Regular Health Mistakes....

All of us make little health mistakes that cause damage to our bodies in the long run - simply because we are unaware we are doing something wrong. Here are some of the most common mistakes made by many of us.


Crossing our legs

Do you cross your legs at your knees when sitting? Although we may believe that this is the lady-like elegant way to sit, sitting this way cuts down circulation to your legs. If you don"t want varicose veins to mar the beauty of your legs and compromise your health, uncross your legs every time you realise you have one knee on top of the other. The best way to sit is to simply place both legs together on the floor, balancing your weight equally. If you feel like changing position, instead of crossing your legs, simply move both legs together to one side. As an alternative, you could also consider crossing your legs loosely at the ankles. This is a classically elegant way to sit, and is far better for your legs and your health than sitting with your legs crossed at your knees.


Not changing our toothbrush

How often do you change your toothbrush? Most of us wait until most of the bristles have either fallen off, or are in such bad shape that we"d be embarrassed to pull out our brush in public. However, since not many of us need to pull out our brush in public, we carry on with our frayed one until we lose it. Replace your toothbrush often. Damaged bristles can harm the enamel, and don"t massage your gums well. If you find brushing your teeth a pain like I do, but know you must do it, you might as well be doing it right. Imagine going through the annoyance of brushing your teeth twice a day only to find out that you"re damaging your enamel every time you clean your teeth. Also, use a brush with soft bristles unless your dentist has advised otherwise.


Eating out often

There are oils that are high in cholesterol, and oils that cause little harm and are better for your heart. However, no matter how light the oil is, it is never a good idea to eat too much of it. Avoid fried foods.Remember that in all probability your favourite Indian food restaurant throws a huge, HUGE chunk of butter in a tiny bowl of dal. Rita, who worked in the kitchen of a 5 star hotel, was shocked when she saw the cook chop a 500gm butter slab in half, and throw half into a Paneer Makhani dish. No wonder the customers left licking their fingers. And no wonder they felt so stuffed and heavy afterwards. Limit outdoor eating unless you know that you"re getting served light and healthy food.


Skipping breakfast

Never, ever skip breakfast. Remember, when you wake up in the morning it"s been around 10-12 hours since your last meal. Your body needs food now, more than at any other time. Eat a heavy breakfast. You will then be busy through the day, and the calories will get expended quickly. If you are trying to diet, eat a light dinner. Here are some more common health mistakes we make. Being informed and making a few changes can help make us feel a whole lot better.


High heels

High heels sure look great, but they're murder for your back. This however doesn't mean you should steer clear of stilettos. Wear them, but not when you know you will be walking around a lot. Wear them when going out for lunch or dinner - when the only walking you will be doing is to your car, to the table, and back. Avoid high heels when you are going somewhere on foot. If you are constantly tempted to wear your heels, take a good look at your flats. Is there something about them you dislike? Invest in a new pair of beautiful flats or shoes with a low heel. Buy something you love, that you will enjoy wearing. If possible, get a matching bag. You will then enjoy your flats as much as you do your heels.


Sleeping on a soft bed

You don't have to sleep on the floor be kind to your back, but do make sure you have a firm mattress. Although a mattress on springs is soft and lovely to sink into, it's bad for your back. If you already have an old bed with springs, you don't need to invest in a new one - simply get a thick wooden plank put over the springs, and place the mattress on the plank. Similarly, if your mattress is old and lumpy, throw it out and get a new one. Your neck and your back will thank you. The same rule applies to sofas. If you will be spending hours on a sofa, get a firm yet comfortable one. Sofas you completely sink into are not the best idea.


Pillows

No matter how comfortable sleeping with ten cushions is, have pity on your neck and resist. Sleep with one pillow, and make sure it is not too thick. If your pillow gets lumpy, discard it and go for a new one. Get a thin pillow if you sleep on your stomach, and something a little thicker if you sleep on your back, to give your neck adequate support


Not exercising

So all of us know we should exercise more, but many of us don't. This is a health mistake we consciously make! And why is that? Simply because we refuse to admit the damage we are causing to our bodies by not working out. A number of people only start working out once they've experienced a warning signal. Don't wait for a heart attack to strike before you decide to opt for a lifestyle change. Make the change now. You don't need to train for the marathon to be in top shape. Half an hour of brisk walking three to four times a week will make a world of difference to your health. You could then increase this to forty minutes, four times a week - and
you're all set. If you haven't exercised for a week, you're making a mistake

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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.

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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.

Skin Care - Part V

Look Beautiful - The Natural Way

Our skin faces a constant barrage of chemicals everyday from pollution to harsh chemically formulated products that strip the skin of its natural balance. These simple Ayurvedic home remedies help you to attain a clear, healthy and glowing complexion. Ayurveda mentions many simple natural ways to maintain a healthy and glowing skin. Using these natural ways, one can stay beautiful for a longer period without having to suffer the side effects of the chemicals.

Below are some simple 'secrets' to achieve a naturally beautiful skin.

• Mix equal quantities of cucumber juice, rose water and lime juice. Wash the face and apply it overnight. Rinse off in the morning. This clears the complexion and keeps it healthy.
  
• Take 50 ml. of raw (not boiled) milk and mix a pinch of salt and two teaspoonful of lime juice in it. Use it as a cleansing lotion. It helps to clean the deep pores of skin.
  
• Mix equal quantities of lime juice, glycerin and rose water. This lotion if applied to the face regularly at bed time is very useful in removing pimples, blackheads and other stains of the skin. It makes the skin soft, and can also be applied to other parts of the body (hands, feet etc.)
  
• Take 50 ml. of tomato juice and mix with one teaspoon of lemon juice. Apply this mixture to the face. It helps to make the skin soft and glowing.
  
• Take equal quantities of turmeric powder and wheat flour and make a paste with sesame oil. Apply it to the face to remove unwanted hair.
  
• Apply orange juice to the face for smooth and soft skin.
  
• Take 30 ml. of cabbage juice and mix one teaspoon of honey in it. This mixture, if applied regularly to the face, helps to keep the wrinkles away.
  
• Make a paste of raw carrots and apply it to the face. Wash it after one hour. The skin will become glowing.
  
• Regular application of mint juice to the face helps to remove stains.

Try out some of these simple natural remedies for smooth, clear and radiant complexion.

Tips for Skin Care

Satin Smooth Skin

• When you have a Mango, do not throw the peels. Powder the peels. Add 1 teaspoon milk powder and rub all over.
• Wash off after 5 minutes for a satin finish!

Extremely Dry Skin!

• To treat extremely dry skin, mash a Banana and a tablespoon of Honey to it. Apply on the skin, leave on for 10 minutes and wash off.

Tired / Dull Skin!

• Mix together 24ml Apricot Kernel Oil, 5 drops of Petitgrain Oil, 4 drops of Sandalwood Oil and 3 drops of Chamomile oil.
• Apply as a mask for 10 minutes or massage on to your face.
  
• It will rejuvenate tired and dull skin.

Dry / Papery Skin!

• Blend together 24ml Jojoba Oil, 4 drops of Patchouli Essential Oil, 3 drops of Sandalwood Essential Oil and 2 drops of Rosewood Essential Oil
• Use this blend for a facial massage to help dry/papery skin.

Body Exfoliator!

• Mix a 4th cup Olive Oil to half cup Brown Sugar and add 4 tablespoons grated Lemon zest - makes great low cost body exfoliator.

Skin Care, Honey!

• Moisturize your skin with honey!
• Take 2 tablespoons of Honey and 1 teaspoon of Glycerin.
• Massage it into the skin regularly and wash off after five minutes.
• This will moisturize your skin and avoid the greasy feel.

Soft and Supple Skin

• Scrub your skin with one teaspoon of walnut powder, honey and lemon juice.
• Great way to have a super soft and supple skin.

Remedy for a glowing skin in 15 mins

• Rub a piece of papaya to face and neck till 15 mins and feel the difference on the tip of ur fingers
• The best way for a golden glow in minutes
  or,
• 2 tbsp orange juice
  
• 2tbsp turmeric powder
  
• Mix well n use it as a scrub to face n neck for a golden glow.
  
• Leave on for 15-20 mins and wash off with water

Skin Treatment with Tomatoes!

• Tomatoes are slightly acidic in nature and contain potassium and Vitamin C. Tomatoes are excellent for oily skins and help the skin feel cleaner and tighter, as well as reduce open pores and blackheads.
• Cut the tomato in half and rub on the skin. Leave on for at least fifteen minutes to let the skin feed on the juice,so that it saturates into the pores. Wash off with water.

Sun Damaged Skin!

• If you have overexposed yourself to sun, to soothe your skin, take a lukewarm bath with 5-6 drops of Chamomile Essence diluted in a tablespoon of Carrier Oil.
• Repeat this at intervals of a few hours until the burning subsides.
  

Smoother Skin with Cabbage

• Cabbage is rich in minerals and vitamins.
• Next time you are boiling cabbage, don't throw away the left over water. Wash your face with this water and you will feel your skin growing smoother.

Blemishes On Face?

• Grate an apple and apply it as a face mask daily for a week.
  
• Blemishes shall fade away naturally!
  
• Soft & Clear Skin
• Take a Papaya and rub all over skin.
• This has cleansing enzymes which will leave skin soft and squeaky clean.

Healthy Glowing Youthful Skin

• Massage your face, daily, with a combination of fresh cream, lemon juice and honey.
• Then do a five-minute scrub of powdered almonds, walnuts and honey mixed with a little fresh cream milk.

Clean and Clear Skin

• Take 30-40 Neem leaves and boil in one litre of water until the liquid turns to half.
• Drink three-four tablespoons of this syrup daily.

Glowing Skin

• Take 1/2 tablespoon of turmeric powder, 5 tablespoons of sandalwood powder, 1 tablespoon of almond oil and mix with milk.
• Apply on face, neck and the back. Let it dry for 15-20 minutes and wash off.

Skin Care - Part II

Natural aids for Beautiful Skin

Several natural aids have been found useful in promoting healthy and beautiful skin.

Lime Juice

Lime juice is an important natural aid for healthy skin.

1. Lime Juice Formula

Squeeze lime into a bowl. Add a glass of boiled whole milk and a teaspoon of glycerin to it. Stir well and let it stay for half an hour. Apply this mixture on the face, hands and feet before going to bed at night. This treatment every night will help you to look young and beautiful. It will also help cure pimples.

2. For very oily skin

Squeeze lemon juice in a bowl of iced water. Splash this over the face, massage for five minutes and then wash off with water.

3. T o improve a dull and greasy complexion

Mix half teaspoon of lime juice with one teaspoon of cucumber juice and a few drops of rose water. Apply on the face and neck and leave on for 15 minutes. Remove with water.

4. To improve a dry and rough skin

Take an egg yolk and mix in a few drops of lime and olive oil. Spread on the face and leave it till the skin feels dry. Wash off with ordinary water and splash on cold water.

5. To relieve tired eyes

Take four tablespoons each of lime juice and iced water. Saturate cotton pads in this water and place over your closed eyelids for 10 minutes.

6. To remove freckles

Blanch and grind two almonds. Mix it with white of an egg to which half teaspoon of lime juice has been added. Spread on the face and leave it on till the skin feels dry. Then, wash off first with warm water and then with cold water.

Peach Treatment

The skin of the peach is useful in improving the complexion.

Gently massage the inside of peach peelings on the face every night for a few minutes. Don't rub off the moisture afterwards. This will cleanse the skin thoroughly and free the pores. It also has an astringent action and tightens the muscle of the face slightly, thus preventing sagging tissues.

Anti-wrinkle cream

Mix a teaspoon of olive oil with an egg. Smoothen the face and neck with it. Let it remain till the skin gets dry.

To Remove The Cream:
Add a teaspoon of soda bicarbonate to hot water. Stir. Dip a piece of cotton-wool to this mixture and use it to remove the cream.

Natural Beauty Mask

Ingredients
1 tablespoon of gram flour
1/4 teaspoon orange peel powder
1 tablespoon beaten yogurt
1 teaspoon olive oil

Mix the ingredients well and apply the paste to your face and neck. Let it remain till the skin starts feeling a little dry and then rub your face with your hands till it glows.

Wash your face first with warm water and then with cold water. This will remove all the embarrassing blemishes from the skin and make the skin soft and smooth.

To improve a dark and dull complexion

Ingredients
1 teaspoon of gram flour
pinch of turmeric powder
few drops of lime juice
1/2 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon milk

Mix the ingredients together. Apply the mixture to your skin. Leave it on for half an hour. Wash off with water.

Cleansing Lotion

To one-fourth teaspoon of lime juice stir in one teaspoon each of milk and cucumber juice. Apply on the face and neck and wash off after 14 minutes. This lotion cleanses and purifies the pores of the skin.

Cabbage Mask

Grind a couple of cabbage leaves and extract juice. Dissolve one-fourth teaspoon of yeast in it and stir in one teaspoon of honey. Mix well and apply thickly over face and neck. Keep it for 15 minutes. Remove with cotton-wool soaked in water. This mask will counteract any tendency towards wrinkles and dryness and give your skin a flower-like bloom.

Tangerine Juice Treatment

The use of orange or tangerine juice has also been found valuable for a glowing complexion.

Dip your fingers in fresh tangerine or orange juice. Apply it liberally over your face, chin, neck, and forehead. Make a paste from the powdered sun dried pips of unripe oranges. Use this paste on the pimples and acne at bed time.

Orange Tonic

Blanch and grind a couple of almonds to a paste and mix in two tablespoons of milk and one tablespoon each of carrot and orange juice. Apply thickly on face and neck and leave on for half an hour. Removes scars and blemishes from the face and makes it soft and smooth.

Watermelon Juice

The juice of water-melon is useful in the removal of blemishes on the skin.

Prepare a lotion by grating and squeezing the juice of a small slice of water-melon. Apply this lotion over the face and neck for fifteen minutes. Wash with hot water. Follow this by a splash of cold water.

Tomato

Tomato, used externally, is good for getting a good complexion.

Apply the pulp of a tomato liberally on the face. Leave this for an hour. Then wash off with warm water. Repeat this daily. You will have a good complexion. It will also remove ugly-looking pimples in a short time.

Tomato Lotion

To one tablespoon of tomato juice add a couple of drops of lime juice. Apply on face and remove after 15 minutes. It is very effective for shrinking enlarged pores.

Tomato Tonic

To two teaspoons of tomato juice add four tablespoons of buttermilk. Apply. Remove after half an hour. It is excellent for removing sunburns.

Cucumber

Grate or blend a cucumber. Apply this over the face, eyes and neck for 15 to 20 minutes. It is a great tonic for the facial skin. Regular use of cucumber prevents pimples, blackheads, wrinkles, and dryness of the face.

Whitening Lotion

To one tablespoon of cucumber juice stir in a few drops of lime juice and a dash of turmeric powder. Apply on face and neck and wash off after half an hour. Makes an excellent whitener for all types of skins.

Cucumber Lotion

Mix one tablespoon each of cucumber juice and milk and a few drops of rose water. Apply on the face and neck. Remove after 15 minutes. Makes excellent whitener for delicate skins.

Apple Tonic

Mix one tablespoon of apple juice with one-fourth teaspoon of lime juice. Leave on for 20 minutes. Makes excellent tonic for combating oily skin.

Amaranth Juice Treatment

The juice of amaranth, applied over the face with a pinch of turmeric powder, bleaches the skin, prevents it from drying and wrinkling, cures pimples and makes one look fresh.

Add to this mixture milk and lime juice. Massage the mixture delicately over the face and neck for half an hour. Wash it off with lukewarm water. Do this every night before going to bed. This is an effective skin tonic that increases and retains its beauty.

Mint Juice

Application of fresh mint juice over the face every night, cures pimples and prevents dryness of the skin. The juice can also be applied over eczema and contact dermatitis with beneficial results.

Almonds

Make a paste of almonds with mild cream and fresh rosebud paste. Apply it daily over the face. This softens and bleaches the skin and nourishes it with the choicest skin-food. Regular application of this mixture prevents the early appearance of wrinkles, blackheads, dryness of the skin, pimples. It also keeps the face refreshed.

To improve rough and dry complexion:
Take a teaspoon of almond oil and mix it with half a teaspoon each of milk cream and lime juice. Apply every night before going to bed both on the face and on the neck.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a very important natural beauty aid.

Apply yogurt on the face every morning. Wash it off after a few minutes with cold water. This will keep the complexion smooth, healthy and fresh. A mixture of yogurt and lemon juice is ideal for softening hands.

A paste of lentil and yogurt, applied as a mask, cleanses the skin and gives it a glow. Let it dry. When dried, remove it with fingertips and wash off with water.
Honey, olive oil and a mixture of turmeric and sandalwood paste are all very effective in rejuvenating dry , parched skin.

More Remedies

Remedies - Diarrhea

Symptoms

Following are the signs that indicate the presence of this ailment:

• Cramps
  
• Dehydration
  
• Wind and distention in the abdomen
  
• Weakness
  
• Mild fever

Causes

The augmentation of pitta in the body or weak digestive power causes diarrhea. Improper eating habits, fried food in oil or ghee (clarified butter), meats, vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, beans, nuts and sweets, milk and citrus fruits simultaneously and impure food or water causes diarrhea.

Remedies

• Water boiled with coriander seeds should be given (after straining). Pomegranate juice in small quantities can be also given frequently.
  
• Decoction prepared from pomegranate skin is very useful in stopping diarrhea. To prepare the decoction, take 50 grams of fresh pomegranate skin. Soak it in 800 ml. of water for one hour. Boil until a quarter of the volume remains (200 ml). Store this mixture in a clean, dry bottle. A couple of tablespoons can be taken several times a day. If there is blood in the stools, add half a teaspoon of honey to the decoction.
  
• Sugar and salt solution. Mix one teaspoon of sugar and half a teaspoon of common salt in a cup of water. Small doses of this mixture (around a quarter cup) can be given whenever the patient wants to drink.
  
• A paste made of sesame seeds (1 teaspoon) and a few tablespoons of goats milk is also beneficial.

Dos and don'ts

• Yogurt
  
• Rice
  
• Banana
  
• Apple
  
• Pomegranate
  
• Boiled vegetables
  
• Boiled rice
  
• Khichadi
  
• Fruits
  
• Spices like cumin, coriander, ginger, turmeric and cardamom should be used for cooking.
  
• Liquids should be given in small quantities (3 or 4 sips) at one time
  
• Fruit juices can also be taken in small quantities.

The mind should be relaxed and free from all kinds of tension. A gentle oil massage on the head is also helpful. Physical exertion of any kind like exercise, sexual activity, sports, singing, dancing etc. should be strictly avoided.

Remedies - Fever

Symptoms

Following are the signs that indicate the presence of this ailment:

• High temperature
  
• Headache
  
• Muscle ache
  
• Burning eyes
  
• Loss of appetite
  
• Coated tongue
  
• Excessive production of saliva
  
• Feeling of heaviness and nausea

Causes

Fever is caused due to the aggravation of any one or all the doshas of the body. Fever can occur as a result of infection, because of external injury, insect bite or poisoning. It must be kept in mind that fever can also be a symptom of many conditions, like bronchitis, pleurisy, tuberculosis, jaundice, malaria, measles or influenza.

Remedies

Some general remedies that are beneficial in fever are:

• Mild sweating: this helps to digest the toxins. Lie on a bed covered with a blanket, for 15 to 20 minutes. Drinking a hot liquid also helps.
  
• Take 10 grams (one-tablespoon) raisins and 10 grams (one tablespoon) fresh ginger. Crush and put in 200-ml. water for one hour. Boil this decoction till the water reduces to 50 ml. Strain and drink while warm.

Dosage: This preparation can be taken twice a day.

Dos and don'ts

• Easily digestible diet is advised for the patient
  
• Boiled or steamed vegetables
  
• vegetable soup
  
• fruit and fruit juices
  
• small quantities of cow milk can be taken two to three times a day
  
• Khichadi is very good with spices like cumin seeds, coriander, turmeric, ginger and salt can be also be added to it.
  
• Egg plant, bitter gourd and cooked radish and barley water is good.
  
• Small amounts of whole grain bread or biscuits can be taken with milk. Heavy foods that are difficult to digest like fried foods, fast foods, meat, chicken, fish, and raw foods should be completely avoided.
  
• The patient should take ample rest.

Exposure to extreme cold or heat, exertion, exercise, mental stress, sexual activity and any other type of physical activity should be avoided until the patient regains strength.

Remedies - Indigestion

Symptoms

Following are the signs that indicate the presence of this ailment:

• Feeling of heaviness or uneasiness in the stomach
  
• Stomach ache
  
• Coated tongue
  
• Loss of appetite
  
• Nausea
  
• Constipation
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Acidity
  
• Wind
  
• Distention in the stomach
  
• Laziness
  
• Weakness
  
• Headache
  
• Pain in the lower legs

Causes

Indigestion can be caused due to the aggravation of any of the following doshas or all three of them and by the following eating or physical habits carried on by individuals:

• Improper eating habits
  
• Eating a lot of fried foods, meat, sweets, heavy foods and overeating
  
• Eating incompatible food items
  
• Eating at irregular times
  
• Eating before the last meal is fully digested
  
• Eating very quickly or mixing too many foods in one meal
  
• Consuming too much tea, coffee and alcohol
  
• Smoking
  
• Staying up late ·Emotional disturbances (stress, grief, anxiety)
  
• Taking drugs like antibiotics, painkillers and steroids.

Remedies

• Fasting completely for one day is an efficient method to digest Ama.
  
• Taking fruits, fruit juices and boiled vegetables for one week is also a very beneficial way of fasting.
  
• Lemon juice mixed in warm water taken three times a day improves digestion.
  
• Chewing a small piece of fresh ginger with salt, five to ten minutes before meals, stimulates digestion.
  
• Take equal amounts of ginger powder, black pepper, dried mint leaves, asafetida (hing), anise seeds, coriander seeds, cumin, fennel and common salt. Grind together to make a fine powder. Dosage: Take about 1 teaspoon of this powder with water, twice a day after meals.
  
• Drinking buttermilk after a meal improves digestion. Roasted cumin seeds and a little salt in the buttermilk enhances its effectiveness.
  
• Drinking water gives immediate relief to symptoms like wind, distended stomach and acidity.
  
• Eat half a teaspoon of aniseed to improve digestion.
  
• A teaspoon of ginger juice mixed in a quarter cup of warm water can be taken two or three times a day. A teaspoon of lemon juice and a pinch of salt can also be added to make it more effective.
  

Dos and don'ts

• Eat boiled seasonal vegetables, fruits, fruit juices and lemon juice.
  
• Spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, fresh ginger, black pepper and asafetida.
  
• Physical exercise, according to the strength and energy of the patient, is beneficial.
  
• Do not eat while moving or traveling in a car, watching television or reading.
  
• Do not eat fast food or food that has been cooked in a microwave oven. Eating should not be too fast or too slow and the food should be properly chewed.
  
• Sleeping during the day, especially after lunch is not recommended, as it produces indigestion.

The patient should not stay awake late at night and should be free from mental stress, anxiety, fear and grief.

Remedies - Headache

Symptoms

Following are the signs that indicate the presence of this ailment:

• Headache can be mild, moderate or severe pain that affects the whole head, a part of the head, forehead or the eyes.
  
• Nausea
  
• Difficulty in sleeping
  
• Loss of appetite
  
• Feeling of uneasiness

Causes

According to Ayurveda, there are eleven types of headaches caused due to aggravation of three different doshas. Headaches are also caused by:

• Sinusitis
  
• Hypertension
  
• Constipation
  
• Over work
  
• Mental stress
  
• Indigestion
  
• Acidity
  
• Sleeplessness
  
• Fever
  
• It may also be present as a symptom of some disease
  
• Excessive consumption of tea, coffee, aspirin or nicotine is also known to contribute to headache
  
• Nervous weakness
  
• Anemia
  
• Deficiency of oxygen in the blood
  
• Sitting too close to the television
  
• Reading with insufficient light
  
• Reading in a moving train or car

Remedies

• Take clove, cinnamon and almond in equal quantities (around 1 teaspoon each) and grind together with a little water to make a paste. Apply paste on the forehead. A paste made of sandalwood powder can also be applied on the forehead.
  
• Mix a quarter teaspoon of clove powder in one teaspoon of cinnamon oil. Apply mixture to the location of pain.
  
• Take a few drops of ghee (clarified butter) on your palm. Mix 3 or 4 pieces of saffron in it, and rub it for two minutes. The saffron does not dissolve in the ghee, but its qualities are absorbed. Remove saffron and put two drops of this ghee in each nostril. · Dosage: Follow procedure twice a day.
  
• Mix 1 tablespoon of milk and half teaspoon of ginger powder and put one or Dosage; two drops in each nostril twice a day.
  
• Wrap a wet cloth around the neck.
  
• Oil massage on the scalp also relieves tension and headache. Sesame oil, almond oil, mustard oil or ghee (clarified butter) can be used for massage.
  
• Heat 1 teaspoon of almond oil. When it cools down, put two drops in each nostril.

Dos and don'ts

• Simple cooked vegetables without oil, vegetable juices and soup, fruits like apple, mango, grapes and fruit juices should be taken in ample quantities. Rice, salad and buttermilk are also good.
  
• Some sweets and milk products can be taken moderately with small quantities of nuts.
  
• Hot cow milk is very good to drink.
  
• Avoid fried foods, meat, sour and spicy foods and foods
  
• Yogurt should be avoided, especially at night.
  
• Adequate rest should be taken and exposure to cold, heat and rain should be avoided.
  
• The natural urges (sneezing, passing stool and urine, hunger, thirst, sleep, breathing and yawning etc.) should not be suppressed.
  
• The patient should also try to keep the mind free from anxiety, anger, mental tension and worry.

Remedies - Ayurvedic home remedies

Remedies

Ayurvedic home remedies are a blend of commonly used herbs and spices to cure common symptoms and diseases. To cure or prevent any ailment natural herbs are taken in ayurveda as juices, paste, powder, infusion and decoctions etc. ayurveda also prescribes some exercises, massaging techniques, colors, aromas, gems and cleansing therapies as home remedies.

According to Ayurveda all the home remedies comprise of mostly the things that have their usage in homes and have multifarious medicinal usage also. Few such substances are clove, cinnamon, black pepper, cumin, fennel, rock salt, turmeric, coriander, ginger, honey, licorice, garlic, onion, basil and mint.

Remedies - Arthritis

Symptoms

Following are the signs that indicate the presence of this ailment:

• Severe pain in the affected joints.
  
• Muscles, ligaments and cartilage become inflamed.
  
• Movement of the joint becomes extremely painful, especially in cold, windy and damp weather.

It is notable that if this disease is not taken care of properly at the initial stages the joint becomes immobile and may also become permanently deformed.

Causes

This ailment is caused due to the aggravation of Vata (air) dosha and accumulation of Ama (toxins). Ama gets deposited in the weak areas of the body, joints with a simultaneous aggravation of Vata that is known as Ama Vata (arthritis).

Weak digestion, constipation, overeating and very little physical activity are the symptoms that can develop in a patient of arthritis.

Remedies

• Ama must be digested and Vata reduced in the body.
• Digestion should be improved and fasting for one day is beneficial for digesting Ama.
• Two teaspoons of lemon juice and a teaspoon of honey mixed in a cup of warm water is good for curing arthritis.
  Dosage: Taken twice a day proves.
• Bake one or two egg- plants. Mash and fry in about 2 tablespoons of castor oil. Spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, garlic and salt can be added while frying.
  Dosage: Take once daily for two to three months for relief.
• Half a teaspoon of turmeric powder with warm water helps cure arthritis.
  Dosage: Taken twice a day
• One raw clove of garlic every day is very beneficial. This clove can be fried in ghee (clarified butter) or castor oil. Dosage: Once daily for two-three months.
• Guggulu (a herb) is very helpful in curing arthritis. If available, eat half a teaspoon twice a day after meals with warm water.
• Paste of 1 teaspoon red chilies and fresh ginger mixed in half a cup of sesame oil and strain. Gently rub this oil on the affected joints. ·Camphor, wintergreen and cinnamon oils are also beneficial for external application.

Dos and don'ts

Following is the diet suggested for the patients suffering form arthritis:

• Vegetable juices and soups
  
• Coconut water
  
• Coconut milk
  
• Carrot juice
  
• Beet root juice
  
• Cucumber juice
  
• Cooked vegetables like squash, zucchini and pumpkin
  
• Spices like cumin, coriander, ginger, asafetida, garlic, fennel and turmeric Green salad with a dressing of lemon juice and a little salt
  
• Khichadi (recipe made by cooking rice and mung dal )
  
• Regular physical exercise and massage with oil should form an important part of the routine.

The patient of arthritis must avoid the following:

• Eating hot, spicy and fried foods, sweets, wind forming foods like cabbage, Cauliflower, spinach, broccoli, okra and potatoes.
  
• Too much tea, coffee, alcohol, white sugar, yogurt, chocolate, cocoa.
  
• Antibiotics, painkillers, steroids and nicotine
  
• Sleeping during the day
  
• Staying up late at night
  
• Mental tensions like worry, anxiety, fear, stress and grief.

Remedies - Cold & Cough

Symptoms

Following are the signs that indicate the presence of this ailment:

• Running or blocked nose
  
• Sneezing
  
• Sore throat
  
• Congestion
  
• Headache
  
• Low fever with body pain
  
• Loss of appetite
  
• Lethargy
  
• Insomnia

Causes

The aggravation of kapha due to the intake of cold food, drinks and fried stuff etc causes cough. Seasonal changes is also one of the reasons for cough Improper digestion of food transforms into a mucus toxin (Ama) and this circulates through the body and reaches the respiratory system, where it causes colds and coughs.

Remedies

• The body should be kept warm - especially the feet, chest, throat and head. Sweating is very helpful.
  
• Take half a teaspoon of ginger juice with half a teaspoon of honey, three times a day (morning, noon and night). In winter, warm the mixture by mixing a teaspoon of warm water in it.
  
• Mix half a cup of warm water with one teaspoon of lemon juice and one teaspoon of honey.
  Dosage: Take several times a day.
  
• In cases of dry cough (especially during the night), peel a small piece of fresh ginger. Sprinkle some salt on it and chew.
  
• Take equal amounts of cardamom, ginger powder, black pepper and cinnamon (1 teaspoon each). Add sugar equal to the total amount of mixture and grind to make a fine powder.
  Dosage: Take half a teaspoon twice daily, with honey or warm water after meals.
  
• In cases of sore throat, a clove or two cardamoms or a few raisins can be chewed.Gargling with warm salty water two to three times a day is also beneficial.

Dos and don'ts

The food and activities that are to be avoided are as follows:

• Cold foods and drinks
  
• Ice cream, sweets
  
• Fried foods
  
• Milk products (cheese, creams, yogurt)
  
• Sweet fruit juices
  
• Breads
  
• Meats
  
• Nuts
  
• Pastries
  
• Sleeping during the day
  
• Taking a cold shower
  
• Exposure to cold wind, fans, air conditioners

Following are the substances and activities that should be taken in cough:

• Boiled or steamed vegetables
  
• Vegetable soup
  
• Spice teas
  
• Herbal teas
  
• Hot milk with a piece of crushed ginger
  
• Half a teaspoon of turmeric powder mixed in milk provides relief.

Remedies - Constipation

Symptoms

Following are the signs that indicate the presence of this ailment:

• No bowel movements at least once a day
  
• Pain in the abdomen
  
• Heaviness in the stomach
  
• Wind formation
  
• Mucus coated tongue
  
• Headache
  
• Loss of appetite
  
• Pain in the lower legs
  
• Hypertension, fever
  
• Nausea
  
• Vertigo
  
• Palpitation
  
• Drowsiness

Causes

The aggravation of vata causes constipation. Improper eating habits including eating a lot of food, eating food which is difficult to digest (such as meat) and not eating enough vegetables and salads also lead to constipation.

Irregular sleeping habits or emotional disturbances (stress, grief, fear or worry) are other causes for the obstruction of the passage of stool, accumulation of toxins in the colon or excessive stimulation of the nervous system.

Smoking, consuming too much tea and coffee, or intake of prescription or illicit drugs can also cause constipation.

Remedies

• Drinking a glass of warm milk before going to bed helps in easy evacuation in the morning. In case of severe constipation, mix two teaspoons of castor oil in the milk.
  
• Drink one liter of warm water and walk around for a few minutes immediately after waking up early in the morning.
  
• Drinking lemon juice mixed with warm water two to three times a day eases constipation.
  
• One or two teaspoons of aloe gel can be taken twice a day.
  
• A common Ayurvedic medicine for constipation is Triphala Churna. It is a powder made by grinding three kinds of herbs. A teaspoon of this powder taken with warm water or milk at the time going to bed is beneficial.

Dos and don'ts

• The diet taken during constipation must be easily digestible.
  
• Plenty of fruits, vegetables and salads
  
• Freshly cooked food, and chew food thoroughly.
  
• Eat only when hungry and maintain at least 4 hours between meals.
  
• Use spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric powder, fennel and asafetida as they make the food easy to digest.
  
• Whole grain bread and cereals
  
• Regular physical exercise is also important for maintaining proper bowel movements.
  
• Sleeping hours should be regulated and efforts should be made to have a sound sleep.
  
• Fried foods, beans, gas forming vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli, nuts and dried fruits should be avoided.
  
• Do not mix too many kinds of foods in one meal.

More to come later, Be Here Be Healthy...