Home Remedies To Lighten Hair

January 17, 2010

There are some great home remedies to lighten hair - no need for bought hair dyes if you have dirty blonde or mouse colored hair.

Sun

The best, purest and most natural way to get those real blonde highlights is to be out in the sun. Lie face down with clothing covering your skin and spread your hair out to drink in the rays of sunlight. Or just get out in the sun more. Anyone with blonde to mid brown hair will find that it is always lighter in summer - provided you do not stay indoors all of the time.

Do not overdo it of course. You must be careful not to become sunburned. Use a strong sun blocker on all exposed skin and you may also consider using sun cream on your scalp.

Swimming

Swimming in either a pool or the sea and then letting your hair dry in the sun is a great way to lighten it. It’s great exercise too!

However, some of us live in climates where there is very little sun for many months of the year. What do we do then?

Hydrogen Peroxide

Mix small amounts of household ammonia and hydrogen peroxide in equal quantities. Warning: it will smell bad! Test on a small area of skin near the ear and wait 24 hours to see if there is any allergic reaction. If not, mix a fresh batch and apply to hair. Rinse off when developed. You may also want to test on a strand of hair.

Never use household bleach or any other chlorine based product on your hair. This can destroy your hair, cause terrible damage to your skin and possibly kill you with the fumes.

Lemon Juice

Squeeze one fresh lemon. It should give you about 2 tablespoons of juice. Mix this with 3 times the quantity of water and apply to dry hair. Leave for several hours before rinsing out. Do this every day and your highlights should become lighter in a very natural looking way.

You may want to use more of the lemon juice/water mixture if you have very long hair and less if you have short hair.

Tea

Ordinary tea can lighten brown hair - seems crazy given the color that it is, but it’s true! Make tea to a normal strength that you would drink, let it cool and then rinse your hair with it.

It is best to test a strand before using tea on your whole head. If your hair is already a light shade, it may darken it.

Some of these methods can leave your hair rather dry, so be sure to use a good conditioner for blonde hair. Shampoos and conditioners containing chamomile are great for fair hair.

Going out in the sun after using any of these home remedies to lighten hair will increase their effectiveness.

Natural Remedies For Growing Hair Back

December 6, 2009

Natural remedies for growing hair back can avoid some of the complications of transplants and other processes. Hair loss is something that happens to most men and many women but the process can be prevented, slowed or even reversed in some cases.

While transplants are the quickest way to replace lost hair, they do have some disadvantages. One is that they do not stop further hair loss. So for example a man with a round balding patch at the crown who has transplants, will later probably develop a bald ring around the transplanted area as the hair loss spreads. The other main disadvantage is that unless you have a series of many treatments, people are likely to notice that you suddenly have more hair. They may think it is a hairpiece, toupee or wig.

Natural hair loss remedies come in various forms and the best results are likely to come from using more than one.

Massage

Scalp massage can stimulate hair growth where the loss is temporary or not severe, and can help to prevent further loss of hair. Gently massage the full scalp with your fingertips for about three minutes each day. Be careful not to scratch the scalp with your nails or damage any growing hair.

Massage with jojoba oil will provide the scalp with B and E vitamins plus many minerals that will give hair a boost. Jojoba oil is particularly effective if you have a tendency to skin problems such as dandruff, eczema and psoriasis, or oily hair.

A Chinese form of massage said to stimulate the follicles involves tapping the scalp with the fingers of both hands. Beginning in the middle of the base of the skull at the back, tap about 20 times then move the tapping slowly upward and outward around the ears. Then begin again at the back a little higher than where you started before. Repeat until you have covered the whole scalp, finishing at the front.

Nutrition and Vitamins

The hair requires a full balance of vitamins and minerals to grow healthily. Most of us do not get all that we need from our diets. Increasing your intake of fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables to around 10 varied portions a day will go a long way toward rectifying any deficiencies.

Make sure that you are getting enough of these nutrients in particular:

Vitamin A
All B vitamins, especially B6 and B12
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
Zinc
Iron
Copper
Iodine
Essential fatty acids

You can track all of the nutrients in your diet with a free computer program such as the Cron-o-meter available from http://spaz.ca/cronometer

If any of the above nutrients are deficient in your diet you can either look for foods that contain more of them (best option) or take supplements, except for vitamin A which should always be supplied from food. The best food sources of vitamin A are orange and red vegetables such as carrots, pumpkin, red pepper etc or dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach.

Men should pay particular attention to the amount of zinc in their diet because it is very important for the prostate. It is vital to have enough, but too much can cause problems.

Herbal Remedies

Men may find the herbal treatment Saw Palmetto useful in treating hair loss. This is believed to have an action on the prostate which is involved in typical male pattern baldness. Be careful not to take too much because if the male hormones that lead to hair loss are reduced too far, breast tissue can develop.

Saw Palmetto may be useful for some women too but must not be taken with hormone therapy, oral contraceptives or any other medication that contains hormones.

Reduce Stress

Stress can cause hair loss and therefore anything you can do to reduce stress or anxiety in your life is likely to have a beneficial effect on your hair. Try meditation or practice relaxation techniques for 10 minutes each morning, preferably after exercise. Regular exercise will both reduce stress and create a healthier skin and scalp.

These solutions may help in cases for male pattern baldness and age-related hair loss in women. They do not constitute a health treatment or cure. If your hair loss is related to health problems or medication or has an unknown cause, it is best not to rely on natural remedies for growing hair back and you should see your doctor.

Natural Remedies for Acne

October 1, 2009

Acne is a skin condition that millions of individuals deal with, sometimes on a daily basis. Although acne is not a life threatening condition, it can cause great stress. Acne, especially when constantly touched or picked at, can also lead to scaring or even an infection. For that reason, those suffering from acne often look for different ways to seek relief.

When it comes to seeking relief from acne, there are a large number of over-the-counter products that claim to provide relief. In addition to simply just appearing on store shelves, a large number of over-the-counter acne medications are also appearing on our television screens and with famous celebrities standing behind the products. Of course, if you are suffering from acne you can give these over-the-counter products a try, but it is also important to know that you do have a number of different options. These options involve the use of natural remedies and home remedies, which are a safer way to treat acne, as they do not rely on the use of potentially dangerous chemicals.

There are a number of natural remedies for acne that rely on the use of food. One of those remedies is that of lettuce. Saturating lettuce in water for about an hours worth of time will result in a special mixture. This mixture should then be applied to the skin, acting as a rinse. This approach is a nice and easy way to get rid of unwanted acne.

Fresh lime juice and milk are another natural remedy for getting rid of acne that comes highly rated and recommend. With this natural remedy for acne, boil a half of glass of milk. Once that milk has cooled, add in about the same amount of lime juice. You can then use a cloth to apply the mixture onto your acne infected area. As an important reminder, wait until the boiled milk has cooled to an ideal level to promote comfort and prevent burns.

For a small area of acne, ripe tomatoes can be used. For this home remedy, cut a ripe tomato in half and place the inside, wet portion of the tomato on the pimple or pimples. Leave it on for about an hours worth of time and then wash off. A similar approach to this natural remedy and one that still comes highly rated and recommended involves the use of tomato paste.

As previously stated, those suffering from severe acne put themselves at risk for developing an infection or scaring. Those who are known to touch or pick at their pimples are first advised to stop. That is the best way to keep your skin healthy. With that being said, Aloe Vera can also provide relief. When applied to the affected area, Aloe Vera can help to promote healthy healing on the skin.

As outlined above, there are a number of different natural remedies and home remedies for those suffering from acne, like you. As for why these natural remedies are advised, there are a number of different reasons. If you have ever tried over-the-counter skincare products before, you likely already know that they can be costly. Imagine that cost added up overtime. It is also important to note that many over-the-counter acne treatment products have poor reviews. In fact, did you know that some products actually cause users more problems with rashes and acne than before? That is why many are now starting to rely on natural remedies instead, as they are affordable, easy to implement, and safe.

Asafoetida

February 24, 2009

Asafoetida has been also referred to as the “Food of the Gods.” The main part of this plant that is used is the resin which makes up a volatile oil. The history of this herb is amazing as it was used frequently back in time by Alexander the Great for flavoring. That was back in 4 B.C. still in early times, Asafoetida was used to treat gas and the bloating associated with it. Carrying through time the resin gum is used often for vegetarian dishes that are prepared in India. Today, it is one of the main flavorings in Worcestershire sauce.

Asafoetida is an herbal plant that has many diverse uses such as an aid for digestion, a remedy for headaches, an antidote, and an expectorant. Asafoetida has been known to be used on some mental impairment but not very often has it been shown to make any significant difference except for mild anxiety. Therefore it focuses primarily on bodily functions where it can do greater good.

As mentioned earlier, it works on gas and the bloating associated with it but further it also eases indigestion, rids stomach cramps, and helps with constipation, which is Asafoetida’s contribution in the digestion department. When it comes to headaches, when Asafoetida is mixed with water it is showing great promise for the treatment of migraines and tension headaches. As an antidote, it works great for snake bites and an insect repellant when it is mixed with garlic.

As an expectorant the Asafoetida oil helps to rid the body of excess mucus and eases the respiratory system. Many use it for whooping cough, asthma, and bronchitis. Where expectoration is a problem asafetida helps in expelling accumulated cough. Some mixtures that seem to blend together well for coughs and as expectorants are roasted fresh resinous gum powder with real ghee or a mixture of asafetida powder with honey, white onion juice, betel nut juice and dry ginger.

Asafoetida has a very unpleasant odor to it, so bad that many call it the “Devil’s Dung.” The foul odor comes from the resin that is removed from the plant’s stem and root. Asafoetida is a species of the fennel plant but a relative to the carrot. The wicked odor is formed from the organic sulfur compound found as part of the essential oils. When it comes to the value of the Asafoetida tree, the older, the better and trees less than four years of age are virtually worthless.

When buying Asafoetida in the marketplace it will likely be available in three different forms, one is called tears which are commonly sold in Chinese pharmacies and characteristically may have fragments of root and earth. It is also sold in a paste which is very commonly used as a condiment for flavoring such dishes as curry, to flavor beans, sauces, pickles, and many use it as a substitute for garlic.

A few other unique things that Asafoetida is used for is that if used in recipes regularly it has been suggested that it may increase the chances of male fertility. Often it is used for toothaches as well.

Create A Natural Remedy Using Honey

February 17, 2009

The healing properties of honey are numerous. It is the mystery behind many natural remedies. Having many medicinal applications for common conditions. From burns to fending off viral colds or flue. Honey is an antibiotic. But also has excellent anti viral and anti fungal qualities. Why not try some of them out? Here’s simple recipes, tips and tricks, to get you started!

Which Honey?

Like a lot a things. You get out what you put in. Raw and organic honey is definitely the best option. It will taste better than most mass produced brands. Plus, has much more nutrients.
Three Honey Cold Remedy Recipes
1) This is great for fighting a cold, and also for calming the stomach. Warm through a cup of raw honey. Until it becomes liquefied. Mince and peel equivalent to 2tbs of ginger. Chop a quarter cup of lemon balm. Add both to the honey and keep it simmering for twenty minutes. Pour into a glass container and tightly seal the cap.
2) Feeling blocked up? Congested? For every cup of raw honey. Blend in a quarter cup of fresh lavender or mint. Hyssop and Thyme. Even Rosemary, sage and Rosehip will do the trick. You can use dried herbs too. Just reduce the amount to one eighth cup.
3) The Ultimate cold or flu remedy. A good idea to keep it at hand over the winter months. A simple garlic and honey remedy. So simple to make. Just fill a container with cloves of garlic. Pour over the raw honey. It will need to be left to infuse. At least a few days, before use.
Honey Remedies and Storage
A cool dry cabinet is Okay. The refrigerator is better. Make sure you make a note of the date it was made. So you can keep track of things.

How Much To Take
If you are feeling under the weather, just one teaspoon. Three or four times a day. If it’s a case of the flu. Some people like to use their honey mixtures with apple cider vinegar. Or water. To make infusions. The brave will also add a spot of cayenne pepper. Renowned for it’s great healing advantages. Remember! Honey must not be given to young children, under one years of age. They love it. But the risk of botulism is high.

Natures Helping Hand
Is there a more natural way? Than using herbal remedies. To fight our ailments and discomforts. Another important thing to understand? Honey is loaded with sugar. Natural or no. So no doubling up quantities! The most fundamental important thing, to using these natural honey remedies, is this. Get the honey from a local source. It will give the best results and you’ll be on your way to Wellville. In no time at all!

Natural Remedies for Arthritis

January 26, 2009

Do you or someone that you love suffer from arthritis? If so, the pain and discomfort that is commonly associated with arthritis may be too much to handle. When it is, there are many arthritis sufferers who turn to over-the-counter medications to seek relief. Yes, these over-the-counter medications will work in most cases, but did you also know that there are natural and safe ways to manage and treat arthritis? There are and a few of these natural remedies are highlighted below.

The consumption of raw juices is an effective and natural remedy for arthritis. Two specific types that come highly rated and recommended are green juices, as well as potato juice. In fact, potato juice has been used to treat the pain and discomfort commonly associated with arthritis for years on end. For potato juice, cut a potato into thin slices. When doing so, leave the skin intact. Place the potato slices in a glass of cold water and leave sitting for a few hours, overnight is best. Then drink.

The consumption of Omega 3 Fatty Acids are another natural way to treat many of the symptoms of arthritis. Omega 3 Fatty Acids are found in most fish. Those who do not like eating fish are encouraged to examine Omega 3 Fatty Acid supplements, which are available for sale at most drug stores and health stores. This natural remedy can provide relief from all forms of arthritis; however, those with rheumatoid arthritis see and feel the best results.

Warm olive oil massaged over the area is another easy and natural way to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis. What is nice about this approach is that most individuals already have olive oil in their homes. When using warm olive oil, be sure to let cool a little, as olive oil that is too hot can result in painful skin burns. In addition to plain olive oil, sage, rosemary, or garlic can be diluted with olive oil, with about ten more parts of olive oil. When applied to the impacted area, relief should be felt immediately.

Baths are another natural way to treat the pain and discomfort often associated with arthritis. When using baths to seek relief, warm baths are advised. In fact, cold bathes can result in increased pain, which is not the goal. In addition to a traditional warm bath, many of those suffering from arthritis recommend adding about three or four tablespoons of Epson salt to the bathwater. Those diagnosed with arthritis should remain in a warm bath for at least thirty minutes.

Small amounts of exercise is another natural way to relieve the pain and discomfort commonly associated with arthritis. The only problem is that those suffering from arthritis must proceed with caution where exercise is concerned. Moving around, whether it be through walking or squeezing a stress ball, can help, but it also important not to over do it. Those who overexert themselves are likely to experience even more pain and discomfort.

As you can see, there are a number of natural remedies and home remedies that can be used to seek relief from arthritis. If you are not suffering from arthritis, but if you know someone who is, you may want to pass these easy and natural remedies onto that person. Unfortunately, many individuals are unaware of natural remedies and their many benefits.