Why amla is so great for your health

Source:- http://health.india.com/diseases-conditions/why-amla-is-so-great-for-your-health/

Ever wonder why almost all Ayurvedic preparations contain amla? Or why it is suggested that everyone should have one piece of amla on a daily basis? Well studies have shown that amla or the Indian gooseberry is packed with nutrients and can actually help you live a longer healthier life.  
One of the most important fruits in Ayurveda, the fruit grows well in a warm climate. It is known to be a rich source of Vitamin C. So much so, that one small amla has as much Vitamin C as 2 medium oranges. Packed with compounds like polyphenols, minerals like Iron and zinc and vitamins like Carotenes and Vitamin B complex, amla can definitely keep a number of diseases at bay. Here are a few benefits of this amazing fruit: 
Acts as an antioxidant:  Rich in Vitamin C and polyphenols, amla is a great source of antioxidants. Research has shown that it has a high content of tannins, which when combined with polyphenols gives the fruit a unique free radical scavenging property. This unique asset helps reduce the damage caused by free radicals on the body.
Protects your heart:  Amla is known to reduce cholesterol, and keep heart disease under check. Rich in fibre and iron, it is very effective in controlling the oxidation of LDL (Low density lipoprotein). Oxidation of LDL releases free radicals which are known to cause coronary artery disease, therefore stopping this oxidation is essential for preventing heart disease. Amla also helps to maintain cholesterol levels by inhibiting the oxidative properties of a chemical called thiobarbituric acid (TBA) that induces LDL oxidation. Another benefit of this wonder fruit is that it prevents arthrosclerosis (accumulation of plaque in the arteries) thereby protecting you from heart disease.
Controls diabetes and its complications: Research studies show that the polyphenol- rich fruit actually has properties that can protect the body from the oxidative properties of high blood sugar. The same compound is also effective in preventing the insulin resistance caused due to a high fructose diet. What this means is that the fruit can actually assist in the proper absorption of insulin leading to a drop in blood sugar in diabetics. Read more about natural ways to control diabetes.
Reverses the ageing process: The extract of amla is rich in Vitamin A. This vitamin is essential in collagen production, a compound that keeps the skin looking young and elastic. Amla when consumed on an empty stomach has properties that slow down the degradation of collagen and helps the body produce more. Here are more articles on healthy ageing. 
Improves your sex life: In a recent study, it was found that the iron content in amla has sperm enhancing properties. Ayurvedic practitioners suggest, drinking amla juice once a day helps increase the virility as well as sexual vigour. Amla has also proven to increase the motility of sperm and increase sperm production in men suffering from Oligospermia (a condition where a man has a low sperm count). Here are some exercises that can help you to improve your sex life. Incorporate these lifestyle changes for a better sex life.
Protects you from cancer: Packed with antioxidant properties, amla has the potential to keep cancer at bay. Research into this particular property of the fruit, has found that it had the potential to prevent cancer by helping the body fight the harmful effects of chemicals that are carcinogenic. It also helps to inhibit the further growth of cancer affected cells. Apart from this, Amla extract can reduce the harmful effects of radiation and chemotherapy without reducing their beneficial effects as an anti cancer treatment. Here are food habits that can prevent cancer.
Gastric problems: The fiber, polyphenol and water content of amla combined with its anti inflammatory properties make it a great antidote for an upset stomach. Having one teaspoon of amla juice on an empty stomach can take care of acidity and resolve a stomach upset. Try these home remedies for acidity.
Soothes the throat: Amla juice mixed with some ginger provides instant relief from a sore throat and cough. Here are some tips to treat sore throat.
Protects your liver: Studies have proved that amla has properties that protect the liver from oxidative damage caused by chemicals or alcohol. So after a long night of partying, have a piece of amla first thing in the morning, to get rid of that hangover and keep your liver safe. Try these natural remedies to keep your liver healthy.
Being indigenous to India, amla is a real boon to the world of natural medicine. Amla powder is brown in colour and so is the juice. If you do plan to purchase either amla powder or juice, make sure you buy it from a trusted source. Adulterations could be dangerous.

Health benefits of cinnamon (dalchini)

Source:- http://health.india.com/diseases-conditions/health-benefits-of-cinnamon-dalchini/


Cinnamon or dalchini is a staple addition to curries, pulav and biryani, but did you ever think that that tiny little bark could protect you from a host of illnesses right from cancer to cough and cold? Well, it sure can. Here are the top ten health benefits of cinnamon:
Helps keep diabetes under check: According to a study published in the Diabetes Care Journal ^[1], cinnamon was a highly effective remedy against diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes. The study stated that the spice has the ability to improve one’s glucose levels and lipid levels by activating his/her insulin receptors. It also reduces the total serum glucose, triglycerides and the total cholesterol of a person since it stimulates the enzyme systems that regulate one’s carbohydrate metabolism. Cinnamon also has amazing vasodialatory properties that help beat the risk of cardiovascular disease – a common condition seen in diabetics. (Read: Home remedies for diabetes)
Tip: Cinnamon tea is one of the most beneficial methods to beat diabetes. To make the tea, boil cinnamon in water for 15 minutes. The water will turn brown in colour, strain the liquid and drink. To add flavor you could add a few leaves of tulsi while boiling and add a spoon of honey for sweetness. Keep sipping on this tea throughout the day. Here are more health benefits of tulsi.
Can help delay the onset of Alzheimer’s:  A study conducted at the Tel Aviv University ^[2] found that the extract of cinnamon, when administered on a daily basis to patients with Alzheimer’s improved their longevity and bettered the locomotor defects they experience once afflicted with the disease. Cinnamon extract also known as CEppt, inhibits tau aggregation (tau is a type of protein that aggregates around that part of the nerves that is responsible for transmitting impulses of the brain) and filament formation (a process that is thought to be due to the accumulation of tau protein) which in turn protects the brain from the onset of Alzheimer’s and can also help in slowing down the progression of the disease. (Read: Alzheimer’s disease – it’s more common than you think)
Tip: To help protect you from disease, have a teaspoon of freshly ground cinnamon with a little bit of honey. Have this every day on an empty stomach. If you find this mixture too pungent, try having it as tea. Here are more health benefits of honey.
Helps protect you from cancer: In a study done by the USDA (United States Agricultural Department), it was found that cinnamon extract was a potent weapon against leukaemia and lymphomas. The study found that the extract worked by blocking the path of certain components that were important for the regeneration of the cell, inhabited the further multiplication of cancerous cells, and slowly reduced their spread. It also found that the higher the amount of extract the better the results. Remarkably, the extract only inhibited the growth of unhealthy cells and left the healthy cells untouched unlike conventional therapies like chemotherapy, etc. (Read: Can herbal remedies beat cancer?)
Tip: Add cinnamon to your daily diet either by sprinkling it on your food or with honey.
Relieves arthritic pain: Cinnamon is packed with a compound known as cinnamomum, which has very strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that make it a great home remedy for arthritic pain. Its natural heating mechanism provides added relief to aching joints. Read more about how exercise can help you to prevent arthritic pain.
Tip: Grind cinnamon into a fine paste with water and apply on the aching joints. You can place a soft muslin cloth on the paste to keep the paste wet for longer.
Helps in digestion: Cinnamon is packed with mineral manganese, fibre, essential oils and calcium. The calcium and fibre combine with bile salts and help in their transport outside the body. The essential oils, help regulate the action of gastric juices on food, improves digestion, assimilation and its anti inflammatory properties helps reduce the inflammation caused due to indigestion, Irritable Bowel Syndrome and ulcers. Moreover the fibre content helps to relieve constipation and diarrhoea. (Read: 10 Home remedies for constipation)
Tip: To relieve a stomach upset have cinnamon tea infused with mint leaves about two to three times a day.
Helps with weight loss: Cinnamon has great digestive properties, it helps with weight loss by regulating the breakdown of carbohydrates and the production and use of insulin by the body. It also helps improve the digestion and assimilation of food within the body, helping one lose weight. (Read: Herbs for weight loss)
Tip: Drink cinnamon tea with a teaspoon of honey every day, half an hour before breakfast. Alternatively you could add cinnamon powder to your meal by sprinkling it on your salad, coffee or other foods.
Helps beat acne: Cinnamon is a common spice and flavouring agent but the essential oil it contains also has strong anti-microbial properties. The water activity of honey is very low and this means that it does not contain a lot of moisture which can promote the growth of microorganisms. Considering that pimples often arise from an infection within the pores of the skin, combining cinnamon with honey is an effective remedy. (Read: Herbal remedies to get rid of pimples)
Tip: Crush a little cinnamon, and add a bit of honey to make it into a paste. Now apply it on the pimple and leave for a few minutes. You can leave it on overnight also for added benefit. Wash off the paste with warm water and watch that pimple vanish.  
Helps cure a cold and cough: Known for its antibiotic and body warming properties, cinnamon is a formidable remedy against a cold and cough. It not only helps to relieve the congestion commonly experienced with a cold, it is also great for a sore throat when combined with ginger, tulsi and honey. Here are more natural remedies for cough and cold.
Tip: Boil a small crushed piece of ginger, a few leaves of tulsi  leaves, crushed black pepper in two cups of water. Cover the vessel with a lid and let the mixture boil at a low heat. When the solution has simmered for about ten minutes, strain the liquid, add a teaspoon of honey and drink. It should be warm. This solution will not only soothe an irritated throat, it will also clear up the blocked nasal passage and sinuses.
Beats heart disease and atherosclerosis: Packed with fibre and calcium, cinnamon is great for the heart. Since the fibre and calcium and help transport bile salts outside the body, the body produces more bile salts for other bodily functions by breaking down cholesterol. This directly translates to lower cholesterol levels which protect the heart from blockages and the arteries from atherosclerosis. Read more about ways to use cinnamon to keep the heart healthy.
Tip: Have a teaspoon of cinnamon powder everyday on an empty stomach. You can add honey or drink it with warm water.
Fights tooth decay: Cinnamon oil is known for its antibacterial properties. It is essentially good for the teeth and gums. Cinnamon not only beats tooth decay but also helps prevent gingivitis and bad breath. Here’s more information on how you can prevent tooth decay.
Tip: If you are suffering from bad breath, gargle with cinnamon infused water (cinnamon boiled in water). For toothache and gingivitis, chew on a small piece of cinnamon, to get some relief.
Finally, do what you may with it, but adding just that exact amount of cinnamon is the best thing you can do for your body.

Health Benefits Of Honey

Link:- http://in.lifestyle.yahoo.com/healthyliving/

Honey is considered to be an elixir of life. This lustrous brown liquid works wonders for your health in more than one ways.

1. Immunity booster

The antioxidants and anti bacterial properties that honey contains, aids the improvement of the digestive system. Consuming this liquid can help boost your immune system and keep you healthy and fit in life.

2. Skin Care

Variety of beauty products available in the market contains honey as their prime ingredient. Honey not only helps to smoothen your skin but also keeps acne at bay. The anti-bacterial properties of this liquid can give your skin a nourishing look and feel.

3. Aids Weight Loss

Experts recommend eating honey mixed with warm water every morning. This unique combination helps you digest the fat in your body and aid the weight loss process.

4. Cancer preventive properties

Honey contains a number of antioxidants and flavanoids that help diminish the risk of a few types of cancer. These antioxidants kill the collagen in the body.

5. Vitamins and Minerals

Honey is rich in a number of vitamins and minerals too. Vitamin C, Calcium and Iron are primarily derived from this golden ingredient.

6. Relaxes the throat

A commonly known benefit of eating honey is the soothing effect it provides to the throat. You must consume it or gargle with a honey and water mixture when you have a sore throat. It is known to kill the infection causing bacteria, reliving you of the irritation.

7. Healing Properties

Honey is considered to be a natural healer when applied to wounds. It cures the wound by killing the bacteria and cleans the infection too. The antibacterial property it contains does this magic to any kind of injury.

8. Induces Sleep

Enjoying a sound sleep is a problem for many especially amongst the older people. Drinking a glass of warm milk mixed with honey can solve your problem. This mixture is known to soothe you and induces sleep too.
Consuming a spoonful of honey on a daily basis can help you extract a number of golden benefits from this thick liquid. Making this tad bit effort can shower your body with miraculous benefits and promise a healthy life too.

Home Remedy for Sore Throat

Home Remedy for Sore Throat

There are Following home remedies for sore throat , they are given below :

• Drink Fluids-Drink lots and lots of fluids in the form of juices and water ,it will help you keep hydrated .
• Sage-Sage is another popular alternative medicine used in the treatment of sore throats. Sage is beneficial in treating pharyngitis and other throat pains by reducing inflammation and protecting the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat.
• Garlic-Garlic ,a nutural antibiotic ,can be helpful in the speeding up of recovery and removal of bacteria ,especially if your sore throat is caused by the flu or bacterial infection. Garlic can be taken in pill form by all age groups.
• Lemon juice , Honey and Hot Water -Now here is a little drink that will help sooth a sore throat . Add lemon juice (from one lemon) some honey, to a glass of hot water. Now you may drink this drink, It will help to sooth your throat and make your feel better.
• Throw your Toothbrush -Once you get rid of the sore throat, get rid of your toothbrush as it may give you the sore throat again.
• Slippery Elm -Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra) is another good Ayurvedic remedy for the treatment of sore throat. It will help you to soothe the throat.
• Rest -Give your throat lots of rest ,and try not to speak .

Mobile radiation causes no health risk: WHO

Mobile radiation causes no health risk: WHO

Link:- http://health.india.com/news/mobile-radiation-causes-no-health-risk-who/

Mobile towers and mobile phone radiations have no health risks and do not cause cancer, a World Health Organisation (WHO) expert said on Thursday.
‘WHO studies have already proven that mobile phones do not affect human health. Cancer or brain tumour apart, it doesn’t cause even headaches or sleep disorder,’ said radiation expert Michael Repacholi, the first co-ordinator of WHO’s radiation and environmental health unit.
Talking at the launch of the book ‘Mobile Phones and Public Health – Myth and Reality’ here, Repacholi added: ‘A person absorbs five times more radio frequency (RF) from FM radio or television than the base station tower. Mobile tower radiation is lower compared to RF emissions from radio FM or television.’ (Read: Can electromagnetic radiation from mobile towers harm you?)
He also dismissed the views that mobile radiation levels higher than the prescribed limit can have ill effects on human health.
The book’s editor Ravi V.S.Prasad said: ‘Scientific studies from all over the world failed to prove any adverse effects from use of mobile phones and towers. Their energy emissions are one-thousandth of the energy from sunlight, and so can’t impact on health.’
Prasad also highlighted that the Indian standards are ten times more stringent than the already strict international norms, which in turn are one- fiftieth of the level at which there can be any impact on health.