11 home remedies to help manage asthma

11 home remedies to help manage asthma

Asthma is a lung-related disease that causes the inflammation of airways, leading to troubled breathing. Chronic asthma can make it difficult for one to talk or be active. Asthma has no specific diagnosis or treatment, and therefore, identifying the causes will help better understand the symptoms. Various allergies, consumption of tobacco, environmental factors, stress, tension, obesity, and even genetics can result in developing asthma symptoms. There are a few visual indicators to identify the cause. Here are some easy home remedies you can incorporate into your daily food regime to help manage asthma. Parsley leaf When it comes to herbal remedies, nothing beats parsley. Tea made from parley leaves will help soothe your throat and take care of any congestion that is causing difficulty in breathing and swallowing. Simple and very easy to make, parsley tea is a great remedy for respiratory symptoms of asthma. Milk and olive oil The combination of warm milk mixed with olive oil might not sound very appealing on the first onset; however, this has proven to be an effective natural remedy. A few garlic cloves added to this combination will open up blocked passageways without much effort or time invested. Herbal tea Two distinct ways of preparing herbal tea, one involves the use of licorice root, and the other is a combination of lime juice, crushed ginger, and herbal tea. Both will help tackle some of the moderate asthma symptoms, though the licorice recipe might taste a bit odd. Bitter gourd juice A tasty paste made by crushing basil leaves and mixing it with honey, incorporated into freshly extracted bitter gourd juice proves to be an effective remedy for people who are suffering from recurrent asthmatic attacks. Soup Soup not only is comfort food but also has time and time proven to be an effective remedy for asthma symptoms.
Home remedies to prevent flea and tick infestations

Home remedies to prevent flea and tick infestations

Keeping your dogs safe from fleas and ticks can be an exhausting job. The constant scratching and biting can be tiring and unhealthy. Not only this, it can bring down the mood of your furry friend, affecting the whole household. Therefore, it is better to stay prepared in case of an unforeseen pest attack. This article talks about some effective and accessible natural remedies that will give you and your dogs some much-needed relief. Home remedies for fleas and ticks in dogs Natural oils Natural or essential oils must be diluted first, after which you can use them as a spray or a pre-bath rinse. Alternatively, you can dilute them with carrier oils and massage them into their coat. Whatever you do, make sure to get your vet’s approval beforehand. Garlic Garlic has various nutritional benefits apart from being an antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral agent. Don’t get too concerned about its strong odor. Add a small amount of crushed garlic to your pet’s food and watch this natural remedy work its magic. Vinegar Another natural remedy that is not only easily accessible but can double up as a flea and tick repellant for dogs is vinegar. You can dilute it with water and use it as a spray. Or, if your dog does not mind its taste, add very small amounts of it to their drinking water. Similarly, you can also make use of apple cider vinegar. While these are all commonly used natural remedies, some pet parents prefer trying medicated ointments or powders to help their dogs get rid of fleas and ticks. It is recommended to consult a vet to know the best course of action before proceeding. Medications for fleas and ticks in dogs FRONTLINE® Plus A powerful topical solution, it can beat ticks and fleas at all stages of their lifecycle.
Best food and home remedies for nasal polyps

Best food and home remedies for nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are soft tissue growths found inside the nasal passage or on the sinuses. They are a symptom of respiratory diseases, allergies, and common sinus infections. Nasal polyps can cause breathing problems due to congestion and may increase the risk of infections among adults. It is possible to manage the condition with medications and treatments among known nasal polyps info options. The following changes in the food regime also help. Foods rich in vitamins and minerals Vitamin A and foods rich in beta carotene help counter inflammation and protect the sinus membrane. Popular options include dark leafy greens and fresh fruits, including spinach, sweet potatoes, carrots, squash, melon, mango, and apricots. Additionally, vitamins C and E can help fight free radicals that cause tissue damage due to oxidative stress. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds that are rich in bromelain and magnesium can further provide relief from sinus infections triggered due to nasal polyps. These foods are rich in antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and repair tissues. Foods rich in nutrients Cayenne pepper is rich in capsaicin that helps clear the sinuses and congestion. Additionally, foods that contain quercetin are potent antioxidants that fight inflammation and provide long-term relief. Popular quercetin-rich fruits and vegetables include onions, capers, broccoli, apples, grapes, cherries, raspberries, lingonberries, and cranberries. Turmeric is one of the more potent herbs to combat inflammation as it contains curcumin. Additionally, you can consume healthy probiotics to balance the microbiome content in the gut and promote better immunity. Apart from these common foods and common nasal polyps info options for treatment, it is also necessary to stay hydrated. Water can help thin the mucus and moisten the nasal passage. Foods to avoid Soy, yeast, gluten, dairy, and eggs can trigger sinus-related discomforts. Foods rich in artificial additives and preservatives can trigger certain intolerances that aggravate the symptoms.
Top easy at-home teeth whitening tips

Top easy at-home teeth whitening tips

Oral health is essential, but despite that, most often easily neglected by individuals. While it is recommended to visit a dentist regularly, there are some tips and tricks that we can use at home to make sure our teeth are healthy, clean, and white! Here are some ways on how you can keep your teeth shiny and white through safe and tested methods. Do speak to your dentist before using these tips regularly at home. Easy at-home teeth whitening tips Whitening trays and strips You can easily find reputed whitening strips and trays which contain a bleaching agent called hydrogen peroxide. These strips are applied directly to the enamel to see desirable results. Activated charcoal whitener Charcoal whiteners have three very effective ingredients, namely activated charcoal, bentonite, and an oil like orange seed oil. These whiten the teeth by getting absorbed into them. Teeth whitening pastes These pastes contain ingredients such as sodium bicarbonate, hydrated silica, and calcium carbonate that remove stains from the teeth and polish them. Whitening packs These whitening packs are to be applied directly onto your teeth. You can do so at night after brushing your teeth. The pack is to be used as per instructions. Teeth whitening light In this, a whitening agent is directly applied to your enamel, and a blue LED light is held above to let the enamel absorb the ingredient in a slow and effective manner. Coconut oil pulling Another popular teeth whitening tip at home is to take 1tbsp of coconut oil and swirl it around your mouth for 10-15 minutes. Spit it out after and just do a quick rinse. Smart whitening brush A mix of whitening toothpaste and gel is the trick to get bright, clean teeth. It is advised to use this combination daily till the desired results are achieved.
6 easy home remedies for nasal polyps

6 easy home remedies for nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are soft, non-cancerous growth of the tissues that form in the nose or sinuses. If they are too large or there are many nasal polyps, it causes itching, runny nose, sneezing, and breathing difficulty. Nasal polyps are quite common and may be caused by allergies, inflammation, or infection. Surgery is a common treatment option; however, not everyone needs it. Here are some natural remedies to help ease nasal polyps symptoms and avoid surgery. Steam inhalation Inhaling steam can help unblock the nasal passages by thinning nasal mucus. It can also reduce swelling within the airways. An easy way of inhaling steam is to take a hot shower. Alternatively, you may heat a bowl of water and position the face over it while keeping a towel draped over the head to prevent steam from dispersing. Turmeric Turmeric is a yellow spice known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. In people with nasal polyps, turmeric can decrease irritation and inflammation of the airways. There are many ways of using this spice. One can make turmeric tea by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of the spice in a cup of boiling water or add turmeric powder to curries, stir-fry recipes, and smoothies. Cayenne pepper Cayenne pepper contains an active compound called capsaicin, which makes the hot pepper taste hot. It can cause a runny nose, which helps get rid of mucus, making breathing easier. Capsaicin can also relieve inflammation and boost immunity. Those who love spicy food can benefit from adding cayenne pepper liberally to multiple recipes. Tea tree oil Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It may help deal with both symptoms and causes of nasal polyps by reducing itching, lowering inflammation, and combating infection. However, avoid using tea tree oil directly. Dilute it with a carrier oil, like olive oil or almond oil, and apply it to the nasal membranes.
4 home renovation mistakes that should be avoided

4 home renovation mistakes that should be avoided

People renovate their homes to improve the functionality of the space. Some people also renovate to change the aesthetic of their house and give it a new look. In either case, home renovations can be exciting and exhausting at the same time. It is a lengthy process that requires your utmost attention. That being said, things can go wrong; home renovation mistakes can cost you your time, money, and effort, and therefore, should be avoided. Deciding on an unrealistic budget One of the biggest errors that many homeowners make during renovation is not deciding and sticking to a fixed budget. When you are renovating your home, it’s easy to go over and above the budget that you have decided. What you need to do when deciding on a budget before you start your renovations is to make sure that you have some leeway. This way, even if you go overboard on your initial budget, you will not have to spend out of pocket. Experts usually suggest having an extra 20% added to your budget to tackle any additional renovations or hidden costs that may come up. Signing on the first contractor Many people choose to work with the first contractor they come across instead of comparing different options and quotes. To avoid this home renovation mistake, talk to multiple contractors. This step is crucial because it allows you to understand the cost of different products and services cost. A little due diligence can save you a world of trouble. Take notes each time you talk to a contractor and compare them before you decide to settle on one. Don’t forget to ask questions about licenses, insurance, experience, and even customer satisfaction. These aspects will also aid in your decision-making process. Using poor-quality materials Home renovations are not a frequent occurrence.
Tips for filing and appealing a home warranty claim

Tips for filing and appealing a home warranty claim

A home warranty is a service agreement that pays for the maintenance and repair of specific home systems and appliances that could malfunction due to normal wear and tear. It can help assure homeowners that unplanned repairs won’t be expensive. However, making a home warranty claim can be difficult for some, and the claim may get rejected. Here are the steps for filing a home warranty claim and what to do if it gets rejected. Steps for filing home warranty claims Review your contract The first step in filing a home warranty claim is to review your contract. Check to see which appliances and systems are covered by your home warranty and which are not. Contact the provider of your home warranty Contact your home warranty provider when you need to make a claim. Most home warranty providers offer a customer service hotline that is open 24/7 to help you with your claim. Set up a service call After you’ve reported the problem, the home warranty provider will arrange a service call with a qualified and insured technician after you’ve reported the problem. Service visit During the service call, the technician will identify the issue and propose a fix. If the item can be fixed, the technician will immediately start the repairs. Payment If your home warranty contract covers the problem, you will only be charged the service fee, usually between $50 and $100. If the contract does not cover the problem, you will be responsible for the full cost of the repair or replacement. Reasons for rejection of home warranty claim Unfortunately, a home warranty can be denied for a variety of reasons. Thus, it is imperative to read the contract’s terms and conditions to determine which appliances and systems are covered. If your warranty claim gets denied, you can consider filing an appeal with the service provider.
5 effective ways to clean carpets at home

5 effective ways to clean carpets at home

Cleaning the walls and dusting furniture are essential aspects of home cleaning, but the carpet is one surface on which considerable dust accumulates over time, and cleaning it becomes a challenging task. And contrary to popular belief, carpet cleaning can be a hassle-free process if one follows the right strategies and is aware of certain quick cleaning hacks. This article provides insight into some easy ways to clean a carpet: Clean using basic household products The “solutions” to a spotless carpet are mostly readily available at one’s home. A mixture of club soda and vinegar or baking soda, borax, and cornstarch can do wonders for your carpet, leaving it stain-free and tidy. One may also use steam vapor or a salt and vinegar solution for effective carpet cleaning. Another pro tip for cleaning a carpet is to apply a dab of shaving cream on it, which is effective in removing different types of stains. Blot stains on the carpet A common mistake while cleaning carpets is to rub on stains after pouring a solution. The right way to remove these stains is to blot them using a paper towel, sponge, or even a clean piece of cloth. Use ice cubes Hard, sticky substances like gum can be difficult to clean from carpets. One way to achieve this feat is to freeze these substances by placing ice cubes on them for about half a minute. One may then easily remove the sticky substance using a spoon. Use the heating process to remove wax Removing hardened wax settled over a carpet can be an excruciating task. This wax may be removed using the heating process, which involves placing a cotton cloth on the spot and running an iron over it. The wax may then be scooped off with a spoon once it melts.
7 common home improvement mistakes to avoid

7 common home improvement mistakes to avoid

Embarking on a home improvement project can be an exciting endeavor. These projects offer homeowners the chance to add value, functionality, and a touch of their personality to their living spaces. However, without proper planning and execution, these projects can rapidly go over budget. So, here are some common home improvement mistakes to avoid to ensure the remodeling journey is smooth, satisfying, and adds lasting value to one’s property. Underestimating the budget Homeowners often make the mistake of underestimating the total cost of their project before embarking on it. It’s essential to create a detailed budget, accounting for materials, labor, and any unexpected contingencies. One should allow for a buffer in one’s budget to tackle unforeseen challenges that may arise during the renovation process. Skipping research and planning Jumping into a home improvement project without proper research and planning can lead to inefficient use of resources and unsatisfactory results. One is advised to take the time to thoroughly research design ideas, materials, and potential contractors. One can plan out the entire project step by step, considering timelines, permits, and potential disruptions to one’s daily life during the renovation. Hiring the wrong contractors Selecting the right contractors is crucial to the success of one’s home improvement project. Avoid the mistake of hiring the first contractor one comes across or solely considering the lowest bid. One can take the time to interview multiple contractors, check references, and review past projects to ensure one is hiring a reputable, experienced, and licensed professional. Sacrificing quality for cost While it’s essential to stick to one’s budget, compromising on the quality of materials and workmanship is a mistake that can cost one in the long run. Inferior materials may wear out faster, requiring expensive repairs sooner than expected. One should thus invest in durable, high-quality materials and skilled labor to ensure one’s renovations stand the test of time.
6 home remedies to manage frequent urination

6 home remedies to manage frequent urination

Day or night, making frequent bathroom trips can be annoying for any individual. A symptom of an overactive bladder, frequent urination can affect one’s work and personal life. However, with proper treatment, it is possible to control frequent urination. Various home remedies, including nutritional changes and behavioral therapies, can help retain the bladder and prevent the need for frequent bathroom visits. Keep reading to learn about a few such helpful home remedies. Kegel exercises Kegel exercises can be beneficial in managing frequent urination problems. They repeatedly contract and release the pelvic floor muscles, building their strength. The increased strength can help improve bladder control and lower urination frequency. Bladder training Bladder training goes a long way in helping patients with an overactive bladder. At first, patients might find it difficult to hold in their urine for longer than usual. However, maintaining this practice for weeks retrains the bladder and reduces the urination frequency. Eating healthy foods One cool trick to managing frequent urination is avoiding foods and drinks that act as a diuretic or could irritate the bladder. It could include caffeine, carbonated beverages, spicy foods, tomato-based foods, and even chocolate. Adding more fiber to the meal can help relieve constipation and frequent urination problems. Being constipated can add more pressure to the bladder, causing the individual to make multiple bathroom visits. Adjusting the amount of fluid intake and doubling down on food that relieves constipation can also help with bladder issues. Stop the “just-in-case” visits One mistake people often make is going to the bathroom when there is no need to. The “just-in-case” visits might, in fact, be worsening the problem. Routinely trying to empty your bladder before it is necessary can retrain the brain and the bladder to signal early elimination of urine. Kohki tea Kohki is a sweet beverage that comes with an abundance of antioxidants.
4 common mistakes to avoid in home lighting

4 common mistakes to avoid in home lighting

Home lighting plays a crucial role in making a space inviting and comfortable and helps enhance its overall aesthetic. Lighting can either make or break the mood and feel of a home – it sets the tone, adds a finishing touch, and makes the space appealing. Homeowners unintentionally make a few lighting mistakes that can be easily addressed with proper planning. Continue reading to find out some common home lighting mistakes and how to fix them. Not considering the size of the lighting fixture Large and magnificent chandeliers or pendant lights are highly desirable but may not suit every home space. Therefore, consider the size of the lighting fixture and choose the ones that complement the space. Adding an oversized light in a small living room will eat up the whole space. Similarly, a tiny fixture will not provide adequate lighting to a large room. So, it is best to measure the size of the space when picking the lighting fixture for the room. One can also consider the furniture and wall colors to pick the most appropriate fixture that helps accentuate the whole area. Adding too many recessed lights Recessed lighting is the fixtures installed in the wall or ceiling. These lights are undoubtedly used to light up the entire space, but it’s better not to get too enthusiastic when adding these. Too many recessed lights can make the living room too bright, or too little can make the room dim. The best way to avoid this mistake is by creating a lighting plan to see how many recessed lights need to go into the hallway, bedroom, or kitchen. Ignoring dimmers Many homeowners may ignore the advantages of adding dimmers to their lighting setup. When it comes to flexibility, dimmers can be the saviors! Dimmers provide the option to adjust the brightness levels according to the mood or time of the day, making them a versatile option in modern lighting solutions.
10 hacks to save big this Black Friday

10 hacks to save big this Black Friday

As Black Friday, the biggest shopping day of the year is approaching yet again, it is best to keep your guard up. With exciting deals on appliances, gadgets, home decor, and apparel bombarded each day, you can get confused, and overwhelmed. Therefore, it is best to plan for the shopping season, so you don’t miss out on a good sale opportunity. Here are ten tricks to help you make the most of Black Friday. Set a budget If you wish to buy many items, try to save a little of your earnings every month. This will allow you to set a sufficient budget to meet your requirements. Make sure you stick to the budget. Overspending may lead to unnecessary debt. Get access to early-bird offers Several analysts have noticed that people who get access to early bird offers usually get the best deals. It is also seen that some products, once sold out, take time to arrive at the store for sale. Thus, it is always good to be prepared to hit the market at the right time. Check out products that are cheaper, closer to Christmas Do not believe the advertisements blindly; that is because not every Black Friday deal is the same, and some items are cheaper as Christmas and New Year approach. Several retailers offer bigger discounts on electronics, apparel, toys, and other items in the run-up to Christmas. Stick to trusted websites and known brands Do not shop on unknown websites just because they offer huge discounts on attractive products. You must be careful as these could be filled with hackers and scammers. You must always go to trusted websites or read the reviews on new ones that you just discovered. You should also make payments from a secured internet network that is personal and not public.