16 Health Benefits of Pomegranates

Pomegranates – the red fruit that has inspired many juices and beauty products – are fun to eat with their sweet and tart taste. They also have medicinal powers, making them a celebrated fruit throughout the world, especially by health enthusiasts.

Here are 15 reasons why you should add pomegranates into your grocery shopping list:

Impotency Fighter – Pomegranates have antioxidants that decrease the risk of atherosclerosis or impotency.

Inflammation Reduction – Pomegranates are rich in vitamin C, which helps treat inflammation as well as asthma, coughing, sore throat, and wheezing.

Cell Damage Prevention – Since this fruit contains high amounts of antioxidants, free radicals are easier to eliminate. If these free radicals stay inside your body, they will attack your cells and damage them. You can either consume the fruit regularly or you can drink juice to get rid of free radicals.

Anemia Cure – Due to the high iron content in this fruit, hemoglobin increases in the blood when you eat plenty of pomegranates, therefore helping cure anemia.

Osteoarthritis Rebel – Pomegranates can hold back the occurrence of osteoarthritis, particularly when consumed on a daily basis. You will have more strength in your bones, so you can perform better and avoid being worried about this disease.

Dental Plaque Prevention – Drink a glass of pomegranate juice every day to protect your teeth against plaque.

Appetite Booster – If you are looking for a tasty food that can aid you in stimulating your appetite, pomegranates are a good choice, especially for children. You can give them pomegranate juice, so they will enjoy eating after.

Digestion Helper – If you have always had a problem with your bowel movements, you should consume this fruit regularly. It has various enzymes that can help you get through nausea, hemorrhoids, dysentery, piles, indigestion, and even kill intestinal parasites.

Diarrhea Stopper – For those who are having loose bowel movements, pomegranates can help prevent such episodes or even stop them.

Alzheimer’s Prevention – While Alzheimer’s is common in aging people, you can help thwart its early occurrence by eating more pomegranates. Also, those with Alzheimer’s are said to benefit from this fruit as it aids in slowing down the disease’s progress. Analytical power also improves, so loved ones with the disease can perform their activities better.

Blood Pressure Normalizer – For those with high blood pressure, everyday consumption of pomegranates can help in lowering BP levels up to 5%. It also helps in reducing fluctuations in blood pressure.

Artery Health Booster – When you drink or eat pomegranates daily, this can help remove the development of sticky deposits where bacteria reside in your arteries. This helps make them so much healthier and free from bacteria.

Cardiovascular Disease Warrior – Since pomegranates have properties that can lower or regulate your blood pressure, it is possible to avoid heart diseases when you consume more of this fruit. Additionally, pomegranates contain lots of antioxidants that reduce low density lipoprotein or the bad type of cholesterol while inducing better blood circulation. These health benefits could lead to better heart health, so you can be free from cardiovascular diseases.

Cancer Fighter – Aside from cardiovascular diseases, pomegranates can lower your risk of getting certain cancers – thanks to its vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and antioxidants. When all of these work together, they can readily fight free radicals, so your cells will not be damaged. Breast cancer, prostate cancer, and lung cancer are some of the cancers that pomegranates can help battle.

Diabetes Struggler – There have been a number of studies that proved just how pomegranate juice can help patients who have diabetes. This is due to the fruit’s ability to reduce bad cholesterol and remove fat deposits in the arteries. Even in low dosages, pomegranates can lower diabetes risk through the help of its phenolic antioxidants.

Weight Controller – This is one of the biggest reasons why many people are fond of the fruit. If you are watching your weight, eat pomegranates regularly to help you shed some pounds.

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MEDICINAL USE OF LIME

Scurvy: Lime is so famous as a cure for scurvy, the disease which is caused due to deficiency of vitamin-C and characterized by frequent infections with cough and cold; cracked lips and lip corners; ulcers in tongue and mouth; spongy, swollen and bleeding gums etc. that now a days even a child can tell you that. 

      Since its cause is deficiency of vitamin-C, its remedy is none other than vitamin-C, and lime is blessed with this vitamin. In olden days, soldiers and sailors were given lime to keep safe from scurvy, which was a dreaded disease then. Even now, it is distributed among the workers working in polluting environments like those working in furnaces, painting shops, heat treatments, cement factories, mines etc. to protect them from scurvy.

Skin Care: 

        Lime juice and its oil are very beneficial for skin when consumed orally or applied externally. It rejuvenates the skin, keeps it shining, protects it from infections and reduces body odor due to presence of a large amount of vitamin-C and Flavonoids, both of which are class-1 anti oxidants, anti biotic and disinfectants.

       When applied externally on skin, its acids scrub out the dead cells, cures dandruff, rashes, bruises etc. and gives you a refreshing bath if its juice or oil is mixed into your bathing water.

Digestion:

          Lime has an irresistible scent which waters the mouth and thus aid primary digestion (the digestive saliva floods your mouth even before you taste it). Then the acids in it do the rest. While they break down of the macro molecules of the food, the Flavonoids, the compounds found in the fragrant oils extracted from lime, stimulate the digestive system and increase secretion of digestive juices, bile and acids and also stimulate the peristaltic motion. 

         This is the reason behind having lemon pickle with lunch and dinner is an age old practice inIndia and some of its neighboring countries.

Constipation: 

         Primarily, the ample of acids present in lime helps clear the excretory system by washing and cleaning off the tracts, just like some acids are used to clean floor and toilets. 

         Then the roughage in it is also helpful in easing constipation. But it is mainly due to high acids. An overdose of lime juice with salt also acts as an excellent purgative without any side effects, thereby giving relief in constipation.

Peptic Ulcer: 

        In addition to vitamin-C, lime contains special compounds called Flavonoids (Limonoids such as Limonin Glucoside) which have anti oxidant, anti carcinogenic, anti biotic and detoxifying properties which help healing of peptic and oral ulcers.

Respiratory Disorders:

         The oil, containing Flavonoids and certain oils, extracted from lime is extensively used in anti congestive medicines such as balms, vaporizers, inhalers etc. due to presence of Kaempferol. Just scratching the peel of a lime and inhaling it gives immediate relief in congestion and nausea.

Eye Care: 

        

Vitamin-C again! Its anti oxidant properties protect eyes from aging and macular degeneration. Flavonoids help protect them from infections.

Gout:       

         There are two main causes of Gout. While the first reason is accumulation of free radicals in the body; the second is accumulation of toxins, primarily uric acid. Now, limes can help you with both of these. It is a reservoir of anti oxidants & detoxifiers (vitamin-C & Flavonoids) which free radicals as well as detoxify the body.

Gums: 

         The root causes of gum problems are deficiency of vitamin-C (Scurvy, which gives bleeding and spongy gums) and microbial growth. Sometimes, the ulcers and wounds from bones, hard objects etc. are also the causes. In all of these, limes can help you. Its vitamin-C cures scurvy, Flavonoids inhibit microbial growth and potassiumand Flavonoids help heal ulcers and wounds.

Piles: 

        Since lime helps heal up ulcers and wounds in the digestive system and excretory system and gives relief from constipation too, it eradicates all the root causes of piles.

Weight Loss: 

        A glass of warm water with a full-lime juice in it is an excellent weight reducer as well as a brilliant refresher and anti oxidant drink. The citric acid present in lime is an excellent fat burner. Just have two glasses a day and see the remarkable result within a week.

Urinary Disorders: 

       The high potassium content of limes is very effective in removal of the toxic substances and the precipitates deposited in kidneys, urinary bladder and its disinfectant properties help cure infections in the urinary system. It also stops prostrate growth (very common in males above 40) and clears blockage of urine due to deposition of calcium in the urinary tract.

Other Benefits: 

           It is a good appetizer and digestive. It helps curearthritis, rheumatism, prostrate and colon cancer, cholera, arteriosclerosis, diabetes, fatigue, heart diseases and even very high fever (in contrary to popular belief). The best part of it is that it has no side effects.

Few Words of Caution:

            The seeds of all citrus fruits (and also apples) are poisonous and if ingested in large quantity (even a small handful) can be fatal. So, avoid chewing or swallowing the seeds when you use limes.

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MEDICINAL USES OF TULSI AS FIRST AID

• Fever & Common Cold:The tulsi leaves are specific for many fevers. When malaria and dengue fever are widely spread mostly during the rainy season, tea which is prepared by using tulsi leaves, act as preventive against theses diseases. An extraction of the leaves by boiling it with powdered cardamom in half a liter of water and then mixed with sugar and milk helps in case of acute fevers. To bring down fever, the juice of tulsi leaves can also be used.

• Sore Throat:In case of sore throat, water boiled with basil leaves can be taken as drink to relief the pain. This solution can also be used as a gargle in sore throat.

• Respiratory Disorder:In the treatment of respiratory system disorder, the tulsi herb is also useful. For bronchitis, asthma, influenza, cough and cold, an extraction of the leaves, with honey and ginger is an effective remedy. However, in the case of influenza, a decoction of the leaves, cloves and common salt provides instant relief.

• Healing Power:Tulsi leaves are nerve tonic. They encourage the removal of the catarrhal matter and phlegm from the bronchial tube. They also help to boost the memory power. The leaves induce abundant perspiration and also increase the strength of the stomach. The plant seeds have mucilaginous property.

• Coughs:In many Ayurvedic cough syrups and expectorants, tulsi is an important constituent. In respiratory problems like bronchitis and asthma, it helps to mobilize mucus.

• Teeth Disorder:The herb is also useful in teeth disorders like pyorrhea and other. Its dried leaves can also be used as tooth powder for brushing teeth. It is very beneficial for maintaining dental health, counteracting bad breath and for massaging the gums.

• Kidney Stone:It has spiraling effect on the kidney. Renal stone will expel through the urinary tract if the juice of basil leaves and honey is taken regularly for 6 months.

• Heart Disorder:In cardiac diseases, basil has a beneficial effect. Also, it decreases the level of blood cholesterol.

• Children’s Ailments:The juice of basil leaves gives favor response to the common pediatric problems like cough cold, fever, diarrhea and vomiting. If basil leaves are taken with saffron, then it will hasten the chicken pox.

• Stress:Tulsi leaves have anti-stress activity. To prevent stress, healthy persons can chew 12 leaves of basil twice a day. It also has blood purifying activity.

• Mouth Infections:For the mouth infections like ulcer, leaves are quit effective.

• Insect Bites:Tulsi herb has both preventive and curative effect for insect stings or bites. For this condition, a teaspoonful of the juice of the leaves is taken and also it is repeated after a few hours. To the affected parts, fresh juice must also be applied for the relief. A paste which is prepared from fresh roots of basil is also effective in case of bites of insects and leeches.

• Skin Disorders:In the treatment of ringworm and other skin diseases, basil juice is beneficial when applied locally. In the treatment of leucoderma, it has also been attempted successfully by some naturopaths.

• Headaches:For headache, basil makes a good medicine. On the forehead, powdered leaves mixed with sandalwood paste can be applied for getting relief from headache and heat, in general to provide coolness.

• Eye Disorders:Put two drops of black basil juice into the eyes daily at bedtime. Sore eyes and night-blindness are usually caused by deficiency of vitamin A and black basil juice is an effective remedy for this.

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TOP 10 HEALTH BENEFITS OF GUAVA

Guava fruit (amrood), usually 5 to 10 cm (2-4 inches) long, are round or pear shaped depending on the variety. It bears a green, yellow or maroon cover while the inside of the fruit features the white ("white" guavas) or pink ("red" guavas) fleshy part containing many small, hard seeds. There are many varieties of guava that are grown for their fruit, including Psidium guajava (apple guava), Psidium cattleianum (strawberry guava), and Psidium friedrichstahlium. The most frequently encountered variety, and the one often simply referred to as “the guava”, is the Apple Guava.

Guava with its sweet smell can be taken raw or you can even enjoy guava jams and jellies with fresh bread slices! Whatever might be the mode of intake, guava, being a storehouse of nutrients, would provide many health benefits. Here are the health conditions which are targeted by the nutrients present in guava:

1. Cancer Prevention: Guava is an excellent source of the cancer-fighting antioxidant, lycopene. Lycopene in guava is more easily absorbed by our body than lycopene from tomato becuase of the difference in the cell structure that allows the antioxidant to be absorbed whether the fruit is raw or cooked. Lycopene consumption is associated with significantly lower rates of prostate cancer, and it has also been found to inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells. Lycopene promotes good health by acting against the influence of “free radicals”, which can damage cells and can contribute to developing cancer and coronary heart disease. All varieties of guava are loaded with antioxidants but the one with the red flesh type contains more than the white-fleshed apple guava.
2. High Blood Pressure: Guava, being hypoglycemic in nature (if taken without skin) and fiber rich, helps in decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This makes guavas highly beneficial for those at risk for heart disease and hypertension. Also, a medium guava (165 gm) provides you with 20 percent of the recommended daily value (DV) for potassium. Studies have shown that people who consume more potassium have lower blood pressures than those who consume less.
3. Diarrhea: Guava has proved to be beneficial to individuals suffering from Diarrhea. Guava has astringents (chemical compound that tends to shrink or constrict body tissues, for example compounds those make your gums feel tighter and fresh after you eat a raw guava), which are helpful in binding up loose stools during the conditions of diarrhea. These alkaline compounds display antibacterial properties and have the ability to prevent microbial growth during dysentery. Other disinfectants present in guava include Carotenoids, Vitamin C and Potassium. These properties and ingredients of guava also support healing in cases of gastroenteritis.
4. Cough and Cold: The decoction of guava leaves or the juices of raw or immature guavas bring relief to individuals suffering from cough and cold. This can be attributed to the astringent properties of guava juice. The juice works by loosening the cough, decreasing mucus and by making the respiratory tract, throat and lungs infection-free. Guava is also rich in vitamin C and iron, which provide protections against cold and viral infections.
5. Skin Care: The astringents of guava enhance the skin texture and tighten loosened skin. In fact, guava works more effectively than any other skin nourishing lotions in the market. Decoction of immature leaves and fruits can be applied on the skin for tightening and toning purposes. Additionally, guava has high contents of vitamin A, vitamin C and Potassium, which are characterized by their antioxidant functions. These nutrients carry out detoxification processes and keep the skin healthy and wrinkle-free.
6. Constipation: High amount of dietary fiber present in guava helps prevent constipation. A medium guava provides you with 36 percent of the recommended daily value for dietary fiber. Also, the seeds of guava are very effective laxatives. Both these attributes help in the formation of bowels and the cleaning up of the excretory system.
7. Diabetes: According to a study conducted on rats, both the guava fruit and its leaves can help diabetic patients by lowering their blood glucose levels. However, if consumed along with its skin, it can be bad for your blood sugar. According to the research published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research and conducted by researchers at the Medicinal Research Laboratory of the University of Allahabad, blood sugar levels in rats injected with guava peel extract rose by 91% in sub-diabetic rats within two hours of administration and by 27% in normal rats after eight hours of administration. So, the best way to consume a guava for diabetics is to peel off its skin.
8. Weight Loss: Guava forms an essential component of a weight loss diet. Guava is rich in fiber, proteins and vitamins and this implies that individuals looking to lose weight would not have to compromise on their intake of these nutrients! Guava with no cholesterol and low carbohydrates, can still offer a feeling of fullness. A medium sized guava for lunch is enough to supply nutrition till dinner. Again, guava can help thin people gain weight. This can be attributed to its nutrients which aid in the better absorption process of the body.
9. Scurvy: The Vitamin C content of a common guava (apple guava) is about four times than what we find in an orange. Thus, guavas are effective remedies for scurvy, which is characterized by swollen and bleeding gums due to deficiency of Vitamin C.
10. Dental Care: The juice of the guava leaves containing astringents and vitamins is a remedy for toothaches, swollen gums and ulcers of the mouth.

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MEDICINAL VALUE OF ROSE PLANTS

Roses are one of the oldest cultivated flowers. They have been valued for thousands of years for their medicinal and food value. Asian rose species are used in a number of traditional Chinese medicine formulas. The ancient Greeks, Persians and Romans also used roses as medicine. Have a question? Get an answer from a Medical Professional now!

Rose Petals

In traditional medicine, rose petals are used as a remedy for diarrhea, coughs and colds, sores, nervous tension, lethargy and painful joints. Petals are used to prepare gargles and tonics for colds and mouth sores.
Rose Water

Rosewater was invented by the Persian physician Ibn Sina in the first century C.E. Among its other uses, it is commonly prescribed for eye inflammation and to strengthen the heart.

Rose Oil

Rose oil is also referred to as rose attar or otto. It is used to soothe irritated and chapped skin. It is a part of modern traditional and modern aromatherapy which seeks to relieve nervous tension and depression.
Rose Seeds

Rose seeds are used as an effective diuretic and to cure various urinary tract disorders. Rose hips also have a mildly laxative effect.
Homemade Rose Infusion

It is very easy to benefit from the medicinal properties of roses by preparing an infusion from the buds or hips of the flowers. There is no indication of any toxicity in roses. To prepare an infusion, mix ¾ cup rose petals with 1 cup cold water. Pour in a jar, seal tightly and let sit for 2 to 3 days. Shake the bottle once daily. On the third day, strain the petals and add 1 tbsp. vodka. 

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BENEFITS OF BANANA LEAVES FOR THE SKIN

            Bananas can be enjoyed with a sweet taste. Even his skin have properties, nor the leaves. Banana leavesfresh and green are very beneficial for the body, especially in skin care.

Here are some of the benefits of banana leaves for the skin-

1. Natural herbs can treat a small wound on the skin and other skin disorders such as dandruff, eczema,and sunburn. Use juice from the juice of fresh banana leaves will gradually cure the disorder from the root. You can also soak the leaves with cold water and dab on sunburned skin.

2. Banana leaves have medicinal properties that can relieve poisonous insect bites, bee stings, spider bites, rashes, skin irritation. The leaves are popularly known as a natural eraser.

3. Cosmetic creams and lotions that contain expensive active ingredient called Allantoin which are foundon plant leaves. Allantoin helps faster healing, kills germs and stimulates new skin cell growth.

4. Daun banana when mixed with cayenne pepper and comfrey helps reduce scars on the skin, physical injury, itching, bleeding, and reduce all types of inflammation.

5. Natural Ointment simple using fresh banana leaf extract, olive oil, a little beeswax can be an effective treatment for infants. This natural ointment can heal diaper rash and mosquito bites.

Besides an ice cube is rolled up in leaves can be massaged into the skin. This relaxes the skin and reduce stress.

6. Banana leaves are also available in capsule form (supplement / liquid extract) may be taken every day-for protection from stains, even though your skin glowing

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