Health

30 Warning Signs Toxins Are Overloading The Body

30. Hair problems Many toxic chemicals are used in hair salons. Long-term exposure can lead to an array of negative health issues. Research shows that salon… Simi - March 18, 2017

We are often told to avoid toxins by eating a healthy diet, leading a clean lifestyle and exercising as often as we can, but many people don’t actually understand what the toxins are that they’re trying so diligently to avoid. Without that proper knowledge, people find that these damaging toxins can still creep back into their lifestyles, causing all sorts of negative effects. Biologically speaking, toxins are harmful agents found in the environment around us. There are a monumental 690 different toxins on the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) program, including some which would be familiar to you like mercury, aluminum, formaldehyde, chloroform, nitroglycerin and many more.

Essentially, a toxin can be described as anything that doesn’t have nutritional value and will damage the body when ingested. We come across trace amounts of toxins in the foods we eat, the air we breathe, and even the clothes we wear, and it’s up to our bodies to get rid of them so they don’t cause damage. The removal of toxins occurs through four systems: the lymphatic system, the liver and kidneys, and the digestive tract. When these systems aren’t functioning at their peak level, whether due to health issues or lifestyle choices like smoking, toxins can build up, causing us to feel irritable, unwell, fatigued, and more.

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1. Constipation

Constipation happens to most people at some point throughout their lives. Medically, constipation is defined by the passing of three or fewer stools per week, and for some people, it can be a regular, painful occurrence. Though the symptoms differ with each individual, generally they include hard stools, difficulty passing anything, feeling like you can’t quite “finish”, and a painful or swollen abdomen.

Constipation can be caused by many different things like poor eating habits, an inactive lifestyle, stress, dehydration and lack of dietary fiber. It can also be caused by medication, pregnancy and diabetes. Constipation happens when too much water is absorbed from food as it moves through the colon, causing the waste product to become dry and hard.

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The colon is the end stage of the digestive process, and its purpose is to absorb the remaining water and electrolytes from the toxins and leftover food that can’t be digested, which is then eliminated in the form of feces. The colon helps regulate fluid levels in the body, and when it’s functioning properly it also absorbs vitamins and nutrients. But when the colon fails to work properly, it starts to absorb toxins in the blood instead of expelling them. This is known as auto-intoxication, where the body recycles the same toxins it’s working so hard to get rid of.

Often, acute constipation resolves itself without the need for medical treatment. If it’s a recurring problem though, there are many things you can try to remedy it. Making changes to the diet to include healthy fruits, vegetables and other high-fiber foods, drinking more water to remain adequately hydrated, and getting enough exercise are just a few things you can do to cure constipation.

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2. Weight Gain

When our body is overloaded with toxins, it’s often accompanied by sudden weight gain. Weight gain occurs for a number of reasons like eating unhealthy foods, lack of exercise, changes in hormonal levels, stress or some medications. Environmental toxins can overload our system, disturbing the delicate balance of blood sugar levels and cholesterol, which can bring on weight gain and potentially cause insulin resistance, a precursor for diabetes. There are two types of toxins: water-soluble, which can be flushed out of the system quickly through the kidneys and the blood, and fat-soluble, which means they must pass through the liver before they’re eliminated.

Toxic chemicals like pesticides, food preservatives, heavy metals, plastics and pollutants are highly fat soluble. Normally, they wouldn’t cause a particularly bad effect on the body, but when the digestive system or lymphatic system isn’t working as well as it should, these toxins make their way back to the liver. This causes congestion, and the liver begins to churn the toxins out into the bloodstream where they make their way into fat cells. Once there, they can be difficult to get rid of and can start causing oxidative damage and cell degeneration.

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Weight gain occurs when the digestive system and lymphatic system aren’t working well. To prevent this, it’s important to keep active. Exercise like jogging, cycling, swimming, aerobics and yoga helps burn off calories and fat stores, and moving the body can stimulate detoxification through sweating, increased heart rate and heavy breathing. Movement helps to circulate, cleanse and purify the blood and lymph fluid.

The best exercises for weight loss and detoxification are activities like jogging, walking, hiking or weight training. For best results, ensure you exercise at least three times a week for a minimum of 20 minutes each time. Make sure you stay hydrated while exercising too, as this can further benefit the detoxification process and remove the toxins from your system.

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3. Constant Fatigue

Fatigue can be described as feeling exhausted, tired, lethargic, or listless. It can affect a person’s physical or mental state, and if fatigue continues for too long it can become extremely detrimental to one’s health and well-being. Fatigue is usually a symptom of an underlying issue, and it’s non-specific which means there can be many possible causes.

Physical fatigue manifests itself in the form of weakness, where the muscles aren’t able to work as well as they should. Things like walking up a flight of stairs and carrying heavy bags may be much more difficult, whereas psychological or mental fatigue affects a person’s concentration, focus and memory. Fatigue can be caused by certain medications, metabolic issues, stress, jetlag, infectious diseases, nutritional deficiencies, obesity, chronic pain and much more.

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Chemical exposure to toxins can be a major contributor to the loss of energy and vitality. When the body is flooded with too many toxins, it works around the clock trying to get rid of them. This leaves very little energy left over for much else, which can create that feeling of tiredness, sluggishness and fatigue. Studies have shown that toxic factors and chemical exposure can also cause severe problems with the immune system, leading to chronic fatigue syndrome.

To properly treat fatigue, it’s best to discover the root cause first. However, there are many things you can do to relieve the symptoms. Changing your lifestyle can be the first step, by eliminating toxins like alcohol, nicotine and even caffeine, you might begin to see some improvements. Try not to nap during the day, as this can exacerbate sleep problems. Overexertion can make symptoms worse, so do your best to avoid excessive physical or emotional stress.

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4. Skin Problems

The skin is the largest, fastest-growing organ of the body. The skin provides protection from germs and bacteria, helps us cool down when we’re overheating, and warms us up when it’s too cold. The skin has three layers: the outermost layer is the epidermis, which acts as a waterproof barrier and is also responsible for our skin tone; the dermis, the second layer, contains the hair follicles and sweat glands, as well as connective tissues; and the hypodermis, where the fat and connective tissues can be found.

The skin is also an incredibly important detoxification system. Everything we come into contact with is absorbed by the skin. Environmental pollutants can clog the pores, trapping dirt, oil, grease and other toxins, which can result in a myriad of problematic skin conditions. These include acne, pimples, rashes, eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, dry skin and itching.

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To keep your skin healthy and support detoxification, there are a few things you can do. First, try to eliminate all personal products like skin creams, hair dyes and makeup that are overburdened with harmful chemicals like parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate, toluene, propylene glycol and even formaldehyde. Do your research before choosing skincare products and ensure you buy as chemical-free as possible. A good rule of thumb to go by is this: if you wouldn’t eat it, and you can’t pronounce the ingredients, don’t put it on your skin.

You can also practice dry body brushing every day, which is a traditional Ayurvedic treatment called Garshana. It increases circulation, reduces the appearance of cellulite, slough off dead skin cells and encourages cell renewal, improves lymphatic drainage and encourages the body to remove metabolic wastes. Follow this up with a shower, or an Epsom salt bath.

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5. Headaches and Migraines

Headaches are a general term for pain felt anywhere in the head or neck. The pain can vary from mild to severe and can be localized to one specific area, or be felt all over. Headaches can come on suddenly, last anywhere from 30 minutes to one week, and can be caused by a variety of things. There are different types of headaches, but the most common are cluster headaches, tension headaches and migraine headaches.

A migraine is a much more severe type of headache with additional symptoms like nausea, vomiting, pain behind one eye, seeing spots, and sensitivity to light or sound. Migraines can often have symptoms that act as a precursor to the actual migraine itself, such as trouble concentrating, seeing flashing lights, tingling in the hands or face and an unusual sense of taste or smell. These are known as migraines with “auras”.

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Migraines and headaches can be triggered by things like alcohol, processed foods, lack of sleep, bad posture, stress, coughing, dehydration and much more. Headaches can also be caused by toxins including car exhaust fumes, second-hand smoke, paint fumes and even exposure to mold. The most common and convenient way to treat headaches is through medication and pain-relief.

If you suffer from frequent headaches or migraines, it’s best to see a doctor to guarantee that there are no underlying issues. If your headaches are thought to be caused by toxins, start to consider any lifestyle changes you can make to reduce the risk of toxic headaches, like the removal or addition of certain foods in your diet, exercising regularly, abstaining from alcohol and smoking, and trying to minimize the toxins you come into contact with.

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6. Mood Swings

Abrupt, unaccountable changes in mood are referred to as mood swings and are a natural part of life. Mood swings can happen to everyone and they can be caused by many different things like stress, anxiety, depression, lack of sleep, a poor diet, drugs and alcohol, caffeine, sugar, hormones and more. A mood swing can be very unsettling to experience. The sudden shift from happy to sad, or excited to anxious, or a whole new feeling entirely, can be hard to deal with when it happens frequently and for no foreseeable reason.

Mood swings are believed to be caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain, which is why they can appear as a symptom of a mental illness, or a disease that affects the central nervous system like dementia, brain tumor and stroke. Trying to manage mood swings can be difficult, especially if you aren’t sure of what’s causing them. To try and avoid them, you can do things like getting enough sleep, limiting your caffeine and alcohol intake, eating a well-balanced diet and making sure you get enough vitamins and nutrients.

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Toxic chemicals like pesticides and preservatives found in food can have a big effect on one’s mood. Additives commonly found in pre-packaged foods can lead to irritability, anxiety and aggression. Artificial sweeteners and refined sugars that are unnecessarily added to food can also play havoc with our mental health, as they can raise inflammation levels through the brain and body and cause a sugar high, followed by a sugar crash.

Aspartame, an artificial sweetener found in products like NutraSweet and Equal, has been found to be a particularly dangerous additive. It is commonly included in things like diet soda, yoghurt, chewing gum, cooking sauces and much more, and it’s a highly addictive substance that has never actually been tested for safety. Aspartame has been shown to create depression and anxiety by mimicking neurotransmitters and triggering aggressive free radicals, which essentially kill off neural cells. If you find yourself suffering from depressive episodes or mood swings frequently, it’s a good idea to visit a healthcare professional for some advice.

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7. Bad Breath

Bad breath is also known as halitosis, and it’s produced by sulfur-producing bacteria that build up on the teeth, gums, tongue, and even in the throat. Bad breath can be caused by things like poor dental hygiene, gum disease, smoking, dry mouth, and certain foods like garlic and onion. Bad breath can also be a symptom of more serious diseases like kidney failure and various cancers. Aside from the foul smell, bad breath can also include symptoms like a white coating across the tongue, plaque build-up, thick saliva, mucous, or a persistent metallic taste.

Bad breath, especially in the mornings, is pretty common. Morning breath happens because our bodies go through a detoxification process while we sleep, and the greater number of toxins that are in the body, the worse morning breath will be. Ensure you clean your teeth properly two to three times a day, and don’t neglect your gums by failing to floss. Though some mouthwash can be full of toxins that you’re trying to avoid, there are natural remedies that can provide an all-over mouth clean. Try swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil around your mouth instead. The oil collects all the bacteria and debris that cause bad breath, giving the same result as mouthwash without harmful additives.

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Problems with bad breath can begin in the digestive system. If you practice good dental hygiene and you’re still noticing the bad breath, you may find that toxins have caused an imbalance of good and bacteria in the gut, which can often result in bad breath. Sometimes you might find that your breath worsens after you eat sugar or other toxin-containing preservatives, and it can be beneficial doing a gentle cleanse to clean out your digestive tract.

Focus on eating probiotics and fermented foods, which can help repopulate the gut with healthy, “good” bacteria. Foods rich in fiber will also help cleanse the digestive tract by keeping food moving through it, removing the toxins as it does. Tongue-scraping is another effective way to combat bad breath, as it removes the white coating of bacteria and food that builds up on the surface of the tongue. Staying hydrated is also important when dealing with bad breath. Drinking water prevents dry mouth because it helps moisten the mouth, neutralize acids, and wash away dead cells and food particles that can collect around the mouth and begin to decay if they aren’t removed correctly.

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8. Muscle Pain and Spasms

Muscle pain is medically known as myalgia, and it can be felt in any muscle in the body. It can be caused by a number of different things like injury, overexertion, tension, thyroid problems, influenza, chronic fatigue syndrome, or the use of certain drugs or medications. It can feel like a sharp, shooting pain or a dull, throbbing ache, and depending on the cause, the pain can range from mild to severe. If muscle pain is not treated, it can sometimes grow more debilitating as time goes by.

Muscle spasms, also known as muscle twitching or muscle fasciculation, are involuntary contractions of the muscle and can cause much discomfort. They happen to different muscle groups in the body and can be due to things like dehydration, overuse, and lack of electrolytes. Spasms are usually abrupt but painful, and can also occur as a symptom of menstrual cramps, diarrhea, kidney stones and gallbladder pains. If a muscle is strained excessively it becomes at risk of spasms, which is why they can often occur after physical activity.

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Muscle pain and spasms can also be caused by a lack of proper nutrients, like vitamin D, vitamin B and calcium, and too many toxins like nicotine and caffeine. Treatment is usually unnecessary, as muscle spasms generally subside on their own. You can give a gentle massage to the muscle while it spasms, but if it keeps occurring then see your healthcare professional.

To prevent spasms and pain, drink plenty of water and fill up electrolytes, as low sodium, magnesium and potassium levels can cause painful cramps and stitches. When exercising, make sure you warm up and cool down correctly, in order to properly relax the muscles so they aren’t damaged.

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9. Insomnia

Insomnia is a common sleep problem that occurs in around one in every three people. If you regularly struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep, you may have insomnia. It can become detrimental to health if it’s not dealt with, as it can cause you to feel excessively tired during the day, and negatively impact performance in all areas of life.

Insomnia can be triggered by many things. Some medications like anti-depressants, drugs like nicotine, caffeine and alcohol, stress, depression, grief and anxiety can bring on a bout of insomnia. Other things that impact our sleeping habits are a dysfunctional detoxification system, mineral imbalances, high cortisol levels, hormonal imbalances, low melatonin, inflammation of the immune system, and a high level of toxins. Insomnia can cause mood swings, lack of focus and concentration, poor driving, loss of memory and much more.

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Insomnia can be a symptom of toxic overload and liver dysfunction. Trace amounts of heavy metal toxins like aluminium, mercury and lead can collect in the liver, accumulating over time and impacting proper liver functioning. Insomnia that is caused by environmental toxins will likely have some additional symptoms, such as sensory abnormalities like ringing in the ears, skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis, immune system issues, numbness or tingling in the limbs, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramps, and difficulty breathing.

There are various ways to treat insomnia, depending on the underlying causes. Improving daytime and nighttime habits can make a big difference, so having a regular bedtime and wake time, avoiding caffeine, stimulating activity and technology for a few hours before bed, and creating a peaceful pre-bedtime routine can all help get your sleep cycle back on track. Alternatively, there are certain medications and sleeping pills that will help in the short-term, but they can be addictive and can cause more problems in the long run so they’re best to avoid if you can help it.

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10. Body Overheating and Sweating

Sweating is the body’s way of regulating body temperature. There are two types of sweat glands: eccrine, which are found all over your body; and apocrine, which are found in the hair follicles of the scalp, armpits and groin. Sweat that occurs from the eccrine glands is lighter and odorless, whereas sweat from the apocrine glands is heavier, with a distinct odor. The smell occurs when this sweat breaks down and mixes with bacteria that are found on the surface of the skin.

Sweating is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, and it’s a normal part of everyday life. Things like high temperatures, stress, emotions like anger or embarrassment, and spicy foods or hot beverages are just a few of the things that can stimulate the sweat glands. Illnesses like flu, infection, hypoglycemia and cancer can also cause sweating. Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) or not sweating enough can be a warning sign for things like thyroid issues or diabetes.

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When toxins build up in your system and overload the digestive system, your body will try to eliminate toxins through the skin instead which can result in overheating and sweating. Overheating, also called hyperthermia, is another common symptom of a dysfunctional liver and can be felt in waves, either with or without sweating. Even though sweating can be a great way to get rid of toxins, it’s also a sign that your system is working overtime to eliminate toxins.

A proper detox involves abstaining from toxins and other harmful things while promoting a healthy body, ensuring all systems are working at their highest potential. To do this, make sure you choose the right foods to support the body’s detoxification processes. These will include organic fruits and vegetables, whole-meal grains and no fast food. Adequate exercise, lots of water and fresh air can also aid detoxification.

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11. Sensitivity to scents

Your sense of smell is your strongest tool when it comes to conjuring up memories. The idea behind this is that a scent can bring up memories in a much stronger way than any one of the other senses. This may sound odd at first but consider how powerful the sense of smell is. Think of the smell of freshly baked bread or possibly the smell of rain. Merely thinking about these smells almost makes it seem like you are smelling them right now.

You cannot describe the smell itself, but you do know it, there is no doubt about that. But, what if when you think of certain smells all you can remember is the mind-numbing headaches that accompany these smells You do not think of rolling fields or melting butter, you think of an intense pain in your temples that could only be reduced by closing your eyes and sitting in a dark room.

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There are people out there who are merely sensitive to chemicals. These people cannot handle fragrances that are filled with chemicals and will, therefore, get a headache when they smell perfume or other such products. But, if your sensitivity to smells is a new thing. If you have only recently started getting headaches when you smell something particularly strong, then you could be suffering from a toxin overload.

It is not just headaches that will result from strong scents, a stomach ache after smelling a fragrance could also indicate a toxin overload. The reason for this is that your body is already battling a massive amount of toxins and once you add more to the mix, it reacts quite violently.

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12. Impaired cognitive function

Just one decade ago, people were not in the habit of reading the ingredient list on the back of their food products. They presumed that if a product said that it was healthy, then it must be healthy. Unfortunately, this was not and is not the case. Sugar-free does not mean sugar-free. Granted, it may not have sugar in it in the conventional sense. But, what have they put in their products to replace the sugar?

There are times when the substitute is marginally excellent to consume. But more often than not it is something called aspartame. As the name suggests, this is a chemical, and it is not a benign one at that. Aspartame is quite toxic, and it is quite shocking that it is allowed to be included in so many different products. The moral of the story here is that if a product says sugar-free, this is not necessarily the case.

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The reason why aspartame is so dangerous for you is that it is an excitotoxin. This means that when it enters the bloodstream that is bound to the brain, it excites the brain cells when it reaches its destination. It excites them to such a point that they incur some damage in the process. The result of this damage is poor memory or otherwise fuzzy thinking.

The natural progression to this is that it is possible that impaired cognitive function could be a sign that there are too many toxins in your body. Naturally, other causes have to be ruled out first. But if you have eliminated all the usual suspects, then toxins could be the cause of your lazy thinking.

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13. Food sensitivity

Every year there is a new diet fad that hits the market. Saying every year may be a bit kind. In reality, there are modern diets that do the rounds every few months. These diets may help people lose a bit of weight in the short term, but this weight rarely ever stays off, the reason is that all you are doing is losing water weight. These diets do not focus on changing your lifestyle or changing the way that you view food and consumption. They concentrate on restricting caloric intake, which in itself is beautiful but is just not enough to maintain a healthy weight over a long period. There is one diet, however which has stuck around for quite a while.

This diet is the Mediterranean diet. Why this eating regime has stood the test of time because of the core principles upon which it is based. These principles are that it is best to eat whole food that comes in its original form and to consume healthy fats. The reasoning behind the whole foods thing is that if you are eating unprocessed food, then you will not be consuming chemicals without knowing it.

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The act of processing food introduces a lot of chemicals into the final products. These chemicals help preserve the food, and they may even be added to enhance the flavor of the food which has been stripped of its natural flavoring. A person who consumes a significant amount of highly-processed food is introducing a lot of toxins into their bodies. In the short-term, this will not be too much of an issue, but over time these will build up in the body.

Finally, there will be a point when the body cannot handle any more. At this point, trying to introduce any more chemicals will result in quite a severe reaction. This will come out as sensitivity to food.

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14. Inflammation

There is a lot of debate on the topic of what makes a toxin a toxin. There are some people out there who go so far as to say that toxins do not exist. That it is a word that has been taken and used to further the sales of drug companies. Whether this is the case or not is an entirely separate argument. If the word toxin does not sit well with you, then maybe we can replace it with the word chemical. For the following argument, the word itself does not matter.

The body is a very finely tuned machine. It is robust to a certain extent in the sense that it can battle off foreign substances, but this is only to a point. When the body is bombarded with foreign substances, chemicals perhaps, then it responds by trying to destroy these substances. This process is a natural one, but it does result in inflammation. Think of when you get sick, and your lymph nodes become inflamed. This is what doctors check for when they feel your throat when you head into their office looking for a diagnosis.

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If this inflammation only exists for a small period, then the person is not in any real danger. The problem lies in the duration and frequency of the inflammation. If it persists for too long, then there could be the danger of other conditions developing. By eating processed food frequently, you will be enabling this inflammation.

Conditions that are associated with prolonged inflammation include asthma, arthritis and heart disease to name but a few. An abundance of toxins could also worsen these conditions if they are already present.

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15. Stomach ulcers

The world is considerably more poisonous than it was a couple of hundred years ago. This is not such a foreign concept when you consider the specific type of poison that we are subjected to every day. Some cars spew out exhaust fumes. There are factories and the industrial sector that are adding their portion of pollution into the sky, water, and soil. Even the fresh food that we eat is inundated with pesticides and herbicides. These are new dangers that only came about in the last century. When considering that the human body has not evolved since we came to be it is clear that we are not able to deal with these poisons, this is physiologically speaking of course.

There are many different ways in which these toxins and poisons can get into our bodies, but a significant portion of them get into our bodies through our stomachs. This is done via the food that we eat and the liquids that we drink.

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It has already been clarified that foreign particles produce inflammation in the body, but that is just the tip of the iceberg. When these same poisonous and toxic things get into our stomachs, they produce a different reaction. The reaction is a disruption and the overproduction of stomach acids. Again, in the short term, this is only mildly uncomfortable and could give feelings of indigestion and acid reflux.

But, when this is prolonged, then you could end up with stomach ulcers. These are not only incredibly painful, but they can also be life-threatening if untreated. A person who has far too many toxins in their body could very well be suffering from ulcers without even knowing it yet.

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16. Hormone imbalances

We have talked a lot about how toxins and chemicals affect the body when they are seen as foreign particles. There is, however, another category that should be considered here. These are a class of toxins that are synthetic and foreign to the body, but that get misinterpreted by the body. A case in point is xenoestrogens. These are toxins and are most certainly not produced by the body, but they are quite similar to estrogen, which is produced naturally by the body.

The problem here is that estrogen has a particular function in the body, along with this there should only be precise amounts of it existing in the bloodstream at any point in time. If this balance is disrupted and if there are too many estrogen-like substances in circulation, then what you have is a hormonal imbalance. How do these xenoestrogens get into the system you may ask. The answer to that is straightforward, they are present in the food that we eat.

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Before harping on about how this only affects a woman, a hormonal imbalance can affect men as well. In this case, too much estrogen in women results in symptoms that are very similar to both PMS and endometriosis. In men, the result is somewhat different primarily because men should not have a lot of estrogen in their systems in the first place. When these levels are raised, they can be prone to low sperm count.

Other conditions result in hormonal imbalances, but they do not stand alone. A person who is suffering from toxicity could very well display signs of a hormonal imbalance.

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17. Foul smelling stool

A couple of years ago there was a children’s book that came up that was called ‘’Everyone poops”. Even for adults, this is a rather odd name for a book, and that is where the problem lies. This book was written so that defecated could become normalized for children. So that they could know that it is not only ok but that it is entirely normal for them to go to the bathroom. The reason why this is an incredibly valuable lesson is that you can tell a lot about your health just by looking at your stool.

It is for this reason that doctors take stool samples when they are trying to diagnose a patient. No one is saying that you need to go around talking to people about your stool. But you do need to get into the habit of monitoring it. The first thing that should be noted is if anything has changed. If your stool is suddenly looking different, then this could indicate that there is something amiss in your body. The stool is formed naturally by the body while it digests food, it is for this reason that it can be an excellent indicator of the operational condition of the body.

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When it comes to the topic of body toxicity, it is not so much the color and texture of stool that is of interest. These are important and shouldn’t be ignored, but the critical aspect is the smell of your stool.

Stool does not have a particularly good smell usually, but has your stool started to smell particularly foul? Is it smelling a lot worse than it once did? Is there some change to its pungency of it? If this is the case, then you should take note.

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18. A weakened immune system

Every single year the flu season arrives. No matter what we do, it comes without fail, and we all have to be subjected to the possibility of getting sick. There are the sniffles, the coughing, the phlegm and a whole other plethora of flu-related symptoms. It is the worst time, and no one wants to go through it. We do everything in our power to try to avoid it but at some point, or other it hits.

While viruses may be stronger and more widespread than they were before, they are still natural. People get sick, and it is a fact of life. But, how often do they get sick? This is the question that should be on everyone’s minds. The immune system can only go on fighting for so long before it conceded defeat to some virus or other. This should not be too concerning as it is perfectly acceptable to get sick from time to time.

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It is only time to start getting concerned if you are getting sick very frequently. This is by no means normal, and it shows that the body is not functioning correctly and that your immune system is indeed not in tip-top shape. But, what is beating your immune system down? Are the viruses getting stronger or is it just overworked?

There comes a point in health where you can only blame external factors so much. The environment is not solely to blame for the sicknesses that you are suffering from. What you put into your body could be contributing to your health. So much so that your immune system could be so fatigued that you are getting sick every other week.

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19. Urinating too much

We all know that we are meant to drink a fair amount of water a day. Water is so vital to our survival that a person can go longer without food than they can without water. Despite this fact, people do not drink as much water as they are supposed to. They convince themselves that those 5 cups of coffee add up and contribute to their daily intake, but this is only partially true. You need water to survive. You need water to cleanse your body, and that is that.

While on the topic of water, it is necessary to discuss urination. Like defecation, this is a topic that people generally wish to avoid. But, like defecation, urine can tell a lot about what is going on in the body. In this case, color and smell are of some importance because they will highlight some fundamental things about one’s health. Too little urine and you are not drinking enough water. Too much urine and you are drinking too much water.

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This system will, however, only provide guidelines for health and every individual is different. In the case of toxic accumulation, all these factors should be monitored, but the thing that people should be observing is how much they are urinating. A very sudden change in urine output could be a cause for concern.

Yes, urine output does change from day to day. But when we are talking about a change in urine output, we are talking about a drastic change. Maybe you are not urinating at all or have suddenly started urinating too much. These changes could indicate a build-up of toxins in the body.

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20. Excess mucous

Bodily fluids are not particularly pleasant to talk about. But, if some of the points in this list have shown us anything, it is that while it might not be fun to talk about, it is necessary. We have already covered stool, urine, and sweat. While these encompass a large part of body excretions, they do not constitute an exhaustive list. The last one that is of consequence in terms of toxins and body toxicity is mucous.

Some might think that the presence of mucus indicates that there is an infection. This is almost completely wrong. Sure, when one is sick, they produce a lot more mucous, but there is a reason for this. The first thing that needs to be gotten out of the way is the function of mucus. It has got two essential functions, the one being lubrication and the second being that it can trap particles and stop them from entering the body.

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Clearly, from these functions alone mucous is not all bad. It is essential for the proper functioning of one’s body. But, too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. This means that if a person has excessive mucous in their bodies, this could be in the lungs, throat or even the nose, then there could be something that is wrong.

In the context of toxins, excessive mucous could indicate that your body is trying to fight off something. The body does this by producing mucus which then works its way out of the body, taking along with it any substances and particles which do not belong. If the flu has already been ruled out, then it may be time to look at one’s toxin levels.

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21. Cavities

Toxins in your body can lead to rapid deterioration of your oral health. When your body is more toxic, the bacteria in your mouth are more aggressive, and the body finds it harder to absorb the nutrients necessary for maintaining healthy gums and preventing tooth decay. Start brushing your tongue as well as your teeth to get rid of contaminants. When bacteria build up on the teeth, it makes your gums prone to infection, and when they become inflamed, this can cause problems throughout the body.

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Poor dental hygiene and consuming sugar are two factors that contribute to cavities, but genetics, hormonal health, and nutrition also play a role. Preventing cavities takes more than just brushing and flossing. A well-rounded diet of whole foods with minimal processing can help to make sure that you’re not introducing too many toxins to your body. There’s a strong correlation between what happens in your mouth and the rest of your body.

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22. You crash after a workout

Toxins can eat at your joints and muscles. If you have no explanation for why you crash after a workout, it could be because of the toxins in your life. They could be causing a problem if you completely crash after the gym on a regular basis. As toxins build up in your body, they prevent normal regulatory processes from taking place and can cause the body to stop functioning properly.

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If a person is sufficiently toxic and they exercise, they can feel really bad because it gets their circulation going, releasing toxins stored in fatty tissue and other connective tissue. This puts more stress on already stressed organs. Eating clean, whole, organic foods and conditioning helps to improve the body’s ability to remove toxins. Eating naturally detoxing foods and drinking enough water are keys. You can also try to eat probiotic foods to help support your digestive system.

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23. Acid reflux/GERD

Many people suffer from acid reflux for years without finding any real relief. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is more serious but quite common. What people do not realize is that these conditions are a sign of poor digestion and can lead to severe degenerative conditions. According to conventional wisdom, acid reflux is caused by too much stomach acid. The problem with this theory is that stomach acid decreases with age whilst acid reflux tends to get worse. Suppressing stomach acid may treat symptoms, but it does not treat the real problem.

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Food intolerances, medications, chronic infections, stress, and toxins can all contribute to increased intra-abdominal pressure. Prevailing scientific evidence suggests that GERD is caused by dysfunction of the lower esophageal valve which separates the esophagus from the stomach. This dysfunction is caused by intra-abdominal pressure. What this means is that you may need to deal with various factors, including toxins, to find relief.

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24. Diarrhea

Diarrhea is liquid bowel movements, sometimes accompanied by pain and other symptoms. These loose, watery stools pass frequently. Diarrhea has many triggers, including food sensitivity, reaction to drugs, food poisoning, parasites, viruses, bacteria or an underlying disease. Food contaminated with toxic substances can cause diarrhea. Bacteria can produce toxins in the food before it is eaten and this can cause diarrhea and vomiting.

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Eggs, poultry, meat, nuts, spices, cheese, unpasteurized fluids, and unwashed raw fruits and vegetables are all possible sources of chemicals, parasites, bacteria, and toxins that can cause diarrhea. Diarrhea may last from a few hours after exposure to contaminated food or fluid to several days. Results of the research suggest that it’s your immune system that drives diarrhea from your body. It undertakes some defensive flushing to rid itself of what’s toxic.

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25. Edema

Swelling of your hands and feet is caused by edema. Edema results when your lymphatic system can’t handle the amount of fluids flowing out of the cells and into the system. Fluid is released into the tissue, and it accumulates, causing swelling. When the lymphatic system is not working properly, toxins cannot be eliminated effectively.

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Toxic substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic find their way into our systems through the air, water and what we eat. Your body needs to get rid of these heavy metals and toxic chemicals before they disrupt normal systems and processes. Exercise is one way to stimulate your lymphatic system because it isn’t pumped around your body like blood. When your lymphatic system is clogged up, you need to work on ways to reduce your body’s overall toxicity. It helps to stop eating and drinking what you know is bad for your health to reduce the toxic load.

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26. Kidney problems

Our kidneys are at work day and night to eliminate toxins from our bodies. If your kidneys are malfunctioning, it shows up in different ways, such as fishy or sweet-smelling urine, blood in the urine, visible changes such as blood or froth in urine or pain in the abdominal area. The kidneys may not be able to expel the normal amount of urine and edema can occur. Some of the other symptoms may be headaches, muscle cramps, fatigue, and skin discoloration.

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Two of the most common causes of kidney failure are diabetes and high blood pressure. Ways to try and prevent diabetes and high blood pressure from developing are to eat healthier foods, eliminate salt and reduce caffeine intake. Regular exercise and prioritizing rest are also very important. You can purchase urinary test strips at any pharmacy and self-screening is a good idea to rule out more serious conditions.

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27. Osteoporosis

If you eat a diet high in salt, your body may be losing too much calcium through urination. If calcium is in short supply in your blood, it can be leached out of your bones. This could have the unwanted effect of thinning your bones, resulting in a disease called osteoporosis.

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Studies have shown that reducing salt intake can cause a positive calcium balance. This could slow down the loss of calcium from the bones that occurs with aging. Our bodies need much more potassium than sodium every day, and most of our diets are just the opposite.

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28. Increased blood sugar levels

You may not know at first that you have high blood sugar levels because the signs can be subtle. Many people do not even realize they are high. An excess level of glucose in the bloodstream is a sign of diabetes. When you have type 2 diabetes, your body does not use insulin properly, and you can end up with too little or too much insulin. Unless this is treated, it can result in toxic levels of sugar in your bloodstream which can cause havoc throughout your body.

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It’s very important to keep your blood sugar level in check to reduce the risk of complications from diabetes. It’s a good idea to have your levels checked regularly. If your tests repeatedly show elevated blood sugar levels, they need to be treated, or they can have a serious impact on your health. The good news is that if you catch it early, you can treat it and avoid serious implications later on. Some symptoms are peeing frequently, always being thirsty or hungry and yet losing weight.

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29. Eye problems

Eye problems can be a sign you’ve reached your toxic limit. Any imbalance in your body can show up in diminishing eye health. Signs can show up on your cornea (the clear surface that covers the outside) or the conjunctiva (a moist area covering the inside of the eyelids). Chronic eye problems can often be traced to deficiencies in the liver. Detoxifying and supporting liver function will often lead to increased eye health.

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Diabetes can cause serious eye problems if it is left untreated. It can contribute to conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma. You must take high blood sugar levels seriously if you want to avoid this. Beta-carotene, a fat-soluble vitamin, is well known to support eye health and some foods rich in it are carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, broccoli, and butternut. The myriad of toxins we expose ourselves to on a daily basis has to be filtered by the liver so we need to do all we can to support it.

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30. Hair problems

Many toxic chemicals are used in hair salons. Long-term exposure can lead to an array of negative health issues. Research shows that salon workers are more susceptible to certain health problems compared to other professions. If your hair becomes brittle or starts to fall out, your body could be suffering from toxic overload. Most women die their hair, and a number of the chemicals used in hair dye have been linked to various forms of cancer and other health conditions. Amongst these chemicals are formaldehyde, coal tar, p-Phenylenediamine, ammonia, and Resorcinol.

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Fortunately, there are non-toxic products available, and it’s also a good idea to incorporate some extra detoxification support into your health regime. We’ll never be able to live a life completely free of toxins. That’s okay because our bodies are equipped to handle a certain amount of exposure. What we must do is minimize exposure as much as possible to stay healthy, while still enjoying life.

Fitness

10 Home Remedies for Knee Pain

Knee pain is a frequent problem affecting people of all ages. Most people will experience some form of knee pain throughout their lives, and there are… Elizabeth Lilian - March 14, 2017

Knee pain is a frequent problem affecting people of all ages. Most people will experience some form of knee pain throughout their lives, and there are many different causes, from sports injuries to medical conditions like arthritis. Pain can be felt in the muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones and cartilage, and can range from mild to severe. If left untreated, the pain can worsen and become debilitating, affecting the quality of life. Additional symptoms can include stiffness, swelling, redness of the area, and difficulty walking or putting pressure on it.

If you’re suffering from pain that doesn’t respond to any form of treatment, it’s important to visit your doctor for a professional opinion. For those suffering from mild to moderate knee pain, there are many different things you can do to relieve it.

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1. Cold Compress

Treating injuries with hot or cold therapy has been a popular choice of pain relief for years. It’s quick, effective and easily affordable, but there’s often confusion about whether to use heat or ice. Generally speaking, ice (or cold therapy) is used for an acute injury – one that’s happened in the past 48 hours, while heat is better for sore muscles or stiffness, which are typical symptoms of chronic injuries – an injury that has occurred through overuse of the body part, or an acute injury that hasn’t healed correctly.

Cold therapy is also known as cryotherapy, and it works by restricting blood flow to a particular area and temporarily reducing nerve activity, which can lessen pain. Cold therapy can be administered in a few different ways, like in the form of a frozen gel pack, coolant spray, ice massage or ice bath.

If you suffer from knee pain, applying something cold to the affected area will numb the pain, reduce inflammation and stop any bleeding. Ice packs or cold compresses can calm down the damaged tissue and constrict the blood vessels, which prevents swelling. To use a cold compress for knee pain, simply put some ice cubes into a plastic bag and wrap in a thin towel, then apply to the area. This can be done several times a day.

When using ice packs or a cold compress to treat pain, avoid applying it to the skin for longer than 20 minutes at a time. Though you may think the relief will last longer if the ice is on for longer, this is incorrect, and you can actually begin damaging the nerves.

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2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is an extremely popular remedy for many different things, from household cleaning to facial toner. It’s made from fermented apples, and it contains a whole load of raw, nutritious enzymes and beneficial bacteria which makes it an incredibly healthy addition to the diet.

Apple cider vinegar is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. It can be diluted with water and gargled to soothe a sore throat or cure bad breath, applied to insect bites, eczema, acne and other skin conditions, relieve heartburn, improve digestion, and is even believed to cure hiccups. Apple cider vinegar is an effective tool for weight loss as it contains pectin, a soluble fiber that can control hunger cravings and make you feel fuller for longer.

Though apple cider vinegar is acidic, it becomes alkaline when it’s consumed. This not only helps regulate your body’s pH levels, naturally boosts energy and gives the immune system a boost, it can also aid detoxification and encourage the removal of toxins. Pectin, acetic acid and malic acids found in apple cider vinegar work to absorb metabolic waste, flushing them out of the body.

Apple cider vinegar is also used as an effective remedy for pain and inflammation. It contains calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus, which the body needs in order to dull and relieve pain. To use, just mix one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with one cup of water and drink in the morning on an empty stomach. Additionally, you can mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with one tablespoon of olive oil, and massage into the affected area once or twice a day until pain subsides.

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3. Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is a member of the capsicum family, commonly used in meals to add spiciness and heat. It originated in South America and has been an ingredient in traditional Native American, Chinese and Ayurvedic therapies to treat various ailments like heartburn, paralysis, fever, sore throat, nausea, hemorrhoids and gout.

Cayenne pepper is high in phytonutrients like flavonoids and carotenoids, which provide that vibrant red color, and it’s also a good source of various vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, C, E, B6, K, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and zinc. Cayenne pepper can stimulate the circulatory system, boost your metabolic rate, reduce weight and acidity, and detoxify the body.

Cayenne pepper is an effective pain relief thanks to capsaicin, the main active compound. Capsaicin is a common ingredient in many topical creams and ointments that aim to relieve pain from issues like arthritis, nerve damage, joint stiffness and muscle soreness. Various clinical studies and research have discovered modest pain relief from topical capsaicin when applied three to five times a day. Cayenne pepper is believed to reduce the amount of a chemical called substance P, which carries pain messages to the brain. When there’s a reduction of substance P, there’s a reduction of pain messages, which can provide some relief from pain.

There are many different ways to use cayenne pepper for relief from pain. Mix two tablespoons of powdered cayenne pepper with a half cup of warmed olive oil and apply to the affected area twice a day for as long as required. Or, mix half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper powder with one cup of apple cider vinegar and stir until blended, then soak a clean cloth in the mixture and apply it to the knee for around 20 minutes. Be careful not to apply cayenne pepper to any open wounds on the skin though, as this can cause burning and irritation.

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4. Ginger

Ginger is the root (or rhizome) of the ginger plant, which is a member of the Zingiberaceae family. It’s scientifically known as Zingiber officinale, and has been a popular remedy for things like motion sickness, morning sickness, indigestion, wind, bloating, appetite loss, chills, colic, irritable bowel syndrome, painful flatulence, stomach cramps and much more.

Ginger is a common ingredient in Indian and Asian cuisine and can be enjoyed fresh, powdered, dried, or made into juice or oil. But no matter what form it comes in, it holds many health benefits. Ginger has powerful anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic compounds, and other nutrients like dietary fiber, protein, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, folate and vitamin B6.

Ginger has been a popular remedy for pain and swelling for many years, thanks to its anti-inflammatory qualities. These qualities come from compounds called gingerols, which are also believed to have anticancer properties. Other various studies have found that taking a daily ginger supplement can relieve muscle pain by 25 percent. Side effects of ginger are rare, but can include gas, bloating and heartburn, and it can potentially interact with some medications like blood thinners. If you’re concerned, seek advice from a professional beforehand.

Making your own ginger tea is a quick and easy way to consume it. Simply crush fresh pieces of ginger and add to one cup of water, bringing it to the boil. Allow it to cool before adding a small amount of honey and lemon juice. Drink two or three cups per day. Alternatively, you can make or purchase ginger oil, and massage it into the affected knee a few times a day.

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5. Turmeric

Turmeric is a powdered spice derived from the root of the plant Curcuma longa, another member of the Zingiberaceae family and a close relative to ginger. It’s been used as a spice, herbal medicine, cosmetic and even a fabric dye for thousands of years. Native to India and Southeast Asia, it’s frequently used in Ayurvedic therapy and in recent times, it’s become popular throughout the Western world too.

Turmeric is believed to hold a wide range of health benefits that can combat ailments like conjunctivitis, skin cancer, chicken pox, urinary tract infections, liver problems, jaundice, abdominal pain, colic and much more. Turmeric has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s also a choleretic, which means it can stimulate bile production and boost the digestive system, and a carminative, which can relieve flatulence, bloating and other gastrointestinal issues.

Turmeric contains various healthy vitamins, nutrients and polyphenols. Curcumin, a particularly powerful polyphenol, is the main ingredient in turmeric and the pigment that provides its rich orange color. Curcumin is also believed to hold anti-cancer compounds that can inhibit the production of tumor-causing cells. Turmeric is also a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, choline, niacin, riboflavin, calcium, potassium, iron, copper, magnesium, zinc and manganese. Adding a few grams of turmeric to one meal each day can provide enough of these nutrients that can protect and support the body.

Turmeric can be used to treat pain including arthritis pain in many different ways. It can be brewed into a tea with ground ginger and a teaspoon of honey, or mixed in with milk. Alternatively, you can take turmeric capsules, but it’s advised to not exceed more than 500 mg of turmeric a day. Turmeric can also thin the blood, so it’s best not to use if you’re taking blood-thinning medications.

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6. Lemon

Lemons are a much-loved citrus fruit that has been used for centuries all around the world. Their origin is unknown, but they’re believed to have begun growing in China or India. They belong to the Rutaceae family alongside other citrus fruits like tangerines, grapefruits and oranges. Lemon trees fruit all year long, and they can continue to ripen even after they’ve been harvested.

Lemons are hugely beneficial to health and wellness. They hold a wealth of vitamins and nutrients, with one raw lemon able to provide over 80 percent of your daily vitamin C needs. They also contain thiamin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and manganese. Consuming lemons can lower the risk of stroke, promote healthy skin, hair and nails, boost immunity, prevent asthma and reduce the risk of kidney stone formation.

Lemons can alkalize the body and contain a multitude of phytonutrients and antioxidants including hesperidin, which can reduce allergies like hay fever; naringin, which can lower cholesterol levels; and tangeretin, which has the potential to protect the brain from neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease. Lemon juice also contains limonene, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that may also be anti-carcinogenic.

Lemons can be used to cure joint pain caused by arthritis and other issues, as the peel contains essential oils that can relax the blood vessels and promote anti-inflammatory effects, relieving pain and soreness. To use on an aching knee, slice a lemon into wedges and tie them up in a clean piece of cloth. Dip into a warm oil like sesame or olive, and then place on the affected area for at least five minutes. You can also grate the lemon peel and mix the zest with extra virgin olive oil, allowing the mixture to sit for a while before dipping a piece of cotton or gauze into it and applying it to the skin.

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7. Mustard Oil

Unbeknownst to some, mustard is actually a plant from the same family as broccoli, kale and Brussels sprouts. The use of mustard has been traced back to the Stone Age, and Egyptians would add mustard seeds in many of their meals. Romans would grind the seeds down into powder and mix it with wine, and it’s been a primary spice throughout Europe for thousands of years. The word ‘mustard’ actually comes from the Middle English word mustarde, which means condiment.

There are roughly 40 different species of mustard plants, but the most commonly used ones are the black, brown and white mustard plants. Every part of the plant is edible, with the leaves used in salads, the flowers are used as edible decorations, and the seeds can be eaten, or turned into oil.

Mustard seeds can be turned into two completely different types of oil, depending on the method of extraction. Fatty mustard oil is made by cold-pressing the seeds, and essential oil is extracted by steam distillation. After extraction, the different oils are purified and ready for consumption. Mustard oil is edible and comprised of mostly monounsaturated fatty acid, or “good” fats, while mustard essential oil is not edible, but can act as an insect repellent, hair tonic, stimulant, appetizer, antibacterial and antifungal.

Mustard oil contains an omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid, which can help the body fight disease and protect the heart from cardiovascular damage. Mustard oil has been a popular Ayurvedic treatment for pain and inflammation, as warm mustard oil can relieve swelling and improve circulation to the affected area. To use mustard oil on knee pain, simply heat up two tablespoons of mustard oil and fry one garlic clove in it. Once the garlic turns brown, strain the oil and allow it to cool before massaging it into the knee. Cover with plastic wrap and apply a warm towel over the top to enhance the heat.

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8. Epsom Salt

Epsom salt is named after a town in Surrey, England, and has been used for centuries as an effective remedy for many ailments. Made up of magnesium, sulfate, oxygen and water, Epsom salt is believed to boost the circulatory system, regulate the heartbeat, reduce blood pressure and improve heart health.

Epsom salt can be used for many different things including health, beauty, fitness and even gardening purposes. It can be used as a laxative, to remove blackheads and relieve bronchitis. The main ingredient in Epsom salts, magnesium sulfate, has been researched for its positive effects on pain relief in surgical patients and has been found to be an effective muscle relaxant when used in proper circumstances.

Epsom salt baths have long been used to relieve stress and pain. When Epsom salt is put into water, it breaks down to just the magnesium and sulfate compounds, which are absorbed in through the skin as you soak, reducing stiffness and soreness. It can also treat bruises, psoriasis, insomnia, sunburn and more. The magnesium acts to remove excess fluid from tissues, reducing inflammation and pain.

To use, pour a half cup of Epsom salt into a hot bath and dissolve it well. Soak in the water for 15 minutes or more, until you feel the pain start to subside. Enjoy this treatment often, as it will also reduce stress as well as pain. However, it’s not recommended to use if you suffer from hypertension, heart problems or diabetes.

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9. Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds come from fenugreek, one of the oldest medicinal plants, but also one of the least well-known. Fenugreek is grown in India, the Mediterranean, Egypt, the Middle East, Africa and Argentina, and is used in many different cultures across the world. It goes by various names such as methi, Greek clover, bird’s foot, bockshornsame and Trigonella, and is frequently used as a spice in curries and other meals.

Medically, fenugreek seeds are used to ease digestive problems, enhance breastmilk supply, suppress appetite, control blood sugar levels, promote healthy skin and hair, increase libido and reduce high blood pressure. Fenugreek seeds are a great source of iron, protein and fiber, as well as vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, C, and minerals like magnesium, potassium, folate, calcium, zinc and more. They also contain phytonutrients like choline, trigonelline, diosgenin and neotigogens, which provide further benefits.

Fenugreek seeds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation, making them an effective treatment for pain and stiffness. To treat pain using fenugreek seeds, soak one teaspoon in water overnight and drain them off in the morning before eating them. They can be added to oatmeal, mixed in with cereal, or simply eaten by the handful, but you can also make a fenugreek seed-infused tea by roasting the seeds for a few minutes on a low flame, then grinding them into a powder and mixing it with warm water.

While fenugreek seeds are extremely beneficial, they can also cause some negative side effects, though these are rare. Fenugreek can be used to induce childbirth, so pregnant women should avoid ingesting them or at least discussing with your doctor beforehand. They may also cause irritation when applied directly to the skin, and shouldn’t be taken by anyone taking blood thinner medication or anticoagulants.

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10. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalypts are native Australian trees that are considered to be some of the tallest in the world. With over 600 species of eucalypt, they grow in different regions throughout Australia and can also be found in North and South America, Europe, China, Africa and India. Eucalyptus is an extremely important tree due to its high-quality wood, which is harvested to use for things like buildings, shopping centers, furniture, and cookware.

Eucalyptus oil is another highly sought-after component of the eucalypt, but it can only be derived from certain species. Generally, the eucalypts that are a good source of oil aren’t suitable to be used as timber, and those that can be used for timber contain very little oil. Eucalyptus oil is said to hold a variety of health benefits. It has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiseptic, antibacterial, deodorant, and decongesting properties, among many more.

Eucalyptus oil can be used on open wounds, burns, ulcers and other skin lesions to promote healing and provide protection against infection, treat respiratory problems like cold and flu symptoms, and can even relieve mental exhaustion and stress due to its stimulating and refreshing effects. Eucalyptus oil is also a vasodilator, which means it helps support the circulatory system by relaxing the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow smoothly through the body.

Massaging eucalyptus oil into sore and stiff joints or muscles can relieve pain due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, and as it’s a coolant it can provide even further relief when applied topically. To use, blend at least five drops of eucalyptus oil with two tablespoons of olive oil, store in a glass container and keep away from direct sunlight. Massage the mixture into the affected area whenever the pain flares up.

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