1. Healing Herbs tea
- This is an anti-pain
- It is also a relaxing tea that will help in preventing leg cramps and provide relief:
- 1 part St. Johnswort
- 1 part Passionflower
- 1 part Skullcap
- 1 part Chamomile
- 1 part White Willow Bark

2. Anti-Stress/Pain Potion
- GAIA Herbs
- 1 part Gaia Herbs Serenity Elixir
- 1 part Herb Pharm White Willow Bark
- A red flannel can also be wrapped around the area with pain.
- Use of coconut helps in curing the leg and knee pains.
- 1-2 teaspoonful of fenugreek powder in the morning water is also effective leg pain remedy.
- A gentle massage with Arthcare Oil is recommended to leg pain cure and to strengthen the bone tissues.

3. Massage oil
- Take 10 grams of camphor and 200 grams of mustard oil.
- Mix in a glass bottle and keep the bottle in the sun till the camphor dissolves.
- Massage the affected area daily.
- This is very good home remedy for leg pain.

4. Saffron solution
- Boil 1-teaspoon saffron in 1/2 cup water and divide this solution into three portions and take with equal quantities of water, thrice daily for a week.
- This is one of the effective home remedies for leg pain.

5. Various yogasanas
- Janusandhi,
- Uttanpadasana
- Gomukhasana

Other Home remedies
- Make sure that you use appropriate footwear when walking that provide your feet with adequate support.
- Stretch your muscles gently with light exercise like riding a stationary bicycle for a few minutes before going to bed.
- This can help loosen up and strengthen the muscles.
- This would greatly limit the occurrence or severity of night leg cramps.

Make sure that your diet is not restrictive
- A well balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables should be taken regularly.
- This should provide you with all the essential nutrients you need. – Mineral deficiencies can aggravate the problem of night leg cramps.
- The best way to get it to pass is by consciously relaxing your mind and body.
- Deep breathing is the most effective method of relaxation at such times.
- Lightly massage the cramped muscle with your hands using a soothing balm.
- A hot shower or soak in a warm bath should also offer considerable relief.
- Multi-vitamin and mineral supplements may help.
- Calcium, potassium, and magnesium deficiencies are often the cause for night leg cramps.
- Try and consume fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Whole meal varieties of grains should be taken.
- Fruits like dates and bananas are rich sources of magnesium and potassium.
- It would be best to get the required dosage of calcium from supplements that do not contain phosphorus.

Some good dietary sources of essential minerals like potassium are:
- Bananas, dates, grapes, apricots, and raisins.
- Pulses, cabbage and broccoli.
- Oranges, tomatoes and grapefruit, including their juice.
- Pork, lamb, and fish like tuna.
- Potatoes and corn.

Additional Tips to Cope
- Avoid using tight bed covers or restrictive sheets.
- Stretch the calf muscles with some light exercise for at least five minutes before going to bed each night.
- Take up a non intensive fitness regime like yoga or pilates to strengthen the muscles and also to loosen them up.
- Yoga is particularly useful as the breathing exercises and meditative practices.
- Yoga also helps improve circulation.

What are nails made of?
- They are made of a hard protein called keratin.
- Our nails protect our fingers from injury
- It takes around 90 days for our fingernail and toenails to grow from the base to the tip.

Some of the causes are:
- Iron deficiency will cause your nails to become spoon shaped.
- Your nails may become clubbed.
- Swelling around the ends of your fingers.
- Sometimes your toes are swollen.
- It might be if you have a respiratory or heart problem.
- If you have psoriasis your nails may become pitted.
- The biggest nail problem seen in toe nails is ingrown.
- Another nail problem is discoloration.
- As you get older your nails develop vertical ridges.

The cause is the mal absorption of:
- Vitamins A
- B complex
- Vitamin C
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Zinc
- Other essential fatty acids

Reasons for discolored nails can include:
- Anemia -very pale nails.
- Liver Problems-nails turn kind of whitish.
- Bacterial- your nails will have dark spots in them that resemble splinters.
- Fungi infections- your nails can turn whitish and soft or even crumble.
- White spots can be caused from a deficiency of zinc or Vitamin A.

There are preventive measures like:
- Keep your finger nails short.
- Wear gloves when working outdoors in your garden.
- Wear rubber gloves if you are always immersing your hands in water.
- Remember to wash your hands and nails when they come in contact with any type of chemicals like cleaning products.
- The best prevention for ingrown nails is to trim your toe nails straight across.
- Wear shoes that do press on your toenails.

What do you do to keep your nails healthy?
- Nail care is as important as keeping your body and hair clean.
- Eat foods that have calcium, iron, vitamin B and potassium.
- Foods like seafood, dairy products, celery, soy should be included.
- Drink 8 glasses of water each day to keep your body from dehydrating.
- Your nails need water just like your hair and body.
- If your nails are splitting or are weak it could be from not drinking enough water.

There are some natural home treatments which should be taken 4 times a day for up to 3 weeks for the following nail problems:

- In the case of brittle nails, try Antimonium 6c.
- If your nails become deformed with white spots, try Silicea 6c.
- If your nails start to get thick, deformed, start to crumble and are swollen and painful, try Graphites 6c.
- If your nails are brittle with red and swollen skin at the base you should, try Thuja 6c.
- For any finger nail problem you can always soak your nails two times a day in Calendula solution, or apply Calendula ointment.

Treatment for Ingrown Nails
- Put a very small piece of cloth between the side of the nail and the skin.
- Completely bathe your toe with Hypericum and Calendula solution – 5 drops of each to ½ pint of boiled water that has cooled.

Other home remedies for nail problems that involve your toe nails are:

- Magnetic austr. 30c.
- Brittle toe nail problems us Thuja 30c.

Swollen, red gums, painful bleeding when brushing or flossing are a sign of pregnancy gingivitis. The inflammation is caused by higher progesterone levels that make the gums more susceptible to plaque bacteria and the increased blood supply in the mouth.

You can also develop a benign nodule in the gums that bleed when you brush the teeth. This type of nodule is called pregnancy tumour or pyogenic granuloma. Tumours of pregnancy can actually appear anywhere in the body during pregnancy, but most often they appear in the mouth.

A pregnancy tumour can grow up to three quarters of an inch in size and is more likely to occur in an area where you have gingivitis. It usually disappears after having the baby, but if not, you will need to have it removed. If it causes discomfort, it interferes with chewing or brushing, or begins to bleed excessively; you can have it removed during pregnancy.

Causes:
There are several causes of gum disease during pregnancy. One is the increase in blood flow. During pregnancy, blood flow actually increases between 30% and 50%. This is to ensure that the baby is always getting the right nutrients to grow and develop. Unfortunately, this increased blood flow can cause the gums to swell and become very sensitive. It can even cause the gums to bleed, leaving them at greater risk for gingivitis.

The increase in hormones may also play a role in the development of pregnancy gingivitis. These high levels of the hormones leave the gums and teeth more sensitive to the bacteria that hide in the plate. This is one reason why gingivitis is so common in pregnancy.

Morning sickness can also play a small role in contributing to pregnancy gingivitis. Many women find they can no longer stand the smell or taste of the toothpaste, making it difficult to maintain good oral hygiene. Increased vomiting during pregnancy can also take its toll on the gums. Vomit contains stomach acid that can eat away the gums and teeth, making the mouth are very sensitive.

Treatment:
There is no cure for gum disease, although the damage can sometimes be reversed or stopped. All pregnant women should receive at least two thorough cleanings during pregnancy. This should help reduce your chances of developing periodontal disease or gingivitis of pregnancy.

If you already have gingivitis, treating gum disease is better to have a thorough cleaning at your dentist’s office. Your dentist will scale your teeth using a variety of instruments. This will remove excess plaque from teeth and around the gum line. Severe gingivitis may also require root planning, a process during which the roots of the teeth are cleaned the plate completely.

Prevention:
As always, the best treatment for gingivitis is prevention. Maintaining good oral hygiene routine will ensure that your gums and teeth healthy for a long time to come. Try following these tips:
- Brush twice a day for at least five minutes.
- Use a soft bristle brush – this will prevent irritating your gums.
- Flossing once a day or use an antibacterial mouthwash to get rid of plaque between teeth.
- Avoid eating large amounts of refined sugar – this will reduce the plaque and tartar .
- Visit your dentist regularly.

Used as Preservative.
Due to it anti-microbial properties addition of oregano in small quantities to food can help delay the process of fermentation, thus retaining the taste and nutrients in the food for a much longer period.

Antioxidant
Oregano has strong antioxidant properties which help to remove the harmful free radicals from the body which otherwise could cause cancer. Consuming oregano also help to delay the aging process because of its antioxidant property as it helps overcome the wear and tear or degeneration in the cells.

Enhancing body immunity
Another major health benefit of Oregano is that it has very high antimicrobial properties because of which consumption of oregano can help ward off various viral, bacterial, and fungal infections like mumps measles, typhoid, and cholera etcetera. The anti fungal property of oregano helps fight any fungal infection if applied on the affected area externally.

Digestion
Oregano helps in digestion of food by helping in the secretion of digestive juices. Hence, addition of oregano in food not only enhances flavor but also enhances its digestion and assimilation.

Emenagogue
One of the many health benefits of oregano to women is that it helps in correcting any menstrual defects and it also delays the arrival of menopause.

Anti-inflammatory
Oregano is known to have sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, and can be used as a mild painkiller. Oregano can be taken in the form of tea to get relief from any body pains or aches. Oregano oil can also be applied externally to get relief from inflammation. Because of the anti inflammatory property of oregano it can also be used as a mild anti allergen to overcome the hypersensitivity caused due to any allergic reaction.

Anti parasitic
There are many parasites that reside inside the human body and derive nourishment from it. These parasites in the long run create health problems and in serious cases may even lead to death a common example being that of tape worms. Ingestion of oregano helps in fighting against these parasites and avoiding any communicable disease that could be caused by these parasites. The phenol content in oregano helps to get rid of the external parasites as well.

Nutritional
Oregano has a high content of minerals and vitamins when fresh. Oregano also contains omega-3 fatty acids or PUFA which is an essential fatty acid required by the body. Omega-3 fatty acids help in reducing possibilities of heart diseases.

Respiratory health
The volatile oils of oregano help in relieving sinus and lung congestion. Oregano tea is usually advised to treat influenza; bronchitis, asthma and fever. It helps maintain the respiratory health.

This herb also helps in fighting other disease like giardia and ecoli infection. Oregano also helps in healing athlete’s foot, Psoriasis, eczema, and other infectious diseases. Although Oregano originally was grown in the Mediterranean region, it is widely grown and consumed now due to the many health benefits that it presents.

FUNCTIONS OF MAGNESIUM IN HUMAN BODY

- Magnesium helps to keep nerves relaxed.
- Magnesium is necessary for all muscular activity.
- Magnesium is an activator of most of the enzyme systems involved in metabolism of carbohydrate, fat, and protein.
- Magnesium is necessary for activation of alkaline phosphates.
- Magnesium helps in the utilization of vitamin B and E.
- Magnesium maintains fluid and electrolyte balance.
- Magnesium is important for converting blood sugar into energy.
- Magnesium acts as an anti-stress mineral.
- Magnesium is useful in keeping healthier cardiovascular system.
- Magnesium prevents calcium deposits in kidneys and gallstones.

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS OF MAGNESIUM IN HUMAN BODY

- Rapid heart rate.
- Chronic alcoholism.
- Hypertension.
- Depression.
- High blood pressure.
- Impaired protein metabolism.
- Premature wrinkles.
- Irritability.
- Kidney damage or kidney stones.
- Muscle cramps.
- Heart attack.
- Sensitivity to sound.

FOOD SOURCES RICH IN MAGNESIUM

- Green leafy vegetables.
- Nuts, soy beans, alfalfa, apples, figs, lemons, peaches, almonds.
- Whole grains, brown rice, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds.
- Jowar, bajra, finger millet.
- Cereals and vegetables.

Chronic alcoholics show a low plasma magnesium concentration and a high urinary output. Hence, they require an extra magnesium intake.
Magnesium prevents recurrence of kidney stones by increasing the solubility of calcium in urine.

English cucumbers – Have very little in the way of seeds and can grow to around 2 feet in length.
Mediterranean cucumbers – Skins are smooth with nearly seedless flesh, they have a mild taste.
Japanese cucumbers – A dark green cucumber with a very bumpy skin. Mainly used for slicing, salads and pickling.

Health and Skin Benefits of Cucumber

- Cucumbers have high water content (about 95 percent).
- They have fiber-rich skin and their levels of potassium and manganese, which help regulate blood pressure and help promote nutrient functions.
- Cucumbers help remove uric acid, which is beneficial for those who has arthritis.
- Cucumber helps in reducing swelling around the eyes or the big dark circles under your eyes.
- Cucumber is very beneficial for burns, swollen eyes, and dermatitis. because it consists of Caffeic and ascorbic acids, which prevent water retention.
- Its juice is a nourishing vitamin for our hair and skin.
- Cucumber is good for those who are dieting as it is very low in calories.
- Cucumber’s nutritional benefits include natural salts, enzymes, and vitamins essential for strong cell growth and repair.
- Cucumber juice is certainly beneficial the treatment of rheumatic conditions.
- This colorless drink can help regulate blood pressure because of its minerals and traces of sodium.
- The excellent source of silica contributes to the proper construction of connective tissues in our body as in the bones, muscles, cartilage, ligaments and tendons.
- The temperature regulating properties in cucumber juice makes it a suitable drink when you have a fever.
- Those suffering from diabetes have been found to benefit from the consumption of cucumber/cucumber juice.
- Cucumber contains Erepsin, the enzyme that helps in protein digestion.
- Cucumber juice is said to promote hair growth, especially when it is added to the juice of carrot, lettuce and spinach.
- Daily consumption of cucumber juice helps control cases of eczema, arthritis and gout.
- Helps in kidney and urinary bladder disease.

When you drink high quality wheatgrass juice, your body may produce spectacular results such as:
- A physical and mental sense of well-being
- More energy and better sleep
- Stronger immune system
- Detoxification on a cellular level
- Reduced inflammation in the entire body
- Appetite cravings
- Increased mental clarity
- Steadier nerves
- Improved eyesight and night vision
- Actively engaging in and enjoying activities you had been dreading in the past.
- Visually seeing results via live blood cell analysis such as the un-clumping of oxygen-carrying red blood cells.

Nutrient content of wheatgrass juice compared to fruits and vegetables.

- 1 ounce of fresh wheatgrass juice is equivalent to 2.5 pounds of vegetables in nutritional value.
- 1 ounce of wheatgrass has more vitamin C than 1 ounce of oranges.
- 1 ounce of wheatgrass has twice the vitamin A than in 1 ounce of carrots.
- It is said that 25ml of wheatgrass is equivalent in vitamins, minerals and amino acids to a kilogram of fresh garden vegetables in nutritional value.

Health Benefits of Wheatgrass

- The most outstanding feature of the wheatgrass is its very high content of chlorophyll at about 70%. This alone makes it a superfood that has a highly energizing and alkalizing effect.
- Wheatgrass juice is good for skin problems and improves complexion, treats acne, and removes acne scars.
- Wheatgrass juice purifies the blood which helps to cleanse the kidneys, liver and urinary tract.
- The insoluble fiber in wheatgrass gently cleanses your digestive tract and promotes regularity.
- Wheatgrass juice helps stop the growth and development of unfriendly bacteria.
- Wheatgrass juice, which is high in beta-carotene, can contribute to a reduction in the risk of developing some kinds of cancer.
- When chlorophyll is taken internally (wheatgrass juice), it reduces or eliminates body and breath odors.
- Chlorophyll is beneficial in the treatment of skin diseases and first and second degree burns.
- Wheatgrass can help to eliminate dangerous chemicals in fluoridated water and found on fruits and vegetables.
- Chlorophyll is effective in clearing up your Sinuses.

Health Benefits of Tofu

- Besides calcium and protein, tofu is a good source of iron. It is primarily used as part of hemoglobin and helps in the transport and release of oxygen throughout the body.
- Soya beans and other soya based products may play a role in preventing various types of cancer, especially breast cancer.
- It is also known to prevent osteoporosis, thanks to its calcium.
- Another benefit that tofu offers is that it is very easy to digest. This is because the fiber of the soya beans is removed during the manufacturing process.
- A mere 4 ounces of tofu each day provides around 14.45 of the daily beneficial fat requirement. This beneficial fat or Omega-3-fatty acid helps control erratic heart rhythms, reduces clotting of blood inside arteries and improves the ratio of good HDL to bad LDL.
- Tofu is rich in isoflavones. When making tofu, the soy isoflavones, genistein and daidzein, remain bound to the soy protein.
- The copper present in tofu helps in reducing the painful symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).
- Tofu has high level of trace mineral selenium which is very important for the proper functioning of the antioxidant system.

Caution

- Tofu contains considerable amount of the naturally occurring substance called oxalate. The presence of high amounts of this substance causes its crystallization, resulting in certain health problems. Hence, people suffering from existing or untreated health problems should avoid the consumption of high amounts of tofu.
- Certain allergic reactions may occur as a result of consumption of tofu.

Health Benefits of Banana :
- Banana is an energy booster.
- Bananas are fruits that are high in fiber, making them an ideal remedy for constipation and an alternative to chemical laxatives.
- Bananas are a natural source of potassium which helps to keep the body fluids and electrolyte balance in body cells and helps in regulating blood pressure.
- Bananas are not only a good source of B vitamins they also contain vitamin C, A.
- Banana is a rich source of iron, thus it is helpful in cases of anemia.
- The skin of the banana is said to help remove warts(cover the warts with the inner skin of banana).
- Banana is also helpful in Stomach ulcer (banana has a natural antacid), Colitis, Digestive disorder, Diarrhea, Constipation (banana is high in fiber), Hemorrhoids.
- Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.
- Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood-sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.
- Bananas are useful in the treatment of arthritis and gout. A diet of bananas only for three or four days is advisable in these conditions.
- One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey as it calms the stomach.
- Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.
- Cooked banana flower eaten with curd is considered an effective medicine for menstrual disorders like painful menstruation and excessive bleeding.
- Bananas are an ideal fruit to be eaten when a person is suffering from ulcers.
- Eating bananas as part of a regular diet can reduce the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%.

Bananas and losing weight :
Bananas may be one of the best fruits to eat when attempting to lose weight. They are full of nutrients for increased energy and vitality. Bananas are also low in calories and fat, plus they have a high water content and potassium levels. A diet high in potassium foods and lower in sodium-loaded processed foods can help reduce water weight.
The daily diet is restricted to six bananas and four glasses of skimmed milk or buttermilk made from skimmed milk for a period of 10 to 15 days. Thereafter green vegetables may be introduced gradually, reducing the intake of bananas from six to four.

Storing Bananas :
Bananas need to be treated with care as they bruise easily. The ideal way to store bananas is to keep them at room temperature. In order to ripen bananas, you can either wrap them in a newspaper or keep them in a brown paper bag. If you store a banana in a fridge it will turn black. However it will still be edible.