Sunday, June 12, 2011

How turmeric was used in ancient herbal remedies

Turmeric has a long standing history in the ancient herbal remedies in India. It is a variety of spices and is grown in large amounts in southern India. Ancient Tamil culture had well understood the benefits of turmeric. Ancient Tamil people were using it for a wide range of purposes.

The first and foremost purpose as described in ancient Tamil scripts introduces turmeric as a natural hair remover. This is the reason why the Tamil women frequently applied a paste of turmeric over their body before having a bath. Not only does it act as a natural hair remover but also as skin whitener. The dark skinned women in the Dravidian land seem to have a liking toward fair skin and regularly used turmeric as cosmetics.

While Dravidian women found their remedy for hair removal in turmeric, the physicians were discovering the amazing features of the wonder herb. The ancient Tamil scripts reveal that the physicians used turmeric as anti-inflammatory stuff. The history also reveals the ability of turmeric in curing certain cancerous tumors. It seems the early physicians prescribed turmeric for Alzheimer’s disease.

The modern kitchen has also found various uses for turmeric. It is an important ingredient in the spicy non-veg food. Today ayurvedic medical shops spread across the globe sell turmeric in edible forms.

There are also a few restrictions for the use of the wonder spice. It is recommended that people suffering from gallstones or bile obstructions avoid using turmeric. Although the reason isn’t clear the use of turmeric by pregnant women is also under controversy.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Secrets of Cosmetic Dermatology

Most people are significantly concerned about their physical appearances. In their attempt to have smoother skins, they look for solutions on how to remove hair unwanted in some parts of their bodies. Hair care tips are also popular searches. More women search for other beauty secrets to keep them looking younger. Because of the advancement in technology, many people can now defy their age depending on the amount of time and money they are willing to invest. Because of the natural instinct of man to be beautiful, cosmetic dermatology is now gaining a huge market.

Cosmetic Dermatology

Cosmetic Dermatology is a subspecialty of Dermatology. Its main focus is in the enhancement of the physical appearance of individuals. Like other fields of science, a cosmetic dermatologist must be a licensed practitioner. She/he has to finish the regular medical education and further specialize in cosmetic dermatology. In order to practice the profession, she/he must obtain a valid certification from the Board of Cosmetic Dermatology.

Technology

Because of the rapid advancement in technology, many people can now enjoy the painless procedures that were once thought impossible. For as long as you have a generous budget, you can have the perfect body and skin that everyone is dreaming of. Today, more and more developments are seen in the field of Cosmetic Dermatology. It will no longer be a surprise if you will find people who look younger and younger despite their actual age. Here are the possible services that you can avail from your cosmetic dermatologists.

  • Botox

People fear bacteria because of their deadly effects. They release toxins that are fatal to human beings. However, modern science found ways to make the scary products into a useful substance. Botox is a good example of this discovery. It uses the toxin from bacteria and injects it into the skin. The small injection is an effective treatment for deep frown lines found in between the eyes and in the forehead.

  • Procedure

The procedure for Botox treatment is very short. The doctor injects small doses of the Botulinum toxin in the muscles of the target area. The procedure uses fine needles, thus the pain is so mild that anyone can actually tolerate it. Doctors use topical anesthesia to reduce the patient’s discomfort. Right after the injection, you will feel slight numbness in the area due to the paralysis of the tiny muscles. Results are visible right after the treatment but wrinkle-free skin happens within five to seven days. Because Botox only lasts for three to six months, you need to repeat the procedure at regular intervals to maintain your younger looking skin.

  • Laser Hair Removal

The popularity of the laser hair removal makes it available in many institutions. The procedure involves the removal of hair unwanted in some parts of the body. Common treatment locations are the underarm, legs, upper lip, chin and bikini line. It is advisable for people who want relief from shaving and plucking as it is effectively slows down hair growth. However, it does not guarantee permanent results. It may take several sessions before you see the effects of the treatment and may require a repeat session after a while.

Procedure

Before the actual procedure, doctors ask the patients to avoid shaving, plucking and using other forms of hair removal. During the actual treatment, protective equipments are provided. A topical anesthesia is applied to reduce your discomfort. As the laser beams enter your follicle, you will feel stinging sensations. Redness and swelling are common scenarios after the first few hours of removal.

Risks

There are minimal risks for laser hair removals. Some of the most common includes skin irritation and pigmentation. If you are interested to undergo the procedure, you need to provide your doctor about your complete medical background. Pregnant women are not advised to undergo the treatment because of the risk associated with laser beams.

Hair Loss

Another procedure done by cosmetic dermatologist is the hair loss treatment. Because of the hair is the crowning glory, you need to follow the different hair care tips to ensure a healthy crown. However, some people are born to suffer baldness. If you share the same mishap, your doctor is the best person to go to. Here are the possible treatments they offer.

  • Drugs

Certain drugs are approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat alopecia or baldness. Some of the over the counter drugs include Minoxidil. It is liquid foam rubbed in the scalp two times a day to stimulate the growth of new hair. Other prescription drugs are Finasteride and some corticosteroids. To ensure your safety, consult your doctor before taking any of them.

  • Surgery

Hair transplant and scalp reduction are examples of surgical treatment for hair loss. Because of the high cost and risks associated with them, it serves only as the last option when the conservative methods fail.

  • Tattoo Removal

Tattoos are previously called as permanent imprints in the body. But with the technology nowadays, you can erase your unwanted tattoos using laser beams. If you want to undergo the procedure, you just have to consult a licensed dermatologist who offers the service.

Procedure

Laser targets the ink embedded in the skin. During the treatment, the beams break the ink into smaller and easily mobilized particles to facilitate its removal from the body. After a few weeks of laser treatments, the ink gradually decreases until it fades away. The numbers of treatments vary on the intensity of the color used and the density and depth of the ink. Certain colors easily respond to the treatment. Yellow and green are the most difficult colors to remove.

Procedure

At an average, it will take three to eight sessions before the tattoo is completely erased. During the procedure, you may experience some degree of discomforts. Although the treatment is safe, you need to avoid direct exposure to the sun to prevent side effects. Your doctor may also give you topical creams to avoid scarring.

These three procedures are only some of the services offered in many cosmetic dermatology clinics. If you think you do not have the means to undergo the aesthetic treatments, you can always start with the traditional home remedies for your problem. You can check the net for information on home hair care tips and other beauty regimens.

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Products made of cotton can do good

Ancient herbal cures are one of the most interesting subjects of the modern day research and we have been presenting you on various ancient herbal cures. In the future posts we will also provide you with growing herbal gardens or even about the services such as Dallas landscaping to provide you with an idea of how to keep your surroundings for a healthy wealthy life.

In this post we would like to present you a few facts about backpacks for toddlers. It has become the trend of the day for parents to provide their kids with backpacks. Not only are backpacks very convenient they also provide the kids with a cute look as they walk. One thing to note is it is always wise to go for 100% quilted cotton backpacks than their synthetic counterparts. When it comes to cotton quilted backpacks Stephen Joseph is the name that immediately comes to your mind. The well known brand is safe for your toddlers who may at times are allergic to the synthetic backpacks. Not only are they good for your children but also for your purse. These cute little bags come to you at an unbelievably low price that you would never like to miss the joy they offer you.

Apart from toddler backpack you can find a variety of high quality products that includes nap mats, lunch boxes or even personalized laundry bag that are available at incredible prices. While synthetic bags often cause allergies and other problems, products made of natural fiber such as cotton or jute can be the best ones especially for kids.

If you are interested in viewing these marvelous products from Stephen Joseph, do visit the websites and see to yourself how these cute products can save you a lot of money.

Monday, January 31, 2011

Music therapy

Introduction:

Music is a universal medium for communication and it can be a medicine too. Music plays a vital role in keeping people’s health. It is an important aspect in Ayurveda, the science which helps for healthy and peaceful life style. Indian culture is incomplete without music. Even the Vedas are filled with music. Music therapy has a great control over doshas like Kapha, Vata, Pitta, Indian classic musicians attempted this therapy for many years. Legend proves that music maestro of classical age; Thyagaraja brought back the life of a dead person with his music.

Bible also quotes an example that David played the harp to relax King Saul out of his severe depression.

Origin:

In United States of America music is used for therapeutic aspects from late 18th century, but before a very long time it was being as a healing medium. It is evident because it was mentioned in biblical scriptures and historical scriptures of ancient civilization like India, Egypt, China and Rome that says about the power of music.

In America Music therapy as a profession germinated during World War I and World War II. Veterans Administration Hospitals used music as an intervention for casualties. Veteran’s this activity focused in relieving pain perception. Many nurses and physicians viewed the effect of music. Only after that colleges are started to train musician for the use of therapy.

Almost all ancient tribes have had music therapy in the form of chants, drums and so on. To specify one or two, Native American had pagan druids and drums, Buddhist tradition used Ohm’s bells and gongs and explored the power of music.

In India Vedic science believed classical ‘Ragas’ have the power to heal, so music was taken as a kind of yoga, which has its effect on human organism and helps to develop their proper functioning of self – realization. Various ragas have various curing effect.

Miracles, the therapy can perform:

Pregnancy is a unique experience, whereas it is being as a source of stress for women. When stress hikes they have to depend on stress relieving measure. They are advised against taking too much of medicines because they may affect the unborn baby. In this case music gives them helping hand. It helps to bring the heart beat to acceptable level. A pregnant woman’s frequent listening of some of the religious songs, if played during delivery process that helps woman through her labor with reduced pain. If the labor is long and hard and the woman is flagging, in that case music performs a miracle. Moreover her often listened music gently passes through her body and the baby listen to it and this makes the baby smarter.

Music has the capacity to control people’s emotion. It is used as a device in mental health service, for brutally affected people and proved that it decreased patients depression and provide them relaxation, also it plays a notable role in subduing emotional imbalance. Recent research proves that music affects the portions of the brain and generates positive emotions and helps in regaining the motor skills. It controls negative side of the people’s personalities like angry, anxiety, worry, and tension. To our wonder it helps to cure headache and abdominal pain and controls tension.

This therapy is a gift to Diabetes because it reduces anxiety and promotes heart and vascular health. Serious pain is an unsolvable problem in diabetes, music is helpful to release hormone that gives pain. Diabetes requires self- management such as diet, regular exercise, constant checking of sugar level etc… It may create stress and anxiety in patient. So music acts as a stress reliever and presents the well being.

More over music is considered as mood modifier and helps in relieving pain during dental treatments.

Music therapy is helpful for children in many ways. It improves their communication problems, behavioral problem motivation and attention. Daniel Lavitin says that this development starts from the period when it is inside the womb. The fetus hears mother’s heart beat , environmental noises and conversations.

Ways to increase the effect of music therapy:

  • No single music can satisfy everybody. Taste differs from person to person. We should choose the music that appeal to us.
  • Take 20 minutes ‘Sound bath’ to get rid of your stress. Play some relaxing music and then lie in a comfortable position on the floor, or make yourself convenient and be near the speaker. To make it more effective headphones can be used, thus there will be no distraction.
  • It is advisable to choose slow rhythm, which is slower than the heart beat. Most people are benefited in music that is repeating or goes in cyclical pattern.
  • While the music is played involve yourself fully on it and focus on your breathing, let that deeper, slower and make it regular. You should concentrate even at the silence between notes.
  • After a day’s long works if you are in the want of refreshment then go for faster music.
  • When you feel boredom or unwilling at the music that is playing then go for your childhood favourites.
  • It is better to go for a walk with your favourite music played in walkman, also coincide your breathing with music’s ups and downs. It provides great relief from stress.
  • Concentrate on the sound of nature such as waves or the calmness of the forest. If the seashore is at your easy reach you can make your walking in the shore or at the calm forest to enjoy the natural songs of the birds. If reaching the natural place are tough use tapes of these sounds.

Conclusion:

This amusing, magical therapy is available at very little strain and expense. Let us make use of it to enjoy and promote our health if so we can celebrate each day our life with that we should not forget to celebrate the Music Therapy Day on 13th May of each year in India.