Diabetes has slowly become one of the most prevalent health condition affecting millions across the world, spanning different age groups. A lot of this has been a result of unhealthy lifestyles, faulty diets, lack of sufficient physical activities, and high levels of stress at home and work. Unless diabetes is kept under check through medications and natural home remedies, it will lead to an overall deterioration of your health. How can you prevent diabetes? Diabetes can be inherited or it can develop because of lifestyle changes. Whatever the cause, in this condition, the blood sugar levels become abnormally high. Since the condition is chronic, once you are affected by diabetes, you will be expected to take medications throughout your life. However, there are some home remedies which may be used for keeping blood sugar levels in check. Top home remedies that can help you keep your blood sugar levels low naturally: Regular exercise One of the most effective and easiest ways to maintain optimum blood glucose levels is to work out regularly. When you exercise daily, you lose weight and also improve insulin sensitivity. Exercise makes the muscles utilize blood sugar to generate energy. You must also monitor your body weight regularly, and engage in activities like walking, biking, running, dancing, swimming, and hiking to maintain blood sugar levels. Weight control Extra pounds can get in the way of you improving your overall health. Weight control keeps blood sugar levels in check. Incidentally, a 7% reduction in weight is capable of lowering the risk of getting diabetes by almost fifty-eight percent. Reduce your carb intake It is imperative to cut down on your carb intake. With excess carbohydrate intake, the blood sugar levels spike. To control this, you can count the portion of carbs in the meals you consume every day and plan them accordingly.

Lung cancer develops when there is an increase in cancerous cells in lung tissue. Research shows that the number of deaths caused by lung cancer increase every year. Once a person is diagnosed with lung cancer, they surely need medical assistance. It is, therefore, beneficial to follow a few home remedies to prevent the occurrence of lung cancer. Mostly, cancer is caused due to lifestyle choices, genetics, and faulty food habits. There are several reasons for the occurrence of lung cancer. Here are some of the most common ways to prevent it: Quit smoking: It is proven that nine out of ten people who smoke are affected by lung cancer. Smoking damages the lung tissues and covers it with tar, which results in the deficiency of oxygen. It leads to various infections in the lungs, which includes lung cancer. The probability of lung cancer can be reduced if you quit smoking. Beware of passive smoking: Unintentionally taking in cigarette smoke is called passive smoking. Breathing air filled with smoke from burnt cigarettes increases the risk of lung cancer. Though the intake of the smoked air is minimal, there are high chances of being affected by lung cancer, as the air is filled with traces of cancer-causing agents. Staying away from tobacco filled air is definitely a wise way to stay away from lung cancer. Staying away from dangerous gases: People working in industries that involve exposure to dangerous materials such as nickel, chromium, arsenic, and asbestos need to follow proper precautionary methods to prevent their intake. These dangerous materials are known to cause lung cancer. Intake of proper diet and physical activity: A proper, balanced diet with regular intake of fresh fruits and vegetables is an added advantage, and improves the chances of preventing cancer. Along with a proper diet, a regular exercise routine helps in increasing immunity, which in turn helps the body fight against cancerous cells or infections.

Arthritis is a condition of the bones characterized by inflammation which causes pain and stiffness. Many methods can be used to prevent the onset of arthritis, but the condition cannot be fully cured. Age is an important factor in the development of arthritis. Smoking, drinking, stress, and your family’s medical history are other risk factors. Here are some home remedies to prevent arthritis: Avocado and soybean mixture The mixture contains one-third avocado oil and two-thirds soybean oil. It helps slow down the progression of arthritis by blocking pro-inflammatory chemicals, regenerating connective tissues, and preventing the destruction of the synovial cells. It is recommended that you take a dose of 300mg every day. Black currant oil The oil is obtained from blackcurrant seeds and contains 20% GMA (Gamma-Linolenic Acid). It can be consumed either through a capsule or in a liquid form to help arthritis. You can consume 360-3600mg every day. Boswellia Boswellia, otherwise known as Indian Frankincense, is a gum resin obtained from the bark of the Boswellia tree. It reduces inflammation and is most effective for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Boswellia extracts possess strong anti-inflammatory and analgesic components. They strengthen cartilage and inhibit the process of autoimmunity. It is recommended that you take 300-400 mg thrice a day. Capsaicin It is a component found in chili peppers, which is why it is spicy. When applied as a gel or cream, capsaicin impairs the functions of nerve receptors in the surrounding region due to the stinging it causes. This, in turn, reduces pain. The recommended dosage is 0.025-0.075 percent concentrations in any cream. You can apply this cream thrice a day. Cat’s claw Cat’s claw is the bark of a woody vine. It reduces inflammation and improves the immune system’s response by inhibiting the production of Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF).

Living with a chronic condition isn’t easy; you’ll always have to be on guard against elements that trigger the condition and will have to lug your medications wherever you go. Asthma is one such chronic condition that, according to the CDC, affects approximately 25 million people in the country. Moreover, this condition is quite prevalent in children—1 child out of every 12 is diagnosed with asthma. Asthma is an inflammatory condition that affects the airways to the lungs and makes breathing difficult. This, in turn, makes performing any physical activity impossible. Mostly, people opt for medications to keep asthma under control and prevent an asthma attack. But there are others who rely on alternative treatment techniques to control asthma symptoms and keep the condition in check. Here are some effective home remedies to keep asthma under control. Acupuncture Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese treatment method that involves inserting thin needles into specific points in the body. In fact, this method has been used in western countries as well to improve the symptoms of asthma. Acupuncture improves lung function and is believed to modulate the immune system as well. Also, there is an increase in studies on the effect of acupuncture in treating respiratory conditions. Although some have yielded inconclusive results, some have reported that acupuncture can control the symptoms of asthma. Yoga One of the major triggers of asthma is stress, and one of the best ways to deal with stress is to practice yoga. The breathing exercises used in yoga can help people with asthma control breathing as well as relieve stress. There are certain yoga poses that can improve asthma symptoms as they open your throat and chest and facilitate easy breathing. The Bound Angle Pose, Bridge Pose, Bow Pose, and Cat Pose are some of the effective yoga poses that can help you deal with asthma symptoms.

Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is a skin condition that results in red and itchy skin. This skin condition is common in children, but it can occur at any age. Chronic eczema can flare periodically and can be accompanied by fever and asthma. It has a wide range of symptoms including dry, red, and itchy skin; small, raised bumps that leak fluid when scratched, and thickened and cracked skin. The symptoms usually appear before the age of 5 and can persist in adolescence and even adulthood. Apart from taking medications and treatments prescribed by dermatologists and doctors, there are home remedies that can be used to treat mild to moderate symptoms of eczema. Some of these are mentioned below: Bleach Bleach has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, which can help in improving eczema symptoms. It is known to kill S aureus, a type of bacteria that causes staph infection on the surface of the skin. It also helps in restoring microbiomes on the skin surface. Dermatologists recommend using half a cup of bleach in a tub full of water. You can soak yourself for up to 10 minutes, and then rinse it thoroughly with warm water. Gently pat the skin dry and apply moisturizer to avoid itchy skin. Aloe Vera gel The gel is derived from the leaves of the aloe plant. It has been in use for centuries to treat a number of ailments, one of which is eczema. Aloe Vera gel contains antibacterial, antimicrobial, wound-healing, and immune-boosting properties that can prevent skin infections. Aloe Vera gel can be purchased from a pharmacy or it can be extracted directly from the leaves of the aloe plant. Make sure to check the gel bought from the store as it can have drying ingredients and preservatives that can worsen the eczema symptoms. Coconut oil It contains healthy fatty acids that can lock the skin moisture and prevent it from getting dry.

Dogs are a man’s best friend, and you can feel really anxious if your dog starts having an allergic reaction that makes it uncomfortable. Some of the most common signs of dog allergies are itching, scratching, and chewing. What causes dog allergies? Skin allergies or allergic dermatitis are the most common type of allergies developed by dogs. The prime causes of dog allergies include: Bacterial infections Certain foods which trigger allergic reactions Exposure to various environmental allergens Dog allergies and their natural remedies If your dog is developing any allergic reaction, your vet should be the first person you should reach out to. Besides, there are various natural remedies available for some common dog allergies. These natural remedies are readily available at your home and can relieve your dog from various allergies. Below is a list of dog allergies and their natural remedies for your reference. These natural remedies are very helpful in the treatment of different dog allergies such as dry skin or stomach upset. Vitamin E oil Vitamin E oil is full of antioxidants. Antioxidants primarily fight aging. They work towards the prevention of free radical damage. Free radical damage is the main cause of ageing. Application of vitamin E oil can protect your dog from UV radiation. Thus, it ensures moisturization of their skin and helps in the prevention of conditions like dry skin. Electrolyte-replacing liquids for diarrhea Flavorless electrolyte-replacing liquids help dogs too. During diarrhea, like humans, dogs too lose liquids. In such cases, the electrolyte replacing proves to be helpful among helpful in keeping their liquid level intact. Yogurt Both plain and sweetened yogurt is very healthy for your dog. The probiotics in yogurt help your dog to retain the good bacteria and have a strong intestine. Oatmeal If your dog has developed any symptoms of itchy skin, chickenpox or any such conditions, an oatmeal bath can be very soothing.

Keeping your dogs safe from fleas and ticks can be an exhausting job. The constant scratching and biting can be tiring and unhealthy. Not only this, it can bring down the mood of your furry friend, affecting the whole household. Therefore, it is better to stay prepared in case of an unforeseen pest attack. This article talks about some effective and accessible natural remedies that will give you and your dogs some much-needed relief. Home remedies for fleas and ticks in dogs Natural oils Natural or essential oils must be diluted first, after which you can use them as a spray or a pre-bath rinse. Alternatively, you can dilute them with carrier oils and massage them into their coat. Whatever you do, make sure to get your vet’s approval beforehand. Garlic Garlic has various nutritional benefits apart from being an antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral agent. Don’t get too concerned about its strong odor. Add a small amount of crushed garlic to your pet’s food and watch this natural remedy work its magic. Vinegar Another natural remedy that is not only easily accessible but can double up as a flea and tick repellant for dogs is vinegar. You can dilute it with water and use it as a spray. Or, if your dog does not mind its taste, add very small amounts of it to their drinking water. Similarly, you can also make use of apple cider vinegar. While these are all commonly used natural remedies, some pet parents prefer trying medicated ointments or powders to help their dogs get rid of fleas and ticks. It is recommended to consult a vet to know the best course of action before proceeding. Medications for fleas and ticks in dogs FRONTLINE® Plus A powerful topical solution, it can beat ticks and fleas at all stages of their lifecycle.

Chronic constipation is caused when there are infrequent bowel movements on a usual basis. This condition makes it extremely difficult to pass stools for several days and can go one even for weeks. Constipation can be a condition on its own or can be a cause of a more severe disease. People experience constipation on few occasions and that is considered be normal. However, when constipation becomes chronic, it can disrupt one’s daily life and interfere with the ability to go about doing daily tasks. It also leads to discomfort due to extreme strain in order to have a bowel movement. There are several causes that may be responsible for chronic constipation. Not drinking enough water and follow a poor diet may be primary causes. However, there can be mechanical problems that lead to obstruction in the passing of stools. A blockage in the colon and rectum will hamper the smooth movement of stools and either slow down or stop the process altogether. The pelvic muscles that contribute to the movement of the bowels can be affected, causing chronic constipation. Diseases like diabetes and underactive thyroid or pregnancy in women too can lead to this condition due to an imbalance of hormones in the body. Chronic constipation brings with several complications such as: Anus fissure – If a stool cannot be easily passed, it can harden and tear the skin of the anus. Swollen anus veins – Chronic constipation leads to straining and forceful bowel movement. These stains can swell the veins that are present inside the anus and around it too. Hard stool accumulation – When stool is not naturally passed out, it begins to accumulate and harden. This hardened stool can get stuck in the intestine and cause severe complications. Rectal prolapse – A strained bowel movement can also affect the rectum.

Gout is a type of arthritis that is caused by the presence of excess uric acid in the body and extremely painful. The abnormal metabolism of uric acid results in the excess of it in the tissues of the body and blood. In case of an individual who suffers from gout, the body either produces too much of uric acid or the kidneys are unable to excrete it. Gout can be a primary condition or can be associated with other medical conditions. High levels of uric acid in the blood leads to the formation of urate crystals that get deposited in the joints. This causes excess inflammation and pain. Gout can affect anybody, irrespective of gender and age. However, men are more likely to suffer from this condition. Also, a large number of women are susceptible to gout after the period of menopause. Gout causes an attack that can be described as a string or severe burning. These gout attacks can occur at any time, however, they are more likely to spring-up in the middle of the night. During a gout flare, the skin looks red and there is severe swelling in the joint. The base of the big toe joint is the most common place for gout, followed by the ankle, knee, elbow, and wrist. The pain is in the joint can be so excruciating that the mere touch of the finger can send down a burning sensation. Gout comes with a few symptoms that begin with redness in the area and severe tenderness. A sudden attack can be the first sign and stop spontaneously after a while. The pain and swelling eventually disappear even without treatment but common returns after a few days in the same or another joint. As gout flares increase in frequency, the pain caused is much more severe and last longer.

Shingles or the red patchy marks on the skin characterized by an intense pain can bring extreme discomfort to anyone. Also known as Herpes Zoster, this is caused by the Varicella Zoster virus, which remains dormant in almost every human being. It is the same virus, which is responsible for causing chicken pox in kids also sometimes in adults. This is why the symptoms of these diseases are quite similar. If not cared for at the initial stage, shingles can cause unbearable itchiness as well as pain. Some patients also complain of light sensitivity, fever, fatigue, headache, and body pain. Irrespective of the symptoms, shingles remedies are available. While some patients prefer over-the-counter medicines, others opt for home remedies. Some of the useful home remedies for shingles are as follows: Apple cider vinegar – You are really lucky if you have this at home as it is one of the most effective and popular shingles remedies. Just dab some cotton in this astringent and put it in the affected region to relieve the pain. Ensure that the skin is not peeled up. While this reduces the pain, applying this liquid twice a day can help you get a complete cure from this skin infection. You can also mix apple cider vinegar with any juice or water and drink it every day to get cured from within. Make a paste of baking soda and cornstarch – Mix two parts of cornstarch or baking soda in a cup of water to form a paste. The quantity of the paste can be varied depending on the size of the affected area. Once you make the paste, apply it on the affected area at least twice a day and leave it for around 15 minutes before washing it with cold water. Honey – Many of you may not know that honey work wonders on the blisters caused by shingles.

Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is an unpleasant problem. It is caused by moisture, fungus, mold, and yeast. When moisture traps in warm and dark places, it allows the fungus to thrive. For example, a regular wearing of shoes causes fungus in the toenails. The nail fungus infection starts as a yellow or white spot at the tip of the nail. Gradually, the spot progresses and thickens and causes the nail to crumble/brittle. The nail color may change either turn dark or dull. In the worst case, nail separates from the nail bed resulting in onycholysis. Here are some of the best home remedies for nail fungus: Tea tree/orange oil: Tea tree oil has antibacterial and fungicidal and disinfectant properties. When the orange oil is mixed with tea tree oil, it gives wonderful results to treat fungus. Take one teaspoon of tea tree oil, half teaspoon of orange oil, and a half teaspoon of olive oil and mix them. After this, dip some cotton balls in the mixture and apply it on the nail affected by fungus. Allow the oil to dry. You can even add 4–5 drops of tea tree oil in water and dip your feet in it. Try both of these home remedies for nail fungus twice a day for better results. Coconut oil: Coconut oil works like a miracle and is one of the most effective home remedies for nail fungus. The fatty acids present in coconut oil absorb into the lipid layer of the fungal membrane and interfere with it. This causes the cells to disintegrate and destroy the nail fungus. Wear gloves and rub coconut oil on the affected nail. Allow the nail to absorb the oil and dry. Follow this two times a day to cure the nail. Baking soda and vinegar:

Viruses and bacteria cause ear infections, and these occur more commonly in children rather than adults. Upper respiratory infections, wax buildup, environmental allergies, genetics, food allergies, fetal alcohol syndrome, nutritional deficiencies and internal injuries are some of the most common causes of ear infections. The common signs that point towards the ear infection include: Difficulty sleeping Ear tugging Poor or lack of response to sounds Fluid drain from the ear High fever Headache Diarrhea Pain in the inner part of the ear Minor bleeding in the ear The ear has inner, middle and outer parts. Each of these parts has a specific function, and together they help a person with the hearing. The outer ear is shaped like a leaf and captures traveling sound waves. There is also a section known as the pinna from which the sound waves enter the ear canal. The sound waves then reach the ear canal through the eardrum located in the middle part. This middle part of the ear also includes other ear organs like the anvil, hammer, middle canal, stir up and semicircular. The sound waves travel through this part into the inner sections of the ear. The inner part consists of parts like the Eustachian tubes, nerves, and cochlea. Sound waves travel through the canal and are sent to the nerves, from where the brain processes the sound. Considering the complex mechanism and structure of the ear and its three parts, the ear infection can occur in any one of these three parts. Out of all the infections that can occur, the one that occurs in the inner ear is the most serious. Ear infections need to be treated immediately to prevent further complications and damages like rupturing of the eardrum. Deafness and constant recurrence can also occur as a result of untreated ear infections.