Tips to remain Happy and stress free

Stress has become the cause of many illness in modern times. Both physical health and mental health are interconnected .So to remain healthy, one has to be both physically and mentally fit. Happiness is an outstanding characteristics of mental well being. Here are a few tips to remain happy and stress free.

1. Take a nutritious diet which is very important for both physical and mental health. Include lot of fresh fruits, vegetables, pulses, sprouts in your diet. Go for organic ones.
2. Take up a hobby (anything you like) besides your profession. It is a great way to relax and be happy. It relieves you of stress. Gardening is a wonderful hobby to be close with nature.
3. Go for an early morning walk and enjoy the fresh air, the birds chirping, the greenery, the beautiful sunrise ... It is a sure way to de-stress yourself .You will forget yourself in nature's wonders.
   
4. Listen to any music of your choice. It is a great way of relaxing.
5. Practice deep abdominal breathing as it reduces stress .When you inhale your stomach should bulge out, when you exhale it should go in. You can practice for a few minutes daily .
   
6. Yoga: Savasana or the corpse pose relaxes the body thoroughly. You can practice for 15 minutes daily.
   
7. Meditation: Practice meditation .You can learn from a person who is experienced in it. It is a surest way to reduce stress.
   
8. Go for a vacation: Take an occasional break from the routine and enjoy a lovely holiday.
   
9. Massage is a great way to de-stress yourself. Have a massage with essential oil or a warm scented bath.
   
10. Sleep is very essential for the body as it is rejuvenating and helps us to relax .
    
11. Laughter is the best medicine. Watch a humorous movie which is a wonderful way to relax.
    
12. Don't bottle up your emotions, share it with a trusted friend or write it in a piece of paper and tear it .
    
13. Plan your day well and practice time management techniques.
14. Always remember it is easy to change ourselves rather than trying to change someone else.
    
15. Be optimistic as it helps to lower stress.
    
16. Learn to accept realities.
    
17. Love yourself the way you are and be happy.

Make your own herbal shampoo:

Ingredients needed

1. Sikkakai -1 kg
2. Dried Lemon peels
3. Curry leaves (dried)
4. Hibiscus flowers (ordinary red flower alone)
5. Fenugreek -250 grams
6. Green gram - 250 grams
7. Soap nuts (deseed it ,dry it )-100 grams (optional)

Dry everything in the sun and give it for grinding to the flour mill or you can buy all these powder (pure) and mix it and use it.

Herbal shampoo of Bengal gram or green gram flour :

Mix green gram flour or Bengal gram flour with water and use it to wash your hair. The hair becomes soft, clean and shining.

Natural Teeth care

LAUGH YOUR WAY TO HEALTH

Our teeth has to last us a lifetime, so it is sensible to take care of them. Oral hygiene is very important and cannot be taken lightly. Here are some tips to take care of your teeth.

1. Brush twice a day both in the morning and before going to bed. Train children from childhood to do so. A soft angled brush with rounded bristles can be used.
   
   
2. Eat plenty of calcium rich food and protein as they are essential for healthy teeth.
   
   
3. Learn the proper way of brushing from your dentist. Special attention should be paid to the back teeth and gaps between the teeth. Floss regularly.
   
   
4. Change your toothbrush once in 2 months.
   
   
5. Massage your gums with your finger tip to improve blood circulation.
   
   
6. Avoid sugary foods and drinks to reduce your risk of tooth decay.

Home remedy for Bad Breath

Chew fennel seeds, cardamom seeds or mint to get rid of bad breath. Take 2 cloves after meals to freshen your breath.Chewing tender guava leaves helps to get rid of bad breath. Boil guava leaves in water for 10 minutes. After it cools, filter it and use that water as a mouthwash.Chew Parsley leaves to get rid of bad breath. You can boil few sprigs of parsley and 2-3 cloves in 2 cups of water. After it cools, strain it and use it to gargle several times a day

1. Gargle with salt (rock salt) water every night after meals.
   
   
2. Cleaning of tongue is also important for oral hygiene.
   
   
3. Use toothpaste containing fluoride.
   
   
4. Do not take very hot or very cold food.
   
   
5. Avoid smoking ,drinking alcohol and chewing tobacco.
   
   
6. Have a regular check up with your dentist.

Beauty recipes from the kitchen

1.Apricot:

Apricot anti aging pack:
Massaging face with apricot kernel oil moisturizes the skin and slows down the aging process.

Apricot fruit is a laxative and is used to cure constipation.

Mashed apricot applied on the face brightens the skin.Warm apricot kernel oil and massage into your scalp. It is a good hair conditioner.

2.Banana:

Banana anti-wrinkle mask:
Mash banana well and apply to the face. Rinse off after 15 minutes. It is an anti-wrinkle pack.

Banana pack for glowing skin:Mash banana until creamy, mix 3-4 drops of fresh lemon juice and 1/2 tsp of honey and apply to the face.

3.Potato:

Potato for dark circles:
Dark circles around the eyes can be reduced by applying raw potato juice.

Potato as skin toner:
It is also an excellent toner. Apply potato juice on the skin, leave it and wash it off after it driesPotato cleansing mask:
Mix potato juice, lemon juice, oatmeal and fuller's earth and apply it on the face. It is an excellent cleansing mask. It also tightens the skin and reduces pores.

4.Oatmeal:

Oatmeal cleansing mask:
It is an excellent cleanser. It removes the dirt and softens the skin. Mix it with raw milk and a few drops of honey and use it as a packOatmeal anti-wrinkle pack:
Mix oatmeal with a little curd, honey, egg white and almond paste to prevent wrinkles.

Oatmeal exfoliating mask:
Mix oatmeal with a little warm water and make it into a paste. Apply it on the face and wash it after it dries with warm water.

5.Honey:

Honey is a wonderful moisturizer and is especially great for dry skin.
Mix honey with raw milk and apply it to the face and wash it off after it dries.

Mix honey with lemon juice and apply it to the face to lighten the skin color.

Honey Mask for oily skin:
For oily skin, mix a tsp of honey with an egg white and apply on the face and neck, wash it off after 10 minutes.

6.Lemon:

Lemon Hair Mask:
Beat an egg and mix juice of 1 lemon and apply to the scalp. Wash it off after 20 minutes to stop hair fall.

Lemon anti-tan pack:
Lemon is a natural bleach. Mix 1 tsp of curd with a few drops of lemon juice and apply it to the face to lighten and bleach skin.

7.Sugar:

Sugar scrub:
Sugar can be used as a scrub. While washing face add sugar and a little lemon juice to the soap lather and scrub your face.

8.Salt:

Wash your face in warm water to which a little salt is added. It makes you feel fresh.Add 2 tbsp of salt to a tub of water and bathe in that water to remain fresh. It soothes tired muscles.Salt is also used as a scrub. Massage with a handful of salt on to wet skin after a shower. It will make skin smooth.Soak feet in warm water to which a little rock salt is added. It removes dead cells.

9.Fuller's Earth or Multani mutti: (it is a form of clay)
Fuller's earth acne pack:
It remove dirt and cleans the skin. Mixed with red sandalwood paste, rose water and a few drops of lemon juice, it makes an excellent pack for acne prone skin . If you have difficulty in getting red sandalwood paste, use the ordinary pure sandalwood paste

Fuller's earth pack for oily skin:
Fuller's earth with rose water can be used for oily skin to remove excess oil.

Fuller's earth skin firming pack:
Fuller's earth, egg white and sandalwood paste makes a wonderful skin firming pack. Use this once in a week.
10.Egg:

Egg conditioner pack:
Egg nourishes your hair because of the protein in it .Beat an egg well and apply it to the scalp and wash it off with herbal shampoo for silky hair.

Mix gooseberry powder, henna powder, egg white and apply to the scalp, wash it after half an hour with herbal shampoo. Do this every week for good hair growth.

Egg for fine lines below the eyes:
Apply a little egg white and wash it off after it dries with cold water to get rid of fine lines below the eyes. Apply every alternate day and you will see good results within a month.

Egg skin toning recipe:
Mix egg white with green gram flour and milk and apply to the face and scrub it off. This recipe tones and tightens the skin and also reduces blemishes.

11.Cucumber:

Cucumber is a natural toner that lightens the skin. Cucumber juice is used as an astringent to cleanse the skin. Graded cucumber applied over the face and neck prevents pimples, blackheads and dryness. It has cooling properties.

Cucumber anti-tan pack:
Mix cucumber paste with fuller's earth and lemon juice and apply to the skin. It is a wonderful soother, lightens freckles and an excellent anti-tan pack.

12.Almonds:

Almond scrub:
Almonds are rich source of vitamin E.
Almond powder mixed with oatmeal and milk can be used to exfoliate dry dull skin.

For dark hands, mix almond powder, sugar, milk cream and lemon juice together and use as a scrub.

Soak 4 - 5 almonds overnight, in the morning peel the skin, and eat it for a glowing skin. You can have 5-6 almonds everyday.

13.Papaya:

Mash papaya and apply it to the skin regularly. It clears blemishes, scars, freckles and wrinkles.

For oily skin, mix few drops of lemon juice to papaya pulp and apply it. Rinse it off after 20 minutes.

Papaya toning mask:
Grind papaya pulp until creamy, mix egg white and a few drops of lemon juice. Apply to face and remain for 20 minutes and wash it off with cold water.

14.Fenugreek:

Soak 2 tbsp of fenugreek seeds in water overnight and grind it in the morning and apply to the scalp .Wash after half an hour. This hair pack prevents dandruff and stops hair fall. It also makes the hair soft and silky.

Soak half a tsp of fenugreek seeds overnight in a glass of water and drink that water and chew the seeds in the morning on an empty stomach. It promotes hair growth. It has cooling properties. However people with sinus problems should avoid this.

15.Curd

Curd hair conditioning mask:
Curd is a good hair conditioner. Apply curd to your scalp and wash it off after 20 minutes with besan or green gram flour. If that is not possible, use herbal shampoo.

Curd refreshing face mask:
Take curd and apply it on the face and massage in upward direction. Dip a towel in hot water, squeeze it , and wipe your face. Then clean your face with cotton soaked in chilled rose water.

Health Recipes

Salads, Raitas & Ginger jam

Include fresh fruits, raw vegetables and sprouts in your diet as they can do wonders to your skin and hair and also made you a healthy person. Sprouts have lot of fiber and water and it is also a storehouse of vitamin, minerals and amino acids.
Here are a few health recipes which are very easy to prepare and saves you a lot of time. I have given a few recipes here, you can experiment with different combination using your imagination. You can even use sprouted peanuts, sprouted fenugreek, sprouted sesame seeds or even other cooked seeds

1.SPROUTED GREEN GRAM SALAD:

Mix graded carrots, finely chopped tomatoes and sprouts together. Add lemon juice, salt and pepper to it. Season with mustard, green chillies and finely chopped ginger. Garnish with coriander or parsley leaves. You can mix puffed rice before serving which is optional.

2.MIXED VEGETABLE SALAD:

Mix finely chopped or graded beetroot, cabbage, carrots, capsicum together. Add finely chopped tomatoes, cucumber, ginger, cauliflower (After boiling it in hot water containing salt to remove worms if any) and sprouted green gram. Mix lemon juice, salt and pepper (optional). Season with finely chopped green chillies and mustard. Garnish with coriander leaves.

3.PLAIN GREEN GRAM SALAD:

Take sprouted green gram and add juice of lemon according to taste. Add salt to taste. Season with mustard, graded ginger and finely chopped green chilies. Garnish with coriander leaves.

4.CUCUMBER RAITA:

Mix finely chopped cucumber and tomato and add curd (fat free) to it. Add salt to taste. Season with green chillies and mustard. Garnish with coriander leaves.

5.WHITE PUMPKIN RAITA:

Grade white pumpkin and add salt to it. Then drain the excess water after 10 minutes. Mix curd and season with mustard and finely chopped green chillies. Garnish with finely chopped coriander leaves. You can do this with radish also. Instead of pumpkin use graded radish.

6.PLANTAIN STEM SALAD:

Take tender stem and cut it into thin round slices. Add lemon juice, salt and season with mustard and finely chopped chillies. Garnish with coriander leaves.

7. PLANTAIN STEM RAITA:

Chop tender plantain stem, add curd and salt to it. Season with mustard and green chillies and garnish with finely chopped coriander leaves.

8.GOOSEBERRY RAITA:

Steam 6-7 gooseberries, deseed it. Grind it along with a tsp of coconut and green chillies to paste .Mix curd to it and add salt to taste. Season it with mustard and garnish it with coriander leaves. If you prefer you can use raw gooseberry also.

9.VALLARAI (A TYPE OF GREEN FOUND IN INDIA) RAITA:

Wash the leaves well, chop it finely and mix it with curd. Add salt to taste. This is excellent for improving memory. Season it with mustard if needed.

10.DATES AND GINGER JAM:

Wash ginger and dry it well. Scrap the skin and cut it. Soak ginger, dry grapes and dates in honey overnight. Grind everything together. Now cook this paste over a vessel of boiling water for some time. Cool it and use it. Take half or 1 teaspoon of this jam daily.

11.GREEN GRAM PANCAKE:
Soak 1 cup of full Green gram, (Moong dhal) quarter cup of broken green gram dhal and 1 1/2 tablespoon of raw rice for five hours. Drain the water and grind it along with green chillies, ginger, onion and salt. Season it with jeera, finely chopped onion and green chillies. Heat tava, spread the batter and make crispy dosas. Serve it hot with tomato ketchup.

12.POTATO RAITA:
Boil potatoes, peel the skin and smash it well. Cool it and add salt and curd to it. Season it with finely chopped chillies and mustard. Garnish with coriander (finely chopped) leaves. Serve chilled.

Natural Tips to Delay aging

Everyone wants to look young and trim. Though we cannot prevent ageing we can definitely delay ageing by making changes in our lifestyle. We must do everything we can, to prevent age related diseases and live a healthy and happy life. Here are some tips which will help you to stay young.

Diet :

Diet plays a very important role in helping us to remain young. We must have a balanced diet. We are what we eat. What we eat reflects on our skin and body. First develop a regular eating habit like eating at a proper time. Include lot of raw vegetables and fruits in your diet. Avoid junk food and fried food. Sugar makes you look older, so you can substitute sugar with honey and fruits. Include five servings of fruits and vegetables in your diet. Red, yellow, orange, fruits and vegetables and greens are rich in antioxidants which helps us to delay aging. Green tea is rich in antioxidant and also strengthens our resistance against diseases. Include almonds, olive oil (use it as a cooking medium) fenugreek, in your diet as they are rich in antioxidants and helps to slow down the aging process. As we grow older, we must stick to simple and easily digestible food. One can observe fasting to detoxify oneself after consulting the doctor. People who eat a nutritious diet remain younger, tend to age slower, look trim, healthier and are more active than others.

Yoga :

The age old tradition of yoga is said to have emerged in India some 5000 yrs ago. It is one of the surest ways to age gracefully, if practiced regularly. It gives flexibility to the body, prevents age related diseases, improves immunity and slows aging of the skin, thereby helping us to remain young. In yoga, it is said that the more flexible the spine is, the more youthful the person is. Yoga improves the flexibility of the spine and increases the elasticity of our body. It gives a good figure, improves blood circulation, energizes you and helps you to remain young and fit. Not only does yoga has physical benefits but also psychological benefits. It improves our self confidence. Learn yoga only from a good, qualified yoga teacher. Pranayama (breathing techniques) is very beneficial to the body and the mind and it oxygenates our cells and helps us to remain young.

Sleep :

Good sound sleep not only rejuvenates our body but also strengthens
our immunity to various diseases thereby helping us to remain young.

Massage :

It is skin which shows our age. So keep your skin hydrated andmoisturized. Massage your skin with sweet almond oil or coconut oil once ina fortnight to delay aging. Massage helps us to feel relaxed and energizesus. It improves blood circulation and keeps your skin wrinkle free.Do not massage when your stomach is full or when you are sick.

Mental Health :

Always keep yourself engaged. Read a book, do crosswordpuzzles, sudoku to keep your brain active. Enjoy friendships, foster good relationship with family members, learn a new hobby, maintain interest as these will help to reduce stress and make you feel happy.Be optimistic in life and learn to forgive others. Dress well, love yourself, try to have a new look as it makes you feel happy and helps you to remain young. By having Strong family ties, good friendships, healthy diet, good mental health and staying physically active, one can age gracefully.

Nail Care

Appearance of the nails tells us a lot about the health condition of a person, so caring for the nails and keeping them clean is very important. Below are few tips for healthy nails1.Massage nails with lemon rind or lemon juice and wash it off after sometime. This also removes strains from the nails.

2.Include food rich in calcium, protein, vitamin C, vitamin B and zinc in your diet. Milk, eggs, curd, sesame seeds, figs, peanuts, almonds, chick peas, greens, sprouts are all rich in calcium. Include fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet.

3.Take 1 tsp of gelatin and dissolve in a little boiling water, cool it and use it in your fruit juice. You can take this for a week.

4. Wear gloves to protect your hands and nails while doing house work and other messy work.

5.Soak your nails in warm olive oil once in 10 days to keep them healthy and well nourished.

6.Massage your cuticles with a good quality moisturizing cream. This will improve blood circulation around the nails and also prevent brittle nails.

7.Massage nails with olive oil or pure almond oil. This is a very effective natural home remedies for brittle nails.

8. Always use good quality nail polish. Do avoid wearing nail polish continuously so that your nails can breathe.

9. Trim your nails after a bath or shower as it makes them softer and will result in a more even cut.

10.Have manicures on a regular basis.

11.Finally drink lot of water and be free of stress.

Hand Care

Keep your hands well moisturized. Apply a good hand lotion before going to bed.

Exfoliate your hands with a mixture of Bengal gram flour (besan), milk and fresh lemon juice regularly.

For soft hands:
Mix 1 tsp of Glycerin, half teaspoon of lemon juice and a little rose water and apply it two times a day.

Blend banana, add 1-2 tsp of honey to it and apply it the the hands .Wash it off after it dries.

Natural remedy for chapped hands:

Wash hands, pat dry and apply vinegar diluted in a little water and put on a pair of soft gloves. Wear gloves while washing dishes to protect your hands from the harsh chemicals.

Apply olive oil or sunflower oil .This is an effective home remedy for chapped hands.

Mix fresh cream with a tsp of sugar and a little lemon juice and massage your hands till the sugar granules dissolve for soft hands

Lip Care

Natural remedy for Chapped lips:

Apply butter (pure & unsalted) or almond oil or ghee and massage gently.

Massage with chilled milk cream and wash it off after 1 hour. This home remedy cures chapped lips.

Massage your lips with pure olive oil or coconut oil regularly to get soft lips.

Massage your lips with a little glycerin mixed with a little rose water for soft lips.

Grind rose petals to a smooth paste and mix it with fresh cream and apply. It cures dry or chapped lips

Apply honey and wash it off after 15 minutes to cure chapped lips

Try changing your lipstick brand. Use lipstick with a moisturizer to prevent dryness. Use good quality lipsticks. Always use trusted brands.

Home Remedies to cure dark lips

Honey mixed with a little lemon juice helps to lighten dark lips.

Try changing your toothpaste brand as it may be allergic to you.

Mix 1/2 tsp Pomegranate juice with 1/2 tsp beetroot juice and apply regularly to cure dark lips.

Soak 2-3 almonds overnight. In the morning, peel its skin and grind it to smooth paste. Add a little fresh cream and 2-3 drops of lemon juice to it and apply it regularly to cure dark lips.

Natural Eye Care

Eyes are one of the most wonderful gift given to us, so one has to take care of the eyes.
Here are some tips to take care of your eyes.

• Have a good night sleep and give enough rest to your eyes.
  
  
• Since the skin around the eyes are very sensitive, one has to take good care and handle it delicately. You can massage your eyes with almond oil using your ring finger without giving much pressure.
  
  
• Refresh your eyes by splashing cold water on it .
  
  
• Since eyes are very sensitive, buy good quality cosmetics. Never lend or use others eyeliner, eyebrow pencil, mascara or eye shadow.
  
  
• Wear a good quality sunglasses which protect your eyes from UV rays while going out in the sun.
  
  
• Have a good diet consisting of fruits and vegetables. Red, orange, yellow and dark green vegetables, fruits and greens are very good for the eyes. Drink plenty of water.
  
  
• Apply pure castor oil for the eyebrows before going to bed for good growth.
  
  
• Wear plain glasses while doing work that generates dust.
  
  
• Soak cotton wool in chilled water to which a few drops of rose water has been added and keep it on your eyes for 5 minutes. This will refresh your eyes.
  
  
• Read in good light and keep a good distance while watching television.
  
  
• Rub your palms together and cover your eyes with palms to relax then .
  
  
• For wrinkles or fine lines around the eyes, apply egg white, leave it till it dries and wash it off with cold water. Do this regularly or on alternate days. This natural remedy for wrinkles around the eyes is very effective.
  
  
• Apply apricot kernel oil to prevent wrinkles around the eyes.

Beauty tips for dark circles around the eyes

1.Soak cotton in cucumber or potato juice and keep it on the eyes for 5 minutes and relax.
or you can even apply the juice with cotton around the eyes. If done regularly, this home remedy for dark circles is very effective.

2.Apply almond oil around the eyes before going to bed or in the morning. Almond is a natural bleach.

3.Mix a pinch of turmeric powder with a little pineapple juice and apply it on the dark circles.

4.Steep chamomile tea bag in boiling water, cool it, chill it and apply it to puffy eyes.

5.Try to reduce your salt intake in your diet to get rid of puffy eyes.

6.Drink at least 8 glasses of water everyday.

7.Apply tomato juice mixed with a few drops of lemon juice. Curd can also be used with tomato juice instead of lemon juice. This natural remedy for dark circles is very effective if followed regularly.

8.Mix raw potato juice with tomato pulp and apply to the dark circles. Do it regularly. This is an excellent home remedy for dark circles. Do not wash potato after peeling the skin.

9. Keep a chilled used tea bag on the eyes for 10 minutes and relax. This gets rid of puffy eyes.

10.Apply a cold compress to your eyes for 3-5 minutes to reduce puffiness under the eyes.

11.Soak 3-4 almonds overnight. In the morning peel its skin and and grind it to a smooth paste with a little milk. Apply this paste to the dark circles and leave it till it dries. Wash it off with warm water. This is an effective home remedy for dark circles

These are some of the home remedies for dark circles and puffy eyes.

Natural ways to take care of your feet.

Most of us take care of our face but the feet is the most ignored part of the body. In fact the legs bear the whole weight of the body. So we should include foot care in our daily routine. Here are some ways, we can take care of our feet naturally.

1.Soak feet in a large basin or bowl to which warm water and mineral salt is added for about 10 minutes. You can place pebbles in the large bowl and roll your feet back and forth giving slight pressure as it gives a massaging effect. Scrub using pumice stone to remove dead skin. Wash your feet well, then pat it dry and massage with a moisturizing cream.

You can add juice of one lemon and a few neem leaves to the water as neem has antiseptic qualities.

Rose petals or 2-3 drops of lavender essential oil can be added to the water to give a spa effect at home.

2.Natural remedy for treating cracked feet:

Wash your feet well and apply Vaseline or petroleum jelly at night and slip a pair of cotton socks and go to sleep. In a few weeks, your feet will become soft.

Mix fresh lemon juice, castor oil, rose water and apply it after cleaning your feet.

Olive oil can be applied regularly to have a soft feet.

Neem paste mixed with turmeric powder can be used to treat cracked feet, though it is very messy.

Lemon rind can be rubbed daily. Wash it off after 15 minutes.

3.Walking is best exercise for your legs. Go for brisk walk at least 5 days a week.

4.Another exercise for your feet: Hold your ankles with your hand and rotate clockwise and anticlockwise. Do this for both the legs.

Also rotate each toes with your fingers.

Bend the toes forward and backwards.

Point your toes downwards as far as possible then flex them as high as possible. Do this for both the legs.

Exercise will improve blood circulation to your feet..Hot (bearable) and cold treatment also improves blood circulation. Soak feet in hot water first, and then in cold water. Do this for 5-10 minutes. End with cold water .

6.Avoid heels as far as possible. Buy good fitting shoes which is comfortable for you.

7.Change your socks everyday to prevent smelly feet. Use socks made of natural material .

8.Take 3 tea bags and boil it in 3 cups of water. Mix it with half a bucket of cool water and soak feet in it to get rid of smelly feet.

9.Waxing your legs is a better option than shaving. But if you have to shave, use lot of moisturizer to avoid razor rashes.

10.Take a few minutes to massage your legs with coconut oil or olive oil everyday before bath.

11.After shower, dry your feet well in between toes with a towel to prevent fungal infection

Natural Homemade scrub for lovely legs: Squeeze juice of one fresh lemon and mix it with a little sugar and scrub gently. Wash it off with cold water.

Sea salt mixed with water also makes a great scrub for legs

Natural Remedies to Improve Complexion

Home remedies to remove Tan:
1.To remove tan, mix rice flour with curd and apply it on the face. Massage gently using circular movements and wash it off after 5 minutes.

2.Mix a tsp of curd, fresh lemon juice and honey and apply it on the face. It lightens skin color.

3.Lettuce juice can be used in packs to remove tan.

4.Apply raw potato juice to remove tan. It can also be mixed with a little lemon juice as lemon has natural bleaching properties.

5.Mix cucumber paste with lemon juice and fuller's earth and apply it for 15 minutes and then wash it off. It is an excellent anti-tan pack.

6.Mix chick pea powder in a little water and apply to the face. Remain for 15 minutes and wash it off with cold water. This improves complexion or lightens your skin tone.

7.Mix tomato juice with a little curd and apply. Wash it off after 20 minutes.

8. Use of natural scrub like oatmeal ( add warm water to oatmeal, mix it well to form a paste) helps to remove dead skin cells and stimulate blood circulation.

Home remedy for Dark underarms:

Exfoliate your underarms with a mixture of gram flour (besan), wheat bran, raw milk and a few drops of lemon juice.

Natural bleach:
Honey mixed with a little lemon juice is an excellent natural bleach.

Dry lemon peels and powder it. It can be used in face mask to get rid of tan. It is a natural bleach.

Natural remedy for Dark neck:

Grind raw potato, mix pure sandalwood powder, gram flour and a little lemon juice to the pulp. Apply it to the neck and wash it off after 5-10 minutes. Do this regularly to remove darkness of the skin.

Natural scrub to have a bright face:

Mix tomato juice with a little semolina and use it as a scrub. Do this regularly for a bright face.
Do not use scrub on pimples.

Green gram flour mixed with milk makes a good natural scrub.

Natural cleanser:

Milk is a natural cleanser. Cleanse your face with cotton soaked in raw milk. Use cold skimmed milk to remove your make-up

Natural tips to cure wrinkles

• Massage the skin with olive oil or pure coconut oil regularly to prevent wrinkles. Do not use soap that day, instead use gram pulse flour.
  
  
• Massaging pure sesame seed oil mixed with equal quantities of almond oil also prevents wrinkles .
  
  
• Apply egg white to the wrinkled skin and wash it off after it dries with warm water. For fine lines under the eye, this home remedy is very effective. Within a few days you will find the lines reducing.
• Mix egg white, rose water and glycerin and use it as a face pack once or twice a week .
  
• Mix egg white, a little cucumber juice and half a tsp of lemon juice and apply it on your face. Wash it off after 15 minutes. This is an excellent natural anti wrinkles pack .Use once or twice a week.
  
• Apply milk cream mixed with little lime juice. Do this for a month daily and you will notice changes in your skin. Dry skin are more prone to wrinkles, so keep your skin moisturized and hydrated.
  
  
• Take half a tsp of ginger paste in the morning with honey as it is an effective natural remedy for wrinkles.
  
  
• Another method to include ginger :Wash ginger well, wipe it dry, peel the skin and cut it into round slices. After that, soak it in honey and bottle it. Take 2 pieces daily in the morning to have a youthful look. Make this preparation every week as it tends to get spoiled soon.
  
• Stick to natural or home made products as the chemicals does more damage to the skin. Use mild products.
  
  
• Protect your skin from excessive exposure to the sun as it causes wrinkles. Avoid going out from 12 a.m. to 3 p.m. Protect yourself by wearing sunglasses and wide brimmed hat if you have to go.
  
  
• Mash banana until creamy. Apply this mask and wash it off after 15 minutes to prevent wrinkles.
  
  
• Massaging face with apricot kernel oil moisturizes the skin and slows down the aging process.
  
  
• Rub the core of pineapple on the face .Wash it off after 10 minutes. This home remedy for wrinkles works well.
  
• Include green tea, almonds, olive oil, fenugreek in your diet as they are rich in antioxidants and slows down the aging process.
  
  
• Utter the words 'E' (smile widely) and 'O' (pretend to whistle) to prevent wrinkles. Do this 15 to 20 times two or three times a day.
  
  
• Exercise regularly to improve blood circulation and take a healthy diet as what you eat reflects on your skin. Take care of your skin the natural way.

Home remedies for oily skin

• Mix sandalwood paste with rose water and Fuller's earth (it is a clay) and apply it on the face. Keep it for 15 minutes and wash it off with warm water followed by cold water. This natural remedy is best for acne also.
  
  

• Do not use talcum powder on face as it gets accumulated in the pores and causes more pimples.
  
  

• Red sandalwood paste mixed with rose water can also be used as a pack for acne. It is also an excellent home remedy for blackheads.

• • Gram pulse flour (besan) or green gram flour is best for oily skin as it removes excessive oil from the skin. Use it with rose water.
    
    

  • Mix fuller's earth powder with a little orange peel powder and rose water and apply .Wash with warm water after 15 minutes. This natural remedy is very effective for acne .
    
    

  • Mix equal quantity of oatmeal (powder it finely) and witch hazel and apply to the face. Remain for 20 minutes and wash it off with warm water. This is a natural toning and cleansing mask for oily skin.
    
    

  • Mix a little honey with lemon juice and egg white and apply to the face .Wash it off after 15 minutes. This is a natural and effective mask for oily skin.
    

  • Gram pulse flour (besan) or green gram flour is best for oily skin as it removes excessive oil from the skin. Use it with rose water.
    
    

  • Mix fuller's earth powder with a little orange peel powder and rose water and apply .Wash with warm water after 15 minutes. This natural remedy is very effective for acne .
    
    

  • Mix equal quantity of oatmeal (powder it finely) and witch hazel and apply to the face. Remain for 20 minutes and wash it off with warm water. This is a natural toning and cleansing mask for oily skin.
    
    

  • Mix a little honey with lemon juice and egg white and apply to the face .Wash it off after 15 minutes. This is a natural and effective mask for oily skin.

  • Soak neem leaves in water for 5 hours, then remove the leaves and have bath in that water to prevent pimples and acne.
    
    

  • You can use any clay mask as it absorbs excess oil from the skin.
    
    

  • Mix cucumber pulp with lemon juice and apply to the face. Cucumber is a natural toner. It works as an astringent and is used to cleanse the skin.
    
    

  • Curd (low fat) is an excellent cleanser. Apply it on the skin and wash it off after 15 minutes with lukewarm water .This refreshes dull, tired face and is also good for oily skin.
    
    

  • Do not touch or pop your pimples. Avoid oily food

Natural remedies for Dry skin

• Dry skin usually lacks moisture. There are many factors like environment, food habits which causes dry skin.

• Drinking 8-10 glasses of water keeps the skin hydrated and moisturized
  
  
• Apply moisturizer to slightly damp skin after shower.
  
  
• Mix milk cream with a pinch of turmeric powder and apply it on the face daily.
  Do not use soap often instead use besan or green gram flour. Instead of soap, you can also use cleansing gel.
  
• Soak 4 or 5 almonds overnight, in the morning peel the skin and grind it nicely, mix it with raw milk and apply it on the face and wash it off after 15 minutes to prevent dryness of skin.
  
  
• Mix green gram flour with rose water, tender coconut water and raw milk and apply it on the face .
  
  
• Almonds (4 or5) should be soaked overnight, peel its skin in the morning and chew it .It nourishes your skin from within.
  
  
• Massage your skin with olive oil or coconut oil before going to bath. Bath in cool or lukewarm water as hot water draws out natural oil and will dry your skin further. Oil massage is very effective in case of dry skin.
  
  
• Mix egg yolk, milk cream and rose water and apply it on the face. Wash it off after sometime in warm water followed by cold water. This is a natural mask for dry skin.
  
  
• For flaky skin, dip cotton in cold raw milk to which a few drops of olive oil or sunflower oil is added and cleanse the skin with it. Wash with cold water.
• Carrot mask is good for sensitive and dry skin .Boil a carrot in a little water. After it cools, grind it to a paste and apply to the face.
  
  
• Honey is an excellent moisturizer. Apply honey on the face and wash it off with warm water after 15 minutes. This natural remedy for dry skin works well.
  
• Add a few drops of oil to the water you use for bath. This helps to retain moisture and prevents dryness of skin.
  
  
• Honey mixed in a little raw milk can also be applied to prevent dryness of skin.
  
  
• Mash papaya until creamy and use it as a mask once in a week to prevent dryness.
  
  
• Application of aloe vera gel also prevents dryness of skin.
  
  
• Avoid excessive use of chemicals on the skin. Include food rich in vitamin E and vitamin A for a smooth and glowing skin.

Skin Care Tips

The skin is a major organ of excretion. So taking care of the skin helps you to have a velvety soft skin. The old saying goes like this "Prevention is better than cure". So it is better to take care of your skin rather than treating it after a problem occurs. All you have to do is to lead a healthy life style which will definitely reflect on your skin. Keep your skin clean. A clean skin is a healthy skin. The most common problem among teens is acne. Here are some tips to take care of your skin the natural way.

12.Avoid taking tea or coffee, instead replace it with green tea or buttermilk.

13.Keep your hair clean from dandruff. If you have dandruff then you will get pimples.

14.Use water based cosmetics for oily skin.

15.Carrots, oranges, beetroots does wonders to your skin.

16.Cucumbers work as astringents and cools the skin. It also lightens the skin tone. You can add a little cucumber juice to your face pack. It is also an anti tan pack. It lightens freckles, smoothes wrinkles and is a natural bleach.

17.Yoghurt (plain & natural) is a wonderful skin cleanser. It can be used to massage all skin types. Helps treat sunburn.

18. Honey is an excellent moisturizer for dry skin. However persons with oily skin should avoid using honey in face packs.

19.Get a bunch of fenugreek leaves and make a paste and apply it on your face .Wash it off with warm water and see your face glow, glow and glow. This is also a natural remedy for blackheads.

20 Fenugreek tea taken internally does wonders to the skin.

21.Almonds have a high content of vitamin E, so they nourish you from inside. Almond powder can also be used in face packs to nourish dry, dull skin. Soak 3-4 almonds in water overnight. In the morning after peeling its skin, grind it to a smooth paste with milk and apply for 15-20 minutes for a glowing skin.

22.Soak 4-5 dry grapes in half a cup of water overnight and drink that water in the morning. It prevents constipation and gives a glow to your skin.

23.Tea tree oil has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory properties. This oil is good for boils and rashes.

24.Lavender oil is good for sunburn.

25.Always bath in cool water or lukewarm water as hot water draws out natural oil from the skin and will dry your skin.

26.Before going to bed, see to it that you remove all traces of make-up. Do not apply anything, let your skin breathe.

27.Exercise at least four days a week to improve blood circulation and lastly avoid stress.

Fruits and vegetables for Healthy skin

Everyone wishes to live a healthy and happy life, but very few really take efforts. Only when one is ill, does he know the value of good health. Nature has provided us with a variety of food, which we can include in our diet in its natural form. A diet containing fruits juices and vegetables is not only good for the health but also gives a glow to your skin and rejuvenates the body. They help flush out unwanted toxins. Fruit and vegetable juices should not be taken together at the same time.

• Oranges are rich source of Vitamin C. It prevents constipation. They work as cleansers and improve the skin and supports the immune system.
  
  
• Carrots have vitamin A and are very good for the eyes. They are one of the richest source of beta carotene. Carrot juice if taken in the morning on an empty stomach is very beneficial. It develops immunity. Prevents premature aging. It has anti-cancer properties.
  
  
• Beetroot is very good for anemic persons. It does wonders to your skin. It purifies the blood and is rejuvenating.
  
  
• Grapes are effective for constipation and gives relief in piles. It prevents dryness of skin and it purifies the blood. Its juice can be applied on wrinkles under the eyes.
  
  
• Pineapple juice is very rich in vitamin C. It also contains Vitamins A&B. Taken with honey it is effective for sore throat.
  
  
• Tomatoes contain iron and is rich in vitamin A. Recommended for those who want to reduce their weight. It combats cancer.
  
  
• Watermelon cools our body and are excellent cleansers.
  
  
• Cucumber cools our body and is very good for those who want to lose weight. They work as astringents, cooling and brightening agents of the skin. It can be used in natural face packs also.
  
  
• Lemons protect your heart, control your blood pressure and is excellent for the skin and hair. Works as a bleach for the skin. Lemon juice mixed with warm water and honey can be taken daily the first thing in the morning to have a clear complexion. It can be taken for weight reduction also.

• Apples relieve constipation and reduces cholesterol and removes toxins. Apple pulp can be used as a face pack.
  
• Bananas contain vitamins, minerals, fiber and carbohydrates. They are rich in potassium. They make an excellent face pack especially for dry skin. Add a few drops of olive oil or honey to banana pulp and use as a face pack.
  
• Papaya is good for the skin. It gives relief in case of constipation and it combats cancer. Papaya cleanses the body completely. It delays aging of skin. Raw papaya juice if applied externally helps to cure pimples and also reduces wrinkles.
  
  
• Gooseberry is rich in vitamin C. It increases the body's resistance against diseases. It has medicinal properties and is excellent for the skin and hair. It rejuvenates our body. One or two gooseberries (fruit preserved in honey) can be taken daily.
  
• Garlic is a very powerful antiseptic. It helps to delay aging and restores tissue. It reduces high blood pressure and is good for the blood and heart. It has many other medicinal uses also. Include garlic (raw or steamed) in your diet as it has antibacterial properties and helps to improve the health of the skin

Tips for a healthy head of hair

1.Have a good diet which should include lots of leafy green vegetables, fruits and sprouts.

2.Avoid shampoos as far as possible. Instead use sikkakai or besan or paste of fenugreek seeds, it will clean and soften the hair. If that is not possible, then go for herbal shampoos.

3.Henna or mehandi is a best way to keep a cool head. It conditions the hair, promotes growth, protects our hair from the harmful effects of the sun and also gives a glossy tint. However persons with sinus problems should avoid this.

4.Use wide toothed comb to remove tangles and do not comb wet hair. Avoid using hair dryer to dry your hair. Do not tie your hair tightly. Always use coated rubber bands or soft hair tie.

5.Brush your hair daily using a brush with rounded tip bristles to improve blood circulation.

6.Apply paste of gooseberry powder to prevent hair graying and falling. You can add gooseberry powder to henna paste also. Include amla or gooseberry in your diet as it is a rich source of vitamin C.

7.Apply coconut oil mixed with fresh lemon juice to cure dandruff. This is an excellent home remedy for dandruff. Avoid creamy conditioners when you are having dandruff problem.

8.Soak 2 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in water overnight. In the morning, grind it and apply the paste on the scalp and wash it off after half an hour to get rid of dandruff. This natural remedy for dandruff is very effective. This natural remedy also stops hair fall.

9.Heat coconut oil, switch off the gas when heated, then add neem flowers to it. Close it and keep it aside. When cooled, filter it and use that oil regularly to prevent dandruff.

10.Grind white pepper with milk, warm it and apply it on the scalp, then wash it off after 15 minutes to cure dandruff. Do this once in a week.

11.Apply 2 tbsp of vinegar (diluted in a little water) to the scalp and massage gently and wash your hair after 15-20 minutes. This natural remedy also cures dandruff.

12.Mix a little sour curd, fresh lemon juice and an egg and apply it to the scalp. Wash it off after 20 minutes. This home remedy helps to get rid of dandruff. Do it once in a week.

13 Fenugreek tea is not only good for the health but also nourishes and promotes hair growth if taken regularly.

14.Cover your hair with a scarf or shawl during travel to prevent tangles and to protect your hair from dust.

15.Home remedy for frizzy hair: Massage warm castor oil + almond oil into your scalp gently. Wrap a hot towel (dip towel in hot water (bearable) and squeeze the excess water) around your scalp so that the oil gets absorbed into the hair. Do this once a week for healthy, lustrous hair. It also controls frizz.

16.Avoid chemical treatment on your hair. Hibiscus flowers and leaves are good conditioners for the hair. You can grind 2-3 leaves or flowers and use its juice along with your herbal shampoo.

17. Always dilute shampoo in a little water and use it. Do not use it directly. Wet your hair first and then apply this diluted shampoo.

18 Amla Oil nourishes and promotes hair growth. It also prevents hair fall.

19.Mayonnaise is an excellent conditioner for dry hair. Massage your scalp with mayonnaise and leave it for half an hour. Then shampoo as usual. Always rinse your hair well so that no traces of shampoo is left behind.

20.Apply a few drops of olive oil to get rid of frizz.

21.Massage your scalp with olive oil using your finger tips. Remain for half an hour and wash hair well.This natural remedy is an excellent conditioning treatment. Do this once in a week for healthy hair. It also controls frizz.

22.Vinegar is a great conditioner and can give shine to your hair. Mix 1 tbsp of vinegar to a mug of water and use it to your last rinse. It also controls frizz in dry hair.

23.Dilute 3 tbsp of beer in a mug of water and use it for the final rinse to give your hair a healthy shine.

24.Boil soap nut skin in water, cool it and use that water for the last rinse for silky hair.

25.Conditioner for dry hair: Beat an egg well and add 1/2 tbsp of olive oil and 1/2 tsp of vinegar to it. Mix well and apply it to your scalp and remain for half an hour. Then wash well with a mild shampoo.

26.Home remedy to get rid of lice and nits:
Mix vinegar with a little water and apply to the scalp. Leave it for 20-30 minutes. Then remove the lice using lice comb and the nits by hand. Then wash your hair well. Vinegar help to loosen the nits and they can be removed easily. Do this for a few days to get rid of lice and nits. Keep your pillow covers, towels and combs clean by washing them in hot water. Then soak them for 5 minutes in warm water to which a few drops of antiseptic solution is added and dry them. Do not share combs, hats, scarf or anything used for hair with anybody.

Powder Custard apple seeds. Mix it with a little water and apply it to the scalp. Wash it off after 20 minutes with a herbal shampoo. This home remedy for head lice is very effective.

Apply olive oil lavishly on the hair. Remain for an hour. Then comb the hair using the lice comb to remove lice and nits. This is an effective home remedy for head lice. Then wash hair well with a mild shampoo.

27.Drink 8-9 glasses of water daily.

28.Squeeze juice of 1 lemon in a mug of water and use it for the final rinse for oily hair.

29.Apply Egg white on the scalp and wash it off after 15-20 minutes. This home remedy stops hair fall and also nourishes the hair.

30.Take food rich in protein, essential fatty acids, carotenes, iron, silica, zinc, Vitamins E , C ,Vitamin B (especially biotin) to have a healthy head of hair.

31.Exercise for 5 days a week as it improves blood circulation to your scalp.

32.Lastly maintain a healthy life style as the health of your hair is related to your lifestyle.

Six ways to remain fit and healthy

1.Eat the right food : Have baked or steamed food instead of fried food. Include lot of fresh salads and fruits in your diet. Take only one type of fruit at a time. Go for healthy organic products. Go for hand pounded rice instead of white rice. Avoid Maida and white bread instead use whole wheat flour, brown bread and oat bran .

2.Water : Drink lot of water. Drink clean and boiled water.

3.Walk : Whenever you are going somewhere near, make it a point to walk. Go for a walk every morning.

4.Learn something new : Develop a new hobby. It keeps your mind engaged.

5.Yoga and meditation : Yoga is one of the best ways to keep yourself fit and healthy. Meditation calms and relaxes your mind.

6.Clean Habits : Do not take alcohol, smoke or chew tobacco .