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Garcinia

Garcinia gummi-gutta is a tropical species of Garcinia native to South Asia and Southeast Asia.Common names include Garcinia cambogia (a former scientific name), as well as brindle berry, and Malabar tamarind. The fruit looks like a small pumpkin and is green to pale yellow in color.
The fruit rind contains a chemical called hydroxycitric acid (HCA).
HCA used in dietary supplements usually comes from garcinia. It might prevent fat storage, control appetite, and increase exercise endurance.

Among the conditions people use it for are diabetes, cancer, ulcers, diarrhea, and constipation.

BENEFITS

– Can Cause Modest Weight Loss

Many high-quality human studies have tested the weight loss effects of garcinia cambogia.
What’s more, most of them indicate that the supplement can cause a small amount of weight loss. Garcinia cambogia can increase the levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin, a feel-good messenger in your body. This may enhance your mood and reduce stress-related eating

– May Block Fat Production and Reduce Belly Fat

The main reason for these effects may be that garcinia cambogia inhibits an enzyme called citrate lyase, which plays an important role in the production of fat.
By inhibiting citrate lyase, garcinia cambogia is thought to slow or block fat production in the body. This may reduce blood fats and lower the risk of weight gain — two major disease risk factors.

Additionally, garcinia cambogia could boost your digestive system. Animal studies suggest that it helps protect against stomach ulcers and reduce damage to the inner lining of your digestive tract.

Side effects of Garcinia

People have also reported some side effects of using garcinia cambogia. The most common ones are;
– Digestive symptoms
– Headaches
– Skin rashes

Dosage

Garcinia cambogia is available in capsules, tablets, powders, and liquids. Capsules should be taken on an empty stomach, 30 minutes to an hour before a meal.

 

Written by: Oreoluwa Hassan

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Gymnemma Leaf

Gymnema (Gymnema sylvestre) is a woody climbing shrub that’s native to the tropical forests of India, Africa and Australia. Its leaves have been used in the ancient Indian medicinal practice Ayurveda for thousands of years. It has been a traditional remedy for various ailments, including diabetes, malaria and snakebites.

Today, gymnema is used for diabetes, metabolic syndrome, weight loss, and cough. It is also used for malaria and as a snake bite antidote, digestive stimulant, laxative, appetite suppressant, and diuretic.

BENEFITS
– Diabetes

Gymnema is perhaps most well known for its ability to help diabetes – including; controlling sugar cravings, pancreas regeneration, blood sugar homeostasis and weight reduction.
This powerful herb contains the phytochemical “gurmarin”, a substance that modifies the ability of the tongue’s perception of sweet and bitter flavours. A study conducted in India revealed that the atomic arrangement of the herb blocks the sugar receptors of taste buds. As a result, sugar taste buds are not stimulated even with sugar intake.

One of the primary active ingredients in Gymnema sylvestre is gymnemic acid – a compound that is structurally similar to glucose but that acts completely differently in the body.
Gymnemic acid can block sugar absorption in the intestine and often results in lower blood sugar levels after a meal.
Gymnema sylvestre may stimulate insulin production in your pancreas, promoting the regeneration of insulin-producing islet cells. This can help lower your blood sugar levels.

As a supplement, it has been used in combination with other diabetes medications to lower blood sugar.
Scientific proof of Gymnema’s ability to lower blood sugar is insufficient to recommend it as a stand-alone diabetes medication. However, research shows strong potential.

– Improves Cholesterol and Triglyceride Levels, Reducing Heart Disease Risk

Gymnema sylvestre may help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol levels and triglycerides. While Gymnema gets its fame from lowering blood sugar levels and reducing sugar cravings, research shows that it may also influence fat absorption and lipid levels.

High levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides are risk factors for heart disease. Therefore, the positive effects of Gymnema sylvestre on LDL and triglycerides levels may contribute to a lower risk of heart conditions.

– Helps Reduce Inflammation Due to Its Tannin and Saponin Content

Inflammation plays an important role in the body’s healing process.
Some inflammation is good, such as when it helps protect the body from harmful organisms in cases of injury or infection.
Other times, inflammation may be caused by the environment or the foods you eat. However, chronic low-grade inflammation can contribute to various health issues.

Possible Side Effects

While its effects on blood sugar are rather positive, combining Gymnema sylvestre with other blood-sugar-lowering medications can cause an unsafe drop in the blood sugar levels.
This can cause side effects, such as headache, nausea, lightheadedness, shakiness and dizziness.

Gymnema sylvestre supplements should not be taken at the same time as blood-sugar-lowering medications, including insulin injections.

Additionally, the supplement should not be taken with aspirin or the herb St. John’s Wort, as this may increase Gymnema’s blood-sugar-lowering effects.

 

Written by: Oreoluwa Hassan 

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Thyme and Its Benefits

While thyme is commonly used to flavor food, this herb has been used since ancient times for different health and medicinal benefits and as a preservative. Today, it’s used in a wide variety of products ranging from mouthwashes to teas and even nasal sprays.

Thyme, which is from the mint family, has tiny, sage-green leaves and thin stalks. It can be used fresh, dried, or made into an essential oil. While there are many claims about thyme’s health benefits, most of them have yet to be confirmed by scientific research.

That said, thyme does contain the compound thymol, which can help control or neutralize some bacterial, parasitic, fungal, or viral infections. Research also suggests that it may have analgesic, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties that can help with skin conditions, pain from bug bites, rheumatoid arthritis, and more.

Health Benefits

Thyme can be added to your foods, used as a tea, applied to your skin as an essential oil, gargled as thyme oil, or even inhaled. While there are various claims about the health benefits of thyme, scientific research is lacking in many areas or only based on animal research.

However, thyme has been shown to have some health benefits. Thyme oil is frequently used in mouthwashes to help with bad breath, prevent gingivitis, and help treat oral pathogens.

Fresh or dried thyme can be used as a substitute for salt when cooking to help decrease your salt intake or manage high blood pressure.

Thyme also can provide other health benefits like:

Potential Pain-relieving Properties

Thyme’s anti-inflammatory properties may help provide pain relief. Studies have found that thyme supplements offered pain relief from menstrual cramps similar to that provided by ibuprofen.

Some individuals with rheumatoid arthritis use thyme, either as a tea or topically, to alleviate symptoms. There is some evidence that thyme’s anti-inflammatory properties may help, but more research is needed before this can be confirmed.

Natural Cough-suppressant 

Thyme has been used as a home remedy for coughs, respiratory conditions, and bronchitis for years. Alternative medicine has used it as a tea and in aromatherapy. Research has shown some support for its use, though more studies are needed before its efficacy can be proven.

A small study in 2013 found the use of a thymol nasal spray helped reduce the severity and number of coughs and the urge to cough among participants.

Antimicrobial Properties

Thyme can be useful as a disinfectant thanks to its antifungal properties. Studies indicate that thyme may be useful as a disinfectant in homes with a low concentration of mold when used as an essential oil.

Help with Skin Conditions like Eczema and Acne

Thyme’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties may also help with skin conditions. It may help get rid of bacterial infections while also helping to reduce inflammation. As a result, it can help with the irritation and inflammation in conditions like eczema and acne.

Natural Insect Repellent

Thyme oil may help repel insects like mosquitoes. The oil in thyme, thymol, is often used as an active ingredient in bug repellents. You can make your own natural repellent by combining thyme oil with olive oil or water.

Nutrition

Thyme contains thymol and small amounts of other nutrients such as potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, and magnesium.

Nutrients per Serving

A one-teaspoon serving of fresh thyme contains:

  • Calories: 0.8
  • Protein: 0 grams
  • Fat: 0 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 0.2 grams
  • Fiber: 0.1 grams

Portion Sizes and Safety

A serving of thyme is typically two tablespoons when fresh or one teaspoon when dried. Thyme is safe when used in normal amounts for cooking. However, if you plan to ingest it as an essential oil, you should bear in mind that it’s at a higher concentration in that form and may cause side effects. While fresh or dried thyme is safe to use as a flavoring in food when pregnant, it’s important to consult your doctor before ingesting it as an essential oil.

Thyme is generally safe. However, using too much, especially if ingesting it as an essential oil, can lead to a drop in your blood pressure or hypotension. If you are on high blood pressure medications or anticoagulants, consult your doctor before using thyme essential oil or supplements.

If you are allergic to plants in the mint family, consult your doctor before using thyme. Individuals who are allergic or sensitive to thyme have experienced nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting due to eating thyme. People with a sensitivity or allergy to thyme may experience a skin rash if it’s applied to their skin.

How to Prepare Thyme

You can grow thyme or purchase it fresh or dried from most grocery stores. Dried thyme can be stored at room temperature, and fresh thyme should be refrigerated or frozen. If you’re purchasing thyme as an essential oil, you can store it in the refrigerator or keep it in a dry, cool space away from direct sunlight.

Thyme is frequently used to add flavor to meats, seafood, stews, and soups. Here are some ways to use thyme in recipes:

  • Add fresh or dried thyme to vegetable, beef, or chicken stock
  • Use it in stews or soups for added flavor
  • Replace or cut back on salt in recipes by adding thyme
  • Infuse your favorite tea with thyme
  • Add thyme to your favorite chicken or pork recipes
  • Add fresh thyme as a topping to baked potatoes
Reference: Webmd
Written by: Omojo Emeje
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Everything You Need to Know About Aloe

Wounds

Aloe vera is a time-honored treatment. Alexander the Great used the clear gel-like sap in the middle of its leaves to heal their wounded soldiers’ wounds. And while there’s some evidence it can help some types of wounds, it may delay healing in others. Talk to your doctor about whether aloe products are right for your injury.

Burns

Here’s an area where aloe really seems to shine. A number of studies show that aloe ointments and creams can help burns, including sunburns, heal more quickly. Some substances in the aloe ease swelling and speed up healing, and others help your body repair the skin. But you need to see a doctor for:

  • A serious burn
  • A widespread burn
  • A burn on the hands, feet, face, groin, or buttocks
  • Any burn that looks infected
  • A burn that affects the airways
  • A burn that takes a long time to heal
  • A burn caused by chemicals or electricity

Psoriasis

Aloe extract cream seems to help some people with the dry, scaly, itchy, or painful skin it that comes with psoriasis. But aloe vera gel doesn’t seem to have the same effect, so ask your doctor if aloe cream could help you manage your psoriasis.

Cold Sores

The research is still early on this, but some of it shows aloe might help slow the growth of the virus that cause cold sores. Aloe extract cream may also help cold sores heal faster.

Genital Herpes

The same family of viruses (herpes simplex) that causes cold sores around your mouth can cause blistering sores on your private parts. In two research studies, men who used aloe cream on these sores healed faster than those who used aloe gel or a placebo cream. Part of the reason for this may be that aloe appears to slow the reproduction of the virus.

Acne

Research suggests that aloe gel may help clear up acne if you use it twice daily along with the prescription acne cream tretinoin (sold as Atralin, Retin-A, and others). In a separate study, doctors applied a standard 2-day wound-healing cream to a group of people after full-face dermabrasion, an acne treatment that sands the skin. When they added aloe to the cream on one side of the face, it healed much more quickly.

Dermatitis

This reaction causes swollen, red, itchy skin when you come in contact with something like detergents, soaps, poison oak, poison ivy, copper, grass, or nickel (in some jewelry). Aloe may help ease these symptoms along with those of seborrheic dermatitis, which often affects oily areas like your face, back, and chest.

Constipation

Aloe works as a laxative if you swallow it. That is, it may make you poop if you haven’t been able to go. But it can cause serious stomach cramps, diarrhea, and other unpleasant symptoms, and the FDA says there isn’t enough research to be sure it’s safe. So it’s best to stick with more tried and true options at your drugstore. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you aren’t sure which laxative is right for you.

Oral Lichen Planus

Aloe gel seems to safely help get rid of these white, spidery, patches on the tongue or inside of your mouth that may become blistered or painful. Studies suggest it works as well as standard treatments like topical steroids.

Diabetes

There’s evidence that aloe taken by mouth might help lower both blood sugar and cholesterol in some people with the condition. But it might interfere with medications like insulin, and it could make your blood sugar too low. Other studies, using different forms and doses of aloe, had different results. The bottom line: It isn’t clear if oral aloe is safe to use for diabetes. Scientists need more studies to sort these things out.

Aloe Effects to Avoid

Taken orally, just a gram a day could shut down your kidneys. You might have a bad reaction to aloe if you’re allergic to garlic, onions, tulips, or other members of the Liliaceae family. As a laxative, aloe could cause you to lose electrolyte minerals like potassium, which is a problem if you have kidney or heart disease. It may also harm your unborn baby if you’re pregnant.

Drug Interactions

The creams and gels are mostly OK, but the oral form can change how some of your medication works, especially diuretics, digoxin (Lanoxin) for heart issues, blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin), and diabetes meds. And remember that aloe vera is a dietary supplement, not a regulated drug. That means it’s hard to know exactly what’s in any aloe product. Tell your doctor about all supplements and medications you take, including aloe.

 

Reference: Webmd

Written by: Omojo Emeje

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Health Benefits of Cayenne Pepper

If you like spice, you’re probably familiar with the cayenne pepper. The long, thin, bright red Capsicum annuum is a member of the Solanaceae family. It’s related to other capsicums, including sweet bell peppers, jalapeños, poblanos, serranos, and the notoriously spicy ghost peppers. While not nearly as hot as the ghost pepper, the cayenne pepper still packs quite a punch.

The cayenne pepper is said to originate from Cayenne, French Guiana. It’s commonly dried and ground into a fine powder. It’s also used fresh in many recipes. It grows around the world in places such as India, East Africa, Mexico, and certain areas of the United States. In addition to being delicious, it adds a touch of heat to your food and provides some remarkable health benefits.

Health Benefits

Cayenne peppers can provide a variety of health benefits. These include:

Pain Relief

Cayenne peppers, like other spicy peppers, have capsaicin, the compound that gives them their “heat”. Applied topically, capsaicin can help to alleviate pain by reducing the amount of a neuropeptide known as substance P that travels to the brain to signal pain. With less substance P, feelings of pain decrease.

Psoriasis Treatment

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes itchy, scaly, red patches on the skin. While there is currently no cure, topical capsaicin creams can help to reduce itching and improve the skin’s appearance.

Metabolism Boost

Capsaicin increases the amount of heat that your body produces, boosting your metabolism and causing you to burn more calories. It’s also somewhat effective in reducing hunger, causing you to eat less throughout the day.

Digestive Health

Capsaicin stimulates the nerves in your stomach that send signals for protection against injury. The pepper may help to increase the production of digestive fluid, send enzymes to the stomach to aid in digestion, and provide extra protection to the stomach against infections.

Reducing High Blood Pressure

Based on animal studies, capsaicin may help to reduce high blood pressure, which also reduces the risk of developing heart disease.

Reducing Cancer Risk

Some studies show that capsaicin can slow cancer cell growth. It may even be able to kill cancer cells for certain types of cancer, including prostate, skin, and pancreatic.

Nutrition

Cayenne pepper, like other spicy peppers, has a compound known as capsaicin. It has many antioxidants, including:

  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin E
  • Beta carotene
  • Cryptoxanthin
  • Choline
  • Lutein
  • Zeaxanthin

In addition to these nutrients, cayenne peppers also have:

  • Vitamin B1
  • Vitamin B2
  • Vitamin B6
  • Vitamin K
  • Folate
  • Manganese
  • Potassium
  • Copper
  • Iron
  • Magnesium
  • Selenium
  • Phosphorous
  • Zinc

Nutrients Per Serving

A single tablespoon (5.3 grams) of cayenne pepper has:

  • Calories: 17
  • Protein: 0.6 grams
  • Fat: 0.9 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 3 grams
  • Fiber: 1.4 grams
  • Sugar: 0.5 grams

Things to Watch Out For

Cayenne peppers are safe to eat, and are a delicious, spicy addition to many dishes. Eating too many, however, can cause some unwanted side effects, such as an upset stomach or heartburn. If you’re sensitive to spice, you may also feel an uncomfortable burning sensation in your mouth.

Cayenne pepper may also interact with certain medications, such as:

  • Blood thinners
  • Aspirin
  • Antacids
  • ACE Inhibitors

How to Use Cayenne Pepper

You’re more likely to find cayenne pepper as a ground spice, located with the rest of the spices in your local grocery store. Some stores carry fresh peppers in the produce section. When buying fresh, look for peppers that are bright, shiny, and firm. Avoid those that are wrinkly, soft, or have dark spots on them.

To store fresh cayennes, place them in a paper bag or wrap them in paper towels and place them in your refrigerator’s vegetable drawer. Avoid plastic bags, as they can collect moisture and cause your peppers to go bad faster. Only wash them when you’re ready to use them.

Fresh and ground cayenne pepper can be used in a variety of ways:

  • Add a dash of cayenne pepper to a soup or stew
  • Sprinkle it over egg dishes such as scrambled eggs, quiches, or egg salad
  • Mix it into hummus
  • Add a pinch of ground cayenne pepper to your hot chocolate
  • Stir into homemade lemonade for a delicious kick
  • Add fresh cayenne (or ground cayenne) to sautéed vegetables
  • Mix fresh peppers into your favorite cornbread recipe
  • Combine fresh peppers and lemon juice with cooked bitter greens such as collards or kale

 

Reference: Webmd

Written by: Omojo Emeje

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Ginger

Fights Germs

Certain chemical compounds in fresh ginger help your body ward off germs. They’re especially good at halting growth of bacteria like E.coli and shigella, and they may also keep viruses like RSV at bay.

Keeps Your Mouth Healthy

Ginger’s antibacterial power may also brighten your smile. Active compounds in ginger called gingerols keep oral bacteria from growing. These bacteria are the same ones that can cause periodontal disease, a serious gum infection.

Calms Nausea

The old wives’ tale may be true: Ginger helps if you’re trying to ease a queasy stomach, especially during pregnancy. It may work by breaking up and getting rid of built-up gas in your intestines. It might also help settle seasickness or nausea caused by chemotherapy.

Soothes Sore Muscles

Ginger won’t whisk away muscle pain on the spot, but it may tame soreness over time. In some studies, people with muscle aches from exercise who took ginger had less pain the next day than those who didn’t.

Eases Arthritis Symptoms

Ginger is an anti-inflammatory, which means it reduces swelling. That may be especially helpful for treating symptoms of both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. You might get relief from pain and swelling either by taking ginger by mouth or by using a ginger compress or patch on your skin.

Curbs Cancer Growth

Some studies show that bioactive molecules in ginger may slow down the growth of some cancers like colorectal, gastric, ovarian, liver, skin, breast, and prostate cancer. But much more research is needed to see if this is true.

Lowers Blood Sugar

One recent small study suggested that ginger may help your body use insulin better. Larger studies are needed to see if ginger could help improve blood sugar levels.

Eases Period Pains

Got menstrual cramps? Ginger powder may help. In studies, women who took 1,500 milligrams of ginger powder once a day for 3 days during their cycle felt less pain than women who didn’t.

Lowers Cholesterol

A daily dose of ginger may help you battle your “bad” or LDL cholesterol levels. In a recent study, taking 5 grams of ginger a day for 3 months lowered people’s LDL cholesterol an average of 30 points.

Protects Against Disease

Ginger is loaded with antioxidants, compounds that prevent stress and damage to your body’s DNA. They may help your body fight off chronic diseases like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diseases of the lungs, plus promote healthy aging.

Relieves Indigestion

If you live with chronic indigestion, also called dyspepsia, ginger could bring some relief. Ginger before meals may make your system empty faster, leaving less time for food to sit and cause problems.

 

Reference: Webmd

Written by: Omojo Emeje

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Why Garlic is Good for You!

A new study shows red blood cells process compounds from digested garlic and turn them into the cell messenger hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow. Therefore, eating garlic may increase our natural supply of this vital chemical and play a role in reducing the risk of heart disease.

Previous studies on garlic’s health effects have produced mixed results. For example, some studies of garlic have found few benefits, but others have been shown to lower the risk of heart disease.

But researchers say if further studies confirm these findings, testing the ability to produce hydrogen sulfide may be used to standardize garlic supplements to produce greater health benefits.

Finding Garlic’s Effect

In the study, researcher Gloria Benavides, of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and colleagues analyzed the effects of juice extracted from supermarket garlic on human red blood cells in the lab.

They found the red blood cells immediately began producing hydrogen sulfide after getting a tiny dose of garlic. The amount of garlic tested in the lab was roughly equal to two garlic cloves for a typical adult.

Further tests showed the key chemical reaction occurred at the membranes of the red blood cells, but a small amount of hydrogen sulfide was also produced inside the cells.

Few plants other than garlic contain the building blocks of hydrogen sulfide to provide these health benefits, and researchers say garlic is the only one commonly used in the human diet.

 

Reference: Webmd

Written by: Omojo Emeje

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Chamomile

Chamomile has been used as a traditional medicine for thousands of years to calm anxiety and settle stomachs. In the U.S., chamomile is best known as an ingredient in herbal tea.

Why do people take chamomile?

Chamomile is considered a safe plant and has been used in many cultures for stomach ailments and as a mild sedative. Some studies, primarily using combinations of chamomile with other plants, show it may have health benefits. However, as with any combination product, it is hard to say that a benefit comes from any one plant.

One product with chamomile and other herbal medicines has been shown to ease upset stomach, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting. Another mixture with chamomile seems to help colicky babies.

A mouth rinse with chamomile might relieve mouth sores caused by cancer treatments. Some research suggests that chamomile could help with other conditions, like diarrhea in children, hemorrhoids, anxiety, and insomnia. When used on the skin, chamomile might help with skin irritation and wound healing. Some research has documented that it may be as effective as hydrocortisone cream for eczema.

How much chamomile should you take?

There is no standard dose of chamomile. Studies have used between 900 milligrams to 1200. milligrams daily in capsule form. The most common form is a tea, and some people drink one to four cups daily. To make chamomile tea, steep a chamomile tea bag or chamomile flowers in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes in a mug covered with a saucer. Then, drink the infusion when it has cooled to the point it is safe to drink. Ask your doctor for other advice.

Can you get chamomile naturally from foods?

Chamomile flowers are a common ingredient in teas. They’re also used as a flavoring in other foods and drinks.

What are the risks of taking chamomile?

  • Side effects. Most experts say chamomile is safe. It can cause drowsiness and, in large doses, vomiting. It also has the potential to trigger allergic reactions in people who are allergic to related plants in the daisy family, although such reactions are very rare. Avoid it if you are allergic to these plants: chamomile, ragweed, daisies, marigolds, or chrysanthemums. Skin creams with chamomile can cause allergic eczema and irritate the eyes. The effects of long-term chamomile use aren’t known.
  • Risks. Check with your doctor before using chamomile if you have any health problems. Chamomile contains a small amount of coumarin, which may have very mild blood thinning effects, but usually just in high doses for long periods of time. Stop using chamomile two weeks before surgery due to concerns about its possible interactions with anesthetic drugs.
  • Interactions. If you take any drugs regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using chamomile supplements. They could interact with sedatives, blood thinners, antiplatelet drugs, aspirin, NSAID painkillers like ibuprofen and naproxen, and other drugs. Chamomile could also interact with supplements like ginkgo biloba, garlic, saw palmetto, St. John’s wort, and valerian.

Given the lack of evidence about its long-term safety, chamomile is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Talk to a pediatrician before giving chamomile to infants and children.

 

Reference: Webmd

Written by: Omojo Emeje

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Lavender

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is an evergreen plant native to the Mediterranean. Its flower and oil have a popular scent and are also used as medicine.

Lavender contains an oil that seems to have calming effects and might relax certain muscles. It also seems to have antibacterial and antifungal effects.

People commonly use lavender for anxiety, stress, insomnia, depression, dementia, pain, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support many of these uses.

Possibly Effective for

  • Anxiety. Taking a specific lavender oil supplement by mouth seems to help relieve anxiety. Using lavender oil aromatherapy or aromatherapy massage also seems to help.
  • Depression. Taking lavender products by mouth, including teas and a specific oil supplement, seems to reduce symptoms of depression.
  • Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea). Lavender oil aromatherapy seems to help reduce menstrual pain.
  • Pain after surgery. Using lavender oil aromatherapy along with standard pain medications seems to help reduce pain after surgery in some people.

Possibly Ineffective for

  • Pain in people with cancer. Using lavender oil aromatherapy with massage doesn’t seem to reduce cancer-related pain more than a massage without aromatherapy.

There is interest in using lavender for a number of other purposes, but there isn’t enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Lavender is commonly consumed in foods. It’s possibly safe when taken as medicine. Side effects might include constipation, diarrhea, and headache.

When applied to the skin: Lavender is possibly safe. It’s usually well-tolerated, but can sometimes cause skin irritation.

When inhaled: Lavender essential oil is possibly safe. It’s been used safely as aromatherapy for up to 12 weeks.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if lavender is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Children: Applying products to the skin that contain lavender oil is possibly unsafe for young males who haven’t reached puberty. Lavender oil seems to have hormone-like effects that could disrupt normal hormones. In some cases, this has resulted in breast growth. There isn’t enough reliable information to know if lavender is safe for children to take by mouth.

Surgery: Lavender might slow down the central nervous system. If used with anesthesia and other medications given during and after surgery, it might slow down the central nervous system too much. Stop using lavender at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

  • Sedative medications (CNS depressants) interacts with LAVENDER

    Lavender might cause sleepiness and slowed breathing. Some medications, called sedatives, can also cause sleepiness and slowed breathing. Taking lavender with sedative medications might cause breathing problems and/or too much sleepiness.

 

Written by: Omojo Emeje

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Home Remedies for Toothache

If you have a toothache, it’s important to figure out what’s at the root of your discomfort. From there, you can determine how to best relieve any pain, swelling, or other symptoms.

A regular salt water rinse and cold compress application can typically remedy minor irritation, but more serious toothaches may require a dentist’s intervention.

If your symptoms persist for more than a day or two, see your dentist. They can provide guidance on how to relieve your symptoms and prevent future pain.

Some home remedies include:

1. Salt water rinse

For many people, a salt water rinse is an effective first-line treatment. Salt water is a natural disinfectant, and it can help loosen food particles and debris that may be stuck in between your teeth.

Treating a toothache with salt water can also help reduce inflammation and heal any oral wounds.

To use this approach, mix 1/2 teaspoon (tsp) of salt into a glass of warm water and use it as a mouthwash.

2. Hydrogen peroxide rinse

A hydrogen peroxide rinse may also help to relieve pain and inflammation. In addition to killing bacteria, hydrogen peroxide can reduce plaque and heal bleeding gums.

Make sure you properly dilute the hydrogen peroxide. To do this, mix 3-percent hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water, and use it as a mouthwash. Don’t swallow it.

3. Cold compress

You can use a cold compress to relieve any pain you’re experiencing, especially if any type of trauma has caused your toothache.

When you apply a cold compress, it causes the blood vessels in the area to constrict. This makes pain less severe. The cold can also reduce any swelling and inflammation.

To use this approach, hold a towel-wrapped bag of ice to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time. You can repeat this every few hours.

4. Peppermint tea bags

Peppermint tea bags can be used to numb pain and soothe sensitive gums.

Allow a used tea bag to cool down a little before applying it to the affected area. It should still be slightly warm.

You can also use this method to cool, rather than warm, the area. To do this, put a used tea bag in the freezer for a couple of minutes to chill it and then apply the bag to your tooth.

5. Garlic

For thousands of years, garlic has been recognized and used for its medicinal properties. It also has antibacterial properties. Not only can it kill harmful bacteria that cause dental plaque, but it can also act as a pain reliever.

To use garlic on a toothache, crush a garlic clove to create a paste and apply it to the affected area. You may wish to add a tiny bit of salt. Alternatively, you can slowly chew a clove of fresh garlic.

6. Vanilla extract

Vanilla extract contains alcohol, which can help to numb pain. Its proven antioxidant properties also make it an effective healer. Just be sure to use real vanilla rather than imitation vanilla.

To use this remedy, dab a small amount of vanilla extract onto your finger or a cotton ball. Apply it directly to the affected area a few times per day.

Other natural remedies

You can do the following remedies at home, but you may need to source the ingredients from your local health food store or online.

Your mouth, teeth, and gums are likely sensitive at this time, so it’s especially important to purchase these ingredients from a reputable manufacturer. This can reduce your risk of potential irritation.

7. Clove

Clove has been used to treat toothaches throughout history. The oil can effectively numb pain and reduce inflammation. It contains eugenol, which is a natural antiseptic.

To use this approach, dilute clove oil with a carrier oil, like sunflower or jojoba oil. Use a ratio of about 15 drops of clove oil to one ounce of carrier oil, according to the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy.

Then, dab a small amount of the diluted oil onto a cotton ball and apply it to the affected area a few times a day.

You can also add a drop of clove oil to a small glass of water and make a mouthwash.

8. Guava leaves

Guava leaves have anti-inflammatory properties that can help heal wounds. They also have antimicrobial activity that can aid in oral care.

To use this remedy, chew on fresh guava leaves or add crushed guava leaves to boiling water to make a mouthwash.

9. Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass has countless healing properties, like anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. It contains many nutrients, including a high chlorophyll content, that help to fight bacteria.

You can drink wheatgrass or use it as a mouthwash..

10. Thyme

Thyme also has powerful antibacterial and antioxidant properties that can help to treat toothaches. It can even help fight bacteria that contributes to tooth decay.

To use this, dilute thyme essential oil with a carrier oil, and then apply it to the affected area.

You can also add a drop of the oil to a small glass of water and make a mouthwash.

 

Reference: Healthline

Written by: Omojo Emeje

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