8 Gorgeous Benefits Of Rose Petals To Enhance Your Bridal Beauty Naturally

Roses are known as the symbol of love and beauty since ages. That is why, they have always been an essential part of the décor of most Indian weddings. But, the uses of this gorgeous flower are not just limited to expressing love or enhancing the beauty of a place.

As pleasing as roses are to the eyes, they are as gentle on a bride’s skin too. The calming effect of its oil, water, or just the petals, works wonder for a bride-to-be’s skin and scalp. And on top of that, there is also an infectious calming effect that this flower has on everyone, which makes it even more appealing. So, let us unveil some amazing beauty benefits of this lovely flower for our all soon-to-be brides.

#1. Works as a skin toner

Rose water as well as its petals are very effective as a natural skin toner. All you need to do is, soak some rose petals in water overnight. If you want, you can strain this water into a bottle or let the petals remain in it as well.

All our busy brides, who do not have time to prepare this solution, can simply buy any good quality rose water from the market. Now, all you have to do is, dip a soft cotton ball in this solution and wipe your face gently in circular motion. This will make your skin cleaner, brighter and smoother.

#2. Cures and prevents acne

Acne can be one of the biggest nightmares of any bride. But, you need not worry as rose petals prove to be an immensely effective remedy for this problem too. The antibacterial properties of this wonder flower also prevent you from various skin infections.

Make a thick paste by mixing sandalwood powder, crushed rose petals, rose water and a few drops of honey together. Now, apply this paste on your skin and leave it for around 10 minutes. After this, wash your face with lukewarm water and you will notice a considerable decrease in the redness caused by the acne and pimples on your skin.

#3. Removes dark circles

The hectic shopping sprees and various pre-wedding ceremonies might just leave you sleep deprived. And, as a side effect of this, you might even get dark circles under your eyes. While any bride would be sceptical of using a new chemical product on her face at the last moment, here is a natural remedy for this problem.

Just soak two cotton balls in rose water and place them on your eyes for 10 minutes. Do this every night before going to bed and the results will leave you amazed!

#4. Moisturises your skin

This is yet another incredible beauty benefit of rose petals for all the brides, especially the ones having dry skin. The natural oils present in the rose petals moisturise your skin from deep within.

One of the best options is to mix a small amount of rose water in your moisturiser. It will retain the softness and smoothness of your skin.

#5. Acts as a sunscreen

As going out in the sun without any protection is not something a bride-to-be can afford to do a few days before her wedding, rose petals have a very effective solution for them. Being rich in vitamin C, they are enriched with amazing sunblock properties.

So, to make a natural sunscreen lotion, here is what you have to do. Make a mixture of crushed rose petals, cucumber juice, and glycerine. And, there you go! Just apply this mix on your face and neck, at least 20-30 minutes before you step out in the sun.

#6. Removes dead skin

Rose petals can also enhance the radiance of your skin manifolds. While the accumulation of dead cells can make your skin look tanned and dull, roses can help you get your original glow back.

Here is how you can do so. Soak a few almonds and rose petals separately for entire night. Grind them separately the next day to make a fine paste. Now, mix both these pastes and use the mix as a scrub to get rid of the dead skin.

#7. Nourishes the scalp

Apart from flaunting radiantly glowing skin on your wedding day, you would definitely want your hair to be perfect as well. And, a flaky and itchy scalp is not something that will let this desire of yours to be fulfilled. Well in this case, how about providing your scalp with a ‘rose therapy’?

All you have to do is, rinse your hair with a mix of bathing water and rose water. Not only it will increase the blood flow to your scalp, but will also boost hair growth.

#8. Works well to uplift your mood

Amid so many wedding-related tasks, you might get quite exhausted both physically and mentally. So, why not use some lovely red roses to relieve you from all the tiredness?

You just have to add some rose petals in your hot water bath tub and relax in it for a while. Not only will the rose petals give you a soothing effect and reduce anxiety, but will also detox your mind and body.

Via Source: https://in.lifestyle.yahoo.com/8-gorgeous-benefits-rose-petals-enhance-bridal-beauty-131008725.html

10 natural remedies to strengthen your immune system

Your immunity is the shield that protects your body from a whole host of infections like cold and cough, skin infections,  respiratory ailments, and strengthening it is very essential to staying healthy. While you can do a number of things to help strengthen it like exercising, eating right and paying attention to your cleanliness there are certain natural ways to give it a boost. Here are 10 foods that can help give your immune system that much needed boost.

Guavas, oranges and lemons

Guavas, oranges and lemons contain vitamin C which plays an important role as a natural antioxidant in our body. Vitamin C also helps the white blood cells perform their function of responding quickly to infections and thus, has an immunity-enhancing action. Apart from that, guavas also contain a lot of fiber which has a protective role against high cholesterol and heart disease.

Carrots, red pumpkins and papayas

All orange, yellow and red coloured fruits and vegetables are rich sources of beta carotene that is known to have immune-protective action. By acting on different components of the immune system, beta carotene helps the body fend off infection quite effectively. So make sure you include a lot of papaya, carrots and red pumpkins in your diet to keep your immune system running smoothly.

Garlic

Along with its action against bacterial and viral infections and anti-inflammatory activity, garlic has been known for its protective action against heart disease and high levels of blood cholesterol. In recent times, studies have been increasingly finding garlic plays a role in preventing cancers of different organs. Include a little crushed garlic in your cooking every day and the allicin it contains will keep your immune system up and running in perfect condition.

Flaxseeds

Flaxseed contains alpha-linolenic acid, omega-3 fatty acid and phytoestrogens called lignans – all these ingredients are important in modulating the response of the immune system. By acting on the components that mediate the immune response, these compounds can help keep infections and autoimmune diseases away.

Turmeric

Turmeric contains vitamin B6 and a lot of minerals such as potassium, manganese and iron that play an important role in the functioning of different body systems. Besides, it also contains curcumin which has valuable antioxidant action and this enhances the functioning of the immune system.

Yogurt

You may have heard of yogurt as being good for digestion because it contains probiotics. Several studies have found that it can also improve immune function and protect the body against common bacterial and viral infections. This action is believed to be a result of yogurt’s ability to stimulate the production of interferon – a component that boosts the immune system’s functioning. Some studies have also found that consuming yogurt daily can reduce your chances of developing vaginal yeast infections.

Almonds

A lack of vitamin E can affect the immune system’s ability to fight infections. Chew on a handful of almonds which are rich in vitamin E; this will keep your immune system running in smooth order.

Crab, oyster and red meat

Zinc is one of the minerals that is essential for the body to function at optimal levels. It helps the white blood cells perform their protective action against infections; it also plays an important role as a catalyst in the reactions of the immune system in destroying foreign organisms. Make sure you get enough zinc by including crab, oyster and red meat in your diet. Vegetarians especially are at risk of zinc deficiency; however, foods such as whole grains, beans and fortified cereals do contain zinc, so make sure you include these in your diet.

Green leafy vegetables

If you have always eaten green leafy vegetables out of compulsion, here is some news to make you love them. These leaf veggies are a rich source of folic acid which has an important role in the working of the immune system. Studies have found that people with deficiency of folic acid are unable to secrete necessary quantities of antibodies that have infection-fighting properties. Especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, make sure you get more of folic acid to supplement your body’s increased requirement during these times.

Green Tea

Green tea is a potent source of antioxidants called the polyphenols – especially catechins. Some studies have found that these have the ability to destroy the influenza – or common cold – virus. However, when you have green tea, it is important you leave the milk out because the proteins in milk will bind with the catechins, causing it to lose its antioxidant properties. Adding a little lemon or honey will not have such effects and can even improve palatability. Make sure you only have a few cups of green a day, as this excellent health drink also has side effects.

Foods and products that can weaken your immune system

While all these foods do help to boost immunity, it is also vital to avoid those foods that diminish the immune system’s ability to deal with infection. Substances that irritate the inner lining of the stomach – alcohol and some drugs such as ibuprofen for example – can have the effect of reducing immune system responses and therefore, should be avoided. Several pesticides that are used in growing food contain metals such as lead, mercury and cadmium; if these find a way into your food, they can have a harmful effect on your immunity – yet another reason to switch to organically grown foods.

So, what are you waiting for? Stock your kitchen with the foods mentioned here to cut your odds of suffering from health problems that interfere with the quality of your life.

Source Via: https://in.lifestyle.yahoo.com/10-natural-remedies-strengthen-immune-175000991.html

Top 10 reasons to eat radish or mooli

Radishes, popularly known as mooli in India, might not top the list of your favourite vegetables but when it comes to nutrition and health benefits they definitely secure a top rank among all other vegetables. Eat them raw or add them to your healthy vegetable recipe, these nutrition-loaded root vegetables have numerous benefits to offer. Here are top 10 benefits you’ll be surprised to know.

1# Lowers cancer risk: Radish contains phytochemicals and anthocyanins that have anti-carcinogenic properties. Additionally, they have vitamin C that acts as a powerful antioxidant to prevent free radical damage to the DNA inside the cells, thus helping cancer prevention.

2# Regulates blood pressure: Radish has anti-hypertensive properties that help regulate control high blood pressure. Radish is rich in potassium that helps maintain the sodium-potassium balance in the body, keeping blood pressure under control. A study published in Nutrition Research and Practice found that radish leaves’ lowered blood pressure extract participants having hypertension from 214 mmHg to 166 mmHg and was significantly lower than that of the normotensive and hypertensive controls.

3# Good for diabetics: Insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas is responsible in the absorption of glucose. Diabetics are either unable to absorb the insulin their body produces or unable to produce insulin at all. Because of this, they cannot eat sugary or starchy foods. High in fibre, and with a low glycemic index, diabetics can enjoy radish as it doesn’t cause blood sugar levels to rise.

4# Beats cold and cough: If you’re prone to constant cough and cold, it might be a good idea to include radish in your diet. The vegetable has anti-congestive properties which helps in clearing the mucus formed in your throat. Additionally, radish also improves your immunity which keeps infections that lead to cold and cough at bay!

5# Helps you recover from jaundice: Radish is powerful when it comes to eliminating toxins. This helps keep your liver and stomach in mint condition. What makes radish effective in controlling jaundice is that it helps regulate the amount of bilirubin in the blood and increases the oxygen supply within the body. This helps keep a check on the destruction of red blood cells caused by jaundice.

6# Fights constipation: Most people will have battled constipation in their life and it is definitely not a pleasant condition to be in. Radish has a high fibre content which helps clear the food stuck in your colon. Additionally, it helps facilitate the secretion of digestive juices and bile which again is good for your digestive system.

7# Helps with weight loss: Radish is extremely low in calories, and the fibre content in it promotes satiety. A single 100g serving of raw radish contains just 16 calories, radish can be a part of any weight loss diet.

8# Good for asthma patients: Radish has anti congestive properties that make them extremely beneficial for asthmatic patients. It also fights allergies of the respiratory system and protects the respiratory linings against infections.

9# Keeps you looking younger: Containing vitamin C and antioxidants, radish can be eaten to prevent your skin from free-radical damage. You can even apply crushed, raw radish on your skin as it has cleansing properties.

10# Keeps the kidneys healthy: The natural diurectic property of radishes makes them extremely good for improving kidney health. They help elimination of toxins from the body, acting as a natural cleanser.

All these properties make radish a must-buy next time you go grocery shopping.

Source Via : https://in.lifestyle.yahoo.com/top-10-reasons-eat-radish-190500350.html

Get Rid of Facial Hair Naturally

Facial hair not only looks unpleasant, but, can also cause embarrassment to some. Unwanted facial hair, if in excess, can also make your face look darker than its natural shade. There are many ways to get rid of facial hair, such as bleaching and waxing, etc. But, many of these come with their own side-effects. So, here are some natural ways in which you can get rid of those unwanted facial hair.

Go for natural bleach

There are many natural bleaching agents that you can use at home, instead of spending your money on expensive chemical ones. Here are some natural ingredients that are known for their natural skin bleaching properties:

Rub some Potato

Take a potato and slice it into half. Apply some water on its surface and rub it on your face. It will lighten the colour of your facial hair and will make your skin soft and supple.

Use Tomatoes

Take a slice of tomato and rub it on your face. Do this for 5 minutes and then wash your face. In a few days, you will notice your hair colour lightening.

Lemon juice and Honey

Add few drops of lemon juice to honey and apply the mixture on face. Rub it in the same direction of the hair growth. Leave it for 20 minutes and then rinse it off. Repeat this procedure at least twice a week.

Papaya Pulp

Take half a cup of papaya pulp and mix it with one tablespoon of milk. Make a thick paste of it. Then rub it gently on your face and leave it for 10 minutes. After this rinse it off. This mixture serves as a natural bleach.

Home-made facial Scrubs

You spend your time using chemical based scrubs on your face to discourage the growth of facial hair, well why not use some home-made natural scrubs:

Sugar

Mix sugar (30gm) and freshly squeezed lemon juice (10ml), with water to make a paste. Apply it on your face and rub it in the direction of your hair growth. Rinse it off after 15 minutes using cold water. Sugar acts as an exfoliating agent, while lemon juice will act as an astringent on your face.

Uptan benefits

Here is a home-made scrub that is quite popularly known as uptan. Mix chickpeas flour (besan), green gram flour, turmeric powder, rose water, and milk. Prepare a thick paste and scrub your face for two minutes. Use this scrub consistently to get rid of your facial hair, naturally.

Salt

Another good scrub can be prepared by mixing turmeric and salt in some lemon juice and milk. Salt would exfoliate your face and will also remove unwanted facial hair. Massage this scrub for 5 minutes before rinsing it off.

Banana and Oatmeal

First take a ripe banana and mash it. Then add some oatmeal to it. Apply this scrub on your face in circular movement. Do this for 15 minutes before rinsing it off.

Flour scrubs

Gram flour is very good to discourage facial growth on face. Take some gram flour (30gm) and mix it with 10ml of lemon juice and a cup of water (150ml). Make a thick paste and rub it over your face. Some even believe that whole wheat flour is also good as it not only discourages facial hair but also removes unwanted black heads.

Home-made wax

Here is a home-made cold wax formula for you. Prepare a mix of sugar (2 cups) and lemon juice (1/4 cup) in half a cup of water. Heat it on a low flame and keep stirring it. It should become a thick brown liquid. Use it when it cools down slightly. Dust the area, where you want to apply, with some corn flour or powder. Apply it using a butter knife and place a waxing strip or a clean cloth over that. Pull it off in the opposite direction of the hair growth. After this immediately apply some astringent and ice over that area to close the open pores.

But remember, whenever you make this mix do not try this directly on your face. Always do a patch test on the back of your hand or arm first, to check its consistency.

Additional Ways

Other than these natural bleaches and scrubs, here are some more ways to discourage your facial growth naturally:

Turmeric and Milk

Mix some turmeric with milk to make a thick paste. Then apply it on your face. After it dries off, rub it off using gentle circular motions. This would not only discourage facial growth but will also leave a glow on your face.

Try egg white

If you can stand the smell of egg, then an egg white can also prove to be a good option for your problem. Add some sugar to it before applying it on your face. Let it stay, till it dries. After that rinse it off and do rememeber to use a toner after that.

Take care of your face

It is very important to use cleansing milk especially after removing makeup. It is always a good skin care routine to use a toner every time after face wash.

Hormones imbalance

Excessive hair growth can also be due to imbalance hormonal level. In such a case, you must see a doctor immediately rather than trying any activities yourself.

These home remedies can effectively discourage and lessen your facial hair growth. It is good to use these remedies over a period of time to see effective results. So, go and raid your kitchen!

Source Via: https://in.lifestyle.yahoo.com/rid-facial-hair-naturally-062650328.html

Health benefits of brinjals or baingan

Brinjal, known as baingan in Hindi, is known to be king of vegetables.  High on nutrients, this vegetable has many health benefits and hence, you should consume it at least once a week. Although a lot of people don’t like the taste, if you cook it well, it can be extremely delicious. Here is why you should add this vegetable to your list of groceries the next time you shop for vegetables.

Prevent cancer

Fibre and antioxidants are just two of the nutrients that make brinjal a food that can keep cancer at bay. Fibre helps clear the toxins present in your digestive tract and has been found useful in the prevention of colon cancer. Additionally, the antioxidants help in fighting free radical damage to your cells which helps keep cancer at bay.

Great for weight loss

Brinjals are great for weight loss as they are low in calories with 100g of the vegetable containing just 25 calories. It is also rich in fibre which helps in promoting the feeling of satiety which means that eating a small serving will make you feel full and prevent you from overeating.

Prevent heart disease

Like most fruits and vegetables, brinjals too are great for your heart. Being rich in fiber, potassium, vitamin B-6 and phytonutrients like flavonoids, this vegetable lowers the risk of heart disease. The presence of antioxidants keeps your arteries healthy and prevents heart attack.

Controls blood pressure

Brinjal contains potassium, an important mineral, which plays a key role in maintaining electrolyte balance in the body. It also helps in neutralizing the effects of sodium on the body thereby aiding in blood pressure control. Apart from this, increased intake of anthocyanins that are present in high amounts in brinjal, also lowers your blood pressure.

Good for diabetics

As brinjals are low in carbohydrates and high in fibre content, they are known to be good for people suffering from diabetes. This is because, the high fibre causes helps in controlling blood sugar levels in the body by controlling the absorption of glucose from food.

Lowers cholesterol in the body

Brinjals is rich in chlorogenic acid that acts as a powerful antioxidant agent, lowering cholesterol levels in the body.  It also contains high amounts of fibre that increases the absorption of blood cholesterol by the liver to produce bile.

Gives your skin a natural glow

As we age, our skin undergoes free radical damage which can cause the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on our faces. The antioxidants and vitamins present in brinjals can prevent this from happening. Additionally, it is also high in water which flushes toxins from your body and gives your skin a nice and healthy glow.

Good for your brain

Eating brinjals can prevent brain damage as it contains phytonutrients that can protect your cell membranes. These phytonutrients are also known to boost memory function and aid in transferring messages from one part of your body to another.

Help you to quit smoking

Apart from these benefits, brinjal is also known to have nicotine and thus helps in quitting tobacco. However, you’ll have to eat 10 kg of the vegetable to get as much nicotine into your body as a cigarette.

Tips you should follow while incorporating brinjal in your diet

• Instead of metal knife, use a stainless steel knife to cut the vegetable as it prevents the chemical reaction between pytochemicals present in brinjal and metal.
• As you cut brinjal, put them in salt water or sprinkle salt over the pieces. This removes the compounds that render bitter taste to the vegetable. It also makes your dish more tasty and palatable.
• Brinjal can be added to any dishes like sambhar, pizza or pasta or can be consumed even in fried, baked, sauted, grilled, roasted or steamed form.

Source Via: https://in.lifestyle.yahoo.com/health-benefits-brinjals-baingan-144200937.html