All posts by Sumana Rao

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Garlic in mustard oil

Garlic in mustard oil

Garlic is pungent due to presence of sulfur chemical. But garlic is considered to be one of the miracle herbs because of its incredible health benefits. Garlic oil massage for joint pain and muscle pain is recommended as it prevents cartilage damage. Consuming one medium sized garlic clove every morning in empty stomach with glass of warm water reduces cholesterol and muscle pain. Sulfur content in garlic is responsible for its wonderful benefits. Following recipe also known as homemade garlic oil, this oil is very powerful when it comes to give relief for body pain.

 

Ingredients:

1.       Garlic cloves – 4-5

2.       Mustard oil – 30 ml

 

Preparation steps:

1.       Heat mustard oil on medium heat

2.       Add crushed garlic cloves and fry for couple of minutes or till garlic turns brown

3.       Cool and filter the oil

4.       Apply and massage on areas including joint pain, muscle pain areas to get relief.

 

Image credit: Imagen de Steve Buissinne en Pixabay (cc by 0)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: September 25, 2023
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Camphor and beetle leaf in sesame oil

Camphor and beetle leaf in sesame oil

Camphor is obtained from Cinnamomum species C. camphora. It is a terpene compound used in popular pain balms, cremes and lotions. Camphor tablets are offered to God in many religions. Smelling small amount of camphor reduces headache and clears sinus. Adding camphor crystal (tablet) or camphor oil with other ingredients (see below recipe) is useful to relieve not just the pain, also for congestion, arthritis pain, muscle pain etc. Camphor also has antimicrobial properties and anti-inflammatory property.

 

Indian beetle leaf exhibits analgesic property – warm beetle leaf topical application reduces muscle ache, headache, stomach ache (especially in children). Chewing beetle leaf reduces gum pain by causing temporary numbness inside mouth. Beetle leaf is good for oral health, it is used in treating mouth wounds. 

 

Topical application of below mix of camphor helps to desensitize the nerve ending. It has analgesic property. Thus, topical application gives warm sensation and reduces joint pain.

 

Ingredients:

1.       Sesame oil -200 ml

2.       Garlic – 10 cloves

3.       Beetle leaves – 3-4

4.       Camphor -2-3

 

Preparation steps:

1.       Boil sesame oil

2.       Add crushed garlic cloves

3.       Cut and add beetle leaves

4.       Add powdered camphor

5.       Continue boiling till the beetle leaves turn black.

6.       After cooking, filter the oil and store in a bottle.

7.       Apply the oil on the area where you have pain and massage once or twice daily

 

Image credit:  Indiamart.com & Kumaravel Thangaraj, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Homemade Oil Recipes For Pain Relief

Homemade Oil Recipes For Pain Relief

Application of healthy oils give relief when applied on areas where we experience pain. Some of these oils can be blended at home or prepared at home easily and stored for longtime. When in need we can apply and massage the are with these different types of oil to reduce the pain.

 

Massaging oils reduces inflammation, increases blood circulation and gives relief for stressed body. One can use blended essential oils or readily available cooking oils like sesame, coconut, olive oil along with essential oil for external application.

 

Following oils combinations with different ingredients, one can prepare home, keep it ready and use for various pains:

 

1.       Camphor in sesame oil

2.       Garlic in mustard oil

3.       Cayenne pepper in carrier oil

4.       Eucalyptus oil with sesame or olive oil

5.       Clove oil with carrier oil

6.       Rosemary and eucalyptus oil

7.       Ginger oil with coconut oil

 

Note: a) Before applying any of this oil, test it in a small patch on your skin for irritation or any reaction. b) If the pain persists or does not go away consult doctor.  

 

Image credit: Imagen de -Rita-👩‍🍳 und 📷 mit ❤ en Pixabay (cc by 0)

 

Camphor and beetle leaf in sesame oil

Camphor and beetle leaf in sesame oil

Garlic in mustard oil

Garlic in mustard oil

 

Cayenne pepper in carrier oil

Cayenne pepper in carrier oil

 

Eucalyptus oil with sesame or olive oil

Eucalyptus oil with sesame or olive oil

 

Clove oil in carrier oil

Clove oil in carrier oil

Rosemary and Eucalyptus oil:

Rosemary and Eucalyptus oil

 

Ginger oil with coconut oil

Ginger oil with coconut oil
Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Food causing insomnia

These Foods Can Trigger Insomnia

Insomnia or sleepless nights is a common condition that many of us suffer from. Not getting good sleep could result in several conditions including heart disease, vision issues, low energy, weight gain etc. As we know stress and certain types of lifestyles are reasons for insomnia, there are certain types of foods and drinks also contribute for sleepless nights. These foods can cause discomfort and disrupt sleep patterns. Some of the foods that are responsible for insomnia are listed here.

Individual responses to these foods can vary, and what affects one person’s sleep may not affect another’s in the same way. If you’re prone to insomnia or sleep disturbances, it’s a good idea to be mindful of your diet, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime. Here are some foods and beverages that could potentially cause insomnia:

  • Caffeine: Caffeine is a stimulant that is present in coffee, tea, soft drinks, energy drinks, and chocolate. It can interfere with sleep by increasing alertness and delaying the onset of sleep. Avoid consuming these foods or drinks several hours before going to bed. In fact, it is suggested that avoid any types of caffeine intake after your lunch.
  • Alcohol: While alcohol can initially make you feel drowsy and help you fall asleep faster, it can disrupt your sleep cycle and cause frequent awakenings. Alcohol interferes with neurotransmitters causing brain cells to be awake.  If you consume alcohol at night, limit consumption and use bathroom before going to sleep.
  • Spicy foods: Spicy foods can cause heartburn or indigestion, acid reflux which may make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep comfortably.
  • Fatty foods: High-fat and greasy foods can lead to indigestion, which can make it difficult to fall asleep. Avoid such heavy or rich meals close to bedtime.
  • Sugary foods and drinks: Foods and beverages high in sugar can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, which may lead to restlessness during the night.
  • High-protein meals: Generally high protein meal takes time to process. Consuming a large meal with a high protein content before bedtime can lead to difficulty in digestion, potentially leading to constipation, discomfort and sleep disturbances.
  • Acidic foods: Foods high in acidity, such as citrus fruits and tomatoes, can contribute to acid reflux, which can be uncomfortable and disrupt your sleep.
  • Processed and refined foods: Highly processed and sugary foods can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels causing nighttime awakenings.
  • Drinking excess water: Drinking too much water close to bedtime may lead to waking up frequently to use the restroom, disrupting sleep. Drink water one hour before going to bed.
  • Tyramine-containing foods: Tyramine is a compound present in foods like in foods like aged cheeses, pickles, smoked meats, alcohol and certain fermented foods. Some people are sensitive to Tyramine, and it can potentially trigger headaches, skin irritation, chills and disrupt sleep in these individuals.

It’s essential to pay attention to how your body responds to different foods and adjust your diet accordingly to promote better sleep. If you consistently struggle with insomnia or sleep problems, consider discussing with your doctor. Your physician might help you to identify and address potential dietary factors contributing to your sleep issues. Additionally, maintaining a regular sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can also improve your sleep quality.

Image credit: Photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photograph-of-a-woman-touching-her-face-6951522/ (cc by 0)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: September 24, 2023
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Cucumber seed rasam

Delicious Dosekai Sambar Cucumber Seeds Rasam

Do you know, you can prepare delicious rasam using sambar cucumber seeds? Sambar cucumber is also known as dosekai. Its skin is colorful with green and yellow patches. While preparing this cucumber for sambar or curd based morukolambu or majjigehuli or curry, do not discard the seeds. Wash, dry and store the dried seeds in a airtight container for preparing rasam. Just make sure that cucumber or seed does not taste bitter before storing the seeds.

This rasam does not require daal or lentil. It is a good fiber and protein source and drinking this will increase metabolism. It is a variety of Indian veggie soup!

Ingredients:

  1. Dried sambar cucumber seeds – 2 Tbsp
  2. Green chili -2
  3. Black pepper – 8-10
  4. Cumin – 2 tsp
  5. Grated coconut – ½ cup
  6. Salt – per your taste
  7. Curry leaves – few
  8. Mustard – ½ tsp
  9. Coriander chopped – ¼ cup
  10. Lemon juice – 2 Tbsp
  11. Asafetida – little
  12. Jaggery – small piece (optional)
  13. Turmeric – ½ tsp
  14. Red chili -1
  15. Oil for seasoning

Preparation:

  1. Grind dried cucumber seeds to paste with green chilies, black pepper, coconut, salt, coriander, and cumin with little water.
  2. Using a proper strainer, strain the paste and collect the rasam liquid. Store the pulp in a box and refrigerate it (you can mix this pulp in vegetable curry).
  3. Place vessel on medium heat and transfer the rasam liquid. Add 2 cups of water and turmeric. Bring it to boil and add salt.  If you prefer, you can add jaggery.
  4. Prepare seasoning using oil, mustard, cumin, curry leaves, asafetida, and red chili.
  5. Transfer seasoning to boiled rasam. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and add lemon juice just before serving. Mix and serve the rasam.
  6. One can drink this rasam or mix it with rice.
Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Feeding Babies

Feeding Babies – What new mothers need to know?

Children stomach is very sensitive. What you feed them has an impact on their growth and development.

It is not only the nutrient content, but also thickness of food that matters.

So, during development and growth of your child it is important to feed them both nutritious and good consistency foods.

Listen what grandma is telling about baby food…

Do you know consistency and thickness of food can be 3 types? Solid, semi-solid and liquid.

  • Solid food: Well cooked rice, vegetables, roti, chapatti, bread varieties – with almost no liquid contents.
  • Semi solid food: Soup, smoothies, porridge, khichadi, mashed banana, oats in milk, blended carrot and lentils, mashed potato etc. with some liquid content.
  • Liquid food: Juice without pulp, water, barley water, rice water, milk, butter milk,

Babies don’t have the swallowing ability to handle solid foods until they reach 4 to 6 months of age. Semisolid foods contain soft particles that your baby can mash with her gums.

Here are suggestions for moms what type of foods they can give the baby.

  1. Between 3 to 4 months: Semi solid food is critical. Semi solid foods contain soft particles that your baby can mash with gums.
  2. Between 4 to 6 months: Include and introduce baby to cooked vegetables
  3. Between 7 to 8 months: Fruit with yogurt, bread pieces – remove crust, khichadi, carrot, biscuits
  4. Between 8 to 10 months: Start feeding baby different types of food – increase the quantity. – See whether baby is developing any allergy, constipation, other health changes or dislikes any types of food.

Some additional points to remember:

Avoid home-grown spinach, beets, green beans, squash and carrots, which can contain high nitrate levels. If you give your baby cereal, mix it with formula or breast milk, not whole milk; babies younger than 1 year of age don’t digest the proteins in milk well.

Allergy symptoms normally appear within a few minutes to two hours after eating an allergenic food. If your baby breaks out in a rash or hives, begins to wheeze or has trouble breathing, develops diarrhea or acts like he has a stomach ache, he might be allergic to some food. Talk to pediatrician about the food and allergy.

One more point – don’t push baby to be in clean plate club. Let him make a mess. It is natural that baby’s food will be outside on the body more than he can swallow. To avoid weight problems – let your baby dictate how much he wants to eat. As a mother, you must watch your baby’s weight and then, feed accordingly. Encourage baby to eat using hands and sit with baby to eat. Encourage baby to try a variety of foods. Do not show your distaste towards your choice of food through facial expression. Babies are smart and they understand your facial expression.

Listen to grandma: Healthylife.Werindia.com

Image credit: <a href=”https://depositphotos.com/category/transport-auto.html”>Father feeding his little son with baby food at home – null</a>

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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House wall cleaning tips

Twenty one tips to clean house walls

While decorating and cleaning we often neglect house walls and ceilings. Cleaning walls and ceilings keeps the house bright and airy. Keeping wall in good condition is needed to avoid any types of damages, reworking, cobweb, mass and fungal growth. Keeping clean wall should be a routine housekeeping work too.

Tips to clean house walls

  1. Using broom stick or additional service tool in vacuum cleaner remove the cobweb.
  2. Using a duster, dust the walls regularly. You can also use an old clean cloth or broom stick to dust
  3. If you are using any type of liquid to clean the wall, make sure to turn off the electricity.
  4. If the wall requires washing and washable, then use a damp soft sponge and all-purpose cleaner and wipe gently.
  5.  Before using any cleaning products, make sure that the cleaning products does not stain the wall.
  6. Oil painted wall surfaces can be cleaned using soap water, followed by water and pat dry.
  7. Do not clean white washed wall using water or chemicals as it removes the white wash easily
  8. On painted wall to remove stains use rubber eraser. Even the fresh white bread is useful!
  9. For brick wall cleaning – scrubbing using brush works. If the grout is loose between bricks fix it.
  10. While cleaning brick avoid water splashing or wet cleaning as the water can enter between bricks or can soak brick causing mildew development.
  11. While cleaning wall paper take precautions. Before selecting wall papers, make sure to pick up washable wall papers for kitchen or bathroom.
  12. For vinyl wallpaper use a damp cloth, soft brush or damp sponge to clean using soapy water. Detergent drops in water will do. Dry the surface of wall paper.
  13. If the wallpaper is stained, color changed – do not cut or tear the paper. Instead remove carefully by tearing old paper from the edge and replace with new one.  
  14. To remove oil stains from wall paper in kitchen, use talcum powder. Dust powder on the stain, leave it for few minutes and wipe using an old clean cloth or brush it off.
  15. For textured wall paper cleaning, use low power vacuum or clean using clean cloth.
  16. To clean plastered wall – dust regularly. If the plaster is washable then use soap water and clean the surface using damp sponge followed by dabbing with dry cloth.
  17. If unwanted and old nail holes are visible fill them using plaster or clay. Toothpaste filling also works out!
  18. Any pencil or pen marks – most time can be erased using eraser or magic eraser. Try it out!
  19. Regularly clean ceiling fans. While cleaning remove dust sitting in the blade edges. Some fans come with light fixtures. Using a clean cloth clean light fixture.
  20. While decorating the house, do not be in a hurry and fix things on wall. Filling wall with items will make dust to sit on items and makes it less attractive too. Select wall decoration items that gives look to house.
  21. Glass walls must be cleaned using glass cleaner. Scum, dust and hand prints can be cleaned using a good glass cleaner or window glass cleaner. Some marks on glass can be remove using old newspaper.

https://unsplash.com/s/photos/house (Free for commercial uses)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Guided imagery relaxation

Learn How To Relax Through Guided Imagery

The degree of stress that we go through depends on the situation and the way we response to the situation. When you go through too much of stress, friends and family may suggest change of scene or  you may wish that you could be in somewhere else where there is no stress or a place to relax. You might imagine being on the beach, visiting a beautiful place or traveling some place.

This imagination might give some peace. A guided imagery will help you to feel better, to regain peace and calmness. How to achieve the peace through guided imagery?

Our body and mind are connected. As the mind imagines that you are traveling somewhere or in a place where you want to be, you should feel it inside and experiencing the feeling will help you to achieve the peace. It is a self heal process.

Guided imagery will help you to feel like being in the place to achieve stress free life. For example sitting on a beach where breeze is hitting your body and face, listening to sound of waves or in midst of nature where birds are chirping

One can go through guided imagery through audio or script or through self-created video.

Guided imagery can be done at any place – at work, home, while traveling in a bus or when you stressed out and need change.

How to follow guided imagery?

Wherever you are-

  • Find a comfortable place. Sit or if possible lie down
  • Close your eyes and breath – inhale and exhale.
  • Now for a second think where you want to be now. Start imagining the place or scene. Imagine how the place should be. Do you want Sun shine, floral scent, flowers and tropical set or a beech, clear blue sky or a meadow where the deer grazing or forest floor full of ferns.
  • Adding some more imagination like walking on beech, creating a path in the forest, watching birds, mountains, dessert, looking at flowers in the meadow, walking bear foot on grass under the blue sky – imagine different scenes that make you feel better.
  • Once you totally feel that you are in the scene and as it starts relaxing you, continue inhale and exhale with the imagination.
  • Note in your mind, what is that making you feeling relaxed in the scene. Is it green grass, meadow, birds, waves, wild flowers – note down. Next time when you are stressed plan to visit the place in your imagination.
  • Once you feel totally relaxed and stress free, bring your sense back to the present.
  • Stretch the body from head to toe and take a deep breath.
  • Open the eyes and get up slowly. Notice how you feel – better or worse or no change. If answer is worse or no change, repeat the process but by imagining you are in a different place this time, that might help to relax.

This guided imagery is simple yet effective way to release stress and feel better to give and receive positive thoughts and energy.

Image credit: Image by K. H. J. / MCI from Pixabay (Free for commercial use)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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