activity remaining in the honey after the hydrogen peroxide has been removed. This is called Active UMF 10+. UMF is an additional anti-bacterial component that is unique to Manuka Honey. No-one for the scientific discoveries of New Zealand active honeys has so far discovered the substance involved, so it is called UMF." (Honey New Zealand)

 

How is the honey used on the teeth? Some recommend simply rubbing it into the gums after brushing. Since Manuka honey retains it's antimicrobial properties when diluted up to 50 times, it may likely be able to be used as an oral irrigant (when diluted with distilled or filtered water) and directed between the teeth or sub-gingivally into periodontal pockets using an oral irrigator. However, since the honey can ferment, it is recommended that the solution be used immediately and not made up ahead of time and stored for later use. (It should be noted that honey is not to be given to infants under 24 months.)

 

Source http://alternativemonster.info/Honey-Natural-Treatment-for-Gum-Disease.html

 


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Natures Way To Relieve Arthritis Pain


 

Arthritis is a form of joint disorder that involves inflammation of one or more joints, as we grow older chances of Arthritis Pain is very high. There are fruits that said to help Arthritis Pain remedy. Pineapple, Ginger and Papayas are common and abundant fruits that Medical authorities had found to help relieve arthritis pain. Below is the full article about Pineapple, Ginger  and Papayas that help relieve arthritis pain.

 

PINEAPPLE AND PAPAYAS

 

Medical authorities say that pineapples and papayas can relieve arthritis pain.

Research shows that pineapples and papayas have potent anti-inflammatory properties from high levels of bromelain and papain, which are natural enzymes. These enzymes reduce the inflammation in two ways.

 

First, the enzymes neutralize hormones in the body called prostaglandins. These are chemicals that spark pain in the body's nerve cells.

 

Second, they reduce painful pressure from fluid buildup in the joints. This is achieved by the enzyme dissolving joint debris, like tiny bone chips, calcium deposits, dead tissue and blood cells that can clog joints, leaving them stiff and swollen. University teams have found that eating the fruits can diminish inflammation by 25%.

 

Bromelain and papain can turn a leathery-tough steak buttery soft, so you can imagine what they will do for stiffened joints. It will loosen them and restore movement. One of the most important functions of bromelain is to neutralize free radicals, the destructive compounds produced when the body uses oxygen.

 

Pineapple is also rich in vitamins B1 and B6, which also helps to ease arthritic pain, while papaya is one of the highest sources of vitamin C. Both of these fruits are low in calories - 40 to 80 calories per cup - and promote good digestion and the elimination of toxins and waste in the body.

 

GINGER

 

Ginger contains proteolytec which is a digestive enzyme similar to those found in papaya and pineapple. Ginger stimulates circulation in the digestive tract, helping to speed up the delivery of nutrients to the bloodstream and increases muscle tone in the stomach. Ginger's proteolytec enzymes are also valuable for nutritionally supporting the joints. Ginger has been successfully used for centuries as an anti-inflammatory.

 

Ginger tea compresses may be used to relieve arthritic pain and headaches. Keep a batch of ginger tea ice cubes in the freezer for making the compresses. This way, both hot and cold ginger remedies are readily available. For arthritic aches, soak a wash cloth in warmed ginger tea and apply to the site of the pain. Repeat as necessary.

 

For tension headaches, soak a clean wash cloth in melted (but still cold) ginger tea ice cubes. Place cold compress on the back of the neck or shoulders for 15 - 20 minutes. Repeat with fresh cool tea as necessary.

 

Ginger is naturally rich in assorted phytochemicals that work collectively to nourish and support the entire cardiovascular system. Functions such as blood pressure, cholestral absorption, blood clotting, and circulation are all nutritionally benefited.

 

To read the rest of the article please go to:
http://naturesway.50webs.com/

 

Source: http://alternativemonster.info/Natures-Way-To-Relieve-Arthritis-Pain.html

 

 

 

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

5 Nutrients You're Not Getting Enough Of

 

Every day our body needs nutrients many of us did not have enough or right combination of it. Below is an article of 5 important Nutrients we must have.

 

After a long hard day at the office, I crave a manly dinner. Something that will sharpen my mind, feed my muscles, and infuse me with energy to keep up with two young kids till bedtime.

 

So, often, I have a bowl of cereal. With bananas and whole milk. Mmm.

Do I feel like I'm depriving my body of key nutrients? Quite the opposite, actually. My favorite dinner isn't just for kids. It contains high levels of three nutrients that American adults need much more of: B12, potassium, and iodine. Our shortfalls with these nutrients—along with vitamin D and magnesium—have serious health consequences, including a higher risk of heart disease and stroke, fatigue, and weight gain.

Here's the good news: These nutrients are readily available in the foods you know and love. You can get more of one simply by spending more time outside. That doesn't sound so hard, does it? Here's how to fortify your diet—and your health.

 1. VITAMIN D
This vitamin's biggest claim to fame is its role in strengthening your skeleton. But vitamin D isn't a one-trick nutrient: A study in Circulation found that people deficient in D were up to 80 percent more likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke. The reason? Vitamin D may reduce inflammation in your arteries. Also, a University of Minnesota study found that people with adequate vitamin D levels release more leptin, a hormone that conveys the "I'm full" message to your brain. Even more impressive, the study also found that the nutrient triggers weight loss primarily from the belly. Another study found that people with higher D levels in their bloodstream store less fat.

 

The shortfall: Vitamin D is created in your body when the sun's ultraviolet B rays penetrate your skin. Problem is, the vitamin D you stockpile during sunnier months is often depleted by winter, especially if you live in the northern half of the United States, where UVB rays are less intense from November through February. When Boston University researchers measured the vitamin D status of young adults at the end of winter, 36 percent of them were found to be deficient.

 

Hit the mark: First, ask your doctor to test your blood levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D. "You need to be above 30 nanograms per milliliter," says Michael Holick, M.D., Ph.D., a professor of medicine at Boston University. Come up short? Eat foods like salmon (900 IU per serving), mackerel (400 IU), and tuna (150 IU). Milk and eggs are also good, with about 100 IU per serving. But to ensure you're getting enough, take 1,400 IU of vitamin D daily from a supplement and a multivitamin. That's about seven times the recommended daily intake for men, but it takes that much to boost blood levels of D, says Dr. Holick.

 

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 2. MAGNESIUM
This lightweight mineral is a tireless multitasker: It's involved in more than 300 bodily processes. Plus, a study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that low levels of magnesium may increase your blood levels of C-reactive protein, a key marker of heart disease.

 

The shortfall: Nutrition surveys reveal that men consume only about 80 percent of the recommended 400 milligrams (mg) of magnesium a day. "We're just barely getting by," says Dana King, M.D., a professor of family medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina. "Without enough magnesium, every cell in your body has to struggle to generate energy."

 

Hit the mark: Fortify your diet with more magnesium-rich foods, such as halibut, navy beans, and spinach. Then hit the supplement aisle: Few men can reach 400 mg through diet alone, so Dr. King recommends ingesting some insurance in the form of a 250 mg supplement. One caveat: Scrutinize the ingredients list. You want a product that uses magnesium citrate, the form best absorbed by your body.

 

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 3. VITAMIN B12
Consider B12 the guardian of your gray matter: In a British study, older people with the lowest levels of B12 lost brain volume at a faster rate over a span of five years than those with the highest levels.

 

The shortfall: Even though most men do consume the daily quota of 2.4 micrograms, the stats don't tell the whole story. "We're seeing an increase in B12 deficiencies due to interactions with medications," says Katherine Tucker, Ph.D., director of a USDA program at Tufts University. The culprits: acid-blocking drugs, such as Prilosec, and the diabetes medication metformin.

 

Hit the mark: You'll find B12 in lamb and salmon, but the most accessible source may be fortified cereals. That's because the B12 in meat is bound to proteins, and your stomach must produce acid to release and absorb it. Eat a bowl of 100 percent B12-boosted cereal and milk every morning and you'll be covered, even if you take the occasional acid-blocking med. However, if you pop Prilosec on a regular basis or are on metformin, talk to your doctor about tracking your B12 levels and possibly taking an additional supplement.

 4. POTASSIUM
Without this essential mineral, your heart couldn't beat, your muscles wouldn't contract, and your brain couldn't comprehend this sentence. Why? Potassium helps your cells use glucose for energy.

 

The shortfall: Despite potassium's can't-live-without-it importance, nutrition surveys indicate that young men consume just 60 percent to 70 percent of the recommended 4,700 mg a day. To make matters worse, most guys load up on sodium: High sodium can boost blood pressure, while normal potassium levels work to lower it, says Lydia A. L. Bazzano, M.D., Ph.D., an assistant professor of epidemiology at Tulane University.

Hit the mark: Half an avocado contains nearly 500 mg potassium, while one banana boasts roughly 400 mg. Not a fan of either fruit? Pick up some potatoes—a single large spud is packed with 1,600 mg. Most multivitamins have less than 100 mg of potassium, so eat your fruits and vegetables, folks!

 5. IODINE
Your thyroid gland requires iodine to produce the hormones T3 and T4, both of which help control how efficiently you burn calories. That means insufficient iodine may cause you to gain weight and feel fatigued.

 

The shortfall: Since iodized salt is an important source of the element, you might assume you're swimming in the stuff. But when University of Texas at Arlington researchers tested 88 samples of table salt, they found that half contained less than the FDA-recommended amount of iodine. And you're not making up the difference with all the salt hiding in processed foods—U.S. manufacturers aren't required to use iodized salt. The result is that we've been sliding toward iodine deficiency since the 1970s.

Hit the mark: Sprinkling more salt on top of an already sodium-packed diet isn't a great idea, but iodine can also be found in a nearly sodium-free source: milk. Animal feed is fortified with the element, meaning it travels from cows to your cereal bowl. Not a milk man? Eat at least one serving of eggs or yogurt a day; both are good sources of iodine.

 

Source: http://health.yahoo.net/experts/menshealth/5-nutrients-youre-not-getting-enough

 

Original Author Bill Phillips and the Editors of Men's Health