Mehndi may cause serious side effects, say doctors.

New Delhi: Applying chemical-laced 'mehndi' (henna) on the hands can cause serious side effects including skin infection, doctors said, cautioning girls and women against using it

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Mehndi dermatitis cases are on the rise in the city, said Rohit Batra, dermatologist at Sir Gangaram Hospital here.

'We are getting 8 to 10 patients every day with serious side effects after applying mehndi on their hands,' he added.

'With the arrival of the festive and wedding season, the number of patients has increased. In the non-festive season, just one or two people come to us in a month with skin infection from mehndi. But after 'karwa chauth', it is on the rise,' Batra told IANS.

He advised girls and women not to use chemical-laced mehndi as it causes irritation and leaves scratch marks, which can have a life-long impact on the skin.

He added that mehndi agents do not use plain henna but add harsh chemicals to make it darker.

Skin infections due to mehndi cause swelling, itching and redness. Batra said that as soon as people notice such symptoms, they should visit a doctor to avoid any serious consequences.

'At the initial stages, mehndi can cause acute dermatitis if one does not see doctor immediately and the allergy can spread all over the body,' Batra added.

Sachin Dhawan, dermatologist at the Skin and Smile Clinic in Gurgaon, said that mehndi can even cause cancer.

'Over the years, skin infection due to mehndi has increased. It is better to use natural or plain henna instead of the synthetic one. Synthetic mehndi can leave permanent marks on the skin, and can even cause cancer,' Dhawan told IANS.

He added that as a precaution, one should buy only good quality mehndi and not apply it repeatedly.

Vomiting During Pregnancy: Home Remedies:

Nausea and vomiting are common problems of a pregnant woman. Even after avoiding food and drinks that can make a pregnant woman feel pukish. The morning sickness and nausea keeps on affecting the day to day happenings of a pregnant woman.

Vomiting during pregnancy is nothing unusual. Majority of women complain of morning sickness, nausea and vomiting during their gestation period. Even doctors cannot help them to get over this pregnancy problem. However, vomiting definitely makes a pregnant woman weak and the food that is consumed comes out. Lack of nutrition due to vomiting can be a problem. Whenever symptoms of vomiting are felt, many pregnant women have something that makes them feel better. For example, it can be a soap, a slice of lemon, tamarind etc. You can try some home remedies to cure vomiting during pregnancy. Take a look at some Indian home remedies to cure vomiting during pregnancy.

Indian remedies to cure vomiting during pregnancy:
Dried lime: The slices of lemon are burned on a low flame and then dried under the sun. Grind the dried slices into a fine powder. Mix with hot water or have it raw whenever you feel like vomiting. You can also dry the slices of lime directly under the sunlight for 3-4 days and then grind them into a powder. This home remedy also helps cure nausea and morning sickness.

Ginger: To stop the sensation of vomiting, just have a small piece of ginger. The smell and flavour of ginger can help you get over the symptom of vomiting. Many pregnant women always carry a slice of peeled ginger with them to cure nausea and vomiting. You can also have ginger ale throughout the day to stop vomiting during pregnancy. Even ginger tea shows good results.

Lemon juice: This is one of the most popular Indian home remedies that is very effective. A glass of lemon juice can provide a lot of relief from vomiting during pregnancy. You can have it whenever you feel like vomiting, after vomiting or to stop the sensation of nausea. Have lemon juice with lukewarm water to get the best results.

Ajwain/carom seeds: Chewing some carom seeds is believed to help cure vomiting during pregnancy. Whenever you feel the urge to vomit or suffer from morning sickness or nausea, just chew some carom seeds. The strong smell and flavour of the seeds can help get over this feeling.

Herbal tea: A cup of herbal tea is another Indian home remedy to cure vomiting among pregnant women. You can find many herbal teas in India. From ginger to chamomile tea, you can drink any herbal tea to cure nausea.

These are few home remedies to cure vomiting among pregnant women. Do you have other Indian remedies that are effective? Do share with us.

Remedies To Correct Shape Of Baby's Head

For those who have a normal baby, the headline might seem like an absurd question. But it is not. You baby's head can sometimes cause you a fair amount of concern. We all have heads that are shaped differently. Some of us have an oval head, others have round head and some people even have a square shaped head.

But some babies have heads that are deformed. There are several reasons for a baby to have an ill-formed head.

Forceps Delivery: In this type of delivery becomes necessary when the baby gets stuck in the vaginal tract. The baby's head is held with forceps and pulled out. This gives the baby's head an elongated look. The head might also have tapering marks at the points where the forceps are used.

Pressure In The Birth Canal: If the baby gets a little roughed up in the birth canal then the head can get a flattened shape. This usually happens when you have had a long and difficult labour. The repeated thrusts to come out messes up the shape of your baby's head.

Manhandling: Your baby is as soft as a ball of cotton. Any kind of rough handling can change the shape of your baby's head.

So if your baby has endured any of the above mentioned situations, you can use these home remedies to correct the shape of your baby's head.

The Mustard Pillow: The oldest way to correct head shape of babies is to lay them on a pillow made of mustard seeds. This is soft but applies pressure at the right spots. This is one of the best home remedies to correct this minor deformity in your baby.

Change Sleeping Position: If your baby lies on the same side through the night, the head might get flattened on one side. To prevent this, keep changing your baby's position from one side to another even while he or she is asleep.

Stop Your Baby From Looking In One Direction All The Time: When the shape of the head is uneven, your baby will try to look at one direction all time. You have to distract the child with tows, sounds or baby talk and make sure that your baby looks around in all directions.

These are some simple home remedies that you can try to ensure that your baby's head has a normal shape. If you have tried any other remedy to correct your baby's head shape, then do share with us.

4 Homemade Diet Drinks To Lose Weight!

Dieters prefer having diet cokes and other carbonated diet drinks which are not healthy in the long run. Carbonated diet drinks are rich in sugar and calories which may reduce weight for sometime but increases the risk of several health problems later. Therefore, here are few homemade diet drinks to lose weight naturally and stay healthy too!

Homemade healthy diet drinks:

Hot water and lemon: This is one of the most common diet drink for dieters. Hot water is useful in weight loss and is good for the body too. Hot water and lemon burns body fat and is an effective diet drink. You can have hot water and lemon after every meal to burn calories and body fat.

Hot water and honey: Having honey with hot water empty stomach is very beneficial for the body. You not only lose weight but this diet drink keeps you active as it boosts up your metabolism. Honey is a natural sweetener and contains amino acids, proteins and minerals which prevents you from putting on extra weight.

Green tea: This is another homemade healthy diet drink which can be consumed either hot or cold. Green tea is a very effective weight loss drink and is healthy as it flushes out toxins from the system, cleanses skin and reduces hair fall.

Vegetable juice: Bitter gourd juice especially is one of the fat burner diet drink. Bitter gourd juice cuts down calories, controls sugar levels and flushes out toxins from the body. You can also have spinach or carrot juice or tomato juice as diet drinks to lose weight.

These are the most common homemade healthy diet drinks to lose weight.

Home remedies/Alternative treatments to treat knee pain:

A number of home remedies have the ability to dramatically reduce or even eliminate knee pain that is caused by a number of factors. Some of the most popular home remedies are briefly discussed below.

1. RICE
RICE stands for Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. This simple treatment can provide relief to most types of knee pain
Studies have shown that steam baths have the ability to reduce knee pain by improving the blood circulation around the knees, thereby reducing inflammation. A slight massaging of the knee, while in the steam bath, can help make this remedy all the more effective

2. Herbal Pack
Several herbal remedies such as dried ginger, wintergreen, Devil’s claw, Cat’s claw and a few other herbs have also been very effective at reducing or even eliminating pain in the knees

3. Bishop's weed
A great and simple remedy that almost anyone can try is by mixing a powdered form of Bishop’s weed seeds into a glass of warm water that is then ingested

4. Wheat Paste
You can also try another innovative home remedy that will require you to create a paste using the following ingredients. Castor, wheat, turmeric and Goat’s milk. If you can’t find any goat’s milk, just use some clarified butter instead. This paste does wonders when it is applied on the area of the knee that is generating the pain

5.Massaging
Another simple home remedy simply involves the light massaging of the knee area, with some easily available oils like coconut oil, mustard oil or even olive oil. Just be sure to warm up the oil a little bit and also use it about three times in a day, to get adequate relief

6. YOGA
Some very specific yoga exercises and certain physiotherapy type exercises can also go a long way in helping you reduce or even eliminate knee pain. More of that is discussed just a little bit later

Natural Home practices for Knee Swelling

Rest and protect an injured or sore area. Stop, change, or take a break from any activity that may be causing your pain or soreness. When resting, place a small pillow under your knee.
Ice will reduce pain and swelling. Apply ice or cold packs immediately to prevent or minimize swelling. Apply the ice or cold pack for 10 to 20 minutes, 3 or more times a day.
For the first 48 hours after an injury, avoid things that might increase swelling, such as hot showers, hot tubs, hot packs, or alcoholic beverages.
After 48 to 72 hours, if swelling is gone, apply heat and begin gentle exercise with the aid of moist heat to help restore and maintain flexibility. Some experts recommend alternating between heat and cold treatments.
Compression, or wrapping the injured or sore area with an elastic bandage (such as an Ace wrap), will help decrease swelling.
Don't wrap it too tightly, since this can cause more swelling below the affected area. Loosen the bandage if it gets too tight. Signs that the bandage is too tight include numbness, tingling, increased pain, coolness, or swelling in the area below the bandage.
Don't expect the bandage to protect or stabilize a knee injury.
Talk to your doctor if you think you need to use a wrap for longer than 48 to 72 hours. A more serious problem may be present.
Elevate the injured or sore area on pillows while applying ice and anytime you are sitting or lying down. Try to keep the area at or above the level of your heart to help minimize swelling.
Reduce stress on your sore knee (until you can get advice from your doctor):
Use a cane or crutch in the hand opposite your painful knee.
Use two crutches, keeping weight off the leg with the sore knee. You can get canes or crutches from most pharmacies. Crutches are recommended if a cane causes you to walk with a limp.
Gently massage or rub the area to relieve pain and encourage blood flow. Do not massage the injured area if it causes pain.
Try the following exercises to maintain flexibility:
Hamstring stretch
Knee-to-chest exercise
Avoid high-impact exercise, such as running, skiing, snowboarding, or playing tennis, until your knee is no longer painful or swollen.
Do not smoke. Smoking slows healing because it decreases blood supply and delays tissue repair.


Other Natural Remedies

Swelling of the knee can be an uncomfortable and painful experience that may affect your ability to move freely and comfortably. Many people that suffer from inflammation are now turning to natural remedies as an alternative to pharmaceutical anti-inflammatory medications which often have unwanted side-effects.

Homeopathic ingredients such as Magnesium phosphoricum and Matricaria recutita both have powerful anti-inflammatory properties and both are renowned for their soothing effect on aching muscles and stiff joints.

Arnica is also a well known ingredient that helps promote the healing of connective tissue, cartilage and bones while Dulcamara is another excellent anti-inflammatory often used in the treatment of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.

The ingredients Bryonia and Berberis are also excellent when trying to relieve inflamed joints. In addition, the homeopathic ingredient Rhus tox can be used to relieve pain and stiffness, and works well to heal fibrous tissue, markedly joints, tendons, and sheaths.

Foods to Help Reduce Knee Swelling

Following a healthy diet will promote overall strength, health and vitality in the body to avoid many of the causes of knee swelling such as obesity, and certain foods can even help reduce existing swelling.

Strawberries, blueberries and raspberries – 3 berries rich in vitamin C – help promote collagen, a key component to cartilage and bone, which can help prevent wear and tear on the joints that can lead to pain and swelling. Vitamin C is also provides great antioxidant benefits that can reduce osteoarthritis inflammation and swelling. Other foods rich in vitamin C include broccoli, red peppers, citrus fruits, cabbage, cauliflower, and spinach.
Foods rich in vitamin B may help reduce joint inflammation and pain, including lean meat, fish, eggs, soybeans, whole grain cereals, and lentils.
Women concerned with osteoporosis should choose foods high in vitamin D to protect their joints, including fortified dairy products and fish.
Avoid processed foods whenever possible – they generally are high in sodium, which increases swelling.
Omega-3 fats have been shown to reduce inflammation and pain. Salmon, flax seed, and walnuts are great sources of this essential fatty acid.

How to Prevent and Reduce Knee Swelling

If you have knee swelling or soreness that lasts longer than 48 hours, or is accompanied by intense pain or a fever, then you should seek medical attention where a proper diagnosis can be made and any underlying conditions ruled out.

Avoid putting weight on the sore, swollen knee as much as possible until the swelling has gone down.

Use a cold compress. Wrap some crushed ice in a cloth and keep it on your knee for 20 minutes on to help reduce swelling. Repeat this every 2-4 hours, and when using the compress, be sure to keep your knee elevated using pillows.

If you suffer from arthritis in the knee, then it is important to keep up with stretching and toning exercises. These exercises can help to warm and stretch the muscles and are especially useful after long periods of rest.

Regular exercise to improve muscle tone and fitness can be very beneficial. Remember not to push yourself too hard if you are unfit. Choose a gentle exercise that won’t cause pain such as yoga or swimming.

If you are over-weight then now is a great time to consider losing weight naturally. Excess weight places extra pressure on all the joints and muscles, especially those in the knees and ankles.
Massage is a great alternative treatment to complement other treatments for knee swelling, as therapeutic touch helps release endorphins and other pain-relieving chemicals, plus supports healthy circulation to promote.

9 Natural Finger Foods For Your Toddler

Every mom needs an arsenal of snack and finger foods to have on hand when their little one is hungry. Toddlers are notoriously active, and they need to eat small meals every few hours to keep their energy high. Since kids are also known for being picky eaters, it’s a good idea to try different types of foods. Keep in mind however that when introducing new foods, into your little one’s diet, do so slowly and watch out for possible allergic reactions. Below are 9 ideas for natural finger foods for your active toddler.

1. Toast
Toasted bread with almond spread, natural jam, or date honey is a great finger food for toddlers. Cut the bread slice into small strips or squares so that your little ones can easily grab them to go.

2. Fruits and Veggies
Fresh or cooked fruits and vegetables are the healthiest choice of food parents can give their toddlers. Fruits such as strawberries, melons, bananas, and watermelons can be cut into smaller pieces. Grapes, apples, oranges, and pears should all be peeled and cut smaller as well. Vegetables like snap peas, green peppers, and avocados can be served raw by cutting them into bite sized pieces. Other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, green beans, and broccoli can be cooked until soft and also cut into small pieces.

When it comes to fruits and vegetables that are naturally small and round such as grapes and cherry tomatoes, err on the side of caution before serving them to your child. Peel and cut grapes and tomatoes in half so that they don’t present a choking hazard.

3. Cheese Cubes
Cheese, especially goat cheese, can be a good source of dairy for a growing child. You can cut any type of cheese into small cubes, and many baby’s especially enjoy mild cheeses like baby cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterrey jack.

4. Chickpea Patties
Chickpeas provide protein and can be really great for vegetarian or vegan families. For an easy chickpea patty recipe, simply mash one can of cooked chickpeas, add two and half tablespoons of flour and bread crumbs each, salt and pepper, and then shape into patties. You can also add finely chopped vegetables and herbs as well as other spices, but remember that a toddler’s taste buds are more sensitive to bold tastes, so don’t over do it.

5. Sticky Rice
Next time you cook rice for your meal keep a small bowl aside for your toddler to munch on. Sticky rice is especially good for small children, because it is moist and they are less likely to swallow it down the wrong way.

6. Cereal
When choosing a cereal for your little one don’t pick the sugary candy laden cereals. Instead choose a whole wheat option in shapes easy for little fingers to grab.

7. Beans
Like chickpeas, beans are an excellent source of protein. Black beans, pinto beans, and white beans can be picked up by little hands. Cook them until they are soft and add salt as needed.

8. Firm tofu cubes
More protein for your growing baby! Pick a firm tofu and serve it plain, uncooked or baked in small cubes. Tofu is plain and although a lot of people do not like it, the lack of taste is what makes it perfect for a toddler’s sensitive palate. If your little one does not like the texuture of uncooked tofu, bake it and serve it to them cooked.

9. Hard boiled organic Eggs
Hard boiled organic eggs are easy food for a toddler because they are so easy to travel with. Boil your egg, pop it in a container, and go. You can peel it and cut it into pieces or you can bring it whole and peel it and cut it when your little one is ready to eat.

Natural finger foods for toddlers are perfect on-the-go snacks. Always keep an eye whenever feeding your little one any type of food and watch out for choking. Introduce new foods slowly, but do not be scared of letting them try new tastes.

Your toddler is growing and needs whole, natural foods to keep their energy up while running around, playing, and learning. It’s up to you as parents to choose the best foods for them. Choose any foods from this natural foods list and most importantly have fun!

Honey and cinnamon can cure what's ailing you

You probably already have in your kitchen cabinet two amazing ingredients when mixed together could cure most illnesses. Even if you have to buy them from your local grocery store, the investment is well worth it.

Here are some benefits of a mixture of honey and cinnamon.

ARTHRITIS
Drink one cup of hot water with two tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder before breakfast and at night for chronic arthritis.

BAD BREATH
The first thing in the morning gargle with one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon powder mixed in hot water. Your breath will stay fresh throughout the day.

BLADDER INFECTIONS
Take two tablespoons of cinnamon powder and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of lukewarm water and drink it. It destroys the germs in the bladder.

CANCER
Patients suffering from cancer should take daily one tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder for one month three times a day.

CHOLESTEROL
Two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of cinnamon powder mixed in 16 ounces of tea water, given to a cholesterol patient, was found to reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10 percent within two hours. Pure honey taken with food daily relieves complaints of cholesterol.

COLDS
Take one tablespoon lukewarm honey with 1/4 spoon cinnamon powder daily for three days to cure most chronic cough, cold, and clear the sinuses.

FATIGUE
Senior citizens, who take honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts, are more alert and flexible. A half tablespoon of honey taken in a glass of water and sprinkled with cinnamon powder, taken daily in the morning and in the afternoon at about 3:00 P.M. when the vitality of the body starts to decrease, increases the vitality of the body within a week.

GAS
Honey is taken with cinnamon powder relieves the stomach of gas.

HEARING LOSS:
Daily morning and night honey and cinnamon powder, taken in equal parts can restores hearing. You can put honey on your toast and sprinkle cinnamon powder on it.

HEART DISEASES
Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder, apply on bread, instead of jelly and jam, and eat it regularly for breakfast. It reduces the cholesterol in the arteries and saves the patient from heart attacks.

IMMUNE SYSTEM
Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune system and protects the body from bacteria and viral attacks. Scientists have found that honey has various vitamins and iron in large amounts. Constant use of honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles to fight bacterial and viral diseases.

INDIGESTION
Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before food relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meal.

INFLUENZA
Honey contains a natural ' Ingredient' which kills the influenza germs and saves the patient from flu.

LONGEVITY
Take four spoons of honey, one spoon of cinnamon powder, and three cups of water and boil to make like tea. Drink 1/4 cup, three to four times a day. It keeps the skin fresh and soft and arrests old age. Life spans also increase and even a 100 year old, starts performing the chores of a 20-year-old.

PIMPLES
Three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next morning with warm water. If done daily for two weeks, it removes pimples from the root.

SKIN INFECTIONS
Applying honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts on the affected parts cures eczema, ringworm and all types of skin infections.

UPSET STOMACH
Honey taken with cinnamon powder cures stomach ache and also clears stomach ulcers from the root.

WEIGHT LOSS
Daily in the morning one half hour before breakfast on an empty stomach, and at night before sleeping, drink honey and cinnamon powder boiled in one cup of water. If taken regularly, it reduces the weight of even the most obese person. Also, drinking this mixture regularly does not allow the fat to accumulate in the body even though the person may eat a high calorie diet.

Simple exercises - bulky stomach

Here we discuss about how we can bring the protruding stomach in to normal. If we do some simple exercises

1. Sleep on your stomach.

2. Try and hold your stomach in whenever or wherever you can. This will train your muscles to remain tight always.

3. Lie on the bed with hands on the sides. Try to get up very slowly without taking any support. Then lie down again very gradually. If you are doing this exercise well you will feel the stretch on your stomach.

4. Lie down flat on the ground or on the bed, with hands on the side. Lift both your toes about 18 inches from the ground to the count of ten. Then let go gradually. Repeat this ten times only.

Simple Ways To Lighten Upper Lip

Even after the painful threading your upper may look dark, not to worry, our skin lightening tips will help. Darkening of upper lip may happen due to many reasons such as exposure to sunlight, over use of cosmetics and unhealthy eating. Here are some simple home remedies or quick tips that will help you lighten and brighten the skin. Take a look.

Tips To Lighten A Dark Upper Lip:

1. Instant Remedy: Apply face bleach on the upper lip skin and wash after a few minutes. A concealer or a branded foundation can successfully hide the dark portion.

Home Remedies:

1. Massaging the area with lemon, honey or yogurt will naturally bleach skin and lighten up after successive applications.

2. Scrubbing face with apricot, almond paste or gram flour will remove all the dead skin and make the skin look clearer and brighter.

3. Applying beetroot juice or pomegranate juice will naturally add a rose tone to face and make it look even and fresh.

How To Prevent:

1. Avoid alcohol, caffiene and tobacco as they tan and discolour lips, teeth and the upper lip badly.

2. Apply a sunscreen lotion with SPF above 18. The shieldsthe skin from harmful rays of the sun.
3. Drink lots of water (at least 8 glasses everyday) for internal de-toxification. A toxin free body will lead clear and glowing face.

4. Avoid using darker lip colours that may smudge and affect upper lip. Prefer natural lip balms like ghee, shea butter to avoid dryness.

6 Best Nutrition for Pregnant Women.

For pregnant women to consume foods that must be considered is because vitamins and minerals essential for health herself and the fetus. Nutritional needs during pregnancy, among others:

1. Protein, a big role in producing blood cells.


2. Carbohydrates, the body needs for daily energy.


3. Calcium, during pregnancy, calcium is important to help the growth of the baby.


4. Iron is very important in helping the process of production of red blood cells, primarily to prevent anemia.

5. Folic acid, based on several findings of health experts, pregnant women who lack folic acid greater the risk to have a miscarriage or damage to the fetus.


6. Fat, for pregnant women, fat immense benefits to the body’s energy reserves, for intermittent body does not feel tired.

10 Aloe Vera Face Packs For Glowing Skin

Beauty treatments and skin care routine have been associated with women since ages. One such ingredient which is common yet magical for healthy and glowing skin is Aloe Vera.

Aloe Vera is a commonly used ingredient in herbal concoctions, medicines and cosmetics. It dates back to history BC where an Egyptian document reports the use of aloe Vera gel with other agents to cure various skin and other internal disorders.

The secret of Aloe Vera lies in its long, succulent leaves – it is the gel that makes aloe vera a magical plant. It contains beneficial compounds like polysaccharides, lectins and mannans etc. The main constituent is water but it also packs inside a bulk of minerals, vitamins and many active compounds. The beauty of the plant lies in the fact that this ingredient can be used in almost any form – cream or gel based which makes it ideal to be marketed as a product in cosmetic and medical fields.

Benefits of Aloe vera:
It is an excellent moisturizer for skin. Aloe Vera gel rejuvenates the skin, hydrates it and keeps your skin looking fresh all the times.
Aloe Vera gel has anti-microbial properties making it ideal to treat acne and pimples.
It is a great naturally occurring anti-oxidant.
It is known to retain your skin’s firmness – making it a good anti-aging cream.
Aloe Vera is known to reduce pain and inflammation – both internally and externally. It is medicinally also used to treat sun burns, insect bites, eczema, cuts and wounds.
Below are some of the best Aloe vera face mask recipes that can be done at home at one comfort.If your making the Aloe vera gel at home and want to use it regularly, then store the extracted gel in a air tight container in the fridge.This way the gel will be in a good condition to use it later.

How to extract Aloe Vera gel at home:


Choose the leaves of the plant carefully, the leaves in the middle of the plant contains most of the gel as they leaf are juicer, soft and widest there.
Cut the leaves at an angle from the base of the plant.
Now, stand the leaves upright for 15 minutes to allow the sap to drain out. The sap is a yellow colored fluid which will ooze out the moment you cut the leaf. Allow it to drain out completely.
Later on wash the leaves to remove the remaining sap from the leaves.
Lay the leaves flat on cutting board and carefully cut the sides of the leaves which will contain thorns from both the sides of the leaves. Once that is done, you need to peel off the green layer of the leaf and dice the transparent gel into cubes.
Alternatively, you can also slice the leaves into two halves lengthwise from top of bottom and scrape off the transparent gel with the help of the spoon.
Aloe Vera face packs:


Here we show how to make Aloe Vera face packs at home:

1. Aloe Vera Face Pack for Glowing skin :
Ingredients: Aloe vera, Turmeric, Honey, Milk, Rose water.

Method:

Make a paste with a pinch of turmeric,1 teaspoon of Honey, 1 teaspoon of milk and few drops of rose water.
Add the aloe vera gel to the paste and mix it well.If you have cut the gel into cubes, you will need to blend the
whole mixture to form the paste.
Apply the paste on to the face and neck evenly for about 20 minutes.
Then wash if off with Luke warm or cold water and pat dry with a clean towel.
2. Aloe Vera Face Pack for Tan removal:
Ingredients: Aloe vera, Lemon Juice.

Skin tanning is a common problem in India and it is also very difficult to get rid of the tan easily.Try this simple and effective pack for tan removal.

Method:

Apply a paste of aloe vera gel and lemon juice on the affected area.Leave it on for 10 mins and wash it off.
Alternatively, you can also make a mixture of the same and apply the mix with help of a cotton ball on the affected areas to treat them.
3. Aloe Vera Face Pack to treat Pigmentation marks:
Ingredients: Aloe vera, Rose water.

Method:

Age spots, pimple marks, pigmentation marks, burn or injury marks can be treated using aloe vera gel.

Just make a paste of aloe vera extract and rose water and apply it on face for 20 minutes. Rinse off using cold water.
This pack acts as a fairness pack also. The paste must be massaged for 2-3 mins onto the face before rinsing it off to cleanse the pores of the face.
4. Aloe Vera Detox – Pack :
Ingredients: Aloe vera, Mango fruit, Lime juice.

Method:

Blend the aloe gel extract along with cut pieces of mango fruit.
Add lime juice to the paste and apply it on your face for 20 mins before rinsing it with cold water.
This pack will detoxify your skin and freshens it.

5. Aloe Vera Face Pack for oily skin and Acne Prone Skin:
Ingredients: Aloe vera leaf, Honey.

Method:

Boil aloe vera leaf in water and grind it to form a paste.
Add honey to the paste and apply it on the face or o for 20 minutes and rinse off with cold water.
Follow this every week to treat oily,acne prone skin and get a clear skin.

6. Aloe Vera Face Mask for Sensitive skin:
Ingredients: Aloe vera, Cucumber juice, Yogurt, Rose oil.

Method:

Make a smooth paste of aloe vera gel, cucumber juice and yogurt. Add few drops of rose or any other essential oil.
Apply and let it sit for 15 minutes before rinsing it with cold water.
This paste will get rid of oil, dirt and impurities from your skin leaving you feeling clean and refreshed.

7. Aloe Vera Face Pack for Dry Skin:
Ingredients: Aloe vera, Cottage cheese, Dates, Cucumber, Lemon juice.

Method:

Blend two tablespoon each of cottage cheese Aloe Vera gel. Add few seedless dates, cucumber slices and a bit of lemon juice and blend again.
You can make this paste in bulk and store it in the fridge for a long time also.
Apply the paste on your face and neck and let it sit for 30 minutes. Rinse off with cold water followed by lukewarm water and lastly again with cold water.
8. Aloe Vera Face Scrub for Dead skin:
Ingredients: Aloe vera, Cucumber, Oatmeal.

Method:

Blend cucumber dices and aloe vera gel to form a paste. Add oatmeal to this mixture and mix properly.
Spread the paste gently on your face and massage in circular motion.
Let it sit for 10 minutes or so before rinsing it off.
9. Aloe Vera Face Pack for Mature and Dry skin:
Ingredients: Aloe vera, Almonds.
Method:

Add crushed almonds to the aloe vera gel and mix properly to form a paste.
Apply on face and neck and let it sit for 15 minutes before you wash it off.
10. Aloe Vera Face Pack for Dry and Combination skin:
Ingredients: Aloe vera, olive oil, Shea butter.

Method:

Mash aloe vera gel, olive oil and shea butter to form a paste and apply on face and neck.
Leave it on for 15 minutes before rinsing it with cold water. This will seal in the moisture into your skin and leave it fresh and clean.
Try these 10 effective and easy aloe vera face packs regularly for a flawless glowing skin.

Home Remedies to Grow Long Eyelashes

Eyelashes not only protect your eyes, they flatter and enhance their appearance. Although heredity may dictate the ultimate length of your eyelashes, you can take steps to protect and condition the lashes you have. Many women use home remedies to try to achieve long, sweeping eyelashes. Apply a small amount to the inside of your wrist 24 hours before using any home remedy to make sure you are not allergic to any of the ingredients, and be careful not to get any of the substances into your eyes.

Petroleum Jelly
This inexpensive product, which has emollient and protective effects, is a mainstay of home remedies to increase eyelash length. First remove any eyeliner, eye shadow or mascara with a cotton ball, then apply petroleum jelly with a new mascara wand, or one that you have first cleaned well to remove any trace of the original product. Iloveindia.com recommends sleeping with the petroleum jelly on your eyelashes, but washing it off in the morning before you go about your day. For best results, repeat the treatment three times a week.

Green Tea
Natural Home Remedies recommends applying cool, unsweetened green tea to your lashes with a cotton ball to take advantage of green tea's beneficial properties. According to Whole Foods, green tea is rich in flavonoids, including epigallocatechin-3-gallate, which has potent antioxidant and health-supportive effects. As with all home remedies for eyelash growth, take care not to get the liquid into your eye, and rinse well with cool water if you do.

Olive Oil
From iloveindia.com comes the suggestion of using olive oil to help protect, condition and lengthen eyelashes. Apply at bedtime with a clean mascara brush. Keep the oil on overnight, then remove it in the morning with a gentle eye makeup remover; according to iloveindia, the olive oil can attract dirt and dust to your lashes.
Brushing and Caring For Eyelashes
To stimulate growth and promote healthy lashes, YGOY advises using a commercial professional eyelash brush to groom lashes twice a day. As with brushing your hair, this can help distribute natural oils along the length of your lashes. To avoid stress on your lashes and eye area, always remove eye makeup before going to bed. Good Evening World also cautions against wearing mascara for prolonged periods of time.

Lemon Olive Oil
Natural Home Remedies suggests enhancing the healthful properties of olive oil by soaking a lemon peel in a jar of oil for several days, then carefully applying the mixture to your lashes. Lemon is a mild natural antiseptic and antimicrobial agent, and may help promote healthier lashes.

Proper Diet
You can enrich your diet to make sure you are getting the right nutrients and vitamins to promote eyelash growth. Eyelashes are made of keratin, a type of protein, and can benefit from a diet that includes high-protein foods like meat, fish, chicken, soy and tofu. Vitamin A, essential to lash growth, is found in eggs, fish oil, and red, yellow and orange fruits, while citrus fruits, potatoes and tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, a potent antioxidant. Calcium, also essential for lashes, is found in milk, as well as in dark green leafy vegetables.

Eyelid Massage
Massaging your eyelids gently can increase blood flow and may stimulate growth of lashes, according to Grow Eyelashes. After washing your hands well, use the pads of your fingers to massage along your lids and lash line.

6 home remedies to regrow your eyebrows

Eyebrows are important as they influence the way we look. But due to hormonal imbalance, lack of nutrients and over-plucking among other reasons, it may take six to eight months to get your eyebrows normal growth back.

Makeup expert Simmi Ghai, Xpressions - The Make-Up Studio, shares with us some remedies straight out of your kitchen that can heal your brow.

Castor oil: Castor oil has a very unusual chemical composition which is found in lesser concentrations in other seeds and oils. Gently massage castor oil for 2-3 minutes on each eyebrow and leave it for some time. Wash them after 30 minutes with lukewarm water and a gentle facial cleanser. Repeat the process only once a day for the consecutive days and stop urgently if any irritation occurs.

Coco-lemon: One is concrete and the other is pulpy but the mixture made from coconut oil and lemon peel can surely help regrow your eyebrows. Take 1/4 cup of coconut oil and blend it in a clean container with sliced peel after which inculcate the mixture in a dark place for a fortnight. Take the mixture and dab over your eyebrows daily from a cotton ball right before going to bed. One can use this as long as they wish provided there is no irritation on the skin, and just avoid direct sunlight on eyebrows for 2 hours right after you apply this to fend irritation from citrus.

Aloe-vera: If you have thinning eyebrow hair due to overplucking then you should definitely try the sap from aloe vera leaves on them. Crush aloe vera leaves and gently massage the juice over your eyebrows and let it seep in. The modulation effect of aloe vera helps in skin healing and increasing growth furthermore.

Onions: The sulphur in onion juice can help in faster and denser regrowth of eyebrow hair. Grind an onion and rub the juice below eyebrow skin with help of cotton balls. Make sure you do not wash your eyebrows so that you derive its full benefit.

Fenugreek seeds (Methi): Make a paste by grinding few fenugreek seeds and apply it on the brows just before going to bed or early morning before taking a shower. One can also mix almond oil to make the paste; the properties of almond oil will help moisturise your skin.

Milky way: Milk and milk products are rich in protein and vitamins. Dip a cotton ball in milk and rub it over the eyebrow area at night. Inherited natural properties of milk provide nourishment to the hair roots and make them grow faster.

Foot Scrub and all body scrub for Full Body Whitening

Foot scrub for whitening makes skin smooth and velvety after every wash! Loaded with all-natural skin-whitening ingredients such as aloe Vera gel, almond oil, and Epsom salt, it brings out skin’s clarity in an instant while making it fairer day by day. Honey and lemon juice, it makes skin irresistibly silky and soft to touch.
Foot Scrub for Full Body Whitening
Ingredients:

Peppermint oil – ¼ tsp
Lemon juice – 1 tbsp
Honey – 1 tsp
Soda – 1 pinch
Olive oil – 1 tsp
Brown sugar – 2 tbsp
Epsom salt – 1 tbsp
Sweet almond oil – 1 tsp
Aloe Vera gel – 1 tsp
Barley flour – 1 tbsp
Milk – as required
Face scrub – 1 tube (any brand)
Method:
Mix all above ingredients and make scrub. Apply this scrub 3 times in a week on your face, feet and full body. This scrub will make your skin glow and give you a fair complexion. This scrub is suitable for all types of skin; even men can use this scrub.

8 FANTASTIC TIPS ON HOW TO LOSE THIGH FAT

Do you need to know how to lose thigh fat? We all have different body shapes, and pear-shaped women are more prone to having thigh fat than others. However, this doesn’t mean that anyone else is immune to the horrible title “thunder thighs”. If you feel unhappy with your thighs and want to know how to lose thigh fat, there are several steps you can take to focus on losing weight around your legs. Losing weight around your legs is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it’d be healthier for your legs: Chafing and extra weight for your legs to carry around isn’t good. Read on for 8 Fantastic Tips on How to Lose Thigh Fat.

1. CLIMB STAIRS
If it’s conceivable, avoid taking the elevator and climb stairs wherever you go to help lose thigh fat. This raises your metabolism and works your thigh muscles. This is a simple tip which doesn’t require you to drastically go out of your way to do, and is a great way to tone your leg muscles. To be the most effective, it’s best to use a good technique. Lean a little forward from the hips and keep your back straight.

2. JOG
Jogging is a lot easier than running, and one of the best forms of cardio exercise. It burns fat and calories and is also beneficial for your whole body. However, jogging may eventually hurt your knees and ankles so make sure you have good shoes or run on grass. Generally the best time of day to jog is in the morning as there is more oxygen in the air which helps burn more calories.

3. CYCLE
Cycling is another great form of exercise that works your legs, especially your thighs. This tip on how to lose thigh fat requires you to buy/use a bike, or go to the gym. However, it would be worth it as you could also use it to save money on public transport or driving, which is also better for the environment. Cycling builds stamina, endurance and is a great toning device for your legs!

4. WALK BRISKLY
Don’t just stroll when getting around to places, walking briskly is another way to lose thigh fat that doesn’t require any special effort. Power-walking burns calories and trims down fat in areas more than just your legs.

5. SQUATS WHILE HOLDING WEIGHTS
This sounds horrid and strenuous but is one of the most effective ways to lose thigh fat. Grab some manageable weights in each hand (a bottle of 500ml water would do), bend your knees with your back straight at a 90 degree angle and repeat. Do this slowly and carefully, until you feel your thighs burn! Do this regularly and expect toned leg muscles in no time.

6. LEG EXTENSIONS
Another fantastic tip on how to lose thigh fat. This is easy but requires a leg extension machine. All you have to do is sit in the machine and extend your legs. Do this slowly as rigorous stretching can damage your muscles.

7. DRINK LOTS OF WATER
Drinking water aids your metabolism and flushes out any mild toxins in your body. Dehydration is a huge source of low metabolism and health because your liver needs water to convert fat into energy. One tip is to drink water even when you don’t feel thirsty, because thirst is a sign that you are already dehydrated!

8. EAT HEALTHY
Eating the right sorts of food will help raise your health and reduce fatty intake. A diet with a low calorie intake will obviously help reduce fat, but make sure you don’t cut out carbohydrates and other food that are essential in giving you energy to exercise.

I hope these tips on how to lose thigh fat have given you some thoughts and inspiration on how to tackle “thunder thighs”. The easiest ways to lose thigh fat is to just walk more often, climb stairs and focus on exercise that works your leg muscles. After at least two weeks of regular exercise you should notice a change in your legs and your confidence! Do you have any more tips to add to our 8 Fantastic Tips on How to Lose Thigh Fat? Please share your techniques!

5 Steps to a flat tummy in 7 days

You've been missing your routine at the gym very often thanks to your busy schedule (or plain laziness) and suddenly you realize that in one week you have to attend a wedding.

You want to wear your favourite saree or figure-hugging dress but are worried about your flabby stomach bulging out. Well, you still have a last option. While you cannot reduce fat, you can lose belly fat by decreasing your total body fat percentage. And you don't have to completely alter your daily habits to get a flat stomach within 7 days!

Step one:

If you want to build muscle and burn fat at the same time, you have to perform circuit training, three days per week. How can you achieve this? Indulge in full body exercises like lunges, push-ups, and pull-ups, for one set of 15 repetitions. Don't forget to follow every exercise with one minute of jumping rope. You should be able to burn around 500 to 600 calories per workout.

Step two:

You have to work on your abdominal muscles three times in the week. Crunches and leg raises for three sets of 20 repetitions should be done. Also, do planks by holding your body in a push-up position on your elbows for 30 to 60 seconds for four sets.

Step three:

The kind of food you will eat in this period is vital in bringing about any change. Natural foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grain breads and pastas, chicken, beef, fish and low fat dairy should replace processed foods full of sugar.

Step four:

To minimize water retention, lower your sodium intake. This means you need to avoid salt. You can flavour your food with other herbs and spices instead.

Step five:

Stressing and anxiety can cause the over-production of a certain hormone called cortisol, which encourages weight gain about the belly area. So try to keep your cool! 

EXERCISES TO INCREASE HIP SIZE

The hips contain the abductor muscles, which include the tensor fascia lata, and gluteus medius, maximus and minimus. Increasing hip size can accentuate your figure and improve self-confidence. Exercises to do this involve hip abduction and extension. Abduction is an outward movement of the thighs and extension is a backward movement of the thighs. Utilizmachines and body weight to achieve this goal.

e free weights,

Squats
The squat is a compound exercise that broadens the hips and also works the hamstrings and quadriceps. While standing with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, lower yourself down until your thighs parallel the floor. Stand back up and repeat. To increase the resistance with squats, hold dumbbells at your sides or hoist a barbell across your shoulders and hold it there with a wide grip. With both exercises, keep your back straight and abs engaged to support your spine.


Lunge
The standard lunge is a leg exercise that works the hips. It is performed by placing your legs in a staggered stance, lowering yourself down by bending your knees and standing back up. By doing a variation, you will place even more emphasis on your hips. Instead of standing with your feet in a staggered stance, step laterally to one side, bend that knee and push your butt backward. Slowly rise up, step your feet back together and repeat on your other side. With either variation, hold dumbbells to increase the resistance.

Seated Abduction
Seated abduction is done in two ways--with an abduction machine or with a resistance loop. A resistance loop is a large, flat rubber resistance band that slides over the legs. To use the machine, sit on the seat, rest your outer thighs against the padded levers and push against them until your legs are an in "V" shape. Slowly return to the start and repeat. With the resistance loop. sit in a chair, slide the loop up to your thighs and flatten it out. Move your legs out to your sides as far as possible, move them back together and repeat. When using the loop, make sure you have a strong enough resistance to adequately work your hips.

Cable Abduction
Cable abduction is done from a standing position with one end of a cable machine and an ankle strap. After fastening the strap to your lower left leg right above your ankle, stand with your right shoulder to the weight stack and lift your left foot off the floor slightly. Move your leg in the air laterally to your left as high as possible in an arcing motion. Slowly lower your leg, repeat for a set of reps and switch sides. This same exercise can be done at home with a resistance band. Fasten one end around your lower leg and the other end to a table or sofa leg and perform abduction.

Lying Hip Abduction
Lying hip abduction works your hips from a side-lying position with your legs stacked on top of each other. Slowly raise your top leg in the air until it is approximately 45 degrees to the ground, lower it back down slowly and repeat. You have two ways to increase the resistance with this exercise. Either strap on ankle weights or slip on the resistance loop and push against it.

Top 10 Foods for Healthy Hair

When it comes to healthy hair, it’s not just what you put on your tresses that counts -- it’s what you put in your body, too.

"Just like every other part of your body, the cells and processes that support strong, vibrant hair depend on a balanced diet," says New York nutritionist Lisa Drayer, MA, RD, author of The Beauty Diet.

It can take longer to notice changes (both good or bad!) in your hair than in your skin. For example, "just one week with a poor diet can yield acne flare-ups or dry, sallow skin within days," says New York City dermatologist Cybele Fishman, MD, "but with hair, it can take a few months for a nutritional deficiency or the effects of a crash diet to show up."

The nutrients you eat today help fortify the hair follicle -- from which each strand is born -- and the scalp that surrounds it. "Healthier follicles? Healthier hair. Healthier scalp? Healthier hair!" Drayer says.

Of course, there's more to your hair than what you eat. Smoking, hormonal imbalances, and not enough sleep can also affect how your hair looks and feels. No magic nutrient can make up for those concerns.

Still, you have a lot more leverage than you might think. If you eat a balanced, varied, protein-rich diet that focuses on the following 10 foods, you'll be giving your hair the TLC it needs and deserves.

1. Salmon
Besides being rich in protein and vitamin D (both are key to strong hair) the omega-3 fatty acids found in this tasty cold-water fish are the true superstar. Your body can't make those fatty acids, which your body needs to grow hair. About 3% of the hair shaft is make up of these fatty acids, Drayer says. Omega-3s are also found in cell membranes in the skin of your scalp, and in the natural oils that keep your scalp and hair hydrated.

Other options: If salmon doesn't thrill you, you can also get essential fatty acids from fish like herring, sardines, trout, and mackerel, as well as avocado, pumpkin seeds, and walnuts (see below for more wonderful things about walnuts.)

2. Walnuts
These are the only type of nut that have a significant amount of omega-3 fatty acids. They're also rich in biotin and vitamin E, which helps protect your cells from DNA damage. Since your hair rarely gets much shielding from the sun, this is especially great, Drayer says. Too little biotin can lead to hair loss. Walnuts also have copper, a mineral that helps keep your natural hair color rich and lustrous, Fishman says.

Other options: Try using walnut oil in your salad dressing or stir-fry instead of canola or safflower, Fishman says.

3. Oysters
Oysters are rich in zinc, a lack of which can lead to hair loss (even in your eyelashes), as well as a dry, flaky scalp. Three ounces has a whopping 493% of your daily value. You can get some zinc through fortified cereals and whole grain breads, but oysters can boast a good level of protein too. "Remember, hair is about 97% protein," Drayer says. Without enough protein, your body can't replace the hairs that you naturally shed every day and what you do make can be dry, brittle, or weak.

Other options: Get your fill of zinc with nuts, beef, and eggs.


4. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a great source of the antioxidant beta carotene, which your body turns into vitamin A. "Basically, every cell of the body cannot function without enough A," Fishman says. It also helps protect and produce the oils that sustain your scalp, and being low on vitamin A can even leave you with itchy, irksome dandruff.

Other options: Carrots, cantaloupe, mangoes, pumpkin, and apricots are all good sources of beta carotene.

5. Eggs

A great source of protein, eggs are loaded with four key minerals: zinc, selenium, sulfur, and iron. Iron is especially important, because it helps cells carry oxygen to the hair follicles, and too little iron (anemia) is a major cause of hair loss, particularly in women, Drayer says.

Other options: You can also boost your iron stores with animal sources, including chicken, fish, pork, and beef.

6. Spinach
The iron, beta carotene, folate, and vitamin C in spinach help keep hair follicles healthy and scalp oils circulating.

Other options: Try similarly nutrient-rich dark, leafy vegetables such as broccoli, kale, and Swiss chard.

7. Lentils
Tiny but mighty, these legumes are teeming with protein, iron, zinc, and biotin, says Fishman, making it a great staple for vegetarian, vegans, and meat eaters.

Other options: Toss other beans such as soybeans (the young ones are called edamame) and kidney beans into your soup or salad.

8. Greek yogurt
Cruise the dairy aisle for low-fat options such as Greek yogurt, which is high in hair-friendly protein, vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid -- an ingredient you'll often see on hair care product labels), and vitamin D. Emerging research links vitamin D and hair follicle health, but exactly how that works isn't clear, Fishman says.

Other options: Cottage cheese, low-fat cheese, and skim milk also fit the bill.

9. Blueberries
Exotic super fruits may come and go but when it comes to vitamin C, "It's hard to top this nutrient superhero," Drayer says. C is critical for circulation to the scalp and supports the tiny blood vessels that feed the follicles. Too little C in your diet can lead to hair breakage.

Other options: Kiwis, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and strawberries.

10. Poultry
This everyday entree is extraordinary when it comes to protein, as well as hair-healthy zinc, iron, and B vitamins to keep strands strong and plentiful. Because hair is nearly all protein, "foods rich in protein are literally giving you the building blocks for hair," Drayer says.

Other options: Lean cuts of beef are another good source of lean protein.

30 Tips for Healthier, More Attractive Hair

Easy, healthy ways to add body, personality, and longevity to your hair.
Considering it is technically dead tissue, we spend an awful lot of time, money, and energy on hair care. And well we should. In addition to being fun to style and color, hair serves a valuable biological purpose: It keeps your head warm and helps regulate body temperature.

Hair, like nails, is an extension of your epidermis, the outer layer of your skin. It is composed mainly of protein. The typical hair cell stays with you for three to five years until it falls or grows out. Most of the time, it gets replaced. Because you spend so much time with your hair, particularly if you’re a woman, it deserves good care. So here are some hair care tips to help you keep your hair shiny, healthy, and beautiful:

1. Mash a ripe avocado (pit removed) with one egg, then apply to wet hair. Avocados are rich in vitamins, essential fatty acids and minerals that will help restore luster to your hair, says Stephen Sanna, expert colorist at the Pierre Michel Salon in New York City. Leave on for at least 20 minutes, then rinse several times. Repeat once a week for damaged hair and once a month for healthy hair.

2. Use one part apple cider vinegar and two parts very warm water to help balance the pH level of your scalp and bring out natural red highlights. It may be smelly, but it works, says Federico. Simply pour the vinegar mixture onto your hair, massage it into your scalp, and let it dry for a few minutes. Then wash hair as usual.

3. Mix one egg with a small amount of shampoo, apply to your hair for five minutes, and rinse well. This “shampoo omelet” helps to enhance the protein in your hair.

4. Make your own conditioner. Here are some simple tips to condition your hair using some everyday household ingredients:

Rub enough mayonnaise into your hair to coat it, wait up to an hour, and wash it out. You’ll be amazed at how soft and shiny your hair is, thanks to this great protein source.
Substitute condensed milk for your regular conditioner. The protein provides an extra-special shine.
Mix 2 ounces olive oil and 2 ounces aloe vera gel with 6 drops each of rosemary and sandalwood essential oils. Olive oil is an emollient, aloe hydrates, and rosemary adds body and softness.
5. Take one to three 250-milligram capsules of borage oil, evening primrose oil, or flaxseed oil one to three times a day. All are rich in omega-3 fatty acids like gamma-linolenic acid, great for keeping hair (and nails) moisturized, says Kathleen W. Wilson, M.D., an internist at the Ochsner Health Center in New Orleans and author of When You Think You Are Falling Apart.

6. For soft, natural highlights, squeeze some lemon juice on your hair before heading into the sun. Or use shampoos and styling products that contain citrus fruits, suggests celebrity hairstylist Federico of Beverly Hills. Citrus adds subtle streaks to your hair without adding damage.

7. To get beautiful streaks at home, mix honey and alum, an aluminum compound sold in most drugstores. Combine the two ingredients into a thick paste and paint the mixture on with your fingertips. Sit in the sun for 45 minutes, then shampoo and rinse your hair. You should have highlights three shades lighter than your natural hair color.

8. Bathe your hair in botanical oils. Available at health food stores, olive, jojoba, and sweet almond oils are all wonderful elixirs for hair. If your hair is thick and heavy, coconut oil works wonders. Dampen your hair and apply small amounts of the botanical oil until your hair is thoroughly covered. Cover with a shower cap and warm towel for a half-hour, then rinse and shampoo as usual.

9. Mix a few drops of sandalwood oil with a few drops of olive or jojoba oil, rub the mixture between your palms, then smooth it through the ends of your hair for instant sleekness and a way to instantly curb and condition brittle, flyaway hair. Or you can squirt a few drops of hand lotion in your palm and smooth it through your hair.

10. Mix a few drops of your favorite fragrance into your hair gel before applying. You’ll wind up with hair that not only looks, but smells, great, says Susie Galvez, author of Hello Beautiful: 365 Ways to Be Even More Beautiful.

11. Transform ordinary shampoo into an herbal experience by mixing in a few drops of essential oils. Dilute an eight-ounce bottle of shampoo by half with water and add about 20 drops of essential oil of lavender.
12. Only spritz three times with hair spray. In addition to making you look like you just stepped out of 1962, too much hair spray can weigh down your hair, leaving it flat. Instead, try a bionutrient styling spray containing the B vitamin panthenol. It will condition your hair and help protect it from environmental and styling damage.

13. Wrap wet hair gently in a towel and let the cotton absorb the moisture for a few minutes instead of rubbing. This helps protect against split ends.

14. Check the drain after each shower for the amount of hair. The typical person loses from 50 to 200 hairs a day (out of 80,000 to 120,000 hairs on the head). So it’s normal to have a very small clump of hair left on the drain after washing. But if that amount starts increasing, see your doctor. It could mean your scalp has an infection, or that baldness is beginning to set in, or in rarer circumstances, that you have a nutritional deficiency.

15. Get dressed and put your makeup on before styling your hair. This way, your hair will be almost dry. Hair is most susceptible to damage when wet.

16. Shampoo gray hair every day with a blue-colored shampoo. By nature of its light color, gray hair gets duller, dirtier, and drier than darker shades, which is why it’s so important to shampoo and condition it daily. The bluish shampoo helps hide any yellowish (read: aging) tinge.

17. Allow at least four weeks between single-process color treatments and at least eight weeks between high- or low-light treatments, Stephen Sanna recommends.

18. Create instant highlights by applying champagne- or gold-hued eye shadow to your hair with an ordinary makeup sponge.

19. Use a humidifier at night in your bedroom, especially in cold weather. Your home heating probably keeps the air very dry, which can dry out your hair.

20. To keep your hair bouncy and healthy, occasionally shampoo your roots only and then apply conditioner to just your ends. Then rinse.
21. To reduce damage to your tresses and add pouf to your do, dry your hair until 90 percent of the moisture is removed, then stop. Most people falsely believe they must use a hair dryer until their hair is bone-dry. Not true. The style should fall into place if your hair is healthy and well cut.

22. If you usually wear your hair in a ponytail, take it out for a few hours a day to give your hair a break. Also, try not to pull hair back too tightly. And never sleep with any sort of accessories in your hair.

23. Comb conditioner through your hair before hitting the pool to protect it from the harsh chemicals. When you finish with your swim, rinse with 1/4 cup apple cider mixed with 3/4 cup water to help cleanse hair, recommends Susie Galvez, author of Hello Beautiful: 365 Ways to Be Even More Beautiful, then follow with more conditioner. Do the same before hitting the beach.

24. Use moisturizing conditioner two to three times a week to combat fine, thin hair. Many people think conditioners will flatten thin hair, but actually, using a moisturizing conditioner a few times a week will help your hair block out humidity, which can make hair flat.

25. Use a gentle shampoo for oily hair. Ironically, harsh shampoos can actually lead to more oil because your scalp tries to compensate. Use a shampoo that’s gentle enough for everyday use.

26. Flip your head over, spray the underneath layers with hair spray, and shake out to instantly style your hair without rewashing and blow-drying.

27. Use styling gel correctly. Here’s how to get the hold you want without looking like you stepped out of a grease pit. Place a dime-size dollop of product in the palm of one hand, then dab a tiny amount onto the fingertips of your other hand, leaving most of the gel in your palm. Starting at the back of your head near your scalp line, work the gel from your fingertips into the root area of your hair and continue until the dollop disappears.

28. For an amazing haircut, ask your stylist to cut the ends of your hair so they’re slightly jagged instead of blunt. This provides extra body and texture.

29. If you’re trying to grow out your bangs, ask your hairdresser to add a few long layers around your face to help the bangs fade in as they grow.

30. Men: If you’re going bald, go short. One of the worst mistakes balding men make is the comb-over. A sexier, more modern style is the closely trimmed, Bruce Willis look. An added bonus: Your hair will be easy to maintain.

Skin Peeling – What Is, Causes And Treatments What is peeling skin?

Peeling skin scientifically known as desquamation is the loss of the outer layer of your skin. Skin peeling may be caused due to direct damage to the skin or due to different types of serious diseases, disorders and conditions. Skin peeling may occur on small area or the entire body to different age groups. Depending on the cause of peeling skin, it can be cured with creams and lotions or treatment of the disease, disorder or condition.

Skin Problems Spotlight:
Due to the range of the causes of skin peeling, treatment should be given depending on the condition. It may cause blisters or sores, fever, diarrhea, pain, vomiting, swelling etc. Life threatening causes include toxic shock syndrome. In such cases you have to seek medical help.

Causes:


Sunburn: Over exposure to sun or the UV rays can damage your skin leading it to peel off.
Eczema: Eczema or rashes can make skin peel.
Psoriasis: This flaky skin also can cause peel skin.
Allergic reactions: If you are allergic to fabrics or detergents or anything like that you may get rashes or allergic reactions ultimately leading to skin peeling.
Infections: If you have fungal infections like ringworm, athlete’s foot, jock itch etc., your skin may peel easily.
Immunity disorders: If you have skin disorders, you have chance of your skin to peel easily.
Cancer: Few cancers can get you skin problems leading to skin peeling.
Few other reasons could be

Athlete’s foot
Atopic dermatitis(eczema)
Contact dermatitis
Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
Dry skin
Jock skin
Kawasaki disease
Pemphigus
Psoriasis
Ringworm(body, scalp)
Scarlet fever
Seborrheic dermatitis
Side effects of medications
Staph infections
Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Sunburn
Toxic shock syndrome
Mostly peeling skin is caused due to dryness. You can treat this easily at home.

Treatment:


Don’t pick. The more you pick the more it will peel.
Don’t scratch. It’s just a temporary relief to that skin but it can later cause infection.
Trim it. If you don’t want those lengthy peeled skin attached to your skin, then trim it using scissors.
Moisturize it as much as possible.
Take an oatmeal bath which depletes skin smoothly. Else you can take a cool shower with some baby oil which can stop peeling your skin.
Take required proteins, iron, vitamin A. B, and C for better skin regularly.
Apply grated cucumber pulp on that skin regularly which acts as a natural moisturizer. Add some olive oil, honey and turmeric to it as well.
Apply honey on that skin and leave it for 45 minutes and then rinse it.


Since skin peeling is mostly caused due to lack of moisture, these remedies may easily cure it. But if these didn’t work for you, you have to consult a doctor immediately.

BLOOD TONICS

.Are YOU Blood deficient? have you ever had your blood drawn and looked at through a microscope? You will see something quite interesting. Either your red blood cells are plump, round and healthy, or they are distorted, full of parasites or they are not well oxygenated. I am sharing some of the MOST successful green tonics that WILL bring the oxygen back to your blood cells and restore them, creating plump, round, healthy and vibrant. THIS tonic is VERY special. Please try to drink it at least 3 times a week, and daily if you have deficient blood.

(for 2 ~ Organic only)

6 ALFALFA Leaves, fresh
1 SPINACH, (1 cup, packed)
1 PARSLEY, (1 cup, packed)
1 CUCUMBER (unwaxed, English)
6 CELERY (6 ribs from the stalk)
6 DANDELION (leaves)
1 LIME (large with skin)

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Whitening the Skin tips

Home Remedies
In addition to maintaining a balanced diet, there are also a number of home remedies made from natural ingredients that can help whiten your skin. These should be done regularly to obtain the best results.

Prepare a mixture of grated tomato with two or three drops of lime juice and apply it to your face. Leave it on for approximately 20 minutes and wash off. Do this twice a day if possible for 15 to 20 days.

Placing a sliced, raw potato on the skin and massaging it gently onto blemishes and red marks can help reduce them.

To help remove a tan and lighten the skin, mix oatmeal with curd and tomato juice. Massage gently onto your facial skin and leave it on for 20 minutes before washing it off with cold water.

Acne Face Map

So what are your skin problems trying to tell you? Let’s take a look:

Zones 1 & 2: Bladder & Digestive System.
Step it up sister. Breakouts in these areas mean you may need to hydrate and improve your diet. Drink more water and incorporate fresh fruits and veggies in your meal plans. A problem area in this location may also indicate a food allergy.

Zone 3: Liver.
Slow down party girl. A breakout in this area mean you may need to cut back on the cocktails and/or reduce your intake of dairy.

Zones 4 & 10 and 6 & 8: Kidneys.
Put down the Mocha Latte. If your ears (zone 4 and 10) feel hot or swollen the inflammation may be due to dehydration. Cut soda, caffeine and alcohol. The same goes for dark circles found in zones (6 &8). Hydrate and catch some Zzz’s.

Zones 5 & 9 : Respiratory System.
Be a Quitter. If you’re a smoker you may notice increased breakouts and broken capillaries in these areas. Take control of your health and commit to quit. If you have allergies you may experience frequent outbreaks in these zones as well. Acne in the lower part of your cheeks may also suggest dental issue like gingivitis.

Zones 7: Heart
Chill Out. A breakout in this area can be directly related to blood pressure. Check yours and make adjustments to your lifestyle if needed.

Zone 12: Stomach
Cleansing Queen. Your chin is linked to your small intestine so breakouts in this area may indicate a build-up of toxins or the need to incorporate more fiber in your diet. What better time to try our DIY Juice Cleanse?

Zones 11 & 13: Hormones.
Get Zen. High stress and other hormonal changes can cause breakouts in this area. If symptoms don’t ease up in a few days perhaps its time to make an appt with your Dr. to look into possible hormonal imbalances.

Zone 14: Illness
Prepare for battle. A breakout in this area can signal your body is fighting off a bacterial infection. Drink plenty of fluids, get lots of rest and load up on your vitamins.

How to Make a Face Mask for Uneven Skin Tone

This face mask helps to treat uneven skin tone. Uneven skin tone is a problem for most people, and this face mask makes it easy to help treat uneven skin tone without having to buy expensive products.

Things You'll Need

1 Small Ripe Tomato

1/4 Cup of Yogurt

2 Tablespoons of Instant Oatmeal

1 Teaspoon Fresh Lemon Juice

Instructions

1

Cut the tomato in half and remove the seeds but leave the skin on. Process the tomato in a food processor, or in a blender. Process until smooth.

2

Stir the tomato mixture in to the yogurt gently until blended.

3

Stir in the oatmeal, and lemon juice. Be sure to use fresh squeezed lemon juice. Cover the mixture and place into the fridge for 10 minutes.

4

While the mixture is in the fridge, soak a towel in warm water. Place the towel over your face until the 10 minutes is up.

5

Cover the entire face (except the eye area) with the mixture. Massage the mixture into the skin lightly, then wait 15 minutes.

6

Rinse the mask off with cold water, then towel dry.

7

Use the mixture 1-2 times a week.

How to Prevent Neck Wrinkles

When it comes to aging, Neck area is a critical spot. We can see many women with beautiful flawless faces but their skin near the neck area looks aged. One of the first signs of aging is wrinkles and sagged skin on the neck. To avoid these disasters, you have to protect your skin properly from wrinkles and other flaws.

The best way to slow down the aging process is to take necessary preventions to maintain and boost the elasticity of the neck skin. Don’t forget that the neck area is as sensitive as your face area, so you need to take proper care.

You can add a few rituals to your daily skin care regime at your home. Besides this, there are few medical and surgical methods for firm and younger looking skin which are often adopted by celebrities. But it is always recommended to take care of your skin from a very early age using natural methods.

Causes:

Pollution, smoke and cigarettes:

We all know there’s a lot of pollution out there giving us a very hard time. Pollution and smoke damages the skin. In your early years, the skin neutralizes these free radicals. But as you grow older, this neutralizing process slows down causing more damage to the skin. Smoking cigarettes again is also very dangerous to the skin and shows off the signs of aging very easily.

Sun: Sun exposure is one of the most dangerous causes for any skin related issues. Sun has so many good qualities that you may want to enjoy them. It does nourish your skin with vitamin D and helps in healthy bone growth. But when you go out, it is very important to protect your skin with a good sunscreen since it the first cause of pre-matured skin. Sun rays deplete the elasticity of your skin and skin will not return to it’s previous shape resulting into wrinkles and age spots.

Prevent Neck Wrinkles with A Healthy Lifestyle:



Limit your exposure to sunlight to protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays.
Limit the skin exposure to cigarette and other smokes.
Add a good neck exercise to your daily routine.
Always keep your head straight and your chin up.
Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily for a firm skin.
A high pillow is the greatest enemy for your smooth skin. Keep the angle between the face and neck to the maximum. Go for a tiny pillow instead of a huge one.
Apply potato slices on your neck. It’ll detox the skin and cleanse the pores.
Apply a good anti-wrinkle cream on your neck during the nights before you sleep.
Ask your dermatologists about Retin-A creams. These slow down the aging process very effectively.
If you follow these steps from a very early age, then it’s easy to slow down the aging process. If you already have neck wrinkles you can go for a very good anti wrinkle cream and Retin-A creams. Consult your dermatologist for treatments. You can remove them using these medications and then start taking care of it to prevent them from reappearing.

How to Get Rid of Brown Burn Scars

When the skin is badly burned because it touches something hot, it leaves behind a brown burn scar. These scars can be unsightly, but they can be healed with natural ingredients. The faster the burn mark is treated, the faster you will be able to get rid of it.

Things You'll Need
1 tbsp. fuller's earth
1 lemon
Almond oil
Small bowl

Instructions
1
Pour 1 tbsp. fuller's earth into a small bowl.

2
Add 1/2 tsp. water to the bowl and stir the ingredients into a paste. Add more as needed to make a thick paste.


3
Use your fingers to apply the paste to your burn mark.

4
Wait for the paste to fully dry, and then wash it off with plain water.

5
Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the burn mark once a day.

6
Rub the lemon juice into the burn mark, and then wash it off with water.

7
Massage almond oil into your brown burn mark every night before bed until the mark lightens.

12 Natural Remedies For Frizzy Hair

Dry and frizzy hair is a cry for oil nourishment and moisturizing. Moisturizingis of paramount importance for curly and rough hair types to maintain manageable hair. Most women around the world prefer a weekly visit to hair spasfor keeping frizzy-ness at bay. This is not a very affordable option for many.On the other hand some might not favor the chemical based productsused in these spas.

There are a few natural, at-homemaintenance forms to help hair nourishment. Let us have a look at some of those frizz-control recipes.

Remedy 1: Almond oil and Egg

Almond oil acts as a natural hair emollient while the egg proteins repair the hair strands.



Mix 1/4th cup of almond oil with one raw egg and blend it well to form a smooth paste.
Apply this on hair and scalp, and wait 40 minutes before washing hair.
Rinse hair as usual with clean water.
Make sure to use a rich nourishing shampoo and conditioner.
Remedy 2: Avocado Mask



Using avocado based hair mask is an inexpensive yet effective remedy to control frizzy hair issues.Simply mash an avocado with curd to make a smooth creamy paste. This can be used as a hair mask once or twice every week to naturally condition hair and prevent dryness.

Remedy 3: Coconut oil and Vitamin E



Mixture of unscented coconut oil and pure Vitamin E oil can do the trick too.

Mix 1 part of Vitamin E oil with 4 parts of coconut oil, shake well and store it suitably. Warm this oil and treat yourself to a hair and scalp massage.
Wash your hair after about 40 minutes.
It does wonders in nourishing hair.Warm oil penetrates the hair roots and scalp pores better than the normal oils. Hence, do make sure to heat your hair oil before using it for the massage.

Remedy 4: Hot oil massage



Here is another option for fans of the hot oil treatment.

Take 1/3rd cups of coconut oil and olive oil. Add to this, 2-4 teaspoons of pure almond oil.
Warm the mixture on indirect heat.
Massage this into your scalp and cover your head with a warm, moist towel for 20 minutes.
Wash with a mild shampoo. For additional benefit, you can rinse with honeyed water.
Remedy 5: Mayonnaise



Mix 1/4th cup of mayonnaise, 1/3rd cup of pure almond oil and 1-2 eggs depending on your hair length.
Coat every single strand of your hair religiously and cover it (with a shower cap for example) to let the mixture settle.
Rinse with vinegar, after sufficiently diluting it with water
Remedy 6: Banana



Bananas are great for hair conditioning! A banana mask for hair is just the kind of pamper your hair deserves. Use a mixture of banana, honey and coconut/almond oil whenever you feel dryness creeping in.

Instructions on how to make the pack are given here.



Remedy 8: Lemon juice



This is the boon that all of you with dry scalp have been yearning for! Find out how to use it here.

Remedy 9: Eggs



Egg has been one of the most popular home remedies for frizzy hair.There’s little else as good as the combination of eggs and olive oil.

Here is how you make a pack of egg and olive oil as a home remedy for hair care.

Remedy 10: Honey



Are you looking for a simple solution that won’t need a lot of time in using it? A honey rinse is your solution. Here is how you use a honey rinse.

Remedy 11: Honey and yogurt



A honey rinse isn’t the only way to use honey. Here is another method for some additional nourishing for your hair.

Read here to find out how to make and use it!

Remedy 12: Vinegar



If you’re looking for a method that doesn’t involve you washing your hair or even wetting your hair again after a wash, then this vinegar treatment was made just for you. Apply it one your scalp with a cotton ball after a wash and comb gently by spread the hair out. That’s all you need to do!

So here is the compilation of some of the best solutions for you! Try them and fall in love with your hair all over again!

Top Tips For Long Hair

Herbal remedies and treatments are very effective in promoting hair growth.We spend a lot on the costly products that may or may not give great results. So, now it’s time to try these as well.

Take an egg with 3 tablespoons of castor oil and a teaspoon vinegar. Mix them well. Massage on scalp and wash your hair after 40 minutes.
You can use coconut milk. Apply it and massage it gently on to the scalp and then wash your hair with cold water. Coconut milk is known for encouraging growth and improves the texture and conditions the hair.
Take some jaggery (gur), fuller’s earth (multanimitti) and yoghurt and make a paste. Then apply this paste on the scalp for an hour or two and the shampoo it off. You can do this twice a month.
You can also apply green amla Juice on your hair and massage on to the scalp like you do with the oils. Let it soak in for an hour and then rinse your hair.