Discover the beauty & health benefits of Saffron

Saffron is mostly known for its inclusion in food items. But it has very significant nutrients and chemical compounds which are beneficial in providing medicinal benefits. Saffron is one of the most expensive spices in the world as maximum of its processing work is done through hand. Saffron is extremely valuable spice because of its distinct flavor, health and medicinal properties. Let us look at a few of the saffron uses below

1.       Saffron for hair loss:  The application of Saffron over the scalp is good in treating of baldness (alopecia). The mix of saffron, milk and licorice when applied over the scalp is good in prevention of hair loss and hair growth. The application is also helpful in stimulating of hair growth.

2.       Saffron for radiant skin: Saffron is highly beneficial for radiant skin. It is suggested that one should make a face pack mixing of saffron (2 to 3 strands), milk (3 tsp) and sandalwood powder (1 tsp).  Apply the paste on your face, massage gently and left it for 15 minutes followed by washing with fresh water. It should be done once in week to have smooth and glow face.

3.       Saffron for glowing skin: Take 4-5 strands of saffron and soaked it into water for 2-3 hours. Now, use this mix over your face and massage gently. Wash it after 5 minutes. The process may be repeated twice or thrice a week for fairer skin.

4.       Saffron good for pimples: Make a paste of Saffron (10 strands) and basil leaves (6-7 leaves). Apply the paste over your face and wash the same after 10 minutes. This application is good in prevention of acne, blemishes, pimples, wrinkles and other black spots from the face.

5.       Saffron as anti-oxidants: Saffron is having many antioxidants that are beneficial in contending of free radicals thereby helps in prevention of diseases and promotion of health.

6.       Saffron controls heart rate: Potassium in saffron is good in controlling heart beat by allowing to slow down thus protecting the heart.

7.       Saffron for blood pressure: The Saffron spice contains many minerals such as cooper, potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, magnesium, zinc and selenium. Some of these are helpful in controlling blood pressure as well as in the formation of hemoglobin.

8.       Saffron for cancer prevention: Saffron is containing bio-chemical compounds such as zea-xanthin, lycopene, α- and β- carotene; all these are acts like as immune modulator and protect the human body from cancer.

9.       Saffron as stress buster: The presence of carotenoids is beneficial in boosting the level of immunity and reduces oxidant-induced stress.

10.   Saffron as antidepressant: Saffron contains safranal and alfa-crocin, a volatile oil compound, effective in controlling depression and acts like as anticonvulsant. Kesar brings cheerfulness and wisdom in the body.

11.   Saffron for disease prevention: Saffron contains many bio-chemical compounds as antioxidants, which are good in contending of various diseases by controlling free radicals thus promotes overall well-being of the body.

12.   Saffron for detoxification: It has many therapeutic applications and in detoxification of the body. It is also used in body healing, cramps, spasms and spas.

13.   Saffron good for digestion: Saffron is good for digestion due to presence of multiple medicinal compounds and an anti-convulsant. It stimulates digestion. It is suggested that one should make a mix of water (1 litre) and saffron (1g) for strengthening the function of stomach. Saffron is also beneficial when the liver and spleen get enlarged.

14.   Saffron good for cellular functioning: Due to presence of many macro-micro nutrients, especially potassium and magnesium, it is helpful in the growth of cells and tissues. It is also helpful in repairing of cells in the body.

15.   Saffron for hemoglobin formation: saffron contains iron that is good in the hemoglobin in blood.

16.   Saffron for overall health: The presence of minerals such as cooper, potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, magnesium, zinc and selenium, promotes optimum health.

17.   Saffron for fair complexion: Bathing with Saffron stands (soaked saffron strands for 20-30 minutes in water), is in improving your complexion.

18.   Saffron for pain management: Since the ancient times, Saffron is used as pain reliever. Periods related pains can be eased by taking tea or milk along with saffron.

19.   Saffron for toothache: Massaging the tooth with saffron and honey, helps to relieve pain from gums. It may be also applied with honey as well as glycerin to relax the toned parts of the mouth.

20.   Saffron for healthy lips: Saffron is among the few plant products, which is the biggest source of vitamin B2 (riboflavin). Taking of saffron on regular basis is helpful in prevention of throat soreness, swelling of tongues, cracking of lips, skin cracking and skin irritation.

21.   Saffron for colds: When saffron (0.5 g to 1 g) is mixed with warm water (1 litre) and drinking the same is helpful in curing of cough and cold.

22.   Saffron develops immunity: Saffron is having an appropriate percentage of vitamin C, which acts like as immunity booster and save you from various ailments.

23.   Refreshment: Due to its unique taste, it is used in many food recipes as well as refreshment purposes.

24.   Saffron for muscular problems: Saffron is used in curing of age related muscular degeneration. Saffron not only reduces the degeneration process but also helps in healing the damaged cells.

25.   Saffron for neurological problems: Since the ancient times, saffron is used on the forehead because of its neurological benefits.

26.   Saffron for menses: Saffron is used to controlled blood loss during menstrual cycle.

27.   Saffron for arthritis: The ayurvedic physicians prescribed saffron for arthritis patients. It is also good in controlling of asthma. Saffron helps to clear breath.

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Feed Your Hair with These Fabulous Vegetables

Eating right, exercising, reducing stress and getting plenty of sleep, will help you maximize your hair growth potential. Also, incorporating healthy foods in your day-to-day diet will lead to a difference in hair. 

Hair follicles are made of protein, and what you eat can significantly affect your hair’s health. While many of the foods recommended to promote hair growth are animal-based, like eggs, lean meats and yogurt, there are quite a few vegetables that can be eaten to increase hair growth, which can be especially important if you do not consume animal products.

·        Beans

Black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans and many other varieties of beans are high in protein content and derive a significant amount of their caloric content from protein. Hair is made up of protein, so it is important to eat protein-rich foods like beans for hair health, particularly if you are on a vegetarian or vegan diet that does not allow animal products like eggs, fish or lean meats for essential protein.

·        Broccoli

Like beans, broccoli derives much of its caloric content from protein, which is essential for hair health and growth. The nutrient profile of Broccoli makes it excellent food to prevent hair loss. The antioxidants in broccoli seeds make the hair root strong. The vitamin and calcium present in Broccoli holds the hair well from the roots and prevent from hair breakage.

·        Spinach

Spinach is an important vegetable for hair growth because it is high in protein and vitamin A and vitamin C, which the body uses to produce oils in the scalp, which can help increase hair growth. Vitamin A and vitamin C deficiencies can increase hair loss or lead to brittle, thin hair that does not grow as quickly.

·        Carrots

Carrots are a source of vitamin A and B7, which helps promote general scalp health. Also, Biotin is essential for hair re-growth. At the same time, it helps to strengthen the hair roots so that hair does not fall out easily.

Carrots also play a role in sebum production, much like spinach, and a diet rich in carrots can lead to faster hair growth through healthy sebum production. Boil some carrots and blend them. Don’t throw the water you boiled them in, use the same to grind and blend them. Apply the paste to your hair and leave on for 30 minutes. Wash it away. This mask helps reduce hair fall and also promotes hair growth.

 

·        Soybeans and Soy Products

Soybeans and soy products are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are more difficult to come by if you are on a vegetarian diet that does not allow fish like salmon and halibut. Omega-3 fatty acids are made up of three main properties, including ALA or alpha linolenic acid, EPA, or eicosapentaenoic acid and DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid. These essential properties can help to grow hair by increasing hair follicle growth from the inside out while making hair fuller and thicker. Tofu, soy milk, steamed soy beans and soy supplements are sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

·        Onions

Onions are also a helpful nutrient for the hair. It is an affluent source of zinc, iron and Biotin, all of which are needful for hair growth. In addition to hair growth, onion is a wonderful vegetable that helps in preventing the premature graying of hair.

·        Garlic

Although having a pungent smell, garlic is an ideal tonic for the hair. It is good to add this to your regular diet chart, as it contains very few calories. In addition, garlic contains a very high sulfur content, which is considered best for hair re-growth.

Cucumber is also known to achieve healthy hair.  Blend in some fresh cucumbers and apply the paste to your scalp and massage thoroughly. You might want to add some fenugreek powder as blend will be runny.

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Shocking BEAUTY HABITS that can bring more damage than good!

 

·      Using Face Wipes

Face wipes are good at removing make up before proper cleansing but they shouldn’t be used alone to clean the face. Wipes spread makeup, skin oils and dirt around instead of rinsing them away like a good cleanser and water. They also dry out the skin, making it more prone to flakiness and premature ageing.

·      Using Petroleum Jelly

Petroleum jelly is often used to try and moisturize  chapped lips but this is not what the product was made for. In fact, petroleum jelly is best at creating a barrier on the skin- to protect open skin from dirt, to lubricate the hands during manual labor and to make dry joints like the elbows less uncomfortable. This barrier effect means that petroleum jelly is good at protecting your lips from the cold but little else; as it actually prevents moisture from entering the skin meaning your lips will be more dry and chapped in the long run.

·      Not Moisturizing

You may think that because your skin is normal or oily that you don’t need to moisturize, but think again. Moisturizers help to plump the skin and deliver ingredients into the lower layers of the skin that you can’t see. If you have oily skin but your face often feels tight, then it may be dehydrated and in need of water instead of the oil that it produces. Try using a water based moisturizer everyday and see how your skin changes.

·      Washing Hair Everyday

While it may seem like basic hygiene to wash your hair every day, it actually isn’t necessary, even for oily hair. Washing the hair too much can dry it out, making it weak and brittle but also stimulating your scalp to over-produce oil, meaning hair will seem dirtier in the long run. Try to wash your hair every two to three days and use dry shampoo in between. Your oily hair will actually become less oily over time.

·      Cutting Cuticles

Trimming the cuticles is often a basic part of a manicure but actually this is an unnecessary step. The cuticles should never be cut or trimmed because this can leave the skin and nail bed open to infection from unclean tools or outside germs. Instead, use an orange wood stick to gently push back the cuticles, taking care not to break the skin.

·      Not Cleaning Makeup Brushes

You may think you’re doing your brushes a favour by not getting them wet, but this beauty habit can be doing damage that you can’t see. Makeup, skin cells and bacteria can collect in your brushes meaning they don’t work as well as they used to and using them may be clogging your pores. Wash your brushes often in warm soapy water or use an on the spot antibacterial cleaner to remove makeup and kill acne causing bacteria.

·      Sleeping in Makeup

Even after a long night you should still make the effort to remove as much makeup as you can before bed. Foundation, concealer and powder can clog the pores when left on the skin for a long time and not washing your face twice a day will allow grime and dead skin cells to build up.

·      Scrubbing Everyday

Using exfoliating scrubs or rough exfoliating tools on the skin everyday can irritate it and cause it to age prematurely as skin cells are unnecessarily broken down and removed. If your skin is rough or bumpy, use a gentle chemical exfoliator like salicylic acid or glycolic acid instead and leave the scrubs to once a week or less.

·      Re-using Razors

While razors are designed to be used more than once, using the same one over a long period of time can do your skin more harm than good. Soap and skin cells can build up on the blades, making them blunt and allowing bacteria to grow on them. The combination of blunt blades and bacteria can lead to skin irritation and shaving cuts, leaving the area open to infection.

·      Using Old Makeup

There is no point trying to save money by using old makeup when this beauty habit can cause more harm than good- beauty products can go off when bacteria from the area and your skin enter the packaging after it has been opened. In particular, products with wands like lip gloss and mascara can harbour bacteria from the skin and create an enclosed environment for it to grow. Most skincare products will have their ‘use by time’ shown on the packaging with an M for months, but eye products and those in tubes should be thrown away after six months or less and other makeup should be used up or thrown out within a year.

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Baking Soda miracles you will never believe -

1.  Make a DIY exfoliator : 

Gently rub three parts baking soda and one parts water on your face in a soft, circular motion to remove dead skin. Just be careful around your eye area and rinse clean with warm water.

2.  Prep your nails for a manicure:  

Use the same solution for smooth hands and fingers before painting your nails your favorite color. For polish-ready nails, dip a clean toothbrush into baking soda and scrub along your cuticles and nails to remove any imperfections.

3. Soothe sensitive skin post-shave : 

Add one tablespoon of baking soda to one cup of warm water for a soothing solution. Simply rub the mixture on your legs to alleviate razor burn fast.

4.Remove excess hair products :  

Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda into your favorite shampoo to remove buildup from shampoo, conditioner, serums, and other products. Wash as usual and rinse thoroughly for cleaner, more manageable hair.

5. Clean your styling tools : 

The same way products build up on your scalp, they can also leave your brushes and combs pretty dirty. Soak them in a solution of one teaspoon of baking soda in a bowl of warm water to remove natural oils and build up. Rinse and dry.

6.Use it as deodorant in a pinch : 

End of the day and smelling less-than perfect? A quick dusting of baking soda under your arms will absorb your natural odor to leave you feeling fresh.

7. Whiten teeth :  

Baking soda is already an ingredient in many natural toothpaste alternatives. Simply wet your toothbrush and rub it in baking soda for fast toothpaste. However, baking soda does not include fluoride, which helps prevent cavities. Speak to your dentist before switching to a baking soda-based toothpaste.

8.Freshen up greasy hair : 

Run out of dry shampoo? Sprinkle a bit of baking soda onto your roots to absorb excess oil. Brush through or rub in with fingers to distribute.

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Natural Remedies To End Sneezing!

There are lots of remedies which can control sneezing and provide you relief.

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is known for curing sneezing. The oil clears the congestion and influence the healing. The essential oil is easily available and its fragrance cures you faster than anything else. You can take two drops of lavender oil in your nostrils. The other option is you can take the oil in your finger and smell it time to time. It is effective oil for cold and sneezing.

Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil can give you relief from sneezing due to the stuffy nose. It has anti-bacterial properties. Inhaling steam of peppermint oil solution can provide you relief. Take one glass of boil water and add five drops of peppermint oil in a bowl. Cover your head and the bowl with a towel and take the steam. It will clear the nose passage and stop sneezing. It will also relieve you from allergies caused by sneezing.

Fennel Tea

Fennel is very effective on respiratory issues and sneezing. Its anti-viral component helps you to cure sneezing and other respiratory problems quickly. Fennel tea is one of the best solutions for this problem. Boil two tablespoon of fennel seeds in water and rest it for 15 minutes. Drink this tea twice a day. The tea effectively arrests the problem of frequently sneezing.

Garlic

Garlic has the power to fight against virus and it protects the body from virus attack. It has lots of health benefits. You can consume garlic in food daily to protect yourself from virus attack. If you don’t like the smell of the garlic in cooking then sauté it well in oil. Then add other ingredients. It heals respiratory infections. This kitchen ingredient heals continuous sneezing for cold. Crush four to five cloves and make a paste and smell it. It will clear the nasal passage.

Ginger

Ginger is the well-known powerful remedy for nose problems. It fights against the virus, it reduces swelling and pain, and it protects you from infections. Use ginger in your food daily. It is good for health. Take a two inches long ginger and make juice out of it. Drink this ginger juice twice a day to heal sneezing.

Hot Water

Hot water is good for cold and sneezing. Drink hot water several times in a day to get relief from cold and hydrate your body. You can also take bath in hot water. It will give you comfort and stop sneezing and clear nose congestion. Hot water kills viruses. You can also gurgle with hot water to get relief from cold.

Turmeric Milk

Turmeric is very useful in treating the symptoms of sneezing and runny nose caused due to allergic symptoms. All you need is to consume a warm glass of turmeric milk each day to get relief. 

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Say ‘GOODBYE’ to dry and frizzy hair!

If you are looking for solutions on how to get rid of frizzy hair, don’t look further than your kitchen. Here are some natural ways to treat frizzy hair-

1.   Vinegar

It might not smell that good, but vinegar is a great and natural way to treat frizzy hair. Just add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a cup of water and massage into your hair and scalp; it will condition the hair, add shine and help to remove dandruff as well. Rinse thoroughly after 5-10 minutes! Do it once or twice a week and see wonderful results.

2.   Eggs

To nourish and bring the shine back to your hair, whip one egg into some tepid water and apply it to your hair, massage gently. Wash out with warm water and not hot though, or you’ll end up with an omelette on your head! No need to shampoo. Condition as usual.

3.   Avocado hair mask

Another one from the kitchen: mash one ripe avocado and mix it with two tablespoons of coconut oil to make a smooth paste (use your blender) and apply to your hair as a mask for 20-30 minutes, then shampoo and condition. Use once or twice a week and it will naturally condition your hair, nourish, help to prevent dryness, fight frizz and split ends.

4.   Banana hair mask

Bananas can do wonderful job conditioning and nourishing your hair, relieving dryness and fighting frizz. Here is how to get rid of frizzy hair with this natural banana hair mask: place one ripe banana, two tablespoons of olive oil and one tablespoon of honey in your blender and push the button. Apply this mix on your locks for 20-30 minutes, then shampoo and condition.

5.   Don’t shampoo too often

Everyone likes to have a clean head of hair, but shampooing every day can dry out all the natural moisture from your hair, leaving it dry and frizzy. Try shampooing every two or three days and experiment with some milder shampoos to see if this makes a difference.

6.   Don’t blow dry for too long

Blow drying your hair for too long will dry out the natural oils in your hair and cause the strands of hair to actually shrink, so keep drying time to a minimum. Also, try using a cool setting on your hairdryer; it will be less damaging for your locks and it will help get rid of frizzy hair too.

7.   Brush your hair the right way 

The drier your hair, the easier it breaks, the quicker it gets frizzy, so too much brushing (especially harsh and violent brushing) won’t make the frizz go away, it will only make it worse. Avoid brushing your hair when it’s wet, as your hair is more fragile when it’s damp. Also, if you want to know how to get rid of frizzy hair, don’t use harsh movements when towel-drying your locks to avoid breakage.

8.   Coconut oil

Treating frizzy hair with coconut oil will help calm things down. Massage slightly warmed up coconut oil into your hair and scalp. Leave on for about 20-40 minutes (the warm oil will penetrate the scalp and pores, leaving your hair beautifully conditioned); then shampoo and condition.

Another way to use coconut oil to get rid of frizzy hair is to add one teaspoon of coconut oil into your usual shampoo; just mix your usual dose of shampoo with one teaspoon of coconut oil in the palm of your hand (if you have thin hair, use less oil) and wash your hair with it; you’ll see an amazing difference: your hair will be nourished, moisturized, fuzz free and shiny. Try it!

If you have coarse, thick, wavy hair, take a pea-sized drop of coconut oil (or you can also use avocado oil or macadamia nut oil), rub it between your hands and work it through your hair thoroughly, concentrating on the middle length and on the ends (don’t bring the oil near the roots of your hair, because we use it as a leave-in conditioner in this case). This quick tip can easily help you get rid of hair frizz and all the ‘goodness’ of natural oils will nourish your locks, help fight split ends, add shine and gloss.

9.   Protect your hair

Another simple tip on how to get rid of frizzy hair is to keep your locks protected with a hat when you go out in extreme weather conditions. Both sunlight and very cold weather will make your hair frizzy.

10.               How to get rid of frizzy hair? Ponytail can help!

And finally, if you are in a hurry and you don’t have time for all the sophisticated and time-consuming treatments, just braid your hair or do a ponytail. These simple hairstyles take only a couple of minutes to make and will camouflage the frizz easily and quickly.

Sometimes, it’s the very things that you are doing to your hair to get of the frizz that are making it worse! Some of the most common causes of frizzy hair are: shampooing too frequently, hair products with harsh chemicals, brushing too harshly, blow drying too long and excessive sun/wind exposure. Also trim your hair regularly (every 4-5 weeks) to keep your locks looking healthy, beautiful and frizz-free.

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