Causes of Car Vent Odors

When it comes to enjoying the interior of your car, there are five main reasons unpleasant vent odors can ruin the day:

• Tobacco: The heavy gases of cigarette smoke can set up shop inside the chambers of your car air conditioner.
• Animals: Small outdoor animals may seek shelter in the crevices of your car. If they perish around your air conditioner chambers, the scent can linger for days.
• Dirt Accumulation: When excess dirt becomes trapped in your air filter – a faintly detected, distinct odor can develop.
• Engine Leak: If the combustion engine suffers damage and develops a leak, the unit can drown in burning antifreeze fumes. The air conditioner will pick up some of these fumes and send them out of your interior vents.
• Mold: When little or no airflow and moisture are present, mold can thrive in your car air conditioner when the unit is turned off.

Interior Car Vent Odor Home Remedies

There’s nothing worse than taking a ride in the car and you can’t stand to breathe in. Dirt, bacteria, mold, and other factors can all contribute to nasty odors ruining the inside of your car. To fight back, consider the following home remedies for getting odors out of interior car vents:

a) Dryer Fabric Softener Sheet:

Choose a scented dryer fabric softener sheet to freshen up your interior car vents. Secure one sheet per vent to counteract cigarette smells and musty odors. Make sure that the sheet is secure enough so that it doesn’t fall into the vent. Turn on your heat to activate the fresh scent. Run your heater for a couple of minutes and remove sheets.

b) Mustard Powder [1] :

Let’s say you have run over Pepe LePew and the scent of dead skunk is filtering through your interior car vents. You must remove the source of the odor to clear your vents of unwanted stink. Mustard powder works wonders on skunk odors. Pour one cup of dry mustard into a bucket of warm water, making sure to mix well. With an old rag, saturate your tires, wheels, and the underbody of your car with the solution. Clean around and inside interior air vents with the dry mustard solution as well.

c) Car Freshener:

Cut a car freshener in half and situate inside the interior car vents to negate any odors when you have the air conditioner turned on.

d) Toothbrush and Rag:

Grab an old toothbrush and rag to clean the interior vents in your car, using either soap and water or a white vinegar and water solution.

e) Vinegar and Water:

Combine ¼ cup of white vinegar and two cups of water. Place the ingredients into a sprayer and shake. Next, wipe the inside and outside of your interior car vents with the solution. Mist the spray inside of the vents as well.

f) Change Air Filter:

Sometimes it is your air filter causing your car to fill with odors. Dust mites, dirt, old water, and other pollutants can compromise the air filter, sending unwanted smells through the air vents.

g) Lysol:

To treat odors caused by bacteria, spray Lysol inside of your interior car vents.

h) Perfume or Cologne:

Overpower the odors coming from your car vents by spraying a small amount of your favorite perfume or cologne.

i) Air Freshener Sprays:

Spritz the inside of your interior car vents with a pleasant air freshener spray. Turn on your heater or air conditioner to circulate the scent.

j) Simply Clean the Air Conditioner:

Open the cover to your car air conditioner and clean it using a moist cloth. Remove any dirt clogging up drain holes. Drain the collection pan and wash it with soap and water. Once you run the air conditioner again, you should encounter a revamped freshness and cleaner scents.

[1] Extraordinary Uses for Ordinary Things by Reader’s Digest, pg. 216

Why Induce Labor?

For a pregnant mother, the threats of delivery complications and increased risk of suffering a stillbirth increase after 42 weeks. About 1 in 1,000 babies are subject to this fate [1]. While ultrasounds let parents know that everything is going according to plan, the movement of your baby serves as an at-home indicator. Count the number of movements felt throughout the day – the more movement, the better. Inducing labor also relieves uncomfortable pregnancies, when the physical strain becomes too much to bear for a mother.

Inducing Labor Home Remedies

When it comes to inducing labor, every body is different. What works for one woman will not necessary bring results for the next. While some mothers swear by a meal filled with spicy foods, others claim that pineapple has helped induce labor. Keep in mind that the following home remedies for inducing labor may or may not coax your little one to make a guest appearance:

a) Get Moving:

Going for a walk or climbing a flight of stairs may help hurry along the labor process by applying a bit of pressure on the cervix by shifting the weight of your baby’s head . Moving around can also help create better baby positioning for labor.

b)Sexual Intercourse:

One of the most natural methods of inducing labor is to have sex. The act releases a hormone called oxytocin, which encourages uterine contractions. Semen also contains a substance called prostaglandins, which contributes to the softening of the cervix and induces labor [2].

c)Nipple Stimulation:

Stimulating the nipples has proven to induce labor in the same manner as sexual intercourse, as it releases oxytoxin. However, keep in mind that this method takes much longer than sex to take effect. Some women have even successfully used a breast pump to speed up the process.

d) Stretching:

Increase your chances of inducing labor by stretching to expand uterine membranes. Some women have experienced labor within 48 hours after using this technique.

e) Destress:

It doesn’t matter what you try for inducing labor, if you are not free of stress and relaxed – nothing will work. Listen to soothing music, flip through your favorite magazine, or take a warm bath.

f) Massage:

The body is full of trigger points, which one can target to stimulate labor. Massage also helps reduce stress levels, which can make the overall process much easier.

g) Acupressure:

Read up on maternity acupressure and how you can effectively apply pressure with your fingers and thumbs to sensitive points on the body to induce labor. It is important that you do not confuse this remedy with acupuncture, which uses needles to treat medical issues.

Resources

[1] http://www.pregnancy-info.net/labor_inducing_labor.html
[2] http://www.webmd.com/baby/features/babys-coming-when?page=1

What is a Chigger?

A chigger is a harvest (or larval) mite that enjoys feasting on the blood out of its victims [1]. Measuring about 1/20 inch long, the chigger is a bright red, hairy critter that has the ability to travel pretty fast. Instead of burrowing in the skin like other mites, chiggers insert their mouthparts into a skin pore or hair follicle [2]. Small, reddish welts oftentimes appear on the skin accompanied by intense itching and irritation. Some victims liken a chigger bite to an acute case of poison ivy or poison sumac.

Chiggers usually target the waist, ankles, or warm folds of skin on humans. If you live close to woody areas, orchards, or berry patches – chances are greater of suffering chigger bites. They also prey on campers, picnickers, hikers, bird watchers, and fishermen. The worst time of the year for chigger bites is early in the summertime, when grass, weeds and other vegetation have started to spread out in growth.

Symptoms of a Chigger Bite

The primary symptoms of a chigger bite include [3]:

• Severe itching
• Redness
• Pimple-like bumps (called papules)
• Hives
• Skin rash during sun exposure

Chigger Bite Home Remedies

If you plan on hiking in the woods or picking blackberries in a nearby meadow, keep in mind that what you can’t see will hurt you. Chiggers are so small that it takes a microscope to detect an infestation. Thank goodness for home remedies that can ease the discomfort of an unfortunate encounter with chigger bites, including:

a) Neosporin:

Rub Neosporin ointment or any other antibacterial ointment hidden in your bathroom cabinet on chigger bites to speed up the healing process and prevent infection.

b) Ace Bandage:

To reduce the itching of chigger bites, wrap an Ace bandage over affected areas to cut off the air supply that contributes to itchy skin.

c) Aspirin:

Moisten an aspirin tablet and gently rub over chigger bites to ease pain and lessen the itch.

d) Nail Polish:

When chigger welts appear, dab on a bit of nail polish to keep children (and adults) from scratching at their bites.

e) Elmer’s Glue:

While dabbing nail polish on chigger bites has worked wonders for some victims trying to beat itchy skin, others have turned to an easier-to-remove method – applying Elmer’s Glue to bites.

f) Hair Dryer:

Treat itchy skin by holding a handheld hair blow dryer (on a high setting) a couple of inches away from a bite for a few seconds. Once the heated sensation fades away, hopefully so will your itch.

g) Baking Soda:

Thoroughly clean your chigger bites with soap and water, followed up with an application of baking soda and water paste.

h) Listerine:

Clean infected chigger bites with hot water and soap. Soon after, dab on Listerine mouthwash, which contains hasbenzoic acid and an alcohol/water solution much similar to the chigger bite products found on the market (like Chiggerex).

i) Baby Oil:

While in the shower, gently scrub or use a dry brush on the skin to massage the skin. Follow up with a coat of baby oil after patting dry the skin.

j) Choice of Clothing:

The kind of clothing you choose to wear when enjoying the outdoors can prevent additional chigger bites during the healing process. Since dark colors (especially navy blue and black) are said to attract chiggers, wear light colored clothing. If you’re planning on braving overgrown patches of grass, don’t forget to lace up a tall pair of boots.

k) Castor Oil:

After taking a shower, rub pure castor oil on your chigger bites.

l) Vicks Vapor Rub:

Put an end to itchy chigger bites by rubbing Vicks Vapor Rub on affected areas, which contains methanol – an ingredient known to relieve itching.

Resources

[1] http://wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn?s=chigger
[2] http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2100.html
[3] http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001333.htm

What is Indigestion?

Indigestion, also known as an upset stomach or dyspepsia, often causes pain or a strong sensation to develop in the upper stomach. It is not a disease or specific condition, but rather, a collection of symptoms that brings on heartburn, bloating, burping, and nausea [1].

Causes and Symptoms

Indigestion creates a burning feeling in the stomach. An acidic taste may take over your mouth. You may feel full and experience bloating. Nausea and vomiting are also common signs of indigestion. The stomach may growl and sometimes, diarrhea surfaces. Usually, indigestion is a sign of an intestinal complication (like gallbladder disease, peptic ulcers, or chronic appendicitis), while in other cases – you may have simply ate too fast [2]. Other causes of indigestion include:

• Uncooked food
• Food allergies (like beans and onions)
• Eating too much food in one sitting
• Lack of exercise
• Persistent digestive problems, like gallstones
• Stress
• Smoking cigarettes
• Excessive consumption of alcohol or caffeine
• Stomach cancer

Indigestion Home Remedies

Instead of running to the pharmacy for indigestion relief, your kitchen cabinets and refrigerator are stocked with enough home ammunition to battle an upset stomach. Some home remedies for indigestion include:

a) Pineapple Juice:

Drink a ½ glass of pineapple juice after every meal to treat indigestion.

b) Parsley:

To treat indigestion, eat around ¼ teaspoon of dried parsley and follow up with a glass of water. Eating a few sprigs of fresh parsley can also help.

c) Celery:

When the initial signs of indigestion start to rear its ugly head, chomp on a celery stick.

d) Potato:

Some people have treated their indigestion by chewing up and swallowing a small piece of raw potato.

e) Lemon, Ginger, and Honey:

Add a spoonful each of lemon juice and ginger, and two spoonfuls of honey to a glass of warm water. Stir the ingredients with a spoon and drink when the signs of indigestion start to emerge.

f) Lemon Juice:

Prevent acid buildup associated with indigestion by drinking a cup of hot water mixed with one tablespoon of lemon juice before eating a meal.

g) Baking Soda:

Mix an equal amount of baking soda and water to gain quick indigestion relief.

h) Bag of Ice:

Apply an ice bag over your stomach after meals. Wait ½ hour before resorting to this remedy.

i) Grapes:

It is said that grapes can remove indigestion symptoms, as well as treat an irritated stomach.

j) Grapefruit:

Grate small bits of the outer skin of a grapefruit until you reach the white part. Dry the grated pieces of grapefruit skin by laying them out on a paper towel. Store the dried, grated skins in a small sealed container. When signs of indigestion arise, take ½ teaspoon of the remedy. Place the dry grated pieces in your mouth and suck for a couple of seconds, and then slowly chew before swallowing.

k) Cinnamon:

Add a tablespoon of cinnamon to a glass of water. Drink the mixture an hour after eating a meal to treat indigestion and gas.

l) Ginger:

Indigestion responds to a hot cup of ginger tea after meals. Some people also chew on crystallized ginger to settle their stomach.

Resources

[1] http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/indigestion/DG00018
[2] http://my.clevelandclinic.org/disorders/Indigestion_Dyspepsia/hic_Indigestion.aspx

What is Insomnia?

Insomnia is broken down into two different kinds of cases: primary and secondary. A patient with primary insomnia has difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep [1]. This condition often lasts for at least one month without any known physical or mental obstacles. Secondary insomnia occurs when a medical condition is involved.

Causes and Symptoms

From painful diseases to narcotic substances that hinder your sleep pattern, common causes of insomnia include anxiety, stress, prescription drugs, caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, chronic pain, changes in a work schedule, poor sleep habits, and eating too much food right before bedtime.

Insomnia also becomes more widespread in older individuals, as there is an increased use of medications, sleep patterns change, chronic health conditions arise, and the elderly start to experience less physical and social activity. Medical conditions, like sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome can also prevent a person from falling asleep.

If you suffer difficulty falling asleep or periodically awaken in the middle of the night, consider insomnia as a possibility [2]. The signs and symptoms of insomnia include:

• Daytime fatigue or sleepiness
• Irritability, depression or anxiety
• Lack of concentration
• Increased errors or accidents
• Tension headaches
• Gastrointestinal problems
• Sleep-related worries

Insomnia Home Remedies

It doesn’t matter how old you are, insomnia is a treatable condition. For starters, you must identify the cause of your insomnia and most likely, make lifestyle changes that enhance you chances of sleep-filled nights. From shifting daily routines to going to bed at the same time each night, home remedies for insomnia can also help improve your quality of sleep.

a) Comfortable Pillows:

Pillows often play an important role in whether or not you are able to enjoy a restful sleep. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of getting rid of pillows that are too hard or too soft.

b) Cover Your Clock:

If you constantly wake up in the middle of the night, it is recommended to keep your bedroom clock covered. The more unaware you are of the time – the better you will sleep.

c) Oats:

If you’ve been experiencing poor sleep patterns, it is suggested to eat oats on a daily basis. Start off the day with a bowl of hot cereal [3].

d) Set Aside Unwind Time:

If your mind seems to race throughout the day, this frantic pace can affect your sleep patterns and cause you to lie awake at night. To encourage a restful night, sit still for about 10 minutes and recap your day. Think about tomorrow and what you’ve accomplished today. Settle down and mentally unwind. The best results come when this practice is performed one to two hours before bedtime.

e) Sleep Schedule:

Avoid erratic sleep schedules that can contribute to insomnia by adhering to consistent bedtime and wake times. For the best results, it is important to include weekends as part of your steady sleep schedule.

f) Know the Role of Your Bed:

Your bed is for sleeping. If you make it the place where you watch TV, hold long conversations on the telephone, check your email, read books, eat meals, and balance the checkbook – it makes it harder for you to focus on falling asleep when the time comes.

g) Lettuce:

Did you know that lettuce contains a substance known to induce sleep, called ‘lectucarium?’ The juice of the lettuce plant also causes a sedative effect in some.

h) Skip Naptime:

Perhaps your daily nap is causing you to have trouble sleeping. Naps can make it harder for some people to fall asleep at night. If a nap is absolutely needed, don’t take more than 30 minutes to reboot and avoid catnaps after 3pm.

i) Peppermint and Herbs:

For a natural insomnia treatment that calms the nerves and relaxes the body, mix one tablespoon of sage, two tablespoons of peppermint, and one tablespoon of rosemary. Add one teaspoon of this mix to one cup of boiling water. Cover the brew and allow it to sit for around 10 minutes. Strain the liquid and add honey to sweeten.

j) Room Temperature:

Creating an ideal setting for sleep will decrease your chances of falling victim to insomnia. Before turning in for the night, make sure the bedroom temperature is not too cold or too hot.

k) Avoid Caffeine:

Several hours before bed, avoid drinking coffee, tea, and cola-based sodas, as well as eating chocolate. Caffeine is a natural chemical that affects the central nervous system, keeping your nerves on edge and boosting your thought processes [4].

l) Relaxation:

Thinking too much about getting to sleep can contribute to your insomnia issues. Breathing exercises, yoga, and muscle stretches can help you relax before turning in for the night.

m) Honey:

Possessing a hypnotic power, honey can encourage a sound sleep. Before going to bed, take two teaspoons with a large glass of water.

n) Earplugs:

The slightest noise could make it difficult to fall asleep. Consider wearing earplugs to bed when you need to block out unwanted noise.

o) Pull the Blinds:

Close the curtains and pull down the blinds when it’s time to go to bed. Lights and even the glow of the moon can cause a distraction when you’re trying to get to sleep.

p) Sex:

Research suggests that sexual intercourse acts as a trigger for hormonal mechanisms that can contribute to a restful sleep.

q) Chamomile Tea:

Chamomile is an herb found in many different kinds of tea, which possesses an effective sedative quality – thanks to a chemical compound called apigenin. Make a cup of chamomile tea and drink right before your bedtime.

r) Avoid Nightcaps:

A glass of wine with dinner or drinking alcohol at an evening function can add to insomnia by disrupting your sleep. It is not uncommon for the aftereffects of alcoholic beverages to wear off in the middle of night, causing you to wake up with signs of withdrawal.

s) Light Snack:

About one to two hours before hitting the sack, consider a light snack, which helps de-stress and calm the body.

t) Warm Milk:

A glass of warm milk will help settle down your system and prepare you for a sound sleep. To create a tonic with sedating effects, drink a glass of milk sweetened with honey every night before bed.

Resources

[1] http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000805.htm
[2] http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/insomnia/DS00187/DSECTION=symptoms
[3] The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants by Andrew Chevallier; pg. 309
[4] Joy Bauer’s Food Cures by Joy Bauer with Carol Svec; pg. 373

Causes and Symptoms

An acute case of sinusitis can be caused by a bacterial infection attacking the upper respiratory tract; a fungal infection associated with abnormal sinuses or a weak immune system; or a viral infection, such as the common cold. Viruses usually cause the highest number of sinusitis cases. Certain health conditions can also cause sinusitis to strike, such as allergies, nasal polyps or tumors, infected teeth, cystic fibrosis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and a deviated nasal septum [2].

Common symptoms of sinusitis include nasal congestion, cough, thick discharge (yellow or greenish in color), sore teeth, an achy upper jaw, and a reduced sense of smell. Other occasional signs of the condition include ear pain, irritability, fever, nausea, sore throat, and less-than-fresh bad breath.

Sinusitis Home Remedies

While some home remedies for sinusitis are as simple as walking around to clear your head and help reduce sinus swelling, other at-home treatments involve recipes for healing concoctions. Below you will find an assortment of sinusitis home remedies to consider when symptoms become too much to bear:

a) Sinus Massage:

Send a fresh supply of blood to sore sinuses by firmly pressing your thumbs on both sides of your nose in order to encourage a release of discomfort. Hold this position for 15 to 30 seconds; repeat for further relief.

b) Rest:

In order to fight a sinus infection and promote faster healing, make sure to get plenty of rest.

c) Lots of Liquids:

Drinking a decent amount of liquids, like juices and water, will encourage drainage by thinning out the mucous secretions that accumulate in the sinuses. When choosing your fluids, avoid caffeinated beverages, which can cause a dehydrating effect.

d) Avoid Alcohol:

Alcoholic beverages can worsen your symptoms by increasing the swelling found in the lining of the nose and sinuses.

e) Oregano:

Since oregano has a great deal of antiseptic compounds to offer, drinking tea containing the herb can serve as a sinus infection treatment.

e) Garlic:

Offering natural antibiotic properties, garlic helps an individual fight the virus that caused their sinusitis in the first place. It is recommended to eat three cloves on a daily basis.

f) Steam:

Treat your sinus cavities to a steam bath by draping a towel over your head and breathing in the steam from a bowl of boiling water. It is important to make sure the steam is directed towards the face.

g) Hot Shower:

When taking a hot shower, breathe in the warm, moist air, which can encourage mucus drainage, as well as treat painful symptoms.

h) Elevated Head:

If you sleep with your head in an elevated position, you can help sinus drainage, as well as lessen nasal congestion.

i) Horseradish:

The extremely strong flavor and taste of horseradish and wasabi are known to open up and clear out the sinuses. Try eating wasabi with sushi or spreading horseradish sauce on crackers. Sometimes, sniffing in the spices is enough to treat sinuses.

j) Humidifier:

Prevent the drying out of nasal and sinus passages by running a humidifier that sends cold bursts of mist into your bedroom. Cleaning your equipment once a week is required to avoid the accumulation of fungus.

k) Hot, Herbal Teas:

Sipping hot tea made with herbs, like fenugreek, fennel, anise, and sage, can assist in moving along the mucus that makes sinusitis so painful.

l) One Nostril At-a-Time:

Blowing out of both nostrils at the same time can contribute to pressure buildup in the ears, which can cause bacteria to travel back into the sinus passages.

m) Warm Compresses:

For facial pain relief, place a warm, damp towel on your face, concentrating around the nose, cheeks, and eyes.

n) Cajun Peppers:

Eat a dish that uses cayenne peppers as an ingredient. A substance called capsaicin is found in the peppers – known to stimulate the nerve fibers and deliver a response much similar to a nasal decongestant.

Resources

[1] http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/sinusitis.html
[2] http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/acute-sinusitis/DS00170/DSECTION=causes

What are Kidney Stones?

Substances found in the urine can cause solid pieces of material to form in the kidney [1]. The majority of kidney stones pass out of the body without treatment. However, some cases produce a stone that decides to stick around for a longer period of time. Intense pain can develop when the kidney stone gets stuck in the urinary tract and blocks the flow of urine. Determining the kind of kidney stone you have developed can help prevent future occurrences, as well as identify the best home remedy approach.

Four types of kidney stones include:

• Calcium Stones: About four out of five kidney stones are calcium stones, consisting of calcium oxalate.
• Uric Acid Stones: The byproduct of protein metabolism causes stones formed by uric acid. Gout and genetics contribute to this type of kidney stone.
• Stuvite Stones: Women tend to develop struvite stones, which are often connected to urinary tract infections.
• Cystine Stones: A small percentage of kidney stones are caused by a hereditary disorder that makes the kidneys eliminate an excessive amount of certain amino acids.

Causes and Symptoms

It is not uncommon for kidney stones to develop without a clear-cut reason. Add in a number of factors that oftentimes work in combination with one another and you’ll find that some people are just more vulnerable than others to the formation of kidney stones. Beware of a high-protein, high-sodium, and low-calcium diet. Limited daily movement increases kidney stone risk. An elevated body mass index (BMI), increased waist size, and weight gain also contributes to kidney stones [2]. Other causes of stones include inherited metabolic disorders, prescription drugs, and kidney disease.

Patients are unaware of their condition until they experience the symptoms that come when a kidney stone enters the ureter – the tube that connects the bladder and the kidney. Signs and symptoms include:

• Pain in the side and back, right below the ribs
• Bloody, cloudy or unpleasant-smelling urine
• Painful urination
• Constant urge to urinate
• Nausea and vomiting

Kidney Stones Home Remedies

Skimp on drinking enough fluids (especially water) and your urine will most likely exhibit higher concentrations of the substances that cause kidney stones to form. This is why you see a lot of people who live in a dry, hot climate battling kidney stones, where it’s easy to neglect the proper replacement of lost fluids. Drink between six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water for starters.

Other home remedies for kidney stones include:

a) Basil:

Basil has the potential to strengthen your kidneys. Take one teaspoon each of basil juice and honey every day for a period of six months. Some patients have eliminated their stones from their urinary tract with this remedy.

b) Apples:

Opt for a naturally unsweetened cider to fight the formation of kidney stones.

c) Less Vitamin C:

Since the body transforms vitamin C into oxalate, taking high doses (more than 3,000 milligrams daily) of the vitamin poses an issue for people battling kidney stones. Eliminate vitamin C supplements from your routine and opt to receive your daily dose from food.

d) Cut Down Meat Consumption:

To lessen uric-acid stone formation, lower the amount of animal protein contained in your daily diet. Meats and certain fish can hasten the formation of uric acid and calcium in urine, which can lead to stone formation.

e) Grapes:

With a diuretic combination of high water content and a decent amount of potassium salt, grapes provide a suitable remedy for kidney stones. The fruit also contains a low albumin and sodium chloride content, which helps treat the condition.

f) Vitamin A:

Eating foods rich in vitamin A will keep the lining of the urinary tract in healthy condition. It will also fight the formation of kidney stones in the future. The Recommended Dietary Allowance [RDA] for adults is 5,000 international units. Keep in mind that ½ cup of canned sweet potatoes offers 7,982 international units. Other foods high in vitamin A include broccoli, cantaloupes, winter squash, carrots, apricots, pumpkins, and beef liver.

g) Know Your Oxalates:

Just when you thought eating plenty of fruits and vegetables was a good thing, kidney stone patients should go over the foods that contain oxalates – a cause of calcium-oxalate stone formation. If this is the type of kidney stones you are prone to develop, consider limiting or avoiding the following foods: parsley, strawberries, spinach, peanuts, rhubarb, nuts, beets, chocolate, and wheat bran. You should also limit your intake of coffee, cola sodas, and tea.

h) Cut Down on Salt:

To fight calcium stones, lowering your salt intake can help. Pass on sprinkling extra salt on your French fries, avoid pickled foods, and choose low-sodium potato chips. You should aim for reducing your salt consumption to only two to three grams per day.

i) Lemonade:

A glass of lemonade increases the amount of citrate found in your urine, which can prevent the formation of kidney stones. Freshly squeezed lemonade or frozen concentrate is highly recommended, but make sure to pass on powdered lemonade mixes.

j) Watermelon:

Out of all the fruits suggested for kidney stone treatment, watermelon is considered the best and safest because it contains the highest concentration of water and provides an impressive amount of potassium salts.

k) Regular Exercise:

Routine exercise encourages the elimination of calcium out of the bloodstream and into the bones. In the end, a kidney stone patient will enjoy stronger bones and a decreased chance of developing a stone.

l) Celery:

If you are prone to developing kidney stones, eat plenty of celery to lessen your chances of forming stones in the future.

Resources

[1] http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/kidneystones.html
[2] http://www.mayoclinic.com/print/kidney-stones/DS00282/DSECTION=all&METHOD=print

Causes and Symptoms

Hangovers are a direct response to drinking too much alcohol, and depending on the weight of a person and their tolerance level – it can take just one beer to set off hangover symptoms in some individuals. Close to 75% of people who drink to the point of intoxication will wake up with a hangover the next morning. With a hangover, victims encounter symptoms, such as fatigue, thirst, headaches, achy muscles, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, blood shot eyes, moodiness, and sensitivity to light and sound.

All of above signs and symptoms are a result of alcohol:

• Stimulating the body to produce more urine than usual, which can lead to dehydration
• Irritating your stomach lining and increasing stomach acids
• Causing blood sugar levels to drop, which brings on weakness and shakiness
• Makes you sleepy, groggy, and fatigued
• Expanding your blood vessels – the cause of headaches

Hangover Home Remedies

Since alcohol causes dehydration, it is important to replenish lost fluids. One of the best drinks to reach for is water. Drink plenty of water before going to bed and throughout the night. When you get up in the morning, start your day off by drinking a tall glass of water to fight hangover symptoms. Other home remedies for a hangover include:

a) Toast and Crackers:

Boost your blood sugar level and tame an unsettled stomach by eating bland foods, such as toast and crackers.

b) Coffee:

To treat a hangover headache, drink two cups of coffee, which can help decrease the swelling of blood vessels associated with a pounding cranium.

c) Bananas:

Excessive alcohol consumption can deplete the amount of carbohydrates and potassium levels in the body. A banana not only gives you a nutritional boost by providing complex carbohydrates, but the fruit also delivers a burst of energy.

d) Orange or Tomato Juice:

Fructose assists the body in ridding your system of alcohol. The morning after a hard night of drinking, reach for a large glass of orange juice or tomato juice – both of which contain a high amount of fructose.

e) Gatorade:

After the dehydrating effects of alcohol take hold of your system, replace lost fluids by chugging down a bottle of Gatorade.

f) Ice:

Fill a plastic bag with crushed ice and place the ice compress over a pounding headache. To lessen the icy effects, make sure to wrap the bag in a dry towel.

g) Pepto-Bismol:

If your stomach feels a little queasy or unsettled, reach for the pink stuff.

h) Honey:

Since fructose can help get a hold of hangover symptoms, take a couple of tablespoons or treat yourself to a breakfast consisting of honey on crackers.

i) Carbohydrates:

Drinking too much alcohol can rob your body of necessary amino acids – better known as the building blocks of protein. Eat a small amount of healthy carbohydrates to send amino acids back into your bloodstream.

j) Ginger:

Ginger tea can ease the symptoms of a hangover. Add one teaspoon of dried ginger or two teaspoons of grated fresh ginger to one cup of boiling water. Cover the drink for about 10 minutes and drink soon after.

k) Eat Something:

After a couple of alcoholic beverages, it is recommended to eat something in an effort to decrease the rate at which alcohol will infiltrate your blood. Usually, the aftereffects of a hangover are easier to overcome when you’ve partied on a full stomach.

l) Bouillon:

Bouillon will replace the salt and potassium lost by a night of drinking alcohol [2]. A homemade soup broth or bouillon cubes dissolved in hot water will work just fine.

m) Aspirin:

To combat a lingering hangover headache, take the recommended dose of aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen.

n) Vitamin C:

After an evening full of drinks, taking vitamin C tablets will help break down the excess alcohol raging through your body.

Resources

[1] http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hangovers/DS00649/DSECTION=causes
[2] http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002041.htm

Causes and Symptoms

Cat constipation occurs when an abnormal buildup of feces takes place in the bowel. Since the bowel is responsible for absorbing water, stagnant feces can become hard and dry, making it difficult to pass. Foreign materials, tumors, scarred tissue, pelvic injuries, and damage to the nerves associated with the large bowel can all cause constipation in cats. Longhaired cats may suffer the condition because of hairballs.

Pain is a primary symptom of cat constipation, as felines strain and crouch down for extended periods of time in an attempt to eliminate their bowels. Other signs and symptoms of the condition include:

• Using the bathroom outside of the litter box
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Sluggishness and fatigue
• Vomiting
• Depression

Cat Constipation Home Remedies

Untreated cat constipation can lead to a chronic problem called megacolon, where the colon abnormally dilates and becomes too enlarged [1]. As a result, the colon loses its ability to contract, which can cause obstipation – a complete blockage. To avoid health complications in your pet, consider the following home remedies for cat constipation:

a) Pumpkin:

Restore regularity in your cat by feeding them a boost of fiber, which is found in the tasty treat of canned pumpkin. When cat constipation arises, add one to two tablespoons of pumpkin to their food.

b) Water:

Don’t be surprised if your cat doesn’t drink a lot of water, which is a natural habit of domesticated felines. To make matters worse, dry cat food is very low in moisture. If you add canned food to your cat’s diet, you can provide the hydration necessary to promote beneficial digestion.

c) Petroleum Jelly:

Use what most over-the-counter cat remedies use to treat a constipated feline – petroleum jelly. Feeding your cat ½ teaspoon of plain petroleum jelly per day can aid in unclogging his or her insides.

d) Oat Bran:

Add ½ teaspoon of oat bran or another high-fiber cereal to your cat’s food.

e) Trimmed Hair:

If you own a longhaired cat, make sure you keep the hairs surrounding their bottom well trimmed. Hair tangled close to the anus can cause constipation.

f) Clean Litter Box:

A clean litter box will encourage your cat to practice routine bathroom habits. Fussy cats often refuse to use a litter box that is not to their liking, which can lead to constipation.

g) Milk:

Under normal circumstances, milk causes pets to develop diarrhea, but if your cat is suffering constipation, it is suggested to give liquid dairy to your feline two times per day. Administer 1/8 cup of milk in the morning and in the evening. Discontinue its use once the problem is solved.

h) Broth:

Heat up a meat-based broth and add ½ teaspoon of a laxative containing psyllium. Not only will the added fiber get things moving, but the broth also assists in fighting dehydration.

Resources

[1] http://www.cat-world.com.au/ConstipationInCats.htm

Causes and Symptoms

After drowning the skin in Oxy and Clearasil, picking at pus-filled eruptions, and scrubbing the face with a loofah, the aftermath of an acne breakout can leave behind less-than-perfect looking skin. Chances are, by the time you’re an adult, you probably have acne scars that indicate a previous battle with pimples and blackheads, especially when cysts (or nodules) have formed beneath the skin. Some people live with acne scars for the rest of their life, while others experience a diminishing visibility over time [1].

Besides the obvious cause of acne scars, such as picking at pimples and causing injury to the skin, there are contributing causes that can add to your skin’s lack of healing, such as:

• Stress
• Living conditions or lifestyle habits
• Chronic constipation
• Poor diet or eating habits

Acne Scars Home Remedies

Acne scars are pretty difficult to eliminate without the guidance of a professional and no single remedy will work for all types of skin. Yet in still, a range of home remedies for acne scars can help improve your facial appearance with familiar items found right in the comfort of your household, such as:

a) Baking Soda:

Exfoliating the skin with baking soda is oftentimes comparable to the kind of microdermabrasion treatments that a skincare professional might administer. Combine one teaspoon of baking soda with two teaspoons of filtered water. Gently rub the mixture on an acne scar for 60 seconds, followed by a thorough rinse.

b) Fruit Repair:

While eating fruits can boost your supply of vitamin C to the skin, which is responsible for building collagen, you can also apply pure fruit juices to the face for gentle acid exfoliation. For example, puree ¼ cup of pineapple. Smooth over your face and wait 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing. The ascorbic acid found in pineapple will cause the face to brighten up, as well as slowly erase acne scars. Other effective fruit remedies for acne scars include orange and lemon peels.

c) Natural Light:

Naturally bathing your skin in the sun’s light can speed up the healing time of acne scars. Spending around 20 to 40 minutes per day in the fresh air and sunlight is a great way to provide a healthy dose of vitamin D.

d) Water:

Hydration is an important part of skin repair and very much needed if you want to treat acne scars. Water helps keep the skin plumped up, removes toxins, and builds new cells. It is recommended to drink at least 80 ounces of filtered water on a daily basis. Think about investing in a product like the Brita water pitcher or a filtration system for your kitchen.

e) Lemons:

Using a cotton ball, apply the juice of freshly squeeze lemons or limes to your acne scars. Allow the skin to soak up the juice acids before rinsing away with water. Lemon juice has been known to improve the appearance of dark acne scars by making them lighter.

f) Egg Whites:

With a cotton ball, apply egg whites to the face. Leave on overnight. This remedy helps to prevent and lessen the formation of acne scars.

g) Ice Cubes:

Soothe irritated skin and shrink the size of pores by rubbing ice cubes on acne scars.

h) Garlic:

Rub garlic on acne scars to improve the appearance of your skin

i) Cucumbers:

There’s a reason why cucumbers are used in many acne treatments. Create a facemask out of cucumber juice or fresh cucumber paste to heal acne scars, rejuvenate the skin, and calm down inflammation. A sample recipe may include fresh mint, cucumber, and an egg white. Place four to five fresh mint leaves in a blender. Peel and remove seeds from a cucumber. Add the cucumber to the mint leaves and create a puree. Beat an egg white in a separate bowl and add to cucumber mixture. Apply the end product to your face and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with cool water and pat dry.

j) Tomatoes:

Cut a tomato into slices and put on your face. Rich in vitamin A, tomatoes can slow down the overproduction of sebum, which causes acne. The vitamin contained in tomatoes also rejuvenates skin plagued with acne scars and damaged tissue.

k) Tomato and Cucumber Facemask:

Some people have combined tomatoes and cucumber to create a facemask that causes pores to tighten – creating a more even texture of the skin.

l) Honey:

Use honey as a natural moisturizing mask to treat acne scars. Apply to your face to allow antibacterial and healing components to work on your skin.

m) Olive Oil:

Tap into the moisturizing quality of olive oil by massaging a small amount into your skin to improve the texture and visibility of scars.

Resources

[1] http://www.skincarephysicians.com/acnenet/scarring.html