10 Homemade Anti-Aging Face Mask Recipes

Age creeps up on us all eventually and there’s nothing that we can do about that just yet. We can though take steps to prevent the signs of aging from appearing prematurely by looking after ourselves. One way that you can ward off the early appearance of fine lines and wrinkles is to use face masks made from natural ingredients to keep your skin soft, supple and line free for longer and here are ten face mask recipes for you to try at home:

1. Cucumber and egg white

Grate half of medium cucumber, add a tablespoon of lime juice and mix it into a paste with the white of one egg. Apply to your face and leave it on for 5 minutes, and it will make your skin feel fresh and leave it looking younger.

2. Egg white, coconut oil and strawberry

This is an anti-aging face mask that will help with any acne or blackheads as well. Mash some strawberries and mix with one egg white, add a tablespoon of coconut oil and apply to your face, leave on for about 5 minutes and the natural, gentle acids in the strawberries will help to fight any bacteria, clear up acne and help to reduce the appearance of fine lines; coconut oil will nourish your skin and natural antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties of coconut oil will also help prevent or fight any acne causing bacteria.

3. Cocoa powder and yogurt

A really simple facial mask that many people swear by as an anti-aging treatment is unsweetened cocoa powder and yogurt. Mix the two together into a paste. Apply and leave on for 5 minutes and it will give you fresh looking skin and it works as an exfoliator too.

4. Honey and banana

Banana helps to boost the production of collagen in your skin and honey has anti-bacterial properties, so a mixture of the two makes a great ant-aging face mask. Mash up one banana and mix in one tablespoon of honey, then apply to your face and leave it on for 5 minutes before washing off with warm water.

5. Oatmeal, honey and Grape seed oil

For rejuvenated and rehydrated skin, try this simple mix of equal parts oatmeal, grape seed and honey. Mix the three ingredients thoroughly and then apply the paste to your skin and leave on for 5 minutes, before washing off.

6. Blueberry and sweet almond oil

Naturally rich in vitamin C, blueberries also contain anthocyanins, which help to produce collagen in the skin and sweet almond oil is naturally nourishing and rich in in fatty acids. Blend a handful of blueberries with a tablespoon of grape seed oil in the blender, apply and leave the mixture on your face and rinse off after 5 minutes.

7. Apple, potato and cucumber

This mix will not only help to prevent fine lines appearing on your face, it will also leave you with a bright and glowing complexion too. Grate one potato, one small apple and half of medium cucumber, and mix the three together. Then, apply the paste to your skin and leave on for ten minutes and it will both reduce the signs of lines and wrinkles and help to reduce and gradually remove age spots as well.

8. Greek yogurt, papaya and coconut oil

Greek yogurt is a rich source of protein for nourishment, the lactic acid in the yoghurt will help to tighten up your pores and coconut oil will nourish and soften the skin. Papaya contains an enzyme called papain, which helps to remove dead skin cells. Mix equal parts of yogurt and papaya into a paste and add a little bit of coconut oil, apply to your skin for around 5 minutes and it will leave your face looking fresh and young again.

9. Avocado, tee tree oil and honey

Mix one avocado with a tablespoon of honey and add four drops of Tea tree oil for a face mask that will reduce wrinkles, moisturize your skin and prevent acne.

10. Egg white, olive oil and lemon juice

The ladies of the Mediterranean have been using olive oil in beauty treatments for centuries and this is a really simple facial mask that will nourish and brighten your skin. Just mix equal amounts of lemon juice and olive oil (one tablespoon of each) with the white of one egg, and massage it into your skin, then leave it to dry for about 5-7 minutes before washing off with some lukewarm water.

Note: Make sure you are not allergic to the ingredients of these facial masks before applying them to your face.

SOURCE: Beautyandtips

10 Best Anti Ageing Recipes You Must Try

 

Do you often worry that you are ageing too fast? Have you ever wanted to slow down ageing so that you can look much younger than your peers? As humans, we all want to stay young forever! Though that is not possible, we can actually slow down the ageing process and stay young for long!

And how can you do that? This post deals with some super foods and recipes that have such properties that they can make you look younger and radiant for long! Want to check out what those are? Then read on!

Anti Ageing Foods:

Some of the best anti-ageing foods have antioxidant properties and contain healthy fats, minerals, vitamins and phyto-nutrients. Following are some of those!

1. Anti-Oxidant Teas: Green tea and other herbal teas like white tea, oolong tea, rooibos tea, and black tea contain antioxidants called polyphenols. These protect body cells from free radical damage.
2. Fish: This provides anti- inflammatory Omega 3 fats which slow down the body’s clock.
3. Green Leafy Vegetables: Like Spinach, Kale, Swiss chard, beet greens and cabbage provide important nutrients to support our health and slow down ageing processes.
4. Spirulina: This sea vegetable is a rich source of anti-oxidants including polythenols which prevents pre-mature ageing.
5. Berries: These contain powerful antioxidants known as anthocyanins which help maintain muscle cells and prevent cancer.
6. Turmeric And Garlic: These herbs contain anti-oxidants and nutrients that slow the ageing process.

Anti-Ageing Recipes:

Now, coming to the interesting part! Following is the list of ten super-recipes that delicious to taste and slow down the aging process as well. Check them out!

1. Lemon Water With Turmeric:

Image: Source

This is a healing and anti-ageing drink, containing turmeric which is a powerful antioxidant and carcinogen. Plus, it has the properties to fight harmful bacteria.

Ingredients:

• Warm water- 1 cup
• ¼ tbsp turmeric powder
• Lemon juice- ½ lemon
• Cinnamon – a pinch (to make the drink more anti- inflammatory with blood sugar regulating properties).
• Honey – to taste

Method:

• Heat water and add turmeric, lemon juice and honey.
• Stir and drink while water is hot.
• This way you will utilize all anti ageing benefits of turmeric.

2. Blueberry And Chia Anti-Aging Smoothie:

Image: Shutterstock

Blueberries, especially the wild- grown ones, are nutritionally rich. They have a number of anti-aging benefits as they are rich in fiber, minerals, and the vitamins A, C, E & K. These also have lower glycemic index than many fruits, so are good for diabetics.

Ingredients:

• Coconut water- 1 cup
• Chia seeds – 2 tbsp
• Spinach powder- 1 scoop
• Virgin coconut oil– 1 tbsp
• Frozen Blueberries – ¼ cup
• Frozen banana -1/3
• Ice

Method:

• Add the chia seeds, coconut water, coconut oil and spinach powder into a blender and blend.
• Add the frozen banana and blueberries. Blend.
• Add ice as desired to thicken.
• Pour and enjoy!

This recipe is ideal for breakfast.


3. Cherry Shake:

Image: Shutterstock

Cherries are great for skin due to their anti ageing properties.

Ingredients:

• Coconut milk- 1 cup
• Flax Oil- 2tbsp
• Cherries- 1 cup
• Spinach- 2-3 cups
• Banana- ½ a fruit

Method:

• Blend all the ingredients in a blender.
• You have a cherry shake ready.

4. Berry And Avocado Shake:

Image: Shutterstock

Berries and avocados are both great anti-ageing fruits. We suggest that you add Flaxseeds to give your skin a rich glow as they contain Omega 3 fatty acids.

Ingredients:

• Blueberries- 1 cup
• Avocado- ¼ th of a fruit
• Ground Flaxseed- 2tbsp

Method:

• Add all ingredients into a blender and mix well.
• Your smoothie is prepared. Pour into tall glasses and enjoy.

5. Papaya Smoothie:

Image: Shutterstock

Papayas are excellent skin foods. They contain beta-carotene which protects the skin from harmful UV rays and cancer. You can add carrots and oranges to improve its anti-ageing properties.

Ingredients:

• Papaya- 3 slices
• Carrot- 3 medium pieces Orange – 1
• Fresh Ginger -1 small piece

Method:

• Add all ingredients in a blender and mix well.
• You have your smoothie ready. Pour in glasses and serve.

6. Green Smoothie:

Image: Shutterstock

This smoothie has scores of vegetables to give you that anti-ageing punch.

Ingredients:

• Organic Celery- 2 stalks
• Organic Lettuce- 1 head, chopped
• Spinach – 7 cups(chopped)
• Apple- 1 chopped
• Banana- 1
• Fresh Lemon Juice- 2 tbsp
• Water- 1 ½ cups

Method:

• Add lettuce into the blender and start blending at a very low speed.
• Add celery and apple when the mixture is smooth.
• Add the banana and lemon juice in the end and serve.

7. Cherry, Pomegranate Popsicle:

Image: Shutterstock

Not only does this recipe help you look younger, but it helps you stay younger too.

Ingredients:

• Cherry juice 4 tbsp
• Pomegranate juice- 4 tbsp
• Carrot juice- 4 tbsp

Method:

• Combine all the juices together.
• Take out your ‘popsicle’ moulds.
• Pour the mixture and freeze for a healthy dessert.

8. Detox Tea:

Image: Shutterstock

This recipe helps you banish wrinkles with to the goodness of ginger.

Ingredients:

• Ginger – 1 small piece
• Water- ½ cup
• Lemon juice- 2 tbsp
• Cayenne Pepper
• Honey

Method:

• Put the small piece of ginger in pot.
• Add water and boil on a slow flame.
• Pour it into a mug.
• Allow the mixture to cool.
• Now add the cayenne pepper, honey and lemon juice for taste.
• Serve immediately.

9. Beet Shake:

Image: Shutterstock

Ingredients:

• Beet – half medium sized
• Water- 2 cups
• Kale Leaf- 1

Method:

• Chop off the roots of the beet and make pieces.
• Now remove the stem of the kale leaf.
• Put all the ingredients in a blender and mix till smooth.
• Pour in glasses and drink.

10. Coconut Kale Smoothie:

Image: Shutterstock

Kale is one of the best anti ageing foods that helps in lowering cholesterol levels, strengthening bones, detoxifying the body and in the prevention of cancer.

Ingredients:

• Kale leaf- 1 cup
• Coconut Milk- 1 ½ cups
• Cherries- 1 cup
• Ground Flaxseed – 1tbsp
• Frozen Banana- 1
• Honey- 1 tbsp
• Coconut extract- ¼ tbsp
• Ice

Method:

• Add all ingredients in a blender and mix.
• Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

We hope these recipes deal with your ageing issues!

SOURCE: Stylecraze

10 Best Ayurvedic Medicines To Fight Aging

Do you often worry about aging? Worried how you might look when you grow older? Everyone has to age one day. That is the way life is. However, it is quite possible to slow down the process of aging. This can be done by using ayurvedic medicines.

Ayurvedic Medicine For Anti Aging:

There are many anti aging products available in the market, but more often than not they either don’t work or have unpleasant side effects. Also, let’s not forget how expensive these anti aging products are! That is why, if you are looking for natural and affordable anti aging products that offer desirable results, take a closer look at Ayurveda.

Anti aging medicines in Ayurveda have been used by people since ages. There is evidence of sages living well past their prime and Ayurveda, the age-old science of wellbeing, made them look young and feel vibrant. The aim of this wonderful science is both to slow down the aging process and to add to the vivacity and vigor. Ayurveda is based upon three principles – Vata, Pitta and Kapha (1). If these areas of the body are in perfect harmony and balance, it is possible for a person to stay healthy and young.

Below is the list of ten natural anti aging medicines that are easily available in the market and will help slow down the aging process:

1. Shilajit:

Shilajit is easily available in Ayurvedic stores. If you can’t find an Ayurvedic store, look for this product online. Shilajit is used as a remedy for many ailments. It has a glue-like consistency and comes with excellent anti aging properties (2). You can buy capsules of Shilajit and have them daily for younger looking skin.

2. Chyawanprash:

A spoonful of Chyawanprash during the cold months of winter builds your immunity and keeps cold and cough at bay. This concoction is laden with healthy and essential herbs, minerals and fruits that can also do wonders for your skin (3). Consuming one tablespoon of Chyawanprash can remove toxins from the skin and reduce blemishes.

3. Honey:

Honey is known for its moisturizing qualities (4). It hydrates the skin and keeps wrinkles at bay. Honey also is a potent antioxidant that destroys free radicals, which are one of the main reasons for aging. Consuming a spoon of honey is not only healthy for the body; it also does wonders for the skin. You can also apply honey as a face pack and let it stand for 30 minutes before washing it off with lukewarm water. Not only will your fine lines reduce, you also will find your skin feeling smooth and hydrated.

4. Strawberries:

Strawberries are packed with antioxidants that are known for their ability to keep the skin looking youthful (5). Eating strawberries is one way of slowing down the process of aging. Another method is to mash strawberries and apply on the fine lines and wrinkles.

5. Rasayana:

Rasayana has a rejuvenating effect on the mind, body and skin. It cannot be prepared at home, as it is a blend of forty essential herbs. This Ayurvedic medicine for anti aging is available in powder and tablet forms. Consuming it regularly can work miracles with your skin, making it look younger and softer.

6. Essential Oils (Almond, Sandalwood, And Rosewood):

These oils, when mixed with bath water, rejuvenate the body, particularly the skin. You can also mix all these three oils in equal proportions and massage a little over your face and neck. Wait for fifteen minutes before washing your face, and you will see a reduction in fine lines, crow’s feet and wrinkles with daily use.

7. Ashwagandha:

Ashwagandha is part of Rasayana medicine and is used in Ayurveda for its anti aging and skin rejuvenating properties (6). Also known as the Indian Ginseng, this medicine is readily available in a capsule form. Look at the bottle label to see the number of capsules you should consume. Once you start, you will notice a marked difference in your skin, as Ashwagandha can rejuvenate the skin and make it glow.

8. Milk And Almond:

Soak almonds overnight. Peel them the following morning and grind to a paste with some milk. The paste should have a face pack-like consistency – neither too liquid-like nor too thick. When applied on face and left for half an hour, it will make your skin ravishing, removing all signs of aging.

9. Amla:

A very common green fruit, Amla is great for your skin and hair (7). That is the reason it is used as a key ingredient in major Ayurvedic hair oils and skin care creams. Look for natural and organic face creams and lotions containing amla, which is also known as the Indian gooseberry. Use as directed on the label, and you definitely will love your reflection in the mirror!

10. Lemon Juice:

If you think drinking lime water early in the morning flushes impurities from the blood, there is more to it than just this. The juice lightens your skin complexion and reduces the appearance of blemishes and age spots. Simply apply the juice directly on your face. It will cause a little tingling sensation, so don’t worry. Let it stand for five minutes and wash with cold water.

The market is overflowing with anti aging creams and lotions, as everyone aspires to look young. However, these cosmetics have chemicals that harm the skin. In such a situation, there is nothing safer and more beneficial than these natural Ayurvedic medicines that will give your skin the youthfulness that you always wanted.

SOURCE: Stylecraze

How to Get Rid of Crow’s-Feet

10 Ways to Get Rid of Crow’s-Feet

Crow’s-feet, also known as ‘laugh lines’ and ‘character lines,’ are clusters of tiny wrinkles and fine lines that form around the outer corners of the eyes.

Crow’s-feet develop with age, usually starting in the mid- to late-30s. Production of collagen and elastin, two proteins responsible for your skin’s elasticity, lessens with age and this leads to the formation of crow’s feet as well as other signs of aging like sagging breasts, wrinkles, and brown spots.

Other factors that make a person more likely to develop crow’s-feet are excessive sun exposure,smoking, high pollution, squinting, frowning and smiling.

Having an eye floater problem? get more info here

If you have crow’s-feet, don’t despair. There are a lot of natural methods to get rid of them. Natural remedies using ingredients readily available in your kitchen will help restore moisture and a youthful appearance to your skin.

Here are the top 10 ways to get rid of crow’s-feet.

1. Egg Whites
Egg whites help tighten skin, making them a great choice for reducing the appearance of crow’s-feet.

• Beat one egg white until you get a foamy consistency. Apply the egg white on the outside of the eye area and along the cheekbones. Leave it on for 10 minutes and then clean the area using a cotton ball soaked in cold water. Do this twice a week.
• Alternatively, after washing your face with a mild soap, liberally apply one egg white over your entire face. Allow it to dry completely, and then apply another layer. Leave it on for about 15 minutes and then wash it off with warm water. Dry your face with a soft towel and then use some moisturizer. Do this once or twice a week, but not more than that.

2. Papaya
Papaya is rich in vitamin C that helps fight off free-radical damage to your skin and stimulates collagen production. Plus, papaya contains an enzyme called papain that helps remove dead skin cells and tighten the skin.

• Gently rub a piece of raw papaya against the skin. Leave it on for 1O minutes or until dry and then rinse it off with cold water. Do this once daily.
• Alternatively, scrape out the pulp of a ripe papaya and mix it with some dry oatmeal. Apply the mixture on your skin and gently massage the area. Leave it on for 10 minutes before rinsing it off with cold water. Do this two or three times a week.
• Simply mash up half of a ripe papaya and add one tablespoon of olive oil to make a smooth pack. Apply the face pack and leave it on to dry for 10 minutes before washing it off with cold water. Repeat the process every two days.

3. Milk
Milk can be used to diminish the appearance of short wrinkles around your eyes. Milk contains glycolic acid that helps exfoliate dead skin cells and promotes the production of collagen in the skin.

• Start drinking milk regularly to enjoy glowing and healthy skin.
• Soak a clean cloth in milk and simply place it on the affected skin area. Let it sit for about 10 minutes and then rinse off your skin with cold water. Repeat the process twice daily.
• Add a few drops of almond oil to a large bowl of cold milk. Soak two bread slices in the milk. Put the bread slices in a piece of cloth and place one over each of your eyes. Leave them on for 10 to 20 minutes. Use this homemade compress once daily for several days to see positive results.

4. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is one of the best natural ingredients for removing crow’s-feet. Its antioxidant properties helpfight off free radicals that may cause wrinkling. Also, it contains essential vitamins and minerals that help moisturize, brighten and tone the skin.

• Drink one tablespoon of aloe vera juice twice daily to get the benefits of its antioxidant properties.
• Alternatively, take a fresh aloe vera leaf, squeeze out the gel, and apply it generously around the eyes before going to bed. In the morning, wash your face with cold water. Do this daily for a few weeks. You will have firmer, hydrated skin, and your crow’s-feet will be less visible.

5. Vitamin E
Vitamin E, a strong antioxidant, is essential for regeneration of new skin cells that can help keep the skin plump and moisturized. Also, it can tighten the skin around the eyes to reduce the appearance of crow’s-feet as well as deep lines.

1. Break open two vitamin E capsules and put the contents in a bowl.
2. Apply the liquid onto the wrinkles around your eyes.
3. Gently massage for a few minutes.
4. Do this every night before going to bed.

6. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer. The high amount of vitamin E present in coconut oil lubricates as well as nourishes skin cells and tissues. Also, it has linoleic acid that can reconnect broken skin tissues and delay the formation of crow’s-feet, fine lines and sagging skin that usually happens with age.

• Gently rub a few drops of pure extra virgin coconut oil on the skin around your eyes each night before going to sleep.
• Also try to use coconut oil for cooking to enjoy its beauty benefits.

7. Avocado
Avocado has strong antibacterial and antioxidant properties and is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids that are excellent for revitalizing dry and dull skin. Also, the high vitamin D and E content in avocado helpsstimulate the production of collagen, which in turn reduces the appearance of crow’s-feet.

• Mash the pulp of one ripe avocado and apply it on your crow’s-feet. Leave it on for 20 minutes and then wash it off with warm water. Do this once daily to keep your skin moisturized and wrinkle free.
• Mix the pulp of a ripe avocado and three teaspoons of sweet almond oil. Spread the mixture thoroughly around your eyes. Leave it on for about 20 minutes before washing it off with warm water. Do this once daily to see positive results.

8. Castor
Oil Castor oil is a natural emollient that can make your skin super soft and reduce the appearance of crow’s-feet, wrinkles and fine lines.

• Before going to bed, apply a few drops of castor oil onto your crow’s-feet and massage it gently into the skin. Leave it on overnight. In the morning, wash it off. Do this daily.
• You can also blend one tablespoon each of castor oil and sesame oil and put it on your crow’s-feet before going to bed at night. Do this daily.

9. Cucumbers
Cucumbers have thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamins B5 and B6, and more that help nourish the skin. It also has soothing properties that can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles around eyes.

• Grate a cucumber and apply its juice around your eyes. Leave it on for 10 minutes and then rinse it off with cold water. Repeat the process two or three times a day for several weeks.
• Alternatively, you can cut a cucumber into thick slices and rub them around your eyes gently for a few minutes twice daily.

10. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is rich in citric acid that acts as a strong exfoliant and helps get rid of crow’s-feet. Also, its excellent astringent properties can make your skin smooth and help fade blemishes.

• Gently rub a little bit of freshly squeezed lemon juice into your crow’s-feet. Leave it on for five or 10 minutes and then rinse your face with cold water. Do this two or three times a day.
• Mix one teaspoon of lemon juice and one tablespoon of orange juice. Apply the mixture to your crow’s-feet and leave it on for 10 minutes. Then wash it off with warm water. Do this once daily.

In addition to these remedies, be sure to wear a high SPF sunscreen daily, don’t smoke, drink plenty of water, and follow a healthy diet to reduce the appearance of crow’s-feet.

Get the very BEST in skin care, nutritional supplements, and other herbal health products. Get yours by clicking here

How to Beat Menopause Symptoms

10 Ways to Beat Menopause Symptoms

Menopause is defined as the natural cessation of menstrual cycles and fertility in women. It is a biological process that occurs in every woman. It is a natural life change, not a disease or a disorder.

After reaching a certain age, a woman’s ovaries stop making eggs and there is less production of hormones like estrogen and progesterone that regulate menstruation and fertility. Gradually, menstrual cycles become irregular and eventually stop. Menopause is confirmed when a woman has no period for 12 consecutive months.

This process normally happens between ages 45 and 55, according to the National Institute on Aging. The average age is 51, but some women can even enter menopause before age 40.

At times, menopause can be triggered by medical procedures, such as a hysterectomy, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, or primary ovarian insufficiency condition.

While going through menopause, fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone can cause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, tired feet, insomnia, depression, vaginal dryness, bladder problems, thinning hair, dry skin, breast pain, mood swings and memory problems.

Most women do not need treatment for menopausal symptoms because they go away by themselves. However, if you are bothered by the symptoms, there are many natural ways to deal with them.

Here are the top 10 ways to beat menopause symptoms.

1. Flaxseed
Ground flaxseed is considered a good remedy for menopause symptoms like hot flashes. Flaxseed has omega-3 fatty acids and lignans, which act as phytoestrogens.

According to a 2007 study reported in the Journal of the Society for Integrative Oncology, flaxseed can reduce hot flashes by 50 percent in menopausal women. It helps improve the estrogen levels in the body, in turn reducing the intensity of hot flashes as well as vaginal dryness.

• Take one tablespoon of ground flaxseed two or three times daily with lots of water.
• You can also sprinkle ground flaxseed on soups, salads or smoothies.

Note: Avoid whole flaxseed because it is difficult to digest.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a popular folk remedy to beat menopause symptoms. Raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar is effective in reducing the incidence and intensity of hot flashes and night sweats, two of the most common symptoms of menopause.

1. Mix one to two tablespoons of unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a glass of water.
2. Drink this tonic in the morning to help remove toxins and regulate hormones.

3. Soy
Soy products have also been found to be very effective in treating many menopause symptoms. The isoflavones in soy products help balance hormone levels and have some estrogenic activity.

A comprehensive study by researchers at the Bowman Gray School of Medicine in North Carolina found that women who took a phytoestrogen-rich soy supplement reported a significant decrease in the severity of their hot flashes.

• Try to drink two glasses of soy milk daily.
• You can also have a few slices of soy linseed bread daily.
• Also include more soy products in your diet.

4. Vitamin E

Clinical studies have shown that vitamin E acts as a substitute for estrogen, in turn helping to regulate and control hot flashes. It is also known for helping reduce vaginal dryness and heart palpitations.

• Topical application of vitamin E oil to the vagina will help improve lubrication.
• A daily dose of 600 IUs of natural vitamin E is recommended to reduce hot flashes. Take one 200 IU capsule with every meal, for a total of three per day.

5. Black Cohosh
For hot flashes and night sweats, black cohosh is an age-old remedy. In a pilot study of 704 women, 49 percent of those given black cohosh extract experienced complete relief of menopausal symptoms within a few days.

The reason is that black cohosh acts as a phytoestrogen. It also contains a small amount of salicylic acid that has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving qualities. Black cohosh also helps ease feelings of depression.

You can take black cohosh in many forms: capsules, tablets or mixed with water. Always talk to your doctor about how to take it safely.

Note: Women with liver disease should not take black cohosh.

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6. Chasteberry

Another popular folk remedy for menopause symptoms is chasteberry. This herb helps balance hormones by nourishing and supporting the endocrine system. This in turn helps control symptoms like hot flashes, sweating, vaginal dryness and even mild depression.

• Mix one teaspoon of minced chasteberry herb in one cup of hot water. Cover and steep for 15 minutes. Strain and drink it. You can have up to three cups daily.
• You can opt instead to take 400 to 500 mg of standardized extract (containing 0.5% agnuside) or 40 drops of a tincture added to a glass of water once daily for at least three months. However, it is best to consult an herbalist before taking chasteberry.

7. Cinnamon

Cinnamon has been used by Chinese herbalists to reduce anxiety, mood swings and depression. Cinnamon also supports the uterine muscle fiber making it highly beneficial for menopausal women.

• Include cinnamon in your diet by adding it to your herbal teas, stews, smoothies, baked goods and other foods.
• To get rid of rough and tired feet that occur during menopause due to changes in hormone levels, add two tablespoons of cinnamon to a small bucket filled with warm water. Soak your feet in this water for 15 minutes. Do it on regular basis as needed.

8. Acupuncture
Acupuncture, an ancient healing art that focuses on rebalancing the body, is also believed to bring relief from some of the symptoms of menopause, especially hot flashes and anxiety.

A study done at Stanford University School of Medicine found the severity of hot flashes is decreased in women who opt for acupuncture treatment. Another study done at the University of Pittsburgh found that acupuncture showed a decrease in hot flashes, improvement in sleep disturbances and improvement in mood changes.

If you are interested in acupuncture treatment, get it done by a physician who is trained in acupuncture. Treatment duration will vary from one person to another. Read Easy, Natural Ways to Stop Hot Flashes Ebook, get yours by clicking here

9. Yoga
Symptoms like mood swings, sleep disruption, night sweats and hot flashes can be reduced to a great extent by practicing yoga.

Multiple studies have shown that yoga helps one experience these symptoms with ease and comfort as well as makes the body strong to bear with the changes it goes through during menopause.

Some of the common yoga practices that can help reduce menopause symptoms are postures (asana), controlled breathing (pranayama) and meditation (dhyana).

Take a gentle yoga class once or twice a week to derive the most benefits. If yoga is new for you, it’s best to take a class to learn how to perform the postures and proper breathing techniques.

10. Exercise
Regular exercise will not reduce menopause symptoms, but it can help relieve stress, improve mood, prevent cognitive decline and improve the quality of life for many women during this challenging time. Also, exercise can alleviate some of the sleep problems that many menopausal women experience. Experts recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate activity per day, most days of the week. Aim to get at least two and one-half hours of moderate-intensity aerobic activity in a week, and do muscle-strengthening exercises two days a week. Other deep breathing, stretching and pelvic floor exercises are also recommended.

Additional Tips

• Try to notice what triggers your hot flashes and avoid those things.
• To reduce hot flashes and night sweats, drink a glass of cold water.
• Take vitamin B supplements after consulting your doctor.
• Try to expose your body to early morning sunshine for at least 15 minutes to get vitamin D.
• If you’re overweight, try to lose weight.
• Avoid large meals right before bedtime.
• Try drinking something warm before bedtime, such as caffeine-free tea or warm milk.
• Get enough sleep to help you feel your best.
• Decrease vaginal discomfort by using water-based vaginal lubricants or moisturizers.
• Stay sexually active to help increase blood flow to the vagina.
• Cut back on coffee and alcoholic drinks.
• Don’t smoke as it will aggravate your symptoms.

With these tips and suggestions, many of the signs and symptoms associated with menopause will go away naturally and help you to lead a healthy life.

Get the very BEST in skin care, nutritional supplements, and other herbal health products. Get more info here

Resources:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17761129
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3122509
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3296386
http://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282%2806%2901005-3/abstract https://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/black-cohosh

How to Balance Hormone Levels Naturally

10 Ways to Balance Hormone Levels Naturally

Hormones play an important role in our health as they affect many of the body’s processes. More often than not, hormonal imbalances are caused by changes in estrogen and are more common in females than males. Hormonal changes typically occur during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and menopause.

In addition, factors like advancing age, poor diet, too much or too little exercise, adrenal exhaustion and stress, lack of sleep, birth control pills, toxins and chemicals like pesticides contribute to hormonal imbalance.

Some common symptoms of this problem include anxiety, irritability, mood swings, insomnia, fatigue, weight problems, excess hair growth or hair loss, migraines, low sex drive, oily or dry skin, acne, food cravings, premenstrual syndrome, infertility and others.

As hormones impact metabolic functions, paying attention to sensations like your hunger, energy and cravings can give you a faint clue as to whether your hormones are in balance.

You can use natural home remedies and herbs to alleviate symptoms and even help restore your hormonal balance. It’s also important to consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ask for your doctor’s advice before taking any herbal remedy or starting a supplement regimen, especially if you have a hormone-sensitive condition, such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, breast cancer, uterine cancer or ovarian cancer.

Here are the top 10 home remedies for hormonal imbalance.

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in producing hormones, hence they are highly beneficial in balancing them. They are particularly beneficial for women as they help reduce menstrual cramps and menopausal symptoms. Due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, omega-3 fats also have a profound effect on your health.

• Some good sources of omega-3 fatty acids are oily fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, soy beans, tofu, winter squash and olive oil. So, load up on these foods to treat your hormonal imbalance naturally.
• You can also take omega-3 supplements after consulting your doctor. The general dosage is 500 mg per day.

2. Maca Root
Maca root is an endocrine adaptogen that boosts normal hormone production. It also helps reverse hypothyroidism, increase fertility and is beneficial for libido. Being a good source of calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, iodine, phosphorus, zinc, essential fatty acids, protein, fiber and sterols, it is good for your overall health and improves energy and vitality.

1. Mix ¼ teaspoon of maca root powder in a cup of water, juice, herbal tea, smoothie or yogurt.
2. Consume it daily, gradually increasing the amount of maca root up to 1 or 2 teaspoons over a few weeks.
3. Continue at least for a few months.

3. Chasteberry
Chasteberry, also called vitex, is a great hormonal tonic for women and mimics the calming effect of progesterone. It stimulates the pituitary gland, thus regulating the balance of estrogen and progesterone.

Chasteberry is considered excellent for reducing premenstrual syndrome and treating other menstrual problems. It also regulates ovulation and promotes fertility. The natural anti-androgen can also lower testosterone levels and protect against prostate cancer.

Take a 400 to 500 mg powder capsule daily for at least for a few months or until you are satisfied with the results. You can also take this herb in ticture form. Consult your doctor for proper dosage.

Note: Chasteberry may increase menstrual flow in some women. Do not take this herb during pregnancy, or when taking dopamine-related medications or hormone replacements.

4. Vitamin D
Vitamin D affects your pituitary gland, which produces a range of hormones. It can help relieve symptoms associated with low estrogen levels. It also affects your weight and appetite. A deficiency of this vitamin can lead to an abnormal release of parathyroid hormone.

• A few minutes of sun exposure daily can be of great help for the body for making vitamin D to sustain your hormones.
• You can also eat foods like oily fish, cod liver oil, milk and eggs that are rich in vitamin D.
• Another option is to take vitamin D supplements. For proper dosage, consult your doctor.

5. Exercise
Engaging in physical activity is a great way to balance your hormones as it affects hormone production. It also lowers cortisol levels. Cortisol is a stress hormone that blocks estrogen and is detrimental to your overall health.

Regular exercise triggers the release of brain chemicals that improve your mood. This is helpful as hormonal imbalances often cause mood swings. Needless to say, it will also help you maintain a healthy weight. Avoid workouts longer than 40 minutes though, as they may increase your cortisol levels.

• Go swimming, walking, jogging or do other light exercises for 20 to 30 minutes daily or at least a few times a week.
• You can also try yoga and relaxation exercises to stimulate hormone functions and reduce stress.

6. Coconut Oil
Extra-virgin coconut oil is another effective natural home remedy for balancing hormones. It is particularly useful for those suffering from hypothyroidism as its medium-chain fatty acids promote healthy thyroid functioning.

Coconut oil also helps stabilize blood sugar levels, boost immunity, speed up your metabolism and promote weight loss. Contrary to the popular misconception, it is not bad for your heart. In fact, it may protect against heart disease.

Eat 2 to 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin coconut oil daily for at least a few months. It can be used very well in cooking as it does not produce harmful chemicals on heating due to its high smoke point.

7. Fenugreek
Fenugreek seeds contain a phytoestrogen called diosgenin that is believed to have an estrogenic effect. Herbalists often recommend this herb for increasing lactation and natural breast enlargement.

It also helps improve glucose metabolism, thus proving useful for diabetics to lower blood sugar and glucose metabolic disorder associated with obesity.

• Steep 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in a cup of hot water for about 15 minutes. Strain and drink this tea 2 or 3 times a day. You can also add some honey and lemon juice for taste.
• Another option is to take this herb in supplement form. For proper dosage, consult your doctor.

If fenugreek does not suit you, consider taking fennel in the same way.

8. Holy Basil
Holy basil is another excellent remedy for balancing hormones as it works as a natural adaptogen. It helps lower and stabilize cortisol levels; high levels of cortisol adversely affect the thyroid gland, ovaries and pancreas. Plus, holy basil improves mental clarity and elevates mood.

• Simply eat a few holy basil leaves daily for at least a few months.
• You can also drink basil tea prepared by boiling a few holy basil leaves in a cup of water for a few minutes. Strain and drink this tea daily, up to 3 cups.
• Another option is to take this herb in supplement form, 250 to 500 mg on a daily basis. Consult your doctor first.

9. Asian Ginseng
Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng), also known as Korean red ginseng, helps regulate the adrenal gland that produces stress hormones. It acts as an adaptogen to keep a proper hormonal balance in your body.

Studies suggest that this herb may also be useful in relieving some of the symptoms of menopause. It can help increase sperm production and motility as well.

This herb should be taken in cycles. So, take 200 to 400 mg of Asian ginseng extract (standardized to contain at least 4 percent ginsenosides) daily for 2 to 3 weeks, take a break for 3 weeks and resume again. Continue for up to 3 months.

Note: This herb may interact with certain medications, increase the effects of stimulants and lower blood sugar. Consult your doctor before taking it.

10. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a popular Ayurvedic herb that helps increase your energy and reduce stress and fatigue.

Also, it helps restore your body’s hormonal balance as it acts as an adaptogen and reduces cortisol. It increases the production of DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), testosterone and androgens. Plus, it helps improve thyroid function.

Take 300 mg of ashwagandha twice daily for a few months. Consult your doctor first.

Additional Tips

• Eat healthy fats like those present in avocados and raw butter.
• Choose organic foods over non-organic.
• Include fiber and phytonutrient-rich foods like cabbage, kale, broccoli and Brussels sprouts in your diet. Phytonutrients enhance the detoxification capacity of the liver, thus flushing out toxins from the body.
• When dealing with menopausal symptoms, eat fermented soy products. Soy, however, is not good for those suffering from underactive thyroid.
• Eliminate refined carbohydrates from your diet by avoiding processed and packaged foods.
• Limit your caffeine intake as it increases cortisol levels that slow down your thyroid function.
• Manage your stress and get proper sleep.
• Steer clear of synthetic hormones, such as birth control pills.
• Reduce exposure to environmental toxins, especially by limiting the use of plastic.

Resources:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15385858
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3614604/