Home Remedies for Muscle Pain: Treating Muscle Aches using Natural Treatment

Though not at all serious, muscle pain and muscle cramps can be a very uncomfortable condition; consequently, understanding the cause of muscle pain and relieving muscle pain quickly is very important. There are a host of home remedies and natural treatment options to relive muscle pain and treat muscle soreness promptly

What Causes  Muscle Pain and Spasms ? 



Massage Relieves
Muscle Pain

Soreness, pain and stiffness of the muscle develop as a consequence of overdoing a certain physical activity, such as overextending yourself, running the marathon, lifting a heavy bag, excessive exercise or digging the garden. This type of muscle pain begins 1 to 2 days after the physical activity and may last for almost a week.

Any new and strenuous physical activity triggers muscle pain. Pain is an indication of microscopic tear within the muscle, which rebuilds in a few days. Almost all activities cause the muscle to lengthen against force, and consequently generate this type of injury, thereby, setting off muscular soreness

Muscle spasms or muscle cramps occur when the muscle unexpectedly contracts and fails to relax. Cramps commonly occur in the calf, foot, or thigh; they occur at any time, even during sleep.

On the other hand, a muscle spasm does not occur due to an injury; the exact cause is unknown. By and large, an inequity in the minerals – calcium and magnesium, which manage contraction and relaxation of muscles, is a significant triggering factor. Also, inadequate intake of fluids can prompt the occurrence of a cramp. Other triggers include: wearing high heels, sleeping with the bedding tightly wrapped around the legs and excessive exercise during the day.

 

Natural Remedies to Treat Muscle Aches

Here are some simple supplements and dietary suggestions to relive muscle pain and aches,

• Calcium and Magnesium supplements: calcium and magnesium controls the contraction and relaxation of a muscle. Consequently, a deficiency of these minerals sets off muscular pain and aches. Consult your doctor and start these supplements for about 2 to 3 weeks.
•  Vitamin E: vitamin E supplement is recommended for those who experience exercise-related muscle pain and cramps. Vitamin E is also beneficial for night-time cramps.
•  Bromelain: is an enzyme that exerts powerful anti inflammatory properties. It helps allay inflammation and swelling, and drains out excess fluid from the site of muscle injury. Bromelain is available as a supplement; rich natural source of the enzyme is pineapple. 

An essential oil massage is the most effective remedy to manage muscle pain and aches. In fact, they work almost instantaneously.

• Blend together 10 ml of a carrier oil, such as, sesame seed oil or almond oil, with 5 drops of Clove essential oil, 3 drops Ginger essential oil and 5 drops Nutmeg essential oil.
• These oils tone and warm the muscles and also release tight knotted tension after heavy physical activity. Aromatherapy has the potential to benefit tired and aching muscles, particularly when they are cold and contracted. 

 Muscle Pain Relief and Natural Treatment

 Here are some simple life style related suggestions that can help relive muscle pain,

Stay Well Hydrated

• Drink plenty of water before, during and after an exercise. Always warm-up before the and stretch after the exercise session to relax the muscles. Stretching exercises reduce the risk of post work out soreness appreciably.
• Extreme soreness can be relieved by applying ice to the inflamed area.
• To ease cramps in the foot or calves, grab the toes of the foot and flex the foot, very gently towards the knee. Simultaneously massage the calf in order to relax the muscle.
• Regular yoga sessions help improve muscle flexibility and reduce the risk of muscle pain and cramps.

Treat Insomnia Naturally with Herbs: Cures and Tips for Sleep Disorder

As per a poll conducted by National Sleep Foundation in 2002, approximately half the adults suffer from insomnia or sleeplessness; with varying degree of severity. There are several different causes of insomnia ranging from medical to psychological and effectiveness of home remedies and natural treatment often varies, depending upon the cause. However, making an effort to improve sleep naturally and opting for natural sleep aids is very important, given that, sleeping pills have a tendency to make you addicted to them.

 

Insomnia Sleep Disorder

What is Insomnia and Sleep Disorders?

 

Insomnia is the inability to fall asleep, not able to stay asleep or constantly waking up earlier than planned. Sleep disorders that last only for a couple of nights does not mean you have insomnia. Chronic sleeplessness and sleep disturbances, lasting for months or years characterizes insomnia.
Depending upon the duration of insomina, it is further classified into transiant ( symptoms present for less than a week), acute ( symptoms present for less than a month) and chronic (symptoms present for more than a month).

Some of the key symptoms common across all forms of insomnia include, 

• Difficulty in falling asleep
• Cannot sleep all night
• Wakes up frequently and  / or too early
• Fatigue and generalized weakness
• Anxiety and irritability
• Inability to concentrate

Causes of Sleeplessness and Insomnia
 

There are several causes that are linked with sleeplessness and insomina. Some of the leading causes include,

• Hormonal imbalances and conditions like restless leg syndrome contribute to sleeplessness.
• A major illness, emotion turmoil or trauma and psychological upheavals are significant factors
• Physical pain may contribute to sleeplessness as well.
• Dietary factors lays an important role in sleep disorders; so does your lifestyle pattern
• Certain psychotrophic drugs and medications can also trigger the onset of some of the symptoms.
• Medical conditions including neurological disorders, hypertension, dementia, etc are also linked with the condition. 

 It is very important that you ascertain the causes of insomnia and try to mange it effectively.

Home Remedies for Sleeplessness and Insomnia

Here are some natural herbal remedies considered beneficial in the management of sleep disorders and insomnia,  

Chamomile Tea
Induces Restful Sleep

1. Valerian: Valerian is a potent sleep inducer. It soothes frayed nerves and promotes good, sound sleep. 250 to 500 mg at bedtime is recommended. Taper off your dosage once you start seeing improvement.
2. Chamomile tea: chamomile tea is another very effective sleep aid. It encourages relaxation and repose and greatly reduces stress, thus making it easier to fall asleep. Have 1 cup of chamomile tea every evening.
3. St. John’s Wort: this herb is known to increase the levels of sleep inducing chemical serotonin; it eases anxiety and anguish and helps you to have a peaceful sleep.

Among the various natural insomnia remedies are dietary supplements; they promise you quick and peaceful sleep without the threat of any side effects.

• Calcium and magnesium supplements: experts recommend having calcium and magnesium supplements before bedtime. Occasionally, a deficiency of calcium and / or magnesium is known to trigger
• Vitamin B complex: take a vitamin B complex twice daily. Vitamin B is known to ease stress and anxiety; it also soothes the nervous system and helps you to calm down.

Natural Treatment to Improve Sleep

Aromatherapy is an effective tool to combat insomnia. Several essential oils have proved to be decidedly useful in the management of sleep disorders; they bring on restful and sound sleep.

Sprinkle a couple of drops of Lavender essential oil on the pillow.

Before retiring to the bed, take a warm bath; not hot, just warm. Add Lavender, Frankincense or Chamomile essential oil to the water.

In addition to the various home remedies and supplements, there are certain lifestyle tips that can help in the cure of insomnia and induce sleep. Here are some of the tips,  

• Exercise at least thrice a week; it banishes stress and helps you sleep soundly through the night. Yoga poses are also beneficial to relive stress and improve sleep. However, never exercise in the evening and night, it makes you alert.
• Stick to a fixed sleep pattern.
• Use your bed only for sleeping, not to eat or watch television.
• Steer clear of alcohol, tobacco and caffeine.

Home Remedies for Wart Removal and Treatment

Wart is a common skin complaint; though the prevelence of the condition is poorly understood. Reports have suggested the prevelence may vary from 0.9% to 12% of the general population. Non genital warts in healthy individuals are harmless and typically fade away naturally. However there are a host of home remedies and natural treatment options that can help in removal of warts mandated due to cosmetic reasons.

What are the different types of Warts?
 

Warts are tiny growths on the skin that are by and large, not dangerous. There are different types or forms of this skin lesion. They may grow singly or in groups, they may itch or bleed, though they are usually painless.

Plantar Warts are the
most common type

 
They are usually classified based on the location at which they are found,

• Warts on Hand/ Common Warts: A common form manifests as a flat or faintly raised growth, generally on the fingers and hands.
• Warts on Feet/ Plantar Warts: A plantar form is seen as a flat or somewhat raised bump on the base of the foot, and may resemble a callus.
• Genital Warts: A genital form is seen as a red-pink growth, having a small, flower-like top, and appears around the genitals or the anus. These are considered serious, given that, unlike the other warts they are extremely infectious; and some even raise the peril of cervical, penile or skin cancer.

What Causes Warts and are they Contagious?
 

The chief cause of these skin lesions is HPV or Human Papilloma Virus infection. This virus enters the superficial layer of the skin through an abrasion or a cut. After infection occurs, it may take several months for the wart to manifest. Poor immunity plays a contributing role in the development of these skin lesions.

Common and planter forms are somewhat infectious. Touching them causes a release of the virus, which can infect others. Scratching them can cause them to break up and bleed, thus, making them more contagious.

Indirect infection can also occur via floors in bathrooms and swimming pools. People who have a cut or scratch on the soles of the feet are particularly susceptible.
Genital forms are highly contagious and spread via sexual intercourse.

Natural Wart Removal Treatment

Here are some natural treatment options for the management of these lesions. These natural remedies help in reducing the size and occurrence,

• Vitamin A: Vitamin A is essential for good skin health. It also helps boost immunity and eliminates skin growths effectively. A supplement of 50000 IU, twice daily is recommended for 10 days.
•  Vitamin E: Vitamin E is another effective nutrient that helps maintain healthy skin. Experts advocate 1 capsule daily. Also, applying vitamin E oil helps heal the wart faster.
• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful virus-fighter. Take 1000 mg thrice daily. Additionally, the tablet, mix with a little bit of water and apply to the wart.

Home Remedies to remove Warts

Here are some simple home remedies and natural treatment options for the removal,

Goldenseal for Warts

• Tea tree essential oil: Tea tree oil is the most potent anti-septic aroma oil. A skin compress of tea tree essential oil will yield beneficial results. It helps kill the virus and speeds up healing.
• Garlic oil: Garlic oil is another potent remedy for warts. Garlic has always been considered a powerful infection fighter. Using the oil every day as a skin compress is highly useful.
• Goldenseal: soak a swab of cotton in a tincture of goldenseal and apply over the wart. Goldenseal enhances immunity and destroys the virus that causes warts.

Stubborn and obstinate warts which may not respond to corrosive treatments are managed by freezing. The doctor will freeze the wart with liquid nitrogen. This is effective in 70 - 80 % of patients. It is not apt for those areas of the skin that have poor blood supply and is not recommended in children. Also, it is fraught with a risk of causing damage to the underlying tissues and scarring. 

Home Remedies to Improve Prognosis of Parkinson's Disease: L Dopa Treatment

As per the Parkison's Disease Foundation an estimated one million Americans suffer from the condition which results in an economic burden of approximately USD 25 billion. Globally there are approximately 10 million people suffering from the disorder. The prevelence of the condition increases with advancing age and males are more likely to suffer from the disorder compared to females. There is still no cure Parkinson’s disease,however using simple home remedies and natural treatment can help significantly improve the quality of life and improve the prognosis of the condition.

What is Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative disorder of the nervous system. It usually strikes after 60 years of age; and is commoner in men than in women, though occassionally the condition may strike at an earlier age ( of 50 years). The symptoms are mild at first, but aggravate with time. The disorder was discovered by Dr. Parkinson, an English doctor, about 200 years ago.

Some of the early symptoms associated with the condition include,

• Shaking and tremors
• Mild stiffness and pain of the joints
• Stooped posture
• Constipation
• Difficulty while swallowing

Typical Appearance of
a person with Parkinson's
Disease

As the disease progresses, the symptoms become more severe and pronounced along with manifestation of some other symptoms,

• Extreme rigidity of the body, known as ‘ cogwheel’ rigidity with trembling of the limbs associated with difficulty in walking
• Constant ‘pin-rolling’ movements with impassive face, infrequent blinking, expressionless face and drooling
• Obstinate constipation
• Difficulty while swallowing and talking with speech becomes slow and soft
• Slow and shuffling gait
• Incontinence of stool and urine
• Handwriting becomes small and spidery
• Anxiety and depression
• Memory loss

 Causes of Parkinson’s Disease

The cells in the basal ganglia of the brain begin to die and stop producing a chemical called dopamine, which transmits impulses from nerve to nerve. An insufficiency of dopamine brings about progressive loss of muscular coordination, tremors and stiffness.

The exact cause for the production of dopamine reduces is not known ; however experts have indicated that viral infections of the brain, exposure to herbicides and use of anti psychotic drugs could be the probably risk factors.

Home Remedies for Parkinson’s Disease

Here are some natural home remedies that can help in the effective management of the symptoms associated with parkinson's disease,

• Flax seed oil: flax seed oil nourishes the nerves and also boosts dopamine levels. 1 tablespoon of flax seed oil is recommended daily.



Cooked Fish is beneficial
in treatment of Parkinson's

• Vitamin B6 rich foods: vitamin B6 works towards increasing the production of dopamine in the brain. Vitamin B 6 supplements are advocated by doctors, however, in case you are taking L-dopa; do not take B6 supplements without consulting your doctor, adverse interactions can occur. Food sources for vitamin B6 are: fish, liver, potatoes, bananas and avocadoes.
• Vitamin E rich foods: vitamin E is a potent anti oxidant which wards off damage to the cells of the body, including the dopamine-synthesizing cells in the brain. Experts say, vitamin E supplementation is beneficial for those who haven’t yet started conventional therapy. It helps slow down the progression of the disease. Also, include loads of walnuts, almonds, wheat germ and sunflower seeds in your daily diet.

Parkinson’s Disease Prognosis and L-dopa Treatment

The most effective treatment regimen for Parkinson's disease is levodopa, which is converted to dopamine in the brain. It helps allay the symptoms to some extent, but, long-term treatment with levodopa leads to disagreeable side effects (shortened response to each dose, involuntary movements and cramps), and its use is delayed until motor impairment become very severe.
It is somewhat difficult to predict how quickly the disorder will progress. The disease by itself is not fatal, and the life expectancy is similar to an individual not having the disease. Secondary complications, such as falling-related injuries, pneumonia and choking may be the cause of death. Nonetheless, with treatment and counseling, it is possible to decrease the intensity of the symptoms and enhance the quality of life.
 

Treat Indigestion Naturally and Effectively: Home Remedies for Dyspepsia

Estimated 20-25% of the population suffers from indigestion or dyspesia to varying degree of severity. In most cases, the condition is associated with non specific symptoms which not only interfere with an individuals productivity. While use of antacids is most recommended, long term use is often associated with dreaded side effects. Here are some home remedies and natural treatment options that can help treat it effectively.

What Causes Indigestion?

Hiatus Hernia is a
cause for Indigestion

Dyspepsia occurs due to certain factors that raise the pressure within the abdomen, and thus, cause the contents of the stomach to move up in to the esophagus. The following factors have been considered to be high risk factors,

• Remaining hungry for prolonged intervals of time
• Over eating or consumption foods that are very spicy or oily. Higher consumption of processed foods or trans fats can also increase the frequency of dyspepsia
• Hiatus hernia
• Decreased tone of the esophageal sphincter
• Excessive consumption of carbonated and caffeinated drinks
• Having too much alcohol
• Smoking
• Obesity

Chronic conditions like esophageal cancer can also lead to it, espeically during the early stages of the disease.

Symptoms of Dyspepsia

While in most cases indigestion is linked with non specific symptoms of distress in the chest, there are some indicative symptoms,

• Retrosternal burning, which is usually aggravated on bleching or increased intra-abdominal pressure due to strenous activities.
• Abdominal bloating and flatulence
• Generalized discomfort and heaviness in the abdomen
• Abdominal cramps
• Occassional nausea with vomitting and recurrent episodes of water brash.  

Home Remedies to Treat Indigestion

Fennel Seeds help
treat indigestion

Here are some simple home remedies that can help in the management of indigestion and prevent the recurrence of dyspepsia.

• Fennel seeds: Munch on a tablespoon of fennel seeds after every meal. Fennel has powerful medicinal properties. It works as a spasmolytic and a wind reliever. It tones up the lining of the stomach and allays cramps, pain and abdominal discomfort.
• Caraway seeds: Caraway seeds can ease gastric distress. The seeds are an excellent carminative and help in the discharge of wind. It treats flatulence and bloating of the abdomen successfully, relieving painful cramps and tightness in the abdomen almost instantaneously. It relaxes the entire gastrointestinal tract. Include caraway seeds in to your daily diet.
• Mint and Ginger Decoction: Mint is a brilliant digestive; and so is ginger. They help ease spasms of the alimentary canal and decrease formation of gas. Menthol present in mint is the principal component that produces a GI-comforting effect. Gingerols present in ginger lessen inflammation and pain associated with gastric derangements. Drinking 250 ml of mint and ginger tea every morning helps ward off dyspeptic attacks effectively.

Prevent dyspepsia Naturally

Chronic and continual indigestion can be a big cause of worry. If neglected, it could develop in to a grave disease. There is a strong probability of developing irritable bowel syndrome, gastritis or peptic ulcer over a period of time. These guidelines will help you ward off indigestion and gastrointestinal derangements: 

• Don’t stay hungry for long periods of time. Have a small snack every 3 hours.
• Do not rush through your meal. Always consume food in a calm and leisurely atmosphere.
• Eat small, frequently meals through the day, avoid large, heavy ones.
• Limit your intake of caffeinated carbonated beverages.
• Quit smoking and limit the consumption of alcohol
• Never lie down after a meal. Sit erect for about 30 minutes after eating, in order to prevent regurgitation of acid or food.

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.

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.