People of all ages can complain about chest congestion from time to time. Chest congestion might cause chest tightness and occurs because of swelling of the airways and accumulation of mucus in the lungs, which makes breathing difficult. It is the result of bacterial or viral infection. These infections affect the lungs, either in larger airways (bronchitis) or smaller air sacs (pneumonia). People of all ages may experience chest congestion, but the elderly, children, smokers, and people who suffer from long-term illnesses are more at risk1,2. If you are wondering about chest congestion home remedies or how to remove cough from the chest, there are many natural remedies that can help you get rid of chest congestion within the comforts of your home. Continue reading to find out.
Did you know?
Chest congestion can be a symptom of chest infections. There are several types of chest infections, like bronchitis and pneumonia. These infections are caused by:
These infections are contagious and spread rapidly when the infected person coughs or sneezes and tiny droplets in the air are inhaled by other people. The infection can also spread if the infected person coughs or sneezes onto his or her hand, any surface, or object, and other people get in touch with these surfaces2.
The most common sign of chest congestion is the swelling of the airways and the buildup of mucus in the lungs, making breathing difficult1. If you have chest congestion, you might also experience:
Children may also experience:
Some home remedies for managing chest congestion that you can try are:
Drinking plenty of fluids will help loosen up the chest mucus and also prevent dehydration. A loose mucus is easier to cough out.2 You can increase your fluid intake by drinking plenty of warm water. You can also drink soups to help loosen up the mucus.
You can try steam inhalation with a bowl of hot water. This steam will ease your cough. Do not use hot water for kids, as the kids might get hurt2.
Ginger is a widely used herb that helps in various ailments, including cough, cold, bronchitis, and respiratory problems. To use ginger,
Turmeric presents many health benefits for humans. Turmeric is also good for managing cough and chest congestion. There are many ways by which you can make use of turmeric.
Thyme can be used to manage a lot of respiratory problems, including cough and bronchitis. Flavonoids present in thyme leaves also help by reducing inflammation (swelling). It also relaxes the muscles of the lungs and opens up the airways. To use thyme, you can make thyme tea by boiling crushed leaves of thyme. After boiling, the cup of thyme water is covered, left for some time, and strained afterward. You can drink this tea to get the benefits3.
Lemon is a valuable fruit with many health benefits. It contains vitamin C in ample amounts. Vitamin C helps in fighting infections. Lemon also helps in reducing swelling and inflammation. You can make a syrup using lemon juice to help fight cough. To use lemon juice, you may combine it with honey to make a syrup. You can drink this solution for chest congestion relief3.
Jaggery is helpful in relieving cough and chest congestion. The buildup of mucus is responsible for causing the feeling of congestion in the chest. Jaggery helps by aiding the expulsion of the mucus. To use jaggery, you can boil black pepper in water and put cumin and jaggery. You can drink this solution to get the benefits3.
Liquorice root possesses properties like expectorant (expulsion of sputum) and demulcent (relieving inflammation, irritation, and swelling). It aids in dealing with chest congestion by thinning the mucus and soothing the airways. To use licorice, you can make herbal tea. You can drink this tea to get the benefits of liquorice3.
You can use lavender oil by inhaling its vapours. You can directly put a few drops of lavender oil in hot water and inhale its vapours. If you have lavender flowers, go ahead, and put the flowers in a bowl of steaming water and inhale those vapours. Lavender oil vapor inhalation is an effective remedy for cold cough, bronchitis, and asthma. Therefore, it can be used to manage chest congestion3.
Also Read: Natural Home Remedies For Neck Pain
Peppermint leaves have healing properties. Peppermint contains menthol, which helps in breaking down the mucus. To get the benefits of peppermint, you can drink peppermint tea or inhale peppermint vapors by putting a few drops of peppermint oil in a bowl of hot water3.
Also Read: Best Home Remedies for Upset Stomach
If you are still confused about how to get rid of chest congestion fast, even after trying home remedies, it may be time to seek medical help. You should seek medical help if you:
All these may signify something severe and require immediate medical intervention.
Also Read: Fight Dry Hair By Using These 8 Home Remedies
Having chest congestion is quite common in people of all age groups. It is primarily a result of viral or bacterial infection. People at higher risk of developing chest infections need to take extra precautions. Also, if you are someone suffering from any chronic illness, you must take extra care. Although there are many remedies that you can try at home, natural herbs like thyme, lavender, and peppermint are quite effective in relieving chest congestion. Commonly found kitchen ingredients like ginger, turmeric, lemon, and jaggery can also be used. However, if your symptoms don’t improve even after using these remedies, you should immediately contact your healthcare provider.
Also Read: Home Remedies For Asthma By Dr. Siddharth Gupta
Some of the home remedies to relieve chest congestion are steam inhalation and, drinking lots of fluids to ease the cough, using natural ingredients such as turmeric, ginger, jaggery, lemon, thyme, and essential oils like lavender and peppermint2,3.
Chest congestion is a common occurrence in people of all ages. But certain groups are more at risk; these groups are the elderly and children. Also, people suffering from long-term illness and smokers have a higher chance of having chest congestion1.
Chest infections are the leading cause of chest congestion. To avoid chest infections, you need to maintain good personal hygiene, have a proper diet, and avoid alcohol misuse and smoking2.
Yes, you can use jaggery to relieve the symptoms of chest congestion. Jaggery provides several health benefits like aiding the expulsion of sputum that helps in dealing with chest congestion3.
Chest congestion is often more prevalent during colder months when respiratory infections are more common, but it can occur year-round due to various factors.
It’s generally advisable to avoid strenuous exercise while experiencing chest congestion, as it can worsen symptoms. Light activities and rest are recommended until congestion improves.
In some cases, untreated or severe chest congestion can lead to respiratory complications like pneumonia, especially if the underlying cause is a bacterial infection.
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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What is that hard bump-like growth on my palm, you might wonder, looking at a wart. A wart is a growth seen on the skin of hands, feet, face, genitals and knees. It is caused by a virus, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), and is contagious[1].
Warts are small, bumpy heaps on the skin. Mostly, symptoms are not present; however, in a few rare cases, there might be pain in the area where the wart is present. In more than half of the cases, warts resolve on their own, leaving behind just a small scar. Depending on the area of their presence and their internal arrangement of cells, they are classified into various types.
A kind of virus called the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)[1] causes warts. These viruses reside in the upper layers of the skin but may even be found in the deeper layers. There are many types of HPV, but only a few can cause warts. When the defence mechanism or immunity of our skin cells is lowered, this virus is able to enter the skin cells to cause warts. They are commonly seen in people who have low immunity (possibly due to certain diseases or medication) and in those who handle meat. It is rarely seen in infants but is common in school-going children around the age of 12-16 years[1].
Warts may be caused:
As there are different types of warts, they have different appearances and textures. Generally, warts appear as a combination of one or more of the following features:
Not a great addition to your appearances, there are a bunch of home remedies that have been used successfully by people to remove warts. A few of them are listed below. These anecdotes have little to no scientific evidence but have been seen to be effective when used by people, so exercise caution when you use them, and don’t go overboard if they don’t work like they are expected to!
Apple cider vinegar has been found to be useful in removing warts. It should always be diluted before use, as it is extremely acidic in nature. You can use it by mixing some water and apple cider vinegar. This mixture can be applied to the wart using a cotton ball and covering the area with a bandage for a few hours, allowing it to soften the wart.
Aloe vera leaf can be used by cutting it open and scooping out the gel from it. You can then apply the gel to the wart. Some people have found this home remedy to be quite useful. Aloe vera is good for the skin and is used to treat a variety of skin ailments, from burns to cuts and bruises. Therefore, it is also used in the treatment of warts.
Banana peels have been used by people for the removal of warts for many years. You can use it by taking a piece of the banana peel, taping it over the wart and leaving it overnight while you sleep. Make sure that the inner side of the peel touches the skin. Using it daily might be helpful. Though there is no real scientific evidence, there’s no harm in trying it as well!
Another fruit peel to try. The orange peel is to be applied by rubbing it against the wart daily. The wart seems to change colour, darken and fall off when this is done daily. This might require some time, about two to three weeks for the wart to fall off. There’s no scientific evidence for this remedy either, but who knows, maybe the acidic nature of the orange might help you get rid of your wart!
The application of clear nail polish onto the wart is in an attempt to suffocate it. Though there is no evidence of its effectiveness, the nail polish forms a layer on the wart and prevents the spread of the virus from the wart to other places. It can be applied a few times daily. You can try this remedy out and see if it works for you.
This is one of the popular home remedies to treat warts. You can cut out a small piece of duct tape and stick it on the wart. This is left for three to six days and can be removed after that. After removing the duct tape, the wart is to be soaked in water and scrubbed using pumice stone or Emery board. For the next few hours, it should not be covered, it should be left alone.
Note: This method should be used cautiously if your skin is sensitive.
Bee propolis, a sticky substance produced by bees, contains natural products like beeswax, plant extracts, etc. This is effective in the removal of warts. It is usually available in the market and can be applied over the wart, followed by bandaging it.
Garlic[3] has been used for ages to treat various skin-related conditions. Therefore, its application in the treatment of warts is no surprise. We can use it by mixing a crushed garlic clove with water, applying it and bandaging it. Another way of using it is to directly rub garlic over the wart.
Also Read: HPV Vaccine: What is It, When to Be Taken, Importance & Side Effects
You can contact your medical health provider and seek their recommendation if you notice any of the following:
Also Read: Best Home Remedies for Clear Skin
Warts may or may not be harmful; usually, they are harmless. They may appear on the face, hands, legs or even genitals. These warts can be removed by using certain home remedies. Though these home remedies are not all scientifically proven, they have been used effectively since ages for the removal of warts. If you notice any alarming changes in the appearance of these warts, you should seek medical advice for a better understanding and treatment.
Also Read: Best Home Remedies For Smelly Armpits
No, there are no reports of warts affecting the kidney. The virus causing warts, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), mainly infects the skin.
Warts are generally benign (non-cancerous), but rarely, they can be cancerous too.
Yes, warts can be formed in genitals and the rectum as well. If you notice the formation of warts in these regions, kindly consult your doctor[4].
Warts are usually painless, however, they can cause pain in some cases, especially when they occur on the lower surface of the feet, causing pain while walking.
There are no reports stating that warts are poisonous. Warts are caused by the Human Papilloma virus (HPV), which is a virus[1].
Yes, warts are infectious and can spread from one person to another and even from sharing personal items of infected people.
1. Al Aboud AM, Nigam PK. Wart [Updated 2023 Aug 14]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan–. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431047/
2. InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. Overview: Warts. [Updated 2023 Jan 11]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279586/
3. Kenawy S, Mohammed GF, Younes S, Elakhras AI. Evaluation of TNF-α serum level in patients with recalcitrant multiple common warts, treated by lipid garlic extract. Dermatol Ther. 2014;27(5):272-7. doi:10.1111/dth.12136. PMID: 24910383. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24910383/
4. Leslie SW, Sajjad H, Kumar S. Genital Warts [Updated 2023 May 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan–. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441884/
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.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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3Have you noticed thin, scar-like lines on your mother’s tummy? These are probably stretch marks. Can we call them ”marks of motherhood”? I suppose we may, as they are extremely common during pregnancy, affecting nearly 50-90% of pregnant women2. But they also occur in certain other conditions as well, such as in people who have gained excessive weight, in bodybuilders, in certain diseases, or due to the use of steroids. These scars, or stretch marks, are medically called striae distensae (SD) or Striae gravidarum1.
There are two types of stretch marks, those that appear red, are flat, stretched, and at right angles to the tension in the skin; these are called striae rubrae3. These are temporary. The other type appears pale, faded, and wrinkled, and is known as striae albae; these are permanent stretch marks.2 Even though you have all the reasons to love them and should be flaunting them, it’s not wrong to want to lighten them. How? Let’s find out.
Did you know?
Stretch marks appear when there is rapid stretching of the skin. This may occur due to several reasons:
Over time, many stretch marks improve. The best time to perform a treatment is once the stretch marks have stabilised. Many creams for stretch marks are promoted on the internet. The public should be made aware that the efficacy is very limited. Newer lasers and radiofrequency treatments hold promise as they try to modify the vascularity and the collagen and perhaps the elastin. Again, there is no clear leader among the many lasers that are promoted. The needle radiofrequency seems to show promise as, in theory, the deeper delivery of the energy may allow “shrinkage” of the stretch marks in all directions, thereby improving the overall appearance.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Stretch marks look like lines on the skin. They commonly appear as bands, stripes, or lines, irregularly on the stretched skin. These lines may be red, glossy, thinned out, and parallel to each other. They are initially red in colour but later become white, pale, and wrinkled, like a scar. They are generally seen on the breasts, hips, thighs, abdomen, and flanks.
Stretch marks often disappear after the cause for the stretching of the skin disappears and there is no specific care needed for them. Research done on the agents that can be applied over the stretch marks for their treatment is limited. However, there are a few home remedies listed below that may help reduce their appearance:
The outer layer of the aloe vera leaf is removed and the inner gel is sliced out and applied on the stretch marks4. This can be washed off after 2-3 hours.
Coconut oil is used for the removal and lightening of stretch marks by many people. Virgin coconut oil is used to gently massage the area where stretch marks are noticed. However, there is not much evidence as to why and how this works. One hypothesis as to why it might work is that coconut oil hydrates the skin deeply and makes it more elastic, allowing it to stretch easily, without scarring.
Commonly used in Korean beauty products, it is an herb scientifically called Centella Asiatica. The exact mechanism of its action is unclear, but it is said to stimulate the cells that produce collagen (a protein providing elasticity to the skin). It stops the action of the hormone glucocorticoid, which destroys collagen in the skin5.
It is hypothesised that hyaluronic acid protects the cells producing collagen, i.e. fibroblasts, from getting destroyed under tension and pressure like the condition in which stretch marks appear. Though the exact mechanism is not yet known, it is widely used for the treatment of stretch marks.4 Hyaluronic acid can be applied directly to the skin. It is also present in various creams, lotions, and other skincare products. There is a need for further research to prove its beneficial effects5.
Vitamin A is a vitamin necessary to maintain skin health. It is thus present in a multitude of skincare products by the name of retinol. Tretinoin is a retinoid (a form of Vitamin A) that is used for treating stretch marks. It was found in studies that the use of retinol makes the stretch marks appear less severe and smaller.4 However, there is a need for more research in this area. A word of caution: Oral vitamin A should not be used during pregnancy, while lactating or even while you’re trying to get pregnant, as it is known to cause harmful effects. Sometimes it can cause skin irritation too.
Olive oil is rich in vitamin E and moisturises the skin. A few studies have found that application of olive oil regularly during pregnancy reduced the occurrence of stretch marks, while other oils in the study showed no such effect. Still, the role of olive oil in the reduction of stretch marks remains unclear, demanding more research in this area5.
You can boil a couple of tablespoons of black tea in water and dissolve a little salt in it. You can use this solution to apply the stretch marks after it cools down. The preparation is to be applied until the stretch marks completely disappear. This remedy is another one with little scientific evidence, but it is used by many.
Potatoes are used to lighten dark circles under the eye and are well-known for lightening stretch marks. In fact, potato skin and juice are touted to be useful even to reduce scars due to burns. The exact mechanism and mode of action are little known, but it has been found useful by many people.
The egg yolk is separated from the egg whites and the whites can then be applied directly onto the stretch marks. However, more studies need to be conducted to understand the exact mechanism of action of this complete food.
Also Read: Home Remedies To Cure Bad Breath Naturally
It is advised to seek medical attention by consulting your doctor or healthcare provider when you notice the appearance of stretch marks. A doctor will take a detailed history, conduct a thorough physical examination, and then guide you regarding the correct treatment for your specific condition.
Stretch marks occur due to the stretching of the skin. They commonly occur during pregnancy, weight gain, or due to a medical condition that might cause the skin to lose its elasticity. The red stretch marks are temporary, while the white ones are permanent. The red ones evolve into white stretch marks over time. There is very little evidence about the usage of products (natural or artificial) for application on the skin to reverse these stretch marks. However, there are a few home remedies that can be used to lighten these scar-like lines on our bodies.
Also Read: Effective Home Remedies for Scabies
Appearance of stretch marks is normal in cases of pregnancy, weight gain, and puberty. If you notice an unexplained appearance of stretch marks, a doctor should be consulted and the reason should be ascertained.
No, stretch marks appear when there is stretching of skin, as seen during pregnancy, rapid growth during puberty, in bodybuilders with bulky muscles, and due to weight gain. There is no evidence or connection between high cholesterol and stretch marks.
Striae rubrae are a type of stretch mark that appears red in colour and is usually temporary. If you notice the appearance of stretch marks without any explainable cause, you should seek medical attention.
Hyaluronic acid is used in various creams and gels for its beneficial effects on the skin. It might have fibroblast (collagen-producing cells) stimulating activity that helps restore skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of stretch marks.
No, there are no reports stating the effect of stretch marks on the liver.
No, there is no evidence showing the development of stretch marks into cancer.
1. Brennan M, Young G, Devane D. Topical preparations for preventing stretch marks in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012 Nov 14;11(11):CD000066. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD000066.pub2. PMID: 23152199; PMCID: PMC10001689. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10001689/
2. Osman H, Rubeiz N, Tamim H, Nassar AH. Risk factors for the development of striae gravidarum. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2007 Jan;196(1):62.e1-5. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2006.08.044. PMID: 17240237; PMCID: PMC1913631. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1913631/
3. Mikes BA, Oakley AM, Patel BC. Striae Distensae. 2025 May 19. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan–. PMID: 28613776. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28613776/
4. Hajhashemi M, Rafieian M, Rouhi Boroujeni HA, Miraj S, Memarian S, Keivani A, Haghollahi F. The effect of Aloe vera gel and sweet almond oil on striae gravidarum in nulliparous women. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2018 Jul;31(13):1703-1708. doi: 10.1080/14767058.2017.1325865. Epub 2017 May 19. PMID: 28521546. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28521546/
5. American Academy of Dermatology. Stretch marks: Why they appear and how to get rid of them [Internet]. Schaumburg (IL): AAD; [cited 2025 Sep 23]. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/scars-stretch-marks/stretch-marks-why-appear
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.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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3Who doesn’t want rings? Wait. Which kind? The red rings that we sometimes see on our skin? We definitely don’t want those, as they might be sign of a ringworm infection! Ringworm, also known as Tinea corporis, is an infection that occurs in the upper layers of the skin. It can occur in the face, hands, feet, etc1. It is a fungal infection and is seen as a coin-shaped rash, like a ring, thus giving it its name2. There are many infections similar to ringworm, therefore, all circular rashes should not be assumed to be a ringworm. Ringworm is a common condition in tropical regions, although it may be seen in other parts of the world as well. Generally, ringworm spreads through family members, living in the same place as they all share articles and touch common surfaces1.
Did you know?
Depending on the region they affect, ringworms are referred to by different names such as
Patients must be encouraged to wear light and loose-fitting clothing. Also, keeping the skin clean and dry will help prevent the development of tinea corporis, as sweating and moist skin are good media for the growth of fungus.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)
Also, upon initiation of topical antifungal treatment by your dermatologist, compliance needs to be encouraged; however, the results are typically not immediate.
The symptoms of ringworm are seen 4-14 days after being infected by the fungus. The symptoms vary with the location in which it occur, common symptoms seen in all types of ringworms are2:
As ringworm is a fungal infection, your doctor will thoroughly examine you and might recommend the use of certain medications that will effectively resolve the infection. Please consult your doctor for proper treatment. In this section, we share a few natural, home remedies for you to try. Here are a few of them:
Maintaining hygiene and keeping the area dry plays a key role in treating ringworm as the fungus spreads faster in the presence of moisture. We need to wash the area and dry it thoroughly before applying any other home remedy. We can use certain antibacterial soaps as well. The use of pine or coal-tar soap is thought to be helpful, but should be used with caution as it can cause irritation to the skin.
Turmeric has been used since centuries to treat various kinds of skin diseases, ringworm, rash, itching, etc. It has a variety of medicinal properties like providing relief of inflammation (anti-inflammatory), neutralization of free radicals in the body (antioxidant) and reduction of fungal infection (antifungal). You can make use of it as a tea after meals or can also add it to your dishes. Turmeric can effectively treat rashes owing to its anti-inflammatory properties4. You can make a thick paste, by adding water or coconut oil to turmeric and apply it onto the ringworm and some area around it.
This remedy is not backed by scientific research and explanation, yet it is used by people with apparent benefits. You can apply some mashed garlic on the infected area and bandage the area properly with a gauze piece and let it stay for a couple of hours. After that, you should remove the bandage and rinse the area thoroughly. This process is to be repeated daily for a few days or until the ringworm disappears. If you feel pain, itching, irritation or swelling, then remove the garlic and consult a doctor immediately.
Apple cider vinegar is used as a remedy for food poisoning by people, despite the lack of scientific evidence. You can use it by taking some cider on a cotton ball in the undiluted form, and dabbing it over the ringworm. This has to be done each day to see the benefits.
The use of grapefruit seed extract for food poisoning is an age old anecdotal home remedy for ringworm. It can be used by mixing a drop of the extract with a few spoons of water. Apply this to the ringworm directly using a cotton ball. This has to be followed daily. There is need for more research and studies to know the reason for its efficiency.
Aloe vera can be made use of by taking the leaf of it and splitting it open. The gel has to be scooped out of the leaf and applied onto the area where there is ringworm. There is very little to no evidence of the use of aloe vera gel for ringworm, however since aloe vera is known to be extremely beneficial for the skin, it might just help treat ringworm too.
Tea tree oil home remedy for ringworm might be used after diluting it in a base oil like coconut oil (it too doesn’t allow the growth of fungus) and applying it using a cotton ball. This oil must be applied daily to experience its effects.
Essential oils are regarded as natural agents to be used against fungi. They show intense activity against fungal infections5. The use of essential oils can be made by dilution in a carrier oil and then applying over the affected area.
We need to make a thick paste for application over the ringworm. For making the paste we need to mix a few teaspoons of powdered liquorice in water and boil it. Once this boils, lower the heat till a thick paste-like consistency is obtained. This paste is to be cooled down before application over the skin. Keep this paste on the skin for a few minutes before washing it off.
Also Read: Natural Home Remedies for Itchy Skin
You should consult your doctor if you feel like your rash is not subsidizing even after a few days of using home remedies and it keeps growing. If you notice multiple such rashes and feel like the condition is out of hand, please visit your doctor at the earliest. If there is swelling or fever also, you must consult your health care provider or doctor immediately.
Also Read: 18 Simple Home Remedies For Fungal Infections!
Giving and receiving rings is all fine when it is not of the infectious kind. Ringworm, a common fungal infection caused by Tinea corporis, is highly infectious and generally occurs in the tropical regions of the world. As we share personal items, and come in contact with each other, it spreads. If you have it, make sure that you don’t partake in spreading it by following a few simple, natural tricks and tips to make it vanish.
Also Read: Natural Home Remedies for Itchy Skin
Yes, ringworm can be seen on the head. Depending on the location at which the ringworm infection occurs, they are called by different names. Ringworm that occurs on the head is referred to as Tinea capitis (scalp). It may appear as a small, scale- like, circular, bald spot and is commonly seen in children1.
No, there is no evidence of ringworm infection having any negative effect on the brain.
Ringworm infection is caused by a fungus, Tinea corporis. It is commonly referred to as ringworm because of the circular, ring-like rash caused by its infection1.
No. There are no reports of ringworm infection causing cancer.
1. Leung AKC, Lam JM, Leong KF, Hon KL. Tinea corporis: An updated review. Drugs Context [Internet]. 2020;9:1–12. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7375854/pdf/dic-2020-5-6.pdf
2. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Symptoms of Ringworm [Internet]. 2021 [cited 2022 May 10]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/ringworm/symptoms.html
3. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. How Ringworm Spreads [Internet]. 2021 [cited 2022 May 10]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/ringworm/sources.html
4. Jankasem M, Wuthi-udomlert M, Gritsanapan W. Antidermatophytic Properties of Ar -Turmerone, Turmeric Oil, and Curcuma longa Preparations. ISRN Dermatol [Internet]. 2013;2013(April 2009):1–3. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3770062/pdf/ISRN.DERMATOLOGY2013-250597.pdf
5. Nazzaro F, Fratianni F, Coppola R, De Feo V. Essential oils and antifungal activity. Pharmaceuticals [Internet]. 2017;10(4):1–20. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5748643/pdf/pharmaceuticals-10-00086.pdf
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.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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3Do you sometimes feel that your head is spinning, and you feel dizzy? That’s because of vertigo. Vertigo is not a disease it may be a symptom of any condition. Vertigo is a feeling that the place around you is moving in a circular motion. It makes you feel off-balance and dizzy. Vertigo can occur at any age, but it most commonly occurs in people over 65 years. Also, women are more likely to experience vertigo compared to men1. There are several home remedies mentioned in this blog that might help you manage vertigo.
The common reasons that can cause vertigo include:
Several rare conditions can also cause vertigo. These are:
Vertigo itself is a symptom of various conditions and may be accompanied by the following symptoms:
If you have been experiencing vertigo for more than a day or two and you haven’t been able to stand up or walk and have frequent episodes of vomiting, you surely need to visit a neurologist to diagnose and manage the condition.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, MBBS, MD in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology
Some home remedies that might be helpful for you to manage vertigo are listed below:
Ginger is the most commonly consumed spice all around the world and is used in the management of motion sickness2. In a human study3, ginger powder was tested in 8 healthy individuals for vertigo. The result suggested that ginger powder extract may be effective in preventing vertigo. You can take some ginger root and boil it in water to make ginger tea. You can also add some honey to improve its taste. This ginger tea might help you in case of vertigo.
The dried rhizome (horizontal underground stem) of the turmeric plant can be used and is known to have various medicinal uses. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric is used in traditional medicine for managing different conditions in humans and is used both internally and externally. You can apply the paste of turmeric externally on your forehead to lower the symptoms of vertigo4.
Almonds boost the strength of the body and help fight diseases. According to Persian medicine, almonds prevent the accumulation of disease-causing substances in the ear and strengthen the brain. You can grind peeled almonds in water, add a little honey and consume it5.
Saffron is known to be a brain tonic and has brain-protective properties. Saffron is also known to boost the strength of the body and prevent over-accumulation of substances causing issues in the ear. You can add saffron to your food items or prepare saffron tea5. This might benefit you in managing vertigo.
Cumin and black cumin have both beneficial effects in dealing with vertigo. You can add some cumin to your daily food items5. You can also boil some cumin in water and later drink this solution.
Amla has high levels of vitamin C and is widely used in India to fight against diseases. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that might help you fight diseases. It is known to be effective for managing vertigo6. You can make amla juice, add a little honey, and drink the juice.
In Ayurveda, guduchi is described to help deal with vertigo and is known as a memory and learning enhancer. The brain protective activity of guduchi is due to the presence of antioxidants in it, which help in protecting the cells from damage7. You can take guduchi in water and drink the solution. You can also add neem and coriander powder to this solution.
Before taking these home remedies, you must consult an Ayurvedic practitioner. They will advise you whether you should use these remedies or not based on your condition.
Vestibular rehabilitation therapy is a group of simple excercises to treat vertigo. VRT reduces the cost of treating vertigo by reducing unnecessary medications and studies, and by shortening the recovery period.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD (Pediatrics)
You should seek medical help if you notice the following symptoms:
Also Read: Best Home Remedies For Hypertension By Dr. Rajeev Singh
Even though vertigo is scary, it disappears quickly. It can occur suddenly without alerts1. There are various causes of vertigo, such as diabetes, migraine headaches, head injury, etc. You can try some of the above-mentioned home remedies like ginger, turmeric, guduchi, amla, cumin, and saffron, they might benefit you in dealing with vertigo. However, if you experience prolonged or severe vertigo or notice any unusual symptoms, you must seek medical help.
You can use turmeric paste externally for your vertigo. Turmeric has been used for several years to manage various medical conditions and is believed to be effective for vertigo4. Therefore, you can use turmeric paste; it might be helpful for managing your vertigo.
Yes, ginger is good for vertigo. It is a commonly used spice and is known to be helpful for motion sickness and is effective for vertigo2 . You can drink ginger tea with some honey. This might be useful to lower the symptoms of vertigo.
Yes, almonds are a good option for vertigo. Almonds are thought to boost body strength and help fight diseases. According to Persian medicine, almonds strengthen the brain and prevent the accumulation of disease-causing substances in the ear. You can either drink almond milk or grind peeled almonds in water, add a little honey, and consume it5.
You must consult your doctor. They will examine you and accordingly will recommend the treatment.
There are various home remedies that you can use for dealing with vertigo, including turmeric, ginger, almond, guduchi, saffron, cumin, and amla2,7. But, you must consult your doctor before trying these home remedies.
Yes, amla may be beneficial for vertigo. Amla has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help fight diseases and is known to be effective for managing vertigo6. Amla juice with some honey might help you deal with vertigo.
1. Vertigo [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic. 2022. p. 1–7. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21769-vertigo
2. Nunes CP, Rodrigues C de C, Cardoso CAF, Cytrynbaum N, Kaufman R, Rzetelna H, et al. Clinical Evaluation of the Use of Ginger Extract in the Preventive Management of Motion Sickness. Curr Ther Res [Internet]. 2020;92:100591. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0011393X20300175
3. Grøntved A, Hentzer E. Vertigo-Reducing Effect of Ginger Root. ORL J Otorhinolaryngol Relat Spec [Internet]. 1986;48(5):282–6. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3537898/
4. Sasikumar B. Turmeric [Internet]. Handbook of Herbs and Spices. 2012. 526–546 p. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780857090393500281
5. Kenari HM, Kordafshari G, Moghimi M. Treatment of Meniere ‘ s Disease with Persian Medicine : A Case Report. Arch Neurosci [Internet]. 2019;6(1):10–3. Available from: https://brieflands.com/articles/ans-82409.html
6. Vasant BS, Bhaskarrao DA, Bhanudas SR. Emblica Officinalis – the Wonder of Ayurvedic Medicine. World J Pharm Pharm Sci [Internet]. 2013;3(1):285–306. Available from: https://www.mchemist.com/ayas/pdf/13amla.pdf
7. A DPT, Pranita D, Archana B. REVIEW ON MEDHYA (INTELLECT PROMOTING) ACTION OF GUDUCHI [TINOSPORA CORDIFOLIA (WILD) MIERS]. World J Pharm Res [Internet]. 2018;7(14):556–77. Available from: https://wjpr.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/article_issue/1531732007.pdf
8. Vertigo [Internet]. nidirect goverment services. 2012. Available from: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/conditions/vertigo
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.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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2Hiccups are nothing but repeated spasms of contractions of your diaphragm (muscle of respiration located below the lungs) accompanied by a hic sound from your vocal cords. Hiccups are a common phenomenon in people of all age groups. Anyone can get hiccups, and they are usually not a sign of something serious. Hiccups usually settle on their own after a few minutes. But if you experience hiccups for a prolonged period, it can be a symptom of underlying disorders.
Hiccups are mostly harmless and stop without treatment. But if your hiccups are bothering you, you can use simple home remedies to get rid of them. Hiccups don’t affect the quality of your life1,2.
The reason why people get hiccups is not clear. However, several factors might trigger hiccups, including irritated nerves and low carbon dioxide levels in the blood.
Hiccups can happen if you:
Did you know?
If you have hiccups, you might experience:
Generally, hiccups stop after a few minutes
Generally, hiccups will resolve on their own, but you can try these home remedies to get quick relief.
Breathing into a paper bag might help you stop hiccups. You can use a paper bag or any other bag available and breathe into it to get the benefits1.
It is recommended to hold your breath for some time to get rid of hiccups1. You can start by taking a deep breath and holding it in for some time (as long as you comfortably can) to help you stop hiccupping.
You can try gargling with ice-cold water to help you deal with hiccups3. Drinking iced water is also equally effective in getting rid of hiccups. You can also swallow some crushed ice to get rid of hiccups1.
Here are some common household ingredients that you can use as a remedy to manage your hiccups.
You can eat a spoonful of peanut butter to help with hiccups. It is a commonly found ingredient that can help with managing hiccups. So, if you have peanut butter in your house, you can try this remedy to get the benefits2,3.
This is a simple and helpful home remedy for you to try. Granulated sugar is a common kitchen ingredient in every Indian household. You can try swallowing a spoonful of sugar to get rid of your hiccups2,3.
You can easily find a lemon in your kitchen; else, you can buy one as they are readily available in the market. You can take a lemon, cut it in half, and bite on it. You can also try sucking on a lemon wedge to help you stop the hiccups2,3.
Ginger is also a common ingredient that you can find in your house. You can use fresh ginger by chopping it and eating some pieces. Consuming ginger is known to stop the hiccups2,3.
Honey is a common ingredient used in many Indian households. Honey is an effective remedy to deal with hiccups. To use honey, you can mix it in a glass of warm water. You can drink this water to stop the hiccups2,3.
You can also try some simple steps like:
Because the cause of hiccups may vary, not all these remedies will work out for everyone. However, these home remedies are simple and harmless, and you can try them unless you are allergic to any of the ingredients mentioned above. If you are allergic to any of the ingredients, don’t use them. You can try something else.
Hiccups are often benign and self-limiting. Patients with acute hiccups should be advised to try some aforementioned physical manoeuvres and should receive reassurance. In healthy patients with no overt cause for intractable and persistent hiccups, treatment of reflux may provide relief.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS MD(Pediatrics)
Also Read: Home Remedies For Tonsillitis
If your hiccups last for a few minutes or a couple of hours, a meeting with a healthcare provider might not be required. However, you should visit your healthcare provider immediately if you experience the following symptoms, as they might be a sign of a serious health condition
Also Read: Home Remedies For Throat Infection By Dr. Siddharth Gupta
People of all ages can get hiccups at various points in their life. Hiccups are usually not a sign of anything serious and resolve on their own without any treatment. However, if your hiccups are bothering you, you can use simple home remedies to get rid of them. Some easily found ingredients like honey, ginger, lemon, and sugar can help you stop the hiccups. Breath-holding and breathing into a bag are also some tips that you can follow to help with hiccups.
However, if your hiccups last more than a few days, and if your hiccups are accompanied by numbness, headache, and trouble balancing, you need to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Also Read: Simple Home Remedies For Bloating
Drinking honey with warm water, eating fresh pieces of ginger, swallowing some granulated sugar, and sucking on lemons are some home remedies you can use to stop hiccups. You can also try holding your breath, breathing into a bag, and drinking or gargling with ice-cold water to help get rid of hiccups. You can choose a remedy that works best for you2,3.
Yes, you can try holding your breath for a while to get rid of hiccups. Take a deep breath and hold it in for as long as you comfortably can. It might help you to get rid of hiccups.
Some factors that might cause hiccups are stress, inhaling toxic fumes, fizzy drinks, cigarette smoking, spicy or hot food, eating food quickly, indigestion, and overconsumption of alcohol. Pregnancy can also cause hiccups2.
Avoiding specific triggers that cause hiccups might help you prevent them. You can avoid eating or drinking too fast, fizzy and carbonated drinks, overeating, overconsumption of alcohol, hot and spicy food, and cigarette smoking1,2.
Hiccups can last for a few minutes to a couple of hours, and you don’t need to take medical treatment. However, if your hiccups last for more than two days without improving, you need to visit your healthcare provider. Long-lasting hiccups can be a sign of a severe health condition1.
Hiccups that last for more than a few days can be a symptom of some underlying disease. But you need to visit a healthcare provider to know the cause. Some of the conditions that may lead to long-term hiccups are kidney diseases, brain damage, pneumonia (inflammation of the lungs), pleurisy (inflammation of the lung membrane), and oesophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus)2. If you feel your hiccups are due to something serious, you should visit your doctor immediately.
Yes, pregnancy can cause women to experience hiccups, provided they occur for a short period of time and resolve on their own2.
1. Hiccups: Causes & Treatment [Internet]. Lasted updated on: 2021 Jan 6. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17672-hiccups
2. Hiccups – Better Health Channel [Internet]. [cited 2022 Apr 29]. Available from: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/hiccups
3. Chang FY, Lu CL. Hiccup: Mystery, Nature and Treatment. Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility [Internet]. 2012 [cited 2022 Apr 29];18(2):123. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3325297/
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.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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1A head full of healthy, lustrous hair is what all of us desire as our crowning glory. The silky, cascading hair that we see in advertisements often makes us daydream about doing those celebrity-like hair flips. But achieving that dream comes with the challenge of constant maintenance. Moreover, hair loss makes this uphill task even more challenging. As a part of the natural hair growth cycle, it is normal to lose around 100 hair strands per day and in most cases, they grow back1. However, sometimes we may lose more hair than that and it doesn’t grow back, leading to visible hair loss.
Did you know?
Hair loss can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as:
Note: Always inform your doctor about any past allergies to medications.
Depending on the cause of hair loss and the individual’s hair type, people may experience different patterns of hair loss. Some common symptoms are as follows:
People all over the world are obsessed with their hair and hair treatments, leading to the development of various products for hair, ranging from hair oils, tonics, anti-dandruff shampoos, to serums, lotions, etc. With so many claims, it becomes tough to choose the right routine for your hair. Below are a few tried, tested, researched and easy home remedies for you to try, with easily available ingredients.
Bhringrajhas been used in Ayurveda for centuries. It promotes hair growth by enlarging the hair follicle. When the extracted juice is both consumed and applied to the scalp, it can lead to the darkening of hair. It helps reduce hair fall and stimulates hair growth, which is why it is commonly used in various over-the-counter herbal formulations, such as hair growth-promoting oils6.
Onion is known to contain the mineral zinc, which helps avoid dandruff. It also reduces scalp oil production, thus helping to control hair loss. Onion is beneficial for people suffering from patchy baldness. It can be rubbed onto the scalp until the area turns slightly red, followed by the application of honey2. Onion can also be squeezed and juiced along with some ginger and mixed with oils like (olive, castor, and aloe) before applying to the scalp3.
Onion and garlic belong to the same botanical family and contain similar compounds. The exact mechanism and efficacy of their action are not known, and more research is required. However, a few studies7 conducted on humans showed that garlic is effective for hair regrowth. Garlic can be used by crushing it and mixing it with yogurt before applying it to the scalp. Garlic oil can also be used for scalp application.
Capsicum contains bioactive compounds called capsaicin and isoflavone, which stimulate the production of growth hormones in the hair follicles, thus promoting hair growth2. We can use capsicum by smashing it, mixing it with olive oil and vinegar, and applying it to the scalp. This is believed to support hair growth.
Hibiscus-containing formulations are being used to promote hair growth. In studies8, it was found that both hibiscus leaves and flowers possess hair growth-promoting properties. This effect is achieved due to the hair follicle enlarging the property of the hibiscus. The flower extract can be applied to hair by soaking it in warm water.
In animal studies9, it was found that green tea (Camila sinensis) helps reduce hair loss and promote hair regrowth. It is already used as a home remedy in some parts of the world for hair growth. The leaves can be soaked in warm water and then applied to the hair and scalp.
Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, has been used for ages to obtain long and thick hair. Amla promotes the growth of hair by increasing the growth of skin cells in the scalp by improving the iron metabolism. Iron metabolism plays an important role in providing oxygen to the hair. As a result, amla is frequently used in various herbal formulations, ointments and oils.
Aloe vera contains complex proteins that are similar to keratin, the protein that forms our hair. It is effective in strengthening the hair follicles, thus preventing hair loss and promoting hair growth. It is effective against dandruff and moisturizes hair too10. Therefore, aloe vera juice can be applied to the hair, left in, massaged, or sprayed on to work as a conditioner. Aloe vera oil can also be applied by mixing it with other oils.
Studies have not yet found the exact mechanism of action of banana, but it is seen that banana has hair growth-promoting properties. The unripe banana fruit has shown greater beneficial effects than the ripe fruit11. The fruit can be smashed, boiled for 10 minutes, and then mixed with olive oil before being applied to the hair. The banana peel can also be applied to the hair to promote hair growth.
Applying coconut oil to hair is an age-old tradition in India. Coconut oil adds shine to the hair, acts as a conditioner, and helps prevent the loss of proteins. It also protects the hair from damage and promotes hair regrowth7. Coconut oil can be applied directly to the hair and massaged into the scalp.
One should avoid washing hair with hard water (from borewells etc), Long term use of hard water for washing hair is one of the causes of hair loss which can be prevented by using water low in mineral concentration for washing hair.
Dr. Nikhil Yadav, MBBS MD, CCEBDM
Also Read: Effective Home Remedies For Frizzy Hair
Here are a few signs to look out for. If you notice these, a doctor must be consulted.
If you’re facing any side effects from the given medications or treatments, do let your doctor know. Talk to your doctor about the use of topical hair growth serums depending on the root cause of your hairfall. Serums containing Redensyl and Procapil have shown effective results for some types of hair loss12. Results depend on the underlying cause of hair loss.
Also Read: Natural Home Remedies For Grey Hair
Hair plays a significant role in being a tool of confidence for many people. Preventing hair loss and promoting hair growth for obtaining healthy hair can be easily done using various home remedies. So, give these home remedies a try to regrow lost hair and achieve healthy, long, shiny, and thick hair.
Also Read: Home Remedies to Help Reduce Dandruff Naturally
Yes. On an average, we lose about 100 strands of hair daily, which regrow. If there is a loss of more hair than the regrowth, then it is referred to as hair loss1.
Yes. It is seen in studies7 that coconut oil may help in hair growth, prevent damage to hair and also acts as a conditioner.
Yes. Capsicum has compounds which promote the growth of hair. It can be smashed and mixed with oil and applied to the scalp.
Yes. Regrowth of hair is seen on application of garlic to the scalp in patients with alopecia. It can be smashed and mixed with yoghurt to be applied to the scalp.
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
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5Do you feel like a balloon in your stomach? This is because you have the issue of stomach bloating! And if you are looking for some home remedies to help with your bloating, then yes, you have visited the right place. Bloating is a condition that causes the abdomen to feel tight and full, as well as the stomach to appear swollen1. The feeling of bloating can range from slightly uncomfortable to extremely painful. It usually goes away in some time, but it can be a recurring issue for some people2.
Excessive intestinal gas is the most common cause of bloating2. Other common causes of bloating include the following:
Bloating can sometimes be caused by more serious medical conditions that include:
It might be a serious problem if your bloating is accompanied by abdominal pain, cramps, nausea or vomiting. Persistent bloating that doesn’t improve with lifestyle changes, such as eating smaller meals or avoiding certain foods, may also point to a more serious issue.
Dr Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology
The following are some of the home remedies that may help you relieve bloating:
Herbal teas may aid in digestion and relieve gas. Some of the herbal teas that might benefit you for bloating are chamomile, peppermint, turmeric, ginger, and fennel tea. Dandelion tea may help to relieve water retention, thereby reducing bloating2.
According to Ayurveda, pan is a post-meal digestive stimulant4. You can chew betel leaves after meals; this can help with digestion. It may stimulate the secretion of digestive juices, relieve constipation and aid in reducing stomach bloating5.
Traditionally, cardamom was used as a stomachic (helps digestion and promotes appetite), anti-flatulent (prevents gas accumulation) and for managing indigestion6. You can take some cardamom, shunti (dry ginger), and rock salt and make a fine powder of it. You can take this with warm water. This might be helpful in bloating and indigestion5.
The star anise fruit acts as a carminative (to relieve gas from the intestine) and is used for indigestion and to relieve bloating7. You can take some anise powder and mix it with honey. It helps with digestive issues like bloating, flatulence, stomach pain, and colic (abdomen pain)5. The fruits of this tree are also used for making tea and might be helpful in stomach bloating and indigestion.
Ginger is an essential dietary agent that has carminative properties. It has been used for a long time to manage digestive issues like bloating, constipation, indigestion, discomfort, etc8. You can prepare ginger tea by adding ginger to the water and boiling it. This may help manage stomach bloating.
Hing is a popular ingredient in several foods. Its health benefits are that it helps to reduce bloating, menstrual pain, and indigestion9. You can take warm water with some hing in it. This may help with bloating.
In Iran, ajwain has been used as an herbal remedy for a variety of gastrointestinal conditions, including bloating. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that also might be beneficial for bloating10. You can chew some ajwain seeds. You can also boil some ajwain in water, allow it to cool and then drink it.
Also Read: Natural Home Remedies For Constipation By Dr. Siddharth Gupta
Turmeric is considered one of nature’s most potent healing agents. It acts as a digestive stimulant as well as a carminative. It is added to a variety of dishes to improve digestion and reduce gas and bloating. You can take turmeric as a dry powder mixed in plain water or buttermilk, which is highly beneficial for stomach issues11.
It is essential to educate patients on the benign course of this disorder, to establish long-term care and expectations for treatment. If red flag signs like unintentional weight loss, persistent vomiting, or dysphagia are present, further evaluation is recommended.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS MD(Pediatrics)
For more tips to reduce bloating CLICK HERE
Also Read: Natural Home Remedies for Loose Motion
Seek medical help if your stomach bloating:
You must also seek medical help if you notice other symptoms along with bloating, like:
Also Read: Natural Laxatives: Your Guide to Safe and Effective Remedies for Constipation
Bloating is a common experience and a very unpleasant feeling. However, it can be managed using some of the above-mentioned tips that may help to prevent stomach bloating from worsening. Additionally, home remedies such as herbal teas, elaichi, pan, star anise, ginger, hing, ajwain, and turmeric may be beneficial in reducing bloating. However, if the bloating persists for more than a week and you have other symptoms, which are worsening your condition, then in such cases, you must consult your doctor.
Also Read: 5 Instant Home Remedies For Gastric Problem
Yes, turmeric is an excellent healing agent and acts as a carminative and digestive stimulant. You can mix turmeric powder in plain water or buttermilk; this helps manage bloating11.
If you have been experiencing stomach bloating for more than a week, you must seek medical help2. There could be some condition that is causing the bloating. Your doctor will examine you properly and will suggest you the treatment accordingly.
Yes, herbal teas may help you to get rid of bloating. Herbal tea includes chamomile, peppermint, turmeric, ginger, and fennel. Even dandelion tea may help relieve bloating caused by water retention2.
Yes, ajwain has been used as a herbal remedy for various gastrointestinal conditions, including bloating. It has anti-inflammatory properties as well10. You can chew some ajwain seeds and boil some ajwain in water, allow it to cool and then drink it.
Yes, hing has several health benefits and also helps in reducing bloating9. You can mix some hing in warm water and drink it. This could help you manage your bloating problem.
1. Abdominal bloating. [Internet]. MedlinePlus National Library of Medicine. 2022. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003123.htm
2. Bloated Stomach [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic. 2021. p. 1–13. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21740-bloated-stomach
3. Bloating [Internet]. American Academy of Family Physicians. 2021. p. 1–4. Available from: https://familydoctor.org/condition/bloating/
4. Toprani R, Patel D. Betel leaf: Revisiting the benefits of an ancient Indian herb. South Asian J Cancer. 2013 Jul-Sep;2(3):140–141. doi: 10.4103/2278-330X.114120. PMCID: PMC3892533. PMID: 24455591. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3892533/
5. AYUSH. Ayurveda Offering Herbal Healing [Internet]. 1–128 p. Available from: https://agritech.tnau.ac.in/horticulture/pdf/Aayush_AyurvedaOffering_HerbalHealing.pdf
6. Sengottuvelu S. Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum Linn: Maton) Seeds in Health [Internet]. Nuts and Seeds in Health and Disease Prevention. Elsevier Inc.; 2011. 285–291 p. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/286335251_Cardamom_Elettaria_cardamomum_Linn_Maton_Seeds_in_Health
7. Gonzalez-Stuart AE, McCallum RW. Medicinal Plants Used for Digestive Disorders- What the Gastroenterologist Needs to Know. Pract Gastroenterol [Internet]. 2015;39(9):12–25. Available from: https://practicalgastro.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Medicinal-Plants-for-Digestive-Disorders-What-Gastroenterologist-Needs-to-Know.pdf
8. Nikkhah Bodagh M, Maleki I, Hekmatdoost A. Ginger in gastrointestinal disorders: A systematic review of clinical trials. Food Sci Nutr [Internet]. 2019 Jan 1 [cited 2022 Mar 25];7(1):96. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6341159/
9. Shahrajabian MH, Sun W, Cheng Q. Asafoetida, Natural Medicine for Future. Curr Nutr Food Sci [Internet]. 2021;17(9):922–6. Available from: https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/ben/cnf/2021/00000017/00000009/art00005
10. Yazdian M, Agah S, Minaii B, Ansari R, Hosseini H, Vazifekhah S, et al. Evaluation of Efficacy of Carum Copticum on Gaseous Symptoms in Patients With Abdominal Bloating. Int J Biosci [Internet]. 2014;5(9):372–8. Available from: https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/full/10.5555/20153063575
11. Bhowmik D, Chiranjib, Kumar KPS, Chandira M, B. Jayakar. Turmeric: A Herbal and Traditional Medicine. Sch Res Libr [Internet]. 2009;1(2):86–108. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Debjit-Bhowmik-3/publication/268268687_Turmeric_A_Herbal_and_Traditional_Medicine/links/5552dedf08aeaaff3bf001f1/Turmeric-A-Herbal-and-Traditional-Medicine.pdf
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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1Burning feet, a common complaint from your grandparents or even parents, should not be ignored. While it may seem harmless, it may be due to an underlying medical condition. It is referred to as burning feet syndrome or Gierson-Gopalan Syndrome. Although it is a common complaint, historically it has received very little medical attention1.
Characterised by heaviness and a burning sensation in the legs, it can be due to various unrelated medical conditions. The heat and pain felt may not only be restricted to the soles of the feet, but may also involve the top of the feet, ankles, and even the lower leg.
A wide range of conditions can be responsible for burning feet syndrome, such as:
The following are a few symptoms experienced along with burning feet:
As burning of feet can be due to various factors, treating the underlying cause is the preferred course of action. A few home remedies can help you ease the pain and discomfort. They are as follows:
Epsom salt is a natural source of magnesium sulfate2. It is commonly used by people when taking foot baths. We can make use of it by adding some Epsom salt to water and soaking your feet in it for a few minutes each day.
Note: The use of Epsom salt increases the risk of damage to feet in patients with diabetes. Therefore, please check with your doctor before using it if you have diabetes.
Soaking your feet in cold water provides temporary relief from the pain and burning sensation. In addition to soaking feet in cold water, drinking a lot of water is helpful too.
Ginger has various medicinal properties and is used widely in Ayurveda. Ginger extract is soluble in water and oil, and when applied to the skin, it is readily absorbed. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, and this might be the reason for its pain-relieving effects. It may be used for the treatment of burning feet as well, owing to this anti-inflammatory property3.
Gingko is an herb, and it has protective properties towards the nerves. It was found to be effective in treating conditions like dementia and focal cerebral ischemia (decreased blood flow to parts of the brain). This nerve-protecting action of Ginkgo is due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and certain enzyme inhibiting properties. It can help with burning feet, associated with damage to peripheral nerves4.
One of the reasons for the occurrence of burning feet is diabetes; black cumin is found to decrease blood sugar. It also increases the availability of insulin. This effect is extremely beneficial for the nerves in the feet. In animal studies, black cumin was also found to reduce pain, however, further research in humans is required to prove this4.
The scientific name of holy basil is Ocimum sanctum. It has been used in India for a long time to treat many diseases. In a study, it was found that Tulsi is effective in reducing pain in the legs caused by sciatica. It is also effective in reducing pain caused due to peripheral nerve damage, which is a common cause of burning feet4.
Commonly known as bitter apple, Citrullus colocynthis, is used to relieve pain. It has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. In various studies, it was found that bitter apple is effective in relieving pain in painful diabetic polyneuropathy (PDPN; nerve damage due to diabetes). When bitter apple was applied to the area, it offered pain relief4.
Turmeric has properties which are helpful against inflammation (anti-inflammatory), infections (antibiotic) and neutralises free radicals present (antioxidant). This is due to the presence of a bioactive compound called curcumin in turmeric. Studies have shown that it is effective against diseases of the nerves and neurons and also prevents their development4. We can use it by making a thick paste and applying it as a pack, and by including it in our diet.
Adding apple cider vinegar to warm water and soaking our feet in it is said to provide relief from burning feet. There is no scientific evidence backing it, but it has been widely used by people around the world.
Also Read: Natural Home Remedies for Swollen Legs
As burning feet may be an indicator of a serious disease, kindly seek immediate medical attention if the burning, redness or numbness in the feet does not subside with self-care methods and home remedies. A doctor can run some tests to diagnose the condition and devise a treatment plan for you.
Also Read: Best Home Remedies for Uric Acid By Dr. Siddharth Gupta
Burning feet may be experienced due to various conditions. Whatever the cause may be, the pain and discomfort can be relieved by the use of a few home remedies. However, the underlying cause must be determined and treated. Self-care is the key to relieving burning feet on a daily basis.
Also Read: Simple Home Remedies for Tongue Ulcers
No, the burning caused due to burning feet syndrome cannot be relieved by the use of a moisturiser.
Burning feet due to burning feet syndrome is not reported to be caused due to hot weather. It is mainly caused due to the damage of the nerves in the peripheral region (peripheral neuropathy), closer to the skin, as seen in various conditions like diabetes, compression of nerves in tarsal tunnel syndrome etc1.
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and provides pain relief. In various studies, it was found that ginger can be applied to relieve muscle pain; therefore, it might be useful in healing burning feet3.
Yes. Black cumin, also called kalonji, reduces blood sugar, and diabetes is one of the causes of burning feet. Thus, kalonji can be used to treat burning feet syndrome4.
No, there are no reports of the occurrence of burning feet due to cataract.
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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4Mouth ulcers can sometimes occur on your tongue and give you tongue ulcers. These ulcers are usually red or yellow in colour and can be quite painful to live with. Tongue ulcers are quite common and usually go away on their own within a week or two. Tongue ulcers are not usually signs of serious health conditions, but are uncomfortable1,2. People with tongue ulcers find it difficult to eat and drink anything.
The exact cause of tongue ulcers is unknown, but some factors may contribute to the development of these ulcers, including:
If you have tongue ulcers, you might experience
Tongue ulcers are a common condition but can cause immense discomfort on a day-to-day basis. However, you can try these home remedies to control them and ease the discomfort.
You can apply coconut oil to tongue ulcers. Coconut oil, when applied to the affected area, forms a protective barrier on the ulcer. It is highly effective as it speeds up the healing process of damaged tissues. It is also effective against the bacteria that cause ulcers3. You can put coconut oil directly on the affected area to rapidly get rid of the tongue ulcer.
Frequently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water aids in healing ulcers1. You can mix some salt in warm water and use it as a rinse.
Honey is known to possess wound-healing benefits. It speeds up the healing process and can be used as an effective agent for the treatment of ulcers. Honey is non-irritant, readily available, and an easy-to-use remedy for ulcers4. To use honey, you can rub some honey directly on the affected area a few times a day. In addition, you can sip on honey by adding it to a cup of tea.
Chamomile can be used as a local application to treat bacterial diseases of the mouth. Chamomile reduces the healing time of ulcers induced by stress5. To use chamomile, you can brew chamomile tea and use it as a mouth rinse. You can also drink chamomile tea with honey to double the benefits.
Aloe vera gel is known to promote healing in damaged tissues and accelerate the healing process6. You can apply aloe vera gel on the tongue ulcer to hasten its healing. You can also drink aloe vera juice to help treat the ulcer.
Ulcers on the tongue can also form as a result of a deficiency of certain minerals and vitamins. Taking those vitamins and minerals as dietary supplements may help with tongue ulcers. For example, supplementing with vitamin B12 and iron might help with oral ulcers1.
You can manage your ulcers on your own by avoiding triggers that cause ulcers. For example, eating spicy, acidic or rough foods, drinking very hot or acidic drinks, using toothpaste that contains sodium lauryl sulfate, and eating chewing gum should be avoided. It will benefit the ulcer by providing benefits like
Also Read: Natural Home Remedies for Leg Pain
Tongue ulcers can affect anyone. However, you should seek medical help from your doctor if you have:
Also Read: Easy Home Remedies for Wart Removal
Tongue ulcers are simply painful sores that form on the tongue. Tongue ulcers are usually red or yellow in colour. These ulcers are common, heal on their own, and usually do not indicate anything serious. You can use some household substances like honey, aloe vera, and coconut oil to get relief and to hasten the healing. Tongue ulcers don’t usually require medical intervention. Still, if you have symptoms such as fever, diarrhoea, very large ulcers, ulcers spreading to other parts of your mouth or ulcers lasting more than 3 weeks, you should contact your doctor.
Also Read: Natural Home Remedies For Stomach Ulcers
No, tongue ulcers by themselves do not generally indicate anything serious. Tongue ulcers are common and self-healing. However, if you have tongue ulcers that last longer than three weeks, new ulcers appearing before the old ones heal, fever, diarrhoea, pain that does not go away with medication, ulcers spreading to other parts of your mouth, or abnormally large ulcers, you should contact your doctor because it could be a sign of something more serious.
There is no known way to completely prevent ulcers. However, you can reduce your risks by eating a rich and healthy diet (fruits and vegetables), using a soft-bristle toothbrush to avoid tissue injury, brushing your teeth twice daily to maintain oral hygiene, and visiting the dentist for cleaning and checkups.
Yes, rinsing the mouth with warm saltwater might help improve the tongue ulcers by acting as a healing aid.
Yes, you can apply coconut oil to tongue ulcers. Applying coconut oil creates a protective barrier, accelerates healing, and fights bacteria causing ulcers. Coconut can be applied directly to the affected area.
If your tongue ulcer does not heal within three weeks, you should consult your doctor.
You can apply honey directly to the affected area. Honey is effective in managing ulcers as it speeds up the healing process.
1. Mouth ulcers [Internet]. nhs.uk. 2022 [cited 4 May 2022]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/mouth-ulcers/
2. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG). Overview: Canker sores (mouth ulcers) [Internet]. Cologne (Germany): InformedHealth.org; 2006– [updated 2022 Oct 17; cited 2025 May 16]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546250/
3. Vala GS, Kapadiya PK. Medicinal Benefits of Coconut Oil. International Journal of Life Sciences Research. 2014;2(4):124–6. [Internet]. 2022 [cited 4 May 2022]. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268805677_Medicinal_benefit_of_coconut_oil
4. Ylmaz N, Nlsbet Ö, Nlsbet C, Ceylan G, Hoşgör F, Dede ÖD. Biochemical Evaluation Of The Therapeutic Effectiveness Of Honey In Oral Mucosal Ulcers. Bosnian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences [Internet]. 2009 [cited 2022 Apr 25];9(4):290. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20001994/
5. McKay DL, Blumberg JB. A review of the bioactivity and potential health benefits of chamomile tea (Matricaria recutita L.). Phytother Res [Internet]. 2006 Jul [cited 2022 Apr 25];20(7):519–30. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16628544/
6. de Freitas Cuba L, Braga Filho A, Cherubini K, Salum FG, Figueiredo MAZ de. Topical application of Aloe vera and vitamin E on induced ulcers on the tongue of rats subjected to radiation: clinical and histological evaluation. Supportive Care in Cancer 2015 24:6 [Internet]. 2015 Dec 23 [cited 2022 Apr 25];24(6):2557–64. Available from: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00520-015-3048-3
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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