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Showing posts with label skin. Show all posts
Showing posts with label skin. Show all posts
49 Healthy Uses for Pineapples
A recent report even suggests that pineapple may be a great alternative treatment for arthritis!
What Happens When You Are Asleep
Natural Cures Not Medicine on Facebook: www.facebook.com/naturalcuresnotmedicine
We spend about one-third
of our lives asleep. But far from being wasted time, from the moment we slide
into unconsciousness, a whole raft of functions takes place to make sure that
we get optimal benefit from our nightly rest. >Sleep is the time the body can
undergo repair and detoxification. Poor sleep patterns are linkedto poor health - and those who sleep less than six hours a
night have a shorter life expectancy than those who sleep for longer. So sleep
has a profound effect on our mental, emotional and physical wellbeing.
Here, Daily Mail writer Angela Epstein explains how
the body works on when we drift off.
The brain
Sleep may seem to be a passive and dormant state, but even though activity in the cortex - the surface of the brain - drops by about 40 per cent while we are in the first phases of sleep, the brain remains highly active during later stages of the night.
A typical night's sleep comprises five different sleep cycles, each lasting about 90 minutes. The first four stages of each cycle are regarded as quiet sleep or non-rapid eye move-ment (NREM). The final stage is denoted by rapid eye movement (REM).
During the first stage of sleep, brain waves are small undulations. During stage two these intersperse with electrical signals called sleep spindles - small bursts of activity lasting a couple of seconds which keep us in a state of quiet readiness.
As stage two merges into stage three, the brain waves continue to deepen into large slow waves. The larger and slower the brain wave, the deeper the sleep. Stage four is reached when 50 per cent of the waves are slow.
At this point, we are not taxed mentally and 40 per cent of the usual blood flow to the brain is diverted to the muscles to restore energy. However, during the REM that follows there is a high level of brain activity.
This is the stage associated with dreaming and is triggered by the pons - the part of the brain stem that relays nerve impulses between the spinal cord and the brain - and neighbouring structures.
The pons sends signals to the thalamus and to the cerebral cortex, which is responsible for most thought processes. It also sends signals to turn off motor neurons in the spinal cord, causing temporary paralysis and so preventing us from acting upon our dreams.
REM sleep is thought to help consolidate memory and emotion, as at this point in sleep blood flow rises sharply in several brain areas linked to processing memories and emotional experiences. In areas involving complex reasoning and language, blood flow declines.
The eyes
Though covered by lids, the movement of the eyes denotes the different stages of sleep.
On first falling into semi-consciousness, the eyes roll. But as we move into deeper sleep, rapid eye movement (REM) occurs when the eyes twitch and dart about.
This REM occurs within about 90 minutes of falling asleep and recurs about every 90 minutes throughout the night. It denotes a time when most dreaming is done.
Although brain activity is high at this point, the muscles of the body are relaxed to a point of virtual paralysis. Some experts suggest that this is a device to allow the mind to explore the realms of subconscious without acting upon events occurring in dreams.
Hormones
During our waking hours, the body burns oxygen and food to provide energy. This is known as a catabolic state, in which more energy is spent than conserved, using up the body's resources.
This state is dominated by the work of stimulating hormones such as adrenaline and natural cortisteroids. However, when we sleep we move into an anabolic state - in which energy conservation, repair and growth take over. Levels of adrenaline and corticosteroids drop and the body starts to produce human growth hormone (HGH).
A protein hormone, HGH promotes the growth, maintenance and repair of muscles and bones by facilitating the use of amino acids (the essential building blocks of protein). Every tissue in the body is renewed faster during sleep than at any time when awake.
Melatonin is another hormone produced to help us sleep. Secreted by the pineal gland deep in the brain, it helps control body rhythms and sleep-wake cycles.
Levels of melatonin rise as the body temperature falls, to encourage feelings of sleepiness. The opposite occurs to wake us up.
It is mostly during sleep that the sex hormone testosterone and the fertility hormones, follicle-stimulating hormone and leuteinising hormone, are secreted.
Immune system
Research suggests that sleeping more when fighting infectious illness aids recovery.
This may be due to the immune system's increased production of certain proteins during sleep, as the levels of certain agents which fight disease rise during sleep and drop when we are awake.
Getting enough sleep can also help resist infection, as some studies of healthy young adults have shown that moderate amounts of sleep deprivation reduce the levels of white blood cells which form part of the body's defence system.
A cancer killer called TNF - tumour necrosis factor - also pumps through our veins when we are asleep. Research has shown that people who stayed up until 3am had one-third fewer cells containing TNF the next day, and that the effectiveness of those remaining was greatly reduced. JUST as the world is governed by light and dark, human beings also have an inbuilt body clock called the circadian rhythm.
Housed in the hypothalamus at the base of the brain, it causes 24 hour fluctuations in many bodily activities. It also governs the body's daily alternation between sleep and wakefulness, and works on a 24-hour cycle to let the body 'know' when sleep is coming.
The circadian rhythm regulates all the processes of the body, from digestion to cell renewal. All these body rhythms are triggered by an action of a network of chemical messengers and nerves which are controlled by the circadian clock.
Ensuring regular periods of sleep at night lets the bodyclock regulate hormone production, so that you feel wakeful and alert during the day and ready to enjoy restorative sleep at night.
Body temperature
In the evening, body temperature, along with levels of wakeful hormones such as adrenaline, start to drop. Some sweating may occur, as the body is immobile and tries to combat losing heat.
Body temperature continues to fall throughout the night. By about 5am it has dropped to about one degree centigrade below the temperature it was in the evening.
At the same time, our metabolic rate drops too. This is the time of day when you would feel most tired, as the low temperature coincides with adrenaline at its lowest level.
Low body temperatures increase your likelihood of sleeping deeply and so give the body chance to rest and rebuild. As body temperature starts to rise, it remains more difficult to stay in a deep sleep.
The skin
The top layer of the skin is made of closely packed dead cells which are constantly shed during day. During deep sleep, the skin's metabolic rate speeds up and many of the body's cells show increased production and reduced breakdown of proteins.
Since proteins are the building blocks needed for cell growth and for the repair of damage from factors like ultraviolet rays, deep sleep may indeed be beauty sleep.
Daytime sleep will not compensate for loss of nightly 'beauty sleep' as the energy needed for tissue repair is not available during daylight because it is being used elsewhere.
Breathing
When we fall asleep, throat muscles relax so that the throat gets narrower each time we inhale.
Snoring occurs when the throat is narrowed to a slit and parts of the airway vibrate because of a resistance to breathing. Air is forced through the narrow air passage, causing the soft palate and uvula to vibrate.
Those who snore are more likely to have poor muscle tone in the tongue and throat, which allows the tongue to fall backwards into the airways. Being overweight or having large tonsils and adenoids also contribute to snoring.
However, impaired breathing during sleep can cause a condition called sleep apnoea.
Often caused by fat build-up, poor muscle tone or ageing, sleep apnoea causes the windpipe to collapse when the muscles relax during sleep. This blocks the air flow for from ten seconds to a minute while the sleeping person struggles for breath.
When the person's blood oxygen level falls, the brain responds by making the person tighten the upper airway muscles and open the windpipe. This will result in a snort or gasp before snoring is resumed.
The mouth
Saliva is needed to lubricate the mouth and for eating, but during sleep salivary flow is reduced, so causing a dry mouth in the morning.
However, the mouth can be very active during sleep, as one in 20 adults unconsciously grinds their teeth at night.
This is known as bruxism and occurs mainly during stages one and two of sleep. It is caused by poor alignment of the teeth within the jaw but is also thought to be nocturnal relief for daytime stresses.
Muscles
Though a person can change their sleeping position about 35 times a night, the muscles of the body remain relaxed. This gives the chance for tissues to be repaired and restored.
However, studies indicate that muscles might receive just as much relaxation and repair during simple rest periods and that a state of unconsciousness is not needed for this to take place.
Blood
The heart rate goes down by between 10 and 30 beats per minute when we sleep. This produces a decline in blood pressure, which occurs in restful sleep.
During rest, blood flows from the brain, distends arteries and makes the limbs bigger.
Some scientists believe that fatigue-induced sleep may be a mild form of blood detoxification.
This is because during the day debris from broken down tissues is thrown into the bloodstream. In the waking state, most of this waste will be eliminated through the lungs, kidneys, bowels and skin.
But there could be a saturation point. So nature warns us to reduce these waste products to replenish lost energy, and that causes us to get tired and sleep.
During sleep, the cells and tissues that break down to produce toxic waste then become less active. This gives the chance for broken-down tissue to be rebuilt.
Digestive system
The body requires a regular supply of energy and its key source is glucose. This is constantly burned up to release energy for muscle contraction, nerve impulses and regulating body temperature.
When we sleep, our need for these energy reserves is marginal so the digestive system slows down to a sluggish pace. The immobility of our bodies promotes this.
For this reason, eating late at night is not recommended as our inactive state will prevent enzymes and stomach acids from converting it to energy. This causes that telltale bloated feeling.
Sleep may seem to be a passive and dormant state, but even though activity in the cortex - the surface of the brain - drops by about 40 per cent while we are in the first phases of sleep, the brain remains highly active during later stages of the night.
A typical night's sleep comprises five different sleep cycles, each lasting about 90 minutes. The first four stages of each cycle are regarded as quiet sleep or non-rapid eye move-ment (NREM). The final stage is denoted by rapid eye movement (REM).
During the first stage of sleep, brain waves are small undulations. During stage two these intersperse with electrical signals called sleep spindles - small bursts of activity lasting a couple of seconds which keep us in a state of quiet readiness.
As stage two merges into stage three, the brain waves continue to deepen into large slow waves. The larger and slower the brain wave, the deeper the sleep. Stage four is reached when 50 per cent of the waves are slow.
At this point, we are not taxed mentally and 40 per cent of the usual blood flow to the brain is diverted to the muscles to restore energy. However, during the REM that follows there is a high level of brain activity.
This is the stage associated with dreaming and is triggered by the pons - the part of the brain stem that relays nerve impulses between the spinal cord and the brain - and neighbouring structures.
The pons sends signals to the thalamus and to the cerebral cortex, which is responsible for most thought processes. It also sends signals to turn off motor neurons in the spinal cord, causing temporary paralysis and so preventing us from acting upon our dreams.
REM sleep is thought to help consolidate memory and emotion, as at this point in sleep blood flow rises sharply in several brain areas linked to processing memories and emotional experiences. In areas involving complex reasoning and language, blood flow declines.
The eyes
Though covered by lids, the movement of the eyes denotes the different stages of sleep.
On first falling into semi-consciousness, the eyes roll. But as we move into deeper sleep, rapid eye movement (REM) occurs when the eyes twitch and dart about.
This REM occurs within about 90 minutes of falling asleep and recurs about every 90 minutes throughout the night. It denotes a time when most dreaming is done.
Although brain activity is high at this point, the muscles of the body are relaxed to a point of virtual paralysis. Some experts suggest that this is a device to allow the mind to explore the realms of subconscious without acting upon events occurring in dreams.
Hormones
During our waking hours, the body burns oxygen and food to provide energy. This is known as a catabolic state, in which more energy is spent than conserved, using up the body's resources.
This state is dominated by the work of stimulating hormones such as adrenaline and natural cortisteroids. However, when we sleep we move into an anabolic state - in which energy conservation, repair and growth take over. Levels of adrenaline and corticosteroids drop and the body starts to produce human growth hormone (HGH).
A protein hormone, HGH promotes the growth, maintenance and repair of muscles and bones by facilitating the use of amino acids (the essential building blocks of protein). Every tissue in the body is renewed faster during sleep than at any time when awake.
Melatonin is another hormone produced to help us sleep. Secreted by the pineal gland deep in the brain, it helps control body rhythms and sleep-wake cycles.
Levels of melatonin rise as the body temperature falls, to encourage feelings of sleepiness. The opposite occurs to wake us up.
It is mostly during sleep that the sex hormone testosterone and the fertility hormones, follicle-stimulating hormone and leuteinising hormone, are secreted.
Immune system
Research suggests that sleeping more when fighting infectious illness aids recovery.
This may be due to the immune system's increased production of certain proteins during sleep, as the levels of certain agents which fight disease rise during sleep and drop when we are awake.
Getting enough sleep can also help resist infection, as some studies of healthy young adults have shown that moderate amounts of sleep deprivation reduce the levels of white blood cells which form part of the body's defence system.
A cancer killer called TNF - tumour necrosis factor - also pumps through our veins when we are asleep. Research has shown that people who stayed up until 3am had one-third fewer cells containing TNF the next day, and that the effectiveness of those remaining was greatly reduced. JUST as the world is governed by light and dark, human beings also have an inbuilt body clock called the circadian rhythm.
Housed in the hypothalamus at the base of the brain, it causes 24 hour fluctuations in many bodily activities. It also governs the body's daily alternation between sleep and wakefulness, and works on a 24-hour cycle to let the body 'know' when sleep is coming.
The circadian rhythm regulates all the processes of the body, from digestion to cell renewal. All these body rhythms are triggered by an action of a network of chemical messengers and nerves which are controlled by the circadian clock.
Ensuring regular periods of sleep at night lets the bodyclock regulate hormone production, so that you feel wakeful and alert during the day and ready to enjoy restorative sleep at night.
Body temperature
In the evening, body temperature, along with levels of wakeful hormones such as adrenaline, start to drop. Some sweating may occur, as the body is immobile and tries to combat losing heat.
Body temperature continues to fall throughout the night. By about 5am it has dropped to about one degree centigrade below the temperature it was in the evening.
At the same time, our metabolic rate drops too. This is the time of day when you would feel most tired, as the low temperature coincides with adrenaline at its lowest level.
Low body temperatures increase your likelihood of sleeping deeply and so give the body chance to rest and rebuild. As body temperature starts to rise, it remains more difficult to stay in a deep sleep.
The skin
The top layer of the skin is made of closely packed dead cells which are constantly shed during day. During deep sleep, the skin's metabolic rate speeds up and many of the body's cells show increased production and reduced breakdown of proteins.
Since proteins are the building blocks needed for cell growth and for the repair of damage from factors like ultraviolet rays, deep sleep may indeed be beauty sleep.
Daytime sleep will not compensate for loss of nightly 'beauty sleep' as the energy needed for tissue repair is not available during daylight because it is being used elsewhere.
Breathing
When we fall asleep, throat muscles relax so that the throat gets narrower each time we inhale.
Snoring occurs when the throat is narrowed to a slit and parts of the airway vibrate because of a resistance to breathing. Air is forced through the narrow air passage, causing the soft palate and uvula to vibrate.
Those who snore are more likely to have poor muscle tone in the tongue and throat, which allows the tongue to fall backwards into the airways. Being overweight or having large tonsils and adenoids also contribute to snoring.
However, impaired breathing during sleep can cause a condition called sleep apnoea.
Often caused by fat build-up, poor muscle tone or ageing, sleep apnoea causes the windpipe to collapse when the muscles relax during sleep. This blocks the air flow for from ten seconds to a minute while the sleeping person struggles for breath.
When the person's blood oxygen level falls, the brain responds by making the person tighten the upper airway muscles and open the windpipe. This will result in a snort or gasp before snoring is resumed.
The mouth
Saliva is needed to lubricate the mouth and for eating, but during sleep salivary flow is reduced, so causing a dry mouth in the morning.
However, the mouth can be very active during sleep, as one in 20 adults unconsciously grinds their teeth at night.
This is known as bruxism and occurs mainly during stages one and two of sleep. It is caused by poor alignment of the teeth within the jaw but is also thought to be nocturnal relief for daytime stresses.
Muscles
Though a person can change their sleeping position about 35 times a night, the muscles of the body remain relaxed. This gives the chance for tissues to be repaired and restored.
However, studies indicate that muscles might receive just as much relaxation and repair during simple rest periods and that a state of unconsciousness is not needed for this to take place.
Blood
The heart rate goes down by between 10 and 30 beats per minute when we sleep. This produces a decline in blood pressure, which occurs in restful sleep.
During rest, blood flows from the brain, distends arteries and makes the limbs bigger.
Some scientists believe that fatigue-induced sleep may be a mild form of blood detoxification.
This is because during the day debris from broken down tissues is thrown into the bloodstream. In the waking state, most of this waste will be eliminated through the lungs, kidneys, bowels and skin.
But there could be a saturation point. So nature warns us to reduce these waste products to replenish lost energy, and that causes us to get tired and sleep.
During sleep, the cells and tissues that break down to produce toxic waste then become less active. This gives the chance for broken-down tissue to be rebuilt.
Digestive system
The body requires a regular supply of energy and its key source is glucose. This is constantly burned up to release energy for muscle contraction, nerve impulses and regulating body temperature.
When we sleep, our need for these energy reserves is marginal so the digestive system slows down to a sluggish pace. The immobility of our bodies promotes this.
For this reason, eating late at night is not recommended as our inactive state will prevent enzymes and stomach acids from converting it to energy. This causes that telltale bloated feeling.
By Angel Epstein
Source : Dave Sommers, Daily Mail
Water Is Life For The Human Body
Natural Cures Not Medicine on Facebook: www.facebook.com/naturalcuresnotmedicine
The majority of us are chronically dehydrated and don't even know it. Did you know that when you are chronically dehydrated your body actually stops feeling thirsty? Also, often times when you feel hungry, it is just another way your body is trying to tell you it is thirsty.
The majority of us are chronically dehydrated and don't even know it. Did you know that when you are chronically dehydrated your body actually stops feeling thirsty? Also, often times when you feel hungry, it is just another way your body is trying to tell you it is thirsty.
It is impossible
for your body to function properly while dehydrated.
You may have problems concentrating
Your blood slows down creating high blood pressure
Muscles can ache, cramp or you may even wake in the night with a Charlie Horse
Your liver does not function up to par which slows down your body's detoxification creating illness and diseases. Cancer occurs when your body cannot eliminate the toxins faster than you put them in. This is why the liver is vital for healing cancer
Your skin becomes dry and crusty. If you are looking to look younger, drinking plenty of water will help.
There are a lot of figures out there which will tell you how much water to drink but I'm going to say that if you don't drink at least 100 oz a day, your body is paying for it. Also, almost everything else you drink such as soda, coffee and alcohol all dehydrate you. This figure may sound high but your body will help you. The more water you drink the more your body tells you that it is thirsty. Build up to this number slowly if you need to. Just keep improving.
You may have problems concentrating
Your blood slows down creating high blood pressure
Muscles can ache, cramp or you may even wake in the night with a Charlie Horse
Your liver does not function up to par which slows down your body's detoxification creating illness and diseases. Cancer occurs when your body cannot eliminate the toxins faster than you put them in. This is why the liver is vital for healing cancer
Your skin becomes dry and crusty. If you are looking to look younger, drinking plenty of water will help.
There are a lot of figures out there which will tell you how much water to drink but I'm going to say that if you don't drink at least 100 oz a day, your body is paying for it. Also, almost everything else you drink such as soda, coffee and alcohol all dehydrate you. This figure may sound high but your body will help you. The more water you drink the more your body tells you that it is thirsty. Build up to this number slowly if you need to. Just keep improving.
Sources: Dave Sommers, Herculean Health
Other articles you may enjoy:
3 Natural Ways to Increase Personal Wellbeing
6 Tips On Healing Scars Naturally
Natural Cures Not Medicine on Facebook: www.facebook.com/naturalcuresnotmedicine
Try some of these 6 natural remedies which will visibly improve the appearance of scars over time.
Try some of these 6 natural remedies which will visibly improve the appearance of scars over time.
Source: Dave Sommers
Other Articles You May Enjoy:
10 Best Natural Moisturizers
10 Best Natural Moisturizers
Natural Cures Not Medicine on Facebook: www.facebook.com/naturalcuresnotmedicine
Many
moisturizers on the market contain harmful chemicals that get absorbed into the
skin and enter the bloodstream. About one in eight of the 82,000 ingredients
used in personal care products are industrial chemicals which include
carcinogens, pesticides, reproductive toxins, and hormone disruptors. When you
think that your skin is the largest organ in your body, and you spread these
products on your skin day by day, you can start to imagine the harm that you
are putting your body through, as well as the environment. Some products may
also include plasticizers, degreasers and surfactants, things that are found in
concrete, auto shops and paint tubs.
What
I want you to do right now is grab any one of your moisturizers and read
through the ingredients. If it contains any of the following, I would suggest
you throw it out immediately:
1.
BHA & BHT: Used
in makeup and moisturizers as preservatives. Suspected endocrine disruptor and
may cause cancer.
2.
Coal tar dyes: p-phenylenediamine and colours listed as “CI” followed by a five
digit number: May
also be listed as FD&C Blue No. 1 or Blue 1. Potential to cause cancer and
heavy metal toxicity to the brain.
3.
DEA-related ingredients: Used
in moisturizers and shampoo. Can react to form nitrosamines which cause cancer.
4.
Dibutyl phthalate: Suspected
endocrine disruptor and reproductive toxicant.
5.
Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives: DMDM
hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea, methenamine and
quarternium-15. Slowly releases small amounts of formaldehyde which cause
cancer.
6.
Parabens: Suspected
endocrine disruptors and interferes with male reproductive functions.
7.
Parfum (a.k.a fragrance): Can
trigger allergies and asthma. Some are linked to cancer and neurotoxicity.
8.
PEG compounds: Used
in many cream bases. Can cause cancer.
9.
Petrolatum: Petroleum
product that can be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which
may cause cancer.
10.
Siloxanes: Suspected
endocrine disruptor and reproductive toxicant.
11.
Sodium laureth sulfate: May cause cancer. Also called SLS.
Related chemicals called sodium lauryl sulfate and other ingredients ending
with letters “eth”.
12.
Triclosan: Suspected
endocrine disruptor and may contribute to antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
Instead,
opt for nature-made oils that will help repair your skin, and make it glow!
Below is a list of 10 natural oils that are wonderful for all types of skin
care such as moisturizing, helping get rid of wrinkles and fine lines, clearing
up acne and blemishes, treating dry and/or oily skin. I personally love to use
jojoba oil mixed with some rose hip seed oil on my face, as well as hemp oil on
my face. For my body I typically use jojoba and grapeseed oil.
10
Natural Skin Care Oils:
1.
Coconut Oil: has
high moisture retaining capacity so it acts as an excellent moisturizer for
your skin. It melts into your skin and increases the levels of skin surface
lipids which helps soften it. Small wounds (caused by acne or pimples) also
soften and heal quickly. Also has added benefits of protecting your skin from
microbes, and treating various skin conditions like psoriasis, dermatitis,
eczema and many other skin infections. Do you suffer from acne? Coconut oil has
the ability to cure acne by killing the bacteria that cause the problem (acne
vulgaris).
2.
Jojoba Oil: Jojoba
oil is technically not an oil but a wax ester. In fact, the jojoba wax ester is
most similar to human skin oil (sebum). Applying jojoba oil to the skin will
actually make the skin think it is producing enough oil and thus balances oil
production. Jojoba oil helps to moisturize the skin all day long – it does not
evaporate like commercial moisturizers (which are water based), and can be used
for the face and body (only need a couple drops – it spreads well!). This oil
is also a good make-up remover (doesn’t irritate the eyes), and can act as a
wonderful lip balm and hair conditioner (add a few drops to your hair after
shampooing – helps combat dandruff).
3.
Grapeseed Oil: Grapeseed
oil contains linoleic acid which helps strengthen cell membranes and improve
skin health. There are also many antioxidants in this oil type, which can help
prevent pores from clogging (clogged pores normally trigger acne breakouts, so
regular application of this oil can help prevent problems associated with
acne). Grapeseed oil is medically useful for reducing swelling because of its
wonderful anti-inflammatory properties and can help tighten and tone the skin.
This oil is very light, and thus it is easily absorbed by the skin and will not
leave any oil residue. It also helps stimulate skin tissue regeneration, and
can quicken the healing process of wounds.
4.
Macadamia Nut Oil: This
oil contains the highest amount of palmitoleic acid (omega 7 fatty acid) of any
plant. Palmitoleic acid is plentiful in our skin when we are young, but
decreases with aging. This acid helps mature skin retain suppleness and
replaces naturally occurring skin on the lips, allowing the skin to remain
looking younger. This oil reduces wrinkles and dryness and is light and
non-greasy. It also contains proteins and plenty of vitamin E which contributes
to healthy, supple looking skin.
5.
Hempseed Oil: Contains
agents (linoleic and linolenic acids) that give it anti-inflammatory
properties, as well as natural antioxidant properties. It helps to clean and
detoxify your skin and to even out skin tone. This oil does not stick to your
skin and clog your pores, so it is a wonderful way to moisturize without
feeling overly greasy. Hempseed oil is also beneficial for healing skin lesions
and balancing dry skin and fighting skin inflammations. It has antioxidants in
the form of vitamin E and carotene, as well as phytosterols, phospholipids, as
well as a variety of skin beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, sulfur,
potassium, and phosphorous.
6.
Olive Oil: Extra
virgin olive oil provides strong antioxidants like vitamins A and E that help
repair and renew skin that have been damaged from overexposure to sun, air
pollution and other modern-day environmental hazards. These antioxidants
naturally keep the skin firm, smooth and healthy. Olive oil deeply penetrates
the skin and provides a long-lasting shield of moisture to keep skin smooth and
supple.
7.
Argan Oil: Argan
oil has been claimed as “liquid gold” for the skin. It is credited with helping
repair damaged hair, reducing wrinkles and acne, diminishing the appearance of
age spots and healing dry scalp and diaper rash. Argan oil is naturally rich in
antioxidants, essential fatty acids, carotenoids, ferulic acid, sterols,
polyphenols, vitamin E and squalene, which help heal the skin, reduce
inflammation and fight off free radicals.
8.
Almond Oil: Almonds
oil is more of an emollient because it softens skin rather than hydrates it.
However, it acts as a humectant to help prevent the loss of moisture. Almond
oil is great for relieving dry, flaking, and itchy skin due to eczema,
psoriasis, and rashes. It can also be applied to the scalp to relieve dryness
and to condition hair roots. It is readily absorbed into the skin without
leaving behind any greasy residue. Apply one to two drops of almond oil on each
side of your skin and with clean warm hands, massage the oil on your face in
upward strokes. Be sure to include the area around your eyes, gently patting.
This oil also has anti-aging properties, like reducing fine lines and crow’s
feet, as well as reducing dark circles and puffy eyes.
9.
Avocado Oil: This
oil is very rich in nutrients like vitamins A, B, C, D and E, as well as
healthy amino acids and lecithin. It has strong antibacterial and antioxidant
properties and mono-unsaturated fatty acids which help revitalize dry and dull
skin. It is one of the most effective natural skin care remedies around and
penetrates the skin much more deeply than oils like jojoba. It is great for
people suffering from dark circles, crow’s feet and sagging skin, and can help
firm up the skin, leaving it youthful and toned. The sugars found in avocado
also boost collagen production in the skin, making the skin wrinkle free, and
helping to fade any scars or other skin blemishes.
10.
Rosehip Oil: Contains
vitamin C to help boost tissue repair, as well as vitamin A (otherwise known as
Retinol) which is a staple in most skin products. Rosehip oil helps to
rehydrate the skin because of the high content of essential fatty acids, and
can help the skin hold moisture and reduce dryness. It can also be used to
bring a shine to the skin which resembles a lively glow. This oil is very well
known for helping reduce the appearance of scars from stretch marks or acne.
Over time, this oil can help shrink, and in some cases even eliminate stretch
marks completely. Scars caused from chicken pox are also excellent candidates
for pure rosehip oil treatment. Rosehip oil is a wonderful toner too! It can
help with problems of premature aging.
Source : Live Love Fruit
Related Articles:
Why you should have peppermint oil
Homemade Mosquito/Ant/Flea Repellant
Natural Cures Not Medicine on Facebook: www.facebook.com/naturalcuresnotmedicine
If you're not opposed
to using alcohol in a bug spray... this is a good one that works, free from
chemicals that poison the body. Ingredients: 1/2 liter of alcohol -17 oz, 100
gram of whole cloves -3.6 oz, 100 ml of baby oil or similar -3.4 oz (almond, sesame,
chamomile, lavender, fennel etc)
Action:
Leave cloves to marinate in alcohol four days
Stir every morning and evening
After 4 days add the oil
It's now ready to use.
Application:
Gently rub a few drops into the skin of the arms and legs.
Observe the mosquitoes fleeing the room.
Repels fleas on pets too.
Action:
Leave cloves to marinate in alcohol four days
Stir every morning and evening
After 4 days add the oil
It's now ready to use.
Application:
Gently rub a few drops into the skin of the arms and legs.
Observe the mosquitoes fleeing the room.
Repels fleas on pets too.
Source : Dave Sommers, Cyrus Mcvirus, Growing Up Herbal
Related Articles :
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Dry Body Brushing
Photo courtesy of Oasis Advance Wellness.com
Dry body brushing has been around for centuries. It is a great way to detoxify the skin, aid in lymphatic drainage, and helps in reducing cellulite, to name but a few of the many benefits.
Used widely in health spas as a slimming and / or detox treatment, body brushing can also be done at home. It is an easy technique to learn and all you need is a natural fiber brush, which can easily be found online or obtained from your local store. (See below for our recommended brushes from Amazon.) Be sure to choose a natural fiber brush as synthetic fibers may irritate or damage the skin.The benefits are tremendous.
- Softens,smooths and firms skin
- Removes dead skin cells
- Improves nervous system
- Removes cellulite
- Cleanses the lymphatic system
- Aids in draining excess fluid from the body
- Helps tone muscles
- Aids digestion
- Natural and relaxing
- Strengthens immune system
- Reduces the need for body lotions and creams by stimulating the oil glands
How to Dry Body Brush Your Skin:
Dry body brushing is best to do in the morning, as its invigorating and awakening effect can interfere with sleep if done at night. Never brush cut or broken skin.
Make sure you are in a warm, dry room with somewhere to sit that is comfortable so that you can reach your legs and feet. Make sure to use firm, even strokes in the direction of the heart and go over each area several times in order to ensure the whole part of the body you are brushing is covered.
Start in a sitting position, working on one foot and make your way up to your buttocks. Repeat on the opposite leg.
Next move on to your arms. Start at the palms of the hands, working in towards the body.
When brushing the abdomen, always use clockwise circular motions and slightly less pressure than on your arms and legs.
Once completed, move on to the neck and chest. These areas can be sensitive and it is recommended to use much lighter strokes.
Last of all, the face. It is beneficial to use a brush that is designed for the face or even a face cloth. It is essential to be very gentle to this area to get the maximum benefit and avoid any damage to the skin from excessive rubbing.
The key to remember is that this should be stimulating to the skin. You don't want to brush too hard as this can irritate or damage your skin's surface.The whole procedure should take no longer than 10 minutes. For maximum effects take a warm shower after dry brushing.
Sources for this article:
Health Benefits of Dry Body Brushing: http://www.exhibithealth.com/general-health/health-benefits-of-dry-body-brushing-661/
Article from Well and Good NYC: http://www.wellandgoodnyc.com/2010/07/01/how-to-dry-brush-your-body-for-the-beach/#
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Cinnamon and honey, super healing duo!
Both honey and cinnamon are, by their selves, helpful for natural healing. Mix the two, and you may have some surprising benefits.
Try making some toast and spreading coconut oil over it, then sprinkle some cinnamon on it, and finally add some honey on top. You can also make some hot tea and add both raw honey and cinnamon to it. Cinnamon and honey also can be combined and worn as a mask to help with skin surface problems like pimples and acne.
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Why you should eat lemon peels
When you squeeze a lemon, are you throwing away the most valuable part away?
The skin of a lemon literally has 5 to 10 times the amount of active nutrients as the juice of the lemon. Salvestrol Q40 and limonen, which are present in the peel, are known to be potent anti cancer agents. The flavanoids that lemon skin contains have are believed to suppress the division of cancerous cells in the body. Of course the peel is loaded with vitamin C which is referred to as the detox vitamin for its ability to cleanse the blood system of harmful free radicals, preventing tissue damage, inflammation, and lowering the risk of developing heart disease. Lemon skin can also be eaten to help detox and improve the appearance of skin.
Picture credit: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rawforbeauty/222272341214778
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Nutrition is nature's health insurance.
Why water should be the first thing you have when you wake up.
When you wake up, water first!
- When you wake up in the morning, drinking water on an empty stomach stimulates activity in your organs, essentially waking them up.
- Drinking nothing but water first when you wake up allows the body to detox by removing waste that accumulated while you slept.
- Starting the day with a 16 ounce glass of chilled water can boost your metabolism by up to 24%, helping to to lose excess weight.
- A glass of water first thing in the morning will cleanse your digestive system thus making it easier for the body to absorb more nutrients.
- Since water helps the body remove waste and toxins, beginning your long day with a glass of water will have a positive effect on the health of your skin, leaving it looking more healthy.
- That first glass of water when you rise from your slumber stimulates production of more muscle and blood cells.
- Kick off your day with a glass of water and it will help to balance your lymph system.
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How wheat grass can improve your health
There seems to be a trend forming in juicing wheat grass, but what makes the green juice so beneficial to our health? Here are some of the health benefits.
Wheat grass juice is a powerhouse of nutrition, even in small doses, and can be added to any smoothie to give you a huge health boost. With more than 90 minerals, 19 amino acids, and over 30 enzymes as well as beneficial chlorophyll, wheat grass has been promoted by nutritionists and healers alike for its mind blowing health effects. Wheat grass is thought to improve the overall nutritional profile of people who take it but also is being credited for anti cancer effects and even is thought to help prevent heart disease. Studies have shown patients who take wheat grass have less need for blood transfusions.
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Juicing Wheat grass has several positive impacts on the health.
- Diabetics can benefit from the fact that wheat grass regulates blood sugar levels.
- Wheat grass cleanses the skin.
- It purifies the blood and cleanses the liver, kidneys, and urinary tract.
- It enhances capillaries and reduces high blood pressure thus helping prevent heart disease.
- Wheat grass acts as an appetite suppressant.
- It helps the nervous system and immune system
- It contains antioxidants which protect cells from damage and rejuvenate aging cells.
Soak wheat berries over night in luke warm water, covered, and in a dark place. Rinse and drain and set in a dark area for another day. Rinse a few more times and when there are white shoots about an 8th of and inch long, you can plant them in a medium, preferably organic soil that drains well. Harvest the wheat grass for juicing early on when the nutrients are best for the taking.
More about wheat grass http://www.drgranny.com/2010/05/22/top-15-health-benefits-of-wheat-grass-juice/
The good fat?
We live in a fast food culture and multiple health problems are being tied to the fats contained in the meals. Health insurance costs are crushing and quality of life is diminished by chronic illness. What may surprise you is that many foods that you buy in grocery stores contain these fats too. Now, what if fat was actually good for you instead? It is, depending on the type. Did you know that monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are actually good for your heart and have multiple positive health impact for those who consume them on a regular basis. Maybe it's time to switch to "the good fat."
Here are some sources of healthy fats:
Olive oil
Safflower oil
Peanut oil
Flax seed
Coconut
Avocado
Here are some sources of healthy fats:
Olive oilSafflower oilPeanut oilFlax seedCoconutAvocado
So, now that you know where to find healthy fat for your diet, why should you actually make the switch? Here are a few reasons:
- Reduce the risk of Alzheimer's
- Reduce the risk of cancer
- Help skin look more healthy
- Lower cholesterol
- May help manage blood sugar levels
- Help prevent heart disease
- Metabolize stored fat
- Maintain energy levels
For more nutrition info check out thescienceofeating.com
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