Healing Diseases/Conditions-Homeopathy

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Anxiety Disorders

Chronic anxiety disorders can benefit by treatment from a trained homeopath. But for short episodes of transient, self-limited anxiety, you can use the appropriate remedies.

Aconite is the medication of choice if your anxiety is the result of a sudden fright or shock. If you are grief stricken (such as when one of your loved ones die), the homeopath may give you ignatia. In situations such as stage fright and other anticipatory and performance anxiety, gelsemium is recommended. If you have anxiety accompanied by diarrhea, gelsemium is the preferred choice. Other homeopathic remedies are described below.

Begin with a 6x potency and take two tablets every two to four hours depending on the severity, or acuteness, of the illness. Once you begin to notice improvement, increase the intervals between dosages, and when it seems that improvement is well on its way, discontinue the treatment. If you use a remedy longer than necessary, it might tend to cause the symptoms to recur.

Take your remedy with a clean mouth free from drink, food, tobacco, toothpaste, or mouthwash. Allow the tablet or granules to dissolve in your mouth rather than swallowing them with water, and do not ingest anything except water for fifteen minutes after taking the remedy.

Homeopathic Remedies for Anxiety Disorders

The following remedies may be useful to you in treating symptoms of anxiety.

Aconite
Argentum nitricum
Arsenicum album
Calcarea carbonica
Gelsemium
Ignatia amara
Kali phosphoricum
Lycopodium
Natrum muriaticum
Phosphorus
Pulsatilla
Silicea
Aconite (Aconitum napellus)

A panic attack that comes on suddenly with very strong fear (even fear of death) may indicate this remedy. A state of immense anxiety may be accompanied by strong palpitations, shortness of breath, and flushing of the face.

Symptoms

Sudden, intense ailments from fright.
Anxiety and restlessness with complaints.
Fears that do not subside.
Faintness or dizziness upon waking up.
Sudden fever with one cheek red, the other pale
Intolerance of pain.
Painful urination with anxiety
Pains followed by numbness and tingling.
Eye pain and injuries
Throbbing headache.
Unquenchable thirst.

Argentum nitricum (Arg-n)

This remedy is indicated when anxiety develops before a big event. (Examples: an interview for job, an exam, a public speech, social engagement, marriage, etc.).

Symptoms

Emotional upset
Fear
Anxiety
Extended period of unusual or continued mental exertion
Dizziness
Diarrhea
Craving for sweets and salt. Craving for strong flavors.
Enthusiastic and suggestible, with a tendency toward peculiar thoughts and impulses.

Arsenicum album (Arsenicum, Ars)

This remedy is recommended for people who are deeply anxious about their health, and extremely concerned with order and security. Panic attacks often occur around midnight or the very early hours of the morning. The person may feel exhausted yet still be restless-fidgeting, pacing, and anxiously moving from place to place. These people may also have digestive problems or asthma attacks accompanied by anxiety. They are typically obsessive about small details and very neat. They may feel a desperate need to be in control of everything.

Symptoms

Anxious
Anxiety associated with later stages of head cold, with sneezing
Asthma worse after midnight, fears suffocation while lying down
Fearful
Irritable
Restless
Sleepiness but insomnia
Thirsty for frequent small drinks
Weak and exhausted
Desires air but sensitive to cold
Vomiting with or without diarrhea after eating and drinking

Calcarea carbonica (Calc)

People who benefit most from this remedy have a chilly constitution. The slightest cold "goes right through them." They have trouble keeping themselves warm. They have a craving for sweets, and are easily fatigued. They are dependable, solid people who become overwhelmed from physical illness or too much work and start to fear a breakdown. Their thoughts can be muddled and confused when tired, which adds to the anxiety. Worry and bad news may agitate them, and a nagging dread of disaster (to themselves or others) may develop. Fear of heights and claustrophobia are also common.

Symptoms

Increased perspiration
Night sweats
Cold hands and feet
Dizziness
Nausea
Ravenous hunger
Aversion to fats
Craving for eggs
Eyes sensitive to light
Pale face
Large appetite with slow digestion

Gelsemium (Gels)

This remedy is indicated when you have feelings of weakness, trembling, and mental dullness (being "paralyzed by fear"). It is also useful when a person experiences anxiety about an upcoming event such as stage-fright about a public performance or interview, or anxiety before a test, impending visit to the dentist, or other stressful events. Chills, perspiration, diarrhea, and headaches will often occur with nervousness. Fear of crowds, a fear of falling, and even a fear that the heart might stop are other indications for Gelsemium.

Symptoms

Nervousness
Apprehension
Anxiety prior to an examination or public performance
Fatigue and aching of whole body
Limbs, head, eyelids heavy
Headache
Scalp sore to touch
Sore throat
Lack of thirst
Dizziness, trembling, fatigue, dullness

Ignatia amara (Ignatia, Ign)

A sensitive person who is anxious because of grief, loss, disappointment, criticism, loneliness (or any stressful emotional experience) may benefit from this remedy. The primary factor for this remedy is emotional stress, especially disappointment or grief. Other indications are a defensive attitude, frequent sighing, and mood swings. The person may burst unexpectedly into either tears or laughter.

Symptoms

Vomiting
Sensation of a lump in the throat
Chills with fever
Thirst during chills
Chills relieved by warmth
Cramping pains in the abdomen or back
Headaches that feel like a nail driven into the side of the head
Skin very sensitive to drafts
Introspective
Sad
Brooding
Tearful
Rejects company
Disappointed
Grieving
Insomnia from emotional distress
Nausea relieved by eating
Eating intensifies hunger

Kali phosphoricum

Indicated when a person has been exhausted by overwork or illness. Feels a deep anxiety and inability to cope. Jumpy and oversensitive. May be startled by ordinary sounds. Hearing unpleasant news or thinking of world events can aggravate the problems. Insomnia and an inability to concentrate may develop, increasing the sense of nervous dread. Eating, warmth, and rest often bring relief.

Symptoms

Exhaustion
Deep anxiety and inability to cope
Headaches
Jumpy and oversensitive
Startled by ordinary sounds
Backaches
Nervous digestive upsets

Lycopodium (Lyc)

Lycopodium patients attempt to cover an inner sense of inadequacy by putting up fronts, by pretending to be something they are not. They feel anxiety from mental stress and suffer from a lack of confidence. They can be self-conscious and feel intimidated by people they perceive as powerful. They can feel a deep anxiety and fear of failure, when they take on responsibility. They usually do well, once started on a task.

Symptoms

Shakes head without any apparent cause
Facial contortions
Gassy, constipation or diarrhea
Sour belching
Claustrophobia
Irritability
Digestive upsets with gas and bloating
Craves sweets, warm food and drink
Night cough
Wants to be alone
Cranky on waking
Bullying tendency
Fear of failure
Breaking down under stress

Natrum muriaticum (Nat mur)

The primary candidates for this remedy are personally aloof but have a social conscience and a desire to help others. Deep emotions and a self-protective shyness can make these people seem reserved, aloof, and private. Even when feeling lonely, they tend to stay away from social situations, not knowing what to say or do. Easily hurt and offended, they can brood, bear grudges, dwell on unhappy feelings, and isolate themselves. They refuse consolation even when they want it. They are often sympathetic listeners to other people's problems. Claustrophobia, anxiety at night (with fears of robbers or intruders), migraines, and insomnia are often seen when this remedy is needed.

Symptoms

Tongue feels dry
Mucous membranes dry
Nausea
Insomnia
Claustrophobia
Migraine headache
Vomiting
Pains around eyes
Craves salt and dry foods
Weepy but won't let others see it. (Wants to be alone to cry.)
Consolation aggravates them
Angry from isolation
Fright, grief, anger
Nervous, discouraged, broken down
Depressed

Phosphorus

Indicated when the victims are openhearted, imaginative, excitable, easily startled, and full of intense and vivid fears. Strong anxiety can be easily triggered just by thinking of almost anything. They are nervous and sensitive to others. They can overextend themselves with sympathy to the point of feeling exhausted and "spaced out" or even getting ill. They need a lot of company and reassurance. They often feel better from conversation or a back-rub. Easy flushing of the face, palpitations, thirst, and a strong desire for cold, refreshing foods are other indications for Phosphorus.

Symptoms

Anxious
Fearful
Weak
Associated with hoarseness
Tight heavy chest
Dry rasping cough
Burning pains in stomach, abdomen, between shoulder blades
Thirst for cold drinks that are vomited
Nausea
Night sweats

Pulsatilla (Puls)

People who need this remedy often express anxiety as insecurity and clinginess, with a need for constant support and comforting. They fear being alone. They are easily discouraged, moody, tearful, whiny, even emotionally childish. Getting too warm or being in a stuffy room often increases anxiety. Anxiety around the time of hormonal changes (puberty, menstrual periods, or menopause) often is helped with Pulsatilla.

Symptoms

Sensitive
Weepy
Wants attention and sympathy
Changeable symptoms and moods
Craves open air
Sensitive to heat
Dry mouth with lack of thirst
Rich food upsets stomach
Insomnia from recurring thought
Head colds
Loose cough, worse at night
Delayed menstrual period with scanty flow

Silicea (Silica)

Indicated for those who are capable and serious, yet are also nervous, shy, and subject to bouts of temporary loss of confidence. Anxiety can be extreme when they are faced with a public appearance, interview, examination, or any new job or task. Worry and overwork can bring on headaches, difficulty concentrating, and states of exhaustion, oversensitivity, and dread.

Symptoms

Worry
Overwork
Headaches
Difficulty concentrating
Exhaustion,
Oversensitivity
Overreact and devote attention to tiny details
Low stamina
Frequently catch colds, sore throats, or other illnesses.

Gout

Homeopathic remedies can provide a measure of relief during painful attacks of joint pain and inflammation. A constitutional remedy prescribed by an experienced homeopath may help to reduce the likelihood of further episodes. The following homeopathic remedies are particularly useful for gout.

Aconitum napellus: The person is anxious, with a good imagination that can picture many terrible things. The joints are swollen and painful. The pain is worse at night and with warmth, but better with fresh air and rest.

Arnica: Arnica can also be very helpful for discomfort that comes with gout. Pain is sore and bruise-like, and it hurts to walk. The person may be afraid to be approached or touched, because of pain.

Belladonna: Useful for symptoms such as sudden onset, swelling, throbbing, heat, and. The joints look red, inflamed, and shiny - with sharp or violent pains that are worse from touch and jarring. The person may feel restless, flushed, and hot. Take

Benzinum acidum: 3X every four hours in gouty subjects with high- smelling urine.

Berberis vulgaris: Twinges of pain in gouty joints, or stitching pains that are aggravated by changing position or walking, may indicate a need for Berberis vulgaris. Berberis is often indicated for people who ache all over; some have nagging back pain or a tendency toward kidney stones.

Bryonia: Bryonia is helpful when tearing pain is worse from the slightest movement.

Calcarea fluorica: When the finger joints become enlarged because of gout, and the knees and toes may be involved, it may be time for this remedy. Stabbing pain is experienced, and the joints may make a cracking sound on movement. Discomfort is worse during weather changes, and warmth may bring relief.

Colchicine: 3X, every two to four hours for great weariness, nausea, shoutings and tearings in muscles and joints worse with movement, better at night. Tearings in legs, feet, and toes with swelling.

Colchicum: Colchicum is useful for gout in the big toe or heel-so painful the person finds both motion and touch unbearable. The joints are swollen, red and hot. Pain is often worse in the evening and at night. Flare-ups may occur in the springtime or with weather changes. Individuals who need this remedy often have a feeling of internal coldness and are very tired.

Guaiacum: 3X, every four hours in gout.

Ledum palustre: Ledum palustre is indicated when the foot and big toe are swollen. Shooting pains are felt all through the foot and ankle, moving upward to the knee. Cold applications relieve both the swelling and the pain.

Pulsatilla nigricans: 3, every two hours when gout flies about from joint to joint.

Rhododendron: When you experience gouty swelling of the big toe joint that flares up before a storm, this remedy may be indicated. Other joints may ache and swell, especially on the right side of the body. Pain usually is worse toward early morning and after staying still too long. The person may feel better from warmth and after eating.

Rhus toxicodendron: This remedy can be helpful for joints that are hot, stiff, painful, and swollen. Symptoms are worse in cold, damp weather and improved by warmth and gentle motion.

Sabina: The person is depressed. There is gouty pain and nodules may develop at the afflicted joint. Movement and heat make the pain worse; cool fresh air makes it better. Also when connected with uterine disorder

Sulphur: When you have painful gouty joints that itch, along with a burning feeling in the feet, sulphur may be useful. The knees and other joints may be involved. Problems are aggravated by heat in any form, and are often worse in damp weather and in springtime.

Healing Diseases/Conditions

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Stress Management

In homeopathic medicine ailments such as food allergy, hypoglycemia, high blood pressure, asthma and digestive disorders are regarded as being manifestations of stress, so treatment is likely to be long-term and constitutional; however, in acute circumstances, one of the following remedies may be useful, according to a person's circumstances:

• Phosphoric ac. for stress due to grief or bad news
  
• Picric ac. for stress due to overwork.
  Ignatia for stress following emotional upset such as a broken love affair
  
• Nux for stress brought on by burning the candle at both ends, including smoking, eating or drinking too much, making the sufferer irritable.

The following remedies can be used to treat stress-related conditions, such as anxiety, nervousness, tension, and mental fatigue. Be sure to match your symptoms with the remedy that has the most similar characteristics.

Ignatia imara (Ignatia)

Symptoms: Emotional strain; mental stress; negative effects of grief, worry, disappointment, shock; hysteria; sad, moody, sighing; insomnia; headache, often following anger or grief, which becomes worse from stooping; intolerance to tobacco.

Worsened by: suppressing emotions, tobacco, coffee, brandy, smoke or strong odors.

Better from: lying on the painful side, warmth, walking, hard pressure.

Phosphorus

Symptom: Restlessness; overexcited state that causes weakness and exhaustion; burning pains; chilliness with thirst for cold drinks; expressive, animated, overdramatic; acute senses; bothered by light and noise; nervous- ness and fear; sense that something bad will happen; fearful of being alone and crave company; easily frightened or upset, though can be reassured or distracted; crave salt, spicy food, ice cream; tendency to bleed easily (this should be evaluated medically); nosebleeds.

Worsened by: cold or heat, lying on left or painful side, thunderstorms.

Better from: massaging or rubbing; cold food or drink.

Your homeopath may suggest you learn some form of relaxation or meditation and perhaps take supplements of vitamin B complex; taking exercise may also be advised.

Arthritis

Most of the major homeopathic remedies are useful to treat arthritis. Homeopathic remedies to relieve immediate pain and joint stiffness may include Rhus toxicodendron or Bryonia. What remedy is selected depends on the symptoms. Some homeopathic remedies include:

Aconitum: 3X, every hour in rheumatic subjects with fever, restlessness, anxiety.

Actea spic: The arthritis is centered in the hands and feet. Joints are painful and swollen.

Apis mellifica: 3X for much swelling, little pain.

Arctium: 6X, every four hours for pain in joints, colalgia, neuralgia.

Arnica montana: The person is in denial. Denies that anything is wrong and prefers to be left alone. Is nervous and overly sensitive. The person may be suffering from rheumatoid arthritis related to cold, damp conditions. Soreness and bruising are problems.

Belladonna: The pain strikes suddenly. The person does not like stimulus of any kind. The afflicted joints are swollen and red. The pain is "sharp" and related to chills or getting wet.

Berberis vulgaris: 1X, every four hours for chronic synovitis of the knee.

Bryonia alba: 3X for pain worse with movement, part sensitive to touch.

Calcarea carlionica-ostrearum: The person is fearful and confused. Suffers from rheumatoid arthritis affecting the shoulders and upper back, which is made worse with wet or damp conditions.

Chamomilla: Useful when the person is angry and restless. The pain is severe.

Cimicifuga racemosa: The person is overly talkative and restless, appearing to be alternately happy and miserable. The pain appears more in the muscles than in the bones.

Dulcamarta: 3, hourly for subacute rheumatism due to cold and wetness.

Hepar sulphurls calcareum: 6, four d when suppuration has taken place.

Kalmia latifolia: 3 T 3h for acute nonfebrile rheumatism with migratory pains.

Mercurius: 12, every two hours for pain and swelling of joints, worse at night, profuse sweat, pericardial complications.

Mercurius sulphuricus: 6, every four hours for rheumatic synovitis.

Pulsatilla nigricans: 3X, every hour in women and children with pain worse by heat, better by cold.

Rhus toxicodendron: The person is apprehensive and depressed, particularly at night. Lack of movement causes pain and stiffness. F

Sulphuricum: 1-30, every two hours when the pains are worse at night, by warmth.

Introduction of Homeopathy

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What is Homeopathy?

Homeopathy is based on the principle that substances that are poisonous in large doses can be very beneficial in small doses. Homeopathy is a form of medicine that treats the body as a whole and helps it to heal itself. It can be used for the short term (acute) illnesses and long term (chronic) illnesses. The objective is to prevent the patient from getting the illnesses again (prevention). The name homeopathy comes from the Greek word "homios" which means "like" and the word "pathos" meaning "suffering". Thus homeopathy simply means treating like with like.

In the fourth century B.C., Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, observed that large amount of certain natural substances can produce symptoms in healthy people resembling those caused by the disease, while smaller doses of these same substances can relieve those symptoms. in 1790's Samuel Hahnemann, a German doctor, amplified this concept and proposed the practice called homeopathy. He proposed that "Let like be cured by like". Homeopathy uses animal, vegetable and mineral preparations to cure a person's illness. Millions of people in Britain, Europe and America uses Homeopathy.

Homeopathy looks at each patient and develops a remedy or treatment plan strictly for him or her. It invokes the powers of healing inherent in individuals (our immune system) to develop a successful therapy. The more one knows about the patient, the symptoms, likes and dislikes, what makes them better or worse, it helps in developing a "symptom picture" of the patient that can lead to a successful treatment.

If we think about the principle of homeopathy, it has a lot in common with our present understanding of immunizations. To prevent us from catching small pox, a vaccine is prepared which is a mild form of the virus that causes the disease. The principle is that introduction of this small amount of the virus in our body system will set out our body's defenses so that when the actual virus shows up, our body will have enough barriers or fighting power to prevent the virus from entering our body. Homeopathy practitioners believe that when we introduce a very very small amount of the deadly material into the body, our body will unleash enough defenses to prevent the disease from recurring again. However, there are significant differences between the concepts used in Western medicine and those of homeopathy. Vaccines are not rendered more potent when they are diluted like homeopathic preparations. In conventional treatment, there is a minimum dosage that need to be given before the medication becomes effective in treating the underlying problem. For example, when taking antibiotics, we have to take the whole course at regular intervals to maintain a potency level in the bloodstream to kill the bacteria.

Homeopathic remedies, which are made from naturally occurring plant, animal, or mineral substances, are recognized and regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are manufactured by established pharmaceutical companies under strict guidelines. There are over 2000 homeopathic remedies that are usually referred to by their abbreviated name. (For example Arg nit. stands for Argentum nitricum). These are derived from such exotic sources as bee stings, snake venoms, arsenic, gold and silica, and even compounds from diseases tissue. Homeopaths also prescribes tissue salts. Tissue salts are prepared from mineral sources. Homeopathic remedies are diluted to such an extent that there can be no possible side effects from even the most toxic substances. The dilution process is known as 'potentation' Taken in this ultra diluted form, Homeopathic remedies have no side effects and are perfectly safe, non-toxic and non-addictive.

Names of Homeopathic Medicines

Most of the Homeopathic medicines are referred to by their Latin names. The table below shows some of the common Homeopathic medicines and their Latin names.

Latin Name

Common Name

Allium cepa Apis Arnica Belladonna Bellis perennis Berberis Bryonia Calcarea carbonica Calendula Cantharis Caulophylium Chamomilla Cimicifuga Colocynthis Cuprum metallicum Eupbrasia Ferrum phos Gelsemium Hepar sulph Lachesis Ledum Magnesia phosphorica (Mag phos) Mercurius Natrum mur Nux vomica Oscillococcinum Pulsatilla Rhus tox Sarsaparilla Sepia Sulphur Urtica urens Zincum

Onion Crushed bee Mountain daisy Deadly nightshade Daisy Barberry Wild hops Calcium carbonate Marigold Spanish fly Blue cohosh Chamomile Black snakeroot Bitter cucumber Copper Eyebright Iron phosphate Yellow jasmine Hahnemann's calcium sulphide Venom of the bushmaster snake Marsh tea Magnesium phosphate Mercury Salt Poison nut Duck heart and liver Windflower Poison ivy Wild licorice Cuttlefish Sulphur Stinging nettle Zinc

How does Homeopathic remedies work?

Many of the homeopathic remedies are so diluted that according to the known laws of physics and chemistry, they couldn't possibly have any effect. Once you get beyond a certain point-24x or 12c -there is probably not even one single molecule of the original active substance remaining. Critics of homeopathy often point to this fact as they dismiss the effect of homeopathy as merely due to placebo effect.

And yet, according to homeopathic doctrine and experience, the more diluted the solution, the more potent it is. Homeopaths contend that the remedies work and they see no reason to stop using them simply because we do not understand how they work. They often argue that pharmacologists cannot explain exactly how most conventional drugs work. For example, even aspirin is not fully understood in terms of how it works, but physicians have no difficulty in recommending its use.

Over the years several theories have been proposed to explain the action on homeopathic potentization.

Hormesis

The effects of microdoses have been known for a long time, and there are a number of examples that support the idea that very diluted concentrations of a substance will have a measurable and sometimes profound effect. Scientists call this phenomenon: hormesis.

Scientists from Michigan State University have shown how hormesis work in nature. They used microdoses of a fertilizer to stimulate crop production. In a dose equivalent to a 9x dilution, the fertilizer increased tomato yield by 30 percent, carrots were 21 percent bigger, and corn yield increased by 25 percent.

Our own bodies secrete minute amounts of hormones that have powerful effects. Thyroid hormone is present in our blood at only 1 part per 10 billion-yet this is enough to regulate the rate of our entire metabolism. Many animal studies show that low doses of some substances elicit a beneficial response while high doses are harmful. This phenomenon has been documented to occur with radiation, antibiotics, and heavy metals.

Pheromones

Pheromones are powerful aromatic hormone-like substances that creatures secrete to attract one another. One molecule of moth pheromone is so potent, it will attract another moth from miles away and trigger a cascade of physical reactions. Though well documented, the exact mechanism for pheromones remains unknown.

Homeopathic Remedies Work in Spiritual/Energy Plane and Not in Physical Plane

Homeopathic remedies are believed to work in the spiritual plane as opposed to the physical plane as we are used to think and measure. Hahnemann believed that dilution and succussion released a spirit- like power that worked on the spiritual level of the vital force in humans. We are familiar with the formerly invisible, immeasurable, unknowable energy forms, such as electromagnetic radiation and subatomic particles. Magnets exerted their force long before science could explain the mechanism. Physicists are still trying to explain gravity and the nature of matter, still discovering phenomena such as the "strong force" and the "weak force."

Homeopathy is an energy medicine, as are acupuncture and therapeutic touch. Homeopaths believe that although the physical molecules of the original substance may be gone, dilution and succussion leaves something behind-an imprint of its essence, or its energy pattern-that gives it a kind of healing charge. Potentization does not occur if you simply dilute the substance, even if you dilute it repeatedly. Nor does it occur if you only shake the substance vigorously. There is something about each process that builds sequentially upon the other, causing the power to be retained and progressively intensified.

But how does the information in such a minute amount of substance get transferred to the body? Some theorists suggest the repeated succussion creates an electrochemical pattern that is stored in the water carrier and then spreads like liquid crystallization through the body's own water; others say the dilution process triggers an electromagnetic imprinting that directly affects the electro- magnetic field of the body. This concept is used in other therapies also. For example, Ayurveda suggests taking water that has been potentizated by precious metals such as gold. The water is believed to possess curative power as a result of coming in contact with gold and other gemstones although no molecular transfer takes place. The healing power of crystals and magnets are believed to come from their effect on the energy pattern or vibration frequency. So, the suggestion of the homeopathic remedies as working on the energy plane may not be as far fetched as we may think at the first glance.

Homeopathic Remedies Activate the Vital Force

Homeopaths believe that it is the energy or "vibrational pattern" of the remedy, rather than the chemical content, that stimulates the healing by activating what Hahnemann called the Vital force. Vital force is the healing power or energy that exists within us all. It is called by the name Chi by Chinese and Prana by Indian Ayurveda. The vital force fuels the mind, body, emotions and mind. It keeps us healthy and balanced. When the balance of the vital force is disturbed by factors such as stress, pollution, improper diet and lack of exercise, it becomes weakened resulting in the person getting sick.

Scientists who accept the potential benefits of homeopathic theory suggest several theories to explain how highly diluted homeopathic medicines may act. Using recent developments in quantum physics, they have proposed that electromagnetic energy in the medicines may interact with the body on some level. Researchers in physical chemistry have proposed the "memory of water" theory, whereby the structure of the water-alcohol solution is altered by the medicine during the process of dilution and retains this structure even after none of the actual substance remains.

Hair Care - Part IV

How To Reverse Hair Loss?

These are helpful tips to help regenerate hair follicles, but they do not cure any underlying conditions, or stress-related hair loss.

• Try drinking this - blend bananas with honey, yoghurt & low-fat milk. A drink rich in biotin can help keep your crowning glory firmly rooted.
  
• Take dietary supplements such as Vitamin B6, zinc & saw palmetto. Supplements are useful when you can't get enough from natural food sources.
  
• Invert your head while you shampoo & massage your scalp. This helps promote blood circulation to the head.
  
• Eliminate stress or else it can be disastrous to your precious hair!
  
• Get enough sleep.

How To Get Rid Of Dandruff?

Cure for dandruff:

• Vinegar is poured into the hair, massaged into the scalp, and left to dry for a few minutes.
  
• Then the hair is washed.
  
• The process is repeated daily until the dandruff disappears, usually within a few days.

Homemade Hair Spray

Chop one lemon (or an orange for dry hair). Place in a pot with 2 cups water. Boil until half of the initial amount remains. Cool, strain, and place in a spray bottle. Store in the refrigerator.

If it is too sticky, add more water. Add one ounce rubbing alcohol as a preservative and then the spray can be stored for up to two weeks unrefrigerated.

How To Straighten Your Hair?

So, do you want to strighten your curls? Here's how:

• Wash and condition hair.
• Blot dry. Hair should be almost dry when you begin.
• Gather up hair into several sections and secure or clip hair on top of your head. You will be drying the bottom layers first.
• Follow the brush (with your dryer) down the sections of hair as you straighten each section and be sure to keep the dryer moving.
• Take down a new section of hair and procede as directed above.
• Work your way up the layers until all sections are dried and straightened.
• To curl the ends for a polished look, take your brush and pull the ends under. Finish your styling with a blast of cool air if your hairdryer has this capability.

Tips:

• Be sure to condition your hair often. Sun, cold temperatures plus the use of your hair dryer can be hard on your hair.
• For best results, use products formulated for your hair type. It does make a difference.
• Give your hair a break and allow it to dry naturally as often as possible.
• Have split ends snipped every six weeks to two months to ensure that they don't travel up the hair shaft.

How To Deal With Dandruff?

Some are of the opinion that at the early stages of hair loss, dandruff begins to increase. However, an increase in the amount of dandruff does not necessarily mean that there is a "cause-effect" relationship resulting in the thinning of hair.

You should think of excessive dandruff as a warning sign as far as the health of the hair is concerned.

Dandruff is made up of bits of dead skin that peel away from the scalp as a result of the effects of metabolism. Normally, dandruff, in its early stages of growth, is not visible to the naked eye. It becomes visible only after enlarging into pieces of dead skin (what we normally call "dandruff") as a result of the propagation of bacteria and/or problems with seborrhoeic scalp conditions.

Persons suffering from prolonged dandruff are said to have a dandruff ailment. This type of ailment, accompanied by itchiness, can lead to eczema if it worsens. Suppressing the propagation of bacteria is one means of dealing with fatty dandruff. This is because bacteria is one of the causes of this condition.

If possible, try to shampoo on a daily basis to prevent bacterial propagation. One effective means of dealing with dandruff is to disinfect the scalp area with commercially available medicated shampoos specifically designed for dandruff removal. However, daily shampooing can lead to eczema for persons who suffer from dry scalps. Shampooing once every three days may be ideal for such persons.

Persons who suffer from persistent, hard-to-cure dandruff are urged to consult a skin specialist.

Tips on hair care

From Hats to Gnats ... Protect Your Hair and Scalp This Summer

The hot summer sun might make us forget winter worries, but the glorious days of this season bring new sources of irritation for the scalp that call for protective measures. "Things like the sun, gnats, perspiration and close-fitting hats can not only create scalp problems, but can also exacerbate pre-existing conditions.

Sun

"Many people do not realize that the sun is a very powerful drying agent, and that they can sustain substantial damage from not protecting their scalps from the scorching rays," recommends wearing a hat, as well as using hair products that contain sunscreen.

Hats

While hats will keep the hair and scalp safe from sun damage, tight, close-fitting ones do more harm than good. "Tight hats do not allow the skin to breathe, so the scalp becomes very hot," . "Perspiration builds up, making the scalp feel itchy and tight, causing or exacerbating irritation." loose-fitting hats made from breathable fabrics to shield the hair and scalp from the sun. Avoid hats made with plastic or mesh-like materials, since the sun's rays can penetrate through the small openings.

Gnats

Along with the bright summer sun, the gnats are out in full force to add to scalp irritation. Gnats usually hover around the head and face, which puts them within striking distance of the scalp. "The scalp becomes inflamed and itchy from the gnat bites," . To combat gnats, experts advise
people to don a hat or use insect repellent sparingly on clothes and hats.

Chlorine/Saltwater

When the temperature rises, pools and beaches are especially inviting -- and very hard on the scalp and hair. The chlorine in pool water and the salt in the ocean can be extremely drying. "After swimming, immediately rinse chlorine or salt from hair. The longer the chlorine and salt are in contact with the scalp, the more it dries it out," .

More Shampoo Two For One

Buy a bottle of shampoo and when you get home pour half of it in another bottle. Then fill up both bottles with water. This way you will have double the shampoo for the price of one.

Great Smelling Hair how To Get Better Smelling Hair

Spray hair brush with body spray to have great smelling hair all day long

Shiny Hair How To Get Shiny Hair

Rinse your hair with cool water after shampooing & conditioning for the shiniest hair.

Reducing Frizz How to Reduce Frizzy Hair

For frizzy hair, try using a little body lotion, to tone down the frizz

Wavy Hair How to get wavy hair overnight

To get your hair wavy overnight, sleep with a loose braid in your hair. You will have beautiful waves all day long. Combing your hair too much after taking out the braid will reduce the time the braid will last.

Morning Hair Making it easier to deal with

To make it easier to take care of your hair in the morning, wrap it in a silky scarf before you go to bed. This will make it much easier to comb and style in the morning.

Colored Hair Caring for colored hair

If you have colored your hair, always remember to cover your hair while sun bathing.

Tangled Hair Getting rid of the tangles

To get rid of tangles in your hair, brush your hair from the bottom. If you brush from the top, you pull tangles together, and eventually create knots, making it harder to take care of hair.

Protein For The Hair Egg shampoo

Egg shampoo adds protein to your hair, so if you have damaged, fragile, or even tinted hair, try egg shampoo. It is also very gentle and cleans hair without striping it of natural oils.

Shampoo Use Excesss Shampoo

Use of too much shampoo will strip your hair of its natural oils

Shampooing Tricks Shampooing

Wet hair thoroughly before adding a dab of shampoo. You will be suprised at how little shampoo you really need. If you don't have the lather you desire, try adding a little more water instead of shampoo.

Keeping Hair Clean Washing Hair

How often you should wash your hair is different for everyone. You will know the time is right by the appearance and feel of your hair. It is as simple as that.

Healthy Hair Healthy Hair

For healthy hair fill you diet with lots of vegetables, vitamin A, C, B complex, iron, iodine, and copper.

Removing Bond Glue Hair glue

Out of bonding hair glue? use an oil sheen to remove the glued hair tracks.

Styling Aids Styling made easier

To make it easier to style hair, heat up styling products such as pomade, with blow dryer before appling them. This makes it easier to apply, hence easier to style.

Alternative Styling Products Smooth Fly-Away Hairs

If you run out of styling products, try using hand lotion to smooth hair. It can also add shine and easily washes out.

Great Smelling Hair Scented Styles

Add a few drops of essential oil to hair gels, pomades, balms, or creams for a sweet smelling style.

Reduce Build Up Hair Build-up

Rinse 1 cup of apple cider vinegar in your hair to reduce build-up.

Getting A Shiny Wet Hair Look Wet Look

To get that super shiny "wet look" with any brand hair gel, apply to hair when wet. Don't blow dry or comb hair; let it dry naturally.

Swimmers Hair Preventing Chlorine Damage

Work conditioner through hair and leave in before going to the pool

Hair Care While Swimming Swim hair

Always wet your hair or apply conditioner before you go swimming (Hair aborbs very well, so if you do not, it will absorb the salt or chlorine in the sea or pool). If hair is already wet, absorbtion will be minimal

Long Lasting Curls Curls

To make curls last longer, do not remove rollers till hair has completely cooled down.

How To Dry Your Hair Drying Hair

When blow drying your hair, start at the roots. This will give your hair more lift and body, and also allow your hair to dry quickly.

Testing Hair Strength Damage Test

Fill a sink with water, and push your hair in it. If your hair floats, you are fine. However if your hair sinks, then it is damaged(It has holes or pores in it, that is why it sinks), and you need to get it treated.

Give Your Hair A Natural Shine Shiny Hair

To get hair shiny, wash and blow dry it the night before. Your own natural oils will add to making it more shiny in the morning

Reduction Of Split Ends Split ends

To avoid split ends use a wide-tooth comb after washing your hair

Reduce greasy Hair Avoid greasy hair

To aviod greasy hair, scrub scalp very lightly when washing hair. When scalp is scrubbed harshly, sebaceous glands are activated, and this produces more oils.

Increase Hair Volume More Volume

To increase volume in hair, put small amounts of baby powder or powder eye shadow on roots. (Make sure powder matches hair color).

Stop Hair From Falling Flat Hair

To avoid flat hair, repart your hair , once or twice during the day.

Minimizing Static Stopping Static

Try spraying Static Guard (or similar product) on brushes and hats or rub hair with a dryer sheet to minimize static.

Get Rid Of Dandruff Dandruff be gone

To get rid of dandruff, apply one spoon each of apple cider vinegar,vodka, and warm water, and a drop of tea tree oil to hair after shampooing. Keep in overnight, and style as usual in the morning. Do not rinse out.

Hair Care - Part III

A Change in Part to Revamp Your Style

Want to change your hairstyle without drastically chopping your locks? Before you shell out major cash for a fresh style, consider modeling a new do with a simple variation on the way you part your hair.

Though there is not necessarily a good or a bad way to part your hair, several mainstream options are easy to achieve. What matters most is that you are comfortable and confident with the style you choose. If you cannot immediately decide on your preferred style, try the following, or make up your own!

A very common method of parting the hair involves the natural part, which runs right down the center of one's head. If this is your current style and you are ready for a change, try to form a new part a bit to the left or the right of your current part.

Parting your hair on your own is a cinch! If you aren't familiar with doing so but want to try a new look, first comb your hair as if you are going to throw it back into a ponytail. Then take a thin comb and trace a straight line along your scalp where your hair meets your forehead to the back of your head. Separate the hair on either side of the new part and gently brush or comb it down until it lays smoothly. If you find difficulty with this, you may want to introduce a small dab of a non-sticky styling product to your hair to calm it down. Also, if your hair is very accustomed to a certain style, you may have to "train" it to respond to the new part by brushing in the desired direction and adding styling products when necessary.

To keep hair healthy and strong, it is important to schedule a trim regularly (or trim it yourself if you are scissors-inclined!) to prevent split ends. If you choose to have your stylist trim your mane for you, she should ask how you part your hair if she does not already know. It is important to "cut with the part" to keep your hair even and natural looking.

If you only want to change your look for a night, a chic zigzag part will stand you out from the crowd. Using your comb, simply trace the part back and forth from your forehead to the back of the head. Then separate the sections so that they lay evenly on either side of your head.

Though you already have a comb on hand, a handy, inexpensive tool makes the zigzag process a bit easier. The "Part Pizazz" is a tool with a point on one end and arms that swing open to separate the sections of hair when you are finished. To design the zigzag you merely trace the desired pattern on your head as if using a pen or pencil and a sheet of paper. Hairagami® produces the "Part Pizazz."

Whether you are enjoying your new look indefinitely or just for a night, remember not to run your hands through your hair too much as it may disrupt the style. Be bold, be conservative-be YOU-have fun and make a statement. Make sure you are confident in your new style as you sport it in public. Then bask in the glow of attention as those close to you notice something is just a bit different about you. Switching your part can make you feel fresh, energized and sexy.

Enjoy it!

No Fail Blow-Drying for Smooth, Shiny Hair

Want that silky, touchable hair that Pantene Pro V products claim their shampoo will give you? Look no further-you can have that flawless look by spending only a few extra minutes blow-drying your hair! Ditch the designer hair products and follow these simple instructions to give your hair the same beautiful look and soft feeling:

Materials:

• Towel
  
• Hairdryer
  
• Brush / Comb
  
• Claw-Clip or barrette
  
• Your usual styling products or a small amount of hair gel for touch-ups

These may not be necessary after you try this tip.

Step 1: Twist hair up into a towel in order to remove excess water. How long you keep it wrapped in the towel is up to you-my hair is long, so time permitting, I keep it like that for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Comb out any tangles and part hair as you wish.

Step 3: Gather hair and twist except for a thin layer at the base of your head. Pin hair atop your head with the clip or barrette.

Step 4: Begin drying the loose hair. (You can use a lower heat setting if you do not have a time restriction.) When hair is complete dry, turn off hairdryer and brush or comb hair.

Step 5: Remove clip and take another section of hair to be dried. Re-twist your hair and replace pin.

Step 6: Repeat step 4 as necessary. For thicker hair, you may need to separate hair into sections several times. My hair is of a medium thickness but long, so I separate it into 3 sections.

Step 7: Once hair is completely dry, brush and style as you wish, or leave it down, as it should be less dried-out and more manageable. If your hair is not completely frizz-free and cooperative, rub a small amount of gel in your hands (a nickel's worth or a quarter's worth) and gently smooth over your hair, paying close attention to the ends.

Drying and styling time will vary based on your hair's thickness and length. Though I do not always have enough time to use this drying technique, it works wonders for my hair for those special occasions!

Approximate Time Required: 10-20 minutes, depending on thickness and length of hair.

Stylish Updo Hairstyle with a Twist

For a stylish up-do, try these simple steps!

Note: Works best with wet or slightly damp hair.

This hairstyle has seen me through business class presentations, mid-summer's outings in sundresses and casual "bum" days in jeans and sweatshirts. It is a great style with a unique twist!

To replicate this relatively easy hairstyle, gather these materials:

• 6 to 12 mini-claw clips (Or, failing that, lots of bobby pins!)
  
• Elastic Band / Ponytail holder
  
• Brush and Comb
  
• A hand mirror (So you can check out your style as you create it.)
  
• Styling gel (Spray gel works best.) or Hairspray

Note: If you do not already have these items, it is not necessary to go out and purchase them. Simply get creative and improvise!

Step 1: Remove excess water from your hair. Hair should be damp, not drenched.

Step 2: Using brush or comb, pull hair back and up, into a smooth, "high" ponytail and securely fasten.

Step 3: Pull a small section of hair away from the ponytail and twist whichever way is more natural/comfortable. Fasten the twist to your head with one of the clips.

Step 4: Repeat Step 3 - fasten each twist so that they start to hide the elastic band. By the time you are finished, a ring of twists should have concealed the band.

Step 5: Arrange the twists however you like them best… Feel free to experiment with the dynamics of the hairstyle. Try fastening the twists closer to the elastic band, or considerable farther away from it. Add more twists or try the style with fewer, thicker twists. You can create many different styles out of this single, basic technique.

Step 6: The ends of the twists should peek out from the clips. You can easily alter the length of these ends by merely changing the position of each mini-clip. For longer ends peeking out-a wilder style-rearrange the clips with more hair outside of the twist, just sticking out where the clip meets your head.

Step 7: Once you are pleased with the result, lightly spray the twists and the ends.

This style can be flirty and fun, or professional and sedate, depending on how you manipulate the twists and clips. Play around, have fun with the style and the many varied end results you can create in minutes!

Approximate Styling Time: 10-15 minutes.

A Recipe For Healthy Hair

Forget hair revitalizing shampoos, great nutrition is the most effective way of getting awesome hair!

Shiny, healthy hair is a reflection of a healthy body, so it's like two for the price of one. Just like your body, your hair needs a balanced, nutritious diet to stay healthy. So follow this recipe for healthier hair, and be amazed at the difference it makes!

Water

Water makes up one-fourth of the weight of a strand of hair. Moisture makes the hair supple, so make sure you get plenty of fluids. A key point is NOT to wait until you're thirsty. If you're thirsty, it means your body has already lost more water than it should have, and it's urging you to fill up the tank. Water not only hydrates your body, but helps keep your hair silky and shiny. Ideally, you should drink between eight and ten glasses of water a day.

Protein

Protein is the building block of hair, so a diet for healthy hair contains an awful lot of protein! Protein will give the shaft of your hair more strength, and will reduce the likelihood of dame through snapping and splitting. You can get protein from foods like fish, meat, milk, cheese and cereals.

Minerals

• Iron helps to carry oxygen to the hair. Without enough iron, hair and its follicles get starved of oxygen. This means that the 'goodness' in the root of your hair is much less effective along the length of the strand. You can increase your iron intake by eating red meat and dark green vegetables, or by iron supplements.
  
• Zinc builds hair protein which helps to prevent hair loss. Meat and seafood are the foods highest in zinc.
  
• Copper is involved in the pigmentation of hair. You can optimize your natural color with a diet with plenty of copper. Who needs hair dye and fake color! Shellfish, liver, fresh vegetables, nuts, seeds and meat are all high in copper.

Vitamins

• Vitamin A will give you a healthy scalp, because it's great for the skin! You can get vitamin A from foods like vegetables - in particular, in carrots. (So it's good for the waistline too!)
  
• Vitamin B and C are important for good circulation, hair growth and hair color. If you ensure that you have enough vitamin B and C, you'll have strong, supple strands of hair that do not split. You can get these vitamins from eating foods like fruit, vegetables, cereals, eggs, milk and bread.

So follow this healthy guide… be sure to add in a hefty dose of daily exercise to keep that blood pumping… then add proper hair care on the surface! Go ahead! Try it!

Soon enough you'll be turning down offers to do shampoo commercials!

Hair Care - Part II

Hair brush solutions

Half the problem of getting the right style and preventing damage is the type of hairbrush you use. Most damage happens when the hair is wet, and if you detangle with a steel comb, you are probably making most of the damage yourself. Do you have curly hair and no matter how your straighten it, you always have a wave? Here are some Hair-Brush Solutions.

• When combing wet hair use a big tooth come and detangle your hair from end to root. Try not to touch the root at all.
• For short hair use a Paddington brush with soft protective bristles as you shape and blow dry your hair to your sought after look.
• If you need to tease your hair for a little height, use a pick.
• For medium length straight hair, use a Paddle Brush with soft protective bristles to help you comb out and blow dry your hair.
• For medium length wavy bobs use extra large round brush to blow out the kinks and curls.
• For longhair past your shoulders use a thick, loose toothed brushed or a big round ceramic brush to help you blow dry you long hair straight. Flip the ends out if you want to be a little sassy with the same brush, creating two looks.

Look good, feel better!

Frustrating Bangs - How To Care For Your Bangs?

You know the bangs that when you walk out of your hairstylists they are perfect, but when you get your chance to do them - you can't. They are side-angled, straight-layered, and maybe even long; but can you ever get them the same. Do you have a cowlick in the middle that never straightens out? Here is what you can do for your bangs.

• Blow-dry your bangs towards the front of your face. If you are using a round brush the hair with the blow-dryer on it from root to end. If you then blow-dry your sides towards the same direction when you lift your head and part towards the side or near center, your bump in the front is gone. Use a straightener for even straighter lasting results.
• After blow-drying your hair put a Velcro roller in the front with another one behind it. Spray with a light hairspray and leave in while you apply your make up. Take out brush to your desired style and get the bangs you like.
• If these two have your patience wearing thin, purchase a straightener and get your finished look. Just remember straighteners' cause a lot of damage so use conditioner every time you wash it while using a straighter for a finished bang.

Apply a lite wax or shine, to keep your hair in place all day long. Lightly finish with a lite hair spray.

Curls Galore: Curling Iron Versus Hot Rollers

Before digging out the spongy pink curlers or running to your stylist for a hasty perm, check out these effective alternatives for an evening of uncustomary curls!

Curling Iron

Inexpensive, relatively user-friendly and quick for minor touch-ups, this device can give you a glam look with a few minutes' investment. If you're donning only a partial head of curly locks, a curling iron could be just the tool you need for an immediate response to your need of a few well-placed curls.

Glamorize your up-do with a curling iron by emphasizing your style with a few loose spiral curls around your face or one or two seductively sweeping along the back of your neck. Creating these curls can be a quick and easy process, but don't forget to spritz them with a little hairspray, or else they may not last the entire evening!

Another common use for a curling iron is tending to your hair's ends. Tuck them under or flip them out a bit wildly, but you won't get the same results with a set of hot rollers! A curling iron is versatile enough to curl precisely the strands that you want curled, in whichever manner you wish to achieve. Even if you wish to curl more than a few small sections of hair, a curling iron is capable of curling your entire head as well.

Time Involved: Curling Iron use may take anywhere from 5 minutes or less to 45 minutes or more, depending on style's involvement.

Hot Rollers

Just a touch more expensive than the curling iron, hot rollers can achieve a full head of flawless curls, typically in under an hour. Hot rollers generally have a small amount of wax inside that is heated when the set is plugged into an electrical outlet. When the curlers are ready for use, the color may change color so that you know to begin applying them.

Forget about fighting with the curling iron and trying to decide which way you want the curl to spiral. Instead, enjoy the remarkably easy process with hot rollers-once you have fastened the curlers in your hair, your hair will all curl simultaneously!

It is still a good idea to use some styling products such as a non-sticky hairspray or gel to retain the shape of the curls. (Curls formed by hot rollers tend to last considerably longer for me than those I create with a curling iron, as my hair is typically resistant to curling in general.)

Tip for Hot Rollers: Try to wash your hair the night before you want to employ the hot rollers. Sometimes very clean, sleek hair tends to resist curling.

Time Involved: Hot Rollers may take about 10 minutes to warm up and anywhere from 10-20 minutes to apply, and about 15 minutes to set. (Color of curler will revert back to original color to indicate that the curl has set.) Add additional time as necessary for styling your locks if you intend to use barrettes, bobby pins or other adornments and styling products.

Curling Iron Versus Hot Rollers

• Both beauty appliances require time to heat up, but hot rollers may require a few extra minutes.
• Hot rollers are very easy to use when styling the whole head or a section, but don't count on them to curl your ends out or under. Leave that to the curling iron!
• Color of hot rollers indicates when they are ready to use and when your curls have set.
• Curling iron gives great flexibility for choosing between loose spirals and tight ringlets, but you can always brush out your curls formed by hot rollers to achieve the style you desire.
• Curling irons are much easier to transport when traveling and staying in a hotel or other location away from home.
• Hot rollers save more time if going for a full head of curls. Success rate for curls enduring the entire evening may also be better.
• Both devices are useful in and of themselves-the best advice for you is to try them both and see which you like the best!

Hair Care - Part I

Grooming

• Use a shampoo & conditioner that suits your hair type. Choose products that are gentle, preferably without any harsh detergent like the sulfates. For daily washes, use a shampoo that is mild, gentle & moisturising.
• Using too much conditioner makes hair greasy. For oily hair, apply a light conditioner at the ends of the hair.
• Ingredients such as coconut oil moisturizes dry hair, makes hair softer & soothes the scalp; tea conditions & softens hair; jojoba moisturizes permed or chemically treated hair & makes hair manageable; silicone makes hair silky; lemon gives hair a natural shine & conditions; honey conditions deeply; henna leaves are natural hair dyes; apple cider vinegar & rosemary oil encourage hair growth & control dandruff.
• Eggs contain lecithin which helps to moisturize dry hair. Before shampooing, beat an egg & apply it onto dry hair & cover with a plastic bag for about 15 minutes (body heat intensifies conditioning) then rinse off totally with cold water.
• Olive oil is a good conditioner too. Massage onto hair & leave it for 10 minutes before shampoo.
• Massaging your scalp with your fingertips helps the blood to circulate to the scalp.
• On average hair grows about 1.2 to 1.25 cm a month.
• Hair is most fragile when wet.
• To make hair soft & shiny after washing, blot hair gently with towel & then separate with a wide-toothed comb.
• Blow-drying damages hair, causing dryness & split-ends due to the close contact between the heat on the scalp & hair. The next time you blow dry your hair, face the dryer downwards, use a leave-on conditioner for protection & avoid long exposure of both scalp & hair to the strong heat.
• To avoid hair damage (e.g. green hair) while swimming in chlorinated water, wear a swimming cap or deep condition your hair before entering the pool. Also, wash & condition hair as soon as you have finished swimming.
• Wear a hat when staying outdoors for a long period & condition more often.
• The best hair brush to use is one with bristles made of animal hairs.
• Refrain from giving stress to hair with constant perms, dye, highlighting, blow-drying, curlers or the use of strong hair styling products.
• Hair turns grey when melanocytes (cells found in the hair bulb) cease to produce color pigments.
• Split ends are preventable but not repairable. Cutting them off is the only solution.
• Flaking does not always mean dandruff. It can be caused by overusing conditioners, the build up of compounds from styling products, not washing hair often enough or not rinsing thoroughly.

Nourishment

Poor nutrition, hormonal changes, stress & shock play a major part in affecting the condition, appearance or disappearance of hair.

Vitamin A - promotes healthy scalp.
Food sources: dark green, orange & yellow fruits & vegetables.

Vitamin B complex - Regulates the secretion of oil, keeps hair healthy & moisturized.

Food sources: cereals, tomatoes, lean meat, liver, kidney, Brewer's yeast, eggs & green vegetables.

A severe lack of biotin (one of the Vitamin B) can lead to hair loss. It works best with Vitamin B5, B12 & folic acid. Food sources: cauliflower, yogurt, wholemeal bread, bran & bananas.

Minerals such as zinc, iron & copper promote healthy hair.

Food sources: zinc - lean red meat, chicken, pumpkin seeds & green vegetables; iron - beef, dried apricots, lean red meat, parsley, eggs, wheatgerm & sunflower seeds; copper - animal organs, seafood, egg yolk & whole grains.

A lack of iron is cited to be the cause of hair loss among women who have not reached menopause.

Proteins - because hair is made up of 97% protein (keratin), consuming enough of it gives hair a natural shine.
Food sources: lean meat, grains & soy.

Fixes for hair problems

Winter hair

• Wash your hair less often so as to strip less of the hair's natural oil.
• Use a dry shampoo if you need to wash. One way to have a dry shampoo is to sprinkle some baby powder onto your hair & comb it off.
• Deep condition once a week. Try massaging your scalp with 4 tablespoons of honey & cover with a plastic bag for 15 minutes or more then rinse off totally with hot water.

Static

• A leave-on conditioner or hair mousse can get rid of static. Hair static is caused by a lack of hair moisture.
• Brush with natural & not plastic bristles.
• Get a sheet of fabric softener & wipe across your hair. It helps control frizz too.

Hair loss

• Try drinking this - blend bananas with honey, yogurt & low-fat milk. A drink rich in biotin can help keep your crowning glory firmly rooted.
• Take dietary supplements such as Vitamin B6, zinc & saw palmetto. Supplements are useful when you can't get enough from natural food sources (see Nourishment).
• Invert your head while you shampoo & massage your scalp. This helps promote blood circulation to the head.
• Eliminate stress or else it can be disastrous to your precious hair!
• Get enough sleep.
• To stimulate scalp circulation, massage the scalp with rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) essential oil or rinse hair with tea made from sage (Salvia officinalis).
• In 76 Ways to Use Noni Fruit Juice (Direct Source, 2001), The Noni rash treatment by applying Noni fruit juice directly onto the scalp using a plaster cloth. Another alternative is to apply Noni extract directly onto the scalp, massage & leave to dry.

Dandruff

• Dandruff arises from an oily, not dry scalp. Use a special-formulated shampoo to help control the flaking.
• An anti-dandruff shampoo should contain tea tree oil, salicylic acid, sulfur & zinc pyrithione. Use on alternate days.
• Massage your scalp with some table salt to remove dandruff then shampoo.
• Avoid taking foods with preservatives or additives.
• After washing your hair, massage your scalp with half a cup of apple cidar vinegar. Leave it there, don't rinse off. Do this for a week.
• You could try this leave-on after shampooing : boil 1 cup of water with 2 tablespoons of dried thyme for 5 minutes & leave to cool. Strain then massage onto hair & scalp. Don't rinse off.
• In 76 Ways to Use Noni Fruit Juice (Direct Source, 2001) , The Noni scalp treatment by applying noni fruit juice directly onto the affected scalp, massage for a couple of minutes, leave to dry. Noni can be left overnight or a few hours or it can be rinsed off after about 20 to 30 minutes. Rinse off the noni juice & wash hair. Noni has essential fatty acids that help counteract hair & scalp trauma. It contains antioxidants that fight against free radical damage to the hair & scalp & may end chronic hair problems.

Head lice

• Lice are very tiny wingless blood-sucking insects. They spread quickly when there is personal contact or when items such as combs, brushes, towels, pillows, clothings & hats are shared. It is best that you don't share such items with someone else. Lice infestion can also occur at beards, eyelashes & eyebrows.
• Ways to get rid of head lice & nits (eggs) include : applying anti-lice medication (lotion, cream or shampoo), using essential oils such as herbs thyme & rosemary, manual removal & getting a hair cut.
• Wash combs, brushes, hats, beddings, stuffed toys, school bags, coats with hoods, clothings & etc... in hot water.
• Vaccum thoroughly floors, furniture, carpets, car seats & their head rests. Discard the vaccum bag immediately.
• Hair Clean 1-2-3 Lice Remover - A very highly recommended & effective non-toxic formula made from essential plant oils.