Dental problems during pregnancy, Is it safe to do root canal during pregnancy?

A pregnant lady might have a dental problem from the very beginning. Some ladies get this problem at the time of pregnancy, whereas another group of people has the problem before pregnancy. Dentists would always suggest to take proper care of your teeth as the baby would be affected if proper care is not being taken in the due course. If you really love your baby, you must take good care of your teeth for the sake of your baby.

Danger of teeth problem in pregnancy

There will be a lot of complications and fatality if proper care is not being taken of your teeth during the pregnancy period. Some of the problems include:

• If a pregnant lady is suffering from gum disease or cavities, there will be a good risk of delivering babies with low weight.
• If you are a pregnant lady with the problem of cavity, you might give birth to a premature baby
• You may also get your baby affected by bacteria if you have gum problems or cavities

According to the studies in the past 10 to 15 years, maximum pregnant ladies do suffer from the improper care of teeth and poor hygiene of gums and teeth. Even the gum disease will be affected and lead to periodontal disease. This will also lead to the problems like decay of tendons and bones, inflammation as well as infection. This is not all; rather you will be affected by the serious problems like cardiovascular disease, pancreatic cancer and also Alzheimer’s.

Reasons behind the tooth and gum problems

According to the research, pregnant ladies with quite a high level of progesterone or hormone might have a high risk of gum problem. The lady will be really susceptible to a variety of gum problems. A pregnant lady who is suffering from periodontitis before becoming pregnant will be affected by delivery of low birthrate baby.

We brush our teeth daily because the bacteria present in our teeth due to the remains of food affects our gums as well as teeth. Some bacteria are so powerful that, it affects the teeth and take the shape of a plaque. It is important to remove the plaque immediately or this can give rise to inflammation of the gums or gingivitis. If you keep your mouth and gums untreated, the bacteria will be quite sufficient to destroy the bones present in your mouth. Pregnant ladies must take good care of their teeth as these can lead to severely affect within the baby who is still not born.

Root canal during pregnancy

Some ladies and their family members are quite concerned about whether they will be safe if they go ahead with the procedure of root canalling during the pregnancy period. Pregnancy has different stages. If you can stay in a chair for a long time in a comfortable way, root canalling might not be a problem. But, ladies generally face the discomfort as their belly becomes big and staying in a place for a long time becomes really difficult.

If you are in 2nd trimester, root canalling will not be a problem at all. Some ladies are confined to nightmare and suffer from a variety of problems during any dental treatment. But, if you are strong enough during your pregnancy, root canalling will be quite safe.

X-ray is not safe during the pregnancy period as the baby will be affected with the X-ray. But, if your dentist is really experienced and can do without X-ray, root canalling or any type of dental problems can be eradicated.

Risk of root canal

There is no direct effect of the root canalling procedure on the fetus when the lady is in pregnancy procedure. But, you need to examine the tooth at the first instance. The radiation during the root canalling procedure must be minimal and should be directed toward the mouth. In no ways there must by any radiation in the abdomen. The risks are associated with the root canalling during the pregnancy period or the detrimental effect on the baby. In order to provide the stress free effect, mild antibiotic will be prescribed. You need to consult with your dentist and find out whether, there is a risk of root canalling or not during your pregnancy.

Pregnancy tumors

Pregnancy tumors are the tumors that are developed on the gum tissue. Mostly, they occur near the upper gum line. These appear as large lumps with dark red pinpoint markings and nothing cancerous about them. They do not spread and occur in about 10 percent of women with pregnancy gingivitis.

Pregnancy tumors can bleed and scab that affect your speech and eating habits. They occur at various times in pregnancy. But it is most common during the second trimester and is called as epulides, granuloma of pregnancy, lobular capillary hemangioma, and pyogenic granuloma. So, it is better to maintain good oral hygiene that can prevent pregnancy tumors.

Eat right for your dental care

Eat a healthy and balanced diet that helps to keep your teeth, gums safe. Healthy diet like dairy products, yogurt, cheese, are the best source of essential minerals and are good for baby in developing teeth, bones, and gums. Avoid sugary snacks. Sweet cravings are common during pregnancy and keep in mind that the more frequently you snack, the greater the chance of developing tooth decay.

Dental care tips during pregnancy

• Brush your teeth and floss twice a day with fluoride toothpaste that makes you feel fresh. It also protects you from bacteria and infections.
• Use alcohol free fluoride mouth rinse to keep your mouth refreshed.
• Rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth after episodes of morning sickness. If the toothpaste is causing the morning sickness, talk with your dentist and they will recommend your best toothpastes.
• Consult your dentist regularly and don’t skip and an appointment during pregnancy. Because there are several hormonal changes that can increase the risk of disease.
• Eat balanced diet that helps to keep you protected from dental problems.
• Avoid consuming sugary treats, as they harm your teeth.
• Observe and pay attention to the changes that occur during pregnancy in your teeth and gums.
• Talk with your dentist about the risks and benefits involved with any treatment you need.

Health Benefits of Garcinia Indica

Some of the most important health benefits of Garcinia indica include its ability to speed wound healing, prevent chronic disease, reduce allergic reactions, optimize digestion, protect the skin, boost the immune system, relieve pain, and eliminate inflammation.

Garcinia Indica

Garcinia indica is one of those strange plants that is known by its scientific name just as readily as by its common one. You may know this flowering tree in the Mangosteen family by the name “kokum”, and millions of other people also know about this plant due to its significant medicinal, culinary, cultural, and industrial applications. The Garcinia genus is native to Asian and African tropics, but Garcinia indica, as the name implies, was first discovered in western India. These are hardy, fast-growing plants whose fruits are small and red, in most cases, between the size of a cherry tomato and a small plum. The outer covering or rind of the fruit is typically dried in the sun and then removed. This can be ground into a sour, flavorful spice, while the fruit itself can be consumed directly for a wide range of health benefits.       

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The unique chemical composition ofGarcinia indica, which includes garcinol, HCA, and various otherantioxidant compounds and nutrients, is one reason why this fruit is so highly prized. It is useful in industrial and culinary uses, but when it comes to traditional Ayurvedice medicine, the extracts, poultices, decoctions, and salves made from the fruit of this beloved tree are of great importance. It is also valued in other cultures of Asia and Africa as a health-boosting fruit and remedy. Now, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at some of the many health benefits of Garcinia indica.

Health Benefits of Garcinia Indica

Indigestion: One of the most common uses of Garcinia indica is in the treatment of indigestion and other gastrointestinal issues. The blend of unique chemicals and components in this fruit can help reduce inflammation in the gut and stimulate proper nutrient uptake and digestion of food. This can also help to reduce constipation and diarrhea, as well as IBS symptoms. Mixing Garcinia indica with pepper and salt is the traditional means of treating stomach problems.

Skin Health: If you apply a salve of Garcinia indica extract with butter or some other type of antioxidant cream (aloe, etc.) to the skin, you can greatly reduce the appearance of wrinkles and scars due to the powerful chemical components of this fruit. It is particularly good for speeding wound healing, such as in cracked heels. This can be a chronic and uncomfortable problem, but apply Garcinia indica to the affected area and you will see rapid improvement.

Excess Flatulence: One of the most embarrassing and uncomfortable conditions for many people is being bloated and gassy. Having excess flatulence is often a symptom of a poor diet or less than optimal functioning of your gut. Garcinia indica can help to relieve that pressure and reduce flatulence, as well as gastric distention. Having chronic gas can be dangerous as well as awkward, so act quickly to solve it and add some Garcinia indica to your diet!

Anti-Allergenic Potential: If you apply Garcinia indica directly to an allergic reaction or rash on the skin, its anti-inflammatory properties will help soothe that area and reduce swelling and itchiness. Furthermore, when consumed, some of the organic compounds in Garcinia indica help reduce the release of histamine, thereby lessening the severity of allergic reactions. For chronic treatment of allergies, you can regularly drink a cold infusion of Garcinia indica. 

Immune Booster: Studies have revealed that certain compounds found in significant levels in Garcinia indicahave antibacterial and antiviral properties, meaning that this versatile fruit can also support our immune system by protecting our system against foreign agents and pathogens. This is applicable in both topical and oral applications; these qualities are also complementary to the antioxidant activities of this fruit.

Antioxidant Potential: Some of the most valuable aspects of any fruit or vegetable are the antioxidants contained within it. Antioxidants can seek out and neutralize free radicals, the dangerous byproducts of cellular respiration that can cause mutation and apoptosis on healthy cells, wreaking havoc on the system in the form of chronic disease and even cancer. While research is ongoing in terms of cancer prevention and treatment pathways, the early results of Garcinia indica show higher than average antioxidant activity, making this a potentially important element of any diet.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity: For the millions of people who regularly suffer from inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis and gout, Garcinia indica may represent a solution to an age-old problem. The anti-inflammatory compounds of this beneficial fruit can help relieve the pressure, pain, and swelling in those affected areas. You can topically apply a mixture of Garcinia indica extract or consume the fruit directly to enjoy these sorts of effects.

Weight Loss: Garcinia indica possesses a rather unique chemical called HCA (Hydroxycitric acid), which functions as an appetite suppressant. Along with the fiber found in the fruit that makes us feel full, the HCA in the fruit also keeps us satisfied, preventing us from cheating on our diets or snacking between meals when we’re trying to watch out weight.

Cognitive Health: One of the other main chemical components of Garcinia indica is garcinol, which is a powerful active ingredient that can inhibit the oxidation of neurons in the brain, thereby retaining neural pathways and preventing the plaque build-up that can lead to cognitive disorders. As there is no “cure” for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, these types of herbal or natural remedies are often the most effective.

Heart Health: One of the other roles of garcinol occurs in the heart, where is similarly suppresses oxidizing agents that contribute to heart disease and the build-up of platelets in the arteries and blood vessels. By preventing or slowing down this process of break-down, Garcinia indica can protect us from atherosclerosis and consequent heart attacks and strokes.

A Final Word of Warning: There are no regularly reported side effects of risks of using Garcinia indica. It is even approved of for pregnant and nursing mothers, as well as children. While you should always pay attention to your body’s individual responses after introducing a new food or fruit, all signs point to Garcinia indica being a safe choice!

Health Benefits of Ackee

Some of the most important health benefits of ackee include its ability to lower blood pressure, boost energy levels, support healing and growth, aid digestion, protect against diabetes, lower cholesterol, build strong bones, improve the immune system, and increase circulation.

Ackee

Although it was not widely known outside of Jamaica for many years, ackee is a colorful and delicious fruit that is a popular addition to many exotic dishes and has become a mainstay in Caribbean cuisine, both for its flavor and its beneficial health properties. Scientifically known as Blighia sapida, this fruit is actually native to many of the nations of West Africa, not Jamaica, but it was likely exported there on a slave ship in the 18th century, where it became internationally known. The tree on which ackee grows is an evergreen, and the fruit itself resembles a pear. It is green in its unripened state, but it gradually turns to a yellow, orange, and then reddish fruit that is very recognizable. The fruit eventually splits to reveal three large black seeds surrounded by spongy flesh called the aril, which is the edible part of the fruit.

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Most famously, ackee is the complementary part of saltfish and ackee, the national dish of Jamaica, and is beloved in almost every shop and street of that Caribbean island. More important than its flavor and availability, this fruit is packed with vitamins, nutrients, and organic components that make it a useful dietary tool for a number of health conditions. Now, let’s take a closer look at the many health benefits of ackee.

Health Benefits of Ackee

Digestive Issues: The rich fiber content of ackee makes it an ideal digestive aid, given that dietary fiber helps to bulk up stool, as well as eliminate constipation, by inducing peristaltic motion in the gut. This helps move food along, preventing bloating, cramping, constipation, and other inflammation of the colon, which can lead to even more serious issues, such as colorectal cancer. Dietary fiber also helps to lower cholesterol and boost heart health!

Blood Pressure: For those suffering from elevated blood pressure, most natural health practitioners suggest increasing your intake of potassium, which is easily accomplished with ackee. The high potassium content acts as a vasodilator, reducing the strain and work that your cardiovascular system must do to pump blood through the body, thereby lowering your chances of atherosclerosis and damage to your arteries and blood vessels.

Diabetes Control: Instead of being packed with empty carbs and calories, ackee is rich in complex, energy-producing carbs, which can help to regulate the sugar levels in your body. By preventing the dips and spike in glucose levels that you get from simple sugars, ackee is able to help fend off Type II diabetes. The high fiber content in ackee is also a great way to regulate glucose and insulin levels in the blood.

Heart Health: Aside from its impact on blood pressure, ackee also boasts an impressive range of beneficial fatty acids, including stearic, linoleic, and palmitic acids. Those particular acids are unsaturated fats, which is the type of fat that you want to improve your heart health and lower dangerous cholesterol levels. By eliminating most unhealthy saturated fats from your diet, you protect yourself against atherosclerosis, strokes, heart attacks, and coronary heart disease.

Protein Power: One of the key ingredients in a healthy diet is protein, and getting it from a delicious fruit like ackee is even smarter! Protein is essentially the building block of cells, muscle tissue, and other important aspects of our body that needs to be continually replenished. Ackee isn’t always praised for its high protein content, but it is unusually high for a fruit.

Bone Strength: There are a number of essential minerals found in ackee, including calcium, phosphorous, iron, and zinc, all of which contribute to healthier bones and help to prevent bone loss and demineralization. Having a consistently high intake of minerals can slow, stop, or reverse the effects of osteoporosis as we age, leaving us stronger for longer!

Immune Effects: One of the most common vitamins found in fruits and vegetables is vitamin C, and ackee is no exception. With a rich ascorbic acid content, ackee helps to boost our immune system by promoting the development of white blood cells, and contributing some of its antioxidant powers to preventing chronic diseases and cellular mutation. Furthermore, vitamin C is an integral part of collagen, which is required by the body to make muscles, blood vessels, and tissues.

Circulation: If you suffer from anemia, it means you have a lack of iron in your diet. Ackee’s iron contentsolves that problem perfectly, ensuring that you avoid the side effects of anemia, such as weakness, cognitive disorders, lightheadedness, and digestive distress. Iron is a key component of hemoglobin, which is necessary to produce RBC (red blood cells).

A Final Word of Warning: Despite the many benefits of this fruit, it is highly toxic when eaten before it ripens. Never consume an ackee fruit until it opens naturally; that is when you know it is safe. Prior to that, it can cause “Jamaican vomiting sickness”, and in the most extreme cases, coma and death. In other words, be careful where you get your ackee for that saltfish dish!

How to look beautiful during occasions and festivals?

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People might not care about their looks when they stay at home. But, as soon as they are knocked with a special occasion, there lies variety of option through which you can look beautiful. When you are going for a wedding party, you cannot just dress up and keep your face as it is as you stay at home. When festive season arrives, all ladies are in their toes to look beautiful. They always need to look good among the crowd when the festive season arrives. You may find variety of make ups that is suitable for every occasion. If you are belonging to Bengali community, durga puja is the famous festival that is celebrated by the people staying in west Bengal and other parts of India. You can now arrange your entire beauty package along with matching dress and accessories to be worn each day. You can now get some wonderful tips for looking beautiful during the occasion.

Most women are careless about their looks when they stay at home. But, as soon as they are knocked with a special occasion, they try variety of options to improve their looks. An invitation for a wedding party or arrival of the festive season all ladies are on their toes to look beautiful. Different occasions and festivals are times when mostwomen want to be attractive as it is the place where they gain maximum attention.  Most of women tryto look different than usual on occasions and festivals. They try different types of make up to look beautiful.

Tips to look beautiful during occasions

From tip to toe

Some women give more importance to face for looking beautiful. Not only face alone would help you look ravishing. So, it is better to take care from top to toe and present yourself in a neat and gorgeous manner. Here are some tips to look beautiful.

Comb your hair properly

Hair style gets more attention among the crowd. Comb your hair gracefully and wisely during festivals to look beautiful. You can also choose based on the nature of a festival you celebrate. Shampoo your hair and leave it free, if you are going to get together or any formal occasion. If it is a traditional festival, you can choose a braided hairstyle. Avoid applying oil to your hair during festival time, as it makes you look dull.

Select perfect clothes for perfect attire

Choose a dress that makes you look beautiful for occasions. You just focus on the type of dress you choose for different occasion. You can also try saris with grand designer work, if you feel comfortable. Try something new with extra care when you are about to experiment. You should not face to be the culprit in showing that you are uncomfortable with your clothes. Select colors that compliment your skin tone.

Charming face

Face is a major role in uplifting your beauty. Give equal importance to the eyes, eyebrows, lips, and cheeks. Apply proper makeup to your face. Keep your eyes look fresh and avoid crying and rubbing your eyes. Wash your eyes with cold water, which helps you to keep your eyes look beautiful. Shape your eyebrows, brush your brows in an upward direction to get the perfect shape. Use petroleum jelly to cover any bags around your eyes. Use branded concealer. Mascara makes you look beautiful with gorgeous eyes. For lips, you can use natural beet-root juice around your lips or give a lustrous shade or ghee. Moisturize your lips to protect from sun and cold.

Smoothness of skin with raw milk

If your skin becomes rough and the best way to eradicate the roughness is through the aid of raw milk. You can simply apply raw milk in such area or make a paste of raw milk, sandalwood powder and cucumber juice and apply in those areas where the dark spot and roughness has occurred.  Even the dryness of your skin will be eradicated once you apply it twice in a day and make your skin soft and supple.

Orange peels to remove acne

If you have oily skin, acne will be one of the problems which you are suffering from. If you can apply mask of orange peel off, this will work as a wonder to remove acne from your skin. You can now get many branded products in the market that include orange peel off mask. You can either get one of those products from the market or simply make it at home. You can arrange some dry, peel of orange and powder it by using the grinder. You can add some drops of honey and cucumber extract in it and apply the same on your skin.

Urad dal (Vigna Mugo)

Most of the women have dark elbows and knees even if the complexion is fair. It looks really odd when dark elbows and knees can be seen in white complexion of skin. But, you can easily get a remedy exclusively at home. You can get some Urad dal overnight and grind the same into a paste. You can now add some papaya paste to the same. After the mixture is prepared, you are now free to apply the same on the back side of your hand, i.e., elbow and in the knees so that the uneven darkness and patches can be removed.

Treatment for shiny hair

When you are dressing up during the day of the festival, healthy and beautiful fair is also needed to complete your total beauty.  Soak some henna and Mehandi for your hair and add some amla powder in the solution. Applying lemon juice with the same will be another wonderful idea. Apply the pack of henna or Mehandi to your hair and see the shine of your hair.

Preventing skin tone

During the festive season, it will be obvious that you will be visiting a variety of places. Sunlight will always be a factor if you move out during the day. Thus, you are given a good chance to the UV rays to get penetrated into your skin. This gives rise to the tanning of your skin. Some people also get skin irritation, patches, redness and blotches on the skin.

Hands and legs

Take care of your hands and legs to look healthier. Apply proper moisturizer and sunscreen lotion and proper waxing. Shape your nails with pedicure and manicure. Choose proper and branded nail polish that suits the dress you wear. Apply two coatings to your nails to give a classy look.

Start from head to toe

Getting ready for an occasion does not mean giving importance to the face only.  The aim of dressing up at these times must be to present oneself in a neat and gorgeous manner from head to toe.

 Dress

Select the perfect dress for the occasion or festival. The dress should be chosen by keeping the age, occasion and body of the woman. Indian saris are the best choice to be worn on weddings and festivals. The colour of the dress must also compliment with the skin tone of the wearer.

Charming Face

Face plays a major role in enhancing the beauty of a person. Equal importance must be given to the eyes, eyebrows, cheeks and lips. Care of the eyes must be started a few days before the occasion.  Eyebrows must be given a perfect shape by brushing it upwards.  Lips must be kept soft and shining by applying butter or ghee a week before the festival to keep it moisturized.

It is advisable to go for a home made facial to bring glow on the paste. A perfect face mask can be made by making a paste using besan, turmeric, milk cream and honey. Apply it on the face and neck, leave it for 20 minutes before washing it off.

Hands and Legs

A proper pedicure and manicure will enhance the beauty of the hands and feet. The nails need to be shaped properly and a branded nail polish should be chosen that would match the colour of the dress. A classy look can be given to the nails by applying two coats of the nail paint. Hands and feet can also be traditionally decorated with mehndi, depending on the festival or occasion. Foot wear is another important part of dressing which must be selected by keeping in mind the weather, dress, and occasion. Always chose a comfortable footwear for any occasion.  Studded and bright chappals and sandals go well on weddings and festivals.

Accessories

Hand bags and jewellery is another part of to be given importance.  They play an important role in adding charm and grace to the personality of a person. Heavy and traditional jewellery are a part of dressing for festivals and wedding ceremonies. On the other hand light delicate jewellery will go better on other formal occasions.

Make-up

Makeup is an art that gives an instant makeover to the woman in a unique way.A tired, acne-filled or dry face can be easily transformed into fresh, radiant one in a matter of minutes with a proper make up. This can be done at home or by an expert in a salon just before the occasion or festival.

Other important factors to beautify yourself naturally

Along with external maintenance of skin, it is also equally important to maintain yourself from inside. Water is an important factor which maintains balance in your body and provides a wonderful glow in your skin.  You need to consume at least 8 – 10 glasses of water in a day in order to look beautiful and get skin glow naturally.

Weight gain can be another problem that can come as a hindrance in your path. You must consume balance diet which is filled with all types of vegetables as well as fruits. Your weight cannot increase with appropriate bowel movement and fiber content in your diet.

You can carry on with little bit of stretching exercise so that your skin does not become saggy during the festive season. If you do not have enough time to carry on with 30 minutes of regular exercise, its times to take things in a different way with health benefits.

Festival brings lots of joy and happiness in your life. You might be waiting for the whole year to embrace the occasion. Looking good among the crowd will be another important factor. The above mentioned natural treatment will make you beautiful whatever and however you dress up during the festive season.

13 Herbs and Spices That Can Reduce Inflammation

Inflammation is your body’s protective response to injury or damage. It helps your natural healing and repair processes. A problem starts when your body is chronically inflamed. Many modern stressors, such as pollution, food sensitivities and carrying extra weight, can lead to chronic inflammation.

Chronic inflammation has been linked to a wide variety of diseases, including cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease and attention deficit disorder (ADD).

You don’t have to accept inflammation as a part of modern life. There are many different herbs that can help you reduce or prevent inflammation in your body.

1. Turmeric (Curcumin)

The anti-inflammatory agent in turmeric is its yellow pigment called curcumin. Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines have long used turmeric and curcumin to reduce inflammation as well as treat digestive disorders, wounds and infections.

Studies have shown that curcumin also acts as an antioxidant and may combat cancer. Fresh or powdered turmeric is excellent in curries, soups or other dishes. Fresh turmeric can be added to fresh vegetable juices. Supplements of curcumin are also available.

2. Green Tea

The preventative effects of green tea against cardiovascular disease and cancer are well established. More recent studies have shown that green tea can be an effective anti-inflammatory, particularly in the treatment of arthritis. It can also reduce inflammation of the digestive tract, potentially helping conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

It’s recommended to drink 3 to 4 cups of tea daily. Green tea extract can also be found in pill form. And for those who don’t want the caffeine, decaffeinated green teas are available.

3. White Willow Bark

White willow tree bark has been used as a treatment for pain and inflammation since ancient Egyptian and Roman times. Many studies have shown that white willow bark has a comparable effect to aspirin, but with fewer side effects than aspirin.

The usual dose of white willow bark is 240 mg per day for ongoing conditions. There are also herbal blends that contain white willow bark which can be used for an acute event, such as a headache.

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4. Maritime Pine Bark (Pycnogenol)

Bark from the maritime pine tree (Pinus maritima) can be processed into pycnogenol. This extract has been used for over 2,000 years to help heal wounds, scurvy and ulcers as well as reducing vascular inflammation. It is one of the strongest antioxidants known today.

Studies have shown that pycnogenol is 50 to 100 times more potent than vitamin E in neutralizing free radicals in the body. It has also been found to reduce blood pressure and the risk of blood clots. A typical dosage is 100-200 mg daily.

5. Chili Peppers (Capsaicin)

The countless varieties of hot peppers we have today began as one small shrub (Capsicum annum), native to tropical regions of the Americas. The chemical capsaicin is what makes a pepper hot. And it’s capsaicin that’s been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect in your body.

Any type of chili pepper, such as cayenne or jalapeno, contains capsaicin. You can use chili peppers fresh or powdered in a wide variety of dishes, including desserts. Supplements containing capsaicin are often mixed with other herbs to create natural anti-inflammatory blends.

6. Frankincense (Boswellia serrata)

Boswellia is a tree variety native to India, Somalia, Ethiopia and the Arabian Peninsula. Frankincense is a resin extracted from the trees. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic and pain-controlling properties. Boswellia resin is currently used to treat degenerative and inflammatory joint disorders.

One study showed that a combination of Boswellia and curcumin was more effective for treating osteoarthritis than a commonly used synthetic drug. It’s recommended to take 300-500 mg of Boswellia extract two or three times a day for ongoing inflammatory conditions.

7. Black Pepper

This unassuming spice actually packs an anti-inflammatory punch. The distinctive flavor of black pepper comes from the chemical piperine. Even at low doses, piperine has been shown to reduce inflammation. It can inhibit the spread of cancer and has been shown to suppress the perception of pain and arthritis symptoms.

8. Resveratrol

This is an antioxidant found in many plants. The highest amounts have been found in Japanese knot weed (Polygonum cuspidatum) and in the skins of red wine grapes. Resveratrol has been shown to be a strong anti-inflammatory. It also protects against DNA damage and mutations. You can find resveratrol as a common supplement in natural food stores. A typical dosage is from 50 to 500 mg per day.

9. Cat’s Claw (Uncaria tomentosa)

This herb is derived from a woody vine native to Peru. The bark of cat’s claw has traditionally been used to treat arthritis, bursitis and intestinal disorders. Studies have shown that it can reduce inflammatory responses in the body and it has a protective effect against gastrointestinal inflammation.

You can make a tea from cat’s claw from either a prepared tea or use 1000 mg of the bark to 8 ounces of water. It is also available as a dry extract in a capsule. It’s recommended to take 20 to 60 mg daily.

10. Rosemary

In one study, participants were given small amounts of various common herbs and spices for a period of 7 days. Rosemary showed one of the strongest protective effects against inflammation and oxidation.

The other top spices were turmeric, cloves and ginger. The researchers noted that the amounts given of each herb were no more than what someone would normally eat in a seasoned soup, sauce or other dish.

11. Cloves

Clove oil can be applied directly to the gums to help with a toothache or for pain control during dental work. Cloves have been shown to reduce mouth and throat inflammation. Cloves can also be used to treat diarrhea, nausea, hernia, bad breath and as an expectorant.

The powdered or whole dried flower buds are delicious in many savory dishes as well as in desserts and hot drinks.

12. Ginger

Research has shown that ginger has a better therapeutic effect than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to treat pain and inflammation. Ginger also inhibits the activation of several genes involved in an inflammatory response.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ginger may help prevent or treat nausea and vomiting from motion sickness, pregnancy and chemotherapy. It can also be used to reduce osteoarthritic pain and heart disease. Ginger is delicious in many savory dishes, as well as in teas, juices and desserts.

13. Cinnamon

This popular spice is made from the bark of cinnamon trees native to China, India and Southeast Asia. In addition to being anti-inflammatory, cinnamon has been shown to have antioxidant, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anticancer and lipid-lowering properties. It has even been found to act against neurological disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.

Cinnamon goes well in anything from breakfast grains, to soups and stews, to desserts and drinks. Any pre-made apple pie or pumpkin pie spice mixes will often have cinnamon, cloves and ginger all in one tasty blend.

Conflicting Information on the Benefits of Foods – Which is Correct?

This Tuesday, I had just returned home after watching the movie “The Descendants” and was about to retire to bed when I decided to check my emails. I found a very interesting question raised by an Organic Facts visitor – Erik. Erik likes Organic Facts and reads the articles with great attention. However, he pointed out one very difficult question.

“In one article organic-oils/organic-coconut-oil/health-benefits-of-coconut-oil.html) about the health benefits of Coconut oil, your site talks about how good it is in helping to reduce Cholesterol levels, then in another article (nutrition-facts/others/little-known-cooking-methods-to-cut-down-high-cholesterol-levels.html) your site talks about how Coconut oil should be substituted with Olive Oil to help reduce Cholesterol levels. Which is it?”

It’s a great question. Which is it? For almost all foods (not just coconut oil), you will find several conflicting views and information (even research reports). But the question is: why?

Our bodies are all different and react differently to different foods: Take the example of peanuts. Is it safe to eat peanuts? The answer is both yes and no. It all depends on how your body reacts to peanuts. We all know of several cases where peanut allergy has caused quick and somewhat painful death.

==========================================================================================================================================The same can be the case with milk. If you are lactose intolerant, you are sure to have a very bad time for at least a day after drinking only half a cup of milk. Yet, there are other people in this world who drink over a liter of milk every day!

In the context of coconut oil, there are several visitors to Organic Facts who have claimed to have benefited from coconut oil. On the contrary, there are others who have informed us that their cholesterol levels have increased.

Similar responses have been received for other food items. For example, some people have reported that their weight has reduced after regular consumption of lime juice, while others have reported no effects at all.

Beliefs often govern what we hear, see, and read

When people talk about different foods, there is an inherent element of propaganda. No, I am not talking about the “Happy Cow” and similar cases where companies show you a false image to sell you a product or make money. I am talking about beliefs held by people, which are then converted into propaganda. For example, you will find several people (and groups) that claim milk (here we are referring to milk obtained from cows, buffalo, goats, and similar animals) is quite good for human health. There are also others who have a “no-milk” policy stating that milk is not good for adults.

Both sets of people will have sufficient examples (both empirical and scientific) to prove their point; which one they choose depends on their belief.

Another example is organic food. Several people who write about organic food (including the Organic Facts team) do so because of their beliefs. If we are to look for scientific research, we will find more scientific research proving that chemically sprayed food and genetically modified food is better for human health. However, consumers and proponents of organic food happily ignore the research (discarding it as being biased or fake).

So finally, lets come to Erik’s question – which of the above two articles is correct? Erik’s question was difficult not because it’s not easy to answer, but because there is no correct answer. Often (in the kind of articles that you find on Organic Facts and similar websites), the point put forward is based on the beliefs that the author of an article has. So both the articles are right in their own way.

Here is what we wrote to Erik “In case you have high cholesterol levels, and if you are deciding which oil is good for you, monitor your cholesterol levels regularly and see if your body reacts positively or negatively to an oil. Kindly do not blindly follow any information, including that provided on Organic Facts.”

Coconut Oil for Hair

Coconut oil is very popular and frequently preferred as hair oil worldwide. Before you start using this oil for its many beneficial, functions, perhaps you should find out what makes it so special, and why millions of people choose to use it.

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Many people living in coastal areas of the world, more specifically in the areas where coconuts grow in abundance, know that the the sweet smelling coconut oil is their one and only hair oil. These are areas like the Indian Subcontinent, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, Burma, Philippines, and parts of the Caribbean.

Coconut oil is rich in carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals which are good for the human body. However, coconut oil is not limited to hair; it is used in the preparation of cosmetic soaps and creams, and in Asian countries, it is also used for preparing various kinds of food and salads.

Coconut oil has been in use as hair oil for thousands of years, and it has shown remarkable results. Certain components in it keep the hair strong, nourished and protected from the effects of premature aging, like baldness and excessive hair loss. Let’s see what some of those benefits to hair are, and what components of coconut oil are responsible!

Benefits of Coconut Oil for Hair

Hair Loss: Coconut oil has been used since ancient times in India for grooming hair. Various remedies were prepared using herbs and coconut oil to prevent hair loss. One such remedy can be prepared in modern times by boiling sage leaves in coconut oil. This mixture can be applied to the scalp for the improvement of healthy hair, and its use will also prevent hair loss.

Applying a mixture of lime water and coconut oil can also provide relief from hair loss, as does the mixture of coconut oil and gooseberries. Boil the gooseberries in coconut oil and then apply it on the hair.

Hair Damage: The use of coconut oil on hair helps to reduce protein loss in both damaged as well as undamaged hair. Coconut oil rich in lauric acid, has a high affinity for hair protein, and easily penetrates inside the hair shaft, which is due to its low molecular weight. It can be used for pre-wash or post-wash hair grooming.

Cooling Properties: The application ofcoconut oil on the head and scalp also has a cooling effect. It can cool and soothe people with hot heads, or those who suffer from severe scalp sweating.

Moisture Retention: Coconut oil has a high moisture retaining capacity, since it is not easily broken down nor evaporated, being very stable. It does not let moisture escape, thus keeping hair moist and soft, which prevents breakage of hair.

Hair Conditioning: Coconut oil is a better conditioner for hair than any synthetic one available in the market. Use of warm coconut oil helps in keeping hair shimmering and soft. Apply some warm oil at night and wash your hair the next morning. This can be repeated every few days for healthy, strong and conditioned hair.

Anti-Dandruff: The various fatty acids present in coconut oil serve as very good anti-dandruff agents and are far better than any anti-dandruff shampoo. Regular application of coconut oil can help you get rid of dandruff forever. Coconut oil mixed with lukewarm water and castor oil can also be effective in treating dandruff. Massage the scalp and hair with this mixture for ideal results.

Another home remedy for dandruff can be prepared by mixing coconut oil with sesame oil. Apply this mixture for about 30 minutes and then shampoo the hair.

Styling: Coconut oil can be a good styling oil for hair as well, as it melts on heating and then condenses when cooled. Therefore, when you apply it on your hair, it thins and spreads evenly due to the heat of the scalp. Soon afterwards, as the hair comes in contact with air, the oil on the hair condenses, thus working as a styling gel or cream.

Lice Protection: Lice are a very common pest found in the hair and can cause embarrassment for anyone. They also have a tendency to come back again and again. There are many chemical products available for the treatment of lice, but unfortunately, they can also damage the scalp and hair due to their strong chemical components. Combing wet hair with a fine comb is a good remedy for getting rid of lice but this may also damage the wet hair. However, if one coats the wet hair with coconut oil, it becomes much easier to comb and subsequently remove the lice.

Hair Care for Dry Hair: For people with dry hair that is rough and thin, taking good care of your hair is a big concern. However, using strong hair care products for cleansing, toning and conditioning may lead to a dry and flaky scalp. Coconut oil can be effective in taking care of this sort of dry hair.

Hair Toning: Coconut oil also helps in the toning of hair, especially dry hair. Apply a warm mixture of coconut oil and lavender essential oil on scalp at night, then wash and rinse your hair the next morning. You may repeat this as frequently as you want until you see your desired results.

Hair Conditioning:  Hair conditioner can be easily prepared at home using coconut oil. It is not only effective; it also does not have side effects.  Mix some henna with coconut oil and warm milk to make a paste. Apply this to the hair for 20 minutes and then rinse hair properly. This hair conditioner is very effective, particularly for dry hair.

Boils: Some people experience the condition of boils on the scalp, especially during the winter. This may also happen if exposed to heat or sun for a long duration. It is important to keep both the hair and scalp clean, and occasional massaging of the hair with a mixture of coconut oil and olive oil may provide relief from the uncomfortable and unsightly problem of boils. However, if the problem persists, it is advisable to contact your health care specialist.

Split Ends: If you have a lot of split ends in your hair, it is generally advised to cut them, but in case this problem appears on a small number of your hair strands, then you can use simple home remedies to solve the problem. Massage your hair with a mixture of coconut oil and almond oil for a few minutes; this will help in minimizing the split ends.

Gray Hair and Baldness: Coconut oil is also beneficial for preventing baldness and gray hair. Try mixingBhringraj or Eclipta Alba leaf juice into coconut oil and apply this on the scalp and hair.

Coconut oil is widely available in the market. Many people choose an odorless variety, use it for any and all hair conditions, and reap all the benefits of a healthy head of hair!

Coconut Oil in Shampoo

You may not be aware of this, but your shampoo likely contains coconut oil, at least in small amounts. Lately, people have come to understand how important natural oils are for hair nourishment. Oddly enough, over the past three decades or so, using oil on hair was viewed as a sign of backwardness or ignorance. The majority of people believed that, particularly in India.

The most popular look was wind-blown, fluffy light hair, resulting from indiscriminate use of oil-less, caustic and chemical-based shampoos. Very soon, however, those who oiled their hair continued to do so, while the other group had no hair left to shampoo. The excessive use of shampoo often results in drying up and breaking away of hair and total devastation of the health of the scalp.

That is when oils began to make their way into the shampoos and manufacturers began widely using coconut oil in shampoo. The major manufacturers learned a lesson from the old men and women with natural, strong jet-black hair living in coastal areas of India and neighboring countries who had been using coconut oil on their hair since childhood. Their unbelievably healthy hair was due to the coastal climate and the cultural traditions that placed pure coconut oil as an important part of their health regimen.

Commercially, using coconut oil in shampoos showed marvelous results and it was soon a widely accepted additive or pure form of hair care products.

Healthy Hair: With the various benefits such as hair nourishment, anti-aging properties, moisture retention, and vitamin E supplementation, coconut oil in shampoo is one of the best things to aid in the health of your hair.

The Oily Factor: Detergent or soap-based shampoos leave your hair dry, rough, hard and bleached. That is why you occasionally find that your comb does not go smoothly through your hair after you shampooed it. The oil in shampoo counters this effect. In coconut oil, that component comes from natural saturated fats, and they keep the hair smooth and shiny.

Fragrance: Coconut Oil adds a sweet and refreshing scent to the shampoos as an added bonus.

Here is a good video on how to use coconut oil for hair care in the optimal way.

How to Learn 3 of the Quickest Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage

Shaking off body fat is not considered one with full of twists and turns. However, you need time and real perseverance to shake it off. Even though fat deficit normally tags along a gradual, conventional outline, there are measures you can obtain to accelerate the method of shaking off fat and to lose body fat percentage. Going along with several simple measures will help you shake off fat rapidly and securely.

Tip #1: Intensify activity level.

You already know that working out helps burn calories, and burning calorie is important for weight deficit as well as body fat cutback. The most efficient kind of workout for weight or fat deficit is cardiovascular or aerobic workout because they use the biggest muscles within your body and need bigger quantities of oxygen expenditure. Cardiovascular and aerobic workout compels your body to burn huge quantities of calories. Some of the cardiovascular exercises that you can perform include running, jogging, cycling and swimming. You can perform these cardiovascular workouts on a regular basis, if possible four to five days a week for a minimum of 30 minutes each session.

Tip #2: Lessen caloric consumption.

If you want fat deficit to happen, your body has to go through calorie scarcity first, which implies that the amount of calories spent must be lesser than the amount of calories burned. Making pessimistic calorie stability will make amassed fat to be discharged from the adipose tissue then burned, thus decreasing body fat proportion. A caloric shortfall of about 3,500 is required to shake off one pound of body fat. It is suggested that a person should at least lessen caloric intake by about 500 calories daily for a secure, stable speed of weight deficit and to have efficient body fat lessening. The more enormous your daily caloric loss is, the more weight deficit you will gain. However, you might avoid sufficient nutritional nourishment for your body through this.

Tip #3: Strength train.

Strength exercise or weight lifting is considered extremely efficient in burning calories since it assists to elevate your body’s metabolic speed to accelerate fat deficit. Besides that, strength training can help you avoid muscle deficit due to dieting and intensified cardiovascular workout. A blend of frequent strength and cardiovascular workout transports a strong one-two punch to your body, resulting in intensified calorie burning, elevated metabolism and preservation of lean body weight. If you want to make the most of the effects of strength training and weight exercises, you must do them approximately three times a week, using weightless to reasonable quantities of weight along with two to three series every workout of 8 to 12 repetitions each series.
If you are contemplating to quickly lose body fat percentage through the most rapid means, try to perform the simple tips mentioned above because they can really help you get rid of those unwanted body fat effortlessly. Include these tips in your list of body fat basics and you will never go wrong with it. Enjoy the workout and diet to the fullest.