Stress symptoms

Body, brain and nervous system react actively

The body and the mind react to any stress factor. A large number of physical changes take place when a person is under stress. The brain and nervous system become intensely active; the pupils of the eye dilate; digestion slows down; muscles become tense; the heart starts pumping blood harder and faster; blood pressure increases; breathing becomes faster; hormones such as adrenaline are released into the system along with glucose from the liver; and sweating starts. All these changes like place in split second under the direction of the nervous system. If the stress factors are removed immediately, no harm accrues and all the changes are reversible
Poor sleep, frustration, increase in alcoholic intake etc

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Malaria treatment using Grapefruit

Grapefruit is one of the most effective home remedies for malaria. It should be taken daily. It contains a natural quinine-like substance which can be extracted from the fruit by boiling a quarter of a grapefruit and straining its pulp.

Malaria treatment using Fever Nut

The seeds of the fever nut plant are another effective remedy for malaria. They can be obtained from a herbal store and preserved in a phial for use when required. About six grams of these seeds should be given with a cup of water two hours before the expected onset of the paroxysm of fever, and a second dose should be given one hour after the attack. The paroxysm can thus be avoided but even if it occurs, the same procedure should be resorted to on that day and it will cut short the fever.

Malaria treatment using Datura

The leaves of the datura plant are useful in the tertian type of malarial fever. About two and a half freshly-sprouted leaves of this plant should be made into a pill by rubbing them with jaggery and administered two hours before the onset of the paroxysm.

Malaria is one of the most widespread diseases in the world, especially in tropical and subtropical regions.

Malaria symptoms

High fever accompanied by chills, headache, shivering.

There are three main types of malaria, depending upon the parasites which cause it. They are tertian fever, quartan fever and malignant tertian malaria. The most common symptom of all types of malaria is high fever, which may occur every day, on alternate days, or every fourth day. The fever is accompanied by chills, headache, shivering, and pain in the limbs. The temperature comes down after some time with profuse sweating.

Causes of Blocked Milk Duct

There are many reasons why the milk ducts may become clogged. However the primary reason is that the milk is not able to drain entirely. This usually happens because of ill fitting bras or extremely tight clothes. Incomplete feedings or skipping feedings frequently may also cause the milk ducts to get clogged. If you have been using a breast pump to pump out milk, an inadequate machine may also cause an infection. Other causes include stress, illnesses such as colds and infections, and malnutrition. If the blockage in the milk ducts is not addressed immediately, it may cause a severe infection in the breasts.

Home Remedies for Blocked Milk Duct

The most important thing to follow is to make sure that you nurse your baby frequently. In order to empty the breast completely, this is extremely essential. If you breastfeed your baby often, it can help increase comfort and reduce the inflammation. The sore area should also be massaged frequently. Massage the breast firmly after every feeding. To massage it effectively, start from the top of the breast and gently work your way towards the nipple area. You can also try applying a slightly warm compress to the breast before breastfeeding. This helps in ensuring that the entire milk is drained out during the feeding and there is no clogging of the ducts.

When a woman begins to lactate, the milk ducts in the breasts become active and transport the milk from the mammary glands to the nipples. If, for some reason, these ducts get clogged, the flow of milk gets blocked and the breasts become tender, inflamed and sore.

Symptoms of Blocked Milk Duct

A blocked or plugged milk duct can be very painful for some women. The initial sign of such a blockage is the presence of a small and hard lump in the breast. This lump can be felt when you touch the breast. This spot is sore and may be very tender to the touch. There may be inflammation and redness on the breast too. If the blockage has persisted for some time, you may experience aches in the body. Along with general malaise, you may even feel feverish and may have sore in the chest. This is usually a sign of infection running in the clogged duct.

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Self care measures at home can help ensure breast health. Here’s what you can do to keep your breasts healthy.

1. Mix together cod liver oil, vitamin E, ground bark of white oak and garlic tempered oil to a pasty consistency and apply on sore nipples. This paste will help reduce any inflammation in the breast region.

2. Stuff your bra with leaves from the head of a cabbage when your breasts feel tender and painful.

3. Brew some tea from red raspberry, and drink it everyday. Red raspberry tea is rich in anti-oxidants and helps prevent cancer.

Breast care is extremely important because breast cancer can cause permanent loss of the breasts. Breast care is also especially important when a woman has reached the age of 20. There are several risk factors that increase the chances of cancer in women. Some of the risk factors are related to the age of the woman and there are also other risk factors which are related to the lifestyle of the woman. Lifestyle habits like poor diet, smoking, and drinking are all risk factors that can cause cancer.

Apart from age, family history of breast cancer and hormonal changes are also known to increase the risk of breast cancer. Though it is known that hormones increase the risk of breast cancer, it is not known to what extent they may affect the condition.

The characteristic symptom of breast cancer is the formation of lumps. Lumps may be found on the breast or the arm pits. Breast cancer is inflammatory, and grows in clusters of cancerous cells. Some typical symptoms of breast cancer are lumps and swellings, especially in the armpits, discharge from nipples, pain in the nipple area, or retraction in the nipple.

Breasts are natural organs that are present in the upper ventral region of the torso. Breasts are present in the female body, and they are vital because they contain the mammary glands that secrete milk for the new born baby. They are not only important in terms of cosmetic beauty, but are also a vital part of the human anatomy and the reproductive system. The breasts, just like the other organs in the body, are extremely susceptible to cancers and other ailments. Today, breast cancer is one of the leading causes of loss of breasts in women. Though breast cancer is not fatal and can be treated completely if detected early, it is still a frightening experience.

Breast care is vital to save the breast and prevent amputation. From time to time, mammograms and self-examination of breasts should be conducted in order to keep checking for any signs of cancer. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help in keeping breasts healthy.

Acne Vitamin Treatment

Two vitamins, namely, niacin and vitamin A have been used successfully to treat acne. Vitamin therapy should comprise the intake of 100 mg niacin, three times daily, and 50,000 international units of vitamin A, three times daily. Vitamin E, 400 mg, should be taken once daily. Continue this therapy for a month.

Zinc Treatment for Acne

Zinc is another effective remedy in the area of nutrition that seems to offer new promise of help for acne. It has shown dramatic results in some cases. Take zinc in therapeutic doses of 50 mg three times a day. Zinc is available in tablet and in capsule form. In tablet form, it is available as Zinfet - 200 mg. The patient can take a quarter tablet so as to get 50 mg of zinc. In capsule form, zinc is available as Ulseal 220 mg. One-fourth of the powder inside the capsule can be taken as a single dose. The patient can take a dose of 50 mg daily upto one month or till there is noticeable improvement and then reduce the dose to 25 mg.

Acne treatment (naturally at home or otherwise) is the most sought after treatment among the younger generation. Acne is a common and chronic skin disorder. It is an inflammatory condition of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles. The lesions are usually found on the skin of the face, neck, chest and shoulders. Nearly six out of ten young people between the ages of twelve and twenty-four suffer from some degree of acne. Acne causes a great deal of embarrassment at an age when people tend to be sensitive about their personal appearance. Read about how yoga can cure acne.

Here are some simple home remedies to deal with wrinkles on skin and prevent the formation of new ones –

Apply egg whites to the skin under your eyes.

Odor-free castor oil can be applied to the skin under the eyes or on that of the throat.

Empty the contents of 3 Vitamin E capsules into a small bowl. Add to this 2 tsps plain yogurt, 1/2 tsp honey and 1/2 tsp lemon juice. Apply this mixture on the face using a cotton ball. Leave it on for 10 minutes and rinse.

A mixture of 1/4 cup comfrey infusion, 1/4 cup witch hazel and 10 drops of patchouli essential oil is effective in treating wrinkles. This can be stored in a clean bottle and applied on affected areas with a cotton ball.

Gently massage coconut oil on portions of skin prone to wrinkles every night a bedtime.

A paste of turmeric made with sugarcane juice is great to get rid of wrinkles and slow skin ageing.

Cut a green Thompson seedless grape in half and gently crush it on your face on the wrinkles. Leave it for 20 minutes and rinse with warm water and let it dry in natural air.

Rub the core of pineapple on the face and leave it for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off. This works well on fine wrinkles.

Applying juice of green pineapples and apples on the face daily for 10-15 minutes is good for fine wrinkles and cracked skin.

Application of pure castor oil regularly prevents wrinkles.

Some of the symptoms of wrinkled skin are -

Lined and creased skin
Sagging skin
Areas that are more affected include sensitive skin near the eyes, lips and neck.

Though some creases are temporary, they may become deeper and more permanent due to ageing.

Wrinkles occur due to ageing process

Wrinkles are delicate creases caused by thin, sagging skin. These are especially visible on the face, neck and hands. Wrinkles appear when the collagen and elastin present in the connective tissue of the    skin is weakened or decrease in number. Skin that has suffered such damage appears thinner, loses fat content, elasticity and smoothness.

High Blood Pressure Diet

Persons with high blood pressure should always follow a well-balanced routine of a proper diet, exercise, and rest. Diet is of primary importance. Meat and eggs, more than any other food, cause the blood pressure to rise. The pressure can be lowered and blood clotting diminished by increasing the consumption of fruits, reducing protein intake, and sticking to a vegetarian diet. A natural diet consisting of fresh fruits and vegetables instead of a traditional diet, helps to get rid of the toxins from the body. Salt should be avoided; in any case, it should not exceed more than three grams or about half a teaspoon per day.

Other high blood pressure remedies

Other High Blood Pressure treatment

Persons suffering from hypertension must get at least eight hours of good sleep, because proper rest is a vital aspect of the treatment. Most important of all, the patient must avoid overstrain, worries, tension, anger, and haste. He or she must develop a calm and cheerful attitude and develop a contented frame of mind.

High Blood Pressure treatment using Garlic

Garlic is regarded as an effective means of lowering blood pressure. It is said to reduce spasms of the small arteries. It also slows down the pulse rate and modifies the heart rhythm, besides relieving the symptoms of dizziness, numbness, shortness of breath, and the formation of gas within the digestive tract. It may be taken in the form of raw cloves or two to three capsules a day.

High Blood Pressure treatment using Indian Gooseberry

Indian gooseberry is another effective remedy for high blood pressure. A tablespoon each of fresh indian gooseberry juice and honey mixed together should be taken every morning in this condition.

High Blood Pressure treatment using Lemon

Lemon is also regarded as a valuable food to control high blood pressure. It is a rich source of vitamin P which is found both in the juice and peel of the fruit. This vitamin is essential for preventing capillary fragility.

High Blood Pressure treatment using Grapefruit

Grapefruit is useful in preventing high blood pressure. The vitamin P content in the fruit is helpful in toning up the arteries.

Hypertension or high blood pressure, as it is more commonly known, is regarded as a silent killer. It is a disease of the modern age. The fast pace of life and the mental and physical pressures caused by the increasingly industrialised and metropolitan environments have a role to play in the rise in blood pressure. Blood pressure is measured with an instrument called sphygnomanometer in millimetres of mercury. The highest pressure reached during each heart beat is called systolic pressure, and the lowest between two beat is known as diastolic pressure. Most young adults have blood pressure around 120/80. It increases normally with age, even going upto 160/90.

Symptoms of high blood pressure

Pain at the back of the head and neck

The first symptom of hypertension may appear as a pain at the back of the head and neck on waking in the morning, which soon disappears.

Dizziness, Palpitations

Some of the other common symptoms are dizziness, palpitations, pain in the region of the heart, frequent urination, nervous tension, fatigue, and difficulty in breathing.

Causes of high blood pressure

Stress and faulty life style

The main causes of high blood pressure are stress and a faulty style of living. Smoking and an excessive intake of intoxicants, tea, coffee, and refined foods destroy the natural pace of life and prevent the expulsion of waste and poisonous matter from the body. Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), obesity, and diabetes lead to hypertension.

Excessive intake of common salt, and high fat diet

Other causes of high blood pressure are an excessive intake of common table salt, and eating a high fat and low fibre diet.

Well balanced food intake

The healthy condition of the hair depends, to a very large extent, on the intake of sufficient amounts of essential nutrients in the daily diet. Persons with a tendency to lose hair should take a well-balanced and correct diet, made up of foods which, in combination, should supply all the essential nutrients. It has been found that a diet which contains liberal quantities of seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables and fruits would provide adequate amounts of all the essential nutrients. Each food group should roughly form the bulk of one of the three principal meals. These foods should, however, be supplemented with certain special foods such as milk, vegetable oils, honey, wheat germ, yeast and liver.

Other hair loss prevention treatment

Proper cleaning of the hair is essential.

Proper cleaning of the hair, and rubbing of the scalp with a towel after a hairwash, are necessary.

Treatment for Hair Loss using Rubbing of Scalp

A vigorous rubbing of the scalp with fingers after washing the hair with cold water is one of the most effective among the several home remedies for the prevention and treatment of hair loss. The scalp should be rubbed vigorously till it starts to tingle with the heat. It will activate the sebaceous glands and energise the circulation of blood in the affected area, making the hair grow healthy.

Hair Loss home remedy using Amla Oil

Indian gooseberry oil, prepared by boiling dry pieces of indian gooseberry in coconut oil, is considered a valuable hair tonic for enriching hair growth. A mixture of an equal quantity of fresh indian gooseberry juice and lime juice, used as a shampoo also stimulates hair growth and prevents hair loss.

Treatment for Hair Loss treatment using Lettuce

Lettuce is useful in preventing hair loss. A mixture of lettuce and spinach juice is believed to help the growth of hair if taken to the extent to half a litre a day

Hair Loss home remedy using Amaranth

Amaranth is another valuable remedy for hair loss. Its fresh leaf juice should be applied to the hair. It will help the growth of the hair and keep it soft.

Hair Loss treatment using Alfalfa

The juice of alfalfa, in combination with equal quantities of carot and lettuce juice, taken daily, also helps the growth of hair to a remarkable extent. The combination of these juices is rich in elements which are particularly useful for the growth of hair. While preparing alfalfa juice, the leaves of the plant may be used when they can be obtained fresh.

Hair Loss treatment using Margosa

The leaves of the margosa tree are also beneficial in the treatment of hair loss. If hair has been falling or has ceased to grow it should be washed with the decoction of margosa leaves. This will stop hair from falling and stabilise its blackness. It will also make the hair longer and kill lice and other infesting insects.

Home remedies for Hair Loss using Mustard Oil and Henna Leaves

Mustard oil, boiled with henna leaves, is useful for healthy growth of hair. About 250 ml of mustard oil should be boiled in a tin basin. About sixty grams of henna leaves should be gradually put in this oil till they are burnt in the oil. The oil should then be filtered using a cloth and stored. Regular massage of the head with the oil will produce abundant hair.

Treatment for Hair Loss using Coconut Milk

The application of coconut milk all over the scalp and massaging it into the hair roots is also beneficial in the treatment of hair loss. It nourishes the hair and promotes hair growth. Coconut milk is prepared by grinding the coconut shavings and squeezing them well.

Hair Loss treatment using Lime-Pepper Seeds

Certain home remedies have also been found beneficial in the treatment of patchy baldness. The most valuable of these remedies is the seeds of lime and black pepper, ground together to get a fine paste. This paste applied on the patches, has a mildly irritant action. This increases blood circulation to the affected area and stimulates hair growth. This paste should be applied twice a day, for a few weeks.

Hair Loss treatment using Liquorice

The paste of liquorice, made by grinding the pieces in milk with a pinch of saffron, is another valuable remedy for patchy baldness. This paste should be applied over the bald patches at night before going to bed.

Hair Loss treatment using Onion

Onion has also been found beneficial in patchy baldness. The affected part should be rubbed with onions morning and evening till it is red. It should be rubbed with honey afterwards.

Hair Loss treatment using Pigeon Pea

A fine paste made from pigeon pea or red gram can also be applied regularly on bald patches for beneficial results.

Hair Loss treatment using Other Remedies

Daily application of refined coconut oil, mixed with lime water and lime juice on the hair, prevents hair loss and lengthens it. Application of the juice of green coriander leaves on the head is also considered beneficial. Washing the hair with a paste of cooked black gram and fenugreek lengthens the hair. Regular use of castor oil as hair oil helps the luxuriant growth of the hair.

Lack of vitamins, inadequate nutrition

The most important cause of hair loss is inadequate nutrition. Persons lacking in vitamin B6 lose their hair and those deficient in folic acid often become completely bald. But the hair grows normally after the liberal intake of these vitamins.

Stress, Prolonged Illness, unclean conditions

Other important cause of hair loss are stress such as worry, anxiety, and sudden shock, general debility caused by severe or long standing illnesses like typhoid, syphilis, chronic cold, influenza, and anaemia; an unclean condition of the scalp which weakens the hair roots by blocking the pores with the collected dirt; and heredity.

Information on Hair loss remedies, Hair loss prevention and Hair loss causes

Although hair is not essential to life, it is of sufficient cosmetic concern to provoke anxiety in anyone when it starts thinning, falling, or disappearing. To a woman, the sight of a comb or brush covered with lost hair can cause intense mental strain. Hair is formed in minute pockets in the skill called follicles. An upgrowth at the base of the follicle, called the papilla, actually produces hair when a special group of cells turn amino acids into keratin, a type of protein of which hair is made. The rate of production of these protein 'building blocks' determines hair growth. The average growth rate is about 1.2 cm per month, growing fastest on women between fifteen to thirty years of age.

Hair loss Symptoms

Lose hair found after combing, baths

Seeing hair on your clothes, after you comb, bald patches appearing gradually, receding hairline. Symptoms are pretty obvious for hair loss!

A common cold, also known as acute coryza, is an inflammation of the upper respiratory tract caused by infection with common cold viruses. A common cold occurs more often than any other disease - hence, its name. A person may suffer from a common fold several times in a year. A cold usually lasts from three to ten days. The patient feels miserable for the first three days or so.

Common Cold Symptoms

Soreness of throat, congestion of nasal passages

The initial signs of a cold are a feeling of soreness of the throat and congestion of the nasal passages. Although the disease normally begins in the nose and throat, it affects all parts of the body.

Common Cold treatment using Lemon

Lemon is the most important among the many home remedies for common cold. It is beneficial in all types of cold with fever. Vitamin C-rich lemon juice increases body resistance, decreases toxicity and reduces the duration of the illness. One lemon should be diluted in a glass of warm water, and a teaspoon of honey should be added to it. This should be taken once or twice daily.

Common Cold treatment using Garlic

Garlic soup is an old remedy to reduce the severity of a cold, and should be taken once daily. The soup can be prepared by boiling three or four cloves of chopped garlic in a cup of water. Garlic contains antiseptic and antispasmodic properties, besides several other medicinal virtues. The oil contained in this vegetable helps to open up the respiratory passages. In soup form, it flushes out all toxins from the system and thus helps bring down fever. Five drops of garlic oil combined with a teaspoon of onion juice, and diluted in a cup of water, should be drunk two to three times a day. This has also been found to be very effective in the treatment of common cold.

Common Cold treatment using Ginger

Ginger is another excellent remedy for colds and coughs. About ten grams of ginger should be cut into small pieces and boiled in a cup of water. It should then be strained and half a teaspoon of sugar added to it. This decoction should be drunk when hot. Ginger tea, prepared by adding a few pieces of ginger into boiled water before adding the tea leaves, is also an effective remedy for colds and for fevers resulting from cold. It may be taken twice daily.

Abstain solid foods, drink fruit and vegetable juices

During the acute stage of the cold, when fever is present, the patient should abstain from all solid foods and only drink fruit and vegetable juices, diluted with water.

Well-balanced diet of seeds, nuts

After the acute symptoms are over, the patient can gradually embark upon a well-balanced diet, consisting of seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables, and fruits.

Avoid meat, fish, eggs and starchy foods

It is advisable to avoid meat, fish, eggs, cheese, and starchy foods.

The air passages of the lungs are lined with cells secreting mucus, which normally traps particles of dust. When the membranes get infected and inflamed, the secretion of mucus increases and the lining of the air passages is irritated. Coughing is the action by which excess mucus is driven out.

Symptoms of Cough

Person takes a deep breath in

A person who is going to cough first draws a deep breath in. This action causes his glottis to close and his muscles to contract, thus building up pressure in the chest. Then suddenly, the glottis opens, an explosive discharge of air sweeps through the air passages and carries with it the excess secretions or, in some cases, foreign matter, which has irritated the larynx, trachea, or bronchi.

Cough treatment using Grapes

Grapes are one of the most effective home remedies for the treatment of a cough. Grapes tone up the lungs and act as an expectorant, relieving a simple cold and cough in a couple of days. A cup of grape juice mixed with a teaspoon of honey is advised for cough relief.

Cough treatment using Almonds

Almonds are useful for dry coughs. Seven kernels should be soaked in water overnight and the brown skin removed. They should then be ground well to form a fine paste. A quantity of twenty grams each of butter and sugar should then be added to the paste. This paste should be taken in the morning and evening.

Orange juice and water

In the case of a severe cough, the patient should fast on orange juice and water till the severity is reduced. The procedure is to take the juice of an orange diluted in a cup of warm water, every two hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

All-fruit diet

After the juice fast, the patient should adopt an all-fruit diet for two or three days. In case of a mild cough, the patient can begin with an all-fruit diet for five to seven days, taking three meals a day of fresh juicy fruits such as apples, pears, grapes, grape-fruit, oranges, pineapples, peaches, and melons. For drinks, unsweetened lemon water, or cold or hot plain water may be given.

Back pain is of many types and can be a symptom of a number of different problems, ranging from a minor injury like a strained muscle to a major injury like a slipped disc, and even a few serious conditions such as cancer. Known medically as dorsalgia, although the term is hardly ever used, back pain is extremely common, and affects everyone at some time or the other.

Back Pain Symptoms

Back pain is a symptom, not a disease

Back pain is itself a symptom and not a disease. It is an indication that something is wrong, either with some part of the spine itself, or with the nerves and muscles in the back. Back pain symptoms vary greatly in location and the type of pain, and these factors help diagnose the underlying cause of the symptoms. Back pain can sometimes radiate to other parts of the body, affecting the neck or one or more of the limbs. The pain can be dull or sharp, and sometimes the affected area can also feel slightly warm. Back pain can also sometimes cause weakness and numbness.

Back Pain Symptoms, Causes, Remedy and Diet

Back pain causes are varied

There are several different causes of back pain, some of which are the result of temporary stress or trauma, and some indicating a structural problem or a degenerative condition.

Back pain causes can mainly be described as follows:
- Strains: The most common causes of back pain are things such as maintaining an awkward position for too long, making sudden awkward movements, overusing the back muscles, bad posture, lifting heavy weights improperly. All of these can strain the muscles and ligaments in the back, causing pain that lasts till the affected parts have recovered.
- Injury or cumulative damage: One common cause of back pain is conditions such as a “slipped disc”, in which part of an intervertebral disc bulges out from the spine, compressing nerves and causing terrible pain. This is usually the result of suddenly lifting things with the back bent. In addition, like any other bone, the bones in the spine can also get fractured as a result of trauma.
- Degenerative conditions: Conditions such as arthritis and osteoporosis affect the bones and/or joints, and the spine is no exception.
- Psychological problems: It may be surprising to know that depression and stress can sometimes cause back pain even in cases where no other problem can be detected.
- Other causes: In rare cases, cancer can affect the spine or the nerves in the spine. Infection can also occur, causing inflammation and other problems.

Back Pain Remedies

Back Pain home remedies and natural cures, Questions and answers

Home Remedies for Back Pain Relief

The treatment for back pain depends on the cause. In general however, you can use the following home remedies for back pain:
- Apply a hot or cold compress using a hot water bottle or an ice pack.
- A hot bath also usually helps. If possible, you should sit in a warm tub for a few minutes.
- Exercise in order to strengthen the back muscles. Simple stretching exercises are also useful, both when you have a back ache and on a regular basis.
- Try to relax and get enough rest to avoid both mental stress and physical strain on your back.
- If possible, get a massage. This does not have to be by a professional - a family member can do it equally well as long as they do not use excessive force. Preferably this should be done using a massage oil such as eucalyptus oil. Another excellent oil is mustard oil in which a little garlic has been fried.
- Vitamin C and calcium supplements may help, but consult your doctor before doing this.
- Cut slices of raw potato and place them on the affected area.

Back Pain Diet

Back Pain : Home Remedies suggested by users

Weight loss in obese and overweight people is beneficial

There are not many specific dietary recommendations for back pain, except perhaps if you are overweight. Obesity can of course strain an already bad back. It is therefore important to cut down on unhealthy fats and also limit your intake of caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco. Eat more fruits and vegetables, in particular cabbage, cauliflower, and lettuce. Your diet should also give you all the necessary minerals and vitamins, but in particular the following are important: calcium, phosphorus, vitamin C, and vitamin D. Dairy products along with fruits and vegetables should provide you with the required amount of these substances. In addition, eating more proteins and complex carbohydrates is a good diet for back pain. The proteins are necessary in order to build up your back muscles and the carbohydrates provide the efficient source of energy that your muscles need when you exercise.

Fever, also known pyrexia is a febrile response to an underlying medical condition in the body. Fever is not always bad. Many times it is the way by which the body eliminates bacteria and viruses which cause the underlying conditions.

Fever Symptoms

Rise in body temperature is the most common symptom of fever. Other symptoms of fever depend upon the underlying factors that cause fever. An oral temperature of 102 F should be considered fairly high. Hallucination, irritability and confusion may be caused due to high fever between 103 F to 106 F. Sweating, dehydration, headache, muscle aches, lack of appetite, burning eyes, general weakness and shivering are some other symptoms of fever.

Remedies for reducing body temperature

Drink lots of water to compensate for the loss of body fluid. This will also help to reduce the body temperature. To immediately reduce high body temperature, boil powder of 2 to 3 tsp dry roasted fenugreek seeds. Strain the water and add a drop of clarified butter to it and drink. Drink juice made out of sweet basil leaves twice or thrice a day. Prepare linden tea by boiling 1 tbsp of linden flower in 1 cup of water and drink it hot. Brew willow bark tea and drink it by taking small sips. Willow bark has some aspirin related compound. If you are not comfortable with it then use black elder.

Remedy for Mild Fever

If the fever is mild, lie on a bed and completely cover yourself with a blanket for 20 minutes. Crush 10 grams of raisins and ginger. Boil them in 200 ml of water till it reduces to 50 ml. Strain and drink this solution warm.

 

Liquid foods should be preferred

Prefer liquid food over solid food. Eat foods that are easily digestible. Eat boiled or steamed vegetables, vegetable soup, honey and yogurt. Eat fresh fruits and drink fresh fruit juices. Drink cows milk in small quantity 2 to 3 times a day. Eat rice cooked with lentils with spices like cumin seeds, ginger, turmeric, coriander, and salt added to it. Completely avoid heavy foods like fast food, chicken, fish, raw foods and fried foods.

Depression treatment using Apple

Apple is one of the most valuable remedies for mental depression. The various chemical substances present in this fruit such as vitamin B, phosphorus, and potassium help the synthesis of glutamic acid, which controls the wear and tear of nerve cells. The fruit should be taken with milk and honey. This remedy will act as a very effective nerve tonic and recharge the nerves with new energy and life.

Depression treatment using Cashewnut

The cashewnut is another valuable remedy for general depression and nervous weakness. It is rich in vitamins of the B group, especially thiamine, and is therefore useful in stimulating the appetite and the nervous system. It is also rich in riboflavin which keeps the body active, cheerful, and energetic.

Depression treatment using Asparagus

The root of asparagus has been found beneficial in the treatment of depression. It is highly nutritious and is used as a herbal medicine for mental disorders. It is a good tonic for the brain and nerves. One or two grams of the powder of the dry root of the plant can be taken once daily.

Depression treatment using Cardamom

The use of cardamom has proved valuable in depression. Powdered seeds should be boiled in water and tea prepared in the usual way. A very pleasing aroma is added to the tea, which can be used as a medicine in the treatment of this condition.

Depression treatment using Lemon Balm

The herb lemon balm has been used successfully in the treatment of mental depression. It alleviates brain fatigue, lifts the heart from depression, and raises the spirits. A cold infusion of the balm taken freely is reputed to be excellent for its calming influence on the nerves. About thirty grams of the herb should be placed in half a litre of cold water and allowed to stand for twelve hours. The infusion should then be strained and taken in small doses throughout the day.

Depression treatment using Rose

An infusion of rose petals should be prepared by mixing 15 gm of rose petals in 250 ml of boiling water. If drunk occasionally, instead of the usual tea and coffee, it is beneficial for treating this condition.

Depression treatment using Vitamin B

Diet has a profound effect on the mental health of a person. Even a single nutritional deficiency can cause depression in susceptible people. Nutritional therapy builds up brain chemicals, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, that affect the mood and are often lacking in depressed people. Eating foods rich in vitamin B, such as wholegrains, green vegetables, eggs, and fish helps restore vitality and cheer in an individual.

Diet for Depression

Exclude tea, coffee, alcohol, strong condiments

The diet of a person suffering from depression should completely exclude tea, coffee, alcohol, chocolate, colas, all white flour products, sugar, food colorings, chemical additives, white rice, and strong condiments.

Take three meals a day

The diet should be restricted to three meals. Fruits can be taken in the morning for breakfast with milk and a handful of nuts or seeds. Lunch may consist of steamed vegetables, wholewheat wheat tortilla and a glass of buttermilk. For dinner, green vegetable salad and all the available sprouts such as alfalfa seeds, green gram beans, cottage cheese, or a glass of buttermilk would be ideal.

Depression is one of the most common emotional disorders. It may be manifested in varying degrees: from feelings of slight sadness to utter misery and dejection. Depression is a very unpleasant malady and is far more difficult to cope with than a physical ailment. The growing complexities of modem life and its resultant crises, as well as the mental stress and strain of day-to-day life, usually leads to this disorder.

Depression Symptoms

Acute sense of loss, inexplicable sadness, loss of energy, lack of interest

The most striking symptoms of depression are an acute sense of loss, inexplicable sadness, loss of energy, lack of interest in the world around, and fatigue. A disturbed sleep is a frequent occurrence.

Loss of appetite, giddiness, itching, nausea, agitation, irritability

Other symptoms of depression are loss of appetite, giddiness, itching, nausea, agitation, irritability, impotence or frigidity, constipation, aches and pains all over the body, lack of concentration, and indecisiveness.

Low body temperature, low blood pressure, hot flushes and shivering

Cases of severe depression may be characterised by low body temperature, low blood pressure, hot flushes and shivering.

Causes of Depression

Prolonged periods of anxiety and tension

Prolonged periods of anxiety and tension can cause mental depression.

Excessive and indiscriminate use of drugs

The excessive and indiscriminate use of drugs also leads to faulty assimilation of vitamins and minerals by the body and ultimately causes depression.

Here are some simple home remedies to deal with wrinkles on skin and prevent the formation of new ones –

Apply egg whites to the skin under your eyes.

Odor-free castor oil can be applied to the skin under the eyes or on that of the throat.

Empty the contents of 3 Vitamin E capsules into a small bowl. Add to this 2 tsps plain yogurt, 1/2 tsp honey and 1/2 tsp lemon juice. Apply this mixture on the face using a cotton ball. Leave it on for 10 minutes and rinse.

A mixture of 1/4 cup comfrey infusion, 1/4 cup witch hazel and 10 drops of patchouli essential oil is effective in treating wrinkles. This can be stored in a clean bottle and applied on affected areas with a cotton ball.

Gently massage coconut oil on portions of skin prone to wrinkles every night a bedtime.

A paste of turmeric made with sugarcane juice is great to get rid of wrinkles and slow skin ageing.

Cut a green Thompson seedless grape in half and gently crush it on your face on the wrinkles. Leave it for 20 minutes and rinse with warm water and let it dry in natural air.

Rub the core of pineapple on the face and leave it for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off. This works well on fine wrinkles.

Applying juice of green pineapples and apples on the face daily for 10-15 minutes is good for fine wrinkles and cracked skin.

Application of pure castor oil regularly prevents wrinkles.

Wrinkles are delicate creases caused by thin, sagging skin. These are especially visible on the face, neck and hands. Wrinkles appear when the collagen and elastin present in the connective tissue of the skin is weakened or decrease in number. Skin that has suffered such damage appears thinner, loses fat content, elasticity and smoothness.

Symptoms for wrinkled skin

Some of the symptoms of wrinkled skin are -

Lined and creased skin
Sagging skin
Areas that are more affected include sensitive skin near the eyes, lips and neck.

Though some creases are temporary, they may become deeper and more permanent due to ageing.

Are you tired of listening to all the rumors related to whiteheads? How not to touch them and what are the basic preventions to avoid them. These will indeed won't solve your problem. So, why not experiment with these homemade facials that will at least sooth your skin problem.
More and more people get familiarized with the unfortunate sight of whiteheads. These tiny spots are the results of the hardened sebum accumulation inside the pores. Due to the inappropriate functioning of sebaceous glands these tiny gateways get clogged with all kind of greasy residues. Finally generating these whiteheads that can pop up anywhere on our body. Indeed the face is the most visible spot and it can be really uncomfortable to see these white spots without being able to do anything against them.

Natural methods as always can experience this skin problem with an organic solution to soothe and reduce its effect. One of the main benefits of these green homemade facials is that due to the natural ingredients the chance for an unpleasant reaction is little more it will at the same time condition the skin, offering the pores the best cleansing treatment. Look through these homemade remedies for whiteheads.

Hydration is vital, often the lack of proper water intake can lead to the formation of whiteheads. Indeed without the necessary liquid supplies our complexion might get dry, this on a long-term leading to minimal resistance to harmful agents.

Those who think that only those who have oily face are prone to whiteheads are wrong. Moisturizing is of key importance to maintain the neat and spotless condition of the skin.

Tomatoes are one of the most efficient natural remedies for whiteheads and skin problems in general. Besides the soothing effect this veggie has the power to detox the pores.

All you have to do is to mash some tomatoes into a large bowl. Then apply the slightly thick paste to the critical spots. Leave it on for 5-7 minutes in order to let the antioxidant exercise their effect.

Don't leave it on for too longs since the acidic quality of tomatoes might do harm. You can even store it in your fridge if you want to repeat the ritual more times a day.

Apples have almost the same banishing power over whiteheads as tomatoes. However in order to have a smashing effect crush the apples and mix them with 3 tbs of honey. Make a fine paste of it and apply it to your face or only the affected area.

Leave it on for 5-10 minutes then rinse it off with lukewarm water. The two ingredients will complete each other increasing the effect of the facial to eliminate the harmful toxins from the pores.

Milk is another ingredient that can be found in almost all households. Whiteheads as well as blackheads can be efficiently treated with this treatment.

Grab a medium sized bowl and add 50 ml of raw milk then add 2 tsp of lemon juice and finally a pinch of salt.

It is important to use raw since this way it will still have all the nutrients that might be eliminated due to boiling process. You can use this as a simple cleanser.

You'll be able to clean your pores thoroughly from toxins and reduce the chance for the formation of skin problems.

Potatoes are one of the ancient remedies to strip the skin from dead cells. Some nutrients from this common vegetable can break down the grease inside the skin pores, this way enhancing the efficient elimination.

In fact all you have to do is place a slice of it on the whitehead and leave it on for a few minutes, you can then rinse off the area with tepid water. The effect of the treatment will resemble that of an exfoliation when the pores are freed from the clogging agents.

Showing off a glowing nose is not really popular. Due to the accumulation of grease in this critical spot, more and more people struggle with acne, blackheads and other skin problems. The solution for this wide-spread problem is to keep our complexion neat and oil-free all throughput the day. In order to complete our goal it is useful to complete our skin care routine with a few extra tips.
Oil glands are the main culprits when it comes of a greasy complexion. With the excessive elimination of the substances that keep your pores moisturized we might notice the sings of an extremely oily complexion. The area around the nose is more prone to store the sebum which generates the oily nose impression.

Skin care gurus besides the basic beauty routine came up with other ideas that might maintain our look polished and free from unnatural glowing.

External factors can influence the oil production, the heat and humidity are among the main triggers of oily complexion.

Teens as well as adults might be affected of this problem since the lack of secretion control in our organism can occur regardless of age. It is worth skimming through the helpful tips on how to banish oily nose. Find out more on the several disorders this condition might launch and the benefits of a complex and nourishing skin care.

The sebaceous glands are influenced either by hormones, extreme weather conditions and even our nutritional plan.

The nose skin is more affected by this problem since the T zone is the area where the majority of sebaceous glands exist. The best way to avoid the undesired skin glow is to keep the pores clean.

This can be done either with pure water or with the help of cosmetic cleansers specially designed for oily skin.

The pores are prone to accumulate the dirt and grease excess from the surface of the skin. As little moisture containers these will maintain the toxins until it won't be eliminated with a thorough cleansing.

Preferably wash your face at least twice a day, however those who feel like this didn't change much might increase the frequency of cleansing rituals.

Don't exaggerate, especially if you use chemical cleansers. These can easily eliminate the moisture that is necessary to hydrate the pores. Pure water will not do harm to your complexion, if you decide to rinse the dirt from your face 5-6 per day, skip the cleanser. Moreover keep away of products that contain harmful ingredients as alcohol. Instead experiment with some organic homemade face toners.

Increase the water consumption this will guarantee the natural detox of the organism. In order to furnish your complexion with the ultra-vital hydration drink at least 8 glass or more water per day. Avoid consuming alcohol in large amounts since these beverages might further worsen the perspiration and the oil production.

Lemon works perfectly to get rid of the grease excess around the nose. Pour a few drops of it on a cotton pad and wipe off the oil from this area.

The citric acid works as a natural neutralizer that reduces the extreme secretion of sebaceous glands. This is the best method to control the glowing skin effect.

Facial scrubs are ideal means to get rid of the oily nose appearance. Whether you go for the store to get one or you make it yourself from organic ingredients, the point is to include it into your beauty schedule.

Honey and almonds are natural tools to fight the greasy nose effect. Make a facial scrub by mixing ground almonds with a few tsp of honey and apply it to the problematic area.

Leave it one for a couple of minutes, then rinse it off with lukewarm water to enjoy the smooth and spotless skin.

Vinegar can also do miracles with an oily complexion. Put a few drop on a cotton pad and rub it gently into the affected spot. Leave the treatment on for 15 minutes then wash it off with cold water. This will close the pores preventing the penetration of dirt and oil into the tissues. If you have a sensitive skin you might consider reducing the acidic effect of the vinegar with a few drop of pure water.

 

Some of the effective home remedies for canker sores are as follows:- Rinse your mouth with aloe juice frequently
Put some alum on the canker sores. Repeat this twice a day. It helps to relieve the pain and quickens healing. Apply some baking powder on the sores. It could be used either in the powdered form or in the paste form. It will reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth, Rinse your mouth several times a day by a mouthwash prepared by mixing one tsp. of baking soda in half cup of warm water, Prepare a mouthwash by putting 5 to 6 drops of Grapefruit seed extract in a glass of water. Rinse your mouth with this at least once in a day. It is an excellent disinfectant, Prepare a mouthwash using three parts of water and one part of hydrogen peroxide. Use this mouthwash twice a day, Onion is another excellent home remedy for canker sores. Apply some raw onions to the sores, Rinse your mouth with plum juice. If the sore is too bad then apply the juice on the sore using a cotton ball, Eat fresh papaya fruit or chew fresh papaya leaves. If fresh papaya leaves or papaya fruits are not available then you can also use papaya tablets, Gargle your mouth with a solution made by mixing 1 tsp soda and 1 pinch of salt in a cup of warm water, Apply tea tree oil to the sores, Rinse your mouth three to four times a day with a solution made by mixing 2 tbsp. salt to 6 ounces of warm water, Apply some powdered Goldenseal powder to the sore or rinse your mouth with a mouthwash prepared by mixing ½ tsp Goldenseal powder to ¼ tsp salt and 1 cup of warm water.

Diet for Canker sores

Eat foods rich in vitamin B. Foods like whole grain and green leafy vegetables are good sources of vitamin B. Eat easily digestible foods, well cooked soft grains and light cooked vegetables. Eat yogurt daily. Active acidophilus in yogurt helps to heal and prevent the outbreak of canker sores. Avoid foods like coffee, citrus fruits and spices, as they may irritate your mouth. Spicy and acidic foods increase the pain; it is advisable to avoid them. Avoid hard foods like chips, wafers and nuts. Avoid diary products, salty foods, sweet foods, oily foods, and animal protein.

Suggestions for Canker sores

Do not eat and chew simultaneously. Brush your teeth regularly after meals. Application of ice eases the pain caused by Canker sores.

Small ulcers that occur in the lining of the mouth are known as Canker sores. These are often painful and sensitive. Canker sores are the most common causes of mouth sores. They are also known as Aphthous Stomatitis. They cause discomfort while eating and talking. They are not contagious and occur on the internal soft tissues of the mouth. They can occur at any age and may reoccur once healed

Burning and tingling sensation

Some of the symptoms of canker sores are as follows:- Painful sores on the movable parts inside the mouth e.g. tongue, A sore may be small, red and may measure less than 10 mm, There could be a burning or tingling sensation before the sore appears, Once the sores burst there may be a white or yellowish coating over it and a reddish color around it. Apart from the ones mentioned above, other symptoms of canker sores could be swollen lymph nodes, listlessness and fever

Deficiency of nutrients

The actual cause of canker sores is not known till date. Some of the reasons believed to cause canker sores are follows:- Immune system malfunction A minor injury caused by eating rough foods like chips and nuts or by biting the inner portion of the mouth, Menstrual period, Food allergies, Deficiency of nutrients like zinc, iron, folic acid and vitamin B12, Heredity, Trauma, Bacterial infections, Gastrointestinal tract related diseases, Hormonal disorders.

Allergies treatment using Nutrients

Certain nutrients have been found beneficial in the prevention and treatment of allergies. Often the intake of vitamin B5 or pantothenic acid brings great relief to the sufferer. This vitamin may be taken in a dose of 100 mg daily for a month. In such cases, liberal amounts of pantothenic acid helps even though the recovery takes several weeks. A dose of 400 mg of vitamin E taken daily for four to six weeks is also beneficial as this vitamin possesses effective anti-allergic properties.

Allergies treatment using Castor Oil

It is found that five drops of castor oil in half a cup of any fruit or vegetable juice, or plain water, and taken on an empty stomach in the morning, is beneficial for allergies of the intestinal tract, skin, and nasal passages.

Allergies treatment using Lime

Lime is considered an effective remedy for any kind of allergy. Half a lime may be squeezed in a glass of lukewarm water and sweetened with a teaspoon of honey. It can be taken once daily first thing in the morning for several months. This remedy not only flushes the system of toxins but also acts as an antitoxic and antiallergic agent. However, those who are allergic to citrus fruits should not take recourse to this remedy.

Allergies treatment using Bananas

One or two bananas a day are useful for those who are allergic to certain foods and who consequently suffer from skin rashes, digestive disorders, or asthma, The fruit does, however, cause allergic reactions in certain sensitive persons and they should avoid it.

Allergies treatment using Vegetable Juices

A quantity of 500 ml carrot juice or a combination of carrot juice with beet and cucumber juices, has been found beneficial in the treatment of allergies. In the case of mixed juices, 100 ml each of beet and cucumber juices should be mixed with 300 ml of carrot juice to prepare 500 ml or half a litre of mixed juice. This should be taken once daily.

Allergies diet

Fresh fruit juices

The best way to prevent or overcome allergies is to strengthen overall physical resistance so as not to fall an easy prey to every allergen that one comes across. To start with, the patient should fast on fresh fruit juices for four or five days. Repeated short juice fasts are likely to result in better tolerance to previous allergies.

Mono diet of vegetables or fruits

After the juice fast, the patient can like a mono diet of vegetables or fruits such as carrots, grapes, or apples for one week, after that. After that, one more food may be added to the mono diet. A week later, a third food may be added, and so on. After four weeks, protein foods can be introduced, one at a time. In case an allergic reaction to a newly-introduced food is noticed, it should be discontinued and a new food tried. In this way, all real allergens can be eventually eliminated from the diet.

Avoid food like tea/coffee or containing chemical additives and preservatives

Foods which should be excluded from the diet are tea, coffee, chocolate, cola drinks, alcohol, sugar and products made from it, refined cereals, meal, fish, chicken, tobacco, milk, cheese, butter, smoked and salted pickled foods, and foods containing any chemical additives, preservatives and flavourings.

Other Allergies treatments

Avoid stress, do meditation,exercise and mind control

For allergic conditions in which an element of mental stress is present as well, it is essential to employ such methods as relaxation, exercise, meditation, and mind control. These methods reduce or remove stress and thereby contribute towards the treatment of allergies.

The word 'allergy' means an altered or abnormal tissue reaction after exposure to an antigen (also called an 'allergen'). The allergic reaction occurs if the body tissues are sensitive to the allergen. The allergen may reach the tissues by direct contact with the skin or various mucous membranes of the organs or through the bloodstream after absorption. Almost any part of the body can be affected by allergies. Allergic reactions are caused by a wide range of substances and conditions. These include pollens, dust, cosmetics, and animal hair; poisonous plants, serums, vaccines, and drugs; physical agents such as heat, cold and sunlight, as well as a variety of foods. The foods that commonly cause allergic reactions are oranges, milk, eggs, wheat, fish and other sea foods, chocolates, tomatoes, and strawberries.

Symptoms of Allergies

Recurring headaches, hay fever, Vomiting etc

Allergic symptoms are manifested in various forms in different organs. These include recurring headaches, migraines, dizziness, irritability, nervousness, depression, neuralgia, conjunctivitis, eczema, hay fever, a stuffy or runny nose, diarrhoea, vomiting, urticaria, asthma, shortness of breath, and swelling of the face and eyes. The same substance can cause different symptoms in different people at different times.

Anaemia may be defined as a condition in which there is a decrease in the quantity of haemoglobin or in the number of red cells. Anaemia is among the most common ailments affecting human beings. Nearly half the blood flowing in our veins and arteries consists of red blood cells which carry oxygen to the tissues. Approximately one trillion or 100 million new blood cells are formed daily in the bone marrow. The raw materials required in the production of these cells are iron, proteins, and vitamins, especially folic acid and B12. Of these, iron and proteins are essential in building up the red colouring matter called haemoglobin. A red cell has a lifespan of approximately one hundred and twenty days and is then destroyed and replaced. Each person should have about 15 gm of haemoglobin per 100 ml of blood, and a blood count of approximately five million red cells per millimetre of blood.

Cracked heels are caused by deficiency of vitamins, minerals, zinc and omega 3 fatty acids. Therefore it is essential to have a diet rich in vitamins, minerals and zinc. Omega-3 fatty acids are not naturally produced by the body, therefore it has to be ingested from food or supplements.

Here is list of essential foods that one can include in a regular meal and help curb deficiencies that may cause cracked heels:

-Vitamins (Vitamin E) rich foods include: vegetable oils, green vegetables, cereals, wheat germ, whole-grain products and nuts.
-Minerals (Calcium and Iron) rich foods include :
1) Calcium: milk, cheese, yogurt, goat’s milk, fortified soya milk, mineral water, ice cream, tinned fish, juices, cereals and broccoli are excellent sources of calcium. Dairy products such as milk and yogurt are also considered as one of the best sources of calcium.
2) Iron: Meat, chicken and fish are good sources of iron. Iron is also available in cereals, eggs, vegetables and beans; however it is not as easily absorbed into the body as the iron from meat, chicken and fish.
3) Zinc rich foods include: Oysters, chicken, crab, kidney beans, yogurt, brown rice, spaghetti.
4) Omega-3 fatty acids are largely found in: Purslane herb, cold water fish, and flaxseed oil or flax seeds.

Feet care is not a disorder one can be clueless about. This is also one of the reasons why people almost always neglect it. Primarily, feet care begins with some care. Home remedies have some of the best cost effective and result oriented solutions one can try and experiment with. But it is important to note that when home remedies do not cure cracked heels it is wise to take an appointment with your general physician.

Here is a compilation of the best known remedies to treat cracked heels:

-Apply any shortening or hydrogenated vegetable oil after washing the feet clean on dry and cracked areas of the feet. After applying a thick coat of shortening on the feet, wear a pair of thick socks. Leaving this application overnight can surely provide positive results in few days.

-Apply the pulp of a ripe banana on the dry or cracked area of the heel. Leave it on for 10 minutes and rinse it clean.

-Soak the feet in lemon juice for about 10minutes. Follow this therapy on a weekly basis until one finds a change.

-A daily regime of cleaning and moisturizing is a good cure for dry or cracked heels. At the end of the day soak the feet in warm soapy water for about 15 minutes. Rinse feet and pat dry. Make a healing mixture comprising of: one teaspoon Vaseline and the juice of one lemon. Rub this mixture onto the cracked heels and other required areas of the feet till it is thoroughly absorbed. This can be done daily until visible results are obtained.

-A regular application of a mixture of glycerin and rosewater is known to soothe and cure cracked heels.

-Another result oriented solution is to melt paraffin wax and mix it well with little mustard oil. Apply on the dry or cracked area of the heels. Rinse it off in the morning. A continuous application for 10 to15 days can achieve desirable results.

Here is a compilation of the most common causes that lead to cracked heels:

-Naturally dry skin or thick dry skin (callus) around the heel that is more likely to crack is often due to excessive feet activity.
-Prolonged standing at work or home .Hard floors may also cause cracks in the feet.
-Being overweight may increase the pressure on the normal fat pad under the heel, causing it to expand sideways and if the skin lacks flexibility the pressure on the feet lead to cracked heels.
-Back-open sandals or shoes allow the fat under the heel to expand sideways and increases the possibility of cracks on the heels.
-Disease and Disorders-Athlete’s foot, Psoriasis, Eczema, Thyroid disease, Diabetes and some other skin conditions may also cause cracked heels.

Here is a list of some other reasons that may lead to cracked heels:
-Age - Thick dry scaly skin lose elasticity with age and thus cracks have higher incidence with age.
-Ill fitting shoes, standing for a long time or change in walking posture.
-Unhygienic circumstances or conditions
-Unhealthy, dry scaly skin due to climate or diseases
-Deficiency of vitamins, minerals and zinc

Cracked heels are a sign of lack of attention to foot care rather than just overexposure or lack of moisturizing. Medically, cracked heels are also known as heel fissures. Fissures are regular linear cut wounds and mostly affect the surface level which comprises of the epidermis. Sometimes it may get deep into the dermis and become painful. Excessive pressure on the feet pads make the feet want to expand sideways. As the skin, surrounding the sides of the feet are dry they crack and cause cracked heels. Appearances of cracked heels also indicate zinc and omega-3 fatty acid deficiency.

Though cracks in the skin may arise anywhere in the body the most common is area is the rim of the heel and web of toes, which happen to be the most frequently or constantly used parts of our body. Dry skin or xerosis is one of the most common causes that lead to cracked heels .The other key reason being thick or callus skin around the rim of the heel. Most of the foot problems arise due to neglect and oversight with regard to feet care. Cracked feet, corns and other common feet ailments can be attended to and are easily avoidable.

Cracked heels are not a harmful in anyway except when the fissures or cracks are deep, and tend to become painful and the skin begins to bleed. This could lead to infection and is an avoidable situation mostly for those already suffering from chronic ailments such as diabetes or lowering immune system due to age or illness which may retard the treatment of cracked heels.

Cracked heels are a common occurrence for senior citizens or people who are constantly on their feet thus exerting pressure on the feet pad. It can affect either both the heels or one of the heel. But most commonly, cracked heels affect both the feet.

Moisturizer is the key to soft, supple skin. Apply product when skin is slightly damp. For best effect, pat skin dry instead of rubbing with your towel before application.

The skin on my legs can drive me crazy with itchiness all year round. I find I prefer oils to lotions on for the body. Renowned makeup artist Pati Lubroff got me hooked on organic extra virgin coconut oil, which you can buy in health food stores or online. Simply massage the coconut oil all over the body. Trust me, this will get rid of dry, itchy skin and the oil isn't sticky like lotion tends to be.

Antibacterial soap in public places can be harsh on hands, so I like to keep hand salve in my purse (my hands-down favorite is Kiehls). To keep cuticles soft, massage in olive oil.

Extra tip: I love keeping moisturizer and facial water on my desk at work. I spritz Evian Mineral Spray (buy it online), and then dab on moisturizer. The water locks in moisture and leaves my skin refreshed even in harsh office heat.

Moisturizer is much more effective on properly exfoliated skin. Use a scrub in the shower and exfoliate facial skin with a mild scrub made for the face.

It's best to scrub skin when it's dry, according to Marcia Kilgore, the founder of Bliss Spa in New York, in InStyle Magazine. Apply scrub to dry skin before you turn on the water (mix with lotion if it's not moist enough). Massage the scrub into skin for a few minutes for best results.

Extra tip: Dry brush skin before a shower with a body brush to remove flaky skin (it's more effective than brushing wet skin).

Ever notice how older people in desert climates look like leather? The moisture in the air is actually good for skin. If you live in a low-humidity climate or you are around furnaces in the winter, invest in a humidifier.

I once read that your skin needs more than 30 percent humidity to stay properly moisturized. A room heated by a furnace can have as little as 10 percent moisture. In the winter, consider sleeping with a humidifier in your bedroom. Keep doors closed so the moist air doesn't escape the room.


Soaps can be drying. Stick with a creamy moisturizing cleanser that contains glycerin or petrolatum, such as Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Wash, or Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash(my current drugstore pick).

Extra tip: Simply can't skip the bath? Skip the bubbles, which can contain harsh foaming ingredients and opt for bath oils or oatmeal scrubs, which are great for soothing itchy skin.

Hands and feet can suffer terribly from dry, itchy skin. Put on moisturizer and gloves BEFORE you head outdoors in the winter, and consider lathering up your feet in thick moisturizer and sleeping in cotton socks at night.

Extra tip: Cover feet in a thick moisturizer, wrap feet in Saran Wrap, then pull on a pair of socks for a couple hours. Try to sit or lie down while the moisturizer soaks in or risk sliding into a full split and pulling your groin muscles. The same treatment can be done on hands, except try plastic bags and keep hands in a pair of socks. A half-hour should do you.

Many people believe if they drink more water, they'll hydrate skin. But I've read time and time again that this is a myth and you simply cannot moisturize skin from the inside out.

That said, a small study recently published by the University of Hamburg (and reported in Allure magazine), suggests people who drink relatively little water could see a significant benefit in skin hydration if they started drinking nine eight-ounce glasses of water per day. What does this mean? Probably that dehydration does affect skin, but a normally hydrated person isn't going to see major benefits by drinking even more water.

My advice: don't expect bottled water to save you from dry skin and the winter itch.

Licking your lips will not moisturize them and instead will help dry them out. Lips retain less moisture than other parts of the body, so they tend to dry out more quickly. A simple lip balm helps, as does my all-time favorite lip trick learned in high school from "Seventeen" magazine: moisturize your lips with Vaseline. Take a toothbrush and "brush" your lips in a circular motion. This will remove dead flakes and leave your lips soft and supple.

If you have super, duper sensitive skin, consider avoiding rinsing your face with tap water, which can contain harsh minerals that are especially drying to the skin.

Ring-around-the-eye liner is one my favorite night-out looks because it really makes your eyes pop. Just look at these pics of Hayden Panettiere and Rebecca Gayheart sporting major upper and lower liner.


       


But getting the liner inside the rims of your eyes (also known as the “water line”) can be kind of tricky, so here’s a great tip that I picked up from my favorite makeup artist, Mally Roncal.

1. Place your ring finger on your lid and gently lift up to expose your inner rim. Or, if you’re comfortable having a sharp object near your eye, position the tip of your liner in your inner rim. (Watch Mally demonstrate the second technique in this video.)
2. Apply a freshly sharpened, soft black liner to your upper inner rim.
3. Blink a few times to distribute the liner to your lower inner rim.
4. For a more intense effect, line your upper and lower lids again, but this time get as close to your lashes as possible without actually going inside to the inner rim.