7 Amazing Home Remedies for Indigestion

We all know how it feels when our stomach isn't doing great. Indigestion is a common problem, and it makes us feel full even when we haven't eaten anything. Needless to say that it takes a toll on our body. Indigestion is caused when the acid in your stomach flows back to your esophagus. It is also caused when your stomach is inflamed and causes irritation. It can cause great discomfort like fullness, pain, heaviness and even nausea if not treated well. You cannot completely depend on medications as they may not be very helpful in the long run. Therefore, we list down the causes and natural home remedies to calm your tummy without any side effects.

Being one of the most common problems, indigestion has numerous causes including over-eating, stomach infections, ulcers, acidity, smoking, alcohol, thyroid, irritable bowel syndrome, excess intake of fatty or spicy foods and stress among others. It is imperative to understand the condition and choose a natural remedy for the same.

 The cause of indigestion can be the presence of excess acid levels. Certain foods like beans, cabbage, milk products and onions among others result in indigestion. Baking soda has sodium bicarbonate that acts as an antacid helping to neutralise stomach acid. Sodium bicarbonates react with the excess formation of hydrochloric acid to break down the effect of the acid in your stomach. It also detoxifies the digestive system relieving you from heartburn and indigestion. You can take baking soda with water or with honey and even lemon, whichever suits you best.

 Apple cider vinegar is one of the most effective cures for indigestion. It is an excellent source of magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, calcium and other minerals that help in digestion. Vinegar is acidic in nature that breaks down fats, preventing acid reflux. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar helps cure indigestion by virtue of its alkaline-based digestive attributes. You can consume apple cider vinegar with water or honey. Try buying raw, organic and unfiltered form to make it more effective.

 Ginger has long been associated with curing indigestion and is a popular ingredient in Indian households. It contains antioxidants including gingerols that are known for relieving indigestion and nausea. Its phenolic compounds are believed to reduce gastric contractions and relieve gastrointestinal irritation. It is also known to reduce inflammation.

Fennel seeds or saunf consist certain oil compounds including fenchone and estragole that are responsible for preventing or removing the gas from the intestinal tract. These volatile oils also help boost the production of gastric juices, initiating a smooth digestive process. It also has antispasmodic properties that help to relax muscle cells that line the respiratory system, stomach and intestines. You can drink fennel tea or even consume the seeds with water.

 Carom seed or ajwain is known to cure various digestive disorders including indigestion, acidity, flatulence, et al. The active enzymes in ajwain help in boosting the digestive system by facilitating gastric juices. Take ajwain with water for about a week and you can see the difference. You can also consume ajwain powder with water that is generally done to relieve from gastric problems.

Coriander seeds or dhaniya seeds are known for their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that relieve you from an upset stomach or indigestion, further stimulating your digestive process. Coriander consists of an essential oil called urandrol that detoxifies the liver and increases appetite, curing indigestion. Take coriander seeds infused water for about a week to see the difference.

 Indian gooseberry or amla has various aphrodisiac, diuretic, laxative, carminative, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. These properties help stimulate your digestive process, further curing indigestion, heartburn or acidity. Amle ka murabba is said to be one of the most effective ingredients for curing indigestion.

 You can easily try these home-based natural remedies and cure the discomfort caused by indigestion and stimulate your digestive system. While these can prove to be great for your digestive process, we would suggest that you consult a doctor before completely relying on these, in case of chronic issues.

Cinnamon for Weight Loss:

Cinnamon is obtained from the tree species known as Cinnamomum. It is commonly used as a spice in many Indian households apart from its multiple medicinal benefits. About 80-90 percent of cinnamon comes from Sri Lanka. Its scent is often associated with the feeling of being home in one's comfort zone. It also has an extremely soothing fragrance. Research studies have also revealed that cinnamon is highly beneficial for individuals who suffer from heart problems. It is packed with anti oxidants and has a great number of anti-inflammatory properties. It could be considered as an "all-in-one" spice.
One of the most sought after qualities of cinnamon is that it helps in weight loss. While we may wonder how this is possible, the fact is that it reduces one's appetite and in turn speeds up the metabolic rate. However, merely consuming a dozen cups of cinnamon tea in a day would not do the needful. There is an urgent need to maintain a balanced diet and physical fitness. Cinnamon simply adds on to the weight loss program and enhances it further. It is an essential diet supplement for those individuals who wish to stabilise their weight.
Dr Anju Sood, a renowned Bengaluru-based nutritionist, states. "cinnamon increases one's metabolic rate. It is essential to note how this works. It is a stimulator of insulin. It makes it active, which in turn helps sugar to metabolise. Often, when the individual puts on weight, it is because his/her insulin becomes resistant. This does not make him/her diabetic, but simply the insulin does not metabolise. The consequence of this is that sugar too does not get metabolised to its required quantum and is converted into fat. Cinnamon helps to break these links."
Apart from consuming cinnamon in itself, it can be combined with other products like honey and lemon. In today's day and age, honey is a great alternative to sugar. Cinnamon can be sprinkled on food or consumed in a glass of water. It can also be combined with a banana.
Overall, cinnamon has a compound referred to as mineral chromium, which keeps one's appetite under control. It is a great spice for improving our immunity, with all the necessary minerals, vitamins and fibers all packed into one. It plays a great detoxification role to. Many times it is also referred to as a "cleanse" drink when added to a glass of water.

4 Most Effective Home Remedies for Sunburn

We have all grown up studying about the harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. It is an extremely dangerous kind of radiation and over exposure results in damage to the health and well-being of human beings. The ozone layer protects us from these destructive rays. Unfortunately, in recent years, due to pollution and several other factors, this ozone layer has been depleting. Some of the health issues that are a result of over exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun include life threatening diseases like cancer, cataracts, premature ageing, and skin damage among others. Sunburn is the most commonly occurring health issue and while it may not appear to be as serious as the aforementioned health problems, there is an urgent need to protect oneself from this problem and prevent it from happening in the first place as prolonging it could result in irreversible damage to one's skin.

A sun burn could be classified into two kinds. While a mild sun burn includes symptoms like reddening of the skin, itching and skin irritation, chronic sunburn includes swelling, fever, peeling of the skin as well as dehydration in severe cases. Apart from long term exposure to the dangerous radiation of the sun, excessive use of chemical products like creams, deodorants and other cosmetic products deplete the natural oils of the skin, making it more vulnerable to the ill effects of the ultraviolet rays.

Here are certain home remedies that you can follow, especially in the summer months, to keep your skin glowing and prevent it from getting sun burnt -

According to the book The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies by Vasant Lad, aloe vera is often endorsed as the "burn plant", indicating its natural properties to cure a sun burn. The leaves of the plant consist of anti inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and the jelly-like nature help calm skin irritation caused by the burn.

You can apply the jelly that comes out of the leaf directly on the burnt area, at least twice a day. Medical stores also sell aloe vera creams which are highly effective in case of sun burns. They must be applied regularly on the affected area for best results.

It is often referred to as "healing" oil that helps reduce the pain that the sun burn causes. It relieves and rejuvenates the skin, repairing the cracks that occur. It also helps to reduce wrinkling of the skin. A sunburn usually causes premature ageing of the skin, which could be cured using coconut oil. It helps make the skin appear healthier. It is also rich in vitamin D and E, which are essential for the skin.

Apply coconut oil on the affected area and leave on overnight. Massage it on the skin and apply regularly. It could also be applied every day before bathing.

Its cooling properties help in absorbing the heat from the skin hence soothing the sun burnt area. A bag of frozen food like corn or beans helps in the same way by cooling down the dry skin. Applying these kinds of cool compresses regularly in the day shows a lot of improvement.

It is one of the simplest and most affordable home remedy to cure sunburn. It has several medical properties that are beneficial especially for skin trouble. Its anti ageing property reduces wrinkles caused by excessive rays of the sun. It provides great itch relief and is able to soften the skin, thus bringing relief to the sun burnt area.

Vasant Lad suggests mixing the sandalwood paste with ice cold water and applying it on the affected burnt area daily for 100 percent results.

Apart from these home remedies, prevention is always better than cure. Here are some pointers -

• The peak hours of sunlight are from 10am to 3pm every day. Avoid stepping out during this period unless absolutely necessary.

• If stepping out is inevitable, take preventive measures like applying a suitable sunscreen lotion, wearing a hat/cap, and wearing shades to protect the eyes from the ultraviolet rays of the sun.

• Try wearing clothes that completely cover your skin, leaving it unexposed.

• Avoid sun contact for more than half an hour every day, if your skin is sensitive and prone to sun burns.

• Neem oil is the saving grace for those individuals who have a tendency of developing sun burns regularly.

• Lastly, drink tons and tons of coconut oil and you are good to go.

It is high time we start paying heed to our skin, before anything else.

Lets Talk Periods:

There’s no escaping that time of the month for women. However quite unfortunately, the essential biological process is often hushed amongst other pivotal concerns of the society. Discussing menstruation is such a taboo, that a significant chunk of girls are not even aware of menstruation, when they hit their first period, often leading to a barrage of confusion and anxiety in the young mind about the basic biological transformation happening in her body. 

Periods could be really painful for some, bringing along with it severe cramps, back pain, bloating, etc. It is definitely not the best time, also for the hormones being very unpredictable. The ovaries, which are present in the lower part of women’s abdomen, start to produce hormones in girls around puberty which cause changes to the lining of the uterus. Every month during periods, the lining of the womb is shed along with some blood. The length of menstrual cycle (the time between the start of one period and the start of the next) is usually 28 days; if it exceeds a week then it can be problematic. As then comes the issue of irregular periods.

Irregular period is medically known as oligomenorrhea, which is a common issue in women. Many factors can cause this problem, such as eating disorders, weight loss or gain, anemia, menopause, thyroid disorders, hormonal imbalance, liver disease, tuberculosis, miscarriage, and other health conditions. Lifestyle triggers like increased exercise, smoking, alcohol abuse, caffeine, travel, stress, and certain medications and birth control pills can also contribute to this problem. Irregular periods are common at the time of menopause.

Green, unripe papaya is considered useful in regulating menstrual flow as it helps contract muscle fibers in the uterus. Consume unripe papaya juice regularly for a few months but do not drink it during your periods.

Turmeric is considered to be one of the best medicated herbs which is quite warming as well. It is helpful in regulating menstruation and balancing hormones. The antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties relieve menstrual pain. Consume one-quarter teaspoon of turmeric with milk, honey or jaggery. Take it daily for several weeks or until you see improvement.

Do not use this remedy during your periods. Aloe vera helps treat menstrual irregularities naturally by regulating your hormones. To get the best results, extract fresh aloe vera gel from an aloe leaf, mix in one teaspoon of honey and consume it daily before having your breakfast.

Stress is one of the primary causes of hormonal imbalance in the body that triggers irregularities in menstruation. Yoga and meditation helps in relieving stress. Meditation can ensure perfect hormonal balance in the body. These two are the most effective methods for controlling irregular periods without medicines.

Boil 1 tbsp of fresh ginger for 5 minutes. Add little sugar and drink the mixture three times a day after your meals. Ginger is highly recommended for regulating menstrual cycles and getting rid of irregular periods.

Cumin is loaded with a number of health benefits. Soaked cumin can be used in the treatment of irregular period. Take 2 spoons of cumin seeds and soak in water over night and drink both in the morning. You need to drink this water every day to get your periods regularised.

It provides a warming effect within your body. Take a glass full of warm milk and add a teaspoon of powdered cinnamon and drink it. It is even effective in eradicating menstrual cramps.

How to Avoid Falling Sick During Monsoons?

A downpour during the rainy season is often welcomed with great enthusiasm as well as a sigh of relief. After months of scorching heat, the rains help everyone bounce back with fresh doses of energy and vigour. But along with long spells of showers, the monsoonmonths also bring with them extended bouts of illnesses and several seasonal colds and allergies. Whether its diarrhea, cholera, typhoid, dengue, malaria or chikungunia, the number of people vulnerable to these diseases increases manifold during the rainy season.  Ayurveda has a few handy tips that might help you guard your family and yourself against some of these.

According to the science of Ayurveda, the dosha that is accumulated during the rainy season or varsha, is the pitta. This is due to the acidic conditions in the atmosphere which increases the susceptibility of diseases and reduces the digestive processes in the body. This in turn leads to a loss of appetite due to the sluggish digestive system.

There are a range of dietary habits and tips that one must keep in mind to ensure consistency of the immune system and strengthening of the immune system to combat the growth of bacteria in the body. Hair loss, skin infections and indigestion occurs due to the accumulation of Pitta. According to Dr. Dhanvantri, Ayurvedic expert, the monsoon requires everyone to ensure certain precautions are taken in order to remain in the best of health. He suggests the following tips to follow during this season.

Avoid food that is uncooked and raw. Only food that is well cooked and hygienic must be consumed. Food from street vendors must be avoided. During the rainy season, the bacteria sticks to the food making it unfit for consumption.

Greasy and spicy food with too many chillies might not be suitable for everyone. It might hinder effective digestion. Oil free food is a must. Wheat and barley along with moong dal soup and freshly boiled water help boost immunity. They also enable the toxins of the body to get flushed out, maintaining ones health and reducing vulnerability. All of these are loaded with minerals and vitamins and replenish the body with the nutrients it desires for proper functioning.

In Ayurveda, Panchkarma as the name suggests, is a fivefold healing procedure that involves removing the toxins of the body that have been leftover by diseases. It is a complete mind-body healing process that restores the balance of the body. It involves the use of herbal methods, massages, oil based remedies that allow the body’s own organs to rejuvenate themselves. It is a season based therapy and is advocated especially during the monsoon.

Ayurvedic Wisdom

While its true that our life expectancy has increased over the years, but so has the incidence of chronic ailments. Let's face it, our generation is at a higher risk of developing heart trouble or vision problems or arthritis at a much younger age now than before. This is indicative of the fact that a lot of lifestyle changes have taken place since our grandmother's time that may not be in our favour and could be increasing our health risks. Our diet, for instance, is far from what our grandmothers would have had or recommended. So, given the current scenario where childhood obesity and juvenile diabetes are top global health concerns, it would really help to rethink the way we lead our lives and try and go back to the basics.

Your body needs good quality nutrition to attain optimum physical and mental health. Ayurveda is an ancient system of life. According to it, the three pillars of life that form the foundation on which you can build good health and achieve longevity are – diet, sleep and self-mastery. You diet plays an important role in maintaining a balance of energies within your body. When we eat the right food it fills us with positive energy, helps us manage our weight, improves our body functions and promotes overall well-being. Ayurvedic Expert Dr. Ashutosh Gautam suggests that the following foods are essential for a long and healthy life. 

Amla is one of the most widely used herbs in Ayurveda. It helps in maintaining a perfect equilibrium between the three doshas or body types - vatta, pitta andkapha. It is one of the best sources of Vitamin C which is known to build your body's defense mechanisms against diseases and infections. It is believed to be a powerful antioxidant that delays ageing and promotes longevity. In one of the most popular Hindu scriptures, Padam Purana, it has been mentioned that Lord Shiva regarded Amla as a holy fruit that prolongs life. 

The primary health benefits of ginger are mostly due to its high antioxidant content. It is believed to contain at least 25 different types of antioxidants. Antioxidants fight disease-causing free radicals in the body and protect against a host of degenerative diseases heart trouble, diabetes, arthritis and even cancer. 

According to Chinese tradition, drinking cardamon tea is known to be the secret to longevity. Cardamon tea helps in flushing out toxins and keeps your internal systems clean. It is rich in essential oils, improves digestion, regulates your blood sugar levels, boosts blood circulation and thereby, maintains vitality and keeps your energy levels up.

Ajwain seeds are heart-friendly.  They contain niacin and thymol that maintains heart health. It also acts as a great natural antibiotic.

Jeera or fennel seed is one of the best natural remedies for all your stomach problems. Jeera is an excellent source of iron and dietary fiber. It stimulates the production of gastric juices and also soothes the nervous system. It is often recommended to start your day with a glass of water in which jeera has been soaked overnight. It improves your digestion and keeps your metabolism up through the day.

Cloves are anti-fungal, antibacterial, antiseptic and analgesic. Need more reasons? Clove is a super spice with amazing healing properties. Cloves are full of manganese which helps in managing your metabolism and keeps the nervous system stable.  

Struggling With Pre-Menstrual Syndrome?

Pre Menstrual Syndrome or PMS is group of symptoms suffered by women a week or so before their period. For many women, PMS is not a serious concern. Many don't feel any significant change in their body either. But for some, days before their periods is a really rough phase. PMS can bring about various changes - physical, emotional or behavorial. The changes show one to two weeks before your period and phase out as you hit your period. The range of these symptoms include bloating, tender breasts, cramps, abdominal pains, irritability, anxiety, depression, vomiting and diarrhea among others.

If you feel any of these symptoms a week before your periods, Ayurvedic dietary guidelines can help you relieve it to a great extent. According to Ayurveda, there are three fundamental doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha, and good health is considered to be a perfect state of balance of these three doshas. PMS is classified in Ayurveda into three types -

1. Vata

Vata type PMS is characterised by lower back ache, lower abdominal pain, anxiety, fear, insomnia, mood swings, headaches, sleep disorders, etc. Later this Vata imbalance also manifests into irregular menstrual flow and irregularity in bowels. Here's what may help.

According to The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies by Dr. Vasant Lad:

Dashamoola tea, (1/2 teaspoon dashamoola steeped in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes), you can add a little honey for taste. Taking it twice a day a week before your periods can be effective.

10 cherries daily on an empty stomach for a week before the onset of menstruation.

1 tbsp of aloe vera gel with a pinch of black pepper, thrice a day.

HomeHealthStruggling With Pre-Menstrual Syndrome? Here's How Ayurveda Can Help

Struggling With Pre-Menstrual Syndrome? Here's How Ayurveda Can HelpSushmita Sengupta   |  Updated: July 27, 2017 19:44 ISTTweeterfacebookGoogle Plus Reddit

Struggling With Pre-Menstrual Syndrome? Here's How Ayurveda Can Help

Pre Menstrual Syndrome or PMS is group of symptoms suffered by women a week or so before their period. For many women, PMS is not a serious concern. Many don't feel any significant change in their body either. But for some, days before their periods is a really rough phase. PMS can bring about various changes - physical, emotional or behavorial. The changes show one to two weeks before your period and phase out as you hit your period. The range of these symptoms include bloating, tender breasts, cramps, abdominal pains, irritability, anxiety, depression, vomiting and diarrhea among others.

If you feel any of these symptoms a week before your periods, Ayurvedic dietary guidelines can help you relieve it to a great extent. According to Ayurveda, there are three fundamental doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha, and good health is considered to be a perfect state of balance of these three doshas. PMS is classified in Ayurveda into three types -

1. Vata

Vata type PMS is characterised by lower back ache, lower abdominal pain, anxiety, fear, insomnia, mood swings, headaches, sleep disorders, etc. Later this Vata imbalance also manifests into irregular menstrual flow and irregularity in bowels. Here's what may help.

According to The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies by Dr. Vasant Lad:

Dashamoola tea, (1/2 teaspoon dashamoola steeped in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes), you can add a little honey for taste. Taking it twice a day a week before your periods can be effective.

10 cherries daily on an empty stomach for a week before the onset of menstruation.

1 tbsp of aloe vera gel with a pinch of black pepper, thrice a day.

aloevera

2. Pitta

Typically a Pitta imbalance can cause pre-menstrual symptoms like mood swings, irritability, lower abdominal cramping, burning sensation in passing urine and hives. According to Ingrid Sen's Ayurvedic Natural Remedies, "Cool sweet foods will help counter the effects of the imbalance. Eat ample fruits, including thick, juicy fruits such as mangoes, pears peaches and sweet melons."

According to author Dr. Vasant Lad:

Herbal mixture of shatavari (2 parts), brahmi (1 part) and musta (1 part). Taking half teaspoon of the mixture twice a day with warm water is effective.

Aloe vera gel (1 tablespoon) taken with a pinch of cumin powder can also help ease the symptoms to a great extent.

HomeHealthStruggling With Pre-Menstrual Syndrome? Here's How Ayurveda Can Help

Struggling With Pre-Menstrual Syndrome? Here's How Ayurveda Can HelpSushmita Sengupta   |  Updated: July 27, 2017 19:44 ISTTweeterfacebookGoogle Plus Reddit

Struggling With Pre-Menstrual Syndrome? Here's How Ayurveda Can Help

Pre Menstrual Syndrome or PMS is group of symptoms suffered by women a week or so before their period. For many women, PMS is not a serious concern. Many don't feel any significant change in their body either. But for some, days before their periods is a really rough phase. PMS can bring about various changes - physical, emotional or behavorial. The changes show one to two weeks before your period and phase out as you hit your period. The range of these symptoms include bloating, tender breasts, cramps, abdominal pains, irritability, anxiety, depression, vomiting and diarrhea among others.

If you feel any of these symptoms a week before your periods, Ayurvedic dietary guidelines can help you relieve it to a great extent. According to Ayurveda, there are three fundamental doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha, and good health is considered to be a perfect state of balance of these three doshas. PMS is classified in Ayurveda into three types -

1. Vata

Vata type PMS is characterised by lower back ache, lower abdominal pain, anxiety, fear, insomnia, mood swings, headaches, sleep disorders, etc. Later this Vata imbalance also manifests into irregular menstrual flow and irregularity in bowels. Here's what may help.

According to The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies by Dr. Vasant Lad:

Dashamoola tea, (1/2 teaspoon dashamoola steeped in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes), you can add a little honey for taste. Taking it twice a day a week before your periods can be effective.

10 cherries daily on an empty stomach for a week before the onset of menstruation.

1 tbsp of aloe vera gel with a pinch of black pepper, thrice a day.

aloevera

2. Pitta

Typically a Pitta imbalance can cause pre-menstrual symptoms like mood swings, irritability, lower abdominal cramping, burning sensation in passing urine and hives. According to Ingrid Sen's Ayurvedic Natural Remedies, "Cool sweet foods will help counter the effects of the imbalance. Eat ample fruits, including thick, juicy fruits such as mangoes, pears peaches and sweet melons."

According to author Dr. Vasant Lad:

Herbal mixture of shatavari (2 parts), brahmi (1 part) and musta (1 part). Taking half teaspoon of the mixture twice a day with warm water is effective.

Aloe vera gel (1 tablespoon) taken with a pinch of cumin powder can also help ease the symptoms to a great extent.

mangoes

 3. Kapha

Symptoms associated with Kapha imbalance will manifest in signs like bloating, weight gain, water retention(breasts become enlarged and tender), drowsiness and sluggishness.

According to Dr. Vasant Lad:

Herbal mixture of punarnava (2 parts), kutki(1 part) and musta( 2 parts). Taking half teaspoon of the mixture twice aday with warm water is effective.

10 cherries daily on an empty stomach for a week before the onset of menstruation.

A tablespoon of aloevera gel with half a teaspoon of Trikatu(an ancient Ayurvedic concoction made with equal parts of black pepper, pippali and ginger) can help immensely.

According to author Ingrid Sen in his book, "Keep meals light to avoid a heavy feeling. Focus primarily on vegetables and fruits, which are eaten warm or at least at room temperature."

fruits

Pre-Menstrual Syndrome is a natural phenomenon, but when it starts taking a toll on your regular life, it can become a cause of concern. Don't be shy to consult your gynecologist in such a case. Until then you can try these Ayurvedic formulae, which might prove to be effective.