home remedies Archives - Page 4 of 15

You might look at a red, swollen area which is itchy and painful on your skin and wonder what it is. It might be a rash. A rash can be an indicator of several medical problems. It can occur due to an irritant (a substance causing irritation) or allergies. As a rash can be caused due to multiple reasons, it is crucial to figure out the exact cause to receive appropriate treatment.¹ You might be allergic to certain substances, and when these touch your skin can lead to the formation of a rash. Therefore, the occurrence of rashes can be due to skin allergies too. Even though a rash may be uncomfortable and painful, it is not contagious. i.e. It cannot spread from one person to another.² However, to soothe your skin, there are various home remedies for skin rashes that you might find useful. But, before diving into that, we need to know about a few things described further.

What Causes Skin Allergies and Rashes?

Certain substances present in the environment like pollen, moulds, or plant and animal substances can cause allergic reactions on the skin, especially during summer or spring.

When the skin comes in contact with a substance that causes irritation (allergen), it alerts the immune system, leading to a skin rash. This condition is called allergic contact dermatitis, where dermatitis simply means the irritation of the skin.² Some of the causes are:

Symptoms of Skin Allergies and Rashes:

As stated above, skin allergies and rashes can occur due to multiple reasons. It occurs within minutes, hours or days after coming in contact with an allergen. Whenever our skin comes in contact with an allergen, it develops symptoms; this condition is called allergic contact dermatitis.² Whenever it happens, you can recognise it by knowing that the rash:

Suggested Home Remedies for Skin Allergies and Rashes:

Skin allergies and rashes are a common occurrence as we come across several potential allergens during our daily activities. Treatment for these rashes can be of various types, as will be suggested by your doctor. It might take time for the rash to go away even after beginning the treatment.² However, there are home remedies for skin rashes that you can try if you are looking for natural remedies for rashes and skin allergies.

1. German Chamomile

The scientific name of German chamomile is Matricaria recutita L. The flower can be used externally to manage skin inflammation, rashes and eczema, among many other allergic skin conditions. Human studies show that it is more effective than hydrocortisone (a constituent of creams used to treat rashes) in managing chemical-induced toxic dermatitis.⁴ As a skin allergy home remedy, you can use a few teaspoons of German chamomile leaves to brew a tea and drink it. It is also a constituent of various ointments available on the market.⁵ You can also use the German chamomile flower extract by making a paste of the flowers and gently dabbing it over the rash.

2. Sage Leaf

Sage leaf is one of the home remedies for skin rashes. Sage is a medicinal plant native to the Mediterranean region and has been used in herbal medicine for ages to manage minor skin inflammations. In laboratory and animal studies, it was found that certain compounds present in sage showed inflammation alleviating properties. Use of this in children below the age of 18 and pregnant and lactating women is not recommended.⁴ As an at-home skin rash remedy, you can use sage oil made from the sage leaf and apply it gently over the rash using a cotton swab.

3. Evening Primrose

In a clinical trial, it was seen that evening primrose can reduce the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. It was also found to reduce the symptoms of eczema when applied on rashes topically. Therefore, you can use evening primrose as a skin allergy home remedy. It might help in reducing inflammation, dryness, itch and exfoliation (removal of dead cells) of the skin. Please note that it should not be used by people with schizophrenia and epilepsy, children, or pregnant and breastfeeding women.⁴ You can make use of it as a natural home remedy for skin rashes by adding a few drops of evening primrose essential oil in tea and drinking it. You can also apply the essential oil to rashes.

4. Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds are a part of traditional herbal medicine for the management of eczema and mild local inflammation of the skin. In animal studies, fenugreek seeds extract exhibited inflammation alleviating properties. It should not be used by children and adolescents below the age of 18.⁴ There is a need for more studies in humans to prove its efficacy; nonetheless, it is being used as one of the home remedies for skin rashes. You can use it as a skin allergy home remedy by taking a few fenugreek seeds, boiling them in water, and using the water for bathing.

5. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel was found to reduce acute (adverse or extreme) skin inflammation in animal studies. The presence of enzymes, sterols and carbohydrates attribute to the inflammation-reducing property of aloe vera gel. It can be used topically to deal with minor skin inflammations and skin inflammation disorders. Rarely, it may cause allergy on contact, so use it cautiously. Moreover, the use of freshly extracted aloe vera gel seems to be more beneficial.⁴ As a natural home remedy for skin rashes, you can use fresh aloe vera leaf to obtain the gel and apply it to your rash. It might help soothe your skin rash.

6. Oats

Oat straw is scientifically known as Avenae stramentum. It contains a lot of bioactive compounds. It can be used to deal with many skin inflammations and seborrheic (disease-causing scaling and flaking of the skin) skin diseases, especially those accompanied by itching.⁴ You can use oats as one of the home remedies for skin rashes by mixing little oats in curd and honey and applying it to your skin rashes. This remedy can be used as one of the home remedies for face skin allergy.

7. Oak Bark

As a traditional herbal medicine, oak bark has been used to manage minor skin inflammation, purulent skin diseases (diseases with pus discharge from skin rashes) and exuding eczema (fluid-filled blistering of skin). The use of oak bark was reported to cause allergies in some cases, so be cautious while using it. Using oak bark for longer than a week and in children and adolescents below 18 years is not recommended.⁴ You can use the bark of the oak tree as a home remedy for skin allergies by using it to prepare baths by adding the oak bark or oak bark essential oil. The oak bark is a constituent of a few herbal preparations for managing skin rashes as well.

8. Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds are also known as linseeds and scientifically known as Linum usitatissimum. It is cultivated worldwide but mainly in India, Turkey, Morocco and Argentina. It contains many bioactive components and might have skin smoothening (emollient), irritation relieving (demulcent), and inflammation alleviating properties, all of which are beneficial for skin allergies and rashes. Flaxseeds can be used as a warm poultice by wrapping the seeds in a cloth, gently warming them, and applying them to swellings and rashes.⁴ You might also be able to gain its beneficial effects by adding it to your diet.

Though there are studies that show the benefits of the given herbs and home remedies in the condition, these are insufficient, and there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of these herbs and home remedies on human health.

When to Seek Medical Help?

You must not rely on home remedies for the management of the condition; you should consult a qualified doctor for an advice for the condition.

Conclusion:

If you see a red area associated with pain and swelling, it might be a rash. A skin allergy to an animal or plant substance, metal, etc., might be what caused your rash. Skin rashes are caused mainly by an inflammatory reaction to allergens (substances that cause allergy). So, in order to treat it rightly, you need to identify the cause first. Even after all of this, it might take some time for the rash to disappear. There are home remedies for skin allergies like oak bark, flaxseeds, aloe vera gel and German camomile that you can try. However, if the rash gets worse and doesn’t go away or if you notice the signs of infection (redness, swelling and heat), you should consult your dermatologist (skin and hair doctor) and seek their medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are there home remedies for skin rashes?

Yes, there are home remedies for skin rashes like aloe vera gel, fenugreek seed, oats, oak bark, evening primrose, etc. that you can try.⁴

Is there an Indian home remedy for skin allergy?

Yes. You can try fenugreek, aloe vera gel, or flaxseeds that are grown and used commonly in India as a home remedy for skin rashes.⁴

Can we use green tea for skin allergies?

No. There is no evidence showing the benefit of green tea for skin allergies.

Can skin allergy occur due to grass?

Yes, skin allergy can occur due to grass. Skin allergy can be caused by a substance in the environment like plant and animal substances, pollen or mould.³

Can I get a skin allergy from another person?

No. skin allergy is not contagious. You cannot get it from person to person contact. It occurs when the skin comes in contact with an allergen (allergy-causing substances).²

References:

5. Shenefelt PD. Herbal treatment for dermatologic disorders [Internet]. Benzie I, Watchel-Galor S, editors. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects: Second Edition. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press/Taylor & Francis; 2011. 383–403 p. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92761/

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Best Home Remedies For Gout

Introduction:

Gout can make life difficult for people who want to live an active and happier life. Gout is a type of arthritis characterised by joint pain and swelling. It is due to the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. Gout can occur in joints, tendon sheaths (membranes surrounding tendons; tendons are tissues that connect bones and muscles), kidneys, and bursae (cushion-like sacs between bones and connected soft tissues). Many people get the first flare of gout on their big toes. Gout is a common phenomenon, especially in middle age. Men are more prone to gout than women. Women develop gout usually after menopause. Gout is a rare occurrence in the younger population. The gout pain often fares up at night and sometimes becomes painful enough to wake people up.¹ Gout has no cure, but it is possible to treat and manage the symptoms with self-management strategies.²

It is essential to relieve gout pain and swelling for people to live a comfortable life. These home remedies might help you with that.

What Causes Gout?

Too much uric acid or urate in the body forms crystals. These crystals get accumulated in the joints, causing symptoms like swelling, stiffness, and pain. The factors listed below may increase your chances of developing gout:

Symptoms of Gout:

Gout can make life difficult for people. If you are suffering from gout, you might experience symptoms like:

Suggested Home Remedies for Gout:

Gout is a painful condition that can make life difficult. It affects several aspects of everyday life, including leisure and work activities. However, you can use these home remedies to manage gout symptoms and lead a comfortable life.

1. Agastya

Agastya is a plant known as West Indian pea or august flower in English. It has anti-inflammatory (reduces inflammation) and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. You can use the root and bark of the Agastya plant to make a paste. You can apply this paste externally to relieve the pain and swelling associated with gout.⁴

2. Castor

Castor leaves, or Arand is a herbal remedy effective in many health conditions. You can also use Castor leaves to relieve swelling and pain in the joints. To use castor leaves, make a paste using mature leaves. To this paste, add a little amount of crystal salt. Warm this mixture. Apply this mixture (lukewarm) over the joints. It can help reduce the pain and swelling of the joints.⁴

2. Asvagandha

Asvagandha, or Indian ginseng, is a potent herb with many health benefits. Asvagandha intake can help you increase your energy and strength. The benefits of asvagandha might help you manage gout. To use asvagandha, you can mix asvagandha powder with kapikacchu and black sesame seeds. Mix it thoroughly and take this mixture with a glass of milk to manage problems such as arthritis.⁴

3. Alsi

Alsi or linseed seeds have many medicinal benefits. Alsi seeds possess pain-relieving properties when applied topically to the skin. Soak some alsi seeds in buttermilk through the night. Use these soaked seeds to make a fine paste the following day. You can apply this paste to the affected joints when required. Applying this paste can help you relieve joint pain.⁴

4. Healthy Diet

Following a more nutritious diet plan can help you live a better life. Eating foods rich in purines may trigger a gout flare. You can avoid foods such as organ meat, red meat, and seafood. You also need to avoid alcohol intake, especially hard liquor and beer.²

5. Physical Exercise

To manage arthritis, it is recommended that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of physical activity every week. Every minute of physical activity is valuable. The exercises recommended are moderate to low impact, for example, walking, biking, and swimming. Doing regular physical exercise will also help you avoid the risk of other health conditions like diabetes, stroke, and heart diseases.²

6. Maintaining Healthy Body Weight

If you are overweight or obese, losing weight will help reduce the pressure on your joints, especially hip and knee joints. You can try maintaining a healthy body weight to improve your symptoms. Healthy body weight will relieve pain, improve overall functioning, and lower the disease progression.²

7. Protect From Injury

Getting joint injury while you have gout will worsen your condition. Try engaging in activities that do not put much pressure on the joints. Engaging in easier activities like cycling, walking, and swimming can help you prevent the worsening of your symptoms and prevent further damage. These activities have a low impact on your joints and lower risk.²

When to Seek Medical Help?

You can contact your healthcare provider or doctor if you experience severe kind of joint pain and your joints feel warm and swollen.³

Conclusion:

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of crystals of uric acid in the joints. It is characterised by swelling and pain in joints. It can severely affect people’s day-to-day activities. Work as well as leisure activities of people get affected. Although there is a lack of specific treatment for gout, you can manage the symptoms and lead a comfortable life with some lifestyle and diet changes.

You can also use herbs like Asvagandha, Alsi, Castor, and Agastya to relieve gout symptoms at home. Gout is a severe condition of the joints that requires proper medical diagnosis and intervention. You need to get in touch with your healthcare provider if you experience severe pain in your joints accompanied by swelling and heat.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the natural remedies for gout to use at home?

You can use natural remedies like Asvagandha powder, Alsi seeds, Castor leaves, and the bark of Agastya to manage gout symptoms at home. You can use these herbs to relieve the symptoms of gout.⁴ You can also manage the gout symptoms at home by following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy body weight. Also, protecting the affected area from injuries is important. Getting injured when you have gout will worsen the condition and prevent the healing.²

Can I prevent gout?

With some lifestyle and diet changes, you can prevent gout. Lifestyle changes include drinking plenty of water and exercising regularly to maintain a healthy body weight. You can also make the following diet changes to avoid gout. You must avoid:

Can obesity lead to gout?

Yes, obesity is one of the significant risk factors for gout. Being overweight or obese puts excessive pressure on your joints.¹

How to diagnose gout?

If you are experiencing severe joint pain, and think you might have gout, reach out to your healthcare provider immediately. Your doctor will perform a physical examination. Besides a physical examination, your doctor can also ask you to get diagnostic tests like X-rays and laboratory tests done.

Gout is mainly diagnosed during a gout flare, during which the joint is painful, swollen, and hot to touch.²

Can gout cause any other complications?

Gout has other complications as well. Gout can turn into its long-term form, chronic gout, where people suffer from frequent attacks. Many people who suffer from chronic gout can also develop tiny white lumps beneath the skin surface. These bumps are called tophi, which usually appear on fingers, ears, and elbows. Gout is the result of a high amount of uric acid crystals in the blood. These crystals can get accumulated in the kidneys and lead to kidney stones.⁵

Is it possible to control gout?

Yes, you can control the symptoms with proper diet and lifestyle changes. Gout is a controllable form of arthritis.¹You also need to contact your healthcare provider and get the necessary treatment. It will help you prevent the condition from worsening.

References:

Natural Home Remedies for Arthritis

Introduction:

If you or someone around you is suffering from arthritis, you are already familiar with the repercussions it can have on the daily lives of people.

The term arthritis means ”joint inflammation”. It refers to the group of conditions that affect the joints. It is a common condition that causes swelling and pain in the joints. A joint is nothing but the junction where two bones connect.

Arthritis can occur in men, women, and children of all age groups. Arthritis can be of different kinds; while it primarily affects joints, it can also occur in organs like your heart, eyes, and skin. The symptoms can range from mild to severe.^1,2

An early diagnosis can help you start the treatment early, which will help you prevent the condition from worsening or causing permanent joint damage. In addition, there are plenty of home remedies that you can use to manage your symptoms and live a less painful life. Some of the remedies are discussed below.

What Causes Arthritis?

Causes of arthritis

There are different types of arthritis, and for most of them, the causes are not fully known. You might develop arthritis if you

Types of arthritis

Symptoms of Arthritis:

The symptoms of arthritis vary with the type of arthritis. However, there are some symptoms come to any arthritis. Common symptoms of arthritis are:

Suggested Home Remedies for Arthritis:

You can use these home remedies to manage and relieve the symptoms of arthritis. Some of the herbs mentioned bellow can be used as homemade remedies for arthritis.

1. Turmeric:

Turmeric or haldi is a household remedy used for many health conditions in the country. It is an effective remedy to reduce the swelling of the joints due to its potent anti-inflammatory activity. Curcumin is the active component responsible for its anti-inflammatory activity. Turmeric is also an effective pain-relieving remedy. It is one of the most recommended remedies to relieve rheumatoid arthritis.³ You can simply add a pinch of turmeric in your dishes. For example, it can be added to soups, vegetables, lentils, and other food preparations. Typically, it is used in most dishes in almost every Indian household.

2. Ginger:

Ginger is an effective ayurvedic medicine used for thousands of years for many ailments. It is also frequently used in other traditional systems of medicine. It helps by reducing swelling and providing pain relief. You can use ginger in various soups, salads, and sauces.³ Ginger has active compounds like gingerol and shogaol, responsible for the anti-inflammatory benefits.⁴

3. Boswellia:

Boswellia is a herbal medicine used since thousands of years in Ayurveda for arthritis. Boswellia might help relieve swelling and pain of arthritis because of its active compound called Boswellic acid.³ Boswellia is available in the form of topical creams and tablets. You must consult your healthcare provider before starting with any such health supplements.

4. Ashwagandha:

Ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng in English, is a potent medicinal herb with many health benefits. To relieve arthritis, mix equal amounts of ashwagandha powder, sesame, and kapikachu seeds. Mix it thoroughly. You can take this mixture with warm milk can help relieve problems like arthritis. It helps relieve tiredness and fatigue in people with arthritis because of its rejuvenating property.⁵

5. Alsi:

Alsi or linseed seeds can be used to ease arthritis. To use alsi seeds, soak them in buttermilk. Let them rest through the night. You can make a paste using the soaked seeds the next day. Apply this paste over the joints. Applying this paste regularly can help relieve joint pain.⁵

6. Guduchi:

Guduchi or Indian Tinospora has numerous health benefits in conditions like diabetes, fever, and stomach illnesses. It is also a beneficial remedy for arthritis. You can drink guduchi juice regularly to relieve symptoms of arthritis.⁵ The anti-inflammatory benefits of guduchi help reduce the swelling in the joints.⁶

7. Masha:

Masha or black grams offer many health benefits. You can make a paste using black gram powder and sesame oil. Mix these ingredients to make a fine paste. The paste can be applied to the joints to relieve the pain and inflammation that accompanies arthritis. It is a valuable remedy for both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.⁵

8. Diet changes:

Eating healthy will help you maintain the right weight for your age and height and reduce unnecessary pressure on your joints. Less pressure can relieve some pain associated with arthritis.⁵ You can follow a healthy diet plan by involving the following in your diet practice

9. Exercise:

One of the most effective ways to manage arthritis is regular exercise. It is important to find the exercise that works best for you, one which you enjoy doing, so that you regular with it. The type of arthritis can help you find suitable physical activity. Regular exercise can help you by

When you start any exercise program, you might experience some pain. Some amount of pain is normal. However, if you are experiencing pain lasting for more than two hours, you need to consult your physiotherapist or doctor before continuing with further exercise.⁵

When to Seek Medical Help:

You must consult with your doctor if you experience joint pain and stiffness for no apparent reason, which lasts for more than a few days and results in swelling, stiffness, and warmth at the joints. If you contact your healthcare provider on the first onset of symptoms, you can prevent the condition from worsening and prevent long-term damage.⁷

Conclusion:

Arthritis is a severe yet common condition that can present with severe or mild symptoms. It can affect all age groups but is typically seen in the elderly. Arthritis has many types and different symptoms depending on the variant. If you or someone around you suffering from arthritis, you are aware of the loss of quality of life. However, it is possible to make some lifestyle changes and live a comfortable life. You can use herbs like Turmeric, Ginger, Ashwagandha, Guduchi, Alsi, and Boswellia to manage the symptoms of arthritis at home. In addition, exercise and diet changes can help you improve your quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the natural remedies for arthritis at home?

Natural remedies for arthritis are turmeric, ginger, boswellia, ashwagandha, alsi, masha (black gram), and guduchi. You can use these herbs at home to relieve the symptoms of arthritis.^3,5

What is arthritis home treatment?

Home treatments for arthritis are exercising regularly under the guidance of a physiotherapist, losing weight if you are overweight and making suitable diet changes to maintain your height-appropriate weight. You can also use herbs like turmeric, ginger, and ashwagandha in your diet to help with arthritis.^3-5

Can arthritis cause other complications?

Complications of arthritis include reduced quality of life due to pain and immobility, leading to fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Some types of arthritis can increase your risk of developing heart diseases, lung diseases, and diabetes. The loss of physical activity due to arthritis may lead to social isolation, dependence, and loss of function.⁷

Can I prevent arthritis?

You can reduce the risk of developing arthritis if you
Do regular, low impact exercise
Reduce joint injuries
Maintain a healthy body weight
Avoid tobacco and tobacco-related products¹

Is running a feasible exercise for people with arthritis?

Running may be difficult for people with arthritis. You can try brisk walking instead. You can consult your doctor before starting with any exercise; they will be able to suggest an exercise that works best for you.⁷

Are there risk factors for arthritis?

There are many risk factors that increase the chances of arthritis, which are
Age: Older people are more prone to arthritis.
Weight: Obesity can put stress on your joints.
Lifestyle: Lack of exercising and smoking increase the risk of arthritis.
Sex: Women are more prone to arthritis than men.¹

References:

2. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease. What is Arthritis & What Causes it? [Internet]. [cited 2022 Jun 2]. Available from: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/arthritis

4. Mashhadi NS, Ghiasvand R, Askari G, Hariri M, Darvishi L, Mofid MR. Anti-Oxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Ginger in Health and Physical Activity: Review of Current Evidence. International Journal of Preventive Medicine [Internet]. 2013 [cited 2022 Jun 10];4(Suppl 1):S36. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23717767/

6. Patgiri B, Umretia BL, Vaishnav PU, Prajapati PK, Shukla VJ, Ravishankar B. Anti-inflammatory activity of Guduchi Ghana (aqueous extract of Tinospora Cordifolia Miers.). Ayu [Internet]. 2014 [cited 2022 Jun 10];35(1):108. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25364210/

Best Home Remedies for Sunburn

Introduction:

You might want to go out for a picnic or a quick swim to break the summer heat. These activities are all fun and games till you get sunburns.

Skin damage due to excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays present in sunlight is called sunburn. You can also get sunburns from artificial sources of UV light, such as tanning beds. Sunburn is instead a radiation burn.¹ You can notice a sunburn within 11 minutes of exposure. The skin will start turning red within two to six hours. Your skin will continue to develop sunburn for the next few days. Depending on the severity of your sunburn, it might take a few days or weeks for the skin to heal.

If you have a mild sunburn, you can take care of it at home. However, a severe and blistered sunburn requires immediate medical attention. Getting a sunburn repeatedly can cause premature skin wrinkling and skin cancer in the long run.² So, it’s best to take necessary precautions and avoid sunburns.

What Causes Sunburn?

Sunburns occur because of overexposure to UV radiation. You can develop sunburn when the UV exposure overpowers melanin’s ability to protect the skin. If you have light skin colour, you may develop a sunburn within 15 minutes of sun exposure. People with dusky skin tones tolerate sun exposure for hours without developing a sunburn.³

Sunburns are categorised into three types depending on the severity of skin damage. Common types of sunburn include:

In rare circumstances, people may develop a third-degree sunburn. This type of damage can cause severe damage to all skin layers and destroy nerves. This requires emergency medical care and treatment’^s

Symptoms of Sunburn:

Second-degree burns might be accompanied by heat illness. Symptoms of heat illness include:

Suggested Home Remedies for Sunburn:

Below are some remedies that you can use to care for sunburned skin at home. Although these home remedies can be used for minor sunburns, you need to reach out to your healthcare professional and receive help if you have a severe form of sunburn.

1. Stay Hydrated

You need to drink more water to stay hydrated when dealing with a sunburn. Sunburns draw the water from the body to the skin surface, rendering the person dehydrated. Drinking excess water can help you prevent dehydration caused by sunburns.⁴

2. Use Moisturiser

You can apply a good moisturiser to the affected area if your skin is not too painful to touch. Using a moisturiser that contains aloe vera or soy can help you soothe the sunburned skin. Moisturiser will help boost the moisture content of the skin. Avoid using butter on the sunburned skin. If you use butter or petroleum jelly, or any other oil-based product on the affected skin, it might block the skin pores and lead to an infection.²^–⁴

3. Shower Often

You can try taking cool baths or showers frequently. It will help you reduce the pain. Pat yourself dry after coming out of the shower but remember to leave some water on the skin. Applying a good moisturiser straight after the shower will help you retain the moisture in the skin.⁴

4. Protect the Skin

You need to protect the sunburned skin as it heals. Before venturing out, wear clothes that cover your skin. Wear clothes made of tightly woven fabrics. A tightly woven fabric does not allow light to come through when you hold it against a bright light. You can also try wearing loose cotton clothing.^3,4

5. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is an essential natural ingredient for dealing with many skin conditions. You can use aloe vera to relieve sunburns. It can also get rid of itching and help heal the blisters. It also provides a soothing sensation to the skin due to vitamin C and vitamin B. You can use aloe vera gel to aid in healing sunburned skin. Aloe vera gel can be rubbed directly on the affected area.⁵

6. Black Tea

Tea is an ingredient that most people have in their kitchens. It is a common home remedy used to relieve sunburns. You can apply cooled black tea directly to the sunburned skin. Certain compounds present in black tea help remove the heat from the sunburned skin. Black tea might help repair skin damage and prevent cancer.⁶

7. Green Tea

Green tea has good anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps to deal with adverse reactions on the skin, like sunburn after UV exposure. It can help reduce skin redness and skin damage. Green tea can be applied to the sunburned area to relieve skin damage.⁶

8. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a popular ingredient found in many sunscreen products. Tea tree oil can help manage sunburn by improving the blood flow to the skin’s blood vessels, bringing essential nutrients to the damaged skin.⁶ To use tea tree oil, dilute it with some carrier oils like coconut, almond, or olive. Avoid using pure tea tree oil directly on the affected skin.

When to Seek Medical Help?

If you notice any of the signs mentioned below, you should contact your healthcare provider.

Conclusion:

Sunburn is nothing but skin damage due to overexposure to ultraviolet radiation. Depending on the severity of sunburn, it can take a few days to a few weeks to heal completely. Getting sunburned frequently can increase your risk of skin cancer. Sunburns can be taken care of at home. You can use some at-home remedies to relieve sunburns and their symptoms. For example, ingredients like aloe vera, green tea, and tea tree oil can be used to relieve sunburns. If your sunburn is minor, which is a first-degree sunburn, it might heal on its own after some time. In case of severe sunburn, you need to contact your healthcare provider and receive timely treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the natural home remedies for sunburn?

Herbal home remedies for relieving sunburn include aloe vera gel, green tea, black tea, and tea tree oil. Other home remedies for sunburn are moisturising, avoiding dehydration, taking cool showers, and protecting the sunburned area from further damage. Minor sunburns can heal at home on their own, but if your sunburn is severe, you need to seek medical help.^4,6

How to prevent sunburn?

You can prevent yourself from getting sunburned if you:
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Apply enough sunscreen to cover the exposed skin completely. Reapply the sunscreen every two hours.
Wear a lip balm that offers sun protection.
Wear sunglasses that provide UV protection.
Stay indoors when the solar radiation is the strongest, between 10 AM to 4 PM.
Wear a hat with a brim.
Wear protective clothing in lighter shades.³

Can I use aloe vera gel to treat sunburns?

You can use aloe vera gel to relieve sunburns. Aloe vera gel can be used directly on sunburned skin. It helps soothe the skin and heal blisters. Aloe vera gel can also help in getting rid of the itching.⁵

How to use tea tree oil for sunburns?

Tea tree oil improves the flow of blood in the blood vessels of the skin, which helps bring nutrients to the skin and promotes the healing of the sunburned skin.⁶ To use tea tree oil, you can dilute it with some carrier oils like almond, olive, or coconut. Apply the diluted oil to the skin to heal the sunburned skin.

Can sunburns be cured instantly?

There is no instant cure for sunburns. The healing time of sunburns depends on the severity of the skin damage. It can take a few days to some weeks for sunburned skin to heal. First-degree sunburns, which are minor ones, can take a few days to weeks to heal completely. Whereas second-degree sunburns need several weeks to heal.¹

References:

5. January A ·, Qadir MI. Medicinal and cosmetological importance of Aloe vera. International Journal of Natural Therapy. 2009;2:21–6. Available from: http://www.researchgate.net/publication/233818204

Effective Home Remedies for Scabies

Introduction:

Do you have a rash that is so itchy it wakes you up from sleep? Or is your child crankier than usual from lack of sleep at night due to itching? If yes, you should look for rashes with small bumps on the body as they might indicate scabies. If one of the family members has it, you should look for it in others, as it spreads from one person to another when in close contact.

Scabies, also known as Sarcoptes mange, is a condition caused by a tiny mite called Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis. It mainly occurs in tropical areas and crowded places. Your pets can also get scabies as this condition also affects animals, but the causative mite is different. The one affecting animals can cause an allergic reaction in humans, but cannot cause scabies as they cannot adapt and live on humans.¹

What Causes Scabies?

A tiny mite called Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis causes scabies. The tiny mites make burrows or tunnels under the skin, leading to small itchy bumps on the skin.¹ Scabies can affect anyone. However, people are more prone to scabies in the following conditions:

Symptoms of Scabies:

Early symptoms of scabies (rash and bumps) can appear on the skin four to six weeks after being infected. The rash develops slowly over weeks to months.¹ Some of the symptoms by which you can recognise scabies are as follows:

Suggested Home Remedies for Scabies:

The intense itch associated with scabies might leave you scouring for home remedies for scabies all over the internet. We have a few possible home remedies for scabies that might help soothe the irritation. You can try a few of these natural home remedies for scabies and choose the one that best suits you.

1. Virgin Coconut Oil

Virgin coconut oil may act as an inflammation-reducing agent. It may improve the skin barrier function and protect the skin from ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation by forming a coat on the skin. Therefore, it may be useful in many inflammatory skin conditions too, such as xerosis (abnormally dry skin) and atopic dermatitis (itchy skin inflammation) to soothe skin irritation.²

The use of virgin coconut oil for scabies does not have proper scientific backing, yet it is being used by many people as a home remedy for scabies. For a natural home remedy for scabies, coconut oil, preferably virgin coconut oil, must be applied gently to the rashes with a cotton swab.

2. Tea Tree Oil

A study showed that tea tree oil was more effective in killing the scabies mites (scabicidal properties) than other commonly used agents. Moreover, it also showed minimum side effects during the trial.³

You may use tea tree oil as a natural home remedy for scabies by applying a tiny bit of this oil to your rashes. For example, use a cotton swab and gently dab the tea tree oil onto the rashes.

You can also dilute some tea tree oil in coconut oil and apply it to your rashes as a scabies home remedy. However, if you experience any allergic reactions, discontinue its use and reach out to your healthcare provider for accurate treatment.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has been used for topical application to manage various skin issues such as scabies and eczema (skin inflammation). It may help to relieve different skin problems such as wounds and burns.⁴ You can use aloe vera gel as one of the natural home remedies for scabies. First, you have to take an aloe vera leaf, wash it thoroughly, slice the leaf open using a knife and extract the aloe vera gel. Then, you can mix this gel with coconut oil and apply it to your rashes as soothing agent for scabies. Alternatively, you can also use aloe vera gels and creams available in the market. However, these are not a replacement for proper scabies treatment.

3. Turmeric

Turmeric has medicinal value and is widely used for its therapeutic properties in herbal and traditional medicine. It is used to manage skin diseases associated with inflammation.⁵ It might also be used as one of the home remedies for scabies and may prove effective. You can make a turmeric paste by adding coconut oil or water to turmeric powder and applying this paste to the rashes. It might help to be a good home remedy for scabies.

4. Neem

Since ancient times, the neem tree’s fruits, leaves, flowers and bark have been used for medicinal purposes. It is used to manage skin diseases and eczema. In folk medicine, neem has been used for conditions caused by insects for its insecticidal properties.⁶ Therefore, neem might be used to manage symptoms of scabies at home. There is inadequate evidence to prove the efficacy of neem for scabies, yet it is often suggested as one of the home remedies for scabies. You can use neem leaves, make a paste by crushing them with some water and then apply it to the rashes as a herbal paste for scabies.

5. Kundaruki-Bel (Bimbi)

Kundaruki-Bel is the Hindi name of Ivy gourd. In Ayurveda, the leaves of kundaruki-bel might be used as a home remedy for scabies. It might naturally have the potential to provide relief from itching and scabies. However, more studies are required to ascertain such potential uses.

For use as a natural aid for scabies, you have to take a few kundaruki-bel leaves, soak them in coconut oil and leave them in sunlight for a few days. After a few days, you can apply this oil and might get relief from your rashes as well as itching and scabies.⁷

6. Chitraka

The scientific name of Chitraka is Plumbago zeylanica and it belongs to the family Plumbaginaceae. It is popularly known as Lead war in English and Chitra in Hindi. Ayurveda offers this plant as a natural home remedy for scabies. It might be helpful for various skin infections, carbuncles, ulcers and also in diseases such as scabies. However, more research is required to confirm such effects. You can use the oil obtained from this plant, known as Chitraka Mula tailam, as one of the home remedies for scabies.⁷ You can gently apply this oil to all the skin areas with rashes.

7. Parisha (Kapitana)

Parisha is commonly known as the Portia tree or the umbrella tree in English. It belongs to the family Malvaceae. The flowers of Parisha may be used as home remedies for scabies. It might be helpful for skin diseases like scabies and pruritis (skin diseases associated with itching of skin). You have to take the flowers of this tree and make a paste of it by crushing them with water. Then, apply this paste to affected skin regions as a natural home remedy for scabies and you might see some symptomatic relief.⁷

Though there are studies that show the benefits of these herbs and home remedies for the management of scabies, these are insufficient. There is a need for large scale human studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of these home remedies on human health. Thus, these should only be taken with caution and never as a substitute for medical treatment.

When to Seek Medical Help?

The correct management and course of action for scabies will be explained to you by your doctor. However, the following signs indicate that there is a need for course correction and you should revisit your doctor in case:

You must not rely on home remedies alone for the management of scabies and should consult a qualified doctor for any advice for scabies if the symptoms do not improve with home remedies.

Conclusion

The reason behind your intense itch causing sleepless nights might be scabies. Scabies is a condition that occurs when a tiny mite called Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis makes small tunnels under your skin. It causes rashes to develop, which appear as small bumps or pimples. It is a common condition in tropical and crowded regions. One might get infested with scabies, causing mites from another person through close contact. A doctor will devise a management plan for scabies and explain it. However, many home remedies for scabies such as tea tree oil, turmeric, neem leaves and coconut oil can also help relieve itching. You can try a few or all of these ways as natural home remedies for scabies and choose the one you prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is vinegar beneficial as a home remedy for scabies?

No. There is no adequate scientific evidence regarding vinegar as a home remedy for scabies.

What can be used for home remedies for scabies?

There are several home remedies for scabies such as coconut oil, tea tree oil, aloe vera, turmeric, neem, Kundaruki-bel, Parisha and Chitraka.^2-7However, you are advised not to solely rely on these home remedies for scabies. If the symptoms don’t improve, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Can we use coconut oil as a home remedy for scabies?

Yes. Coconut oil is one of the home remedies for scabies. Virgin coconut oil has been shown to alleviate inflammation and improve skin barrier function in studies. Therefore, it might help relieve symptoms of scabies. You can use it as a home remedy for scabies by gently applying it to your rashes.²Also, avoid relying on home remedies alone to alleviate your symptoms, you should reach out to your healthcare provider and get treatment if the symptoms don’t improve.

Is it beneficial to use apple cider vinegar for scabies?

No. There is no concrete scientific evidence stating the beneficial effects of apple cider vinegar for scabies. There is a need for more studies in this area. You are advised not to use any herb or remedy without consulting your doctor.

Can Parisha be used as an herbal remedy for scabies?

Yes. You can use Parisha as a herbal remedy for scabies. You can use the flowers to make a paste and apply it to your rashes to reap its beneficial effects.⁷ However, if your symptoms don’t improve, reach out to a doctor or healthcare provider.

Is scabies a viral disease?

No. Scabies is a disease caused by a tiny mite known as Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis. It is not a viral disease.¹

References:

2. Varma SR, Sivaprakasam TO, Arumugam I, Dilip N, Raghuraman M, Pavan KB, et al. In vitro anti-inflammatory and skin protective properties of Virgin coconut oil. J Tradit Complement Med. 2019 Jan 1;9(1):5-14. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6335493/

3. Thomas J, Carson CF, Peterson GM, Walton SF, Hammer KA, Naunton M, et al. Therapeutic Potential of Tea Tree Oil for Scabies. Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2016 Feb 3;94(2):258-66. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4751955/

4. Zheng GH, Yang L, Chen HY, Chu JF, Mei L. Aloe vera for prevention and treatment of infusion phlebitis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014 Jun 1;2014(6):CD009162. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6464352/

5. Vollono L, Falconi M, Gaziano R, Iacovelli F, Dika E, Terracciano C, et al. Potential of Curcumin in Skin Disorders. Nutrients. 2019 Sep 1;11(9):2169. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6770633/

6. National Research Council (US) Panel on Neem. Neem: A Tree For Solving Global Problems. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 1992. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK234637/

Natural Home Remedies For Breast Pain

Introduction:

Is your breast pain the cause of your worry? It might just be because of your upcoming menstrual period. Breast pain is also called mastalgia or mastodynia, and it can occur due to a variety of reasons, the most common being the menstrual period. Unlike popular belief, breast pain does not always mean breast cancer. However, if you feel a few lumps in your breast that won’t go away along with soreness of breasts, you should visit a doctor and get things clarified.¹ Mostly, breast pain is manageable and will go away quickly with a few lifestyle modifications. However, even though the pain may go away, it can be pretty painful, leaving us searching for remedies to get relief from it. So, are you looking for a quick remedy for breast pain? We indeed have a list of a few for you to try.

What Causes Breast Pain?

Symptoms of Breast Pain:

Breast pain itself is a symptom which can occur due to the above-stated causes. However, the pain can be of different kinds and will differ depending on whether you have cyclic (coincides with menstrual cycles) or non-cyclic (doesn’t coincide with the menstrual cycle) breast pain.¹ If it’s cyclic breast pain, you’ll feel:

If you have non-cyclic breast pain, then you might experience the following symptoms:

Symptoms of non-cyclic breast pain may stay for a long time or may come and go over time.¹

Home Remedies for Breast Pain:

Your breast pain might go away with your periods. But, if you feel a lot of discomfort and are looking for natural remedies for breast pain, we have a few for you. You can try a few or all of these home remedies for breast pain and choose whichever suits you best.

1. Kalonji

The seeds of kalonji, also known as Nigella sativa or fennel flower, contain many bioactive compounds, and essential oil is obtained from them. The essential oil of kalonji was used for a study to determine the effectiveness of kalonji in managing breast pain. This study showed that the syrup of kalonji, made by using kalonji oil and paraffin, when mixed in water and honey, might effectively relieve breast pain.³ You can use kalonji as a natural remedy for breast pain by taking a few kalonji seeds, making a powder out of it, mixing the powder in water and honey and drinking it. Regular usage of this remedy might relieve your breast pain.

2. Evening Primrose

Scientifically known as Oenothera biennis, the evening primrose is medically valuable due to the high presence of fatty acids in it. It may alleviate inflammation by inhibiting certain compounds responsible for inflammation. The most important activity of evening primrose is that it is good for relieving breast pain. In a study, it was found to have similar effects as Vitamin E on breast pain.³ You can use the essential oil obtained from evening primrose as a quick remedy for breast pain by adding a few drops in tea and drinking it. You can also add it to hot water and drink it. Sometimes, it can be mixed in a carrier oil and used for massaging the breasts.

3. Turmeric

Turmeric might have an antioxidant activity similar to vitamin E and Vitamin C. It may also have the capacity to reduce inflammation. A study showed that curcumin given to women before their menstrual period reduced the breast pain that they experienced.³ You can mix a little turmeric powder in warm milk and drink it before your periods begin to decrease breast pain. It may prove to be a useful hack for cyclic breast pain.

4. Chaste Tree

The chaste tree, also known as Vitex agnus-castus, is a plant with long-fingered leaves. Traditionally, it was used to deal with women’s fertility disorders, including PMS and breast pain (cyclic mastalgia). A study on humans shows that the chaste tree might be indeed effective in managing breast pain.³ You can use a few drops of chaste tree oil by mixing in warm water or tea with a little bit of honey. This remedy might help reduce your breast pain.

5. Orange Skin Essential Oil

The oil of orange skin (Citrus sinensis) contains many components which might have beneficial therapeutic effects on the central nervous system like pain reduction, muscle relaxation and mood elevation. A study showed that consumption of orange skin essential oil over time could reduce the effects of PMS on the body.³ Therefore, it can be used as a remedy to get relief from breast pain. In a cup of warm water, you can add a few drops of orange skin essential oil and drink it. To reap its beneficial effects for breast pain, you might have to diligently follow the remedy. However, it is better to consult a doctor if the pain persists or the condition worsens.

6. Wheat Germ

Wheat germ contains multiple nutrients, minerals and vitamins, which makes it useful for managing various kinds of diseases. So, a study was conducted to see if it is effective in alleviating breast pain. In this study, it was seen that wheat germ consumption significantly reduced breast pain in women.³ You can include wheat in your diet to obtain the benefits of wheat germ. You can also try wheat germ oil by mixing a few drops of it in a glass of water and honey and drinking it. This can possibly be one of the better natural remedies for sore and painful breasts.

7. Ginkgo

The extract of the plant Ginkgo biloba was found to be useful in the management of breast pain. The effectiveness of this plant extract was seen in a study when the extract was consumed over a while.³ You can use dried Gingko that is often available in the market and boil it in water to obtain a decoction. Drinking this decoction may alleviate your breast pain.

8. Hot or Cold Compress

A quick remedy for breast pain would be to apply heat or cold to it. To the most painful area on your breast, you can apply heat, but make sure to protect your skin.^1,2 You can use a hot or cold pack for application on the breast, but if it is too hot or too cold, it can damage your skin, so make sure that you use an optimum temperature for heat or cold compress. Using this remedy might provide relief from breast pain.

Though there are studies that show the benefits of the given herbs and home remedies for breast pain, these are insufficient, and there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of these herbs and home remedies on human health. Thus, these should only be taken under the guidance and supervision of your Ayurvedic physician.

When to Seek Medical Help?

You must not completely rely on home remedies for the management of breast pain. You should consult a qualified doctor for any advice related to breast pain and related symptoms.

Conclusion:

Breast pain, also called mastalgia, can occur due to many reasons such as hormone changes (puberty, pregnancy and menopause), certain medications, increased caffeine intake, smoking, etc. It is very common and can occur along with menstrual period (cyclic) or not (non-cyclic), and it varies in severity with each person. Although it goes away on its own, you can try a few natural remedies for breast pain like turmeric, orange skin oil, wheat germ or cold compress. You can try a few of them and see what sticks with you. However, if the pain persists for more than a few days, or you notice a discharge from the nipples or have signs of infection (redness, swelling and fever), you should visit a doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can turmeric be used for breast soreness?

Yes, turmeric has curcumin which was found to be effective in relieving breast soreness in studies.³ You can use a little bit of turmeric powder by mixing it in warm milk and drinking it daily. But it is advisable to consult a doctor for proper advice.

What is a quick home remedy for breast pain?

You can use an ice pack or hot compress to apply to the sore area of your breast as a quick home remedy for breast pain. Ensure that the object you use for the hot compress is not too hot as it can damage your skin.¹

What are home remedies for breast pain?

There are several home remedies for breast pain which you can use, like, turmeric, evening primrose, chaste tree, orange skin oil, kalonji, etc.³ You can try a few or all of them to relieve breast pain. However, if the problem persists, you should consult your doctor.

Does breast pain indicate that I have breast cancer?

No. Breast pain does not always indicate breast cancer. You can have breast pain due to your menstrual period, pregnancy, menopause, certain medicines, smoking, increased caffeine intake, etc. However, if you feel lumps in your breast that don’t go away, you should visit a doctor.¹

Can methi be used for breast pain treatment at home?

No. There is inadequate research supporting the use of methi for the management of breast pain. There is a need for more scientific studies to back the use of methi for breast pain.

References:

3. Niazi A, Rahimi VB, Hatami H, Shirazinia R, Esmailzadeh-Dizaji R, Askari N, et al. Effective medicinal plants in the treatment of the Cyclic Mastalgia (Breast Pain): A review. J Pharmacopuncture [Internet]. 2019;22(3):131–9. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6820470/

Simple Home Remedies For Puffy Eyes

Introduction:

Waking up in the morning to find puffed-up eyes is probably not the best way to start the day, but it is sometimes unavoidable. It makes us wonder about all the things that could’ve been the reason for it and regret some of our decisions, like eating salty food. Multiple other reasons can also be the cause of your puffy eye, so you shouldn’t get stuck up at that and move on to find a solution. Usually, the swelling in the eyes goes away in a day, but it can still be annoying, and you might want to relieve the swelling.¹ However, sometimes the swelling may be due to a medical condition that you might be unaware of, and it would be best to get it checked by a doctor and get the required puffy eye treatment.

What Causes Puffy Eyes?

There can be many reasons that cause puffiness of the eyes; some of them are as follows:

Symptoms of Puffy Eyes:

Puffy eyes can occur due to many reasons, as stated above. You can say that you have swelling by looking at your eye. If you notice swelling in your upper or lower eyelid or beneath your eyes, it means that you have puffy eyes. Eye puffiness occurs when there’s a fluid build-up in the surrounding tissues of the eye. Eye puffing usually resolves on its own in a day or two, and if it doesn’t, it can indicate that you have a serious problem and should consult a doctor.¹

Suggested Home Remedies for Puffy Eyes:

Swelling or puffing of eyes can be an annoyance that you want to get rid of quickly. It might pose as a hindrance to your daily activities. Are you looking for home remedies for puffy eyes? Here are a few home remedies on how to reduce puffy eyes that you might find useful.

1. Washing or Rinsing

As already discussed, eye swelling can be caused due to an allergy or an irritant. In such a case, washing or rinsing the eye can be a puffy eyes home remedy and provide some relief. Rinsing eyes with plain water seems to be a good idea, especially when there’s a discharge from your eyes. Washing or rinsing the eyes with cool water may also prove to be one of the soothing home remedies for eye swelling that occurs due to allergies.¹

2. Tea Bags

A tea bag is one of the popular home remedies for swollen eyes. This may be because tea contains caffeine that causes narrowing of blood vessels. This action of tea bags can be beneficial for puffy eyes.² This remedy is easy to use; you can use either green tea bags on your eyes or black tea bags to make tea by dipping them in warm water. Then, you can remove these tea bags and chill them in the fridge for some time. After a while, you can take them out of the refrigerator and put them on your closed eyes. You might be able to see the difference in some time.

3. Chilled Spoons

Chilled spoons can prove to be a valuable remedy for puffy eyes by acting as a cold compress for puffy eyes. Cooling the area reduces the blood flow, thus alleviating inflammation and swelling.² This is another straightforward home remedy that you can make use of when your eyes become puffy. All you have to do is take a couple of spoons and chill them in the freezer for some time until they become cool. Then, take the chilled spoons and place them over your puffed-up eyes. Doing this might soothe your eyes and act as one of the easiest home remedies for puffy eyes.

4. Cucumber

Cooled cucumber acts as a cold compress and might help reduce swelling of the eyes.² You might have seen cucumber being used in spas and salons to cover the eyes. It looks so relaxing! Well, this is one of the home remedies for puffy eyes that is as simple and relaxing as that. You just have to take a few cucumber slices and chill them in your freezer for a while. Then you can just put them on your eyes, sit back and relax. After a while, you might be able to notice decreased puffiness of your eyes.

5. Coffee

As mentioned earlier, caffeine narrows the blood vessels, thus reducing the blood flow to the area, leading to decreased swelling.² You can use coffee as one of the natural home remedies for puffy eyes. For this, you have to take a little bit of ground coffee powder, mix a little bit of coconut oil into it and make a paste-like consistency. Apply this mixture under your eyes carefully, ensuring that you don’t put it inside your eyes. Leave it on for some time and wash it off with cold water.

6. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera has a variety of therapeutic uses.³ It might have potential beneficial effects for managing swelling of the eyes due to ageing; thus, it can be used as one of the home remedies for puffy eyes or eye bags. You can mix freshly acquired aloe vera gel with a little bit of lemon juice or olive and apply it under your eyes to get rid of swelling. Various creams containing aloe vera gel are also available in the market, and you can use them as one of the home remedies for puffy eyes.

7. Potatoes

Potatoes are highly beneficial for the skin; therefore, they are used to prepare homemade face packs. Potato is used to ward off dark circles, clear up the skin’s blemishes, get rid of wrinkles, lighten the skin tone, and reduce swelling.⁴ It might be beneficial in relieving swelling under the eyes as well. You can use sliced and cooled potatoes to apply around your eyes as one of the most popular home remedies for bags under the eyes. You can also use the juice of potato and apply it to the skin around your eyes.

8. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is good for the skin as it helps produce collagen and prevents collagen destruction. It also has activity against viruses and fungi.⁵ These properties can be beneficial in reducing the swelling of the eyes. As one of the natural home remedies for eye bags, you can take a little bit of coconut oil and apply it to your face, especially under your eyes, for eye swelling treatment at home. It might take a little longer, but you might be able to see its beneficial effects with constant usage.

When to Seek Medical Help?

Didn’t find a solution for how to cure swollen eyes yet, you should visit an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) if the puffiness of your eyes does not go away in one or two days or if you notice any of the following symptoms that might indicate a more severe problem:

Conclusion:

Anyone can have puffy eyes, and it can hinder daily activities. It can be caused due to excessive salt intake, old age, thyroid problems or eye infections. The causes range widely, but the solutions are equally wide-ranging. You can try home remedies for puffy eyes like tea bags, coffee, cucumber, coconut oil etc. and see what suits you best. However, if the swelling doesn’t go away in a couple of days or you notice decreased vision, blurry vision or pain in your eyes or are seeing floaters, then you should visit an ophthalmologist and get yourself checked.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can swelling in the eyes be due to salty food?

Yes, intake of food containing a high amount of salt can cause swelling of the eyes.²

Does puffiness of the eye means that I have cancer?

There is a rare chance of puffy eyes being an indicator of cancer. Puffy eyes mostly occur due to ageing, genes, high salt intake, eye infections, etc.^1,2

Does a tea bag help in reducing puffy eyes?

Yes, tea bags contain caffeine, and they can help reduce the puffiness of the eyes by constricting the blood vessels. You can use chilled green tea bags or black tea bags on your eyes as one of the home remedies for puffy eyes.²

Can we apply ginger powder under the eyes for puffy eyes?

No. There is no evidence stating the use of ginger powder as one of the home remedies for puffy eyes.

Can lack of sleep cause puffy eyes?

Yes, inadequate sleep can lead to fluid retention and blood vessel dilation, resulting in puffy eyes. Prioritizing good sleep can help prevent this.

What foods can cause puffy eyes?

High-sodium foods, processed snacks and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to fluid retention and exacerbate puffy eyes.

How can I get rid of puffy eyes quickly?

Applying cold spoons, chilled cucumber slices or aloe vera gel can provide quick relief by soothing and constricting blood vessels.

References:

5. Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL. Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils. Int J Mol Sci [Internet]. 2018;19(1). Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796020/

Effective Home Remedies for Bee Sting

Introduction:

You are enjoying a fun day out in the garden, it’s the weekend, and you suddenly feel this stinging, burning sensation on your neck, and it turns out it’s a bee sting. Bees can sting when they are disturbed or you upset them. Bee stinger has venom, which gives you the itch and burning sensation.

Honeybees have this special hook attached to their stinger. When the honeybee tries to fly away after stinging, the stinger gets broken, and honeybees die. Some people may develop allergic reactions to bee stings. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice any allergies after being stung by a bee.^1,2 To take care of a bee sting, you can use the home remedies mentioned below.

What Causes Bee Sting?

When you get stung by a honeybee, the stinger gets embedded in the skin. The stinger contains a substance called venom that causes the symptoms of a bee sting. The longer the stinger stays embedded in the skin, the more venom is released.^1,2

Symptoms of Bee Sting:

If you are stung by a honeybee, you may experience symptoms in different parts of your body, as mentioned below:

Suggested Home Remedies for Bee Sting:

The home remedies mentioned below can be used for dealing with a honey bee sting.

1. Remove the Stringer

Check if the stinger is still attached to your skin. You need to remove this stinger as quickly as possible to prevent further harm. The longer the stinger stays embedded in the skin, it will release more venom. Be careful while removing the stinger. Avoid using tweezers. The tweezer might squeeze the sting, releasing more venom into the skin. Remove the stinger by scraping it with gauze, or you can use your fingernails.⁴

2. Place Ice or Cold Packs

Placing ice (wrapped in cloth) or ice packs at the affected area will help you reduce the swelling of the sting. Make sure to wash the site with soap and water first. If you notice swelling on other parts of your body, such as the neck or face, you need to reach out to your healthcare provider as it might signify an allergic reaction. You might also experience nausea, hives, difficulty breathing, and dizziness if you have an allergic reaction.⁴

3. Stay Calm

Although bees sting only once most of the time, it is best to avoid getting stung again to prevent the condition from worsening. If you are stung by a bee, you need to walk away calmly. Staying calm will help you avoid getting stung again.⁴

4. Indian Borage or Patta Ajwain

Patta ajwain, also known as Indian borage or Indian mint in English, is a medicinal herb used for various skin and health conditions. You can crush the leaves of Patta ajwain to make a paste. You can apply this crushed paste to the affected area to get relief from bee stings.⁵ It will help to heal the sting. Indian borage leaves have potent antibacterial properties that can help prevent the sting from getting infected.⁶

5. Bay Leaves or Tej Patta

Bay leaves, or Tej Patta, are a common ingredient in many Indian kitchens. This spice has many health benefits. You can make a paste of bay leaves using coconut oil and bay leaf powder. This paste can be applied on the site to get relief from the symptoms of bee stings.⁵ Bay leaves possess anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and pain-relieving properties. These properties might help to reduce the swelling and pain and help prevent the sting from getting infected.⁷

6. Honey

Honey has been used as a remedy for many skin conditions since ancient times. Honey provides many benefits; it can soothe the skin and aid in wound healing. Honey is also known to possess antiseptic properties that help prevent the growth of bacteria.⁸ Applying honey to the bee sting can help to soothe and heal the skin and provide relief from the symptoms of a bee sting.

7. Aloe Vera Gel

Applying aloe vera can help to deal with insect bites. Aloe vera can also relieve swelling and itching on the skin. You can slice open the aloe vera leaf and apply the gel to the area of the sting to soothe it.⁹ Make sure to use pure aloe vera gel. Many aloe vera gel-containing products contain fragrances and other chemicals that irritate the skin.¹⁰

8. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is an effective remedy for many skin conditions. It is also effective in managing insect bites.¹¹ Lavender oil is an effective pain-killer; it might help with the pain associated with the bee sting.¹² You can apply lavender oil after diluting it with other carrier oils like olive and coconut oil. However, avoid using lavender oil directly as it might cause skin irritation and other allergic reactions.

When to Seek Medical Help?

Conclusion:

Getting stung by a bee can be irritating, and you might also feel burning and itching at the sting site. If you get stung by a honeybee, try to stay calm and remove the stinger first. Herbal remedies like honey, aloe vera gel, bay leaves, or Indian borage can be used to take care of a bee sting at home. Most of the time, people do not have any severe symptoms after getting stung. Still, some people might develop allergic reactions to bee stings. If you develop signs of allergy, such as hives, difficulty in breathing, sudden drop in blood flow through the body, and swelling in the throat, lips, or tongue after getting stung, you need to reach out to your healthcare provider immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the home remedies for honeybee bites?

There are many natural remedies for bee stings. You can use bay leaves or Indian borage leaves to relieve bee stings. Honey, aloe vera gel, and lavender oil can also take care of a honeybee sting. Make sure to dilute the lavender oil before using it. Dilute the lavender oil with some carrier oil like coconut or olive. You can also use ice packs to reduce the swelling and get relief.^5,8–11

Can bee sting cause severe reactions?

Some people may show allergic reactions to bee stings. This allergic reaction may include difficulty in breathing, hives, shock (sudden drop in blood flow through the body), and swelling in the throat, lips, or tongue. If you or someone you know show these signs, contact your healthcare provider or physician immediately.^3,4

Can I use ice to take care of a bee sting?

Yes, ice can be used to take care of the bee sting as it helps reduce the swelling at the affected site.⁴ You can wrap the ice in a cloth or use an ice pack.

How to remove the stinger from the skin after getting stung by a bee?

You should be careful when removing the stinger. The stinger contains a substance called venom. Squeezing the stinger might release more venom into your skin. So, avoid using tweezers to remove the stinger. You can remove the stinger by scraping it with the help of gauze.⁴

Is honey a useful home remedy for a bee sting?

Honey has skin soothing, antiseptic, and wound healing properties. Applying honey to the stung site might help with the swelling, aid in healing and help prevent the site from getting affected.⁸

References:

6. Gupta SK, Negi PS. Antibacterial Activity of Indian Borage (Plectranthus amboinicus Benth) Leaf Extracts in Food Systems and”¨Against Natural Microflora in Chicken Meat. Food Technology and Biotechnology [Internet]. 2016 Jan 1 [cited 2022 Jun 14];54(1):90. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5105625/

8. Burlando B, Cornara L. Honey in dermatology and skin care: a review. J Cosmet Dermatol [Internet]. 2013 Dec [cited 2022 May 31];12(4):306–13. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24305429/

11. Cavanagh HMA, Wilkinson JM. Biological activities of Lavender essential oil. Phytotherapy Research [Internet]. 2002 Jun 1 [cited 2022 May 31];16(4):301–8. Available from: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ptr.1103

12. Koulivand PH, Khaleghi Ghadiri M, Gorji A. Lavender and the Nervous System. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine : eCAM [Internet]. 2013 [cited 2022 Jun 14];2013. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3612440/

Natural Home Remedies For Good Sleep

Introduction:

Could not sleep well last night and woke up feeling all cranky? We have all suffered from not getting enough sleep or insufficient sleep quality. As a result, people often search for ways to improve their sleep quality.

Adults need, on average, seven hours of uninterrupted good quality sleep each night. Quality of sleep is as essential as sleep duration. Good quality of sleep is the need of the hour. People need to get enough good sleep to live a healthy life; it should not be considered a luxury. Not getting sufficient sleep can make you more prone to many diseases and conditions.^1,2

If you face difficulty in falling asleep or wake up tired even after getting plenty of sleep, you need to contact your healthcare provider and get the necessary diagnosis. Meanwhile, you can follow the home remedies mentioned below to improve your sleep quality.

What Causes Poor Sleep?

Many factors can hinder your sleep and affect your sleep quality. These causes are:

Symptoms of Poor Sleep:

Loss of sleep itself can be a symptom of some sleep disorders. It can have many effects on your health. It can also impact your immunity, nervous system, hormones and the heart.³Poor quality of sleep or getting insufficient sleep can:

If you have trouble falling asleep regularly, you might be suffering from certain sleep disorders. Common symptoms of sleep disorders are given as follows:

Home Remedies for Good Sleep:

You can follow the home remedies mentioned below to help you sleep better. In addition, some of these natural remedies for sleep can be taken with a glass of milk before bed.

1. Warm Milk

This is an easily available product. Drinking a glass of warm milk before bed may be an effective way to improve sleep quality. Milk helps to promote good sleep. So, drinking warm milk might help induce sleep.⁴

2. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is a herbal tea with many health benefits. The flavonoids present in chamomile tea might have various therapeutic activities. Flavonoids can interact with specific receptors in the brain and induce sleep, and hence chamomile tea is considered one of the natural remedies for deep sleep. You can drink some warm chamomile tea to help you sleep better.⁴

3. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is present in a standard kitchen in Indian households. It is mainly used as a spice and added to various foods and dishes. This spice might be good for your health. You mix the cinnamon powder in a glass of warm milk. You can also add some honey for taste. Drinking this milk before going to bed might help you get a good sleep.⁵

4. Indian Ginseng

Indian ginseng or ashwagandha is a potent medicinal herb with many valuable properties for health. Ashwagandha is widely considered one of the home remedies for sleeplessness and might be beneficial in relieving insomnia. Before going to bed, take some ashwagandha root powder with a cup of milk. You can also put some sugar for taste. Taking this mixture may help you sleep better.⁵

5. Liquorice

Liquorice is also known as Mulethi in Hindi. Liquorice root is a potent medicinal ingredient which might offer several health advantages. Liquorice might also be effective for dealing with insomnia. You can take liquorice root powder with a glass of warm milk before bed. It may help you have a good sleep.⁵

6. Almonds

Almonds are commonly known as Badam in Hindi. They are often used in Indian cooking and are added to various desserts. They may be valuable for health and the brain. They might have a calming and soothing effect on the mind and may also help induce sleep.⁵ You can crush a few almonds to make powder. Take this powder with a glass of warm milk before going to bed.

7. Develop a Sleep Pattern

Developing a sleep cycle may help your body make a healthy sleep routine and rest properly. It might also enhance the quality of your sleep. You can create a sleep pattern by waking up and going to bed at about the same time every day.⁶

8. Limit Your Screen Time

Exposure to computer screens, television screens, or mobile screens before bed can cause sleep disruption. Therefore, it is advised that you limit your screen time before bed. Your mind should relate being in bed to sleeping and not using a computer or watching TV. Also, avoid staying in bed if you feel awake.⁶

9. Try Relaxation Techniques Before Bed

Dedicate a specific time before going to bed to relax. During this time, avoid thinking about tomorrow or solving any problem. Try a few relaxation techniques. Find a method that suits you. Also, refrain from using cell phones or computers during this period.⁶

10. Do Not Nap During the Day

If you have a habit of napping during the daytime, it can make it difficult to fall asleep at night. If you genuinely need to take a good nap, limit the duration to not more than half an hour. Also, avoid taking naps four hours before your designated bedtime.⁶

Apart from the home remedies, here are some things that you can follow to get good quality sleep:

Though there are studies that show the benefits of the given herbs and home remedies in getting good sleep, these are insufficient. There is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of these herbs and home remedies on human health. Thus, these should be taken with caution and never as a substitute for medical treatment.

When to Seek Medical Help?

You must not rely on home remedies alone to get a good sleep. You should consult a doctor for any advice on getting good sleep if the symptoms don’t improve.

Conclusion:

To stay healthy and fit, an adult requires seven hours of quality sleep daily. Unfortunately, a busy life can make it hard for you to get enough quality sleep. But, you can follow specific tips on how to get sleep naturally and use some home remedies to improve your sleep quality. For example, making a sleep schedule and limiting your screen time before bed are some habits that may help you sleep better. Also, herbal ingredients such as Indian ginseng, liquorice, chamomile, cinnamon and almonds can be taken with a glass of warm milk to help improve sleep quality.

However, if your sleep problems interfere with your daily activities and affect how you function, reach out to your healthcare provider immediately. Also, if you face difficulty falling asleep daily, you might be suffering from some sleep disorder. In such cases, contact your doctor to get the necessary diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the home remedies for insomnia?

You can follow various home remedies such as ashwagandha, chamomile tea, liquorice, almonds and cinnamon that might help you sleep better. These can be taken with warm milk before bed to improve sleep quality.^4,5

I experience trouble falling asleep. Do I need to contact a doctor?

A lot of people experience trouble falling asleep on some days, but if you face this difficulty regularly and the sleep problems have started interfering with your day-to-day activities, you must contact your healthcare provider.¹

Why do I feel sleepy and tired during the day?

Not getting enough sleep or poor sleep quality can make you feel tired and sleepy throughout the day. Try improving your sleep quality or getting sufficient sleep at night. If you experience these problems daily, contact your doctor and get medical help.¹

Can I use chamomile to improve sleep quality?

Yes. Chamomile is valuable in improving the quality of sleep. It contains flavonoids that interact with specific brain receptors and may induce sleep. Sipping some warm chamomile tea before bed might help you sleep better.⁴

What essential oils are known to promote sleep?

Essential oils like lavender, chamomile and bergamot are popular for their potential relaxing and calming properties. Diffusing them in the bedroom or adding a few drops to a bath may create a serene environment conducive to sleep.

How does exercise affect sleep, and what are the best exercises for good sleep?

Regular exercise can promote better sleep by improving overall health and reducing stress. Gentle exercises like yoga or tai chi in the evening can be particularly calming. However, intense exercise too close to bedtime might be stimulating for some individuals.

Is it advisable to use electronic devices before sleep?

Many experts recommend avoiding screens from phones, tablets or computers before bed, as the blue light emitted can interfere with the body’s production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Consider adopting a screen-free routine an hour or more before bedtime to help signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.

What bedroom environment is conducive to good sleep?

Creating a calming bedroom environment can significantly impact sleep quality. Consider using blackout curtains, keeping the room at a comfortable temperature, using soft and supportive bedding and eliminating noise with white noise machines or earplugs.

References:

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [Internet]. Sleep and Sleep Disorders; 2020 Apr 15 [cited 2022 Jun 10]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/index.html

3. NCBI Bookshelf [Internet]. Extent and Health Consequences of Chronic Sleep Loss and Sleep Disorders – Sleep Disorders and Sleep Deprivation; [cited 2022 Jun 10]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK19961/

Best Home Remedies For Smelly Armpits

Introduction:

Sometimes, when we are in a closed and hot room and sweat a lot, we become self-conscious and think we might be smelling. Well, it happens to everyone and should not really concern you, and it might also not be entirely accurate. Unlike popular belief, sweat is not the only factor leading to body odour. You can sweat a lot and still not smell bad. Isn’t it astonishing? The converse is also true, and you might not sweat at all and still have an armpit odour. The smell is mainly due to the interaction of bacteria with sweat on your skin.¹ If your smelly armpits overwhelm you and keep you wondering how to get rid of the underarm smell permanently, we have a few tips and tricks that you might find helpful.

What Causes Smelly Armpits?

When we sweat, the fat, salt and water present in the sweat mix with the bacteria already present on our skin, resulting in the smell of the armpits. The food we eat, hormones and medications can play a role in the armpit odour. It may happen with anyone, but some people are more susceptible to developing body odour than others. Some of the factors which might lead to smelly armpits are:

Certain underlying medical conditions might also lead to the development of a peculiar armpit odour:

Symptoms of Smelly Armpits:

Smelly armpits, i.e. odour from armpits, can occur due to many reasons, as mentioned above. It itself is a symptom that can occur as an indicator of an underlying medical condition or can just be due to certain external conditions like hot weather.

Home Remedies for Smelly Armpits

Smelly armpits might pose an inconvenience during your daily activities. You might find yourself thinking, “How to get rid of the underarm smell?” To answer your question, we have a few home remedies for smelly armpits that you might want to try to get rid of the underarm smell. They are as follows:

1. Green Tea

Green tea might help you block the pores on your skin and reduce sweating.¹ To use green tea to avoid smelly armpits, you can take a few green tea bags and soak them in warm water, like we usually do while making tea. Then, take the tea bags out, and when they reach room temperature, you can put these tea bags under your armpits for a few minutes. Consistent use of this remedy might prove to be a good smelly armpit remedy.

2. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice has citric acid, which kills the bacteria. As a remedy for smelly underarms, you can take a lemon and juice it, then mix this juice in water. You can put this lemon juice in a spray bottle and spray it on your underarms.¹ You can also just apply a little bit of this mixture directly on your armpits if you do not have a spray bottle.

3. Baking Soda

The skin has natural acids in it, which the baking soda may balance out. This helps to reduce the armpit smell. This might be a pretty straightforward remedy to get rid of smelly armpits. You can take a small amount of baking soda and mix a little bit of water to form a semi-solid paste. Apply this paste to your armpits and allow it to dry. After it dries, wash it off.¹ This might prove to be a good remedy for smelly armpits.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has acid, which helps to effectively destroy bacteria. Thus, it might be used as one of the home remedies for smelly armpits. You can take a few drops of apple cider vinegar and dilute it in a bit of water. You can put this diluted water in a spray bottle and use it to spray on your underarms.¹ Otherwise, you can just apply the mixture made to your underarms using a cotton swab.

5. Turmeric

Turmeric might help to effectively kill bacteria, which react with sweat and cause a bad odour).² This can be used as one of the home remedies for smelly underarms. You can use turmeric powder to make a paste which is not too liquid. Apply this prepared mixture to the underarms and leave it for some time. You can then rinse it off. Using this regularly might prove to be a good remedy for an underarm smell.

6. Antibacterial Soaps

Taking care of your hygiene by taking a bath regularly may prove beneficial in reducing body odour. You can use antibacterial soaps, which help reduce the number of bacteria on your skin, thus decreasing the chances of developing body odour. While taking a bath, make sure that you focus on your armpits and give them a good scrub to reduce the bacterial load.¹ This might be one of the simplest home remedies for smelly armpits for you to try.

7. Clothing

Wearing clothes that are loose-fitting and made of cotton might help reduce body odour. Wearing clothes that absorb moisture from the body, known as moisture-wicking fabric, can be helpful. Wearing bras and underwear made of this fabric might help. Washing clothes regularly and wearing clean clothes may be a good way to reduce the underarm smell.¹

8. Lifestyle Modifications

Lifestyle modifications like decreasing the intake or avoiding foods that cause body odour like caffeine, alcohol, onions, garlic, etc., may help to manage body odour and smelly underarms. Removing underarm hair could also be helpful as hair act as a breeding ground for bacteria.¹ You can remove underarm hair by either shaving or waxing it. These little changes might help reduce the underarm smell.

Though there are studies that show the benefits of the given herbs and home remedies in dealing with smelly armpits, these are insufficient. There is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of these herbs and home remedies on human health. Thus, these should be taken with caution and never as a substitute for medical treatment.

Did You Know?

Approximately 3% of the population has a genetic condition called primary axillary hyperhidrosis, which causes excessive sweating in the armpits. source: aad.org
Antiperspirants work by blocking sweat glands, reducing armpit odor. source: nhs.uk
Armpit odor can be worsened by certain foods, such as garlic and onions. source: health.harvard.edu
The use of antibacterial soaps or washes can help reduce armpit odor. source: aad.org
Stress and anxiety can increase armpit odor due to the release of stress hormones. source: nhs.uk

When to Seek Medical Help?

Increased sweating can mean something more in the following situations, and therefore you should visit a doctor:

You must not rely on home remedies alone for the management of smelly armpits. You should consult a doctor for advice on smelly armpits if the symptoms don’t improve.

Conclusion:

Smelly underarms can be inconvenient and might leave you looking for home remedies to deal with it. This can be caused to various reasons like medicines, food, hormones, and excessive sweating. Sometimes, it can also indicate an underlying medical condition. When sweat comes in contact with the bacteria on the skin, it causes a bad underarm odour. You can try a few home remedies like apple cider vinegar, lemon juice or baking soda to get rid of smelly armpits. However, if you encounter frequent infections or are experiencing unexplained sweating, you should visit a doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to get rid of the underarm smell?

You can try out a few home remedies like baking soda, lemon juice, green tea, etc., to get rid of the underarm smell.¹

Is the underarm smell always because of sweating?

An underarm smell can occur due to sweating when the fat, salt and water present in sweat come in contact with the bacteria present on the skin. However, it is not the sole reason for the underarm smell; certain foods or underlying conditions like diabetes, hormonal changes, etc., can also cause it. You can sweat a lot and still not have smelly armpits.¹

Can we get rid of the underarm smell by bathing?

Yes, you might be able to get rid of the underarm smell by bathing regularly. Using antibacterial soaps to scrub the underarms might help with the underarm smell by reducing the number of bacteria on the skin.

Can I get rid of underarm odour naturally using green tea?

Yes, you may use green tea bags as a home remedy for smelly underarms by soaking the tea bags in warm water and then keeping them under your armpits. This might help you get rid of smelly underarms.¹

Is alcohol good for getting rid of the underarm smell?

No. There is no report of alcohol being helpful in getting rid of the underarm smell. On the contrary, intake of alcohol can lead to the development of body odour and smelly armpits.¹

References:

2. Adamczak A, OÅ¼arowski M, KarpiÅ„ski TM. Curcumin, a Natural Antimicrobial Agent with.pdf. Pharmaceuticals [Internet]. 2020;13(153):1–12. Available from: www.mdpi.com/journal/pharmaceuticals

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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Simple Home Remedies For Skin Allergies and Rashes

Introduction:

What Causes Skin Allergies and Rashes?

Symptoms of Skin Allergies and Rashes:

Suggested Home Remedies for Skin Allergies and Rashes:

1. German Chamomile

2. Sage Leaf

3. Evening Primrose

4. Fenugreek Seeds

5. Aloe Vera Gel

6. Oats

7. Oak Bark

8. Flaxseeds

When to Seek Medical Help?

Conclusion:

Frequently Asked Questions:

References:

Best Home Remedies For Gout

Introduction:

What Causes Gout?

Symptoms of Gout:

Suggested Home Remedies for Gout:

1. Agastya

2. Castor

2. Asvagandha

3. Alsi

4. Healthy Diet

5. Physical Exercise

6. Maintaining Healthy Body Weight

7. Protect From Injury

When to Seek Medical Help?

Conclusion:

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the natural remedies for gout to use at home?

Can I prevent gout?

Can obesity lead to gout?

How to diagnose gout?

Can gout cause any other complications?

Is it possible to control gout?

References:

Natural Home Remedies for Arthritis

Introduction:

What Causes Arthritis?

Causes of arthritis

Types of arthritis

Symptoms of Arthritis:

Suggested Home Remedies for Arthritis:

1. Turmeric:

2. Ginger:

3. Boswellia:

4. Ashwagandha:

5. Alsi:

6. Guduchi:

7. Masha:

8. Diet changes:

9. Exercise:

When to Seek Medical Help:

Conclusion:

Frequently Asked Questions:

References:

Best Home Remedies for Sunburn

Introduction:

What Causes Sunburn?

Symptoms of Sunburn:

Suggested Home Remedies for Sunburn:

1. Stay Hydrated

2. Use Moisturiser

3. Shower Often

4. Protect the Skin

5. Aloe Vera

6. Black Tea

7. Green Tea

8. Tea Tree Oil

When to Seek Medical Help?

Conclusion:

Frequently Asked Questions:

References:

Effective Home Remedies for Scabies

Introduction: