Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Home Remedies to Treat Lupus: Foods for Natural Treatment

A butterfly shaped rash on the face is usually the key sign of an auto immune disease called lupus. The progress and course of the disorder is unpredictable, however, several diet prescriptions and simple home remedies can help ease the symptoms and delay the progression of the disease.
 
Butterfly Skin Rash
and Lupus
What is Lupus?

Lupus is an auto immune disease, wherein, the cells of the immune system erroneously attack the healthy cells of the body. It is a chronic condition which is characterized by flare-ups and remissions. It causes a wide array of manifestations in various parts of the body. By and large, women are more prone to develop this condition than men. The condition is rather rare, and many sufferers don’t even know that they have; though it is a serious disease.

Common manifestations of the disease are:
  • Skin rashes
  • Pain, inflammation and swelling of the joints which mimics symptoms of arthritis
  • Fever
  • Fatigue and exhaustion
  • Hair loss
  • Blurring of the vision
  • Swollen glands
The most preliminary symptom of the disease is a butterfly shaped rash on the face; it appears typically over the cheeks and bridge of the nose. Those suffering from lupus have a very strong tendency to sunburn.

What Causes Lupus?

The functioning of the immune system goes wrong and it produces abnormal cells that travel through the body, attacking healthy cells. The exact and precise cause of the condition is not yet known. Certain infections, sunlight, childbirth, stress, sex hormones and heredity have been implicated in its development.

Home Remedies to Treat Lupus
Here are some simple home remedies that can be beneficial in the management of this skin disorder,
  • Flax seed oil: flax seeds are a very rich source of essential fatty acids. Essential fatty acids (EFAs help reduce swelling and inflammations successfully. Flax seeds help diminish inflammatory processes in the kidneys, skin and joints. Consume about 5 spoons of roasted flax seeds daily or have 2 to 3 spoons of flaxseed oil.
  • Evening primrose oil: evening primrose oil is also a rich source of EFAs. GLA or gamma linoleic acid is a fatty acid found in evening primrose oil which our body converts to prostaglandins that regulate bodily functions. It has the potential to ease joint pains appreciably, reduces muscle strains and is also known to treat skin rashes and allergies. Doctors recommend 1000mg, thrice daily.
  • Selenium: selenium supplementation of 200 mcg daily is advocated by experts. This mineral has proved to be decidedly beneficial in the management of the symptoms of lupus. It exerts strong anti inflammatory benefits and also has powerful immune enhancing effects.
Foods for Natural Treatment of Lupus
Here are some dietary recommendations for the treatment and management of this condition,
  • Foods rich in vitamin B: vitamin complex is very essential to maintain the health of the skin, blood vessels, nerves and joints. The vitamin helps speed up healing of areas of the body that are damaged by the inflammatory process. Incorporate plenty of whole grains, legumes, milk and nuts in your daily diet.
  • Oranges and Vitamin C
    Rich foods help in Lupus
    Treatment
  • Foods rich in vitamin C: vitamin C is a powerful immune system booster and fortifier; it enhances immunity. It strengthens the immune and defense mechanisms of the body and minimizes the duration of any illness. It also acts as a potent anti oxidant, scavenging and destroying free radicals. Rich sources are: limes, lemons, berries, bell peppers, oranges, cherries, kiwi, mangoes and papayas.
  • Foods rich in vitamin E: vitamin E is essential for skin health. It too is a strong anti oxidant, and prevents oxidative damage to the body. This vitamin proffers the body with a multitude of preventive benefits and augments the working of the immune mechanism. Wheat germ, almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, safflower seeds and whole grains are good sources.

Sunday, February 26, 2012

Home Remedies to deal with Chronic Fatigue: Foods and Natural Treatment

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a poorly understood condition characterized by persistent tiredness, along with flu-like systems. Estimates suggest that approximately 3 in every 100 adults suffer from this condition in varying degree of severity. In most cases, this disabling disorder is associated with an attenuated and frail immune system. There are a host of home remedies and diet suggestions that can help in effective and natural management of this condition.
Chronic Fatigue is
common disorder
What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

It is a medical condition that is characterized by profound and constant tiredness and exhaustion. CFS is more likely to affect women than men. The individual feels exhausted and extremely weak and may also suffer from depression. The condition can affect individuals of any age, however the condition is more frequently observed among middle age and elderly individuals.

While the exact cause of fatigue is not known, doctors say that a weak and impaired immune mechanism triggers its development. Those suffering from the disorder may also have auto-immune diseases such as lupus or thyroid dysfunction; and suffer from allergies.

Furthermore, infectious agents like the Epstein Barr virus and Candida yeast have been incriminated in some cases.

Some theories also suggest that low blood pressure, abnormal levels of some hormones and inflammation of the brain may cause 5his condition. Nonetheless, there is nothing conclusive so far.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms

Presenting features of this syndrome complex are:
  • Constant or recurring weariness and exhaustion, lasting for 6 months and more; not better by rest.
  • Difficulty in sleeping and insomina are common symptoms
  • Difficulty in concentrating and carrying out day to day tasks
  • Diminished memory
  •  Frequent and recurrent Headaches
  • Low grade fever, sore throat and body pain
  • Melancholia and depression
Home Remedies to Treat Chronic Fatigue
The chief objective of the management plan is to restore the healthy working of the immune and defense mechanisms of the body. The following natural remedies and supplements have been recommended to treat this syndrome complex:
    Echinacea is a natural herb
    to fight fatigue
  • Echinacea: Echinacea has powerful immunity enhancing effects; doctors recommend 200 mg of the herb, twice daily to pep up the immune system.
  • Ginseng: Ginseng is a widely used Chinese herb that enhances the longevity and quality of life. It helps the body fight a whole range of illnesses. The herb stimulates the production of killer T cells of the immune system that annihilate harmful bacteria and viruses. Ginseng is a potent herb that will help overcome tiredness and exhaustion and balance the release of stress hormones within the body. 100 mg twice daily is recommended.
  • Pantothenic acid supplementation: pantothenic acid or vitamin B5 helps bolster the adrenal glands which release hormone cortisol. Cortisol combats stress and augments energy levels. A supplement of 500 mg everyday is advocated.
Natural Treatment and Foods to manage Fatigue

Here are some dietary and lifestyle suggestions that can be useful in treatment of this syndrome complex,
  • Foods that are rich in vitamin C: increase your intake of vitamin C rich foods. Vitamin C is an immune system fortifier. It perks up the functioning of the immune mechanism appreciably and fights of infections and free radicals, thus shielding the body from harm. Oranges, lemons,  bell peppers, papayas, chilies, mangoes and tomatoes are packed with the vitamin.
  • Carotenoid rich foods: Carotenoid is the red, yellow and orange pigment that is found in most fruits and vegetables. It is a powerful disease-fighter and a potent anti oxidant. It scavenges free radical and destroys them. Carotenoids help to enhance immunity significantly. Food sources are: carrots, tomatoes, papayas, watermelon and guavas.
  • Magnesium rich foods: Magnesium helps fight weakness, battles stress and decreases body pain effectively. Incorporate plenty of: leafy vegetables, nuts, legumes and whole grains; they supply the body with loads of this vital mineral.

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Home Remedies to Get Rid of Bad Breath in Mouth

Halitosis is a vastly annoying complaint and often linked with poor oral hygiene or gum disease. As per Institute of Dental Research, approximately 65 million American Adults suffer from the condition at some point in their lives. Epidmeological estimates are indicative of a high prevelence of moderate form , while exteremely severe forms of the condition affect about 2-5% of general population. While there are several causes, both local and systemic, that are linked with the condition, there are certain tips that can help get rid of the condition at home. Experts recommend not to ignore bad breath and visit a physician or a dentist if the condition persists. 

Bad Breath is a common
problem
What is Halitosis?

The oral cavity is home to several hundred species of bacteria, which thrive on remenants of food left behind in the mouth. An overgrowth of anaerobic gram negative bacteria, which thrive on protiens, along the crevices of the tongue, can result in increased production of volatile sulfur compounds. Release of these odoriferous by-products of metabolism in exhaled air results in oral malodor.

In the simplest of cases, bad breath can be traced to eating foods that have lingering odors, such as garlic, onions and anchovies. Smoking and drinking alcohol are significant causes as well.

What Causes Bad Breath?

In addition to the foods, there are a host of other factors that cause this condition. Occasionally the condition may be linked to an underlying medical condition as the cause and can become a chronic.
  • The condition occurs due to the multiplication of odor-producing bacteria in the mouth. If the mouth remains dry, more bacteria thrive.
  • Any disorder that decreases the synthesis of saliva in the mouth lead to this condition; common causes include: breathing through the mouth, advancing age, and following crash diets (where you eat less and thus produce less saliva).
  • Certain drugs and medicines also trigger offensive breath.
  • Poor oral hygiene is the most noteworthy cause. Bacteria tend to accumulate between the teeth and on the tongue, where there is food debris.
  • Gum diseases are another important cause. Often the condition is associated with tooth pain
  • Chronic, persistent sinus infection sets off the condition as well.
  • Poor digestion or frequent indigestion has also been linked to the condition.
Home Remedies to Get Rid Of Halitosis

Here are some simple home remedies, foods and tips to get rid of the condition,
  • Fennel seeds: munch on a spoonful of fennel seeds after every meal. Not only does fennel freshen the breath, it also perks up digestion.
  • Spirulina Tablets can help
    treat bad breath
  • Spirulina and apple juice: mix spirulina along with some apple juice; use this as a mouth wash everyday for about a month. This blend may be drunk as well.
  • Parsley: parsley is a powerful breath freshener. It detoxifies odors and also boosts digestion appreciably. Chew on a sprig of parsley after every meal.
  • Brush your teeth after every meal, and floss the teeth once every day. In case you cannot brush, rinse the mouth well.
  • Avoid strong smelling foods, and quit smoking.
  • Treating sinus infections, bleeding gums, constipation and indigestion immediately.
How to Prevent Bad Breath Naturally
In case the bad breath perseveres, in spite of trying all the possible home remedies and natural cures, it is vital that you consult a dentist. Your dentist will try to ascertain if there is an underlying gum disease that is causing halitosis and treat it accordingly. A medical checkup will also help find out if sinusitis, dyspepsia, heartburn or some other medical condition is responsible.
  • Make sure that you follow strict dental and oral hygiene. Brushing, flossing, gargling and cleaning the tongue are crucial aspects of oral care. Ensure that the toothbrush remains bacteria free by storing it in grapefruit seed extract. Rinse the toothbrush well before using it.
  • It is important to have good bowel movement. Constipation and poor digestion are huge contributing factors. Thus, drink at least 2 liters of water daily and consume 3 to 5 dates every night. This promises to keep the bowels functioning optimally.
  • Rinse your mouth with peppermint essential oil. Add 2 to 3 drops of the essential oil to a glass of water; and use this mouth wash once daily as a preventive.