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How to Tame Frizzy Hair
Hair is complex. It's made up of three layers and thousands of cells. But the reason it gets frizzy is pretty simple. Your hair's outer layer, the cuticle, looks kind of like a shingled roof, dermatologist Carolyn Jacob, MD, says: ''When hair is smooth, those shingles lie flat. But when you run a brush through dry, curly hair, those 'shingles' lift.''
To compound the problem, stylist Dennis Baker, says: ''Frizzy hair is often drier and naturally tends to absorb moisture from humid air. Again, those “shingles” lift.''
8 Quick Tips to Keep Hair Frizz-Free
1. Don't brush dry hair. If there's one tip repeated by just about every expert, it's this: avoid brushing hair after it dries. Brushing not only disrupts your hair's cuticle, it can also stretch hair, leading to breakage.
Instead towel-dry hair after a shower, Don't brush, add a touch of your preferred conditioner or anti-frizz product and leave hair dry naturally.
2. Comb dry hair with wet fingers. If you shouldn't brush, what can you do when humidity or a brisk day leaves your hair a frizzy mess? Water is the key.
3. Tame with a touch of conditioner. To eliminate the frizz, water down a bit of hair conditioner and then using your hands to apply it to just the tips of your hair.
4. Look for paraben-free shampoo & conditioner.
5. Don't over-process hair. Relaxers and straighteners can make hair brittle and lead to breakage. Learn to love yourself just how you are!
6. Put moisture back in your mane. Frizzy hair tends to be drier, so you need to put moisture into it. Use a conditioner, a natural oil, or a natural frizz cream. Natural oils are better than synthetic because they are absorbed into the hair. Synthetic silicon moisturizers, on the other hand, lie on top of the hair, making it appear dirty.
7. Stop 'cooking' your curls. Avoid flat irons and curling irons and limit heat sources to a blow dryer with a diffuser.
8. Use a hair recovery masque. For more information check: Conscious Alignment Website for Organic Natural & Cruelty Free Products HERE.
Basic Tips For Healthy & Beautiful Skin
Having clear, beautiful skin will help you look better and feel better and more confident.
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2. Don’t smoke Cigarettes, or anything else for that matter - They dry you from the inside out, and age your skin, not to mention the lung damage and .
3. Don’t drink Alcohol - Ha, we know that’s a long shot for a lot of you out there, but you asked for it. It damages your liver, dehydrates everything and ages your skin and gives you entities!
4. Incorporate good fats in your diet - like Extra Virgin Olive oil, Avocados, Nuts etc.
5. Minimize your intake of refined, processed sugars – This is hard too, but try.
6. Never go to sleep at night without taking your makeup off - it will age your skin.
7. Sleep is amazing for your skin so try to get at least 8 hours a day.
8. Sun-charge for 30 minutes per day to kill the bacteria that hides under your skin.
9. Don't use Sunscreen as it can result into skin cancer.
10. Exfoliate every other day when you wash your face before bed.
11. Always Moisturize your skin after washing it.
12. Don’t eat junk food or fast food: Try to eat healthy and predominantly Organic Plant Based Food.
13. Workout or hike. Sweating is great for your skin.
3. Don’t drink Alcohol - Ha, we know that’s a long shot for a lot of you out there, but you asked for it. It damages your liver, dehydrates everything and ages your skin and gives you entities!
4. Incorporate good fats in your diet - like Extra Virgin Olive oil, Avocados, Nuts etc.
5. Minimize your intake of refined, processed sugars – This is hard too, but try.
6. Never go to sleep at night without taking your makeup off - it will age your skin.
7. Sleep is amazing for your skin so try to get at least 8 hours a day.
8. Sun-charge for 30 minutes per day to kill the bacteria that hides under your skin.
9. Don't use Sunscreen as it can result into skin cancer.
10. Exfoliate every other day when you wash your face before bed.
11. Always Moisturize your skin after washing it.
12. Don’t eat junk food or fast food: Try to eat healthy and predominantly Organic Plant Based Food.
13. Workout or hike. Sweating is great for your skin.
How to make your lips look Bigger Naturally
1. Exfoliate your lips. Removing dead skin cells not only improves the overall appearance of lips, making them look smoother and more pink, it will also stimulate blood flow to the area, creating a temporary swelling effect. Try gently brushing your lips using a toothbrush to remove the dead skin.
2. Use cruelty free makeup.
Wearing a dramatic red or pink lipstick will instantly make lips look fuller and more prominent. Increase this effect by using lipstick or lip liner together. Make sure that the liner and lipstick are within one or two shades of each other, and fully blend the colors together to avoid creating an unflattering border around your lips.
- Always moisturize your lips after exfoliating with coconut oil restore softness.
- You can also exfoliate your lips using a damp washcloth or by rubbing coarse sugar onto your lips.
2. Use cruelty free makeup.
Wearing a dramatic red or pink lipstick will instantly make lips look fuller and more prominent. Increase this effect by using lipstick or lip liner together. Make sure that the liner and lipstick are within one or two shades of each other, and fully blend the colors together to avoid creating an unflattering border around your lips.
- To create an illusion of bigger lips, apply the lip liner just outside of your natural lip's border. Be sure to combine with a lipstick and fully blend the liner in.
- Apply lipstick or lipgloss first and then follow with a lip liner. This will reduce the intensity of the liner slightly and create a more natural look.
- or go natural.
16 Reasons Why You Need a Mango Every Day
Mangoes may very well be the king of all fruits. They fight cancer, alkalize the body, aid in weight loss, regulate diabetes, help digestion, clean your skin, and make the perfect snack. Here are 16 healthy reasons why you should be eating a mango every day.
Nutrition chart
One cup of mangoes (225 gms contain) contains the following percentages that apply to daily value.
105 calories
76 percent vitamin C (antioxidant and immune booster)
25 percent vitamin A (antioxidant and vision)
11 percent vitamin B6 plus other B vitamins (hormone production in brain and heart disease prevention)
9 percent healthy probiotic fibre
9 percent copper (copper is a co-factor for many vital enzymes plus production of red blood cells)
7 percent potassium (to balance out our high sodium intake)
4 percent magnesium
1. Fights cancer
Antioxidants like quercetin, isoquercitrin, astragalin, fisetin, gallic acid and methylgallat present in mango protect the body against colon, breast, leukemia and prostate cancers.
2. Keeps cholesterol in check
Mango has high level of vitamin C, pectin and fibres that help to lower serum cholesterol levels. Fresh mango is a rich source of potassium, which is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps to control heart rate and blood pressure.
3. Skin cleanser
Mangoes help you unclog your pores and add freshness to the face. Mangoes are applicable to any skin type. They help clear clogged pores that cause acne. Just slice a mango into thin pieces and keep them on your face for 10 to 15 minutes and then take bath or wash your face and see the results.
4. Alkalizes the body
According to natural health school.com, mango is rich in tartaric acid, malic acid and traces of citric acid that primarily help in maintaining the alkali reserve of the body.
5. Weight loss
Mango has a lot of vitamins and nutrients that help the body feel fuller. Also, the fibrous fruit boosts the digestive function of the body by burning additional calories, helping in weight loss.
6. Regulates diabetes
Not only the fruit but the leaves of mangoes are healthy too. For people suffering from diabetes, just boil 5-6 mango leaves in a vessel, soak it through night and drink the filtered decoction in the morning. This is helps in regulating your insulin levels.
Mango has a low glycemic index (41-60) so going a little overboard will not increase your sugar levels.
7. Eye care
Did you know that mango is rich in vitamin A. One cup of sliced mangoes equals 25% intake of your daily need of vitamin A. Mangoes help in promoting good eye sight, fights dry eyes and also prevent night blindness.
8. Helps in digestion
Mango contains enzymes that help in breaking down protein. The fibrous nature of mango helps in digestion and elimination. It is is rich in pre-biotic dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals.
9. Heat stroke
When the sun is bogging you down this summer, just chop of a mango in a juicer; add a little water and a tbsp of sugar free or honey. This juice will instantly cool you down and prevent heat stroke.
10. Strengthens your immune
The deadly combination of vitamin C, vitamin A and 25 different kinds of carotenoids keep your immune system healthy.
11. Body scrub
Make a paste of mashed mango, honey and milk and use as a body scrub, you will feel that your skin is tender and smooth.
12. Aids concentration and memory
Studying for exams? This fruit is rich in glutamine acid– an important protein for concentration and memory. Feed mangoes to children who find it difficult to concentrate on studies.
13. High iron for women
Mango is rich in iron, hence it is a great natural solution for people suffering from anemia. Menopausal and pregnant women can indulge in mangoes as this will increase their iron levels and calcium at the same time.
14. Reduces Kidney Stones
In Chinese medicine, mangoes are considered sweet and sour with a cooling energy also capable of reducing the risk of kidney stone formation.
15. Perfect Snack
Instead of snacking on unhealthy chips and cookies, why not feast on slices of mangoes instead. They are perhaps one of the tastiest dehydrated fruits of all.
16. Stomach Tonic
Before going to bed put some 10 or 15 mango leaves in warm water and close it with lid. The next day morning filter the water and drink it in empty stomach. Do this regularly.
See more at: http://healthimpactnews.com/2013/17-reasons-why-you-need-a-mango-every-day/#sthash.8O3MeoeD.dpuf
Nutrition chart
One cup of mangoes (225 gms contain) contains the following percentages that apply to daily value.
105 calories
76 percent vitamin C (antioxidant and immune booster)
25 percent vitamin A (antioxidant and vision)
11 percent vitamin B6 plus other B vitamins (hormone production in brain and heart disease prevention)
9 percent healthy probiotic fibre
9 percent copper (copper is a co-factor for many vital enzymes plus production of red blood cells)
7 percent potassium (to balance out our high sodium intake)
4 percent magnesium
1. Fights cancer
Antioxidants like quercetin, isoquercitrin, astragalin, fisetin, gallic acid and methylgallat present in mango protect the body against colon, breast, leukemia and prostate cancers.
2. Keeps cholesterol in check
Mango has high level of vitamin C, pectin and fibres that help to lower serum cholesterol levels. Fresh mango is a rich source of potassium, which is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps to control heart rate and blood pressure.
3. Skin cleanser
Mangoes help you unclog your pores and add freshness to the face. Mangoes are applicable to any skin type. They help clear clogged pores that cause acne. Just slice a mango into thin pieces and keep them on your face for 10 to 15 minutes and then take bath or wash your face and see the results.
4. Alkalizes the body
According to natural health school.com, mango is rich in tartaric acid, malic acid and traces of citric acid that primarily help in maintaining the alkali reserve of the body.
5. Weight loss
Mango has a lot of vitamins and nutrients that help the body feel fuller. Also, the fibrous fruit boosts the digestive function of the body by burning additional calories, helping in weight loss.
6. Regulates diabetes
Not only the fruit but the leaves of mangoes are healthy too. For people suffering from diabetes, just boil 5-6 mango leaves in a vessel, soak it through night and drink the filtered decoction in the morning. This is helps in regulating your insulin levels.
Mango has a low glycemic index (41-60) so going a little overboard will not increase your sugar levels.
7. Eye care
Did you know that mango is rich in vitamin A. One cup of sliced mangoes equals 25% intake of your daily need of vitamin A. Mangoes help in promoting good eye sight, fights dry eyes and also prevent night blindness.
8. Helps in digestion
Mango contains enzymes that help in breaking down protein. The fibrous nature of mango helps in digestion and elimination. It is is rich in pre-biotic dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals.
9. Heat stroke
When the sun is bogging you down this summer, just chop of a mango in a juicer; add a little water and a tbsp of sugar free or honey. This juice will instantly cool you down and prevent heat stroke.
10. Strengthens your immune
The deadly combination of vitamin C, vitamin A and 25 different kinds of carotenoids keep your immune system healthy.
11. Body scrub
Make a paste of mashed mango, honey and milk and use as a body scrub, you will feel that your skin is tender and smooth.
12. Aids concentration and memory
Studying for exams? This fruit is rich in glutamine acid– an important protein for concentration and memory. Feed mangoes to children who find it difficult to concentrate on studies.
13. High iron for women
Mango is rich in iron, hence it is a great natural solution for people suffering from anemia. Menopausal and pregnant women can indulge in mangoes as this will increase their iron levels and calcium at the same time.
14. Reduces Kidney Stones
In Chinese medicine, mangoes are considered sweet and sour with a cooling energy also capable of reducing the risk of kidney stone formation.
15. Perfect Snack
Instead of snacking on unhealthy chips and cookies, why not feast on slices of mangoes instead. They are perhaps one of the tastiest dehydrated fruits of all.
16. Stomach Tonic
Before going to bed put some 10 or 15 mango leaves in warm water and close it with lid. The next day morning filter the water and drink it in empty stomach. Do this regularly.
See more at: http://healthimpactnews.com/2013/17-reasons-why-you-need-a-mango-every-day/#sthash.8O3MeoeD.dpuf
8 Amazing Health Benefits of Watermelon
The best time to indulge in this fresh, succulent, juicy melon, is summertime, when they are in season and deliver an array of nutrients, vitamin and minerals.
Watermelon is incredibly hydrating (up to 92% water!) and is naturally low-fat. Make this melon a part of your daily diet and you will reap amazing benefits that range from improving cardiovascular health to nourishing your eyes and revving up your immune system! Read below and see for yourself!
Cardiovascular & Bone Health
The lycopene in watermelon is especially important for our cardiovascular health and is now being recognized as an important factor in promoting bone health. Consuming large amounts of watermelon has also been correlated with improved cardiovascular function because it improves blood flow via vasodilation (relaxation of blood pressure). Dietary lycopene (from foods like watermelon or tomatoes) reduces oxidative stress which normally reduces the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts (the two major bone cells involved in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis) – this means stronger bones for those consuming lycopene-rich foods. Watermelon is also rich in potassium which helps to retain calcium in your body, resulting in stronger bones and joints.
Reduces Body Fat
The citrulline in watermelon has been shown to reduce the accumulation of fat in our fat cells. Citrulline is an amino acid which converts into arginine with help from the kidneys. When our bodies absorb citrulline it can take the step of converting into arginine if so required. Citrulline, when consumed, has the ability to (through a series of steps) block the activity of TNAP (tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase) which makes our fat cells create less fat, and thus helps prevent over-accumulation of body fat.
Anti-inflammatory & Antioxidant Support
Watermelon is rich in phenolic compounds like flavonoids, carotenoids, and triterpenoids. The carotenoid lycopene in watermelon is particularly beneficial in reducing inflammation and neutralizing free radicals. The tripterpenoid cucurbitacin E is also present in watermelon, which provides anti-inflammatory support by blocking activity of cyclo-oxygenase enzymes which normally lead to increased inflammatory support. Make sure you pick ripe watermelons, because they contain higher amounts of these beneficial phenolic compounds.
Diuretic & Kidney Support
Watermelon is a natural diuretic which helps increase the flow of urine, but does not strain the kidneys (unlike alcohol and caffeine). Watermelons helps the liver process ammonia (waste from protein digestion) which eases strain on the kidneys while getting rid of excess fluids.
Muscle & Nerve SupportRich in potassium, watermelon is a great natural electrolyte and thus helps regulate the action of nerves and muscles in our body. Potassium determines the degree and frequency with which our muscles contract, and controls the excitation of nerves in our body.
Alkaline-forming
Watermelons have an alkaline-forming effect in the body when fully ripe. Eating lots of alkaline-forming foods (fresh, ripe, fruit and vegetables) can help reduce your risk of developing disease and illness caused by a high-acid diet (namely, meat, eggs and dairy).
Improves Eye Health
Watermelon is a wonderful source of beta-carotene (that rich red hue of watermelon = beta carotene) which is converted in the body to vitamin A. It helps produce the pigments in the retina of the eye and protects against age-related macular degeneration as well as prevents night blindness. Vitamin A also maintains healthy skin, teeth, skeletal and soft tissue, and mucus membranes.
Immune Support, Wound Healing & Prevents Cell Damage
The vitamin C content in watermelon is astoundingly high. Vitamin C is great at improving our immune system by maintaining the redox integrity of cells and thereby protecting them from reactive oxygen species (which damages our cells and DNA). The role of vitamin C in healing wounds has also been observed in numerous studies because it is essential to the formation of new connective tissue. The enzymes involved in forming collagen (the main component of wound healing) cannot function without vitamin C. If you are suffering from any slow-healing wounds, up your intake of vitamin C heavy fruit.
Read more at http://livelovefruit.com/8-amazing-health-benefits-of-watermelon/#a8kHU7S8MfpBDkOG.99
Watermelon is incredibly hydrating (up to 92% water!) and is naturally low-fat. Make this melon a part of your daily diet and you will reap amazing benefits that range from improving cardiovascular health to nourishing your eyes and revving up your immune system! Read below and see for yourself!
Cardiovascular & Bone Health
The lycopene in watermelon is especially important for our cardiovascular health and is now being recognized as an important factor in promoting bone health. Consuming large amounts of watermelon has also been correlated with improved cardiovascular function because it improves blood flow via vasodilation (relaxation of blood pressure). Dietary lycopene (from foods like watermelon or tomatoes) reduces oxidative stress which normally reduces the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts (the two major bone cells involved in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis) – this means stronger bones for those consuming lycopene-rich foods. Watermelon is also rich in potassium which helps to retain calcium in your body, resulting in stronger bones and joints.
Reduces Body Fat
The citrulline in watermelon has been shown to reduce the accumulation of fat in our fat cells. Citrulline is an amino acid which converts into arginine with help from the kidneys. When our bodies absorb citrulline it can take the step of converting into arginine if so required. Citrulline, when consumed, has the ability to (through a series of steps) block the activity of TNAP (tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase) which makes our fat cells create less fat, and thus helps prevent over-accumulation of body fat.
Anti-inflammatory & Antioxidant Support
Watermelon is rich in phenolic compounds like flavonoids, carotenoids, and triterpenoids. The carotenoid lycopene in watermelon is particularly beneficial in reducing inflammation and neutralizing free radicals. The tripterpenoid cucurbitacin E is also present in watermelon, which provides anti-inflammatory support by blocking activity of cyclo-oxygenase enzymes which normally lead to increased inflammatory support. Make sure you pick ripe watermelons, because they contain higher amounts of these beneficial phenolic compounds.
Diuretic & Kidney Support
Watermelon is a natural diuretic which helps increase the flow of urine, but does not strain the kidneys (unlike alcohol and caffeine). Watermelons helps the liver process ammonia (waste from protein digestion) which eases strain on the kidneys while getting rid of excess fluids.
Muscle & Nerve SupportRich in potassium, watermelon is a great natural electrolyte and thus helps regulate the action of nerves and muscles in our body. Potassium determines the degree and frequency with which our muscles contract, and controls the excitation of nerves in our body.
Alkaline-forming
Watermelons have an alkaline-forming effect in the body when fully ripe. Eating lots of alkaline-forming foods (fresh, ripe, fruit and vegetables) can help reduce your risk of developing disease and illness caused by a high-acid diet (namely, meat, eggs and dairy).
Improves Eye Health
Watermelon is a wonderful source of beta-carotene (that rich red hue of watermelon = beta carotene) which is converted in the body to vitamin A. It helps produce the pigments in the retina of the eye and protects against age-related macular degeneration as well as prevents night blindness. Vitamin A also maintains healthy skin, teeth, skeletal and soft tissue, and mucus membranes.
Immune Support, Wound Healing & Prevents Cell Damage
The vitamin C content in watermelon is astoundingly high. Vitamin C is great at improving our immune system by maintaining the redox integrity of cells and thereby protecting them from reactive oxygen species (which damages our cells and DNA). The role of vitamin C in healing wounds has also been observed in numerous studies because it is essential to the formation of new connective tissue. The enzymes involved in forming collagen (the main component of wound healing) cannot function without vitamin C. If you are suffering from any slow-healing wounds, up your intake of vitamin C heavy fruit.
Read more at http://livelovefruit.com/8-amazing-health-benefits-of-watermelon/#a8kHU7S8MfpBDkOG.99
Top 12 Benefits and Medicinal Uses for Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera contains over 200 active components including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, polysaccharide, and fatty acids- no wonder it’s used for such a wide range of remedies. The bulk of the Aloe Vera leaf is filled with a clear gel-like substance, which is approximately 99% water.
Man has used aloe therapeutically for over 5000 years. The list of benefits and effects for this miraculous plant are many.
Here is a list of the Top 12 Benefits and Medicinal Uses for Aloe Vera:
1. Aloe Vera Is High in Vitamins & Minerals:Aloe Vera contains many vitamins including A, C, E, folic acid, choline, B1, B2, B3 (niacin), B6. Aloe Vera is also one of the few plants that contains vitamin B12.
Some of the 20 minerals found in Aloe Vera include: calcium, magnesium, zinc, chromium, selenium, sodium, iron, potassium, copper, manganese.
2. Aloe Vera is High in Amino Acids & Fatty AcidsAmino acids are the building blocks of protein. There are about 22 amino acids that are necessary for the human body and it is said that 8 of these are essential. Estimates of the amino acids found in aloe range from 18-20 amino acids, with all 8 essential amino acids.
Alove Vera also includes quite an impressive range of fatty acids. Aloe contains three plant sterols, which are important fatty acids- HCL cholesterol (which lowers fats in the blood), campesterol, and B-sitosterol. All are helpful in reducing symptoms of allergies and acid indigestion. Other fatty acids include linoleic, linolenic, myristic, caprylic, oleic, palmitic, and stearic.
3. Aloe Vera is an AdaptogenAloe Vera is a well-known adaptogen. An adaptogen is something that boosts the body’s natural ability to adapt to external changes and resist illness. It is thought that aloe’s power as an adaptogen balances the body’s system, stimulating the defense and adaptive mechanisms of the body. This allows you an increased ability to cope with stress (physical, emotional and environmental stress like pollution)
4. Aloe Helps with DigestionPoor digestion is related to many diseases. A properly functioning digestive tract is one of the keys and foundations of health. Aloe is known to soothe and cleanse the digestive tract and help improve digestion. The interesting thing about taking aloe internally is that, because it is an adaptogen, it helps with either constipation or diarrhea, helping to regulate your elimination cycles in whatever way you need. It’s been a great remedy for people with problems such as irritable bowel syndrome as well as acid reflux. Aloe also helps to decrease the amount of unfriendly bacteria and in our gut keeping your healthy intestinal flora in balance. Aloe is also a vermifuge, which means it helps to rid the body of intestinal worms.
5. Aloe Helps in DetoxificationAloe Vera is a gelatinous plant food, just like seaweeds and chia. The main benefit to consuming gelatinous plant foods in your diet is that these gels move through the intestinal tract absorbing toxins along the way and get eliminated through the colon. This will help the proper elimination of waste from your body and help the detoxification of your body.
6. Aloe Alkalizes the BodyDisease cannot manifest in an alkaline environment. Most people are living and subsisting on mostly acidic foods. For great health, remember the 80/20 rule – 80% alkaline forming foods and 20% acidic. Aloe vera is an alkaline forming food. It alkalizes the body, helping to balance overly acidic dietary habits
7. Cardiovascular HealthThere hasn’t been a lot of studies conducted in this but there has been some research to show that Aloe Vera extract injected into the blood, greatly multiplies the oxygen transportation and diffusion capabilities of the red blood cells.
According to a study published in the 2000 issue of the British Medical Journal, beta sitosterol helps to lower cholesterol. By regulating blood pressure, improving circulation and oxidation of the blood, lowering cholesterol, and making blood less sticky, Aloe Vera juice may be able to help lower the risk of heart disease.
8. Aloe Helps Boost the Immune SystemI think given the stresses of our daily lives, every one can use a boost to their immune systems. The polysaccharides in aloe vera juice stimulate macrophages, which are the white blood cells of your immune system that fight against viruses.
Aloe is also an immune enhancer because of its high level of anti-oxidants, which help combat the unstable compounds known as free-radicals, contributing to the aging process. (Free radicals are a bi-product of life itself, it is a naturally occurring process but we can overload ourselves with unnecessary free-radicals by living an unhealthy lifestyle) Aloe is also an antipyretic which means it used to reduce or prevent fever.
9. Aloe Vera is Great for the SkinBecause of aloe’s well-known healing properties for the skin, aloe is one of the primary compounds used in the cosmetic industry. It is a known vulnerary, (meaning it helps heal wounds) and is great for applying topically to burns, abrasions, psoriasis and even to bug bites. Aloe acts as an analgesic, acting to help relieve pain of wounds. It’s feels especially good to cut a stem of aloe, place it in the fridge and rub it on sun burnt skin – the immediate soothing effect feels like an absolute lifesaver. Aloe is also an antipruritic: A substance that relieves or prevents itching. Aloe Vera is an astringent: which causes the contraction of body tissues, typically used to reduce bleeding from minor abrasions.
Due to aloe’s high water content (over 99% water) it is a great way to hydrate, moisturize and rejuvenate the skin and fits within my general guideline: “Don’t put anything on your skin that you wouldn’t eat!” Aloe increases the elasticity of the skin making it more flexible through collagen and elastin repair. Aloe is an emollient, helping to soften and soothe the skin. It helps supply oxygen to the skin cells, increasing the strength and synthesis of skin tissue and induces improved blood flow to the skin through capillary dilation.
10. Disinfectant, Anti-biotic, Anti-microbial, Germicidal, Anti-bacterial, Anti-septic, Anti-fungal & Anti-viral:Wow, I think that covers all anti- bases. Okay, I admit, that was just a sneaky way to add in another 8 good reasons why you should keep Aloe Vera handy and incorporate it into your lifestyle. Aloe Vera’s active ingredients are sulphur, lupeol, salicylic acid, cinnamic acid, urea nitrogen and phenol which are substances that prevent the growth of disease-causing microorganisms and act as a team to provide antimicrobial activity thus eliminating many internal and external infections, also active against bacteria. It also helps to treat fungal and viral infections.
11. Aloe Helps Reduce InflammationAloe Vera contains 12 substances, including B-sisterole, which can help to slow down or inhibit inflammation. This may be able to help with painful joints due to stiffness and help improve joint flexibility.
12. Weight Loss – A Secondary effectImproving your digestion, and detoxifying your will have a secondary effect in promoting weight loss because when we start to improve our digestion we naturally eliminate more efficiently, which is a primary way they we detoxify – through our bowels. This will lighten our toxic load on the body and will give us more energy.
Aloe Vera Intake PrecautionsThis plant is incredibly medicinal, yet there are some cautions against long-term use. Just because a little is beneficial, doesn’t mean that a lot is more beneficial. This is an incredibly potent herb and should be used with a level of respect for its potency. Long-term use can lead to loss of electrolytes, especially potassium.
Avoid taking aloe internally during pregnancy, menstruation, if you have hemorrhoids or degeneration of the liver and gall bladder.
Aloe Vera DosageMany people are trying to sell their aloe vera juice products. Like I always say “fresh is best”. Aloe plants can grow pretty much anywhere. When I was living in Canada, I used to have several indoor aloe plants and they did really well. Now that I live in Hawaii, aloe grows everywhere, so I don’t need to buy the juice, I just make it myself. Some companies selling Aloe juice recommend that we should take it ‘regularly’ but I don’t necessarily agree. We need to treat this plant as the medicine that it is and by tuning into our bodies we can really start to notice if we’re pulled to this plant for some level of healing. Would we take medicine unnecessarily without our bodies really needing it? Probably not, and that’s the same with plant medicines. If you’re experiencing one of these digestive ailments use it for a short period of time for it’s course in treatment (1-2 weeks) and then stop and wait at least a month before starting again.
When I was living in Vancouver, I bought a big jug of the aloe juice and was taking shots of it in the morning. One of the ways that we can tune into our bodies is to simply notice immediate reactions. When I first started taking it, my body was totally fine with it, the taste didn’t bother me, and I could tell it was ok for my body. After a couple of weeks, I would take a shot and I would get a bit of a gag reflex. Our bodies are incredible at communicating with us. This was my sign that the Aloe medicine had run its course in treatment and didn’t start taking it again for at least another month or two.
We see something that says weight-loss on it and we just go to town on taking it without considering the potential toxic effects of over-doing a potent plant medicine like Aloe. I don’t think in any culture, aloe was used internally every single day – most traditional cultures understand that more isn’t always necessarily better and use it when it is actually needed. This way, it ensures the use of the effectiveness of the constituents of the plant when we are in need of it.
SOURCES:
Benefits of Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass Powder Benefits:
HealthWheatgrass powder is valued for its nutritional benefits as it contains high levels of beta-carotene, amino acids, B vitamins and fiber besides possessing antibacterial and restorative properties.
The various health benefits of wheatgrass powder are as follows:
1. Aids in Digestion:
Wheatgrass powder greatly facilitates a smooth digestion process. According to the American Cancer Society, wheatgrass powder contains certain alkaline minerals that provide relief from ulcers, constipation and diarrhea. High levels of magnesium also help in relieving constipation. Being easily digestible, it helps to cleanse the colon and restore acidity to healthy levels. It helps in maintaining a balance between various bacterial groups to maintain a healthy digestive system because if they go off balance, they can make the body prone to diseases and health problems. As a result of this activity, the harmful bacteria will find the living conditions intolerable and will start to die, whereas the good bacteria will develop and thrive (1).
2. Formation of Red Blood Cells and White Corpuscles:
Wheatgrass powder contains abundant amounts of chlorophyll which helps in increasing hemoglobin production in the body. This increased production enables the blood to carry more oxygen and vitalizes your body. Thus, it helps in the formation of red blood cells and white corpuscles as well (2).
3. Aids in Weight Loss:
Since wheat grass powder can be added to juices or smoothies, it can be used as a healthier alternative to other ingredients and flavouring agents. It provides more energy to the body and increases strength which allows prolonged exercise duration, thus accelerating weight loss. Moreover, this powder helps to reduce weight gain by stimulating the thyroid gland. This boosts metabolism and prevents obesity and indigestion (3).
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4. Restores pH Balance:
Being an alkaline food supplement, wheatgrass powder balances the body’s pH. Thus, it is beneficial in reducing acidity levels in the blood and restores its alkalinity (4).
5. Cleansing and Detoxifying Properties:
Wheatgrass powder contains excellent detoxifying properties. Its nutritional content is equivalent to that of fresh vegetables which enables it to carry minerals, antioxidants and enzymes that can reduce inflammation. In this way, it improves cell strength, detoxifies the bloodstream and liver, cleanses the colon and offers protection from carcinogens (5).
[ Read: White Pumpkin Juice ]
6. Useful in Anaemia:
The molecular structure of chlorophyll contained in wheatgrass is similar to that of haemoglobin in human blood. The high levels of chlorophyll found in wheatgrass powder can be easily absorbed by your body and increase the production of blood and haemoglobin towards normal levels. Hence, it is perfectly logical to conclude that wheatgrass powder helps in curing anaemia (6).
7. Useful in Cancer:
Chlorophyll contained in wheatgrass helps reduce the harmful effects of radiation. Thus, wheatgrass powder is often recommended to cancer patients during chemotherapy/radiotherapy. Chlorophyll and fiber can help in flushing out toxins accumulated in their bodies during chemotherapy and provide relief against the harmful side effects such as burning sensation, constipation, low energy, hair loss and good cells loss. Thus, it is one of the natural remedies to reduce the side effects of treatment and facilitate quick recovery (7).
8. Natural Remedy for Diabetes:
Wheatgrass powder is particularly beneficial for diabetics as it helps in regulating blood sugar levels by delaying the absorption of carbohydrates. Thus, this supplement can control diabetes at primary or advanced heavy diabetes stage.(8)
9. Treatment of Piles/ Haemorrhoids:
Due to its combination of many beneficial nutrients, wheatgrass powder can be used as a natural cure for piles (haemorrhoids) (9). This can be attributed to the presence of chlorophyll, fiber, vitamins and minerals which have proven to be extremely effective in the treatment of piles. For this purpose, it recommended to take wheatgrass powder twice a day for 3 months continuously.
10. Treatment of Tooth Decay:
Wheatgrass powder is a great supplement form treating tooth decay and other dental problems. Massaging your gums with wheatgrass powder can heal gum problems, making your gums tight and firm (10).
11. Relief from Pain and Inflammation:
This amazing supplement lowers and eliminates general inflammation. Thus, it is very beneficial in providing relief from common body aches and pains and restores the body’s ability to thrive and stay healthy (11).
12. Beneficial for Eyes:
Regular consumption of wheatgrass supplements such as wheatgrass powder enables you to get a brighter white of the eyes (12).
13. Prevention of Varicose Veins:
Regular consumption of this supplement reduces the likelihood of developing varicose veins (13).
14. Other Benefits:
Being a detoxifying agent, wheatgrass powder clears your blood and eliminates foul odors of breath and sweat. It also helps in increasing the reproductive health of both men and women, increases vigor and helps in conceiving.
Wheatgrass Powder Benefits: SkinBeing a natural detoxifier, wheatgrass powder plays an important role in enhancing the outward glow of the skin, thus improving skin health. Wheatgrass powder is beneficial for your skin in the following ways.
[ Read: Moringa Powder ]
15. Skin Cleanser:
Wheatgrass powder is a great skin cleanser as it can exfoliate by removing the dead skin cells on the surface. It facilitates an internal rejuvenating mechanism, thus enhancing the youthful glow and elasticity of your skin (14).
16. Treatment of Acne:
Wheatgrass powder, through its detoxification process, prevents the break outs of acne and promotes healthy skin. Applying a paste made with wheatgrass powder and milk is effective in treating acne (15), freckles, black/white heads and skin tan.
17. Antiseptic Properties:
Due to its antiseptic properties, wheatgrass powder is ideal for healing bruises, sores, insect bites, rashes, cuts and scrapes. It also helps in clearing up poison ivy. Moreover, it has a soothing effect on sunburnt skin, boils and athletes foot (16).
18. Anti-aging Benefits:
Wheatgrass powder prevents the damage from free radicals. It possesses natural anti-ageing properties which aid in rejuvenating the cells, thereby slowing down the ageing process. It tackles the problem of sagging skin and maintains skin elasticity, thus restoring the youthful glow of your skin (17).
Wheatgrass Powder Benefits:
Wheatgrass powder is considered great for your hair. Just like skin, it is extremely beneficial when made into a poultice and applied topically on your hair. Some of its benefits for hair are given below.
19. Treatment of Dandruff and Scalp Problems:
Rinsing your hair with wheatgrass powder is an effective remedy for dandruff as well as dry and itchy scalp. You can prepare a concoction of wheatgrass powder and normal shampoo and apply it on your hair to repair damaged hair (18).
20. Reduces Grey Hair:
Wheatgrass powder is effective in restoring the grey hair back to its natural colour. Greying of hair can be prevented by rinsing your hair with this powder (19).
Read more at: http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/benefits-of-wheatgrass-powder-for-skin-hair-and-health/www.stylecraze.com/articles/benefits-of-wheatgrass-powder-for-skin-hair-and-health/