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Friday, June 10, 2016

16 Ways to Prevent and Get Rid of Cold Sores

A cold sore is not welcome on your face, or anywhere else, for that matter. Not only are they cosmetically unappealing, they can be downright painful. Here are 16 ways to prevent and get rid of cold sores

A cold sore is not welcome on your face, or anywhere else, for that matter. Not only are they cosmetically unappealing, they can be downright painful. Let’s get over the fact they’re caused by the herpes virus. We all know it, and that aspect gets far too much attention.

Defining cold sores simply for what they are, they are small, fluid filled lesions that pop up generally on or around your lips. The blisters often group together, and after they break, a crust forms over the resulting sore.

There is no true cure for the virus, or the cold sores. The bright side is that there are preventative measures you can take that lessen outbreaks, severity, and duration.

If the bothersome blisters do show up, there are a decent number of home remedies for cold sores that may ease your discomfort, and help diminish their appearance.

Just because there is no cure, doesn’t mean you’re stuck using irritating prescription face creams or having a cold sore that hangs around for an eternity.

Below are 16 ways to prevent and get rid of cold sores

1. Enjoy vanilla

Vanilla extract, the real, good, pure, vanilla extract, is a natural cold sore remedy some people swear by. The thought process is that its alcohol based, and running along those lines, makes it hard for the virus to thrive and either wipes it out or lessens the severity and length of the outbreak.

If you want to use vanilla to prevent and get rid of cold sores, try and get it organic, and try to start using it the second you feel the tingling set it.

You will need…

-a cotton swab or cotton pad
-pure vanilla extract

Directions…

Soak cotton pad or swab in vanilla until thoroughly saturated. Apply directly to sore, holding the swab or pad in place for a minute or so. Do this four times daily until no longer needed.

2. Snag some licorice

One of the more random natural remedies for cold sores that you can use is licorice. Glycyrhizic acid, an ingredient in licorice root, has been shown in some studies to stop the virus cells in their nasty little tracks-or at least counteract the symptoms of them. This is thanks to its anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties.

A way to glean something positive from this isn’t to go munch on a bunch of licorice whips, but rather get some licorice powder, and make a cream.

To prevent and treat cold sores, you can also try drinking licorice tea daily, though that doesn’t seem as effective as topical treatment.

You will need…

-1 tablespoon licorice root powder or extract
-1/2 teaspoon fresh water OR approximately 2 teaspoons petroleum jelly

Directions…

Mix one tablespoon of licorice root powder to ½ teaspoon of fresh water, or however much you need to get the consistency of cream you want, making sure to add in small increments.

Another option to prevent and treat cold sores is to mix it with petroleum jelly, which on its own can help speed up the healing process of cold sores.

If you opt for this, start with a teaspoon of the petroleum jelly and mix it with the licorice root. You can work your way up to your desired consistency from there.

Gently dab (a cotton swab is handy for this) a thin layer over the sore, making sure to get it completely covered. Leave it on for at least several hours, or overnight if possible.

3. Toss your toothbrush

Throw out your toothbrush after the blister has formed, and toss it once the sore has cleared up. A toothbrush is the perfect vessel to carry the virus, and you can end up triggering an outbreak in yourself if you re-use the same toothbrush again and again.

This is a preventative measure, since it can stop an outbreak or cut it short, it’s well worth doing.

4. Hands off

It may sound obvious, but it can be near an impossible to resist picking at that crusty little (or big) patch by your mouth. Almost subconsciously you can end up bothering it, or very consciously, you just want to peel it off and be done with it.

Whatever your motive, resist touching the sore-even just reaching up to touch it and see if it somehow shrunk-as those actions can cause a bacterial infection. That’s the last thing you need.

They are also so highly contagious that even touching your sore and then accidentally rubbing your eye, or somewhere else on your body, could cause them to spread (they aren’t confined just to the mouth, you know.)

5. Get milk

Putting a whole milk compress on your sore can help speed up the healing, and ease pain. The reason? Milk contains proteins known as immunoglobulins, which are essentially anti-bodies that fight off and prevent viruses-like herpes.

Milk also contains l-lysine. L-lysine helps inhibit the wicked work of an ammino acid called arginine, which has been shown to cause outbreaks, and may help speed up the healing process as well.

In short to prevent outbreaks, drink whole milk and get your dose of l-lysine. To help cold sores that have already erupted, make a whole milk compress to soothe the pain and fight off the virus.

You will need…

-1/2 cup to 1 cup of whole milk, plus a tablespoon or 2 extra
-cotton balls or cotton pads

Directions

Soak a cotton ball in approximately 1 tablespoon of milk, and apply it directly to the cold sore for several minutes. Before doing this you can either let the milk come to room temperature or, if you prefer, you can apply it cold.

Use a clean towel moistened with water to dab off the milky residue at the end. If you feel you need it, apply a dab of petroleum jelly.

6. Wipe it out with hydrogen peroxide

Anyone who had a parent that put hydrogen peroxide on a scrape knows that it’s not exactly pleasant. The good news is that it’s a lot less traumatic to use at your own will, nor does it seem to hurt as bad now that you’ve grown up a bit. Love it or hate it, the solution can be an effective cold sore remedy.

Hydrogen peroxide disinfects, healing up speeding, and makes it hard for the surfaced sore to spread or worsen. The blister is already bothered and infected, at the very least virally, and keeping it clean can ultimately make it go away faster.

You will need…

-1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide
-cotton balls, cotton pads, or facial tissue

Directions

Soak a cotton ball in 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide. Use more if you feel it isn’t saturated enough.

Place the cotton ball directly on your sore- it’s probably going to sting-and hold it there for a few seconds, or dab it around. Let it be for 5 minutes or so, allowing it to do its job, before rinsing off.

7. Be minty fresh

Peppermint oil is thought to have properties that directly kill virus particles outside of your cells, like the ones floating around an erupted cold sore which makes it a great option to prevent and get rid of cold sores.

It won’t help to ingest peppermint oil because it only attacks the virus escaped from your cells.

What we mean by it being “outside” of your cells is that herpes simplex virus usually resides beneath the skin, lurking and waiting for a trigger to make it rear its ugly head. When its’ erupted, it is accessible to treat with the oil.

When applied directly to a cold sore, people have found that the sore healed faster than usual-especially when applied at the very first sign of one.

You will need…

-Good quality peppermint oil
-1 cotton swab
-a bit of fresh water

Directions

First, use a bit of water to rinse the surface of the cold sore. Doing so gets away some of the surface gunk that would make it harder for the oil to really sink in and do its best.

Then, dip a cotton swab in clean water and then dip it into the peppermint oil. This is to dilute it a bit, making it less likely to irritate your skin. Try this twice daily until it is no longer needed.

8. Take Echinacea

There are a couple of people I am quite close to who drink Echinacea tea religiously and swear by it. Every time I come down with a bug they give me the “I am not sick now am I?” look, with a meaningful nod at their mug of tea.

The reason they get away with their smugness is because Echinacea bolsters your immune system and its defenses, making it harder to catch bugs, and shortening how long you are affected by them.

While not yet proven it may help prevent cold sore outbreaks which often show when the immune system is weakened.

You will need…

-1 bag of Echinacea tea
-1 cup freshly boiled water

Directions

Place your bag in a mug and pour boiling water over it. Cover-a plate works well-and let it steep for 10 minutes. Squeeze the juice out of the bag when you remove it to get all the extra good stuff.

9. Load up on vitamins E and C

Vitamins are good for us, and for our cold sores-and by good for our cold sores, I really mean bad for them. Vitamin C has been shown to boost white blood cell count, and white blood cells are the body’s defenders.

When something like an infection sets in the brave little cells head into battle, and having more of them means you’ll be more effective at fighting off the infection, which in this case is herpes.

Vitamin E, when applied topically, has been found to relieve the irritating and painful discomfort of cold sores, as well as minimize scarring.

You can get the vitamins through an oral supplement, oil (in the case of vitamin E) and-the best way-through your diet.

Vitamin C rich foods include

-red berries
-kiwi
-broccoli
-tomatoes
-red and green bell peppers
-spinach (little did Popeye know he was onto a cure for cold sores)

Vitamin E rich foods include

-nuts
-leafy green vegetables
-whole grain
-avocados

10. Corn starch paste

If you’ve worked with corn starch before in your attempt to prevent and get rid of cold sores, you’ll be familiar with its fine, almost silky, texture-it seems like it could be soothing to a cold sore, doesn’t it?

I would say so, and it can indeed help relieve the itchy burning pain of a sore when directly applied.

The less obvious reason as to why corn starch makes a pleasant home remedy for cold sores is the fact that it neutralizes the pH of the sore- the virus thrives in an overly-acidic environment-and creates an alkaline state (alkaline is the opposite of acidic.)

To seek relief, and shorten the duration of your cold sore, simply whip up a silky-smooth corn starch paste.

You will need…

-1 tablespoon of corn starch
-1 teaspoon of fresh water to start

Measure out 1 tablespoon of corn starch and place in a small bowl. Mix in 1 teaspoon of fresh water. Add more water slowly until you achieve a paste-like consistency.

Put a dab on your cold sore before bed, and rinse off gently with water in the morning. Do this nightly until cold sore is gone.

11. Dab on some witch hazel

The leaves and bark of North American witch hazel have been used medicinally for years, namely by Native Americans, and have now become quite commercialized.

Nowadays you don’t have to worry about tracking down a plant and stripping off its leaves and bark since you can find a bottle of witch hazel, or witch hazel hydrosol, at just about any pharmacy or general store.

Since it does not produce enough oil to sell as an essential oil, the hydrosol is a distilled liquid version. It has been shown to help with a number of maladies, particularly in skin care, with emphasis on acne, bruises, insect bites, blisters and, if you hadn’t guessed by now, cold sores.

You will need…

-1 teaspoon of witch hazel
-cotton swab or cotton pad

Soak a cotton pad or the end of a cotton swab in witch hazel. Dab directly onto your sore, and leave on. Do this 1-2 times daily as needed.

12. Grab some aloe gel

The go-to for soothing minor skin irritations, aloe vera gel can provide quick relief from the pain of a cold sore once it blisters. It also fights off bacteria that may be irritating the sore more, and may make it go away faster.

Being so dependable, aloe is often touted as being one of the best natural remedies for skin problems there is. The best way to benefit from it is to have an aloe plant.

They’re not hard to come by, they’re hardy (I got one when I was five and it managed to survive my care for years,) and best of all, they’re useful and inexpensive. If you cannot get an aloe plant, find a good gel sold in stores.

You will need…

-1 aloe plant OR ½ teaspoon of aloe vera gel

Directions…

Break off the end of one fleshy, succulent, leaf. Directly apply the gel to your sore. If you absolutely cannot come by a plant, dab a cotton swab in roughly ½ teaspoon aloe vera gel and apply directly. Leave on.

13. Ice it

Looks aside, cold sores hurt. They can really, really hurt. Think about what they are-little fluid filled boo-boos that burst, blister, and form a crust. Kind of like constipation, they aren’t taken very seriously.

If you complain about constipation pain-which can land you in the E.R., by the way-all people think is “poop” and then they tune out. With cold sores, most people think “herpes” and then move on-especially since cold sores are so common.

To numb the pain that some people just don’t understand (and the injustice of it all) try holding an ice cube directly on the sore for as long as possible, and then put on a dab of petroleum jelly.

The jelly will help keep bacteria out, and will lessen that tight, skin-splitting sensation that sometimes happens when a blister gets too dry, as it might after using an ice cube. It’s along the same lines of how licking chapped lips makes them worse.

You will need…

-1 to 2 fresh ice cubes, or an ice pack
-A bit of petroleum jelly

Directions…

Take a nice chilly ice cube, which would be most of them, and hold it on your sore for as long as possible, or use an ice pack. When you’ve finished, pat any obviously remaining water gently from the sore and apply a dab of petroleum jelly.

14. Wear sunscreen-even on your lips

Exposure to light, namely UV light, seems to be a very contributing factor in outbreaks. When you hit the beach, or even just go for a summer time stroll, apply sunscreen to your face, and apply lip balm with an SPF value of no less than 15.

Indeed it may take you longer to get a crazy tan, but it’s a very, very, small sacrifice to make when you think of the painful cold sores erupting, and damage to your skin.

15. Wash it all away

You don’t have to go dump every single thing you own when you get a cold sore, but like your toothbrush, its best to get rid of some things that come in contact with your lips/mouth area-such as lip balm, or make up tools.

In addition to this, wash your hands each and every time you touch, or even think you touch, your cold sore. While you’re always contagious, it’s easiest spread the virus when there’s an open blister and you may keep causes outbreaks if you continue using contaminated items.

16. Quarantine right away

The moment you feel the tingling sensation that precedes a cold sore flare up, start your treatment. Since there is no “cure” sometimes preventative measures work best, and nipping it in the bud seems to help boost the effectiveness of the treatment afterwards well as shorten the sores existence.

When it all comes down to it at the end of the day, you have a virus that will never go away completely until a true cure is found for herpes simplex. That being said, your world does not have to come to a crashing halt when a sore pops up.

Use common sense, try to get to it in the beginning, and patiently treat it, keeping in mind that the remedy that works best for you will probably take some trial and error.

Since you’ll probably be living together for a while, it’s good to remember that the less you bother your cold sore (i.e. picking at it or using unnecessarily harsh chemicals) the less it will bother you.

You can also watch this Video HERE to learn about other ways to prevent and get rid of cold sores.

Wet…or dry? A word on cold sore living conditions

There are generally two chains of thought when it comes to treating cold sores. One is to dry them out, while the other is to keep them moist. Some people say the virus festers in a moist environment, others say it makes no difference and you’ll be uncomfortable with a dry, cracked, split, scab.

There isn’t much official research done on this, but from personal experience, I’d have to toss in with the “wet” lot. Putting a dab of petroleum jelly on a sore is a life-saver. The pain of a dry scab ripping open again and again is too much for me-not to mention I WILL pick at it if it’s all crusty.

Perhaps with a bit more clout is the Mayo Clinic which, according to their website, also endorses the moist route for treating cold sores.

By Claire Goodall (a bee-obsessed natural-convert from Minnesota) who is a holistic health lover. She is the author of Everyday Roots Book.

It's a Book that she creates to help you replace the toxic products and medications in your home with healthier, all-natural alternatives.

It contains 215+ effective home remedies and covers everything you will need to protect your family and save money every month.


For more details about her book, take a look at the Everyday Roots Book.

Wednesday, June 8, 2016

8 Ways to Treat and Avoid Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot officially known as “tinea pedis,” this uncomfortable condition is a fungal infection that typically causes itchiness between and around toes, scaly or cracked/peeling patches of skin, dryness on the bottoms or sides of feet, and thick, ragged, and/or discolored toenails. To help you feel comfortable kicking off your socks, and to spare you chemical-laden creams, here are 8 effective ways you can use to treat and avoid athlete’s foot

You don’t have to be an athlete to get athletes foot. Officially known as “tinea pedis,” this uncomfortable condition is a fungal infection that typically causes itchiness between and around toes, scaly or cracked/peeling patches of skin, dryness on the bottoms or sides of feet, and thick, ragged, and/or discolored toenails.

More likely to affect men than women, it thrives in a damp environment, and thick, tight, shoes. When your toes are pressed together (usually by shoes) it creates a warm moist area between them that is extremely appealing to the mold-like fungi that causes athletes foot.

To sum it up…it’s very unpleasant to deal with. To help you feel comfortable kicking off your socks, and to spare you chemical-laden creams, here are some natural ways to let fungus know it’s not welcome on your feet.

Below are 8 effective ways you can use to treat and avoid athlete’s foot

1. Rub on corn starch

Corn starch can help you to treat and avoid athlete’s foot, because it absorbs moisture like nobody’s business. If you brown the corn starch first so much the better, as that sucks out any moisture that may have been present in it before.

You will need…

-Roughly ½ cup corn starch
-Warm water
-Mild soap
-A clean soft towel
-An oven or stovetop (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. Pour a ½ cup of corn starch, or enough to cover both of your feet when rubbed on, onto a plate and pop in the preheated oven. Bake for only a few minutes, or until it takes on a light brownish color.

If you prefer, you can pour some corn starch into a small cooking pot and heat on a stovetop BREIFLY and stirring constantly until it browns slightly. Always keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn.

Rub the corn starch onto your feet and toes. Leave on for 5-10 minutes, and brush off with a clean towel. Wash your hands after applying and after brushing off.

2. Let them breathe!

To treat and avoid athlete’s foot you need to remember that a warm, moist, environment attracts fungi. Go barefoot when you’re not in a moist environment, and if possible when going out where sandals or open-toed shoes.

You may not be keen on the idea of flaunting your feet if they look less-than-appealing, but it may be worth it if it means healing them up faster.

3. Use a PVPI soak

Povidone-iodine (PVPI) is more commonly known by its main brand name, Betadine. It is a chemical complex used to treat and prevent infection in wounds.

It is also used for the prevention and treatment of skin infections, and is an effective bactericide. Expanding from that, it is helpful to combat yeasts, molds, and fungi, among other things.

The key word here is fungi-like the kind causing your athlete’s foot. Soaking your feet in Betadine can help get rid of it.

Note: If you are pregnant, do not attempt this remedy.
You will need…

-Poviodone-iodine (or PVPI)
-A large bowl or basin
-Warm water
-Clean towel
-Hairdryer (optional)

Directions

Fill a bowl or basin large enough to comfortably soak your feet with one quart of warm water, and add 2 capfuls of PVPI into it.

Soak your feet 2 times day for 20 minutes each (a total of 40 minutes a day) and make sure to dry them completely afterwards.

4. Dunk them in hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is ideal for killing off bacteria and fungus, so soaking your feet in it can help clear up the little buggers that are making you so dang uncomfortable.

It will also help with any fungus that may be clinging around or under your nail as well. Just remember that it can sting, and this may be especially true if you have cracked skin.

You will need…

-1 pint 3% hydrogen peroxide
-1 gallon of clean, distilled water
-Spray bottle (optional)

Directions

Mix one pint of 3% hydrogen peroxide into 1 gallon of clean, lukewarm water. Soak for 20-30 minutes morning and night daily as needed to clear up your athlete’s foot. Let air dry or rinse off and dry completely.

Make sure you’re using 3% hydrogen peroxide (food grade) which is mainly what is sold in stores. More concentrated forms don’t equal wiping out the fungus any faster and may be harmful to the skin.

In fact, 90% hydrogen peroxide is used to produce rocket fuel, which is not what you want on your feet!

5. Simply soap & dry

Hygiene plays a large part in whether or not you get athlete’s foot, as does drying them off afterwards. Washing your feet daily helps rid your skin of fungus, while drying it thoroughly ensures that it won’t come back or worsen.

You will need…

-Plain old hand soap
-Water
-Towel
-Hairdryer (optional)

Directions

To treat and avoid athlete’s foot, you need to thoroughly wash your feet with soap and water, twice a day, making sure to get between your toes. When you’re done, dry them off. Moist means fungus. Use a soft clean towel, and again, get between your toes.

Because athlete’s foot is contagious don’t use the same towel, or make sure it’s been washed in extra-hot water after every use.

If your feet stubbornly want to stay damp you can try gently drying them with a hairdryer, which can get rid of that little bit of wetness the towel couldn’t. Make sure it is on the “warm” or even “cold” setting, and don’t overdo it.

6. Soda for your shoes

Baking soda can also help to treat and avoid athlete’s foot because it kills bacteria and works well as an antifungal agent. Sprinkle some in your shoes after wearing them, or create a paste and rub onto your feet.

You will need…

-3 parts baking soda
-1 part cool water

Directions

Wash your feet with water and dry completely. Mix 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water, or until a thick paste forms. Rub onto your feet in a gentle circular motion, being sure to get between your toes.

Let it dry and slough mostly off. Run your feet under cool water and make sure to dry them completely again.

7. Spread the word, not the ‘foot

Athlete’s foot is contagious and if you have it, you know how unpleasant it is. Keep it from spreading to others, or from spreading it back to yourself, by following some simple suggestions.

-Wash your hands with soap and water after coming in contact with an infected area
-After bathing wash out the tub or shower with an antiseptic cleaner
-Don’t share towels, and keep all towels and linens clean
-If you are going to be using a public shower, wear sandals
-Wash your socks in extra-hot water, and never re-wear the same pair of socks without out washing them first.
-Alternate your shoes every other day. If your feet have been in a pair, the fungus is in there too. Treat them with an antiseptic spray. If your feet sweat a lot, swap out pairs multiple times a day.

8. Lemon rinse for odor

Another way to treat and avoid athlete’s foot is by rinsing your feet with a lemon juice/ water mixture can help minimize any odor or unpleasant smell that your feet may be emitting as a result of athletes foot.

You will need…

-1/2 cup lemon juice
-10 cups of tepid water

Directions

Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes once or twice a day to minimize odor.

You can also watch this Video Here to learn how to treat and avoid athlete’s foot.

Feet are important, to make an understatement. We use them a lot and if they aren’t comfortable, it’s almost a guarantee you won’t be comfortable either.

Not to mention that-even if they weren’t all that important- there are few things more infuriating than when they itch inside your shoe. Then you either have to stomp on your own foot to relieve the itch, or pull your whole shoe off.

To maintain your sanity, and feel better, remember that a little bit of daily dedication with simple home remedies can be enough to help you put your best foot forward (and keep your shoe on.)

By Claire Goodall (a bee-obsessed natural-convert from Minnesota) who is a holistic health lover. She is the author of Everyday Roots Book.

It's a Book that she creates to help you replace the toxic products and medications in your home with healthier, all-natural alternatives.

It contains 215+ effective home remedies and covers everything you will need to protect your family and save money every month.


For more details about her book, take a look at the Everyday Roots Book.

Tuesday, June 7, 2016

14 Home Remedies for Arthritis and Joint Pain

We take the freedom of movement for granted, until it becomes limited. The cause of this for many people comes in the form of arthritis, or the inflammation of one or more of your joints. Here are some home remedies for arthritis to manage the pain and ease the symptoms naturally.


We take the freedom of movement for granted, until it becomes limited. The cause of this for many people comes in the form of arthritis, or the inflammation of one or more of your joints.

There are two main kinds, osteo and rheumatoid, both of which affect the joint in different ways.

Osteo arthritis is when the cartilage between bones wears down, until bone grates on bone.

Rheumatoid is little less straightforward, being caused by an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the synovial membrane (a soft tissue that protects joints in the body) and that can lead to bone loss.

Whichever you experience, there are home remedies for arthritis to manage the pain and ease the symptoms naturally.

Try These 14 Home Remedies for Arthritis

1. Turmeric & Ginger Tea

Turmeric and ginger are both anti-inflammatories, and will help with oseto and rheumatoid arthritis.

Turmeric in particular has gotten a lot of attention lately. Its active ingredient is something called curcumin, which is a powerful antioxidant. In addition, it lowers the levels of 2 enzymes responsible for causing inflammation (which is what we’re often fighting with arthritis.)

You can take these in a capsule form or make a nice spicy tea to enjoy daily.

You will need…

-2 cups of water
-1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
-1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
-Honey to taste

Directions

Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, and had ½ teaspoon each ground ginger and ground turmeric. Reduce to a simmer and let it be for 10-15 minutes. Strain, add honey to taste, and enjoy twice daily. This yields 2 servings.



2. Epsom salt soak

Epsom salt contains magnesium sulfate which sounds kind of scary, but it’s really quite a wonderful substance.

A naturally occurring mineral, magnesium sulfate has been used to get relief from pain for years, namely because of its high levels of magnesium (more on magnesium below.)

You will need…

-1/2 cup of Epsom salt
-A large bowl
-Warm water

Directions

Fill a large bowl with warm water and add ½ cup of Epsom salt. Stir it around, and then submerge your sore joints in the liquid.

If you are experiencing pain in a less convenient place to soak, such as your knees, try taking a bath with Epsom salts. Run a tub full of warm water and add 2 cups of Epsom salt. Soak for 15 minutes (at least.)

3. Get more magnesium (seriously.)

Magnesium is something our bodies need, but we can’t make it ourselves. It is used in over 300 different biomechanical responses in our body. It relaxes all our muscles and nerve endings, relieving stiffness and pain.

It is even part of what makes our heart beat. Not only does it relax muscles and ease pain (this goes for arthritis pain too, of course) it helps bones to mineralize.

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition conducted one of many studies on magnesium that showed people who had a diet high in magnesium/took supplements had higher bone density, and overall stronger bones.

There are several ways to get more magnesium and utilize it for arthritis in particular.

Supplements: Magnesium capsules are a good thing to add to your day-to-day life, but they work best when used in conjunction with an improved diet.

Diet: Really this is the clincher-as great as supplements are, they can’t do everything. Eat foods that are high in magnesium, which include dark leafy greens (like spinach), nuts, and legumes (beans.)

Oil: There is magnesium oil that can be applied topically and absorbed through the skin. Try rubbing it on sore joints to relieve pain.

4. Lubricate With Extra Virgin Olive Oil

The very consistency of olive oil makes it seem like something that would lubricate your joints and ease arthritis pain, and it turns out, it actually does.

A main compound in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) called oleocanthal inhibits inflammatory enzymes COX-1 and COX-2, just like Advil or aspirin does. A study showed that 1 ½ tablespoons is equal to 200-mg of ibuprofen.

However, not every oil is created equal. Heat destroys oleocanthal, so it is necessary to use extra virgin olive oil or “cold-pressed.” The ripeness of the olives at the time they were pressed also determines the level of oleocanthal-generally the stronger tasting the oil, the higher the level there is present.

It can be taken internally to reap the benefits, but being high in calories consider replacing any fats, such as butter, with it in cooking instead.

You will need…

-2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

Directions

Rub a bit of olive oil onto your sore joints twice a day, massaging in to each one gently. You can also take 2-3 tablespoons daily, but be sure to give up some other form of fat due to the high calorie count in the oil (rest easy, these are good calories.)

5. Dandelion Leaves

Incredibly high in vitamins A and C, dandelion leaves can help repair damaged tissue and help the liver clear toxins out of the blood. Studies, although limited, have also shown anti-inflammatory properties due to the linoleic and linoleic acid in them.

Linoleic is an essential fatty acid required by the body to produce prostaglandin-which basically regulates immune responses and suppresses inflammation.

Because of its involvement with immune responses, dandelion shows great potential when it comes to treating rheumatoid arthritis in particular. You can enjoy dandelion leaves in nice salad, or brew tea with them.

You will need…

-3 teaspoons of fresh dandelion leaves, or 1 teaspoon of dried
-1 cup of boiling water
-A handful of fresh leaves (if making a salad)
-A dash of extra virgin olive oil (if making a salad)

Directions

For fresh dandelion tea, steep 3 teaspoons of fresh leaves or 1 teaspoon dried in 1 cup of boiling water. Strain and drink twice daily.

Dandelion tea is very bitter…you have been warned! You can add honey to sweeten it up if you’d like.

To make a salad, simply toss the greens in with another recipe, or eat them plain with a bit of extra virgin olive oil. Older leaves can be gently sautéed to soften them up a bit.

6. Blackstrap Molasses Drink

High in valuable minerals such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium, blackstrap molasses has been one of the most cherished home remedies for arthritis for a number of years.

Blackstrap molasses is what remains after the 3rd boiling of sugar syrup, and is nothing like the nutrient lacking refined sugars used today.

As a dietary supplement (easily consumed as a drink) blackstrap can help relieve symptoms of arthritis and joint pain, thanks to its vital constituents that regulate nerve and muscle function, and strengthen bones.

You will need…

-1 tablespoon of blackstrap molasses
-1 cup of warm water

Directions

Heat 1 cup of fresh water until warm, but not hot. Stir in a tablespoon of blackstrap molasses and drink once daily. Do note that it can sometimes have a laxative effect.

7. White Willow Tea (the original aspirin)

Before there was aspirin, and I mean way before aspirin, there was white willow bark. The Greek physician Hippocrates wrote about it all the way back in 5th century BC.

It wasn’t until 18-something or other (1829, I believe) that it was found that white willow was so effective because it contained an active ingredient called salicin.

Salicin is converted in the body into salicylic acid-similar to acetyl salicylic acid, the active ingredient in aspirin. But because the naturally occurring salicin is converted after it passed through the stomach, it resulted in less irritation/side effects.

While it can be taken in a capsule form, I usually opt for the tea version of just about everything.

You will need…

-2 teaspoons of powdered or chipped white willow bark
-1 cup of water
-Honey or lemon to taste

Directions

Bring 1 cup (8 oz.) of water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add 2 teaspoons of powdered or chipped white willow bark and let it infuse for 10-15 minutes.

Remove from heat and let it steep for 30 more minutes. Drink twice daily-it’s bitter, so honey and lemon are usually welcome here.

8. Exercise

When it’s painful and difficult just to move, the last thing you feel like doing is getting up and exercising. As unpleasant as it may sound though, exercise is vital for those who suffer from any form of stiffness, joint pain, or arthritis.

Exercise will help control weight (an excess of which puts more strain on your joints) strengthens the muscles that support the joint, even when the cartilage is thinning, and lubricates the joints, allowing them to move more freely.

When we are inactive the synovial fluid in the joints is the consistency of a thick gel, but once we get moving and warming up, the liquid becomes more viscous and can do a better job of lubricating our joints and keeping them going smoothly.

Just imagine if you were to be sedentary every day, pretty soon you’d be so stiff it’d be just about impossible to move. But if you get up and move around every day, you’ll get stronger and will loosen up as well.

Try…

-Going for a brisk walk-start with 15 minutes and work your way up into a solid daily routine.
-Doing joint-targeted exercises-certain stretches and exercises specifically target joints to help rid them of stiffness and pain.
-Getting a dog-doing so backs up the first point, because you’ll have no choice but to walk!

9. Peppermint Eucalyptus Oil Blend

Peppermint and eucalyptus don’t change the course of the arthritis itself, but they do have analgesic, or pain-relieving, properties. The cooling sensation that they produce can temporarily override your discomfort, and create a soothing sensation that can ease the pain of arthritis.

You will need…

-5-10 drops of Peppermint oil
-5-10 drops of Eucalyptus oil
-1-2 tablespoons of carrier oil (olive, almond, grape seed, etc.)
-A small dark glass bottle

Directions

Blend 5-10 drops of eucalyptus and peppermint oil together, and then mix into 1-2 tablespoons of carrier oil.

Carrier oil is needed to dilute the essential oil so that it does not irritate the skin, and can be olive oil, grapeseed oil, or something of the like (not oil.)

Store the oil blend in dark glass bottle away from direct sunlight, and rub into your joints when they ache.

10. Juniper Berry Tea

A 2009 research trial published in the “Journal of Ethnopharmacology” found that juniper berries do indeed help with arthritis pain thanks to a component called terpinen-4-ol.

Terpene suppresses a type of white blood cells called monocytes which, as a part of our immune system, respond to signals of inflammation.

In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks normal joint tissue for no reason, leading to inflammation, pain, and loss of function.

If taken daily, juniper may be able to reduce the uncomfortable inflammation thanks to its terpene content. Only prickly juniper and common juniper varieties were effective.

Note: Do NOT drink juniper berry tea while pregnant.

You will need…

-1 tablespoon of dried juniper berries
-1 cup of fresh water
-Honey (optional)

Directions

Bring 1 cup of fresh water to a boil, and place 1 tablespoon of dried juniper berries in a mug. Pour the boiling water over the berries and let them steep for 20 minutes before straining. Drink 1 cup twice daily, and add honey to taste if you like.

11. Golden Raisins & Gin

First off I am not recommending that you go and drink gin, but I thought this was one of the most interesting old home remedies for arthritis.

Gins flavor is derived from juniper berries (see #10 for a more in depth explanation of juniper berries) which contain anti-inflammatory properties.

Golden raisins (only golden can be used in this recipe) require sulfides in their processing to give them their characteristic color.

Sulfides are found in both glucosamine and chondroitin, which many people have found to be helpful home remedies for arthritis.

This remedy stretches back at least 20 years, and some people swear by it, while others have had limited success.

You will need…

-Around 1/2 cup of gin
-1 cup of golden raisins
-a shallow dish

Directions

The amounts will vary depending on how big of a batch you are making, but basically you just need raisins and enough gin to just cover them, and the above amounts are just to give a general guideline.

I am one of those people who, even if it is a loosely interpreted recipe, like to have some numbers to start with. Anyways, place 1 cup of golden raisins in a shallow dish, and pour in enough gin to just barely cover them.

Cover with a towel and store them away in a dark place until the gin has evaporated (around 2 weeks.) Eat 9 of the raisins daily, keeping in mind the results may take several weeks to show.

12. Bosweilla supplements

Also known as Frankincense, Bosweilla is a flowering plant native to Africa and Asia. The gum resin or extract of the plant works as an anti-inflammatory and pain-killer.

It works against inflammation by ‘disabling’ white blood cells that would cause swelling, and also helps shrink tissue that has already become inflamed and painful.

I am afraid I don’t have a tea recipe for this one, as it is generally taken in a tablet supplement form, much like a vitamin. It is sold at many health stores and online, and is fairly reasonably priced compared to what some other supplements cost.

13. Pectin & Grape Juice

Pectin is a water soluble carbohydrate substance found in the cell walls of plants, where it helps keep cell walls together, and gives fruit firmness as it ripens.

It is extracted from fruit to use as a setting in jams and jellies, and has become popular as a home remedy for arthritis when combined with grape juice.

It has been tentatively hypothesized that it helps return the synovial tissue to a more elastic and lubricated state, which results in pain-free movement.

Despite the fact that more studies are needed on pectin and connective tissue many people have found, for whatever reason, great relief from their arthritis with it.

The grape juice is the liquid of choice due to the fact that it can help with inflammation.

You will need…

-1 tablespoon of liquid pectin
-8 oz. of grape juice

Directions

Mix 1 tablespoon of liquid pectin with 8 oz. of grape juice and drink 1-2 times daily. It will take a week or two for the effects to show.

14. Cayenne ‘Capsaicin’ Ointment

A common OTC pain reliever for joint pain contains capsaicin, a component in hot peppers that inhibits something called Substance P.

Substance P is involved in transmitting pain signals to our brain, and when the capsaicin interferes with it, it minimizes the alert to the discomfort, and therefore the discomfort itself.

It has been one of the more effective topical treatments for arthritis, and you can make your own at home with humble cayenne.

Keep in mind, however, that it is only a temporary fix and should be used sparingly if possible.

To prepare Original Capsaicin Cream Recipe for treating arthritis

You will need…

-3 tablespoons of cayenne powder
-1 cup of grapeseed oil (or any other oil like almond, olive, jojoba)
-1/2 cup of grated beeswax
-A double boiler
-A glass jar with a tightly fitting lid

Directions

Mix together 3 tablespoons of cayenne powder with 1 cup of your oil of choice and heat in a double boiler for 5-10 minutes over medium heat. Stir in a 1/2 cup of grated beeswax and continue to stir until it has melted completely and everything is blended together.

Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 10 minutes, and then whisk together. Chill for another 10-15 and then whip again before putting it in a glass jar with a tightly fitting lid and storing in the refrigerator. It will keep for 1 ½ weeks-apply daily as needed for pain.

Our body is an incredible structure that takes a great amount of strain and stress every single day-it’s really no wonder our joints, the things that allows us movement, begin to feel the burden.

For other home remedies for arthritis, watch this Video HERE and this 2nd ONE HERE.

In the case of rheumatoid arthritis, the complexity of the body provides a mystery that we may or may not ever solve. Whichever form of arthritis or joint pain you happen to suffer from, a deeper understanding of what is causing it can help you determine the best way to treat it.

Nature also does a surprisingly good job at healing-we wouldn’t have made it very far otherwise-and you may find great success in naturally treating your condition and regaining the freedom of movement.

By Claire Goodall (a bee-obsessed natural-convert from Minnesota) who is a holistic health lover. She is the author of Everyday Roots Book.

It's a Book that she creates to help you replace the toxic products and medications in your home with healthier, all-natural alternatives.

It contains 215+ effective home remedies and covers everything you will need to protect your family and save money every month.


For more details about her book, take a look at the Everyday Roots Book.

Monday, June 6, 2016

5 Home Remedies for Itchy, Puffy, Dry Eyes

Allergies, lack of sleep, dry air, your co-workers overwhelming perfume…lots of things can cause itchy, puffy, dry eyes. Here are 5 Home Remedies for Itchy, Puffy, Dry Eyes

Allergies, lack of sleep, dry air, your co-workers overwhelming perfume…lots of things can cause itchy, puffy, dry eyes.

And while we’re led to believe that eye drops must be purchased for our own good, it is entirely possible to make your own simple eye drops for times when you find your eyes itchy and irritated.

The most important thing is that everything you use is clean and sterile to prevent any infection causing microbes from causing problems.

I love this solution to keep on hand, as it instantly soothes itchiness, flushes away dirt and debris, and relieves uncomfortable dryness. This is, basically, a saline solution.

However, it is important to use purified water, and sodium chloride tablets (these are just “pure” salt tablets, as opposed to table salt, which has iodine and anti-caking agents) to keep it sterile and non-irritating. The tablets can be found in any pharmacy or ordered online.

You will need:

-1 cup of purified or filtered water
-2 sodium chloride tablets (2 grams)
-An eye dropper
-A mason jar

Directions

Boil the mason jar and it’s lid and dip the glass part of the eye dropper into the boiling water to rid them of any contaminants. Fill the mason jar with 1 cup of purified water, and then add in the sodium chloride tablets. Shake well.

Apply 2-3 drops in each eye as needed for relief from irritation. It goes without saying but…discontinue use and contact an eye doctor if you experience any discomfort.

Here are 4 other Home Remedies for Itchy, Puffy, Dry eyes

1. Get Less Sodium

Ingesting too much sodium is a common cause of water retention, even if you don’t have a pre-existing condition that would make you prone to it (such as kidney disease.)

Because of the imbalance of salt and water, water gets drawn out of your cells and puffs up your tissues. The resulting bloating can affect even your eyes, filling out the tissues around the eye cavity, and causing puffy eyes. Less salt = less puffiness

If you’re worried about how you’ll possibly flavor your food, don’t panic. Steady research has shown that the less salt you eat, the less you want. Your taste buds will adjust to the lower levels over time.

A month or so after you’ve made the change, sample your food with the amount you used to eat, and you’ll probably be disgusted!

You will need…

-Self-control and perseverance 

2. Chamomile Tea Bags

Chamomile is effective for reducing puffiness caused by allergies. While it can help with inflammation in general, when it comes to your eyes, it’s really the properties that soothe itchy and irritated skin that make the difference with any swelling.

Chamomile also works wonders when it comes to tired or strained eyes. Resting the tea bags directly over your eyes can help reduce discomfort and the appearance of irritation/swelling, and you have two options when it comes to what you use.

I like to bulk order my own tea bags and fill them with herbs-in this case, of course, I’d fill them with dried chamomile- so I know exactly what I am putting on my skin.

However, you can use store bought as well if you’re looking for something more convenient, just be sure there isn’t a bunch of other herbs added!

You will need…

-2 chamomile tea bags
-Approximately ½ cup of fresh water
-A place to lie down

Directions

Boil the water and then soak the tea bags for about 5 minutes. After removing the bags let them cool off, and then squeeze out any excess liquid. Lie down and place them over your eyes for at least 10 minutes twice a day.

3. Cold-Compress

A cold compress can temporarily diminish the appearance of the puffiness. The cold constricts blood vessels, which slows down the flow of fluid into the tissues and reduces the puffiness.

You can obviously just pop some ice into a bag, or make a compress (link to post) that can be used for both heat and cold, but I really enjoy gel packs for some occasions. And while I really truly do not like corn syrup, it makes for a dandy DIY cold gel pack.

You will need…

-A small plastic zip lock bag
-Corn syrup
-Food or natural coloring (optional)

Directions

It’s pretty straightforward. Simply fill up the bag with corn syrup and add a little bit of coloring if you want to make it fun-like the classic blue color of store bought cold packs. Pop it in the freezer and use when necessary.

Because of the high sugar content, the syrup will not freeze solid, but it does get close. I let it sit out for 5-10 minutes to soften up first.

*If you don’t have time for resting a compress on your eyes, splash your face with cold water in the morning.*

4. Do The Elevator

If you tend to wake up with bags under your eyes that diminish as the day goes on, elevating yourself while you sleep may help reduce the appearance first thing in the morning.

It depends on the individual, but fluid can pool and build up around the eyes when you’re lying flat and sleeping. Propping yourself up or even just sleeping on your back can help keep everything in circulation, which diminishes the puffiness first thing in the morning. As a plus, propping yourself up can help with snoring as well.

You will need…

-An extra pillow OR wood blocks to rest under your bed legs

Directions

Use an extra pillow to elevate your head or, if you’re worried this may make you wake up with sore muscles, place small blocks of wood beneath the legs at the top of the bed to raise it slightly.

Just a reminder-make sure it’s extra steady if you do the latter. It’s not fun to wake up in the middle of the night if your bed slides off and thumps down.

You can also watch this Video HERE and HERE TOO to learn about other home remedies for itchy, puffy, dry eyes.

By Claire Goodall (a bee-obsessed natural-convert from Minnesota) who is a holistic health lover. She is the author of Everyday Roots Book.

It's a Book that she creates to help you replace the toxic products and medications in your home with healthier, all-natural alternatives.

It contains 215+ effective home remedies and covers everything you will need to protect your family and save money every month.

For more details about her book, take a look at the Everyday Roots Book.



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