Alkapulko

Also knows as:

bayabas-bayabasan,kapurko, katanda, katandang aso, pakagonkon, sonting (Tag.); andadasi, andadasi-a-dakdakel, andadasi-bugbugtong (Ilk.); adadisi (Ting.); ancharasi (Ig.); andalan (Sul.); bayabasin, bikas-bikas (Bik., Tag., Bis.,); kasitas (Bik., Bis.); sunting, palo china (Bis.); pakayomkom kastila (Pamp.); ringworm bush or shrub (Engl.), Acapulco (Engl)


Akapulko is used as herbal medicine and is a shrub that grows wild in the tropical climate of Philippines. Akapulko is widely used in the Philippines as herbal medicine. The akapulko leaves contain chrysophanic acid, a fungicide that is used to treat fungal infections, like ringworms, scabies and eczema.. Akapulko leaves are also known to be sudorific, diuretic and purgative, used to treat intestinal problems including intestinal parasites. Akapulko is also used as herbal medicine to treat bronchitis and asthma. Because of Akapulko’s anti-fungal properties, it is a common ingredient in soaps, shampoos, and lotions in the Philippines. The Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) has helped develop the technology for a akapulko herbal medicine lotion.


Akapulko is an erect, shrubby legume with dark green compound leaves. Akapulko leaves have orange rachis that has 16-28 leaflets. Akapulko produces an axis of golden yellow flowers that has 4-winged pods containing 50-60 flattened, triangular seeds. Akapulko flowers are enclosed by yellow-orange bracts that are later shed in time


Akapulko is used as herbal medicine for the following skin diseases
• Tinea infections,
• insect bites,
• ringworms,
• eczema,
• scabies and
• itchiness.


Preparation and application of Akapulko herbal medicine
Pound Akapulko leaves, squeeze the juice and apply topically on affected area twice a day until cured. There are commercially available Akapulko herbal medicine lotions in the Philippine market for skin diseases treatment. If symptoms persist or irritation occurs, stop the use and consult your doctor.


Akapulko is used as herbal medicine for the following stomach problems
• Laxative to expel intestinal parasites,
• diuretic
• purgative.
• Strong decoction of leaves are also known to cause abortion in pregnant women.


Preparation and application of Akapulko herbal medicine for treatment of stomach problems
Pound or cut a cup of Akapulko seeds, Akapulko leaves and flowers into manageable sizes then let it seep in boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes to creat an Akapulko herbal tea. Let it cool and drink a cup three times a day. The potency of Akapulko herbal tea is good to last for one day. Make new Akapulko herbal tea as needed. When symptoms persist or irritation occurs stop the use and consult your doctor.


Akapulko is used as herbal medicine for the following lung and mouth problems:
• Expectorant for bronchitis and dyspnoea,
• mouthwash in stomatitis,
• alleviation of asthma symptoms


Preparation and application of Akapulko herbal medicine for lung and mouth problems
As expectorant and for the alleviation of asthma attacks. Drink a cup of Akapulko herbal medicine tea (see above for the preparation) three times a day until symptoms improved.
For the treatment of mouth infections such as stomatitis, gargle the Akapulko herbal tea three times a day until symptoms improve.


If symptoms persist and irritation occurs, stop the use and consult your doctor.


To prepare an Akapulko herbal ointment prepare and follow these instructions.
1. Wash fresh leaves of Akapulko thoroughly and cut in small pieces.
2. Add one glass of cooking oil or coconut oil to one glass of cut fresh leaves.
3. Fry until crispy.
4. Remove from the heat; strain.
5. Cut 2 white candles (Esperma No. 5) into small pieces
6. In a cooking pot, pour the strained oil together with the candle pieces; stir until the candle has melted.
7. Pour the mixture into a clean container; cover when cool.
8. Apply the Akapulko herbal ointment to affected areas twice daily.


(Source: www.doh.gov.ph/pitahc)

Pineapple

The extract made from pineapples (Ananas comosus) has a variety of positive effects on the skin and promotes skin elasticity while removing dead damaged skin, while improving hydration and moisture and promoting a more elastic and clear looking skin.



Pineapple fruit has some active principles with important effect on skin - sugars and a-hydroxy-acids (AHA) as well as enzymes.


These active principles are responsible for its moisturizing and anti-ageing action, and also have a antifungal and purifying effect on the skin. 


In studies, it was also shown that bromelain, contained in pineapples, also has a strong anti-inflammatory action and has a positive effect, interfering with the growth of malignant cells and tumors.


The a-hydroxy-acids (AHA) are a group of organic acids that work on the corneal layer and reduce the cohesion of the corneocytes. The result of the application of AHAs is a thinner corneal layer, which improves its elasticity and flexibility regardless of the degree of skin hydration.


The use of AHAs gives better results than simple hydration; its action is more significant in cases of extreme dryness with visible hydro-keratosis.


The sugars and derivatives form hydrogen bridges with the water on the surface of the skin, retaining it and thus maintaining the moisture of the horny layer to enhance the elasticity, resilience and softness of the skin.


Two newly discovered enzymes found in pineapple are also highly effective in removing damaged skin (debridement) as was shown when tested in burn trauma. 


Traditional Use Of Pineapples
In Africa, the dried, powdered root is a remedy for edema. The crushed rind is applied on fractures and the rind decoction with rosemary is applied on hemorrhoids. Indians in Panama use the leaf juice as a purgative, emmenagogue and vermifuge.


Pineapple juice is taken as a diuretic and to expedite labor, also as a gargle in cases of sore throat and as an antidote for seasickness.

Carrot

Carrots are well known as the universal vegetable for juicing. It has benefits for us at a very young age. it has a number of health benefits. The carrot provides what is certainly the most important basic juice. The yellow color is due to carotene. The juice has a number of wellbeing effects. The carrot provides what is definitely the most imperative necessary juice. An imperative element in an infant's up bring can be found in the vitamin A. Drinking carrot juice is thought to be extremely beneficial for the liver due to Vitamin A's cleansing effects. Vitamin A reduces bile and fat in the liver. It has anti-carcinogen properties. The juice is best ingested in the afternoon because of the burst of energy that always follows.



Another vitamin contained in carrot juice is vitamin E. This vitamin appears in three forms, known chemically as alpha-, beta-, and gamma-tocopherol, and commonly known as the vitamin E complex . It helps prevent cancer. It is also believed to have cancer-curing properties. A carrot and milk juice is the ideal vitamin A source for infants and can in no case lead 10 the risk of the child having too much A. It blends with practically all other juices. It is a delicious nourishing beverage for all members of the family at all times and it should be an important part of the diet in cases of illness. Many of the aches and pains related with being older, will be far less if carrot juice is in our diet on a daily basis.


Carrot juice if applied on blemishes regularly helps them to fade away. A helping is one of the best swallows you can make to enhance your life. It is like a tonic. It will improve the overall health of you and your child, and increase immunity. Drinking the juice, as well as eating carrots, is thought to be especially beneficial for prenatal health. Beta-carotene that forms into Vitamin A is said to be very healthy for both mother and child. Beta carotene is an anti-oxidant, and thus it prevents cell degeneration. Anti-oxidants also slow down the ageing process. Another fruit which is an excellent anti-oxidant is the berry. It can be taken alone, or combined with other fruit and vegetables juices.


Carrot Juice Benefits Tips
1. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and revitalizes and tones the skin.
2. It helps prevent cancer.
3. Low blood pressure can be helped by consuming parsley, capsicum and garlic juice.
4. If applied on blemishes regularly helps them to fade away.
5. Carrot juice applied daily is great for uneven skin tones due to blemishes and pigmentation.

Lavender

The health benefits of lavender essential oil include its ability to remove nervous tension, relieve pain, disinfect scalp and skin, enhance blood circulation and treat respiratory problems. Lavender has the Latin name Lavare, which means “to wash”, due to its aroma that gives the feeling of a clean aroma.



Lavender oil is extracted mostly from the flowers of lavender plant, primarily through steam distillation. The flowers of lavender are fragrant in nature and have been used for making potpourris since years.


Lavender essential oil has also been traditionally used in making perfumes. The oil is very useful in aromatherapy and many aromatic preparations are made using lavender oil. Lavender oil blends well with many other essential oils including cedarwood, pine, clary sage, geranium, and nutmeg. Today, lavender essential oil is used in various forms including aromatherapy oil, gels, infusion, lotion, and soaps.


The various health benefits of lavender essential oil include:
Nervous System: Lavender essential oil has a calming scent which makes it an excellent tonic for the nerves. Therefore, it helps in treating migraines, headaches, anxiety, depression, nervous tension and emotional stress. Its refreshing aroma removes nervous exhaustion and restlessness and increases mental activity.


Sleep: Lavender essential oil induces sleep and hence it is often recommended for insomnia.


Pain Relief: Lavender essential oil is also an excellent remedy for various types of pains including those caused by sore muscles, tense muscles, muscular aches, rheumatism, sprains, backache and lumbago. A regular massage with lavender oil provides relief from pain in the joints.


Urine Flow: Lavender essential oil is good for urinary disorders as it stimulates urine production. It helps in restoring hormonal balance and reduces cystitis or inflammation of the urinary bladder. It also reduces any associated cramps.


Respiratory Disorders: Lavender oil is extensively used for various respiratory problems including throat infections, flu, cough, cold, asthma, sinus congestion, bronchitis, whooping cough, laryngitis, and tonsillitis. The oil is either used in the form of vapor or applied on the skin of neck, chest and back. It is also added in many vaporizers and inhalers used for cold and coughs.

Skin Care: The health benefits of lavender oil for the skin can be attributed to its antiseptic and antifungal properties. It is used to treat various skin disorders such as acne, wrinkles, psoriasis, and other inflammations. It heals wounds, cuts, burns, and sunburns rapidly as it aids in the formation of scar tissues. Lavender oil is added to chamomile to treat eczema.

Hair Care: Lavender essential oil is useful for the hair as it can be very effective on lice and lice eggs or nits.

Blood Circulation: Lavender essential oil is also good for improving blood circulation. It lowers blood pressure and is used for hypertension.

Digestion: Lavender oil is useful for digestion as it increases the mobility of the intestine. The oil also stimulates the production of gastric juices and bile and thus aids in treating indigestion, stomach pain, colic, flatulence, vomiting and diarrhea.

Immunity: Regular use of lavender essential oil provides resistance to diseases.
Other health benefits of lavender essential oil include its ability to treat leucorrhea. It is also effective against insect bites. The oil is also used to repel mosquitoes and moths. You will find many mosquito repellents containing lavender oil as one of the ingredients.


As with many other essential oils, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using lavender essential oil. It is also recommended that diabetics stay away from lavender oil. It may also cause allergic reactions to people having sensitive skin. Some people may also witness nausea, vomiting and headaches due to usage of lavender oil.

Cucumber

Cucumber is an excellent source of silica, which is a trace mineral that contributes to the strength of our connective tissue. Connective tissue is what holds our body together. Cucumbers are effective when used for various skin problems, including swelling under the eyes and sunburn. They also contain ascorbic and caffeic acids. These acids prevent water retention. That may explain why when cucumbers are applied topically they are often helpful for swollen eyes, burns, and dermatitis.


Cucumber is a vegetable that belongs to the same family as pumpkins, zucchinis and other squashes. It has a dark green skin, which reveals whitish or very light green flesh, when peeled. There are basically two types of cucumbers - the pickling varieties and the slicing varieties. Of these, the pickling variety is relatively small, around 2 - 4 inches long.

Today we see the cucumber as a provider of a very healthy juice beneficial for its places as an increaser of the flowing of weewee and as a complement to the outcomes of apium graveolens dulce and carrot juice for rheumatic statuses, while at the same clip being a soothing skin lotion.

As a beauty aid, the cucumber provides immediate relief to puffy eyes; a fresh cucumber can be cut into thin slices, and these placed on the eyes for 5-10 minutes. This works incredibly well after a tiring day at work in front of the computer, and helps to relieve stress and dark circles around the eye area as well. Grated cucumber can be used as a mask and tonic for the entire face and neck.

Cucumbers are scientifically known as Cucumis sativus, which belongs to the same family as pumpkin, zucchini, watermelon and squash.

Cucumber’s nutritional benefits include natural salts, enzymes, and vitamins essential for strong cell growth and repair. In addition, the high mineral content and minerals in cucumber peel offer a natural source for a fresh, powerful antioxidant. The alkalinity of cucumber is also a positive attribute, and because of its water base, the cucumber is also a top choice as a diuretic.

The high water content makes cucumbers a diuretic and it also has a cleansing action within the body by removing accumulated pockets of old waste material and chemical toxins. Cucumbers help eliminate uric acid which is beneficial for those who has arthritis and its fibre-rich skin and their high levels of potassium and manganese helps regulate blood pressure and help promote nutrient functions. The magnesium content in cucumbers also relaxes nerves and muscles and keeps blood circulating smoothly.

Cucumber is good for those who are dieting as it is very low in calories. It has a cleansing action within the body by removing accumulated pockets of old waste material and chemical toxins. It helps eliminate uric acid so it is good for those who has arthritis. Its juice is a nourishing vitamin for our hair and skin. It is also a good rejuvenator and makes us feel and look younger.

It is believed that cucumber helps in reducing swelling around the eyes or the big dark circles under your eyes. This is world-wide treatment which is being used to its maximum extent.

Coffee

Coffee and skin care? It might surprise you to learn that in 2006 in the United States over 140 skin care products containing caffeine were launched compared to just 21 in 2003.



Coffee had a hard time of it in the 20th century while the U.S. Food and Drug Administration waffled over whether it was good or bad for you. As we move solidly into the 21st century, more indications of coffee's beneficial properties are surfacing, and nowhere is that more evident than in the lucrative skin care market.


Primarily, coffee and caffeine are finding their way into skin lotions and creams because of antioxidant properties and tightening and firming qualities. Caffeine applied to the skin operates in three ways - as an antioxidant, a diuretic and a vasoconstrictor. Among others, Avon, Neuturogena and L'Oreal have included caffeine in some of their products.


For years, caffeine has been used in products sold to reduce cellulite. It's clear that caffeine dehydrates fat cells by somehow energizing them which in turn causes the sodium/potassium component of the cells to vacate. Consequently, water disappears as well. Bottom line - skin on buttocks and thighs becomes smoother.


Caffeine's vaso-constricting characteristic also makes it a favorite ingredient in eye gels for reducing puffiness and dark circles as well as tightening skin around the eyes. Of course, nothing eliminates cellulite or troubled skin around the eyes completely. The best you can hope for is noticeable improvement, perhaps only for a few hours.


With the explosion in coffee based skin products, it now is seen in body scrubs, face creams and fragrances. A number of products even smell like coffee and contain ground coffee intended as an exfoliate. Some purveyors have even gone so far as to suggest that the absorption of caffeine through the skin will yield the sort of alertness you can expect from drinking coffee.


Not so fast say the dermatologists. None of the products harbor concentrations sufficient to produce the jolt one might hope for from a cup of java. Moreover, absorption is through the skin slow, so it's questionable whether enough of coffee's stuff can penetrate to enhance alertness. Infusing the coffee aroma in products, is thought, on the other hand, to stimulate perkiness by association.


Some promising studies on mice suggest that the caffeine in coffee may kill off skin cancer cells on radiated animals. So far, the results appear promising, but cannot, as yet, be translated to humans. However, many sunscreens do contain caffeine since it has been shown to have some sun blocking effects.


A few folks are even suggesting that investment in expensive skin care potions is unnecessary. It's claimed that you can receive the same benefits by concocting your own home brewed coffee soaps and body scrubs from used coffee grounds. Formulas are even offered.


Hey, now you can shower with your espresso!

Cinnamon

Cinnamon of Ceylon, the best-known variety of cinnamon, comes from the Sri Lankan cinnamon tree (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), an evergreen native to Sri Lanka, the East Indies, the Antilles, Java and Madagascar.

Name: Cinnamon
Botanical Name: Cinnamomum zeylanicum


History:
Cinnamon was considered by the ancients as one of the most important aromatic spices available and is mentioned in the Old Testament in the same context as Myrrh, Olibanum, gold and silver. It is doubtful, however, whether the species C. zeylanicum was known before the 13th century, since the spice is not mentioned as a product of Ceylon - to which it was indigenous - until 1275, when it was documented by an Arab writer, Kazwini.


The protuguese occupied Ceylon in 1536 manly to obtain supplies of Cinnamon, and the Dutch began its cultivation there in 1770 with such success that the total European demand was far exceeded, and for years large quantities had to be burned.


The essential oil of Cinnamon is extracted from both the bark and the leaf of this well known culinary spice. A member of the Lauraceae Family, Cinnamon is a tree of the tropical regions of the world and has been used for many hundreds of years both in cooking and as a medicinal substance. The pale amber oil is obtained by steam distillation and has a distinctive sweet and piercing aroma.


Uses in Natural Skin Care Products:
Although it is mildly astringent, Cinnamon has few cosmetic uses as it is strongly stimulating to the skin and warms the body.


Uses in Traditional Medicine:
Cinnamon is best known for its action on the digestive system as an appetite stimulant, aphrodisiac and general tonic.
Cinnamon is known to be beneficial in overcoming general debility and weakness after a bout of flu and is a good muscle relaxant.

Rose

The first recorded preparation was in the tenth century, although in much earlier times, the Roman Emperor Nero is known to have enjoyed his feasts while lounging on rose petal filled pillows, later to bathe in rose perfumed pools while drinking rose flavored wine and eating rose pudding for a dessert!



And it is said that the mosque builders of Baghdad mixed it with their mortar mix while building, so that the sun would release the scent. In fact the Arab world of the 11th century indulged in rose water drinks, desserts and savory dishes.


The highly fragrant Cabbage Rose (Rosa R.Centifolia) is used in France for distillation of rose water. The petals are taken from the flower and distilled into a clear almost colorless liquid which is free of metallic impurities. Commercially produced, it (known as Rose Hydrosol)is a by product of the steam distillation process used to isolate rose oil. (Oil, Attar or Otto) Rose water is what's left after the rose oil is skimmed and collected.


How to make rose water.
Making your own is relatively easy. Gather some fresh dark red damask roses (or your favorite red, smelly ones!) preferably organically grown and definitely pest and pesticide free.


Infuse in very hot, distilled water for 45 minutes. Strain and contain. Unfortunately, because it is a pure form and contains no preservatives it should be kept in a sealed jar in the fridge. Outside of the fridge it will only keep for about 4 or 5 days.


Much can be done with it. Besides scenting your bath tub or freshening your sweaty brow, how about making Marzipan (yes, the original recipe calls for almonds, sugar and rose water!), or the famous French Madeleines. My personal favorite is mixing it with Mango Yogurt!....mmmmmmmm.


So now you have learned how to make rose water why not try some of the recipes that use it?


Rosewater Recipes Check Here
Using Rose Water in Skin Care.
Sharon Hopkins shares some of her ideas on using Rose Water (and Other ingredients) as a skin toner.

Tune Up Your Skin With Toner, by Sharon Hopkins.
Skin toners are the next step after a facial cleansing routine. Skin toners ensure complete removal from the skin of all cleansing preparations.


They freshen and tone up the skin and prepare a clean surface for the application of make-up. They also restore the acid or alkali balance of the skin, because they are pH balanced.


They are designed to penetrate pores, refresh and cool your skin while clearing away excess oil, impurities and dead skin cells that were not removed with your cleanser.


Toners restore the skin's natural pH balance. When you wash your face, the pH balance of the skin is distorted leading to skin working overtime to restore pH levels; the process of skin restoring the pH levels on its own can take up as much as half and hour or more. By using a skin toner, the pH level of your skin is restored instantly.


Choose a toner appropriate for your skin type. A wide variety of toners are available. Alcohol dries the skin and harms the soluble collagen below the surface of the skin. It is thus safer to use an alcohol-free toner.


Use witch hazel, geranium, honey, lemon, ivy, sage, nettle and burdock, although Witch hazel has a tendency to dry the skin it is good to combine it with moisturizers such as Vitamin E, honey, etc. Rosewater helps keep skin and face moisturized, fresh and balances the pH levels.


Essential oils are the gentlest way of toning up. Rose water for normal or dry/sensitive skin or witch hazel for oilier skins is ideal bases for fresheners. These can be applied with cotton wool, using smooth, gentle upward strokes or sprayed on to the face. Oily skin benefits from juniper or lemongrass whereas drier skins would benefit from rose or sandalwood.


Apply the skin toner to a cotton ball and sweep it gently across your face. The cotton wool should come out relatively clean when toning. If it is not clean it indicates the cleansing has not been done properly.


Do not succumb to the temptation to tone the skin whenever you feel it has become dirty. It should be used only after the skin has completed a cleansing routine and not as a substitute for cleansing. So, remember that your toner must function as a toner and not as a cleanser.


Toning is pleasant and refreshing, can act as an additional cleanser on very oily or dirty skin, and is valuable in removing any traces of grease that the cleanser may have left behind. Think of it as the polishing touch in your skin care treatment.

Ginger

Ginger on the skin can increase skin's radiance and decrease inflammation that may contribute to conditions such as psoriasis and acne. Ginger is an antioxidant, which means it inhibits harmful free radicals that cause skin damage and aging.



Ginger is a native plant of Southeast Asia. Ginger is mentioned in ancient Chinese writings, and ginger has been used as a medicinal food in Asian cultures for thousands of years.


Types

People can experience the benefits of ginger on the skin by eating ginger in foods, drinking ginger tea, consuming ginger supplements or using a ginger-infused skin care product.

Improve Skin Tone

Ginger's antioxidant, gingerol, not only fights skin-damaging free radicals, but also promotes smoothness and evenness in skin tone . Blue ginger from Madagascar is a type of ginger that is a particularly potent antioxidant.

Lighten Age Spots

Ginger also has the ability to lighten age spots while acting as an energy-booster in aromatherapy spa treatments. Because ginger is energizing and is believed to improved circulation, it is often used in cellulite-reducing treatments.


Fight Blemishes
Ginger is an anti-inflammatory, which makes it a natural acne fighting ingredient. Ginger is also an antiseptic, which means it is effective in killing the bacteria that causes acne.

Aloe Vera

One of the greatest achievements in health and beauty segment is the use of herbal products and medicines to treat health conditions naturally. Herbs have mystical healing properties that make them suitable for treating ailments. One of the most blessed herbs with curative properties is Aloe Vera.


Aloe Vera is the most prestigious herb used for skin care. It contains almost 20 amino acids, minerals like calcium, magnesium and sodium in sufficient quantities, enzymes, vitamins, polysaccharides, nitrogen and other components that make it a miracle beauty herb.

Aloe Vera has numerous medicinal and cosmetic properties. It is available as a gel, spray, lotion, juice, cream and in the form of a capsule. Aloe Vera gels and lotions have become very popular in herbal beauty products. Creams made of Aloe Vera are used with beneficial results in skin eruptions and allergies. Aloe Vera is also used for the treatment of bruises and burns. It is a cellular regenerator and has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal effects.

Aloe Vera helps in increasing circulation of blood thus facilitating easier oxygen exchange between the cells thus providing them nourishment. It also gives relief to insect bites, acne, sunburns, rashes, and other topical conditions. Skin products specially formulated for wrinkles, aging, pimples, skin rashes, allergies and skin problems contain Aloe Vera as an important ingredient. Apart from skin care, Aloe Vera is also very beneficial in many other health problems like arthritis, insomnia, ulcers, infection, hemorrhoids, indigestion, constipation, heartburn etc.

Have a healthy, glowing and beautiful skin with herbal skin care!

Papaya

The papaya is an amazingly rich source of the proteolytic enzymes. These are the chemicals that enable the digestion of protein. Papain, which is the most important of these enzymes in the papaya, is extracted and dried as a powder for use to aid the digestion, and it is often used as a meat tenderizer, the enzyme partially breaking down the meat fibers - digesting them in fact.



Many experts, such as Dr Lytton-Bernard, have claimed rejuvenating properties for papaya, especially for the control of premature ageing. It may be that it works simply because a poor digestion leaves the body without the correct nutrients. Those who find it almost impossible to digest anything frequently find that papaya used regularly, either in tablet or juice form, marks the turning point in the climb back to vitality and good health.


As a cleanser you can take a quarter pint (150ml) of papaya juice alternated each hour for twelve hours by the same amount of cucumber or green bean juice. Papaya loses some of the enzymes as it ripens, so if you have the choice select them green. They are easy to obtain in most parts of America but are not found in British greengrocers very often. Fortunately there has been a rapid expansion in the numbers of specialist shops providing for the needs of the Indian and West Indian communities where papayas can be bought.


Papaya contains arginine which is known to be essential for male fertility and also carpain, an enzyme thought to be good for the heart. Fibrin also occurs and this substance is not commonly found in the plant kingdom; in man it forms part of the blood clotting process. The papaya is an excellent source of vitamin C, with 82mg per 100g (4oz), and is rich in carotene.


After treatment with antibiotics the use of papaya juice will quickly assist the restoration of the normal bacteria in the gut which will have been destroyed by the treatment. Papaya is good for many digestive disorders and is excellent for improving poor digestion. It has also been recommended as part of the treatment for cancer. Therapeutically it can often be combined with pineapple juice in which there is another important enzyme bromelain.


The skin of the papaya is a first class external treatment for skin wounds and places that do not heal quickly. The pulp from the juicer can be used for this and as a poultice.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass essential oil is highly beneficial for the human body. It provides a multitude of health benefits. It prevents the body from falling prey to diseases like flatulence, muscle aches, athlete's foot etc. It is also quite effective in treating skin disorders such as acne. It is the best remedy to combat the problem of excessive perspiration. To know more about the lemongrass essential oil use, read on…

Lemongrass oil is a fabulous analgesic. Due to its antimicrobial, antifungal and antiseptic therapeutic properties, it is witnessing an increasing growth in demand. It serves as an excellent astringent. It is also known for its body toning ability. Lemongrass oil helps a great deal in getting rid of fear, depression and anxiety. It plays the role of a tranquilizer, thereby providing soothing and soporific effects to the person to whom the lemongrass oil massage is given.

Lemongrass essential oil is preferred for its fresh, earthy and lemony fragrance, which is simply amazing. The oil extracted from lemongrass is just apt to relax the tired body. The common method employed for oil extraction is steam distillation. The color of Lemongrass usually varies between dark yellow and amber to red. Lemongrass oil is watery in viscosity, thus is pretty thin in consistency.

In India, the lemongrass plant is more popularly known as 'choomana poolu', which is more often used to refer to 'Indian Melissa oil' that is extensively brought to use in Ayurvedic medicines. Ayurveda makes use of this oil to bring down fever. Also, for treating contagious diseases, Lemongrass essential oil is considered to be of great use. Apart from finding its way in the making of medicines, it is also used as an ingredient in the making of citrusy soaps & perfumes.

Note: Lemongrass has often been alleged of causing skin irritation. Therefore, pregnant women should avoid its use in any form.


Lemongrass 2 – Uses and Benefits
August 21, 2007 by deancoleman
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
A tropical grass native to southern India and Sri Lanka, yielding an aromatic oil used as flavoring and in perfumery and medicine.


Description
Resembling a gigantic weed, lemongrass is an aromatic tropical plant with long, slender blades that can grow to a height of 5 ft (1.5 m). Believed to have a wide range of therapeutic effects, the herb has been used for centuries in South America and India and has also become popular in the United States. Aside from folk medicine, lemongrass is a favorite ingredient in Thai cuisine and dishes that boast a tangy, Asian flavor. While there are several species of lemongrass, Cymbopogon citratus is the variety most often recommended for medicinal purposes. Native to Southeast Asia, lemongrass can also be found growing in India, South America, Africa, Australia, and the United States. Only the fresh or dried leaves of lemongrass, and the essential oil derived from them, are used as a drug. Cymbopogon citratus, which belongs to the Poaceae family of plants, is also referred to as West Indian lemongrass.


Not to be confused with lemon balm, which is an entirely different herb, lemongrass is considered by herbalists to have several useful properties, including antibacterial, antifungal, and fever-reducing effects. Some of these claims have been supported by animal and laboratory studies. In one test-tube investigation, published in the medical journal Microbios in 1996, researchers demonstrated that lemongrass was effective against 22 strains of bacteria and 12 types of fungi. Scientific research has also bolstered the herb’s reputation as an analgesic and sedative. A study conducted in rodents suggests that myrcene, a chemical found in the essential oil of Cymbopogon citratus, may act as a site-specific pain reliever. Unlike aspirin and similar analgesics, which tend to alleviate pain throughout the body, myrcene seems to work only on particular areas. A study involving people indicates that lemongrass may also affect the way the body processes cholesterol.


More recently, lemongrass has been shown to have antimutagenic properties; that is, researchers have found that it is able to reverse chemically induced mutations in certain strains of bacteria.


While they may not be aware of it, most Americans have already tried lemongrass in one form or another. Citral, a key chemical found in Cymbopogon citratus, is an ingredient in a variety of foods and beverages (including alcohol). It can be found in candies, puddings, baked goods, meat products, and even in certain fats and oils. Citral is a pale yellow liquid that evaporates rapidly at room temperature. Like other essential oils, lemongrass is also used as a fragrance enhancer in many perfumes, soaps, and detergents.


General Use
While not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), lemongrass reportedly has a wide variety of therapeutic effects. Because the herb has not been studied extensively in people, its effectiveness is based mainly on the results of animal and laboratory studies as well as its centuries-old reputation as a folk remedy. Lemongrass is one of the most popular plant medicines in Brazil, where it is used to treat nervous disorders and stomach problems. In the Amazon, lemongrass is highly regarded as a sedative tea.


When taken internally, lemongrass has been recommended for stomachaches, diarrhea, gas, bowel spasms, vomiting, fever, the flu, and headaches and other types of pain. The herb (or its essential oil) may be applied externally to help treat acne, athlete’s foot, lower back pain, sciatica, sprains, tendinitis, neuralgia, and rheumatism. To treat circulatory disorders, some authorities recommend rubbing a few drops of lemongrass oil on the skin of affected areas; it is believed to work by improving blood flow. Like many essential oils, lemongrass is also used in aromatherapy.


The link between lemongrass and cholesterol was investigated by researchers from the Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin, who published their findings in the medical journal Lipids in 1989. They conducted a clinical trial involving 22 people with high cholesterol who took 140-mg capsules of lemongrass oil daily. While cholesterol levels were only slightly affected in some of the participants—cholesterol was lowered from 310 to 294 on average—other people in the study experienced a significant decrease in blood fats. The latter group, characterized as responders, experienced a 25-point drop in cholesterol after one month, and this positive trend continued over the course of the short study. After three months, cholesterol levels among the responders had decreased by a significant 38 points. Once the responders stopped taking lemongrass, their cholesterol returned to previous levels. It should be noted that this study did not involve a placebo group, which is usually used to help measure the effects of the agent being studied (in this case, lemongrass oil).


Considered an antiseptic and astringent, essential oil of lemongrass is also used by some people to cleanse oily skin and help close pores. Some herbalists recommend mixing a few drops of lemongrass with a normal portion of mild shampoo to combat greasy hair. Lemongrass essential oil can also be used as a deodorant to curb perspiration.


Last but not least, the herb has a strong reputation as an insect repellent. It is an important ingredient in several products designed to keep bugs at bay. Some authorities recommend rubbing the crushed herb directly on exposed areas of skin to avoid insect bites when enjoying the great outdoors.


The relative safety and stability of lemongrass oil has recommended it to pharmaceutical researchers who are testing new methods of quantitative analysis. Lemongrass oil has been used to demonstrate the superiority of near-infrared spectroscopy to older methods of determining the chemical content of plant oils.


Preparations
The optimum daily dosage of lemongrass, which is available as fresh or dried herb or as lemongrass oil, has not been established with any certainty. Because lemongrass has been recommended for so many different purposes, and can be used internally and externally, consumers are advised to consult a doctor experienced in the use of alternative remedies to determine proper dosage. There is a significant difference between the external use of a few drops of essential oil, and the use of larger amounts of the herb in a tincture or tea.


Lemongrass tea can be prepared by steeping 1–2 tsp of the herb (fresh or dried) in a cup of boiling water. The mixture should be strained after 10–15 minutes. The tea is generally taken several times a day. In Heinerman’s Encyclopedia of Healing Herbs & Spices, John Heinerman recommends using one cup of lemongrass tea every four hours to reduce fever. In the Green Pharmacy, prominent herbalist James Duke recommends drinking one to four cups of lemongrass tea a day to benefit from its anti-fungal properties. The used tea bags can also be applied externally as fungi-fighting compresses, according to the author.


To alleviate gas or persistent vomiting, Heinerman recommends a dose of 3–6 drops of lemongrass oil (the Cymbopogon citratus variety). It may be placed on a sugar cube or mixed with 1 tsp of real vanilla flavor before swallowing. For sciatica, lower back pain, sprains, tendinitis, and rheumatism, the author suggests rubbing 10 drops of the essential oil onto the skin of the affected areas.


Precautions
Lemongrass is not known to be harmful when taken in recommended dosages, though it is important to remember that the long-term effects of taking the herb (in any amount) have not been investigated. The essential oil should not be used internally by children, women who are pregnant or breast-feeding, or people with liver or kidney disease.


In rare cases, lemongrass essential oil has caused allergic reactions when applied to the skin. To minimize skin irritation, dilute the oil in a carrier oil such as safflower or sunflower seed oil before application. As with all essential oils, small amounts should be used, and only for a limited time.


Avoid getting lemongrass (herb or oil) in the eyes. Citral has been reported to irritate the respiratory tract in sensitive people as well as the eyes and skin.


Side Effects
When taken internally in recommended dosages, lemongrass is not associated with any bothersome or significant side effects. Cases have been reported, however, in which people have developed skin rashes after drinking lemongrass tea.

Interactions
As of 2003, lemongrass is not known to interact adversely with any drug or dietary supplement.

Green Tea

Over the past decade, green tea has developed quite a reputation as a “health food,” as researchers have uncovered a variety of health benefits.

You may be aware that it is good for your body. But do you know that it also shows up as a key ingredient in a variety of skin and hair care products? There is scientific research showing that green tea has a variety of beneficial properties when used topically.

Want to know what green tea is supposed to do for your skin, and how to choose products that effectively harness its beneficial properties? You will find out soon.

Green Tea Skin Benefits #1:

Fight Free Radicals

Green tea contains a cocktail of potent antioxidants called catechins, which help fight damage caused by free radicals.

Free radicals are molecules that are missing an electron - they are inherently unstable, and always trying to steal an electron from the other molecules around them.

Free radicals can form in your skin for a variety of reasons, including exposure to toxins. However, the most common cause of free radicals in skin cells is UV radiation from sunlight, which causes up to 90% of all signs of premature aging.

Want to know why green tea is so indispensable as antioxidants?

Green Tea Antioxidants - 7 Reason Why They Are So Powerful

Green Tea Skin Benefits #2:

Neutralize UV Light

In several scientific studies, green tea extract was shown to neutralize the damage done by exposure to UV rays.

A 2000 study by Case Western Reserve University showed that green tea protects against sunburn. Volunteers had green tea extract applied to the skin on their buttocks, which was then exposed to solar radiation.

At a concentration level of 4 milligrams per 2.5 cm square of skin area, the subjects obtained complete protection from sunburn. Some protection was observed at lower concentrations down to 1 milligram per cm square of skin area.

Since exposure to sunlight is a major factor that ages the skin, it is reasonable to assume that green tea cream could help prevent premature aging.

No one is advocating giving up your sunscreen in favor of green tea just yet, but green tea can definitely help enhance its effectiveness.

Green Tea Skin Benefits #3:

Prevent Skin Cancer

Green tea’s antioxidant effects may help prevent skin cancer.

A 2003 study published in the American Chemical Society discovered that green tea prevents skin cancer by blocking the harmful enzyme junk-2.

A recent 2007 study conducted in the UK revealed that those who drank two or more cups a day had a 65% lower risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma.

Interestingly, the same study noted that drinking tea with lemon boosts its anti-cancer properties.

Green Tea And Skin Cancer - Lotion Or Beverage?

Green Tea Skin Benefits #4:

Rejuvenate Skin Cells

One study, performed in 2003 by Dr. Stephen Hsu of the Medical College of Georgia Department of Oral Biology, found that green tea was able to rejuvenate old skin cells that were at the end of their life cycle.

To quote Dr. Hsu from his 2003 paper:

Thus, we report here for the first time, that at certain concentrations, EGCG or a mixture of the major green tea polyphenols stimulated aged keratinocytes to generate biological energy and to synthesize DNA, possibly for renewed cell division.

Therefore, green tea constituents may be useful topically for promoting skin regeneration, wound healing, or treatment of certain epithelial conditions such as aphthous ulcers, psoriasis, rosacea, and actinic keratosis.

Dr. Hsu commented afterwards:

“Cells that migrate toward the surface of the skin normally live about 28 days, and by day 20, they basically sit on the upper layer of the skin getting ready to die.”

“But EGCG reactivates them. I was so surprised.”

Green Tea And Skin - How EGCG Reactivate Dying Cells

Although this is an amazing finding, it is too early to say what this means for consumers.

So don’t be fooled by claims that green tea “reverses the aging process,” as it has only been shown to do so for individual skin cells, not for the face as a whole.

Prevention is one thing. Turning back the clock is completely different!

However, green tea may help increase elasticity when used continuously, so it may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles even if it can’t remove them completely.

Green Tea Skin Benefits #5:

Fight Inflammation

Green tea also has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. If your skin is very sensitive and often red, products containing green tea extract may help soothe it.

Tea Cream And Skin Inflammation

Green Tea Skin Benefits #6:

Improve Psoriasis and Dandruff Conditions

People with skin conditions such as psoriasis, rosacea, and dandruff, which are caused by inflammation, may benefit the most from the anti-inflammatory action of the chemicals in green tea.

In a 2007 study published in Experimental Dermatology, green tea was shown to significantly lessen the severity of psoriasis in mice.

Green Tea And Hair - Dandruff And Psoriasis Cure?

Green Tea Skin Benefits #7:

Sooth Acne And Lighten Skin

Everyone has experienced a bad case of acne at least once in their lives - usually at the worst possible time.

In addition to the benefits listed above, green tea catechins are anti-bacterial and can decrease hormone activity. This means green tea is an effective way to control acne, without the unpleasant side effects of benzoyl peroxide-based creams.

A 2003 study carried out by Dr. Jennifer Gan-Wong of Memorial Medical Center in the Philippines showed that green tea cream was as good as benzoyl peroxide cream in treating acne conditions with fewer side effects.

The researchers noted the green tea cream seemed to lighten patients' skin color and improve the overall appearance of their complexion.

This is excellent news, since benzoyl peroxide is often irritating to the skin, and can cause damage in the form of free radicals.

Green Tea And Pimples - Acne Skin Benefit

What's Next?

Now that you know about green tea skin care's amazing potential, how can you make sure that the products you buy will actually be effective?

My next article will give you the information you need to make an informed decision when purchasing products that claim to deliver the benefits of green tea

Green Tea Polyphenol Treatment to Human Skin Prevents Formation of Ultraviolet Light B-induced Pyrimidine Dimers in DNA (2000). Santosh K. Katiyar, Anaibelith Perez and Hasan Mukhtar. Clinical Cancer Research Vol. 6, 3864-3869, October 2000.

Green Tea Polyphenols Induce Differentiation and Proliferation in Epidermal Keratinocytes (2003). Stephen Hsu, Wendy B. Bollag, Jill Lewis, Qin Huang, Baldev Singh, Mohamed Sharawy, Tetsuya Yamamoto, and George Schuster. Journal of Pharmacology And Experimental Therapeutics. First published on March 27, 2003; DOI: 10.1124/jpet.103.049734

Oatmeals

Oatmeal soap is one of the most versatile skin-care treatments available. Providing the right combination of exfoliation, cleansing, moisturizing, soothing and protection for the skin, oatmeal soap is an item that everyone should consider keeping on hand.



Versatility
Not only is it a popular breakfast food and often used for making cookies, but oatmeal also works as an excellent treat for the skin. Commonly used in facial masks, oatmeal provides several benefits. It is often used as a gentle exfoliating treatment for any skin type, and for moisturizing dry, flaky skin. Ironically, although it works as an emollient for dry skin , it also absorbs excess oils in oily skin. Because it's so gentle, it can be used on sensitive skin. Ultimately, oatmeal soap balances the skin and can help restore its proper pH levels.


Benefits
Oatmeal soap is an excellent way to cleanse not only the face, but also the entire body. Its rich lather makes it an ideal skin cleanser. It provides nourishment for the skin, as well as soothing protection against harsh weather conditions.


Customized Uses
When used as the key ingredient in soap, oatmeal can be combined with other natural ingredients and customized for particular skin types or conditions. For example, when oatmeal is mixed with other moisturizing components such as olive oil, shea butter, avocado or honey, this creates one of the most effective ways to treat dry skin. Oilier skin types can benefit from oatmeal soap combined with oatmeal, aloe vera gel, sugar or sea salts to make a gentle yet effective scrub or mask.


Skin Irritation
Oatmeal soap has been known to relieve skin irritations, reduce inflammation and heal rashes. If you find your skin parched or irritated from too much sun exposure, oatmeal soap can help alleviate sunburn pain. An oatmeal and honey combination is ideal for sensitive skin or skin irritation.

Goat's Milk

Is there some magic ingredient in goat's milk that performs miracles for skin that is affected by eczema or psoriasis? There are those that say, yes, indeed, goat's milk does have almost magical properties when it comes to skin.

Cleopatra bathed in goat's milk in ancient Egypt, and goats are the oldest domesticated animal. Goats are bred for various purposes. Some goats are bred for meat, some are bred for their skin and others are bred for their milk. A goat that has been bred for milk production can produce as much as 465 gallons of milk each year. Goat's milk can be drunk fresh, but pasteurization is recommended to reduce bacteria.

Goat's milk is very closely related in make up to human milk - much more so than cow's milk - and goat's milk contains 20% less cholesterol than cow's milk. Most people lose their ability to digest cow's milk as they age past childhood. Some will even become lactose intolerant. Goat's milk contains much less lactose than cow's milk, so goat's milk could be the answer for those who have become lactose intolerant. There is only a very slight taste difference between cow's milk and goat's milk today.

But let's get back to the almost magical properties of goat's milk and healthy skin. Changing from drinking cow's milk to drinking goat's milk will produce benefits to skin that is affected by eczema or psoriasis in about two days' time. You will see almost immediate improvement.

Does goat's milk contain a magical skin ingredient? I don't know, but I do know that if you will try drinking goat's milk, you will be very pleasantly surprised!

When you use one of our bars of soap, you are nourishing your skin, which is the largest organ on your body. The lather is penetrating and will leave your skin silky smooth with a soft feel. If you have previously noticed "tight skin" from commercial soaps, you will enjoy the moisturizing benefits of goat's milk soap. Many people tell us they no longer need to use lotions because of regular use of our soaps.

Nutrients are retained because our soap is made in small, controllable batches through cold processing. Commercial soaps, commonly called beauty/deodorant/moisturizing bars, dry out skin and leave unhealthy chemical residues. There is a reason it is so cheap! Commercial soap contains petroleum products (irritating to people with sensitive skin), esters (known carcinogenics), alcohols (which dry your skin), low grade oils, waxes, fillers, detergents and preservatives. Your skin absorbs those chemicals just like when people use the medicated transdermal patches. Your body sees those chemicals as toxins and then tries to rid itself of them. If what comes in contact with your skin is absorbed into your body, don't you think you should be careful about what you put on it?

Commercial soaps also have the natural occuring glycerine stripped out of them to resell to you in the form of beauty bars and lotions. Milk also has alpha-hydroxy acids which break down the glue holding dead skin cells together. Alpha-hydroxy acid is well known for softening skin and leaving it rejuvenated for a younger appearance.

Goat's Milk Soap has a PH level similar to our skin, which helps protect the skin from invading bacteria and chemicals we come in contact with every day.

People who suffer from skin allergies, winter itchies, eczema, and dry skin are frequent users of goat's milk soap. While we can't tell you it will heal these conditions, we can tell you it will not further excerbate them.