Herbal Tea Remedies

There is nothing like being served a hot cup of tea early in the morning. It not only refreshes you from the sleepiness, but also prepares you for the day’s hectic schedule. Tea is the second best beverage consumed after water today. Though tea does have certain benefits tagged to it, the amount of caffeine consumed with each cup of tea cannot be neglected. 

This disadvantage of tea paved way for the acceptance and popularity of the herbal tea. Herbal tea or ‘tisane’ is an herbal infusion made out of leaves, dried flowers, seeds and roots of particular herbs. The herbal variant of tea has gained a significant place in the herbal medicinal sector and has been used to cure many health issues over centuries together. This article provides you with the list of remedies obtained by consuming herbal teas. Read on and know the benefits of consuming different types of herbs in the form of tea.

List Of Herbal Tea Remedies

Herbal tea is very useful for an individual who wants to reduce his/her intake of caffeine, due to the consumption of ordinary tea and coffee. Herbal tea helps in healing insomnia, menstrual pain and aids in body detoxification.

Certain herbs like Saint John’s wort, kava, skullcap, etc have a calming and stabilizing effect on the mind. Hence, tea prepared from such herbs can be used as a remedy for mild cases of depression and anxiety symptoms. However, it is sometimes considered to be risky to use herbal remedies for depression.

Herbs, like the licorice root, prove to be very effective in treating stomach ulcers. People suffering from peptic ulcers can also be given licorice root tea, prepared from ½ tsp licorice root powder steeped in a cup of boiling water. Two cups of this tea will help in relieving the patient. However, consumption of this tea should be limited, since excess intake can harm the body.

Herbal teas are best known for their digestive properties. Peppermint teas are well known for being a stomach soother and are also effective in curing gallstone problems and heartburns.

Herbal tea is also known to cure conditions of diverticulitis and promote digestion process. Dandelion aids the digestion process and hence, is very beneficial for the health of the liver. It is rich in potassium, which makes it extremely beneficial for the liver and digestive system of the body.

Herbal tea helps in curing conditions of insomnia. Chamomile tea is one such tea that has a mild and relaxing effect on the person, making him calm down and go off to sleep. Chamomile is also given to patients in the hospital to calm and reduce their feelings of pain. Apart from curing insomnia, chamomile tea also puts on track the various imbalances in the body that contribute to sleep deprivation.

Chamomile tea is well known for its ataractic attributes and also contains certain anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties. This herbal tea can be used safely for young children and disturbed people. It can also help in improving the digestive problems. One of the interesting aspects of consumption of chamomile tea is that it separates the mind from the stomach, thus, making digestion to proceed normally, without the interception of worries and tensions.

There are many women who get unwanted hair on their face, legs and other parts of their body, due to the high secretion of male hormone in their body. Many studies and research have revealed that the consumption of spearmint tea by such women helps in reducing the amount of unwanted hair growth in their body.

Herbal tea, very surprisingly, can also help in reducing weight. Infusion of mature leaves of myrtle, sage, juniper berries and leaves of nettle can help clear your system and also control your urge to have snacks and eat at all times, thereby assisting in reducing the intake of fatty and oily substances.

Common herbs, like nettle, are very beneficial. Nettle leaves can have positive effect on your bones, skin, nails and hair, making them strong and healthy. Parsley can help in curing any problems of water retention in your body.

Fennel tea is another such herbal tea that cures long-term constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, urinary disorders, cough and bronchitis problems. This particular herbal tea increases the milk flow in nursing mothers. Fennel tea, when applied on eyes as a lotion, can cure minor eye complaints, such as irritation and morning puffiness. This tea is also beneficial against bruises, dull and oily skin, gum infection and bad breath. Fennel tea is one of the best herbal remedies for menopausal symptoms and PMS.

Herbal Remedies For Eczema

Eczema is a form of skin disease that is characteristiced by severe itching, inflammation and outbreak of rashes. It is also known as flaky skin or dermatitis. It is a chronic disorder that has no permanent cure. It can only be controlled or prevented. The most common affected parts of the skin are the hands, wrists, arms, neck, face, upper chest, and back of the knees. Eczema is not contagious and mostly affects children. It is caused when the skin becomes too dry and is unable to eliminate toxins. 

Severe eczema is caused by the abnormal response of the immune system. Other reasons are allergies, genetic conditions, and lack of proper nutrition. Sometimes the symptoms of eczema persist throughout the life. It is estimated that at least twenty percent of the population is affected by this skin condition. Read the article below to learn some tips on curing eczema through herbal remedies.

Herbal Cure For Eczema

Neem

Neem is widely used in ayurvedic medicine. Neem extract applied to the skin keeps it healthy and free from infections. It also purifies the blood and acts as a detoxifier. Use neem oil on the skin affected with eczema on a regular basis. Another way is to boil neem leaves in water and then wash the eczema-affected area. Use daily at least three times a day until the eczema is completely reduced.

Jojoba Oil

Mix jojoba oil with tea tree oil and apply it on the skin rashes. This oil is soothing and can be mixed with other herbal extracts. 

Shuddha Guggul (Commiphora Mukul)

Guggul acts by eliminating toxins and rejuvenating the body cells. It is used in a combination with other herbs. Regular use of guggul capsules helps in reducing eczema.

Mango

Boil the mango pulp in water and then allow it to cool. Apply this paste on the affected area for a period of 15 days.

Strawberry

Take five to six strawberries and grind it to a paste. Apply it on the rash and using a clean cloth cover the paste. For better effect, apply the paste at least 3 to 4 times a day for a period of two weeks.

Turmeric Powder

Turmeric has always been used as an effective medicine for skin infections. Take three teaspoon of turmeric powder and mix it in water. Then boil it in low flame. Use this solution to wash the rash.

Nutmeg

Grind the nutmeg into fine powder. Add water and make it into a paste. Apply this paste on the eczema inflammation two to three times a day.

Burdock Root

Burdock roots are a natural antiseptic and anti allergic. Use burdock root paste regularly to control eczema. Grind the burdock into a paste and apply it on the skin two times a day.

Tulsi (Holi Basil)

Take basil leaves and grind them into a thick paste. Apply the paste on the affected area. The leaves can also be boiled and then used regularly to wash the skin rashes.

Garlic

Take four to five garlic cloves and crush them. Put the garlic in water and set for boiling. Now, using a clean piece of cloth, soak it in the solution and dab it on the affected area.

Papaya

Papaya seeds are very effective in reducing itching. Mash a handful of papaya seeds and apply the paste to the eczema rash. 

Tea

Brew your daily cup of tea with one tablespoon of vinegar and one tablespoon of honey. Drink regularly as it will help in reducing eczema.

Cold And Flu Remedies

During fall and winter, it is very misfortunate for most of the people who fall prey to cold and flu. Few of the symptoms of a common cold are congestion, sore throat, sneezing, running nose and coughing. If these symptoms are accompanied by a fever of 102°F or more, headache, muscle ache, extreme fatigue, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, you are likely to have flu. Your head feels stuffed up and you feel uncomfortable. 

There are numerous natural home remedies for cold and flu that can soothe your cold symptoms and help you with your overall health too. These home remedies help to ease the discomfort of colds and dreaded seasonal flu. Read on further to know about a few of the cold and flu home remedies.

Natural Home Remedies For Cold & Flu 

Blow your nose regularly instead of sniffling the mucus back into your head. Press a finger over one nostril and blow gently to clear the other. Be sure to wash your hands after blowing your nose.

When diagnosed with cold or flu, take complete rest to help your body direct its energy towards the immune battle. Lie down under a blanket.

You can gargle to moisten a sore throat and bring temporary relief. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle. Repeat this four times a day.

Gargle with tea that contains tannin. This is an astringent gargle which will reduce the tickle in the throat and tighten the membranes.

Put one tablespoon of raspberry leaves or lemon juice in two cups of hot water. Add in one teaspoon of honey. Cool the mixture to room temperature and gargle.

Increase your intake of hot liquids to relieve nasal congestion, prevent dehydration and soothe the uncomfortably inflamed membranes lining your nose and throat.

Run a steamy shower while sitting on a chair nearby and taking a sponge bath. Doing this will moisturize your nasal passages and relax you.

Dab some mentholated salve under your nose to open breathing passages and soothe the irritated skin at the base of the nose. Some of the mild numbing ingredients that help in relieving the pain of a rubbed nose are menthol, eucalyptus and camphor.

Mix olive oil with a few drops of eucalyptus oil and peppermint oil and rub this on the chest.

Apply hot or cold packs around your congested sinuses to make you feel comfortable. Take a damp washcloth and heat it in the microwave for 55 seconds. You can also take a small bag of frozen peas and use it as a cold pack.

Keep extra pillows under your head to drain the nasal passages. If you feel uncomfortable in this position, place the pillows between the mattress and the box springs to create a more gradual slope.

In case you are flying with cold or flu, chew gum and swallow frequently to relieve pressure. Use a decongestant and carry a nasal spray to use just before takeoff and landing.

Take a 45-minute walk to shake the cold. This will direct the immune system to circulate infection-fighting antibodies.

Wet your cotton socks and wear them on your feet. Now wear wool socks. This will draw the moisture from the head downward to the toes.

Mix amla powder with juiced carrots and a little raw cream. This is a good vitamin tonic helpful in cold and flu.

Vitamin C is excellent for relieving cold and flu symptoms and helps the body fight infection. Combine orange, pineapple, seedless grapes, lots of fresh ginger, banana, pink grapefruit, and cantaloupe in a blender. Add orange juice if required. Apart from being a delicious drink, it is healthy and fights cold.

What is Atypical Migraine

Atypical migraine is a complex migraine headache and is commonly known as sick headache, common headache or migraine without aura. The diagnosis of this type is a little tricky. The main difference between normal and atypical migraine is that the symptoms of atypical do not fit in the normal symptoms. 

However it is quite difficult to classify and categorize it from the normal ones but efforts are still being made to come up with an acceptable classification to make it easier to recognize the symptoms of atypical migraines. While diagnosing it, your doctor must be pretty sure that the symptoms do not look like migraines. 

About 23 million people are affected by this problem in the US, out of which 18% of them are females and 6% of them are males. Also, the white people are found to be most commonly affected by the condition. Migraines as such are often accompanied by headaches and if there is no headache then it is referred to as atypical migraine. It may involve stomachache, abdominal pain or even face ache. Another characteristic that differentiates atypical migraine from migraine is that it involves the whole head rather than only one side of the head. This condition tends to have neurological effects though it might last for only a couple of hours.

So far, researches have not been able to point out the exact causes of migraines. Though, doctors are indicating that it could be due to the constrictions of the blood vessels in the brain. But no one has been able to point out as to what makes the blood vessel constrict. Some of the causes of atypical migraines apart from the stated above are:

1) Genetic disorder

2) Insufficient sleep

3) Weather changes

4) Motion sickness

5) Exposure to fluorescent light or bright light.

6) Certain foods with additives 

7) Smoking, drinking, stress and being overweight can also trigger migraines.

If you are aware of the things that triggers migraine then it is best to eliminate those things from your daily routine. As far as the treatment is concerned, there are a number of medications available which can be relied on. Also regular exercise, proper diet and a healthy lifestyle will also be helpful. An important point to keep in mind is that the attack of atypical migraines is similar to that of the strokes, so it is best to consult a doctor immediately. 

Also read on to know more about symptoms of atypical migraines to help you recognize when it sets in. We value your comments and views so feel free to write in and share your opinions with us.

Treat Your Painful Stiff Neck With Natural Remedies

Unless diagnosed as a serious medical condition, the problem of stiff neck is easy to identify. When a person feels difficulty in moving the neck sidewise and backward and has soreness in the neck, this condition is known as stiff neck. 

Stiff neck may be accompanied by arm pain, headache or shoulder pain.

The symptoms of neck stiffness usually last for few days or for a week and sometimes reoccur. If left untreated, the neck stiffness tends to become a chronic condition. In most cases of acute neck stiffness, one can overcome it due to restorative and durable characteristics of the cervical spine.

Treat Your Painful Stiff Neck with Natural Remedies

The muscle sprain or strain, particularly strain on levator scapula muscle located at back and side of the neck is the most common cause for stiff neck. This is because the muscle that connects the cervical spine (neck) with shoulder is levator scapula muscle.

This Painful Body Condition May be Caused Due to Following Reasons

• Poor neck posture while working or watching TV
• Odd Sleeping position at night
• Stress
• Injuries occurred during sport activities
• Activities that requires lot of head movement
• Resting the neck in odd posture for a longer period
• Whiplash in the neck due to car accident

Treat Your Painful Stiff Neck with Natural Remedies

Generally, stiffness in the neck muscles heals within two to three days. There are some self-care remedies that can help to get relief from pain and stiffness of neck. These remedies include:

Treat Your Painful Stiff Neck with Natural Remedies

Apply ice pack after every 20 minutes to reduce inflammation and heal the area. 

Applying cold pack brings quick relief from pain and stiffness in the neck by providing a numbing effect.

Just like cold pack, applying heat stimulates the blood flow and brings relief. You can use a heat wrap like thermacare available in drug stores or simply take a hot bath or shower.

Let the hot water hit the muscles of your neck. Along with this, do some light neck stretches like slowly bringing your chin down to your chest or moving your head by turning it towards right and left shoulders alternatively. Also try to rotate your neck to the left and right sides.

Performing neck stretches 3-4 times a day will help to loosen up the muscle, increase the range of motion and decrease pain and stiffness.  For applying heat you can also make a rice bag using white rice and flannel. Put the bag for 2-3 minutes in the microwave and apply the moist heat to get relief from stiff neck.

If you have muscle spasms due to stiff neck and you are having difficulty in turning your head, use a natural pain relieving gel. It can be in used before or after using ice pack. To stimulate blood flow, massage gently. Massaging the affected area with lobelia extract is also a good remedy.

Treat Your Painful Stiff Neck with Natural Remedies

For quick respite, take lobelia and cayenne.

Squeezing your shoulders up near the ears and holding for 10 seconds and then releasing them also helps to relieve stiff or tight neck.

Get your cervical x-ray done to find if there is any problem regarding alignment of neck or degeneration of cervical spine. A chiropractic therapist can help in this condition.

If you often suffer from stiff neck, get a cervical traction neck pillow available in the market. This type of pillow helps to keep your head and neck aligned correctly when you sleep at night.

Sleeping on stomach or any other awkward position often contribute to stiff neck by putting pressure on  muscles of neck, spine and the cervical nerves.