Home Remedies for Piles

Hemorrhoids (read hem-uh-roids), also known as “piles,” are swollen veins of your lower rectum and anus, pretty similar to varicose veins. Depending on the affecting area, hemorrhoids are classified as “internal hemorrhoids” (inside the rectum) and “external hemorrhoids” (under the skin surrounding the anus).

It is a prevalent condition affecting almost three out of four adults once or more in the lifetime. Underlining the exact cause of hemorrhoids is not very easy, but a combination of factors like a sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy diet is usually responsible. Luckily, there are some very effective as well as safe home remedies for piles.

You can use these remedies and some lifestyle adjustments to improve the condition, especially in the early stages. But you can’t rely only on these remedies if you are having symptoms of late stages of piles. Symptoms like painful stools and regular constipation can be managed at home. However, if you start noticing rectal bleeding, you should talk to your doctor without any hesitation.

Before we discuss these home remedies, let’s try to answer some critical questions related to hemorrhoids.

How long do piles last?

It deserves entirely on the severity of the condition and related symptoms. We can’t talk of a set duration for how long you can have piles. Small, painless piles without considerable discomfort usually clear up within a few days and don’t require specific treatment. A change in diet, like more fiber and exclusion of oily foods, leading an active lifestyle, etc., is enough to overcome small hemorrhoids.

However, large, external piles causing significant discomfort like very painful stools, constipation, and rectal bleeding, etc., may take longer to heal. In such cases, home remedies for piles may not be enough, and you may have to talk to your doctor for proper treatment.

How long does it take for hemorrhoids to shrink?

Again, it depends mainly on how the rectum and anus are affected by hemorrhoids. Regular hemorrhoids with mild discomfort usually shrink within a week. However, thrombosed hemorrhoids may take up to 10 days to improve if you are not going for the surgery. It may require two to three weeks for the lump to heal completely.

The healing period after getting proper treatment won’t stop you from leading an everyday life. However, your doctor may suggest you against intense exercises and strenuous activities, at least for a couple of weeks.

Is there a natural cure for piles?

Yes, natural remedies are quite effective in improving the condition – but only when you don’t have severe piles complications. Following are some very effective home remedies that can help you overcome mild to moderate piles symptoms.

Home remedies for piles

1. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera gel has been applied as a natural remedy for piles for many years. The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera gel may effectively improve inflammation and irritation of the anus and rectum. Although we don’t have enough scientific evidence of aloe vera as an effective treatment for piles, the National Center for Complementary and Integrated Health records aloe vera gel as a very effective and safe topical natural treatment for piles.

You can find aloe vera gel in various skincare products, but using only pure, fresh aloe vera gel is recommended for the best results. Some people are allergic to aloe vera gel. You should avoid using aloe vera gel even if you are allergic to onions and garlic. Rubbing a pea-sized amount of gel on the forearm will help you to check for allergic reactions. If you don’t notice anything different after 24 to 48 hours, the gel is safe for you for topical use.

2. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is also considered among very efficient home remedies for piles. You must be very sure and, at the same time, cautious about what you are going to apply on piles – because the already-affected area may get more irritated and inflamed. Many people use witch hazel to apply directly on external piles to get relief from pain and irritation.

Natural witch hazel is an excellent source of astringent, a substance known for its tissue-shrinking abilities. Thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, witch hazel may give you instant relief from complications, if not treat the symptoms permanently.

Here is how you can use witch hazel as a natural treatment for piles:

  • Take a small quantity of pure and fresh witch hazel on a cotton ball.
  • Dab the cotton ball on painful areas to get some quick relief.
  • You should never use witch hazel diluted with alcohol to avoid an increase in irritation and dryness.

3. Apply Some Petroleum Jelly

Petroleum jelly, Vaseline, in particular, may also be effective to soothe inflammation and pain. For desired results, dab some petroleum jelly on the affected area and get quick relief.

Must Read: Remove Gallstones Naturally – Is It Possible?

Home remedies for external piles

1. Ice Packs

Applying cold or ice packs to the piles may also be surprisingly useful to improve pain and inflammation. An ice pack may temporarily relieve pain and reduce swelling as well.

Don’t apply ice cubes directly to the skin to avoid tissue damage. Instead, scarf a few ice cubes in a soft, clean cloth and dab on the affected area for fifteen minutes to get relief.

2. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is known for its moisturizing effects and can reduce piles’ complications within a few minutes. You can apply some coconut oil directly on piles to get rid of swelling and irritation. Coconut oil is also very good at reducing the urge to scratch the piles-affected anus.

3. Potato Compress

It may sound very strange, but a potato compress is also among the most effective home remedies for external piles. When you apply grated potato on piles, it works as a soothing astringent and improves the symptoms like pain, inflammation, itching, etc. 

4. Warm Bath with Epsom Salt

A warm bath can also give surprising results and can reduce irritation and inflammation. Both a full-body bath and a sitz bath can give you immediate relief from the complication of piles. We recommend taking an Epsom salt bath for fifteen to twenty minutes after a bowel movement for great results. It might sound a bit arduous but is packed with some surprising results. Hence, you should give it a try.

How to get rid of piles when pregnant?

Pregnant women are usually prone to getting hemorrhoids, especially in the third trimester, due to the pressure of an enlarged uterus on rectal veins and reduced physical activities. You can ease the complications with these home treatments:

  • Avoid sitting in one position for so long: Sitting aggravates the anus and rectum’s venous pressure. You should avoid sitting in one position for hours. Instead, try to take a stroll or keep changing your sitting position regularly. Standing up every few minutes may also help. Sitting on a hemorrhoid pillow (also known as doughnut and ring cushion) may also be very handy.
  • Soak in warm water: Soaking the affected area in a tub filled with warm water may also help reduce complications of hemorrhoids during pregnancy.
  • Ask your doctor for an over-the-counter-remedy: Applying witch hazel medicated pads can be immensely helpful. Otherwise, ask your gynecologist for prescribed medication or cream to ease the symptoms.

NOTE: Pregnancy is itself full of different complications. If you get affected with hemorrhoids quite frequently during pregnancy, we suggest you get in touch with your doctor for proper assessment and a change in the pregnancy-care module, if required.

Natural food treatment for piles

Some minor changes in your eating habit can be surprisingly useful to deal with hemorrhoids and related complications. Here are some tempering you can do with your diet.

1. Add more fiber

Diet rich in fiber can play a crucial role in improving piles by positively affecting your digestion. Fiber increases your stool volume and weight and ensures easy and comfortable passage of stools. Oatmeal, nuts, beans, fruits, pears, etc., are some of the best dietary fiber sources.

2. Drink plenty of water and other liquids

Most anal problems, including hemorrhoids, usually develop due to a lack of fluids in the diet.

Quench a lot of water and other fluids such as fruit and vegetable juices, coconut water, etc., can help you keep your stools soft and make them easy to pass through the intestines. A much softer stool means you can pass the stool without putting much pressure on the rectum – and in less irritation to the affected parts.

3. Add more whole grains

Whole grains are the powerhouses of nutrition. Because they are ready to eat with endosperm, bran, and germ – all of which are packed with various health benefits.  Whole grains are particularly rich in insoluble fiber and can immensely improve your digestion and reduce the discomfort related to hemorrhoids.

You should keep in mind that whole grains are not only about bread and whole-wheat flour. While these are the best options, the list contains corn, brown rice, oats, whole rye, barley, and quinoa.

In particular, oatmeal can be a perfect natural treatment for piles, and that too, without any side effects. Oatmeal is an excellent source of fiber known as “beta-glucan,” which works like a prebiotic and improves your gut microbiome. Prebiotic also ensure better survival for good bacteria in your diet.

When you visit an online or nearby store to purchase oatmeal, steel-cut oats need more cooking time but are less processed.

4. Add Broccoli and Other Veggies Containing Cruciferous

Cruciferous veggies like cauliflower, broccoli, arugula, kale, brussels sprouts, cabbage, turnips, radishes, etc., can be very healthful home remedies for piles.

These vegetables are known for their anticancer properties, but they are packed with many insoluble fibers. For example, only one cup (76 grams) of raw broccoli gives you about 2 grams of healthy fiber, and the best part is, all of it is insoluble. Broccoli increases your stool’s volume and makes it pass easier. Additionally, cruciferous vegetables contain glucosinolate, a plant chemical that is easier for your gut bacteria to breakdown.

A study highlighted that an increased intake of cruciferous vegetables (14 grams per kg) of body weight assorted the gut microbe within a couple of weeks. And assorted gut microbe is directly linked with a healthy, more resilient gastrointestinal system, and at the same time, and improved immunity. This, especially when combined with fiber content, makes cruciferous veggies a go-to option for people struggling with hemorrhoids.

5. Cucumbers and Melons

Cucumbers and melons come from the Cucurbitaceae family. They are not only very delicious, but can be fine home remedies for piles, and can also improve your digestion.

Tip: Instead of consuming peeled cucumber, have them with the skin to get the most fiber content.

6. Apples

Apples also boast a decent amount of healthy fiber. For instance, one medium-sized apple contains about 5 grams of fiber. The apple contains a special fiber known as pectin, which forms a gel-like consistency in your digestive tract.

This improves your digestive system and bulks up the stool, easing the strain during stool and other hemorrhoids symptoms.

Some other very healthy and effective foods that can help you get over piles are pears, raspberries, bananas, stewed prunes, bell peppers, celery, root vegetables, squash, etc.

Foods to Avoid:

You should avoid foods low in fiber, including red meat, dairy products, fried foods, processed meats, salty foods, white flour, etc.

Piles are not a very serious complication, of course, until and unless left untreated for multiple weeks. You can improve mild to moderate symptoms with a healthy combination of a fiber-rich diet and home remedies for piles. Hopefully, we have guided you correctly with some very efficient natural remedies. If you don’t notice any recovery in symptoms even after a couple of weeks, we suggest you talk to a doctor for a proper assessment. Sometimes, doctors suggest hemorrhoidectomy (a surgical procedure to remove hemorrhoids), especially if there is no improvement after long-term medical treatment.

References:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317114#Lifestyle-changes

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268

https://www.healthline.com/health/home-remedies-for-hemorrhoids#otc-ointments

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322976#recovery

https://www.healthline.com/health/thrombosed-hemorrhoid#recovery

https://www.readersdigest.ca/health/conditions/home-remedies-for-hemorrhoids/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/expert-answers/hemorrhoids-during-pregnancy/faq-20058149

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/food-for-piles#Foods-to-avoid

Home Remedies: How to Reduce Sugar Level

A frequent rise in your blood sugar level is not good for your health at all. It can affect different body parts and components, including blood vessels, nerves, blood, and various organs. If left uncontrolled, high blood sugar may lead to some severe health conditions.

Different medications and synthetic insulin are used for regulating high blood-sugar levels. But there are some easy ways to regulate minutely high blood sugar with some natural treatments. These home remedies for hyperglycaemia are effective as well as safe and are suitable for diabetic and non-diabetic people of any age. In this guide, we will try to learn how to lower high blood sugar at home.

Also, we will discuss some essential aspects of high blood sugar; it’s causes, different blood-sugar levels chart and a lot more. Let’s find out what is high blood sugar first.

What is high blood sugar?

Also known as “hyperglycaemia”, high blood pressure is the most prominent characteristic of all types of diabetes. An average blood sugar level depends on various factors including age, sex, and lifestyle etc. The blood sugar level is raised when your pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin, or your body’s cells have somehow become resistant to insulin.

When your body’s blood sugar level is more than 130 mg/dL before a meal or more than 180 mg/dL after the first bite of your meal, however, most of the signs and symptoms of high blood pressure remain dormant until the blood-sugar level is more than 250 mg/dl. But a few symptoms are known to have a rapid onset.

Hyperglycaemia can be both acute or chronic. Acute hyperglycaemia affects your body briefly and is usually due to meals highly rich in carbohydrates, stress, a missed dose of medicine, medicinal reaction, or other illness etc.

Chronic hyperglycaemia is a condition characterized by long-term elevated blood glucose. It is usually a result of ignored or untreated diabetes or due to improper diabetes treatment regimen. Chronic one is undoubtedly more dangerous and can be life-threatening at times as well. A long-term increased blood-sugar level can have a toxic effect on your tissues and may lead to a plethora of other complications.

What are the causes of high blood sugar?

Underlining a single cause for high blood sugar is a bit tough. However, there are various risk factors associated with diabetes, including:

  • Excessive eating, especially too much snacking between meals
  • Prolonged illness or infection
  • Overweight or obesity
  • Prolonged mental stress
  • Overtreatment of low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
  • Excessive intake of medicines like steroids

What causes blood sugar to rise in non-diabetics?

Non-diabetic hyperglycaemia is a condition in which your blood sugar level increases even if you don’t have diabetes. A major or prolonged illness is usually the most common cause of non-diabetic hyperglycaemia. Here are the conditions that are typically associated with non-diabetic hyperglycaemia:

  • Medical condition such as polycystic ovarian syndrome or Cushing syndrome
  • Infections like urinary tract infection or pneumonia
  • Trauma such as severe injury or burn
  • Nutrition through IV or feeding tube
  • Prolonged lack of physical activities
  • A family history of gestational diabetes
  • Overdose of certain medications like diuretics or steroids

What causes blood sugar to rise without eating?

Sometimes, your blood sugar level may elevate even without eating! Yes, some astounding factors can cause a sudden spike in blood sugar level

  • Artificial sweeteners – Some studies suggest that overuse of artificial sweeteners can also cause a hike in blood sugar levels.
  • Coffee – People who are sensitive to coffee can have an elevated blood-sugar level even without adding sugar to it.
  • Sunburn – The pain due to sunburn causes stress, which is a common causative factor for an increased blood sugar
  • Loss of Sleep – Insufficient sleep of even one night can be responsible for stress and hence, non-diabetic hyperglycaemia.
  • Skipping Breakfast – Leaving breakfast can also cause increased blood sugar, especially after lunch and dinner.
  • Dawn Phenomenon – Having a surge of hormones in the morning irrespective of being diabetic or not is also seen as a causative factor for higher blood sugar in both diabetics and non-diabetics.
  • Nasal Spray – Some nasal sprays contain chemicals that may trigger your liver to cause a surge in blood sugar levels.
  • Dehydration – Reduced water intake is also associated with a higher concentration of sugar in the blood.
  • Gum Disease – One of the common complications responsible for a hike in blood glucose in both diabetics and non-diabetics.

We recommend you to watch out for these factors if you are having a surge in blood-sugar level even after having a balanced diet and avoiding overeating. These factors elevate blood-sugar levels, usually for a limited period, and you should not be worried much. However, a constant or frequent surge should not be taken lightly, and you should see a licensed medical practitioner.

Can stress cause high blood sugar levels in non-diabetics?

Yes, work stress, emotional stress, very scary movies, a trauma, or a sudden lousy news etc. all can force your liver to release already stored glucose to ensure a better response to these triggers.

On the other hand, sometimes, stress disrupts the release of insulin from the pancreas and causes a pile-up of glucose in your blood. If you have long-term mental stress, the build-up of glucose will only increase. Stress-induced hyperglycaemia in non-diabetics is usually harmless and can be managed very effectively with physical exercises, meditation, counselling etc.

What level of blood sugar is dangerous?

You should start taking a lot of precautions and proper treatment if your blood sugar level is more than 150 mg/dL while fasting and 200 mg/dL after a meal. You may start developing symptoms once the blood-sugar level is more than 300 mg/dl. You may have one or more symptoms, including:

  • Dry mouth
  • Blurry vision
  • Excessive thirst
  • Excessive urination
  • Dryness of mouth
  • Tiredness throughout the day

Blood-sugar level of anything more than 400 mg/dl can be dangerous, and very high blood sugar, i.e. 600 mg/dl or higher can cause coma and even death.

High blood sugar levels chart?

A blood-glucose chart is convenient to identify ideal and healthy blood sugar levels throughout the day, including fasting and after meals. While checking for blood-sugar, you should also keep in mind the low blood sugar. It is not very common but can be very harmful to your health, even life-threatening at times. Here is a blood-sugar chart along-with recommendation.

Fasting blood sugar level Risk-level and suggested action
50 mg/dl or under Dangerously low: Immediate medical attention is very important
70 – 90 mg/dl Usually very low: Consuming sugar while having symptoms. If not improved, get medical attention
90 – 120 mg/dl Normal range
120-160 mg/dl Medium: Lifestyle changes under the guidance of a doctor is usually enough to manage
160-240 mg/dl Too high: Immediate actions are required to control and reduce bloodsugar levels
240-300 mg/dl Much too high: Can be a sign of improper glucose management, seeing a doctor is strongly recommended
300 mg/dl or high Very high: Immediate medical attention is advised
600 mg/dl or high Too high, the patient may go to coma. Can be life-threatening also.

Blood sugar levels chart by age

Average blood sugar level varies according to different factors; age being the most common one. Here is a chart for your reference, so that you can understand the optimum blood sugar level for other age groups

Kids Under 6

  • Fasting – 80 to 180 mg/dl
  • Before meal – 100 to 180 mg/dl
  • After a meal (1-1 ½ hour) – about 180 mg/dl
  • Bedtime – 110 – 200 mg/dl

Age 6-12

  • Fasting – 80 to 180 mg/dl
  • Before meal – 90 to 180 mg/dl
  • Before exercise – At least 150 mg/dl
  • Bedtime – 100 to 180 mg/dl

Age 13-19

  • Fasting – 70 to 150 mg/dl
  • Before meal – 90 to 130 mg/dl
  • Before exercise – At least 150 mg/dl
  • Bedtime – 90 to 150 mg/dl

Age 20+

  • Fasting – Less than 100 mg/dl
  • Before meal – 70 to 130 mg/dl
  • After a meal (1-2 hours) – Less than 180 mg/dl
  • Before exercise – *If taking insulin – 100 mg/dl
  • Bedtime – 100 to 140 mg/dl

What to do when blood sugar is high? – Self-management of hyperglycaemia

If you are noticing early signs of high blood sugar, you should test your blood sugar with the help of your doctor. If the level is not very high, here are a few effective ways to control it.

  • Drink a lot of water: Water can be helpful to remove extra sugar from the blood through urine, and also aids you to avoid dehydration.
  • Change your diet and eating habits: “Don’t eat anything”. Avoid sugary or starchy foods from your diet. Reduce or stop sugar intake, especially that of refined sugar. Also, make some adjustments to the timing of your meals. Avoid eating late at night, so that your body can get enough time to digest and process the foods.
  • Exercise, a lot more, but with caution: Exercises and workouts can also help you to reduce high blood pressure. But specific activities are also known for causing a spike. So, talk to your doctor before starting any exercise. If you have diabetes and the blood sugar level is high, you should check for ketones in your urine. Don’t exercise if you find ketones.

How to reduce sugar level? – Home Remedies

Yes, treatment, particularly insulin intake, is necessary to keep your blood sugar level intact. But you can also try some home remedies to reduce high blood sugar, especially if it is just above the normal range.

  • Control Your Carb Intake:

Your body breaks carbohydrate down into healthy sugars, and then insulin helps sugars to move into the cells. When your body gets too much carb, the insulin factor is unable to function correctly, and the blood glucose level is raised unhealthily.

Hence, you should control your carb intake by having a track of what you are eating. These days, tracking your meals is very easy, thanks to some very innovative mobile applications, smartwatches, and gadgets. Lean meats, fishes, eggs, green leafy vegetables, nuts, and seeds etc. are some healthy, low-carb foods you can add to your diet.

  • Increase Fibre Intake:

Fibres are known for slowing down the digestion of carbs and absorption of sugar. So, increasing your fibre intake can help to keep your blood sugar level in check. Your body requires both soluble and insoluble fibres; soluble fibre is particularly effective to lower blood sugar levels. Some excellent sources of fibre are fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes etc.

  • Manage Your Stress

At times, stress management alone can have surprising effects, especially if fluctuated hormones are causing a spike in blood sugar levels. Exercises, mindfulness, meditation, consulting a psychiatrist, talking to your family and friend etc. can help you to overcome stress.

  • Get proper, quality sleep

Insomnia, stress, hypertension, raised blood sugar levels, increased blood pressure, lethargies, irritability, obesity etc. all are very much linked with each other. At least one of them accompany further complication. And if you are struggling with insomnia, there are very high chances that you have mental stress. And finding out the exact cause, and managing it properly can help you to work your sleep cycle properly.

Practising mindfulness, bringing discipline to your life, and enjoying some time with family and friends etc. all can help you to feel relaxed while going to bed. And once you start getting proper, quality sleep, you will start getting rid of a lot of problems, including hyperglycaemia.

  • Lose Some Weight

If you are overweight or obese (See the difference), you should stop feeling very relaxed, because you are moving towards disaster. Obesity is very harmful to your body in a lot of ways and can be one of the major causes of high blood sugar.Hence, controlling your body weight can also be very useful to reduce blood sugar levels, and again, reduce your risk of getting diabetes.

Losing weight is not as straightforward as a lot of people think. However, if you are determined enough, you can shed a few kilos with a combination of a healthy diet, exercises, and workout etc.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to high blood sugar level, people assume straightaway that they have diabetes. However, that’s not the case. You may get a spike in your blood sugar levels even if you are non-diabatic. And managing acute hyperglycaemia is usually not very challenging. Hopefully, we were successful in trying to help you with different aspects of high blood sugar. It has become a pervasive health problem, and we recommend you to meet your doctor as soon as you get even a few symptoms.

References:

https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/managing-diabetes/blood-glucose-management/high-blood-sugar/#:~:text=Blood%20glucose%20is%20commonly%20considered,higher%20than%20250%20mg%2Fdl.

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/high-blood-sugar-hyperglycaemia/

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/15-ways-to-lower-blood-sugar#TOC_TITLE_HDR_16

https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/guide/diabetes-hyperglycemia

https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/managing-diabetes/blood-glucose-management/high-blood-sugar/#:~:text=Blood%20glucose%20is%20commonly%20considered,higher%20than%20250%20mg%2Fdl.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20371451#:~:text=A%20blood%20sugar%20level%20less,mmol%2FL)%20indicates%20prediabetes.

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/high-blood-sugar-hyperglycaemia/

https://www.drugs.com/cg/nondiabetic-hyperglycemia.html

https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/spotlights/blood-sugar.html#:~:text=Some%20people’s%20blood%20sugar%20is,after%20both%20lunch%20and%20dinner.

https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/qa/can-stress-cause-high-blood-sugar-levels

https://www.summitmedicalgroup.com/library/adult_health/aha_high_blood_sugar/#:~:text=Very%20high%20blood%20sugar%E2%80%94that,at%20your%20healthcare%20provider’s%20office.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317536#interpreting-the-results

https://www.srlworld.com/blog/blood-sugar-levels-normal-high-low-ranges/

Home Remedies for Kidney Stone – Is It Really Possible to Remove Kidney Stones “Naturally”?

Kidney stones are common but can be very painful and comfortable. If you feel pain in the lower right or left of your back, there are chances that you may have one or more stones in your kidney. There are various factors responsible for the formation of stones in one or both kidneys. They are unhealthy diet, obesity, lack of physical exercise, and dehydration, etc. How to remove 8mm kidney stone naturally? Well, that’s an interesting question! Because stone of anything more than 6 mm can be very hard to remove without proper treatment!

But there are a few claims about the “natural removal” of kidney stones with 8 mm diameter. Is that really possible? If not, what are other successful treatments? How is kidney stone pain different from the general type of abdominal or back pain? What changes should you make to your lifestyle to prevent kidney stones? How can your life get affected? We will try to answer all these questions and more in this article. Let’s find out

How do I know if it’s kidney pain?

Abdominal or lower back pain can be due to loads of known as well as unknown causes. Sometimes, you may feel pain right at the “kidney region” due to excessive bowel gas! But pain due to kidney stones is a bit different.

Kidney stone pain is characterized by constant, dull, and very aching, deep pain at the right or left flank (depends on the affected kidney). If both kidneys have stones, you may feel interchanging or constant pain on both sides. But usually, one kidney is affected with stone at a time. So, it’s less likely to feel the pain on both sides of the flank. Pain due to kidney stone gets worse on touch. Even the slightest of touch can make the patient go mad due to pain.

Other Kidney Stone Pain Symptoms:

If you have some other accompanying symptoms with flank pain, you should know that you may have stones in your kidney without hitting the panic button. Some common accompanying symptoms of kidney pain are:

  • Frequent urination
  • Blood in urine
  • Constant nausea and vomiting
  • Intermittent fever with chills
  • Flank pain radiating to the groin region
  • Burning pain while passing urine
  • Urinary tract infection

If you feel flank pain on either side with one or more of these kidney stone pain symptoms, you should not take a chance and go for proper investigation and treatment.

What Are the Causes of Formation of Kidney Stones?

Finding one definite, single cause for kidney stones is hard. But some factors increase the probability of stone formation in your kidneys.

Kidney stones are formed due to excessive crystal-formation substances in your urine. They can be calcium, oxalate, and uric acid. Calcium or uric acid in urine is not uncommon, but when the quantity is more than the fluid in urine, the chances of stones formation are higher. At the same time, there may be a lack of crystal preventing substances in your urine that can cause kidney stones formation.

Different Types of Kidney Stones

Depending on the crystal-forming substances, there are different types of kidney stones, such as:

  • Calcium Stones: Kidney stones are mostly formed from calcium in the form of calcium oxalate. Your body either gets oxalates from your liver or the diet. Various fruits, veggies, chocolate, and nuts are prime sources of oxalate. Dietary factors like excessive intake of vitamin D and several metabolic disorders may increase calcium stones formation risk.
  • Uric Acid Stones: Increased uric acid is a common phenomenon in people with malabsorption and chronic diarrhea and those who get high protein in their diets. People with diabetes and metabolic syndrome are also at risk of developing kidney stones from excessive uric acid.
  • Struvite Stones: One of the less common types of kidney stones is usually seen in urinary tract infection. These stones are pretty larger and grow quicker than other types.
  • Cystine Stones: People having hereditary disorders like cystinuria are prone to cystine stones.
What Are the Home Remedies for Kidney Stone Pain?

Treating kidney stone pain at home is not the smartest idea, as it needs proper treatment under medical assistance. However, you can reduce the severity of pain with some home remedies for kidney pain.

Dehydration is one of the major causes of kidney pain, and staying hydrated is the most common advice you will get from doctors. The following are some home remedies to increase the chances of passing out kidney stones along with conventional treatment.

NOTE: Staying hydrated is the most important aspect of easing kidney pain.

1. Drink A Lot of Water:

Increasing your water intake is a must if you want to give your body even a little chance to pass out the stones. Instead of the standard recommendation of 8 glasses of water per day, drink 10 to 12 glasses.

2. Add Lemon Juice to Your Diet

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is not only a great mood lifter, but it is also packed with plenty of other health benefits as well. Lemon is a very good source of citrate and can prevent calcium stones from used regularly. Citrate can also break up small calcium stones to pass them through urine.

Lemon juice is more effective when it comes to the prevention of kidney stones. And you need a lot of them to somehow dissolve and pass through urine. Yes, lemon juice can dissolve kidney stones of up to 2 mm, especially if used regularly for a couple of months. But you can’t dissolve kidney stone fast with the only lemon if they are more than 4 mm in diameter.

3. Use Basil Juice

Acetic acid is one of the main components of basil juice and can help ease kidney stones pain. It’s packed with various nutrients. Basil juice is also a good natural remedy for inflammatory and digestive troubles.

Basil juice can keep your kidneys healthy due to its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents.

You can use fresh and dried leaves to prepare a cup of basil juice and drink twice a day. Juicing fresh basil leaves or adding it to a smoothie is also a good option.

Here are words of caution, though:

Using medicinal basil juice for more than straight six weeks can be a bit harmful, as it can cause

  • Low blood pressure
  • Low blood sugar
  • And increased bleeding

Also Read: How Long Do Canker Sores Last?

4. Is apple cider vinegar good for kidney pain?

Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar for kidney stones. ACV can flush out small-sized kidney stones. And improves other symptoms too. Let’s find out how ACV is good for kidney pain.

  • Softens and dissolves stones: ACV contains acetic acid and can break down the small-sized stones within a few weeks. In addition to breaking them down, ACV can also soften them and reduce their size to make them movable with the urine.
  • ACV cleanses your body: ACV prevents the formation of kidney stones by removing the toxins out of your body.
  • Breaks down the stone forming tissues: ACV also contains phosphoric and citric acid and can significantly break down the hard tissues responsible for forming kidney stones.
  • Improves Digestion: Alkaline properties of ACV help in the digestion process and trigger hydrochloric acid production.

In short, you can use apple cider vinegar in the initial stages of kidney stones pain. But relying on ACV in the case of large-sized stones is not recommended. Seek proper medical advice if you don’t notice any improvement. Here is how you can use apple cider vinegar for kidney pain.

  • Add two tbsp apple cider vinegar to one glass purified water.
  • Drink the mixture throughout the day.
  • Don’t consume ACV mixture more than 8-ounce.

5. Celery Juice:

Celery juice can also ease kidney stones pain and improve other symptoms of kidney stones pain by removing the toxins contributing to kidney stones’ formation.

Blend a few stalks of celery with water, and drink the juice numerous times a day.

Avoid this drink if you are using:

  • Lithium (Lithane)
  • Levothyroxine (Synthroid)
  • Medications that increase your sensitivity to the sun, like isotretinoin (Sotret)
  • Sedative medications like alprazolam (Xanax)

And you should also avoid using celery if you are having:

  • Bleeding disorder
  • A scheduled surgery
  • Low blood pressure

How can I ease kidney pain?

Kidney stone pain can be very severe and can make you feel uncomfortable very quickly. Proper diagnosis, investigations, and treatment are still very important. But if you suffer from sudden aching pain while recovering during treatment, you can ease the pain by:

  • Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day is very important to ease the pain. Avoid taking alcohol or coffee until you overcome the infection.
  • Applying heat: When you feel pain, place a heating pad on a painful area to get quick relief.
  • Using painkillers: For severe pain, you may have to use painkillers like acetaminophen (Tylenol), Ibuprofen, etc.

How long can kidney pain last?

Depending on the stones’ size and severity, you may frequently suffer from pain if the kidney stone is more than 5 mm. However, kidney stones of 2 to 3 mm don’t cause chronic or severe pain. Frequency and duration of pain depend on various factors, including lifestyle, diet, treatment, etc.

Will kidney pain go away?

Again, the size of kidney stones matters a lot when passing out on their own. Kidney stones with smaller sizes get out faster without causing a lot of pain.

Here are approximate timelines for different sizes of kidney stones:

  • Around 80% of stones with less than 4 mm diameters are passed through urine in about one month.
  • Approx. 60% of kidney stones with a 4 to 6 mm diameter take 45 days to pass without surgery.
  • Only 20% of stones of more than 6 mm diameter can pass on their own in about one year. However, when the stones are larger than 6 mm, immediate surgical removal is the best option.

How to sleep with kidney pain?

Sleeping posture can also play a key role in easing kidney stone pain. The pain usually gets worse if you sleep in one position for so long. Sleeping in one position is not advised, especially if you suffer from recurrent kidney stones formation. Simple behavioral adjustments, including frequent sleep position changes, can reduce the severity of pain to a decent extent.

Homeopathic Treatment for Kidney Stones Pain

Some homeopathic medicines are very, very effective in reducing kidney stones pain. And can even dissolve the stones of up to 6 mm without causing any additional complication. Some prominent homeopathic medicines for kidney stones are:

  • Lycopodium: One of the most effective medicines for right-sided kidney stones. Pains usually aggravate between 4 pm to 8 pm, and there is red sedimentation in the urine.
  • Cantharis:  A very effective remedy for kidney stones pain, especially when accompanied by a constant urge to urinate.
  • Pareira Brava: One of the chief medicines for almost all types of urinary problems. Works superbly on chronic kidney stones with urine retention is characterized by great straining in thighs while urinating.
  • Berberis Vulgaris: An excellent medicine prescribed fora wide range of renal and kidney health problems. It helps improving kidney dysfunction due to chronic kidney stones and eases all other symptoms as well.

Advice: Homeopathic medicines are mighty effective in cases of kidney stones and other related problems. But you should not have them until and unless prescribed by a licensed homeopathic practitioner.

How to remove 8mm kidney stone naturally? This is the question we started this article with. And the conclusion is very clear: it is almost impossible to remove an 8mm kidney stone without proper treatment, and usually, a surgical procedure is required. We suggest you not to waste precious time in your quest to treat kidney stones at home. Small-sized stones are easily removed by the combination of some home remedies and conventional treatment.

Stay hydrated, eat healthily, do some physical activities, keep track of what you eat, avoid alcohol and smoking. Medical infrastructure around the world has developed a lot that kidney stone is no longer a very serious complication until you are very ignorant about it.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/kidney-health/home-remedies-for-kidney-stones#celery-juice

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-stones/symptoms-causes/syc-20355755#:~:text=Kidney%20stones%20form%20when%20your,for%20kidney%20stones%20to%20form.

https://www.healthline.com/health/what-does-kidney-pain-feel-like#What-causes-kidney-pain?

https://www.maxhealthcare.in/blogs/urology/apple-cider-vinegar-effective-dissolving-kidney-stones

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-infection/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353393

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326775#how-to-speed-up-the-process

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1174745/

How Long Do Canker Sores Last? – Different Healing Stages and Home Remedies

Also known as aphthous ulcers, canker sores are small, painful sores develop inside your mouth. They are usually oval-shaped with a red boundary and a white or yellow center. How long do canker sores last? Well, it depends on causative factors and your body’s response to different medications and remedies. But they usually last one to two weeks.

You may find eating, drinking, and talking very painful and uncomfortable, especially in the initial days. They mostly fade away in a couple of weeks, even without treatment. But some home remedies and OTC treatments can speed up the healing process.

In this article, we will discuss everything about canker sores, some causative factors, different healing stages, and some very good natural remedies. Let’s go through the content to know more.

What are the causes of canker sores?

It is hard to underline specific causes of canker sores, because one or more factors may be responsible at a time. Following are some possible causes:

  • Simple sores may develop from injury to mouth due to different reasons including tooth brushing, braces, dental work, dentures, and sports accidents.
  • Food sensitivities or allergies from certain foods like citrus fruits, junk foods, chocolates, and coffee, etc.
  • Food items with low content of vitamin B12, folate, iron, or zinc.
  • Toothpaste made with sodium lauryl sulphate.
  • Hormonal imbalances.
  • Emotional stress
  • Allergy to certain foods or bacteria
  • Smoking
  • Diseases related to gastrointestinal tracts like Crohn’s disease or Celiac disease
  • Chronic constipation
  • Autoimmune disorders like Bechet’s disease or systemic lupus erythematosus
  • Systemic conditions like nutritional deficiencies
  • Oral Cancer
  • Certain drugs, including:
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Aspirin
  • Beta-blockers
  • Oral nicotine
  • Chemotherapy medicines
  • Phenytoin
  • Platelet aggregation inhibitors
  • Antibiotics
  • Antihypertensives

Also Read: Glycerin for Lips – Benefits and DIY Recipes

How Long do Canker Sores Last?

Different Stages of Healing

As we said earlier, canker sores usually heal without any treatment in a couple of weeks. There are three stages of healing:

  1. Prodromal or Beginning Stage – It is the pre-ulcer stage, i.e. period before the formation of ulcers. It usually lasts for one to three days. You may feel a prickling or burning sensation during this initial period, which leaves a raised, reddened, painful area on the mucus membrane of the cheek or lips.
  • Ulcer Stage – It is usually three to six days (may remain longer in some people). The formation of ulcers is completed, characterized by redness and excessive pain.
  • Healing Stage – The healing stage usually begins nine to ten days after the initial stage. During this stage, the healthy tissue starts working on sore, and pain starts fading away. Ulcer also starts getting smaller.

Symptoms and complications of the healing stage depend on the type of ulcer

  • Mild canker sores heal within a couple of weeks.
  • Major canker sores may remain for a few weeks and can be painful for a long time. They often create a scar on the affected area.
  • Herpetiform canker sores are rare types of sores and fade away after ten to four days without causing any scar.

Signs and Symptoms of Canker Sores

Sores may develop inside the mouth, on the tongue, the inner lining of cheeks, inside the lips, and the gums, etc. Sometimes, the soft palate right at the back of the mouth roof is also affected. Some common signs and symptoms of canker sores are:

  • Burning, prickling, and tingling sensation for about 24 hours prior to the appearance of sores.
  • White, yellow, grey ulcers with a red border.
  • Very painful, especially in the first week.
  • Difficulty eating, swallowing, and speaking.

Some less-common symptoms of canker sores (They are the indication of some possible, more serious underlying conditions)

  • Fever
  • Sluggishness
  • Weight Loss
  • Swollen Lymph Nodes
  • Thrush infection in mouth or throat

You should contact your doctor if you have some very rare symptoms of canker sores like:

  • A gradual increase in size
  • Spreading ulcers
  • Causing excessive pain
  • Difficulty in drinking
  • Accompanied by continuous fever
  • Ulcers spreading to other internal parts like the oesophagus

Home Remedies for Canker Sores

Treating mild canker sores with home remedies is very successful. And you can try a few of them, especially in the initial stage. Here are some very effective home remedies for canker sores:

1. Coconut oil for Canker Sores

Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, coconut oil can be an effective treatment for canker sores, especially if they are caused due to bacterial infection and are spreading. The anti-inflammatory properties of coconut oil can also reduce pain and redness. And, of course, it tastes very good too!

Coconut Oil
  • Generously apply a few drops of coconut oil on the sore a few times a day to feel better.

2. Honey for Canker Sores

Honey is another very good anti-inflammatory and antibacterial home remedy for various health problems. And it can also effectively reduce the pain, redness, and size of the canker sore. It is also very good at preventing possible secondary infections.

Honey
  • Use only unpasteurized, unfiltered honey. Manuka honey is the best option.
  • Apply on the sores three to four times a day until they are gone.

3. Hydrogen Peroxide for Canker Sore

Hydrogen peroxide can be surprisingly effective against canker sore and can reduce the severity within a couple of days.

  • Use only 3 percent diluted hydrogen peroxide with equal parts of water.
  • Take a cotton ball and dip into the solution.
  • Apply the solution on canker sores repeatedly throughout the day.

Using hydrogen peroxide solution for mouth rinse is also an effective way of healing canker sores.

4. Milk of Magnesia for Canker Sore

Magnesium hydroxide is the active component of milk of magnesia. It works both as a laxative and an acid neutralizer. If you use milk of magnesia orally, it will change the pH inside your mouth and will make it hard for sores to thrive.

Here is how to use:

  • Apply only a few drops of milk of magnesia on and around the sore.
  • Leave for a few seconds and wash.
  • Repeat three to four times a day to start feeling better.

5. Watermelon Frost

Watermelon frost is also a successful treatment for canker sores. You can find watermelon frost in different forms including powder, tablet, and spray. Applying it directly to the sores can elevate the healing process and can also give some relief from pain and burning.

6. Vitamin B Complex Supplement

Diet low in vitamin B-12 can be one of the causative factors for canker sores. It’s not very clear how vitamin B-12 can improve sores. But according to a study, people who were taking enough vitamin B-12 with their diets had fewer canker sore outbreaks than those who didn’t get the required amount of dietary vitamin B-12

Some other vitamin Bs can also elevate the healing process, and vitamin B complex supplement contains all eight types of vitamin Bs. So, you can also take vitamin B complex supplements to improve canker sores. However, you should ask your doctor before starting any supplement.

7. Echinacea for Canker Sores

The Wound-healing and immune-boosting prowess of echinacea makes it one of the other promising home remedies for canker sores.

To use:

  • Add one tbsp liquid echinacea to one cup of warm water and mix well.
  • Take the solution in your mouth and swish around a few times before swallowing or spitting.
  • Repeat these steps twice or thrice a day for great results.

8. Chamomile Compress for Canker Sores

Chamomile is a natural remedy for various types of wounds and pains. And can be effective in canker sores due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. A chamomile tea bag can be used as a compressor to heal canker sores.

  • To use, take a wet chamomile bag and apply it on the canker sore.
  • Leave for a few minutes before removing.
  • Otherwise, wash your mouth with freshly-brewed chamomile tea.
  • Repeat one of these methods twice a day to feel the improvement.

9. Does putting salt on a canker sore help?

Yes! Saltwater should be the go-to remedy for canker sores. It can be a bit painful but will start improving the sores right from the word go.

To use salt water,

  • Add one tbsp salt to one cup of warm water and dissolve properly.
  • Swirl saltwater in your mouth for 20 to 30 seconds and spit out.
  • Repeat this treatment every two or three hours to start feeling comfortable again.

10. Yogurt for Canker Sores

Sometimes, Helicobacter Pylori (H. Pylori) is also responsible for canker sores developed with inflammatory bowel disease.

And according to studies from 2017, lactobacillus in yogurt can eradicate H. pylori and improve the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease. So, if canker sores are caused due to or accompanied by IBD, adding yogurt to your diet can help.

Yogurt also works very effectively on the digestive system. Hence, it can effectively improve canker sores developed due to chronic constipation.

11. Sage for Canker Sores

Sage tea is known for its anti-inflammatory effects and maybe a good treatment for canker sores. Both drinking sage tea and using it to wash your mouth can improve a lot of oral problems. Thanks to its antiseptic and antibacterial qualities, sage can also relieve pain due to canker sores.

Sage mouthwash is easily available in most pharmacies. Although preparing sage tea from fresh leaves of teabags is the best idea.

  • Add two tbsp sage leaves or a couple of sage tea bags to one cup boiling water.
  • Steep for about five minutes and strain.
  • Keep aside to cool down.
  • Swish the tea inside your mouth for a few minutes.
  • You can swallow or spit out.

12. Zing Lozenges for Canker Sores

A weak immune system invites multiple infections and diseases, and can also be great for canker sores to thrive. And zinc mineral can boost your immunity to a decent extent. You can get zinc lozenges very easily at nearby medical stores. The lozenges contain other ingredients like echinacea to enhance the taste. And you can dissolve one lozenge easily in your mouth.

  • What is the white stuff in a canker sore?

There is no white “stuff” in or around the canker sores. The middle part of the sore becomes white, yellow, or sometimes grey due to the injury to surrounding tissues. Tissues are injured, and hence the blood supply to the injured area is deprived, and the area starts looking white, yellow, or grey.

  • Can canker sores last for months?

No, canker sores don’t last for more than two or a maximum of three weeks. If they don’t heal even after three weeks, there is probably an underlying condition like prolonged constipation, excessive bowel gas, inflammatory bowel syndrome, habitual smoking, emotional stress, etc. If you are unable to overcome canker sores for so long, you must get proper medical attention to find out the exact cause and get treatment accordingly.

  • Prevention from canker sores

Prevention of canker sores is very much possible, and you can successfully reduce the frequency with little changes like:  

  • Have a healthy and balanced diet to avoid nutritional deficiency.
  • Maintain good oral hygiene to keep infections at bay.
  • Choose healthy foods instead of oily, unhygienic, unhealthy foods.
  • Maintain emotional stress by talking to your family members, friends, or a psychologist.
  • Use orthodontic waxes if you have braces or other dental appliances.
  • Protect your mouth, especially while playing an outdoor game.

A canker sore is not a serious complication and usually subsides within a couple of weeks or three. However, if they remain for multiple weeks or months, you should understand that it’s not only about canker sore. There is something wrong with your body that is halting or disturbing the healing process. In such a case, getting proper treatment from a licensed practitioner is recommended.

Hopefully, we have assisted you with numerous effective home remedies for canker sores. We will be very pleased to hear from your side. Take care of your mouth, overall health, as well as your loved ones. A healthy and happy lifestyle is always a solution to many, many problems. Keep smiling!

References:

https://www.medicinenet.com/canker_sores/article.htm#what_natural_or_home_remedies_cure_canker_sores

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-long-do-canker-sores-last#treatments

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/canker-sore/symptoms-causes/syc-20370615#:~:text=They%20usually%20have%20a%20white,the%20base%20of%20your%20gums.

How To Get Thicker And Longer Eyelashes Using Home Remedies

Don’t you feel a little jealous of your friend having more beautiful, longer and thicker eyelashes? Don’t you want to have the same attractive eyelashes without using mascara? Don’t you want to get those naturally voluminous eyelashes? Long and thick lashes don’t only lift your facial look, they just make you incredibly gorgeous.

Some lucky ladies have naturally thick and attractive eyelashes. And some always struggle to make their eyelashes attractive and beautiful. They keep using coats and coats of mascara and lash extensions, but nothing works perfectly.

You would be glad to know that you can have long, thick and attractive eyelashes using some natural home remedies. If you have been constantly thinking that you have to compromise with short eyelashes, it’s time for you to leave the hopelessness behind and give a successful try to get voluminous and long eyelashes. Let’s know more about these natural remedies for thicker and longer eyelashes.

1.Castor Oil:

Castor Oil

It is not something new for the beauty world. Castor oil is used for a lot of purposes ranging from attractive skin, healthier and thicker hair to treating various skin conditions. Castor oil naturally promotes hair growth and can be a very effective natural treatment for eyelashes. If you use castor oil correctly, it can give you some surprising results, that too, in very quick time!

  • Mix a few drops of castor oil with an equal amount of coconut oil.
  • Dip a cotton ball and apply gently on your eyelashes.
  • Make sure that the cotton ball doesn’t get in touch with your eyeballs.
  • Wash gently in the morning.
  • Repeat it every night before going to bed and see the results in a few weeks.

Also Read: Best under Eye Creams for Dark Circles and Wrinkles

2. Green Tea:

Green Tea

Green tea is one of the most preferred teas around the world due to its amazing health benefits. Regular intake with the topical application of green tea can promote hair growth. Flavonoids and polyphenol called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) found in green tea can improve the length as well as the volume of your eyelashes.

Regular consumption and application, both are equally effective for eyelashes growth.

  • Dip a cotton ball in the green tea and gently dab on your eyelashes.
  • Do it every day for surprising results.

3. Olive Oil:

Olive Oil

We all love olive oil so much so that almost all of us use it in one way or another. It is a great source of essential fatty acids that are known for promoting hair growth. Olive oil won’t only improve the growth of your eyelashes, it will also prevent their loss. In short, it is a quick solution for your problems related to eyelashes.

  • Take one tbsp extra virgin olive oil and dab a cotton swab into it.
  • Carefully smear on your eyelashes before going to sleep.
  • Wash your eyes the next morning.
  • Keep applying olive oil until you get lengthy, voluminous and attractive eyelashes.

Also Read: Ways To Get Rid Of Dry Eyes Naturally

4. Vitamin E Oil:

Vitamin E Oil

Treatment with Vitamin E Oil is a tried and tested method of making the eyelashes healthier, thicker and more attractive. It is an amazing tonic and increases both the growth and strength of the eyelashes. Besides, it protects your eyelashes from shedding.

Here is what to do:
  • Carefully break a vitamin E capsule and gently extract the oil.
  • Dip a cotton ball and massage your eyelids and eyelashes.
  • Massage the eyelids for ten minutes.

5. Petroleum Jelly:

Petroleum jelly nourishes and moistens your lash lines and hence promotes the growth of eyelashes. Besides, the application of petroleum products keeps the eyelids surface smooth and soft, which can be critical to the overall health of lashes.

  • Take a mascara wand and apply a little amount of Vaseline petroleum jelly on it.
  • Run it gently on your upper and lower lashes.
  • Repeat it every day for great results.

How to take care of your eyelashes:

  • They are so, so soft! Be always gentle: Remove your eye makeup with utmost care. Never be harsh on your eyelashes, and even on your eyes for that matter!
  • Never sleep with eye makeup as they can be extremely harmful especially if you get in touch with your inner part of your eyes.
  • Never underestimate the quality, when you buy eye makeup.
  • Use eyelashes tools very carefully.
  • Eat healthily: Add foods that are high in vitamin A, vitamin B5, iron and beta carotene. Foods like green leafy vegetables, fish, and garlic are very healthy for lashes.

These are some very effective natural treatments if you want thicker and longer eyelashes. Try any of them and increase the beauty of your lashes. Take care of your eyes and always make sure either you don’t use eye makeup or use only of the highest quality. It is about your eyes, and you can’t be on the lighter side when it comes to taking care of them.

Also Read:

How To Get Rid Of Underarm Odor

Underarm odor can be immensely annoying and sometimes even embarrassing, especially if you work with different types of people. You may have those smelly armpits due to different factors including obesity, pregnancy, extreme physical workouts, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, prolonged usage of certain medications, and a lot of other underlying medical conditions.

Whatever is the reason, you would surely want to get rid of foul smell from your armpits. Although there are various deodorants available in the market, you can’t use them for very long because most of them are made with harmful chemicals. So, what is the alternative option? Yes, those evergreen and simple home remedies!

Here are a few very simple yet so effective home remedies to get rid of underarm odor.

Underarm Odour

 1.Apple Cider Vinegar:

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Acidic and antimicrobial properties of ACV make it a potent home remedy for smelly armpits. Both of these properties of ACV can destroy bacteria responsible for causing bad odors.

You need:
  • A small bowl full of ACV.
  • Cotton balls.
What to do:
  • Simply dip the cotton balls in ACV and apply directly to the underarms.
  • Do it twice daily- once in the morning after bath and once before crawling into the bed.

 2.Iodine:

Liquid-Iodine-Forte-WEB

Antiseptic properties of iodine can sterilize the armpits and can balance the pH levels. It can get rid of bad odors from underarms within a few days.

What you need:
  • A few drops of iodine.
  • A soft and clean brush.
Steps to follow:
  • Apply a few drops of iodine directly on the armpits.
  • Scrub the armpits gently using the soft brush.
  • Leave it on for about five minutes and then go for the bath.
  • Doing this once in a day should eliminate the bad odor.

Also Read : Apple Cider Vinegar for Dark Underarms – 5 DIY Methods

3.Lavender essential oil:

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Lavender oil is a natural remedy for multiple skin problems. Its pleasant fragrance can easily remove the bad smell from armpits, and its antibacterial properties will keep the odor-causing bacteria at bay.

You will need:
  • 4-5 drops of lavender essential oil.
  • One glass distilled water.
Procedure to follow:
  • Add the lavender oil to one glass of distilled water.
  • Transfer the mixture into a spray bottle.
  • Use it as a deodorant every day after the bath.
  • You can do this once or twice a day for great results.

 4.Tea tree essential oil:

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Tea tree oil can be the best solution for underarm smells. The antimicrobial and astringent properties of tea tree oil can fight the smell-causing bacteria and hence can be a long-term solution for smelly armpits.

You will need:
  • Two drops of tea tree oil.
  • 2 tbsp distilled water.
  • Cotton pads.
What you need to do:
  • Add tea tree oil to the water and mix it properly.
  • Soak in the cotton pads and apply them on both underarms.
  • Leave for a few minutes and then wash off.
  • Do this twice in a day for promising results.

 5.Baking soda:

baking-soda-768950_640

Baking soda is a great option for you if you suffer from excessive sweating. It doesn’t only keep your underarms sweat-free; it can also eliminate the bad smells thanks to its powerful antibacterial properties.

You need:

  • 1 tbsp baking soda.
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice.
Procedure:
  • Mix both ingredients properly to have a smooth paste.
  • Apply the paste on your underarms and leave for about 5 minutes.
  • Then take a shower.
  • Do this daily in the morning before going for the bath.

Also Read : 7 Natural Ways to Lighten Dark Underarms

These are some very effective home remedies for smelly armpits. Using any of these will surely make your life very comfortable, and you will start feeling confident in front of your colleagues. Choose any of these according to your preferences and see the difference.

Top 10 Home Remedies to Remove Skin Tags Naturally

Annoyed and worried about the skin tags? These overgrowths are very common and are usually harmless. Anyone at any stage can have skin tags, but people over 60 are more commonly affected.

Also known as acrochordons, skin tags are tiny growths usually occur around the neck, over the eyelids, under the breasts, under the armpits and the groin folds, etc. They are irregular in shape and are of skin-colored or brownish.

You don’t have to rely on harmful chemical products to remove the skin tags. Numerous home remedies can easily remove them and that too without causing any side effect. Have a look at some natural home remedies to remove the skin tags.

Top 10 Home Remedies to Remove Skin Tags Naturally-min

 1.Apple Cider Vinegar:

Apple Cider Vinegar

(ima source:http://krxmedia.com/)

The acidic properties of ACV can quickly shed off the skin tags.

You need:
  • A few drops of diluted ACV.
  • Cotton ball.
  • Scotch tape or duct tape.
What you have to do:
  • Put some ACV on a cotton ball and cover the skin tag.
  • Use the tape to keep the cotton in place and leave for a few hours.
  • Repeat it once daily for positive results.

Also Read: 10 Simple Homemade Body Scrubs for Gorgeous, Glowing Skin

2.Baking Soda and Castor Oil:

Baking Soda and Castor Oil

(image source:https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/)

Baking soda and castor oil can alter the pH level of the affected area and can help to remove the skin tags.

Ingredients:
  • ½ tbsp baking soda
  • A few drops of castor oil
Steps to follow:
  • Mix both the ingredients to form the paste.
  • Apply properly on the affected parts and leave for a couple of hours.
  • Rinse off with fresh water and pat dry.
  • Repeat the process daily for 3-4 weeks, and you will start noticing the results.

3.Banana Peel:

banana-614090_640

Enzymes and acids of a banana peel can remove almost all types of overgrowths, including warts and skin tags.

Steps to follow:
  • Take a small piece of banana peel.
  • Rub the fibrous part (white side) of the banana peel on the skin tag for a few minutes.
  • Repeat this daily for a few weeks until the skin tag gets off.

4.Beetroot:

beetroot-687251_640

Beetroot is a potent remedy for skin growths like moles, warts, and skin togs, etc. It works on the circulation of the skin tag and makes it fall off after a few applications.

 Items required:
  • Beetroot paste.
  • Hydrogen peroxide.
  • Cotton ball.
Procedure:
  • Dip the cotton ball in hydrogen peroxide and use the area around the skin tag.
  • Apply the beetroot paste on it and cover properly using a bandage.
  • Keep the bandage on for a few hours and then wash off with clean water.
  • Repeat the process thrice in a week for a couple of months to see the difference.

5.Manuka Honey:

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Manuka honey is a non-peroxide form of honey. It stops the oxygen supply to the skin tag and helps in its removal. Besides, manuka honey also heals the skin faster once the skin tag is removed. Manuka honey also prevents scar formation due to skin tag removal.

You will require:
  • Manuka honey
  • Band-aid
What you need to do:
  • Take a little amount of manuka honey and apply on the skin tag.
  • Cover the area with a band-aid and leave for a few hours.
  • Repeat this a few times in a day for a couple of weeks for positive results.

 6.Garlic:

garlic-545223_640

Garlic is antifungal and antibacterial, and it can remove the skin tag within a few days, leaving the smooth skin behind.

You need:
  • 1-2 cloves of garlic
The process to follow:
  • Crush the fresh garlic to prepare a paste.
  • Now, apply the paste properly on skin tags.
  • Wash off the paste after an hour.
  • Repeat twice a day for a couple of weeks and see the results.

7.Witch Hazel:

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Witch hazel is known for its astringent properties, and its pH balancing power can get rid of the skin tags within a few weeks

 Process:
  • Apply the extracts of witch hazel on the skin tag and let it dry.
  • Follow the tip 3-4 times a day for 3-4 weeks.

Also Read: 10 Ways to Tighten Sagging Skin Naturally

8.Coconut Oil:

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Coconut oil is packed with alpha-tocopherol and lauric acid that can remove the skin tags within a few weeks.

The ingredient you need:
  • Organic coconut oil
What you have to do:
  • Apply the coconut oil on skin tags and leave for a couple of hours.
  • Repeat it once in the morning and before going to bed.

9.Ginger:

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Ginger is an excellent source of bio-active compounds that are known for antimicrobial and healing properties. These properties of ginger can remove the skin tags in a couple of weeks.

You need

a few slices of fresh ginger.

Procedure to follow:
  • Clean the skin tag(s) and the surrounding area properly and pat it dry.
  • Rub the slices of ginger on skin tags for a couple of minutes.
  • Leave the juice comes out of ginger after rubbing.
  • Do this for four to five times a day for five to six weeks for great results.

10.Lavender Essential Oil:

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Lavender essential oil is known for its antiseptic properties, and it can be an excellent remedy for most of the skin related problems, including skin tags.

You will need:
  • 1-2 drops of coconut oil or any other carrier oil
  • A drop of lavender essential oil
Procedure:

Apply the mixture on the skin tags and leave for an hour.

All these natural remedies are not only beneficial but are affordable as well. At the end. It comes down to you whether you want to visit a dermatologist’s office, or you want to remove skin tags at home. If the second option is your priority, you can rely on any of these home remedies.

Home Remedies For Acne

Who has never get the acne? I guess, no one is free from acne ever. What is acne? Acne is the skin condition that commonly affects most of the population of the world. In addition, everybody has to get acne at some point in your lives.

Well, many people then undergo acne treatments that result in side effects such as dryness, redness, and irritation. Therefore, in these cases, the best method is to use natural remedies.

Natural remedies are the best solution for all of your skin problems. In this article, I am going to tell you the natural remedies that you can use for the treatment of acne.

1.Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is produced by the fermentation of apple cider or it can also be formed from the pressed apples. Vinegar has the ability that they can fight against bacteria so; apple cider can do the same too.

It will also protect you from viruses. This vinegar has succinic acid that is used to suppress the inflammation produced by the acne. It also dries up excess oil and prevents acne.

2.Honey And Cinnamon Mask

Honey and cinnamon are famous for their anti-oxidant property. It has been found in researches that applying anti-oxidant over the acne helps in getting rid of it.

They both have the antibacterial property and prevent the infection from the bacteria and also reduces the inflammation caused by the acne.

3.Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is extracted from the Melaleucaalternifolia, a tree that is found in Australia. The research has also shown that applying tea tree oil to the skin helps in reducing acne.

It also results in reducing the side effects of the treatment like drying, irritation, and burning. It is very potent, so always mix it with water before applying to the skin.

4.Green Tea

As you know, drinking green tea has been good for your health as it has many antioxidants and therefore, it results in good health. Well, drinking green tea may not help acne but applying it directly to the face will definitely result in the acne-free skin.

There are major antioxidants in the green tea that treats the inflammation and doesn’t produce any side effects.

5.Moisturize With Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has many benefits; you must have read thousands of articles about it. Moreover, they all are true. Aloe Vera gel is added to the lotions, soaps, and ointments.

It is used to treat rashes, burns, and abrasions. Aloe Vera has salicylic acid and sulfur. They both constitute the treatment for acne. Apply the gel directly over the acne and it will treat the acne.

6.Exfoliation

The most important cause of acne is the dead cells. These dead cells get accumulate over your skin and clog it completely.

Therefore, exfoliation is the process of removing the dead cells from the upper layer of skin. You can do this by use of brush and scrub. If you want to prevent the acne, exfoliation is important.

Home Remedies For Acne

 

Home Remedies for Knee Pain

 

Knee pain has become one of the most common health condition mainly because of constant wear and tear of the knee joint. It can affect people of any age, but old people and women are usually more vulnerable to pain.

The exact origin of the pain varies depending on the exact cause and structural pressure on the knee joint.

It may originate from femur, tibia, fibula, patella, or ligaments or the cartilages, etc. The severity of the pain also varies depending on numerous factors from a normal minor ache to severe pain.

It doesn’t matter how worse your knee pain is, it can completely disturb your normal daily routine.

There are numerous treatment methods available to treat the pain, but a handful of home remedies are the best way to improve the condition. Look out at some of the most effective home remedies for knee pain.

1.Cold Compress:

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Application of the cold compresses to the affected knee is one of the most effective ways of reducing the painful condition. The cold application can reduce the pain and swelling by constriction of blood vessels and reducing the flow of blood to the affected parts.

Wrapping a few pieces of ice cubes in a clean towel and compressing for about 15 to 20 minutes should ease the pain and swelling.

2.Cayenne Pepper:

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Capsaicin is the active component of cayenne pepper. Natural analgesic properties of capsaicin make it a potent pain reliever and can reduce the pain and swelling from the affected knee.

If you want to get the best out of cayenne pepper, using it with a half cup of warm olive oil is a very effective option. Prepare a fine paste by adding half cup warm olive oil and two to four tbsp. cayenne pepper and apply on the affected knee. Repeat t twice daily for a week and see the difference.

3.Apple Cider Vinegar:

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The alkalizing properties of ACV make it a decent anti-inflammatory agent. ACV stops as well as eliminates the harmful build-up of excess minerals and toxins inside the knee joint. It can also restore the lubricants of the knee joint and hence can improve the overall mobility.

4.Turmeric:

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The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of curcumin (the active component of turmeric) make turmeric one of the most effective home remedies for all types of pains.

If you are constantly taking turmeric in any way of your choice, it won’t only subside all type of joints pain; it can also slow down the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.

5.Ginger:

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Ginger is packed with numerous anti-inflammatory compounds and can improve the painful and inflamed conditions of the knee joint. It is also very effective in muscle strain and injury, and arthritis, etc. You can massage the affected knee joint using a little amount of ginger oil for three to four times a day.

Alternatively, prepare a cup of ginger tea with fresh crushed pieces of ginger and one tbsp. of honey is also a very effective option.

All these home remedies are fairly effective in case of the knee joint. You can opt any of them depending on your choice and availability. If the painful knees are not improving even after constant usage of these remedies, it is more than better to consult an experienced bone specialist.

Home Remedies for Knee Pain

Effective Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Cold Overnight

 

Looking for a natural way of treating your cold or flu? Here are some home remedies you can try that might relieve the symptoms.

1.Blow Your Nose Often (and the Right Way)

Blowing your nose regularly is very important especially when you have a cold rather than sniffling mucus back into your head. But when you try to blow a little hard, there is a possibility that the pressure can carry germ-carrying phlegm back into your ear passages, resulting in earache.

The best way to blow your nose is by pressing a finger over one nostril while you blow gently to clear the other one.

2.Treating That Stuffy Nose With Warm Salt Water

Salt-water rinsing helps in breaking nasal congestion, while also removing harmful virus particles and bacteria from your nose. Here’s a commonly used recipe:

Combine 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon baking soda in 8 ounces of warm water. Use a bulb syringe or nasal irrigation kit to squirt water into the nostrils.

Hold one nostril closed by applying a very faint finger pressure while squirting the salt mixture into the other nostril. Let it drain. Repeat these steps two to three times, then move on to the next nostril.

3. Stay Warm and Rested

Staying warm and resting enough helps in directing energy towards the immune system so that it’s able to fight the cold or flu.

4.Gargle

Gargling helps in moistening a sore throat and provides temporary relief. Gargle with half a teaspoon of salt dissolved in 8 ounces warm water, four times a day.

Try an astringent gargle to reduce the tickle in your throat– such as tea that has tannin — to tighten the membranes.

5.Drink Hot Liquids

Hot liquids provide major relief when it comes to nasal congestion, prevent dehydration, and soothe out the inflamed membranes that line your nose and throat. If you’re so congested that sleeping at night becomes a far fetched dream then try a hot toddy, an age-old remedy.

Brew a cup of hot herbal tea. Add one teaspoon of honey and one small shot of whiskey or bourbon. Restrict yourself to one dose. Too much alcohol will inflame the membranes and make you feel even worse than before.

6. Take a Steamy Shower

Steamy showers act as a great moisturizer of your nasal passages and may help you relax. If you’re dizzy from the flu, take a steamy shower while you sit on a chair nearby and take a sponge bath.

7. Use a Salve Under Your Nose

A small dab of mentholated salve under your nose can initiate the opening of breathing passages and restore the irritated skin at the base of the nose. Menthol, eucalyptus, and camphor all have mild numbing properties that may help to relieve the pain of a nose rubbed raw.

8.Apply Hot or Cold Packs Around Your Congested Sinuses

Either of the two temperatures works. You can buy reusable hot or cold packs at a drugstore or make one on your own. You can apply heat by taking a damp washcloth and heating it for approximately 55 seconds in a microwave.

EFFECTIVE HOME REMEDIES TO GET RID OF COLD OVERNIGHT