What Doctors Don't Know about the Drugs They Prescribe

When a new drug gets tested, the results of the trials should be published for the rest of the medical world -- except much of the time, negative or inconclusive findings go unreported, leaving doctors and researchers in the dark. In this impassioned talk, Ben Goldacre explains why these unreported instances of negative data are especially misleading and dangerous.

Homemade Facial Scrub

I'm sure you know that commercial skin care products are loaded with chemicals, some of which may be harmful. You can make facial scrub from only two ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen — cocounut oil and baking soda.

Mix equal parts of coconut oil and baking soda, mix them well and keep them in a jar. I've tried this myself and it made my skin smooth and taut. Try at your own risk.

Homemade Cold and Flu Remedy

I suggest one modification. Honey loses its medicinal properties if you boil it. So add honey last — while the mixture is cooling down.

How to Get Long, Healthy Hair Naturally

Here are a few tips to keep your hair healthy and strong using 100% natural ingredients.

Tips for Asthma Natural Healing

There are several methods of treating asthma, which include the use of inhalers and administration of steroid tablets, used frequently or sporadically. However, one of the most effective forms of asthma treatment is the asthma natural healing.

This method involves the use of healing herbs and foods and the use of right diets to affect healing in a natural and safe way.

Asthma Natural Healing
Here are some useful tips for asthma natural healing:

• Diet: The right diet for asthma patients is one low in carbohydrates and sugar and high in proteins. Such a diet helps reduce the frequency of asthma attacks, as it curbs any sudden blood sugar fluctuation, which precipitate an attack.
• Healing foods: Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, brussels sprouts and kohlrabi contain sulforaphane, a compound that helps reduce lung inflammation characteristic of asthma. Sulforaphane stimulates several antioxidant enzymes, which produce long-lasting antioxidant activity. Turmeric or Curcuma Longa also has active ingredients that are anti-inflammatory, with healing properties that help patients breathe well.

Fruits, such as kiwi, papaya, strawberry and guava, are also rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants that help prevent lung damage. A daily diet rich in vitamin C helps alleviate allergy and asthma. Spinach, rich in magnesium, is also an effective asthma natural healing food. Diets that lack magnesium often result in increased blood histamine levels that lead to allergies and asthma. Besides, asthmatics must also avoid foods such as peanuts, meat, egg yolks, foods with sulphites and dairy products, as they are known to trigger asthma attacks.

• Healing herbs: Herbs such as basil leaves, fenugreek and turmeric are also effective in preventing asthma attacks. You can chew some basil leaves with honey or rock salt in the morning; or combine a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a tablespoon of honey for an effective cure of asthma.

You can also have licorice roots boiled in a cup of water on slow flame. Have two teaspoons of slow boiled spiegel seeds in water twice a day; boil fenugreek seeds in water until it is reduced to half the original quantity, add some honey and ginger juice and have it. Boil linseed (20 gm) in water (300 ml), until it reduces to half the original amount. Then, add some sugar and sip a teaspoon every hour for natural healing of asthma.

• Alternative therapy: Alternative therapies such as yoga and acupuncture are also effective asthma natural healing techniques. Controlled breathing in yoga helps build resistance to asthma attacks, improves physical condition and decreases anxiety. Acupuncture also works well, when combined with a balanced diet and the right herbal remedies. For instance, one must avoid foods such as dairy and meat products. These help decrease not only the quantity of medications, but also the frequency of asthma attacks.
• Exercise: To prevent exercise-induced asthma attacks, include foods rich in vitamin C an hour before your exercise session.

Before beginning any asthma natural healing technique, it is important to consult a qualified physician. You must also speak to your physician before stopping your medications.

The Side Effects of Bee Pollen

Bee pollen is an effective antidote for different ailments and problems, including obesity, stomach ulcers, cancer, prostate conditions and multiple sclerosis because bee pollen is rich in many types of nutrients, including minerals, vitamins, enzymes and essential fatty acids. However, it may also produce some side effects, mild or serious, in some people. This is especially seen in people who are allergic to bee sting. Although rare, bee pollen side effects may lead to symptoms such as itching, runny nose, skin rash and wheezing.

Below is more information on bee pollen side effects.

Mild bee pollen side effects: Symptoms of minor allergic reactions include skin rash, hives, itchy throat or face, coughing. On observing these symptoms, it is important to stop taking the supplement altogether and take over-the-counter antihistamines or consult a doctor, as the need may be. To avoid any allergic reactions, people should begin taking bee pollen in small amounts and test their sensitivity to the substance. Taking small amounts also help develop immunity against allergy. For instance, if you take bee pollen supplements three months before the onset of the summer season, you can enjoy the season without the dreaded allergy.

Serious bee pollen side effects: Serious allergic responses may affect several body systems and may prove to be very dangerous. Some symptoms include convulsions, nausea, unconsciousness, breathing problems and throat swelling. Such reactions warrant immediate medical attention. Serious allergic reactions can be triggered when bee pollen is used in conjunction with or without other drugs. Bee pollen may also cause photosensitivity in some people when taken with other drugs. Renal failure may be another side effect. Those suffering from diabetes should also avoid taking the supplement, as it reduces the effectiveness of insulin and other drugs. Nursing mothers and pregnant women must also be careful about taking the supplement, as the child may be allergic to it.

Some bee pollen side effects may result from the environment factors of the region from where the pollen has been obtained. Regions sprayed with fertilizer and pesticides contain toxins that are harmful to the body, leading to adverse reactions. Symptoms of pesticide poisoning include nausea, excessive sweating, dizziness, stomach cramps, fatigue and headache.

However, those not allergic to bee pollen can enjoy a host of benefits with the use of bee pollen. Bee pollen has also been used to maximum advantage by millions across centuries. Hippocrates also prescribed it to his patients some 2500 years ago. A natural and healthy substance, bee pollen is effective in affecting weight loss, healing developing immunity and in enhancing digestive health. It also helps enhance energy levels and longevity.

A storehouse of antioxidants and nutrients, it helps one to retain one’s youthfulness in the most natural and safe manner. With bee pollen, users will not only feel and appear healthy and better, but also enjoy a variety of other benefits. All you need to do is source fresh and pure bee pollen from a reputable source to ensure the maximum benefits!

Natural Remedies for Period Pains

Medications are no longer the only answer to one of the most frequently asked questions by women: "what helps period pains?" Today’s allopathic drugs, with their known reputation of wreaking havoc in the body in the form of side effects, are increasingly being side-lined in favor of natural and consumer-friendly remedies that pose little or no danger to health. This extends to eliminating period pains as well.

Before trying to figure out what helps period pains, it is first important to understand what causes them.

Painful periods (or dysmenorrhea) are a common phenomenon in the initial phases of menstruation. The body generally adjusts to the changes by the time a girl reaches adulthood. Blood clots, cramps and bloating are the most frequent causes of discomfort and painful menstruation. Stress leads to heavy periods, which again may contribute to the pain. There may sometimes, however, be underlying disorders that cannot be eliminated without professional guidance and medications, such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, fibroids, etc.

Primary dysmenorrhea (i.e., painful periods that are not symptomatic of physical or health disorders) can, to a great extent, be eliminated naturally:

EXERCISE: It has been a common trend in women to avoid physical exercise when they are menstruating. Contrary to popular belief, however, an exercise regime keeps the muscles relaxed and stretched, thereby reducing instances of (uterine) muscle cramps.

• Light walking, stretching exercises, and certain yoga postures help alleviate pain.
• Breathing exercises also work wonders.

DIET: A diet inclusive of fruits, vegetables and whole grains can be the answer to ‘what helps period pains?’ Fruits and veggies are a great natural source of essential minerals (zinc, iron, calcium and magnesium) and vitamins (vitamin B, B6, C, E), all of which can curb menstrual pain.

• Dates, grapefruit, pomegranate, blackcurrants, avocado, blackberries, papaya and banana are some of the fruits you can have during your period. Your diet should also include vegetables like pumpkin, French beans, parsnip and Brussels sprouts.
• Whole grains and nuts like oats, hard red wheat, almonds, cashews and peanuts contain some essential minerals that ease period pains.
• Refined flour, dairy products, caffeine, tinned foods, sugar-rich items, oily and greasy foods, and meat, on the other hand, are not what helps period pains.

HERBS: Spices and herbs should not be overlooked in the list of what helps period pains. For centuries, herbs like black cohosh, blue cohosh, black haw, angelica, catnip tea, clary sage oil, corydalis, jasmine oil, ginger root, motherwort, yarrow, wild yam, white willow bark and chamomile oil, and spices like turmeric, thyme and oregano have been used as natural remedies to relieve stress, nausea, cramps, and pain related to periods.

AROMATHERAPY: A warm bath with scented oils like lavender, jasmine, chamomile, geranium and clary sage oil is a great way to bid goodbye to period pains.

There are a few other points that need to be kept in mind when period pains set in:

• Chilled water, carbonated beverages, alcohol and smoking should be avoided.
• A hot water bag placed on the belly can relax the muscles and ease menstrual blood flow.
• A warm glass of water with a few drops of lemon can work as a fantastic natural painkiller.

The key for women is to remember that stress and anxiety can trigger menstrual problems. More often than not, a warm scented bath, a cup of herbal tea, and engaging in doing what one loves is what helps period pains go away.

Natural Remedies for Arthritis: Simple and Easy Ways to Keep the Pain Away

Before scouting for natural remedies for arthritis, it is important to understand the disease. The three most common forms of arthritis are:

• Osteoarthritis
• Gout
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Arthritis is characterized by joint inflammation and extreme pain. Although there are drugs available to treat this disorder, most of them cause harmful side effects. This is why an increasing number of patients considering the possibilities natural remedies for arthritis offer.

One of the most effective natural remedies for arthritis is raw potato juice. It does not require a juicer. A medium-sized potato merely needs to be cut in thin slices (with the peel) and soaked in a cup of water overnight. The water should be had on an empty stomach early in the morning as a cure for rheumatoid arthritis.

Garlic is widely used for its myriad medicinal properties. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is one of the best natural remedies for arthritis associated with inflamed joints.

Calcium is already known as one of the most essential minerals that aid bone growth and formation. Calcium lactate is the most preferred forms of this mineral when it comes to treating arthritis. Two spoons of this powder (400mg) should be dissolved in a glass of water and taken at least 3 times every day before meals to curb arthritis pain.

Arthritis is often linked to the functioning of the digestive system. It is important for patients to ensure that all harmful toxins are eliminated from the body. Toxins cause inflammation and aggravate problems associated with this disorder. Fluids that are enriched with vitamins and minerals and are low in sugar are recommended for patients. Besides keeping the joints hydrated, fluids also help flush out the toxins that accumulate over time in the body. A diet rich in fiber is also an essential part of arthritis treatment.

Although heavy exercising aggravates joint pain and cause additional wear and tear, experts believe that mild to moderate exercises can prevent stiffness in the joints, enhance blood circulation, and have a positive effect on the patient.

Copper has traditionally been used in combination with other natural remedies for arthritis. It is known to strengthen the muscles and improve the symptoms of many forms of arthritis. Although some vegetables contain traces of copper, the most effective way of incorporating this mineral is drinking water stored in copper vessels.

Omega-3 fatty acids that are naturally available in fish oils and some seeds have proven to be very effective in reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation.

Vitamin deficiencies often result in weakened immune and skeletal systems. Vitamin D deficiency is often thought to be a major contributor to arthritis. Fruits are a great source of vitamin D, but the best source is the sun. Arthritis patients can alleviate pain by keeping warm. Sea bathing has been considered to be one of the most natural remedies for arthritis not only because it provides the perfect opportunity of being out in the sun, exercising and relaxing, but also because sea water contains iodine. Iodine is immensely beneficial for arthritis patients. It repairs and maintains worn out tissues, regulates acid-alkaline balance, and also aids detoxification. Even a warm bath with a few tablespoons of common salt is known to be effective in arthritis treatment.

Related links:
JointEase Plus

Natural Fertility Treatment Options

Recent statistics show that a worryingly large number of men and women are considering fertility treatment options. While some physical anomalies like tubal damage, ovulatory disorders and endometriosis contribute to fertility issues, frequent reports like "unexplained infertility" have shifted the limelight on external environmental factors. That is where natural fertility treatment options score far better than conventional treatments.

Needless to say, the changing lifestyles of people are endangering the natural process of reproduction. Stress, anxiety and the widely chosen measures to alleviate them are having a negative effect on hormones and disrupting biological harmony. Drugs that promise to help couples conceive have, more often than not, proved to be letdowns, to say the least.

When it comes to natural remedies, there are many fertility treatment options available. Not all of them will apply to every individual, but an optimum combination guarantees success.

There are various aspects that require attention:

DIET -- Besides providing the essential nutrients to the body that will nurture a life, food helps maintain hormonal balance. A healthy diet contains minerals and vitamins that are responsible for the proper growth and maintenance of genetic material.

• One of the most important factors that influence conception is the activity of cervical mucus. Certain nutrient deficiencies may lead to the deterioration of quantity and quality of this natural substance that helps fertilization.

Incorporating plenty of vitamin C in the diet is extremely essential for the well-being of the cervical mucus. Some other important nutrients are nitric oxide, lactobacilli (these organisms ensure a healthy and fertile environment in the body), calcium and folic acid.

• Zinc and iron are some of the most commonly used dietary supplements recommended to women seeking fertility treatment options.

OVULATION CYCLE -- The chances of conception are highest on the first day of ovulation. Men and women who have been facing difficulties should consider marking the 28-day cycle on a calendar to evaluate the day when the woman is most fertile.

HERBAL TREATMENTS -- Traditional herbs have been used for centuries to cure infertility. The range of fertility treatment options in this regard is comprehensive and all-encompassing.

• Siberian ginseng is a Chinese herb known to boost fertility. The Chinese believe that it increases the body’s "chi" (vital energy). Studies show that this herb can effectively strengthen the muscular walls of the uterus, enhance uterine function, and help maintain the required hormonal balance.
• Gingko biloba is an herb which, as per scientific research, is being said to enhance fertility and aid the proper growth of the fetus. It ensures proper blood circulation in the reproductive organs of the body and also acts as an antioxidant.
• Red clover is said to contain isoflavones, which is a naturally occurring compound similar to estrogen. Women who have estrogen deficiencies will definitely experience a boost in their estrogen levels after using red clover. This herb has been in use as one of the most effective fertility treatment options for years.

Chasteberry -- This fruit is an extremely potent fertility enhancer. Women who suffer from disturbances in the menstrual cycles obtain maximum benefit from this natural substance. Besides regulating and restoring hormonal balance in the body, this fruit positively affects the pituitary gland.

There are many other natural fertility treatment options for men and women that do not have the harmful effects of prescription drugs or expenses associated with most fertility treatments.

Important Vitamins for High Blood Pressure

Minerals and vitamins for high blood pressure are being considered as effective alternatives to hypertension medications. Patients should understand the importance of an optimum combination of exercise, sleep and a proper diet containing minerals and vitamins for high blood pressure treatment. If patients do not pay proper attention to any one of these factors, the remaining remedies lose their effectiveness to a great extent.

Patients suffering from hypertension are required to follow a diet consisting mainly of fruits and vegetables. Not only does this ensure that the body obtains a lot more dietary fiber and less carbohydrates, but that all the necessary minerals and vitamins for high blood pressure are taken as well.

Vitamin A, B-complex, C, D and E have been scientifically known to combat hypertension.

Results show that individuals who take 240mg of vitamin C daily experience far lower risks of high blood pressure. Vitamin C helps in the conversion of cholesterol. Being an antioxidant, it also detoxifies the body and maintains the health of the organs. It is also known to strengthen arteries, prevent blood clots, and help circulation in general. All these properties of ascorbic acid make it one of the most important vitamins for high blood pressure patients.

The group of B vitamins includes B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and B12. All of these are said to be important in the treatment of high blood pressure.

Vitamin B-6, folic acid and B-12 is known to reduce homocysteine levels in the body. Homocysteine is a toxic byproduct of protein and is directly linked to high blood pressure.

Vitamin A, C, E, and beta-carotene deficiencies have been linked to hypertension. All these vitamins inhibit the negative actions of free radicals on the endothelium lining of artery walls. That keeps arteries elastic and maintains their ability to respond to chemical signals.

Co-enzyme Q10 is a substance found in the body. It acts like an antioxidant. Co-enzyme Q10 also improves the functioning of many chemicals in the body and increases the amount of energy produced by the cells. It has been in use as an alternative medicine for high blood pressure for a few decades. One of the many ways in which smoking harms the body is by using up and destroying this essential substance in the body.

Fruits and dark colored vegetables are the best sources of vitamins. However, some patients may need to resort to supplementary pills to maintain or enhance their current vitamin intake. Not all the products available in the market are reliable. It is advisable to consult a doctor regarding the dosage as excess vitamin intake may disrupt the natural balance of the body and be detrimental to health.

Some very important minerals are also needed by individuals suffering from high blood pressure. Calcium, magnesium, potassium and selenium are some of them. The mineral balance in the body is essential to prevent water retention. Water retention (caused by sodium) increases blood volume and thereby elevates blood pressure.

The importance of minerals and vitamins for high blood pressure cannot be undermined. Herbs, exercises, and meditation, when adhered to in combination with the optimum dose of essential nutrients, will help control hypertension in the long run.

Diet as a Natural Treatment for Arthritis

Alarmed by the magnitude of the side effects that accompany arthritis medications, many patients are now looking for a natural treatment for arthritis. Researchers and professionals have been studying various herbs and other natural remedies that are associated with this disease, and while not every traditional and natural treatment for arthritis is 100% effective, most of them have been known to cure or prevent the occurrence of this dreaded disorder when used as intended.

There is a difference between curing arthritis and treating the inflammation and pain associated with it. There are plenty of natural products that will provide relief from arthritis pain. Since this disorder involves damage and wear and tear in the cartilage surrounding the joints, muscle dehydration, stiffening of joints and inflammation, natural products that address the root cause and restore normalcy are considered to be most effective.

Diet plays an important role in the natural treatment for arthritis. The following foods help reduce the pain related to arthritis to a great extent:

• Including vegetables like carrots, spinach, ginger, garlic, pumpkin, zucchini and squash in the diet regularly is beneficial. All of these can be boiled in water with salt and consumed. Boiled vegetables are preferred as steaming/boiling does not destroy any essential nutrients and is free of oil, which is harmful for arthritis patients. Legumes like soybean, black beans, kidney beans and chickpeas are beneficial for arthritis patients too.
• Fennel seeds, turmeric, coriander, cumin, asafetida and iodized salt are some of the essential spices and seasonings that should be generously used by arthritis patients.
• Raw vegetable juices are good for arthritis pain. The darker the vegetable, the more potential for it has for curing arthritis. Some popular choices in the natural treatment of arthritis include beetroot, carrot, spinach and cucumber.
• Coconut water makes for an excellent drink for patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
• Fruits rich in antioxidants not only reduce inflammation and flush out toxins, but also repair and restore the connective tissue around the joints. Some of the most widely used fruits that treat arthritis are cherries, avocado, blackberries, prunes, papaya, apples, grapes and oranges.
• Vitamin C is considered to be one of the most effective and essential nutrients in the natural treatment of arthritis. Its primary function is to aid the generation of collagen, the main component that makes up a cartilage.

It often becomes necessary to abstain from certain food items to balance the effect and compound the activities of the required nutrients. For example, tomatoes and peppers inhibit the process of cartilage repair by vitamin C. It is best that arthritics avoid fatty and oily foods, foods containing excessive amounts of uric acid, starchy vegetables, and foods high in refined sugar and simple carbohydrates.

However, arthritis cannot be fought with diet alone. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle which involves adequate sleep and mild forms of exercise is essential for patients. Glucosamine sulphate (a naturally occurring compound) and chondroitin sulphate supplements, when combined with a recommended lifestyle program, are considered very effective in the natural treatment of arthritis.

Acai Berry and Colon Cleanse: Trends of the Hour!

Acai berry and colon cleanse is fast becoming a top priority on the list of every individual who is looking for weight loss and a healthy body. There are controversies surrounding colon cleansing and the health benefits that are being associated with the acai berry. There are some important issues that need to be addressed before a person gives in to the tempting advertisements and the plethora of supplements readily available for sale.

What is colon cleansing and what are the benefits?

The colon is that part of the digestive system where solid wastes enter before being excreted out to be rid of salt and water. Many professions believe that this site can cause severe health problems as the accumulated waste which cannot be properly eliminated remains inside this small region and invites the growth of harmful bacteria and parasites. Colon cancer has also been associated with an unhealthy and unclean colon.

Colon cleansing involves the detoxification of the intestinal tract and the colon through various alternative methods. A clean colon is said to ensure proper digestion (which reduces fatigue and other related issues) and weight loss. Whichever process is applied to cleanse the colon, the loss of essential nutrients from the body invariably takes place.

That is why researchers are combining the (recently discovered and apparently highly effective) acai berry and colon cleanse in therapies and claiming weight loss to be the primary benefit.

Acai berry diet as a weight loss program has already been written about numerous times. In all fairness, acai berries are highly nutritious fruits that can effectively team up with colon cleansing regimes. These fruits are very popular as detoxifying agents (being an amazing source of antioxidants) and ensure that most of the symptoms and problems that surface after a colon cleanse are alleviated.

Whether or not acai berry and colon cleanse can be positively associated with the weight loss claim is still a matter of debate though.

It is true that all the supplements that are being sold as colon cleansing products have some important factors in common that essentially support weight loss. When the focus is on dietary fiber, cholesterol lowering minerals, and essential metabolism boosting vitamins, some pounds are surely going to be lost. If colon cleanse does ensure a stronger digestive system, losing weight is going to be easier as the amount of food that is consumed will be properly utilized, reducing the need to eat repeatedly.

One lobby of researchers is, however, maintaining that a colon cleanse can cause irreversible damage in the long run to the health and that the acai berry is not the superfruit people are claiming it to be.

Although there are several first-hand accounts of individuals who have benefited from acai berry and colon cleanse by losing weight drastically without any side effects, it is advisable to consult health professionals before jumping onto the bandwagon.

The use of acai berry and colon cleanse as a combination therapy for weight loss is an emergent trend which undoubtedly needs to be subjected to further studies. As for the present, an acai berry diet and a colon cleansing regime will continue to ride on their success stories.

The Myth About Natural Diabetes Cure

As millions ponder over what is the best possible natural diabetes cure, experts in alternative medicine are expressly maintaining that this chronic illness cannot be a "one man fight".

No one factor can eliminate all the health hazards that arise due to diabetes. Albeit, there are some minerals, herbs and other nutrients that score above others when it comes to fighting high blood sugar levels, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle incorporating minor (but significant) changes.

A mineral known as chromium has attained widespread popularity as a natural diabetes cure. It has been thoroughly researched, and findings show that while a person not suffering from diabetes requires this nutrient in very low quantities, diabetics can hugely benefit from additional doses. Chromium is a hypoglycemic mineral and helps maintain blood glucose levels in the body. Some sources include whole grain products, meat, dairy products, mushrooms and lentils. It is important to not go overboard with this mineral as too much of it can cause hypoglycemia. 150mg per day for a diabetic is considered to be the optimum requirement.

Another important mineral that can be considered as a highly effective natural diabetes cure is zinc. Zinc enhances glycemic control in both diabetes I and II patients. It also negates the adverse implications of this disorder on the organs to a great extent, improves blood sugar metabolism, and helps in the proper functioning and growth of beta cells. Beta cells are responsible for insulin secretion by the pancreas. This mineral is abundantly supplied by nature in vegetables and fruits and is also available as a supplement.

The most popular herb considered as a natural diabetes cure is green tea. In fact, oolong tea and black tea work wonders too. It is the presence of polyphenols (an active component found in some herbs) that positively affect glucose control and the functioning of insulin. Besides, green tea is known for its anti-oxidant properties. Regular cups of green tea not only reduce the affinity to other (sugary) drinks, but also reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems that are often associated with diabetes. Some other naturally occurring substances that are rich in polyphenols are fruits of the acai palm, blackcurrants, berries, and cocoa beans.

Alpha lipoic acid (or ALA) is being widely used as a natural diabetes cure. It is an antioxidant that not only increases insulin sensitivity, but also helps treat diabetic neuropathy. Broccoli, spinach, liver and potato are good sources. However, patients may prefer supplements as ALA can potentially cause hypoglycemia if taken in large quantities, and dietary pills ensure a steady and controlled intake of this nutrient.

The aforementioned items have been evaluated for diabetes management, and the inferences drawn have all been positive. Any professional dietician will be able to supply a further list of food items that should and should not be taken by a diabetic, including supplementary requirements. However, what many people are overlooking while looking for that one natural diabetes cure is that no natural product or medication can treat diabetes on its own. A healthy and stress-free lifestyle is as important as any drug or natural supplement when it comes to treating this chronic illness.

Alcohol and cigarettes are on par with sugar loaded food items when it comes to harming a diabetes patient. The importance of exercise (yoga, jogging and brisk walking work amazingly well for non-athletes) cannot be overlooked in diabetes treatment.

Effective Herbal Remedies for Asthma

Children in Australia lose around one million school days every year due to asthma. While traditional medicine has its own limitations, naturopathic and holistic treatment has been known to cure asthma effectively, across cultures, for centuries. Some herbal remedies for asthma include the use of healing herbs such as ginkgo, grape seed, dried ivy and butterbur, which have anti-inflammatory properties. These herbs dilate the airways providing relief from asthma.

However, before using them, it is important to consult a herbalist or qualified alternative medical practitioner to get the best result. Besides, it is also important to consider the herb quality, drug interactions and side effects.

Effective Herbal Remedies for Asthma
Here are some effective herbal remedies for asthma:

• A mixture of garlic juice with honey or hot water every day or a mixture of turmeric powder with hot water every day can help alleviate asthma.
• A teaspoon of ginger juice with fenugreek decoction (one cup) and honey taken twice a day helps eliminate phlegm (as this acts as an expectorant) and asthma.

• To prepare one of the most effective herbal remedies for asthma, take equal quantities of powdered dry ginger, black pepper and long pepper. Take one teaspoon of this powder and mix it with honey. Have this everyday for relief from asthma.

• Boil two glasses of water with a cinnamon stick, three garlic heads, half purple onion, two tablespoons thyme and a halved lime. When it boils, add another cup of cold water and let it boil until half the amount is left. Strain and drink this as tea. Children can have a tablespoon of this decoction mixed with honey every three hours for relief from asthma.
• A brew of fennel seeds and anise seeds boiled in water for 10-15 minutes helps treat asthma and other respiratory problems. The tea is also anti-spasmodic, reduces bronchitis and cough and helps loosen bronchial secretions.
• Chamomile: Consumed as tea, antihistamine properties of chamomile help reduce inflammation.
• Ephedrine: Ephedra, a chemical extracted from Ephedra sinica, helps relieve respiratory congestion in people with asthma. It is also believed to contain other elements that assist in breathing.
• Elderberry: One of the best herbal remedies for asthma, it reduces nasal congestion and treats upper respiratory illnesses, such as bronchitis, influenza, asthma and sinusitis.
• Gingko biloba: It treats asthma by inhibiting the Platelet Activating Factor that induces anaphylactic reactions.
• Licorice root: It helps restore normal breathing by clearing the airways.
• Mullein: The leaves and flowers of mullein are used to reduce mucous and phlegm and dilate the bronchial passage. It also offers relief from bronchitis, dry cough and aids in breathing.
• Nettle and Lobelia: Their anti-inflammatory properties help maintain respiratory health in people with asthma. Nettle is also known to cure arthritis and lupus.
• Tea: Theophylline, present in green and black tea, helps relax the bronchial tubes and offers relief from asthma symptoms.
• Yerba Mate: One of the most effective herbal remedies for asthma, it prompts adrenal glands to release corticosteroids that reduce inflammation. Besides, it also relaxes hyperactive responses to allergens and relaxes the airways.

Other herbal remedies for asthma include Adhatoda vasical, coltsfoot, Grindelia and Chinese skullcap. They have been known to effectively treat asthma and prevent their recurrence in a safe and natural manner.

Natural and Non-Toxic Cleaning Products

If you want to reduce the use of potentially toxic cleaning products, here are a few tip.

10 Awesome Ways to Use Vinegar

This is so cool. Who knew vinegar can be used for so many purposes!

DIY Deodorant

In case you haven't heard, deodorants may contain chemicals that could cause cancer. So here's how to make your own deodorant using coconut oil.

Coconut Oil for Beauty

I didn't know there are so many ways we could use coconut oil until I watched this video. If you would like to get rid of chemical-laden beauty products, here are a few alternatives.

Alternative Medicine for Diabetes -- Effective Minerals!

Those seeking an alternative medicine for diabetes will be glad to know that certain minerals, vitamins and herbs go a long way in curing and preventing the chronic disease. This article will focus mainly on minerals and vitamins that help fight the disease without leading to any side effects.

While including fresh fruits and vegetables rich in some of the essential nutrients in the diet is already popular among patients looking to fight diabetes naturally, supplementary pills containing optimum combinations of various minerals, herbal extracts and vitamins are now increasingly being recognized as an alternative medicine for diabetes.

• Chromium: This mineral can be considered as one of the most popular alternative medicine for diabetes. It is known to be an insulin-potentiator (it initiates the body to produce more insulin). It also reduces insulin resistance.

  Chromium is naturally available in lentils, mushroom, beans, whole grain products, eggs, molasses and dairy products.

  Although chromium deficiency has been linked to the different types of diabetes, it is important to keep in mind that an overdose of chromium may be harmful to some patients. An optimum daily intake of 150mg is advised.

• Alpha Lipoic Acid: Although the human body is capable of producing alpha lipoic acid, diabetics may require an increased dose of this nutrient. Besides being a very powerful antioxidant, it also enhances the activity of certain vitamins and other anti-oxidants in the body. A toxin free body can absorb and utilize any alternative medicine for diabetes way better. It combats diabetes-induced health problems and works to reduce oxidative stress and increase insulin sensitivity.

  Diabetics may require up to 800mg of alpha lipoic acid daily. Dietary supplements are available. Yeast, liver, and meat are a good source. However, diabetics are often advised to avoid consuming too many animal products.

• Vitamin C: Ascorbic acid, as vitamin C is scientifically known, has anti-oxidative properties. It reduces the oxidation of free radicals that affect diabetic patients adversely by enhancing the risk to the organs. This, besides lowering blood sugar levels in the body.

  The best way to take vitamin C is to have a variety of fruits and vegetables that contain this nutrient in plenty. Common choices are citrus fruits, peaches, strawberries, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and parsley.

  This alternative medicine for diabetes works best to prevent and reduce the risks related to diabetes. If taken as a supplementary pill, the intake should ideally be constricted to 250mg per day.

• Vanadium: In Type 1 diabetes, vanadium acts like insulin and helps in the conversion of glucose. It minimizes insulin resistance in patients with Type 2 diabetes.

  Cereals, soybean, snap beans, corn, radish, mushroom and olive are some of the natural sources of vanadium.

  Dill and parsley are two herbs that contain this potential alternative medicine for diabetes.

  Diabetics may opt for supplements as well.

• Zinc: Zinc is a natural insulin catalyst that can control both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Zinc deficiency in humans can be associated with diabetes mellitus type 2.

  Zinc is available in foods that are not so good for diabetics like cheese, meat, potato and dairy products. Whole grains and cereals that contain zinc are a good choice for patients.

  Supplements containing zinc are a popular alternative medicine for diabetes.

Every mineral which induces insulin activity and helps lower blood sugar is an alternative medicine for diabetes. It is essential for diabetics to include lots of fruits and vegetables in their diet, and if necessary, use genuine supplementary products rich in such nutrients to beat the illness.

9 Bee Pollen Health Benefits for Men

Health problems that are common among men include weight problems, health and fitness issues, prostate problems and loss of sexual urge. While people seek different routes to treatment, one of the most natural and safe ways to combat the problems is through bee pollen. Bee pollen sourced from the most pristine parts of the earth offers the maximum bee pollen benefits for men. Here, we discuss them in detail.

The vast amounts of nutrients in bee pollen, which include all essential vitamins, enzymes, fatty acids, minerals, amino acids, and phytoestrogens, ensure that the supplement is able to affect positive health outcomes.

Listed below are some of the main bee pollen benefits for men.

1. Bee pollen helps fight enlarged prostate, a problem common in mid-aged men. In fact, it is known to reverse prostatitis and prostate cancer. Men with prostate problems can begin treatment by eating a spoonful of bee pollen a day. According to studies, men who start eating a tablespoon of pollen a day at around 40 - 45 years do not develop prostate gland problems.

   Consuming bee pollen helps eliminate the harmful effects of free radicals of oxygen, the accumulation of which causes prostate inflammation and infertility in men. Bee pollen helps reduce inflammation and enhances the functioning of the prostate. When used by itself, bee pollen is almost 80% as efficient as antibiotics, without the latter’s high costs and side effects. Regular consumption can even help avoid prostate surgery in men.

2. Bee pollen benefits for men also include improvement in sex drive. Studies suggest that more than 50% men that consumed bee pollen for a month showed improved sperm count and reported enhanced sexual performance. So, it helps to treat impotence in men.
3. Zinc present in bee pollen helps enhance potency and fertility by enhancing the viability and motility of sperms. The efficiency of zinc in improving male sexual health is enhanced by the presence of antioxidants in bee pollen.
4. Athletes use bee pollen to increase their energy levels consistently for an enhanced performance.

5. Bee pollen also aids in weight loss and delays aging.
6. It rejuvenates the body by stimulating various glands and organs and enhancing vitality and longevity.
7. Myricetin in bee pollen helps decrease bad cholesterol in the blood. Quercetin is a natural antihistamine that fights allergies. Rutin helps protect veins and fights against varicose veins and even prevents cancer.
8. Trans-cinnamic acid is used by our body to create its own antibiotic that aids the liver in the detoxifying processes.
9. Bee pollen also contains several essential trace elements that the body needs for its proper functioning, but cannot manufacture on its own. Some of the major trace elements in bee pollen include iron, zinc, calcium, copper, magnesium, manganese and potassium.

To enjoy these and other bee pollen benefits for men, source fresh and pure bee pollen only from reputable providers. With high-quality bee pollen, you not only eliminate your health issues, but also enhance your overall health.