Saturday, May 24, 2008

Benefits on Ginseng

Ginseng is a popular Chinese herb that has been used for over 5000 years and is still going strong till this day. The plant was first introduced in 1740 in England by botanist Collinson.

It has many uses and is known to provide energy, improve memory, concentration, build up mental and physical vitality, and also build resistance to disease.

It has been recommended for fatigue, stress. menopause, stamina, hangovers, recovery from illnesses, decreased health conditions, and so many other ailments. It comes in capsules, tinctures, tablets and teas.

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Prevention and Treatment of Insect Bites

With spring already here and summer is on its way here soon, it is time to consider that the insects with coming out in swarms this season. Mosquitoes, fleas, and mites are known to carry and transmit diseases such as malaria and yellow fever.

With bees, wasps, hornet stings and fire ant bites will most times hurt and cause some swelling.

To prevent insect bites:

  • Stay away from the damp, and wet areas of where many will swarm especially mosquitoes
  • Do not bother the insects
  • Use insect repellants to keep the bugs away
  • Wear clothing that will protect you from insects


To help reactions to bites and stings:

  • Make sure that you move to a safe area to avoid getting bit or stung again
  • Remove the stinger with a straight edge object such as a credit card. Don't try to pull out the sting as it may release more venom.
  • Apply a cold pack to the area to reduce the swelling
  • Apply a hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion, or a baking soda paste to the bite or sting several times a day until the symptoms have subsided

For more severe reactions Dial 911 or call for emergency medical attention.

Severe reactions may include faintness, difficulty breathing, hives, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, cramps, rapid heartbeat, confusion, dizziness, and swelling of the lips or throat.




Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Stop Mold Growing in Your Home

Mold growth inside the home is not a good situation to occur but instead a serious health risk and can dangerous affect the body's immunity system. The mold releases microscopic spores that cause allergic reactions such irritation to the skin, running noses, and sneezing.

Ways to identify mold is look for mildew which appears as black spots especially damp areas. To test to see if your home has mold growing in your home, is to spray the black spots with a household bleach on the blackened area and it is lightens then that is mildew and it is the area still remains dark then you probably have dirt.

Control dampness by looking for leaks and have those leaks stopped. Keep crawlspaces and attics dry.

  • Seal all outlets, and open sill areas.
  • For the kitchen and bathrooms install a ventilation fan. Make sure they vent outside the home.
  • Know how to clean molds if it grows.




Sunday, May 18, 2008

The benefits of Peppermint Tea

Stomach indigestion is a common problem that can be easily relieved naturally by peppermint which was first grown in Europe. The high oil content is found in stems and leaves, which are used medicinally. The oil is used to treat problems such as cramps, irritable bowel syndrome, motion sickness, and gastritis.

Gastrointestinal tract can be relieved by peppermint as it relaxes the intestinal wall's muscles. It increases saliva with the swallowing increasing, and relieves cramps, pain for motion sickness, and improve the appetite.

Peppermint tea is best to let it seep for about 10-15 minutes of 5 oz boiling water and drink the tea up to four times a day. It can also help relieve the indigestion including coughing, colds, acute respiratory difficulties, and also viral, fungal, and bacteria infections. It can also be taken in pill form as well. Peppermint oil can be inhaled to relieve irritated nasal passages, and applied to the chest to sooth respiratory discomfort and allergies.

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Natural Ways to Treat Depression-St. John's Wort

St. John's Wort has been a common herbal plant that has been used for centuries. It has been used as a anti-inflammatory for muscle strains and pains and it also relieves swelling. It has been know to treat depression and anxiety. The plant has tiny yellow flowers and is known to be high in hypericin and other flavonoid compounds. If the flower bud is crushed, a burgundy red juice oozes out. St. John's Wort Oil is helpful when it is applied to bruises and wounds. It has been found to have a potential as a cancer-fighting drug.

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Natural Ways to Help Relieve Anxiety Levels

Experiencing an anxiety attack is never a fun or pleasurable ordeal to go through. With the loss of being able to breathe, feeling as if the walls are closing in, and all trying to overcome this difficulty.

There are many natural ways to help with treating anxiety disorder such as natural herbal supplements and treatments. It has been researched that lack of chromium sometimes causes anxiety.

Magnesium is a known herbal treatment that is able to relieve muscle pain and spasms. It is also good for relieving tension, stress, nervousness, and anxiety. It has been recommended to use Calcium with Magnesium for better results.

Another herbal supplement is Vitamin C which can easily be obtained through eating more fruits and vegetables. This can also be taken in pill form as a supplement. Vitamin C helps the adrenal glands to function properly, lessens anxiety and relieves stress.


Drinking chamomile tea not only soothes stomach disturbances but also is known to soothe stress and tension. It is also an aid in preventing panic attacks from occurring.

Monday, May 12, 2008

More Ways to Improve Posture

There are more ways to improve a person's posture in the way
a person sits and stands. When one is sitting in an office chair, align
your back with the back of the chair, and avoid slouching or leaning forward
even if you get tired from sitting in the chair after many long
hours. Next flex your arms at a 75 to 90 degree angle at the
elbows. The office chair may have to be adjusted. While sitting,
make sure your neck, back and heels of your feet are all properly
aligned.





Keeping both feet flat on the floor while sitting, if you are unable to reach
the floor then use a footrest and this should increase comfort.

While standing, stand with weight mostly on the balls of your feet, and not
putting weight on your heels. Do not lock your knees. Next keep your feet
slightly apart about a shoulder-width and let your arms hang freely down the
sides of the body. Tuck your chin in a bit to keep your head at level and be
sure that the head is square on the top of the neck and spine but not pushed
forward. Stand straight and all with your shoulders being kept upright.



Another way is to stand against a wall with your shoulders and bottom touching
the wall. The back of your head should also touch the wall and if it doesn't,
then your head may be carried too forward.

Sunday, May 11, 2008

Ways to Improve Posture

Standing up straight is not the only key to improving a person's posture. Many times people think that standing up straight consists of tensing up your back, which causes a strain on the shoulders and back. The spine has two curves that are natural, which are called the double C or S curves.

Do exercises to strengthen the muscles that are across your upper back shoulders. This can be done with or without hand weights. Align your ears over your shoulders. Raise both of your arms straight up alongside your ears. Bend the forearms toward your shoulder blades. Doing for 10 reps for each arm will be helpful in building up the muscle strength.

Another suggestion is to do stretches as they will be helpful in case your back or neck is sore. Tilt your head in all four directions over your shoulders (left, right, forward, back). Do not roll your head all the way around as that may caught more strain to your neck and back. Gently massage your neck.

On your hands and knees, arch your back upwards, like a cat and then do the opposite.

Doing these stretches as soon as you wake up, will help to relieve your body from morning stiffness. It is recommended to stretch several times a day to keep the body limber and it also increases energy in the body.


Saturday, May 10, 2008

The Benefits of Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3 is mainly a dietary source that drawn from fish oil along with other sources of nuts, and vegetable oils.
Fish oils is known to contain DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Omega 3 is helpful to the body by helping reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Good vegetable oils such as olive oil are great for cooking.

It is recommended that eating fish at least twice a week, especially fish that is fatty such as mackerel, herring, sardines, salmon, albacore tuna, and lake trout. Fish is also high in protein levels, so it is a double positive for the body. Nuts are great health snack and packed with protein and Omega 3. Most nuts are health, however some are healthier than others, such as soybeans, almonds, peanuts, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts, walnuts, pecans, and flaxseeds have high levels of Omega 3.







Friday, May 9, 2008

How to Control Asthma

Asthma is a condition that causes chronic inflammation of the bronchial airways which causes swelling and constricting of the airways (tubes) and this causes a shortness of breath making it difficult to breath. It has been known that asthma affects people differently and medications can affect the condition.

There are many ways to control asthma such as:

  • Clear your home of allergens such as dust mites by washing all bedding in hot water at least once a week.
  • Having a non-carpeted floor is best compared to carpeting. Carpeting can harbor dust, and other possible allergens. If you have carpeting then vacuum the carpet with a vacuum that allows for an allergen-proof vacuum bag.
  • On a regular basis change the filters on heaters and air conditioners.
  • Dust all surfaces often with a damp cloth.
  • Keep clutter under control.



Thursday, May 8, 2008

Benefits to Drinking Water

It is amazing to learn that with drinking water can help the body in numerous ways.

Water is a refreshing drink that allows to benefit the body of almost 2/3rds of the our body weight is considered as "water weight."

Water is needed in order to help the body to digest, absorb nutrients and needed vitamins. It helps to detoxify the liver and kidneys, and also expunges the waste from the body.

  • Water helps to allow for proper digestion
  • Keep skin healthy
  • Help Lose Weight
  • Increase mental and physical functions
  • Reduce headaches, and dizziness
  • Remove toxins and waste from the body


Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Adapting to a Healthy Lifestyle



Many goals of my life is to be able to maintain and continue with adapting to a healthier lifestyle. I eat the right foods, and try to work on exercising more. Here's to a healthier life!