Herbs are not only great additions to recipes and dishes, but they also hold major health benefits. In fact, some herbs are so good for you that many dietary supplements and medications consist largely of these natural ingredients. The healing power of these herbs is so great, that sites such as Mommy Authority write about them as topics of discussion. 

Let’s take a closer look at some of the top herbs and their health benefits.

Cinnamon 

This spice is made from the bark of several types of trees that belong to the Cinnamomum species. Mainly used in recipes and products as an aromatic condiment, this herb lends itself to sweet and savory. On top of being a delicious condiment for pancakes and pastries, cinnamon also has a wide variety of health benefits. 

Cinnamon contains a powerful antioxidant called polyphenol that helps the body fight free radicals. This spice also has anti-inflammatory properties, can protect and decrease the risk of heart disease, improves your sensitivity to hormone insulin and lowers blood sugar levels, which makes it a great anti-diabetic herb. 

Turmeric 

Mostly used in eastern cuisine, this bright yellow or orange powder is derived from the flowering plant Zingiberaceae and forms part of the ginger family. Normally used to give curry its distinctive color and add earthiness to a dish, this herb has long been used for its healing characteristics. 

Containing curcuminoids, a powerful medicinal element, turmeric is a great anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. This compound found in turmeric has also been associated with improved cognitive function and decreasing the risk of brain diseases. As such, many studies have explored the preventative effects of turmeric could have on Alzheimer's Disease.

Holy Basil 

Also known as Ocimum tenuiflorum, Holy Basil is an aromatic plant that is mostly cultivated in the Indian subcontinent and in the Southeast Asian tropics. Grown for its use in many religious and traditional medicinal applications and for the essential oil that can be made from its leaves, Holy Basil is also used in Ayurvedic medicine as a herbal tea. 

This herb is a great immune booster and can help the body fight against infection. It has a long list of known health benefits including its antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and pain killing capabilities. 

Cayenne

This pepper is a moderately hot chili that is used to add heat and flavor to dishes. The powder which is most commonly used across the world is made from a skinny red pepper that is dried and ground. While it is most frequently used in cuisine - cayenne is also used as a herbal and health supplement. 

The capsaicin in cayenne pepper can greatly improve digestive health and speed up a person’s metabolism. This herb also has the ability to curb hunger, reduce pain and improve blood pressure levels. 

Ginger

Ginger is the root of a flowering plant that is used in many recipes as well as herbal remedies across the globe in many cultures. This herb is jammed packed with nutrients and bioactive compounds that make it one of the healthiest herbs around. 

Ginger contains a compound called Gingerol which contributes to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This herb has also been used to treat nausea and the various types of reasons you would become sick, like morning sickness. 

Garlic 

This herb not only keeps vampires at bay but boasts a range of health benefits. A great taste addition to most savory dishes, garlic is part of the onion genus, Allium and has been consumed by humans for many thousands of years. 

Garlic is rich in minerals that help to boost the immune system. This is why garlic has been said to help combat the common cold and flu. This herb also helps curb blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as plays a positive role in the development and health of the brain. 

If you are trying to improve your health, why not investigate the world of benefits that natural herbs can offer. A pill or medication may be the quickest solution, but is it the healthiest? By increasing your intake of one or more of the herbs on the list, you could reap the rewards yourself. 

Whether or not you've dealt with a urinary tract infection, you've likely heard all of the old wives' tales of how to prevent one. From guzzling cranberry juice to becoming celibate, it seems like everyone has a way to keep infections at bay. You may be surprised to find out, though, that many of those remedies are actually myths. 

1. Your Underwear Doesn't Matter

If you've completely converted to granny panties as a way to prevent UTIs, then you'll be glad to know that studies show it doesn't really matter what underwear you wear. You can bring back the cute undies, even if you want to fight off bacteria. 

2. Caffeine Is Fine

Don't pour out your daily mug of joe just yet. While a caffeinated beverage is definitely not a UTI prevention drink, one also won't cause you to end up with an infection, contrary to popular belief. 

3. Wipe Whatever Direction You Prefer

If you've always felt a little guilty about your personal hygiene, rest assured: the direction of your wiping makes no difference in your chances of getting a UTI. While this may be a concern if you never shower, chances are you keep yourself sufficiently clean. 

4. Jump in the Hot Tub

There are few things as relaxing as a soak in a hot tub, and now you can enjoy this pleasure without fear of an infection. If you're really worried about bacteria, you can certainly ensure that the tub is clean before you get in.

5. Antibiotics Aren't the Answer

The increase of resistance to antibiotics probably concerns you, and rightfully so. You don’t have to take antibiotics as a preventative tool. Instead, natural products that contain ingredients such as vitamin C and B6 are your best bet. 

Instead of avoiding the things that give you joy in life, why not try a product that will prevent UTIs and allow you to do what you truly love. Contact us for more information. 

Science has always come up with solutions whenever humanity stumbles upon a new problem to deal with.

What is Biotin?

Biotin is yet another name of a member of the Vitamin family, Vitamin B-7 to be precise. However, the interesting thing is that it plays a crucial role in various activities within the body, has a major say in conditions like pregnancy and is also required for healthy breastfeeding.

What makes Biotin a big deal?

It is quite important to understand that in order to get itself established in the health industry, any product has to provide its claimed solutions to its users. If it's all smoke and mirrors, it can never manage to be something people can trust.

Let's see if Biotin manages to be a vitamin that can truly transform one's health and life.

Here is the list of 5 benefits that are direct effects of consuming Biotin in any of its forms, may it be natural or supplement. Products like biotin supplements are proven to be strong defenders of this situation by providing observable health benefits in a number of ways.

How is Biotin related to health?

Biotin deficiency is related to hair loss.

Let's start with the most common health benefit associated with the use of  Biotin. It's not rare to find people who lose their precious hair because of Biotin deficiency. There is enough scientific data to support the fact that Biotin deficiency is related to hair loss. This has opened ways to take Biotin supplements because they are good at filling the gap that causes the deficiency. You may check out the best hair growth supplements and what you need to know to grow your hair.

Biotin plays an important role in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Data suggests that 50% of the women out there fail to get sufficient Vitamin B-7 during their pregnancy and breastfeeding time. Biotin requirement of the body gets pumped up in both of these conditions and more animal tests have reflected the signs of birth defects due to its deficiency. The fact is that Vitamin B-7 deficiency is caused due to its heavy breakdown during pregnancy.

A pregnant woman is encouraged to make an early visit to her doctor if she is expecting a baby anytime soon.

Biotin ensures smooth macronutrient metabolism.

Macronutrients? Let me start this off by telling what macronutrients are. They are the collective name for protein, fat, and carbohydrates. However, it turns out that these micronutrients are dependent on Biotin in order to get synthesized and that's the reason why the body requires Biotin-containing enzymes for carrying out the metabolism of various amino acids, some of them being as crucial as Leucine.

Apart from this, fatty acids also require this vitamin for their synthesis. And that's not all! Studies have shown that Biotin is extremely important in enabling the process of gluconeogenesis. By converting non-carbohydrate sources into glucose, this process provides the energy required by the body.

Biotin is the solution to chipped, cracked, split, and brittle nails.

Do you know one out of every five persons on Earth has some form of nail condition? Having a 20% probability of you being that person, the door that has Biotin on the other side should be the perfect one to knock. Various studies have shown visible improvement in the quality of nails as a result of Biotin consumption.

Biotin lowers the blood sugar level in Type 2 Diabetes.

Last but not the least, Biotin has a significant impact on the blood sugar levels in the case of Type 2 Diabetes. This is because of the fact that Type 2 Diabetes is a metabolic disease and Biotin helps to improve the metabolism of the body. This can prove to be a ray of hope for those who are suffering from this deadly disease and shockingly the numbers are not small.

Mouthwash Matters 

On television commercials and in magazine articles, people sing praise to the latest whitening fads, from kinds of toothpaste to strips to trays to tech devices. Everyone wants the look of a bright, beaming, beautiful smile. However, how often do you hear about oral health? 

Beyond brushing and flossing, rinsing with mouthwash is the healthiest thing you can do for your smile. Mouthwash has a multitude of benefits. It: 

• Cleans hard-to-reach crevices of the tongue and cheeks

• Rinses bacteria

• Fights against tooth decay

• Counters gingivitis

• Promotes healthy teeth and gums

• Freshens breath 

Some varieties of mouthwash cater to special oral needs by reporting whitening benefits and dry mouth curing properties. They can also help with other issues like fungus, which can appear as a black spot on your tongue. In this particular example, make sure you check with your doctor if the spot does not go away after using your mouthwash regularly.

Despite the advantages of traditional over-the-counter varieties, these options have their downsides. The main disadvantage is that supermarket varieties are antiseptics that destroy the microbial balance in your mouth. Imagine consuming a daily antibiotic to avoid getting sick. That would wreak havoc on your body, so why do that to your mouth? Good bacteria are usually discussed in terms of the gut but do not neglect them in your mouth. Instead, use homemade mouthwash recipes to boost your dental routine. 

Have you heard suspicions about the artificial additives in the food we eat every day? From sodas to prepackaged foods, you have surely heard the criticisms. If you have cleaned up your diet, also consider your body, face, and mouth care products. 

Traditional mouthwashes are loaded with two pesky ingredients: artificial sweeteners and alcohol. Both of these ingredients can burn and irritate sensitive mouths. If you experience dry mouth, consider that the ingredients in your oral care products may be to blame. 

Alcohol—including the ever-popular ethanol—can exasperate dry mouth, also known as xerostomia. So, t turns out that parched mouth you are experiencing may not be from nerves or dehydration. If a health condition is contributing to your dry mouth, the alcohol in oral hygiene products on the market probably irritate and inflame the issue. Natural solutions avoid that issue entirely. Plus, alcohol-free options are proven to give people glossier, brighter, whiter teeth that will be in less need of dental restoration. Why wait to try out these healthier choices for a happier mouth? 

Now that you know most mouthwashes on the market do more harm than good in your mouth, consider going the DIY route. However, can you actually trust that mild, home crafted rinses will provide the benefits you need? Yes! Natural solutions offer four key benefits that you would want in any mouthwash. They work to: 

• Prevent plaque build-up

• Loosen food particles

• Health canker sores/ulcers in the mouth

• Help keep cavities away 

The best part is that the benefits can be customized by tweaking recipe ingredients. Experiment to tailor them to your needs and wants. So, what can those pre-made mouthwashes do those natural ones cannot? Not much. Keep reading for two great recipes to start your journey into natural oral care. 

The great thing about these two simple mouthwash recipes is that whether you are a seasoned natural health lover or new to the natural lifestyle, you will probably have these ingredients in your bathroom and kitchen cabinets. That makes these unbeatable in the convenience and accessibility departments. What can you lose by giving these a try? Make it a fun project with craft groups or kids to explore hands-on health hacks together. 

Want a quick tip? Just be sure to re-make homemade mouthwashes daily. The lack of preservatives means that these healthier options have a short shelf life. 

This is a mouthwash that packs the invigoration of traditional mouthwashes without the dryness, sensitivity, and disruption to your mouth. Hydrogen peroxide is the base of this quick fix. It is a natural antiseptic that berates the bad bacteria, sending gingivitis and plaque out your trap. Peppermint essential oil will work to freshen breath and treat canker sores, oral wounds, and swollen gums. 

Ingredients

• 1 cup of filtered water

• 1 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide

• 6 drops of peppermint essential oil 

To make, combine water, hydrogen peroxide, and peppermint essential oil in a glass jar. Then, shake it. To use, swish approximately an ounce of the mixture in your mouth for ten seconds. Spit the rinse out, and reap the advantages. 

This recipe is another quick, easy, functional option. Baking soda is known as a tooth whitening back, but it is used in this recipe for its antibacterial properties that eliminate bad breath and prevent gum diseases including gingivitis. Tea tree oil is recommended to avoid bad breath and heal sores. Peppermint and spearmint oils will combat the heavy scent of tea tree oil and finish this rinse off with a refreshing note, much more palatable to those weaning off of pre-made oral care items. However, feel free to adapt the essential oils to meet your needs. Some people enjoy a citrus oil blend or a cinnamon oil blend. 

Ingredients

• 1 cup of water

• 1 teaspoon of baking soda

• Essential oils 

To make, in a mason jar, add warm water. To that, add in the baking soda. Once that has dissolved, add in desired essential oils. Try out 5 drops of tea tree oil and 7 drops of peppermint or spearmint oil. Shake or whisk together ingredients. To use, swish a big mouthful of the concoction in the mouth before spitting. 

Bonus: something completely different

If you can’t be bothered to mix your own mouthwash, there is an old Ayurvedic practice you might want to try: Oil Pulling. This basically means swishing a tablespoon of coconut, sesame or sunflower oil around your mouth for 20 minutes. Then you spit it out and rinse your mouth with salted water. After which you brush and floss. The oil is said to pull toxins from your mouth, as well as loosen up any debris and plaque. People have also reported getting whiter teeth. 

With such uncomplicated ways to experiment with better-for-you oral hygiene, mouthwash is an easy swap to make if you want to dip your toes into natural health and beauty options. 

Paired with a solid routine of brushing and flossing twice daily, this mouthwash can perfect your smile in terms of health and beauty. Try out these recipes and share your results.

Why are mosquitoes attracted to certain people? 

Scientists have proven that aside from genetics, certain elements in the body chemistry found in excess in the skin can make mosquitoes attracted to people. People with high cholesterol, lactic acid, and who emits more carbon dioxide can be mosquito magnets.

Despite keeping the surroundings free from the stagnant water where mosquitoes breed and maintaining a cleaner environment, it is inevitable that sometimes a few mosquitoes would still thrive and come from unseen sources. In order for susceptible individuals to be protected from being bitten by mosquitoes, one of the things that they should do is to use safe and effective insect repellent lotions or sprays. There are so many products that promise the best results but it also depends on the person's idiosyncrasy. In our case, we tried and tested too many brands in the past, both all-natural and the ones with DEET, but only one brand passed our standards. Since then, we make sure that we never run out of stock of that product at home especially during the rainy season when Dengue cases rise.

Paps, Bunso, and Kuya attract mosquitoes that's why for seven years, Green Cross Active Protect Insect Repellent Lotion (10 Hours), the variant that has a 10-hour effect is our reliable partner in repelling those pesky mosquitoes that may cause Dengue and another mosquito bite-related disease. 



Green Cross is the only one that we find very effective. What we like about it is that it's an anti-dengue and antibacterial protection in one. Its efficacy and continuous protection from day and night last up to 10 hours. We don't need to reapply often to keep ourselves protected. It provides 99.9% antibacterial protection for 10 hours without causing any irritation. It's cool and non-sticky to the skin, perfect for our active lifestyle. The formula smells great on the skin. It doesn't smell medicated or herbal. Only a small amount is needed to cover the exposed skin. It can be spread on skin evenly and easily. It's also reasonably priced, available in a sachet, small tube, and big tube, making it affordable for all. It's also available in leading drugstores and supermarkets where we can find and buy it conveniently. And also, it's made by Green Cross so we're sure that we are using a well-researched, tried and tested, and safe product.

When I was very young, I began to be conscious of my body image at age 10. I heard my friends talking about menstruation, baby bra, pubic hair (Yes, they were talking about it.), spray net, body mists, and deodorants. I was so hesitant to ask my mom about that stuff. All I remember was she taught me to use Avon's Feeling Fresh Deodorant after taking a bath or shower because I was complaining that "Tawas", the antiperspirant/deodorant recommended by my grandmother, made my armpits sweaty and sticky. "Feeling Fesh" became my best partner in keeping myself free from body and armpit odor aside from using an antibacterial soap, Safeguard, to wash my body, and Palmolive Shampoo to wash my hair. These three products worked for my body chemistry and helped me to become free from body odor especially armpit odor at a very young age. That's why when I became a mom, I did the same thing with my boys. Like my mom did, starting them young worked.

Kuya and Bunso would easily get sweaty and their armpits would smell stinky or "maasim" when they reached the age of three. Paps and I encouraged them to use Arm and Hammer Deodorant after taking a bath using Safeguard Pink because after trying and testing, we discovered that these two brands suited their body chemistry. They would always stay fresh for the whole day. During that time when Arm & Hammer Advance Original would easily go out of stock, I would let them use Milcu Underarm & Foot Deodorant Powder, which they would usually apply on their feet before putting their shoes on.

Preventing Armpit Odor

Our family uses Arm & Hammer Advance Original and Milcu Underarm & Foot Deodorant Powder as deodorants for years. Why? They are safe to use, easy to find (Arm & Hammer doesn't go out of stock anymore.), versatile, don't stain clothing, keep the armpits dry and fresh-smelling, and protects the armpits from bacteria build-up and odor for 24 hours.

Instilling good grooming and hygiene in all forms should be done during our kids' formative years. Reminding them constantly and teaching by example are two of the best means to educate kids on practicing good grooming and hygiene. In doing so, they can never forget the importance of keeping themselves clean, neat, and well-groomed. Forming a habit can lead to better body image projection and not feeling inferior.

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The contents of this article were lifted from my messages to two teenage boys who asked me about my recommended deodorant brands a few years ago. To know some details about it, you may visit #AskAAPM for details.