My Health MD

When evaluating the characteristics of a cough, you might be able to pinpoint the source of your respiratory or airway discomfort. A cough is not a condition or a disease; it is simply a symptom that affects the lungs and upper airways passages. As you cough, whatever is causing blockage will most likely become dislodged, whether it is a piece of food or mucus. Sometimes coughs are persistent and need a little extra treatment. This is when a natural remedy may sooth your body’s reaction to foreign materials invading your airways.

Causes and Symptoms

A cough may come in the form of either a productive or nonproductive irritation. Productive coughs are those connected to the body’s manufacturing of mucus or phlegm. This occurrence often surfaces when mucus drains down the back of the throat or the sinuses produce postnasal drainage. The lungs may also play a role in the development of a productive cough. While the cough may create irritation and dryness, it is the body’s way of fighting infection by removing mucus from the lungs.

Productive coughs are a result of viral illnesses, as well as an infection of the lungs or upper airway passages, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. A productive cough may also develop as a sign that a pulmonary disease has taken a turn for the worst. When stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, coughing may occur, just as smoking and other forms of tobacco will also irritate the throat.

Nonreproductive coughs are dry and do not deal with the removal of mucus. They serve as a reaction to something in the body that is causing irritation. A hacking sound is often associated with this sort of cough, which is commonly seen at the end of a cold or when one is exposed to an irritating substance, such as cigar smoke or a dusty attic.

There are several different causes for a nonproductive cough, including viral illnesses, irritated bronchial tubes that spasm during the night, allergies, and asthma. The place where you work may also produce this type of cough, especially if you are exposed to dust, fumes, and chemicals. Certain types of medications also contribute to a nonproductive cough, such as drugs used to control high blood pressure, like Zestril or Capoten.

Natural Remedies for Coughs

When suffering a round of coughing, you may notice the presence of phlegm, which comes in white, yellow, and green varieties. It is through coughing that these particles are removed, but it can also produce an uncomfortable irritation that you’d like to soothe. Below you will find natural remedies to treat anything from a dry cough to an oncoming infection.

a) Thyme and Lungwort Syrup:

To provide chest cough relief, a syrup can be made using (10 grams of licorice juice stick; 10 grams dried thyme; 10 grams of dried lungwort leaves; 5 grams dried cowslip flowers; 5 grams of anise seeds; 500 grams of honey; and 750 ml of water). To make the syrup, dissolve the licorice by heating within a pan of water. Next, mix the herbs and seeds together, and then cover with the hot licorice juice.

Allow the mixture to steep for 10 minutes and then strain. Upon returning the steeped mixture to the pan, add the honey, and heat until it simmers. Next, stir the honey until dissolved. After cooling the syrup, pour the mixture into dark, clean, glass bottles and seal with cork stoppers.

b) Tumeric:

When using the root of the turmeric plant, a helpful dry cough natural remedy is created. All you have to do is roast the root and then make it into a powder. The recommended dosage is three grams per serving (taken at morning and night).

c) Licorice:

As a soothing expectorant, licorice is known to treat stubborn coughs, which also provides an accepting flavor.

d) Thyme:

When looking for a nice antiseptic to treat chest infections, thyme is a respectable herb to consider.

e) Wild Cherry:

Wild cherry has always been a common flavor for cough drops. This mildly sedating ingredient is good to suppress a cough that is responsible for creating a considerable amount of irritation.

f) Hyssop:

This herb has a reputation for treating stubborn colds and also makes a good accompaniment to a wild cherry remedy.

Cough Prevention

Preventing coughs come when medical threats that bring about hacking, dry, and phlegm-filled attacks are eliminated or reduced. To keep from suffering and dealing with the irritation that accompanies coughing, the only way to avoid these occurrences is to reduce the risk. Below you will find a few home approaches to consider, especially during the winter season :

a) Smoking:

When you continue to smoke cigarettes and any other tobacco products, you are not only placing your health in serious danger, but also increase the intensity of any coughs you may suffer from. Coughing is such a part of the smoking process that individuals who continuously use tobacco-related goods are stricken with what is referred to as “smoker’s cough.”

The worst part about it is that you don’t even have to smoke cigarettes to suffer from a cough of this sort; just being around those who smoke will cause the circumstances to develop. When secondhand smoke is inhaled, it enters the system and greatly affects your health, including your lungs, throat, and esophagus.

b) Avoid Cold and Influenza:

To prevent the spread of the virus that causes colds and influenza, it is necessary to wash your hands at all times. Making this a habit is a great way to approach the cold and flu season [1].

c) Increase Fluids:

When you consume extra fluids, the accumulation of mucus in your system is kept thin so that coughing is less stressful on the body. Dehydration is also avoided when you increase fluids. Hydration also eases an irritated throat, where dry, hacking coughs filled with discomfort is the result. Some of the home treatments to consider include placing honey in hot water, tea, or lemon juice [2].

Resources
[1] http://www.webmd.com/hw/%3Cwbr%3Eparenting_%3Cb%3Eand%3C/cold_and_flu/aa156290.asp?printing=true
[2] http://health.yahoo.com/topic/other/symptoms/article/healthwise/aa156269;_ylt=Aj8voaDwfQvpnAtknxkaGfee7M8F

If you’ve been declared an asthmatic, you’re no stranger to the problems associated with this condition. Certain triggers can lead to the tightening or restriction of airways in the lungs to make normal breathing difficult or impossible. These triggers can be environmental, like strong cleaning agents, pillow foam and the like; allergies, like pollen, animal dander, and so on; or some other reasons. Although these triggers can bother all, asthmatic are far more sensitive to them.

Asthma causes and symptoms

Asthma is caused by the spasms in the smooth muscles surrounding the small airways in the lungs, causing them to close partially. These spasms are accompanied by increased mucus secretion, which clogs the airways and lead to a severe asthma attack. The asthma symptoms may include tightness in the chest; characteristic ‘wheezing’ sound, especially when exhaling; shortness of breath; persistent cough, especially at night; increased pulse rate; anxiety or fear; and so on.

Natural asthma remedies

The line of asthma treatment depends on the types of triggers, your sensitivity to them and the severity of asthma. The treatment includes both conventional asthma cure and natural remedies. In chronic asthma, your physician would generally recommend asthma inhalers for immediate use in asthma attacks. However, if you don’t have a chronic condition, there are some good alternative medicines for asthma that include herbal and homeopathic remedies. These are safe, effective and affordable, and worth a try. Let’s see what they are:

a. Foods or supplements:

Eating fruits and raw vegetables appear to improve asthma. And foods or supplements that contain magnesium, quercetin, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B6, are all beneficial for optimal lung health and to ward off asthma food allergy. Magnesium causes airway dilatation that counteracts asthma’s constriction. Foods rich in magnesium include red cabbage, red bell peppers, tangerines, kiwi fruit, oranges, strawberries, potatoes, spinach, barley, almonds, to name a few. Quercetin’s antioxidant properties help to neutralize the damaging effects of pollution which can aggravate asthma.

Good sources of quercetin are green cabbage, cranberries, grapes, pears, apples, spinach, garlic, onions and grapefruit. Vitamin C also has a positive effect on bronchial function. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in salmon, tuna and trout, are helpful in reducing bronchial swelling and help in asthma prevention. Vitamin B6, contained in sweet potatoes, sunflower seeds, tuna, salmon, pork, potatoes, turkey, chicken, etc., decreases wheezing and other bothersome causes of asthma.

b. Homeopathy:

According to a new research on homeopathic asthma medication, if patients are given exceedingly small homeopathic doses of the allergens, it can provide significant relief within the first week of treatment. However, the common homeopathic drugs in use are pulsatilla nigricans, carbo vegetabilis and phosphorus.

c. Acupuncture:

Lungs and overall immune system can be improved through the Chinese science of acupuncture. Acupuncture for asthma decreases the sensitivity to allergens, improves lung strength and reduces stress, proving a boon for asthma suffers. Many acupuncturists also use Chinese herbs to supplement the acupuncture treatments.

d. Yoga and meditation:

Since, stress can weaken the immune system and reduce body’s ability to ward off the asthma triggers, it needs to be addressed specifically. By adopting yoga you can improve circulation and reduce stress. Meditation can also lower blood pressure and reduce stress. Following these disciplines will help prevent stress and save you from increased sensitivity to triggers and severity of an asthma attack.

A strong body and strong immune system can certainly help reduce asthmatic symptoms and the frequency of asthmatic episodes. The good news is natural asthma remedies help you achieve this state. But, consult your physician, if you’re opting for the natural line of treatment.

Acute acidity can make you belch and squirm in discomfort even at the mere sight of your favorite foods. This is because consuming heavy and deep fried foods make the stomach acid churn up into the food pipe, burning its lining. This condition can cause untold misery.

Acid reflux defined

Acid reflux is known by many names, like heartburn, indigestion, bloating, borborygmus and dyspepsia. It’s experienced as a vague chest or abdominal discomfort, usually suffered after consuming food or liquids.

Symptoms of acid reflux

The symptoms of acid reflux are hard to ignore! They may manifest themselves in many ways. Your stomach may growl or you may excessively belch. You may experience a burning sensation, pain or pressure behind the breastbone. This pain may even be felt between the shoulders or in the neck, while swallowing. In some, this burning sensation may be replaced by pain or pressure. Other symptoms are excessive gas, upper abdominal fullness or heaviness and acid taste in the mouth.

Causes of acid reflux

Although, the causes of acid reflux are related to excessive smoking, eating, drinking, swallowing air and emotional upset, the exact cause remains unknown. However, you can prevent this condition to a great extent by modifying your eating and other habits.

Preventing acid reflux

Heartburn can at least be minimized, if not completely prevented. Let’s see how:

a. Stop smoking, especially before or while eating. Smoking makes you swallow small amounts of air, which form air pockets in the digestive tract, slowing food digestion.

b. Avoid deep fried and fatty foods. Also restrict gas forming foods, like beans, cabbage, cucumbers and onions. Identify foods that aggravate your condition and avoid them.

c. Stop having your meals reclining on the sofa or propping up in bed. This is known to cause acid reflux. Eat sitting on the dinner table in an upright position and chew the food thoroughly and slowly. And don’t consume alcohol with food.

d. Go for a small walk after eating to stimulate the digestive system after a meal. However, never exercise following a large meal.

e. A tight belt or jeans not only restricts circulation, but can cause heartburn too. So, avoid wearing tight or restrictive clothing.

Home remedy for acid reflux

Where heartburn is concerned, antacids have practically ruled the world. However, it’s becoming clearer now that these common medicines can leave you with certain side effects. Thus, people the world over are turning to natural remedy for acid reflux disease. These acid reflux remedies include:

a. Regulating diet:

Watch what you eat. See what foods triggers acid reflux. Make a list and eliminate them one by one. Common heartburn triggers may include chocolate, fried and fatty foods and spices.

b. Consume more fiber:

High fiber nutrient foods help in alleviating the suffering associated with acid reflux. The fibers help to absorb excess acid and gas, and allow your body to rid itself of toxins more quickly.

c. Ginger:

Ginger taken with meals helps reduce suffering and stomach upset in some. So, take a fresh ginger, ground it and add it to the food. You can also take it in tea or capsule form.

d. Water:

Water dilutes the acid in the stomach and helps reduce acidity considerably. So, drink at least eight glasses of water each day to rid the body of toxins and allow your body to expel acid naturally.

e. Green tea:

Green tea helps in the digestion process, and also soothes the sensitive tissue of the stomach. Even herbal tea containing a dash of peppermint, chamomile, ginger, licorice root and catnip help the stomach lining repair itself.

So, before you opt for over-the-counter medications like cimetidine and rantidine at the first indication of acidity, consider herbal remedy for acid reflux and even natural acid reflux remedy therapy. However, always take the advice of your physician before you decide to take something.

Despite what the drug makers may shout from the rooftops about their wonder acne drugs, the stark reality is there’s no cure for acne! Naw, it can’t be that bad, you say? Well, it is and the only thing you can do is to control this condition. And for that, natural remedy is the best home remedy for acne. But, before we see what these are, let’s see what this affliction is all about.

Acne defined

Acne is a chronic genetic disease that afflicts the follicle. It’s usually inherited from parents and can occur over and over. Why this disease becomes the woe of most is because it occurs most prominently on the face, neck, chest and back. And the bad news is, it cannot be got rid of, but only controlled. Acne may appear as whiteheads or blackheads on the skin.

Other causes of acne
Research has revealed that, besides your parent’s genes, there can be certain foods that may cause this condition. It occurs due to an allergic reaction of the body to these foods. The most likely culprits are the dairy products that include pasteurized milk, cow’s milk, goat’s milk, cream, yogurt, cheese, cheddar cheese, margarine, and the like. Besides this, other sources of food allergy leading to acne are wheat and wheat products, wheat bran, white flour and refined flour, rice, ready meals, spicy food, red meat, eggs, caffeine, alcohol and even candy! Even overcooked food is known to cause acne, as it delays digestion, causing toxicity.

Home remedy for acne

Natural home acne remedy is the best for controlling this condition effectively. Let’s see what these are:

a. Treating Acne with Water:

This is a simple, time-tested method for getting rid of acne. When we consume less than required water, our skin cells shrivel giving rise to skin problems, like acne. So, to avoid dehydration, there’s a need to maintain sufficient water in the body tissue by consuming at least one and a half litres of water daily. This not only hydrates the body, but also imparts a healthy glow to the skin. However, don’t substitute water with your favourite cola! It has to be pure water. Even coffee and tea would not do, as they contain natural chemicals, including caffeine, which interfere with energy production, digestion, detoxification and much more.

b. The right diet:

If you adhere to a healthy diet, preferably recommended by a qualified nutritionist, you can avoid acne or control it effectively. Though the diet is person-specific, a few broad guidelines can be adhered to by most. For starters, as already stated above, have the required amount of water daily. Include plenty of whole grains, root vegetables, lentils and beans in your diet and eat organic as far as possible. Have five daily servings of colorful fruits and vegetables. This should include the colors red, orange, yellow, purple and green. Have one tablespoon daily of mixed fresh seeds, like those of sunflower, sesame, pumpkin or linseed. Since you know that dairy products are suspect, use alternatives to milk and cheese, such as soy milk and tofu. Limit your alcohol intake and avoid smoking.

c. Herbal tea:

A homemade acne remedy is green tea, which contains high contents of Polyphenols and Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), a potent antioxidant that has been shown to be highly beneficial for acne prevention. This herbal tea is also anti-bacterial, reduces inflammation and decreases hormone activity. However, ensure the leaves and flowers of the tea plant, such as camomile or dandelion, are pure and shouldn’t be flavored, containing additives.

If you’re troubled by acne, think herbal! In these natural products you’ll even find home remedy for acne scar and natural remedy for adult acne. However, it’s always a safe bet to take your physician into confidence before you try out any of these products.

Martha escorted her seven-year-old to the bus stop and ensured she was safely on the bus. Now with her kid gone, she inexplicably began to worry for the safety of her kid and started imagining the worst. As anxiety gripped her, she became convinced that something bad is going to happen to her child. This was when the panic attack occurred.

Anxiety attack and panic disorders are becoming a part and parcel of modern life. Almost six-and-a-half percent of the population suffers from it.

Understanding anxiety

Anxiety disorder is general nervousness, in which the victim displays a tendency to worry a lot. This is usually the product of stressful lifestyle. Left untreated, this affliction can take the form of severe anxiety. Severe anxiety symptoms include nervousness, panic attacks and phobias. Their reason could be multiple fears or health worries or both.

Treating anxiety

Anxiety treatment almost always involves strong prescription anxiety medication, like diazepam, alprazolam, clonazepam, inderol, clonidine, imipramine or wellbutrin, to get rid of the uncomfortable and distressing symptoms of stress and anxiety. Although all these psychiatricdrugs have been found effective to varying degrees in controlling anxiety and panic attacks, there are some inherent dangers in their long-term use. In certain cases, the effects are even worse than the treatment. Little wonder more and more people are now opting for the safe and healthy natural remedies for anxiety.

However, even these natural anxiety remedy treatments vary according to the individual and the length and severity of the problem. Let’s see what these natural remedies for anxiety attack are:

a. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis):

This indigenous Mediterranean herb contains volatile oil, tannins, flavinoids, tocopherols and choline. It’s been found effective in treating general nervous system and acts as a calmative.

b. Lavender (Lavandula augustifolia):

This well-known herb is best known for its calming properties and as a tonic for the nervous system. Lavender contains the active ingredients tannins, coumarins, flavinoids, triterpenoids and volatile oil.

c. Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata):

This herb is used as a sedative to relieve anxiety and nervousness. It’s also thought to reduce high blood pressure and nervous tremors. Its active ingredients include flavinoids, cyanogenic glycosides, alkaloids and saparin.

d. Kava kava:

This herb is an approved treatment for anxiety and insomnia. It can help relieve acute and chronic anxiety without making you feel drowsy. However, it should not be taken with alcohol, benzodiazepines, such as Valium or sleeping pills, such as Seconal or Halcion, or anti-depressants, such as Prozac or Zoloft. Do not take kava if you have Parkinson’s disease, as it’s known to worsen tremors.

e. Saint-John’s-wort:

This herb is a natural antidepressant and helps relieve chronic anxiety. However, it requires to be taken for several weeks. This herb should not be taken on an antidepressant, particularly Nardil or Parnate. It may make you more sensitive to the sun, so wear sunscreen when you’re outdoors.

f.Valerian:

This is a natural sedative and contains ingredients similar to those found in Valium. It helps you sleep and thereby relieves anxiety. The good part is it isn’t addictive and also doesn’t make you groggy, as sleeping pills can. This should not be taken with sedatives, such as phenobarbital or benzodiazepines.

The advancing age makes you more vulnerable to the effects of emotional and physical stress. This can lead to anxiety attack symptoms. If you’re suffering from frequent bouts of anxiety or anxiety depression, don’t get tempted to try out prescription drugs, but opt for natural anxiety relief. The natural anti anxiety remedy is safe and effective. However, consult your physician before you choose this line of treatment.

ADD or ADHD are the acronyms for the same disorder, namely, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also called Attention Deficit Disorder. However, what’s of graver concern is about 4% to 6% of the US population is afflicted with this disorder.

Understanding ADD or ADHD

You’d have certainly encountered persons, both children and adults, who displayed poor sustained attention to tasks or were impulsive or were excessively active and restless. They all suffered from ADHD, which is characterized by distractibility, impulsiveness and hyperactivity. Although, these symptoms are found in varying degrees in most, this condition becomes a medical disorder, if they’re excessive, long-term and pervasive. Furthermore, this condition should cause some real problems in at least 2 areas of a person’s life, like school, home, work or social settings. However, ADHD is not limited to children and usually persists throughout a person’s lifetime. About one-half to two-thirds of children suffering from ADHD will continue with this disorder as adults.

Symptoms of ADD or ADHD

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders gives some common symptoms of ADHD:

a. Lack of close attention to details or careless mistakes.

b. Difficulty in sustaining attention to tasks.

c. Lack of attentiveness when spoken to directly.

d. Failure in following instructions carefully and completely.

e. Losing or forgetting important things.

f. Restlessness, often accompanied by fidgeting with hands or feet or squirming.

g. Excessive activities, like running or climbing.

h. Excessive talking.

i. Blurting out answer before hearing the whole question.

j. Difficulty in waiting for turn.

Of course, the exact nature and severity of ADHD symptoms will vary from person to person.

Causes of ADD or ADHD

If you think poor parenting, family problems, poor teachers or schools, too much TV, food allergies, or excess sugar is the culprit for this disorder, you’re wrong. Although, the exact cause is still unknown, a theory, pins the blame on a diet of refined sugar and food additives that causes children to become hyperactive and inattentive. Though there’s some truth in it, scientists at the National Institutes of Health conclude this may apply to only about 5% of either very young children or children with food allergies. Evidence of cause being genetic and biological in nature is gaining ground.

Treatment of ADD or ADHD

Although over-the-counter medications are available, they’ve some awful side effects. However, there are some excellent natural remedies that are perfectly safe and effective, without any side effects. Let’s see what they are:

a. Ginkgo biloba:

It’s effective in restoring the functioning of the circulatory system and improving blood flow to the brain. Its active ingredients include flavone glycosides, bioflavins, sitosterol, lactones and anthocyanin.

b. Skullcap (Scuttellaria laterifolia):

This is a relaxing nerve tonic and anti-spasmodic, which reduces excitability and relieves depression. Its active ingredients are flavonoids, tannins, bitter, volatile oil and minerals.

c. German chamomile (Matricaria recutita):

This has traditionally been used tocalm and soothe nervous tension. Its active ingredients include volatile oil, flavonoids, valerianic acid, coumarins, tannins, salicylates and cyanogenic glycosides.

d. Gotu cola (Centella asiatica):

It’s used to revitalize the brain and nervous system, increase attention span and concentration, and combat ageing.

e. Green Oats (Avina sativa):

Also called Hawer, it’s used to treat nervous exhaustion and as a general nerve tonic. It’s active ingredients are saponins, flavonoids, minerals, alkaloids, steroidal compounds, Vitamins B1, B2, D, E, carotene and wheat protein.

f. Umbabazane (Urtica Urens):

This circulatory stimulant is effective in lowering blood sugar levels. Its active ingredients are histamine, formic acid, acetylcholine, glucoquinones, minerals, Vitamins A, B and C and tannins.

g. Massage therapy:

According to a study published in 1998, massage therapy has proven especially effective for children. A daily massage makes them happier, less fidgety and hyperactive, and more focused on their tasks.

Natural remedies have proven quite effective in treating ADD or ADHD. But, it’s important to consult your physician before adopting any of them.

Unfortunately, when a bump or sore appears on the lip, it’s enough to make you feel like a social leper. Although a cold sore is not the end of the world and goes away on its own, it is also a highly contagious blister with an unmistakable appearance. What causes this condition? It is none other than a virus whose name will send shivers up and down your back.

What are Cold Sores?

A cold sore is a painful blister filled with fluid that makes an appearance on or around the lips. It is the herpes simplex virus infection that causes this undesirable visual, and is sometimes referred to as oral herpes, fever blisters, labial herpes, herpes labialis, and herpes febrilis. One of the most distinguishing characteristics associated with a cold sore is the high level of contagiousness they possess. Skin-to skin contact passes these little devils from one person to another. While the greatest chances of passing on the blisters occur when they are dry and crusted over, they may also pass on after they have healed [1]

Cold Sore vs Canker Sore

Another condition with similar symptoms to the cold sore is a canker sore, which both exhibit blister-like sores about the mouth. Canker sores keep to the inside of the mouth, often developing on the tongue or inside the cheeks, while cold sores stick to the lips. The only time a cold sore finds its way to the inside of the mouth is during the onset of an eruption.

Symptoms of Cold Sores

While cold sores are often confined to forming on the lips, they can actually appear on other parts of the body. On occasion, a cold sore has been known to take shape on the nostrils, chin, or fingers. In rare cases, they may even form on the gums or roof of the mouth.

The scary part about a cold sore is that the signs and symptoms usually do not show immediately after exposure to the herpes simplex virus. It could take up to 20 days to actually experience any symptoms, and often continues for about 7 to 10 days. Below you will find a few cold sore signs to be on the lookout for:

a) Blisters:

The main symptom of cold sores is the formation of a blister, which is small, painful, and filled with fluid. The skin surrounding the blister often appears red, raised, and is also painful to the touch.

b) Prodrome:

Pain or a tingling sensation often occurs 1-2 days before the visual sight of a blister.

c) Oozing:

As the blisters continue to take shape, they may break and ooze fluid.

d) Crust:

After blisters ooze, a yellow crust forms.

e) Discolored Skin:

After the crusty part of a blister falls off, the skin may appear pinkish underneath, which heals without scarring.

f) Disrupted Swallowing:

Sometimes, individuals may experience problems swallowing food or liquids.

g) Lip Irritation:

Itching and swelling of the lips may occur.

h) Drooling:

This symptom is sometimes seen among small children.

i) Additional Symptoms:

Headaches, irritability, fever, and swollen lymph nodes may also occur.

Causes of Cold Sores

There are different kinds of herpes virus strands that cause cold sores to form. Often, it is the herpes simplex type 1 virus that is most responsible for this occurrence, although type 2 has been known to cause cold sores as well. The virus can be passed from person-to-person through an active sore. The condition is so contagious that sharing spoons, forks, razors and towels may also spread the infection. If you are prone to cold sores, a variety of triggers, such as fever, menstruation, stress and excessive sun exposure could lead to a reoccurrence [1].

Diagnosis of Cold Sores

Oral herpes is quite common and is often diagnosed through visual symptoms. Anyone from your family doctor to a dermatologist can diagnose the onset of cold sores. Physicians may analyze your symptoms by running lab tests. Viral cultures are sometimes taken, where a cotton swab is wiped across an open sore. The results of this test take anywhere from 2-10 days for review.

Natural Remedies for Cold Sores

Although cold sores typically heal on their own without treatment, there are many natural remedies to consider, which ease the symptoms and speed up healing time. While vitamins (like vitamin b12), mineral supplements, and changes to your diet can help treat cold sores, there are plenty of natural and homeopathic remedies, such as:

a) Witch Hazel:

When applying witch hazel to cold sores, relief can be achieved.

b) Lemon Balm:

This remedy helps to reduce the symptoms of cold sores, as well as speed up healing. Internally, drinking up to 5 cups per day of a lemon balm infusion will do the trick. Externally, combine 3 teaspoons of dried leaves or 1.5 tablespoons of fresh lemon balm to one cup of water and infuse for 10 minutes. Next, strain the mixture and place on blisters about 3-5 times a day.

c) Aloe Vera:

Rubbing aloe vera gel or oil on blisters may ease the pain and increase healing time.

d) Echinacea:

Taking echinacea tablets or capsules, as well as creating a tincture can treat cold sores.

e) St John’s Wort:

Drinking up to one cup per day of an infusion of this herb will help.

f) Garlic:

Eating 1-2 cloves of garlic can treat the virus.

g) Ginger:

Eating 1-2 slices of fresh ginger per day will treat cold sores.

Cold Sore Prevention

Since there isn’t a cure or prevention approach for cold sores, individuals can reduce their chances of developing these oral irritations through a series of lifestyle changes. Below you will find ways to prevent the spread of or safeguard against cold sores:

a) Avoid Blister Contact:

Since the virus passes easily from one person to another, coming into contact with bodily secretions is highly discouraged. This means refraining from kissing people with visible blisters and avoiding other skin contact.

b) Avoid Sharing:

This is the one case where your mother won’t frown upon not sharing your things. Keep in mind that the virus easily attaches itself to utensils, towels and other items.

c) Keep Hands Clean:

It is important to wash your hands before touching another person if you or they have a cold sore. Also, touching body parts during an active blister moment can pass the virus to other areas, such as the eyes and genitals.

d) Avoid Triggers:

Keep in mind that cold and flu, sleep deprivation, and prolonged sun exposure has been known to bring about cold sores. Applying sunblock on the face and lips before entering the sun will help prevent the formation of cold sores. This is true for both the winter and summer season.

There’s a ’silent killer’ on the rise and since there aren’t any specific symptoms to alert an individual that they have high blood pressure, close to one-third of people with the condition don’t have a clue they are dealing with something that can cause a heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and failed kidneys. What’s worse is that the effects of high blood pressure can wreak havoc for many years without any indication that a problem exists.

What is High Blood Pressure?

In order to understand high blood pressure, you first need to know that blood pressure is the force within the arteries associated with your beating heart (called systolic pressure) and the heart when it is at rest (diastolic pressure). When measuring these values, milliliters of mercury (mm Hg) are used. If you have high blood pressure (also known as hypertension), then you are in danger of exhibiting blood pressure that is greater than or equal to 140 mm Hg systolic pressure or greater than or equal to 90 mm Hg diastolic pressure [1].

Causes and Symptoms

Recent numbers suggest that about one in every three adults in the United States has high blood pressure, and between 90 to 95% of all cases fail to show a cause. Individuals with unknown causes are diagnosed as having essential or primary hypertension. The remaining cases of high blood pressure patients do experience factors that lead to their condition. Secondary hypertension is often caused by abnormal kidneys, narrowed arteries, and structural deficiencies of the large blood vessel leaving the heart (aorta).

At times, people with high blood pressure may exhibit the following symptoms:

• Dizziness
• Blurry vision
• Nausea
• Headache

High Blood Pressure Natural Remedies

Just as certain herbs and supplements can treat high blood pressure, other selections can actually make matters worse. Try staying away from licorice, ephedra, Asian ginsing, and rosemary essential oil if you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure. However, to treat your condition with effective natural methods, consider the following suggestions:

a) Garlic:

If you suffer from mild high blood pressure, controlled studies have shown that garlic powder supplement can effectively reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure. It is important to approach the use of garlic supplements with caution, as it does have the ability to thin the blood and could interact with other drugs one may take, such as Coumadin (warfarin).

b) Fish Oil:

Some people have lowered their blood pressure by incorporating fish oil into their diet.

c) Supplementation:

Sometimes, you just need a little boost, which is where supplementation comes in. Evidence has shown that adding calcium supplements to your daily regimen may reduce your systolic blood pressure. Potassium supplements could reduce both your systolic and diastolic blood pressure. You may also consider taking magnesium supplements to treat high diastolic blood pressure.

d) Traditional Chinese Medicine:

Traditional Chinese healers often linked high blood pressure with problems concerning the circulation of vital energy (called qi) in the body. With a combination of herbal treatments and acupuncture, some patients may find relief. Chinese medicine practitioners have also praised the water chestnut, turnip, Chinese celery, hawthorn berries, mung beans, and honey as possessing medicinal components that can ease high blood pressure.

e) Ginkgo [2]:

Take ginkgo biloba tablets or add ½ teaspoon of fluid extract to a glass of water for a twice daily remedy. Use this natural remedy in stretches of two to three months at a time.

f) Buckwheat:

Take the tablet form of buckwheat to aid circulation, decrease blood pressure, and prevent arteriosclerosis from setting in.

g) Vitamin E:

Include 400 IU of vitamin E on a daily basis.

h) Yoga:

So far, preliminary studies done on the effects of yoga on high blood pressure has shown promise in producing lower readings.

i) Folic Acid:

When it comes to the formation of red blood cells, folate serves as a necessary B vitamin and may help lower high blood pressure in some patients.

j) Biofeedback:

Biofeedback teaches people how to assume control over their internal body processes that have the potential to go a bit ‘haywire.’ The technique has been quite helpful for patients battling conditions, such as migraine headaches, chronic pain, and high blood pressure. While some people may choose direct blood pressure feedback or electromyography (associated with muscle tension) to treat their high blood pressure, keep in mind that thermal feedback (which measures skin temperature) and electrodermal activity feedback (that probes sweat responses) has proven more effective.

k) Prepare Hawthorn and Chrysanthemum Tea [3]:

Improving circulation in the coronary region, hawthorn promotes a more efficient heart, while chrysanthemum flowers relaxes the heart and encourages improved blood flow. Use the following recipe to treat mild conditions.

First, gather 30 grams of dried hawthorn flowering tops; 25 grams of Ja Hua (dried, prepared chrysanthemum flowers); 25 grams of dried linden flowers; and 20 grams of dried yarrow. Mix all of the herbs together and store in a dry, airtight container. Add two teaspoons of the mix to a tisane cup (or small teapot). Next, add a cup of freshly boiled water. Steep for 10 minutes, followed by a round of straining. Drink a teacup dose three times per day.

Resources

[1] http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=2112
[2] The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants by Andrew Chevallier; pg. 301
[3] Home Herbal by Penelope Ody; pg. 108.

At any given time, close to 20 million adults in the United States suffer from a medical illness that sends your body and mind on a roller coaster ride. Contrary to popular belief, you just can’t turn depression on and off like a light switch. The condition affects the way you think and how you treat others. Sometimes, your life feels out of control, as emotional and physical problems begin to mount.

If you suffer from depression, don’t worry, as you are not alone – this illness is one of the most common health conditions in the world and there are natural remedies for you to consider.

Causes and Symptoms

Doctors have been unable to pinpoint the exact cause of depression, but research suggests that a collection of factors (ranging from biochemical to environmental to genetic) is to blame [1]. Common causes of the illness are often attributed to:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Biological family members with the condition
• Specific genes
• Life experiences, such as losing a loved one or financial troubles
• High stress levels

When it comes to symptoms of depression, keep in mind that indicators of the illness vary from person to person. Age and gender will affect the kind of depression symptoms that arise. Some people encounter glaring symptoms that alert a severe problem, while others feel pretty unhappy and can’t really explain why. Typical signs and symptoms to consider include: unexplainable crying fits, sleep issues, feeling hopeless, irritability, restlessness, feeling worthless, easily annoyed, easily broken concentration, thoughts of suicide, and physical responses (like headaches or back pain).

Depression Natural Remedies

a) St John’s Wort:

The power of this herb possesses an ancient allure to individuals battling depression. In folk medicine, this natural remedy is used to combat nervousness, worry, sadness, and poor sleep patterns. Over the years, an assortment of clinical trials has focused on the effectiveness of St John’s Wort for mild to moderate cases of depression. You can find this herb in health food stores, pharmacies, and online – as a liquid extract, tea, tablet, or capsule. Usually, it will take about 4 to 6 weeks to see a real difference when taking St John’s Wort for this condition.

b) Cold Water Fish:

Take advantage of fish oil capsules made from cold-water fish (like salmon, anchovies, and sardines), which contain omega-3 fatty acids – a decent source of natural antidepressants.

c) Green Leafy Vegetables:

Since people who show a deficiency in vitamin B often get depressed, eating foods with folic acid can fight this condition. Suitable selections include fruit, vegetables, beans, and fortified grains.

d) Lemon Balm and Skullcap:

Create an infusion using lemon balm or skullcap, drinking up to four cups of the concoction per day.

e) Withania:

If your depression arises due to long-term stress or recovering from a chronic illness, it is suggested to incorporate this tonic herb in your treatment regimen [2].

f) Magnesium:

The body needs magnesium to produce serotonin, which helps transmit body temperature, metabolism, aggressive, and mood. Depression has been linked to low serotonin levels. Increase the amount of magnesium that you receive by incorporating more nuts, whole grains, and green vegetables into your diet.

g) Acupuncture:

Thanks to an ancient Chinese healing remedy, patients with depression have relied on tiny needles to awaken specific points on the body (called meridians) to control their symptoms. Acupuncture is known to act as an antidepressant that can lift the spirits, improve your mood and combat additional symptoms, like insomnia, fatigue, and anxiety.

h) Meditation:

When treating depression, low stress levels are ideal. With meditation, an individual can improve their mood, as well as combat stress and anxiety. One of the simplest forms of meditation is to quietly sit with closed eyes, which allows one to concentrate on breathing.

i) Exercise:

Improve your mood by embracing regular exercise into your life. Take an aerobics class, briskly walk during lunchtime, or take up tennis lessons. Exercise (especially aerobic activity) releases chemicals in the brain that will help elevate your mood.

j) Limit or Avoid Coffee and Alcohol:

Caffeine and alcohol have a knack for really dampening the mood. Despite relaxing effects and boosts of energy, the ultimate results of these kinds of beverages do not last long. Many people experience mood swings, trouble sleeping, anxiety, and depression.

k) Reduce Sugar Intake:

When blood sugar levels rise, moods are known to shift for the worst. While sweet treats are good for the moment, they can certainly affect the way you feel at a later time.

Resources

[1] http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/depression/DS00175/DSECTION=causes
[2] The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants by Andrew Chevallier; pg. 308.

As a common New Year’s resolution, doctor recommendation, and lifelong goal for millions of people, weight loss has become the pot o’ gold at the end of the rainbow that many truly never obtain. With an increasingly expensive market pushing everything from fad diets to miracle supplements, natural weight loss remedies and healthy approaches seem to have taken a backseat in today’s society.

Your best chance of losing weight and keeping off the pounds comes when you are able to successfully combine healthy dietary choices with moderate activity. For example, a healthy diet should include lean proteins (like chicken breast), whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. Those looking for natural weight loss success may:

Eat five smaller meals per day.
Avoid consuming processed foods.
Chew food more slowly.
Reduce three-meal per day portions.
Incorporate 100-calorie snacks in-between meals.

If you are interested in declining over-the-counter dietary aids and ending the cycle of yo-yo dieting, the following natural weight loss remedies should prove quite helpful:

Remedies for Natural Weight Loss

a) Increase Level of Exercise:

Getting in a proper amount of exercise is important when you’re trying to lose weight naturally. This is especially true if you spend most of the day sitting at a computer desk or lounging on the couch. Try incorporating a 30-minute walk into your daily activities. Take the stairs instead of riding the elevator. Stretch your muscles while watching television. Overall, there are plenty of small adjustments to make when you wish to increase your level of daily activity for weight loss.

b) Calorie Balancing Act:

In order to lose weight, you must burn more calories than you consume. Some people find a beneficial balance by simply eating fewer calories (like cutting out late-night snacking), while others enjoy increasing their daily exercise. Those who do both tend to receive the best results.

c) Green Tea Products:

Even 500,000 years ago in China and India, tea leaves steeped in boiling water served as a botanical wonder in the medicinal world [1]. With small amounts of caffeine, green tea offers a satisfying alternative to caffeinated products (like coffee), which is linked to food cravings and enhanced appetites when consumed in large amounts. A handful of studies suggest that green tea has the power to boost your metabolism and increase fat burning. While the majority of green tea products are found in a dried leaf tea form, today’s market also provides a variety of extracts, capsules, and other liquid options.

d) Dandelion:

As a natural diuretic, dandelion is known to assist natural weight loss by reducing the amount of water in the body.

e) Raw Food Diet:

A great deal of people have been able to achieve natural weight loss by following a raw food diet, which consists of uncooked and unprocessed plant foods, such as raw vegetables, fruits, sprouts, dried fruit, nuts, seaweed, seeds, grains, and of course, salads.

f) Pears:

A study conducted at the University of Rio de Janeiro revealed that women who consumed three pears per day also ate fewer calories on a daily basis. The secret? Pears are packed with fiber and give you that feeling of fullness that keeps you from overeating. Eating a pear (skin and all) before a meal can help curb hunger.

g) Modify Your Dessert Habits:

If you crave desserts after dinner, try skipping this sweet temptation for a week and you could see a one to two pound difference on the scale. If you must end a delicious meal with something sweet, opt for fresh and dried fruits. Learning to substitute your sugar selections with less damaging choices can also help you naturally lose weight. For example, use honey and molasses as sweeteners instead of pure sugar.

h) Grapefruit:

Nibble on ½ grapefruit before eating each meal and you could see a difference in weight loss. Researchers pinpoint a compound in the fruit that helps regulate insulin – a fat-storage hormone.

i) Almonds:

One serving of almonds (22 nuts) is a great way to stay true to a healthy diet and melt away pounds. According to the International Journal of Obesity, participants in a study ate almonds on a daily basis for six months and were able to lose 18% of their body fat.

j) Navy Beans:

Did you know that navy beans contain resistant starch – a great fat-burning tool? Just ½ cup of navy beans delivers close to 10 grams of resistant starch. Try consuming navy beans and other foods packed with resistant starch for just one meal per day and you can burn 25% more fat.

k) Chlorophyll-Rich Foods:

Boost your weight loss power by including foods rich in chlorophyll, such as asparagus, which enhances digestive function and provides the body with helpful folate, vitamins A, C, and K, and fiber.

l) Pine Nuts:

Take a page from ancient Chinese medicine and use pine nuts to naturally suppress your appetite, as well as improve the function of your gastrointestinal tract and digestive system [2].

Resources

[1] http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/green-tea-000255.htm

[2] http://health.yahoo.com/experts/drmao/15737/5-essential-weight-loss-foods/