why is my throat so dry : 5 Home Remedies That Give Relief

why is my throat so dry : 5 Home Remedies That Give Relief

March 09, 2022

Dry throat is a rather annoying symptom that usually occurs on the coldest days of the year , although it can appear in any season, depending on the cause. How can we moisturize a dry throat?

In general, dry throat appears when it is irritated , due to an infection or some other respiratory disorder such as the flu, cold, and allergies.

In some cases, dry throat occurs during sports.

In short, there are many occasions in which we feel the need to moisten the throat. Let's see how.

Dry throat: how to find relief?

Dry throat is almost always accompanied by other symptoms such as itching , burning, and even pain.

For this reason, pain relievers are often used to soften the area and eliminate any bacteria. Those who want to resort to natural or do-it-yourself methods can instead try one of these 5 remedies. 

1. Gargle with warm salt water

Salt water to soothe a dry throat.

A simple saltwater blend can help soothe throat irritation and provide hydration. Important: the solution should not be ingested due to its high salt content .

Ingrediants

a teaspoon of salt (5 g)

a glass of water (200 ml)

Preparation

Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in the glass of water and, with a small sip, gargle for 15-20 seconds.

For best results, repeat the treatment several times a day.

2. Onion and lemon tea

Both onion and lemon have antiseptic and antiviral action capable of stopping and fighting bacterial growth in the mouth and throat .

This simple herbal tea that combines both ingredients is a powerful remedy with moisturizing, antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties; it is ideal for combating any discomfort and oral dryness.

Ingrediants

a liter of water

an onion

a teaspoon of sugar (5 g)

a lemon

Preparation

Clean the onion, chop it and pour it into a saucepan with a liter of water and a teaspoon of sugar.

Boil the mixture for 10 minutes over low heat, stirring often so that everything is well integrated.

When the herbal tea is ready, slice a clean lemon and add it to the drink.

You can consume up to three cups a day.

3. Honey and lemon

honey and lemon

Honey and lemon have a powerful antibiotic action that can be used in the treatment of infections and diseases such as flu, cough and cold.

Since ancient times, both ingredients have been combined together to relieve all kinds of throat discomfort.

Ingrediants

1 teaspoon of honey (7.5 g).

½ lemon.

Preparation

Squeeze the juice of half a lemon , heat it a little and mix it with the teaspoon of honey.

You can consume this remedy two or three times a day.

We also advise you to read: How to infuse honey with herbs to relieve cough and other discomforts

4. Licorice gargling

Licorice works as a good moisturizer for the throat, helping to control symptoms such as dryness, pain and inflammation.

It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can fight the pathogens that frequently cause this discomfort.

Ingrediants

ten drops of licorice extract.

a glass of warm water (200 ml).

Preparation

Dilute 10 drops of licorice in a glass of warm water, take a sip and gargle for 15-20 seconds.

Repeat this treatment two or three times a day.

5. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar

This ingredient present in any pantry can be the best ally to reduce throat dryness.

Its antibiotic properties fight the bacteria that cause infections; moreover, it has a slight alkaline effect, that is, it decreases the acidity of the body.

Ingrediants

a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (10 ml).

a tablespoon of honey (25 g).

glass of warm water (200 ml).

Preparation

Dilute the apple cider vinegar and honey in a glass of warm water and consume.

All of these natural remedies can soothe a dry throat, but it is likely to recur depending on the cause .

If the irritation and dryness are due to infections or some type of disease, it is essential to fight them with other treatments to completely eliminate the microorganisms that cause them.

In such cases, it is best to consult a doctor for a correct diagnosis.

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Natural remedies to eliminate head lice

Natural remedies to eliminate head lice

December 21, 2021

By infesting the head, head lice can multiply, seriously damaging the scalp and making it possible to be infected. Here it can be useful to know the natural remedies to eliminate lice.

Especially the little ones are exposed to head lice and especially little girls due to their long hair. While it's a common problem, it doesn't mean it shouldn't be given importance.

Head lice take up residence in the scalp and attach themselves so hard that it is sometimes difficult to get rid of them. Females lay nits which turn first into larvae and then into lice.

If they are not eliminated immediately, the head will be infested with these unsightly insects in no time. Let's see how to intervene.

9 natural remedies to get rid of head lice

At the pharmacy, you can buy many products to eliminate lice from the scalp. However, there are also very effective natural remedies.

Obviously, always remember to consult your doctor first and carry out an allergen test if necessary to prevent the child from having an allergic reaction to the product. Let's see below some natural remedies to eliminate head lice.

1. Eucalyptus

The effectiveness of this remedy is demonstrated by a study conducted by the University of Concepción (Chile). However, it is recommended that you consult your pediatrician or dermatologist before applying it to your baby.

A few eucalyptus leaves should be boiled in a liter of water, then left to cool and applied to the head. Massage and spread from roots to ends. This is a simple but effective remedy for head lice.

2. Garlic among the natural remedies to eliminate lice

This advice is not scientifically proven, which is why we advise you to use it with extreme caution and only after consulting your doctor. In fact, garlic could irritate the scalp. However, if you want to try it and you are not allergic, you can apply it in the following way:

• Chop a clove of garlic and add half a liter of water. Let it rest for a few hours and then pass it through a colander.
• With the liquid obtained, massage the scalp and cover the head with a plastic cap or a bag. You can do this before going to bed and remove the headphones the following day to increase the effects. That way, it won't steal your time during the day.

3. Lavender essence

According to research from  Insect Research & Development Limited (Cambridge), it is possible to use lavender oil against lice.

The oil must be handled with gloves, as it can cause allergies or discomfort in the hands. It is a very effective liquid for fighting these insects.

4. Baby oil among the natural remedies to eliminate lice

This remedy is also not supported by scientific evidence, so you should consult a doctor first.

This oil is never missing at home. Pass it over the lice-infested head and cover it with a cap for a few hours. Wash your hair well with shampoo and repeat after a week.

5. Apple cider vinegar is among the natural remedies to eliminate lice

Apple cider vinegar is among the natural remedies to eliminate lice.

According to a study by the Spanish Association of Pediatrics, this remedy is one of the most effective for eliminating head lice.

Just mix warm water and vinegar, apply to dry hair from roots to ends. If you see that the lice and nits have not been 100% eliminated, you can repeat the treatment several times to achieve the desired result.

6. The rue against lice

Rue is believed to help with lice, but there is no research to support this thesis. It is advisable to consult a specialist first.

If successful, proceed by boiling some rue leaves in a liter of water. Filter and massage the scalp with the liquid obtained. Cover with a cap and wait a bit before rinsing.

7. Olive oil

Again there is no evidence to support the effectiveness of this remedy. If you still want to try it, apply 4 tablespoons of olive oil on the head and cover it with a cap for a few hours. This treatment asphyxiates the lice. Repeat this several times a week for the best results.

8. Perfumed alcohol?

In addition to not being effective, this remedy can be very dangerous. Its application is not recommended despite its fame among natural remedies to eliminate lice.

9. The balm against lice

There is no evidence to support this remedy, but you can still try it safely. Since the conditioner softens the hair, the use of the comb should facilitate the elimination of lice by making them slide off easily.

Additional recommendations for preventing a lice infestation

The following tips may help you in preventing lice and getting rid of them permanently after they appear:

• Wash sheets and towels often.
• Tell the children not to exchange soft toys, hats, combs, hair ties, and other personal items with classmates.
• Leave hair cutting as a last resort.

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The best home remedies for the flu

The best home remedies for the flu

December 10, 2021

Many people prefer to turn to home remedies for flu, despite the wide variety of drug products sold for the same purpose. Ingredients such as garlic, honey, and lemon continue to be a good alternative for calming symptoms and speeding up healing. How to use them? What does science say about their properties?

Research in recent years has begun to evaluate the real effectiveness of some natural ingredients when it comes to calming symptoms such as nasal congestion, phlegm, and malaise. In case of a cold or flu, we, therefore, recommend that you try one of the following recipes.

5 home remedies for the flu

Often the flu matures with each passing day and improves without the need for specific treatment. However, the symptoms are bothersome and can interrupt daily activities. Therefore, it is always useful to know some home remedies capable of giving relief and well-being. Let's take a look at some traditional, but science-backed recipes.

1. Herbal tea with garlic, honey, and lemon

Garlic has always been one of the main ingredients in home remedies for the flu. According to a study published in Trends in Food Science and Technology, it has immunomodulatory properties that help improve the response against viruses. Indeed, its antiviral potential is recognized.

In this recipe, it is combined with honey and lemon, two equally positive ingredients for the immune system. Honey, in particular, is often used as an adjuvant against symptoms such as cough and irritation of the respiratory tract.

Ingredients

• 3 cloves of garlic.
• 1/2 lemon.
• 1 tablespoon of honey (15 g)
• 1 cup of water (250 ml).

Method of preparation

1. To start, mash the garlic cloves and place them in a pot of water.
2. Boil the mixture for 5 minutes and add the lemon.
3. Strain the drink and sweeten it with honey.
4. Consume one cup a day for 3 weeks.

Garlic for the flu.

Garlic is a food with antiviral properties. That is why it is often used in flu pictures.

2. Ginger tea

In traditional medicine, fresh ginger is one of the most used ingredients to soothe cold and flu symptoms. According to an article published in the International Journal of Health Sciences (IJHS), its antiviral qualities are largely due to its content of phenolic compounds, such as gingerol. This, among other things, stimulates the body's defenses and reduces fever.

Ingredients

• Fresh ginger (15 g).
• 1 tablespoon of honey (10 g)
• 1 cup of water (250 ml).
• Lemon (optional)

Method of preparation

1. First, chop the ginger.
2. Then add it to a cup of boiling water and let it steep for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the drink and add the honey and lemon.
4. Drink a cup 2 or 3 times a day for 2 weeks.

3. Elderberry herbal tea

A recent study published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies points to elderberry as a viable option for treating viral respiratory infections. This is largely due to its anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects. Although more studies are needed, moderate use is considered safe.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of elderberry leaves (30 g).
• 1 teaspoon of lime (15 g).
• 1 cup of water (250 ml).

Preparation

1. Bring the water to a boil, then add the herbs.
2. Cover the drink and let it sit for 10 minutes.
3. After this time, filter through a colander and consume.
4. Drink one cup every night before going to bed for 2-3 weeks.

4. Aloe vera, lemon, and honey gel

Aloe vera gel is known for its anti-ulcer and cosmetic properties. What many people don't know is that it also acts as an antiviral.

A review published in the journal Molecules supports these effects and explains that they are due to its polysaccharides. In combination with lemon and honey, its effects are enhanced, as well as having a better flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of aloe vera (30 g).
• 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon of honey (15 g)

Preparation

1. Add the aloe vera gel to a bowl and mix it with lemon and honey.
2. If you want a more homogeneous mixture, blend it.
3. Consume the drink 2 times a day for 3-4 days.

Note: avoid excessive consumption, as it has a laxative effect.

5. Tisana all echinacea

Due to its concentration of flavonoids, echinacea is used as a supplement to promote well-being in the presence of various pathologies. Evidence suggests that it has positive effects in relieving upper respiratory tract infections. Therefore, it is a good remedy for reducing flu symptoms.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of water (250 ml).
• 1 tablespoon dried echinacea leaves (10 g).

Preparation

1. Bring the cup of water to a boil, then add the echinacea and cover. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
2. Filter the drink and drink it.
3. Drink 2 cups a day for 1 week.

Consumption tips

In general, moderate and occasional consumption of these remedies is considered safe. However, it should be borne in mind that they are not exempt from causing side effects. Therefore, before resorting to a natural treatment it is advisable to inquire about it.

Nor should it be ignored that they may have contraindications and drug interactions. In this sense, if you have a pre-existing disease or if you are taking medications, it is best to ask your doctor.

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3 foods to boost the immune system

3 foods to boost the immune system

November 15, 2021

Diet can improve the function of the immune system, but care must be taken as it can also make it worse. Therefore, it is important to know which foods help to increase the immune defenses, in order to reduce the incidence of infectious diseases caused by microorganisms that circulate in the environment.

At a sporting level, the improvement of the immune function translates into a consequent improvement in performance in the medium term. This is achieved by carrying out the largest number of high-intensity work sessions, without interruptions. It is evident that an adequate diet is essential in all disciplines.

Foods to boost the immune system

In this article we will tell you which are the best foods to increase the immune system. It is recommended that you include them regularly in your diet in order to enjoy their many benefits.

Peppers

Peppers stand out above all for their antioxidant and vitamin C content. This nutrient helps improve the functioning of the immune system, according to research published in the journal Nutrients. High levels of vitamin C in the body are related to a lower risk of developing the common cold, as well as a shorter duration of associated symptoms.

Likewise, the antioxidants contained in peppers help keep inflammation in the body under control. When this mechanism is activated in a functional way, the number of inefficiencies at the organic level is reduced, which has a positive impact on the health of the individual and on the functioning of the immune defenses.

Dried fruit

The dried fruit is very healthy food because it contains protein and unsaturated fatty acids type. Regular consumption of dried fruit is associated with a lower incidence of cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases. In addition, it is rich in micronutrients, in particular iron, calcium and zinc.

The latter has the ability to select the cells of the white series, which are those that contribute to the functioning of the immune system. This is demonstrated by a study published in the journal Nutrients .

This ensures a much more efficient homeostasis and reduces the number of random mutations in the genetic material. Zinc is also able to exert an anti-inflammatory action.

Citrus fruits

Fruit included in the citrus group also has the ability to increase the body's immune defenses. On the one hand, citrus fruits have a significant concentration of vitamin C. On the other hand, citric acid exerts an antimicrobial action thanks to its pH, which allows the destruction of some pathogenic microorganisms that cause health problems.

However, it is important to avoid consuming them in the form of juice, as this wastes most of the nutrients they contain, and the same happens with fiber. Instead of these nutrients, all the simple sugars dissolved in water, too aggressive for the functioning of the pancreas, are consumed .

The juice of citrus fruits has a considerable impact on glycemic levels that can negatively affect metabolic health in the medium term. In short, fruit should always be eaten whole, in a natural way.

Other ways to increase defenses

In addition to emphasizing food intake to increase the defenses we have talked about, it is also essential to take care of other lifestyle habits that can affect its functioning. For example, it is recommended to engage in physical activity on a regular basis, which also allows you to maintain a good state of body composition.

Ensuring adequate rest is also essential. During sleep, many processes of recovery and maintenance of homeostasis take place. When we don't sleep enough hours, the risk of contracting infectious diseases and developing chronic long-term health problems is greater.

Why is including defensive foods in the diet so important?

By regularly introducing foods to increase the immune defenses in the diet, the chances of contracting infectious diseases, i.e. caused by microorganisms, are reduced.

We also recommend avoiding ultra-processed foods rich in simple sugars to keep inflammatory processes under control. In fact, if we don't keep them in check, immune function could be compromised.

Finally, you need to have healthy lifestyle habits, such as exercising regularly and getting enough sleep. Balance in body composition status will also be a key factor if you want to boost your immune defenses.

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What does the delta diet consist of?

What does the delta diet consist of?

October 31, 2021

The delta diet has very little, if any, influence on the pH of the body. What is it and what are its positive effects?

The delta diet is a weight loss and health improvement program based on the need to balance the body's pH. In this article we will tell you in detail what it consists of, as well as the method for its preparation. However, it is important to point out that it does not enjoy the support of scientific evidence.

The first thing to clarify is that a good diet is based on the predominance of fresh food over ultra-processed industrial products. It is difficult to question this principle, no matter what diet we talk about. With this in mind, there are several ways to create a successful meal plan in terms of adherence, weight loss, and health improvement.

The delta diet promises to vary the pH

As we stated earlier, the delta diet aims to achieve greater alkalinity in the body through the consumption of foods that have a basic pH.

However, according to a study published in the Journal of Renal Nutrition , the kidneys are very efficiently responsible for maintaining acid-base homeostasis. There is no evidence that the delta diet can have a significant impact on this process, at least as far as blood pH is concerned.

Despite this, it is true that we can obtain a variation in the acidity of the urine by making significant changes in the diet. Just consider that the overall health effects of this effect are unclear.

Therefore, the delta diet starts from a wrong premise. This does not mean, however, that it is not beneficial to health. In fact, its advantage lies in the combination of foods.

Prioritize the consumption of fresh food

One of the pillars of the delta diet is the need to eat fresh foods as opposed to ultra-processed ones, something absolutely beneficial to health. In this way, it is possible to reduce the intake of simple sugars and trans fats, which are able to negatively affect the functioning of the metabolism and health, according to research published in the journal Pediatric Obesity .

By eating fresh food, we ensure the right amount of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. All of these are necessary for the physiology of the human body to develop properly, without alterations.

Therefore, one of the main guidelines of the delta diet is to avoid sweets, fast foods and high-glycemic carbohydrates, such as refined flours and industrially prepared meals.

Simmer food

Another positive aspect of the delta diet is its stance on cooking methods. The delta diet recommends low temperature heat treatments in order to avoid the formation of trans fatty acids and toxic compounds such as acrylamide.

According to research published in the European Journal of Epidemiology , regular acrylamide intake could be linked to an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer in genetically predisposed women.

Likewise, this feeding method also defends the need to limit the consumption of food additives. Many of them have not shown healthiness in the medium and long term, so the most appropriate thing is to be cautious in this regard.

The delta diet can be protein deficient

Despite the benefits mentioned, it should be noted that the delta diet is susceptible to a protein deficiency. This happens because most foods of animal origin are considered acidic, so he suggests limiting their consumption. As a result, muscle function and mass could be put at risk in the medium term.

Likewise, vitamin B12 and iron deficiencies can occur if the meat intake is not adequate. This can lead to health problems such as anemia .

The delta diet, a wrong principle with a better result

As we have seen, the delta diet is based on a misconception, as the pH of the human body cannot be significantly altered.

However, this does not mean that his approach does not have positive effects, although it does present the risk of not meeting the needs for proteins and some micronutrients. Therefore, before adopting it, we recommend that you consult a professional.

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How to avoid respiratory diseases in winter?

How to avoid respiratory diseases in winter?

September 29, 2021

Some precautions can keep you away from respiratory diseases

Winter makes the population more susceptible to contracting respiratory diseases , such as the flu, or having a worsening of rhinitis and bronchitis. This year, however, one more concern has surfaced: the new coronavirus pandemic . Although there is no study linking Covid-19 with the highest incidence in colder periods, it is important to be extra careful to stay away from any respiratory problems during this period. Some habits help prevent these diseases in winter!

Flu vaccine is the best prevention method

The flu, caused by the influenza virus, manifests itself with symptoms similar to Covid-19, such as cough, runny nose, fever, headaches and body aches, difficulty breathing, among others. The best way to prevent a flu situation is to get a flu shot . The disease, although very common, can progress to a more severe level of infection. The immunization works against influenza for a period of one year and is indicated for anyone over six months of age.

To prevent flu and other respiratory infections, avoid crowded places

Supermarkets, bars, restaurants, parties and closed spaces are the ideal environment for the proliferation of viruses that cause respiratory diseases. Normally, people do not avoid these places to prevent the flu, but during a pandemic it is essential not to go to crowds and maintain social distance. Washing your hands well, not touching your face with dirty hands and using masks are other methods that will protect you from Covid-19 and, consequently, from the flu and other viral conditions.

Drink plenty of fluids and eat well to avoid respiratory illness

A healthier lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet and regular exercise, makes the body stronger to fight the action of different types of viruses, including Influenza and Sars-CoV-2, which causes Covid-19 . Prioritize a diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, move around indoors , drink plenty of water and give your body the amount of vitamin D needed to stay healthy.

Keep the house clean and well ventilated

The environment in which you live has a great influence on the prevention of respiratory diseases - or even on the prevention of rhinitis, bronchitis or asthma attacks, for example. Keep the house clean and free from dust and mites. It is important to leave windows open so that air can circulate and the rooms receive natural light. Sofa covers, pillows, upholstery, mattresses, curtains and rugs need to be cleaned or washed frequently.

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10 Natural Remedies for Depression

10 Natural Remedies for Depression

September 19, 2021

If the mind doesn't respond to antidepressants (or even does at all), know that there are other treatments, not chemicals, that can really help.

1 - Exercise

When we do physical exercise there is a general change in the body. From the activation of cardiovascular metabolism, various types of endocrine changes in the brain, hormonal changes and physiological changes. This type of body mobilization also causes some changes in our brain, contributing to positive changes in the state of mind. For example, taking short walks of 5 or 10 minutes increases energy and reduces tension.

2 - Light therapy

When days are shorter and darker in winter, some people are prone to a type of depression called 'seasonal affective disorder'. One way to alleviate symptoms may be light therapy, which starts with daily sessions of about 15 minutes and can be increased up to two hours a day. The time depends on the severity of the symptoms and the intensity of the light, determined by the doctor. 

3 - A mood diary

The idea is to get people to think positively on a daily basis. Many psychologists recommend writing a "mood diary" as it helps you keep tabs on events, and reinforces the positives, not letting bad times bring you down. 

4 - Acupuncture

Promotes biological and mental balance and increases the production of endorphins, responsible for a feeling of well-being.

A University of Arizona study found that 64% of participants progressed after this treatment, compared with 27% of the group who did not receive treatment.

Another study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, which looked at patients with depressive disorders taking antidepressants, showed that there was more improvement if they had had acupuncture compared to those who had not. 

5 - Support groups

They are a way to help treat milder forms of depression. These groups provide information on the topic, a supportive community, as well as the opportunity to learn from people dealing with similar issues. Psychologists also recommend groups that share interests, whether it's a book club or yoga.

6 - Cognitive-behavioral therapy

It is defined as a "sophisticated education" for people with depression. A form of psychotherapy that is based on empirical knowledge of psychology. It is based on the fact that thoughts trigger feelings. Being aware of the thoughts we have and learning to change destructive patterns can change how the brain works and how it reacts to situations. It is done for a short period of time, lasting from 10 to 20 sessions, and it is as effective as medication in the treatment of mild to moderate depression.

7 - Fish oil

This supplement contains omega 3 and fatty acids, which are found in fish such as salmon, tuna and herring. The studies are not conclusive, but it is believed that a deficit of this acid at certain times (such as in the postpartum period) can cause mood swings and depression. When consumption of omega-3 foods is high, people tend to be less prone to depression.

8 - Meditation

It is as effective at preventing relapse as antidepressants, a study published in the Archives of General Psychiatry revealed. According to the Center for Mental Health and Addiction in Canada, which prepared the study, the relapse rates of patients in the group that used this method did not differ from the rates of patients who received antidepressants; already 70% of patients who received placebos had symptoms of depression again.

9 - Saffron

A study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology suggested that turmeric may increase levels of serotonin, and other chemicals in the brain. It is as effective as fluoxetine (an antidepressant medicine) in reducing symptoms of depression. Participants who took turmeric also experienced fewer side effects, including sweating and sexual dysfunction, than those who took fluoxetine.

10 - Yoga

Doing a pose/exercise can relieve stress and symptoms of depression. Several studies have shown that practicing yoga reduces hostility, anxiety and depression, while improving energy, sleep quality and well-being.

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