Author: Maryem Kam

Health Care

20 Amazing Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds for Skin, Hair, and Health

Author ByMaryem Kam

Also known as “Methi Seeds,” Fenugreek is cultivated in central and south Asia (mainly in India). It is one of the earliest ancient Indian remedies been used for a wide range of health problems. These days, the multi-purpose seeds are grown and cultivated throughout different parts of the world, including the USA, North Africa, and other Mediterranean regions.

The seed has become a very common spice used in a wide range of Indian and Asian dishes. Additionally, fenugreek seed is used in soaps and shampoos as a natural thickening agent too. Unfortunately, thanks to the prevalence of modern medicine and a lack of knowledge about traditional remedies, the healing power of fenugreek seed are ignored.

In this write-up, we will recall some amazing benefits of using fenugreek seeds for skin, hair, and health.

Fenugreek Seeds for Skin

 1. Improves Your Skin’s Health

Fenugreek seed can be a very good, all-natural alternative to all the contemporary, chemical-loaded creams. The seed contains natural oil and is packed with skin softening, moisturizing, and hydrating properties. Thanks to its carotene, potassium, and vitamin C constituents, you can successfully use fenugreek seeds for face glow.

 2. It May Improve Acne

Fenugreek acts very effectively on your digestive system and removes all the toxins from the body and the skin. As a result, it can be a wonderful home remedy for skin problems like acne. Various researches claim that regular application of fenugreek seeds as a face mask can even control fresh acne outbreaks. And, thanks to the presence of salicylic acid, fenugreek seeds can also be effective to unclog skin pores.

Applying the fenugreek paste at night and washing in the morning can help you overcome acne outbreaks and plenty of other skin problems.

 3.Cleanses Your Skin

Fenugreek seed can be your ultimate, natural skin cleanser. When you crush the fine granules of seeds into a powder, you get a wonderful skin cleanser that can easily go through your skin pores and get rid of all the unwanted skin oils and dirt. What do you get in return? Of course, fresh, young, and clean skin. What more? You can use fenugreek seeds as a natural, gentle skin exfoliator too.

Make a thin, coarse paste from soaked fenugreek seeds, and you have plenty of different options to use fenugreek seeds for your skincare routine.

 4. Helps You Overcome Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is the sole cause of unnatural skin darkness and other skin problems. And if you are in search of an effective way of overcoming hyperpigmentation, yes mate, fenugreek seed can be the answer! Fenugreek seed contains vitamin K and can be immensely helpful in skin lightening and removing the blemishes – hence, speeding up the skin cells’ healing process.

  • Prepare a fine paste from ½ cup, soaked fenugreek seeds.
  • Apply on the skin affected by hyperpigmentation.
  • Leave for about ten minutes before washing with lukewarm water.

 5. Delays Premature Ageing

You can completely lose your confidence if you get premature aging signs, including fine lines and wrinkles. But you don’t have to ponder much, as using fenugreek seeds for skin can also be effective against premature aging. The spicy seeds are packed with potassium, vitamins, and dozens of other nutrients that can maintain the skin’s elasticity and keep the signs of premature aging at bay.

You can prepare an anti-aging face pack by adding two to three drops of lemon juice and five drops of rose water to fenugreek seeds paste.

Water in which seeds are soaked can also be an effective remedy for premature aging.

Fights Dryness of the Skin

It can be very challenging as well as struggling to deal with dull and dry skin. However, using fenugreek seeds as a face mask can help you overcome this common yet annoying problem. Fenugreek seed can be effective in retaining moisture in the skin and can also repair the damaged skin cells – hence, in return, it gives you much suppler, smoother, softer skin.

  • Mix two tbsp of soaked fenugreek seeds with one tbsp each of honey and yogurt.
  • Apply the face pack on your face.
  • Wash off after twenty-odd minutes and pat dry.
  • You will start noticing the difference if you can use this dryness treatment regularly.

Fenugreek Seeds for Hair

 6. Fenugreek Seeds Promote Healthy Hair Growth

As we have already discussed, fenugreek seeds contain different types of nutrients. These nutrients can be immensely helpful in healthy hair growth as well. Applying the paste, especially fenugreek leaves, can be very healthy for your scalp and promote natural hair growth. What more? It can even preserve the natural hair color too!

According to a study on men and women aged between 30 and 67 years noticed a very good effect of fenugreek seeds for hair growth. As many as 80% of volunteers noticed an improvement in thickness and hair volume after getting fenugreek treatment for a while.

 7. Fenugreek Seeds Can Treat Dandruff

Yes, you can use fenugreek seeds as an all-natural, gentle, and chemical-free conditioner too. Thanks to its mucilage content, fenugreek seed works as a very effective conditioner. In fact, it is used as a treatment for the flaky scalp for so many years!

You can prepare a hair mask or a conditioner easily by soaking the seeds overnight and blending them to make a paste. And the best part is that you can get the most of fenugreek seeds for hair by using them internally and externally.

 8. Makes Your Hair Silky and Shiny

If you are now annoyed so much with dry and frizzy hair, you don’t have to go beyond fenugreek seeds, as regular usage of soaked overnight seeds can help you to finally get shiny, voluminous, and silky hair.

 9. Prevents Premature Hair Greying

Premature hair greying has become a very common and prevalent problem for modern-day youth. Instead of using hair colors and dyes loaded with harmful chemicals, you can use fenugreek seeds to fight premature hair greying.

  • Add a few drops of Amla juice to the paste prepared from soaked fenugreek seeds.
  • Apply the mixture on your scalp and allow a resting time of about one hour.
  • Use a mild shampoo to wash the hair.
  • Repeat this treatment twice a week for promising results.

 10. Controls Hair Fall

We have already discussed the effectiveness of fenugreek seeds on the scalp. This action can improve scalp health and can make the hair stronger right from the hair follicles.

  • Use soaked fenugreek seeds and blend them with lemon juice.
  • Apply on your hair, covering evenly from hair roots to ends.
  • Let the paste rest for half an hour before going for a shower.
  • Using fenugreek seeds for hair fall will start showing results after three to four weeks.

Fenugreek Seeds and Health Benefits

 11. Fenugreek Naturally Boosts Testosterone

Fenugreek can effectively boost testosterone levels – the hormone known for playing some very important functions in males.

According to a study on about 100 males between 35 to 65 years, fenugreek seeds successfully elevated the serum testosterone levels and the sperm count. The study participants were asked to add fenugreek seeds supplement to their diet for twelve weeks to overcome the deficiency of testosterone.

 12. Fenugreek Seeds Can Improve Breastfeeding

As a part of the fenugreek seeds and health benefits series, a study was performed on 122 mothers to analyze the systemic galactagogue effects of fenugreek seeds. The study also compared the results of fenugreek seeds with other placebo and galactagogue supplements. Surprisingly (or not), the researchers found that consuming fenugreek seeds effectively increased breast milk production in breastfeeding women. Hence, regular consumption of soaked fenugreek seeds or adding them to the diet can drastically improve breastfeeding and several other related problems.  

 13. Fenugreek Can Assist Weight Loss Programs

Early research suggests that consuming 500 mg of fenugreek seeds regularly can help in reducing unhealthy body fat. Fenugreek is packed with healthy fibers and induces a feeling of fullness, and can help you avoid overeating. In a study, participants were asked to drink fenugreek seeds, and they felt less hungry than those who didn’t participate in the study.

 14. Helps Treating Diabetes

If we talk about further benefits of fenugreek seeds for health, it can support the efforts of treating diabetes. You can’t rely on these seeds solely to overcome diabetes, but combining them with other conventional treatment methods and a healthy diet can be immensely effective. Fenugreek contains a special fiber that can make a sticky and thick gel in your intestine and control the absorption of excess sugars and unhealthy fats.

A study was performed in two separate groups of people having type 2 diabetes. The group that took fenugreek seeds two times a day noticed a considerable improvement in type two diabetes symptoms.

 15. Helps Improving PCOS Symptoms

In a study, females with menstrual disturbances, infertility, and hyperandrogenism were asked to consume fenugreek capsules. All of them noticed a considerable improvement in these PCOS symptoms – that too, within a couple of months.

In addition, their period cycles got normal, and ovaries reverted to normal health as well. The best thing is, the participants in the study reported no side effects of fenugreek capsules either.

16. Can Help Relieving Constipation

Constipation is a very common problem affecting millions of people all over the world. And there is enough evidence of fenugreek seeds for gut health. These seeds can prevent various stomach disorders, including constipation, and can promote healthy guts. As we already know, fenugreek seeds contain a good amount of mucilage and prevent constipation by softening and relieving mucus membranes. In addition, these seeds can easily control excess mucus production as well.

Thanks to its mucilage and high fiber content, fenugreek seed is a bulk-forming laxative. What more? The seeds expand when they combine with water. As a result, you get a better muscular contraction and improved bowel movement – both of which are important for bulky, voluminous stools.

17. Fenugreek Seeds Improve Heartburn

According to a study, thanks to effectiveness of fenugreek seeds for gut health, they can also reduce the severity of heartburn. By working similarly as an OTC antacid, fenugreek seeds can soothe gastrointestinal inflammation by forming a shielding line on the intestinal coverings.

18. Reduces Cholesterol Levels

Fenugreek seeds reduce both total cholesterols as well as LDL (the bad cholesterol). The seeds contain a high amount of steroidal saponins that can easily intercept the cholesterol and triglycerides absorption. As a result, the seeds dissuade the production of cholesterol in the liver.

According to a human double-blind trial, the experts found that fenugreek seeds didn’t only reduce the cholesterol levels but also inspired the production of good, healthy cholesterols.

19. Fights Inflammation

Here is another amazing benefit of using fenugreek seeds for health. These seeds contain linoleic acids and can offer very effective protection from almost all types of inflammations. What more? The flavonoids, ethanol, and mucilage extracts of the fenugreek seeds are already known for their wonderful anti-inflammatory properties.

20. Fenugreek Seeds Reduce Aluminum Toxicity

In a study, fenugreek seeds’ consumption effectively reduced aluminum toxicity by protecting bones, kidneys, and brain.

Another study demonstrated that fenugreek seeds also worked to control the progressive loss of memory due to aluminum toxicity. It can be effectively used as a detoxifying supplement to control almost all aluminum toxicity signs and symptoms.

These are some amazing, hard to ignore the benefits of using fenugreek seeds for health. In addition to promoting your skin and hair’s health, fenugreek seeds can be proved a blessing for other aspects of your health too. If you were not aware of these benefits, or you were behaving like an ignorant (just like most of us do), you should now start giving some importance to this amazing seed.

Soaking a handful of seeds overnight and consuming or using them as paste/face pack/conditioner can help you overcome many health issues. Hopefully, you are now very well aware of the miraculous benefits of fenugreek seed, and you are now more than ready to add it to your daily routine.

Health Care

Can You Reduce High Creatinine Levels Naturally?

Author ByMaryem Kam

What is creatinine? How to lower creatinine level? Why is high creatinine not good for your body? How is the blood-creatinine level studied? Is there a natural way of lowering high creatinine level? In this article, we will discuss all these questions and a lot more about high blood-creatinine level.

Creatinine is a type of waste product produced by the metabolism and use of your muscles. Your kidneys are responsible for filtering creatinine from your blood with other waste products—these filtered products exit from your body through urine. A creatinine test reveals very important information related to your kidneys. A serum-creatinine test is performed to measure the creatinine level in your blood. It gives insight into the glomerular filtration rate of your kidneys, which is a parameter of examining the kidneys’ filtration capacity.

Why Does Your Doctor suggest for A Blood-Creatinine Test?

Medically known as “serum-creatinine test”, it measures the creatinine level in your blood sample and indicates the proper or improper functioning of your kidneys. You may have to go for multiple blood-creatinine tests depending on various underlying conditions, including:

  • Diabetes Type 1 or 2: Your doctor may suggest serum creatinine test at least once every year.
  • Any kidney disease: Doctor may ask for frequent tests for proper monitoring of your health.
  • An illness or disease, affecting your kidneys: Including diabetes, high blood pressure, or prolonged intake of medications that can affect your kidneys.

What Do High Creatinine Levels Mean?

Generally, a high creatinine level is an indication of unhealthy or slightly inefficient kidneys. It indicates that your kidney(s) is not working at its maximum capacity. Sometimes, creatinine levels are also increased due to very long and severe dehydration or certain medications, eating a lot of meat, or low blood volume. Intake of dietary creatinine supplement may also elevate the serum-creatinine level for a short period.

If you have a high serum-creatinine level, your doctor may recommend other blood and urine tests to confirm the underlying cause(s). If there is even a slight indication of kidney damage, it’s critical to check the possible contributory factors that can cause further damage. Undoing permanent kidney damage is not straightforward. However, a combination of certain medications and lifestyle adjustments, can control the damage to some extent.

Symptoms of high creatinine levels

Yes, a patient needs to go through proper medical investigations for correct diagnosis and treatment. Identifying the high serum-creatinine level at the right time can be immensely helpful to control possible damage to the kidney(s). Like proteinuria, an elevated creatinine level indicates certain health conditions and is not a condition itself.

You may develop certain symptoms of high creatinine level, as your kidneys may not be able to remove waste products, especially creatinine from your body. You may develop a combination of symptoms, including:

  • Fatigue
  • Muscles Cramp
  • Chest Pain
  • Nausea
  • Changes in appearance, frequency and smell of the urine
  • Swelling or fluid retention
  • Itchiness
  • High blood pressure
  • Vomiting

High creatinine levels causes:

  • Temporary elevation of serum-creatinine levels due to various medications, supplements, and foods etc.
  • Regular and frequent consumption of very high amounts of red meat and protein.
  • Overexertion while doing heavy or strenuous exercises.
  • Kidney infections and impairment.

Certain diseases may also cause an increase in serum creatinine levels, including:

  • Diabetes
  • Gout
  • Muscular dystrophy or rhabdomyolysis is causing the abnormal breakdown of muscles.
  • Continuous high blood pressure
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Goodpasture syndrome
  • Shock causing a high amount of blood loss
  • Autoimmune disorders like lupus

Are high creatinine levels life-threatening?

High creatinine level is not always life-threatening but can indicate serious health issues like chronic kidney disease. Yes, it may become life-threatening if increased seriously, and especially doesn’t managed properly on time.

Home Remedies to Reduce High Creatinine Levels

If you have high blood-creatinine levels, you need to talk to your doctor for a proper treatment plan to find and treat the possible causative factors harming your kidney functions and elevating the creatinine levels in your blood.

Along with proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments, you can include the following home remedies to reduce creatinine levels effectively.

1. First of All, Reduce Your Intake of Protein

According to researches, excessive intake of dietary proteins can cause an elevated creatinine level. More often than not, the elevation of creatinine due to high protein intake is temporary. High consumption of cooked red meat, in particular, can affect your normal creatinine levels. Red meat already contains creatinine, and the cooking heat may be responsible for a raise in blood-creatinine levels.

In addition to red meat, other protein sources, including dairy products, can also be responsible for an abnormally higher creatinine level. Hence, if you habitually eat a lot of red meat or other foods high in protein, you should substitute them with more fruits and vegetables. Try adding following recipes to your diet to keep a check on your creatinine levels naturally.

  • Hearty vegetable stew
  • Vegetable patties
  • Lentil soups and other lentil curries etc.

2. Avoid Consuming Creatinine Supplements

Your liver forms creatine naturally, and creatine is then transported to the muscles and used for energy. Unused or left creatine is converted into a waste product as “creatinine”.

In addition to the natural form, people take creatine from oral supplements as well. Athletes, in particular, are known for taking creatinine-producing supplements to improve their performance. But medical experts don’t support this idea, as prolonged usage of creatine supplements can affect your kidneys in the long term.

So, if you want to improve your kidney function, you should avoid consuming creatine supplements, as there is not enough research backing the safety or efficacy of creatine supplements. If you wish to consume, talk to your doctor first.

3. Lower your Creatinine Levels Naturally by Adding More Dietary Fibers

We need more studies to conclude the effects of dietary fibers on blood-creatinine levels. Nevertheless, according to the study, there were notable reductions in creatinine levels in people suffering from chronic kidney diseases which started to take more fibers through their diets.

Fruits, legumes, vegetables, and whole grains are some of the best sources of healthy fibers.

4. Reduce Your Salt Intake

Reducing your salt intake can also help you lower your creatinine levels naturally because recipes containing excess salt can cause increased blood pressure. And, processed foods, in particular, contain a lot of phosphorus and sodium, overconsumption of which can potentially cause various renal problems.

Instead of eating salted foods, try adding more unprocessed, spices, herbs, and other whole foods to your diet.

5. Reduce Your Alcohol Intake

Alcohol consumption can adversely affect your kidney’s function. If you are habitual alcoholic, moderate alcoholism can help reduce the risk of chronic kidney disease.

Excessive alcohol intake can severely damage your kidneys and cause conditions like alcohol dependency and high blood pressure. If you consume alcohol regularly, try to cut down the quantity slowly and regularly. Sudden withdrawal of alcohol may cause other lifestyle and habitual disorders, so that’s not the best idea at all.

6. How to lower creatinine levels by food?

A healthy diet can be very helpful to reduce the high creatinine level. Following are some effective food habits you can adapt with other treatment options to bring the elevated creatinine level back to the normal, healthy level.

  • Cucumber: Adding cucumber to your diet can give surprising effects on your creatinine levels and reduce the risk of chronic kidney disease and kidney failure. Consuming cucumber can help you stay hydrated, as well as keep the high blood sugar levels in check. Cucumber is not only a delicious option for your salads; it is low in calorie and is a very powerful antioxidant. They are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, silica, magnesium, and potassium etc. and that’s why also known as “natural kidney cleanser”. Cucumber can remove the debris and tiny stone particles from kidneys and the urinary bladder as well.
  • Onion and Garlic: If you are looking for an effective high creatinine level treatment, both garlic and onion can be the answers. Garlic protects your kidneys from potential radical medicated damage. On the other hand, thanks to its PGA prostaglandin content, onion can reduce high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a massive risk for kidney patients, increasing the chances of kidney failure. Kidney patients, especially those with a high creatinine level, should increase onion and garlic intake to protect their kidneys.
  • Carrots: Carrots can be very good vegetables if you have both heart and kidney problems. A carrot is packed with a lot of nutrition, including vitamin A, C, D, and calcium. Regular intake of carrots can protect your kidneys and can also reduce the risk of kidney infections.
  • Green Leafy Vegetables like cabbage and lettuce can also reduce high levels of creatinine in the blood. Not only that, but leafy green veggies are also good at preventing the formation of kidney stones.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: If you are looking for highly effective home remedies to reduce high creatinine levels, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can be surprisingly helpful. Eat foods like salmon, walnuts, sardines, and tuna etc. to ensure good health of your kidneys and keep a check on high creatinine levels.
  • Soy Products: Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and removing metabolic wastes from your blood can be highly effective in maintaining kidneys’ health and serum-creatinine levels. Soy foods can be especially beneficial for people having prolonged kidney disease. Soy milk, tofu, and soy nuts etc. should find a place in your kitchen if you want to check creatinine levels.

How to reduce creatinine level by yoga?

There is less evidence of the effect of yoga on the creatinine level. However, certain yoga postures can help to maintain your kidneys’ overall health. You can combine following yoga postures and your medicinal treatment and other lifestyle adjustments to ensure good health of your kidney. Not only kidneys, these yoga postures positively affect other parts of the body as well. So, by targeting your kidneys with yoga, you are helping other body parts too. In short, good health starts here with yoga.

  • Sphinx Pose: In addition to boosting your immunity, sphinx pose or Slamba Bhujangasana also strengthens your kidneys and other abdominal organs.
  • Sitting Half Spinal Twist: Ardha Matsyendrasana stimulates liver and kidneys and also works positively on your immunity.
  • Two-Legged Forward Bend: Paschimottanasana stimulates the kidney, relieves menstrual discomfort, as well as improves digestion.
  • Bridge Pose: Setu Bandhasana stimulates various abdominal organs, reduces high blood pressure, and reduces physical and mental stress.

How to lower creatinine level fast?

  • Avoid alcohol, beer, caffeine, wine, and other carbonated drinks
  • Avoid excessively salty and sugary foods.
  • Reduce the consumption of legumes from your diet.
  • Control the intake of white bread, white flour, dairy products, and red meat etc.
  • Completely avoid junk foods to control sodium intake.
  • Avoid oranges, chocolates, potatoes, tomatoes, and nuts etc.
  • Avoid frozen meals, canned soups, canned vegetables, salted potato chips, and cheese etc.

When it comes to answering an all-important question like “how to lower creatinine level”, we have to focus thoroughly on many different aspects, including causative factors, underlying diseases, and the timeline from which patient has high serum-creatinine level.

These home remedies or tips are only for “supporting” other medical treatments and management. Suppose you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms of high creatinine level. In that case, we recommend you to talk to your doctor – consulting a specialist of renal diseases will be more beneficial.

We don’t back the idea of relying only on these or any other home remedies or any other “self-treatment” for elevated creatinine level. Sometimes, it is an indication of a serious kidney-related problem(s). Getting proper medical guidance from a practicing healthcare provider is advised.

Skin Care

Does coffee have any benefit for your skin?

Author ByMaryem Kam

The first thought in our mind when we hear COFFEE is the beautifully brewed drink with smell that is enough to waft our sleeps away. A cup of coffee is more than enough to make our mornings bright and lively.

But is the use of coffee is only limited to as drink or is there is anything more to it.

The answer is YES, Coffee is a rich source of anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatory  agents and nutrients that benefits skin, scalp and hair. It can be used in a versatile manner.

In this article you can know about some amazing and versatile use that coffee holds and then implement them in your life.

Is coffee for good for skin?

This versatile natural ingredient is not just exclusive as a morning energy boosting drink.

Coffee is rich in antioxidants, anti inflammatory property and of course caffeine al together making it a skincare loving wonder. Use of coffee in face masks, body scrubs and other skincare products give you amazing beneficial effects.

How can coffee benefit your skin?

Apart from being a popular source of caffeine that helps you kick start your day full of energy.

Coffee holds many more benefits when consumed in forms other than drinks. When thinking about using coffee for skincare, people tend to get a little skeptical thinking about skin dehydration as caffeine is a mild diuretic agent.  But there is more to Coffee than just caffeine, here is how you can benefit from coffee for your skin,

Rich source of antioxidants: it has multiple anti-oxidants which act as defense layer on your skin against harsh environment factors and pollutions.

Protection from harsh UV radiation:  we all are aware of the negative effects that ultra violet radiation can cause to our skin. Caffeine inhibits the DNA damage that the UV rays might cause and thus helps in protecting skin multiple reactions and problems.

Improves skin elasticity and collagen production: its tissue repair and cell regeneration properties improves collagen growth and skin elasticity making skin smooth, bright and hydrated.

Enhances circulation: coffee improves blood circulation and help in reducing puffiness, and tissue swelling there by keeping your skin energized.

Here are few basic ways in which you can benefit from coffee:

  1. As face scrub component: coffee grounds make an excellent exfoliator for skin and help to get rid of dead skin cells efficiently.

Mix a tablespoon of coffee grounds in olive oil and brown sugar. Rub it on your face and then rinse it off. This will help in detoxifying your skin and removes the dead skin cells.

  1. As cold compress to reduce puffiness: you can make ice cubes from brewed coffee and use them as a cold compress to reduce puffiness around your eyes
  2. As a facemask : using coffee in your face mask help you instantly brightening your skin.

Make a paste using coffee and few spoonful of milk and apply it to your face. Leave this mask for 10-15mins and then wash it. This mask will help to remove the dirt and leave you with glowing skin.

  1. Foot bath: coffee stimulates the blood flow and scrapes the dead skin cells.

Brew a few cups of coffee and add it to a pedicure basin. Once it become lukewarm soak your feet in it for 15-20mins. This will help in protecting your feet from dead cell buildup and keep them soft.

Benefits of coffee scrub on skin:

Caffeine is the key ingredient that makes your coffee scrub beneficial for your skin.

  • Improved circulation: caffeine simulates the blood circulation and help in giving your skin even tone.
  • Anti aging effects: The antioxidants in coffee get absorbed in the skin  help to avoid premature aging problems.
  • Radiant skin: The scrub exfoliates the dead skin cells leaving your skin rejuvenated and fresh.
  • Anti inflammatory effect: coffee has anti inflammatory properties that help you in getting rid of inflammation and breakouts.
  • Reduces cellulite: as caffeine is a diuretic agent, when you use coffee scrub for areas with cellulite the fat cells underneath the skin shrinks.

Coffee for skin whitening:

Using coffee topically definitely helps you in lightening your skin tone. The antioxidants, phenols and other nutrients does wonders to the skin.

Here is how you can whiten your skin using coffee

  • Coffee, turmeric and yoghurt facemask:

Coffee-1tbsp

Turmeric-1tbsp

Yoghurt-1tbsp

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and makesure it is lumps free.

Apply it to your face and neck  in downwards direction and leave it on for 20minutes.

Wash it with lukewarm water. You can use this mask twice a week.

  • Coffee sugar scrub:

Coffee 1cup

Brown sugar ½ cup

Jojoba oil 1 ½ tbsp.

Green tea leaves  2 teabags

Apply the mixture gently and in circular motion before stepping in to the shower. Pat dry your skin and use a moisturizer.

  • Coffee and lemon juice face mask:

This mask is good for tan removal. Vitamin C and caffeine both the ingredients have excellent skin lightening and whitening properties.

Coffee powder -1tbsp

Lemon juice – 1tbsp

Make a lump free paste of coffee powder and lemon juice. Apply this to your face and neck and leave for 15mins. wash it off with cold water.

Apart from face masks and scrubs, using an eye cream containing caffeine helps to de-puff your eyes and get rid of those under eye bags.

Caffeine in the cream constricts the blood vessels and reduces lymphatic drainage there by reducing the puffiness.

You can also use coffee ice cubes for instant effect.

Freeze a cup or more of your brewed coffee in an Ice cube tray, massage your under eye area using these and you will notice an instant change.

Using coffee body scrub helps you in getting  rid of cellulite, fine lines and marks on your skin. coffee unclogs the pores and leaves it with even finish and smooth texture.

Coffee also help in giving your hair extra shine, it also help in stimulating the blood flow to your scalp and make your hair healthy.

Make a paste of coffee grounds and water. Apply it to your freshly shampooed hair. Let it rest for 10mins and rinse it.

Benefits of using coffee grounds for skin:

The leftover coffee in the filter after your usual morning cup of energy is called coffee ground and has lots of benefits for your skin.

Coffee grounds has caffeic acid, free phenols and antioxidants that help in skin brightening, cellulite reduction, premature anti-aging and removing dead skin cells.

Incorporating these grounds in your skincare regimen products and routine help you improve your skin health drastically. Here are few ways in which you can incorporate and use coffee grounds to benefit your skin.

  • Make an scrub:

Take six tablespoon of coffee grounds and add four tbsp. of either olive oil or coconut oil make a paste. Apply this paste to your face in circular motion and gently scrub.

This helps to remove the dead skin cells and dirt, leaving your skin soft and fresh.

  • Make a body polish:

Mix used grounds in sweet almond oil and granulated brown sugar and make a paste.

Massage your body with this especially on the rough and areas of skin before going for shower. Rinse your body well. This polish will make your skin softer and smooth.

  • Under eye mask:

Make a paste using ½ tsp. of coffee grounds and olive oil. Apply it to the under eye area in gentle manner. Leave for 5-10 minutes and then rinse it.

  • Make a face mask:

Mix coffee grounds in coconut oil and apply gently to your face in circular motion.

Leave this mask on for 30-60minutes and then rinse off with lukewarm water.

You can also mix coffee grounds in a tablespoon honey and apply this to your face and let it dry for 15-20minutes and then rinse your face with cold water followed by a mild cleanser.

 In the end you can say, coffee is multitasker ingredient which can do wonders to your skin and give you many more benefits than just waking you up and helping you survive the day.

Always makesure you are doing a patch test before using any new skincare product or trying any new skincare remedy to ensure you dont get an adverse reaction or develop an allergic response to the products being used.

Skin Care

Gram flour for dark circles – Recipes and Tips to Use

Author ByMaryem Kam

Also known as chickpea flour and besan, gram flour is a very common flour used to cook a variety of dishes in India and Southeast Asia. For your surprise, gram flour is not only used for that, but it can also be a potent ingredient for your daily beauty regime too! In fact, people from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are obsessed with gram flour for various skincare purposes. It can help you to fight common skin problems including pimples, blemishes, dull and lifeless skin, and more importantly, those annoying dark circles. In this guide, we will tell you some fantastic and very effective ways of using gram flour for dark circles.

How does Gram Flour work for Skin Whitening?

  • Thanks to its powerful bleaching and exfoliating properties, gram flour improves the skin tan, and makes your skin toned, lighter, and replenished.
  • Gram flour gives your skin the much-needed radiant glow and also maintains the even tonicity.
  • Gram flour effectively works against hyperpigmentation and fights problems like dark circles.
  • It is equally befitting for all types of skin, and hence, becomes an ideal home remedy for dark circles.
  • You can use gram flour alone or with other natural ingredients to deal with dark circles as well as a host of other skin conditions.

Homemade Gram Flour Recipes for Dark Circles

1. Gram Flour and Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a widespread skin remedy. It nourishes and soothes your skin naturally. Aloe vera contains a wide range of antioxidants, minerals, polysaccharides, and vitamins, and can help you get rid of dark circles within a few weeks. You can easily get clear, healthy, soft, and supple skin by adding aloe vera to your daily skincare regime. And to get the best out of aloe vera, you have the option of combining it with extraordinary benefits of gram flour.

Recipe

  • Mix one tbsp each of gram flour and fresh aloe vera gel to get a fine paste.
  • Apply on the dark circles evenly and leave for ten minutes.
  • Wash off with cold water and pat dry.
  • Repeating this method thrice a week should be helpful.

2. Gram Flour and Turmeric for Skin Whitening

Turmeric is one of the most productive ingredients for skin whitening. Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, it can be beneficial for people with acne-prone skin. You can successfully improve your skin complexion by applying gram flour and turmeric for the face.

Recipe

  • Add a pinch of turmeric powder to 2 tbsp gram flour.
  • Now, add enough rose water to ensure proper consistency.
  • Apply the even layer of this paste and wear for about fifteen minutes.
  • Splash some water to clean your face.
  • You can use gram flour and turmeric for fairness regularly even if you don’t have dark circles.

3. Gram Flour and Fuller’s Earth for Dark Circles

Fuller’s earth is very good at absorbing extra oil and other impurities out of the skin. That’s why it is prevalent for its skin-cleansing properties and is added in a lot of skin creams and different whitening formulations. Fuller’s earth gives your skin a calming effect, and also clears the clogged pores. A combination of gram flour and Fuller’s earth can help you to overcome dark circles without causing any harmful effects on your skin.

Recipe

  • Combine two tbsp of Fuller’s earth, one tbsp of gram flour and enough rose water to prepare a smooth, lump-free paste.
  • Now, apply the paste under your eyes and leave for about twenty minutes.
  • Use some fresh water to remove the paste and pat dry.

4. Gram flour and honey face pack

Honey is packed with exceptional antibacterial properties and can improve various skin conditions including pimples, blemishes, acne, as well as dark circles. Honey, primarily when used with gram flour, can cleanse, soothes, as well as tones your skin. Also, it works as an effective natural moisturizer too.

Recipe

  • Microwave one tbsp honey for about ten seconds, avoiding overheating.
  • Now, add two tbsp gram flour and mix evenly for better consistency.
  • Keep aside the mixture for a couple of minutes.
  • Now, apply to the areas under your eyes and give enough drying time.
  • Wash off with slightly warm water and finish with a towel or soft cloth.
  • Follow this treatment twice a week for desired results.

5. Gram flour and banana for dark circles

Banana can be an amazing home remedy for dark circles. It contains a decent amount of moisture and potassium and can make your skin soft, supple, and hydrated. Thanks to its vitamin A content, it can restore skin’s moisture and also improves the roughness of skin. Rich fats and deep nourishing qualities of banana can boost the collagen production miraculously when combined with bleaching prowess of gram flour.

Recipe

  • Mash 3 to 4 ripe banana pieces and add two tbsp gram flour to them.
  • Now, add enough milk or rose water.
  • Mix these ingredients properly while adjusting the quantity of milk or rose water.
  • You will get a fine paste with even consistency.
  • Apply this paste on your face and wear for about fifteen minutes.
  • Wash off with slightly thermic water and pat dry.
  • Repeat this recipe twice a week for good results.

6. Gram Flour and Baking Soda for Skin Whitening

Are you annoyed so much due to dark circles? Baking soda can come to your rescue. Thanks to its powerful bleaching properties, baking soda is a powerful ingredient for skin lightening and skin whitening. It can help you fade away almost all types of dark spots, including dark circles. Yes, there is no doubt about the bleaching properties of banking soda, but it can be a bit harsh for your skin. Solution? Of course, you can combine it with gram flour to prepare a fine, effective, and mild mixture for dark circles.

Recipe:

  • Add ¼ cup of water to two tbsp baking soda, 2 tbsp of gram flour and a pinch of turmeric powder.
  • Adjust the quantity of water to get the suitable consistency.
  • Cover the areas affected with dark circles and leave for about ten minutes.
  • Now, remove the paste with lukewarm, not hot water.
  • Pat your face dry with a soft, cotton towel.
  • Repeat this recipe once or twice a week to see dark circles fading away.

7. Gram Flour and Rose Water Face Pack

If you have dark circles coupled with hyperpigmentation, rose water can come to your aid. Rosewater is known for restoring the PH balance of the skin and removes the dirt and other impurities from skin layers as well. Rosewater is a wonderful skin toner too and nourishes your skin, especially when mixed properly with gram flour.

Recipe

  • Prepare a smooth paste by mixing two to three tbsp of rose water with two tbsp of gram flour.
  • Cover the dark circles with this calming paste and give a drying-out time of twenty minutes.
  • Wash the area with lukewarm water in a circular motion.
  • Apply a gentle moisturizer after patting your skin dry.

8. Gram Flour Exfoliating Pack

Gram flour exfoliating pack has been an age-old treatment for skin whitening and other skin problems, including dark circles. Exfoliating your skin with gram flour pack can cleanse your skin and improve the complexion while working effectively on dark circles.

Recipe

  • Add enough water to ½ cup of gram flour to make a consistent paste.
  • Smear the dark circles with the paste and rub very slowly and gently in circular motions.
  • Upward circular motion for about ten minutes is recommended.
  • Wear the face pack for about ten more minutes.
  • Ensure avoiding complete dry out by splashing a few drops of water every minute or so.
  • Rinse the pack off with lukewarm water.
  • Pat your face dry and finish with a gentle, natural skin moisturizer.
  • You can use this face pack/scrub four to five time a week for a clean, spotless face.

9. Gram Flour and Papaya for Dark Circles

Combining papaya with gram flour for dark circles is another smart idea. Papaya is packed with multiple skin-friendly enzymes and is capable enough to remove dead cells from the skin layers. Papaya works very effectively to remove dark circles and makes your skin brighter and radiant. This tender and soft fruit can also shrink and unclog the clogged skin pores. Use papaya with gram flour to finally get rid of those annoying, bad-looking dark circles.

Recipe

  • Mash a four to five cubic pieces of ripe banana
  • Add one tbsp gram flour to it and mix well.
  • Mix a few drops of rose water.
  • Apply the besan-papaya mixture on dark circles.
  • Wash the mixture off after ten minutes.
  • Pat the skin dry with a soft, cotton cloth.

10. Oatmeal and Gram Flour for Dark Circles

Oatmeal is not only a very healthy breakfast for you; it can easily get a respectable place in your weekend’s beauty regime too. Oatmeal is known for its cleansing properties and can remove all the dirt, grime, and other impurities from your skin. In addition to cleansing your skin, oatmeal can soothe and moisturize your skin as well. And using it along with gram flour will be proved handy to make your skin free from dark circles finally.

Recipe

  • Add one tbsp ground oats to one tbsp gram flour.
  • Now, add one tbsp honey and enough rose water to make a granulated paste.
  • Apply the paste carefully on dark circles and keep it on for about fifteen minutes.
  • Wash your face off with lukewarm water and pat dry.
  • Repeat these steps twice a week for surprising results.

11. Yogurt and Gram Flour for Dark Circles

Thanks to its natural oils and enzymes contents, yogurt is an amazing skin moisturizing and cleansing agent. And the lactic acid content of yogurt exfoliates and remove dead skin cells, and improve the overall skin complexion. On the other hand, zinc found in yogurt can help you to remove the zits. Combine all these qualities of yogurt with magnificent bleaching properties of gram flour, and you will get very effective treatment for dark circles.

Recipe

  • Add 2 tbsp of gram flour to 2 tbsp of gram flour.
  • Mix both ingredients well to get a smooth face pack.
  • Wear the face pack covering the skin affected with dark circles.
  • Keep the face pack on for about ten to twenty minutes.
  • Wash off with lukewarm water and finish with a gentle moisturizer.
  • You will start noticing the difference after applying this face pack regularly.

12. Gram Flour and Almond for Dark Circles

For your surprise, almond can be another beneficial home remedy for dark circles. It is packed with numerous minerals and vitamins and can effectively nourish your skin.  Thanks to its vitamin E contents, almond can improve your skin’s health and overcome hyperpigmentation. In addition, it can refresh and rejuvenate the facial skin, especially under your eyes. Due to its generous bleaching properties, almond can be a good option if you are tired of trying different treatments for dark circles.

Recipe

  • Grind four to five almonds in a grinder and add one tbsp gram flour.
  • Now, add one tbsp milk and one tbsp lemon juice to prepare a thick paste.
  • Adjust the quantity of milk to get a suitable consistency.
  • Apply the paste properly under your eyes and leave for about fifteen minutes.
  • Wash the paste off with cold water before patting your face dry.
  • Repeat this method three to four times a week for best results.

NOTE: If you have acne-prone skin, you can use rose water as a substitute in the recipes we have suggested milk as an ingredient.

ANOTHER IMPORTANT REMINDER: We have discussed natural ingredients only, and are safe for almost all types of skin. But some of these ingredients might not be suitable for your skin. So, you can perform a patch test before trying these ingredients.

We have helped you with a lot of different and effective ways of using gram flour for dark circles. You can opt for anyone according to your choice and availability of ingredients. If you have listened to other ways of using gram flour to fight dark circles from your grandma, you can always share with us in the comments section. Because grandmas are always right! No?

How does Gram Flour work for Skin Whitening?

  • Thanks to its powerful bleaching and exfoliating properties, gram flour improves the skin tan, and makes your skin toned, lighter, and replenished.
  • Gram flour gives your skin the much-needed radiant glow and also maintains the even tonicity.
  • Gram flour effectively works against hyperpigmentation and fights problems like dark circles.
  • It is equally befitting for all types of skin, and hence, becomes an ideal home remedy for dark circles.
  • You can use gram flour alone or with other natural ingredients to deal with dark circles as well as a host of other skin conditions.

Homemade Gram Flour Recipes for Dark Circles

1. Gram Flour and Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a widespread skin remedy. It nourishes and soothes your skin naturally. Aloe vera contains a wide range of antioxidants, minerals, polysaccharides, and vitamins, and can help you get rid of dark circles within a few weeks. You can easily get clear, healthy, soft, and supple skin by adding aloe vera to your daily skincare regime. And to get the best out of aloe vera, you have the option of combining it with extraordinary benefits of gram flour.

Recipe

  • Mix one tbsp each of gram flour and fresh aloe vera gel to get a fine paste.
  • Apply on the dark circles evenly and leave for ten minutes.
  • Wash off with cold water and pat dry.
  • Repeating this method thrice a week should be helpful.

2. Gram Flour and Turmeric for Skin Whitening

Turmeric is one of the most productive ingredients for skin whitening. Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, it can be beneficial for people with acne-prone skin. You can successfully improve your skin complexion by applying gram flour and turmeric for the face.

Recipe

  • Add a pinch of turmeric powder to 2 tbsp gram flour.
  • Now, add enough rose water to ensure proper consistency.
  • Apply the even layer of this paste and wear for about fifteen minutes.
  • Splash some water to clean your face.
  • You can use gram flour and turmeric for fairness regularly even if you don’t have dark circles.

3. Gram Flour and Fuller’s Earth for Dark Circles

Fuller’s earth is very good at absorbing extra oil and other impurities out of the skin. That’s why it is prevalent for its skin-cleansing properties and is added in a lot of skin creams and different whitening formulations. Fuller’s earth gives your skin a calming effect, and also clears the clogged pores. A combination of gram flour and Fuller’s earth can help you to overcome dark circles without causing any harmful effects on your skin.

Recipe

  • Combine two tbsp of Fuller’s earth, one tbsp of gram flour and enough rose water to prepare a smooth, lump-free paste.
  • Now, apply the paste under your eyes and leave for about twenty minutes.
  • Use some fresh water to remove the paste and pat dry.

4. Gram flour and honey face pack

Honey is packed with exceptional antibacterial properties and can improve various skin conditions including pimples, blemishes, acne, as well as dark circles. Honey, primarily when used with gram flour, can cleanse, soothes, as well as tones your skin. Also, it works as an effective natural moisturizer too.

Recipe

  • Microwave one tbsp honey for about ten seconds, avoiding overheating.
  • Now, add two tbsp gram flour and mix evenly for better consistency.
  • Keep aside the mixture for a couple of minutes.
  • Now, apply to the areas under your eyes and give enough drying time.
  • Wash off with slightly warm water and finish with a towel or soft cloth.
  • Follow this treatment twice a week for desired results.

5. Gram flour and banana for dark circles

Banana can be an amazing home remedy for dark circles. It contains a decent amount of moisture and potassium and can make your skin soft, supple, and hydrated. Thanks to its vitamin A content, it can restore skin’s moisture and also improves the roughness of skin. Rich fats and deep nourishing qualities of banana can boost the collagen production miraculously when combined with bleaching prowess of gram flour.

Recipe

  • Mash 3 to 4 ripe banana pieces and add two tbsp gram flour to them.
  • Now, add enough milk or rose water.
  • Mix these ingredients properly while adjusting the quantity of milk or rose water.
  • You will get a fine paste with even consistency.
  • Apply this paste on your face and wear for about fifteen minutes.
  • Wash off with slightly thermic water and pat dry.
  • Repeat this recipe twice a week for good results.

6. Gram Flour and Baking Soda for Skin Whitening

Are you annoyed so much due to dark circles? Baking soda can come to your rescue. Thanks to its powerful bleaching properties, baking soda is a powerful ingredient for skin lightening and skin whitening. It can help you fade away almost all types of dark spots, including dark circles. Yes, there is no doubt about the bleaching properties of banking soda, but it can be a bit harsh for your skin. Solution? Of course, you can combine it with gram flour to prepare a fine, effective, and mild mixture for dark circles.

Recipe:

  • Add ¼ cup of water to two tbsp baking soda, 2 tbsp of gram flour and a pinch of turmeric powder.
  • Adjust the quantity of water to get the suitable consistency.
  • Cover the areas affected with dark circles and leave for about ten minutes.
  • Now, remove the paste with lukewarm, not hot water.
  • Pat your face dry with a soft, cotton towel.
  • Repeat this recipe once or twice a week to see dark circles fading away.

7. Gram Flour and Rose Water Face Pack

If you have dark circles coupled with hyperpigmentation, rose water can come to your aid. Rosewater is known for restoring the PH balance of the skin and removes the dirt and other impurities from skin layers as well. Rosewater is a wonderful skin toner too and nourishes your skin, especially when mixed properly with gram flour.

Recipe

  • Prepare a smooth paste by mixing two to three tbsp of rose water with two tbsp of gram flour.
  • Cover the dark circles with this calming paste and give a drying-out time of twenty minutes.
  • Wash the area with lukewarm water in a circular motion.
  • Apply a gentle moisturizer after patting your skin dry.

8. Gram Flour Exfoliating Pack

Gram flour exfoliating pack has been an age-old treatment for skin whitening and other skin problems, including dark circles. Exfoliating your skin with gram flour pack can cleanse your skin and improve the complexion while working effectively on dark circles.

Recipe

  • Add enough water to ½ cup of gram flour to make a consistent paste.
  • Smear the dark circles with the paste and rub very slowly and gently in circular motions.
  • Upward circular motion for about ten minutes is recommended.
  • Wear the face pack for about ten more minutes.
  • Ensure avoiding complete dry out by splashing a few drops of water every minute or so.
  • Rinse the pack off with lukewarm water.
  • Pat your face dry and finish with a gentle, natural skin moisturizer.
  • You can use this face pack/scrub four to five time a week for a clean, spotless face.

9. Gram Flour and Papaya for Dark Circles

Combining papaya with gram flour for dark circles is another smart idea. Papaya is packed with multiple skin-friendly enzymes and is capable enough to remove dead cells from the skin layers. Papaya works very effectively to remove dark circles and makes your skin brighter and radiant. This tender and soft fruit can also shrink and unclog the clogged skin pores. Use papaya with gram flour to finally get rid of those annoying, bad-looking dark circles.

Recipe

  • Mash a four to five cubic pieces of ripe banana
  • Add one tbsp gram flour to it and mix well.
  • Mix a few drops of rose water.
  • Apply the besan-papaya mixture on dark circles.
  • Wash the mixture off after ten minutes.
  • Pat the skin dry with a soft, cotton cloth.

10. Oatmeal and Gram Flour for Dark Circles

Oatmeal is not only a very healthy breakfast for you; it can easily get a respectable place in your weekend’s beauty regime too. Oatmeal is known for its cleansing properties and can remove all the dirt, grime, and other impurities from your skin. In addition to cleansing your skin, oatmeal can soothe and moisturize your skin as well. And using it along with gram flour will be proved handy to make your skin free from dark circles finally.

Recipe

  • Add one tbsp ground oats to one tbsp gram flour.
  • Now, add one tbsp honey and enough rose water to make a granulated paste.
  • Apply the paste carefully on dark circles and keep it on for about fifteen minutes.
  • Wash your face off with lukewarm water and pat dry.
  • Repeat these steps twice a week for surprising results.

11. Yogurt and Gram Flour for Dark Circles

Thanks to its natural oils and enzymes contents, yogurt is an amazing skin moisturizing and cleansing agent. And the lactic acid content of yogurt exfoliates and remove dead skin cells, and improve the overall skin complexion. On the other hand, zinc found in yogurt can help you to remove the zits. Combine all these qualities of yogurt with magnificent bleaching properties of gram flour, and you will get very effective treatment for dark circles.

Recipe

  • Add 2 tbsp of gram flour to 2 tbsp of gram flour.
  • Mix both ingredients well to get a smooth face pack.
  • Wear the face pack covering the skin affected with dark circles.
  • Keep the face pack on for about ten to twenty minutes.
  • Wash off with lukewarm water and finish with a gentle moisturizer.
  • You will start noticing the difference after applying this face pack regularly.

12. Gram Flour and Almond for Dark Circles

For your surprise, almond can be another beneficial home remedy for dark circles. It is packed with numerous minerals and vitamins and can effectively nourish your skin.  Thanks to its vitamin E contents, almond can improve your skin’s health and overcome hyperpigmentation. In addition, it can refresh and rejuvenate the facial skin, especially under your eyes. Due to its generous bleaching properties, almond can be a good option if you are tired of trying different treatments for dark circles.

Recipe

  • Grind four to five almonds in a grinder and add one tbsp gram flour.
  • Now, add one tbsp milk and one tbsp lemon juice to prepare a thick paste.
  • Adjust the quantity of milk to get a suitable consistency.
  • Apply the paste properly under your eyes and leave for about fifteen minutes.
  • Wash the paste off with cold water before patting your face dry.
  • Repeat this method three to four times a week for best results.

NOTE: If you have acne-prone skin, you can use rose water as a substitute in the recipes we have suggested milk as an ingredient.

ANOTHER IMPORTANT REMINDER: We have discussed natural ingredients only, and are safe for almost all types of skin. But some of these ingredients might not be suitable for your skin. So, you can perform a patch test before trying these ingredients.

We have helped you with a lot of different and effective ways of using gram flour for dark circles. You can opt for anyone according to your choice and availability of ingredients. If you have listened to other ways of using gram flour to fight dark circles from your grandma, you can always share with us in the comments section. Because grandmas are always right! No?