The Miraculous Health Benefits of Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is perhaps the most genuine and versatile cure-all plant there is, offering a plethora of health benefits - the word 'vera' after all, does mean true or genuine. In the past, it was considered to be the plant of immortality by the Egyptians, and has been used since time immemorial for its soothing and curing properties.

The Aloe vera plant is luscious with thick, fleshy stems and spiny leaves. The plant's miraculous benefits are located within the stems, which contain aloe juice and gel - a substance that is used in numerous medicinal, cosmetic, and health treatments.

Aloe vera juice can be bought (preferably organic, and pure) from a health shop or a well-stocked supermarket. Alternatively, if you've got a couple of plants at home, you can just as easily make your own juice. Making Aloe Vera Juice Cut and open a few stems of the plant from the middle section. Opt for the outer stems as they are the most mature, and have the highest concentration of antioxidants. Upon squeezing the stem, aloe gel will ooze out. Store it in a bowl, then put the gel in a blender and add 1 cup of water.To get pure aloe vera juice, blend the ingredients  and consume within 3-4 days, before it loses its antioxidants. What Makes Aloe Vera so Nutritious? Aloe vera (both juice and gel) is packed with antioxidants and antibiotics and works as stimulators of cell growth. It also has scar and pain inhibitor properties. The entire leaf is at times used to treat ulcerative colitis, metastatic cancer, infectious disease and chemotherapy treatment. The plant is also rich in the following vitamins and minerals, making it a highly nutritious ingredient. Calcium Sodium Iron Potassium Manganese Zinc Folic Acid Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, E Amino Acids 15 Health Benefits of Aloe Vera Aloe juice can be consumed internally, or applied on the skin and hair. It is also a general health tonic that you can consume every morning to reap all of its benefits.   1. Use it to cure bowel problems Due to its high anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera is just the thing to take if you suffer from bowel problems.It promotes good bacteria in the gut and keeps all digestive disorders at bay. 2. Use it to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis This auto-immune disease attacks the body tissues, especially the membranes lining the joints, causing inflammation and stiffness. Drinking aloe juice for two weeks however, can help reduce inflammation in the body. Aloe also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that help to reduce the pain and stiffness to a great extent. 3. Use it to treat acid reflux If you suffer from severe digestive problems, drinking aloe vera juice reduces the symptoms of acid reflux, and stabilizes the alkaline levels of the body. Aloe juice has a soothing effect on stomach walls and reduces heart burn and discomfort. It is also an ideal treatment for constipation, due to its laxative properties. 4. Use it to reduce cholesterol levels To keep your cholesterol levels in check, as well as increase levels of good cholesterol, include fresh aloe juice in your daily diet. 5. Use it to regulate blood sugar levels When consumed regularly, aloe vera helps to regulate blood sugar levels. On this note though, it is important to consult with your doctor, for the correct dosage. Often times, aloe can interfere with the medicines that you take to curb blood sugar. 6. Use it to relieve sinus and chest congestion If you tend to suffer from constant sinus problems, opt for aloe vera. It is rich in magnesium lactate that works as an antihistamine, which helps in reducing the problems of sinus and chest inflammation due to various allergies. 7. Use it to help fight cancer Aloe juice contains high levels of anti-carcinogenic properties that hinder the growth of tumors. 8. Use it to build immunity Consuming aloe juice on a regular basis, replenishes the amino acid deficiency in your body. Due to its high vitamin content, aloe boosts your body's immune system and self-defence mechanism. 9. Use it to fight the common cold and cough Aloe juice is the best natural solution for anyone who suffers regularly from colds, coughs, flu, stuffy nose, bronchitis and other respiratory disorders. Aloe contains a good dose of Vitamin C, which ensures protection from common colds that occur with environmental changes. 10. Use it to combat signs of ageing Aloe contains anti-ageing properties, keeping the skin supple and rejuvenated. It also lightens blemishes. The gel can be rubbed directly on your face. 11. Use it to remove dead cells and stretch marks Aloe vera moisturizes the skin, and helps to remove dead cells, wrinkles and fine lines. The juice may also be used to remove stretch marks. 12. Use it to heal wounds The blend may be used to heal cuts and wounds. It can also be used for dermatitis and insect bites when applied externally. 13. Use it to reduce eye irritation It's easy to create your own natural eye wash with aloe vera gel - just mix 2 teaspoons of aloe gel in a cup of water. You can also add a teaspoon of boric acid. It's also the perfect remedy to reduce reddening and irritation in the eyes. 14. Use it to maintain gum health Fresh aloe vera gel can be directly applied to the gums, reducing pain and inflammation. It can also be used to treat gum bleeding, caused by bacterial infection. 15. Use it to promote healthy weight loss If you'd like to lose weight naturally, try aloe vera - an easy and natural weight loss solution that reduces weight by stabilizing the metabolic rate, reducing the lipid levels, and helping burn fat. Posted by amdavadis4ever-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

10 Energizing Foods That Can Prevent Fatigue

There are times when we feel a bit sleepy, and low on energy, which could lead to fatigue. Fatigue is when you're constantly feeling weak and tired, either physically or mentally. Stress is one of the major leading causes of fatigue, whether it's long hours at the office, or simply having too much on your mind.

Your diet plays a crucial role in the way you think and feel. A healthy diet combined with exercise, and a good night's rest, can help fight the drowsiness, while boosting your overall energy levels. Avoid sugary products and keep your caffeine intake to a minimum, so you don't feel "the crash", which leads to severe bouts of lethargy.

Causes of Fatigue: 

Alcohol abuse

Caffeine

Excessive physical activity

Inactivity

Sleep depravation

Medications (antihistamines, cough, and cold remedies)

Poor eating habits

Symptoms of Fatigue

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Stress

Diarrhea

Weight lose

Muscle weakness

Shortness of breath 

Chest pains

10 Home Remedies to Cure Fatigue:

1) Green Tea - Green tea contains many powerful antioxidant properties that can help reduce stress, tiredness, and even improve your memory. Green tea also acts as an appetite suppressor, which is ideal for people trying to lose weight. You can add some fresh squeezed lemon juice, a little ginger, and a teaspoon of honey for an effective cold remedy as well.

2) Watermelon - Everyone's favorite summertime treat is a great energy booster to combat drowsiness. Watermelons are high in electrolytes, which stave off dehydration. The high amounts of lycopene inside the watermelon helps promote a healthy cardiovascular system. 

3) Spinach - Spinach helps increase your metabolism, since it's loaded with vitamin C, vitamin B, magnesium, and iron. The high levels of iron found within the leafy green vegetable help the blood deliver oxygen quicker to the cells. Spinach can be added to salads, soups, stews, and even blended into a smoothie drink. There was a very good reason why Popeye ate his spinach! 

4) Bananas - Bananas are extremely high in potassium, which aids in converting the digested sugar into energy. Bananas contain a wide spectrum of essential vitamins and omega fatty acids that give you the needed energy to stay awake. They also prevent dehydration, which is a very common cause of fatigue. Sliced bananas go well with oatmeal or cold muesli.

5) Oatmeal - Oatmeal is the perfect breakfast to start your day off right! Oatmeal contains the good carbohydrates, which are stored in the body as glycogen. The high fiber content helps keep your blood sugar levels well-maintained throughout the day. You can add almost any chopped fruit to the oatmeal to enrich the flavor and nutrients. Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon inside for an amazing taste!

6) Yogurt - Yogurt contains the vitamin B12 and probiotics, which are used to kill bacteria, and improve digestion. Yogurts provide excellent s of energy, which help keep you awake and fully focused all day. Avoid sugary or processed yogurts, and go for the Greek yogurt instead. Greek yogurts have been strained from whey, making them much healthier to consume.

7) Walnuts - When it comes to healthy snacks, very few can compete with walnuts. Walnuts are rich s of omega-3 fatty acids, and very high in fiber as well. Walnuts are used to treat depression and increase mental focus. They can be added to salads, cereals, yogurts, or eaten naturally. 

8) Red Bell Peppers - Did you know that a cup of red bell peppers actually contains more vitamin C than an entire orange?!  Red bell peppers are loaded with that magical vitamin, which also prevents fatigue symptoms from occurring. You can bake them, roast them, grill them, or simply eat them raw. 

9) Beans - Beans contain so many vital health benefits that it would take pages to write about them! Beans are great s of protein, iron, and have an extremely high fiber content. You can choose from a wide assortment, which includes; black beans, kidney beans, soybeans, and red beans. Try to avoid the sugary baked beans, and choose one of the above-mentioned types instead. 

10) Pumpkin Seeds - If you're looking for a quick energy boosting snack, pumpkin seeds, are your answer! The seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B1, B2, B5, B6, and all the essential minerals your body needs to stay energized. A handful of pumpkin seeds can help keep fatigue away. 

NOTE: - MAKING CHANGES TO YOUR DIET MIGHT NOT HELP SEEK YOUR GP'S HELP.

Posted by: Elm Belle <elm2belle@gmail.com>