Useful Facts and Benefits of Battery Toothbrush

Useful Facts and Benefits of Battery Toothbrush

Proper oral hygiene is important for reducing the build-up of plaque and to avoid painful cavities, tooth decay, gum disease that may cause serious health problems, and costly dental bills. When choosing the best toothbrush, softer bristles are usually recommended over firm ones. Consider whether you prefer manual brushing or an electric, vibrating cleaning tool, as there are many options available. Selecting the appropriate size for your mouth is also important to be sure you can reach all of your teeth easily.

About the Battery Toothbrush
Many types of toothbrushes are now out in the market with the same goal of replacing the manual toothbrush. The goal is said to be easier to achieve since these modern toothbrushes have more features and are more effective in terms of cleaning the teeth than the manual ones. The only setback of these toothbrushes is their high price, but there are power toothbrushes that do not cost much and can be affordable to have, these are the battery toothbrush. However, before you enjoy the benefits of these battery-operated toothbrushes, you must be sure that you are purchasing the right one. There are several factors to consider in choosing the best battery toothbrush in the market. If you know all this information, choosing the "one" will be an easy thing for you.

Most of these battery toothbrushes have its vibrating features; but you must be sure and check if it has the built-in AA battery on it that can be replaced when the old one is no longer functioning. There are models of this toothbrush that are disposable, better to avoid buying those. These battery-operated toothbrushes must have an on/off button. It should be located on the brush handle that will make it easy for the user to access every time he is brushing. Its handle must provide that added comfort that every user is looking for, the better grip for an effective brushing. Its bristle must have the ability to pulsate as it vibrates, the gum must be also protected. After all, this is why a toothbrush is made-to protect the teeth and the gum as well. The mode of its brushing must fit even the sensitive one, and even those who have teeth braces.

These battery toothbrushes should provide its user all his dental care needs, which mean that it must have the mode that will prevent any bacteria to dwell in your toothbrush. Look for the design of its brush heads, it should provide the user the choice of his bristle according to his preference. Even though, this battery toothbrush cost cheaper compared to the electrical ones, the features mentioned makes it ideal to use.

However, even with its flaws, battery-operated toothbrushes are still ideal to use over the manual ones. It has more features that could provide more efficient and more effective ways of brushing. When you are using this kind of toothbrush, you are sure your teeth are being cleaned thoroughly and precisely. Many battery-operated toothbrushes are now out in the market and you can choose what brand will suit you. You can visit some sites to give you more valuable information that will be useful for you to consider when choosing the right toothbrush. Considering the factors that have been laid down, you can use these to your advantage in searching for the right battery toothbrush for you.

This power toothbrush also has its flaws. Recent study shows the area where they need improvement. First, the compatibility of its head to other brands. It is a setback because the user will have no choice but to buy the same head even it is expensive. Hence, you will not be able to look for a cheaper one because its head is not compatible with another brand. Because of its two AA batteries, this toothbrush is too big for their use. Although you can shift using small rechargeable batteries but these kind of battery is subject to failure while the AA battery are consistent in their service. Last, is the choice of head, it should be more customized depending on the users' choice. The choice must not be limited for the convenient of the buyers.

Choose the Best Battery Operated Toothbrush
When shopping for a battery operated toothbrush, make sure you choose an age-appropriate item. A young child may require a low-powered model and an easy-grip handle. If you're choosing a children's model, you may prefer a more simplistic design. A battery operated toothbrush for an adult may have firmer bristles and other features. A toothbrush with a timer is good to have to ensure you are brushing for the designated time. If you are looking for a battery operated toothbrush to help motivate your child to brush thoroughly and encourage good oral hygiene, look for a model with a small brush head. An adult-size toothbrush may be too large for a younger child's mouth and gums. Some of these rechargeable brushes also feature a built-in timer, so the child will recognize the correct amount of brushing time for optimal results.

If you are looking to purchase a battery-operated toothbrush for yourself, another thing you'll want to look for is the recharging base itself. Depending upon your preference, you may to wall mount the base or keep it flat on a countertop. Wall-mounting bases require no counter space, making them a good choice when space is limited in the bathroom. Notice the type of batteries the rechargeable toothbrush requires. Certain rechargeable batteries may be less expensive than others and more readily available. If the toothbrush takes a hard-to-find replaceable battery, you might want to reconsider.

In selecting your battery operated toothbrush, you may want to be sure it includes interchangeable brush heads. A few replacement heads are also useful. Some battery operated toothbrushes also come packaged in sets. This may include two or even three at a reasonable price. You may prefer the benefits of a battery operated toothbrush with a spinning or rotating head. Some individuals believes this gives them a better and more thorough cleaning. The decision is a matter of preference, but it's definitely worth considering.

Another consideration for your new battery operated toothbrush is comfort. If you prefer a soft toothbrush, or hard toothbrush, read the package carefully. Some even include both soft and hard brush heads. There are models that also feature a special whitening type head to help polish teeth and remove surface stains. Lastly, decide whether you want a battery operated toothbrush with a recharging option that features a base charger. If you prefer to use disposable batteries rather than a recharger, consider the cost of battery replacement. Using disposable batteries may be more convenient, yet slightly more costly in the long run.

Here is a number of things that you could follow on selecting the right battery powered toothbrush out there.

• Besides the vibrating features that are giving additional cleaning action with battery powered toothbrush. Check if the toothbrush has a built-in AA battery includes.

• They usually have an on/off button switch positioned on the handle switch, it is design to be operated easily when you are brushing your teeth. It must also have comfortable handle that will gives you the right grip.

• The toothbrush should have bristles or split brush heads which are designed for the vibration features. Gum protection is essential, check out also if the toothbrush promote them.

• Check out if the product offers you deeper clean with better plaque removal features. The toothbrush must be gentle on your gum and specially teeth.

• It ought to have brushing modes with speciality to take care sensitive teeth, gum massaging features, and better whitening. For those of you who are wearing braces, the models got to have this feature.

• The brush head must be changeable, so the user can change it to any brush head that he/she wants. If the models are gently for kids, this would be huge benefits.

• It ought to meet any oral care needs that's essential for the user. With cross action power and anti-bacteria bristle protection mode that can stop the growth of bacteria inside your mouth.

• Having features like extra brush head, bathroom counter storage unit, toothbrush holder, and travelling kit is a major benefit.

Battery powered toothbrush or the Battery-operated toothbrush are similar to the regular manual toothbrush in their design and have just enough vibration to add on some extra cleaning action. These battery powered toothbrushes are also called Powered Toothbrushes due to their use of A-A Battery and do match the manual toothbrushes in terms of their price. If you need a touch of some extra power and are tired of using the electrical systems then try and select the best Battery Toothbrush.

With all of the features and technology that a battery powered toothbrush have, this may offers you a lot benefits in your oral care.Battery powered toothbrushes that have all of the features and technology that are mention above, it will definitely assist you to in your dental care. You will get healthier and whiter if you use the brushing technique that the toothbrush have.

For some brands, U.S dental experts highly recommends you using battery powered toothbrush that are designed with high technology featurs. A whiter and brighter smile will likely be achieved if you use the best battery powered toothbrush.

Myotcstore Related Products:

Arm and hammer spinbrush globrush powered soft toothbrush - 1 ea

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Diuretics - Natural and OTC Diuretics

Diuretics - Natural and OTC Diuretics

Diuretics increase the production of urine. In other words, they help the body get rid of salt and water, which means they increase the excretion of water from the body. Also known as water pills, they are used to treat a variety of health conditions like high blood pressure and edema.

Substances that augment "diuresis," or the removal of fluids from the body through urination, are considered diuretics. More commonly known as "water pills," diuretics may be prescription or over the counter drugs. They may also be homeopathic remedies or foods that help to prevent or treat fluid retention. It is best to consult with a healthcare professional before using any form of diuretics.

Diuretics are used for many reasons. They may be indicated for people who suffer from edema, an intense accumulation of fluids in the body's tissues, and those who suffer from high blood pressure or other heart related diseases. Increasing the production of urine not only releases fluid, but also helps rid the body of excess salts and may reduce blood volume.

What are the Benefits of Diuretics?
There are various types of diuretics that are used for the treatment of various medical conditions. Diuretics are commonly used in the treatment of medical conditions like hypertension, heart failure, kidney diseases, liver diseases, like liver cirrhosis, etc. They are also used as one of the treatment options for several eating disorders, like bulimia. Several types of diuretics are used for increasing alkalinity of urine and as a treatment for aspirin overdose. Diuretics that are used for hypertension and heart disease treatment include Thiazide, which is a type of a diuretic drug. These are long acting diuretics that work for 24 hours at a stretch. These diuretics are combined with angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) or Ace inhibitors. Such diuretics are ideal for patients who are suffering with stage I hypertension. Patients who are suffering with resistant hypertension are given potassium sparing diuretics. The dosage of diuretics depends on medical history and current health condition of a patient. Normally, half a tablet per day is considered a harmless dosage. However, precautions should be taken while giving diuretics to the patients with kidney diseases.

Natural Diuretic
For those who only require minimal fluid reduction, and have no real health concerns, foods with natural diuretic properties may be a better alternative than drug-based diuretics. Some foods that contain natural diuretics are cranberries and cranberry juice, coffee and other beverages that contain caffeine, and apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar also contains potassium, so it may help avoid potassium deficiency. Still, it should be used sparingly. Adding fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers, watermelon and others that contain a lot of water will also help increase urination.

List of Natural Diuretic Foods
1. Asparagus: It contains a chemical alkaloid called asparagine that promotes effective removal of wastes from the body by improving the functioning of the kidney.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar: It maintains optimum levels of potassium in the body in addition to exhibiting natural diuretic properties.

3. Tomatoes: It's a very rich source of vitamin C that helps release excessive body fluids and improves metabolism.

4. Garlic: It contains mustard oils that have cleansing properties. They break down and flush out fats.

5. Cranberry Juice: It helps maintain the pH level of the urine, dilutes the urine and aids in increasing the frequency of urination. It's also helpful in improving and maintaining proper kidney function.

6. Brussels Sprouts: It helps in the cleansing of the body tissues and cells by stimulating the kidneys and pancreas.

7. Oats: It contains Silica which is a natural diuretic substance.

8. Dandelion Leaf: It is high in potassium and mineral contents that aid the process of diuresis. It also helps in potassium retention.

9. Green Tea: It is being used in China, as a natural diuretic, since centuries.

10. Fennel: It exhibits diuretic and carminative (relieving gas) properties.

11. Juniper Berries: It contains volatile oils and terpinen-4-ol which enhances the kidney's glomerular filtration which helps flush out excessive fluids from the body.

12. Parsley: It stimulates urination by flushing out toxins from the kidneys.

13. Celery: Both the seed and the plant contain high levels of potassium and sodium that together stimulate urine production.

14. Lettuce: It helps flush out toxins and increases metabolism rate.

15. Melon: It contains high levels of water, potassium and sodium that help eliminate toxins and stimulates urine production.

16. Gingko Biloba: Gingko seeds are used to treat many urinary problems. Apart from this they are also used to treat other disorders like coughs, digestion problems, scabies and skin sores.

17. Carrots: An infusion of carrot seeds with boiling water is used as a diuretic. They also have other health benefits like good eye health, skin health and improved immunity.

18. Coffee: Coffee is considered to be a good laxative and diuretic. Both decaffeinated and caffeinated coffee seem to be effective.

19. Watercress: Watercress is popular for weight loss benefits, because of its diuretic action it helps to get rid of excess fluids from the body.

20. Beetroot: Having a glass of beetroot juice daily works as a good diuretic. It helps to get rid of salt and water out of the body.

A natural diuretic diet can also be followed as a diet for weight loss or a detoxification diet. They also help reduce PMS symptoms like bloating and headaches. For these purposes, carbohydrates, foods high in sugar and salt content, junk foods, soft drinks, etc. need to be completely eliminated from one's diet and the above mentioned foods and herbs should be incorporated. Drinking plenty of water is also very essential.

Although these foods can help detoxify and provide relief from edema, they should be consumed only for a few days, as some natural diuretics can also flush out the essential minerals and nutrients. It is advisable to consume them under the advise of a medical expert.

Uses of Diuretics
Over the counter diuretics are taken to prevent or to treat water retention or edema (an intense accumulation of fluid in the body's tissues). Water pills increase the production of urine by releasing accumulated fluid in the body. This helps get rid of body toxins as well. Thus, they also play the role of detoxifying agents. They help rid the body of excess salts and also reduce blood volume, particularly through the action of the kidneys. Increased blood volume leads to increased blood pressure. Water pills can help lower high blood pressure. Instead of using OTC diuretics for high blood pressure, diuretics available by prescription should be used. They are available in the form of tablets, capsules, liquid, and injections. Similarly, OTC diuretics for edema should be avoided. As edema can be a sign of a more serious problem in some cases, consulting your physician and taking prescribed drugs is absolutely essential.

Water pills are recommended as a weight loss aid, when you need to lose substantial weight in a short period of time. But the fact is that diuretics do not promote fat loss. I repeat, diuretics, simply remove retained fluid. The loss of a few pounds noticed on a scale is a temporary loss. It is not a healthy way to lose weight. Overuse of diuretics can result in dehydration and sometimes severe hypokalemia or potassium deficiencies, which can be dangerous. As apple cider vinegar contains potassium, it is considered as good and relatively safe diuretic for weight loss.

Over the counter diuretics are perhaps the most commonly abused medications. They should not be administered to small children, pregnant women and lactating mothers. A variety of herbal diuretics are commonly found in over the counter weight loss products. They are not toxic but may interact with some medications. Therefore, it is always safe to consult your health care provider before opting for diuretics. OTC diuretics like pamabrom (Aquaban) can help reduce water retention caused by premenstrual syndrome (PMS); but prior consultation with your doctor is necessary.

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Baby Health and FirstAid For Kids

Baby Health and FirstAid For Kids

Handling a newborn, especially for a first-time mom is always a trying experience. However, the nursing process need not be very difficult. Newborn nursing is more than just 'how long' and 'how often'. It involves a right understanding and education during the pregnancy. It is for this very reason that a number of maternity homes offer symposiums to help the first time mothers. There are a number of things that need to be considered about newborn nursing to do it right. Given below are some of these.

1. Respond to the baby's cry: Baby care includes being sensitive to the infant's need to be fed. It is very important to be attentive especially during the first few days. Breastfeeding requires more than just physical presence. You need to consider using products that lighten the task at hand. There are specially-designed products like maternity dresses, cribs, and even baby sleeping products.

2. Pucker the nipple: This is a very important aspect of breastfeeding. A first time mother should be educated on how to hold the baby and develop the right technique. Hold the child close to the breast at the base of the nipple. The whole nipple needs to be coaxed into the baby's mouth for the best results.

3. Shift position according to the pull: It is natural to feel a surge of the flow of milk as the infant suckles. However, once one breast is drained, there will be a strong pull felt. Be attentive to this and quickly change the baby's position to the other breast. The foremilk and hind-milk are both very important for the growth of the child's brain. Feeding till the baby is satisfied and not till it is asleep is important.

4. Plan baby nursing sessions: Newborn nursing needs to be planned. Rather than you running every time your infant yells, try training. Infants learn very quickly. Most of the learning takes place during the first few days post birth. Feeding should always be planned according to your own meal times, a little before or after. It is important to pay attention to your own nutritional requirements while nursing.

5. Drink a lot of water: Another important tip is to drink a lot of water before nursing. This helps a lot. Research reveals a greater milk flow after drinking a glass or two of water. It is also noticed that the mother perspires a lot while breastfeeding. Drinking water will also replenish your own body.

6. Ensure that the baby burps periodically: It is important to ensure that the child is held up and stroked lightly on the back, with upward strokes. This enables the trapped air to be released and allows better feeding. If not helped to burp regularly, gripes make the baby uncomfortable and very irritable.

7. Look for other reasons that might make the infant cry: Check the nursery every time your child cries. Wet clothes are a disturbing factor for infants. It is important to also check for, or totally avoid, toys with sharp edges that may be lying around the crib. If the child is hungry, then he/she will ask for it. Babies are known to indicate hunger by sucking movements of the mouth and an instant turn for the breast.

8. Be attentive to prescribed immunizations: It is very important to pay attention to infant safety while nursing a newborn. Immunizations are planned and prescribed in an order that begins right from the moment the child is born. However, there is always a change in the nursing pattern post immunization. It is important to note that your infant's discomfort may not always be due to hunger.

The most important thing that your little one needs is your love and care, and our task is to tell you about everything else. Such aspect as baby health care is divided into six main components described below.
1. Strong immune system
Breastfeeding is the first major condition for a strong immune system. It provides a baby with everything he needs to grow normally, as well as it gives him antibodies that are an extra support of the immune system. When it is impossible to breastfeed, it is necessary to try to provide a baby with a special balanced nutrition.

2. Comfortable digestion
Parents will struggle with the increased flatulence in the first months of their baby's life, as well as with the possible development of intestinal dysbiosis in the baby. Simple medications and massage complexes will help to treat colic, but treatment of bacterial overgrowth will require correction of baby's nutrition, introduction (when prescribed by a pediatrician) of specific medications to strengthen the immune system and medications that contain lactic acid bacteria.

3. Stable body growth
Everything is pretty simple here: growth means calcium, and milk and cottage cheese of high quality are the sources of calcium.

4. Development of organs of vision
Development of good vision is an important aspect in baby health care. Nutrition must contain linoleic and alpha-linoleic acids. Unfortunately, they are not synthesized in the human body, but they play an important role in it. So baby's diet should include specialized dairy products that contain these essential acids.

5. Development of brain
Of course, every baby is unique and genius from the very birth, but any genius needs to be fed and supported with taurine and carnitine, as well as with arachidonic and docosahexaenoic acids. These chemical compounds contribute to the development of intelligent capabilities of a baby best of all. So if chosen as an extra nutrition, baby formula should contain these acids.

6. Reducina risks of allergy
A baby should be saved from allergy in the first months of his life because allergic reactions can develop pathological mechanisms in the baby's body. Of course, if an allergic reaction has been already discovered, parents should consult a pediatrician. Allergy in babies is most often seen as skin rash. So, vegetables and meat, and special baby products of Nell-known and certified manufacturers should be used for nutrition and supplementary nutrition.

Babies respond to every basic body requirement and need just a little initial help. There are many ways to know whether or not the method of nursing is right. It should be as comfortable for the mother as it is for the baby. Symposiums are regularly held to enable doctors to monitor infant nursing and share techniques with first-time mothers.

First Aid for Kids
The first medication that is given to an injured person in case of an accident is called first aid. First aid is therefore the first treatment given to an injured person. In case of severe injuries resulting from accidents, first aid ensures that the victim is given the basic treatment, to avoid loss of blood, etc. before advanced treatment can be given to him. The best bit about first aid is that you do not need to be a doctor or medical practitioner to do it. In fact, first aid is something that ideally everyone should be aware of. A lot of lives can be saved by performing the basic treatment on an injured person before a hospital ambulance comes to pick up the person.

Children too can be taught about first aid and child safety. Although they will not be expected to perform first aid on elder people, they can surely treat their own injuries. Children keep getting injured while playing sports or simply running on the sidewalk. Not all parents can be home to treat the wounds and it is silly to trouble a doctor over slight matters like this. Hence the knowledge of first aid comes quite handy to children, so that they can take care of themselves.

Basic First Aid
Sometimes children have to face unexpected and problematic situations like injuries, accidents, burns, heat strokes, etc. They should have some basic first aid knowledge on how to deal with such situations. The following points would give us an idea about basic first aid for kids.

First Aid Lessons For Kids
1. Bandages: One of the simplest and most essential first aid for kids that they need very often is how to tie a bandage. Kids keep on falling and getting themselves hurt. So teach them how to tie a bandage to the wounded area. Firstly it is important to clean the area with water. Then, using a cotton swab, antiseptic should be applied. Applying an antiseptic is very important as bacteria and other germs gain access to the body through the wound. So it is good to clean the wound first. In case you don't have an antiseptic, use an anti-bacterial soap. If the wound is small, a band-aid will do, but if it is a big wound, you will need a gauze.

2. Insect Bites: Another wound that children routinely get is insect bites. So while teaching first aid, this also should be included in the curriculum. In case of an insect bite, it is important to clean the bite with antiseptic and water. Again, insect bites leave the skin open, so an anti-bacterial is a must. Insects often function as vectors - they act as carriers of the germs of various diseases. Hence the use of soap is recommended. Apply ice to the wound for around 20 minutes. In case of spider bites, use antibiotic creams to avert the risk of infection.

3. Nosebleeds: Nosebleeds are another common occurrence with children. Luckily treating nosebleeds is very simple and quite within the scope of children. In case of a nosebleed, make sure that you lean forward and pinch the bottom part of your nose. Do not lean backwards as the blood might enter your wind pipe through your nose, causing complications. Lean forward and pinch the nose till the bleeding stops. Typically, the bleeding will stop within 10 minutes as the blood will clot. Pinching the nose will stop the loss of blood.

4. Burns: There are often chances that children might come in contact with some hot substances and suffer minor burns. So you can teach them how to deal with minor burns. The way is to cool the burn by holding the wounded part under a cold water stream. Then apply a pain relieving ointment on the burn.

5. Rashes: Small children may have allergies to a lot of things and might develop rashes on contact. There are various creams available based on the type of rash such as calamine lotion and zinc oxide ointment.

These were the common first aid things which you can teach your kids. The above mentioned safety measures for children are simple and are required quite frequently. These are some treatments which kids should ideally be well-acquainted with.

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Stomach Remedies For Infants and Children

Stomach Remedies For Infants and Children

Gas in newborns and babies under one year old is a common condition, which every mother has faced at some point or the other in their child's growing years. According to lactation specialists, gas is produced when a newborn feeds for the first time, either breast milk or baby formula. The components of milk are such that they produce gas in the process of digestion. Nevertheless, some babies are more susceptible to have gas problems than others.

For a mother, dealing a gassy baby with discomfort symptoms is very painful. There are virtually many factors responsible for presence of gas in the baby's digestive tract, out of which the main reason is the immature digestive system of the baby. To be more precise, the digestive system of a baby is not fully developed, hence gas formation to some extent is quite a common case. However, understanding the main causes and profound symptoms is imperative to help relieve a gassy baby.

Causes and Symptoms of Gas in Infants
While feeding, a baby can engulf air bubbles due to the suction created during breastfeeding or bottle feeding. Another cause for gassy baby is maternal diet; it is found that nutrients and gas causing agents pass from the breastfeeding mother to her baby. Hence, if a mother's diet is enriched with food that cause gas, such as cabbage, legumes, dairy products, etc. the risk for developing gas in babies is higher. Also, too many citrus fruits and acidic food items cause stomach irritation in the baby.

Babies who are between 3 - 6 months old are prone to gas pain and related problems. Some of the most noticeable symptoms are sleeping problems, irritability, fussiness and crying for a longer time, without any apparent reason. Usually, such irritation signs are manifested after feeding. Other symptoms that indicate gas in babies is abdominal bloating, distended stomach and frequent passing of gas. While massaging a gassy baby's tummy, bubbles can be felt in the stomach and abdominal area.

Remedies and Cure in Infants
Baby crying to some extent is natural, after all it is the only way for your child to express verbally for any uncomfortable reason. However, strenuous crying causes engulfing of air, which in turn exacerbate the condition of a gassy baby. So, how to calm a flatulent baby? Practicing a proper baby feeding habit is one way to get rid of gas in babies. Following are some effective methods regarding how to relieve a colicky baby:

• Speaking about gassy baby breastfeeding tips and tricks, burping the baby and patting his or her back at regular intervals (after every 3 - 5 minutes) is a sure way to reduce gas accumulation in the digestive tract.
For bottle-fed babies, the nipple size should be accurate; otherwise a larger nipple size causes a baby to feed very fast, while a smaller one leads to intake of more gas.

• Consider gentle massaging over the baby's tummy with a massage oil. This will help relieve gas bubbles from the digestive system.

• Laying the baby on his or her tummy for a while also aids in expelling gas. However, keep a close eye over the baby to ensure that he or she is comfortable and safe.

• In case of any suspect that gas in a baby is caused by diet intolerance, the mother should strictly watch her diet. Eliminating lactose, peanut and soy one by one and then, monitoring baby's tolerances is an effective way to help a baby relief from gas caused by food intolerance.

Following proper baby care will definitely help in improving gassy baby symptoms. There are several products formulated for alleviating gas in babies. However, it is to borne in mind that anything other than mother's milk or baby formula may cause unusual side effects. Hence, never indulge in providing herbal remedies or therapeutic formulation without consulting a qualified pediatrician.

Stomach Problems in Children
Upset stomach in children mainly arises due to infection caused by some virus, bacteria or parasites. These microbes enter their digestive tract either through contaminated food or water. Other causes include any kind of food poisoning, metal poisoning or side effects of strong laxatives that have been used to get relief from constipation.

Stomach problems in children can manifest in the following way:
1. Diarrhea: In this condition, the child defecates watery stools and frequency of bowel movement also increases. The child may go to the toilet 3 to 4 times in a day to pass stools. Diarrhea is a viral infection and causes abdominal pain during bowel movement. In most cases, diarrhea in children does not last long and within a week the condition goes away without any treatment. As diarrhea leads to dehydration, it is essential that the child drinks plenty of water and other fluids.

2. Constipation: Constipation that causes infrequent bowel movement, is marked by passage of dry and hard stools. Painful defecation is a common complaint among children affected with constipation. In most cases, the condition is not serious and resolves without any medical intervention. Drinking plenty of water, complemented by a high fiber diet, will make the stools soft and bulky, allowing painless bowel movement. Laxatives (if any) should be given only after consulting a doctor.

3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): This condition causes development of ulcers in the inner lining of the large intestine. IBD in children is characterized by inflammation of the large intestine, followed by stomach cramps and diarrhea. When IBD is severe, blood in the stools is observed. Oral medications are prescribed to relieve symptoms associated with IBD.

4. Parasitic Infection: Intestinal infection of parasites such as roundworm, whipworm or hookworm can also cause abdominal cramps, gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, foul-smelling stools and distended stomach. Coming in contact with infected soil and eating contaminated food are some of the factors that increase the risk of exposure to parasites.

5. Stomach Flu: Also known as gastroenteritis, the condition can occur due to a bacterial, viral or a parasitic infection. Often marked by nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, stomach flu can cause severe abdominal pain.

6. Appendicitis: Appendicitis is a term that refers to an inflamed appendix. The appendix is a tube, 3-4 inch long, bulging out from the large intestine. Actually, it is an extension of the large intestine that gets inflamed due to an infection. An obstructed appendix not only causes infection, but also causes unbearable stomach pain. Appendicitis requires urgent medical attention, and mostly a surgery is performed to remove the appendix.

On the whole, washing hands before eating is one of the prerequisites to keep digestive tract healthy. All in all, proper food handling and sanitation is the first line of defense against food-borne pathogens and will surely keep stomach problems at bay.

Symptoms
When the toxins enter the body, they cause irritation in the inner lining and intestines. This condition triggers vomiting and diarrhea. A few more symptoms are observed in children like stomach cramps, fever, loss of appetite, weakness, etc. Diarrhea usually subsides within 3-5 days but weakness and appetite loss may continue to bother them for some more days.

Remedies for Kids
The medicines that are used for the treatment are very bad in taste and hence, most children refuse to take them. For this reason, parents try to treat it with the following home remedies:

1. Water: Give them plenty of water to drink. There is no better natural solution to the problem than water. It helps to flush out the toxic substances from the digestive system. Moreover, it replenishes the water lost due to diarrhea and thus prevent dehydration.

2. Ginger: This is an excellent remedy for indigestion that restores normal functioning of the stomach. Ginger stimulates the digestive juice which neutralizes the acids and has a soothing effect. Half a teaspoon of ginger juice should be given to them twice a day until the symptoms subside. If your child finds the taste of the juice terrible, you can mix it up with half teaspoon of honey.

3. Fresh Fruits: Combination of apple and banana can give relief from the annoying stomach ache associated with it. Steam a few pieces of freshly cut apples for about 5 minutes. Then mash a banana and put all the steamed apple pieces into it. Stir it well and serve it to the child. The fiber and enzymes of the apple and mucous building quality of the banana will heal up their stomach. They also love the fresh flavor of the fruits.

4. Mint and Lemon: Both these natural substances are good for children. Mint is effective for killing the bacteria present in the digestive tract and lemon will ease off the constipation. Prepare a soup by boiling a few mint leaves in a cup of water and add a lemon slice to it before offering it to the child in the morning.

5. Yogurt: Most children are fond of yogurt and if you give them as a medicine I am sure they will have it without much complain. Yogurt supplies certain useful bacteria which your child's body might be lacking. If your child suffers from stomach upset quite frequently, then yogurt should be in his or her daily diet.

These remedies will work provided the child is given the right kind of diet. In the initial stage, only liquid diet is suitable. Later on, as the condition improves, some semi-solid food can be given. You have to be careful before giving the solid food as it can relapse the problem. At any point of time, if you feel that the condition of the child is serious, consult a pediatrician. It is not advisable to give any pain relieving medicines or antibiotics to kids unless the doctor has prescribed it.

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Teething Aids and Baby Tooth Paste

Teething Aids and Baby Tooth Paste

An infant’s first tooth is a major milestone. It heralds the end of pureed mystery food in a jar and the beginning of more adventurous fare toast squares, fruit chunks, and crackers. The first tooth shows up, in most children, between six and twelve months of age. The next three usually appear soon after. However, it can take as long as eighteen months for the first tooth to pop up. Lower teeth usually are the first to erupt, followed by their upper counterparts. Teeth arrive starting in the front, then progress towards the back of the mouth. Baby teeth tend to arrive in groups of four, with a new set coming in every four or five months. In most children, all of their baby teeth are in place by two and a half years of age.

Baby teeth, also known as deciduous teeth, milk teeth, or primary teeth, function as spacers for the adult teeth, which are developing under the gums. Made of dentin, a calcified bodily tissue also present in adult teeth, these temporary teeth are just as important as the later permanent teeth. They help children eat and learn to talk. Like permanent teeth, baby teeth require daily care to keep them healthy.

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children visit a dentist by one year of age for a wellness visit. At the latest, all children should make their first dental visit by the time they are three, and all of their temporary teeth are in. Good habits in brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits should be set in place as early as possible. Baby teeth can be brushed with a specially made infants’ tooth brush, or with a piece of gauze wrapped around a finger. When children are old enough to brush for themselves, they can graduate to a kids’ toothbrush. Regular toothpaste shouldn’t be used for children under two because of the fluoride it contains, but there are some infants’ toothpastes now available for little ones.

The leading cause of problems in baby teeth is baby bottle tooth decay. This can happen when sweetened drinks are consumed by a child, usually before bed. The remnant of the liquid remains on the teeth until it is brushed off. If it’s left on for too long, the teeth will begin to decay. The best preventative method for this is to not send a young child to bed with a bottle, or sippy cup, containing milk or juice. Water is a much better alternative for keeping baby teeth healthy and strong. Baby teeth fall out in approximately the same order they arrived in. The four front teeth are usually the first to go, around age six. From there, the other teeth will gradually loosen and fall out on their own.

A child’s adult teeth will begin to come in a few weeks to a couple months after the corresponding baby tooth is gone. Baby teeth are pushed out of place by the adult teeth pressing on them as they grow and develop. By age twelve, most children have lost all of their baby teeth. Adult teeth will continue to come in until all thirty-two are in place. The last four molars generally erupt by the twenty-first birthday.

What is Teething?
Teething is when a baby's teeth begin to push through the gums. These teeth begin to appear as early as three months of age in humans, or as late as a year. It can take a few years for the entire first set of teeth to appear, though it is often complete within one or two years. Occasionally an infant will be born with one or more teeth already protruding from the gums, but this is no cause for alarm.

Though the order in which teeth appear during teething differs from person to person, it tends to follow a general pattern. The first teeth to appear are nearly always the central incisors, those two teeth in the center of the mouth on the bottom. The top central and lateral incisors appear next, which are the four central top teeth. Next come the bottom lateral incisors, the two teeth on either side of the bottom central incisors. Then the basic molars, in the back of the jaw. And lastly, the eye teeth, the pointed teeth on the top. Most infants have twenty baby, or milk, teeth in all.

Female infants tend to begin teething at a slightly earlier age than males, but the difference is negligible, usually no more than a few months between siblings who share two parents. During teething, infants may experience a considerable amount of discomfort and pain, which leads to a high level of irritability. Other infants may have virtually no discomfort and make it through the entire teething process without exhibiting any signs of pain whatsoever. Slightly increased temperatures are common when teeth are breaking through the gums, but should not create feverish states, and any surprising shifts in temperature should be looked at by a physician.

While babies are teething they tend to drool a lot, and it is important to wipe the drool clean regularly to make sure no rashes develop. While teething, most infants also like to chew on things to help alleviate the discomfort caused by swollen gums. It is best to have teething toys or aids available to ensure that your favorite socks don't become impromptu teething cloths! Dampening a washcloth and putting it in a freezer for fifteen minutes to half an hour makes a wonderful teething aid, and a number of commercial teething rings which may be partially frozen are also available.

Even before the first teeth appear, brushing should begin. The gums should be brushed softly with water. Once teeth begin appearing, brushing with only water should continue. Even though these teeth will fall out before long, allowing them to decay can cause gaps which will lead to future problems, as permanent teeth squeeze in to try to fill the gaps and leave the mouth an orthodontic nightmare. Once the child is old enough to spit out toothpaste, brushing may begin to incorporate toothpaste as well as water. While the term teething refers to the process of the teeth breaking through the gums, in the common vernacular it may also be used to describe the tendency on infants and the young of other species to chew on whatever is handy while they are going through the teething process.

Choose the Best Baby Toothpaste
Babies’ teeth and gums require the same level of care as that of older children and adults, but the method of oral hygiene for infants and young children is different and relative to age. Prior to baby’s first tooth, careful cleaning of the gums with a soft wet cloth is all that is required, but upon the first appearance of teeth, brushing with an age-appropriate toothbrush and baby toothpaste is recommended. Choosing a baby toothpaste is a simple matter of seeking out products that are specifically manufactured and labeled for use in children.

When choosing baby toothpaste, make certain you are comparing brands manufactured for children. While the primary ingredients in most toothpaste include some type of abrasive, fluoride and a flavoring, the ingredients and quantity of ingredients are different in adult and baby toothpaste. Baby toothpaste should contain no sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), as this ingredient is known to cause mouth ulcers in some young children. Look for natural baby toothpaste that contains as few ingredients as possible to simplify the selection process.

Another ingredient of major concern to many parents is fluoride. Since fluoride is beneficial to healthy teeth, most toothpaste brands contain it, although not all. Excessive amounts of fluoride can cause harm to developing teeth, which is why it is important to always choose a brand made for babies. Due to the addition of fluoride in most municipal drinking water systems, fluoride supplements are no longer recommended for children. If the use of fluoridated toothpaste is of concern, talk to your pediatrician or dentist.

Keep in mind that babies and young children will swallow toothpaste rather than spit it out. When considering toothpaste for baby read the list of ingredients to be sure you personally approve. Some toothpaste has sweeteners that contain sugars, while others have xylitol, a non-sugar sweetener. If you prefer to avoid sweetened toothpaste, avoid the brands containing sucralose or similar sweeteners. A baby who does not expect sweet-tasting toothpaste will not know the difference. Again, selecting brands that are all natural will help avoid or reduce the confusion over inert ingredients.

Choosing a baby toothpaste made specifically for children, and selecting one that has a parent-approved ingredients list, is the first step towards life-long oral hygiene practice. Above all, follow the recommended guidelines for frequency and quantity of use and supervise brushing until children are old enough to perform the task alone satisfactorily and safely.

 If your teething baby seems uncomfortable, consider these simple tips:
• Rub your baby's gums. Use a clean finger, moistened gauze pad or damp washcloth to massage your baby's gums. The pressure can ease your baby's discomfort.

• Offer a teething ring. Try one made of firm rubber. The liquid-filled variety might break under the pressure of your baby's chewing. If a bottle seems to do the trick, fill it with water. Prolonged contact with sugar from formula, milk or juice contributes to tooth decay.

• Keep it cool. A cold washcloth or chilled teething ring can be soothing on a baby's gums. Don't give your baby a frozen teething ring, however. Contact with extreme cold can be harmful.

• Try hard foods. If your baby is eating solid foods, you might offer something edible for gnawing - such as a peeled and chilled cucumber or carrot. Keep a close eye on your baby, however. Any pieces that break off might pose a choking hazard.

• Dry the drool. Excessive drooling is part of the teething process. To prevent skin irritation, keep a clean cloth handy to dry your baby's chin.

• Try an over-the-counter remedy. If your baby is especially cranky, acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) might help. Avoid teething medications that contain the pain reliever benzocaine. Benzocaine products have been associated with methemoglobinemia - a rare but serious condition that reduces the amount of oxygen in the blood.

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Herbal Tea

Herbal Tea

Herbal tea is a generic term used for any beverage made by steeping flowers, roots, leaves, and bark from plants other than Camellia sinensis, the tea plant. Sometimes, herbal teas are referred to as tisanes, especially when they have perceived medicinal value. Many cultures make their own special varieties of herb tea, and a wide assortment of herbal teas are available in most markets and natural food stores. It is also possible to make your own herbal tea blends, if you are familiar with botanical ingredients.

When Camellia sinensis is mixed with herbs and flowers, it is still referred to as “tea,” since the primary ingredient is the tea leaves. Many classic blends of tea include floral or botanical ingredients such as orange, bergamot, lavender, jasmine, or toasted rice. The caffeine level and flavor of true tea can be altered through different handling and curing techniques for the tea leaves, which leads to a wide assortment of teas including green, white, and black. When an herbal tea is made, true tea is not included in the ingredients, and the ingredients may be combined in a blend which is targeted to create a specific flavor or medicinal effect. Herbal teas can be calming and relaxing, energizing, or soothing, and they may be targeted at skin conditions, stomach complaints, breathing difficulties, cold symptoms, and many other medical issues. In some cultures, herbal tea is an important part of medical practice. Many people enjoy herbal tea as an alternative to regular tea, since it is caffeine free and it does not usually have the tannins which make true tea bitter.

Some common ingredients in herb tea include lemon, mint, chamomile, lavender, orange, fennel, hibiscus, roses, rose hips, jasmine, licorice, nettles, rosemary, vetiver, valerian, willow, citrus blossoms, thyme, and horehound. Regional “teas” such as mate and rooibos are also technically herb tea, since they are made with plants other than Camellia sinensis. Since herbal tea is usually low in tannins, it can be steeped for longer periods of time to make an intense, strong infusion. There are a number of ways to prepare herbal tea. When ingredients like roots and bark are used, the tea is often boiled on the stovetop in a heavy pan to release the maximum amount of flavor. When dried flowers and leaves are blended to make an herbal tea, the tea may be brewed by pouring boiling or almost boiling water over the ingredients and then steeping them. Some cooks also make sun tea, by placing a large glass pot of water and ingredients in the sun and allowing it to slowly steep over the course of a sunny day.

Extracts and tea bags of various herbs are produced for commercial use. Taste, texture and aroma can vary from tea to tea, depending on the ingredients used. Herbal teas have many benefits to their consumption: they are caffeine free and have great medicinal use. In this article, the different types of herbal tea are listed, with their respective benefits.

Types of Herbal Tea and Their Benefits

1. Anise
Main Ingredient: Seeds or leaves of the anise plant.

Benefits:
• Reduces flatulence
• Aids in treating an upset stomach
• Used as an expectorant to reduce phlegm congestion in the throat and lungs

2. Caraway Tea
Main Ingredient: Caraway fruits or seeds plant.

Benefits:
• Relieves pain due to gas in the stomach
• Soothes irritable bowel syndrome symptoms
• Cleanses the digestive tract
• Can be used as a breath freshener
• Relives digestion issues like colic, cramps and gas
• Increases the flow of breast milk
• Stimulates the appetite
• Soothes a sore throat
• Reduces the pain of menstrual cramps

3. Chrysanthemum Tea
Main Ingredient: Chrysanthemum flowers

Benefits:
• Cleanses the liver
• Helps with conditions like influenza, sore throat and eye problems
• Helps treat varicose veins and atherosclerosis

4. Cinnamon
Main Ingredient: Cinnamon bark

Benefits:
• Eases menstrual cramps
• Lessens the impact of a cold
• Comforts an upset stomach

5. Chamomile
Main Ingredient: Chamomile flowers

Benefits:
• Acts as a mild and natural sedative
• Aids in digestion and acts as a laxative
• Helps with irritable bowel syndrome
• Can be used as a gargle to rinse a sore mouth
• Eases cold and fever symptoms

6. Dill
Main Ingredient: Dill seeds

Benefits:
• Helps ease coughs, flu and colds
• Improves digestion
• Stops flatulence, soothes an upset stomach
• Eases colic in children

7. Elderberry
Main Ingredient: Dried elderberry flowers

Benefits:
• Aids in treating allergies
• Helps treat mucus-related diseases like colds and bronchitis
• Encourages recovery from viral infections like chickenpox or measles
• Useful in treating pain from arthritis and rheumatism
• Helps in flushing out toxins from body

8. Fennel
Main Ingredient: Fennel seeds

Benefits:
• Helps in breaking down kidney stones
• Can be used as a mouthwash
• Eases symptoms of asthma, bronchitis and whooping cough
• Aids in digestion and reduces a bloated stomach
• Acts as an anti-depressant and can treat jaundice
• Effective in hastening weight loss
• Reduces feelings of pain and fever

9. Ginger Tea
Main Ingredient: Ginger rhizomes (root)

Benefits:
• Home remedy for colds
• Eases vomiting and nausea
• Soothes an upset stomach
• Helps ease morning sickness
• Gets rid of bad breath

10. Ginseng 
Main Ingredient: Ginseng root

Benefits:
• Increases the libido, cures sexual dysfunction in men
• Eases feelings of stress
• Improves appetite and digestion
• Strengthens the immune system

11. Hibiscus
Main Ingredient: Hibiscus flower

Benefits:
• Reduces high blood pressure
• Reduces cholesterol levels
• Strengthens immune system

12. Hydrangea
Main Ingredient: Root of the hydrangea plant

Benefits:
• Reduces size of kidney stones and eases their passing
• Cleanses the urinary tract and prevents infections
• Is thought to be effective against gout, malaria and prostate issues
• Acts as a diuretic and flushes out toxins
• Encourages the body to sweat and hence cools down

13. Kava
Main Ingredient: Kava roots

Benefits:
• Mood enhancer, eases the mind and gets rid of stress
• Eases muscle tension and pain
• Helpful in treating gout, prostate issues and rheumatism
• Can be used to treat depression and anxiety disorders
• Helps treat urinary tract diseases

14. Lemon Peel Tea
Main Ingredient: Peel of a lemon

Benefits:
• Strengthens the immune system and blood vessels
• Reduces symptoms of varicose veins
• Increases blood circulation especially in the extremities
• Relieves digestive tract problems
• Used to treat colds, flu and scurvy

15. Lemon Grass
Main Ingredient: Fresh or dried herb

Benefits:
• Aids in digestion
• Calms the nerves
• Lowers body temperature during fevers
• Reduces cholesterol and blood pressure levels
• Possible effectiveness against cancer

16. Labrador Tea
Main Ingredient: Leaves of the plant

Benefits:
• Helps treat colds, flu and coughs
• Relives an upset stomach
• Reduces symptoms of a hangover
• An ideal source of Vitamin C, for those suffering from scurvy
• Helps treat respiratory infections and ulcers
• Purifies and cleanses the blood

17. Lime Blossom
Main Ingredient: Flowers of the linden tree

Benefits:
• Eases headaches and migraines
• Helps treat insomnia
• Lowers blood pressure levels
• Calms the mind and reduces anxiety
• Relieves urinary tract infections

18. Mint
Main Ingredient: Dried or fresh mint leaves

Benefits:
• Anti-bacterial properties rids the mouth of germs after eating
• Treatsallergic reactions, asthma and irritable bowel syndrome
• Relieves stomach pain

19. Rooibos
Main Ingredient: Leaves of the Aspalathus Linearis plant

Benefits:
• Revitalizes the skin
• Aids with insomnia and headaches
• Relaxes the nervous system
• Eases colic and stomach cramps in infants
• Eases digestive system issues (indigestion, ulcers, constipation)
• Increases immune system strength
• Helps in calming down and easing mental tension

20. Rose Hip
Main Ingredient: Fruit of the rose plant

Benefits:
• Strengths the immune system
• Can treat colds and flu
• Eases rheumatoid arthritis
• Cleans and clears the urinary tract

21. Rosemary
Main Ingredient: Leaves of the rosemary herb

Benefits:
• Eases the symptoms of arthritis and rheumatism
• Improves a person's memory and concentration
• Aids in relieving an upset stomach and headaches
• Reduces skin damage such as wrinkles

22. Sage
Main Ingredient: Sage herb

Benefits::
• Relaxes the nervous system
• Eases coughs and chest congestion
• Eases throat pain due to laryngitis or tonsils
• Gets rid of constipation
• Treats sores and ulcers in the mouth

23. St. John's Wort
Main Ingredient: Dried flowers of the herb

Benefits:
• Very effective herbal anti-depressant
• Helps ease insomnia
• Relieves hangovers and after-effects of drinking alcohol
• Helps with chest congestion, sinus, cold and flu
• Eases the mind and elevates one's mood

24. Thyme
Main Ingredient: Thyme herb

Benefits:
• Aids in digestion and relieves flatulence
• Eases colds and coughs
• Eases menstrual cramps

25. Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Main Ingredient: Tulsi extract or leaves

Benefits:
• Lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• Increases the strength of the immune system
• Eases the symptoms of colds and flu
• Improves respiratory and metabolic functions

26. Valerian
Main Ingredient: Dried Valerian root

Benefits:
• Can induce peaceful sleep
• Eases headaches
• Acts as a mild sedative
• Eases menstrual cramps

27. Yarrow
Main Ingredient: Dried yarrow herb

Benefits:
• Eases the symptoms of colds and fevers
• Relieves stomach problems like cramps and flatulence
• Aids the flow of menstruation
• Acts as an appetite stimulator

From the above list, green tea, oolong tea and black tea are missing. This is because such teas are prepared by adding various plant parts to conventional tea made from the tea bush. As such, they are considered flavored teas. The extensive types of herbal tea means a smorgasbord of tastes, flavors and aromas to enjoy as well as different situations of use. Whatever your ailment, there seems to be a herbal tea for it. Keep in mind, that such brewings and beverages are not meant to replace medicines and treatments, when it comes to diseases.

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Herbal Remedies

Herbal Remedies

Today, people around the globe are giving preference to alternative medicines such as ayurveda, naturopathy, homeopathy and herbal medicine. It is worth mentioning that these natural and alternative medicines were used thousands of years ago. Archaeological evidences reveal that the civilizations of the bygone era used herbal plants as part of traditional medicine. The earliest documentation about the usage of herbal remedies comes from China and dates back to 2800 BC. For almost 5000 years, herbal medicine was used for treating various ailments. Today, it has been developed as a separate industry as many people favor herbal medicine over synthetic medicine.

Herbal medicine, also called Herbalism, is a traditional medicine practice that uses herbs for bringing about therapeutic effects. Herbal medicine is included under, and is a significant component of, alternative medicine. It is a popular substitute to traditional medicine for the prevention and treatment of various ailments. It is also known as phytotherapy, herbalism, botanical medicine, and medical herbalism. A basic system of herbal medicine includes Ayurvedic herbalism, traditional Chinese herbalism, and Western herbalism.

Various herbs are known for having amazing medicinal properties. Herbal medicine is one of the oldest forms of medicine used for the treatment of physical as well as psychological maladies and for the purpose of general health care. Herbalism has been practiced for centuries to cure a number of illnesses. Nature has endowed us with a huge number and variety of herbs that have amazing medicinal properties, and they are used to prepare herbal medicines. Several herbs consist of powerful ingredients, which are nothing but chemical compounds occurring in nature, which can be harnessed to correct a lot of physiological imbalances that lead to health complications. Such medicines can be taken in the form of tablets, liquid or powdered extracts, teas, essential oils, or ointments.

Benefits Of Herbal Medicines
Herbal medicines and health remedies have a lot of benefits, the greatest being that it does not interfere with the body's natural healing process. Enumerated below are the various prominent advantages of going herbal to treat ailments that may range from something as simple as common cold to something as considerably complex as diabetes or cancer.

1. Natural Healing
As mentioned before, herbal medicine doesn't obstruct the body's self-healing abilities in any way. On the contrary, they enhance the biological healing machinery so that the recovery process gets accelerated and the body is able to maintain an ideal internal environment that is crucial for such recovery. A lot of herbs work by stimulating various glands so that appropriate hormones are activated. These hormones carry the distress signal to the relevant parts of the physiology to either induce or inhibit certain biological processes in order for the healing process to take place.

2. Continued Benefits
A lot of herbal remedies come with special instructions about diet, rest, and exercises that enhance the potency of the herb by preparing the body in such a way that it responds to the treatment in the most effective and desirable way. These dietary and lifestyle changes ultimately help the patient by getting their bodies into a healthy rhythm. When these changes become a habit and are followed even after recovery from the ailment, chances of future occurrences of the same malady are greatly reduced.

3. Better Immunity
Owing to their tendency of enhancing the body's natural healing process and correcting bad habits that lead to ill-health, herbs contribute towards strengthening the immune system. This, in turn, fortifies the body's natural defenses against pathogens that are responsible for primary as well as secondary infection.

4. Metabolism and Nutrition
A stronger immune system and a holistically regulated diet and lifestyle leads to improved metabolism, which in turn leads to better absorption of nutrition from one's diet. That is why most herbal treatment regimes forbid, or at least limit, the intake of junk food and food that is too oily or contains stimulants such as caffeine. The reason is twofold - junk food doesn't give the body the required quantity or variety of nutrition and stimulants interfere with the function of the medication. In essence, lack of proper nutrition gets in the way of the treatment's focus towards strengthening the biological defenses and by interfering with the action of the medicinal herbs, stimulants diminish the efficacy of the treatment. Hence, both are either limited or eliminated from the diet, leading to diminish one's psychological dependence on nutritionally deprived "comfort food".

5. Side-effects
Although it would be wrong to say that the risk of side-effects and allergies do not exist in case of herbal remedies, it is true that since the healing process is closer to how Nature intended it, the contraindications are minimal when herbal medication is taken as per prescription and under the supervision of a qualified practitioner of Ayurvedic healing, Naturopathy or any other equivalent alternative healing method that involves the use of Mother Nature's bounties. However, unsupervised consumption or overdose may lead to unpleasant side effects that may range from something as mild as digestive discomfort to something as lethal as toxicity and death!

Advantages of Herbal Medicine
1. Herbal medicine is cost-effective and less expensive than the medicines bought from an allopathic pharmacy.

2. Another merit of herbal medicine is that it can be bought without a prescription. They are available in any health store.

3. Herbal medicine and remedies are more effective than allopathic medicine for certain ailments.

4. The chemical medicine prescribed by a pharmacist could have certain negative side effects. However, many of the herbal medicines and remedies do not have negative side effects. If any, they are softer than allopathic medicine.

5. Herbal medicine can be effectively used for body's natural detoxification process. The herbs such as Plantago psyllium seed, rhubarb juice powder, aloe vera, alfalfa juice, chlorella, carrot concentrate and garlic can be used to cleanse the colon, improve digestion and food absorption and boost your immune system. Some digestive disorders such as colitis, indigestion, peptic ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome can be cured using the herbs.

6. Herbal medicine which includes herbs such as ginger, capsicum, garlic and motherwort help to control the ailments related to blood circulation such as high blood pressure, varicose ulcers and so on. Many of the herbal medicines are used to treat coronary artery disease and to reduce cholesterol level in the blood stream.

7.Obesity is the cause of many of the health problems. Herbal medicine can help reduce excess weight and regulate appetite.

Disadvantages of Herbal Medicine
1. Like all forms of alternative health care, herbal medicine also has few demerits. Here are a few of them.

2. Cure using herbal medicine and supplements would take some time. You should possess immense patience.

3. Herbal medicine contains various ingredients and you should be sure that your body agrees with the ingredients and it is not allergic.

4. A point worth mentioning here is, herbal remedies and medicine for certain ailments may have negative side effects. These side effects may not be revealed immediately, but would take months or even years. In the initial stages, if the herbal medicine is not agreeing with you, it is wise to stop using it.

5. Remember, the government does not regulate herbal medicine industry. Hence, there is no quality assurance for herbal products.

6. There are very few good practitioners of herbal medicine and it would be wise to ensure that you consult a good practitioner before starting on herbal medicine.

Some Medicinal Herbs and their Uses
Some of the commonly used herbs are American ginseng, bee pollen, astragalus, cat's claw, black cohosh, bladder wrack, chamomile, feverfew, damiana, dong quai, flaxseed, ginger, garlic, ginkgo biloba, grape seed, green tea, licorice, muira puama, saw palmetto, suma, schizandra, tea tree, turmeric, soy, white willow, neem, holy basil, thyme, rosemary, mint, alfalfa, henna, bay leaf, bitter melon, guggul, fenugreek, anise, etc.

1. Ephedra is an appetite suppressant. It is also used to treat asthma as well as bronchitis.

2. Feverfew is used to prevent migraine headaches and also helps manage allergies, rheumatic disease, and arthritis.

3.Kava-kava is used to treat stress, anxiety, and restlessness.

4. Ginkgo increases oxygenation of the blood, improves blood circulation and helps improve memory and concentration.

5. Valerian is a muscle relaxant and a mild sedative and helps deal with insomnia.

6. Ginger provides relief from vertigo, nausea, and vomiting.

7. A number of herbs such as Indian kino, bitter melon, gurmar, garlic, onion, fenugreek, blueberry leaves, ginkgo biloba, cinnamon, and goat's rue can be effectively used to control blood sugar levels and to deal with diabetes. These drugs enhance the secretion of insulin, which is needed to keep blood sugar level in check.

6. You may suffer from various types of allergies such as food allergy, insect stings, pollen, dust mites or medicine. Herbs such as nettle, quercetin, butterbur, astragalus and ephedra are used to treat different types of allergies. These herbs contain compounds that act as anti-histamines and they possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They can be also used to treat various skin problems such as acne and eczema.

7. Plantago psyllium seed, rhubarb powder, aloe vera, alfalfa juice, chlorella, carrot concentrate, and garlic can be used to cleanse the colon, improve digestion and food absorption, and boost the immune system. Some digestive disorders such as colitis, indigestion, peptic ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome can be cured using these herbs.

8. Problems related to blood circulation and heart function, such as high blood pressure, angina, varicose ulcers, varicose veins, etc., can be successfully treated using herbs like hawthorn, garlic, ginkgo, ginger, capsicum, and motherwort. Hawthorn lowers blood pressure, dilates blood vessels, and strengthens the heart. Garlic is very effective in treating coronary artery disease as well as keeping the serum cholesterol levels under control.

9. Ginkgo biloba can be effectively used to treat cerebrovascular diseases.

10. Echinacea helps strengthen the immune system.

Herbal medicines can be used for weight loss and reducing obesity, which is the cause of many health problems. Herbs used for weight loss are categorized as appetite suppressants, cathartics, stimulants, and diuretics. Commonly used herbs for weight loss are burdock root, chickweed, fennel, flaxseed, nettle, kola nut, phyllium, alfalfa, senna, and hawthorn. These herbs help in weight loss, thereby, helping in improving overall health.

Various herbs can be used to treat various minor and major health problems such as common cold, sleep disorder, allergy, weight loss, digestive problems, hair and skin problems, anxiety disorder, heart problems, respiratory problems, hypertension, diabetes, etc. Various parts of plants such as stems, leaves, seeds, barks, fruits, and roots are used to prepare herbal medicines.

Myotcstore Related Categories:

Herbal Tea

Herbs A-D

Herbs E-G

Herbs H-P

Herbs Q-Z

Homeopathic Remedies

Homeopathic Remedies

Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine system based on the theory that certain diseases can be treated with minute doses of a natural substance that can produce symptoms similar to those of the illness; effectively stimulating the body's own defenses against the illness resulting in a healthier balance of internal chemistry.

Homeopathy is a therapeutic method that uses highly diluted natural substances to relieve symptoms. Homeopathic medicine is an alternative form of healthcare that involves making use of the body’s natural defenses along with utilizing plants and other naturally occurring elements to prevent and sometimes heal a health condition. In general, this use of natural remedies while under the care of a trained homeopathic physician is considered a natural way to deal with many different ailments and restore general wellness, without making use of medicine that is composed all or in part of artificially created elements.

Homeopathic remedies are derived from substances that come from plants, minerals, or animals, such as red onion, arnica (mountain herb), crushed whole bees, white arsenic, poison ivy, belladonna (deadly nightshade), and stinging nettle. Homeopathic remedies are often formulated as sugar pellets to be placed under the tongue; they may also be in other forms, such as ointments, gels, drops, creams, and tablets. Treatments are "individualized" or tailored to each person it is not uncommon for different people with the same condition to receive different treatments.

One of the underlying concepts of homeopathic medicine is that making use of carefully measured doses of various natural elements will provide relief from a number of ailments by helping to stimulate natural defenses. The body’s immune system generates antibodies in response to the medicine that attacks the bacteria or virus which causes the health issue, curing the condition without the need for medications that could cause a range of undesirable side effects. Interestingly enough, these same homeopathic medicine options are likely to cause the same ailment to develop in a healthy person if administered in larger doses.

While many people rely upon homeopathic medicine along with the use of herbal remedies, this alternative school of healthcare is usually not considered valid by proponents of Western nuclear medicine. The lack of testing conducted in controlled settings is cited as one reason. At other times, even if the homeopathic medication is somewhat effective, critics point to the fact that the use of nuclear medicine often produces results in a shorter period of time.

What is homeopathy used for?
Historically, people have used homeopathy to maintain health and treat a wide range of long-term illnesses, such as allergies, atopic dermatitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and irritable bowel syndrome. They have also used it to treat minor injuries, such as cuts and scrapes and muscle strains or sprains. Homeopathic treatment is not considered appropriate for illnesses, such as cancer, heart disease, major infections, or emergencies.

Benefits of Homeopathic Medicines
1. Natural - The active ingredients in homeopathic medicines are diluted plants, animals and minerals that relieve the same symptoms they cause at full strength (i.e., a micro-dose of coffee bean helps nervousness).

2. Scope of Use - Similar to other over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, homeopathic medicines can be used to relieve symptoms of a wide range of acute health conditions such as allergies, coughs, colds, flu, stress, arthritis pain, muscle pain, and teething.

3. Efficacy - Homeopathy has been used for more than 200 years, building a remarkable safety record and generating a great body of knowledge.

4. Quality - controlled - Homeopathic medicines are manufactured according to the highest standards, complying with specifications of the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States (HPUS) and Drug Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

5. Safe - Homeopathic medicines are one of the safest choices for self-treatment.
- No known side effects such as drowsiness
- No interactions with conventional medications or herbal remedies
- No contraindications with pre-existing conditions
- No masking of symptoms

6. Forms - Like other OTCs, homeopathic medicines are available in a variety of dosage forms such as gels, ointments, creams, syrups, eye drops, and suppositories.

How does homeopathy differ from conventional medicine?
Homeopathy is based on a rule of nature called the Law of Similars. This law states that "like cures like," or that a medicine can cure a sick person if it can cause a similar sickness in a healthy person. For instance, if you peel an onion, your eyes burn, itch and water. You might also have a runny nose and begin to sneeze. If you had similar symptoms during a cold or allergy attack, such as a runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing, a homeopathic micro-dose of the remedy Allium cepa (red onion) would help your body heal itself.

The homeopath regards symptoms as the body’s healthy attempt to restore itself to balance. That is why a homeopath will choose a remedy that supports the symptoms rather than opposing them or suppressing them as in conventional medicine. In conventional medicine, a cold or hayfever sufferer is given an antihistamine to dry up the runny nose and watery eyes artificially. But this medication often comes with unpleasant side effects like sleepiness and constipation. With the correct homeopathic remedy, however, there are no side effects and a person is restored to health naturally.

Homeopathy also recognizes that each person exhibits his or her disease in a unique and slightly different way. That is why two people with the same disease will not necessarily receive the same homeopathic remedy. A cold sufferer with a stopped up nose and dry eyes would receive a different remedy than one with a runny nose and watering eyes. Unlike the “one size fits all” approach to prescribing often used in conventional medicine, a homeopath chooses a remedy that matches the unique symptom profile of the individual. Conventional medicine seeks to control illness through the regular use of medications; if the medicine is withdrawn, the person’s symptoms return. For example, the daily use of drugs for asthma (or any chronic disease for that matter) alleviates the symptoms but does not cure the underlying problem. In homeopathy the ideal is that a person needs just enough of the homeopathic remedy to stimulate their healing response. In other words, homeopathy seeks to cure a person so that they do not need any medications - homeopathic or otherwise.

Positives and Negatives of Homeopathy
• Homeopathy basically is considered to be one of the safest forms of treatments like Ayurveda. • Homeopathic medicines are aimed at improving the body's own healing powers to be able to fight the disease. Homeopathic medicines are safe without any harmful ingredients. These medicine do not suppress the pain, rather it strengthens the immune system and treats the cause of the disease.
• Homeopathy medicine is relatively safe for children, adults and even pregnant women. These medicines do not have any side effects.
• The homeopathy medicines are also natural and therefore more suitable for the human body. These medicines are based on natural ingredients.
• Another advantage of homeopathic medicines is that they are easy to use. These medicines generally come in the form of tiny sugar pills and these are convenient to carry and also very easy to take at the necessary time prescribed by the doctor.
• Homeopathic treatment is also cost-effective as compared to other forms. This treatment does not involve large expenditures. Besides, they can also complement allopathic medicines in many cases.

As for the disadvantages of homeopathy goes, it would depend largely upon the physician who is giving you the treatment. Perhaps one would notice the dearth of professional homeopathic doctors. There is also a shortage of institutions that conduct these professional courses. This would mean there are not many genuine homeopathic medicines being prescribed by authentic doctors. Also, one cannot rely on homeopathic medicines for emergency situations.

Since the middle of the 20th century, training programs for homeopathic physicians have become more common. Today, many metropolitan areas will include at least one physician who makes use of homeopathic medicine. However, practitioners of this alternative healthcare option are rarely welcomed into the wider medical community even in metropolitan areas.

Myotcstore Related Categories:

Homeopathic Analgesics

Homeopathic Cough and Cold

Homeopathic Dietary Supplements

Homeopathic Digestive Aids

Homeopathic First Aid

Homeopathic Mood and Stress Relaxers