Thursday, May 30, 2013

Medicinally Useful Herbs available in Gujarat, India

Herbs are an important part of human life since the ancient time. Herbs play an effective role in one’s life. Earlier when there were no doctors and medicines, then it was only herbs that were used to cure the diseases. They were not only use to cure diseases only but also used to flavor the food, as a source of nutrients and many other useful purposes. Different herbs are used for the different purposes.

Medicinally Useful Herbs available in Gujarat, India

Following are some useful herbs available in Gujarat:

1, Ricinus communis (Erandi, Castor)

Castor seed oil can be used for curing joint pains and arthritis. It is really beneficial for the patients of constipation. Castor oil is also best for skin as it can be used to treat many skin problems like warts, sunburn, acne, stretch marks, age spots and ringworm & athletes foot. A drop of castor oil on the stye can give a great relief from inflammation and pain of the eyes.

Health Benefits of Satodi Herb

Herbs are the first thing that comes in mind when conventional treatment fails and we are looking for alternative therapies. Since centuries, they have been used to improve energy levels, treat ailments and promote healing. Satodi is one such herb that can treat various ailments. It is known as Boerhaavia diffusa in Latin, spreading hogweed in English and punarnava in Sanskrit. Each and every part of the plant: leaves, stem and roots has medicinal properties. Indigenous and tribal people in India have been using satodi herb for the treatment of various diseases. Here are provided the health benefits of satodi herb.

Health Benefits of Satodi Herb

Satodi (punarnava) is a species of flowering plant that grows all over India and Brazil as a weed in water lands and road sides. This herbaceous plant belongs to the Four o'clock family or Nyctaginaceae. The active ingredient of the herb is an alkaloid named Punarnavine. The herb contains anti-inflammatory, diuretics, anti-pyretic, expectorant, antimicrobial, laxative and carminative properties.

There are two varieties of the herb: white and red. Both varieties are light, cold and dry in effect. They have almost same medicinal values but white is considered to be the best. The white variety suppresses all the three doshas and has pungent, sweet, bitter & astringent taste while the red variety suppresses pitta dosha but aggravates vata dosha as well as has bitter, sweet and pungent taste.

Health Benefits of Satodi Herb

1. Obesity

Satodi is used as an ingredient in almost all the herbal slimming formulations. The herb has stimulates the removal of excess fluids and waste products from the body by promoting urination without electrolytes or potassium loss. Thus, it helps in weight loss. It also works as a mild laxative.

2. Liver and kidney

The herb is very beneficial for the liver and kidney. It rejuvenates liver & kidney as well as promotes healthy liver and kidney function. As the herb is a diuretic and mild laxative, it detoxifies liver, kidney and prevents fluid retention. It improves the kidneys functioning damaged by diabetes as well as treats liver disorders such as jaundice, sluggish liver and hepatitis. It even protects the body against free radical damage and stress.

3. Dropsy

Dropsy is a disease in which excess of watery fluid gets accumulated in the tissues and cavities of the body. Satodi herb enhances the discharge of urine and thereby treats the condition. You can consume fresh boiled herb or liquid extract of the plant (4 to 6 gms) to cure the disease.

4. Ascites

Ascites is a condition marked by an excessive collection of a watery fluid abdominal cavity. Mostly the herb cures the ascites caused by liver disorder.

5. Asthma

This herb not only cures asthma but also other respiratory problems like pneumonia or dysnoea. It promotes the elimination of catarrhal matter and phlegm from the bronchial tubes and thus helpful in Asthma. It even makes the bronchial system strong. You can consume the powder of its root thrice a day in small doses.

6. Arthritis

Satodi herb provides relief from joint pains and inflammation associated with arthritis. Just use the paste made of fresh herb by grinding and applying directly on the affected area.

7. Impotence

The seeds of satodi rejuvenate the male reproductive system. The herb is also known to increase libido and quantity & quality of semen. It even cures erectile dysfunction.

8. Stomach Disorders

It strengths the stomach and promotes its action. It treats a number of stomach problems, especially intestinal colic. You can take 5 grams of the root powder three times a day. It also kills or expels intestinal worms.

9. Skin Diseases

The root of the plant is very helpful for various skin diseases. Apply a paste of the root to the affected part as a dressing for oedematous swelling. A hot compress or poultice of the root can be applied to ulcers, abscesses and similar skin diseases.

10. Heart

The herb has a diuretic effect so it is very effective for the treatment of many cardiac problems. It helps to purify blood and increase the blood circulation.

11. Fevers

It can be used for bringing down temperature. It induces the copious sweating quickly and treats fevers. Take ½ tsp root powder of satodi with milk in morning and evening.

12. Eyes Diseases

It alleviates the eyes diseases like night blindness and conjunctivitis. Instill the fresh juice of its roots in the eyes for the treatment.

Other Benefits of the Herb


  • It readily supplies WBCs and heals the wounds and cuts.
  • It lowers blood glucose and so helps people with diabetes.
  • It maintains urinary tract health and treats urinary bladder infections.
  • It boosts the appetite and immune system
  • It provides relief from constipation.
  • It is beneficial in the treatment of kidney stones, cystitis and nephritis.
  • It controls the menstrual flow in women.
  • The herb prevents the breakdown of the fibrin (blood-clotting protein).

Doses
You can consume 2 to 4 gm of roots or seeds powder and 5 to 10ml of fresh roots juice. The herb should not be given to pregnant women and the children below 12 years.

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

7 Indian Samosa Recipes

No doubt today’s youth turn towards pizza, burger, hotdog and many other fast foods, but still samosas have a unique place in their life. Your mouth starts watering when you see the hot samosas. Now you can serve your homemade samosas with your love to your family whether you want to have vegetarian-samosas or non-veg. These will definitely help you to earn praise from your family. Samosas are really a good evening time snack in North India. As India is a diverse country, so the process and taste are also diversified. There are different methods of preparing samosas.

7 Indian Samosa Recipes

Following are some of the vegetarian recipes for samosas:

1, Punjabi samosas

Ingredients:
For Dough:
  • 1/2 cup all purpose flour
  • 11/2 tablespoons oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 tablespoon sooji (semolina flour)
  • 1/4 cup minus 2 tablespoon lukewarm water
Filling:
  • 3 large boiled potatoes, peeled and chopped into very small cubes
  • 2 chopped green chilies
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 cup green peas (frozen)
  • 1 teaspoon amchur (mango powder)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
Method:

Dough
  • Add sooji, oil, salt into flour and add water as per the need
  • Knead the dough properly so that it becomes pliable and soft
  • After this cover it with a clean cloth. Let it there for 20 minutes
Filling
  • Take oil in a frying pan and heat it in the medium flame
  • Now add cumin seeds, green chilies, coriander powder and stir it for few seconds
  • After this add green peas and stir it until tender
  • Add potatoes into the mixture and let it fry for at least 4 minutes. Add amchur, garam masala and more salt if needed
  • Now turn off the flame and let the filling cool
Now process of making samosas
  • Now divide the dough into equal parts and make balls out of it.
  • Roll each ball into circle and cut each circle in half.
  • Give the shape of that semi circle into a cone shape and pinch the side of the semi circle properly so that it is properly sealed.
  • Now fill the mixture into cone and press the filling properly with the help of your fingers.
  • After completing the above steps, close the cone into a triangle shape properly and once again pinch the top edge properly. Do fill the rest of samosas as in the same way.
  • Now take oil in a frying pan and heat it on the medium flame.
  • Put the samosas into the oil and fry it until it turns into light golden-brown color on all sides.
  • Serve the hot samosas with chutney.

2, Moong Dal mini samosas


Ingredients:
Dough:
  • Maida - 250 gram (1 1/4 cup)
  • Ghee - 60 gram (1/4 cup)
  • Salt - according to your taste (1/2 tea spoon)
Filling:
  • Moong Dal - 100 grams (1/2 cup)
  • Cumin seeds - 1/4 tea spoon
  • Hing - 1 pinch
  • Garam masala - less than 1/4 tea spoon
  • Salt - according to your taste (1/2 tea spoon)
  • Green Chilly - 2
  • Ginger - 1 inch piece
  • Coriander powder - 1 tea spoon
  • Anise powder - 1 spoon
  • Red Chilly powder - less than 1/4 tea spoon (if you want)
  • Oil - 2 table spoon
  • Amchur powder - less than 1/4 tea spoon
  • Oil - to fry samosa
Method:

Dough:
  • Add ghee, salt in maida and knead it with luke warm water. After properly kneading it, leave it for 30 minutes.
Filling:
  • Before soaking the moong dal into water for 2 hours, rub it properly with both hands in order to remove its skin.
  • After that, wash the dal properly and make paste of it and add green chilies and ginger without adding water to it.
  • Take a pan and heat the oil into it.
  • Add hing, cumin seeds and then add anise, coriander powder and dal paste, stir it properly.
  • Insert amchur powder, garam masala, chilli and salt, according to taste.
  • Stir the mixture properly and put on flame until it turn brown and dry.
Making samosas
  • Using a rolling pin, roll a piece of dough.
  • Cut into two halves and give the shape of one half into a cone.
  • Fill the filling into cone shape and fold it properly, stick both the corners with water. Press the corners with hands gently and close the corners.
  • Prepare all the samosas in the same manner.
  • Now take oil into pan and heat it on the medium flame.
  • Put the samosas into the oil and fry it until it turns into light golden-brown color on all sides.

3, Corn samosas


Ingredients:
  • 1cup Fresh Corn Seeds
  • 1 ½ cup Maida (all purpose flour)
  • 1 tsp Ginger (chopped)
  • 1 Green Chili (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp Oil
  • 1 Potato (optional)
  • 1 tsp Gram flour (Besan)
  • ½ tsp Cumin Seed's Powder
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Powder
  • 2 tsp Garam Masala
  • 2 tbsp Chopped Coriander Leaves
  • ½ tsp Aniseeds (snauf/variyali)
  • Salt as per taste
Method:
  • Take Maida flour and add salt, 1 tsp oil to it and knead it properly with the required quantity of water.
  • Cover the dough with a clean cloth and keep it for 20 minutes.
  • Take corn seeds and boil it.
  • After boiling it, partly crush it.
  • In a pan, put ½ tbsp oil and roast Gram flour till it turn golden brown.
  • Now in a pan, put ½ tbsp oil and heat it - add chili, corn seeds, roast ginger, roasted gram flour, garam masala, salt, aniseeds, coriander, cumin powder & pepper.
  • Roast it for few minutes and then cool it.
  • Now take a piece of dough and roll it.
  • After that divide the chapatti into two halves and give it a shape of cone and put filling into it.
  • After that deep fry the samosas till it turn into golden brown.
  • Now you can have tasty samosas.

4, Baked samosas


Ingredients:
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1/4 tsp oil for kneading
  • 1/2 tbsp melted ghee
  • 1/2 cup boiled green peas
  • 1 tsp ginger-green chilli paste
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 1/2 tsp dried mango powder
  • 2 cups boiled, peeled and mashed potatoes
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped coriander
  • 1 tsp chilli powder
7 Indian Samosa Recipes
Image source: ifood.tv
Method:

For stuffing
  • Put oil into a pan and set it on low flame.
  • Add cumin, green chilies and potatoes into it and stir it properly.
  • After that add green chilies and potatoes, ginger and stir. Sprinkle over a little water and cook, covered for 10-12 minutes. Add the blanched green peas and cook for 5 minutes on a low heat.
  • Let the mixture cool.
For dough
  • Add ghee to the wheat flour and mix it properly and put the required amount of water to it and knead it properly.
  • Keep the dough aside for 20 minutes.
  • Now knead it again using oil till it gets smooth.
  • Take a piece of dough and roll it into a chapatti.
  • Cut the chapatti into halves and shape each half into a cone shape.
  • Put the stuffing into the hollow cone and seal the edge properly.
  • Now put the samosa on a baking tray and bake it in oven at 180°C for 20-25 minutes, turning them every 5 minutes.
  • Now your samosas are ready to serve.

5, Sesame samosas


Ingredients:
  • Two cup wheat flour
  • Half cup white sesame powder
  • Half cup coconut powder
  • Two tbsp gram flour
  • Two tbsp of white sesame
  • Three chopped chilies
  • ½ coriander powder
  • A pinch of amchur
  • Chaat masala
  • Baking powder
  • Salt according to taste
  • Oil
For filling:
  • Take oil into pan, roast the gram flour. Mix sesame powder, chopped chilli, coriander, coconut powder, chat masala, amchur powder and salt to the roasted gram flour.
Dough:
  • Add white sesame, baking powder and oil into the wheat flour and knead it properly.
Method:
  • Now take a piece of dough and roll it into a chapatti.
  • Cut the chapatti into two half and give shape of cone to both the chapattis.
  • Put the stuffing into hollow cone and gently seal the edge.
  • Take oil in a frying pan and deep fry the samosas till it turn into golden color.
  • Now yummy samosas are ready to serve.

6, Sweet samosas


Ingredients:
For dough:
  • 1 ½ cup of Refined flour
  • Two tbsp ghee
  • Two tbsp powdered sugar
For stuffing:
  • Two cup gajar halwa
  • Pure ghee for deep fry
Method:

Add two tbsp powdered sugar, two tbsp ghee, into refined flour. Knead it properly with sufficient water. Take a piece of dough, add little ghee to it and roll it. Cut the chapatti into two halves. Shape the halves as a cone with your fingers. Fill the cone with gajar halwa and seal it properly. Now take ghee into frying pan and deep fry the samosas till it turn into golden color. Now your sweet samosas are ready to serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

7, Kheema samosas


Ingredients:
  • Two cup refined flour
  • Two tbsp margarine
  • 250 grams mutton mince (keema)
  • Oil
  • Two medium finely chopped onion
  • One inch finely chopped ginger
  • 4-5 cloves of garlic
  • Two green chilies finely chopped
  • One tbsp red chilli powder
  • ¼ tbsp turmeric powder
  • Garam masala
  • Salt according to taste
Method:

Add salt into flour and cut margarine into the sieved flour and mix it with fingers. By adding water to it, knead the dough properly and keep it covered for half an hour. Wash mutton mince and drain; squeeze it dry with your fingers. Now take oil in a frying pan, add chopped onions and sauté; heat it till it gets pink in color. Add chopped garlic ginger and green chilies and continue to sauté for half a minute. Now add salt and mutton mince and stir it properly. After this add turmeric powder, chilli powder and a little water to it. Cook the mixture on low flame till mutton is cooked properly and becomes dry. After that, add garam masala to it and remove it from flame. Now take piece of dough and roll out into oval shapes. Cut in two halves and give it the shape of cone. Now it's time to fill up the stuffing and seal the edges properly. Refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. Now take oil in a pan and fry samosas till it turn golden in color. Serve the hot samosas with chutney.

Mind what you eat to manage your Fibromyalgia Pain

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disease that affects about hundreds of millions of people worldwide. People with fibromyalgia may experience severe pain, stiffness and tenderness of joints and muscles all over the body. This disease can also cause headache, fatigue, dizziness and depression in some people. Now, diet plays a vital role in the treatment of Fibromyalgia and so patients must take extra care on their diet. It’s very important for them to eat more raw fruits and fresh vegetables since they contain several essential enzymes that aids in digestion. Plus, they are a good source of antioxidants & phytochemicals, which help strengthen the immune system. At the same time, it is equally important to avoid certain foods when you suffer from fibromyalgia as these foods can worsen your symptoms considerably. Given below is a list of “bad” foods for fibromyalgia patients. Take a look here.
Mind what you eat to manage your Fibromyalgia Pain
Meats:

It has been found that meats such as chicken, pork and beef can trigger fibromyalgia symptoms including fatigue and muscle pain, in some people. That’s because these foods usually contain a high proportion of saturated fat, which inflames the muscle tissue. Moreover, these saturated fats will put a lot of stress on your digestive and circulatory systems, which in turn might aggravate pain and other symptoms. Hence, it is highly recommended for people suffering from fibromyalgia to have vegetarian diet. Instead of meat, you can use foods like beans, nuts, tofu and vegetables as a source of protein. Having said that, if you cant avoid high-fat meat or poultry products completely then at least make sure to have them in moderate amount and also cut off all visible fat and skin so as to reduce fat intake.

Indian recipes to make Tasty Chutney

Indian cookery is not complete without delicious chutneys. When you go to any big Indian restaurant or any “Dabha” on Highway, you will definitely get at least one delicious and mouth watering chutney to enjoy with your meal. Meaning of “Chutney” in English is sauce and it is derived from the Sanskrit word “caá¹­nÄ«,” which means “to lick”. The name perfectly suits as all different kinds of Indian chutneys are so tasty that you will lick your fingers for sure. Mainly chutneys are made with usual ingredients of Indian kitchen, and some of the seasonal fruits, herbs and spices. Check out here the recipes of some of the mouthwatering Indian chutneys.

Indian recipes to make Tasty Chutney
1, Mint and Mango Chutney

Ingredients for Mint and Mango Chutney:
Bunch of fresh mint leaves, raw mangoes, onion, green chillies, cumin seeds and salt.

Steps to prepare Mint and Mango Chutney:
  • First and foremost, peel the skin of 1 to 2 medium size raw mangoes and take out all pulp of it in one bowl.
  • Take around one bunch of fresh mint leaves and chopped them finely and put them into the water.
  • Now take chopped mint leaves, raw mangoes pulp, 1 small sliced onion, 3 to 4 green chillies and 1/2 tsp cumin seeds and grind them all to make paste.
  • Add some water into the paste to correct its consistency.
  • Add salt as per your taste and blend whole mixture again to mix it well.
  • Take out it into the air tight bottle.
  • Serve it with different instant Indian snacks.
Preservation: You can store Mint and Mango Chutney for 4 to 5 days into the refrigerator.

Saturday, May 25, 2013

Side effects of amphetamine salts combo

Not from one or two decades…..but Amphetamine Salts combo (Amphetamine mixed salts) have been consumed medically since early in the twentieth century to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; more difficulty focusing, controlling actions) mostly in both children and adolescents. It is a synthetic psycho-stimulant medicine, works as a powerful central nervous system refreshment. It is used to increase energy, alertness, euphoria (excitement), and decrease appetite. One can also use it to treat certain sleeping disorders (narcolepsy). It can become helpful in weight loss by boosting certain activity in the brain to speed up mental and physical processes. However, the overused of any medication can be psychologically and physically addictive….like that misuse or abuse of amphetamine salts combo can be habit-forming and even lead to serious problems like damage, malnutrition and psychosis. If you are not suffering from any sleep disorder, then you should not use it to treat tiredness or to hold off sleep. The effects of amphetamine have been related to mechanisms of action including connecting abundant neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HTP).

Side effects of amphetamine salts combo

Amphetamine Salts combo is a generic name of Adderall. It is the combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts. There are four salts like Dextroamphetamine saccharate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, amphetamine aspartate monohydrate and amphetamine sulfate present in the equal amount in the Amphetamine Salts combo. It is a U.S. Food & Drug administration (FDA) approvals medicine used for the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy. The drug form of amphetamine salt combo increases overall efficacy as it makes the stimulant effect and withdrawals smoother. Because of the smoother stimulation effect, it is more effective for the hyperactivity aspect of the disorder and ADHD.

How amphetamine salts combowork:

When we are stressed or under pressure, the CNS (central nervous system) prepares us for physical act by generating particular physiological changes like release adrenalin and other stress hormones, increase heart rate & blood pressure, and convey blood flow in to the muscles.

This capsule prompts the brain to start this ‘fight or flight’ response. The small dose of the capsules can expel tiredness and make the user feel alert and refreshed.

How to use Amphetamine salts combo:
Read medication guide given by your pharmacist carefully before taking Amphetamine salts combo drugs.

Amphetamine salts combo (combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine) is available in capsule form that you can take 2-3 times daily, 4-6 hours apart, with or without food.

Take first dose of the medicine in the morning as directed by your doctor. Don’t take other prescribed dose in the late afternoon or evening because it may cause trouble sleeping.

Take Amphetamine salts combo as doctor described, because it may cause sudden death and serious heart problems if it would be taken differently than how your doctor prescribes.

Generally, the dose of drugs is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. To get the most benefit from the drugs, take it regularly exactly as prescribed.

Swallow the capsules without chewing or crushing them. Many people have a fear to consume medicine whole, if you are one of them you can swallow the extended-release capsule by sprinkling the entire contents on a teaspoonful of applesauce.

Doctor starts low dose of amphetamine salts combo medicine and increase dose gradually. During the treatment, doctor may occasionally suggest stopping the pills for a short time to see whether there are any changes in your behavior or the medication is still required.

It may cause withdrawal reactions, if you are consuming it for a long time or in high doses. During the use of medication, if you get symptoms like severe tiredness, sleep problems, mental/mood changes such as depression, and then suddenly stop using this drug.

Overdose of Adderall may cause addiction of it. If you have an addiction to alcohol or drugs in the past, then the risk of addiction is very high.

Amphetamine salts combo side effects:

Usually, the effects of the Amphetamine salts combo are depended on the strength of the dose, the mix of chemicals, and the physical make-up, and mood of the person taking the drug. It effects similar like to cocaine. However, when consumed under the direction of a doctor, it helps person to focus and feel more awake also reduces appetite.
  • Immediate effects of Adderall:
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Dry mouth
  • Stomach upset/pain
  • Nausea/vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Nervousness
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Interactions
This capsule may increase their blood pressure, so check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor about any high results.

Consult doctor immediately if you get some short-term effects like:
  • Mental/mood/behavior changes (such as agitation, aggression, mood swings, depression, abnormal thoughts)
  • Uncontrolled movements
  • Continuous chewing movements/Teeth grinding
  • Outbursts of words/sounds
  • Change in sexual ability/desire
Get medical help when you get some serious long-term effects:
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest/jaw/left arm pain
  • Fainting
  • Severe headache
  • Fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat, seizures
  • Swelling of the ankles/feet
  • Extreme tiredness
  • Blurred vision
  • Weakness on one side of the body
  • Slurred speech
  • Confusion
Some times people get very serious allergic reaction after swallowing this drug. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction described below:
  • Rash
  • Itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
  • Severe dizziness
  • Trouble breathing
  • Blistering or peeling skin
The combination of Dextroamphetamine and amphetamine (amphetamine salts combo) may cause sudden death in children and teenagers, if they are suffering from heart defects or serious heart problems. It may also cause sudden death, heart attack, or stroke in adults.

It may slow children’s growth or weight gain, so during the use of medication, checkup your child growth or weight regularly.

Follow some precautions when getting amphetamine salts combo:

This medication contains inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems, so if you have any other allergies then you should talk to your pharmacist or doctor first before starting the use of medicine.

You must tell your medical history to your doctor especially about certain mental/mood conditions (such as severe agitation, psychosis), family history of mental/mood disorders like bipolar disorder, suicidal thoughts), heart problems, certain eye problem, history of regular use/abuse of drugs/alcohol, kidney disease, etc.

This drug may become users dizzy, so avoid driving, using machinery, or doing any activity that requires alertness until you are ensured that you can perform such activities safely.

Before getting a surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medication.

Don’t use tablets during the pregnancy, because infants may be born with birth effects, born too soon with low birth weight. Take tablets only if you need it.

This drugs passes into the breast milk so it may cause unwanted effects on a nursing infant.

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Best way to get rid of fever blisters fast

Painful and ugly looking, fever blisters are common skin conditions, which affects 15 to 30% of Americans. Fever blisters are also recognized as cold sores, oral herpes and herpes labialis. Generally, they occur on the mouth area, mostly on and around the lip. However, they can also occur on other facial areas like nose, nostrils, cheek or chin. Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1) is the main cause of these blisters. HSV1 virus remains in your body throughout the life and causes fever blister outbreaks several times a year. There is no treatment or vaccine available for fever blisters, but docosanol-based over-the-counter medications and home remedies can relieve pain, accelerate healing and stop them from spreading. Below are mentioned some best ways to get rid of fever blisters quickly.

Best way to get rid of fever blisters fast
There are five different stages of fever blisters: tingling and itching stage, blisters stage, oozing & crusting stage, scabbing stage as well as healing stage. In first stage, the person feels tingling, itching and burning sensation around the spot one or two days before fever blisters erupt. In second stage: small fluid-filled blisters break out surrounded by a red ring of inflammation. In third stage, these small blisters merge and then burst, leaving shallow open sores that ooze fluid. In fourth stage, these blisters dry up and a scab will appear with a brownish crust while in fifth stage, they will heal and the scab will fall off without leaving scars.
Fever blisters are extremely contagious from the very first stage. They spread through direct contact, kissing or sharing personal items. So, make sure that you don’t touch them and wash your hands often to prevent spreading of this virus. Fever blisters outbreaks are triggered by factors like stress, fever, pregnancy, temperature extremes, steroid medication, menstruation, sun exposure, fatigue, lots of alcohol consumption, low immunity, diet and certain foods.

Best Fever Blisters Remedies:

1. Tea Bags

The simplest home remedy is to apply wet tea bags to the blisters. There is tannic acid in the tea, which contains antiviral properties. Antiviral properties prevent the development of blisters. Take a tea bag (black tea or green tea) and place it in the boiling water for one minute. Allow it to cool and press on affected area for few minutes. Repeat this every hour in a day. Frozen tea bags can be also used to get relief from pain and discomfort.

2. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen Peroxide dries the blisters and removes the moisture. Take a bowl, put some hydrogen peroxide and soak few cotton balls in it. Apply the soaked cotton ball over the fever blister for few times. Repeat this remedy 3 to 4 times a day. Another way to use hydrogen peroxide is by making a paste of peroxide (1 tsp) and aspirin (2 nos). Apply the paste with the help of a cotton ball and wash after 2 to 3 minutes.

3. Whole Milk

Milk provides relief from the pain associated with fever blisters and accelerates the healing process. Just soak a cotton ball or swab in milk and gently place it over the sore. Remove the cotton and wash the milk after 10 minutes.

4. Ice Packs

Ice cubes ease the pain, provide soothing effect & quick relief and also decrease the development of the blisters. This remedy also prevents the condition from spreading. Rub an ice cube directly onto the affected area for several minutes or apply ice packs over the blisters for 5 to 10 minutes. Repeat this every hour.

5. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is one of the most effective ways to treat the blisters fast. It not only cures these blisters fast, but also prevents them from growing. The healing and soothing effect of aloe vera ease the pain and tingling sensation associated with fever blisters. Cut an aloe vera leaf, extract the gel and rub it to the affected area. You can even buy aloe vera gel from your local drugstore.

6. Honey

The antiviral properties in honey make it a very effective remedy for blisters. Apply honey directly on the affected area regularly. This will cure the blisters quickly.

7. Toothpaste

Toothpaste has Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) as its main ingredient, which can reduce the blisters. Simply, apply a thin layer of toothpaste to the area as soon as possible. This will dry out the blisters very quickly.

8. Baking Soda

Baking soda dries the blisters and also produces an alkaline environment. Prepare a thick paste by adding a few drops of water into 1 tsp of baking soda. Apply it to the blisters and wait for 10 minutes. Then rinse with plain water.

9. Yogurt

Yogurt contains lysine which blocks and fights against the virus that causes fever blisters. It even prevents the virus from becoming active. Yogurt also boosts the immune system. Consume yogurt thrice a day. Another way: Make an egg and yogurt facial mask to soothe and heal the blisters. Mix one egg, one cup of yogurt & 1 Tbsp of honey in a bowl and apply the mask on the fever blisters. Wash after 30 minutes with warm water.

10. Vitamin E

Vitamin E helps to soothe and heal the blisters quickly. Take a cotton ball, pour some pure vitamin E oil on it and apply the oil to the blisters.

Suggestions for Cold Sores:

  • Always apply sunscreen cream on the affected areas
  • Don’t share your personal items and avoid physical contact with others
  • Take sufficient rest and follow exercise routine
  • Never touch the fever blisters
  • Wash your hands properly after applying any thing on the blisters
  • Perform relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation to manage stress
  • Drink plenty of water to hydrate the skin
  • Never pick or squeeze the blisters
  • Do not use cosmetic products as well as lotions with alcohol
  • Avoid acidic, processed, spicy & salty foods
  • Avoid tea and coffee
  • Consume diet rich in antioxidants and complex carbohydrates

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Positional vertigo: Exercises For treatment at home

Positional vertigo is vestibular disorder that affects millions of people throughout the world. Positional vertigo is also recognized as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). It is estimated that 9/10 older people suffer from BPPV. It is more common in women compared to the men. People suffering from BPPV experience vertigo, intense dizziness when they turn or move head quickly, bend over, roll over in bed or tip their head back. Other symptoms of this condition are imbalance, nausea and lightheadedness. BPPV goes away itself in a few weeks, but medications are available to improve the symptoms. Many people recover from BPPV with simple and easy exercises. Here are provided some of the at-home positional vertigo exercises.

Positional vertigo: Exercises For treatment at home

A problem in the inner ear leads to positional vertigo. BPPV is happen when the pieces of calcium carbonate material layer in the utricle (a structure in the inner ear) break off and move to the semicircular canals (another part of the inner ear). These tiny calcium crystals (otoconia) are known as ear rocks. Because of infection or inflammation, the ear rocks are not able to move as they should. This sends wrong signals to the brain, which affects our balance and causes the vertigo. The feeling of vertigo last for a few seconds or up to a minute and can be mild or severe enough that you lose your balance while sitting up, standing or walking.

Monday, May 20, 2013

Back tattoos designs for girls: Tumblr of Photos

Tattoos always remains as an attractive art or fashion icon from all the centuries. This appealing art is not only limited to youngsters but many old age people are getting tempted to have a tattoo on their body. Choices of tattoo vary from gender to gender. Despite of pain, it is really popular among the girls. They mostly love to have tattoos on their back, ankle and hand. The most popular tattoos designed among the girls are flowers, butterfly, musical instruments, feathers, tree, some tag line and many more. It not only makes them beautiful but sexy also.

Back tattoos designs for girls: Tumbler of Photos

Tattoo is a form of art, in which a permanent ink is made inserted into the dermis layer of the skin to change the pigment’s color with the help of various new electric needle machines. Tattoo is designed on your body. The art of getting tattoo was started in some 5000 years ago. Tattoo art was not famous in one culture only, but this art of designing your body was equally popular among different cultures; however it may vary from people to people and century to century.

Many factors are responsible for its popularity, like youth are really tempted to have their body inked with tatto if their favorite celebrity has tattoo on his/her body. Another reason for its popularity can be that after watching tat on friend's body many want to have it on their own bodies too. Some people get their body inked in order to express their nature, desire, sign of religious belief and attitude.

Following are some of the beautiful back tattoo designs for the girls

Back tattoos designs for girls: Tumbler of Photos
Image Source:funjooke.com

Back tattoos designs for girls: Tumbler of Photos
Image Source:pinterest.com

Back tattoos designs for girls: Tumbler of Photos

Back tattoos designs for girls: Tumbler of Photos

Back tattoos designs for girls: Tumbler of Photos

Back tattoos designs for girls: Tumbler of Photos
Image Source: pinterest.com

Back tattoos designs for girls: Tumbler of Photos

Back tattoos designs for girls: Tumbler of Photos
Image Source:pinterest.com

Back tattoos designs for girls: Tumbler of Photos
Image Source:pinterest.com

Back tattoos designs for girls: Tumbler of Photos
Image Source:pinterest.com

Back tattoos designs for girls: Tumbler of Photos
Image Source:kotattoo.com

Saturday, May 18, 2013

Back tattoos designs for guys: Tumblr of Photos

Getting a tattoo on the body is a cool fashion not only among youngsters, but also middle aged adults and senior citizens. If any youngster sees a tattoo on his friend's body, then also he gets influence by him. Today tattoo has become a sign of fashion as well as passion. In this trend, women are also not lagging behind. More preferably women love the tattoos of flowers, butterfly, musical instruments, etc. on their back shoulder, hand, her ankle and many other parts of body while men love those tattoos which show aggressiveness and boldness.

Back tattoos designs for guys: Tumbler of Photos

Monday, May 13, 2013

What causes stomach cramps and burping?

Stomach cramps are generally a painful squeezing sensation that can be caused by gas passing through your digestive system harmlessly. Stomach cramps are painful that comes and goes over a span of minutes. Burping, also known as Belching, is the body's natural way to push out excess air from the stomach. Moreover, excess gas can cause uncomfortable stomach pain. Abdominal pain and constant burping can be caused by a number of various medical conditions. Air that enters the stomach is the main cause for constant burping, and it can even take place due to the gases that arise naturally in the intestines and stomach. Abdominal pain and burping are probable symptoms of gastric cancer. Read on to know the different causes of stomach cramps and burping.

What causes stomach cramps and burping?

People who have Abdominal (stomach) cramps commonly express a stabbing or sharp pain. Stomach cramps are diverse from heartburn, indigestion and period pain; they are caused due to spasms in your digestive tract that can trigger pain and soreness. Stomach cramps might happen along with other symptoms such as constipation and/or diarrhea and abdominal bloating, though people can be affected in various ways and other symptoms can even take place including headache, extreme wind, nausea, decreased appetite and bladder problems.

The whole digestive tract is very sensitive, thus a range of dietary and lifestyle factors like eating something that doesn't agree with you or a mainly worrying event can worsen the movement of the smooth muscle along the digestive tract. When this occurs, the usually mild wave-like contractions go into spasm that causes painful stomach cramps. Even though stomach cramps are painful, it's probable to ease them with home remedies easily and efficiently. There are several causes of stomach cramps and they can affect or originate from your digestive organs, kidneys, appendix, aorta, or spleen, or they can start off from an infection at any place in your body.

Cramps are usual for a number of women during their menstrual cycle; however exercises are helpful to lessen such pain. The strength of pain does not essentially signify seriousness: very painful cramps can be caused because of gas passing through your digestive system harmlessly, while life-threatening situations for example - colon cancer and early appendicitis can generate gentle or also no pain.

A number of conditions can generate symptoms of stomach pain and constant burping. Burping is the harsh release of air from the stomach through the mouth. As per the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC), the average person produces among 1 and 4 pints of gas daily. Gas that is not detached through burping normally travels to the intestine and is liberated through flatulence. The condition can be corrected through diet and lifestyle changes, also with medication.

Causes of Stomach Cramps and Burping

Cancer
Constant burping can be caused due to cancer. If the burping is escorted by abdominal pain, gastric cancer is likelihood. Stomach pain and constant burping are possible symptoms of gastric cancer. Gastric cancer initiates in the stomach and the most widespread form of gastric cancer is known as adenocarcinoma. Risk factors connected with the expansion of gastric cancer consist of smoking, chronic gastritis, pernicious anemia, family history, and infections with the Helicobacter pylori bacterium. The symptoms of gastric cancer are extreme belching, abdominal pain, abdominal fullness, vomiting, nausea, trouble swallowing, unintended weight loss, loss of appetite, fatigue and weakness. One way to cure gastric cancer is to remove the stomach as per MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy could be helpful in prolonging survival.

Ulcers and Hernias
Ulcers and Hernias are one of the causes of constant burping. Moreover, a peptic ulcer can even cause constant burping. Stomach cramps and burping can also be caused due to the intestinal or hiatal hernia; or Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria, a general cause of stomach ulcers.

Excessive Air Swallowing
If an individual is swallowing excess air, then he/she is suffering from aerophagia. This condition is a general side effect of eating or drinking speedily. An individual, who chews gum, eats hard candy, drink with a straw, drink carbonated beverage or smokes might even swallow excess air. Mostly older adults who wear loose dentures usually suffer from the condition. Stomach bloating can be caused by swallowing excess air. When excess air is swallowed and not detached by burping, it builds up in the stomach and cause pain that differ from gentle to severe.

Indigestion
Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is defined as pain or burning in the upper abdominal area. Indigestion produces a feeling of gastric discomfort, and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease - also called acid reflux or GERD, which happens when liquids from the stomach back up, or reiterate, into your esophagus. When a hiatal hernia exists, the symptoms of GERD are widespread. Besides pain and burning, other likely symptoms of indigestion are gas, belching, bloating, vomiting, nausea, heartburn and acidic taste in the mouth. In most of the cases, indigestion happens due to overeating, eating rapidly or consuming spicy or greasy foods, underlying digestive diseases or ulcers in the digestive tract, etc. Indigestion caused by eating does not need treatment and goes away soon within some hours, while indigestion caused by an underlying health condition requires treatment on correcting the particular condition.

Diet
Excess gas is caused with most carbohydrates whereas little gas is caused with foods high in protein and fat. A complex sugar found in most vegetables that cause gas - raffinose, is contained in cabbage, brussels sprouts, beans, broccoli and other vegetables. The natural sweetener - Lactose, is found in dairy products like yogurt, milk and cheese. Some people can’t digest lactose and suffer from increased gas and stomach pain while taking foods that contain sugar. Other natural sweetener mostly known to cause gas is fructose, which is contained in pears, artichokes and onions. Some foods causes excess gas and stomach pain in some people, while no gas in others.

You can reduce burping if you:
  • Stay away from carbonated drinks and beer as they release carbon dioxide gas
  • Eat and drink slowly as it helps you swallow less air; and even avoid drinking using a straw
  • Don't smoke as when you do smoking, you inhale and swallow air too
  • Don’t chew gum or suck on hard candy
  • Take a look at your dentures as poorly fitting dentures can cause excess air-swallowing when eating and drinking
  • Treat mild or severe heartburn with over-the-counter antacids or other remedies

Friday, May 10, 2013

How do I cure snoring completely?

In your family, you may know at least one person who snores loudly in particular manner. Besides making jokes about snoring people, we actually never care about snoring but it can lead to sleep apnea and heart disease. Everybody snores occasionally but when it occurs repeatedly, it may disturb sleep of your roommate and family members. Snoring also leads to daytime fatigue, irritability and increase many health problems. Snoring also effects badly in your marriage life to the height that you may decide to sleep in other bedroom, which could create big relationship problems due to lack of physical intimacy. There are many ways by which you can cure snoring. Even by changing your some of the habits and lifestyle, you can easily stop snoring for quieter and deep sleep.

How do I cure snoring completely?
Meaning of Snoring and its causes:
In medical terms, “it is an unwanted noise made during the sleep because of the difficulty faced in the airflow in the upper breathing passages.” More consumption of alcohol fails your nervous system and your throat muscles become weak, causing snoring. Deposition of fat occurs around the throat because of more weight and it leads to narrowing of the breathing passage.

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

10 Tips for Weight Loss and Flat Belly

In the 21st century, weight loss has become a trend. Everyone wants to lose weight as they are aware of the negative effects of obesity on health. Exercise and proper diet are the two main things for weight loss. But due to busy schedule and hectic lifestyle, people don't find time for exercising or following a diet plan. Obesity can be caused due to hormonal imbalance, eating junk food and living a sedentary lifestyle. It not only affects one’s self-confidence but also increases the risk of developing life-threatening diseases. Number of weight loss programs, diets, slimming teas and pills are available in the market to lose weight, but they are not safe and have their own side effects. Gaining weight is easy, but losing it is a challenging task. Just try these simple and easy natural home remedies to shed those extra pounds.

10 Tips for Weight Loss and Flat Belly

10 Healthy Tips For Guaranteed Weight Loss

1. Fennel Seeds
Take ½ tsp fennel seeds and 1 cup of boiling water. Add seeds in water and keep them covered for 10 minutes. Allow the water to cool and drink it. Use this remedy for consecutive three months.

Monday, May 6, 2013

Home remedies to remove white hair on scalp

Grey or white hairs indicate old age. As one gets older, the hair loses its natural pigmentation and turns white. But these days, white hairs can be seen in people who haven't even crossed the 20s. Having this problem can be very disheartening and embarrassing, particularly when it happens before a certain age. It also affects the self-confidence. Heredity, illness, genetic pollution, stress, trauma, irregular lifestyle and nutrients deficiency are the causes for premature grey hair. Many people begin to use hair dyes and hair colors that contain harsh chemicals to cover gray hair. By using some ingredients found in the pantry of your house, you can get the flawless black hair without using harsh chemicals and spending your hard earned money. If you are suffering from premature graying, then here are some very effective home remedies for you.

Home remedies to remove white hair on scalp


Home Remedies for Premature White Hair

1. Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
  • Take amla powder and add lemon juice and little amount of water. Wait for about 1hr, and then apply it to the hair just like shampoo. Don’t use the chemical shampoo while using this remedy.
  • Boil dried amla pieces in coconut oil until it turns black. Massage your scalp with this oil at least two times a week.
  • Soak dried amla pieces in water for whole night and wash your hair with this water.
  • Massage amla paste or amla hair oil in the scalp regularly for 10 minutes.
  • Mix gooseberry juice (1 Tbsp), lime juice (1/2 Tbsp) and almond oil (1 Tbsp). Use this mixture for massaging the scalp. Wash your hair with a mild shampoo after an hour.
2. Fenugreek
  • Consume fenugreek sprouts daily.
  • Apply fenugreek paste on your hair.
  • Apply the paste made up of fenugreek powder and yogurt on your hair. Leave it for 1 hour and wash the hair with shampoo.
  • Take fenugreek seeds and soak them in water overnight. In the morning, eat them and drink the water on empty stomach. Follow this remedy for around 4 to 6 months.
3. Sesame Seeds
  • Grind sesame seeds properly and add almond oil to them. Apply it on the hair and scalp, and wait for 20 to 30 minutes. Wash the hair with plain water.
  • Consume the sesame seeds directly.
  • You can even massage the sesame oil on your hair.
4. Bhringaraja (Eclipta Alba)
  • Extract juice of fresh leaves Bhringaraja and add Triphala Churna to it for making a fine paste. Apply this paste to your hair. Don’t store this paste.
  • Massage bhringaraja oil gently to your hair.
  • Make a paste of Bhringaraja and Ashwagandha roots. Add coconut oil in it and apply it to the hair.
5. Ghee (Clarified Butter)
Massage your hair gently with clarified butter made from cow’s milk two times a week.

6. Ridge Gourd
Dry a few pieces of ridge gourd in sun and soak them in coconut oil for about three to four days. Then, boil this oil along with Ribbed Gourd pieces till the pieces become black. Use this oil to massage your scalp.

7. Onion
Before taking bath, apply onion juice or its paste on your scalp daily. Wash your hair after 30 minutes with shampoo.

8. Curry leaves
Boil 1/8 cup curry leaves in 1/2 cup coconut oil for 5 to 10 minutes. Let it to cool and strain the mixture. Apply the mixture on the scalp, and leave it whole night. In the next morning, shampoo your hair as usual.

9. Carrot Juice
Consume one glass of carrot juice on regular basis.

10. Henna
Take henna powder (2 tsp), plain yogurt (1 tsp), fenugreek (1 tsp), coffee (3 tsp), basil juice (2 tsp) and mint juice (3 tsp). Mix all of them to make a smooth paste. Apply it on your hair and wash the hair after 2 to 3 hours.

11. Amaranth
Extract juice from the Amaranth leaves and massage the fresh juice on your scalp to prevent premature graying of hair. Wash the hair after sometime.

12. Wheat Sprouts
Consume the juice of wheat sprouts to remove white hair on scalp.

13. Black tea
Take one cup black tea (without milk and sugar) and add 1 Tbsp of table salt in it. Massage it on the scalp & hair, and wait for one hour. Wash with plain water.

Sunday, May 5, 2013

Jackfruit: Health Benefits and Nutrition Info

Fruits are considered as one of the most essential parts of our diet. Among fruits, Jackfruit is not only delicious in taste but also has many health benefits. All those who know very little about the Jackfruit, don’t worry here is a brief introduction of the fruit. Jackfruit belongs to the mulberry family and founded in the region of Southern and Southeast Asia, but it is also found in East Africa as well as Brazil. It would not be wrong to describe Jackfruit as the largest tree-borne fruit as its weight could be up to 36 kg, 50 cm in diameter and 90 cm long.

Jackfruit: Health Benefits and Nutrition Info
Image Source:pikachakula.com

When you open the Jackfruit, you will find sweet-flavored orange-yellow bulbs. You can eat them as they are or eat after cooking. It doesn’t matter how you take it as in all the ways you will get many benefits from it. It can be taken in the form of pickles, cooked vegetable, raw fruit as well as used in curry, soups, etc. Not only the fruit is beneficial, but also its seeds are good for health as it contains around 135kcal/100gm.

The amount of nutrients in 100 gm of Jackfruit:
  • Calories - 94
  • Potassium - 303mg
  • Protein - 1g
  • Dietary fiber - 2g
  • Fat - 0.3 mg
  • Calcium - 34 mg
  • Carbohydrate - 34 mg
  • Iron - 0.6 mg
  • Jackfruit contains 2% Vitamin A, 11% Vitamin C, sodium, zinc, and many other nutrients.
Following are some of its health benefits:

Maintain Blood Pressure
Jackfruit being rich in potassium helps in maintaining blood pressure. Potassium acts as electrolytes in the human body, and thus maintains blood pressure. It is also helpful in reducing the risk of stroke as well as heart-attack.

Prevent Cancer
Jackfruit contains a good amount of phytonutrients like Saponin, Lignans and Isoflavines. These phytonutrients have anti-cancer properties as Jackfruit helps in destroying cancer causing free radicals. These radicals are formed because of oxidative strain, and as a result it damage DNA by changing normal cell into the cancer cell.

Strengthen Immune System
As a human-being cannot produce vitamin C himself, so they have to take it from outside in the form of fruits or supplements. Vitamin C helps in strengthening the immunity system. Jackfruit being rich in Vitamin C therefore it strengthen the immune system.

Anemia
Iron helps in preventing anemia and in increasing the blood circulation in the body. Jackfruit contains iron, thus it helps in preventing anemia.

Improve Digestion
Jackfruit contains anti-ulcer properties, thus it helps in digestion and prevents constipation. It contains dietary fiber that makes it bulk laxative.

Improve Skin
Another benefit of jackfruit is that it is also good for your skin and eyes, because it contains vitamin C (20 mg), vitamin A (as much as 51 RE), which improves eye vision and makes skin healthy. It is very good anti-oxidant.

Control Asthma
Jackfruit can be advantageous for asthma patients. Boiled jackfruit root and its extract help in controlling asthma.

Energy

Jackfruit contains 95 calories per 100 gm, high amount of carbohydrates, sucrose and fructose, thus provides a lot of energy. One more important thing is that it contains no cholesterol. All these make Jackfruit as a healthy fruit.

Cure Fever
The leaves of jackfruit tree are helpful for curing fever and boils. It can be used by boiling it and placed it on the wounds.

Helpful in Diabetes
Most of the doctors do not advice for the consumption of jackfruit to diabetes' patients, but consumption of its leaves may help normal and type-2 diabetes patients as it improves glucose tolerance.

Friday, May 3, 2013

Yoga & Exercise Tips for Ankylosing Spondylitis Patient to get relief

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic, inflammatory type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine and the sacroiliac joints. Over time, this disorder can cause the vertebrae to fuse together. And this fusing would eventually result in loss of flexibility in the spine, causing severe back pain. Plus, gradually the patient will assume a hunched posture. What’s even worse is that other joints of the body might also get affected due to this disease. The main symptoms of Ankylosing spondylitis include: fatigue (extreme tiredness), back pain & stiffness, buttock pain, inflammation or swelling of the joints, and painful inflammation where tendons or ligaments attach to bone. Yoga is considered to be the most effective forms of treatment that can really help alleviate all these symptoms of AS.

Yoga & Exercise Tips for Ankylosing Spondylitis Patient to get relief
Image Source: livestrong.com

Thursday, May 2, 2013

Is there any Home Remedy for Ankylosing Spondylitis to treat it at home?

Arthritis is one of the leading causes of disability throughout the world. It can affect any people regardless of age and races. Millions of people are suffering from this condition, and the numbers continue to increase every year. More than hundred types of arthritis are there such as osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, septic arthritis, etc. Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a severe, inflammatory arthritis that affects the spine. It can also affect other parts of the body like eyes, heart, lungs and kidneys. When it affects children, it is known as Juvenile ankylosing spondylitis. No cure is available for the condition, but medications, yoga, physical therapy and exercise can decrease the symptoms and manage the pain. Here in this article, you can find some of the home remedies to treat ankylosing spondylitis.

Is there any Home Remedy for Ankylosing Spondylitis to treat it at home?

Ankylosing spondylitis is typified by stiffness and pain due to severe inflammation in and around the spine and the sacroiliac joints. Males are 2 to 3 times more likely to develop it compared to women. In this condition, spine becomes stiff and can cause a hunched-forward posture. In severe case, you cannot even lift your head high to see forward. Signs and symptoms start in early adulthood. Initial signs and symptoms are pain & stiffness in the lower back and hips, particularly after inactivity periods and in the morning. These symptoms get worse eventually. Other symptoms include swelling in the vertebral bones, pain in the ribcage, back pain, locking or joining of joints, eye pain, light sensitivity and blurred vision.

Causes of Ankylosing Spondylitis:

The specific cause of this condition is still unknown, but genetic factors, age, stress, autoimmune factors and heredity, seems to be involved. People with gene named HLA - B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) are at high risk of developing it. Even some bacterial infections can cause ankylosing spondylitis. This has not beenconfirmed till now.

Home Remedies for Ankylosing Spondylitis:

Heat/Cold
You can apply heat to stiff joints & tight muscles to decrease pain and soreness. Heat can be applied with a heating pad or a warm shower. You can apply cold to inflamed areas to decrease swelling in joints and ease pain. Cold can be applied with a cold compresses and ice.

Ginger and Black Pepper
Consume ginger or black pepper along with your meals. This will detoxify the body.

Turmeric and Milk
Boil 1 Tbsp of turmeric in milk for 25 to 30 minutes and consume it once a day.

Water
Take a copper pan and fill it with water. Leave it overnight and drink the water in the next morning.

Juices
Drink juices of Amla or Aloe Vera daily. These juices make the immune system strong.

Cider Vinegar and Honey
Mix cider vinegar and honey, and consume it thrice a day.

Castor oil and Milk
Add castor oil to milk and drink it at night.

Treatments for Ankylosing Spondylitis:

Medications
NSAIDs like naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn) and indomethacin (Indocin) are used for this condition. They provide relief from pain, swelling and stiffness. The side effect of them is gastrointestinal bleeding. People those who don’t get relief from these medications, for them doctors recommend TNF (tumor necrosis factor) blockers like Infliximab (Remicade), Etanercept (Enbrel), Adalimumab (Humira) and Golimumab (Simponi). TNF blockers also decrease the pain, stiffness and swollen joints.

Exercise
Exercise plays an important role in the treatment of any ankylosing spondylitis. Performing exercises regularly not only decrease the pain & stiffness, but also improve the overall flexibility of the body. Aerobic and spine strengthening are helpful for this condition. Aerobic exercises relax your mind and enhance the blood and oxygen flow to the muscles, while spine strengthening exercises improve posture and flexibility.

Posture
Good posture is very essential to prevent abnormal bending, stiffness and flexion deformities of the spine. Patients should choose hardback, upright chairs or straight-backed rocking chairs to avoid hunched or stooped postures. Never stoop or stretch across a desk and bench. Also, stay away from propping up the legs as it can cause hip or knee fusion in the bent position. Sleep on a firm mattress with your back straight and avoid sleeping on several pillows.

Yoga Therapy
Yoga can treat almost all the diseases. People suffering from spondylitis can also benefit from yoga. Yoga reduces the back pain & spinal stiffness, improves flexibility and range of motion in the joints of the vertebrae as well as vigor the spinal muscles. It also improves the physical strength and posture. You can practice yoga poses like Matsyasana, Pavanamuktasana, Vajrasana, Shashankasana, Vrikshasana, Bhujangasana, Ardha Matsyendrasana and Makarasana. These yoga poses remove rigidity, correct bad posture and increase flexibility of joints. Pranayama (breathing exercise) improves lung capacity and keeps the ribcage flexible

Massage
Massage can be very useful to decrease pain and stress, if done carefully. It makes the muscles strong that surround the affected area as well as enhances the blood circulation, and thereby improves flexibility.

Video of Yoga for AS from youtube:

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