Green Tea to Fight Cancer

Green Tea’s Cancer Fighting Properties

Green Tea is not the same as the black tea because the active ingredients that are beneficial in a tea remains unaltered because it does not go the fermentation process.  It has been popular as a good home remedy for many conditions that involve cleansing of the body such as digestion and detoxification.  It is also known to treat depression and to enhance the immune system and consequently, even prolong life.

However the benefits of Green Tea is more extensive.  It is also used these days with circulatory conditions such as atherosclerosis, high cholesterol and high triglycerides.  It is also popular among weight watchers as a good way to lose weight because of its benefits both in the digestive function and in burning fats.  However, one of the more welcome benefits of Green Tea in a time where our generation seems to be susceptible to the big C is that – its ability to reduce the risk for certain cancers.

Green Tea as Anti Cancer

A study made in Japan by Dr Toru Naganuma found out that 5 cups of green tea a day greatly lowers the chances of getting certain types of blood cancers and gastric cancer.  It is because of the ability of the green tea to perform four important activities in the gastrointestinal tract.  For one, it was found out that it could activate the intracellular antioxidants, which are the ones that fight off the free radicals in our bodies.

This free radicals that floats in our body are from almost anything such as the food we eat or exposure to pollution, hazardous wastes and even from the daily stresses we get each day at the office or at home.  The ability of the antioxidants in our body to fight off these free radicals is one of the basic steps to reduce the risk to cancer.  Additionally, it also inhibits the formation of procarcinogen and it restrains the proliferation of the cancer cells.
The study also suggests that green tea could also have the ability to protect against some other forms of cancer particularly esophageal cancer or cancer of the esophagus, lung cancer, breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men.  One of the active flavonoids of green tea, the catechins is the good stuff here.

This is a good breakthrough especially in these times that we are always exposed to free radicals that makes us susceptible to one of the fastest rising major cause of death of this generation – always the dreaded cancer.

So drink up your green tea and look forward to prolong a healthy life.

Fenugreek Medicinal Qualities

Fenugreek is good for womens reproductive health and for diabetes.

Fenugreek is an herb where its leaves and seeds are more typically as a culinary spice especially in the Mediterranean where it is more commonly found. Yet, fenugreek is not only for cooking as it is also a good home remedy for varied health problems especially in some countries in South Asia, Greece, Egypt and Italy.

Health Benefits

Also known as either Fenigreek or Greek Hay, Fenugreek is a good source of Vitamin C, protein, potassium, niacin and diosgenin or a compound which is similar to estrogen.  The properties of diosgenin exhibiting estrogen-like properties are responsible for its effective ability in reducing the effects of PMS or pre-menstrual syndrome and menopause which commonly include mood fluctuations, menstrual cramps and hot flushes.

In relation to that, it is also known to have been used for a variety of related ailments and health problems.  Fenugreek has been used to induce labor and help in breast enlargement issues.  It has also been used for the treatment of hormonal disorders and other reproductive health problems.

However, aside from the reproductive health focused remedy of this herb, it is also good for other ailments as it helps in lowering blood sugar level making an effective remedy for diabetes, both the type 1 and type 2 kinds.  With its ability to also to bring down blood cholesterol levels, the potential to be used for treatment in cardiovascular diseases is being looked into.

Using Fenugreek for Health

For maintaining cholesterol levels, it  has been found out by numerous studies that 2 ounces or 56 g of fenugreek seed a day taken for 24 weeks could maintain a lower blood cholesterol level and therefore lessen the risk of heart attack.  Fenugreek is available in capsule form or the seeds can be sprinkled on prepared food.

In the treatment of diabetes and lowering of the blood glucose levels, the recommended dosage is 500 mg of fenugreek to be consumed twice in a day.

For those who desire a bigger breast without going through breast augmentation procedure, include 3 mg of this herb in the daily diet.  However, this is not be taken by pregnant women as it is known to induce labor but it is good for lactating mothers as it dramatically improves milk production.

Side Effects

Fenugreek is generally safe except for pregnant women because it induces labor.  However, there has been report of nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort.  It is also important to remember that if fenugreek will be taken with oral medications, observe 2 hours before or after taking the drug as the herb has the risk to interfere with the absorption of the medicine.

Ginseng Health Benefits

Ginseng health benefits is not just limited to being a potent energy tonic, it is also good for the mind, the immune system, diabetes and even cancer prevention.

Ginseng has always been associated with energy because many energy drinks included ginseng in their formulation.  But what really is ginseng? Ginseng or ginseng root is an herb that has been popular for centuries not just as an energy tonic but also as a remedy for varied ailments and maladies. Some of the health problems include:

Ginseng Health Benefits

–       Mental agility – Ginseng has been used to promote mental alertness and combat the negative effects of mental stress and anxiety.  For those who need the mental clarity in their studies or in their job, ginseng is also one of the best herb for that.

–       Physical and emotional stress fighter – Many scientists believe that the power of ginseng lies in its ability to promote the production of more endorphins in the brain, which is necessary to maintain physical and emotional balance especially when there is much stress hormones being secreted by the adrenal glands.

–       Cancer prevention – One important component of ginseng is ginsenosides which is believed to have chemical compounds strong and effective enough to prevent certain types of cancer by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. However, if you have been diagnosed with cancer, seek the doctor’s advice first before taking ginseng.

–       For different bodily systems – Aside from its ability to invigorate the nervous system and strengthen the immune system, ginseng root is also known to greatly improve the digestive system by promoting better digestion.

–       Other ailments – Diabetes, one of the growing ailments in this present time can  be controlled and even treated by ginseng.  It has also the ability to act on the cholesterol levels and lower it down to normal levels and prevent high cholesterol related diseases such as hypertension, stroke and heart diseases.

–       Endurance – Of course, the more popular benefit of ginseng is about energy boosting thus it is commonly used by athletes as it improves their endurance as well as helps reduce the early set in of fatigue factor.

Availability of Ginseng

Because ginseng is one of the well known herbs, it is easy to find and buy ginseng either as a whole dried root or as ginseng extract in either powder, tea or capsule in most herbal stores.  Natural root form is also available in some but just make sure that you choose the ginseng root well and look for roots with no discolorations nor soft spots.  It is also available in pre-cut thin slices. Look for ginseng product with a standard of 3 to 7 percent ginsenosides in extract.

Because ginseng is one of the well known herbs, it is easy to find and buy ginseng either as a whole dried root or as ginseng extract in either powder, tea or capsule in most herbal stores.  Natural root form is also available in some but just make sure that you choose the ginseng root well and look for roots with no discolorations nor soft spots.  It is also available in pre-cut thin slices. Look for ginseng product with a standard of 3 to 7 percent ginsenosides in extract.

Home Remedies for Menstrual Cramps

Soothe the pain and discomfort of menstrual cramps with these simple home remedies.

A common malady known to women is the monthly dysmenorrhea or menstrual cramps that is of course brought about by the menstrual cycle.  Often it is a combination of pain from around the area of the abdomen and the pelvis.  Although it is not the same for all women, with the severity of pain varying significantly, from minor to debilitating pain, the inconvenience it brings cannot be underrated.  Severe throbbing pain in the lower back and lower abdominal area usually interferes with the usual daily routine and cramps could last for more than a day. Some women even have to deal with other symptoms that include vomiting and nausea, dizziness, sweating and even loose tools known as menstrual diarrhea.

Unknown to many, the inconvenience and discomfort of menstrual pain that many women suffer one or two days each month could be lessened or totally removed with the aid of these some helpful home remedies:

Homemade Heating Pad

A heating pad is good to alleviate the pain and discomfort.  But if you don’t have one, it is easily to do a homemade heating pad by getting an old sock and filling it with either flaxseeds or uncooked rice.  Put inside the microwave oven for about 1-2 minutes and you get yourself an instant heating pad that you can put over your lower back and abdomen to lessen the pain

Chamomile Tea for Menstrual Cramps

Chamomile is known for aromatherapy but it is also good for gynecologic problems associated with the menstrual cycle.  It is available as chamomile tea bags or 2 teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers could be added to a cup of boiling water for a soothing chamomile tea.  Let it steep and add honey or sugar if desired.

For best results, start a preventive measure by drinking this tea about 2 or 3 days before the menstrual period is due.  During the duration of the period, increase the intake to 2 cups a day for a more effective remedy.

Ginger Root Tea to soothe pain

Even if ginger root tea is best known for colds and other respiratory problems, it is also capable of relieving the pain and discomfort of menstrual cramps.  Just get a handful of ginger root from your kitchen or from your herb garden.  Wash them carefully, slice or crush the pieces and add them to a boiling water.  Allow the water with the pieces of ginger root to simmer for about 15 minutes.  Then pour the tea to drinking mug using a strainer to separate the ginger root.  Adding honey or sugar can be done if so desired.

Eucalyptus Oil for Coughs and Colds

Because it is known to be a good decongestant, eucalyptus oil for cough and colds is a must look into home remedy.

Different Ways to use Eucalyptus Oil for Cough and Colds

Inhalant to Soothe Clogged Nose

For simple colds and cough, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil in your handkerchief and inhale into your hanky for the soothing aroma to alleviate your symptoms.  It is also possible to add the drops to your pillow so that it soothes your respiratory problems while you sleep.  This is a good suggestion if is harder to sleep because of clogged nose because of colds.

Steaming Water Remedy

If you have sinus problems or chest congestion, you can do more with this oil.  Add five drops of eucalyptus oil to a steaming hot water in a large bowl.  Get a towel and make a tent, covering your head while you hold your face above the steaming bowl of water.  Inhale the steam deeply allowing it to pass through your clogged sinus and into your lungs.  Do this for at least five minutes. When the water cools, just add more hot water to continue inhaling the steam.  For severe cases of colds, nasal and chest congestion, it is recommended to do it three times a day to get the desired effect.

You can also add other essential oils, both for additional healing properties of other oils or if you don’t like too much the scent of eucalyptus oil.  Some recommended oil that could be added to your steaming hot water mixture are lemon or sage oil.  Both are very good inhalant oils and will aid to remedy your cough and cold problems sooner.

Chest Rub

It is also possible to make a homemade chest rub with this oil.  Find a small glass jar, probably a baby’s food jar to put your mixture.  Pour a small amount of beeswax, which you may buy in ground beads that is easily melted.  Find a carrier oil or what they call a blending oil.  Suggestions for this include jojoba or grape seed or apricot kernel oil.  Measure four or five times the amount of the beeswax and add together.  To explain further – if you put one teaspoon of beeswax, add four or five times teaspoon of your chosen blending oil.  The more oil you add, the softer your mixture will be.

Put the small jar with your mixture on a saucepan with hot water and allow the beeswax to melt.  When it is totally melted, remove from the heat and allow it to cool.  As the resulting mixture starts to thicken into gel when it cools, put 5 drops of eucalyptus oil and 5 drops of camphor oil for each tablespoon of the oil and beeswax mixture.  A word of caution though – do not add the essential oil while the mixture is still hot because the active ingredients in the oil will evaporate and your resulting chest rub will not be as effective. Whisk the mixture rapidly to allow the essential oil to completely blend into the mixture as it starts to cool.  This could be used as a chest rub for colds and it could also be used to soothe and relax over exerted muscles.

Homeopathic Remedies for Acne

If you have almost tried everything to treat your acne and it is still a problem, try looking into some homeopathic remedies for acne.

If you heard about the word homeopathy before, it is probably because it’s already an old way of treating an ailment.  The concept of this type of treatment anchors on the theory that the same element or substance that seem to have produce the same symptom of an illness to a healthy person could be used to really cure the said illness.  This is also the underlying principle of vaccine in which, giving small doses of the cause of the illness helps the body easily repair itself and build a strong defense against the illness itself.

The same concept had been tried to cure the annoying and visually unappealing acne.  Here are some of the homeopathic cures that had been tried as remedy.

Some homeopathic remedies for acne

Antimonium tartaricum – This is usually prescribed to people who suffer from inflammatory acne.  They are the types that grow large pustules and which are often tender to the touch and very painful.  If you have this condition, this is the primarily recommended cure for it.

Hepar sulphuris calcareum – If you’ve got one of those pimples that seem to stay on for a long time and takes a long time to heal or they are very painful, then this could be the right cure for that.  It is also good if boils are present or if there is pus.

Calcarea carbonica – If you’re the type who constantly gets an acne break out frequently, then this remedy is for you.  It is also good for some other related skin disorders that are specifically painful.  This is actually recommended for those that need their skin to have increased resistance to diseases.

Silicea – On the other hand, if acne had been almost a lifelong problem for you, then silicea is for you.  Usually, the longer that you are suffering from acne, the deeper the problem is in your skin so this one is specifically to help out those with deeper skin problems to totally eradicate it once and for all.

Pulsatilla – If your acne problem is brought about not by your skin type or genetics but by your poor diet choices, you still have a way to combat them through this homeopathic remedy.  If you are fond of fatty foods such as meat, acne will be the effect of your not so good food choices.  Pulsatilla is also good for those in hot or humid weather which is usually one of the causes of pimple outbreaks.

Sulfur – If your skin is constantly itchy and the result is abnormal looking skin with reddish hues, you might want to try sulfur as a remedy for it.

The trick for homeopathic remedies actually is just to match the specific remedy with the symptoms that you’re having. Homeopathy has usually has little effect on the body so it does not pose any threat for anything harmful.  However, if the symptoms are severe, it is best to consult your physician rather than going for these simple cures as it could be something worse.

Nevertheless, as it is not harmful, homeopathic remedies for acne is worth a try.

The Numerous Benefits of Aloe Vera

The benefits of Aloe Vera is not just good for external treatment as it is also a good remedy for some digestive and respiratory disorders as well as for alleviating arthritic pain.

Aloe vera, common in tropical regions has been popular as an effective as external treatment for many topical wounds.  However, its health benefits is not limited to wound healing only as there are other disorders and ailments that could be treated by this universal herb which could are easily recognizable as stemless or almost stemless plants with succulent leaves that spread outwards in all directions.  Be careful though because aloe vera’s leaves have thorny outgrowths that could easily prick your skin.

Benefits of Aloe Vera

The gel from the succulent leaves of the aloe vera is directly squeezed into the skin to easily relieve swelling and itchiness caused by insect bites and stings.  It is also popular as treatment of many skin conditions because of its effective action especially for wound healing of burns, bruises, rashes, cuts and scrapes.  The antibacterial properties destroys the bacteria and effectively stopping infection.  Further, it is also instrumental in rapid wound healing through accelerated cell regeneration.  Further, aloe vera is also used to treat acne and even infections life athlete’s foot, psoriasis, eczema and even prevent hair loss.

Aloe vera is known for its ability to soothe and rejuvenate as there are many products that include this herb cosmetic products including gels and lotions.  It is believed to be a good skin moisturizer.  It has the property to remove dead skin cells and aids in allowing healthy chemicals and substances to penetrate the skin.  It also reduces skin pigmentation allowing lighter complexion and even lightening the skin’s dark spots especially in the face.  It stimulates the production of elastin and collagen that are both essential in preventing skin aging

However, aloe vera is not limited to external treatment as it has also been found to give the immune system a boost.  It can also combat the effects of allergic reactions and treat even some respiratory infections.  Moreover, the juice of aloe vera is also good for some digestive system disorder such as ulcer and heartburn which indicates that it has antacid properties.  It is believed to have properties that balances the gastrointestinal tract and when ingested, it aids in improving digestive functions.  Those who have problems with their digestion specifically indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome claimed they find comfort as the juice have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the over secretion of stomach acids that oftentimes wreak havoc in the digestive process.

 

There are also indications that aloe vera alleviates muscle pain and joint pains due to arthritis and rheumatism as it could be instrumental in the regression of such diseases.  The aloe vera gel is also used to lower down cholesterol, triglycerides and blood fat lipid levels plus there are also claims that it has a maintaining effect on the blood sugar level.

Anti Inflammatory Herbs

Look into your herb or kitchen cabinet for some of these anti-inflammatory herbs that you could be in handy.

Ginger and turmeric are the better known anti-inflammatory herbs but take a look at your kitchen for these herbs that has the same benefits.  You may not find ginger in your herb kitchen cabinet or you are out of turmeric but try any of these and they work perfectly the same with the two other well known herbs.

Anti-Inflammatory Herbs

  1. Aloe vera is better known as a remedy for many skin disorders especially wounds and burns, however, it is also a good home remedy as an anti inflammatory herb.  Especially for cases of peptic ulcers and similar conditions, ingesting aloe vera internally works by providing cool comfort to the inflamed digestive tract.  Traditional Chinese medicine also prescribes aloe vera when there is excessive heat in the liver.  Caution must be exercise though because it is a strong laxative and not generally recommended to expecting mothers.
  2. Boswellia, which is called Indian frankincense or Salai is a good remedy for digestive disorders, respiratory problems and arthritis.  Boswellic acids which are the anti-inflammatory compounds in this herb acts by preventing the enzyme formation that promote some inflammatory ailments such as rheumatoid arthritis, bronchial asthma, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
  3. Licorice is more known for its sweet root which is commonly used for candy making. However, licorice or liquorice as it is sometimes spelled contains strong anti-inflammatory chemicals that is good for peptic ulcers and mouth ulcers.  It has also been used for chronic hepatitis infection.  Licorice is also a good home remedy for coughs and colds and it is available in powder or capsule form or even as chopped roots which can be brewed to make tea.
  4. Feverfew have flowers that are daisy-like although they are really more of a chrysanthemum.  As an anti-inflammatory herb, it works more on lowering fever, thus the name feverfew.  It is also an effective herb for the prevention of headache and migraine attacks especially to those who usually suffer from frequent and/or severe cases.  However, it works only as a preventive measure and not as a remedy since it will not sure ongoing migraine attack.
  5. The Neem Oil has always been used in Ayurvedic medicine for many skin inflammatory conditions, muscle and joint pains.  Extract of the leaves and seeds of the Neem tree is also believed to have anti bacterial. Anti-fungal and antiviral properties.  It has also demonstrated properties that fight diabetes.  However, care should be exercised by pregnant women or those that want to get pregnant in using neem oil.
  6. Saw Palmetto is one of the better known anti-inflammatory herb although it has specialized property against prostate gland enlargement.  This small palm tree that is often found in south east part of the United States has been believed to have promising healing properties against this enlargement condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH.  It is already widely distributed but check first with your doctor or your health care provider for your proper dosage.

Benefits of Green Tea

On top of being an antioxidant, here are some new studies on the benefits of drinking green tea.

If you are serious in living a healthy life, eating the well balanced diet, religiously following your exercise regimen and avoiding everything that is essentially not good for health is not complete.  There is still one thing that you need to complete your entire formula of healthy living and it is including drinking your daily dose of green tea to your daily habit.

Green tea has been acknowledged by many as one of the world’s healthiest beverages as the benefits of green tea could go on and on.  On top of all them is the antioxidant capacity of this healthy tea that prevents and even fights off the onset of cancer.  In these time when the big C is an emotionally draining and not to mention an expensive disease, there is always a growing awareness to watch out for the potential causes of cancer and fight it off right then and there.  Green tea has been on top of the healthy drinks that fight off the free radicals in our body and thus prevent cancer.

But more than being an antioxidant, there are some research that are being done which looked into other unknown benefits of green tea, which in the long run could really prove beneficial to out over all health. Here are some of them:

New Benefits of Green Tea

Prevention of Stroke

A study in 2009 has found out that regularly drinking green tea daily has the potential to significantly lower the risk of stroke, which is the number 3 cause of death in the US.  An astonishing 21% decrease in stroke risk has been observed in nine studies with a total of 195,000 observed respondents.  This is the result with drinking 3 cups of green tea a day.  But adding another 3 cups to the daily intake further lowered down the risk of stroke by another 21%.

Brain Power

There are many studies that reported deterioration of brain power is normal as a person ages.  It is attributed to failure of brain cells to regenerate.  However, a look at 1,003 Japanese who are more than 70 years old in a 2006 study found out that those who drink more green tea showed signs of lesser instances of decrease brain function.  The study revealed that those who drink green tea at least six times weekly have a 38% lesser chance of cognitive impairment than those who have only drink green tea three times a week.

Healthy Gums

Previous studies also reported the importance of healthy teeth and gums to a person’s general health.  Green tea has also made its benefits known even to periodontal health as revealed in a 2009 study of 940 men.  The regular green tea drinkers were found to have healthier gums than those who don’t.  Thus, sipping green tea lowers down your chances to having periodontal disease.

So drink up your green tea and enjoy its plenty of health benefits.

Herbal Sleep Remedies

Dont allow sleep problems to get the better of you. Try these herbal sleep remedies to help you get the restful sleep that your body require.

Half the world is awake and so are you yet you have reason to fret because you belong to the other half who should be sleeping.  You toss and turn, finding the comfortable spot that will enable your body to fully relax and allow sleep to envelop you, but it seems to be a hopeless scenario and sleep seem so far off.  You end up with eyes wide open watching the clock tick away the minutes and you worry further that the morning sunlight will still find you in this awake state.

If you can relate to this situation, you probably worry that your insomnia is becoming a stressful condition.  And you worry further what to do about it as you have tried almost every trick available to put your body to sleep.  For some people though who are in the same situation as you are, they have turned to herbal sleep remedies to help them go to sleep as alternative to the over the counter sleeping pills which are almost infamous because of some negative effects that you have probably heard about. True, there are some herbal products with some that could even be found in your kitchen that could help you go to bed and sleep restfully at night.

Herbal Sleep Remedies

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is the most popular herbal sleep remedy.  It is actually a mild sedative that helps you relax but without being addictive nor leaving you with a ‘hangover’ feeling when you get up in the morning.  You still wake up feeling refreshed the next day after a good night’s sleep.  The taste and smell are both unpleasant that’s why these herb is commonly available in capsule form for easy ingesting.

Hops (Humulus lupulus) is better known as an ingredient in beer making but it is also effective for mild insomnia cases.  It could be used in herbal sleep pillows or it could be taken as tea or as tincture.

Kava (Piper methysticum), which is the national drink in Fiji is well known with the Polynesian people as drink the promote deep sleep.  It soothe the nerves allowing the body to relax and fall into a deep sleep, yet care must be exercise because it cause mild euphoria.  It is also not advisable to be taken together with alcohol and is it prohibited to those with liver problems.

Chamomile is also associated with good sleep because of its ability to soothe the nerves and relax the muscles.  Many people took to drinking chamomile as a tea without being aware that their improved sleep pattern is probably brought about by chamomile.

So, if you find it hard to easily fall asleep at night, consider these herbal sleep remedies to give you a restful sleep and take you to dreamland easier than you could imagine.