Health Topics

During the long cold winter months, many people suffer from dry skin more often, because of low humidity in their homes and the cold weather outside, so are often looking for natural skin care tips. Some of the symptoms of dry skin are itchy, flaky skin and scaling, when the outer skin layer visibly peels. Using harsh soaps and showering or bathing too often contributes towards dry, rough skin. There are many great natural skin care tips available to help people in their fight against dry skin. Here is several natural skin care tips that will help you avoid or cure dry skin itch.

• The cause of dry skin is not lack of oil in your skin but lack of water. Immediately after taking a shower or bath, apply moisturizes to help trap the moisture in your skin.

• Other natural skin care tips include using a humidifier in your home and at work, if possible, during the winter months. If your skin is itching, apply cool compresses, which is a simple, natural approach that works well.

• Natural skin care tips for dry skin include eating foods that contain essential fatty acids every day. Also, eat snacks that are high fiber such as figs, dates, dried fruit, raw seeds, and raw nuts.

• People with dry skin often experience wrinkles and fine lines prematurely, so use moisturizers and bath oils that contain coconut oil.

• Use a natural cream moisturizer daily for dry and normal skin. For people with sensitive skin, use a moisturizer without lanolin or perfume for best results.

• Shampoos containing harsh chemicals often remove the natural oils on your scalp causing the skin to become irritated and dry. Repeated scratching or rubbing often causes small scratches or wounds, which could become sore or infected. Natural skin care tips that help prevent this include switching to a natural shampoo that contains no harsh chemicals. Look for a natural shampoo that has tree tea oil. This oil has great anti-inflammatory and anti bacterial properties that help prevent infections and sooth the itch.

• After applying warm water or a warm cloth on your face to open the pores, spread honey over your face. Rinse this off after twenty minutes using warm water followed by cooler water. A honey facial once a week will keep your skin looking younger, feeling great, and the best part is it only costs pennies.

A facemask of egg white and honey gently removes the tan from your face.

• Mix oats with honey, yogurt and ground almonds. Apply this in your face, leave it for five minutes and wash with lukewarm water.
• Cucumber is a natural cleanser. Mix cucumber juice with milk and use it instead of a cleanser.
• Take 1/3-cup cocoa, three teaspoons of heavy cream, 1/3-cup ripe papaya, 1/4-cup honey and three teaspoons of oatmeal powder. Mix it all together. Apply on your face. After 10 minutes, wash your face with warm water. This is best for oily skin
• For oily skin, apply a mixture of grapes, lemon and egg white. Leave it for 20 minutes and rinse with warm water. While lemon acts as a natural cleanser, grapes will soften your skin and egg whites will tighten it. Don’t be alarmed if your skin tingles.
• Cut the lemon and rub the wedge all over your face. Leave it for about 20 minutes, then rinse off with cold water. This will refresh your face. Avoid doing this if you have dry skin.
• Mix honey, lemon and vegetable oil .This mixture is a good moisturiser for dry skin. Apply this mask for 10 minutes.
• Apply the mixture of honey and milk on the face . This will make your skin glow.
• Prepare a mask by mixing a slice of pumpkin with egg yolk and milk. Let this mask set on your face for 30 minutes for a glowing skin.
• Mix half-a-cup honey to your bath water for soft and smooth skin.
• For a soothing body pack, prepare a paste of mint leaves and almonds. Mix it with warm water and apply all over your body. Leave it till it dries and rinse with warm water.
• Buttermilk dabbed on skin for 15 minutes will soak up oil from your skin without drying it.
• Carrot juice applied daily fades blemishes.
• For dark underarms and neck apply lemon juice mixed with cucumber juice and a pinch of turmeric daily. Leave this on for 20 minutes.
• For removing facial hair.. Apply a sticky paste of egg white blended with sugar and corn flour. When it dries, gently peel it off. Repeat this three to four times a week.
• Thin apple slices rubbed onto oily skin will help in controlling oily shine.
• For supple skin, apply a ripe smashed banana on your face for 20 minutes daily.
• Cauliflower juice applied on warts regularly will make them fall.
• For a fair skin, try this natural bleach. Mix orange peels (sun dried and powdered) with milk. Apply this paste for 25 minutes and wash off.
• Mix half teaspoon dried curry leaf powder with multani mitti (fullers earth) and apply on the face. Wash it after it gets dry.
• Apply the mixture of tomato juice and honey on the face and neck , wash it after 15 minutes.
• Apply the mixture of carrot juice and basin. Leave it till it dries and wash the face.
• Add two teaspoon of tomato juice with 4 teaspoon of curd and apply on the face.
• Add a pinch of yeast with 2 teaspoon of cabbage juice and apply.
• Mix 1 table spoon of barley powder with half teaspoon of lime juice and 1 teaspoon of honey. Apply it on the face and wash after 20 minutes.
• Mix pineapple juice and carrot juice together and apply it on the face and wash it after 15 minutes.
• Mix vinegar and rose water in equal quantities and apply.
• Mix curd and cucumber juice and apply it on the face.
• Apply the mixture of coconut water and thick pineapple juice.
• Make a paste with 1/2 teaspoon of milk powder, 1/4 teaspoon of egg white and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice and apply on the face.
• For dry skin, Make a paste with egg yolk, olive oil and lemon juice. Apply it on the neck and face, wash it out after 10 minutes.
• For oily skin, take a mixture of oatmeal and egg white and apply it on the neck and face
• For glowing skin, use basin or green gram powder mixed with milk instead of soap.
• Apply the mixture of raw turmeric and cream of milk on the face and wash it after 20 minutes. It will make your skin fair.
• Apply the mixture of honey, basin, cream of milk and olive oil as a face pack.
• Apply the paste of fenugreek with milk on the face and let it dry. Wash off with luke warm water.
• Make a paste of red sandal wood and apply it on the face every day for glowing skin.

* Make a paste with red sandal powder and coconut milk and apply on the face for soft skin.

The following information can help you understand factors that may contribute to skin problems. An alteration or two in diet or lifestyle or treatment methods may significantly improve the health of the skin and body, which will help in the control of acne and related problems. This following information will assist in making educated decisions.

Stress: Stress has a strong relationship to acne and a profound impact. When under stress the body produces hormonal steroids, such as cortisol (a corticosteroid hormone frequently called hydrocortisone). Like other hormonal steroids (testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, etc.) these chemicals target the skin in a disruptive manner and acne flare-ups may coincide with increased stress.

While it is easy to suggest the avoidance of stress, this is not likely to be accomplished. Begin recognizing stress levels and potentially stressful events or situations. During these times, cleanse very thoroughly, or cleanse three times a day rather than two. Increase the use of some products from once daily, for example, to twice. Use the Green Tea Poultice more frequently. In short, step up the daily skin care regimen to offset the skin's response to stress. When the stressful situation passes, return to the normal daily skin care regimen.

Coffee: Research suggests that coffee (with or without caffeine) stimulates the production of cortisol (see the above section on stress) and acts just like stress. Coffee may be a promoter of acne and its consumption should be limited. Green tea or white tea are healthier beverage selections. When stress levels rise, it may be wise to reduce coffee consumption and achieve a reduction in cortisol levels which promote acne.

Diet: A good diet is an effective tool in controlling acne, especially fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, combined with adequate protein. A healthy and well-balanced diet affects the health and efficiency of the body and that includes the skin. Every organ in your body relies upon the same vitamins, minerals and nutrients to function. Since the skin is at the end of the food line, it suffers greatly from an improperly balanced diet. Foods with high antioxidant content (colorful fruits and vegetables) are very helpful in promoting the healing of acne infections.

Wheat: People who have tried numerous prescriptive and non-prescriptive acne treatments without success will probably succeed with Skintactix products. If not, the problem may be wheat-induced acne, which makes any acne treatment unsuccessful. Skintactix products and diet modification successfully achieve control of wheat-induced acne in almost all cases. For more information on this subject please see the Acne & Wheat page.

Essential Fatty Acids: People who have tried numerous prescriptive and non-prescriptive acne treatments without success will probably succeed with Skintactix products. If not, and you have multiple whiteheads and/or blackheads, you may have a deficiency of linoleic acid (omega 6). This condition makes acne treatment unsuccessful because of excessive follicular congestion. Skintactix products and diet modification successfully achieve control of linoleic deficiency-induced acne. For more information on this subject please see the Acne & Essential Fatty Acids page.

Milk: A smaller segment of the acne population may react to milk and/or dairy products. Milk contains hormones which can promote the potential for acne infections. Hormonally induced acne frequently follows the chin and jaw line. If milk is a factor in the promotion of acne, you have probably tried numerous prescriptive and non-prescriptive acne treatments without success. You will probably be successful with Skintactix products because the products reduce the skin's volume of dihydrotestosterone and sebum. If control is still difficult to achieve, limiting daily intake can be helpful. For more information on this subject please see the Acne & Milk page.

Antibiotic Dangers: Taking an antibiotic may be an easy method of controlling acne, when it is successful, but there can be a huge downside. Science has known for years that frequent or extended use of antibiotics can damage the body's natural immune functions. Research published in February 2004 by the University of Washington in conjunction with the National Cancer Institute was more specific. Of the 10,000 females studied, it was found that those who had used antibiotics approximately 500 days or more at any time over an 18 year period were twice as likely to contract breast cancer than females at large. The association between antibiotics and cancer was dose related, revealing the higher the total dosage (or volume over time) the greater the risk. While this study involved females, the antibiotic and cancer linkage would seem to be equally as applicable to males as well.

Long-term use of antibiotics to control or maintain control of acne may involve risks that should be considered in making decisions about acne treatment. Skintactix has given particular attention to providing effective treatment with no dangers and no side effects.

Benzoyl Peroxide Cautions: Benzoyl peroxide (BP) generates free radicals in the skin. Its effect is similar to unprotected sun exposure. The redness of the skin (erythema), caused by sun exposure and BP, is the result of free radicals causing to the skin. Repeated sun exposure or BP use generates free radicals that damage the skin's structure and cellular DNA, resulting in premature aging of the skin. The extent of the damage and aging from BP is determined by the concentration of BP, the frequency of application and the duration of its use.

Use of benzoyl peroxide to control acne may involve side effects and risks that should be considered in making decisions on acne treatment. Skintactix has given particular attention to providing effective treatment with no side effects and no benzoyl peroxide. For additional information on this subject please see the Benzoyl Peroxide Skin Damage page.

Premature Skin Aging: As you will learn from the Acne and Skin Damage section of this website, free radicals promote the aging of skin. Acne infections require huge volumes of chemical processes to control the infection and repair and replace all of the skin components that are damaged or destroyed in the process. This generates volumes of free radicals that in general promote the speed of skin aging. People with moderate to severe facial acne tend to develop facial lines and wrinkles at an earlier stage than the population in general and may require an early skin anti-aging strategy. The control of acne is the first step in slowing the aging process. People with moderate to severe acne who have treated their skin with benzoyl peroxide tend to present skin aging at an even faster rate. For additional information on this subject please see the Acne & Premature Skin Aging and the Free Radical Damage pages.

Smoking: A German study published in 2001 showed acne is 62% more prevalent in active smokers than in non-smokers. Additionally, a significant dose-dependent relationship was observed between acne severity and daily cigarette consumption.

Hormone Supplementation: The development of adult onset acne following the initiation of hormone supplementation or significant modification of an existing program may be caused by the dosage. Speak with a physician about this subject and modifying the dosage so it does not promote acne.

Sebum Production Cycle: The skin produces its greatest volume of sebum and oil at approximately 1 to 2 o'clock in the afternoon and its least volume in the middle of the night. Therefore a thorough skin care regimen performed in the late afternoon or early evening is pivotal to effective acne control. Cleanse thoroughly.

Heredity: Acne appears to have genetic linkage and people may get a better understanding of the possible extent of their condition by discussing this subject with their parents. Ask questions about the severity of their acne and the duration.

Menses: Like stress, there is a relationship to acne. The body increases its production of hormones, which indirectly stimulates the production of sebum and the subsequent chemical reactions that promote acne. Three to seven days before the cycle, step up the daily skin care regimen and return to the normal regimen at the end of the period. Use the Green Tea Poultice twice daily as per the instructions. If needed, consider reducing the consumption of milk and/or dairy products for the week just prior to the cycle.

Oral Contraceptives: In some instances oral contraceptives may reduce the severity of acne and in other cases they can trigger skin problems, including acne. If an oral contraceptive is contributing to acne, speak with the physician about "low-profestin" contraceptives or other options. Changing to low-profestin contraceptives has shown to reduce acne in some cases. An oral contraceptive containing ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel may provide benefits for moderate acne.

Linens and Headgear: Washcloths, towels, pillowcases, hats, sweatbands, etc. collect bacteria and return it to the skin each time the item is used. Change washcloth, towels and pillowcases every two to three days while achieving control of acne. Make sure headgear is clean and/or avoid the use of unnecessary items.

Hairline or Forehead Acne: A pattern of acne that basically follows the hairline may be caused by sebum and free fatty acids that are generated in the scalp and migrate onto the forehead. The condition can be reduced or eliminated by shampooing more frequently and/or selecting a shampoo specifically developed for oily hair. While hair may not be oily, this type of shampoo can reduce the sebum and fatty acids in the scalp. Glycolic Cleanser can be used as an oil reducing shampoo. Antibacterial Cleanser and Septicide Cleanser perform this function and kill P. acnes as well.

Sun Exposure: Rumors about unprotected sun exposure being beneficial in reducing skin oiliness and thereby reducing acne are ill-founded. Photons of sunlight produce free radicals within the skin, which promote acne and reduce the skin's ability to heal and repair. People with acne should avoid sun exposure and use an effective UVA/UVB sunscreen

If you are looking for ways of how to lower high blood pressure perhaps we should first talk about what causes high blood pressure in the first place. Well the truth is that there are many different causes ranging from, poor diet, lack of exercise, stress and hypertension. High blood pressure that is left untreated can lead to other more serious conditions, including stroke and heart attack. Having some knowledge of what causes high blood pressure will help you to avoid the risks.

Changing your diet and watching what you eat and drink will greatly help reduce high blood pressure. One of the major causes of high blood pressure is cholesterol. People with high levels of cholesterol are almost certain to have higher blood pressure when compared to someone with a healthy diet. Cholesterol causes fatty deposits to coat the artery walls. Over time these fats form into a hard plaque that reduces the size of arteries and blood vessels making them smaller and smaller. Your body still needs to pump the same amount of blood through these blood vessels, and this is what causes high blood pressure. Another great way of how to lower high blood pressure is to reduce the amount of sugar in your diet. We all like our sweets and desserts but here again simply by lowering your sugar intake can really help reduce high blood pressure. Eating high amounts of sugar or sugary foods causes your blood to thicken due to the glucose. If your blood is thicker than it normally should be it is again harder to circulate and so causes high blood pressure.

Another good way to help reduce high blood pressure is to cut down on other things that have been shown to be causes of high blood pressure. These include nicotine which is in cigarettes and other tobacco products. Excessive alcohol consumption has also been proved to increase the risk, so by lowering your alcohol intake it will also help reduce high blood pressure, as will cutting down on the amount of caffeine in your diet.

Exercise has also been shown to greatly help reduce high blood pressure, but always consult your Doctor or a medical professional before taking up any strenuous exercise programme, as the wrong type of exercise could make your symptoms worse. Weight lifting is something that should be avoided because this can be very stressful on the heart. Highly intensive cardiovascular workouts are also not good for people with high blood pressure as this type of workout greatly raises your blood pressure.

Moderate exercise is the best way, and over a period of time you will lower your cholesterol, your weight and therefore your blood pressure. Things like Yoga and slow movement exercises are especially good to help reduce high blood pressure as they are very heart friendly. Always practice warming up and cooling down exercises before, and after your main exercise as this slowly raises and lowers your blood pressure rather than causing dangerous spikes. By using these simple tips on diet and exercise you will be well on your way to achieving a more normal range blood pressure level and also help reduce high blood pressure in the future.

1. Are you overweight? Lose weight.

   Maintaining a healthy weight (see your doctor about this) will help prevent high blood pressure.

   Getting back to a healthy weight is not as hard as it sounds. You can start by limiting the portion size of your meals and snacks, and cut way back on high calorie foods.

   If you eat as many calories as you burn each day, you’ll maintain your weight. Eating fewer calories than you burn will help you lose weight. And losing weight will help lower your blood pressure.

2. When you plan meals, think of your heart.
   Choose a diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. Keep total fat low and avoid foods that are high in saturated fats and cholesterol.

   Having a healthy heart will help prevent blood pressure.

3. Eat less salt and sodium.
   Salt and sodium can increase blood pressure, so it’s important to read food labels. The U.S. guidelines suggest limiting sodium intake to no more than 2,400 mg, or about 1 teaspoon of salt each day.

   If you eat canned, processed, and convenience foods, buy the brands that are lower in sodium.

   If you salt your food at the table, try using less, or none. It may take a little while to get used to the new flavors, but you may find that food tastes better when you use less salt.

   Fast food can contain a lot of sodium, so if you eat fast food choose items that are lower in salt and sodium. Reducing your salt intake will help to prevent high blood pressure.

4. If you drink alcohol, practice moderation.
   The U.S. guidelines recommend that men have no more than 2 drinks per day, and women have no more than one alcoholic beverage per day.
5. Increase your physical activity.
   Exercise is a key factor in preventing high blood pressure.

   If you get very little exercise now, start slowly and work your way up to at least 30 minutes of a moderate-level activity, such as brisk walking or bicycling, each day. If time is a factor, you’ll still benefit by breaking the 30 minute daily exercise periods into 10 or 15 minute sessions.

6. Stop smoking.
   Research shows that smoking increases your chances of developing a heart disease, stroke, stroke, peripheral arterial disease, and several forms of cancer.
7. Talk with your doctor or health care professional.
   Learn what your blood pressure reading means to your health, and if medication is recommended for you to treat or prevent high blood pressure.
8. If your doctor prescribes medication, take it.
   It’s important to understand:
   
   • what your blood pressure medication is expected to do for you
   • how to take your medication, and when
   • if your blood pressure medication has any side effects
   • if the blood pressure medication is safe to take with any other prescriptions or vitamins you are already taking

   If you have high blood pressure and treatment is prescribed, don't be afraid to ask questions or get another medical opinion. Once you understand why you’re taking the medication, follow the recommended dose.

   But the best way to treat high blood pressure is to prevent high blood pressure from becoming a problem. These 8 tips, plus advice from your health care provider, can help you keep your blood pressure at a healthy level. If you would like more information on blood pressure, how it's measured and what the measurements mean, see Blood Pressure 101: Why Are Those Numbers Important?.

Tip # 1-Lose weight

I know what you are thinking. "That's easier said than done." I agree, but if you follow tips #2 through #5, you will lose weight and it won't be as difficult as you think. Many medical studies have proven that cholesterol levels decrease as weight is lost. Personally, my average cholesterol came down over 20% when I lost 30 pounds.

Most of us need a structured diet plan in order to be successful. I recommend a diet that is rich in omega 3 fatty acids, and includes a large variety of vegetables.

Tip # 2-Increase your fiber intake

You can find dozens of foods and supplements on the internet that are said to reduce cholesterol. They range from red rice yeast to gugullipid to soy. But the most effective natural ways to lower cholesterol are the tried and true. It has long been known that soluble fiber lowers cholesterol. There is no question about it. The American Heart Association recommends adding both soluble and insoluble fiber to your diet. Some of the best sources of soluble fiber are oat and rice bran, fruits, and green vegetables. Nutritional supplements that include flax and psyllium also have a proven positive effect on cholesterol.

Tip #3-Cut back on saturated fats

In western cultures, the major sources of saturated fats are red meat and deep fried foods. For individuals who want to reduce cholesterol, it is recommended to limit red meat consumption to one meal each week and avoid deep fried foods like fried chicken completely.

Snacks such as potato and tortilla chips are also very high in saturated fats, but by substituting baked varieties it is possible to cut back on the saturated fats. Baked tortilla chips and salsa makes a very satisfying snack.

Tip #4-Exercise

Yes, everyone knows they should be getting more exercise, but few follow through with it. If you are serious about using natural ways to reduce cholesterol, this should be part of your plan. I recommend increasing your exercise little by little. Park further away when shopping so you have to walk across the parking lot. Walk up stairs instead of taking the elevator.

Having said this, the truth is that you will need to work up to regular aerobic exercise before it will help reduce cholesterol. Twenty to thirty minutes, 3 or 4 days a week of moderate exercise is what it will take.

Tip #5-Nutritional Supplements

While cholesterol can be lowered with only dietary changes and exercise, you will find that one of the best natural ways to lower cholesterol is with nutritional supplements. In fact, unless you are able to dedicate several hours each week to exercise, you will receive more benefit to reduce cholesterol levels from nutritional supplements than from exercise. Just don't make it a reason not to exercise.

Now it's time to start putting these natural ways to lower cholesterol to work. You will be amazed to see how quickly you reduce cholesterol. At the same time you will begin to feel better and have more energy