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Tulsi or Basil: Queen of Herbs

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I have always wondered why ‘Tulsi’ is given so much importance in India. I recall my aunts and great-grand aunts narrating stories about Tulsi being the consort of Lord Vishnu. As an inquisitive child, I questioned this. “How can a plant be a consort? A plant is a plant! Period! It gives oxygen and takes in carbon dioxide.”

tulsi

Today, as a doctor, I understand that the significance of many plants is rooted in folklore. Unfortunately, while the stories remain, the importance is often forgotten.

In this article, I delve into the significance of Tulsi – The Holy Basil, also known as the Queen of Herbs! It is grown in almost every Indian household for religious purposes. However, I suggest we grow it not just for spiritual reasons but also for its remarkable medicinal properties—saving us from hefty medical bills for minor ailments!

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Why is Tulsi Known as the Queen of Herbs?

Tulsi is

  • Antibacterial
  • Antiviral
  • Antifungal
  • Antipyretic
  • Antioxidant
  • Antiseptic
  • Anti-cancer

Health benefits of Tulsi

  1. Cold & Cough Relief
    Tulsi’s antiviral and antibacterial properties make it effective for colds and coughs. Combine tulsi juice with ginger and betel leaf juice, mixed in honey, and consume twice or thrice a day. For severe coughs, add a pinch of black pepper powder and black salt to the mixture.
  2. Fever Reduction
    Tulsi’s antipyretic properties help manage fevers from malaria, influenza, or colds. Juice 10-12 tulsi leaves, mix with honey, and consume thrice daily.
  3. Detoxification
    Regularly consuming 10 tulsi leaves with jaggery for 15 days helps control worm formation in the abdomen. For ringworm, apply tulsi juice mixed with camphor twice daily on the affected area.
  4. Liver Health
    Mixing juice from 15-20 tulsi leaves with aloe vera supports liver health and detoxification.
  5. Oral Health
    • Apply a mixture of tulsi leaves and clove powder on teeth for instant pain relief.
    • Use dried tulsi leaves mixed with mustard oil as toothpaste to prevent bad breath and maintain gum health.
  6. Kidney Health
    Tulsi acts as a diuretic and detoxifier, reducing uric acid levels and aiding in breaking down kidney stones. Consume tulsi juice with honey daily for six months for relief.
  7. Skin and Hair Care
    • Tulsi purifies the blood, reducing acne and blemishes.
    • Its antifungal properties soothe itchy scalps and reduce hair fall. Mix powdered tulsi in coconut oil and apply it regularly for healthier hair.
  8. Stress Relief
    Consuming 10-12 tulsi leaves daily can help alleviate stress, thanks to its calming properties.

Environmental Benefits

According to Shyamkant Padoley, an eminent botanist, “Tulsi gives out oxygen for 20 hours and ozone for four hours a day, along with nascent oxygen that absorbs harmful gases like carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide from the environment.”

A Part of Your Daily Diet

Incorporating tulsi into your daily diet is easy, cost-effective, and side-effect-free. Let Tulsi become your go-to natural remedy for better health and well-being!

If you found this article helpful, share your thoughts in the comments below! Explore more tips on natural remedies and healthy living on Healthy Reads. To learn more about personalised health guidance, subscribe to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

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Lower Blood Pressure Naturally With Dietary Changes

lower blood pressure naturallyHypertension, known as a silent killer, is simply the elevation of your blood pressure levels. It is majorly developed due to factors like a sedentary lifestyle, high salt intake due to processed and packaged food. But, the good news is that you can control it. You can manage to lower blood pressure naturally by making dietary and other lifestyle changes after consulting with your doctor. 

Foods That Help Lower Blood Pressure Naturally 

Let’s take a look at foods which are healthy and can help with the condition! 

  1. Green Tea: is associated with numerous health benefits. It is rich in polyphenols and catechins, which act as antioxidants to prevent cell damage, reduce inflammation, and protect heart health. Intake of green tea is associated with significantly lower levels of LDL, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and blood pressure. You can have 1-2 cups of green tea daily one hour after a meal to maintain your blood pressure and to improve insulin sensitivity.
  2. Olive Oil: is packed with antioxidants like tocopherols, β-carotene, lutein which helps in relieving inflammation and decreases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It is rich in MUFA which promotes heart health and is linked with lowering blood pressure. In Indian cooking, you can safely use 1-2 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil daily to sauté veggies, make salad dressings, etc.
  3. Fatty Fish: like salmon and tuna are rich with omega-3 fatty acids which aid in improving heart health. These fatty fishes and fish oil supplements are beneficial for lowering blood pressure, sugar levels and triglycerides. Consumption of fatty fish 2-3 times a week is good for heart health.
  4. Nuts: like walnuts, almonds are a rich source of monounsaturated fatty acids which lower total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol and blood pressure. It has minerals like magnesium and copper, Vitamin E, MUFA which protects against various heart diseases by reducing plaque formation and keeps your arteries clear. You can include 5-6 soaked almonds and 2-3 walnuts in your diet.
  5. Seeds: are the powerhouse of various nutrients, rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids which improve many heart disease risk factors including blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides. Include flax seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds and hemp seeds in your diet. Just make a mixture of these seeds and have 1-2 tsp daily by mixing them with nuts or adding them to your smoothies or salads. 
  6. Berries: are packed with antioxidants like anthocyanins which protect the heart from oxidative stress and help in maintaining normal blood pressure. It also has polyphenols which improve blood pressure, insulin resistance and systemic inflammation. You can add a handful of strawberries, blackberries and raspberries in your diet.
  7. Banana: The American Heart Association encourages people to increase the consumption of foods that contain potassium. Eating foods that are rich in potassium helps in lowering blood pressure levels better than taking supplements. You can slice a banana in your favourite cereal or oatmeal, make a smoothie or a shake for a potassium-rich addition.
  8. Pomegranate: is rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals. Drinking a cup of pomegranate juice daily for four weeks can help lower blood pressure naturally. Early research suggests that drinking pomegranate juice helps to keep the arteries in the neck clear of the build-up of fatty deposits and improve blood flow to the heart.
  9. Tomato: is one of the important ingredients in our Indian cuisine which enhances the flavour and colour of dishes. Tomatoes are loaded with lycopene which reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke. New research claims that drinking a glass of unsalted tomato juice daily is a simple way to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. It also removes excess cholesterol, plaque from arteries and increases the level of HDL Cholesterol.
  10. Garlic: is a pearl for Hypertension patients. Daily consumption of garlic for an extended period can reduce LDL Cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure significantly. It has allicin, allyl mercaptan, and diallyl disulphide which are very effective in controlling cholesterol and blood pressure. Eating 1-2 fresh, raw garlic is one among the herbal remedies for controlling high blood pressure.
  11. Oats: are a rich source of soluble and insoluble fiber. They are low in fat, low in sodium and contain beta-glucan, a type of fiber which lowers blood pressure. A review of 28 trials concluded that higher consumption of beta-glucan fiber may lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Eating oats for breakfast/snacks in the form of oats porridge, oats upma, oats chila, is a great way to fuel up for the day.
  12. Beetroot: Drinking one glass of beetroot juice daily can significantly reduce blood pressure in people with hypertension. Due to the high concentration of nitrates, it relaxes blood vessels and dilates them, which helps the blood flow more easily and lowers blood pressure. Both raw beet juice and cooked beets are effective to lower blood pressure and decrease inflammation. 

Apart from the above food options, you need to  control what you eat. Avoid sauces, pickles, coffee, packaged food, etc. and cut your salt intake to half a teaspoon daily. Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol in excess as well. Before making any massive dietary changes, consult your doctor first!

We hope this article helps you! For more on hypertension and tips to lower blood pressure, tune in to live sessions by experts on GOQii Play or ask your GOQii Coach directly by subscribing to Personalised Health Coaching here.

To know how simple lifestyle changes can help your reverse high blood pressure, listen to our player Digvijay Singh’s journey as he discusses the lifestyle changes he made with our Founder & CEO Vishal Gondal.

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Aloe Vera- Wonders of the spiky green plant

AloeVeraCleopatra is known for her beauty, and one of the reasons for her immaculate beauty can be credited to the spiky green plant Aloe Vera, which she is understood to have used daily in gel form as part of her beauty regime. Today, this very plant is used in several personal care products and medicines. Dubbed affectionately as the ‘Plant of immortality’ by the Egyptians 6000 years ago, Aloe Vera has rejuvenating and healing properties. The ancient Greeks used it to cure everything from baldness to insomnia.

Aloe Vera, also known as a Wonder Plant, has tremendous benefits. No wonder it is wildly used in cosmetics, herbal remedies, and food supplements.

If you have observed the leaf of Aloe Vera closely, there is yellow latex found just under the skin and white-colored gel inside the leaf. Both of these have medicinal properties. It is rich in calcium, sodium, potassium, iron, zinc, manganese, folic acid, amino acid and Vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, and B6.

Benefits :

  • Aloe Vera’s white gel contains enzymes, fiber, and amino acids, which help with digestion and digestive disorders like colitis and irritable bowel syndrome.
  • It has anti-bacterial, anti-viral properties to help boost the immune system and maintain oral hygiene.
  • It has laxative properties to relieve constipation.
  • Aloe Vera is anti-inflammatory and helps reduce inflammation of Rheumatoid Arthritis, an auto-immune disease affecting the entire body. The immune system attacks body tissues, especially the membranes lining the joint.
  • Aloe Vera juice can be used for lowering sugar levels. However, consult your doctor before consuming Aloe Vera juice
  • It has anti-carcinogenic properties to fight cancer.
  • Aloe Vera is rich in magnesium lactate, which works very well for chest congestion.
  • Vitamin C present in Aloe Vera is an excellent natural source to fight against cold and coughs.

Aloe Vera for the Skin :

  • Suitable for all skin types.
  • Aloe Vera gel has a soothing effect, reducing skin irritation when applied to the affected area.
  • Its anti-microbial properties help in curing acne, pimples and lightening the skin.

Aloe Vera for the Hair:

  • It contains Proteolitic enzymes, which help remove dead skin from the scalp and excess sebum to promote hair growth.
  • Its alkaline properties maintains the pH balance of the scalp to keep hair moisturized.
  • The anti-fungal property of Aloe Vera helps in reducing dandruff.
  • To keep hair soft and smooth, Aloe Vera gel can be added to regular conditioner and used daily.

Word of Caution:

Aloe Vera is packed with nutrients to treat the body naturally. However, certain treatments may cause adverse effects if not taken under supervision. Excessive intake may cause diarrhea and lower blood sugar, leading to potassium loss. It may also inhibit some drug reactions internally and cause allergic reactions on the skin.

With its numerous benefits for health, skin, and hair, Aloe Vera truly stands out as a wonder plant. Whether you use it topically or consume it in moderation, its natural properties can enhance your overall well-being. However, it’s essential to use it wisely and consult a healthcare professional if needed. Have you experienced the benefits of Aloe Vera? Let us know in the comments below! For more natural health tips, speak to a certified expert by subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health.

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8 Home Remedies For Dry Cough

remedies for dry coughWith the increasing pollution levels, exposure to chemicals, and the unpleasant viral infections & flu, it’s no surprise if you’re searching for home remedies for dry cough. A dry cough is a nonproductive cough that doesn’t produce phlegm or mucus and is generally caused by viral infections and allergies. It is crucial to consult a doctor to find the underlying cause of cough. Along with prescribed medications and treatment, you can also try a couple of home remedies to find relief.

  1. Golden Milk (Turmeric Latte): Also known as Haldi ka Doodh in India, this traditional drink is now popular globally and can often be found as a turmeric latte in cafés. It combines turmeric’s powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties with warm milk, offering relief from dry cough symptoms. Drink a cup before bed for best results.
  2. Honey Tea: Honey is a key ingredient in many home remedies due to its anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the throat. You can use honey in various ways, such as adding a teaspoon to warm milk or water. You can also just have a spoonful before going to bed.
  3. Spiced Tea (Masala Chai): This traditional Indian beverage combines black tea with warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and black pepper. It’s not just comforting—it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe a dry, irritated throat. The spices also help combat the effects of pollution and seasonal changes.
  4. Ginger: Ginger eases a dry or asthmatic cough due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It also relieves nausea and pain. Prepare a soothing ginger tea by adding 20–40g of fresh ginger slices to a cup of boiling water. Allow it to steep for a few minutes before sipping. Add honey or lemon juice to improve the taste and further soothe the cough.
  5. Lukewarm Salt-Water Gargle: Gargling is one of the most common home remedies for dry cough. For relief, try gargling with lukewarm salt water. This soothes the throat by adding moisture to it. Add half a teaspoon of salt to a cup of lukewarm water until it dissolves completely. Let the mixture sit at the back of the throat for a few seconds before spitting it out. Gargle with salt water three times a day until the cough improves.
  6. Eucalyptus Oil: Eucalyptus oil has natural healing properties that can help relieve dry coughs. Use eucalyptus oil to decongest your throat. This oil promotes vitality and helps treat infections. Add eucalyptus oil to a cotton cloth piece and keep it near your nose and mouth. Alternatively, add 2-3 drops to hot water and inhale the steam.
  7. Bromelain: Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapples. It has anti-inflammatory properties and may also have mucolytic properties, meaning it can break down mucus and remove it from the body. Drink pineapple juice daily to reduce mucus in the throat and suppress coughing.

Warm liquids to Find Relief from Dry Cough

Staying hydrated is essential when you have a dry cough. Warm liquids can reduce the symptoms of a sore throat and cough, providing immediate relief. Hot beverages that may be helpful include:

  • Clear broths
  • Herbal teas
  • Decaffeinated black tea
  • Warm water

If you haven’t noticed any improvement in your dry cough even after 7 days, it is necessary to consult your doctor. Home remedies for dry cough can be an added measure but not a permanent solution for a persistent cough.

We hope these home remedies for dry cough help you find relief! Is there a personal home remedy that works for you? Share it with us in the comments below!

To know more home remedies, ask your GOQii Coach by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

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