Home Remedies for Atherosclerosis

Some of the most important home remedies for Atherosclerosis include the use of avoiding meat, eating organic, garlic, onions, spinach, beans, yogurt, and salmon, in addition to behavioral changes like quitting smoking, drinking in moderation, and regularly exercising.

Atherosclerosis

Quite simply, atherosclerosis is the fancy name for clogged arteries. However, it is a bit more complicated than that if you want to truly understand the situation. When certain cells die, such as triglycerides or cholesterol, or become caught by inflamed tissue in the arteries and blood vessels, they begin to build up. White blood cells attack these areas in order to remedy the situation, but further add to the blockage and the gradually narrowing arteries. As arteries and blood vessels narrow, the heart must work harder to pump blood through, causing blood pressure to rise. This can be additionally stressful on the cardiovascular system, and if a blood clot of some kind flows through these clogged arteries and gets stuck, a heart attack or a stroke is experienced. Heart attacks take place in the heart, while strokes occur in the brain. Clots in other parts of the body are dangerous, and potentially deadly, but these are the two most critical and fatal areas of the body for this cellular build-up to occur.

Fortunately, there are ways of lowering triglyceride levels, reducing inflammation in the cardiovascular system, and eliminating that WBC build-up that causes the arteries to harden and narrow. This is why atherosclerosis is often called “hardening of the arteries”. Below, we will cover a number of the most effective and well-researched home remedies to prevent or reverse the effects of atherosclerosis. While some damage to the cardiovascular system is irreparable, atherosclerosis can be significantly reduced or “treated” through natural dietary and behavioral changes, rather than risky and expensive surgery. Let’s take a look at some of those natural approaches and home remedies for atherosclerosis.

Home Remedies for Atherosclerosis

Fish Oil: The high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids (also known as “good cholesterol” or HDL cholesterol), versus omega-6 fatty acids (also known as “bad cholesterol” or LDL cholesterol) found in fish oil make it very effective in rebalancing the cholesterol balance in the cardiovascular system and preventing a dangerous build-up of plaque in the blood vessels that can catch a blood clot and cause a stroke or heart attack. People think that fats are all bad, but in fact, certain fats are essential for our body to function properly.

Salmon: For a similar reason as above, salmon has one of the most favorable balances of HDL-LDL cholesterol in fish. Furthermore, salmon has a wide range of unique minerals that make it beneficial for many other aspects of health as well, including selenium, protein, phosphorous, potassium, choline, and pantothenic acid. Potassium, for example, is also a vasodilator, which means that it can reduce the strain on the cardiovascular system by relaxing the blood vessels, effectively lowering blood pressure and preventing coronary heart disease.

Avoid Meat: The title might be a bit unclear; I’m not trying to say that you have to be a vegetarian to reduce atherosclerosis, but the proteins, minerals, fiber, and nutrients found in fruits and vegetables are easier for the body to break down and process efficiently. Furthermore, they tend to have less dangerous fats that can increase triglyceride and bad cholesterol content in the body. Essentially, you have to undo some of the “bad” that you do with animal protein that you largely don’t need to worry about with vegetables.

Processed Foods: Cutting out processed food is a very effective way to reduce the effects and severity of atherosclerosis. Many processed foods contain hydrogenated fats, which can cause even more problems than dangerous saturated fats (opposed to monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial in the body.) For that reason, eating organic or natural, as opposed to those overly processed and frozen foods that you may find at normal grocery stores.

Garlic and Onions: When it comes to proven methods of reducing bad cholesterol levels effectively, the allium family is one of the best. The most common forms of this family are garlic and onions, which can be easily added to countless meals and dietary plans. Allicin is the active component in the allium family, and this particular organic compound has been proven in research studies to directly lower the levels of LDL cholesterol in the body. This has made garlic and onions some of the most popular recommendations for preventing atherosclerosis in those susceptible to cardiovascular issues.

Spinach and Nightshade Vegetables: This very special type of vegetables is one of the most respected and relied on groups when it comes to boosting heart health and reducing general atherosclerosis in the body. Firstly, spinach is able to lower blood pressure by inhibiting the angiotensin 1-converting enzyme, which effectively calms the body. Secondly, selenium, beta-carotene, and manganese can all help to reduce atherosclerosis in the body, and spinach is high in these nutrients. Finally, neoxanthin and violaxanthin are two anti-inflammatory compounds in spinach that can help to reduce inflammation in the blood vessels, which helps maintain their integrity.

Beans: The vast majority of beans contain high levels of potassium, but white beans are certainly the highest in that concentration. Although people think of bananas as the potassium-rich superfood, white beans contain far more, and are easy to incorporate in your diet as a source of essential minerals and protein. Potassium, as mentioned earlier, lowers blood pressure by dilating blood vessels and easing strain on the cardiovascular system.

Exercise: Regular exercise is essential to keep your heart healthy, because a sedentary lifestyle means a faster accumulation of fat deposits and triglycerides in your body. Also, by keeping your metabolism is good shape, you’re far more likely to burn fat more effectively, avoid obesity, and generally boost your overall health.

Quitting Smoking: Smoking has an astringent effect on your blood vessels, arteries, meaning that they harden and narrow faster, and you are at a much higher chance of suffering a heart attack or atherosclerosis-related issues if you smoke. Also, smoking makes you less likely to remain active, as it damages your lungs and oxygen capacity, which leads to a sedentary lifestyle (see remedy above…).

Drinking in Moderation: Research on alcohol consumption and its exact link to atherosclerosis is still ongoing and often contradictory; however, heavy drinking has been seen to be positively associated with atherosclerosis and heart disease. That being said, low levels of alcohol can actually be good for the heart, as it can reduce LDL cholesterol’s injurious actions. It’s a delicate balance, obviously. As always, everything in moderation.

A Final Word of Warning: Atherosclerosis can quickly result in life-threatening events like heart attacks and strokes. Although natural remedies are effective as preventative or early stage treatments, there are certain more serious cardiac conditions that will almost certainly require surgery. Be sure to regularly see a medical professional and talk to him or her about the current health of your heart before embarking on any serious strategies on your own.

Home Remedies for Demodectic Mange

Some of the most useful home remedies for demodectic mange include the use of hydrogen peroxide, borax, yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, fish oil, lemon peels, Aloe Vera, neem oil, soap and water, and certain preventative practices, such as regularly cleaning your dog’s bedding.

Mange

Although the scientific name is demodicosis, demodectic mange (or red mange) is caused by an inability to properly handle a small mite that exists on almost all dogs fur, Demodex canis. In most healthy dogs, particularly those that are regularly sheltered, fed, and have a strong immune system, the number ofDemodex canis is kept under control and doesn’t bother dogs very much, save for some minor scratching or itchiness. However, if a dog is suffering from malnutrition, abuse, or a severely compromised immune system, those mites can begin to reproduce rapidly and start to wreak havoc on the canine’s fur. This can result in hair loss in small patches and mild irritation, but can be as serious as widespread hair loss, infections, and life-threatening complications. For our beloved pets, it can be difficult to see them going through so much pain without being able to help.

There are a number ofprescriptions medications and creams that you can get from veterinarians, but there is always the risk of side effects, not to mention cost. Fortunately, there are a number of home remedies for demodectic mange that are easy and effective! That being said, in cases of severe demodectic mange that could possibly be life-threatening for the animal, seeing a veterinarian is always recommended, just to be sure. Let’s take a closer look at some of these simple and effective home remedies for demodectic mange.

Home Remedies for Demodectic Mange

Aloe Vera: Due to the natural antiseptic and anti-parasitic nature of aloe vera, it makes for an ideal home remedy for mange. Spread Aloe vera, either in gel or tea form on the animal’s affected areas twice a day and start seeing results, as well as a much happier dog, within a few days!

Lemon/Garlic: This may seem like a strange combination, but if you soak 6-10 cloves of garlic with lemon peels in water overnight, the resulting liquid will be infused with a wide variety of beneficial organic compounds to stimulate healing and neutralize the parasites on your dog. It might smell a bit strange, but it will get the job done.

Apple Cider Vinegar: As with hundreds of other common medical conditions, the perennial cure-all of apple cider vinegar is also good for treating mange. Simply add a small amount (a few tablespoons) of apple cider vinegar to your dog’s normal meal and you’ll be amazed how quickly recovery begins.

Honey: Spreading honey on the affected area of your dogs fur is effective for two reasons; you effectively suffocate the parasites that are reproducing so rapidly, while also soothing the inflamed areas and stimulating more rapid healing, due to the rich stores of organic compounds found in organic honey.

Yogurt: One of the unfortunate side effects of mange is a crusty or discolored discharge from the ears of the dog, which is also itchy and uncomfortable. Theacidophilus bacteria found in yogurt can help to eliminate this symptom and relieve the discomfort for your dog.

Olive Oil: Applying olive oil or other cooking oils to the affected areas of the dogs skin can help to alleviate the inflammation and the waxy build-up on the skin due to mange, while also eliminating the parasites from the area.

Soap and Water: The old solutions are often the best, and the alkaline nature of most common soaps will keep the mange under control and reduce inflammation, while also killing the parasites responsible for the condition.

Hydrogen Peroxide and Borax: This is the most common home remedy for treating mange, but because dogs will become ill if they lick this mixture, despite its efficiency, many people choose an even more “natural” route. If you do use this hydrogen peroxide and borax solution to wash your dog (approx. once a week), don’t wipe your dog dry, as that will eliminate what you’ve just tried to do!

Bedding Cleaning: Although this isn’t a direct remedy for the dog, regularly cleaning your dog’s bedding, particularly after using these home remedies to eliminate the parasites, is highly recommended. If your dog has millions more mites in its bedding, then all of these topical solutions will be useless, as the mites will simply return.

A Final Word of Warning: Although these home remedies are highly effective, remember that this could develop into a life-threatening situation for your dog, especially if it becomes complicated by secondary infections. See a veterinarian, if possible, so that he or she can tell you whether home remedies will suffice for a healthy recovery.

Home Remedies for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Some of the most effective and trusted home remedies for polycystic ovary syndrome include the use of saw palmetto, fenugreek, salmon, flaxseed, spearmint tea, cinnamon, licorice, broccoli, apple cider vinegar, and spinach.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

This primarily genetic disorder affects only women and is also called hyperandrogenic anovulation. It is a disorder that affects the endocrine system, meaning that this disorder is hormonal in nature. In fact, the main characterization of polycystic ovary syndrome is anovulation, which means that a woman does not release an oocyte or experience a menstrual period. Also, someone suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome has high levels of androgenic hormones and also suffers from insulin resistance, which is a major cause of diabetes. Those three primary symptoms are not where this disorder ends, as they can each cause other secondary symptoms that are not only more visible and difficult to manage, but also dangerous in their own right. Anovulation results in irregular menstruation and can even cause infertility, while the hormonal imbalance causes acne and atypical growth of hair and body parts. Finally, insulin resistance can easily lead to Type 2 diabetes, in addition to weight gain and cardiovascular complications.

If a woman suffers from polycystic ovary syndrome, it does not mean the same thing as going through menopause; this is a hormonal disorder that can be treated, whereas menopause is a natural period of progression in a female life cycle. As with any disorder rather than disease, there is no formal treatment or “cure”, just various management techniques to keep the body healthy and reduce the impact of the disorder on daily life. There are a number of pharmaceutical approaches to treat the primary and secondary symptoms of the disorder, but many people choose alternative routes for treatment, knowing that natural remedies can be just as effective. The fact that some of the more serious effects of this disorder include endometrial cancer and diabetes, it is recommended to see a medical professional regarding polycystic ovary syndrome, but rest assured that you do have plenty of options for treatment. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best home remedies for polycystic ovary syndrome.

Home Remedies for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Saw Palmetto: One of the most unsightly or visible symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome is hirsutism, which is essentially the growth of hair in strange places on a woman’s body. This is caused by the high levels of testosterone and androgenic hormones that characterize the disorder. Saw palmetto is one of the most effective herbs at inhibiting testosterone from converting into a more active form that will stimulate hirsutism. Saw palmetto is also considered an anti-androgenic substance, so it can help to reduce a number of the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome and actually re-balance the endocrine system.

Fenugreek: Fenugreek has long been associated with themanagement of diabetes, which makes it ideal for treating polycystic ovary syndrome as well. By optimizing glucose metabolism in the body and ensuring that insulin receptors operate normally, it can protect someone suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome from developing Type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, by regulating glucose metabolism, it can help to prevent weight gain and overeating, as nutrients will be used in an effective and timely manner by the body.

Flaxseed: Flaxseed has two very important roles in the management of polycystic ovary syndrome. Firstly, flaxseeddecreases androgen levels in the body, which is essential for women who want to avoid hirsutism. Secondly, flaxseed stimulates the production of sex hormone binding globulin, which binds with testosterone in the bloodstream, thereby preventing it from impacting other parts of the body and creating some of the secondary symptoms in women that can make life so difficult with this disorder.

Salmon: The high levels of omega-3 fatty acids in salmon are the main reason why it made this home remedy list. Research has connected these essential fatty acids to a reduction in testosterone levels and a return to a normal menstruation cycle in women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome. Although this research is still ongoing, the fact remains that the omega-3s found in salmon and other oily fish are also great for heart health, as they eliminate much of the “bad cholesterol”. Considering that the insulin resistance of polycystic ovary syndrome also affects the heart, salmon and its omega-3s actually have two important roles in the treatment of this disorder.

Spinach: Spinach and other dark, leafy green vegetables are packed with unique nutrients, including vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium, all of which are directly linked to treating the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome. Calcium has been shown to improve menstrual regularity, magnesium improves insulin sensitivity, and vitamin D optimizes BMI, helping to prevent weight gain.

Broccoli: Although many people turn to insulin therapy to ensure that their blood sugar remains stable, one of the best natural ways to keep diabetic symptoms under control is with chromium. Broccoli has more chromium than any other food source, so pop that into your diet and ensure that your insulin and blood sugar levels are optimized to prevent the onset of diabetes as a side effect of polycystic ovary syndrome.

Cinnamon: Cinnamon may not seem like an obvious choice for a treatment, but in fact, cinnamon has been positively correlated with regular menstrual cycles and an increase in insulin sensitivity, making it a very valuable remedy that can be added to many different foods, or added to tea with honey for a delicious and beneficial beverage.

Licorice: Licorice attacks polycystic ovary syndrome from a number of different directions. Research has shown that one of the active ingredients in licorice inhibits a key enzyme necessary for testosterone production. Furthermore, licorice root can help to stimulate menstruation and it detoxifies the liver, which is closely connected to hormonal imbalance.

Spearmint Tea: Spearmint tea is directly linked to the treatment of hirsutism, as research studies have shown that spearmint’s active ingredients can reduce total testosterone levels, and inhibit follicle-stimulating hormone, thereby helping to keep hair where it belongs on a woman’s body!

Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple Cider Vinegar seems to be helpful for pretty much everything, but in terms of polycystic ovary syndrome, it can help reduce the insulin resistance and get your blood sugar behavior back to normal. Apple Cider Vinegar is actually used to naturally treat diabetes all over the world, so it makes sense that it would be an effective remedy for those dangerous insulin symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome.

A Final Word of Warning: Although most of the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome are merely irritating or embarrassing, rather than life-threatening, the increased chance of infertility and endometrial cancer is very serious. While many of these home remedies will effectively clear up primary and secondary symptoms, it is still highly recommended to see a medical professional if you believe that you’re suffering from a hormonal imbalance, as any endocrine disorder can be much more complicated than it initially appears.

Home Remedies for Gastroenteritis

Some of the most effective home remedies for gastroenteritis include the use of carbonated beverages, simple carbohydrates, fluids, zinc, yogurt, ginger, chamomile tea, mint, rice water, cinnamon, and turmeric.

Gastroenteritis

You have likely experienced gastroenteritis at one point in your life or another, even if you don’t realize. Gastroenteritis is actually the formal medical term for stomach flu, also known as gastric flu or stomach virus.  Gastroenteritis is caused by a bacterial infection, commonly rotavirus in children, and norovirus in adults. The condition is most commonly characterized by extreme nausea, cramping, and stomach pain, further manifesting in vomiting, diarrhea, or both. This decidedly unpleasant sickness usually doesn’t last more than 3-4 days before your body can eliminate the viral or bacterial infection, but it can also last longer, making life quite miserable. While most people immediately turn to antiemetics (stop vomiting) or antibiotics to rid themselves of the infection, this can weaken the immune system to future attacks, which is likely to occur, as the stomach flu is very common and spreads easily.

However, there is strong evidence to suggest that natural remedies are actually the wisest approach to treating gastroenteritis. Some of the symptoms of stomach flu are only made worse becausepeople rely solely on medication, when far more should be done for a happy and healthy recovery. In fact, this reliance on a simple medicinal fix could make the symptoms last even longer, whereas natural remedies and behavioral strategies can have you back on your feet and your stomach back to normal in no time. The home remedies outlined in more detail below are some of the most trusted and effective home remedies for gastroenteritis.

Home Remedies for Gastroenteritis

Carbonated Beverages: Although sugar-rich juices and carbonated sodas aren’t a good idea for treating the stomach flu, and can in fact cause stomach upset, carbonated beverages like sparkling water, soda water, or ginger ale are wonderful options to settle those upset stomachs and soothe your nausea. The exact mechanism of carbonated beverages isn’t entirely understood, although ginger and water are two other important stomach flu remedies, so it’s a double dose of goodness for your gastrointestinal system.

Simple Carbohydrates: When your stomach is under attack from one of these bacterial or viral causes of gastroenteritis, you don’t want it to have to work too hard to digest food and the crucial nutrients you need. That is the reason that so many people stop eating when they are sick with gastroenteritis, as it seems that everything they eat comes right back up. However, by eating simple carbohydrates like toast, crackers, cereal, potatoes, and basic fruits and vegetables, you can likely get those nutrients digested and be on the road to recovery much quicker.

Yogurt: One of the most important tools in the battle against gastroenteritis is already in your body, but excessive vomiting and diarrhea can compromise that defensive line. Beneficial bacteria in the gut helps to digest food and protect your gastrointestinal system from infections, but that bacteria is often lost through violent vomiting and diarrhea. Probiotics can be found in high concentrations in yogurt, and this can not only soothe your stomach, but also promote the regrowth and protective capacity of the beneficial bacteria in your gut to speed up the healing process.

Dietary Restrictions: Many people want “comfort food” when they are ill, but if those foods happen to take the form of spicy food, caffeine, dairy products, or high-fat foods, the end result isn’t going to be pretty, and you’ll end up being far more uncomfortable in the long run. Stick to simple foods and cut out anything that is typically difficult to digest.

Chamomile Tea: As one of the oldest and most trusted remedies for an upset stomach, chamomile tea is also ideal for treating gastroenteritis. The strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile tea can help to settle the stomach and eliminate nausea and vomiting, in addition to boosting the immune system to combat whatever the cause of your stomach flu happens to be.

Ginger: This ancient cure-all is also quite useful in the area of gastroenteritis. The active components within ginger are powerful and versatile, including its ability to soothe the stomach and protect the inner lining of your stomach from dangerous bacteria. Chewing on ginger has also been known to eliminate nausea, although brewing ginger tea is probably the most common application of ginger for the stomach flu.

Fluids: One of the biggest dangers of gastroenteritis is dehydration. To put it bluntly, when you are vomiting and experiencing diarrhea, your body is rapidly losing its fluids, making you feel worse and slowing down every process of your body, including your immune system and compromising your digestive tract. You must replenish those fluids in your body before you will begin to feel better, so drink as much water as possible to keep hydrated.

Mint: The powerful organic compounds in mint have long been praised for their cooling, soothing, and anti-inflammatory effects. Chewing on mint leaves for gastroenteritis and related stomach issues has been in practice for thousands of years. Brewing fresh mint tea is also an effective remedy against vomiting, as it can reduce that inflammation in your gut.

Cinnamon: One of the less “scientific” remedies for gastroenteritis is the consumption of cinnamon and honey tea, which has been a home remedy for centuries. The exact pathway of how this helps gastroenteritis is unknown, but honey and cinnamon both have powerful organic compounds that promote immunity and reduce inflammation.

Turmeric: This popular spice is known and consumed all over the world and is often considered one of the most versatile and effective herbal remedies for a wide range of health conditions. The complex mixture of antioxidants, bioflavonoids, vitamins, and minerals found in turmeric make it a wonderful tonic for an upset body, particularly if you’re suffering from gastroenteritis.

A Final Word of Warning: Again, many of these natural remedies relieve the symptoms of stomach flu and help get your own immune system and digestive system back to normal. In addition to rest and hydration, these can be effective complements to antibiotics or other medicinal approaches, but these behavioral and dietary remedies are also essential to get the body back to 100%.