HERBS AND CURES

ABDOMINAL PAIN

 

INTRODUCTION:

 

Abdominal pain is pain that is felt in the abdomen. Abdominal pain comes from organs within the abdomen or organs adjacent to the abdomen.

 

DEFINITION:

 

Abdominal pain is pain that feels anywhere between chest and groin. This is often referred to as the stomach region or belly. It may originate from chest, pelvic region or a generalized infection affecting many parts of body (like the flu or strep throat).

ABDOMINAL PAIN TREATMENT:

 

Most abdominal pain goes away without treatment.

 

Self-Care at Home

 

Abdominal pain without fever, vomiting, vaginal bleeding, passing out, chest pain, or other serious symptoms often gets better without special treatment.

 

* A heating pad or soaking in a tub of warm water may ease pain.

 

* Over-the-counter antacids, such as Tums, Maalox, or Pepto-Bismol, also can reduce some types of abdominal pain. Activated charcoal capsules also may help.

 

* ACETAMINOPHEN (common brand names are ARTHRITIS Foundation Pain Reliever, Aspirin Free Anacin, Panadol, Liquiprin, and Tylenol) may help. Try to avoid aspirin or ibuprofen (common brand names are Advil, Motrin, Midol, Nuprin, Pamprin IB). These drugs can make some types of stomach ache worse.

 

NATURAL REMEDIES FOR ABDOMINAL PAIN:

 

Peppermint Oil:

 

Peppermint oil is widely used for irritable bowel syndrome.

 

Probiotics:

 

Probiotics may be helpful for people with irritable bowel syndrome.

 

Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum:

 

Partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG) is a water soluble, non-gelling fiber that may help to reduce constipation and to a lesser extent diarrhea and abdominal pain in people with irritable bowel syndrome.

 

Food Intolerances:

 

Food intolerances may play a role in irritable bowel syndrome, possibly by triggering immune responses in the gut, leading to low-grade inflammation and an imbalance of intestinal bacteria.

 

Antidepressants:

 

Tricyclic antidepressants are prescribed to people with IBS in order to treat abdominal pain. It may take several weeks of treatment with an antidepressant before it has an effect on abdominal pain.

 

Acacia:

 

Acacia is good for digestive problems such as diarrhea and it is also a good astringent.

 

Cactus:

 

Cactus is a natural source of fiber. Useful to enhance digestive disorders, control cholesterol, high blood pressure, colon cleanse, and overweight problems.

 

Agrimony:

 

It is used as an astringent, diuretic, eyewash, asthma and blood purifier. It is also good in the treatment of digestive disorders such as diarrhea.

 

Anis:

 

Anis is good home remedy for breath refreshening, for digestion and calming stomach pain.

Albahaca:

 

Albahaca is used for headaches, for treatment of the urinary    system of kidney and bladder diseases, and dizziness.

 

Aloe Vera:

 

Aloe Vera. Aloe is good for sunburns relieving pain and inflammation. Aloe has good cicatrisation effects in burns and minor wounds. Aloe Vera is used to control constipation problems, digestive irritation, obesity problems and great way to control and cure stomach ulcers.

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BACK PAIN       

 

INTRODUCTION:

 

Back pain is a nonspecific term and it is the most common complaint among adults. Our body depends on the spinal column for structural stability and mobility. Mostly this pain is caused by illness or spinal defect. This pain arises between the upper and lower body.  Back pain is the second most common cause of missed workdays.  Back pain usually arises from spasm of muscles and ligaments that support the spine.

 

DEFINITION:

 

Pain felt in the human back may comes from the spine, muscles, nerves, or other structures in that region. It may also radiate from other areas like mid or upper back, a hernia in the groin, or a problem in the testicles or ovaries.

MEDICINES FOR BACK PAIN:

 

The following are the main types of medicines used for back pain:

 

1. Analgesic medications are over-the-counter drugs such as acetaminophen and aspirin or prescription pain medicines.

 

2. Topical analgesics are creams, ointments, and salves rubbed onto the skin over the site of pain.

 

3. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are drugs that reduce both pain and swelling.  NSAIDs include over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen, ketoprofen, and naproxen sodium. 

 

4. Muscle relaxants and some antidepressants have also been prescribed for chronic back pain, but it is not yet known if they work for back pain.

 

AYURVEDIC HOME REMEDY FOR BACKPAIN:

 Ingredients

* Nirgundi leaves (Hindi - samhaalu) (Bot- Vitex negundo) (Eng - Five leaved chaste)

* Karanja leaves (Hindi - Ditauri) (Bot - Pongamia pinnata) (Eng - Indian beech)

 

Method of Preparation:

 

Collect fresh leaves of Nirgundi and Karanja. Tie them in a thin cotton cloth to form a big ball. Boil this leaves' ball in water and when it is tolerably hot apply this on affected part. When the leaves become cold reheat them by putting the leaves' ball in boiling water. After half an hour take out the leaves from ball, grind them to a paste and bind it on affected area.

 

NATURAL INGREDIENTS FOR BACK RELIEF:

 

The following are some natural ingredients for back pain relief.

 

TURMERIC:

 

Turmeric is best known as a spice that gives a distinctive flavor and yellow color to curry powder and mustard.  It is a member of the ginger family and has long been used for healing. In India, curcumina component of turmeric is considered a standard anti-inflammatory medication. It appears to be most effective for acute (as opposed to chronic) inflammation.

 

GINGER:

 

Ginger is revered around the world for its pungent taste. It is a natural spice that is also widely prized for its medicinal properties. Ginger helps to relieve chronic pain by reducing inflammation and, particularly when taken in standardized extract form, by lowering the body's level of natural pain-causing compounds called prostaglandins.

 

YUCCA:

 

Yucca is also known by the names Spanish bayonet, Guardian of The Desert, Needle Palm, and Soap weed. Yucca, a member of the lily family, grows in abundance throughout the Southwestern United States and Mexico. The part of this plant used medicinally is the root. Yucca is used today to treat inflammations caused by degenerative diseases like arthritis and rheumatism.

 

BORON:

 

Boron is a mineral that aids in the production of natural steroid compounds within the body, which is necessary for healthy bones and muscle growth. It is also vital for the metabolism of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. This mineral is found naturally in apples, carrots, grapes, dark green leafy vegetables, raw nuts, pears, and whole grains. Boron increases brain function, promotes alertness, and helps the body utilize energy from fats and sugars. Boron supplementation can help prevent osteoporosis and build muscle, and is a benefit for elderly people to aid in calcium absorption.

 

VITAMIN D:

 

Vitamin D is called the sunlight vitamin because the body produces it when the sun's ultraviolet B (UVB) rays strike the skin. It is the only vitamin the body manufactures naturally and is technically considered a hormone. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium from food and supplements. If the body does not have an adequate amount of vitamin D, it will extract calcium from bones and cartilage which over time leads to osteoporosis.

 

VITAMIN E:

 

Vitamin E is a powerful anti-oxidant that is summoned from the body's fatty tissue where it's stored. It protects cells by deactivating or destroying the potentially damaging oxygen molecules called free radicals. As a key antioxidant, vitamin E appears to play a modest but notable role in protecting the body from many chronic disorders. It may even slow the aging process and guard against damage from secondhand smoke and other pollutants. Circulatory disorders, skin and joint problems, diabetes-related nerve complications, high cholesterol, endometriosis, immune-system function, and memory are also believed to benefit from vitamin E.

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OVER WEIGHT

 

INTRODUCTION:

 

Overweight refers to an excess of body weight compared to set standards. The excess weight may come from muscle, bone, fat, and/or body water. Obesity refers specifically to having an abnormally high proportion of body fat.[1] A person can be overweight without being obese, as in the example of a bodybuilder or other athlete who has a lot of muscle. However, many people who are overweight are also obese.

 

MEANING:

 

Overweight: The term "overweight" is used in two different ways. In one sense it is a way of saying imprecisely that someone is heavy. The other sense of "overweight" is more precise and designates a state between normal weight and obesity.

 

CAUSES OF OVER WEIGHT:

 

Being overweight is generally caused by the intake of more calories (by eating) than are expended by the body (by exercise and everyday living). Factors which may contribute to this imbalance include:

 

* Limited exercise and sedentary lifestyle

 

* Overeating

* Genetic predisposition

 

* A high glycerin index diet (i.e. a diet that consists of meals that give high postprandial blood sugar)

 

* Hormone imbalances (e.g. hypothyroidism)

 

* Metabolic disorders, which could be caused by repeated attempts to lose weight by Weight cycling,

 

* An eating disorder (such as binge eating disorder)

 

* Stress

 

* Insufficient sleep

 

* Psychotropic medications

 

* Smoking cessation

 

VITAMIN SUPPLEMENTS FOR OVER WEIGHT:

Calcium : To reduce body fat

Gamma linoleic acid: Helps burn more calories

Potassium : Helps combat fluid retention

Iodine: Helps stimulate a slow metabolism

Lycopene: A vital antioxidant

Magnesium: Helps fight stress and is associated with weight management

Selenium: Improves the action of vitamins C & E and beta carotene

Sulphur : Reduces free-radical damage

Vitamin B6: Excellent fluid fighter

Vitamin C: Powerful detoxifier and helps strengthen skin

Vitamin E: Improves circulation and is essential for healthy skin

 

TIPS FOR REDUCE FAT:

 

To help cut down on your fat intake, use the following tips when preparing foods:

 

* Use evaporated skim milk instead of cream when preparing sauces or desserts.

 

* Create your own nonfat salad dressing by mixing balsamic vinegar, mustard and herbs. If you really prefer an oil-based dressing, try using three parts vinegar to one part oil.

 

* Drain non fat yogurt through a sieve or cheese cloth over night in the refrigerator, and use in recipes that call for cream.

 

* Sauté foods in chicken broth, vegetable stock, tomato juice or wine instead of frying them in oil or butter.

 

* Keep olive oil in a spray bottle to a lightly coat sauté pans.

 

HOME REMEDIES FOR REDUCING OVER WEIGHT:

 

Treatment using Lime Juice-Honey:

 

Fasting on lime juice-honey water is highly beneficial in the treatment of obesity. In this mode of treatment, one teaspoon of fresh honey should be mixed with the juice of half a lime in a glass of lukewarm water and taken at regular intervals.

 

Treatment using Trifala:

 

Trifala, an herbal combination of amalaki, bibbitaki, and haritaki is good for losing weight.

 

Treatment using Jujube:

 

The leaves of jujube or Indian plum are another valuable remedy for reduce weight. A handful of leaves should be soaked overnight in water and this water should be taken in the morning, preferably on an empty stomach. This treatment should be continued for at least one month to achieve beneficial results.

 

Treatment using Cabbage:

 

Cabbage is considered to be an excellent home remedy for obesity. Recent research has revealed that a valuable chemical called tartaric acid is present in this vegetable which inhibits the conversion of sugar and other carbohydrates into fat. Hence, it is of great value in weight reduction. Substituting a meal with cabbage salad would be the simplest way to stay slim.

 

Treatment using Tomato:

 

One or two ripe tomatoes taken early morning as a substitute for breakfast, for a couple of months, are considered a safe method of weight reduction. They also supply the food elements essential to preserve health.

 

Treatment using Finger Millet:

 

Finger millet is an ideal food for the obese, because its digestion is slow and due to this, the carbohydrates take a longer time to get absorbed. By eating preparations made of ragi, the constant desire to eat is curbed, thus reducing the daily calorie intake. At the same time, ragi supplies an abundant quantity of calcium, phosphorus, iron, Vitamin B1 and B2 and prevents malnutrition in spite of restricted food.

 

DIETARY GUIDELINES FOR OVER WEIGHT:

 

Here are some simple and dos and don’ts that one can adhere to:

Do’s

- Increase the quantity of fruits and vegetables and low calorie foods.

- Eat tomato in the morning and in salad. Make it a regular habit.

- Mint is very beneficial in losing weight. Have some salads, vegetables with it.

- Have raw or cooked cabbage as it inhibits the conversion of sugar and other carbohydrates into fat.

- Include a source of vitamin B-12 in your diet.

- Use vegetable oil instead of butter or stick margarine.

- Prefer eating steam, boiled, microwave vegetables

- Eat less salty foods, alcohol, dairy products, sugar, margarine

- Replace whole milk with skim or low fat milk for your preparation

- Roast, bake or boil meat, fish, to destroy all the fat present

Don’ts

- Avoid intake of too much salt as it may be a factor for increasing body weight.

- All kinds of milk products-cheese, butter, and non-vegetarian foods should be avoided as they are rich in fat. Be sufficient with twice a glass of milk.

- Avoid rice and potato, which contain a lot of carbohydrates. Among cereals wheat is good.

- Avoid high calorie foods like chocolates, ice cream, sweets, butter, heavy refined foods which have high calories.

- Avoid meals when under stress or tension.

- Stop taking bread prepared with wheat alone as the key ingredient. An ideal mixture must consist of whole grams flour and soyabeans.

 

OTHER TREATMENT FOR REDUCING BODY FAT:

 

Exercise and perspirational activities:

 

Exercise is an important part of any weight reduction plan. A workout for at least 30 minutes to an hour every morning is beneficial.

Walking is the best exercise to begin with. Other exercises include swimming, bicycling, trekking and so on.

 

Curb negative emotions and develop: positive outlook

 

Above all, obese persons should make every effort to avoid negative emotions such as anxiety, fear, hostility, and insecurity, and develop a positive outlook on life.

 

Acupressure:

 

Acupressure points such as the middle of the upper lip, below the nose and an inch below and one inch up the naval point on the stomach are points of relevance incase of obesity. Press these points 3 to 4 times a day for 5minutes each. It helps control hunger and in the overall control of obesity.

 

Behavior Modification towards Eating:

 

For three months, eat food by chewing a single morsel at least 50 times, so that it turns into almost a liquid before gulping it down. It has very effectively reduced the obesity of many people.

 

DIET RECOMMENDED FOR REDUCING BODY FAT:

 

Early morning:

Juice of half a lemon mixed in a glass of warm water and a teaspoon of honey.

 

Breakfast:

Wheat or Mung bean sprouts and a cup of skimmed milk.

 

Midmorning:

A glass of orange, pineapple or carrot juice.

 

Lunch:

 

* Salad of raw vegetables such as carrot, beet, cucumber, cabbage, tomatoes. Steamed or boiled vegetables

 

* Whole grain bread or whole wheat chapattis (Indian bread) and a glass of buttermilk.

 

* Roasted cumin seeds, green coriander leaves, a little salt and some grated ginger mixed in the buttermilk.

 

Mid-afternoon:

 

* Coconut water

 

* Dry fruits

 

* Lemon tea

 

* Fresh vegetable soup

 

Dinner:

 

* Whole grain bread or chapattis

 

* Steamed vegetables

 

* Seasonal fruits except banana and apple.

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CARDAMOM

 

INTRODUCTION:

 

Cardamom, also called Green Cardamom, is the dried, unripened fruit of the perennial Elettaria Cardamom. The fruit pods are tiny, brown, aromatic seeds which are slightly pungent to taste. Cardamom is best stored in pod form; once ground the seeds quickly lose their flavour. Cardamom pods are generally green but are also available in bleached white pod form.

 

Cardamom is a very expensive spice, second only to saffron. There are many inferior substitutes from cardamom related plants, such as Siam cardamom, Nepal cardamom, and winged Java cardamom. Only the Elettaria Cardamom variety is the true Cardamom.

 

VARITIES OF CARDAMOM:

 

The following are the varities of cardamom.

 

* Green cardamom pods are the preferred form of this spice in it's native country, India. This fancier kind of cardamom has been picked while still immature and sun dried to preserve it's bright green color. Green cardamom pods are harder to find and more expensive in part because of their superior ability to retain aroma and flavor longer. This premium form of cardamom is all coinsurers will use in any recipe which calls for cardamom.

 

* Cardamom seed has had the outer pod, or cardamom fruit, removed so that only the pure seeds remain. This form of cardamom spice is sometimes referred to as cardamom-decort, which simply means the pods have been removed and only the pure seed remains. Generally the seeds are crushed or ground prior to use, which provides plenty of cardamom flavor at a more economical price, substitute 12 seeds for every whole pod called for in a recipe.

 

* Ground cardamom is convenient to have for baking and other applications were the spice needs to be ground. Freshness and thus flavor is of course somewhat compromised when cardamom is pre ground.

 

* White Cardamom can be found in the United States and Europe that has been bleached to achieve it's color, or lack of it. It is often used in baking and some desserts because it's color helps keeps light colored batters, sauces, and confections speck free.

 

* Black cardamom is the seeds of closely related species that also have aromatic seeds and an appearance similar to that of true cardamom. But, black cardamom is not a suitable substitutable for the real thing. It is an ingredient used in some African cooking.

 

COMMON USES OF CARDAMOM:

 

The following is a list of common uses for Cardamom:

 

* Pickles

* Pastries & Pies

* Tea & Coffee

* Pickled Herring

* Curries

* Mulled Wine

 

MEDICINAL USES OF CARDAMOM:

 

This versatile spice has several medicinal and therapeutic uses. It has excellent food value. It is low in fat and high in proteins and vitamins A, B and C. The seeds contain 10% of volatile oil.

 

* Cardamom was used in perfumes by ancient Greeks and Romans and also recommended by Apicius, a famous Roman epicure to counteract over- indulgence in drinking alcohol.

 

* Cardamom seeds are the basis of medicinal preparations for indigestion and flatulence. It possesses carminative property. It helps subside the air and water elements in the body. It relieves gas and heartburn and is useful for nausea and vomiting.

* Cardamom also helps increase the secretion and discharge of urine. It is very useful in treating diseases like gonorrhea, cystitis, nephritis and other genito urinary disorders.

* Cardamom is believed to be a sex stimulating food. Its use has been found beneficial in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions like impotence and premature ejaculation. The spice is also a mood elevator and a decoction prepared from it has been found valuable in overcoming depression.

* It is also useful for treating hiccups and found beneficial in the treatment of oral disorders like pharangytis, sore throat and hoarseness. It also brings relief from headache. Cardamom has also been used as an insect repellant.

* Cardamom oil is an essential factor in food items and in the preparation of certain medicines. It is used in both pharmacy and perfumery, for flavoring liquors and bitters, and in the preparation of tincture. Cardamom oil is also used in perfumes and as a stimulant. Cardamom was a favored ingredient in love potions. The aphrodisiac properties of cardamom are extolled in the Arabian Nights.

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CURRY LEAVES

 

ORIGIN:

 

The curry tree is native to India; today, it is found wild or become wild again, almost everywhere in the Indian subcontinent excluding the higher levels of the Himalayas. In the East, its range extends into Burma.

 

DESCRIPTION:

 

The leaf of curry leaf tree is a spice. The tree is an aromatic deciduous one, five meter in height, 15-40 cm in diameter. It is cultivated mainly in homesteads but to a certain extent on a plantation scale.

USES:

 

The leaf is used in South India as a natural flavoring agent in various curries. Volatile oil is used as a fixative for soap perfume. The leaves, bark and root of the plant are used in the indigenous medicine as a tonic, stimulant, carminative and stomachic.

 

HEALING POWER OF CURRY LEAVES:

 

Curry leaves possess the qualities of a herbal tonic. They strengthen the functions of stomach and promote its action. They are also used as a mild laxative. The leaves may be taken mixed with other mild tasting herbs. The juice extracted from 15 grams of leaves may be taken with buttermilk.

 

Digestive Disorders:

 

Fresh juice of curry leaves, with lime juice and sugar, is an effective medicine in the treatment of morning sickness, nausea and vomiting due to indigestion and excessive use of fats. One or two teaspoons of juice of these leaves mixed with a teaspoon of lime juice may be taken in these conditions. The curry leaves, ground to a fine paste and mixed with buttermilk, can also be taken on an empty stomach with beneficial results in case of stomach upsets.

 

Tender curry leaves are useful in diarrhoea, dysentery and piles. They should be taken, mixed with honey. The bark of the tree is also useful in bilious vomiting. A teaspoon of the powder or the decoction of the dry bark should be given with cold water in this condition.

 

Kidney Disorders:

 

The root of the curry plant also has medicinal properties. The juice of the root can be taken to relieve pain associated with the kidneys.

 

Premature Graying of Hair:

 

Liberal intake of curry leaves is considered beneficial in preventing premature greying of hair. These leaves have the property to nourish the hair roots. New hair roots that grow are healthier with normal pigment. The leaves can be used in the form of chutney or the juice may be squeezed and taken in buttermilk or lassi.

 

Burns and Bruises:

 

Curry leaves can be effectively used to treat burns, bruises and skin eruptions. They should be applied as a poultice over the affected areas.

 

Eye Disorders:

 

Fresh juice of curry leaves suffused in the eyes. Makes them look bright. It also prevents the early development of cataract.

 

Insect Bites:

 

Fruits of the tree, which are berries, are edible. They are green when raw, but purple when ripe. Juice of these berries, mixed with equal proportion of lime-juice, is an effective fluid for external application in insect stings and bites of poisonous creatures.

 

OTHER USES AND BENEFITS OF CURRY LEAVES:

 

Hair Tonic:

 When the leaves are boiled in coconut oil till they are reduced to a blackened residue, the oil forms an excellent hair tonic to stimulate hair growth and in retaining the natural pigmentation.

 

Curry leaves have been used for centuries in South India as a natural flavoring agent in samber, rasam and curries. Chutney can be made by .mixing the leaves with coriander leaves, coconut scrapings and tomatoes.

 

 

The leaves, bark and the root of the curry plant are used in indigenous medicine as a tonic, stimulant and antiflatulent.

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CHAPPED LIPS

 

INTRODUCTION:

 

Chapped lips are dry and tender. They are caused due to lack of moisture in the lips. Once lips are chapped, their ability to retain moisture is further reduced thereby leading to a worsening chronic condition. It is essential to take adequate care of the sensitive skin of the lips.

A chapped lip is a common problem for everyone and is easy to treat. It is a condition where the lips become dry and often crack and sometimes bleed.

DEFINITION:

Chapped lips are a result of very dry skin on the lips. Dry skin occurs when the moisture, or water, content of the skin is decreased for any reason.

SYMPTOMS OF CHAPPED LIPS:

Lips that are chapped usually have the following qualities:

 

* Roughness

 

* Dryness

 

* Redness

 

* Peeling

 

* Cracking

 

* Sensitivity

 

* Tenderness

CAUSES OF CHAPPED LIPS:

 

DRY WEATHER:

 

Living in a dry place can make a skin parched and craving for hydration. It is essential to get enough water to keep your skin and lips adequately hydrated.

OUTDOORS:

 

The sun and wind also have a drying effect on skin and lips. Sunburn can also rob the lips of moisture and cause chapping.

VITAMIN DEFICIENCIES:

 

Deficiencies of riboflavin or other Vitamin B group or iron can lead to chapped lips.

LIP LICKING:

 

This is a habit that can lead to chapping of lips on account of the loss of natural oils. The chemicals in saliva work on the sensitive skin on the lips and cause them to chap.

SMOKING:

 

The natural oil from the lips is lost.

OTHER CAUSES:

 

Allergic reaction to cosmetics such as lipstick or lip gloss. Ill-fitting dentures and lip biting can lead to chapping of lips. A diet lacking in essential fatty acids can also lead to dry and chapped lips.

 

TREATMENT FOR CHAPPED LIPS:

 

Treat chapped lips using lemon:

* Cut a lemon in half and put half a teaspoon of sugar on one half of the lemon. Rub on lips to remove all the dry dead skin. Then wash with warm water. After that dry your lips and put glycerin on them. The glycerin will help moisten our lips.

Treat chapped lips using an orange:

* Cut an orange in half and squeeze out the juice. Put the juice onto your lips as often as needed. It may sting at first if your lips are cracked and bleeding but it will certainly help.

 

Treat chapped lips using oils:

* There have been 3 types of oils that have actually worked for me and my chapped lips. These are olive oil, vitamin E oil and aloe Vera either fresh aloe Vera or aloe oil. They all work well. Just simply rub a small amount into your lips.

 

Treat chapped lips using cocoa butter:

Applying a small amount of cocoa butter onto your chapped lips every couple of hours will help keep them moist. It is important to keep your lips moist.

 

Treat chapped lips using a cucumber:

Slice some cucumber and squeeze out as much juice as you can with your hands. Apply the juice to your chapped lips to keep them moist. This can be done whenever necessary.

 

NATURAL REMEDY FOR CHAPPED LIPS:

* Regular use of sun block on the lips before going out into the sunny outdoors. A sunscreen with SPF 15 or more can keep the effects of the sun's UV rays at bay.

 

* Use a base of petroleum jelly or lip balm on your lips before you apply lipstick.

 

* Use cool saltwater compress on chapped lips to keep them cool and moist. This can be done at bedtime. This can be followed up with a rich coat of lip balm containing lanolin or petroleum jelly. You can go in for medicated lip balm containing menthol, camphor and phenol.

 

* If you notice any allergic reaction to lipstick, change your brand or avoid using lip cosmetics till the problem of chapped lips is addressed. Go in for moisture-enhanced lipsticks rather than dry matte lipsticks.

 

* Use of a skin exfoliator on the lips regularly goes a long way in sloughing off dead cells and keeping the lips soft and smooth. A simple lip exfoliation routine would be to use your toothbrush to gently brush the lips.

 

* If the problem of chapped lips persists, consult a dermatologist for possible Vitamin deficiencies or skin infections or disorders.

 

HOME REMEDY FOR CHAPPED LIPS:

 

Dry chapped cracked lips home remedy treatment is quite effective. Following are some dry chapped cure home remedies. Read on for home remedy for dry chapped lips:

 

* Drink plenty of water everyday.

 

* Cut fine slices of cucumber and rub on lips.

 

* Apply Aloe Vera gel on your lips.

 

* Take a saline bath

 

* Apply neem leaves extract on your lips.

 

GENERAL CARE FOR LIPS:

* Apply cold cream or moisturizer or lip balm before applying lipstick.

* To get natural pink lips apply beetroot juice before bed.

* Grind rose petals and apply on lips to get smooth pink lips

* Apply menthol based lip balm and take an old brush and brush gently on lips (don t rub too hard, because lip are very sensitive) to get rid off chapped lips.

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FACIAL AND SKIN CARE:

 

* Daily skin and facial care is much more effective in making us look beautiful than any cosmetics in the world. Here we are going to discuss some of the tips and tricks that we can use to make us look younger and more beautiful without spending too much of extra time and money:

 

* Get a quick facial at home by splashing the face with lots of warm water and then massaging it with olive oil to moisturize the skin. Use a half-teaspoon of sugar for scrubbing your face and keep rubbing it until it melts away. Wipe off your face with a warm, wet cloth.

 

* Use the toning mixture of equal parts of water and vinegar and dissolve few aspirins in it twice a day to counter any aging signs in your face. Vinegar flakes off dead skin cells while aspirin is a superb anti-acne product and is also effective on deep acne spots. However, it tends to make skin thinner like store bought toner and so sun block with at least SPF 15 should be used essentially everyday.

 

* Wash the face several times a day and wipe off with a clean cloth to keep acne off the oily skin.

 

* If the eyes look puffy or swollen, wash the face and cover the eyes with sliced potatoes or cucumbers for a few minutes. This is really effective in the morning.

 

* Olive oil works well as face and eye makeup remover.

 

* Clean the nails with white vinegar before applying nail polish for a smoother finish and make it last longer.

 

* Olive oil mixed with melted beeswax is a great lip balm.

 

FACE MASK TREATMENTS:

 

* MAYONNAISE:

 

Apply whole egg mayonnaise on the face (right from the jar) for about 20 minutes. Rinse with cool water. Great skin care treatment.

 

* PEACH & BRANDY:

 

Mash up a peach (use ripe, canned or frozen) and mix in a tablespoon of brandy. Leave it on for 20 minutes, then rinse off.

 

* TOMATO MASK:

 

For oily skin, mash up a ripe tomato and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse with warm (not hot) water.

 

* BANANA MASH: