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Few years back I had a bit of confusion between jowar and bajra, as both are used to make rotis at my home. Anyhow, my mom cleared the turmoil. I can’t guarantee you of a mouth watering feast, but health benefits of jowar (sorghum) can be assured.

Best thing about sorghum is that you’ll not be hungry for long time. New research carried out concludes that jowar is a gluten-free cereal grain.

People with celiac disease or gluten sensitive may experience digestive problems, joint pains and abdominal pain when they consume gluten protein, which is housed in common grains like wheat and barley.

Experts say the only way to avoid this intolerance is to have gluten-free grains like sorghum.

Also read: Benefits of Bajra

Let me clear this to you, sorghum is a broad name for 30 different species, of which only one is harvested for human consumption and other are used for animals. Below listed are uses of jowar for health

12 Health Benefits of Jowar

Nutritionist and author Carol Fenster, says that sorghum has numerous health benefits over other ancient grains. After research she found that sorghum has 16 grams of protein, while brown rice flour has 12 grams and white rice flour has 8 grams. It’s also packed with 12 grams of fiber concludes Fenster. (1)

1. Reduces Cholesterol

A research carried out in 2005 states that sorghum is packed with phytochemicals, which can effectively reduce bad cholesterol in your body. The research was carried out on hamster by supplying extracts of sorghum for 4 weeks, which significantly reduced plasma non-HDL cholesterol level. (2)

There are different ways you can have sorghum, like in salads, sorghum bowls or sweet syrup. You can find a bunch of sorghum recipes here and here.

2. Inhibits Cancer Growth

3-Deoxyanthoxyanins, a chemical compound present in sorghum can be used to reduce gastrointestinal cancer. Crude black sorghum has high levels of 3 DXA compared to white or red sorghum extracts. Anyhow, all sorghum extracts have antiproliferative activity against cancer cells. (3)

3. Solves Digestive Issues

Like mentioned above, Carol Fenster in her book quoted that sorghum has high levels of fiber content. Excess fiber in your diet can improve your digestive tract and prevent issues like cramping, bloating, constipation, gas and stomach ache. (4)

4. Sorghum Flour Gluten Free

Celiac disease is a condition where the patient experience inflammation, digestive problems and joint pains when they consume gluten rich grains or food. Sorghum or jowar is gluten free grain and studies prove that celiac patients when treated with sorghum showed no significant toxicity. (5)

5. Jowar for Diabetes

Diabetes kills people more than AIDS and breast cancer combined. About 380 million people in the world are affected by this dangerous disease. Food you eat is converted to sugar or glucose, pancreas produce insulin that normalizes blood sugar level. In a diabetic patient immune system attacks these insulin producing cells, which can damage eyes, kidneys and heart. (source)

Antioxidants and phenolic content in sorghum bran can regulate glucose and insulin level in the body. Having sorghum or jowar roti will help you to maintain glucose level and restrain health complications associated with this disease.

6. Sorghum to Treat Melanoma

It’s a type of skin cancer developed in melanocytes, a pigment responsible for your skin’s color. You’ll see black irregularly bordered brown spots on your skin. Anyhow, consult dermatologist for diagnosis. If not treated, can spread to other part of the body and lead to death.

A study carried out in 2001 concludes that phenolic fractions in sorghum and other flavonoids from wine can decrease melanoma cell growth. (6)

Recommended: What causes freckles?

7. Nutritional

Compared to rice and wheat, sorghum or jowar has high levels of calcium, iron, protein and fiber. Copper residing in this grain aids to absorb iron and decrease anemia. Enough iron and copper increases red blood cells and improves blood circulation, which in turn stimulates cell growth, hair growth and enhances overall functioning of the body.

Niacin, also known as vitamin B6 transforms food compounds into energy. Sorghum contains about 28% of daily recommended niacin to your body.

8. Anti-Carcinogenic

Your body needs many anti-cancer and free radical thwarting elements that are packed in jowar. Antioxidants residing in this natural ingredient can restrain free radicals from damaging your cell membrane.

Study shows that ingredients in sorghum can reduce gastrointestinal cancer.

9. Healthy Heart

As mentioned above, jowar is packed with abundant fiber, which helps to reduce LDL cholesterol and boosts healthy heart.

However, the study also states that including fiber in diet can make small contribution to lower cholesterol.

10. Strengthen Your Bones

Jowar is housed with rich source of magnesium that helps to increase calcium absorption and promote bone health.

Health experts say that magnesium and calcium both are essential for quick redevelopment of bone-tissues. It also prevents arthritis, osteoporosis and promote healing of damaged bones. (Source)

11. Boosts Your Energy Levels

Filled with exceptional nutrients, it’s clear that sorghum can maintain energy levels on your body. Niacin and vitamin B3 helps to convert food into energy booster.

12. Jowar for Weight Loss

Rich fiber content in this grain is renowned to improve bowel movement, prevent bloating, gastric problem and cramps.

Improved digestion will help to reduce weight and avoid fat accumulation.

Jowar Roti

Sorghum or jowar flour is used to make rotis in India.

This flat bread is packed with 90 minutes of weightlifting (that many calories). A 100g of jowar consists of 10g of proteins and 75g of carbohydrates.

Recipe

Ingredients:

1 cup of jowar flour (sorghum flour)
Hot water – ¾ cup
14/2 cup of extra jowar flour for dusting

Instructions:

Mix jowar flour with hot water to make round shaped smooth dough.
Pat and flatten using palm and fingers, just like you make wheat rotis.
Now, sprinkle some jowar flour on work station.
Pat thin as possible using your hands.
Now, put the flattened roti on hot pan.
Spread water on the roti using wet hand.
After water evaporates, flip the side.
Make sure it gets cooked from both side well.

Enjoy this hot and delicious jowar roti with spicy curry. (Source)

Tips

Jowar contains tannins that are known to prevent absorbing of proteins, vitamins and minerals in this grain. So, consume only yellow or white jowar that have low tannins quantity.
Protein is essential for healthy functioning of your health, but jowar contains it in the form of prolamine, which is indigestible.
Even after knowing its nutritional ability, it’s best to have sorghum in small quantities.

Sorghum or jowar health benefits are enormous and exceptional. Apart from this, sorghum is a drought resistant crop, with limited water supple you can expect good yield.

Image source: 1, 2

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Natural Resource

9 Benefits of Papaya for Skin, Face and Acne (Papita Facial Benefits)

ByMoin Nex

This sweet spear-shaped fruit is delicious as well as nutritious. Normally available throughout the year and it’s about 7 inches long. Here, I’ll discuss on benefits of papaya for skin/face.

Though am not sure why Christopher Columbus called papaya “the fruit of angels”, I like this fruit for it has many beauty and health benefits. Most important one for me is a digestive benefit. 🙂

Papaya has a bunch of nutrients which are important to keep functioning of your body. Anyway, am not going to bore you writing all those health benefits now, just want to share few papaya facial benefits.

Before that let’s see what all the vitamins and proteins this tropical fruit has.

Is Papaya Good for Skin?

Papaya is a rich source of vitamin C, folate and vitamin A (carotenoids).

In addition, it’s a good source of dietary fiber like magnesium, potassium, copper and vitamin K.

An enzyme called papain is present in fruit as well as in other parts of the tree. This enzyme helps to dissolves inactive proteins and helps in treating digestion problems.

Vitamin A and Papain residing in this fruit helps to eliminate dead cells and restrains free radicals.
It also exhibits antioxidant ability that helps to reduce wrinkles and fine lines.
Papain, as mentioned above, is packed with the high exfoliating property that can cleanse your face.
Alpha hydroxyl acids in this fruit break proteins and also dissolves dead cells.
Hydrating ability exhibited by its nutrients can remove dry itchy patches and make your skin supple.
An exceptional enzyme in papaya helps to lighten the appearance of acne scars and dark spots on your skin.
Assorted nutrients in this natural ingredient can rejuvenate your skin and repair aged skin cells.
Prominent for its healing benefits, Papain fastens the healing process and restrain bacterial infection.
Anti-inflammatory properties housed in papaya help to reduce acne inflammation.
Essential vitamins residing in the fruit enhance collagen production and improve elastin.
Papain, an enzyme present in papaya helps to remove unwanted facial hair.
Vitamin A acts as an antioxidant which protects your skin from free radicals. These free radicals may damage skin cells.
Also for skin firming, scar treating and for reducing wrinkles antioxidant plays vital role.

Now, without ado let me list out few important and amazing benefits of delicious papaya has for the skin.

Amazing Benefits of Papaya (Papita) for Skin, Face, and Acne

This delicious fruit is packed with numerous components that are essential for your skin, hair, and health.

To reap all its nutritional values, many cosmetic companies started incorporating this ingredient into their creams.

#1. Hydrates Your Skin

As mentioned above, enzymes residing in papaya help to remove all dry flaky skin from your face.

Moisturizing your skin is essential to improve its functioning and protect it from harmful irritants.

Low sodium quality of papaya helps keep your skin hydrated.

To the mask more effective, mix honey to it.

Mash ½ cup of ripe papaya into a smooth
Add 1 teaspoon of raw honey to it.
Mix thoroughly and apply it over the prewashed
Leave it to dry naturally for 20 minutes and then rinse it off with water.

Apart from topical application, ingesting papaya will improve your skin texture. Blend it with watermelon or cucumber to make a smoothie.

#2. Papaya Facial Benefits – Skin Brightening

Papain and vitamin C housed in this fruit helps to lighten the appearance of dark spots and improves your skin complexion.

It is packed with natural bleaching abilities.

Keep it simple.

Peel ripe papaya and gently rub the fleshy part of your face, neck, and legs.
Let it dry naturally.
Rinse it off after 10 minutes. Repeat this simple recipe thrice in a week.

Alternatively, you can try lemon juice.

Mash ½ cup of ripe papaya with few teaspoons of lemon juice.
Mix both ingredients well and apply it over the prewashed
Leave it for 30 minutes and then rinse it off with water.

People with sensitive skin can replace lemon juice with vitamin E oil, honey, and plain yogurt.

These ingredients are packed with essential vitamins that can benefit your skin.

#3. Papaya for Acne

Researchers hold inflammation, hormonal imbalance and excess sebum production for acne blemishes.

Anti-inflammatory ability residing in papaya helps to reduce acne inflammation and its vitamin fade acne scars.

Papain is said to remove excess sebum clogged in skin pores and cleanse dead cells from the skin.

Wash your face with lukewarm water to open clogged skin pores.
Pat dry and apply papaya juice using a cotton ball.
Instead, you can just run a small piece of papaya on acne affected skin.
Rinse it off with normal water after 10 minutes.

This homemade recipe will prevent acne and reduce inflammation.

#4. Fades Skin Spots

Skin whitening ability exhibited by Papain helps to fade dark spots, age spots and to remove sun tan.

Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with a ½ tablespoon of raw honey and ½ cup of mashed papaya.
Apply the obtained mask on prewashed face and leave it to dry naturally for 15 minutes.
Rinse it off with water.

Repeat this process 3 to 4 times in a week.

#5. Papaya for Wrinkles

Regular eating of papaya controls premature aging.

Vitamin A residing in this fruit help to remove dead cells and make the skin soft. Alpha hydroxyl acids in this innate ingredient help to dissolve dead cells. Vitamin E and C rejuvenate your skin to make it look younger.

Mash ½ ripe papaya thoroughly till you obtain a smooth
Add few drops of raw honey and 1 tbsp of milk to the paste.
Though looks delicious don’t lick it.
Apply it on your face in circular motion.
Allow it to dry naturally for 15 minutes and then rinse it off with water.

#6. Heals Your Cracked Heels

Cracked heels result in inflamed, flaky, itchy and bleeding skin, the hydrating property of papaya help to heal cracked heels and reduce inflammation.

Mash 1 cup of ripe papaya to make a smooth
Apply it on prewashed cracked heels.
Leave it to dry naturally for 15 minutes and then rinse it off.
Apply olive oil to moisturize and wear socks.

Before applying this mask, wash your feet with a pumice stone to remove impurities.

#7. Papaya to Remove Unwanted Facial Hair

When you topically apply the mask on cracked heels, Papain residing in papaya weakens hair follicles and prevents its growth.

For this experts recommend selecting raw papaya.

Mash raw papaya in the required amount and mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder to it.
Apply thoroughly mixed mask on prewashed face.
Allow it to dry for 15 minutes.
Remove the mask with lukewarm water and wet cloth.

Repeat this once in a week.

#8. Papaya to Remove Tan

Vitamin A, C & Papain packed in papaya help to lighten your skin complexion and remove tan.

Mash 4 cubes of ripe papaya.
Add ½ tablespoons of turmeric powder and 1 tbsp of raw honey to it.
Mix well and apply it over the affected
Leave it to dry for 20 minutes and then rinse it off with water.

#9. Treats Melasma

Melasma is formed due to internal and external factors. Essential vitamins and minerals housed in papaya help to exfoliate your skin and make it smooth.

Mash ripe papaya and apply it over melasma affected skin.

Rinse it off with water after 20 minutes.

How to Use Papaya for Skin?

As mentioned above you can either consume it or make a face mask and apply it on the skin.

Get some fresh papaya and mash them, mix 2 tbsp of honey to the paste. Now apply this paste on your face or on any other part of the body.
Mixing mashed papaya with milk cream can help hydrate your skin from the outside.
For skin tightening, mix mashed papaya with honey, rice flour and apply it on face and body.

The Ultimate Papaya Face Pack Recipe

Get ripe papaya and mash it. Mix honey, lemon, and yogurt to it.
After mixing it thoroughly apply it on the face.
Rinse it off with water after 15-20 minutes.

There are endless benefits of papaya for skin; you can share your experience with this spherically shaped fruit in comments.

Tips

Excess consumption of this delicious fruit can damage the esophagus.
Black seeds in papaya must be avoided, as excess consumption of these seeds can result in paralysis.
People those who are prescribed by anti-blood clotting medications must avoid ingesting papaya as they may interact with each other.
If you’re allergic to ingredients of above face mask or papaya, then avoid using it.
Breastfeeding and pregnant women must avoid excess consumption of papaya.
Consume ripe and sliced papaya within a day or two.

To reap benefits of papaya for skin, you can either ingest or topically apply it on the face. Beauty experts, however recommend the topical application for papaya facial benefits.

Natural Resource

15+ Amazing Uses of Alum for Skin, Acne and Skin Whitening

ByMoin Nex

uses of alum

The word alum reminds you of shaving cuts, however, benefits or alum uses aren’t just confined to men.

Antiseptic properties housed in alum combat razor burns and soothe them. Packed with essential nutrients you can use alum for acne and skin whitening.

Based on the chemical compounds there are different types of alum. But the one with potassium, aluminum, and sulfate (potassium alum) is commonly used in households.

You can get alum in blocks at a local store. Extensive uses of alum include purification of water, treating canker sores, acne, healing shaving cuts, reducing mouth odor and heal cracked heels.

What is Alum?

It is known as fitkari or phitkari in Hindi, patikaram in Tamil and patika in Telugu.

Alums are double sulfate salts and it’s a combination of various elements like potassium or ammonium.

Potassium alum is the most commonly available alum available in the market. Its scientific name is potassium aluminum sulfate.

15+ Amazing Benefits of Alum for Skin

Alum uses will blow your mind. You can use this chemical compound in your day to day life. Check out below listed benefits.

Don’t skip, read the article. 😉

#1. Alum for Acne

Acne is the most common skin disorder and it’s near to impossible to prevent them.

Experts hold hormonal imbalance, inflammation, and excess sebum to cause this skin ailment.

There are lots of home available remedies to treat pimples and reduce inflammation. With its antiseptic and cooling properties, alum powder can be used as a face mask to get rid of pimples.

Ingredients:

Alum powder – 1 teaspoon
Multani mitti – 2 teaspoons
Egg white

Directions to use alum for pimples:

Mix egg white, fuller’s earth (Multani mitti) with alum powder and add required amount of rose water.
Conduct a patch test before applying it over the face.
Wash your face with lukewarm water to open blocked skin pores.
Pat dry and apply the mixed face mask evenly.
Allow it to dry naturally for 15 minutes and then rinse it off with water.

#2. Alum for Wrinkles

Due to internal or external factors, your skin loses elasticity resulting in wrinkles and fine lines.

They spoil your appearance and show pre-aging signs. Renowned agents residing in alum block can help you in fading wrinkles.

How to use:

Wet alum blocks in water and rub it over prewashed face for few seconds.
Repeated use will tighten your skin and treat wrinkles.
Rinse it off with water and apply moisturizer.

#3. Alum for Cracked Heels

Cracked heels are common and are associated with the cosmetic problem. If not taken care, it may turn to a painful problem.

With dry thick skin cracked heels are accompanied by redness, itching, and inflammation. To restrain bleeding and relieve pain try alum block as a soothing remedy.

How to use:

Heat the alum block in a pan until you get a crumbly
Let it cool down and finely ground the mixture.
Mix the powdered alum with coconut oil and apply it over the cracked heels.
Regularly apply this paste on affected parts.

#4. Alum for Canker Sores

alum powder for canker sores
Unlike cold sores, canker sores are white or yellow colored patches bordered by the red area.

These painful ulcers appear on tongue, lips, throat and inside mouth.

Acidic food, vitamin deficiency, allergic reaction, hormones, smoking, emotional stress, injury, oral cancer and certain medication are held responsible for canker sores. (Source)

How to use:

Place small blocks of alum over canker sores.
If you can’t withstand it burning sensation, mix it with water and add a little salt to rinse the mouth.

#5. Alum for Eye Abscess

Abscess is caused by inflammation of hair follicles, injuries, punctures and due to blockage of sebaceous glands and sweat. Middle of the abscess is filled with pus and debris. This pink to red colored tender mass can’t be treated without removing the pus.

How to use:

Alum paste helps to burst the mass same day when applied.
Rub alum block on sandalwood by adding little water.
Collect the obtained paste in a bowl and apply topically over the abscess.

#6. Alum for Shaving Cuts

Alum block is commonly used to soothe minor injuries caused by a razor. This old-fashioned remedy used by barbers is packed with same identical ingredients that your shaving deodorants include.

How to use:

Dip it in water and start rubbing on shaved part for soothing effect. Salts packed in alum powder stops bleeding and tighten the skin pores. It has been used as aftershave remedy from centuries.

#7. Alum for Body Odor

When your body releases sweat, the food compounds in sweat attract bacteria which leave an unpleasant smell after feeding on these compounds.

Alum exhibits antiperspirant activity, better than store bought deodorants.

How to use:

Apply alum block on prewashed arms on alternate days. Antibacterial and antiseptic properties residing in alum will fight and restrain bacterial infection.

You can mix it with rose water and apply it underarms.

#8. Purifying Water

Yes, you can use this home available ingredient to purify water.

When added to water, it reacts with bicarbonate alkalinities residing in water to form a gelatinous precipitate. It attracts other fine particles towards the bottom of the container.

How to use:

Take some alum block with you when you’re out on a trip. Drop 1gm of powdered alum into muddy water, after few minutes you’ll see mud particles settle down and clear water comes up.

#9. Alum for Removing Hair

Hair acts as an insulator and protects your body. However, they also ruin your physical appearance.

Unwanted facial hair can be easily removed using alum and rose water.

Ingredients:

Alum powder – ½ teaspoon
Rose water – 2-3 tablespoons
Olive oil – few drops

Directions:

Mix alum powder and rose water. Use a spoon to completely dissolve alum.
Apply this lotion on your face or on unwanted hair.
Leave it for few minutes to dry and then again apply the lotion.
Repeat the process 3-4 times and then rinse it off using cotton or tissue paper.
Apply olive oil to moisturize after this face mask treatment.

#10. Use Alum to Remove Lice

Lice are a sign of bad hygiene. Nobody wants to be with a person who has lice.

Apart from hydrating your scalp with natural oils, you can use alum to get rid of this issue.

How to use:

Mix little-powdered alum with tea tree oil and water, apply it over scalp and rinse it off.
If you experience hair fall after using this remedy then limit the use of alum powder or reach your doctor.

#11. Alum Uses for Hemorrhoid

Hemorrhoid is a common health problem. In this condition, rectal veins get swollen.

Increase in anal pressure, sitting for long hours, diarrhea and lifting heavy objects are main causes of hemorrhoids.

Not sure if this remedy can completely treat piles.

But, to some extent, you can get relief (suggested by a doctor). Mix a small quantity of alum powder in lukewarm water taken in a tub and sit in for 5-10 minutes. Alum is good at treating hemorrhoids.

#12. To Rinse Gums and Mouth Odor

Mix a small quantity of alum in water and rinse in the mouth. Overdose can harm you.

#13. Alum for Skin Whitening

External and internal factors like impurities, excess sun exposure, certain creams, skin ailments and overproduction of melanin results in hyperpigmentation or dark spots.

Huge list of beauty creams that claim to improve your skin complexion includes chemical ingredients, which isn’t good for your skin.

Instead, home remedies are effective and inexpensive compared to cosmetic creams.

How to use:

Rub alum block over face alternate days to get rid of skin discoloration.
Or you can use it as face mask mixed with Multani mitt and water.

You can use alum to get rid of dark circles.

Mix 1 teaspoon of alum powder with 2 teaspoons of rose water.
Take a cotton ball and apply on dark circles.
Avoid eye contact, as it may burn your eyes.

#14. Use it in Bath

If your surroundings are unhygienic and impure, mix a small quantity of alum powder to bathtub to restrain the bacterial infection.

#15. Tightens the Vagina

Exceptional properties in alum block can tighten the vagina walls. But it’s not safe to use for a long time, as it may damage vaginal tissues and dry them.

I hope there are much more uses of alum for skin, acne, and health. But remember not to use it internally or in higher dosage.

Alum Powder for Athletes Foot

Antimicrobial ability packed in alum can effectively restrain bacterial infection and treat athlete’s foot.

Mix 2 teaspoons of alum powder with 4 tsp of rose water. Apply it on the affected part using a cotton ball. Allow it to dry naturally.

Or you can soak your feet in a tub of lukewarm water mixed with alum powder for 15 minutes.

Conclusion

Uses of alum include in the wool industry, as a dye fixative, purification of industrial waste, to dissolve steel tool bits, cosmetic industries, flame retardant, medicine, art and for culinary purposes.

Did I miss any uses of alum for skin or health? Share in comments.

Image source: 1, 2, 3

Natural Resource

12 Benefits of Bajra for Health, Weight Loss, Skin and Hair

ByMoin Nex

Also known as pearl millet, bajra is packed with calcium, iron, and B-vitamin. In this article, you’ll learn about benefits of bajra for health.

India stands as the largest producer of pearl millet. So many people here use this grain as a substitute for rice because it is known to protect you from diabetes.

After a long time when I visited my uncle’s home, like an average Indians they served me with lots of spicy dishes. But, surprisingly both my uncle and aunt instead of having this delicious food they started chewing bajra roti. Later, I came to that both uncle and aunt has diabetes.

This made me dwell into health benefits of pearl millet and these exceptional uses of bajra or kambu (Tamil) or pear millet (English) made me to replace my dinner with two bajra rotis. (Anyhow, I couldn’t stick to my plan).

Also read: Uses of Nutmeg

12 Benefits of Bajra for Health and Weight Loss

Pearl millet is not just an alternative grain. According to whfoods.com, it is qualified as one of the best sources of nutrients.

#1 Lowers Cholesterol

This natural ingredient is packed with heart protective properties that help to prevent cardiovascular issues.

Niacin residing in bajra plays a vital role in lowering cholesterol level in the blood. Magnesium and potassium in this grain help to regulate blood pressure. Other assorted phytonutrients in bajra lower the risk of heart attack.

Studies also show that magnesium can reduce the severity of asthma and migraine problem.

#2 Prevent Gallstones

A study carried by American Journal of Gastroenterology, ingesting fiber rich food can prevent gallstones in women.

A 16-year study with 69,000 women concludes that people who consumed insoluble fiber developed more protection towards gallstones.

Researchers think that insoluble fiber increase movement of food and decrease bile secretion that may result in gallstones. Abundant in pearl millet, insoluble fiber is found in nuts, fruits, vegetables, and beans.

#3 Bajra for Diabetes (Type-2)

The blood sugar level will be under check if you consume it regularly in breakfast. Also, the energy source helps to keep you full till the lunch time without hunger pangs.

Grains including pearl millet are packed with magnesium and minerals that act as co-factor for 300 enzymes involving glucose and insulin.

A study was carried out by Black Women’s Health for a period of 8 years involving 41,186 participants conclude that magnesium, calcium and other essential food sources are related to type-2 diabetes.

#4 Prevents Breast Cancer

Studies carried out concludes that regular intake of bajra can lower the risk of cancer because its consist cancer protecting agents.

Research concludes that women who ingested fiber experienced 52% lower risk of breast cancer compared to other women who consumed the least fiber.

#5 Improve Digestion

Fiber in bajra helps in easy digestion and prevents constipation. Not just this, regular intake can keep other digestive related problems at bay. Rich concentration of fiber in this grain helps to easy movement of food.

Packed with exceptional nutrients bajra intake can help to get rid of stomach issues.

#6 Free from Gluten

People with celiac disease may find bajra useful, as the wheat, we normally eat consists of gluten which can damage small intestine surface due to an immune reaction.

People with gluten sensitivity will find this grain alternative to wheat. Apart from this, it is non-allergic in nature.

#7 Improve Nervous System

Moderate vitamin B housed in this grain plays a crucial role in the healthy functioning of nervous system.

Phosphorus that is packed in bajra plays a vital role in the metabolism of fats and is an essential component in nucleic acids. It is very important in structuring every cell in the body.

#8 Rich Source of Iron

This grain is packed with iron, which aids in improving haemoglobin level in the blood and prevents anaemia.

Experts say that amino acids in bajra are easily digestible when compared to wheat grains. It’s packed with a bunch of energy boosters, which is a long-acting source of energy.

#9 Bajra for Weight Loss

You eat more when you feel hungry right? But, bajra intake will not make you feel hungry for a long time. Fiber and long lasting energy in this grain help to burn fat.

Tryptophan is an amino acid present in bajra that helps to lower appetite and makes you feel full. Rich content of fiber in pear millet prevent overeating and satiate hunger.

#10 Good for Skin and Hair

Minerals, proteins, and vitamins packed in bajra keep your children skin and hair healthy. It’s not accompanied by any serious allergic reaction.

Antioxidant agents packed in bajra help to restrain free radicals and prevent fine lines.
Amino acids present in pear millet help to promote collagen production and elastin to reduce wrinkles.
Alium is an antioxidant housed in bajra that improve blood circulation in scar tissue. Thus, minimize scars.
Selenium, vitamin E and C packed in pearl millet help to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. They also improve your skin complexion and it radiant.
Lipoic, an antioxidant agent exhibit anti-inflammatory property that can effectively reduce acne inflammation.

Rich concentration of proteins and vitamins in this grain help to strengthen hair follicle, stimulate growth, and treat ailments like eczema and psoriasis.

Also read: Alum Powder for Canker Sores?

#11 Pear Millet for Childhood Asthma

International Study of Allergy and Asthma in Children conclude that regular consumption of fish and grains (pear millet) can reduce asthma by percent.

Researchers state that western diet lacks anti-inflammatory, omega-3 fats and vitamin E, which is provided by fish and grains. However, people who’re allergic to wheat must avoid ingesting them.

#12 Lignans Against Heart Issues

Plant Lignans found in millet are converted to mammalian Lignans, which can effectively protect you from cancers associated with heart and breast.

Apart from bajra, nuts, vegetables, fruits, and berries also include Lignans.

Nutrition Facts of Pear Millet

Bajra or millet is regarding as one of the best foods that can provide basic nutrients to your body.

With impressive starch levels, vitamin B, potassium, magnesium, zinc and essential fats, bajra seeds are excellent to improve your overall health. Exceptional amount of protein and fiber content make it perfect to treat ailments like diabetes, heart issues, and gall bladder.

B-complex vitamins like biotin, choline, folate and pantothenic acid are residing in pearl millet. Other vitamins like retinoids, carotenoids, vitamin C, beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein, vitamin D, vitamin K and vitamin E are also packed in it.

Minerals include selenium, phosphorus, sodium, iodine, copper, chromium, calcium, boron, zinc and fluoride are residing in bajra.

Apart from this, fatty acids like omega-3&6 fatty acids, linolenic acid, oleic acid and saturated fatty acids are also available in this grain.

Description and History

Bajra has been consumed by our ancestors for many years, because of its renowned health benefits. Here, in India you can find different recipes of bajra, I normally prefer the traditional roti made by my mother.

Though we classify it as grain, technically pearl millet is seed. Often related to bird food, pearl millet is something more than that.

Tiny in size, bajra or pearl millet can be found in white, yellow and deep red. However, I personally prefer yellow and white millet.

Asian countries are among those who widely consume pearl millet. Before potatoes and corn, pearl millet was treated as a staple food in Europe. It was introduced into the US in the 19^th century.

India, China, and Nigeria stand among the top producers of bajra.

My mom brings bajra seeds and grinds them, which has excellent aroma and taste. Not sure about store bought grains. Benefits of bajra are not just confined health, but its regular intake can enhance healthy skin and hair.

Image source

Face Masks

How to Use Wheat Flour for Face, Oily Skin and Skin Whitening – 3 DIY Recipes

ByMoin Nex

wheat flour for face

Your skin sheds millions of skin cells. Along with this other impurities and pollutants pile over your face resulting in different skin disorders. In this article you’ll learn how to use wheat flour for face.

Wheat flour face pack is packed with exceptional nutrients that help to exfoliate your skin. Apart from cleansing, you can use wheat flour for skin whitening.

Cosmetic face mask creams are attractive as they are promoted by beautiful models. But, when you compare them with natural face mask remedies they lack to provide long lasting results.

Is Wheat Flour Good for Skin?

This powder is collected by grinding wheat. Essential nutrients are packed in this innate ingredient that can contribute to beautiful skin.

Selenium housed in wheat flour exhibits antioxidant properties that help to fight free radicals. This ability of selenium also helps to reduce oxidative stress.
Vitamin E and Zinc residing in this home available ingredient can promote collagen production and improve your skin texture.
Vitamins and minerals packed in wheat flour improve skin’s elasticity and reduce wrinkles.
Rich fiber content in wheat improves digestion and removes damaging toxins from the body.
Antioxidant ability of this innate ingredient protects your skin from harmful UV rays and cancer causing agents.

Researches prove that wheat is power house of abundant nutrients and vitamins, which can improve metabolism, reduce inflammation and recommended for diabetic patients.

Either consume it (like most of us prefer) or topically apply it over face, with other natural ingredients wheat flour protects your skin and enhances new cell generation.

If you want to consume it for a healthy body and skin, here’s my favorite wheat flour recipe.

To reap its cosmetic benefits, beauty experts recommend topical application.

Also read: Corn Flour Face Mask

3 DIY Wheat Flour Face Pack Recipes

To make the face mask more effective, you’re advised to mix wheat flour with other natural ingredients.

Below given are different recipes, choose the one that suits with your skin.

This one for lazy guys, start with the easiest recipe.

To make your own homemade wheat flour face pack, all you need to do is spend some time.

Keep benefits or uses of wheat flour and start this simple recipe by mixing wheat flour with some distilled water till you obtain thick paste like consistency.

Apply the mask over prewashed face and leave it to dry naturally for 20 minutes. Repeat this simple process twice or thrice per week.

Note: If you’ve dry skin, then apply rosewater after rinsing this face mask.

#1 Wheat Flour for Oily Skin

Oily skin is often related with acne. Anyhow, it’s not true.

Experts say that stress results in oiliness over your skin, because in response to stress your body produces androgen hormones that lead to more oil production. (Source)

Apart from changing your lifestyle to reduce stress, topical application of natural ingredients also helps to get rid of oily skin.

Ingredients:

Whole Wheat flour – 4 table spoons
Milk – 3 tbsp
Rose water – 2 tbsp
Raw honey – 2 tbsp

Rose water is packed with anti-inflammatory, hydrating and other essential properties that help your skin to maintain pH level.

Honey is prominent for its healing ability. You can use this innate ingredient to treat health and skin ailments.

Procedure:

Boil the milk in a pan, add rose water and honey to it.
Remove it from stove and add wheat flour to the solution.
Make thick paste. Allow it to cool, and then apply the wheat flour face pack on face evenly.
Start from right side of your face and neck.
Leave it to dry naturally and rinse it off with distilled water.

#2 Wheat Flour for Skin Whitening

Your skin consists of a pigment known as melanin, which is responsible for skin’s color. Few external and internal factors influence the excess production of melanin that results in dark or brown spots. Here’s goes a simple remedy to fade those brown spots and make your skin glow.

Ingredients:

Milk cream
Wheat flour

Exceptional properties in milk lighten dark spots. Mix required amount of milk cream with wheat flour thoroughly. Wash your face and topically apply this skin whitening face pack over the skin. Leave it to dry naturally and rinse it off.

You can use raw milk, sandalwood powder and rose water to lighten brown spots and under-arm areas. Repeated use of wheat flour for face is recommended to see the positive results. Along with this, you need to consider taking nutritious rich diet.

#3 Orange Peels and Wheat Flour for Face

Your skin is exposed to many impurities as mentioned above, these natural ingredients soothe your skin and protect it from UV rays.

Ingredients:

Orange peels
Wheat flour – 4 tbsp
Raw honey – 2 tsp
Rose water – 2 tbsp
Milk – 3 tbsp

Dry orange peel powder is a boon for your skin. Filled with vitamin C, this natural remedy can promote elasticity of your skin. It can treat blackheads, acne, dark circles, dry skin and make your skin radiant.

Procedure:

Take powdered orange peels and mix all listed ingredients in a bowl.
Mix thoroughly till you obtain smooth paste.
Add some distilled water if needed.
Prepare your face by cleansing it with water.
Pat dry and apply this prepared face mask evenly.
Allow it to dry naturally and then rinse it off after 15 minutes.

Tips:

Before using wheat flour face pack recipe on your skin. You must make sure you’re not allergic to any of these ingredients.
As mentioned by experts, stress results in many health and cosmetic issues. Avoid it.
Drink enough water and ingest vitamin rich diet regularly.
Regularly exercise keeps your metabolism healthy, which in return helps to throw toxins from the body.
Don’t use chemical incorporated creams, as they strip natural oil from your skin.
Spending long hours before computer screens and long exposure to sunlight also ruin your physical appearance. 🙂

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Natural Resource

14 Interesting Facts about Carrots

ByMoin Nex

facts about carrots

Carrots which are known for its nutritional benefits have some interesting facts under it. Normally we found of carrots in orange color, they’re available in red, purple and white colors.

Let’s read interesting facts about carrots

In digestion only 3% of the β-carotene in carrot can be released, if you cook, make juice or chew this can be improved to 39%.
Carrots are rich source of vitamins which can cure acne, eczema and dry skin disease.
Rabbits love to eat carrots because of its sweetness, anyway they shouldn’t eat more. It’s better if they eat carrot tops.
You can trace carrot back from 5000 years.
Initially carrots were grown for medicine not for food, for various ailments.
After potatoes carrots are most popular vegetable.
Carrot is a root vegetable, not a fruit.
Carrots grown with other vegetables will yield in more production of other vegetables. (Tomato grown with carrot will yield more tomatoes)
There are about 100 different species of carrots, which differ in size and color.
Heaviest carrot was record more than 18 pounds and longest carrot is over 19 feet. (source)
The word carrot has been derived from the Geek word “karoton”.
In 1600s English women used to wear carrot leaves in their hat.
Adults in US eat about 12 pounds of carrot per year.
Carrot consumed in juice or after steaming has more nutritional value than boiled or raw carrot.

How to consume and how to make carrot juice interesting post to read. If you know more interesting facts about carrot share in comments.

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References:

http://www.care2.com/greenliving/10-benefits-of-carrots.html?page=2
http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/5-healthy-facts-about-carrots
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carrot

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Natural Resource

Helichrysum Oil for Skin – 5 Benefits and DIY Recipes Included

ByMoin Nex

helichrysum oil for skin

Whenever I think about natural beauty, herbal oils are the one that comes to my mind. In this article, you’ll read benefits of Helichrysum oil for skin.

Do you know about Helichrysum plant?

It belongs to sunflower family and includes 600 different species. However, Helichrysum italicum is the most prominent among them and is renowned for its healing benefits.

Through steam distillation process of flowers, Helichrysum essential oil is obtained. Unlike other essential oils, this oil is very expensive and last for a very long time.

Rich in taste and to some extent like honey. With its intense scent, this essential oil can be used to uplift your emotional blocks.

Also read: Benefits of Palm Oil for Skin

5 Amazing Benefits of Helichrysum Oil for Skin

Renowned nutrients like antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antiallergenic, antioxidant and emollient properties can efficiently benefit your skin.

Helichrysum essential oil isn’t confined to cosmetic benefits. Tribes in Africa used this plant to heal wounds, treat a cough, fever and they also burn its leaves for incense. (1)

#1 Helichrysum Essential Oil for Acne

According to researchers acne is triggered due to inflammation. P.acnes bacteria feed on the excess sebum and dead cells released to make the acne worse.

Studies show that Helichrysum oil is packed with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antibiotic properties, which help to reduce acne inflammation.

How to Use: Wash the affected part and directly apply undiluted Helichrysum essential oil on acne blemishes and leave it to dry naturally.

#2 Soothe Sunburns and Protect Skin from Cancer

Sunburn or suntan happens due to harmful UV rays in sunlight. According to Jeffery M. Sobell, ultraviolet radiation damage skin molecules and result in redness, swelling, and pain. (2)

Healing benefits of Helichrysum essential oil can efficiently soothe these burns and block UV radiation from entering your skin.

Apart from this, UV rays may also lead to skin cancer. Fortunately, topical application of Helichrysum oil can block them and hydrate sunburns.

How to Use: Dilute Helichrysum essential oil with coconut oil and apply it to the affected part for healing.

#3 Reduce Age Spots and Discoloration

Diketones housed in this essential oil is able to reduce age spots and improve your skin complexion.

Excess exposure to chemical creams and UV rays may result in dark spots. Assorted nutrients in this essential oil can effectively reduce these spots.

As mentioned above, blend any base oil with this essential oil and apply it over prewashed skin.

#4 Helichrysum Oil for Wrinkles

Chemical creams, impurities and repeated exposure to sunlight strip natural look of your skin. Slowly skin loses its elasticity and wrinkles start appearing.

Antioxidant agents in Helichrysum essential oil can guard your skin and thwart free radicals that damage cell membrane.

It also fights against impurities and pollutants that you come across daily. As a result, your skin regains its lost look and wrinkles disappear slowly. (3)

How to Use: Wash your face with water to remove impurities and pat dry using a soft cloth. Now apply diluted Helichrysum oil and apply it over the face.

Patch test before applying it over the face

#5 Moisturizing Ability

Almost all essential oils are emollient in nature. Hydrating your skin is one of the most effective ways to combat ailments.

Dehydration damages your overall health.

According to Dr. Diana Howard, dry skin is different from dehydrated skin. An oily skin too becomes dehydrated.

Dehydration is a lack of moisture or water in Stratum Corneum, whereas, dry skin lack of oil over the skin.

Irritation, itching, scaly skin, fine lines, inflammation and severe redness are common signs of both disorders. (4)

You must internally and externally hydrate your skin to get rid of this problem.

Helichrysum oil helps to moisturize your skin from the outside, which is very important to get rid of itching and inflammation.

How to Use Helichrysum Oil for Skin?

There are different ways you can use this essential oil depending on your ailment.

For internal consumption, blend 1 drop of Helichrysum oil with 4 ounces of liquid.

To uplift your mood and release emotion block, mix 3 drops of Helichrysum essential oil is steam bath and inhale it.

Method: #1

Topical application is one of the best ways if you’re using it for cosmetic benefit.

Mix Helichrysum oil with coconut oil and apply it over prewashed face. You can replace coconut oil with olive oil.

Method: #2 Helichrysum oil and Cream

There are many beauty creams that include this essential oil. However, you can mix few drops of Helichrysum oil to your favorite cream or lotion before applying it to the skin.

Method: #3 Lavender, Helichrysum and Coconut Oil

All these ingredients are prominent for their healing and moisturizing benefit.

Anti-inflammatory ability of this oil can relieve from acne and allergic blisters.

Mix 10 drops of lavender essential oil with 10 drops of Helichrysum essential oil.
Also, add ½ cup of coconut oil to dilute the ingredients.
After mixing thoroughly apply it over the skin.

Method: #4 Honey and Helichrysum Oil for Skin

The nutritional ability of raw honey can’t be ignored.

Take 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, 3 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and 20 drops of Helichrysum essential oil.

Mix all ingredients and apply it to the skin.

Method: #5 Frankincense and Helichrysum Essential Oils

Take 10 drops of both Helichrysum and Frankincense oil. Add ¾ cup of coconut oil and 2 tbsp of shea butter to the solution.

Mix thoroughly and apply the mask over the face. Leave it dry naturally.

Internal Benefits of Helichrysum Oil

As mentioned apart from beauty benefits, this essential oil can be used to treat various other ailments.

For years Helichrysum essential oil is been used to treat respiratory problems and soothe coughing.

It can also benefit internal organs, nervous system, and liver.

Nutrients in this oil promote fasten healing of wounds, digestion, cure acidity, clear blood clots and relieve spasms.

Is it safe?

This oil is non-toxic and isn’t associated with any serious side-effects. However, if you’re sensitive towards ketones, then avoid this essential oil in all forms.

Internal consumption of this oil is also safe but you must dilute it before ingesting. (Please consult a physician before ingesting this oil.)

Did you ever use Helichrysum oil for skin? Share your views in comments.

Natural Resource

25 Benefits of Coconut Oil on Skin and Face

ByMoin Nex

Though many health organizations avoid consuming excess coconut oil because of its high saturated fats, topical application of coconut oil has fascinating benefits for skin. While we use pricey creams to soothe our skin, people in tropical regions use this edible oil to save their skin from harmful sun rays.

Its application is not confined to skin and hair you can also apply it around eyes to cure eye diseases. When applied topically, coconut oil penetrates through skin pores and hydrates it from outside, thus relieving from itching.

So, what’s making this simple inexpensive natural edible oil so beneficial than our processed expensive sun creams?

Nutritional Profile of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is rich in saturated fatty acid; it covers about 85% of fat in coconut oil. Anyway it’s not the same saturated fat found in animals. According to WHFOODS saturated fatty acid in food is broken into 3 group’s short chain, medium chain and long chain, and saturated fat in coconut oil belong to medium chain. It’s filled with microbial and antiviral properties.

Capric, caprylic and lauric acid found in coconut oil helps to boost energy levels before work out. Thus these fatty acids are used to lose weight and when you lose weight it pays way for a clear and healthy skin by removing stretch marks and wrinkles.

Vitamin E in coconut oil has antioxidant properties which help to fight free radicals and soothe skin. 100 grams of coconut oil has about 0.1 mg of vitamin E.

Proteins in coconut oil works for rejuvenating skin and maintaining a healthy skin.

Now let’s dwell into uses of coconut oil for skin.

Benefits of Coconut oil on Face, Dry Skin and Oily Skin

1. Natural moisturizer

Though research on benefits of coconut oil are preliminary, when applied on skin it acts as a moisturizer. Skin, when loses its moisture gets exposed to bacteria and it’s important to moisturize externally else chronic skin diseases like eczema, psoriasis and itching may develop.

2. Treat dry and hard skin with coconut oil

With coconut oil you can soften your skin, take few drops of coconut oil in your palm and rub on your face and hands once or twice. Softened skin is healthy skin. Also applying it on feet makes hard cracked feet smooth, anyway this is not going to wipe cracks but it can easy absorption of cracks creams when applied.

3. Use coconut oil to shed dead cells

Coconut oil is the best remedy to scrape dead skin cells off the body. Dead cells clog the skin pores and bacteria jumps on these dead cells to spread infection resulting in lesions. Mix coconut oil with sugar and use it as an exfoliator.

4. Remove your costly chemical ingredient makeup

Coconut oil is an excellent makeup remover with no side effects. Are you worried about makeup removal chemicals? With home available coconut oil you can now remove makeup.

5. Coconut oil can treat acne, eczema and other skin diseases

Though there are no scientific research proving about coconut oil treating acne and eczema, many users got benefited by using coconut oil regularly. As mentioned above, coconut oil removes dead skin cells and irritated skin, thus treating chronic skin diseases as well.

6. Get rid of annoying Head Lice with coconut and olive oil

According to WebMD, research says spray consisting of coconut oil and olive oil can used to treat head lice.

7. Treats itching

Topical application of this edible oil helps to get rid of itching.

8. Natural Home deodorant

Coconut oil can be used as inexpensive home deodorant. When added with other ingredients like shea butter coconut oil can be used to control body odor. (Related post: Herbal remedies for body odor)

9. Treat Yeast with Coconut Oil

Because of anti bacterial and anti fungal properties of coconut oil you can treat skin yeast and vaginal yeast.

10. Great for cooking

A research carried out in India confirms that eating coconut oil will not develop heart attack. Cooking with coconut oil is great to get benefited with medium chain fatty acids.

11. Soften your dry cuticles with few drops of coconut oil

Cuticles are soft skin parts surrounding your nail. Dry cuticles leaves gap between nail plate and nail bed and bacteria may invade to trigger infection. Take few drops of coconut oil and apply it on hands and cuticles.

12. Soothe savage sniffles

Either it’s because of allergy or you’ve running nose, apply a bit of coconut oil inside nostrils to soothe sniffles.

13. Soothe razor burns

It’s common to experience burn after shave. Yes we’ve creams advertised over media but why not try a remedy which is few seconds away from you. All you need is drop a bit of coconut oil on shaved area.

14. Wrinkles and eye bags

Nutrients in coconut oil help to reduce wrinkles and eye bags if you apply it around eyes and on wrinkles.

15. Coconut oil for sunburns

Soothe minor sunburns with topical application of coconut oil. (Also read: Home Remedies for Minor Burns)

Few more uses of coconut oil are listed below

16. Prevents stretch marks

17. Can be used has a sunscreen lotion with SPF 4

18. Treats cradle cap in babies

19. Lauric acid in coconut oil boost metabolism

20. Topical application enhance faster healing of injuries

21. Treats nail fungal infection

22. Excellent remedy to fade varicose veins

23. Treats cellulite when applied regularly

24. An excellent baby lotion

25. Mix coconut oil with shea butter for body balm

Note: To steal the benefits of coconut oil we prefer virgin coconut oil. Refined oil is produced from dried copra or kernel.

Did we miss any important benefit of coconut oil for skin? Share your views in comments.

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