Home Remedies

How to Reduce Stress

2009-06-19T10:04:00.000-07:00

How to reduce Stress : How it can make your allergies even more miserable

Have you ever noticed that sometimes when you're having a really tough day, you sneeze a lot and your skin feels itchier?

It's not a coincidence, your emotions may have been the trigger.

Researchers are now finding that certain allergic disorders like hay fever, eczema and asthma are regulated, in part, by hormones and brain chemicals released into the bloodstream in response to stress.

When it rains, it really does pour.

The nervous system is the interpreter of which events are "stressful" and determines how the body responds to the stress.

Negative emotional responses disturb the carefully constructed equilibrium of the brain systems, putting some parts into overdrive and others into underdrive.

The body produces a number of factors including hormones (e.g., cortisol) and neurotransmitters (e.g., adrenalin) which, in turn, can influence other systems in the body such as the immune system.

If this imbalance goes on unchecked and becomes persistent, long-term damage, allergies and disease can result.

In other words, it is the wear-and-tear from chronic overactivity or underactivity that is potentially damaging

Most information about allergies discuss what the specific allergen is and how once found out what needs to be avoided.

Information about the emotions and the psychology of an allergy sufferer is often left out of the picture.

Allergic reactions occur when the immune system reacts to stress in an inappropriate way.

Instead of digesting properly or cleaning the air that has been inhaled it reacts in a different manner.

Alarm Reaction Adrenaline and a variety of hormones is released to combat the stress and to stay in control.

The muscles tense, the heart beats faster, the breathing and perspiration increases, the eyes dilate, the stomach may clench.

Once the cause of the stress is removed, the body will go back to normal.

Resistance or Adaptation occurs when the stress isn’t resolved.

Hormones that increase blood sugar levels to sustain energy and raise blood pressure are released.

The adrenal cortex produces hormones to continue battling the stress.

Should there be a prolonged period of time with no relief, sufferers become prone to fatigue, concentration lapses, irritability and lethargy as the effort to sustain arousal slides into negative stress.

Exhaustion, Finally, the body has run out of its reserve of body energy and immunity.

Mental, physical and emotional resources suffer heavily. The body experiences “adrenal exhaustion”.

The blood sugar levels decrease as the adrenals become depleted, leading to decreased stress tolerance, progressive mental and physical exhaustion, illness and collapse.

All of this can lead to many kinds of symptoms, here are a few for example :

Skin symptoms : Dermatitis, hives, eczema, burning lips, dry skin patches, itching, swelling and blisters, red weals, sores on face, ulcers, perspiration, dandruff.

Cardiovascular symptoms : Pain around heart, racing heart, palpitations and irregularities, flushes, erratic pulse.

When the total stress load is more than the body and the adrenal glands can cope with, that is when allergic symptoms appear.

If the stress load can be lightened, they will tend to disappear. In other words, if the total body load of stress is high, the threshold at which allergic symptoms appear will be low, and vice versa.

So one of the basic treatments for allergic disease is this one ; lower the total stress load.

Ways of Reducing the body's toxic load to reduce stress

Avoid Negative emotions : Hormones generated by negative emotions such as fear and resentment are very potent, and toxic in excess.

Eat clean foods : Buy as organically as possible and learn to cook in a healthy style. Avoid processed foods.

There are many ways you can reduce stress, you might want to consider some of the following : taking time to relax, following a healthy diet, exercising, distancing yourself from stressful people and stressful situations.

Hay fever and Energy

2009-06-13T20:46:00.000-07:00

Sneezing?

Runny nose?

Itchy eyes?

Spring is the time of year for allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever.

This is caused by an allergic reaction to pollen floating through the air.

The common understanding is that this is caused by a disorder in the immune system.

According to Chinese medicine :

“It's caused by the weakness of "defense qi," which is defense energy.”

There is a remarkable similarity in these two understandings, if the function of defense qi in Chinese medicine can be likened to the function of the immune system.

There are different kinds of qi.

In treating hay fever, a Chinese medicine practitioner will tonify the defense qi with herbal medicine and unblock the nose through acupuncture.

According to Chinese medicine what causes defense qi to be lower in the first place is firstly, it's improper diet because … the [source] of energy comes from nutrition.

This can be understood in the same way that power is needed to operate anything. Just like power, our power is from the food we eat—and sleeping.

Chinese medicine understands that different foods have different “temperatures”, which is different from the understanding of nutritional content in Western medicine.

Foods may range from hot to cold to neutral. Different foods have different effects on the body, depending on their “temperature.”

The idea is to restore balance to the body.

Thus, if an illness is said to be “cold” ,such as a cough or runny nose, “warmer” foods should be taken, such as ginger and shallot soup.

Conversely, if an illness is “hot”, such as a dry, sore throat and sweating, “cooler” food should be taken, such as a banana, cucumber, and tofu.

Impaired digestion can also lower defense qi.

People with absorption problems would find that their energy is lower because poor absorption of food means that food cannot be broken down adequately to provide energy.

Treatments are tailored to the patients, who are diagnosed by recording the symptoms, and every detail needed to be known, including the sweating conditions or energy level, tiredness or digestive function.

Herbs are thus prescribed according to multiple factors.

There are hundreds of different kinds of herbs, and any one prescription may be a combination of up to 10 different kinds.

Chinese herbal medicines, including bupleurum, Chinese skullcap, ginger, licorice, and ginseng, have a history of use in China and Japan for the treatment of hay fever. Other products may contain magnolia derivatives.

Chinese herbal remedies have been used to combat hay fever and other allergies for centuries.

Studies on the efficacy of herbal and acupuncture treatments of Chinese medicine in treating hay fever have been published in medical journals.

A German study published in the journal Allergy found that hay fever sufferers who received weekly acupuncture treatments and took three daily doses of Chinese medicinal herbs showed fewer symptoms and were less likely to say their hay fever was infringing on their daily activities than people who received placebo treatment.

After six weeks, it was found that 85 percent of patients showed overall improvements in their hay fever, compared with only 40 percent of the placebo group.

Usually, patients tend to see the difference, sometimes after one session, sometimes after a week.

Herbal Remedies for the Common Cold and Flu

2009-05-31T08:44:00.000-07:00

The reasons many of us get winter colds and flu are numerous. Viruses causing most respiratory infections are always mutating, and our immune systems have trouble handling these ever-changing germs.

Viruses can survive on non-porous surfaces for hours. If you turn a door handle recently touched by a sneezing, sniffling person, then lift a hand to your nose, you’ve infected yourself. some respiratory viruses, notably influenza, become airborne when someone coughs.
You only need to inhale three tiny viruses to become sick.

The symptoms are usually runny nose, sneezing, sore throat and cough.

Influenza is not as common as colds. Two main types of influenza viruses — A and B — cause most cases of the flu. Influenza viruses spread in the air and via direct contact. Flu symptoms are usually dramatic, with sudden onset of chills, fever and muscle aches. Nasal congestion may not be as marked, but the cough can take weeks or even months to resolve.

Another thing to consider is that the flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

There are some natural herbal remedies which work against common cold and flu

Remedies for the common Cold and Flu:

Elderberry - Elderberry is a traditional herbal remedy for upper respiratory infections. It’s has been shown to reduce the severity and length of flu symptoms. The constituents in Elderberry have a specific action against flu viruses.

Echinacea: A natural remedy that is popular for boosting the immune system. Its antiviral and antioxidant properties make it popular for treating the common cold and flu.

Astragalus: A natural remedy that is widely used in China for boosting the immune system. It is traditionally used as an energy tonic but is popular for treating common colds, respiratory infections and the flu.

Goldenseal: A natural remedy with powerful anti-inflammatory, antibiotic and astringent properties. The root is used for reducing colds, flu, fevers and other respiratory problems.

Ginger: A natural remedy with powerful healing properties. It is used as a diaphoretic to fight off cold and flu. Ginger is well known for treating motion and morning sickness, migraines, nausea, arthritis, respiratory infections. Because of these features, it is popular for treating the flu.

Vitamin C: Eating food high in vitamin C or taking natural vitamin C supplement may help fight off the flu.

Vitamin D: Plays an important role for aiding the immune system to fight microorganisms. Some experts believed that the reason why people are more vulnerable to the flu during winter is because of the lack of sunlight. The shorter days equal to less sunlight which prevents the skin from producing sufficient levels of vitamin D. Taking natural vitamin D supplement during the winter time is recommended by many health experts.

Other ways to fight the flu:

Eating a healthy diet is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of getting the flu. Organic food such as fruit and vegetable are loaded with antioxidants, phytochemicals and many other nutrients that are designed to fight off bacteria and virus. No matter how deadly the microorganism, if you provide your body with the right nutrients, it has a very good chance of destroying it.

Drink herbal teas such as ginger and rosehip, add lemon juiceor cinnamon to give it an extra boost. These are high in antioxidants and full of antiviral properties.

Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Being dehydrated can cause the mucous membranes around your eyes, mouth and nose to shrink which increases the chance of microorganisms getting through these barriers.

Your body needs about 8 hours of sleep per day. Getting enough rest will help boost your immune system.

2008-11-24T21:06:00.000-08:00

Fight Stress With Healthy Herbs and Healthy Eating

Whenever we get too busy or stressed, we all tend to make poor food choices that will actually increase stress and cause other problems. To get the most of your healthy eating and avoid stress, follow these simple tips.

Always eat breakfast

Even though you may think you aren't hungry, you need to eat something. Skipping breakfast makes it harder to maintain the proper blood and sugar levels during the day, so you should always eat something.

Carry a snack

Keeping some protein rich snacks in your car, office, or pocket book will help you avoid bloodsugar level dips, the accompanying mood swings, andthe fatigue. Herbal supplements like Ginseng, Cayenne Pepper and Garlic have all have the nutrients you need.

Healthy munchies

If you like to munch when you're stressed out, you can replace chips or other non healthy foodswith carrot sticks, celery sticks, or even sunflower seeds.

Bring your lunch

Although a lot of people prefer to eat fast foodfor lunch, you can save a lot of money and actually eat healthier if you take a few minutes and pack a lunch at home. Even if you only do this a few times a week, you'll see a much better improvementover eating out.

Stock your home

As important as it is to get the bad food out of your house, it's even more important to get the good food in! The best way to do this is to plan a menu of healthy meals at snacks at the beginning of theweek, list the ingedients you need, then go shop for it. This way, you'll know what you want when you need it and you won't have to stress over what to eat.

2008-11-19T19:23:00.000-08:00

Healthy Skin Secrets Revealed !

(6 tips to get rid of your itchy skin, acne, and other skin conditions !)

Many people with itchy skin and other skin conditions attempt to treat their irritated skin with external face washes, soaps, lotions and treatments. However, there better ways. One of them is by changing your diet a little.

1 A healthful diet rich in natural whole foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans is recommend for treating skin conditions. Americans tend to eat fried foods in large quantities, usually cooked in the most harmful of fats and oils. Not all fats are bad, but the fats that typical families eat make them more prone to develop acne, itchy skin and other skin problems, such as what’s in ice cream, cheese, bacon, and milk.

2 Acne cannot really be treated using creams and soaps because the root of the condition lies beneath the skin. Pimples and blemishes are caused by bacteria and other irritants embedded underneath the skin's oil glands and hair follicles, which are generally caused as a result of improper hygiene and poor diet – such as too much processed, fatty, fried and sugary foods.

3 A skin-healthy diet emphasizes raw and lightly cooked vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables that contain valuable trace minerals and are rich in fiber. Fresh green vegetables are essential.

4 Also include in your diet lean protein sources and complex carbohydrates, such as rice, whole-grain bread, and potatoes. These fiber-rich foods help ensure a clean gastrointestinal tract, which is especially important in the management of skin problems.

5 Eat three healthy meals daily to provide important nutrients and to decrease your appetite for sugary or greasy fried foods.

6 Foods rich in vitamin A, like apricots, watermelon, and broccoli, as well as foods like lean beef, nuts, beans and whole grains that are rich in zinc can also be helpful in reducing itchy skin, acne and other skin problems.

Eczema, and what to do about extremely dry itchy skin

2008-11-11T21:28:00.000-08:00

Characterised by extremely dry, inflamed and itchy skin, eczema is a very common problem that affects one in ten of us.
When eczema ( itchy skin) develops early in life, it is mainly referred to as atopic and usually runs in families with a history of allergies such as hayfever and asthma.

Certain household allergens such as dust, house-mites and animal danders seem to provoke flare-ups. Outbreaks of eczema can also be triggered by viral infections and stress.

Eczema (itchy skin) usually appears on the inner arms, especially elbows, backs of knees and wrists but in severe cases may affect the whole body.

Sometimes tiny itchy blisters appear and the skin can be weepy. Scratching itchy skin can allow germs to pass into the skin which leads to infection.

Eczema also occurs when the skin reacts to certain irritants such as nickel in jewellery, perfumes and plastics. This may also be referred to as contact dermatitis. Long-term use of hydro-cortisone creams makes the skin thinner and more easily damaged.

Here are some better natural alternatives :

Try applying a compress, made with an infusion of chamomile, to itchy skin and inflamed areas. Apply some aloe vera gel to the skin .

• The omega-3 and -6 fatty acids are particularly helpful for eczema sufferers. As well as moisturising skin from within, they also reduce inflammation. It is well worth supplementing your diet with a combination of cod liver oil and borage oil capsules. Zinc, vitamin C and B6 are also important nutrients for promoting skin healing.

• As stress aggravates eczema, finding a way to stay calm and composed helps keep flare-ups at bay. Be sure your diet is rich in anti-stress B vitamins.

• Chinese herbal medicine is often successful at treating skin problems such as eczema. Treatment is specially tailored to each individual.

• Reduce exposure to dust and house-mites as well as any known allergens. Investing in anti-dust-mite bedding often reduces eczema flare-ups.
Wear pure cotton, silk and soft natural fibres next to your skin – avoid prickly wool.

Food allergies can also trigger and exacerbate eczema.

The above remedies take a lot of patience and time.

There is a much faster and effective natural remedy for eczema ( itchy skin ) which is detailed in my book How To Blast Your Allergies Away Forever ! You can check it out here http://www.thenaturalremedies.com

Time Tested Herbal Skin Care Tips

2008-10-29T22:26:00.000-07:00

Glowing and healthy skin is an asset, it’s about beauty and it’s also about health.

Skin care has been important since the dawn of humans. In ancient times, herbal skin care was the only way to take care of skin.

So what are the ways herbal skin care helps your skin ?

Aloe vera, which is an extract from the Aloe plant, is one of the best examples of an herbal skin care product. Freshly extracted aloe vera is a natural hydrant that helps in soothing skin. It also helps in healing cuts and treating sun burns. This I know this from personal experience when I had a serious sunburn. Aloe is an amazing skin healer.

A number of herbs are known to possess cleansing properties. Dandelion, chamomile, lime flowers and rosemary herbs, are a few examples of such cleansers. Their herbal skin care properties are enhanced when they are combined with other herbs like tea.

Antiseptics are another important part of Herbal skin care. Lavender, marigold, thyme and fennel are good examples of herbs that are known to possess antiseptic properties. Lavender water and rose water also form good toners.

Tea plays an important part in herbal skin care. Tea extracts are used for treatment of skin that has been damaged by UV radiation.

Oils prepared from herbal extracts present another means of herbal skin care. Tea tree oil, Lavender oil, borage oil and primrose oil are some popular oils used in herbal skin care. Some fruit oils (e.g. extracts from fruits like banana, apple and melon) find use in shower gels (as a hydrating mix)

Homeopathic treatments and aromatherapies also come under the umbrella of herbal skin care remedies.

Herbal skin care is good not only for the routine nourishing of skin but also for treatment of itchy skin and skin disorders like eczema and psorasis. Most herbal skin care products don’t have any side effects (one of the most important reason for preferring them over synthetic products).

Moreover, herbal skin care products can be easily made at home, hence making them even more attractive. Try the healing power of herbal skin care, it will help keep it youthful and healthful. And if you suffer from a skin condition, it will get you on the road to recovery.

Refresh and Revitalize for Beautiful Skin !

2008-10-13T21:03:00.000-07:00

Natural ‘Organic skin care’ is not only friendlier to skin, but also inexpensive. If exercised in the right way, organic skin care can prevent the occurrence of a lot of skin disorders, including itchy skin, eczema and others, and can help keep your skin healthy and young-looking for a much longer time.

Organic fruits and vegetables are the most popular things on organic skin care routines e.g. cucumber is very common in organic skin care routines. Turmeric, apple, papaya, ginger are others that find a wide use in organic skin care routines.

These organic materials have a very refreshing and vitalizing effect on your skin. Almost every skin care book/guide has section on organic skin care (including the actions of various fruits and vegetables on skin).

So choose the ones that are more suitable for your skin type and start experimenting with them until you finally select the ones that are most suitable for inclusion in your organic skin care routine.

It’s important that you use fresh organic fruits/vegetables. Don’t try to utilise the rotten ones for your skin, their only place is the garbage bin.

Milk is known to posses good cleansing properties; in fact, the name of some skin care products contains the word ‘milk’ in them. A combination of milk with ground oatmeal acts as wonderful cleanser.

Ground oatmeal is especially good for oily skins and is a popular ingredient in organic skin care regimen. It is used in various combinations e.g. with egg, honey, milk and fruits, for preparation of organic facial packs.

Wheat germ is another ingredient in organic skin care procedures. It is rich in vitamin E and is known for its exfoliation as well as moisturising properties.

Wheat germ, in various combinations with other organic materials, is used to prepare facial masks for normal and dry skin types. Wheat germ oil is another way in which wheat germ is used for organic skin care.

Yogurt and sour cream are other organic materials that are popular for their exfoliation and moisturising properties.

Use of organic honey is also popular in organic skin care procedures. It helps in retention of moisture and helps impart a glowing look to skin.

Rose water takes its place as a toner in organic skin care routines. Lavender water is popular too.

‘Organic skin care’ uses combinations of various organic materials that complement each other and enhance each other’s effectiveness. Moreover, these combinations are also helpful in over-riding the harmful effects (if any) of various organic materials that form them.

Organic skin care is really an art that, once perfected, can give wonderful results for your skin in a very cost effective manner.

In the next post I will share with you more tips on anti-aging skin care.

Beneficial foods for Dry Itchy Skin

2008-09-17T17:10:00.000-07:00

Diet and Nutrition

People with dry skin should eat a balanced diet that is rich in protein from vegetable sources and contains plenty of raw foods. Foods that are high in sulfur (like garlic, onions, eggs and asparagus) help keep the skin smooth. Vitamins A and C are good for skin, so foods containing these vitamins (like carrots and apricots) will help keep the skin looking healthy.

Vitamins

As well as including vitamins in your diet, vitamins for dry skin can be applied to your face. Products can be bought that include vitamins C and E, which excellent for dry skin care.

Hydration

Ensure your dry skin is kept hydrated. Drink plenty of water (at least eight glasses a day). A humidifier can also help keep your skin moist if the air is dry. Give your face a sauna by filling a bowl with boiling water and putting your face over it. Add some essential oils or herbs. (Chamomile, lavender and peppermint are good in a facial sauna for dry skin.) If you do add herbs, the water can be kept afterwards and used as a herbal toner.

USING ARTIFICIAL CREAMS AND SUPPLEMENTS

When cleaning your body, avoid using harsh soaps, alkaline soaps or products that contain alcohol or detergents. Instead use mild cleansers, mild soaps or natural-pH products.

Moisturizers need to be applied regularly. They should be applied in the morning and at night. Apply liberally, while your skin is damp. Thick greasy moisturizers or oil-based creams are good dry skin lotions. When choosing a moisturizer or lotion, try and find a lotion for dry skin. Ask your pharmacist or beauty consultant for the best lotion for dry skin, depending on your budget. Body oil (or baby oil) can help combat dry itchy skin or severely dry skin. Apply after a bath.

For dry itchy skin, inflamed skin or a dry skin rash, there are special creams and lotions that can help solve the problem. Choose the lotion or cream that works best for your particular problem.

SUPPLEMENTS

Evening primrose oil supplements are good for all skin conditions. Omega 3, antioxidants and multivitamins will also keep your skin looking healthy.
Conclusion
Dry skin care does not have to be difficult. The right dry skin lotion, a good diet and avoiding the things that contribute to causing dry skin can keep your skin healthy.

Tips for Caring for Dry Skin

2008-09-17T17:04:00.000-07:00

Dry skin (or xerosis) has a low level of sebum, which is the skin's natural lubricant. As it does not have enough sebum, it dries out easily and is unable to retain the right amount of moisture needed for healthy skin.

Dry skin care is important as damaged and dry skin needs to receive the proper treatment. Dry skin lotions can help, but there are lots of other things people can do to minimize dry skin and the damage that it does. Here are some effective tips for caring for dry skin.

What Is Dry Skin and How Is It Caused?

Dry skin (or xerosis) has a low level of sebum, which is the skin's natural lubricant. As it does not have enough sebum, it dries out easily and is unable to retain the right amount of moisture needed for healthy skin.

A number of factors may cause dry skin. It is more common in winter when the cold outside and the heat inside contribute in drying up the skin. It can also be caused by hot water or harsh soaps. Poor diet or smoking can also cause or aggravate the problem. Dry skin may also be a symptom of other conditions, including dermatitis, eczema, ichthyoids, psoriasis, an under active thyroid and diabetes. Dry skin becomes more common as people age.

Problems Faced by People with Dry Skin

People with dry skin may find their skin cracks and peels or becomes flaky. Dry skin may look parched and feel tight after washing. It can also become red,itchy, irritated and inflamed. Dry itchy skin is a common problem for people with dry skin. In extreme cases, there may be deep fissures that bleed.

Dry skin ages more quickly than other types of skin. Wrinkles and fine lines can often become a problem.

Techniques for Dealing with Dry Skin

There are a number of things you can do for effective dry skin care. Baths and showers should be taken in warm, instead of hot, water, and should be kept as short as possible. Soap should be used sparingly. Mild cleansers and pure soaps are better. When drying your skin, use patting motions and avoid rubbing the skin too much. Try massaging your skin to increase the flow of natural oils.

Because cold and heat exacerbate the problems of dry skin, people with dry skin should protect their face and skin when going out into the wind or sun, and they should always wear a sunscreen.

Exercise, a good diet and enough sleep will all help keep your skin healthy.

NATURAL TECHNIQUES

Instead of using a commercial cleanser, use a vegetable oil like olive oil or almond oil.

Aloe Vera is very good for dry skin and it has healing and soothing properties.

Calendula and comfrey soften the skin. They may be used in a facial sauna.

Cold compresses can help alleviate dry itchy skin. Add a few drops of essential oil.

Milk baths are very effective in the treatment of dry skin on the body. Add powdered milk and almond oil to a warm (not hot) bath.

Herbal teas like chamomile, dandelion, peppermint, borage, fennel, coltsfoot or calendula help improve the skin.

A good home remedy for dry skin is to make your own beauty mask. Combine an egg, honey, olive oil and rosewater. Apply onto your skin and leave it there for fifteen minutes before washing off.

Another home remedy for dry skin is to mash some avocado and apply onto your face.

Foods and Vitamins to Beautify Your Skin

2008-08-29T12:02:00.000-07:00

When it comes to caring for your skin, vitamins and good nutrition can be just as beneficial as a good skin care treatment. Vitamins are important in keeping your skin looking and feeling healthy. They can also help prevent and treat any problem areas and skin disorders, including itchy skin. This article discusses:

What are the vitamins that keep your skin healthy?
Which food products/items contain vitamins for a healthy skin?
Learn more on supplements that helps your skin to stay healthy

When it comes to caring for your skin, vitamins and good nutrition can be just as beneficial as a good skin care treatment. Vitamins are important in keeping your skin looking and feeling healthy. They can also help prevent and treat any problem areas and skin disorders. A bad diet that is lacking in vitamins can make your skin blotchy and lifeless, and itchy. When looking at your overall skin care, pay attention to your diet and ensure it includes the right vitamins good for skin care.

Vitamins and Minerals

Here are some of the best minerals and vitamins for healthy skin. Including these skin rejuvenating vitamins in your diet will help keep your skin looking healthy and free from problems.

VITAMIN A

Vitamin A is a very good vitamin for healthy skin. It helps strengthen the skin and repair tissues. It can be taken in foods, as a supplement or as a topical cream. Vitamin A can help prevent dry skin and acne. It can also be used to treat wrinkles.

VITAMIN E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help prevent free radical damage to the skin. Vitamin E is a good vitamin to take when your skin is suffering some damage from the sun or other factors.

VITAMIN C

Vitamin C helps with healing wounds and other damage to the skin. There is some evidence to suggest it may rejuvenate the skin. Vitamin C will also help the immune system fight off illnesses.

VITAMIN D

Vitamin D is an antioxidant that may play a role in skin pigmentation.

VITAMIN B

Vitamin B helps keep your skin tone healthy. It is also a good vitamin for relieving stress, and so it may prevent some of the skin problems (like eczema) that can be caused by stress. There are a number of different vitamins in the vitamin B group.

Vitamin B1 is an antioxidant that helps rid the body of toxins. It can also assist circulation.
Vitamin B2 helps keep the skin healthy. It can also help prevent acne.
Vitamin B3 improves circulation.
Vitamin B5 helps reduce stress.
Vitamin B6 helps keep the immune system healthy.

ZINC

Zinc helps the skin's natural healing process. It is good in preventing the over-production of sebum, which will also help clear up acne. Zinc also helps the immune system.

Foods to Eat for Clear Skin

Skin vitamins can be taken as nutritional supplements or they can be incorporated into your diet. Here are some foods good for your skin.

VITAMIN A

Vitamin A can be found in the following foods:

Eggs
Whole milk
Liver
Carrots
Mango
Spinach
Breakfast cereal

VITAMIN B

Vitamin B can be found in the following foods:

Wheat germ
Oatmeal
Whole wheat
Bran
Whole brown rice
Dairy products
Milk
Liver
Kidney
Fish
Eggs

VITAMIN E

Vitamin E can be found in the following foods:
Almonds
Sunflower seeds
Peanut butter
Hazelnuts
Safflower oil
Spinach
Broccoli
Mango

VITAMIN C

Vitamin C can be found in the following foods:
Oranges
Grapefruit
Mandarins
Lettuce
Spinach
Green peppers
Strawberries
Tomatoes
Cabbage

VITAMIN D

Vitamin D can be found in the following foods.
Milk
Fortified rice
Fortified margarine
Salmon
Tuna
Liver
Cheese

Sunlight can also provide the body with vitamin D.

ZINC

Zinc can be found in the following foods.

Dairy products
Beans and lentils
Yeast
Nuts
Seeds
Cereals
Pumpkin seeds

All of these foods contain good skin vitamins. Foods to eat for clear skin include anything from the list of foods for vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E. Vitamin C foods are good foods to tighten skin.

Conclusion

Eating vitamins good for skin, along with the right skin care treatment, can help keep your skin looking its very best, as well as reducing and preventing problem areas. The skin vitamins mentioned here are beneficial for everyone who wants healthy, problem-free skin.

Tips for Sensitive Skin Care

2008-08-29T11:56:00.000-07:00

Sensitive skin care is more than just choosing the right sensitive skin care product. Sensitive skin has a low tolerance level to certain products or environmental conditions. People with sensitive skin may react quickly to chemicals, heat or wind by developing red, blotchy and irritated skin.

This following form part of this article:

What are the methodologies for dealing with oily skin?
Will fresh fruits and vegetables helps in having a healthy skin?
What is the role of artificial cream and supplements helps in skin care?
Sensitive skin care is more than just choosing the right sensitive skin care product. To provide the best sensitive skin care, you need an overall approach to providing the best possible care.

Sensitive skin has a low tolerance level to certain products or environmental conditions. People with sensitive skin may react quickly to chemicals, heat or wind by developing red, blotchy and irritated skin.

Different people have different levels of skin sensitivity. Some people may react to a product, while for others it produces no effect. Similarly, some people may have a very severe reaction, while others only have a mild reaction.

Problems Faced by People with Sensitive Skin

People with sensitive skin face many problems. The redness, irritation and blotchiness associated with sensitive skin can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. It can be annoying having to avoid everything that may cause sensitive skin to flare up. Providing the right sensitive skin care can be particularly difficult, as many skin products will have a negative effect.

Dealing with Sensitive Skin

NATURAL METHODS

Natural skin care can be an effective way of treating sensitive skin. Natural products are less likely to trigger the reaction that other products may have on sensitive skin. Here are some of the best natural ways to treat sensitive skin.

Food Intake and Hydration

Diet can play a big part in sensitive skin break outs. A healthy diet (containing plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables) will help skin look healthy. People with sensitive skin should pay attention to their diet and take note if any foods seem to trigger a sensitive skin reaction. Even some healthy foods may cause a reaction in some people, so do not discount these when you look at possible triggers. Hot and spicy foods are particularly likely to cause a negative effect.

People with healthy skin should also drink lots of water, which will help keep their skin hydrated. When skin is adequately hydrated, it is healthier and better able to fight off skin irritations.

Herbal Remedies

Herbal remedies are very good for sensitive skin, because they are free from the harsh chemicals that can cause skin problems. Generally, products that contain natural ingredients will be better for your skin and less likely to cause a sensitive skin reaction. Try the following remedies for some special sensitive skin care.

Use almond or jojoba oil to cleanse your face.
Comfrey steeped in water can make a good toner.
Make a facial exfoliate by mixing grapefruit with oatmeal.
Make a face mask out of fruit.
Cucumber and yoghurt also makes a good face mask for sensitive skin.
Licorice is a good product for sensitive skin. Look for skin care products that contain licorice.
Aloe Vera can soothe skin that is red, irritated and blotchy. Apply directly to the skin.

Even when using natural products, people with sensitive skin need to be careful. As some sensitive skin reactions are caused by allergies, even organic products may cause an adverse reaction in someone. Check every product on a small area of your skin first, and stop using a product if it seems to be triggering the symptoms associated with sensitive skin.

Four Ways to Healing Your Itchy Skin , Eczema

2008-08-10T15:43:00.000-07:00

The appearance of patches of reddened and inflamed itchy skin on various areas of the the face, the hands and the wrist occur during a condition called eczema, also known as dermatitis.

This patchy scaly skin can also affect the front of the elbows, the hands and the area behind the knees in the legs as the condition progresses.

However other areas of the body may equally be affected during the condition.

Scratching the affected skin can aggravate the condition to a great extent, unfortunately the affected areas of the skin tend to be very itchy and the desire to scratch such areas is almost irresistible.

The condition of eczema is very often hereditary in families where allergies to various types of substances are prominent.

The condition can be started by an allergic reaction or an allergy to foods, to various types of pollen, to many types of animal fur, and because of exposure to potentially allergenic substances in the environment.

Allergic hay fever often accompanies eczema, either that or it will tend to develop slowly in people already afflicted with eczema.

Histamine is a chemical active in the production of an allergic reaction in the skin, this chemical tends to be at higher levels than normal in people afflicted with the condition of eczema.

Eczema is triggered in many people who have some sort of exposure to various allergens in the environment.

These can include contact with various poisonous plants, poison ivy for example, the metal used in some types of jewelry, such as chrome or nickel, many types of synthetic and natural dyes, the chemicals present in various cosmetics and beauty products, the ingredients utilized to manufacture certain drugs and topical medications for application on the skin, and all sorts of cleaning agents which may or may not be corrosive to skin.

Prolonged exposure to sunlight, the presence of psychological factors like stress, and even an environment with dry and dehumidified air can bring about eczema.

Supplements and herbs for itchy skin

Eczema can be alleviated and relieved to a great extent through the use of supplements and herbal supplements The dry skin and itchiness can be reduced with

1. Vitamins A and E ,as symptoms reduce in intensity, lower the dosage of Vitamin A.

2. The allergic reaction of the body can also be lessened through the use of extracts of the seeds of grape, these extracts abound in antioxidant substances called flavonoids. These plant substances play an essential role in cellular processes.

3. Many external creams have chamomile or licorice extracts as ingredients, these make good topical applications for use on the affected areas of the skin, in people with eczema. The direct application of the cream or topical rub onto the skin can be very soothing , such lotions also reduce the levels of inflammation on the skin.

4. Horsetail herb contains silica which aids malnourished skin and can greatly relieve the symptoms of the itch .

However, the most effective, fastest, and safest herbs to get rid of your itchy skin are detailed in my ebook " How to Blast Your Allergies Away Forever ".

Where do allergies come from ?

2008-08-10T15:20:00.000-07:00

Stop Allergies With These Safe, Natural Treatments

Almost everybody has suffered from an allergic reaction at least once in their life. It is estimated that about 36 million people in America are affected.

Allergies can affect several parts of the body at the same time, manifesting as asthma, food intolerance, eczema, dermatitis, hay fever, itching skin rash and migraine.

Just one of these can ruin and limit your enjoyment of life.

How uplifting can spring be if you know it will cause you untold discomfort and pain from hayfever; and how relaxing is a meal out if some of the ingredients might bring on a migraine that lasts for days?

But where do allergies come from ?

Allergies are an abnormal response of your immune system, which overreacts to exposure to substances called allergens.

These allergens can be anything from food ingredients, drugs, household dust or mites and cigarette smoke to animals.

Basically, your body misreads the substance and your immune system reacts as though you have come into contact with a poison.

It then tries to eliminate it from the body, and in this process, your immune system creates substances that irritate your tissues, substances bearing ominous names such as histamine, leukotrienes, interleukins and tumour necrosis factor.

The result is redness and inflammation of the tissues, pain or itching rashes of the skin, runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, diarhea, joint pains, dizziness and even shock that may be life-threatening.

Conventional drugs can cause all kinds of side effects, including some very severe ones. Remember, with allergies, your body's enemy is literally your over-reactive immune system, and the substances it produces to fight off what it mistakenly thinks are dangerous substances.

Histamine is one of the primary culprits in the allergic reaction, causing itching skin rash, itchiness and red patches of the skin. Conventional treatments such as antihistamines are taken following an allergic reaction and work by reducing histamine levels within your body and thereby reducing symptoms.

One of the main problems associated with the use of antihistamines is drowsiness, even though newer antihistamines are less likely to cause it.

However these, as well as older antihistamines, can cause a host of other side effects such as headache, difficulty in passing urine, nausea and vomiting. Rarely, conventional antihistamines may also cause palpitations, and liver damage.

Control inflammation naturally with fatty acids from fish :

The good news is that the inflammation process can be controlled by using natural supplements such as omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. These are the 'good' type of fats found in oily fish, flax seed oil and perilla oil .

An antioxidant to strengthen your immune system :

Certain antioxidants, such as grape seed extract can be used to fortify your immune system and make it better able to cope with the onslaught of allergens.

Grape seed extracts contain natural plant chemicals called bioflavonoids, which work to reduce the allergic reaction. These are just a few ways to reduce allergies.

However, the most effective and fastest ways to blast your allergies away forever are detailed in my ebook " How to blast your allergies away forever !".

9 all natural home remedies for your dry, itchy skin

2008-08-07T14:10:00.000-07:00

Itchy skin can be painful and irritating, and it makes you want to scratch it, but scratching it often makes it worse.

There are a number of things that can cause itchy skin, two of the main culprits are eczema and dryness.

The good news is that there are some ways which can help to reduce itchy skin.

Usually, itchy skin is caused by dryness, which is why it is a common problem in the winter. Start by keeping your skin moisturized.

In extremely dry areas, consider using a humidifier to raise the humidity in your home, which will help to keep your skin moisturized and flexible.

You should also avoid extremely hot showers, abrasive soaps, and skin products which contain alcohol and other drying agents.

After bathing, pat your skin mostly dry and apply a rich moisturizer or oil to condition, soothe, and moisturize your skin.

Reapply your moisturizer at several points during the day

In addition to keeping your skin moist, you should also avoid tight, scratchy clothing, which can irritate the skin.

Many people also have itchy skin because they are allergic to something, so stick with natural fibers, try to avoid carpeting, and use mild hypoallergenic soaps and detergents.

Soothing baths can also help with itchy skin. . Keep soothing baths tepid, rather than hot.

Other home remedies include the following :

1. Aloe Vera : This gel-like substance from cut Aloe is widely known for treating skin burns and sunburns.

Aloe vera also helps in healing wounds and minor skin irritations such as an itchy skin rash.

The Aloe plant produces anti inflammatory, anti bacterial, and anti fungal properties.

It also contains folic acid, zinc, and vitamins C and E.

The best way to get the benefits of aloe vera is to use the fresh gel from the plant.
At the time of application, slice off a portion of the leaf and directly apply the gel to the affected area.

Aloe Vera is also great to heal sunburns.

2. Lemon a natural antiseptic which can soothe itchy skin. Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto itchy spot and allow it to dry.

3. Cloves and juniper berries can help to soothe itchy skin, and are often found suspended in salves.

To make your own, melt butter and beeswax in equal amounts before adding fresh ground cloves and juniper berries to the mixture, stirring, and allowing it to cool. Spread it directly on the skin

4. Mint, thyme and basil can also help with itchy skin : Try adding them to a bath, or making a tea out of one or all of these spices and dipping a washcloth in it. Run the washcloth gently all over the body to ease itchy skin.

5. Witch Hazel: Acts as an astringent that relieves an itchy skin rash as well as more serious skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

Because of its anti-oxidant properties it is also used for treating sunburn. For maximum benefit, use fresh witch hazel bark.

Simmer one ounce of the bark with one pint of water and leave for ten minutes. Strain and cool. Apply with a clean cloth and leave it on for 30 minutes.

6. Calendula Essential Oil : Calendula is widely used for reducing inflammation and treating diaper rash. Experts say that Calendula works by stimulating the production of white blood cells that aid in destroying harmful microbes.

You can also use the actual herb by mixing it with boiling water, one cup of the boiling water to two teaspoons of the herb. Let it simmer for about ten minutes.

After the mixture has cooled, apply to the affected area by using a clean cloth.

7. Chamomile Essential Oil : Has anti inflammatory (anti-microbial) properties that soothes and eliminates an itchy skin rash and irritations.

Chamomile is also used in treating eczema, psoriasis, and sunburn. Please be aware, people who are normally allergic to grass and ragweed may acquire an allergic reaction to chamomile.

8. Jewelweed : Provides relief from poison oak, poison ivy rash, insect bites and bee stings.

To use, crush the fresh leaves into a ball and rub over the rash as quickly as possible

9. Wild Pansy : This is a European wild flower that soothes and relieves itching and skin irritations associated with eczema.

This is also used for soothing acne problems.

Help !! What to do if you don't have your herbal remedies on hand.

2007-09-05T22:45:00.000-07:00

Spring’s pollens. Summer’s smog. Autumn’s falling leaves. Winter’s house dust. For millions of Americans, each change of season brings its own brand of allergens and irritants. For people with common hay fever and allergies, itchy skin, these pollutants can bring on symptoms ranging from a continuous, annoying postnasal drip to a full-scale, coughing-sneezing-itchy-eyed allergy attack. For other allergy sufferers, such as those with allergic asthma or an allergy to bee stings, attacks can be fatal.

If you forgot to get your herbal remedies by the time allergy season comes around, don't panic, the following tips are designed to help reduce the symptoms until you do.

Avoid the culprit:

Sometimes, the best way to reduce the discomfort of an allergy is to avoid exposure to the allergen as much as possible . Take all practical measures . For example, if you are allergic to cats, avoid visiting the homes of friends who own them. If you must be around a cat, make the visit as short as possible and avoid touching or picking up the animal .

Rinse your eyes:

If your eyes are itchy and irritated and you have no access to allergy remedies, rinsing your eyes with cool, clean water may help soothe them

Try a warm washcloth:

If sinus passages feel congested and painful, a washcloth soaked in warm water may make things flow a little easier Place the washcloth over the nose and upper-cheek area and relax for a few minutes

Beware of the air:

Air pollution may augment allergies and may actually induce people to have allergies, staying outside as little as possible on smoggy days will help .
Keep the windows shut: During pollen season, this can be a terrific advantage for those with pollen allergies. Closed windows will keep pollen out of the house or apartment.

Dust with a damp cloth:

Dusting at least once a week is important-but if done improperly, it may aggravate respiratory allergies.Avoid the use of feather dusters, which tend to spread dust around, and opt instead to contain the dust with a damp cloth. Dusting sprays may give off odors that can worsen allergies

Don’t dust at all:

If dusting aggravates your allergies, don’t do it. Instead, ask a spouse or family member to do the dirty work, or hire a housekeeper, if possible

Dehumidify:

Dust mites (microscopic insects that are usually the allergy culprits in dust) grow very well in humid areas. Invest in a dehumidifier or use the air conditioner, which works equally well. A dehumidifier can also help prevent mold, another allergen, from growing. When cooking or showering, take advantage of the exhaust fananother way to help keep humidity to a minimum.

Cut through the smoke:

Pay attention to what you are throwing in the fireplace
Many people with respiratory allergies find that wood smoke poses a particular problem
Leave the lawn mowing to someone else: During pollen season, a grass-allergic person is better off letting someone else -mow the lawn

Wash your pet:

A little-known trick for cat or dog owners who are allergic to fur: Bathe your pet frequently. “There is strong evidence that simply bathing the animal in warm water substantially reduces the amount of allergen on the animal’s fur. Animals secrete substances from their sweat glands and their saliva-it is water soluble and you can rinse it off. If you’re a cat owner and can’t imagine bathing your beloved feline for fear of being scratched near to death, take heart: there have been surveys wa conducted where it was discovered that one out of ten cats will purr when bathed. If they are started as kittens, chances are higher that bath time will be a harmonious experience A bath in warm water, with no soap, once every other week is recommended.

In addition to bathing your pet, try to wash your hands soon after you’ve had direct contact with your furry friend.

Make sure your final rinse really rinses:
Chemicals in detergents and other laundry products can cause itchy skin in many people . There really are no mild detergents It’s important that the final rinse cycle on your machine thoroughly rinses the detergent from your clothes.

Call ahead: When planning a vacation or business trip, call ahead to find a room that will be easier on your allergies. Ask for a room that’s not on the lower level, because a room on the lower level may have been flooded in the past and may still be a haven for mold growth. Shop around for a hotel or motel that doesn’t allow pets, so you won’t be subject to the leftover dander of the last traveler’s dog or cat. If possible, bring your own vinyl- or plastic-encased pillow.

Natural Ways to Keep Skin Healthy

2007-08-27T15:35:00.000-07:00

Here are some tips for healthy skin, using natural products.

FOODS FOR HEALTHY SKIN

One of the top tips for healthy skin care is to eat healthy foods. Here are some of the best foods for healthy skin.

Foods containing Omega-3 fatty acids (eg. Tuna, mackerel, herrings and sardines)
Foods containing Vitamin A or beta-carotene (eg. Sweet potato, carrot, mango and spinach)
Foods containing zinc (e.g. Beef, peanuts, roasted pumpkin)
Fresh fruit and vegetables
Water
Tea

HYDRATION

Skin hydration is very important, especially for people with dry skin. Drinking lots of water is one way of keeping skin hydrated. Water also helps brings nutrients to the skin.. Cold weather and hot water can dry out skin, so these should be avoided as much as possible. People with dry skin should always wear a sunscreen, even during winter.

SLEEP AND SKIN REJUVENATION

Getting a good night's sleep is important for healthy skin care. As people sleep, skin rejuvenation takes place and the cells undergo a process of repair. This is important because this is the time when the skin is restored and recovers from any harm it has suffered during the day. To help skin stay healthy, you should ensure you get at least seven (preferably eight) hours of sleep a night. Make-up can interfere with the skin's rejuvenation process, so all make-up should be removed before going to bed.

NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS

Natural supplements can keep your skin looking healthy. Anti aging supplements can help prevent signs of aging. Natural supplements can also help fix some common problems. Here are some of the best natural and anti-ageing supplements for healthy skin.

Primrose Oil
Omega-3
Vitamin A
Vitamin E
Zinc (to help heal damaged skin)

HERBS

Herbs can be great in maintaining healthy skin and for treating problem skin. Here are some tips for herbal skin care, including tips for facial skin problems.

Aloe vera is good for all types of skin.
Dry skin. Make a facial sauna with comfrey or calendula. Drink chamomile, dandelion or peppermint tea.
Oily skin. Apply witch hazel onto the skin to absorb oil. Make a facial sauna using lemongrass and rosebuds.

NATURAL HERBAL CLEANSING

Herbs can also be useful in general cleansing of the skin of different types. Effective skin cleansers can be made using vegetable oils.

For a toner, use rosewater for dry skin and witch hazel for oily skin. You can also infuse herbs and use the water as a toner.

ANTI AGING TIPS

Although many of the tips already covered can also be considered anti aging tips, here are a few more tips to help prevent ageing of skin and wrinkles.

Avoid exposing your skin to the sun. If you need to go out in the sun, use a sunscreen and wear a hat.
Avoid exposing your skin to heat (this includes hot water).
Learn to relax your face.
Quit smoking.

Healthy Skin

By following the skin care tips, the tips for healthy skin and the anti-aging tips outlined in this article, your skin will feel great and look healthy.

You can find all this information and more to protect you and your family in my ebook How to Blast Your Allergies Away Forever !