Healthy Lifestyle Archives

6 Effective Home Remedies To Soothe A Throat Tickle

We have all experienced throat tickles, so I feel that we all would relate when I say this: throat tickles are the worst! They’re frustrating, painful, affect your speech, and make even simple tasks like consuming food and drinking water a big hassle. Alternatively, there is not much in the world that is quite satisfying as soothing a throat trickle. Is your throat hurting just like mine? Don’t fuss, read on to find some of the simplest ways to soothe a throat tickle.

What is a tickle in the throat?

A “throat tickle” is a general term used to denote a condition where your throat feels itchy and uncomfortable. Sometimes, a throat tickle leads to coughing and that is the end of it. Other times, even after coughing, throat tickles stay right in their place feeling like a heavy blurb in your throat or a rash-like sensation in your throat. Throat tickles are also often accompanied by a runny nose, dry cough, chest pain or a heavy feeling in the lungs, hoarseness in the voice, and a nasal block. Additionally, you may also feel as though there is a lump in your throat. Due to whatever cause that led to your throat tickle, your tonsils may start swelling and aching, causing discomfort.

The purpose of a throat tickle is to get rid of or indicate the acclimation of mucous in your throat, or the entrance of an outside substance such as smoke or dust. The cough is the action taken by your body to get rid of the unwanted substance (mucous or outside irritants).

Common Causes of A Throat Tickle

Usually, throat tickle comes about as a symptom of an infection, inflammation in the upper respiratory system, or an allergic reaction. Here are the most common causes of throat tickling:

Common Cold

A throat tickle is most commonly experienced when one has a common cold. The common cold is caused by a range of viruses and is generally not that serious. A runny nose, congestion, coughing, and fever are some common symptoms.

In a common cold, your nose gets blocked with a cough which results in a postnasal drip in your throat. When your nose is overfilled with a cough, a lot of mucous tends to drip back into your throat. Sneezing and coughing are automatic mechanisms through which your body attempts to get rid of them. This post-nasal drip causes throat tickling. Sometimes, even when your common cold is gone, throat tickling stays on for a while. This is normal and generally gets better within 2 weeks. Prolonged coughing and cold, however, may be signs of a bigger problem.

Acid Reflux

Acid reflux refers to a condition where the digestive acids from your stomach end up in the oesophagus (food pipe). This can often lead to heartburn, irritate your food pipe’s lining, and cause a burning sensation starting from above your stomach. You might know it as a more common term known as “acidity”.

Often people with acidity are unaware that their stomach problem can also lead to cough, as it infects your upper respiratory tracts. As a result of this cough, inflammation from the acids, and discomfort – a throat tickle may arise.

Inflammation of the Voice Box

Have you ever “lost your voice”? This is something that can commonly occur when you stress your vocal cords too much while say, singing in a high pitch. Such stress on your vocal cords can lead to hoarseness in your voice along with an inflamed, uncomfortable feeling in your throat. This condition is also known as laryngitis and can be behind a throat tickle.

Your throat and voice box can also be inflamed by environmental factors such as dust, pollution, smoke, or simply after coming in contact with a substance you are allergic to. This can, again, be the cause of throat tickle.

Sinus Infection

Sinuses refer to a system of cavities that connect your nose and skull. In some cases, cough or infection can reach your sinuses causing headaches, facial pain, blocked and runny nose, and a ticklish throat. Sinus infections tend to accompany other cough infections such as the common cold. They usually can be resolved by remedies or clear up after a couple of weeks on their own.

Other Possible Causes Behind A Throat Tickle

Asthma
Non-allergic Rhinitis
Obstructive airway disease
Anaphylaxis
Lung disorders
Post-infectious nasal drip
Throat cancer

Home remedies for a tickle in the throat

A throat tickle is a common condition and one that tends to be easily fixable. Since it is often a symptom of an underlying condition, in some cases, the treatment is to get to the cause of the throat tickle.

However, if your throat tickle is caused by comparatively minor issues, you’re in luck! There are tons of remedies to treat a throat tickle, some being used for centuries while others being more innovative and modern. Here are 6 of the best ways to soothe a throat tickle:

Ginger Tea

Ginger has unique properties because of which it is a pretty popular cough remedy. Biting into a piece of ginger might not be many people’s favourite thing to do, but it sure is effective in treating a throat tickle! Apart from having spicy juices that effectively clear out your cough, the ginger herb has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that serve to strengthen your immune system to treat a cough.

Here are simple steps to make ginger tea:

Grate about 1 inch of ginger.
Pour 1 and a ½ cups of freshwater into a pan. Add ginger to this water.
Let the water boil on a stove until you can smell the fragrance of ginger coming from it.
Filter out the residual ginger and pour the liquid into a cup.
This is a basic ginger tea. You can add lemon to it if you wish to make it a little acidic and a teaspoon of honey if you wish to make your tea sweeter.
It is best to drink your ginger tea while it is hot. However, be careful to not burn your tongue.
Ginger tea without the extra lemon and honey can be used to gargle.

Honey

Honey is one of the healthiest sweeteners out there. Many herbal tea drinkers use honey as a healthy alternative to sugars in their drinks. But that is certainly not all it is good for! Not only does honey help with the throat ache you might feel during a cough, but it actively fights against cold viruses to clear up your throat.

You can use honey to treat a throat tickle by:

Adding it to your hot beverages such as green tea or herbal teas.
Eating a teaspoon of honey every morning.

Gargling

A unique thing about gargling as a sore throat remedy is that it is almost the only remedy that requires you to spit out your cough. This ensures that the cough or irritation in your throat is actively removed from your body and not simply swallowed into the system.

Gargling is a simple practice. All you have to do is:

Warm some water up until it is hot enough to melt a congested cough. You don’t have to boil it as it might burn up your tongue.
There is a range of things you can add to this hot water for effective gargling. We recommend you add salt and black pepper. The anti-infectious quality of salt and the spice of black pepper can make you feel instant relief from a ticklish throat.
Pour the salt water into a cup. Drink up just as you would with a beverage. However, instead of swallowing the water, hold it in your mouth, particularly in the throat area. Try to stimulate your throat, like you would if you were screaming. Making a “kha” or “gha” sound also works.
After holding the hot water in your throat for about 15-20 seconds, spit it out.
Repeat this process for the entire cup of hot water

Drink Lots Of Water

Often many people forget to drink water when they have a cough or a ticklish throat. Other times people may assume that drinking water will not help but worsen their problems. Please note that this is completely false! Hydration is necessary when you have cough or throat problems.

Not drinking enough water can lead to a worsened infection and a dry uncomfortable sensation in your throat along with a throat tickle. Drinking water not only hydrates you but enables your body to fight infection better. Water is also effective in clearing cough from your oesophagus to a big extent. Warm water is best in this regard, but room temperature water also works.

Steam For Dry Cough

A dry cough can lead to a very uncomfortable throat tickle. It has a burning sensation that just does not seem to go away. Additionally, dry cough often can lead to discomfort in your blocked nose. Because dry cough consists of hardened mucous in your throat and nose, steam works best to treat. Inhaling steam essentially gets water in a gaseous form to enter your nostrils from within and clear out blocked ways.

You can take steam by

A regular electrical steamer.
Boiling some water in a big pan, and placing your nostrils over it. Cover your head with a towel for the best results.

Turmeric Milk

Turmeric is a herb loved by alternative medicine systems such as Ayurveda, thanks to its excellent healing, anti-inflammatory, disinfectant, and cleansing properties. Milk is good to soothe your body and give it some calcium and protein Tog.ether they make the drink of turmeric milk which has existed as a sore throat remedy for centuries. This remedy can be used right before you go to bed, as coughs tend to get worse overnight.

Here is a simple recipe for turmeric milk:

Warm-up about 250 ml (1 glass) of milk in a pan.
After it is warmed up pour it into a glass and add 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder into it.
Add sugar according to your taste.
Mix well. Drink up while it is warm.

How to prevent a tickle in the throat?

The only way you can prevent a future throat tickle is by determining what’s causing your throat tickle. If you are often having a ticklish throat, track down what you are eating and what kind of environment you live in to narrow down the cause. Here are some tips to prevent a throat tickle, most of which are cause-specific:

Dietary changes (for acid reflux)

If it is acid reflux that is causing your throat to tickle, it would be a good idea to always keep an antacid handy. Avoid eating food that is too spicy or acidic such as hot noodles, lemons, oranges, tomatoes, vinegar, high-fat foods such as fries, and chewing gums.

Instead, fill your diet with low-fat and water-rich foods. This includes watermelons, cucumbers, bananas, apples, lean meat, and seafood. Anti-inflammatory foods such as oatmeal and ginger also work wonders for acid reflux. Always stay hydrated.

Humidifier

Many people may have allergies triggered by dry air and dust. While it is an air purifier that will help you with pollution and dirt – humidifiers can work wonders for immediate triggers. Consider investing in one if it is viable for you. Dryness and tickling in the throat can be worsened, even inflamed in dry air conditions. Humidifiers add water to the air preventing your throat from getting itchy, drying out, or getting inflamed.

Avoid caffeine and smoking

Throat tickles are the worst when you are dehydrated. While caffeine is a drug many of us consume in our daily beverages, it has dehydrating, often stress-inducing effects on the body. It can make your body use up more water than usual, causing your throat to get ticklish with dryness.

Smoking is another practice that worsens the condition of not just your throat but also your lungs. It can and does inflame your upper respiratory tract, causing you the worst throat tickles possible. Moreover, smoking is dehydrating and thus can slow down your recovery process.

Always be prepared

Prevention is always better than cure. Even if you are not currently experiencing severe discomforting cough symptoms such as a bad throat tickle, a mild cough can indicate future problems. Instead of waiting for the worst, try to incorporate remedies such as gargling, and drinking herbal teas as a precaution when you have just caught a cold. It will save you a lot of time and hassle.

Additionally, if you are someone who is allergic to dust, pollution, or dry air – it is time you start taking concrete measures to prevent problems. In current times, we all wear masks when we go outside. However, cloth masks or surgical masks may not be enough for dust allergies. Invest in an anti-pollution mask instead, that can protect you much better.

Rest well

It is never a good idea to overexert yourself and ignore your body when it is asking for care and attention. If you are sick, give yourself a break and take proper rest. Make sure you get at least 8 hours of sleep when you are sick with cough and cold.

When to see a doctor?

Common cold has the word “common” in it for a reason. Often it is in fact not a big problem and goes away on its own. The same goes for conditions such as laryngitis and acid reflux. However, sometimes, these minor problems can manifest into much bigger diseases if they stay in your body chronically. Seek medical attention immediately if:

Your cold or cough hasn’t gotten better after more than 2 weeks.
You notice red or white bumps inside your throat.
A high fever is accompanying your throat tickle.
You chronically have a ticklish throat due to acidity.
Your throat tickle is causing you severe distress and disabling you from doing regular daily activities.
You have had a runny nose for over a month and constantly get chills in your body.
You are having strong allergic reactions such as itchy skin, swollen lips, redness, and swelling.
You are experiencing severe ear pain.
You constantly feel low on energy and fatigued.

Upon a proper diagnosis, a doctor may determine the proper cause of your symptoms. This can follow with a cause-specific treatment or general cough treatments such as inhalers, antibiotics, nasal drops, antacids, and so on.

Main Takeaways

Throat tickles are something we all experience in our lives at some point or another. Though throat tickling can be very irritating and uncomfortable, it is generally not that serious. Throat tickling can be treated effectively with some simple home remedies such as ginger tea, turmeric milk, steam, and gargling. Always remember to stay appropriately hydrated when you are going through a cold infection. Investing in humidifiers and wearing appropriate masks may also help. Consult a doctor if your symptoms seem too distressing and serious. We hope this blog helped!

The Ayurvedic Way for Oral Hygiene

Long before shiny toothpaste advertised to make your teeth white and strong existed, before all the electrical toothbrushes existed, and before the mouthwashes you religiously use twice a day existed – there existed a natural herbal approach to oral hygiene. A system that not only treated your teeth such that they shine bright, but so they function with optimal strength, and your mouth never has bad breath. That’s right, we’re talking about the ancient oral hygiene approach of Ayurveda.

While dental hygiene was not particularly Ayurveda’s specialty, we must admit, they had a lot of things quite right. Modern research has been done on Ayurvedic practices of oral hygiene, and they have proved to be effective. This blog discusses all the Ayurvedic ways of oral hygiene, starting from a sort of familiar usage of twigs as toothpaste and toothbrush, and then diving into little-known practices like oil pulling and tongue scraping. Read on!

Why Were Twigs Used as Toothbrush and Toothpaste?

You may be aware of the infamous dantoon, where one uses the twigs of certain plants to clean their teeth as a substitute for toothbrushes and toothpaste. Indeed, a long time ago, this was how human beings practiced oral hygiene in many parts of the world. Ayurveda believes in the concept of holistic wellbeing through the prevention of disease enabled by Dinacharya (the ideal lifestyle). Part of this ideal lifestyle includes everything we are talking about at this moment.

Dantadhvana (tooth cleansing) was one of the essentials included in Ayurvedic Dinacharya. This process of tooth cleansing was enabled by Dantakashthas, which we would today understand as twigs of various plants, dantoons, or chewing sticks. Ayurveda recommends cleaning teeth with a chewing stick in the morning, as well as after every meal one consumes. If you read up on the Indian history of toothbrushes, you will find that Dantadhvana was essential to do before one prays.

The obvious reason why twigs were used instead of toothbrushes and toothpaste is that at that time, these products simply did not exist. But you may be surprised to find that using twigs for cleaning teeth was a very effective tool to remove plaque from teeth, levelling of biting surfaces on the teeth, and facilitating salivary secretion.

Most of these tree stems had good antibacterial properties enabling them to cleanse your mouth. Chewing sticks (as they are more commonly called today), typically are about 15 centimeters long, and about the width of your little finger. When you chew on twigs, you end up extracting their natural juices, which act as toothpaste in your mouth. As for their role as a toothbrush, their stick structure enables them to be useful. In fact, many times, the rear end of a Dantakashtha was used as a toothpick.

How To Select a Twig for Brushing?

There is no single tree that was universally used by humans to clean their teeth. Even within Ayurveda, many people used stems from different trees. Going by the philosophy of this ancient healthcare system, what stems you used were determined by the dosha imbalance you had. As a general rule, stems used as dantakashthas were bitter, pungent, or astringent in taste. Some examples of the plants used for this purpose include Neem, Babul, Gular, Mango, Peepal, and so on. To select a twig for brushing yourself, it would be wise to first understand the issues your teeth have, and then explore the options available to you.

Bitter stems, such as those from the trees of Neem and Arjuna, contain antibacterial properties that are good for maintaining cleanliness. This is suitable for those with the Pitta Dosha. By cleaning your mouth using these twigs, you get rid of bad breath and experience an enhanced sense of taste. Neem twigs are the most popular Dantkashtha on this date. If you buy Dantoon from any herbal markets, they are likely to be neem twigs.

According to Ayurveda, herbs that have a pungent flavor help to increase salivation in your mouth, which is suitable for those with Kapha Dosha. This enables better chewing and digestion of food, preventing chances of a stomach ache or poor bowel movement. Further, the increase in saliva enables your mouth to get rid of the toxins that may enter it. Fever nut and the common milkweed are two stems that are pungent tasting.

Finally, Astringent stems, like Khadira and Licorice, are healing and regenerative. They strengthen your gums and make your teeth stronger. If you have any mouth ulcers or sores, these herbs can improve the healing process and provide some soothing. Astringent tasting herbs also aid in dealing with bad breath. This is suitable for people with Vata dosha imbalance.

How To Use a Twig to Brush Your Teeth?

Now that you know how to select a suitable twig for your dental hygiene, there is only one little step to follow – knowing how to use these twigs on your teeth. While chewing sticks are beneficial when used properly, they may cause harm if you use them incorrectly, hurting your gums and possibly damaging your teeth. Here are some easy steps to follow once you find your favorite twig-toothbrush: –

Twigs aren’t supposed to be too thick, but certain plants might have thicker stems. If this is the case, wet one side of your twig with water or rosewater. If the twig you are using is soft enough, this step can be skipped.
Make sure the twig is clean enough. Now chew the side of the stem you have wet until it is crushed up and soft enough to make a brush.
There you go! Use the soft side of the twig to brush your teeth as you do with regular brushes. Move the twig up and down towards the front of your teeth, and be thorough.
Use the other side of the twig to get to places where food residues and bacteria may be stuck. Brush thoroughly again using the softer side.
Finally, after a thorough brushing, rinse your mouth to get rid of any stem residues in your mouth. Do not ingest. The bacteria in your mouth need to go out.

Tongue Scraping – A Necessity?

Not many are aware of the essentiality of cleaning your tongue every day, but we can assure you it might change your life. Dirt, bacteria, and food residues can stick to your tongue, making your breath smell foul. Ayurvedic philosophy states that when you are asleep, your body is at a resting state. During this time, toxins (called ama) begin to accumulate as the body processes everything that was consumed that day. These are visible as a coating on the tongue, white, yellow, or brown in color. A pink tongue indicates good oral hygiene.

While brushing and mouth washing are also ways in which you can clean your tongue, Ayurveda recommends cleaning your tongue by scraping it with a U-shaped tool, made of metals such as copper, silver, or gold. These should not be too sharp, but sharp enough to get the dirt and cough off your tongue. This process is called tongue scraping, or in Ayurvedic terms, jihwa prakshalana. To elaborate more, here are some benefits of tongue scraping:

Enhanced Sense of Taste

When you scrape your tongue, the top layer of it is gone, thereby letting your tastebuds get a sense of your food without layers of bacteria in between. Additionally, scraping your tongue stimulates your tastebuds, enhancing their function.

Goodbye, Bad Breath

When you’re asleep, your salivary glands produce less saliva than usual. This lets bacteria thrive in your mouth, causing the horrible morning breath we all hate. Tongue scraping embellishes your oral hygiene process and scrapes off bacteria in ways that mouth washing and brushing your tongue do not. This leaves you with fresh, stench-free breath every day.

Improves Digestion

When you ingest food, the sensory receptors on your tongue signal your brain to activate essential enzymes required for proper digestion. However, ama on your tongue obstructs this pathway with its mucus layer, affecting your digestion. Scraping ensures that this is avoided and your taste buds work optimally. This leads to smooth digestion without any discomfort.

Improves Immunity

Ayurveda believes in the interconnectedness of various body parts, which means your tongue health is also representative of your overall health. With the gradual accumulation of mucus and bacteria on your tongue, each time you eat something, you swallow some Ama along with it. The tongue is the first body part that comes in contact with outside food and cleaning ensures that these impurities do not cause trouble for your physiology. Therefore, scraping your tongue ensures an improved immunity.

Oil Pulling – The Ancient Mouth Wash Technique

Yes, you read that right. Before minty mouthwashes with lots of sulfuric acids existed, there was oil pulling. Oil pulling is an ancient practice used to keep one’s mouth clean. In addition to cleanliness, it has been widely used as a traditional Indian folk medicine to prevent decay, oral odour, bleeding gums, throat dryness, cracked lips, and to strengthen teeth, gums, and the jaw.

What Is Oil Pulling?

Oil pulling (called Kaval or Gandusha in Ayurveda) refers to rinsing your mouth with oil. This is done by putting a tablespoon of your preferred oil in your mouth and letting it rinse your mouth for around 15-20 minutes. We know that sounds like a lot of time, but it is essential to do so, so that the oil targets and cleans all hardened impurities in your teeth and gums. Ayurveda recommended that one practices oil pulling every morning right after waking up to get rid of accumulated ama during the night. This is followed by massaging your gums, tongue scraping, and finally brushing with twigs.

Often, sesame oil is used to practice oil pulling. It has many anti-bacterial properties and gets rid of plaque-causing bacteria in your mouth. Other oils used in oil pulling include the infamous coconut oil and sunflower oil. All of these oils are abundant in nutrients that strengthen your teeth and gums.

Oil Pulling and Massaging Gums

Massaging gums and teeth is an additional practice done right after you put oil in your mouth. To optimize the benefits of nutritious oil, one is recommended to effectively massage the oil on your teeth and gums. This strengthens your teeth, gums, and even jaw – improving blood circulation in your mouth by effectively pressing on the muscles. Ayurveda recommends doing this every morning right after you wake up, followed by keeping the oil in your mouth for about 15 minutes. This entire process is followed by tongue scraping and then brushing.

The benefits of oil pulling and massaging include: –

Treatment of dry lips and face
Preventing long term illnesses connected to ingestion of impurities and poor digestion
Curing dryness of the throat
Strengthening teeth and gums
Treating mouth ulcers and cuts

However, while practicing oil pulling there are a few precautions you should be sure to take including: –

Never swallow the oil you use for oil pulling.
Make sure to brush your teeth well once you are done.
Both of these precautions are subject to the fact that oil needs to be rinsed off from your mouth and discarded so you get rid of the impurities that stick to the oil.

To Sum Up

The ancient medicinal system of Ayurveda proves efficacy in many health issues, including maintaining oral health. If you are looking to improve your dental health, treat bad breath, and improve overall immunity, doing oral hygiene the Ayurveda way is the way to go.

Not only does Ayurveda use pure natural ingredients with zero harmful chemicals, but it is also better for the environment to ditch plastic toothbrushes and fancy toothpaste to maintain dental hygiene. We recommend looking no further and adopting toothbrush twigs, tongue scraping, and oil pulling as the nuanced yet traditional ways of taking care of your teeth.

Sattvic Diet: What it is, benefits and more

Heavily influenced by the Ayurveda, a sattvic diet is essentially a clean and pure vegetarian diet made up of legumes, pulses, sprouts, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, etc., that attempts to make individuals their healthiest selves. It promotes both the purity of the human mind and that of the body. This diet, way of living even, is very popular among people who are actively involved in the practice of ‘yog’ or as the westernized version of the word we like to call ‘yoga’. The diet or lifestyle is fairly simple to follow, especially in India since there still remains a culture of preparing our food from scratch at home and processed foods are much easier to avoid as compared to the west. While I try to follow a largely sattvic diet and am very happy with the results it has given me from time to time, the verdict on how good a sattvic diet may be for your body and overall health is heavily debated upon among fitness enthusiasts.

Three Types of Food

When we read about the traditional teachings of yoga and other ayurvedic practices, we come to know that all foods/diets are classified into three main categories or traditionally known as ‘gunas’, namely, Sattva (our hero for today!), Rajas, and Tamas. These categories or gunas are representative of the qualities that are present in everything in life, including food. They’re reflective of the behaviour we have, the thinking we possess, our health, and the diet we consume. According to Ayurveda, and other religious texts, people have all three gunas, only with varying proportions.

Sattva

Being the highest guna, Sattva represents balance and harmony and is considered to be the ideal state. The term “sattva” or “sattvic” refers to themes like harmony, health, purity, and well-being. Foods in a sattvic diet are prepared and eaten with awareness, gratitude, and love. These foods are said to improve your consciousness levels.

Rajas

Rajas as a guna, represents the movement as well as activity. Foods that increase this guna can lead to stress and overstimulation. The term “rajas” revolves around themes like activity, anger, restlessness, and stress. This type of diet usually consists of spice-heavy, rich in taste (basically my only source of joy on some days!) foods that give instant bursts of energy, but this energy is neither long-lasting nor sustainable and can disturb the mind-body equilibrium. It is also suggested that a person with this diet is more likely to have a weak and imbalanced digestive system. This particular category has some of my favourite foods namely onion and garlic, which according to old wives’ tales heighten sexual urges and are effective aphrodisiacs! (Perhaps that’s why we’re asked to avoid them?)

Tamas

Tamas as the base guna, is often associated with dullness, laze, lethargy, pessimism, and weakness. A tamasic diet is primarily made up of chemically processed foods like alcohol, cigarettes, eggs, and poultry, etc. This diet is often linked to diabetes, obesity, and some liver diseases.

What is a Sattvic Diet?

For the most part, a sattvic diet is a fiber-dense, low-in-fat, completely vegetarian diet followed by many health-conscious and environment-friendly people all over the world. According to Ayurveda, a sattvic diet is the best choice to make because it can promote longevity in a person’s life, indirectly improve/support their mental health as well as give them a boost in their physical strength. Sattvic food is known to be abundant in the life force, hence, the foods in a sattvic diet are known to be fresh, easy to digest, and most of all, seasonal.

More often than not, people do not put a lot of thought into their food, at least not from a spiritual perspective. It’s mostly about, what’s the tastiest, what’s easier, and what you’re in the “mood” for. This is primarily where a sattvic diet differs. It takes into consideration things like the diet’s composition, the environment wherein the food is to be prepared, the mood of the person preparing it, and the quality of said food.

Foods You Should Eat

There are a lot of foods that the Sattvic way of life prohibits strictly. This may be slightly annoying at times (okay maybe a bit more than slightly) but there still exists a wide variety of nuts, grains, fruits, vegetables, pulses, and more that are extremely delicious and more than satiating.

Here’s a list of permissible foods: –

Dairy and Oils

Ayurveda considers animal milk from cows to be one of the purest sattvic foods. It is said that milk holds the medicinal properties of the plants eaten by the animal. Dairy-derived products like Ghee, yogurt, butter, paneer, some types of cheeses (primarily fresh and young ones), etc., are all sattvic provided they haven’t been processed commercially. Oils, on the other hand, have the limitation of being only cold-pressed if they are to be consumed by someone on a sattvic diet.

Fruits and Vegetables

All fruits are considered sattvic except for their dry/aged versions. Since a sattvic diet is centred around fresh and natural ingredients, it doesn’t leave room for the same ingredients to age and develop into other delicacies. A great example of this would be grapes. Grapes are sattvic when eaten ripe but raisins (aged grapes) are tamasic. Most vegetables are also sattvic barring exceptions like Onions & garlic (as they’re pungent and rajasic in nature) and potatoes (they’re tamasic in nature). Followers of the sattvic diet and lifestyle emphasize the importance of eating green vegetables.

Grains and Pulses

Whole grains such as bajra, barley, jowar, oats, quinoa, ragi, rice, wheat, etc. Porridges and chapatis made from these are healthy to consume and the sattvic diet encourages followers to eat them because of their nutritious value. This list is exclusive of leavened bread since they are processed and made with yeast. (so, you can kiss those garlic naans and grilled cheese toasts, goodbye!)

Nuts and Seeds

All nuts and seeds provided they’re not roasted or salted are considered sattvic.

Spices, Aromatics, and Sweeteners

Spices are where there are stricter limitations in a sattvic diet. Just because a type of spice is natural doesn’t necessarily mean it is sattva-approved. Common household spices like black pepper, cumin, coriander seeds, ginger, turmeric not only make your food taste great but also aid digestion. And while most forms of processed sugars are prohibited in a sattvic diet, honey as a sweetener is considered healthy and can be eaten without many restrictions.

Foods You Must Avoid

Edible forms of fungus

Fungus in our food is more common than you think and contrary to popular opinions, it is not gross. Many aged types of cheeses, especially blue cheese, are purposely injected with mold to develop flavor and texture (which is where they get their funky smell from). Other common food fungi are all varieties of mushrooms and those of truffles. These ingredients are safe to consume but not sattva-approved as they’re tamasic in nature.

Alcohol

People avoid the consumption of alcohol for all sorts of reasons, including the adverse effects it has on their liver in the long run. Similarly, a sattvic diet, when followed properly, does not have alcoholic beverages in it, especially for recreational purposes. Any edible product with alcohol is tamasic in nature and increases aggression in a person.

Meat

Animal by products except for milk are not sattvic. Poultry specifically is tamasic in nature and is often linked to exploitative tendencies.

Eggs

Also, tamasic, eggs are excluded from a sattvic diet since they’re a form of life, and sattva being abundant in life-source itself, does not condone taking another life away.

Refined fats and fried foods

We’ve established only cold-pressed oils and healthy fats like Ghee are permissible in a sattvic diet, those too, only in small quantities. So fried foods are rajasic and are associated with laze and lethargy. Hence, they are not meant to be paired with sattva.

Yeast-fermented Foods

There are no denying fermented foods are absolutely delicious. They get that delicious taste and flavor from being exposed to warmer temperatures for long periods of time. And while they can be really good for your gut health, they are certainly not sattvic as to get that concentration, letting them ferment and not be “fresh” is required. Since the sattvic diet is all about fresh ingredients that are in the perfect state of ripeness (neither under nor over), introducing active yeast to any sattvic food, makes it tamasic.

Inflammatory spices

Spicy foods may do great things for your tastebuds, even your cold (eating spicy food when you have a blocked nose is the best home remedy ever, speaking from experience!) but it certainly isn’t friends with your skin or your entire digestive system. Spices like red chili powder (locally known as either “pisi degi mirch” or “Kashmiri Laal Mirch powder”) are extremely inflammatory for your intestines and can cause your stomach to be upset. They also are common triggers for acne breakouts. Being tamasic in nature, inflammatory spices are excluded from a sattvic diet.

Benefits of a Sattvic Diet

Helps in weight-loss

Foods prohibited by sattva in Ayurveda are naturally calorie-dense and rich in carbohydrates, which are the primary weight-increasing factors. Following a sattvic diet is great for someone who wishes to lose weight as the foods that are promoted in a sattvic diet are naturally low in calories while still being filling as they are fibrous and also boost metabolism.

Prevents heart diseases

The reason behind most heart diseases is the concentration of fats in our bodies. Eating fatty foods only worsens the situation and paves the way for issues like attacks, strokes, heart failures, etc. Since a sattvic diet anyway condones the consumption of large amounts of saturated or even healthy fats, this diet and lifestyle can prevent the onset of heart diseases in an individual, as well as help heart patients, manage their diseases better.

Prevents diabetes

Provided diabetes does not run in your bloodline, following a sattvic diet can help you avoid it in the long run. Typically, diabetes becomes an issue for an individual when they lead an unhealthy lifestyle, are overburdened with stress, are dealing with obesity, and/or when they consume a lot of processed foods and sugar. All of these causes are practically eliminated when they follow a sattvic diet as stress is reduced by a great extent, the diet helps one manage their weight and avoid obesity, and any unhealthy sugar-carrying carbs and processed foods are cut out of one’s diet.

Strengthens immune system

To put it metaphorically, your immune system is like an engine. It is constantly in action to keep your body running at its peak and to help it fight any impurities, viruses, and infections that enter your body. A healthy, balanced, and nutritious diet is the “fuel” for this engine. You cannot expect a vehicle to run smoothly if it is not being powered with the right type of fuel. Similarly, for your immune system to be strong enough to protect you from viruses and infections, it needs a diet free from unhealthy fats, processed sugar, and most of all, toxins, all of which are not present in a sattvic diet.

Improves digestive system

Since sattvic foods are naturally high in fiber and are free from most inflammation and indigestion-causing agents, they are able to facilitate a smoother functioning of your digestive system.

Concerns of a Sattvic Diet

Elimination of Important Micronutrients

One reason why many people are not fond of the sattvic way of life is that the diet completely cuts out and poultry and lacks certain micronutrients like vitamin B12, omega, etc., required by the body that unprocessed vegetarian foods do not have. It also cuts out some healthy vegetables and other growths like onions, garlic, and some other roots as well as many healthy, nutrient-rich varieties of mushrooms.

Not enough sources of protein

Since the sattvic diet cuts out all poultry, it also gets rid of the most stable sources of protein. Protein is important for all humans alike as it gives strength to our muscles. On a sattvic diet, one has limited sources of good quality, protein-dense foods that are also low in calories, the primary ones being Paneer, Tofu, Whey, and perhaps some legumes like Beans and Chickpeas.

Poor Hair Strength and Quality

Protein intake is also the key to longer, stronger, and healthier hair. The lack of protein in a sattvic diet can adversely affect the quality of your hair.

Low Energy Levels

While staunch followers of the sattvic diet claim it greatly increases their energy, the elimination of caffeine (as both tea and coffee are tamasic) intake can cause serious drops in your energy level, at least initially as the adrenaline production slows down and resets (not consuming my morning coffee is a personal recipe for disaster).

Reasons to Follow a Sattvic Diet

Beauty

Following a sattvic diet can enhance your natural beauty and improve the appearance of your skin as it acts as a detox, eliminates all inflammatory agents and toxins from your body, ultimately making your skin smoother and clearer.

Flexible

While it may seem like in a sattvic diet, there are a lot of mandates, it doesn’t necessarily have to be that way. Since this diet is usually followed individually and not regulated by a responsible authority as it would be with another diet where your trainer would monitor what you’re allowed to eat, it can be flexible with what works for you and can be customized to fit your schedule and needs better.

Cost-Effective

Since foods in a sattvic diet are largely unprocessed, they’re also much more affordable as you’re not paying for multiple people’s work and resources put into your food product.

Easy to Veganize

My favourite part about a sattvic diet is how easy it is to veganize it. The only products to be eliminated from the said diet are dairy and honey. And poof! Just like that, your food is completely cruelty-free.

Reasons to Avoid a Sattvic Diet

Can be Limiting

Because there’s just so much that one is prohibited from eating while on a sattvic diet, it can often feel limiting. Followers may feel like they do not have enough choices or they may feel compelled to give up foods they are fond of causing them to be dissatisfied.

Difficult to Switch

When you’re not able to eat the things, you love and are expected to make impractical and drastic changes to your diet and lifestyle, the switch to a healthier way of living can be extremely difficult to make.

Lack of Scientific Backing

Sattvic Diet has a clear influence from the Bhagavad Geeta, which is holy and important but the diet itself and the principles it is based on do not have a lot of scientific research accurately supporting their claims, especially since Ayurveda is not regulated in the West.

Time-Consuming

The sattvic diet requires all ingredients to be fresh and prepared in a clean environment at one’s own home. Ensuring that all of these requirements are met while preparing one’s food can take up a lot of time. Hence, it may not be an ideal fit for extremely busy people.

Parting Note

Like any other popular diet, the Sattvic diet too has its pros and cons. Its effectiveness depends on the needs of the person following it. Contrary to what Ayurveda claims, the Sattvic diet cannot suit everyone. It may bring out amazing results in terms of weight loss and skin health in one person while being completely impractical for the next. The best way to approach this diet is to do your research, understand the pros and cons listed in this guide, and follow it subjectively. Start slow and build up your comfort with this new regime.

10 DIY Face Packs to Treat Uneven Skin and Dark Spots

An uneven complexion can be a nightmare. After carefully selecting the best products from the best brands and reading multiple articles and essays on how to treat dark spots and uneven skin tone, you somehow still fall short in coming up with the perfect routine that gives you clear skin.

With constant pollution and stressful lives, it can be hard to maintain an even skin tone. But don’t lose hope! Think of taking care of your skin as being close friends with it. Just like a close friend, all it asks for is time, care, patience, and forgiveness. And just like people, skin types come with all kinds of quirks. Therefore, to get a brightened-up beautiful complexion, you need to pay attention to its needs according to its type.

This blog brings to you 10 different Do-It-Yourself face pack remedies that can be used to treat different types of skin with the nourishment they crave and deserve!

#1. Besan and banana face pack for dry skin

Why it works

As a child, did you hear your mother rave about the benefits of using besan to scrub skin during a bath? Well, for those of you who did, she was right! Besan or gram flour has excellent cleansing and exfoliating properties. Its alkaline nature helps balance out your skin’s pH. It is specifically known to be an excellent de-tanning agent and a natural body scrub. This makes besan an excellent natural remedy for dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars.

The second ingredient, banana, balances out the alkaline and drying effect of besan. This fruit is rich in fats and vitamins that soften your skin and moisturize it well, leaving behind not just a well-scrubbed and exfoliated skin but also a plump and radiant face.

What you’ll need

Two Tablespoons of Besan (Gram flour)
One Ripe Banana

How to use

Mash a ripe banana in a bowl, and then add 2 tablespoons of besan into it to make a paste. If the paste turns out to be too thick, you can add rosewater to soften it. Apply it all over your face and neck. Leave it on for about 20-30 minutes. Then, wash it off with lukewarm or cold water. Dab your face softly with a clean towel to reveal a fresh-looking beautiful complexion. You can use this face mask whenever needed or regularly every week.

#2. Yogurt and turmeric face mask for de-tanning all skin types

Why it works

Yogurt is a beloved beautifying agent with its nourishing properties. Not only is it known for being a fabulous moisturizer but also for its de-tanning properties. It can be used effectively to treat sunburns, remove tan, and brighten dull skin – all thanks to its lactic acid and zinc content. Further, it contains nourishing ingredients like magnesium and milk protein that can help you fight fine lines and wrinkles.

When turmeric is added to yogurt, you get a hydrating face pack useful in combating practically all skin problems. Turmeric is traditionally used to brighten up skin tone and heal infections or wounds. Therefore, this mixture helps get rid of acne scars, dark spots, dark circles, and hyperpigmentation.

What you’ll need

2 Tablespoons of Yogurt
A Teaspoon of Turmeric

How to use

Put the yogurt in a small bowl and then add a teaspoon of turmeric. Mix it well to make a good paste and apply it to your face. Leave this mixture on your face for about 20 minutes. Rinse the face pack off with clean water and dab your face dry with a soft towel. You will find beautifully hydrated skin underneath that looks much brighter than before. For best results, use this face pack twice or thrice a week.

#3. Saffron and milk for pigmented skin

Why it works

Did you know that saffron is the most expensive spice in the world? This luxurious ingredient has excellent anti-oxidant properties that preserve and prevent skin damage. It has proven to have a role in decreasing the production of melanin (the enzyme that makes your skin darker) in your skin, making it effective in treating hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Just a few strands of this miraculous spice in milk can make an excellent skin-brightening face mask. Milk has great hydrating properties and is filled with protein that nourishes and moisturizes your skin, preserving its youth and radiance.

What you’ll need

3-4 strands of saffron
Two tablespoons of milk
A pinch or more of turmeric powder

How to use

Soak 3-4 strands of saffron in some water overnight. Add the softened saffron to two tablespoons of warm milk. This will create a liquid texture. To make this mixture into a thick paste add a teaspoon of turmeric powder. Mix it well and apply it to your face. Leave it on for 20-25 minutes. Rinse with water and a mild cleanser to get rid of the smell of milk and the yellow of turmeric. You can use this face pack 3 times a week for the best results.

#4. Neem face mask for acne prone skin

Why it works

Acne can be a big problem for those with sensitive skin, and it may seem like they can never catch a break. When your skin isn’t irritated with the breakouts, the dark shadow of terrible acne scars haunts you. Neem, praised for its versatile health benefits years ago by Ayurveda, can come in handy for acne-prone skin. Neem leaves are highly anti-bacterial making them suitable for combating acne. Along with this, they have a cleansing property that rids your skin of all kinds of dullness and dark spots.

Aloe Vera added to Neem creates a beautiful mixture of a sweet nourishing plant and a strong protective one. Aloe Vera softens and soothes your skin while hydrating it greatly. It is also completely safe and effective for sensitive and oily skin. Together they make an excellent face mask whose benefits can be reaped by any skin type.

What you’ll need

About 15 Neem leaves/ 2 teaspoons of neem powder
2 teaspoons of Aloe Vera gel

How to use

Method 1: If you are using neem leaves directly, soak them in water for a couple of hours before crushing them using a stone grinder or blender. Add the crushed leaves with aloe vera gel to make a good paste. Apply it to your face and let it soak into your skin for 15 minutes. Rinse with water and follow with your preferred moisturizer.

Method 2: If you are using neem powder, mix it directly with aloe vera gel to make a thick paste. Add water/rosewater if needed to get a better consistency. After the paste is made, follow the same steps given in method 1.

#5. Sandalwood and honey face mask for soft and glowing skin

Why it works

Sandalwood or “Chandan” is a popular ayurvedic ingredient with a beautiful fragrance. It is frequently used in skin brightening products. Chandan is an excellent anti-inflammatory agent and anti-oxidant, enriched with Vitamin E and Vitamin B. This makes it great for removing tan and preventing visible signs of aging. Adding honey to it doubles its benefits, as both together work to make your skin plump, bright, and beautiful. This helps you get a natural glow to your gorgeous face. Additionally, lemon juice acts as a silver lining to your face pack, since it is enriched with Vitamin C and citric acid; both of which help in tan removal and getting an even skin tone.

What you’ll need

2 Tablespoons of Sandalwood Powder
1 Tablespoon of Honey
Some drops of Lemon Juice

How to use

Mix the given quantity of sandalwood powder and honey to make a paste. To better the consistency, add lemon juice to the mixture. Put the fragrant paste on your face and neck evenly. You can use this under your eyes to get rid of dark circles, too. Keep it on for 25 minutes and then rinse with lukewarm water. Dab your face dry with a soft towel.

#6. Mashed tomato face mask for infection-free skin

Why it works

Rubbing tomato on one’s skin is a popular skincare trick, often causing wonder in people’s minds. Not only are tomatoes rich in Vitamin C and anti-oxidants, but they contain several skin-beneficial ingredients like potassium, Vitamin E, the B Vitamins, and magnesium. Some research goes as far as to say that tomatoes may prevent skin cancer by exfoliating dead skin cells and fighting harmful free radicals. It heals your infections and reduces the risk of getting sunburns. After a mashed tomato face mask, you are sure to find healed, softened, and brightened skin underneath.

What you’ll need

1 mashed medium-sized tomato

How to use

Take a medium-sized tomato and mix it in a blender to create tomato puree. Apply this juice directly to your face. Leave it on for about 15 minutes and then rinse with water.

#7. Coffee face pack for exfoliation

Why it works

Yes, you read that right! Apart from being our saviour on days where we have to pull an all-nighter, coffee has great benefits for your skin. It is one of the richest sources of anti-oxidants out there and sucks out excess sebum and oil from your skin to reveal smooth skin underneath. It is often used as a scrub because of its caffeine content that gets rid of all your blemishes and scars. Mixing it up with lemon juice (which is rich in Vitamin C) gives you a face mask that exfoliates your skin, removes scars, and gives you an even-toned supple skin.

What you’ll need

2 tablespoons of Coffee powder
One lemon

How to use

Make a thick paste out of 2 tablespoons of coffee powder and water (or rosewater if you prefer). Cut up a lemon in half and squeeze its juice into the paste. If you don’t like applying face packs with your hands, you can use the leftover lemon pieces as applicators. This might also help you squeeze in all the nutrients still left in the lemon halves. Leave the paste on your skin for about 20 minutes. Rinse to reveal glowing, soft, and radiant skin!

#8. Green tea and mint leaves face pack for irritated skin

Why it works

Green tea is an excellent anti-oxidant and the favorite beverage of healthcare professionals. Mint leaves on the other hand have a natural cooling effect that everyone adores. Irritated and inflamed skin can often be the root cause of blemishes, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. Therefore, green tea and mint leaves face mask works wonders to brighten up your skin and supply it with the numerous nutrients both of these plants have. Adding honey to this mask ensures hydration along with deep cleansing.

What you’ll need

Two tablespoons of green tea leaves
15 to 20 mint leaves
A tablespoon of honey

How to use

Blend the green tea and mint leaves in a grinder. You can add water to get good consistency. After you have successfully made a paste, add the honey into it. Apply it all over your face and neck, with special attention on pigmented areas. Leave it on for 20 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water and dab your face dry. Do this consistently twice a week for best results.

#9. Orange peel face mask for clear and soft skin

Why it works

Orange is a citric food with lots of nutrition and multivitamins. It has astringent properties that can help heal scars and give you an even skin tone. Further, it has anti-inflammatory qualities that can prevent acne and its acidic nature is good for keeping your skin smooth and radiant. It is also rich in Vitamin C, which is associated with lightening dark spots and blemishes. The peels of orange are practically skin nutrition hubs.

What you’ll need

Dried orange peels
Rosewater

How to use

After eating oranges, store their peels and dry them out in the sun. When they are hard and dry enough, crush them to make an orange peel powder. Mix the crushed powder with some rosewater to make a thick paste with suitable consistency. Apply to neck and face evenly and leave it on for 15 minutes. After that, use a wet towel to remove the face pack. Repeat this twice a week for best results and an even plump skin tone.

#10. Oatmeal and honey face mask for clear skin

Why it works

Oatmeal’s gritty texture makes it the perfect exfoliator. Apart from having hypoallergenic and soothing properties, this ingredient is rich in amino acids. These acids support new skin growth, aid in tissue repair, and enhance body healing. When oatmeal is used in a face mask, the amino acids are absorbed by the skin, thus healing blemishes and repairing damaged skin. Honey compliments the benefits of oatmeal with its hydrating properties. Together they make a beautiful mixture that leads to a blemish-free and smooth skin.

What you’ll need

Two tablespoons of oats
A tablespoon of honey
Lemon juice from half a lemon

How to use

Mix the ingredients to make a good mixture. Apply it directly to your face with extra attention on coarse areas. Leave it on for at least 25 minutes. Rinse off with warm water to reveal clear and smooth skin underneath the oil and dirt. Use this face pack twice a week for the best results.

Parting note

Clear skin with an even complexion can seem like a faraway dream considering the pollution and stress one lives in today. But you don’t have to let these conditions wear you down. With simple and gradual attempts at taking care of your skin, you can keep our skin ever glowing and beautiful. We hope that no matter what skin type you have, these DIY face packs help you achieve the fabulous and healthy skin you want.

Ashwagandha: The Indian Ginseng

Centuries after the groundwork of Ayurveda was established, many of its extraordinary remedies and herbs have stayed relevant in health. Hundreds of herbs used in Ayurveda continue to exist in the ingredients of beauty products and medicinal supplements. This time, we speak of the fabulous herb we call Ashwagandha in Ayurveda, and “The Indian Ginseng” in English. Long after Ayurveda claimed its various health benefits, today, medicine has accepted its relevance and advantages. And we are here to tell you all about it!

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha or the Withania Somnifera (its botanical name) refers to an evergreen shrub found in parts of India, the Middle East, and Africa. Ancient Ayurveda used it for medicinal treatments in the past to reduce stress, anxiety, fatigue, pain, and skin conditions. The name “Ashwagandha” literally translates to “one that smells like a horse” to describe its root’s unique smell. Popularly, it is known by many other names such as the Indian Ginseng, Poison Gooseberry, and Winter Cherry.

Ashwagandha plants are short and tender, with bright red-orange fruits that grab your attention. The leaves of the winter cherry are dull green and the flowers are yellow and bell-shaped. Usually, the beautiful fruit of this evergreen shrub and its nutritious roots are used for medicinal/beauty benefits.

Why is Ashwagandha Used as A Medicine?

Traditionally, Ayurveda calls Ashwagandha a “Rasayana”, which refers to a set of herbs that help in maintaining mental and physical youth. It was prescribed for a more healthy and resilient living. For over 3,000 years this ancient healthcare system has used this fascinating herb to reduce anxiety, increase energy levels, and even improve brain function.

In modern medicine, Ashwagandha is classified as an adaptogen. Adaptogens are utilized in herbal therapy to promote homeostasis (the stable physiological conditions the body strives to achieve amidst changing conditions). They have a calming effect. If consumed, they play a major role in managing stress. They increase the resistance capacity of bodily systems to stress and in turn, hold-off exhaustion due to stress. Because of this effect Ashwagandha can have on stress, it helps with other health issues including high blood-sugar levels, insomnia, pain, fatigue, and much more.

Health Benefits of Ashwagandha

Several different treatments make use of various parts of the Ashwagandha plant whether it’s the leaves, seeds, flower, or fruit. Presently, this plant is becoming increasingly popular in the West and is available as a supplement in many countries. Here are some impressive health benefits of Ashwagandha:

Reduces Stress-Related Symptoms

Prolonged stress can feel like a mental problem. Stress leads to the production of a certain hormone called “cortisol”. Chronic stress can lead to the excessive production of cortisol and can cause several health issues in the long run.

As an adaptogen, the Indian Ginseng is anti-stress and anti-anxiety. This is associated with several health benefits, that we discuss below.

Many studies have shown that people who took (under guidance of certified practitioner) this herb report reduced cortisol and stress levels than people who did not. By reducing the cortisol levels in your body ashwagandha improves overall strength and immunity.
Ashwagandha is known to have a calming sedative-like effect, which makes it valuable to reduce anxiety. Several studies have shown that the prescribed dosage of this herb reduces insomnia and stabilizes sleep problems.
Cortisol is associated with stress-induced weight gain. Ashwagandha not only decreases the levels of cortisol but reduces the content of fats like cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream. This can aid in weight loss and combating obesity.
A study found lorazepam-like anti-anxiety effects upon the dosage of Ashwagandha, indicating that it could be a good herbal substitute for anxiety drugs. However, its indications and conclusions are limited because this study was conducted on mice.

Drops Blood Sugar Levels

High blood sugar is yet another symptom that is associated with stress. The Indian Ginseng may be helpful for diabetics because it has repeatedly been found to reduce blood sugar levels.

Some research has shown that chemicals in ashwagandha can be effective in increasing the secretion of insulin, which is the hormone responsible for digesting the sugar in your body. However, because of this characteristic of the herb, a limited dosage of ashwagandha is recommended. Very low blood sugar can be harmful.

Relieves Arthritis

Several studies have proven that ashwagandha has a painkiller-like effect. It relieves pain and has anti-inflammatory effects on your cells. Studies have found that this herb can prevent pain signals from traveling to your brain, hence, being effective in relieving joint pain. This makes it a possible remedy for rheumatoid arthritis.

Improves Brain Function

Ayurveda has claimed the advantage and benefits of Ashwagandha on memory and concentration for centuries. Recent studies have proven some truth to these claims as they have found that Ashwagandha has beneficial effects on neural activity and in turn, improves brain function. This can be effective in preventing loss of brain function in diseases like Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, and Parkinson’s, which all have neurodegenerative features.

The evergreen herb has anti-oxidants and can prevent oxidative damage to neurons. Some studies on animals have found that Ashwagandha is helpful with memory issues caused by damage or disease. Other studies conducted on humans have shown an association of Ashwagandha dosage with reaction time, task performance, and attention.

Might Have Anti-Cancer Effects

This is one of the most fascinating benefits of the herb. Ashwagandha contains a chemical called Withaferin, which may aid in the decrease of cancer cells. It is associated with an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), whose existence can cause cancer cells to malfunction. Studies have also shown that withaferin weakens these cells, making them more susceptible to malfunctioning. Therefore, ashwagandha may be able to inhibit tumour growth in certain illnesses.

Increases Fertility in Men

Traditionally ashwagandha was recommended to men for consumption because it is associated with strength and increased stamina. Recent studies have found that the Poison Gooseberry can be effective in increasing testosterone and increasing sperm count. The anti-oxidant nature of the herb may work as an anti-stress agent, ensuring better health of the male reproductive system. Therefore, Ashwagandha dosages are prescribed to increase fertility.

Improves Heart Health

High cholesterol can be a problem for many of us with our modern fast-food-filled lifestyle. Luckily, research on Ashwagandha has shown impressive results, indicating that the herb might play a role in reducing cholesterol.

In animal studies, the herb was directly associated with decreasing blood fats. Its dosage was associated with triglyceride, which is a type of fat in our body. A high dosage of Ashwagandha showed a decrease in bad cholesterol and a decrease in triglycerides!

Additionally, chronic stress itself poses many heart risks. Since Ashwagandha reduces the effects of stress on the body, the heart is saved (to an extent) from the weight of stress.

Benefits of Ashwagandha for Children and Teens

You might know that often parents are advised to give their children Chyawanprash to boost immunity and promote growth. But did you know that Ashwagandha is one of the key herbs used in Chyawanprash? For centuries now, Ashwagandha has been prescribed by Ayurvedic experts for children. In addition to all the health benefits it possesses, it is worth noting the following benefits that may be particularly beneficial for growing children: –

Growing children have a sharp and mouldable mind, like raw dough taking its shape. Ashwagandha has been prescribed for years by Vedic doctors to improve memory and retention power in children. Recent years have strengthened this claim as studies have indicated that the herb may improve brain function. Therefore, it can leave a nutritious imprint on a growing brain and help children reach their full mental capabilities.
With its adaptogenic qualities, Ashwagandha fights pollutants and damages that may hinder one’s growth. This leads to a strong immune system in children, enabling good growth, increased stamina, and muscle strength. Ashwagandha is also associated with an increase in appetite.
This herb is enriched with iron and other minerals that increase the count of red and white blood cells in the bloodstream. This aids in the development of antibodies in children’s physiological systems.
Adolescence is a very crucial period for a human being. The transitions can be stressful, which is why teenagers are prone to mood disorders and insomnia. Studies have shown that Ashwagandha might help reduce depressive symptoms. This adds to the herb’s anti-anxiety and anti-stress qualities; thereby helping teenagers restore optimal mental health.

Benefits of Ashwagandha for Hair and Skin

There are very few areas of the body that this miraculous herb does not touch. From your heart to your reproductive system to your hair and skin, Ashwagandha adds something to all. Without further ado, let us discuss the fascinating benefits Winter Cherry has for our skin and hair.

Prevents Acne

The Ashwagandha plant has calming and anti-inflammatory qualities. This can help calm irritated skin, treat redness or swelling, and more. The herb also has anti-microbial qualities, which prevent acne from forming on the surface of your skin. It is equally effective in acne treatment since it can fight the dirt in your pores and soothe your scars.

As discussed before, the Indian Ginseng also purifies your blood off of stress hormones and excessive fats, thereby reducing the chances of a breakout. To conclude, not only does ashwagandha prevent acne, but it treats acne scars and blemishes to give you an even skin tone. This applies to both the direct application and oral consumption of Ashwagandha.

Has Anti-Aging Properties

As Ayurveda states, Ashwagandha is a “Rasayana” herb, which helps it preserve both physical and mental youth. Herbs like ashwagandha are known in ayurvedic medicine to reduce signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines, dryness, and loose skin. Their anti-oxidant property ensures the preservation of healthy skin and fights pollutants. Further, the nutritious herb keeps the skin, healthy, plump, and radiant. These effects are not just noticed upon application of ashwagandha, but also the oral consumption.

Reduces Hair Loss

Oftentimes hair loss can be caused due to lack of nutrition provided to the hair follicles. As Ashwagandha improves blood circulation, heart health, and hormonal problems, it ensures that your hair follicles get proper nutrition. This tightens your hair follicles and makes your hair stronger and thicker.

Prevents Infections and Dandruff

Ashwagandha’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties once again come to play in preventing both skin infections as well as dandruff. It fights off the ill effects of dirt and pollution on your scalp and skin, keeping them irritation-free. Additionally, dandruff, which is caused by dryness or fungal infections, can be reduced by the application of ashwagandha.

May Prevent Greying of Hair

Ashwagandha is a Rasayana that slows signs of aging and nourishes your body from the inside out. Greying of hair is one such sign of aging, caused by the death of pigmentation cells in your hair follicles. The application of hair oils or shampoos containing Ashwagandha might help prevent this, as the herb has been associated with increased melanin production.

Further, herbs like Bhringraj and ashwagandha are traditionally known to be used in Mehendi concoctions to dye hair. They act as a natural hair dye so not only do they make your hair darker, but they also make it appear darker.

Conclusion

Ashwagandha, an ancient herb from Ayurveda, has achieved considerable popularity in all things related to health because of its multifaceted benefits. Studies have shown it to decrease anxiety and stress levels which in turn make it beneficial for the longevity of life. It is a true all-rounder herb that can be beneficial for any and most of us. The herb is present in the form of supplements, and in hair and skin products. You may use it for your preferred benefits accordingly.

Are you lazy, tired, or fatigued? How to know the difference

The rise in technological advancement has led to an inevitable outcome: the increased pace of the modern world. There is constant pressure to be better, do more, and not waste any precious moments. Yet, some days, you just cannot bring yourself to do it. You don’t feel like giving up your cosy blanket and getting out of your bed. It is natural to feel this way sometimes. However, in some cases, viewing yourself as lazy might give rise to low self-esteem and increased self-doubt.

But what if we told you that you are not lazy? What if you are fatigued or tired? How do you tell the difference? This blog will attempt to explain what these three terms mean and how chronic fatigue can be a problem.

Laziness

To put it in simple words, laziness refers to the unwillingness to work or use energy. It is finding comfort in being idle. It is seen as an undesirable trait in our society. In fact, many stereotypes are associated with laziness. Often a classist perspective blames poor people for their financial plight, presuming them to be lazy and “not working hard enough”. Likewise, laziness also tends to be associated with overweight people. In reality, however, all of us can be a little lazy sometimes.

Laziness can be caused by several psychological, evolutionary, or situational causes. Some of these include: –

Human beings have an evolutionary instinct to conserve energy. This was essential for survival in times where physical energy was necessary to fight death. Presently, our needs for immediate survival have gone down which is why rest is not seen as desirable. However, the body and mind have a way of manifesting their resting needs in the form of laziness.
Laziness is often associated with procrastination. One of the main causes human beings procrastinate is that we tend to avoid doing things that don’t give us immediate gratification. This makes us unwilling to do tasks that are important in the long term.
Sometimes, laziness might indicate an underlying psychological disorder. For example, the inability and unwillingness to do everyday tasks is a major symptom of depression. Other neurotic disorders like anxiety and bipolar disorder may also lead to it.
Fear of failure can be a situational factor that can lead to laziness.
Stress, poor diet, lack of sleep, alcohol, physical disorders like anaemia are all causes that can lead to laziness.

How to overcome laziness

Being lazy once in a while does not cause much harm. However, if this becomes a widespread lifestyle problem, you might require an intervention. Here are some techniques to overcome laziness: –

Set Realistic Goals. Unrealistic goals can make you work hard in an unachievable direction. This can lead to burnout. Burnouts typically lead to a loss of interest and motivation. It makes you anticipate failure and avoid doing anything. Setting small realistic goals is healthier and less overwhelming.

Avoid Perfectionism. Research has shown that young people today feel an increased need to be perfect and better. There is more competition, more unrealistic expectations, and therefore an increased need for perfectionism and control. Try to recognize and accept your weaknesses so that you can manage them better.
Create Elaborate Plans of Action. Work by taking one step at a time. Plan tasks out by writing down little steps. A series of small tasks are easier to do than having no direction or plan in a big task.
Reward Yourself After Completing a Task. Associating a task with an immediate reward eliminates the chances of procrastination. Promise yourself to finish a task and then reward yourself after you’re done with something as simple as eating a pastry.
Exercise and Diet. Poor lifestyle choices can take a toll on your mind and body. Eating high protein foods, regularly exercising, and staying hydrated can help you stay active.

Tiredness

Tiredness refers to the state of being weary and wanting rest. One feels low on energy and is therefore unable to do tasks. It accompanies a lack of stamina. However, being tired is natural and understandable. Usually, if a person is tired, taking some rest helps them restore their energy. People are aware of why they are tired because the causes can be put together easily. Some causes of tiredness include: –

Lack of Sleep
Overexertion
A full day of working
Skipped meals
Dehydration
Illness

How to overcome tiredness

Since being tired is a straightforward problem, its solutions are pretty obvious. It is not a medical condition. The only thing one has to be careful about is not letting tiredness accumulate over time and taking appropriate measures to manage it daily. Here are some common ways to overcome tiredness: –

Take a nap or a break from work.
Hydrate yourself.
Practice relaxation techniques
Eat a high protein meal
Engage in a good night’s sleep

Fatigue

Fatigue is a mental and/or physical state characterized by a lack of motivation and energy, Tiredness, laziness and fatigued. Fatigue itself tends to be a symptom of an underlying mental or physical disease. It is not the same as being tired because you are tired “all the time.” Getting enough rest might still not help a fatigued state.

Fatigue is frequently a symptom with a gradual onset, meaning it worsens over time. Many people might dismiss fatigue as a frequent thing, blaming it on age, being too busy or overworked, and not getting enough sleep. While the causes and severity in forms of fatigue range from mild to severe, it usually does not get treated until the root of it is treated. Prolonged neglect can lead to worsened fatigue. This is why it is important to recognize it when you suffer from it.

Severe fatigue spreads all over the functioning of an individual’s life. They may become maladaptive and be unable to do simple daily tasks. This can lead to professional, personal, and psychological problems.

Causes of fatigue

Fatigue usually manifests as a symptom of an underlying problem. This can be medical, psychological, or lifestyle-related.

Medical causes

A wide range of physical causes can lead to fatigue. These include:

Metabolic conditions like anaemia, diabetes, liver/kidney diseases
Endocrine problems such as hormonal imbalances
Sleep disorders such as insomnia, hypersomnia, sleep apnea
Certain medications
Infections or fevers such as malaria, tuberculosis
Cardiac problems, respiratory diseases, cancer, autoimmune diseases

Psychological causes

Mental Health problems tend to be a common cause of fatigue. Usually, this includes neurotic conditions like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Clinical conditions of these disorders need to be treated by mental health professionals.
Stress is a factor that leads to mental and physical exertion. Accumulated stress can lead to fatigue and eventually complete burnout. Stress can be caused by overworking, toxic relationships, environmental factors, and so on. For conditions where one can’t control a stressor, relaxation techniques are recommended.

Lifestyle causes

People who work night shifts tend to commonly face daytime fatigue. This is because the human body is not designed to work at night. Getting enough rest is essential for good health.
Constant Sleep Disturbances: Lately, staying up late has become a lifestyle choice for many. While missing a few hours here and there can be compensated for, prolonged sleep deprivation and disturbance lead to fatigue.
Alcohol consumption leads to the slowing down of the nervous system and in turn, may leave you feeling fatigued.

Drugs like caffeine keep you awake for longer than you should stay awake and disturb sleep in the long run.
Diet: Eating high-carb quick-fix foods might be convenient but they take a toll on the body. These foods do not have enough protein and nutrients that the human body needs to function, leading to fatigue.

How to identify fatigue?

Fatigue accompanies several mental and physical symptoms. The chief features of fatigue include: –

Inability to start a task
Getting tired easily after starting a task
Concentration and memory problems
Inability to finish tasks

Other symptoms of fatigue include: –

Constant tiredness
Headache
Slowed reaction times and reflexes
Irritability, as well as moodiness
Loss of appetite
Poor concentration and attention problems
Problems with memory
Weakness
Lack of motivation

Can fatigue be diagnosed?

Fatigue can be mild and a temporary part of prolonged stress. When the stress is gone, the fatigue is also gone. However, it so happens that many times it gets prolonged. Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is diagnosed when a person has had chronic and continuous exhaustion for six months or longer with no known cause, which does not improve with sleep or rest and worsens with physical or mental exertion. Chronic fatigue has an impact on a person’s day-to-day functioning and quality of life, regardless of the cause.

A diagnosis can be made for fatigue, but this condition can be vague and difficult to identify. It overlaps with many conditions. Often fatigued people describe themselves as depressed, anxious, or just tired. How one describes their symptoms can affect diagnosis. If you are diagnosed with fatigue, your medical professional will likely try to determine the cause of it. This is generally done by examining medical history, performing tests, and physical examinations.

When to see your doctor?

Here are a few of the many possible signs that you should see your doctor.

Your fatigue is not alleviated by rest, sleep, or removing stressors.
You have started to feel fatigued suddenly and you do not know what could have caused it.
You have had feelings of exhaustion continuously for over six months and it has gotten worse and worse.
You have feelings of excessive weakness that may or may not be accompanying fainting or near-fainting.
You have experienced a significant loss of weight for no apparent reason.
You have difficulty falling or staying asleep on a daily basis.
You feel so tired that you believe you are depressed.

Treatment of serious fatigue-related problems is generally done by finding the cause of fatigue. Further, medical professionals might suggest lifestyle changes for you to avoid feeling fatigued.

How to overcome fatigue by yourself

If you have had fatigue for a prolonged period, life is likely to be stressful for you. Overcoming fatigue might seem like the biggest task for someone who can barely gather energy to do simple tasks. But you don’t have to feel overwhelmed trying to overcome it. One step at a time, making appropriate lifestyle changes might help you a lot. Here are a few ways you can get started: –

Pay attention to your diet

This is important because fatigue is often accompanied by weakness. Add protein-rich foods to your diet and never compromise on a healthy meal over easy availability. Your body must get the nutrients it needs.

Exercise

For fatigued people, even hearing the word “exercise” can be dreadful. However, this is precisely why you need exercise. Exercise has been proved to improve mood, general health, and performance in day-to-day activities. You don’t have to start doing high-intensity workouts. Instead, start by going on a walk every morning. Gradually, involve little workouts in your routine.

Stay hydrated

We hear the suggestion of drinking water to solve health problems so much that we tend to get immune to that suggestion. But believe it or not, drinking enough water is very necessary for a healthy mind and body. Water helps almost all of your bodily functions whether it’s digestion or blood circulation. A hydrated body has more energy and tends to not be lethargic. Make sure you drink at least 10 glasses of water every day.

Get out of your house more often

The pandemic has made us used to stay indoors. More activity can be exactly what many may need to feel charged. Attempt to pull yourself out of your blanket and meet your friends. Try going to a party, or engaging in a fun game. Laughing, gossiping with friends, going on an adventure can make you feel more active. You can also use spending time with your friends as a reward for yourself after you are done doing necessary tasks. This can make difficult or boring tasks more tolerable.

Final word

We hope that the definitions of laziness, tiredness, and fatigue are clearer to you with this reading. Life can be stressful for us all and there is no need to feel like you are alone in dealing with it. Whether you believe you are lazy, tired, or fatigued; know that it is okay to be overwhelmed at times. We wish you all the best in overcoming either of these issues.

Salt – How good is it for you?

A certain amount of salt is essential for the functioning of our body, but more often than not, we consume more salt than we need. Did you know that the average Indian consumes double the amount of salt recommended for the human body by the WHO?

This raises many questions. What is the ideal amount of salt you should consume? What are the health risks that come along with overconsuming or under-consuming salts? Why do we even need salt in our bodies? Fortunately, we have answers to all these questions.

What is Salt?

Chemically speaking, salt is a compound made of two minerals – sodium and chloride. This gives it its chemical name “Sodium Chloride”. It is a condiment used universally, which is why it is so unique in itself. Whatever part of the world you go to, common salt remains the same.

Most of the salt used by humans for consumption comes from seawater or mining. Seawater is high on salt and is evaporated to leave salt behind. Underground salt is harvested by drilling holes in and then crushing salt rocks. The compound has been historically used not just for its taste but also for its preservative qualities. Most processed foods are high on salt to keep them fresher for longer.

The role of salt in the human body

It is unusual for one to not get enough salt in their day-to-day life. An average diet tends to have well over the required amount of sodium one needs for survival. It is, therefore, possible that you have heard of people being asked to reduce their salt intake. The harms of salt are far more known and discussed than the roles of salt. But in reality, the consumption of salt performs crucial functions in our bodies.

Both sodium and chloride are ions that play an important part in several physiological processes. Keep in mind that the manufactured salt that ends up on your table is iodized. There also exist natural salts that contain minerals in addition to the traditional Sodium Chloride. With these facts out of the way, here are the primary functions of salt:

Regulates blood pressure

The main function of sodium surrounds blood pressure. Sodium attracts water to the bloodstream, which regulates blood circulation and enables the heart to pump blood throughout your body. Low amounts of salt in your body lead to low blood pressure; which can cause dizziness, nausea, weakness, and fainting. Salt is the chief source of sodium in our bodies. It does not produce sodium on its own.

Helps in hydration

The body needs a certain amount of salt to absorb water and stay hydrated. Water follows sodium throughout the body and when we retain water via sweat or urine, sodium gets released along with it. A good balance of hydration is possible when your body has a balance of potassium and sodium since the former reduces the ill effects of the latter.

Regulates thyroid

The thyroid plays a great role in regulating the metabolism of the human body. Both under-activity and hyperactivity of the thyroid lead to serious consequences. Most table salts are high in iodine, a mineral that is responsible for regulating the thyroid. Iodine deficiencies typically lead to the underproduction of thyroxine (the hormone secreted by the thyroid).

Balances electrolytes

Electrolytes (ions) are minerals that are essential for muscle functioning. An imbalance in electrolytes can lead to muscle cramping, irregular heartbeat, nausea, and fatigue. Sodium, the key ingredient in salt, itself is an electrolyte. Natural types of salt tend to be additionally high in other electrolytes like magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Their consumption provides a balance of these minerals. An imbalance in these can lead to life-threatening diseases. This is precisely why salt is essential for survival.

Helps in brain functioning

Apart from muscular and cardiovascular roles, electrolytes are involved in regulating neural activity. The nervous system works based on electrical impulses and messages which are only possible through ions like sodium. Additionally, sodium controls water flow in the body and supplies the brain with the hydration it needs. Therefore, it is essential for brain functioning.

Difference between “Sodium” and “Salt”

Often sodium and salt are used interchangeably in nutrition. However, they are not the same. Salt is a compound that has sodium and chloride. Typically, it has 40% sodium and 60% chloride. Natural salts or manufactured salts both have additional minerals in them, but the essence of salt is created by these two.

Sodium is what gives the common salt its universal taste. It is the chief mineral involved in both the functions and risks of consuming salt. If you find sodium in the ingredients of a food product, you can multiply the quantity by 2.5 to find the salt quantity. Sodium is usually consumed by the body in the form of salt, which is why its intake is monitored by how much salt one consumes.

Different types of salts

Salts, as mentioned before, are essentially made of sodium and chloride. However, other minerals either naturally occur or are added to them. There is a diverse range of salts out there, that you can differentiate based on where and how they were harvested. Here are a few well-known types of salts:

Table salt

Table salt refers to highly processed sodium chloride. Often known as “iodized salt,” it has very tiny grains and contains potassium, iodine as well as an anti-caking ingredient to keep it from clustering.

Sea salt

Sea salt is made from evaporated seawater and has a salty flavor that varies depending on where it’s obtained. These salts provide a modest quantity of iodine, but not nearly as much as iodized table salt. It is less refined than table salt and is available in fine and coarse versions. It is popular for its natural minerals.

Himalayan pink rock salt

This salt, which is easily identifiable due to its pink tint, contains all 84 natural minerals found in the human body. It is mined from the Himalayan Mountains. Because of its mineral quantity, pink salt can help with a variety of body functions, including minimizing muscle cramps, improving blood sugar levels, and maintaining a healthy pH level in your cells.

Celtic grey salt

Celtic grey sea salt, also known as Sel Gris in French, is harvested using ancient Celtic methods, from the Atlantic tidal ponds off the coast of France. The minerals that are left behind when seawater evaporates give it its grey tint. It is considered healthier because it is unrefined and unfiltered and contains unprocessed and naturally formed minerals.

Other types of salt include kosher salt, red Hawaiian salt, pickling salt, Himalayan black salt, Hawaiian black salt, smoked salt, and much more. All of these salts boast their own sets of mineral quantities and benefits.

Health risks of eating too much salt

The health risks of eating too much salt are practically impossible to ignore at this point. Usually, people are not even aware that they are consuming too much sodium because it tends to exist in pretty much everything you eat. One way to reduce the ill effects of this is to add more potassium to your diet. Nonetheless, here are the serious health risks that the consumption of too much salt can lead to:

Hypertension

Hypertension refers to high blood pressure (above 140/90). This condition refers to when the blood in one’s arteries flows with excessive force. Eating salt itself raises your blood pressure, but hypertension refers to a more static and long-term problem. Hypertension increases the risks of stroke, heart failure, osteoporosis, stomach cancer, and renal disease. Lowering the consumption of salt is the primary suggestion given to people to lower their blood pressure, apart from exercise.

Increases risk of stomach cancer

Several research studies have shown a link between stomach cancer and a high salt diet. While how this happens is unknown right now, many suggest that salt-rich diets may render a person more sensitive to stomach cancer by creating inflammation of the stomach lining. Additionally speaking of the digestive system, excess salt consumption is linked to kidney diseases and failure.

Fluid retention

A short-term effect of eating too much salt is that you could feel more bloated. Our kidneys are designed to maintain particular sodium to water ratio in the body. When too much sodium is in your system, your body holds more water to balance it. You may even start feeling intensely thirsty after having a heavily salty meal because your body is trying to maintain healthy sodium to water ratio. This whole process can cause swelling in the hands and feet, and lead you to weigh more than usual.

Increases risk of heart diseases

In the long term, holding too much fluid in the body is one of the causes of high blood pressure. It widens your blood vessels and puts extra pressure on the heart, which means you are at an increased risk of having a heart attack. Fascinatingly, some suggest that if the entire world started to reduce their overconsumption of sodium, the number of people with heart diseases would decrease by half!

Might lead to premature death

Because of the above health risks that eating too much salt poses, many link a lifestyle with an excess sodium diet to premature death. This is because hypertension leads to the stiffening of the arteries and blood vessels, posing several cardiovascular risks. However, this claim is disputed and controversial. Studies have found contradicting results where some find that salt prevents heart diseases while others find that salt decrease longevity.

Health risks of eating too little salt

Government-backed efforts have been pushing people to reduce their salt usage in recent years. Yet, some research suggests that consuming too little salt may increase the risk of heart disease. While this is a debate for another platform, it is indisputable that some sodium is essential for survival. Therefore, too little amount of salt in the body has health risks.

Here are a few health risks of eating too little salt: –

Low blood pressure is the chief risk of eating too little salt. It can lead to muscle twitches, followed by seizures, loss of consciousness, coma, or death. The person may feel fatigued and lethargic.
Since sodium affects electrolyte balance in the body, the activity of the brain is affected when sodium levels in the blood drop. Symptoms in older adults can be severe.
According to a study, when rats were deficient in sodium, they avoided behaviors that they ordinarily loved. This leads to the conclusion that low levels of salt can worsen or cause symptoms of depression.

Addison’s disease and barter syndrome are two medical conditions that are associated with insufficient sodium in the body.

How much salt should you be consuming?

No matter what type of salt you choose to consume, it must be consumed in moderation. All salt may have their sets of pros but the cons of too much sodium remain.

According to the WHO recommendation, adults should take less than 5 g (slightly under a teaspoon) of salt per day. However, the mean salt intake reported tends to be as high as 9 to 12 grams. All WHO member states have agreed to a 30 percent reduction in salt intake in their populations until 2025. They have estimated that proper salt consumption might avoid 2.5 million deaths.

Yet, many other research studies suggest otherwise. There exist a lot of individual differences in these conclusions because one might get accustomed to a certain level of sodium. Usually, what your doctor tells you about your salt intake is what you should strictly adhere to. It would, however, be a good idea to avoid processed foods in general. But not only because they are high in sodium, but because there are several other health risks associated with them.

Why do you crave salt?

Craving salt is a feeling we are all likely familiar with. Even if you understand the necessity of limiting your sodium intake, it’s easier said than done. Turns out, there are many elaborate explanations as to why.

For one, research has found that salt is addictive. Some studies have discovered that salt activates the brain in the same way that cigarettes and drugs do. As a result, the saltier foods you consume, the more you may crave them.
Speaking in the context of evolution, though salt is essential for our survival, it wasn’t easy for human beings to find. This is why we are mechanized such that we crave it and try to find it.
Medical conditions like Addison’s disease and barter syndrome may be behind excessively craving salt. Addison’s disease is characterized by a decrease in adrenalin while Bartter syndrome refers to a condition where one cannot reabsorb sodium, leading to its deficiency.
More causes behind craving salt may include dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, stress, pregnancy, or PMS.
If you’re having a salt craving while showing indications of dehydration, visit a doctor. Unaddressed dehydration due to sodium deficiency can lead to catastrophic problems. Seizures and even death are possible outcomes.

Final takeaways

Salt is a daily part of our life but not something one pays attention to a lot. Yet, as it turns out, it plays a critical role in ensuring our survival. Both too much and too little salt can cause deadly problems for the body. Therefore, it is important to be conscious of how much salt we consume in our day-to-day life.

10 tips and hair hacks to winter- proof your hair

The harsh cold in winters is your skin and hair’s nastiest nemesis. One has to ensure putting on layers of moisturizers and clothing before even thinking of stepping out of the house. Your hair health too takes a beating in the winter as the season treats it pretty unfavorably. Freezing, chilly air, and severe temperatures damage your hair and render it more susceptible to breaking than in the summer.

Winters are also the time that dandruff is at its peak and scalp health at its worst with all the dryness. It can be quite frustrating to see big flakes of dandruff visible right after hair wash. Here are some methods you can try to reinstate your hair health and make it feel much more nourished if it is starting to look lackluster and lifeless.

#1. Ditch hot water baths and use lukewarm water instead

We understand it is chilly outside, and taking a hot water shower in the morning is precisely what you need to get through the day. However, dermatologists have warned us for years that hot water is bad for not just your skin but also your hair. It sucks out all the hydration from your skin, scalp, and hair leaving them dry and lifeless. Dryness can lead you to other worrisome problems like itchy scalp or skin, irritation, rashes, redness, infections, and so on. Your locks too are likely to look frizzier because of it.

Winter is a season when your scalp and hair are naturally dry. A hot water hair wash only makes things worse. You will find that your hair too feels dry and brittle. As a result, you’ll need to adjust the heat of the water you use to bathe or shower. Ideally, you should be using lukewarm water to take baths or showers, as they will keep you warm while keeping the moisture of your hair intact.

#2. Heat styling should be avoided

The disadvantages to blow-drying your hair dry are similar to that of using hot water for your baths: blow drying your hair dehydrates it, raising the chances of damage. Drying your hair without using heat may help you keep the moisture in and thereby maintain lustrous and strong hair.

If you are short on time, you can wash your hair in the evenings and allow it to air dry. When your hair is already fragile in the winter, heat styling exacerbates the problem by sucking the moisture out of your locks. Throughout the winter, avoid ironing or curling your hair. Take advantage of this period to experiment with various hairstyles such as twisting, plait, and baguettes.

Additionally, if you do wish to blow dry your hair to style it, use a good number of protective serums or oils before doing it. These create a barrier on your locks preventing hydration to escape your hair and scalp.

#3. Nourish your hair and scalp with oil massages

Dryness is the biggest concern that winters bring to our hair’s quality. Therefore, moisturizing it at least once a week is essential. Oil massages on the scalp provide exactly that for your hair. You can use steam to improve the outcomes of the oil you’re using for the massage.

Most hair oils have emollient as well as occlusive properties. This means that they lubricate and soften your scalp and hair, preventing them from becoming frizzy and dry. Their occlusive properties help to keep hydration intact by not letting water escape your locks and roots. Moreover, oil massages improve blood circulation to your scalp, keeping your hair follicles well nourished. Here are things surrounding oiling to keep in mind:

To eliminate split ends don’t just apply oil to your scalp but also on your hair ends and tips.
If you are someone who has a problem with oils and their greasiness, consider investing in hair creams. They might be a good alternative as they use non-greasy formulas and have specific purposes. For example, a cream may be anti-dandruff or anti-hair fall. Both of these will have different ingredients better suited to one purpose.
For best results, always apply hair oil or hair cream to your scalp and hair ends before washing your hair. This is a good habit to cultivate to keep your hair soft and radiant. Keeping them on overnight is recommended for softer hair in the long term.

#4. Make a shift in how you shampoo your hair

Our hair and skin have natural mechanisms that keep them strong, healthy, and moisturized. All they need is a small amount of washing, just enough to get rid of dirt. There’s no denying that your hair, especially during the arid winter days, requires the natural sebum created by the scalp. Frequent shampooing can take away the natural supply of sebum, as well as the moisturization they give. Therefore, during the winter, take extra precautions to avoid depleting your natural hair moisture by over-washing.

If you have dry hair, restrict your hair washing to a maximum of twice a week.
Always apply hair oil or hair creams before using shampoo on your hair to avoid a complete depletion of moisture from your scalp.
Use conditioners liberally after hair wash.

#5. Make through conditioning a priority

This overlooked phase in the hair care routine is possibly the most important winter hair hacks. Throughout the colder months, your hair needs a lot of maintenance, but we recommend that you use it as an opportunity to pamper yourself.

Your hair has little cuticles on its surface that give it its texture. In the winter, due to the cold, hair cuticles trap more dirt and dandruff. Therefore, this is generally a lifeless time for them because they do not get the nutrients and proteins that come with optimal hair pH and moisturization. While shampoos clean your cuticles, conditioners restore their acidic nature that is ideal for your strands.

When your cuticle is clean and strong, your hair seems to be lively and bouncy. Conditioning after each wash ensures that the ideal pH and nourishment to hair cuticles are fulfilled, letting them perform their intended function as a defensive cover. Once a week, deep conditioning should be done, ideally on the same day as oiling. It will not only moisturize but also enrich your hair strands with nutrients.

#6. Wear well-suited headwear

Cold, freezing air barely has any humidity, which is why it sucks out all the moisture in your hair for itself. This winter season, pull out your scarves and other headwear to protect it from this drying effect that comes in winters.

But that’s not all! What kind of headwear you wear also matters? Just like you shouldn’t tie up your hair with tight rubber bands to avoid hair fall, you must also take similar precautions to choose what you cover your hair with. Ideally, use a silk or satin cloth first (which will be in direct contact with your hair), and then layer it with cotton or woollen textiles to shield it from the chilly weather. A headwear made out of cotton or wool can create friction in your hair, resulting in thinning hair and damage.

#7. Beware of static charge

Because of the friction coefficient caused by the absence of dampness in the wind during the cold months, your hair gets electrically charged. This is a common occurrence with dry hair. The static charge can make your hair look frizzy and all over the place, rising from your sides. It also makes your hair vulnerable to harm and breakage. Here are a few pointers to remember to avoid this:

Use a leave-in conditioner, hair gel, or hair serum to keep your hair smooth. This is especially crucial after a hair wash.
Dry your hair with a gentle towel or cloth but don’t rub it too much. Be soft with it and dab at places it is possible to dab.
Consider switching to a satin pillowcase rather than a cotton one. Satin or silk fabrics are smooth and by nature do not rub against your hair or cause friction.

#8. Don’t step out with wet hair

Recall how your mother warned you not to walk out with your hair damp because you’d catch a cold? Well, she was right! But apart from that, another reason to avoid going out with wet hair is that it takes much longer time to dry in winters. Particularly if you have thick and curly hair, drying when you are out can be a difficult chore. With wet hair, the cold weather extends to your hair shaft, pushing your hair towards the peril of splitting and deteriorating. As a result, hair is more susceptible to breaking.

One key wintertime hair care tip to remember is to properly dry your hair when leaving the house. Of course, you still have to avoid blow-drying. To speed up the hair drying process, try sitting under fans and softly soaking excess water from your hair using a towel. If you are in a hurry and need to blow-dry, do so by keeping your hair drier in the lowest heat setting. However, remember to completely commit to blow-drying by dividing your hair into sections and not leaving any wetness behind. If your hair looks frizzy after blow-drying, it has not dried completely.

#9. Detangle your hair right

Hair tends to tangle and form knots more when exposed to dry air. As a result, you have to constantly comb your hair to avoid an accumulation of knots and tangles. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when combing or detangling:

Avoid combing directly from your root to tips if you know that there are tangles you have to deal with. Instead, comb downwards from the centre to lessen the pressure on your head and avoid weakening the roots. Start from your tips, and gradually move upwards for the best results.
Never comb tangled hair when it’s damp. The frequent tugging of knotted, damp hair enhances the likelihood of hair damage and thinning.
Do not use sharp-toothed combs as they may irritate your already dry winter scalp. For this same reason, consider switching to wooden wide-toothed combs if you have plastic or metal combs. Wood tends to be less sharp and wide combs pose less challenge to the risk of breakage.

#10. Water is essential to your hair health

In summers, it is hard to forget drinking water as the heat constantly dries your throat. However, in winters, we are likely to forget to get our share of hydration. The water itself tends to be very cold, and we go for drinking hot beverages instead. This is a terrible habit that one has to consciously unlearn.

Water is an important constituent of your tresses. The dry air in winter sucks out the hair’s moisture and water content. Therefore, it is critical to stay hydrated during the winter months to replace the water you’ve lost. If cold water bothers you, keep a bottle of hot water stored in a thermal container. Either way, drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. Hydration guarantees that your hair maintains its strength and lustre from its roots to its ends. When the strands and scalp are nourished, roughness, itching, and flaking are no longer an issue.

Parting notes

Winter can be a fun time, especially for those of us who live in a hot climate most of the year. It brings many positives, like joyful gatherings, warm and fuzzy clothes, the delight of drinking hot chocolate, and festive happiness in the atmosphere.

Swinging wind gusts, dry weather, and cold temperatures, however, can easily damage our delicate hair. Therefore, do not let the chilly winter wind wreck your locks; instead, seal in the moisture to assist your hair in looking glossy and feeling strong. We hope our top 10 winter hair care techniques come in handy for dealing with any hair issues you may have this season!

How Water Works as Beauty Agent

Everyone knows that drinking water is important for maintaining good health. However, usage of water has several beauty benefits as well.

Anti-ageing properties

Drinking the right quantity of water daily results in fresh, soft as well as glowing skin. Other benefits include the maintenance of optimal body temperature as well as the retaining of skin moisture. Water replenishes as well as hydrates the skin tissues which promotes the skin’s natural elasticity. Thus, the appearance of the tell-tale signs and symptoms of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles and dark circles are delayed.

Elixir for the hair

Hair experts know that a cool water rinse results in glossier hair. The low temperature constricts the hair’s cuticle layer making it lie flatter resulting in more smooth strands as well as greater reflectivity.

Aids in weight loss

Water ramps up the body’s metabolism and brings down appetite. So, your body burns calories faster and more efficiently. There is decreased food as well as calorie intake which leads to effective and long-term weight loss. When there is insufficient water intake, the functioning of the kidney is reduced. The workload of the kidney is put on the liver. Normally the livers aids in burning body fats. However, when it has to do the work of the kidneys as well the liver’s performance is adversely affected leading to fat deposition. When weight is shed and the level of body fat comes down you look better.

Healthy and appealing nails

Adequate water consumption results in healthy as well as attractive nails. When the nails receive enough water a shiny layer of alpha keratin is produced improving their appearance. Another benefit of water is enhanced nail growth as well as greater thickness. Hydration is extremely important for the nails. Deficiency of water results in brittle nails prone to get damaged and additionally dry, peeling cuticles. Water is free and more effective than cosmetics that claim to have miraculous beauty effects.

Vital for the shining glory

If you desire attractive looking hair, you must consume enough water on a daily basis. If the body doesn’t receive enough water it is borrowed from the various organ systems. Adequate water supply to the hair roots make them look lush as well as maintain the right level of keratin. Hair volume goes up and there is healthy and completely natural darkening of the hair color. External dirt is prevented from accumulating on the scalp endowing the individual with lustrous, strong as well as squeaky clean hair. For having a beautiful as well as healthy mane consuming plenty of water is a natural and potent technique.

Nature’s Detoxifier

Note that the skin is in fact an organ. Water eliminates the toxins from all parts of the body and transports nutrients to the body’s cells. This results in all the organs functioning well. As for the skin adequate water supply brings down the occurrence of acne, marks as well as pimples. A bonus is delaying of the inevitable aging process. A skin care tip is that drinking lots of water results in healthy, clean, glowing and youthful skin.

Hydrates the skin resulting in improved appearance

The human body is mostly made up of water. Heat, perspiration, urination and exercise delete the quantity of water in the body. This loss must be replaced. The only way to do this is to drinking water. Fresh and moist skin looks far better than dry and old skin. Water makes your skin and hair look bright as well as good.

Cleans the skin and hair effectively

Water is better and safer than any chemical skin, hair or face cleanser. It is a superior cleanser as well as free of side effects. Both internally and externally water plays the role of a potent and preferred beauty agent. Note that water effectively as well as efficiently conditions the hair. So, ditch your chemical hair conditioners and use water instead. You will save on money as well as time.

Endorsed by experts and proven by numerous scientific studies

Long term research observes that this liquid makes a significant difference in terms of skin health. Deficiency of water results in duller appearance of skin health as well as proliferation of pores and wrinkles. Correct hydration maintains the elasticity as well as density of skin bringing down the occurrence of fine lines. The best protection against blemishes as well as breakouts is supple and well hydrated skin.

Natural moisturizer

Splashing plenty of water on your face frequently is a great way to have clean, fresh, glowing and youthful skin. Wash hair with water to ensure optimal hair health. Regular baths will result in you looking as well as smelling good.

The beauty benefit of soft water and why you should avoid using hard water

Soft water when applied on the hair makes it more manageable. This is because it contains relatively lesser mineral salts that result in rough strands vulnerable to tangles. In the scenario when only hard water is available employ a water softening filter. You will be able to prevent the natural hair color from fading.

Through trial and error, you will discover what is the optimum amount of daily water consumption. The right quantity of water is essential for your skin, hair and face to be radiant as well as gleaming. Listen to your body’s signals such as thirst and others and consume enough water. Consume as well as apply more water to your skin and hair more in the winter season. This is because the cold weather has a drying effect on the skin as well as hair. Don’t wait to be thirsty to drink water. Sometimes even when you are not feeling thirsty the body needs additional water. It doesn’t harm you to drink a bit more water than required. However, keep in mind that extreme consumption of water can lead to the potentially fatal condition of water toxicity. Remember that water is nature’s gift to mankind. Use it wisely and leverage it to improve your overall appearance.

All About Ghee and Why Ayurveda Adores It

Ghee is an ingredient that is hard to miss if you are from an Indian household. It is part of our culture to use ghee in our recipes. Some households prepare it at home traditionally with leftover malai. You have probably heard your mothers and grandmothers stressing the superiority of desi ghee over contemporary oils. These claims do not come out of thin air. It might come as a surprise to you that ghee is medicinally prescribed by Ayurveda to treat more conditions than you could imagine!

In recent years, modern medicine has researched ghee and found it to be beneficial in many health areas. Therefore, it might now be time for you to utilize that jar of ghee in your kitchen to its best potentials. We’re here to tell you how.

What is Ghee?

Ghee is a form of clarified butter used mainly in Indian and middle-eastern cultures. It is made by heating butter (from cow’s milk or yogurt) to a certain temperature until the milk solids of butter and fat get separated. The caramelized milk solids are then filtered out of the mixture. What remains is a liquidized form of fat called “Ghee”. It has a distinctive smell when heated, which Ghee lovers adore. It is heated at a controlled temperature, preserving many nutrients. Ghee is largely used as cooking oil and is considered to be the healthier, lactose-free alternative to butter.

Ghee has numerous uses in addition to cooking. It is traditionally used to light lanterns and lamps in Hindu households. In Vedic scriptures, Ghee is called “the food of the Gods.” Ayurveda uses ghee in multiple therapeutic procedures, body massage, and as an ingredient in ointments. Apart from Ancient Vedas and Ayurveda, modern science has agreed upon the health benefits of Ghee. Let us discuss why.

Ghee – the Healthiest Fat

Some experts call Ghee “the best source of fat” which has 1000 potential benefits. It is undeniable that fat should be consumed in limited quantities to control cholesterol and obesity. However, there is a certain amount of fat prescribed to maintain a healthy weight. Ghee has been found to have 50 percent saturated fat, with some monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat content. While saturated fats are the less healthy alternative for fats, their moderate consumption is required to maintain healthy cholesterol. Research has proven that Ghee consumers showed fewer contents of unhealthy cholesterol in the bloodstream than people who used mustard oil.

The unique composition of Ghee is what gives it the privilege of being the healthiest fat. Ghee is rich in Vitamin E, Vitamin D, Vitamin K, and Vitamin A. The fatty acids in ghee help absorb fat-soluble nutrients. It is high in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. These properties are the reason it is used to treat fire and water imbalances in Ayurveda.

Health Benefits of Ghee

Ayurvedic science has used Ghee for centuries to treat mainly Pitta and Vata doshas. It is said to have numerous health benefits because of its high Omega-3 quantities and Vitamin constitution. Here are some of the health benefits that Ghee provides the human body in good detail:

Improves Digestion

Ghee is a natural laxative because it contains Butyric acid, a substance essential for enabling good colon movement. Butyric acid keeps your gut healthy, assimilates nutrients ingested with food, adjusts sugar and cholesterol levels in the blood, and gives colon cells the required energy to pass healthy faces.

Ayurveda prescribes Ghee as a carrier lubricant for the digestive tract, easing the entire process. Moreover, ghee produces several gastric enzymes in the body that help break complex food into simpler compounds.

Helps Absorb Nutrients

Ghee is fat, and when it enters the body, it helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin A, D, K, and E. “Fat-soluble” means exactly what it sounds like. These vitamins are mixed into fat in our body and travel along to get absorbed all around. This makes sure that the body receives the goodness of these vitamins. It is said that it is good to have it on an empty stomach in Ayurveda because it enables our body to absorb herb nutrients optimally.

May Combat Obesity and Heart Diseases

You might be pleasantly surprised to know that an optimal amount of ghee not just fights your heart diseases but also helps you lose weight. Yes, if you consume too much fat it can lead to weight gain. However, if consumed in controlled quantities, the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids present in ghee become a great source of good cholesterol. This helps in the maintenance of a good cardiovascular system.

Ghee further has a lot of Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) in its composition, which has shown to be effective in combating obesity. CLA studies have found that it can reduce food intake, inhibit fat production, burn excess fat, and stimulate fat breakdown.

Improves Immunity

Ghee is rich in multiple nutrients and healthy acids. This helps the absorption of nutrients, improves digestion, and cleanses the body of toxins. It is additionally high on anti-oxidants like Vitamin E. These antioxidants help fight free radicals, which are compounds that attack healthy cells in the body. Thus, the harm from free radicals is prevented and you thereby have an improved immunity system. This function of ghee is what leads to the claim that it might prevent life-threatening diseases like cancer.

Boon for Lactose Intolerance

Ghee is a blessing in disguise for lactose-intolerant people. Since most of the milk solids are filtered out upon the preparation of ghee, it does not have a high quantity of lactose. This makes ghee an excellent and better alternative to butter. Moreover, the nutrients in Ghee remain despite the burned-off milk solids, making it much healthier than butter for people who aren’t affected by lactose, too.

Skin & Hair Benefits

For centuries, Ayurveda has used ghee as a base for healing ointments for skin problems. Because of its oily texture, ghee is a natural emollient. The amazing nutrients present in its composition do not disappoint the skin and hair. Even consuming ghee is said to be good for radiant skin and shiny hair. Let us take a detailed look at Ghee’s benefits for the skin and hair.

Anti-Inflammatory

This nutritious milk fat has many anti-inflammatory properties. It is frequently used in Ayurvedic ointments for the skin to treat swelling, rashes, damaged skin, flaky skin, and other Pitta imbalances in the body. The fatty acids available in ghee’s composition give it this characteristic. It is soothing to the skin and encourages its regeneration.

Natural Moisturiser

Ghee’s oil-like texture makes it an excellent natural moisturizer. The rich nutritious composition of ghee further helps it not just moisturize the skin but also nourish it with skin regenerating elements. The fatty acids in ghee deeply penetrate the skin layer, enabling long-lasting hydration. It carries any herbs you mix with it deep into skin layers to provide optimal nourishment. This makes way for healthy, youthful, and radiant skin.

Good for Eyes

Ghee is rich in Vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that has several benefits. Doctors prescribe vitamin E supplements for better skin and vision. When applied to the skin, Vitamin E fights free radicals and enables tightening of the skin. This is why ghee makes an excellent under-eye oil. Not only will it get rid of dark circles, but it will also tighten the skin around your eyes to prevent wrinkles. Say goodbye to your eye problems with ghee.

Nourishing Remedy for Chapped Lips

Lips are one of the parts of the body that do not have sebaceous and sweat glands. This calls for the extra care on lips because they’re vulnerable to chapping, cracking, getting flaky, and bleeding when neglected too much. Dry lips reflect on poor hygiene socially. Ghee can be a great natural solution to all chapped lips problems. It makes up for the lack of hydration on the lips, giving you lightened, bright, beautiful red lips.

Improves Scalp Health

Ghee is abundant in vitamin E, which is used to moisturize the skin and scalp. As a result, vitamin E is found in a variety of anti-aging skin care and hair treatments. Because ghee has an oil-like quality, it seals moisture into your scalp. It can make your scalp feel smoother and less itchy, which can lead to fewer flakes, less oil, less dandruff, and shinier hair. The anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of ghee help it fight scalp acne, infections and soothes irritation. It can work as a good home remedy for a healthier scalp.

Softer and Thicker Hair

Ghee is a natural conditioner and hydrator, which undoes the drying damage done to hair with constant heat exposure, straightening, pollution, etc. It penetrates hair follicles when applied directly and nourishes them from the inside. This leads to smooth and silky hair. The composition of ghee further contains numerous vitamins and fatty acids. These, when applied to the scalp, provide hair follicles with abundant nutrients making them thrive and shine. Applying ghee regularly to your hair can therefore lead to softer, thicker-looking hair.

Easy Home remedies Using Ghee

Ghee, as mentioned before, has 1000 potential benefits. It is the magic of how easy it is available in our homes that perhaps makes it all even better.

We said at the beginning of this blog that we will help you utilize that jar of ghee sitting in your kitchen to its optimum. We keep our word in this section and recommend some home remedies with ghee for better digestion, skin, and hair.

Drinking Ghee on Empty Stomach

It is an ancient practice to drink ghee along with water early in the morning. All you have to do is warm a cup of water to lukewarm, and add just a teaspoon of ghee into it. Ayurveda believes ghee to be an “Amrita”, which translates to “the nectar of life.” According to Ayurveda, the regular practice of drinking ghee in the morning is said to result in:

Increased “digestive fire” in your gut, improving absorption and assimilation.
Lubricated body from the inside, resulting in improved joint movement, radiant skin, and better transportation of nutrients
A natural remedy to constipation
Healthier brain and sharper memory

Besan and Ghee Face Mask

Ghee is suitable for all skin types but in particular to dry skin. People with oily skin can use it too, but they would have to watch the quantity and use it in moderation. Besan sort of works similar to a clay mask, absorbing dirt particles in itself and leaving you with clear pores and smooth skin. Combining it with ghee makes works excellently in clearing skin without drying it too much. All you need is 2 tablespoons of besan, one teaspoon of turmeric, and enough ghee to make a thick paste. Apply it to the face and neck. Let it dry for 15-20 minutes use lukewarm water to wash it off.

Home-Made Lip Balm with Ghee

Ghee is an excellent handsy remedy for chapped dry lips. Make your lip balm at home by using ingredients available in your kitchen: some ghee, some coconut oil, and some honey. All you have to do is heat a few tablespoons of ghee so it melts, and then mix coconut oil and honey into it. Put this mixture in a small container and let it cool down and solidify. Upon solidifying, your homemade ghee lip balm will be ready! This all-natural lip balm can be used as an overnight lip care routine or applied whenever you feel your lips drying.

Parting Note

We hope you are as mesmerized by the goodness of ghee as we are. Our grandparents are right about its benefits and uses, and medicinal science has agreed upon it. It is time for us all to replace heavy cooking oils with Ghee and absorb its goodness all around. Welcome to the Ghee-lovers club!