All Natural Remedies for Cellulite

Want to Do Something about your Cellulite??

Then try these Remedies that really Work!!!!

WHAT IS CELLULITE

"Cellulite is a kind of fat tissue in the subcutaneous layer of the skin that contains constricting bands of connective tissue. This connective tissue, which varies in thickness and is laced with fat cells, is held in place by a network of fibers that protects our body, cushioning our muscles and organs; it is surrounded by a liquid that both nourishes it and provides it with an effective waste system. When all is working well in the system, waste products are removed and smooth curves result; when fats, fluids and toxins are trapped deep in the skin (below the epidural layer), however, the connective tissue thickens and hardens, giving a dimpling effect. As we mature, the layer of skin thins, resulting in the rippled appearance of cellulite.

What is the difference between cellulite and fat? Though everyone has a smooth layer of fat, individual amounts depend on weight, lifestyle and genetics. This fat layer is an insulator for the body and cushions the organs, muscles and nerves. Cellulite, on the other hand, is lumpy and provides no padding whatsoever. It only occurs in certain areas of the body:

the thighs,buttocks,abdomen and breasts. When men get cellulite, it tends to be on the neck and abdomen.

Cellulite" is not a medical term. Medical authorities agree that cellulite is simply ordinary fatty tissue [1]. Strands of fibrous tissue connect the skin to deeper tissue layers and also separate compartments that contain fat cells. When fat cells increase in size, these compartments bulge and produce a waffled appearance of the skin. Many years ago, Neil Solomon, M.D., conducted a double-blind study of 100 people to see whether cellulite differed from ordinary fat. Specimens of regular fat and lumpy fat were obtained by a needle biopsy procedure and given to pathologists for analysis and comparison. No difference between the two was found.

CELLULITE

Cellulite may be allevated if the correct changes to diet and lifestyle are made. Basically caused by a buildup of toxins under the fatty layers of the skin, this can be inproved if you avoid tea, coffee,cigarettes and alcohol. Also persistant cellulite can be shifted with a detoxification program involving drinking plenty of water and using some the best home made anticellulite treatments along with some exfoliating to boost circulation. Include more friut and vegetables in your daily intake. Our daily diet consists so many emty calories such as: sugars, processed food and white flour. these have very little nutritional value and will cause weight gain, they are stored as fat rather than moving through the digestive system or burned off as energy.

You don't have to be over weight to have cellulite.

The Different Types Of Cellulite

Hard, or solid, cellulite usually occurs in women who are active (such as dancers or runners). Hard cellulite is difficult to get rid of because it doesn't lift from the body easily. It's also harder to see because it attaches directly to the muscle.

Soft cellulite is not as concentrated as hard cellulite and is much more visible. It occurs in large areas and, because it doesn't attach so strongly to the muscle, it's looser, often sagging from the body. The result is often poor muscle tone. Even though it's easier to spot, it's also easier to remove.

To test for cellulite, lightly pinch or press an area of tissue between your thumb and finger (or in a larger area, between the palms of your two hands). Normal fat appears fairly smooth, but cellulite will reveal dimples or ripples -- like the skin of an orange. Cellulite tissue is also more sensitive and can feel cold to the touch. It might appear whiter than the rest of your skin.

If you have cellulite, welcome to the club. Over 80 percent of women have this lumpy, bumpy skin. I've seen it on women of all sizes and shapes. What's the good news on such a nasty subject? There are natural and effective ways to diminish its appearance.Caffeine is the first ingredient in most cellulite treatments. The same way caffeine gets us moving in the morning, it can also help to get our fat cells moving. So head to your coffee makers, girls, and go for the high octane stuff.Do what famous models do ritualistically, and what beauty contestants to before that big swimsuit walk. Line your bathroom floor with newspapers, and then sit on the edge of your bathtub with used coffee grounds. Make sure that the coffee grounds are still warm, but comfortable, to the touch. If they've cooled down, simply heat them briefly in the microwave.Rub them into the cellulite-laden areas of your legs using your hands or a loofah mitt. Although the grounds will pretty much hit the newspaper quickly, a residue will remain. Ideally, seaweed should be wrapped around the area to detoxify. If you are unable to find lengths of seaweed at your health food store or natural supermarket, use plastic wrap. Wrap completely around the upper leg and let set for a few minutes.To intensify the treatment, take an old-fashioned rolling pin and roll the area to further smooth out the cellulite. Unwrap, brush the remaining grounds onto the newspaper, and rinse thoroughly.For top results, you should do this treatment at least twice a week.

For more great beauty secrets, check out 14-Day Beauty Boot Camp by Diane Irons.

Preventive Treatments







JUNIPER and HORSETAIL TREATMENT



Crushed juniper berries mixed with a strong infusion of horsetail cleansing herbs are excellent for a cellulite boost.




INGREDIENTS:



6 tbsp (90 mil) juniper berries

3 tbsp (45 mil) horsetail herb




To MAKE
Get ahold of juniper berries. They will be a purple color and juicy when fresh- they blacken and dry up with age. Crush the juniper berries with the back of a spoon in a bowl you are going to be using for this preparation in order to preserve all the juices. Mix the both together and cover with just enough boiling water to submerge all the herbs. Leave the boiling water in the bowl until the water gets cool.




To USE
you can add the whole entire concoction to your bath water and use the berries on awash cloth or spong to massage into the inner thigh. Alternatively, remove the berries and herb, mix with a liquid base cream so that it can be used as a cellulite lotion after bathing.









CELLULIT OIL



This is to be used after a hot relaxing bath for when the skin is soft. It may be massaged into the affected areas and contains lymphatic drainers. Use the oil around the chest and upper arms, this helps remove the toxins from the body befor they are stored as fat. This contains rosemarry to help improve circulation,fennel and juniper to detoxify the body .




INGREDIENTS

4 tbsp (60 mil) sweet almond oil

2 drops rosemarry essential oil

2 drops fennel essential oil

2 drops juniper essential oil





To MAKE
Put all ingrdients together and place into a bottle and then shake it so that they all blend.





To USE
Apply to the affected areas, massaging in deeply.








STRAWBERRY and GINGER REVIVER


This works up sluggish thighs and bittocks with a combination of active enzymes and warming stimulation.





INGREDIENTS:

1 gingerroot, about 4 inches (10cm)

2 tbsp (30) kaolin

7 or 8 large strawberries




To MAKE
Put all of the ingedients into a blender, untill it's all blended well. The clay needs to expand and become sticky. If the mix seems a bit runny you can add more clay to thicken.



To USE
Apply the fresh smelling mixture onto the sluggish skin and leave it on till it is dry. May take a couple of minutes or so.

Temporary solutions: -tanning (doesn't make the bumps any smaller, but they're less noticable; for the skin cancer worried people, go ahead and use a storebought tanner) -exfoliating then moisturizing with sesame oil -coffee grounds? yes! but do it the right way! -those 2 dollar masks that you find in wal-mart or dollar stores -as for storebought products.. remember: your skin is a live organ! if you couldnt put it in your mouth (dangerous chemicals) you shouldnt put it on your skin! and say no to pills! only consider a cream if you know someone who has experienced evident firming results from it. (ps. the lady behind the cash register.. her testimony doesn't count!)

Long term solutions: -put your feet up! keeping legs elevated while watching tv, reading, etc.. helps in the long run get the foods/nutrients that your skin loves! -honey and lemon (help rid your body of ama and kapha buildup) -cranberry juice, onions, chlorophyll-rich foods, (highly recommend wheatgrass.. too many benefits to name!) green tea, vitamin A/Protein/amino acids etc etc! excercise.. cardio, strength training, stretching, (windsor pilates are my favourite!) lastly-don't stress! your mind does have a powerful effect on your body! Now just for the record, keep in mind that over 90% of women (all shapes/sizes/ages)have it, and up until the 70's, it was just known as flesh! vogue magazine gave it the name 'cellulite'... it's not even a medical term! its because of all of the fancy lighting and airbrushing used in magazines that women have come to think that their dimples are unsexy.

For those dimppled areas,take caffinatted coffee, grind it into dust & mix with cheap hand lotion,rub this into your problem spots for 60 second a day,then shower it off & watch those troubled areas become smoother & firmer!

Sorry girls... there are some people who have it and

those few lucky ones who don't...

and they will get it once they hit 30-ish!! It's a fact of life. The only way to have less is to exercise. There is an AWESOME machine called an eliptical that works your legs and booty plus gets your heart rate to an aerobic level (you can add an arm movement if you wish)....beware it took me about 3 weeks to be able to do this machine for more than 20 min. For the first week I could barely do 5 min! Keep in mind I had 5 children less than 6 years apart! I had gotten to 213 lbs at 5 4- I was a chunky monkey! I'm currently at 170 and honestly...I've watched what I ate and exercised 5 days a week for a month and a half each time to loose 10-ish lbs each time and then maintained it for 3 months at a time. Learn to loose slowly and maintain a little at a time.. then you don't have to give up so much at a time!!

Drinking 3 glasses a day of freshly squeezed lemons in 1 cup water and a pinch of cayenne will also melt away the cellulite.

Body Wrapping
Many salons and spas exist where clients supposedly can trim inches off the waist, hips, thighs, and other areas of the body. These facilities use wraps or garments, with or without special lotions or creams applied to the skin. The garments may be applied to parts of the body or to the entire body. Clients are typically assured that fat will "melt away" and they can lose "up to 2 inches from those problem areas in just one hour." Suddenly Slender, which licenses body-wrap shops in the United States and Canada, claims that "wrapping works because cellulite is water-logged fatty tissue." As part of its sales pitch to prospective owners, the company notes that free publicity may be obtainable. Its Web site states: "Because clients get dressed up as "mummies" and then, almost miraculously, achieve major inch loss and startling improvements to their figures, local and national media have been overwhelmingly receptive to featuring presentations about the service."

Home-use systems are also being marketed through the Internet [A, B] and through multilevel marketing [X, Y]. Many of the systems are claimed to "remove toxins." Some marketers suggest measuring a large number of body areas before and afterward and adding up the differences to get "total inches lost." Life Force International, for example, recommends adding the results of 17 measurements. This enables minor changes due to temporary effects or to measurement variations to appear to be large numbers.

No product taken by mouth can cause selective reduction of an area of the body. Although wrapping may cause temporary water loss as a result of perspiration or compression, any fluid will soon be replaced by drinking or eating [5]. The idea that herbal wraps detoxify the body is absurd.

Cellasene
An herbal product called Cellasene is being vigorously promoted as a cellulite remedy. The product was developed by an Italian chemist named Gianfranco Merizzi.

Its ingredients are evening primrose oil, dried fucus vesiculosis extract, gelatine, fish oil, glycerol, soya oil, grape seed, bioflavonoids, soya lecithin, fatty acids, dried sweet clover extract, dried ginkgo biloba extract, and iron oxide. The product, to be taken twice daily (or three times per day for an "intensive" program) for two months and then once daily for maintenance costs $1.50 to $2.00 per capsule. Here's what one Internet marketer says [followed by my comments in brackets]:

Dried ginkgo biloba extract assists in blood circulation and stimulates the metabolism of fats. [Although ginkgo can increase circulation, it does not stimulate fat metabolism. Even if it did, there is no reason why it would exert a localized effect.]

Dried sweet clover extract can increase blood circulation and assist in removing fluid build-up. [This ingredient may have mild diuretic action, but is not "fluid build-up" is not a factor in the appearance or composition of fatty tissue.]

Grape seed bioflavonoids are powerful antioxidants that protect cells and blood vessels from damage. [Whether antioxidant supplements help protect tissues is not scientifically settled. Regardless, any such mechanism has nothing to do with the quantity or appearance of fatty tissues.]

Dried fucus vesiculosus extract stimulates metabolism and can help reduce localized fats. [This herb contains significant amounts of iodine and could adversely effect the thyroid gland. The U.S. Recommended Daily Allowance (USRDA) for iodine is 150 micrograms. The average American woman ingests 170 micrograms per day from food (not including iodized salt). Each capsule of Cellasene contains 240 micrograms of iodine. If enough were taken to increase thyroid function, the result would be unhealthy.]

Evening primrose oil and fish oil are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, a source of energy that increases metabolic levels and helps in diminishing saturated fatty acids. [The "energy" is simply the caloric value. Neither oil increases metabolism or reduces the amount of other fats one eats.]

Soya lecithin helps to break down fats. [The body makes all the lecithin it needs. Lecithin supplements do not cause the body to shed fat.]

Rexall Sundown, Inc. has been Cellasene's primary marketer in the United States. The company's Web site has claimed:

Cellasene works from within, nutritionally, to help fight cellulite at its source. . . .
Cellasene is a safe, clinically studied formula that works over time at the source of the problem -- below the surface of the skin. This unique formula of plant extracts and other beneficial dietary supplements nourishes connective tissue from within and helps reduce cellulite. The herbal ingredients in Cellasene work to increase blood circulation, reduce fluid buildup, stimulate metabolism and reduce localized fats.

CONVENIENT AND EASY TO USE. . . .

You do not need to change your diet and exercise routine for Cellasene to work. It is simple and effortless to incorporate the easy-to-swallow Cellasene softgels into your daily regimen.

CelluLean melts away cellulite by increasing your metabolism and blood circulation, breaking down the fats found in cellulite, and removing toxins from your body. The herbal extracts in CelluLean have been proven to be effective in reducing fatty deposits. Simply put, CelluLean helps your body to reach and break down cellulite, enabling your skin to regain its youthful smooth appearance.

To reduce cellulite,

you may follow the below listed home and natural remedies:
1). Use a soft body brush on damp or dry skin, brushing in long sweeping movements over the afflicted area, and working in the direction of the heart.

2). Use a massage glove or rough sisal mitt in the same way as above.

3). Always massage a cellulite cream thoroughly with your fingertips. It makes them double effective. Remember, the massaging action is more important than the cellulite cream.

4). For those dimppled areas, take caffinatted coffee, grind it into dust & mix with cheap hand lotion, rub this into your problem spots for 60 second a day,then shower it off & watch those cellulite areas become smoother & firmer!

Make your own natural cellulite cream in your home
Try this aromatherapy recipe. Add two drops each of rosemary and fennel essential oils to three teaspoons of carrier oil, such as almond oil. Massage this mixture daily thoroughly into the affected areas.

Another home remedy for cellulite is to follow a detox diet - a healthy low-fat, high fibre diet containing plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. More on cellulite diet.
We hope the above home/natural remedies for cellulite will help you.

Dry or Mature Skin

Natural home remedies: Dry or mature skin



Home remedies work best when you also maintain a good diet and drink lots of water, because what we eat also reflects on our skin. Besides this, as we age , our skin loses its natural glow and gets drier. Pollution and weather just makes it worse. But, we all are hard pressed for time and generally think of home remedies as time consuming to prepare and messy! But trust me when I say this, if you have the following five ingredients in your kitchen cabinet, you will definitely save up on your beauty budget and get the salon pampered look too!


-Gram flour
-Semolina
-Honey
-Olive oil
-Ripe bananas
-Mayonnaise
-Orange peel powder (save the orange peels ,wash and sun -dry them.Grind to fine powder and store them in air-tight bottles.)




Face scrub for winters :
2 twice a week after a shower when your skin is soft.Follow up the scrub ritual , with olive oil massage to lock in the moisture.:

1 tsp gram flour
1 tsp mayonnaise or honey or mashed ripe banana
1 tsp orange peel powder
2 drops olive oil


Massage on face and neck in circular motion and wash off with cold water.Tap your face dry with a soft towel and apply your favorite moisturizer or olive oil to seal in the open skin pores.




Face scrub and pack for summers:

-Semolina or Gram flour
-Honey -skimmed milk powder or fresh cream milk
-Orange peel powder
-Rose water or plain water to mix the ingredients.:

Apply on face and keep for 20 minutes before washing off with cold water.Follow up with olive oil massage on face.This pack helps reduce sun spots and blemishes and leaves skin soft and supple.Honey and olive oil are great moisturizers and prevents wrinkles.





Tips for maintaining dry and mature skin:

- Drink water to keep skin hydrated and keep body free from toxins.
- Do not use soaps for washing face.Use oil or cream based face wash.
- Always clean face at bed time with cream
-cleanser and apply moisturizer on face and body.Wake up with baby soft supple skin.
- Add few drops of Glycerin or olive oil to bath water.This prevents skin from losing moisture after a shower and keeps the skin on the body supple and soft.




Let me first tell you the ingredients that work miracles on dry and mature skin and then I will tell you how to mix these ingredients for effective face packs and lotions.
The two miracle workers which should be a part of any face pack or lotion meant for dry or mature skin are::


1. Honey

2. Glycerine

The other natural ingredients which are highly effective on dry skin are :

- Double cream
- Ripe avocadoes
- Egg yolk
- Bananas
- Sour cream


To make highly replenishing and re-hydrating face packs, first make a base by mixing one table spoon of honey with one tablespoon of glycerine and a few drops of lemon juice. Now blend this base with other ingredients to make face packs.



Some combinations are:

1. 1 tbsp base + 1 tbsp double cream + pinch of turmeric
2. 1 tbsp base + 1 tbsp sour cream + 1 tbsp egg yolk
3. 1 tbsp base + 1 tbsp mashed avocado
4. 1 tbsp base + 1 tbsp mashed ripe banana (beware of the terrible smell)



Lightly massage these packs into your face and leave for an hour (or more if you like as they are harmless). Wash off with warm water.


Within a week you will notice a marked difference in your skin which will turn soft and supple and start glowing.

Natural Remedies For All Skin Types of Acne

HOW IS ACNE CAUSED




Doctors describe acne as a disease of the pilosebaceous units. Found over most of the body, pilosebaceous units consist of a sebaceous (oil) gland connected to a hair-containing canal called a follicle. These units are largest and most numerous on the face, upper back, and chest--areas where acne tends to occur. The sebaceous glands make an oily substance called sebum that normally empties onto the skin surface through the opening of the follicle.


Normal Pilosebaceous UnitAcne is believed to result from a change in the inner lining of the follicle that prevents the sebum from passing through. For reasons not understood, cells from the lining of the follicle are shed too fast and clump together. The clumped cells plug up the follicle's opening so sebum cannot reach the surface of the skin.




The mixture of oil and cells causes bacteria that normally live on the skin, called Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), to grow in the plugged follicles. These bacteria produce chemicals and enzymes that can cause inflammation. (Inflammation is a characteristic reaction of tissues to disease or injury and is marked by four signs: swelling, redness, heat, and pain.) When the plugged follicle can no longer hold its contents, it bursts and spills everything onto the nearby skin--sebum, shed skin cells, and bacteria. Lesions or pimples develop as a result of the skin's being irritated.




People with acne frequently have a variety of lesions. The basic acne lesion, called the comedo (kom-e-do) or comedone, is simply an enlarged hair follicle plugged with oil and bacteria. This lesion is often referred to as a microcomedo because it cannot be seen by the naked eye. If the plugged follicle, or comedo, stays beneath the skin, it is called a closed comedo or whitehead. Whiteheads usually appear on the skin surface as small, whitish bumps. A comedo that reaches the surface of the skin and opens up is called a blackhead because it looks black on the skin's surface. This black discoloration is not due to dirt. Both whiteheads and blackheads may stay in the skin for a long time.




Other troublesome acne lesions can develop, including the following:


Papules--inflamed lesions that usually appear as small, pink bumps on the skin and can be tender to the touch.


Pustules (pimples)--inflamed, pus-filled lesions that can be red at the base.


Nodules--large, painful, solid lesions that are lodged deep within the skin.


Cysts--deep, inflamed, pus-filled lesions that can cause pain and scarring.






Acne is a tremendously embarrassing and burdensome problem. It is easy to feel that you don't have control over your breakouts. But the fact is, you do. Now, your first response may be to assume that I'm going to recommend you see your dermatologist. Well, think again. Natural remedies can be just as effective and medications. Possibly more powerful. Sometimes, all your body needs is the right nutritional balance and proper skin care. Here are some easy things you can start doing today to help you heal your acne. You should notice a difference in about 4 weeks.





Apply a honey mask

to your face once or twice a week - Honey has antibacterial properties so it is great for disinfecting and healing minor blemishes.It is also gentle on sensitive skin.






Wash twice a day with acne soap

- You should wash your face twice a day with a sulfur based soap designed for acne. Once when you first wake up in the morning and then, right before you go to bed at night. Be extremely gentle to your skin when washing - do not scrub or use any sort of rough cloth. Overwashing your skin will actually stimulate your sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, thus increasing your acne.





Keep your hair off your face -

If you have long hair or bangs, pull your hair off your face. Your hair contains oils as well, and will contribute to your breakouts. You'll also want to wash your hair everyday and after workouts






Take a potent multi-vitamin -

Acne can be a sign that something is wrong on the inside. Your skin depends on nutrition. It is a vital organ that is usually neglected. If your body is not receiving the right nutrition, it will fight back. One common way it will rebel is to produce excessive sebum, clogging pores, and reducing the ability for your skin to heal and fight bacteria.







Include chromium in your diet -

Chromium is well known for weight loss diets. But it is also excellent for healing infections on the skin. Taking a chromium supplement once a day will help heal your pimples quickly and prevent future breakouts.






Eat carrots for beta-carotene (Vitamin A) -

Vitamin A strengthens the protective tissue of the skin and actually prevents acne. It helps reduce sebum production. This vitamin is essential for the maintenance and repair of the tissue which the skin and mucous membranes are made of. Vitamin A is also a powerful antioxidant needed to rid your body of toxins. Did you know that a deficiency in vitamin A can actually cause acne?






Avoid wearing makeup -

Leaving makeup products on your skin only contributes to clogging your pores, causing more pimples and blackheads. If you feel you must wear makeup, be sure it is water-based.






Drink 8 glasses of water -

Drinking water is essential for clean skin and your overall health. Water is essential for carrying waste material out of your body... and is quite possibly flare-ups
Do not pick or squeeze your blackheads and pimples - As tempting as it may be, do not squeeze, scratch, rub or touch your pimples and blackheads. Do any of these actions, actually increases the sebum production. Plus, when you squeeze, you are actually rupturing the membranes below your skin, causing infection and sebum to spread underneath your skin. The result is more pimples.






Wash your pillow case every other day

- Your face lays on your pillow case every day. Your pillow case absorbs the oils from your skin and reapplies the dirt and oil. Thus causing breakouts. Keep your sheets and pillow cases clean.






Eat foods rich in zinc -

Zinc is an antibacterial agent and a necessary element in the oil-producing glands of the skin. A diet low in zinc can actually cause acne breakouts.







SKIN TYPES

There is a very simple test for identifying your skin type. Simply peel a single-ply sheet from a tissue and gently pree it to your face. When you remove the tissue if you see a greasy residue you have oily skin; no residue indicates dry skin. Try testing patches of your shin to see if it varies from an area to area;



Different Skin types




Normal Skin

This is the type of skin we all aspire to have but few of us are blessed with. Skin naturally is healthy and vibrant (just look at the complexions of young children), but time and modern living take their toll. A good skin care routine helps to redevelop the natural balance we all once had.




Grapefruit and Glycerin Mask
Glycerin is an emollient (lubricant). Combines with grapefruit for cleansing and toning, it creates a face mask that cleanses, rehydrates and tightens the skin.



InGredients::

2 tbsp (30 ml) liquid Glycerin
1 tbsp (15 ml) coarsely grated grapefruit peel
2tbsp (10 ml) fresh grapefruit juice (optional)
2drops grapefruit essential oil




TO MAKE::
Mix the glycerin with the grapefruit peel. If the mixture is very sticky,either heat the glycerin slightly by adding a teaspoon of boiling water or add some grapefruit juice. Add the essential oil and mix throughly untill it forms a thick past. Keeps for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.



TO USE::
Apply evenly over the skin, avoiding the eye area. If using it direct from the refrigerator, allow to warm slightly or the consistency will be too thick-- it should be like honey. Laeve it on for at least 20 minutes and rinse, using the grapefruit peel to rub the skin and gently exfoliate.







OILY SKIN

Teenagers often suufer with skin type, which can lead to blemishes and acne. If we work too hard to strip the natural oil (sebum), a natural counteraction will occur and more oil will be poroduced. This condition is known as seborrhea. Gentle cleansing, regular steaming and an occasional deep-working face mask is the best way to treat this type of skin.



Aloe Vera and Rose Hip Mask

Aloe vera has healing properties for pimples and italso moisturizes and cleanses. If you have an aloe plant you can actually cut a frond and squeeze a small amount of juice from it to apply to the skin. Rose hip is astringent and a light cleanser.


InGredients::

1 tbsp (15 ml) strong rose hip infusion
4 tbsp ( 60 ml) aloe vera gel= ( Make sure that it's pure)
2 drops rosemary essential oil



To Make
Make up the rose hipinfusion. Gradually stir the infusion into the aloe vera gel. You are looking for the consistency of loose gel-you may not need all the infusion. Then add the essential oil ( for stimulating and antiseptic properties) and mix thoroghly.


To USE
This gel should be applied cold direct from the refrigerator. The coolness will have an excellent tonic effect and it feels wonderful when it slides onto your skin. You should remove it when it has warmed to the skin; this mask will not dry much.







DRY SKIN

Dry skin is often flaky and can crack and become extremely uncomfortarble.Psoriasis and eczema are severe forms of dry skin. I would try to avoid the steroid creams that you may be prescribed by your doctor for such conditions. Your body can develop a kind of immunity to these so the strength has to be increased and eventually they may become totally ineffective.


Banana and Honey Rehydrator
Nourishing banana provides intence moister and gives a delicious rich fragrance to this mask. Honey is soothing and nourishing.


InGredients::

1 ripe banana
2 tbsp (30 ml) acacia honey
1 tbsp (15 ml) fresh live natural yogurt



To0 Make
Mash the banana with with a fork, add other ingredients and mix thoroghly. If you have a blender, use it! Make sure the honey is warm enough to disperse through the other ingredients. Honey should be kept at room tempature; it'll crystallize in the regrigerator.



To USE
Apply in generous quantities over the face and neck. Do not apply in a steamy bath becase it'll slide off!! Allow to dry (15 minutes or so) and remove. You can also use this preparatoin over sluggish areas such as thighs.

Impotence and erection problems

Whatever the nature of your erectile dysfunction or impotence, remember almost every man has difficulties with erection at some point in his life. You are not alone, and many home remedies are available to help your condition.



The following article gives information about impotence and how natural methods can help without the disastrous side-effects of drugs.



This embarrassing problem can be eased using natural methods. As part of our regular newsletter there will be examples of successful alternative treatments for impotence.





Frustration and impotence

Failure to achieve an erection that is firm enough, or sustained for long enough, to allow normal sexual intercourse is generally known as impotence. Its cause may be physical, psychological, or a combination of both.



Physical impotence may be due to an imperfect blood supply to the penis, an age-related loss of male sex hormones, diabetes or high blood sugar levels, medical drugs, or various neurological conditions.




Psychological factors such as lack of desire, depression, or fear of failure may be responsible for impotence, and alcohol, while enhancing sexual desire, can actually impede performance.
Other organic/physical factors which may cause impotence include: antidepressants, narcotics, diuretics, sedatives and nicotine.





Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba is an all-round circulation booster. It is most widely known for its ability to improve memory, due to its ability to increase blood flow through the brain. But is seems to also increase blood flow to the penis. If your impotence problems are based on blood flow, Ginkgo could assist.




There have been several studies into the use of Gingko to treat impotence. In one study it was found 78 percent of men with atherosclerotic*, reported significant improvements without side effects. In another six month study half the men being treated regained their erections. Give it time to work, possibly use over a several month period, taking daily dosages.

*atherosclerotic: a degenerative disease of the arteries characterised by patchy thickening of the inner lining of the arterial walls, caused by deposits of fatty material.




Aniseed (Pimpinella anisum) has a reputation for increasing male libido. Aniseed, also known as Anise, contains several estrogenic compounds (female hormones, U.S. spelling of oestrogenic).



Many plants contain compounds that behave like oestrogen in the body and although oestrogen is a female hormone, oddly enough people who have used oestrogenic herbs, report androgenic (males' sex hormone) effects as well. If using, start with small amounts and see what effect it has.





Cardamon

Cardamon is an aromatic spice, held in high esteem by the Arab culture as an aphrodisiac. Arab coffee house often flavours coffee with this spice, in India it is an essential ingredient of curries and pilaus. The reason for its reputation as an aphrodisiac is its high content of cineole. Cineole is a central nervous stimulant. People often equate any stimulation as a sexual stimulation. Cardamom is used by many eastern cultures and many find it beneficial in dealing with impotence.






Ginger

Ginger is a relative of Cardamon, and well known for its warming, aromatic properties. In an article titled "Studies on Herbal Aphrodisiacs Used in the Arab System", published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine, some Saudi scientists asserted that ginger extracts significantly increase sperm motility and quantity. (Motility means capable of moving spontaneously and independently).








Ginseng

Ginseng is well known as a sexual stimulant. The Chinese have long held this herb in high esteem, it is supposedly the herbal fountain of youth. It is both a stimulant and relaxant on the central nervous system and improves muscle stamina! A herb full of vitality and often used by men who have a loss of sex drive. There are cautions to take when using Ginseng. Do not take consistently and not for more than three weeks at time. Do not take during pregnancy and avoid with high blood pressure.






Saw Palmetto

Native American Indians considered the ripe fruits of the saw palmetto a tonic and an aphrodisiac. The berries do, in fact, have a toning effect on the male reproductive system and have been employed for impotence and prostrate problems. It can be used to treat prostate enlargement and cystitis.






Fenugreek

Fenugreek is another herb that has acquired a reputation as an aphrodisiac. Chemical analysis has revealed the presence of diosgenen, a substance that acts in a similar way to the body's own sex hormones. Fenugreek has long been recommended by Chinese herbalists for impotence.
Pumpkin seeds are a male sexual tonic and sesame seeds have a beneficial effect in maintaining and enhancing sexual vigour.







18 Home Remedies for Impotence


Impotence. The word somehow sounds like failure, weakness. If you feel that you are impotent, you may also feel that you have somehow lost part of your dignity, your masculinity, your wholeness. But you shouldn't feel that way -- impotence, also known as erectile dysfunction (ED), can almost always improve with treatment. In this article, we'll talk about the causes of impotence and some home remedies, including medical and non-medical solutions for the problem.



There are many degrees of erectile difficulties. Some men are able to achieve an erection but are not able to maintain it. Others become erect, but not extremely rigid. Still others only have problems when they are with a new partner or with a long-time partner. And there are those who cannot achieve an erection at all.


Do not despair. You may be suffering from a medical or emotional problem (or both) for which there are definite solutions. Behavior modification can help if your ED is the result of emotional issues. If it is caused by a medical condition -- and some 70 percent of ED cases are -- there are new therapies and home remedies that can help restore your sexual health.


Whatever the nature of your problem, remember that almost every man has difficulties with erection at some point in his life: About 5 percent of 40-year-old men and between 15 and 25 percent of 65-year-old men experience it. You are not abnormal, nor are you alone. There is no need to suffer in silence.



A variety of medical conditions can cause or contribute to erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence. The most common diseases that cause ED are diabetes, kidney disease, chronic alcoholism, multiple sclerosis, atherosclerosis, vascular disease, and neurologic disease. These diseases account for about 70 percent of ED cases, according to the National Institutes of Health. Between 35 and 50 percent of men with diabetes experience ED. In younger men, accidents, such as gunshot wounds to the spinal cord, car crashes, and skiing wipeouts, are often responsible. Other problems can include hormonal imbalances.




Doctors treat ED with psychotherapy, behavior modification techniques, oral medications, locally injected drugs, vacuum devices, and surgically implanted devices. In rare cases, surgery of the blood vessels may be necessary, according to the NIH. (Keep in mind that even when a physical cause can be identified, emotional or psychological factors often play a role as well.)




Oral medications include Viagra (sildenafil) and Levitra (vardenafil), which work by enhancing the effects of nitric oxide, a chemical that increases blood flow in the penis. These drugs are taken about an hour before sexual activity. They should not be used more than once a day, and men who take nitrate-based drugs such as nitroglycerin for heart problems should not use them because they can cause a sudden drop in high blood pressure. If you suspect your erection difficulties may be related to a disease, accident, or medication or if you're simply unsure of the cause, contact your doctor.In our next section, we'll offer some home remedies for avoiding impotence or erectile dysfunction and non-medical remedies for this condition.







Remove the performance demand.

It's not unusual for a man to have an occasional episode of ED -- after drinking alcohol or after a particularly stressful day, for example. However, if he places too much emphasis on the incident and harbors fear that it may happen again, the anxiety itself may become a cause of erectile difficulties.
Behavior modification can help with this, though. One strategy that sex therapists often use is to have couples abstain from intercourse altogether, telling them instead to engage in cuddling and nonsexual touch. Gradually, over a period of weeks or months, depending on the couple, the partners work toward more sexual touching, then intercourse. The idea is to make sex a less-threatening experience.







Break out of a rut.

Add some spice to your lovemaking: Go to a hotel or a different setting. Vary the routine. Try new positions. Buy your partner some new lingerie.





Learn to relax. Stress,

arising either from performance anxiety or from other life situations, can exacerbate ED. Regardless of the cause, it's difficult to enjoy yourself when you've got too much on your mind. Try relaxation exercises such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, where you consciously tense and relax each part of the body in sequence.






Express your feelings.

Marital or relationship difficulties are notorious contributors to sexual problems. Anger, resentment, and hurt feelings often spill into a couple's sex life, turning the bedroom into a battlefield. This situation is especially likely to develop if partners don't communicate. Work to share your feelings with your partner. Use "I" statements, and keep the focus on your feelings, instead of your partner's actions. Doing a thorough housecleaning of the relationship, instead of storing up emotional debris, may very well clear the way for a healthier sexual union.






Talk about sex.

Sometimes, erectile problems occur because you simply don't feel aroused. In these cases, sex therapists often work to help patients communicate more openly about their sexual relationship -- what they like, what they don't like, whether they'd like to do some experimenting. Again, to avoid defensiveness and hurt feelings, "I" statements are key. Choose to make assertive, rather than aggressive, comments.




Don't drink before sex.

Drinking alcohol or being drunk can significantly impair your sexual functioning.






Remember your successful experiences.

If performance anxiety has undermined your confidence, thinking about positive sexual relationships or experiences you have had in the past may help boost your self-esteem. It may also convince you that you can have a fulfilling sex life in the future.





Involve your partner.

Although erectile difficulties originate with the man, they are a couple's problem and have couple solutions. If the problem is not a medical one, there are many strategies, such as the ones discussed in this chapter, which can help. However, your chances for improvement are much better if your sexual partner is involved in the solution.





Know that you are not abnormal.

It can never be stated enough: Having problems with erection does not mean that you are physiologically or psychologically abnormal in any way. It is not your fault and you shouldn't feel guilty or allow your self-esteem to suffer.





Read, then talk.

Take advantage of the many sources of information about sex -- books that can help you and your mate solve your problems and work towards a more mutually satisfying sex life, as well as sex manuals and even videos.





Skip the aphrodisiacs.

Spanish fly and other so-called aphrodisiacs are usually little more than placebos -- sugar pills that do nothing but boost your confidence. What's more, Spanish fly can be very dangerous to use and can even be fatal. Avoid alternative or herbal remedies.






Employ fantasy.


Many men with erectile problems engage in "spectatoring," or constantly observing their own sexual performance. This takes the individual out of the moment and leads to being overly critical. Instead of judging yourself, focus on the pleasures of being with your partner. Fantasizing about and with your partner can take the focus off you.






Try masturbation.

Performance anxiety is just that -- anxiety over performing for your partner. But don't forget that while it's important to please your partner, you're also there to please yourself. Masturbation -- bringing yourself to orgasm while you are alone -- may be helpful by reteaching you how to achieve your own pleasure (as long as it's not overdone). The next step is to bring that ability into a sexual situation with your partner. In this way, you can change the focus from performance to mutually pleasurable interaction.





Quit smoking.

Studies have shown that smoking is associated with blockages in the blood vessels of the penis that obstruct the blood flow necessary for an erection. If you smoke, quit. It won't reverse existing damage, but it can help prevent it from worsening.





Protect your crotch from injury.

One very common cause of ED, especially in young men, is an injury to the crotch area. Often, these injuries (and the erectile problems they cause) do not heal of their own accord and must be treated with surgery. Crotch injuries can be caused by sports such as bicycling, karate, horseback riding, and rodeo riding. If you believe that your erectile difficulties were caused by such an accident, you should see a doctor.



Don't be afraid to seek help. If your ED has no medical cause, psychological issues may be involved. Guilt, shame, anger, fear, sadness, and other emotions can impair your ability to perform sexually. Help is available from therapists who specialize in sexual issues. Ask your doctor or urologist for a referral.





Make sure your aim is true.

Believe it or not, another cause of ED is . . . brace yourself . . . a broken penis. This type of injury -- which is thankfully quite rare -- can occur when your partner is on top, your penis slips out of her vagina, and she sits on it. This can actually cause a hole in the erection chamber, along with bruising and swelling from internal bleeding.




When this happens, you'll need surgery to repair the hole.When struggling with ED or impotence, remember that many home remedies or treatment options are available to you. Don't let embarrassment keep you from treating this disorder.

Natural Remedy for Infertility

Conquering Infertility Using Natural Methods -

Natural Remedy for Infertility




Infertility is defined as the failure to conceive after a year or more of regular sexual activity during the time of ovulation. It may also refer to the inability to carry a pregnancy to term. Infertility affects some 6.1 million American couples. In the majority of cases, infertility in men and women is a direct result of: lack of proper nutrition, obesity, lack of exercise, emotional disturbances and toxic buildup in the system. If you are infertile, chances are you have accumulated and stored toxins in your body. Toxins (harmful substances) are stored in your organs, intestinal tract, and tissues. The body can tolerate some stored toxins but when these toxins reach a certain point, poor health and infertility is the result.




As you balance and cleanse your cells by expelling toxins (poisons) from your body, you will re-establish a healthy terrain. A positive attitude, spiritual stability, proper nutrition, and exercise is what your body uses to become fertile. By starting with your cells, then your organs, and then your body-systems, this program helps bring your whole body into complete nutritional, neurological, and hormonal balance, thus restoring your health and your ability to get pregnant and have a healthy baby.




"The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, in diet and in the cause and prevention of disease.."-Thomas A. Edison




The Global Healing Center uses only the highest quality organic fertility and pregnancy products available. All ingredients are obtained from worldwide sources where our ingredients are grown naturally. Our products will help you achieve the results you seek. We offer the following recommendation in our ebook because it has been proven successful.







OVULATION SELF TEST

If you wish to become pregnant, there are a number of tests available over the counter that can help you determine the best time to attempt to conceive. These tests predict the time of ovulation by detecting the release of luteinizing hormone (LH), which in turn triggers the release of the egg. A chemically treated dipstick detects the LH in urine samples. If the hormone has been released, the stick changes color. After a positive result, ovulation takes place within twelve to thirty-six hours. Remember, however, that no test is 100% accurate all of the time.







Infertility

You’ve been trying for months, and still there’s no baby on the way. You’re beginning to wonder if you and your partner are infertile.


Most doctors won’t even diagnose infertility until after a couple has tried to conceive for a year. They advise that women ages 35 and over seek medical help after six months, however, because of natural declines in a woman’s fertility.


Male infertility is the problem about 35 percent of the time. This can include having too few sperm or sperm that are too weak to swim the distance to the fallopian tubes. Another 35 percent of infertility cases involve the female reproductive system, with problems such as blocked or damaged fallopian tubes and lack of ovulation. These conditions have many causes, including endometriosis, hormone deficiencies, infections, cysts and sexually transmitted diseases. In 30 percent of cases, there is a combination of problems, or the cause is unknown. The natural remedies in this chapter—in conjunction with medical care and used with the approval of your doctor—may help improve the possibility of conception, according to some health professionals.



Flower Remedy/Essence Therapy “In ancient cultures, the pomegranate was a symbol of fertility,” says Cynthia Mervis Watson, M.D., a family practice physician in Santa Monica, California, who specializes in homeopathy and herbal therapy. She recommends the essence Pomegranate to women who are trying to conceive. “It has a balancing effect on the female reproductive system and is also good for emotional issues surrounding sexuality and motherhood,” says Dr. Watson.







Flower essences are available in some health food stores



Food Therapy Eat more oysters, advises Julian Whitaker, M.D., founder and president of the Whitaker Wellness Center in Newport Beach, California. While there’s no evidence that this much-ballyhooed “aphrodisiac” can increase libido, there is proof that the high zinc content of oysters may strengthen sperm count and motility, increasing chances for conception, according to Dr. Whitaker. He says you’ll get nearly the entire Recommended Dietary Allowance of zinc from just one oyster. He suggests lean red meats and crab as other good sources of zinc.



“It’s also good to eat more fruits and vegetables, which are high in vitamin C and other antioxidants,” says Dr. Whitaker. “A lot of male infertility is due to oxidation, which can weaken or kill sperm.”




Homeopathy Infertility should be treated on an individual basis by a homeopath or fertility specialist, write Andrew Lockie, M.D., and Nicola Geddes, M.D., in The Women’s Guide to Homeopathy. But they add that there are several homeopathic remedies you can try while waiting for professional care. They suggest taking a 30C dose of one of the following remedies every 12 hours for up to seven days.




If you’re a woman whose breasts feel tender, with pockets of hard swelling, and whose desire for sex is ebbing, try Conium, say Dr. Lockie and Dr. Geddes. They say that Lycopodium may help if you have a dry vagina and tenderness in your lower abdomen over the right ovary. If you feel weepy, chilly and irritable, have a lack of sexual desire and have irregular periods accompanied by a sensation that your womb is about to drop out of your vagina, they suggest trying Sepia. And if you’ve had a previous miscarriage before 12 weeks, try Sabina, they say.



All of these remedies are available in many health food stores.






Imagery


In his book Healing Visualizations, New York City psychiatrist Gerald Epstein, M.D., suggests this visualization to help women overcome infertility. Close your eyes, breathe out three times and imagine walking into a beautiful garden. There you find a tree and a stream of flowing water. Bathe in the water, allowing it to enter and clean all ova, or eggs. Then sit under the tree and enjoy the sunshine and blue sky reflecting through the leaves. Look up to your right and make a prayer for what you want. Do this quickly. Then ask your mate to join you in the garden. Lie down under the tree holding hands. Picture a blue light forming a dome over you. Now go out of the garden holding hands, cradling a child between you.


Do this imagery for two to three minutes once a day for seven days, beginning at the middle of your cycle.






Reflexology


On your hands or feet, work the reflex points for the reproductive system, diaphragm, spine and pituitary, parathyroid, thyroid and adrenal glands, says St. Petersburg, Florida, reflexologist Dwight Byers, author of Better Health with Foot Reflexology.


To help you locate these points, consult the hand and foot reflex charts






Vitamin and Mineral Therapy




The antioxidants beta-carotene and vitamins C and E can increase sperm count (the number of sperm) and motility (the sperm’s ability to swim into the egg), says Julian Whitaker, M.D., founder and president of the Whitaker Wellness Center in Newport Beach, California. In fact, he says, studies show that large doses of supplemental vitamin C can actually reverse some cases of male infertility. He recommends taking at least 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C each day, as well as 400 to 800 international units of vitamin E and 15 milligrams (25,000 international units) of beta-carotene.


And try taking 30 to 60 milligrams a day of zinc, which may also help increase sperm count, says
"Dr. Whitaker.







Infertility Chemical Found in Perfumes


The Australian The Sunday Times 25 Nov 02



High levels of a chemical blamed for causing infertility in men have been found in some of the world's best-known perfumes and cosmetics. Chanel No 5, Christian Dior's Poison, Eternity from Calvin Klein and Tresor by Lancome were among 34 toiletries found by a Swedish study to contain di-ethylhexyl phthalate or other phthalates. The European Commission is proposing a ban on the use in cosmetics of two of the most potent forms of phthalates amid fears they cause genital abnormalities affecting up to 4 per cent of male babies.




These genital abnormalities - which can include undescended testicles and malformation of the urinary tract - are blamed for soaring levels of testicular cancer in young men. Cases of the disease have risen tenfold in the past century. About 1900 British males, some as young as 15, are diagnosed every year. Nine out of 10 cases are cured, but doctors are worried by the trend. Scientists believe the phthalates could be absorbed into women's bloodstreams through the skin or inhalation.




The Cosmetic Toiletry and Perfumery Association condemned the report as inaccurate. It said: "Consumer safety is the first priority for the cosmetic industry and consumers can have complete confidence in the cosmetic products they use, and in the regulatory framework which ensures cosmetic safety." Numerous studies on rats and mice have shown phthalate exposure causes genital abnormality. The latest research was conducted by a Swedish government-accredited laboratory for Healthcare Without Harm, a US-based organisation representing 300 consumer pressure groups around the world.




Researchers at the Analycen lab analysed 34 leading brands of cosmetics and found more than three-quarters contained phthalates, which help prevent loss of fragrance. The investigation found other forms of the chemical in Tommy Girl perfume, Impulse Body Spray, Nivea Deo Compact, Sure Ultra deodorant, Shockwaves hair mousse and four hairsprays including Elnett Satin, Pantene Pro-V Extra Hold and Vidal Sassoon.




Per Rosander, who wrote the report, said: "What we know about these chemicals is that they cause damage to the reproductive system. That is why they have been classed by the EU as reproductive toxins." Sharpe, of the Medical Research Council's Human Reproductive Sciences Unit in Edinburgh, said: "If you wanted to produce a list of environmental causes of the reproductive health problems in boys, phthalates would be pretty near the top of the list." Actor Julia Sawalha, who played Saffy in Absolutely Fabulous, supports the Women's Environmental Network, a backer of the Swedish research. "Chemicals that pose a risk to fertility do not belong in cosmetics, and manufacturers should be made to list ingredients," she said.



Phytoestrogens Nature's Contraceptives
Phytoestrogens can make animals infertile, what about people?


The ability of phytoestrogens to prevent reproduction in animals has been known about since the 1940's. There is a wealth of evidence that shows that mammals exposed to estrogens during critical periods of sexual development can suffer a drastic reduction in fertility. There is also strong evidence that soy phytoestrogens such as genistein can inhibit 17-b-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductase, an enzyme which is required for the synthesis of testosterone and the development of the CNS-gonadal axis. There is also evidence that the soy isoflavones genstein and daidzein are genotoxic to human sperm. It is quite possible, therefore, that phytoestrogens, along with other endocrine disrupting compounds such as DDT, may contribute to the worldwide decrease in male fertility. more


James Bowen, M.D. told the FDA years ago "Every known metabolite of aspartame is of marked or questionable toxicity and patently unsafe for human use." In Aspartame Murders Infants he said: "At every point in the fertility process aspartame (NutraSweet, Equal, Spoonful, Canderal, Benevia, etc.) destroys. ....It ruins female sexual response and induces male sexual dysfunction. Beyond this, aspartame disrupts fetal development by aborting it or inducing defects. And if a live child is born aspartame may have heinously damaged the DNA of the baby cursing future generation." Learn about the Legal class action against aspartame. learn more



"I have observed severe intellectual deterioration associated with the use of aspartame products (NutraSweet/Equal/Spoonful/Canderal/Benevia, etc.) It was usually manifest as great difficulty in reading and writing, obvious problems with memory and grossly impaired orientation to time, place and person." H. J. Roberts, M.D.



"Aspartame has a profound effect on mood and cognition....depressed mood, anxiety, dizziness, panic attacks, nausea, irritability, impairment of memory and concentration." Ralph Walton, M.D. (Learn about the Legal class action against aspartame. ) vPhytoestrogens Nature's Contraceptives Phytoestrogens can make animals infertile, what about people?






Infertility and water fluoridation - Chlorinated tap

water linked to birth defects



By Jacqui Thornton Health Correspondent and Martyn Halle


Scientists from Imperial College, London University, will carry out the research after doctors in Norway, Canada and the United States reported higher levels of birth defects in areas where chlorine is used, compared with drinking water treated by alternative methods. A Norwegian study of 141,000 births over three years found a 14 per cent increased risk of birth defects in areas with chlorinated water. Scientists have already found an association between chlorine and an increased risk of bowel, kidney and bladder cancer, but it is the first time that a link has been found with higher levels of spina bifida.




Infertility in women was found to increase with water fluoridation. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) scientists reported a close correlation between decreasing total fertility rates in women between ages of 10 and 49, and increasing fluoride levels. They also reported that a review of all of the animal studies done to date shows that fluoride adversely affects fertility in most animal species. More about the Adverse Health Effects of Fluoride




Microwater filters generate alkalineliving, energized water. This healing water is regarded by a growing number of health care professionals as the best water to drink. In fact the Microwater ionizer water filter is listed as a medical device in Japan and is used in the treatment of several degenerative diseases. Ionized water has several health promoting qualities. Acid/alkaline balance is important in keeping the body strong, healthy, and free of stress.






Traditional fertility tonic herbs for male and female reproductive health and potency




Millions of couples are affected by infertility. Many undergo months or even years of expensive and frustrating fertility treatment without positive results.



While some causes of infertility can only be corrected by surgery, herbal remedies have been used successfully for thousands of years in traditional medicine in order to increase fertility and improve the functioning of the male and female reproductive systems.







Female fertility: How does it work?

Ovulation occurs when the ovary releases an egg about half way through the menstrual cycle. The egg then passes down into the fallopian tubes. If the woman has had sex and there are sperm present, the egg can then be fertilized and conception occurs. The fertilized egg then travels into the uterus, where it implants itself in the uterine lining approximately 6 - 10 days after conception.

While this process seems simple, it is in fact a complex process involving systemic, hormonal, emotional, as well as reproductive health. While it may normally take a few months to get pregnant, further help may be needed if a woman has not become pregnant within a year (or 6 months for women over 35).

Causes of infertility

in sexually active women include genetic factors, endometriosis,
pelvic inflammatory disease, chlamydia, infection, early miscarriage, scarring or obstruction
of the fallopian tubes, hormonal imbalance, cigarette smoking, obesity, excessive exercise, emotional and psychological factors, incorrect nutrition, drug abuse, stress and many other factors.







How does male fertility work?




Sperm are produced in the seminiferous tubules in the testes, which are also responsible for the production of testosterone, a male sex hormone, essential for male sexual functioning and fertility, amongst other things.



The process of sperm production, from the formation of germ cells, to fully mature sperm cells, takes about 70 days. When sperm development is complete, sperm are released from the seminiferous tubules and travel to the epididymis, where they become more mature and mobile. Sperm are stored in the epididymis until ejaculation, when contractions push a small amount of sperm into the vas deferens, through the prostate gland and into the urethra.



As the sperm travels down the reproductive tract, fluid is added by the prostate gland and seminal vesicles to produce semen. More than 90% of the ejaculatory fluid is produced by the prostate gland and seminal vesicles, which is why men who have had a vasectomy can still ejaculate normally.


In order for a man to be fertile, he needs to produce mature, healthy and mobile sperm in sufficient quantities to ensure the fertilization of the female egg. The ability to achieve and sustain an erection for long enough to ejaculate and deposit the sperm in the female reproductive tract is also important for natural conception.








Causes of male infertility


(genetic causes, infection, heat, tobacco, drug and alcohol abuse, sperm antibodies, inadequate testosterone production, poor nutrition, stress, scarring of the reproductive tract, some prescription drugs, pesticides and other chemicals and even hormones in meat and the food chain), no specific cause can be found in approximately 40% of men with fertility problems. This is called ideopathic infertility.

OIL SKIN

OILY





Oily skin is shiny, thick and dull colored. Often a chronically oily skin has coarse pores and pimples and other embarrassing blemishes. It is prone to blackheads. In this type of skin, the oil producing sebaceous glands are overactive and produce more oil than is needed. The oil oozes and gives the skin a greasy shine. The pores are enlarged and the skin has a coarse look.











*Causes of Oily Skin


*Heredity


*Diet


*Hormone levels


*Pregnancy


*Birth control pills


*Cosmetics you use


*Humidity and hot weather










Because of the hormonal shifts of adolescence, oily skin is common in teenagers, but it can occur at any age. In general, skin tends to become dryer with age. The flow of sebum or oil increases during adolescence and starts decreasing with age. During pregnancy and menopause, hormonal imbalances can also upset the oil balance and increase the activity of sebaceous glands.









Many people have skin that is oily only in certain areas and dry or normal in others, a condition known as combination skin.















Skin Care for Oily Skin





The great advantage of oily skin is that it ages at a slower rate than other skin types.
Oily skin needs special cleansing with plenty of hot water and soap to prevent the pores from being clogged. Avoid harsh products that strip your skin of oil and encourage flakiness. They can cause a reaction known as reactive seborrhoea, where the oil glands work overtime to compensate for the loss of natural oils.








Avoid skincare products that leave your skin feeling taut and dehydrated. They cause the upper layers of the skin to shrink. This restricts oil flow through the pores leading to blockages and breakouts.






To cleanse oily skin, use oil-based products as they dissolve sebum effectively. Opt for oil-free moisturizers to maintain a shine-free complexion.






Keep your skin very clean. Limit washing your face to two or three times a day. Too much washing will stimulate your skin to produce more oil.






Choose your cleanser with care. Avoid heavy cleansing creams. Avoid the use of harsh soaps or cleansers. Use a pure soap with no artificial additives. Try an antibacterial cleansing lotion or a lightly medicated soap, and use it in combination with a water rich in minerals, not tap water. Do not use cleansers or lotions that contain alcohol. After cleansing, apply a natural oil-free moisturizer to keep the skin supple.






Use hot water when washing your face. Hot water dissolves skin oil better than lukewarm or cold water.






If your skin is extremely oily, three or four daily cleansings may be in order and little or no moisturizing necessary before you are 30 years old. After that point, the skin around your eyes and mouth and on your throat may benefit from a nightly moisturizing, plus a mere touch of moisturizer in the morning.






When cleansing, massage your face well with your fingertips, using an upward and outward motion. Be careful not to rub soap into the skin; it can clog pores.






If your oily skin is scaly, you can often correct the problem by using a deep-cleaning exfoliant on alternate nights, and following the treatment with a light coating of moisturizer.






Try using a clay or mud mask. If you have sensitive skin, use white or rose-colored clays.
Use a light antiseptic night cream from time to time if you wish, and apply a clarifying mask one or two times a week.






Choose cosmetic and facial care products specifically designed for oily skin.
Before applying makeup, use an antiseptic day cream with active ingredients that diminish sebaceous secretions. Look for benzyl peroxide in the list of active ingredients.






Use a light antiseptic night cream from time to time if you wish, and apply a clarifying mask one or two times a week.

















Natural Skincare

Half an hour before taking your bath apply on your face half teaspoon each of lime and cucumber juice mixed together.






If your skin is excessively oily, mix in a few drops of eau de cologne. This not only helps keep oiliness away but also helps in refining the pores of the skin by acting as astringent, thereby preventing acne.






To prevent the problem of your makeup becoming patchy either on the forehead, chin or nose due to excessive oiliness in these areas, apply a little cucumber juice on the excessively oily parts of your face, dry thoroughly and then apply your makeup.






If your whole face turns patchy after makeup is applied on it, then apply equal parts of lime juice and witch-hazel. Dry well before putting on your makeup.






Choose an astringent that contains acetone, which is known for dissolving oil. Strong astringents will do more harm than good, stimulating an overproduction of oil.






To clear away excess oil, use a clay or mud mask. Blend together well 1 teaspoon green clay powder and 1 teaspoon raw honey. Apply the mixture to your face, avoiding the eye area. Leave it on for fifteen minutes, then rinse well with lukewarm water. Do this at least three times a week--or more.






Once or twice daily, mix equal parts of lemon juice and water together. Pat mixture on your face and allow it to dry, then rinse with warm water. Follow with a cool-water rinse.Natural Skincare
Half an hour before taking your bath apply on your face half teaspoon each of lime and cucumber juice mixed together.






If your skin is excessively oily, mix in a few drops of eau de cologne. This not only helps keep oiliness away but also helps in refining the pores of the skin by acting as astringent, thereby preventing acne.






To prevent the problem of your makeup becoming patchy either on the forehead, chin or nose due to excessive oiliness in these areas, apply a little cucumber juice on the excessively oily parts of your face, dry thoroughly and then apply your makeup.






If your whole face turns patchy after makeup is applied on it, then apply equal parts of lime juice and witch-hazel. Dry well before putting on your makeup.






Choose an astringent that contains acetone, which is known for dissolving oil. Strong astringents will do more harm than good, stimulating an overproduction of oil.






To clear away excess oil, use a clay or mud mask. Blend together well 1 teaspoon green clay powder and 1 teaspoon raw honey. Apply the mixture to your face, avoiding the eye area. Leave it on for fifteen minutes, then rinse well with lukewarm water. Do this at least three times a week--or more.






Once or twice daily, mix equal parts of lemon juice and water together. Pat mixture on your face and allow it to dry, then rinse with warm water. Follow with a cool-water rinse.



















Diet for Oily Skin






Take a diet rich in proteins but restricted in sugar, fluids and salt.








Take plenty of leafy green vegetables and fresh fruits.






Have your blood brought up to par by the suitable administration of necessary vitamins, iron and similar substances.






Even a slight deficiency in vitamin B2 can cause oily skin. Nutritional yeast, wheat germ and organ meats provide both vitamin B5 and vitamin B2. Other good sources of vitamin B2 are whole grains, beans, nuts, and royal jelly. Buckwheat, black beans and whole rice are excellent to supply the body with iron and rejuvenate pate skin.






Drink plenty of quality water to keep the skin hydrated and flush out toxins.






Reduce the amount of fat in your diet. Avoid pork and fried and highly seasoned foods. Consume no animal fats, or heat-processed vegetable oils.






Do not cook with oil. Do not eat any oils that have been subjected to heat, whether in processing or cooking. If a little oil is necessary, such as in salad dressing, use cold-pressed canola or olive oil only.






Do not drink soft drinks or alcoholic beverages. Avoid sugar, chocolate, and junk food.



















Essential Oils For Oily Skin




Bergamot



Cedarwood



Cypress



Frankincense



Geranium



Juniper



Lavender



Lemon



Sage















Herbs for Oily Skin




Aloe vera has excellent healing properties. Apply aloe vera gel topically, as needed.




Burdock root, chamomile, horsetail, oat straw, and thyme nourish the skin.




Lavender is very good for oily skin. Mist your skin with lavender water several times daily.






A facial sauna using lemongrass, licorice root, and rosebuds is good for oily skin. Two or three times a week, simmer a total of 2 to 4 tablespoons of dried or fresh herbs in 2 quarts of water.





When the pot is steaming, place it on top of a trivet or thick potholder on a table, and sit with your face at a comfortable distance over the steam for fifteen minutes. You can use a towel to trap the steam if you wish. After fifteen minutes, splash your face with cold water and allow your skin to air dry or pat it dry with a towel. After the sauna, you can allow the herbal water to cool and save it for use as a toning lotion to be dabbed on your face with a cot- ton ball after cleansing.





Witch hazel applied to the skin is excellent for absorbing oil.















Homeopathy






Homeopathy considers skin problems to be a general bodily imbalance. Hence treatment is constitutional. Consult an experienced homeopath if the condition does not improve.




Take one of the following in the 6c strength every twelve hours for up to one month.
Take Mercurius for an oily face that smells unpleasant, with trembling, sticky perspiration and overproduction of saliva. Oiliness is worse in cold and hot weather.






Natrum mur is useful for a person with an oily, shiny face that is worse on hairy parts, and who is constipated.

Common Sense Recommendations

Do not smoke. Smoking promotes enlargement of the pores and impairs the overall health of the skin.

Rub oily skin areas with apple cider vinegar for a neutralizing effect.

Regularly brushing and massage of the whole body stimulates circulation and rejuvenates the skin.

Evening primrose oil supplements are beneficial for skin. They contain gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid reputed to strengthen skin cells and boost their moisture content.

Get sufficient sleep as the skin's cellular repair activity is at its optimum during this resting phase.

Exercise benefits skin as it boosts circulation and encourages blood flow. Regular exercise will nourish and cleanse your skin from within.