Monday, October 10, 2016
ALO-VERA
Aloe vera has been used for a host of purposes since the ancient Egyptians called it the “plant of immortality.”
Since then, its uses have become more targeted and medicinal, and it's one of the leading therapies for sunburns.
1. It treats sunburn.
Aloe Vera helps with sunburn through its powerful healing activity at the epithelial level of the skin, a layer of cells that cover the body. It acts as a protective layer on the skin and helps replenish its moisture. Because of its nutritional qualities and antioxidant properties, the skin heals quicker.
2. It acts as a moisturizer.
Aloe moisturizes the skin without giving it a greasy feel, so it`s perfect for anyone with an oily skin complexion. For women who use mineral-based make-up, aloe vera acts as a moisturizer and is great for the face prior to the application to prevents skin drying. For men: Aloe vera gel can be used as an aftershave treatment as its healing properties can treat small cuts caused by shaving.
3. It treats acne.
Aloe vera gel contains two hormones: Auxin and Gibberellins. These two hormones provide wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce skin inflammation. Giberellin in aloe vera acts as a growth hormone stimulating the growth of new cells. It allows the skin to heal quickly and naturally with minimal scarring.
Aloe is soothing and can reduce skin inflammations, blistering and itchiness, while helping the skin to heal more rapidly. Additionally, in Ayurvedic medicine, Aloe is used to effectively heal chronic skin problems, such as psoriasis, acne and eczema.
4. It fights aging.
As we age, everyone begins to worry about the appearance of fine lines and the loss of elasticity in their skin. Aloe leaves contain a plethora of antioxidants including, beta carotene, vitamin C and E that can help improve the skin's natural firmness and keep the skin hydrated.
5. It lessens the visibility of stretch marks.
The skin is like one big piece of elastic that’ll expand and contract as needed to accommodate growth. But if the skin stretches too far, too fast (due to pregnancy, rapid weight gain or loss) the elasticity of the skin can be damaged. That’s what leaves those unsightly stretch marks. These marks appear due to minor tears in the layers of the skin caused by sudden and excessive stretching. Aloe vera gel can help hide these stretch marks by healing these wounds.
6. It's nutrient rich for good health.
This solid material contains over 75 different nutrients including vitamins, minerals, enzymes, sugars, anthraquinones or phenolic compounds, lignin, saponins, sterols, amino acids and salicylic acid.
7. It soothes in periodontal disease.
According to a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, it's extremely helpful in the treatment of gum diseases like gingivitis, periodontitis. It reduces bleeding, inflammation and swelling of the gums. It is a powerful antiseptic in pockets where normal cleaning is difficult, and its antifungal properties help greatly in the problem of denture stomatitis, apthous ulcers, cracked and split corners of the mouth.
8. It aids in digestion.
The internal benefits of aloe vera are supposed to be just as amazing. The plant is said to improve the digestion and to relieve ulcers. Some people consider it a laxative, while others attribute that effect to its digestive qualities (which normalize the system and induce regularity). The juice is also prescribed for arthritis and rheumatism. To test any of these claims, steep the cut foliage in water or chew pieces of the fresh leaf.
Termeric
Termeric being used as an ingredient in cooking, turmeric offers many health benefits. Turmeric contains more than 300 antioxidants, which makes turmeric a powerful healer. But turmeric not just heals you from inside; it also makes you more beautiful! It also works as a fairness agent. But is that all? Do all the 300 antioxidants work just to make us fairer? Not at all! It has several other benefits too!
Turmeric Benefits For Skin
Turmeric has been used as a beauty product for centuries. It is an inexpensive and natural way of treating several skin problems and getting a flawless skin. It comes with a range of benefits for the skin.
1.Treatment Of Acne
How To Use
You can prepare a face pack by mixing turmeric powder and sandalwood powder and adding lemon juice to the mixture. Apply it on your face for 10 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water. For acne scars, apply a mixture of turmeric and plain water on the marks for 15 minutes.
Why Does It Work
Turmeric is effective in the treatment of acne due to its antiseptic and antibacterial properties that fight pimples and breakouts to provide a youthful glow to your skin. Turmeric face mask not only helps to clear acne scars and inflammation, but also reduces the oil secretion by the sebaceous glands.
2. Facial Mask For Oily Skin
How To Use
For oily skin, make a paste by mixing 1 ½ tablespoons of sandalwood powder and a pinch of ground turmeric with 3 tablespoons of orange juice and apply it on your face. Leave it for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water.
Why Does It Work
Turmeric is beneficial for oily skin as it regulates the production of sebum, an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands. Sandalwood acts as an astringent and orange juice, being a source of vitamin C, helps clear the blemishes.
3. Facial Mask For Dry Skin
How To Use
If you have dry skin, you can make a face mask by combining 1 egg white, 2 drops of olive oil, fresh lemon juice and rose water and a pinch of turmeric. This can be applied to all dry areas such as the face, neck, elbows and knees. Allow it to dry completely and then wash off with warm water.
4. Treatment Of Wrinkles
How To Use
Turmeric, in combination with other ingredients, is effective in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. You can prepare a face pack by mixing turmeric powder and rice powder with raw milk and tomato juice and apply it on your face and neck for 30 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water. This will reduce wrinkles as well as brighten your skin. If you have dark circles, you can add a pinch of turmeric to 2 tablespoons of buttermilk and apply it around your eyes for 20 minutes. Rinse off with cool water. This is effective in eliminating wrinkles as well as dark circles.
5. Signs Of Aging
How To Use
Being an excellent exfoliating agent, turmeric can help eliminate the signs of aging. You can make a paste by mixing besan (gram flour) and turmeric powder in equal proportions with water. This paste can also be prepared in raw milk or even yogurt. Apply it evenly on your body and allow it to dry. Rinse off with lukewarm water and scrub your face gently in a circular motion.
6. Treatment Of Stretch Marks
How To Use
Turmeric can help lightining sketch marks. For this purpose, apply a mixture of besan (gram flour) and turmeric with yogurt/raw milk/ water on the stretch marks.
7. Soothes Burns
How To Use
Turmeric can provide quick relief in case of burns, thanks to its antiseptic properties. You can apply a mixture of turmeric and aloe vera gel on the burn and experience the wound heal in no time.
8. Reduction Of Skin Pigmentation And Skin Tanning
How To Use
To remove skin tanning and pigmentation, apply a mixture of turmeric powder and lemon or cucumber juice on the affected area for 20-30 minutes and wash off with plain water. This should be done regularly for beneficial results.
9. Removal Of Facial Hair
How To Use
You can make a facial scrub by mixing kasturi turmeric with chickpea (gram flour). Applying this on your face can inhibit the facial hair growth. This paste should be applied consistently for about a month to get effective results.
10. Treatment Of Cracked Heels
How To Use
Turmeric is an excellent healing agent. If you have cracked heels, you can apply a mixture of 3 spoons of turmeric with a few drops of coconut or castor oil on your heels for 10 to 15 minutes before taking a bath. Doing this regularly will soften your heels.
11. Night Cream
How To Use
You can apply a paste made from turmeric and milk or yogurt on your face. Leave the mask overnight and rinse it off the next morning using a light cleanser. Alternatively, you can add a pinch of turmeric to your moisturizer and cleanse the next morning. This should be done twice a week to get beautiful, healthy and younger looking skin.
12. Treatment Of Skin Conditions
How To Use
Being a natural antiseptic, turmeric with milk is effective in treating skin conditions like poison ivy, eczema and psoriasis. Eczema is quite itchy and a painful disease characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin. Topical application of a mixture of kasturi turmeric with milk can soothe the skin and reduce the redness and inflammation.
13. Removes Dead Cells
How To Use
Make a paste by mixing gram flour and turmeric with water and apply it on your body. Scrub gently while taking a bath. Doing this regularly can rid you of dead cells to give you a glowing and spotless skin. Applying a mixture of turmeric and milk on your face and lips can cleanse your face as well as act as a healing agent for your lips to treat dry and chapped lips.
Turmeric Benefits For Hair
Not just the skin, turmeric can be beneficial for your hair in a number of ways. The use of turmeric with other ingredients can promote hair growth and can treat scalp conditions. Some of the benefits of turmeric for hair are given below.
14. Treatment Of Dandruff
How To Use
Dandruff and other scalp issues can be treated by applying a mixture of turmeric and olive oil on your scalp before taking a shower. Leave it on for 15 minutes and then wash off the mixture with a natural shampoo. It removes the signs of dandruff by increasing the circulation in the scalp and providing nutrition to the hair follicles.
15. Prevents Hair Loss
How To Use
Hair loss can take place due to various reasons like unhealthy diet, stress or disease. Curcumin is a component of turmeric that can inhibit the activity of the growth agent beta-one, known as TGF beta-one, which causes the death of hair follicles resulting in hair loss. Turmeric mixed with honey and milk can be extremely beneficial as they reduce the negative effects on your hair.
16. Natural Hair Dye
How To Use
The yellow hue of turmeric not only makes it usable as a textile dye but also as a natural dye for your hair to brighten your hair color. It can be combined with other yellow colored herbs and flowers such as saffron, calendula and chamomile tea. Boil this mixture and, after cooling, pour it over your head. Leave for 15 to 20 minutes and wash off to get a vivid color.
17. Treatment Of Scalp Conditions
Why Does It Work
Turmeric can be used in the treatment of various scalp conditions such as dermatitis and eczema that can lead to itchy, flaky skin, inflammation and thinning hair. Cicatricial alopecia is a scalp ailment caused by inflammation that damages the hair follicles and prevents the growth of new hair. Fungal infections can also cause hair loss. Curcumin, an active ingredient in turmeric, is effective against these ailments due its anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antioxidant, antiseptic and antibacterial properties.
Turmeric Benefits For Health
Precautions Involved
Dosage
At any given time, the dosage of turmeric should not exceed over 4 doses of 500 mg ingested orally. The turmeric dosage for inflammation caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis is two doses of 500 mg.
Side Effects
There are no severe or significant side effects that are correlated with consumption or application of turmeric. However, doctors suggest that turmeric is safe when ingested or applied for approximately 8 months.
While most patients do not complain of any side effects, a counted few may suffer from:
Special Precautions
Like most things, too much of anything can turn sour; doctors suggest that consumption of turmeric be limited to 1500 mg a day.
During Pregnancy And Breast Feeding
Consuming food prepared with turmeric is likely to be safe during pregnancy. However, consuming large doses of turmeric orally is best if avoided, as it may stimulate the uterus putting the pregnancy at risk.
How To Select And Store?
Selection
These days, dried herbs and spices are widely available in supermarkets. But it is better to purchase them from local spice stores in your area as their collection of dried herbs and spices are of a superior quality and comparatively fresher than those offered by regular markets. When purchasing turmeric, always prefer to buy organic turmeric as it does not possess additives.
The color of turmeric varies greatly and it is important to choose the correct turmeric powder. Often, turmeric is mixed with other ingredients to give it a yellow –red hue. Being a natural colorant, it is also used by industrial workers to ward off the risks that may arise from the usage of artificial coloring material. The turmeric in curry powder has the highest content of curcumin, averaging about 3.14 % in weight. Turmeric is available both in chunks as well as powder and should be purchased after verifying the freshness and quality.
Storage
Turmeric powder should be kept in a tightly sealed container, and stored in a cool dry place, protected from light. Fresh turmeric rhizome should be placed in the refrigerator. Too much heat should be avoided as it can volatilize and dissipate its aromatic essential oil whereas high humidity will cause it to cake. Sunlight, on the other hand, can fade its color. The containers should be tightly closed after using and older stock should be used first. Exposure to air for a long time will cause flavor and aroma loss.
Tips For Usage (Cooking/Eating)
Turmeric is also known as Indian Saffron due to its characteristic yellow-orange hue. It can form a part of several dishes, imparting its color, aroma and flavor to them. Turmeric root is ground to make turmeric powder, which is a common spice, particularly in curries. Some of the ways in which turmeric can be enjoyed are given below.
Friday, October 7, 2016
Honey In Beauty
Honey /ˈhʌni/ is a sweet food
made by bees foraging nectar from flowers. The variety produced by honey bees
is the one most commonly referred to, as it is the type of honey collected by
most beekeepers and consumed by people.
Nutrition Facts
Honey
|
Amount Per 100
grams
|
|
|
Calories 304
|
|
|
% Daily Value*
|
|
|
Total
Fat 0 g
|
0%
|
|
Saturated fat 0 g
|
0%
|
|
Polyunsaturated fat 0 g
|
|
|
Monounsaturated fat 0 g
|
|
|
Cholesterol 0 mg
|
0%
|
|
Sodium 4 mg
|
0%
|
|
Potassium 52 mg
|
1%
|
|
Total
Carbohydrate 82
g
|
27%
|
|
Dietary fiber 0.2 g
|
0%
|
|
Sugar 82 g
|
|
|
Protein 0.3 g
|
0%
|
|
Vitamin
A
|
0%
|
Vitamin
C
|
0%
|
|
Calcium
|
0%
|
Iron
|
2%
|
|
Vitamin
D
|
0%
|
Vitamin
B-6
|
0%
|
|
Vitamin
B-12
|
0%
|
Magnesium
|
0%
|
|
*Per
cent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be
higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
|
Honey's
often thought of as a healthier sweetener, but you might be surprised to learn
that this ingredient has tons of skin and hair benefits, too. Made by the
alchemy of bees collecting nectar, pollen, and resins from flowers, honey can
help moisturize, fight aging, and fight bacteria. Plus, it’s loaded with
nutrients, antioxidants, and healing compounds. Next time you’re browsing the
grocery store shelves, look for raw honey,
which hasn't been heat-treated or pasteurized; it contains more active
phytonutrient antioxidants and enzymes for enhanced benefits. Here are a few
ways to put the ingredient to use (sometimes with the help of some other
natural ingredients).
1.
Moisturizing Mask
Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into the skin and ensures it's retained it in the layers where it’s needed most for penetrating, long-lasting hydration.
Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into the skin and ensures it's retained it in the layers where it’s needed most for penetrating, long-lasting hydration.
Try
it: Spread one teaspoon raw honey on
clean, dry skin, and let sit for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with tepid water.
2.
Pore Cleanser
The enzymes in raw honey clarify skin and keep pores clear and clean. Plus, the antibacterial properties of honey and jojoba or coconut oil also prevent bacterial buildup that can lead to skin imbalances and breakouts.
The enzymes in raw honey clarify skin and keep pores clear and clean. Plus, the antibacterial properties of honey and jojoba or coconut oil also prevent bacterial buildup that can lead to skin imbalances and breakouts.
Try
it: Stir one tablespoon raw honey with two
tablespoons jojoba oil orcoconut oil until the mixture is spreadable
consistency. Apply to clean, dry skin, and massage gently in a circular motion,
avoiding your eye area. Rinse with tepid water.
3.
Gentle Exfoliator
Honey is loaded with antioxidants, enzymes, and other nutrients that nourish, cleanse, and hydrate skin. Baking soda, meanwhile, is a gentle natural exfoliator that removes dead skin cells, allowing new cells to emerge for a radiant complexion.
Honey is loaded with antioxidants, enzymes, and other nutrients that nourish, cleanse, and hydrate skin. Baking soda, meanwhile, is a gentle natural exfoliator that removes dead skin cells, allowing new cells to emerge for a radiant complexion.
Try
it: Mix two tablespoons honey with one tablespoon baking
soda. Splash your skin with water, then gently rub the concoction on your face
or body in a circular motion. Rinse well.
4.
Scar Fader
Honey is said to lighten skin, and its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compounds help to decrease the appearances of scars and increase healing and tissue regeneration. The hydrating properties of honey andcoconut oil or olive oil will also help revive skin cells, while regular, gentle massaging will increase circulation to aid skin recovery and cell turnover.
Honey is said to lighten skin, and its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compounds help to decrease the appearances of scars and increase healing and tissue regeneration. The hydrating properties of honey andcoconut oil or olive oil will also help revive skin cells, while regular, gentle massaging will increase circulation to aid skin recovery and cell turnover.
Try
it: Mix one teaspoon raw honey with one
teaspoon coconut oil or olive oil. Apply to the affected area, and
massage with the tips of your fingers in a circular motion for one to two
minutes. Place a hot washcloth over your skin, and let sit until cool. Repeat
daily.
5.
Acne Treatment
Honey contains antibacterial and antifungal properties that thwart bacteria that can lead to breakouts. Its anti-inflammatory properties will calm redness and irritation.
Honey contains antibacterial and antifungal properties that thwart bacteria that can lead to breakouts. Its anti-inflammatory properties will calm redness and irritation.
Try
it: Apply a dab of raw honey to affected areas, and
sit for 10-15 minutes. Rinse with tepid water.
6.
Bath
Honey's not just hydrating; its antioxidants will repair skin and protect it against oxidative and environmental damage.
Honey's not just hydrating; its antioxidants will repair skin and protect it against oxidative and environmental damage.
Try
it: Mix two heaping tablespoons raw honey with one
cup hot water until dissolved. Add to a tub of warm water, and soak.
7.
Cuticle Moisturizer
Raw honey is loaded with nutrients and enzymes to nourish and heal skin, and it's a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture into the skin. Coconut oil conditions and protects, while the acetic acid in apple cider vinegar softens hard skin and balances pH for healthy growth.
Raw honey is loaded with nutrients and enzymes to nourish and heal skin, and it's a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture into the skin. Coconut oil conditions and protects, while the acetic acid in apple cider vinegar softens hard skin and balances pH for healthy growth.
Try
it: Mix one teaspoon honey with one teaspoon apple cider
vinegarand one teaspoon coconut oil. Rub over each cuticle, and let sit
five to 10 minutes, then rinse.
8.
Hair Conditioner
The enzymes and nutrients in raw honey give dull hair shine without weighing it down. Coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft to condition and smooth the cuticle and give your strands the luster you crave.
The enzymes and nutrients in raw honey give dull hair shine without weighing it down. Coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft to condition and smooth the cuticle and give your strands the luster you crave.
Try
it: Mix one tablespoon raw honey with two
tablespoons coconut oil. Apply thoroughly to the bottom two-thirds of damp
hair, starting at the ends and working up. Let sit for 20 minutes, and rinse
well.
9. Shampoo Booster
The humectant properties of honey help regulate and retain moisture in hair, plus honey is said to strengthen hair follicles for healthy growth.
The humectant properties of honey help regulate and retain moisture in hair, plus honey is said to strengthen hair follicles for healthy growth.
Try
it: Mix one teaspoon honey with a dime-sized amount of your
favorite shampoo. Wash and lather as normal, and rinse well.
10.
Hair Highlighter
The enzyme glucose oxidase in honey slowly releases hydrogen peroxide, an ingredient known to lighten hair color.
The enzyme glucose oxidase in honey slowly releases hydrogen peroxide, an ingredient known to lighten hair color.
Try
it: Mix three tablespoons honey with two tablespoon water.
Apply to clean, damp hair, and let sit for an hour. Rinse well. Apply weekly
for best results.
11.
Sunburn Treatment
Honey restores hydration to the deepest layers of sun-exposed skin—and both honey and aloe vera contain powerful anti-inflammatories to calm burned skin and aid recovery.
Honey restores hydration to the deepest layers of sun-exposed skin—and both honey and aloe vera contain powerful anti-inflammatories to calm burned skin and aid recovery.
Try it: Mix
one part raw honey with two parts pure aloe vera gel. Apply
to sunburned skin
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)