Categories
Herbs & Plants

Waltheria indica

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Botanical Name : Waltheria indica
Family: Malvaceae
Genus: Waltheria
Species: W. indica
Kingdom: Plantae
Order: Malvales

Common Names: Sleepy Morning, Basora Prieta, Hierba de Soldado, Guimauve, Mauve-gris, Moto-branco, Fulutafu, Kafaki, and Uhaloa (Hawaii).

Habitat :  It is most common in dry, disturbed or well-drained, moist habitats. In Puerto Rico, it grows in areas that receive 750–1,800 mm (30–71 in) of annual rainfall and at elevations from sea level to more 400 m (1,300 ft)

Description:
Waltheria indica is a species of flowering plant.It  is a short-lived subshrub or shrub, reaching a height of 2 m (6.6 ft) and a stem diameter of 2 cm (0.79 in). Stems rather rigid, erect to sometimes decumbent, velvety tomentose throughout, the hairs stellate.  Leaves rugose, broadly ovate to oblong-ovate, 2-15.5 cm long, 1-6 cm wide, tomentose with stellate hairs, lower surface paler, apex rounded, sometimes obtuse, base rounded to subcordate, petioles 0.5-4.5 cm long.  Flowers fragrant, in axillary, sessile or pedunculate glomerules, bracts linear; calyx strongly ribbed, ca. 3-5 mm long, villous; petals yellow, spatulate, 4-6 mm long; style bearded.  Capsules obliquely globose, 2.5-3 mm long” (Wagner et al., 1999; p. 1280).
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Medicinal Uses:
It is frequently used to treat asthma and painful coughs, only the Hawaiians are known to use it for sore throats by chewing  the root bark and gargleing the juice.  In Hawaii it  is a very effective treatment for high blood pressure and diabetes. The remedy is made by pounding a bundle of the root bark, stems and leaves with a little lemongrass and ginger for flavoring, then brewing the material into a strong decoction that is consumed over five days.  A traditional plant of the Hawaiian medica, Uhaloa is used for sore throat, common cold, cough, bronchial phlegm or mucous.
In Polynesia the root bark (cortex) is chewed upon for sore throat, while in Hawaii it is used internally for arthritis, neuralgia and chronic cases of asthma.  An infusion of stem and leaves is also used.   Used against the diarrhea, unwanted pregnancy, painful menstruation and fatigue. Also used for dry itchy cough, mucous, chest colds or chest congestion. It is used as a poultice for minor infections.   Root and leaves used as anti-spasmodic, in treating abdominal disorders, as an analgesic in toothache, tonic, in treating joints affections, diarrhea, and ulcers.  The flowers of the ‘uhaloa are considered “good medicine for children” (more than 10 days old).

You may click to read more: http://www.staradvertiser.com/columnists/theurbangardener/20110110_uhaloa_is_a_treasure_of_traditional_medicine.html

Disclaimer:The information presented herein is intended for educational purposes only. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

Resources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waltheria_indica
http://www.herbnet.com/Herb%20Uses_UZ.htm
http://www.hear.org/starr/images/image/?q=010818-0026&o=plants

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Categories
Featured Healthy Tips

Gargling

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Gargling is the act in which one bubbles a liquid in his mouth. It usually requires that one tilts the head back, allowing a mouthful of liquid to sit in the upper throat. Air is then expelled from the lungs, causing the liquid to bubble and undulate throughout the throat and mouth region.

It is a common method of cleansing the throat, especially if one has a sore throat or upper-respiratory virus or infection

Gargling done for medicinal purposes (or for cleaning your throat) may be done with various substances. One commmonly used way is with herbal tea or tea. There are also many specific medicines designed to be used, either readily available at a supermarket or drug store or requiring a prescription from a licensed medical doctor. Home remedies for gargling include a hyper-tonic saline solution of table salt (ratio of solid to liquid varies; suggestion: 1/4 teaspoon of table salt in 8 oz. warm water) and various types of vinegar. Gargling with a solution of table salt is known to provide relief for a sore throat because as a natural dehydrator, salt draws water from the inflammations in the throat by osmosis.

Antiseptic mouthwash can be also gargled to remove bacteria from the throat.

According to modern western etiquette, gargling is a fairly impolite activity during a social occasion or mealtime. It is typically performed in a bathroom at a sink so the refused liquid may be disposed of properly.

Bad Breath can be prevented by gargling with mouth wash regularly. Brushing your teeth is fine, but for those hard to reach places where bacteria grow over-night, mouth wash is the way to get to do it. Gargle for at least 30 seconds in the morning, making sure to get as far down your throat as possible. Rinse with water afterwards to make sure all of the junk is flushed out.
CLICK & SEE

HOW TO GARGLE:

Gargling is a great way to kill bacteria in your mouth. It also helps to give you fresher breath.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:
1)Mouthwash
2)Paper Cups

STEPS:

Step One:.….Buy mint-flavored mouthwash, the flavor that’s usually preferable for someone feeling ill. Opt for other flavors or salt water if you like.

Step Two:.…Pour the mouthwash into a clean glass or paper cup. If you pour it into the cup attached to the top, you’ll run the risk of contamination, especially if you share the bottle with others. If you prefer to gargle with salt water, dissolve 1 /2 tsp. in 8 oz. of warm water.

Step Three:...Slide the mouthwash quickly over your tongue.

Step Four:.…Throw your head back and stop the mouthwash right before it hits your epiglottis (the cartilaginous flap in the back of your throat). You’ll know the mouthwash is resting in the right spot if you feel as if you’re going to gag or swallow.

Step Five:.…Make the mouthwash bubble and gurgle for at least 45 seconds. Pull your tongue back a little and blow air through your throat slowly. Be sure to keep your head way back, and remember to keep the mouthwash right in front of your epiglottis. That’s where the germs are sitting, far back and out of sight. Try not to swallow any of the mouthwash.

Step Six:…..Drop your head back down and spit the mouthwash out.

Step Seven:.…Repeat.

Tips & Warnings:
If your sore throat feels better after you’ve gargled, this can be an indication that you don’t have strep throat. Usually, gargling does very little to relieve strep throat pain but does a lot to relieve any other throat pain.
For children under 8, check with your pediatrician. Children who are too young to understand how to gargle should not be given mouthwash’there’s a good chance they’ll swallow it.
Mouthwash isn’t lethal, but don’t let children swallow a lot of it.

Disclaimer: This information is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advise or help. It is always best to consult with a Physician about serious health concerns. This information is in no way intended to diagnose or prescribe remedies.This is purely for educational purpose.

Click to read :Why does gargling with salt help a sore throat?

Does daily gargling ward off colds? Some think so, others don’t

Does Gargling Prevent Colds?

What To Do When Adults Get the Flu?

Home Remedies for Sore Throat

Resources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gargling
http://www.ehow.com/how_9511_gargle.html
http://www.getridofthings.com/getridofbadbreath.htm

Categories
Ailmemts & Remedies

Pharyngitis

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Definition:
Pharyngitis: (far-in-jÄ«’ tis) is a painful inflammation of the pharynx, and is colloquially referred to as a sore throat. Infection of the tonsils, tonsillitis may occur simultaneously.
Inflammation of the pharynx (the hollow tube in the back of the throat about 5 inches long that starts behind the nose and ends at the top of the trachea). Pharyngitis is popularly known as a sore throat…CLICK & SEE
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
The major cause is infection, of which 90% are viral, the remainder caused by bacterial infection and rarely oral thrush (fungal candidiasis e.g. in babies). Some cases of pharyngitis are caused by irritation from agents such as pollutants or chemical substances.

Pharyngitis is caused by a variety of microorganisms. Most cases are caused by a virus, including the virus causing the common cold, flu (influenza virus), adenovirus, mononucleosis, HIV, and various others.

Bacterial causes include Group A streptococcus, which causes strep throat, in addition to corynebacterium, arcanobacterium, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia pneumoniae, and others. In up to 30% of cases, no organism is identified.

Most cases of pharyngitis occur during the colder months — during respiratory disease season. It often spreads among family members.

Strep throat is a serious cause of pharyngitis. The complications of strep throat can include acute rheumatic fever, kidney dysfunction, and severe diseases such as bacteremia and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.

Symptoms
Sore throat
Strep throat may be accompanied by fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Viral pharyngitis may be associated with runny nose and postnasal drip
Severe cases may be accompanied by difficulty swallowing and, rarely, difficulty breathing
Additional symptoms are dependent on the underlying microorganisms

Signs and tests
The health care provider will perform an examination of the pharynx to look for drainage or coating. The skin, eyes, and neck lymph nodes may be examined.
A rapid antigen test may be done for strep. If the rapid test is positive, the patient is treated with an antibiotic. If the rapid test is negative, a throat culture may be done.
If there is suspicion for strep throat a streptococcal screen and/or throat swab culture may be performed. Additional throat cultures or blood tests may be done depending on the suspected organism (e.g., mononucleosis, gonorrheae).

Modern Treatment:
The treatment depends on the underlying cause. Viral infections are managed with warm salt water gargles, pain relievers, and fluids. Antibiotics are needed if strep throat is diagnosed.But most sore throats are viral and will not respond to antibiotics. Bacterial causes include Group A streptococcus. The cephalosporin antibiotics such as cephalexin (Keflex, Keftabs, Biocef) and cefadroxil (Duricef) have been found to be much less likely to fail in eradicating the strep than penicillin.

Symptomatic Treatment:
Twenty-two non-antibiotic managements for sore throat have been studied in controlled trials.Analgesics are among the most effective, but there are many simple measures that can also be used.

Avoid foods and liquids highly acidic in nature, as they will provoke temporary periods of intense pain
Analgesics such as NSAIDs can help reduce the pain associated with a sore throat.

Throat lozenges (cough medicine) are often used for short-term pain relief.

Gargling with warm salty water is a popular household remedy, although there is only anecdotal evidence this gives anything other than temporary relief and likewise for the use of aspirin gargles. Gargling with salty water can help clear up mucus.

Honey has long been used for treating sore throats due to its antiseptic properties.

Warm tea (true or herbal) or soup can help temporarily alleviate the pain of a sore throat.

Cold beverages and popsicles numb the nerves of the throat somewhat, alleviating the pain for a brief time.

Mouthwash (when gargled) reduces the pain but only for a brief time.

There have been some studies that show ingesting a solution high in protein can have a profound relieving effect on sore throats, particularly if they are allergy related.

Drinking heavy amounts of liquid reduces the pain for a short time.

Peppermint candy might help with some cases as well as other hard candies. It will reduce the pain for a short time.
Raw juice of papaya leaves may help to recover sore throat.

Yogurt has been shown to help alleviate the pain temporarily by coating the affected area. Milk also has the same effect.

Raw juice of lemon or lime may help destroy bacteria in bacteria-related throat infections but the high acid content may irritate the affected throat tissues more.

Alcohol has a mild analgesic and antiseptic effect, but may also weaken the immune system.

Powdered liquorice root is very effective.

Malt vinegar when gargled is very effective for treating sore throats.

Pharyngitis Remedies Natural Cure And Ayurvedic Herbal Pharyngitis Treatment
Home Remedy Of Sore Throat
Homeopathic Treatment Of Pharyngitis

Expectations (prognosis)
Most cases of pharyngitis go away on their own, without complications.

Complications
The possible complications of strep throat include rheumatic fever, kidney inflammation, chorea, bacteremia (bloodstream infection) and, rarely, streptococcal shock syndrome
In some severe forms of pharyngitis (e.g., severe mononucleosis-pharyngitis) the airway may become blocked.
Peritonsillar abscess or retropharyngeal abscess are possible.

When to call your health care provider
Notify your provider if you develop a persistent sore throat that does not resolve in several days or if you have high fevers, swollen lymph nodes in the neck or rash. If you have a sore throat and develop difficulty breathing, you must seek medical care immediately.

Disclaimer: This information is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advise or help. It is always best to consult with a Physician about serious health concerns. This information is in no way intended to diagnose or prescribe remedies.

Help taken from :healthline.com and en.wikipedia.org

Categories
Yoga

The Lion (Yoga Exercise)

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Benefits:
This exercise is generally done to clear the throat and nostrils, the calf muscles ,knees and fingers also becomes strong.
1. Increases Blood circulation to throat and tongue .
2. Strengthens face and throat muscles.
3. Improves voice.
4. Effective for sinus headache.
5.It is very beneficial in case of tonsillitis.

.
How to do the exercise:...click & see

1.Kneel on the mat and sit on your heels. Place your hands down on your Knees and look straight ahead.

2.Now breathe in deeply, through your nose, lean slightly forward and exhale forcefully, opening your mouth as wide as you can shouting ‘HAA’. At the same time stretch your tongue out and bend down so it touches your chin. Glare at the tip of your nose. Raise your hands and tighten all the muscles in your arms, hands and fingers. Hold the pose as long as you can.

3.Let all your muscles relax slowly, breathe normally for a few minutes . Then repeat 2-3 times . It can be repeated up to 6- 7 times

Source:Allayurveda.com

Categories
Ailmemts & Remedies

Sore Throat(Strepcococcus)

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Sore throat refers to the inflammation of the pharynx or back of the throat. It occurs frequently when a person has a cold or an attack of influenza. Sore throat may also involve the tonsils and adenoids…..click & see 

What causes a sore throat?

A sore throat can have many causes.  Some of these are listed below:

  1. Many common viruses, and even the viruses that cause mononucleosis (mono) and the flu, can cause a sore throat. Some of the viruses that cause a sore throat can produce blisters in the mouth and throat (“aphthous stomatitis”).
  2. Breathing through the mouth can produce throat dryness and soreness.
  3. Sinus drainage may cause a sore throat.
  4. Shouting very loudly for a long period may cause sore throat.
  5. A sore throat can also be caused by bacteria. The two most common bacteria to cause as sore throat are Streptococcus (which causes strep throat) and Arcanobacterium haemolyticum. Arcanobacterium causes sore throats mainly in young adults and is sometimes associated with a fine red rash.
  6. Common cold may sometimes inflamate the gland and cause sore throat.
  7. A sore throat that lasts for more than 2 weeks can be a sign of a serious illness, such as throat cancer or AIDS.So, sore throat, if lasts more than 2 weeks, contact a doctor (preferably ENT spacilist)immediately.

Try these home remedies to cure it :-

Gargle with your own fresh hot urin will cures Sore Throat easily.
Drink a glass of hot water with 1 teaspoon lemon juice and some honey. You’ll feel better instantly. You can also drink a chamomile tea with lemon and honey added.

  • Gargle with warm salt water to help reduce swelling and relieve discomfort:
  • Gargle at least once each hour with 1 tsp (5 g) of salt dissolved in 8 fl oz (237 mL) of warm water.
  • If you have postnasal drip, gargle often to prevent more throat irritation
  • Prevent dehydration. . Fluids may help thin secretions and soothe an irritated throat. Hot fluids, such as tea or soup, may help decrease throat irritation
  • Two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds should be added to a litre of cold water and simmered on a gentle flame. This should be allowed to cool to a temperature that could be tolerated by the buccal cavity. Strain this mixture and gargle with it several times a day. This cures a sore throat.
  • Soak 8-10 almonds. Peel and grind with 8-10 pepper corns. Mix in 1 cup of water. Sieve and drink adding either salt or sugar to taste.
  • The leaves of holy basil have also been found beneficial in the in curing sore throat. Water boiled with basil leaves should be taken as a drink, and also used as a gargle to relieve a sore throat
  • Soak two teaspoonfuls of ajowan seeds in cold water. Add a pinch of common salt. Using this infusion as a common gargle substantially eases the acute sore throat.
  • Eat garlic. Garlic is an anti-septic and good for many conditions.
  • Boil one whole onion, mash and eat with a little butter, salt and pepper.
  • A teaspoon of honey raw helps releave throat inflammation.
  • Use a vaporizer or cool air humidifier in your bedroom.
  • Warm or cool mist may help you feel more comfortable by soothing the swollen air passages. It may also relieve hoarseness. However, don’t let your room become uncomfortably cold or very damp.
  • Use a shallow pan of water to provide moisture in the air through evaporation if you don’t have a humidifier. Place the pan in a safe location where no one will trip on it or fall into it.
  • If you suspect that problems with stomach acid may be causing your sore throat, see the topic Heartburn
  • Do not smoke or use other tobacco products and avoid secondhand smoke.

Alternative practitioners recommend a variety of natural products for the treatment of sore throat. For example, aromatherapists recommend inhaling the fragrances of lavender, thyme, eucalyptus, sage, and sandalwood. Herbalists recommend taking osha root, ginger, or slippery elm. Some practitioners suggest gargling with a mixture of water, salt, and turmeric. Homeopathic practitioners treat sore throats with very dilute solutions of Lachesis, Belladonna, Phytolacca, yellow jasmine, or mercury. Nutritionists recommend vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A or C and the mineral zinc.

Disclaimer: This information is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advise or help. It is always best to consult with a Physician about serious health concerns. This information is in no way intended to diagnose or prescribe remedies.This is purely for educational purpose.

 

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