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.

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

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

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 !

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

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

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.