Tag: spices

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5 Benefits of Cinnamon for the Hair

Science reveals that Cinnamon is a real-lLife superhero for most the hair problems!

The aromatic, spicy-sweet, wood-scented cinnamon is an all-natural savior for hair problems. You can use it for hair growth and prevent hair thinning.

If you ever wondered does cinnamon improve hair growth? Can it treat dandruff and slow hair loss? You would be amazed to know that the answer is yes, cinnamon is a boon for hair.

ˇIs Cinnamon Good for Hair?

Cinnamon has been used in various home remedies for hair care, and while scientific research is limited, some believe it can potentially offer a few benefits:

  1. Scalp Health: Cinnamon has antimicrobial properties, which may help combat potential fungus or bacteria on the scalp.
  2. Stimulate Hair Growth: Some people use cinnamon as a treatment intended to stimulate hair growth, as it can cause a tingling sensation thought to draw more blood to the scalp, potentially promoting hair growth. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
  3. Lighten Hair Color: Some people use cinnamon along with honey as a natural lightener. This mixture is applied to the hair and left on for several hours under a shower cap. Although some people may see results, the effect is not the same for everyone and may not be as dramatic as chemical hair dyes.

However, it’s important to note that cinnamon can potentially cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction in some individuals. It’s a good idea to perform a patch test before applying cinnamon to your scalp: mix a small amount with water, apply it to a small patch of skin, and wait 24 hours to see if there is any reaction.

Finally, while using natural ingredients like cinnamon can be a fun DIY beauty treatment, they are not substitutes for scientifically validated treatments for hair loss or other hair conditions. If you’re experiencing significant hair loss or scalp issues, it’s always best to consult with a dermatologist.

Cinnamon Benefits for Hair

While the scientific research on cinnamon’s benefits for hair health is limited, some people use cinnamon in their hair care routines based on the spice’s properties and anecdotal evidence. Here are some potential benefits:

  1. Scalp Health: Cinnamon has antimicrobial properties that might help fight off scalp fungus or bacteria, potentially reducing dandruff or scalp infections.
  2. Stimulate Hair Growth: Cinnamon can stimulate blood circulation. Increased blood flow to the hair follicles could theoretically promote hair growth, but this has not been conclusively proven in scientific studies.
  3. Hair Lightening: Some people use cinnamon as a natural hair lightener. When combined with honey and conditioner, and left on the hair for several hours, it is believed to subtly lighten hair over time.
  4. May Help with Alopecia: A study published in Dermatology Practical & Conceptual in 2021 showed that a combination of topical cinnamon and rosemary oil improved hair regrowth in individuals with alopecia areata. However, this is a single study, and more research is needed to confirm these effects.

Remember, cinnamon can cause skin irritation, especially in those with sensitive skin, so it’s essential to do a patch test before using it on your scalp or hair. Also, while cinnamon might have some potential benefits for hair, it should not replace regular hair care practices or medically advised treatments for hair and scalp conditions. Always consult with a dermatologist for significant hair or scalp issues.

Cinnamon isn’t a flavorsome spice for your cuisines, but a wonder spice to stimulate hair growth and improve their thickness and texture.

Read on to know how beneficial cinnamon for the hair is:

1. Stimulates Hair Growth

Cinnamon contains procyanidin which stimulates hair follicles for faster growth. A study investigated procyanidin for its effect on hair growth. Several older studies also showed a relationship between procyanidin and faster hair growth. But, the procyanidin extract used in studies was taken from apple juice.

Cinnamon oil also helps increase hair length. A rat study found that cinnamon oil was effective in increasing hair length in male rats.

In fact, cinnamon oil is as much effective as minoxidil. What makes cinnamon equally potent is cinnamaldehyde. It is a compound that improves blood circulation and increases blood supply to hair follicles.

2. Reduces Hair Loss

Hair loss happens due to reduced blood flow and, so, nutrient supply to hair follicles. And the secret compound is cinnamaldehyde present in cinnamon. It dilates blood vessels for improves flow to the head and hair follicles.

Furthermore, the rat study mentioned above also confirmed its effect on blood circulation, leading to reduced hair fall.

3. Treats Dandruff

Cinnamon has anti-fungal properties that combat dandruff-causing fungi. As per research, cinnamon fights Malassezia, the dandruff-causing fungus.

Moreover, cinnamon contains natural antioxidants ‘polyphenols’. Their anti-oxidative and antimicrobial properties help treat scalp infections.

4. Prevent Hair Damage & Treats Alopecia

The procyanidins in cinnamon have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These combat oxidative damage, inflammation, and irritation. The scalp-protective properties are also helpful in inducing the anagen phase (active hair growth). A study concluded that cinnamon helped in significant hair growth in men with alopecia.

5. Nourishes Scalp

A study showed cinnamon extract and ground cinnamon to have incredible exfoliating properties. So, cinnamon water or cinnamon DIYs help deep cleanse the scalp naturally. It removes dirt and debris that clogs your hair follicles and prevents hair growth. A healthier scalp helps in improving hair health, that is, improved texture and thickness.

Moreover, cinnamon improves circulation to the scalp. It helps provide the necessary nourishment to hair follicles.

Can I add Cinnamon to my Hair oil?

Yes, you can add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to 2-3 tablespoons of hair oil. Massage it into the scalp for increased blood flow to the scalp and a better supply of oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles.

But make sure to do a patch test before using powdered cinnamon.

You can also add cinnamon oil to hair oil as it’s no less than an organic restorative drug.

How Do You Use Cinnamon on Your Scalp?

Applying cinnamon to the scalp can improve blood circulation and nourishes your hair follicles. There are several DIY cinnamon hair masks that you can apply to your scalp. Each mask is loaded with its benefits like hair growth, scalp cleansing, and dandruff removal.

Side Effects of using Cinnamon for the Hair

Sometimes, cinnamon oil or ground cinnamon can have certain side effects on the scalp. You may have an allergic reaction.

Thus, it’s recommended to do a patch test before use. Rub the DIY mask or oil to the inside of the elbow and wait for 1-2 days.

A few other rarely possible side effects of cinnamon are:

  1. Rash and redness
  2. Burning sensation
  3. Skin irritation (contact dermatitis)

To cut allergic reactions to cinnamon oil, its recommended to dilute it before use.

Final Verdict

Hair is the crown of our head, nobody likes damaged, dried, dull or weak hair. Cinnamon boosts blood circulation to hair causing fast growth. Along with that it also helps people exposed to chemotherapy or suffering from alopecia to witness their hair grow back.

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4 Benefits of Coriander Seeds for Diabetes

Enhance flavors, relish the aroma, and garnish your BBQs and curries; the more the better. If you are a diabetic, coriander seeds for diabetes should be your new best friend.

Coriander or Cilantro whatever you may call it, comes from the Coriandrum sativum plant, a cousin of parsley, celery, and carrots.

Before unraveling the benefits, here’s a fun fact: Coriander is the dried powdered or seed variety of the plant, while Cilantro is the fresh leaves and stem part of the plant.

Diabetes is a condition where the pancreas does not produce adequate insulin, a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. So, you experience a spike in blood sugar levels. If it remains uncontrolled, it can lead to further fatal health conditions.

But your favorite aromatic spice coriander seeds can improve your diabetic health.

Nutritional Value of Coriander

Only 10 grams of coriander seeds or fresh cilantro can do wonders for your health. Fresh cilantro contains 92% water while coriander seeds contain 8.9% water. That’s why cilantro has a low mineral count per 10 grams.

Cilantro is full of vitamins (vitamins A, E, and K). Whereas coriander seeds for diabetes are rich in minerals (iron, magnesium, manganese, riboflavin, thiamine, and calcium). Making coriander seeds is helpful in managing diabetes.

With so much to offer, lets dive into the benefits of coriander seeds for diabetes:

1. Delivers Anti-Hyperglycemic Compounds

Coriander seeds for diabetes are most effective in lowering blood sugar levels. As per a study published in The British Journal of Nutrition¸, coriander seed extracts have several compounds that are anti-hyperglycemic in effect. These compounds are discharged into the bloodstream and mimic insulin to control your blood sugar levels.

Several animal studies also suggest that coriander seeds lower blood sugar by increasing enzyme activity helping in the removal of sugar from the blood.

2. Controls Insulin Release

Coriander seeds aid in managing insulin activity and keeping blood sugar levels within limits. A rat study published in the US National Library of Medicine found that coriander seeds managed the release of insulin from pancreatic beta-cells in diabetic rats induced with streptozotocin.

Moreover, the ethanol found in coriander seeds for diabetes is effective in lowering glucose serum. It’s well-known for boosting insulin production from beta-cells of the pancreas. This is helpful for diabetics suffering from type-2 diabetes with minimal insulin production.

3. Similar Effect as Diabetic Medicine

A few lab studies have found coriander seeds for diabetes to be as effective as diabetic medicines. A study conducted on obese and diabetic rats found that a single dose (20mg/kg) of coriander seed extract lowered blood sugar in 6 hours as much as diabetic medicine glibenclamide does.

A similar study on rats found coriander seeds to lower blood sugar levels and increase insulin production compared to the controlled group.

4. Improve Digestion

Coriander seeds are being used for ages for their digestive benefits. Coriander seeds have potent antioxidant properties and are rich in dietary fiber that aid in better bowel movement. Thus, with improved digestion, you will experience balanced blood sugar levels.

How Coriander Seeds Help Control Diabetes?

Apart from the benefits listed, there’s still more to coriander seeds for diabetes. A diabetic diet only consists of foods with a most of 55 glycemic indexes (GI). The reason is that foods with a low GI are digested and absorbed easily compared to high GI foods. Where coriander seeds only have a GI of 33.

Furthermore, coriander seeds are full of fiber. Thus, it gives you a feeling of fullness for longer preventing binge eating—a common reason for sugar spikes. For type-2 diabetes patients, this helps them manage weight.

How to Use Coriander Seeds to Control Diabetes?

To extract the most benefits, the best practice is to soak 10g of coriander seeds in 2-liter water overnight. Drink the water on an empty stomach to keep your diabetes in check the entire day. You can continue to drink the water throughout the day.

Final Verdict

The use of coriander seeds for diabetes can prevent excess sugar spikes. It works as an inexpensive anti-diabetic drug to keep you from overeating and manage your blood glucose levels. Moreover, regular intake of coriander seeds also reduces the risk of cardiac diseases, prediabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Head to your pantry and prepare the magic potion now.

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5 ways to use Fenugreek Seeds for Weight Loss

Fenugreek aka Methi is a fool-proof way to step into your weight loss journey

Weight loss is no cakewalk. Calling it a herculean task wouldn’t be wrong either, especially if it’s obesity-related to diabetes, or undue weight gain due to PCOS. And, when the cravings are haunting you every day.

You may end up feeling frustrated, left out, or calling those sexy hour-glass bodies make-belief bodies.

We feel you.

And, for you, we found an amazing weight loss ‘natural pacer’, that is, fenugreek seeds for weight loss. Yes, the notorious seeds in your pantry.

Methi or fenugreek is a panacea for diabetics too. The magic lies in its fiber-packed constituents that slow down the process or carb-absorption. Moreover, it has vital amino acids that help in managing blood glucose levels.

Cutting it short, let’s understand how fenugreek seeds for weight loss are a game changer.

Fenugreek seeds are well-known weight loss agents for their incredible benefits:

  1. Increases metabolic rate
  2. Promotes satiety
  3. Burn belly fat faster
  4. Improves digestive health
  5. Controls diabetes and blood pressure

A study found that fenugreek extract was given to healthy, obese participants who ended up consuming less dietary fat. However, no difference in weight was observed during the 6-week study.

The study confirms that fenugreek tea or water cannot help you lose weight magically. Rather, it can supplement your weight loss diet + workout by helping you stick to your new eating habits, improving digestion and metabolism-which quicken weight loss process.

Another study showed that participants with diabetes who eat fenugreek seeds for weight loss can see visible results within days.

How do Fenugreek Seeds for Weight Loss work?

Fenugreek is a potent natural weight loss seed that contains galactomannan, a water-soluble heteropolysaccharide. It works by curbing your appetite while making you feel fuller for longer. And this makes following your diet easier.

Fenugreek seeds are packed with fibers (75% water-soluble fibers) that ease constipation and boost the metabolism of your body. It leads to quicker fat burn in the belly and adipose tissues.

Above all, the fenugreek seeds do not contain any unhealthy carbs. It only contains adequate traces of a few healthy carbs instead. Thus, it surely makes a true weight loss drink.

Moreover, by preventing calorie intake and higher metabolic rate, weight loss is a sure-fire outcome.

Additionally, the seeds have numerous health benefits, including controlled blood pressure and sugar levels.

The fact is fenugreek seeds are the healthiest and most natural way to lose weight. All those expensive weight loss teas and medicines focus on the same aspect: curb your appetite and quicken metabolic rate. Then, why not pick a natural alternative?

The cherry on top? Fenugreek seeds for weight loss are a good source of minerals and vitamins such as calcium, potassium, folate, phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamin A.

So, next time you are planning on weight loss, start with fenugreek seeds to help you eat less and metabolize faster.

Here are fun ways you can have your daily dose of fenugreek seeds:

1. Fenugreek Tea:

Add a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds or powder in hot water. Let it boil for 10 minutes. Strain in a cup. Add in powdered cinnamon, lemon juice, ginger juice, and honey to taste. The vitality will keep you going the entire day without feeling tired. You can drink fenugreek tea a maximum of thrice a day.

Quick Tip: You can get fenugreek tea bags to brew a quick cup anytime and anywhere. The add-ons are optional.

2. Fenugreek Water

Soak a tablespoon of fenugreek seeds in water overnight. Strain the water and drink it on an empty stomach.

3. Boil Fenugreek Seeds

Add a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds to boiling water. Cook it for 4-5 minutes. Let it cool and have your detox drink. You can have it twice a day.

4. Fenugreek and Honey

You can also add a spoonful of honey to fenugreek water. Honey prevents inflammation and strengthens the immune system. You can also take soaked seeds mixed with honey on empty stomach.

5. Soaked Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreeks seeds for weight loss work by strengthening the digestive system. To utilize its maximum antioxidants, it’s best to soak a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in water overnight and chew them first thing in the morning.

Final Verdict

Fenugreek seeds for weight loss work similar to expensive weight loss teas and medicines. Simply stick to your weight loss routine and amp it up with fenugreek seeds to witness faster weight loss results.

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Is it Safe to Consume Black Pepper for Diabetes?

Black Pepper for Diabetes is No Sugar, But is it Really Safe?

Black pepper is well-known as the king of spices. It crowns our sunny-side-up, plates of pasta, salads, and whatnot.

Earning its rightful spot as a world-famous and timeless spice, pepper’s history goes back to the Greeks and Romans. Where it was used as currency or offering to gods.

Around the world, pepper is one of the most traded spices in the form of whole or powdered peppercorns. These Peppercorns are the berries taken from tropical vines of pepper plants.

Owing to its one-of-a-kind pungent flavor, pepper is irresistible for diabetics. Well, it’s not sweet that a diabetic should worry about a little pepper spray on fav foods. But, there’s a catch.

After researching expert opinions here’s a comprehensive rundown on pepper for diabetics. Its effect on blood glucose, interaction with diabetes medication, and precautions.

Let’s discuss the more benefits of black pepper for diabetes.

Is Black Pepper for Diabetes Safe?

Black pepper can increase your body’s capacity to lower blood sugar levels and prevent sugar spikes. It contains a vital ingredient ‘piperine’ that regulates the balance.

In a comparative rat study published in Hormone and Metabolic Research, rats who had piperine could regulate glucose.

In another study published in a Pharmaceutical Journal, some diabetic mice were fed with a little piperine daily. It had a significant reduction in blood sugar levels, in comparison to the controlled group.

One more research found that piperine boosts the effectiveness of anti-diabetic drugs. It reduces blood sugar levels more than the medicine taken alone.

So, it wouldn’t be wrong to say ‘piperine’ in black pepper is an anti-diabetic agent. The fact that this natural antioxidant is a ‘bioenhancer’, means it absorbs in the blood.

Genie ‘piperine’’ also boosts metabolism. It creates a perfect balance of glucose-insulin in diabetics.

That said, research and health experts have noticed that a higher dose of black pepper can lead to a spike in blood glucose levels as it is more bioavailable. Thus, moderation is the key.

Above all, black pepper for diabetes is safe. In effect, it aids in preventing insulin spikes.

Black Pepper

Can a Diabetic Eat Pepper?

In precision, yes, diabetics can eat black pepper.

Piperine found in black pepper helps in lowering blood glucose levels. Furthermore, it may interact with anti-diabetic medicines leading to low blood sugar levels.

But, Experts recommend consuming black pepper for diabetes but in moderation.

How Much Black Pepper Per Day Should I Consume?

As you are aware of the effects of black pepper on your blood sugar levels, it’s important to know your ‘safe limits.

For the best benefits of black pepper on diabetes, one should consume one teaspoon of black pepper a day. Excess to black pepper can impact your digestion and cause ulcers.

So whenever you order food with peppery seasoning, do inform the waiters to skip it and let you do it to your taste.

Is Black Pepper Unsafe for Diabetics?

Yes, sometimes. Because black pepper might interfere with the absorption of medicines having propranolol, phenytoin, lithium, theophylline, and rifampin. Rather taking black pepper while you are taking any such drugs can boost their results. That can be detrimental.

How to Safely Add Black Pepper for Diabetes?

It is advisable to sprinkle the desired amount of black pepper at the final stage of your meal preparation.

Firstly, because it has a sharp flavor. Secondly, it helps prevent you from inhaling the black pepper fumes when sprinkling. It’s important and safe for diabetics because these fumes can irritate the lungs and might cause anoxia. Anoxia is a condition when your tissues aren’t oxygenated and that’s not a good thing for diabetics.

Final Verdict

Black pepper is no doubt the king of spices for its extraordinary flavor and health effects for diabetics.

What’s remarkable is its ability to boost your body’s ability to absorb more nutrients and make anti-diabetic drugs more bioavailable to the body. Thus, you can hit and maintain the right insulin-glucose balance even if you are diabetic, with rare insulin spikes. So, spice up your foods the right way and stay healthy.

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7 Benefits of Bay Leaf during Pregnancy

Bay Leaf or sweet bay is an herbal leaf.

It is used to make medicines. Popularly known as ‘bay laurel’, the herb was used by Greeks for crowning heroes with bay leaf wreaths. The award of the ‘sweet bay leaves’ can only be useful for few people. So, let’s find out how beneficial is the consumption of bay leaf during pregnancy?

Bay leaves are full of antioxidants, iron, and potassium, which are heart healthy. Moreover, their historical use speaks a lot about their antioxidant, anti-fungal, and healing properties.

Bay leaves are well-known for treating cancer, stomach issues, diabetes, pain, and much more. Most of all, they have a sedative effect that may cause excessive drowsiness.

Let’s dive into the benefits of bay leaves and how to use bay leaves during pregnancy:

1. Lowers Blood Sugar Level

Early research concludes that adding a ground bay leaf to your diet twice a day alongside diabetes medicine helps in reducing blood sugar levels before meals.

2. Improves Cholesterol

Patients having abnormally high cholesterol or blood fat level (dyslipidemia) benefit from bay leaf tea. The research concluded that having bay leaves tea for 10 days may help improve good cholesterol levels (HDL or high-density lipoprotein).

However, there is no evidence if bay leaves improve the other lipid levels.

Bay Leaf Tree

3. Prevent Kidney Diseases

Bay leaves are good for kidney health. Studies have shown that bay leaves prevent kidney stones and other kidney issues. The study revealed that bay leaf helps in the reduction of urease in the body and possibly helps in toxin removal as well as ease urination.

4. Good for Stomach Health

Bay leaf tea has a positive effect on the stomach. The organic compounds of sweet bay leaf relieve an upset stomach.
In fact, a cup of bay leaf tea is great for relieving flatulence, intestinal discomfort, and abdominal cramps.

5. Promotes Sleep

Bay leaves contain sedative compounds that promote relaxation and drowsiness. Bay leaf tea is an excellent natural remedy for insomnia and other sleep problems.

Therefore, taking bay leaf tea an hour or two before going to bed may help you enjoy a restful sleep.

However, if the bay leaf is taken along with sleep-inducing medicines, it can cause over-drowsiness and extra sleepiness.

6. Relieve Anxiety

Cinnamon and bay leaf tea acts as a natural treatment to relieve anxiety and stress. The ingredients leave a mildly soothing and calming effect on the nervous system.

7. Good for Skin

Ground bay leaf treats acne, inflammation, and other skin irritations. It is also one of the well-known natural remedy for treatment of boils, dandruff, etc.

Although bay leaf has incredible benefits, there is a lack of research and evidence on the health benefits of bay leaf.

How to Add Bay Leaves to Your Diet?

In general, bay leaf, as well as bay leaf oil, is quite safe to add to food. Ground bay leaf is also safe if taken in moderate amounts. Mostly bay leaf is cooked as a whole for adding a little flavor to cuisines and teas, which is very safe.

However, taking bay leaf as a whole is very unsafe as it cannot be digested. The leaf cannot be digested, therefore, it can possibly get stuck in the throat or pierce the intestinal lining.

Bay leaves during pregnancy

Is it Safe to Eat Bay Leaf During Pregnancy?

Bay leaf is heart-healthy, great for digestion, and reducing stress. Hormonal imbalances during pregnancy can cause a lot of emotional stress.

Pertaining to the use of bay leaves in cooking is safe during pregnancy. However, bay leaves shouldn’t be taken as an herbal supplement due to their several possible side effects. Moreover, there isn’t any scientific data on the benefits of the use of bay leaf during pregnancy, so it’s better to avoid it.

Eating bay leaf as a whole is unsafe during pregnancy or otherwise. The leaf is indigestible and passes through the digestive lining intact. It can get lodged in the throat or cause piercing in the intestinal linings.

How Many Bay Leaves Should I Use?

If you really want to add bay leaves to your diet, it’s best to use only about 2 to 3 bay leaves. Otherwise, its taste can overtake the entire dish.

Cinnamon and bay leaf tea benefit in terms of their soothing and relaxing effect. You can also use a cinnamon and bay leaf tea for pregnancy after consulting your doctor.

Final Verdict

There is not enough research on the benefits of bay leaf for pregnant or breastfeeding moms. It’s best to take bay leaf tea after consulting your doctor.

Apart from that, Bay leaf might interfere with blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. Moreover, bay leaf can also slow down your brain functions, which if combined with sleep medicines or anesthesia during surgery, can prolong recovery and the healing process.

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