MEND SPLIT ENDS OF HAIR BY NATURAL WAYS

There are a lot of home hair treatments for split ends you can do, and they'll all keep your hair incredibly healthy. If you spend a lot of time coloring it or styling it with heat, this is a great way to make sure your hair stays in good shape, right from the comfort of your own home. Most of these home hair treatments for split ends work with any kind hair type, although if your hair is extremely thin, thick, oily, or dry, you can find something just right for that type.

While long, luscious, healthy locks are a boon for most women, split ends prove a painful bane. The split end menace, however, is an ongoing battle. 

You may approach to mend split ends is to trim the tresses an inch or two. However, this offers no permanent solution as they keep reappearing requiring another trimming session in a couple of week’s time. Nevertheless, this makes a healthier option compared to the products available to repair dry damages locks.

Therefore, to repair damaged tresses, here are a few tips and tricks to keep the locks glossy and healthy.

Causes Of Split Ends?

Split ends or trichoptilosis occurs with hair follicle damage or repair. This is primarily because hair as the skin encompasses several layers, with the cuticle, the outer layer, comprising of dead cells piled one on top of the other. This protects the second layer, cortex, consisting of Keratin, the same proteins present in fingernails.  However, extremely dense hair consists of another layer, the medulla. Nevertheless, with the wearing out of the cuticle, the keratin coils that exist in the cortex, break open causing two splits of a hair strand.

Factors Contributing to Split Ends

Poor nourishment

Lack of proper care

Excessive combining

Frequent exposure to heat and styling products

Towel drying

Lack of moisture, ripping the natural oils from the tresses

Extreme climates

Natural and Home Remedies to Repair Split Ends

The Honey trick

Honey is great as a home hair treatment for split ends, especially when you mix it with curd. All you need is a half cup of curd and a tablespoon of honey, which you mix together well. Massage it into your hair, paying particular attention to the ends, and let it remain there for 20 minutes. When you rinse, just use water. This method will give your hair a gorgeous sheen!

Ripe Papaya

For this pack, take a very ripe papaya. Pick one that's sizable enough for your hair. For instance, if your hair is really long or really thick, you'll need a larger fruit. Once it's halved, get rid of the skin and the seeds, then blend it until it's pulpy. At that point, add in half a cup of plain yogurt and mix again. That's all you need to do! Once it's mixed, massage it into your hair, parting it carefully, and cover with a shower cap and rinse it out after half an hour.

Mayonnaise

Massaging the hair with mayonnaise and washing hair after twenty minutes, helps split ends.

Banana Mix

Massaging hair roots with a mixture of mashed banana, avocado and olive oil keeps the tresses glossy and healthy.

Eggs

Take 30 gm of rosemary, preferably fresh, a pint of hot water, and one egg. What you want to do is steep your rosemary in the hot water for about 20 minutes, then let it cool. Once it's cooled down, beat your egg into it, then massage the mix into your hair and rinse, just as you would with a regular shampoo.

Massage a beaten egg with water on to wet hair scalp and wash with cool water as a remedy for split ends.

Chamomile Tea

To use this great technique, simply brew a pot of chamomile tea and then give your hair a pre-rinse with it. Chamomile has calming properties and works great on split ends to repair them, along with taming frizz, which can cause split ends. Brew as many cups as you need and rinse your hair with it before you wash it, letting it set in for a moment. Then, wash and condition as normal. You can also do this and leave it on longer if you want, such as while you paint your toenails!

HOT OIL MASSAGE

Massaging the scalp with a few drops of hot oil (coconut, olive, avocado, jojoba, castor or mustard) nourishes hair and keeps them healthy.

Coconut Oil

The best oil to get rid of split ends is coconut oil. Use an extra virgin, organic coconut oil, take about 2 tablespoons and apply it on your dry hair before showering. Rub it all throughout hair while dry, and put more on the tips, letting them soak up the amazing oils that coconut contains. These rich fats are quickly absorbed into hair, and help to repair, strengthen, moisturize, and prevent tearing. After applying it, pin your hair up on top of your head, get in the shower, and the steam from the shower will intensify the oil's effects. Then, after you wash your body and face, take down your hair, and shampoo and condition as normal.

Olive Oil and Honey

Olive oil makes an effective home hair treatment for split ends all by itself! All you do is warm enough olive oil to cover your hair, then massage it into those pretty but dry tresses. Wrap your hair in a towel or cover it with a shower cap, and find something to do for half an hour – then shampoo!

Combining olive oil and honey in equal proportions and massing the mixture on to the hair follicles, followed by a wash after half an hour, keeps hair conditioned and moisturised.

Avocado Oil

If you eat a lot of avocado, you may have noticed that your hair and skin get extremely soft. The oil in avocado makes it an ideal hair and skin treatment. 

Mash up an avocado and, after getting your hair a bit damp, massage the fruit into your hair. Make sure you get your split ends coated. Let it set for anywhere between 15 minutes and half an hour, then rinse it out. You can add a tablespoon of olive oil for some extra sheen, if you like.

Mash an avocado along with beaten egg and olive oil. Apply the mixture to the hair and allow resting for half an hour to enable penetration of healthy ingredients into the scalp. Finally rinse with cool water.

Castor Oil Conditioning

Castor oil is extremely helpful in a number of ways. Mix equal amounts of castor oil, mustard oil, and olive oil, the amount you mix depends on the length and thickness of your hair. All you have to do is apply the mix into your hair, then wrap it up in a towel and let it set for 30 minutes.wash it out with shampoo.

Argan Oil

Argan oil is rich in healthy oils that repair, strengthen, moisturize, and prevent splitting. It also helps to treat current split ends really effectively. I like Organix brand, and have found it to be an excellent product to help tame frizz as well.

Cream Tonic

You do this treatment after you've shampooed, Mix a tablespoon of heavy cream into half a cup of milk. Beat it thoroughly, then massage it into your hair, especially the ends. You only need to leave it for about 15 minutes, and then rinse it out!

Cocoa Butter for Dry Hair

If you have dry hair that is prone to split ends, cocoa butter is an inexpensive lotion product that is great for your hair. Apply it after washing your hair and before drying it when you get out of the shower. Comb through it and let it sit for a moment, and then dry as normal. Be sure to put some extra on the ends of your hair to give them special treatment.

Shea Butter Creme

Shea butter, also known as creme, is an inexpensive cream. Shea butter is rich in healthy fats that nourish your ends. Put it on your hair after getting out of the shower, and apply it before you comb out your hair. Then, let it sit for a second while you put lotion or oil on your body. Finally, just dry your hair as normal or let it air dry. Doing this every time you wash will ensure you keep your split ends at bay, all the time!

Ghee

Ghee is clarified butter, but ghee is rich in healthy, unrefined fats that greatly nourish your hair. Apply it directly on your ends and let it sit like a mask for a few hours.Ghee is also great to repair dry skin or eczema, and can even heal sunburns, by the way.

Beer Rinse

Beer is excellent for conditioning the tresses, adding more volume, making them appear bouncy. This is because, the sugar and protein contents in Beer, by attaching themselves to the hair shaft, fortify the locks giving them a glossy appearance. An effective astringent, beer also helps eliminate product residues from the scalp and hair keeping them healthy.   

Massage some beer into your hair, then give it time to soak in thoroughly. After that, simply rinse! soaking the hair follicles in beer before a shower proves beneficial. The only bad thing is the lingering scent of beer, but hey, that's what spritzes are for, right?

EAT MORE HEALTHY FAT

The best at home hair treatment you can give your split ends is through your Diet! Pick healthy fats and include them daily in your diet. They help moisturize the hair, helping to prevent wear, tear, and split ends right where they start. Hemp seeds, chia seeds, avocados, almonds, and cashews to be some of the most beneficial. Try them and just see for yourself! As a bonus, you get to eat great food and you'll get great hair in the process!

Tips to Prevent Split Ends

Do's

Protect hair from the sun’s harsh rays

To prevent dry hair always use alcohol-free shampoos

Use a wide toothed comb for brushing hair

Consume water to remain hydrated

Eat a well-balanced healthy diet

Allow hair to dry naturally

Don’ts

Using heat to hair

Dry with hair drier

Using chemicals on hair

Brushing hair when wet

FEW THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE SAYING I LOVE YOU

Saying I love you is not something you rush into. It takes careful thought to make sure it is the right decision to make in your relationship. The actual moment you say it can be spontaneous, but these things should definitely be considered before rushing into things.

Do you agree that these need to be considered before saying I love you? 

What are some other things that you should think about before saying it? 

Do you think it is better to plan on saying I love you or should it be spontaneous?

Taking that step in your relationship is a big deal, but there are a few things to consider before saying I love you in your relationship. Saying I love you is more than just saying a sentence. It is a declaration and a promise, and you need to make sure you are ready for that promise when you say it. You may think you are ready, it is the right time, or that you two are destined to be together, but it can’t hurt to consider these things before saying I love you.

The Right Setting

While you might feel the timing is right, think about if the setting is right before saying I love you. We all dream of this fairy tale romance with our significant other. While we might not get that fairy tale all of the time, if you are ready to say I love you, you can create your own fairy tale setting. You don’t have to plan something big if you are getting ready to say it, but make it a special moment between you two. It seems a lot more romantic if you say it at a spontaneous moment between the two of you rather than just throwing it out there while watching TV.

Are you ready For Next Step

Saying I love you is a big step in a relationship. It shows a sense of dedication and commitment to each other. Before saying I love you, really think if you are prepared for that next step. Can you see yourself moving in together, or getting married? It may seem like a lot of baggage attached to one phrase, but there are certain milestones some people expect to come after saying those big words.

Willing To Accept Their Response

A huge reason people hold off on saying I love you is for fear of the response they might get. It can be a scary thought to say I love you and not hear it back. But if you are truly having these feelings, it is better to be open rather than bottle up your feelings. Even if your partner is not on the same emotional level or not ready to say it back, you should still let them know how much you care for them. Let them know their response will have no affect on your feelings for them. Having an open dialogue is incredibly important in a relationship, and especially so when saying I love you.

Will Show It

Actions speak louder than words. Telling someone you love them is more than just saying a sentence; it is a promise to show them that love and passion you have for them. It may not be exciting, but it will reinforce your love when you do small things for your partner. Make them breakfast in bed, treat them to a massage, be there for them on their hardest days. If you are not willing to make an effort to be there for your significant other in the good and bad, you might want to reconsider saying those three words.

Is It The right Time

Whether you believe in love at first sight, you might want to take some time to say I love you. You don’t want to rush into a serious relationship too soon. Do you really know the person after a few weeks? Saying I love you means accepting their flaws, quirks, and everything in between. You have to really know a person inside and out to truly know if you love them. Wait until you two know more about each other to drop the “L” word.

Do You Mean It

This one may be a bit obvious, but don’t say it if you don’t mean it. Even if your partner says it first, if you are not ready to say it or don’t have those feelings, it is better to be honest than say it back and dig yourself into a hole. You cannot take those words back once said. Take some time before saying it to really think about what those words mean and if you can stand behind the promise of loving something when it really comes down to it.

Would You Want Others To Know

This may sound weird, but would you be comfortable saying I love you to your partner in front of your friends and family? Most of the time, if you tell your friends that you said I love you, they will freak out and be so excited. Are you ready to share your love with your friends and family and be proud of your relationship? If you wouldn’t want to let your parents know you are in love, you may want to wait on telling your partner.

BMI AND IDEAL WEIGHT FOR HEIGHT

Healthy Weight - it's not a diet, it's a lifestyle! 

In recent times, with the world becoming more health and fitness conscious, every person desires to look fit, attributing to good health. The question that is predominant in every persons mind is if their weight is in proportion to their height. To determine this, several factors ought to be taken into consideration such as the height, bone density and muscle fat ratio of the person. Nevertheless, the best way to check your ideal weight and height to weight ratio, is by calculating BMI, known as body mass index.

WHAT IS BODY MASS INDEX?

BMI or Body Mass Index is a tool to calculate body fat based on a person’s height. It is the best way to check ideal weight for height.Body Mass Index (BMI) is a number calculated from a person's weight and height. BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.

BMI and Your Health

People with very low or very high BMIs tend to have the greatest health risks. Even so, BMI is only one factor in your overall health. For example, if your BMI falls into the normal weight category, you will still have a higher risk of health problems if you:

Smoke cigarettes

Do not participate in regular physical activity

Eat lots of nutrient-poor foods with added fat and sugar.

If your BMI is in the overweight category, you will have a lower overall health risk if you:

Get regular physical activity. Have blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels that are within normal limits.This means BMI is one aspect of your health to discuss with your care provider. Together, you can decide if other assessments need to be done and whether lifestyle changes such as eating smarter and moving more will improve your health.

HOW TO CALCULATE BMI ?

The simplest way to calculate BMI is to divide weight in kilograms by height in metres squared. In order to convert the measurements of height, normally calculated in centimetres to metres, divide height in centimetres by hundred.

For example if a person weighing 68 kilograms and 165 centimetres tall then the BMI is calculated as height 165 centimetres converted to 1.65 m, therefore the weight 68/÷ (1.65)2 works to 24.98.

BMI Measurements in Children and Teens

While BMI calculations for children and teens use the same formula as adults, criteria used to define obesity and overweight are different for young people because of factors like body fat differences between boys and girls and variations in body fat at different ages.

WHAT IS A HEALTHY BMI?

A standard BMI limit for adults is from 18.5 to 24.9.

BMI LOWER THAN 18

An indication of lean body mass could denote a depleted weight. This can turn down the body’s immune system that may lead to a number of diseases such as anaemia, osteoporosis and amenorrhoea. Besides, this could also be an indicator of some underlying health issues or a diet devoid of calories. Therefore, it would be wise to seek the counsel of a medical practitioner and follow a wholesome nutritious diet plan.

BMI RANGE FROM 25 TO 29

This range, considered overweight carries a potential risk of weight related problems. Hence, it would be wise for people belonging to this group to consult a general medical practitioner, followed by a strict exercise regime combined with a low calorie diet, to avoid piling up those extra kilos.

BMI RANGE FROM 30 TO 40

This is a range considered obese with chances of developing Diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Weight loss can help avoid risks of these diseases and help maintain healthy triglycerides and blood sugar levels.

BMI RANGE OF 40+

OverweightThis range requires healthy lifestyle changes, as it denotes a body that is unfit and in poor shape. This could lead to life threatening diseases such as Diabetes, heart disease, High LDL cholesterol levels, Hypertension, stroke, renal disease, gall bladder disease and certain types of cancer.

However, though BMI gives an indication of the individuals’ weight in proportion to the height, there is a significant drawback, as it does not acknowledge muscle weight that is more than fat. This is especially so in case of athletes and heavy weights, whose BMI accuracy is often questioned, for despite possessing healthy amounts of fat, their BMI indicates an obese level. Likewise, BMI cannot be calculated precisely during times of nursing and pregnancy. In older and a few others, BMI may not be correct due to loss of muscle mass.

OTHER WAYS OF MEASURING BMI?

Ideal Waist Size

An ideal waist size for a male 6’ foot tall ought to be 36 inches and for a female of height 5’ 4” the perfect size being less than 32 inches. Maintaining a waist size that is less than half of the height, tend to increase life span in a person.

Waist-Hip Ratio

According recent studies the best way to ensure ideal body weight is to measure the circumference of the waist after exhalation, to ascertain the exact measurement. The measuring tape ought to fit snugly at the slimmest part of the waist, and measuring the hip at the ample part. The waist circumference is then divided by the hip measurement to obtain the waist hip ratio.

If the circumference of the waist is 33 inches with the hip measuring 39 inches , then the reading for waist-hip ratio is 0.85.If the ratio is higher than 1.0, in a man and 0.8 in a woman it denotes that the man/woman is an apple shape. An apple shape is a sure indicator of numerous health hazards such as cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Although studies indicate this method to be more effective than BMI calculations, there is a major drawback with regard to this as a person’s percentage of total body fat or muscle fat quotient is not measured.

Waist-Height Ratio

The waist to height ratio is another method used as a tool for health analysis to predict potential risk for diseases such as stroke, hypertension, high triglycerides levels, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. This method is measured by dividing the waist circumference by an individual’s height.

What is Body Fat Percentage?

The weight of fat divided by the body weight determines the percentage of body fat, signifying storage as well as essential fats in the body.

What is essential fat?

Essential fats are the total fat required for continued existence ranging from 2% to 5% in males with females requiring a higher percentage of 10 to 13%

What is storage fat?

The accumulation of fat in the fatty adipose tissues with a healthy few protecting the internal organs in the chest and abdomen are storage fats.

Total body fat percentage.

A combination of both the essential and storage fats surmises the total body fat percentage. The American Council recommends the following percentage as ideal.

How to calculate percentage of body fat?

Although there are several means of calculating an individual’s body fat percentage with a close number, none of them can be depended upon for precise reading. There are various devices used in gymnasiums and Doctors clinics besides bioelectrical impedance analysis, dual energy X-ray, absorptiometry and near-infrared interactance to determine body fat percentage. There is also enhanced system with great accuracy, and more complication, to quantify body fat, such as MRIs and DEXA scans, which are not practical alternatives considering their affordability.

CONCLUSION

With these few simple tips, the ideal weight for height may be assessed without difficulty. Nevertheless remember every size and shape of a body is determined by genetic inheritance. Therefore, for a person with an expanding waistline, it would be advisable consuming a well-balanced diet comprising of low- calorie, high-fibre food with sufficient vitamins and minerals. This combined with a strict exercise regimen is more vital for a healthy mind and body.

HENNA A NATURAL DYE FOR HAIR

A woman without paint is like food without salt.

The pursuit of beauty has been of prime concern since time immemorial and for centuries beauty aids and cosmetics have been used to enhance or alter physical appearance, combat the manifestations of ageing, highlight concept of femininity and also serve to assert social status. Archaeological indications dating back more than eight thousand years prove that cosmetics were used by men and women and makeup was considered an important aspect in the social as well as personal context.

Henna, (Lawsonia Inermis) is a plant that grows in hot dry climates and has been used as a cosmetic all over the world for more than 6000 years, especially in Ancient Egypt, India, Middle East and Africa. In ancient Egypt, Cleopatra and Nefertiti have been known to have used henna to color their hair. The mummy of Ramses II was found with henna in his hair and nails. The eighteenth and nineteenth century also saw the popularization of henna and Lucille Ball and other Hollywood actresses dyed their hair a bright auburn using henna. In Islam henna is considered as ‘Sunnah’, meaning auspicious. Muslim men dye their hair as well as beards with henna following the tradition of their prophet, Mohammed. In the Bible, henna, (Camphire) is mentioned in the Song of Solomon, where the cluster of henna flowers was a metaphor for forgiveness and absolution.

How does henna dye the hair?

The henna dye or colour is obtained from the leaves of the plant, which are dried, milled and sifted. A mildly acidic liquid like lemon juice, or strong tea needs to be added activate the Lawsonia.

The colour that results from using henna to dye hair can fall into a broad spectrum, from auburn, to orange, to deep burgundy, chestnut brown or deep blue-black. To achieve a colour that is more like a brown or black, indigo is usually used with the henna to get the desired colour.

Body Art Quality Henna:

Henna for hair is usually confused with black henna, red henna or other herbal combinations containing little or no henna at all. Most of these henna dyes are not pure henna as they contain, besides different herbs, certain bleaches like barium peroxide and chemicals that are responsible for lending a dark shade to the hair shaft like paraphenylene diamine (PPD), (used commonly In synthetic dyes). This form of henna is not desirable as it can lead to severe allergic reactions.

The best form of henna is the Body Art Quality Henna which is pure and has high natural dye content. This form of henna has been thoroughly dried, cleaned, ground and sifted. Contains no other additives other than pure lawsonia inermis (Henna) leaves.

Body Art Quality Henna is safe to use, easy to mix and apply to hair and is also easy to rinse out because of the fine sift.

It gives a permanent color to your hair and has better gray coverage and dyes the hair a robust red or auburn tone and tends to graduate over time to a darker shade due to an oxidation process.

Mixing the henna with lemon juice or any acidic liquid helps to preserve the hydrogen on the corners of the lawsone molecules, ensuring better binding to the keratin in your hair.

This color does not fade.

Benefits of using Henna on Hair

Stronger strands/less breakage-Henna lends texture to hair giving it more body and volume.Henna protects the hair against sun damage and is in fact a better hair conditioner than other commercial hair conditioners.

Balance hair porosity-Henna seals the oil in the hair and conditions the hair, making it more manageable and less frizzy.

It works as an anti-dandruff and treats the scalp well. Henna is naturally antifungal and antibacterial and the regular use of henna has helped with issues of dandruff and scaly scabby scalp.

Henna is also a powerful natural cleanser and cleanses without disturbing the natural balances.

It leaves the hair healthy, clean, shiny and easy to manage.When people with fine, thin limp hair take henna treatments, it gives their hair more body, density, shine and all round bounce. This is because the regular coats of henna builds up the hairs structure and result in thick stronger strands.

Less shedding-It takes about 4 months for the henna to fade.

Henna leaves are also effective for treating skin problems such as burns and boils. A rough paste of the leaves can be applied on the burns or boils which gives instant relief.

How to apply Henna on Hair

Add tea leaves to boiling water and allow simmering for ten minutes. During winter it is a good idea to add a couple of cloves to the water. This helps to keep the head warm and also imparts a rich color. To get a darker burgundy tinge, add half a beetroot to this boiling water.

Add about 4 tablespoons of pure body art henna in a bowl and pour the strained tea water into the powder to make a fine paste.Left the henna, covered in cling film to sit for a few hours or overnight to develop,

Next day, just before applying to the hair add some curd and a teaspoon of olive oil to the paste. Apply on the hair in parts and pile the hair on top of the head. Cover with a shower cap and leave on for more than four hours  to hold in the heat and moisture, which helps the dye to activate. The longer the henna soaks into the hair, the richer the color of your dye.

Wash off the henna from the hair. Do not use shampoo. Apply coconut oil to your hair and leave overnight. Next day, wash off your hair with a mild shampoo.

Precautions and Tips

Remember to wear gloves while applying henna as the henna can stain your hands and fingernails.

To avoid staining apply oil or glycerin on the hairline.

Before putting on the henna, apply some coconut oil or olive oil to your hair. This helps in retaining the moisture in the hair and prevents the hair from becoming too dry.

Do not mix the henna in a plastic bowl or use plastic spoons to mix the henna as plastic is porous. To get a richer shade you can soak henna in an iron bowl to allow the better release of dye.

FAQ

What is Black Henna? Is it safe to use?

Black Henna, even though dyes the hair black in just 30 minutes, is not natural henna. The ingredients in this henna include, along with other herbs, barium peroxide, which is a bleaching agent, and paraphenylene diamine (PPD), which is commonly used in synthetic hair dyes and can cause severe allergic reactions. PPD is a chemical that is added to make the dye adhere to the hair strands better and for a longer time. It is not recommended for use as metallic salts and PPD it is not safe for your hair and health.

How long should henna be left in your hair?

The lawsone molecules in the henna generally take about four to six hours to release the color to your hair strands. For a darker shade you can even leave the henna on overnight, after taking precautions to prevent staining of pillows and sheets.  Even after rinsing off the henna, it takes a couple of days to get a richer shade.

Does henna leave the hair dry?

Yes, henna does have a drying effect on your scalp. Just before applying the henna, add a tablespoon of curd or olive oil to the henna mix. This will moisturize the hair and prevent it from becoming dry.

How long does the effect of henna dye last?

Henna is a permanent hair dye and takes anywhere from 60 to 90 days to fade.

Is it safe to apply henna on hair? Can it be applied at home?

Henna is a natural colorant and is absolutely safe for the hair. Henna application might be a little messy and time consuming, but it is better than using bleaches and chemicals found in synthetic hair dyes, which, in the long run may damage your hair. Henna can be applied at home and as it is quite time consuming it would be definitely better to dye your hair in the comfort of your home.

Henna used for coloring hair and used as body art has evolved through the years and the process is still on. Heightened awareness regarding use of synthetic hair dyes and the harmful reactions of chemicals, coupled with easy accessibility to latest information through the internet has seen a shift in use of commercial hair dyes and people are turning to henna as a more natural option to color hair.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF AVOCADO

The avocados fruit is pear shaped with leather like skin. They have a green-yellow creamy flesh rich in fat content.

There are more than five hundred varieties of avocados. It is also called alligator pear. Contain more potassium than bananas. Sole fruit containing minerals and nutrients safe for babies.

Calories In Avocado

The avocado fruit contains a high amount of fat that is responsible for a high count of avocado calories which makes obese people skeptical about using avocados.

But this fat, though high in calories, boosts your body’s natural metabolism unlike saturated fats.

Avocado oil is highly beneficial as it is rich in lecithin and vitamins A, D, and E that is useful in treating skin conditions including undernourished and dehydrated skin.

Disease of the skin including eczema and psoriasis respond positively to avocado oil applications as it is easily absorbed into the skin.

Due to its sweet flavor, avocados recipes are popular as juice and in salads.

Nutritional Facts of Avocados

Avocados are considered as one of the healthiest foods in the planet because they contain in excess of 25 essential nutrients. It contains wide variety of poly nutrients such as flavonoids, oleic acid, omega 3 fatty acid, folate and copper. 

This fruit is a good source of mono saturated fat. Avocados also contain fiber, protein, and several beneficial phytochemicals such as beta-sitosterol, glutathione and lutein, which may protect against various disease and illness. 

A list of avocados nutrition content:

Dietary fiber

Vitamin A

Vitamin B6

Vitamin C

Vitamin E

Vitamin K

Magnesium

Potassium

Iron

Calcium

Sodium

Phosphorus

Niacin

Avocados nutrition facts do not stop with the above list. It also contains vitamins that provide healthy bone support.

Avocado benefits those with heart conditions as it contains dietary fiber that is good for the heart. Besides, you can get health benefits by consuming avocados recipes.

Health Benefit of Avocado

Increase Nutrient Absorption 

Avocado intake is linked with an increased nutrient absorption. A study suggests that, when participants ate salad included avocados, they absorbed five times the amount of carotenoids (beta carotene and lycopene) than those who did not include avocados.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties 

Phytonutrient compound found in avocados, such as polyphenols and flavonoids have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, thereby reducing the risk of inflammatory and degenerative disorders. 

Maintain Healthy Heart 

Avocado contains vitamin B6 and folic acid, which help regulate homocysteine levels. High level of homocysteine is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Avocado also contains vitamin E, glutathione, and monounsaturated fat, which help in maintaining a healthy heart. Vitamin E builds immunity, helps maintain overall health and is found in good amounts in avocados.

Lower Cholesterol Levels

Beta sitosterol, a compound contained in avocados helps lower cholesterol levels significantly. Patients with mild hypercholesterolemia who included avocados in their diet for 7 days had 17 percent decrease in total blood cholesterol levels, a 22 percent decrease in both LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglyceride levels, and a 11 percent increase in HDL (good cholesterol) levels. 

Control Blood Pressure 

Avocados are also a great source of potassium, which helps in controlling blood pressure levels. 

Promote Eye Health 

Avocado is an excellent source of carotenoid lutein, which known to help protect against age-related macular degeneration and cataracts and are thus helpful in promoting eye health.

Regulate Blood Sugar Levels 

The mono-unsaturated (good) fats in avocados can reverse insulin resistance which help to regulate blood sugar levels. Avocados also contain soluble fiber which keep a steady blood sugar levels. 

Fight Free Radicals 

Avocados contain glutathione, a powerful antioxidants that helps fight free radicals in the body. 

Anti-aging Properties 

Being rich in antioxidants, avocado is beneficial in preventing aging symptoms. The glutathione in avocado may boosts immune systems, slows aging process, and encourages a healthy nervous system. 

Prevent Birth Defects 

Avocados are rich in folate, a B vitamin commonly known as folic acid. One cup of avocado provides about 23% of the recommended daily value of folate. The high amount of folate in avocado is essential in the prevention of birth defects, such as neural tube defect and spina bifida. 

Reduce Strokes Risk

Avocados are rich in folate content. The high levels of folate in avocados may also protect against stroke. Studies show that regular folate intake reduces incidence of heart disease to a great extent. In addition, avocados help your body absorb certain nutrients efficiently.

Protect Against Cancer 

Many studies have shown that avocado can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer. The oleic acid in avocado is also effective in preventing breast cancer. 

Cure Bad Breath 

Avocados are one of the best natural mouth wash and bad breath remedies. It is cleanses intestine which is the real cause of coated tongue and bad breath. 

Skin Care 

The avocado oil is added in many cosmetics because of its ability to nourish the skin and make your skin glow. It also aids in treating psoriasis, a skin disease that causes skin redness and irritation. 

Weight Gain 

The avocado has 200 calories for 100 grams. Typically, fruits has approximately 60-80 calories for 100 grams. Due to the high amounts of calories, avocado is a best diet for people who want to gain weight. Avocado is a healthy source of calories, unlike many other calorie-dense foods that may contain excess saturated fats and sugar.

NATURAL & HOME REMEDIES FOR KNEE PAIN

Knee pain is a type of joint pain. Knee pain is common in every age group and gender. The main causes for knee pain are injuries, accidents or arthritis. It can also happen due to low calcium content in the bones and excess pressure on the knees. The exterior symptoms of knee pain are swelling, pain and inflexibility.

As weight bearing joints, knees help us stand, run and walk. Knees twist & turn to accommodate body movement. Athletes can get knee pain from running, as they continuously pursue the sport and are thus more prone.

You can also get knee pain when bending to perform an activity as this exerts more body pressure on the knees.

As you age, knee bones begin to degenerate, lose mineral & gradually the joints become stiff, causing pain. Among other knee pain causes are health conditions such as osteoporosis and arthritis.

When your symptoms of knee pain such as swelling & pain are mild, they nonetheless require attention. Knee pain can be very painful at times. You should consult a doctor if it persists for a longer time.

Natural and Home Remedies for Knee Pain

You can get effective and beneficial from natural home and remedies, that can provide substantial relief from knee pain.The natural remedies work on the cause of the knee pain and heal it from the root.

Fenugreek Seed

Fenugreek seeds have anti inflammatory properties as well. It can give an instant relief from knee pain.Soak some fenugreek seeds in mustard oil. Apply the soaked seeds on your knees and let leave for half an hour. This remedy is useful if you procured knee pain when bending. It warms up your knees, increases blood flow and promotes health of knee cartilage.

Bishop's Weed

Take some bishop’s weed and grind it into a powdery form. This powder can be taken with a glassful of lukewarm water. Do this every morning until you see improvement.

Yoga 

Yoga is the answer for many health problems. Yoga can treat every type of pain and keep the heart and brain healthy. Similarly, yoga is good for knee pain as well. There are some yoga poses that can strengthen the knee muscles. Yoga exercises also increase the flexibility of the knee muscle. Yoga can be very good for persisting pains. 

Calcium Supplements

Joint pains generally occur due to less calcium content as well. When the calcium content in the bones reduces, bones become weak. Start having a diet which is rich in calcium and other essential nutrients. There are many calcium supplements available which can be used. Milk products, fish and other calcium rich food should be consumed regularly. This is one easy remedy for knee pain or any other joint pain. 

Oil Massage

Hot Oil massage is an excellent home remedy for knee pain. You can use coconut oil, olive oil or any other massage oil. Regular massage on the knee area which hurts can be useful. 

Take some oil and warm it. Massage the oil on the affected area for 10-15 minutes. Use circular motions to massage. Oil massages provide instant relief for knee pain.

Essential Oil

If your knee pain causes swelling, use essential oils such as eucalyptus by rubbing it on your knees, it helps reduce the swelling.

Wintergreen oil 

Wintergreen oil is also a good remedy for chronic knee pain. Rub this oil on your knees twice daily to get positive results.

Exercise

Regular exercising is the answer to many health problems. Sometimes knee pain may occur due to overweight or obesity. Regular exercising including some stretching exercises can be beneficial for knee pain. The muscles get stretched and open up. Exercising can include home based workouts like skipping, aerobics and dancing. Exercising reduces the extra weight that the knee could not bear. 

Other Remedies

There are a few other ailments for knee pain apart from the above few tips for home based remedies on knee pain. These tips include consuming turmeric milk every day. Turmeric has anti inflammatory properties and thus helps to relieve the knee pain.

Drinking ample amounts of water is important. This hydrates your body & your joint muscles remain soft & flexible.

When you have simple knee pain from running, for example, application of hot compresses for ten minutes daily becomes an effective remedy for your knee.

In addition, you can intake vitamin B3, D, E and B3 supplements. Include peanuts, cod liver & flax seed oil in your diet as these nutritional supplements along with knee pain exercises can aid slow down degeneration of your knees.