You Want To Get Rid Of Dark Knees?

Do you long to wear those short skirts and sleeveless tops but can’t due to your black knees and elbow? Or are you that guy who often becomes conscious while in gym because of dark knees and elbows and lose focus on exercising? 

These dark zones of our bodies do make us embarrassed now and then. If you had not sat with your elbow’s support on your desk or not have kneeled down so many times for sports or prayers or for any other work, probably you wouldn’t have got those dark knees and elbows. Or is it because you regularly forget these body areas while exfoliating and cleaning other parts of your body? Whatever is the reason, the good news is that with a little effort and some great home remedies, you can get rid of black knees and elbow. 

The greatest of these is the lemon juice- the mother of all remedies for any dark area on your skin. So, I am not going to include lime juice in this list of home remedies. You can use it as and when it suits you.

How to Get Rid of Black Knees:

Traditional Way for Even Toned Skin- Oil Massage:

In ancient times, when there were no cosmetics an all, people then too have smooth and fine even toned skin. They used to apply oil and in many countries, it was a pre bath ritual to have full body massage with oil. In today’s hectic times, massage has become luxury rather than a routine. Knees and elbows are one of the most dry parts of our body and they need regular moisturization. Oils can help them remain moist, smooth and even toned without dark patches.

*Apply any natural oil in its pure form to your darkened knes or elbow. Some of the suggestions include olive oil, sesame oil, almond oil or coconut oil. Massage with these oils daily.

*Rub some mustard oil on your knees/ elbow after taking bath. Massage gently for about 5-15 minutes, whatever time you can spare. 

The linoleic, oleic and erucic acids in mustard oil finely lubricate your joints and also assist in retaining the melanin pigment there. Don’t forget to wash off your joints with warm water, and if needed a mild soap, after the massage in order to save your clothes and from attracting more dirt on to skin.

*Vitamin E oil is a boon for any skin problem. Just puncture a Vitamin E capsule and take the oil in it to rub on your knees and elbow. Get smooth and clear skin within few weeks.

*Give Minty Treat to Your Blackened Joints:

Mint is not only refreshing for your mouth and other senses but also for your knees and elbow. The antiseptic and anti- inflammatory compounds of mint as well as its essential oils help in synthesizing white blood cells and collagen in our bodies. It is also capable of clearing scar tissues from within. You need a mint concoction for this remedy.

You will need:

-Mint leaves- handful of them

-Lemon juice- from half a lemon

-Water- half a cup

-Cotton ball

-Warm water to wash

Directions:

-Boil water.

-Add mint leaves and let it boil for some more time.

-Add the lemon juice in boiling mint water.

-Put off the flame.

-Let it cool for some time.

-When its temperature is tolerable for your skin, soak the cotton ball in it.

-Apply the mint-lemon concoction to your knees or elbow in the cotton ball.

-Leave for about 10-15 minutes.

-Wash off with warm water.

Take off Dead Cells with Natural Exfoliates:

It is our rough usage of knees and elbow as well as neglecting them when scrubbing off the dead skin cells from other parts of our bodies. So, its high time, you make special scrubs for your black knees and elbow with some natural ingredients.

Baking Soda plus Milk

-Take a tablespoon of baking soda

-Add some milk to it, enough to make a thick paste.

-Apply on your knees or elbow.

-Scrub gently in circular motion.

-Do it daily or alternate days as per the extent of darkness on your joints.

-When you see that the skin tone of your joints have lightened, do it once a week or fortnight.

Olive Oil plus Sugar

You need exfoliation as well as moisturizing for your darkened knees, elbows. So go for this very simple remedy.

You will need:

-Olive oil- 1 tablespoon

-Sugar- 1 tablespoon

Directions:

-Mix the oil and sugar to get a thick paste with texture granted by sugar granules. For better results, -you can even use warm olive oil.

-Apply this mixture on your knees or elbow

-Scrub gently with fingers.

-You will feel the sugar granules getting smaller in size as you keep on rubbing.

-Try to dissolve the whole sugar in the mixture otherwise rub for at least 5-10 minutes.

-Now wash off with a mild soap and water.

-Do this daily till you get rid of those dark areas. Then make it a weekly routine.

Onion plus Garlic

They both are great in food recipes due to the unique flavor they lend to the dish. Thet are equally good when combined to scrub your black knees and elbow due to their various minerals and volatile oils. They make your skin light and that’s for sure.

You will need:

-Garlic- 1 fat clove

-Onion- 1

-Grating equipment (better if it has bigger holes)

Directions:

-Peel the garlic clove and grate it, even if you find it a little difficult to do so. If you can’t at all, crush it in a way that it has small chunks and doesn’t convert into paste form.

-Grate the onion.

-Mix them both.

-Apply on knees or elbow, whereever it is dark.

-Rub gently for about 10-15 minutes.

-Wash off with water.

-If you can’t stand the smell, use a mild soap to wash off.

-You can even apply some rose water mixed with glycerine and lime juice (I part glycerine, one part lime juice and two parts rose water) after scrubbing with garlic-onion scrub to keep the smell off your body.

Gramflour plus Yogurt:

Gram flour or chick pea flour, due to its variety of vitamins , minerals as well as proteins, act as an excellent exfoliant. This flour is a great remedy for pigmentation and blemishes as well as for dark skin tones.

You will need:

-Gramflour- 2 tablespoons

-Curd- enough to make thick paste

Directions:

-Mix gramflour and curd.

-Apply on your darkened elbow or knees.

-Let it be there for sometime, about 15-20 minutes.

-Using your fingers, rub in circular motion for about 5-10 minutes.

-Wash off with water.

-If your skin ultra dry, you may also consider using fresh cream in place of yogurt for getting good moisturizing effect. Those with oily skin can consider replacing yogurt with milk.

Yogurt plus Almond:

Almond is good for health and almond oil is good for skin too. If you are using almond oil to lighten your skin tone, well and good. You can even use almonds for exfoliating your knees and elbow.

You will need:

-Yogurt- 2 tablespoons

-Almonds- 8-10

Directions:

-Ground almonds coarsely. Watch that they don’t get smoothely powdered.

-Add yogurt to coarse almond powder.

-Apply on black knees and elbow.

-Leave for 15 minutes or till it dries up.

-Rub gently with wet fingers.

-Scrub in circular motion.

-Wash off with water.

-Do it daily once or twice a week.

Coconut Oil plus Walnut:

The skin friendly coconut oil with all its minerals, fatty acids and other nutrients nourish your joints skin wihle walnut exfoliates them excellently.

You will need

-Coconut oil- 1 tablespoon

-Walnut- 3-4

Directions

-Coarsly ground walnut. Don’t make it smooth.

-Add coarse walnut powder to coconut oil.

-Apply on knees/ elbow.

-Rub in circular motion for 10-15 minutes.

-Wash off with warm water.

Lighten the Skin Tone with Natural Bleaching Agents

Exfoliation and Moisturizing are basic to any skin care routine and more so for black knees and elbow. However, if they have become very dark, you may also need to bleach them but don’t go for those laden with chemicals. They may leave your knees darker than before. Use some natural bleaches to whiten the skin tomne of your dark knees and elbows.

Lemon and Honey

Lemon juice is the best natural bleach and honey, the best natural moisturizer.

You will need:

-Lime juice- from 1 lemon

-Honey- 1 tablespoon

Directions:

-Mix lemon juice and honey.

-Apply on dark areas.

-Leave for 15-20 minutes.

-Wash off with water.

Initially do this everyday. Then thrice, twice and once a week as you see your skin tone getting lighter with time.

Bleaching Fruits and Veggies

While lemon is the best bleach, there are many other fruits and vegetables that have fine bleaching properties. You can use them to lighten the skin tone of your dark knees or elbow. Cut a slice, grate them or take out their juice. Slices can be rubbed as can be the grated things. Juices can be applied for 15-20 minutes. Procedure is simila, just the ingredients change. Use one or many of the following 

fruits or vegetables.

-Potato

-Cucumber

-Tomato

-Grapes

-Oranges

Yogurt and Vinegar

While yogurt helps in making some very good exfoliates, it is also an excellent bleach due to the presence of lactic acid in it. When it combines with yet another good bleach, the vinegar with its acetic acid, your knees and elbows can’t help than getting lighter.

You will need:

-Yougurt- 1 tablespoon

-Vinegar- 1 teaspoon

Directions:

-Mix yogurt and vinegar.

-Apply on dark knees and elbow.

-Leave for 20 minutes.

-Wash off with water.

This can be done daily as curd is very mild on skin. It also balances the acid of vinegar.

If you use one or more of these home remedies for black knees and elbow and keep them clean and moisturized, you’ll never have to be in dilemma of whether to wear short skirts/ sleeveless tops or not!

Are You Worried About Your Dry Skin ?Try Home Remedies.

Most people experience dry skin problems at some point in their lives. Dry skin is usually caused by environmental conditions, genetics or excessive bathing and can occur anywhere on the body. If you suffer from dry skin, don't worry there are many things you can do to hydrate your skin and prevent it from drying out again.

*Moisturizing from the Outside:

1)Moisturize frequently and consistently. 
The need to moisturize your skin when it's dry may seem like a no-brainer, but it's important that you know how to moisturize effectively. For instance, piling on an inch-thick layer of moisturizer once a week isn't going to do your skin much good. You need to be moisturizing frequently and consistently in order to effectively combat dry skin.

*Keep a facial moisturizer beside your bed. This will make it easier to remember to moisturize every night before you go to sleep. Make it a part of your nightly routine.
*If you suffer from dry hands, keep a small tube of hand cream in your hand bag or beside your sink. Use every time you wash your hands.

2)Moisturize when your skin is damp. 
Moisturizing when your skin is still slightly wet helps to seal in more hydration. After you wash your face, pat off the excess moisture with a towel before applying your moisturizer. For your body, do the same thing. Pat your skin with a towel until it's just slightly damp, then apply a good moisturizer. Allow your skin to dry naturally so it can absorb all the moisture.

*If you're skin still feels dry, apply a second layer of moisturizer once the first layer has soaked in.

3)Change your products. 
You may need to change the products you use, according to changes in your skin or the time of year. In colder months, you may to switch to a richer moisturizer. In summer, you should use one with an SPF. If you have combination skin, it may be necessary to use a lighter moisturizer on the parts of your skin that gets oily (like your t-zone) and a heavier one where your skin gets dry.

4)Choose the right cleansers. 
Be careful when choosing a facial or body cleanser, as some cleansers can strip moisture from the skin. Opt for a gentle cream or milk cleanser that will moisturize the skin as it cleanses. Also try to stay away from heavily-fragranced cleansers as the chemicals behind scents can be drying.

5)Exfoliate gently. 
Exfoliating can be great for sloughing off dead skin cells and for smoothing the skin. However, many facial scrubs can also strip the skin of moisture and irritate dry skin. This is why it is important to exfoliate gently, using the right products and techniques.

*The ingredients in many facial scrubs can strip the skin of essential moisture. Instead of a facial scrub, use a damp baby's washcloth to massage your face in small, circular motions in order to gently, yet effectively exfoliate.
*Get rid of gritty, abrasive body scrubs and try using a loofah, exfoliating gloves or a dry skin brush to gently exfoliate the skin.
*Always moisturize your skin directly after exfoliating.

6)Limit the use of "treatment" products. 
A lot of times, dry skin is a side effect of using certain treatments, like ones for acne and wrinkles. If you are trying to clear your skin or fight off aging, this doesn't mean you have to stop using those treatments completely. It simply means you should use them less frequently because certain active ingredients in such treatments can exacerbate dry skin, especially in the winter.

7)Relieve itchy skin. 
Dry skin often leads to itchy skin, but scratching can make dry skin worse, and even damage the skin. Sometimes moisturizing alone will help to ease any dry-skin related itchiness, but if you need some extra relief, try a hydrocortisone cream or over-the-counter anti-itch lotion.

*Hydrating from the Inside:

1)Drink lots of water.
Water flushes toxins from your system and carries nutrients to your cells. This helps to prevent dry skin by keeping your skin nourished and hydrated. You should aim to drink at least two liters of water per day.

2)Eat fresh fruit and vegetables. 
A healthy and balanced diet will help your skin by providing the vitamins and nutrients that the body needs to stay healthy and hydrated. Try to eat at least 2 portions of green, leafy vegetables and 2 portions of seasonal fruits daily. Fruit and veg with a high-water content, such as watermelon, broccoli and tomatoes, are especially good for hydration.

3)Eat healthy fats. 
Eating foods containing the good types of fat contributes to the body's overall health - increasing blood flow and the delivery of nutrients to all the body's cells, including skin. Try to eat more foods containing monounsaturated fat, such as avocados, olives and peanut butter, and more foods containing polyunsaturated fats, such as salmon, walnuts and tofu.

4)Take supplements. 
Taking supplements is an easy and effective way to increase your intake of key nutrients and vitamins, which help to promote healthy and hydrated skin. Try taking a fish oil supplement, which is great for dry skin and eyes, or increase your intake of vitamin E, an antioxidant which repairs and protects skin.

5)Cut back on salty and fried foods. 
Salty and fried foods will dehydrate the body, exacerbating dry skin problems. Limit your intake of these foods as much as possible to avoid dehydration and benefit your overall health.

6)Don't smoke. 
The negative side effects of smoking are well-documented, but you may not know that smoking is also bad for the skin. The tar contained in cigarettes clogs the pores, leading to blackheads and breakouts. Smoking hampers your breathing ability which inhibits circulation and deprives the skin cells of oxygen. Smoking also depletes the tissues of vitamin C, which is essential for healthy-looking skin.

7)Limit alcohol intake. 
Alcohol dehydrates the body, thus dehydrating the skin. It decreases the body's ability to absorb fluids, leading to a loss of water, electrolytes and minerals. This causes dry, red, easily irritated skin. Try to drink alcohol in moderation, and when you are drinking, have a glass of water between drinks.

*Preventing Dry Skin:

1)Avoid excessive bathing. 
Do not shower or wash your face too much, as this will dry out your skin. In order to avoid dryness, you should limit your bathing to just one bath or shower a day. You should also avoid steaming your skin and washing with water that is too hot.

*Use warm or lukewarm water so hydration isn't stripped from your skin. Water that's too hot tends to wash away your skin's protective lipid barrier.
*For the same reason, you should also avoid taking long showers or baths.

2)Moisturize all year round.
This may be obvious to some people, but not so much to others. By moisturizing all year round, your skin will be prepared for whatever the seasons throw at it, whether it's biting winter winds or scorching summer heat.

*People with sensitive skin should avoid creams containing fragrances or lanolin as these can cause the skin to react negatively.
*Try to get your hands on products that contain either glycerin or hyaluronic acid, as both of these substances are fantastically hydrating for the skin.

3)Wear sunscreen. 
If you spend a lot of time outdoors, it's imperative that you protect your face with a cream or moisturizer that contains an SPF of 15 or higher. This will protect the sensitive skin on your face from damaging sun rays, which cause burns, sun spots and even wrinkles. Remember that you can burn your skin all year round, so sunscreen isn't just for summer.

4)Use a humidifier. 
If the air in your house is very dry, your skin could be drying out as you sleep, leaving it feeling rough and flaky come morning. To counteract this effect, try putting a humidifier in your bedroom which you can turn on while you sleep.

*Putting a bowl or pot of water next to the radiator in your bedroom is a low-cost, DIY alternative to using a humidifier.
*Alternatively, try using a natural plant humidifier, such as a Boston palm, a bamboo fern, or a Ficus alii. These plants raise the level of water vapor in the air through transpiration so try putting one in your bedroom, it'll help your skin while giving your bedroom a tropical feel!

5)Cover up. 
Protect your skin from the elements by covering up as much as possible. In winter, protect your skin from drying winds by wearing hats, scarves and gloves. Wear a protective chapstick to shield your lips. In summer, wear a baseball cap or sunhat to protect your face from harsh rays of sun, and wear loose, light, long-sleeved shirts and pants to prevent skin from burning.

*Home Treatments:

1)Use petroleum jelly. 
The hydrating properties of petroleum jelly cannot be understated. Petroleum jelly is very emollient and actually forms a barrier that prevents moisture from evaporating from the surface of the skin.[1] It is also a cheap and cheerful option for treating dry skin on a budget.

*As petroleum jelly can be thick and sticky, it may be best to apply it at night. Try dampening your skin, putting on a layer of your regular moisturizer, then a applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly to seal everything in.
*You can also use petroleum jelly for dry hands and feet. Coat your hands and feet with a layer of petroleum jelly before bed. Cover them with cotton gloves and socks to promote absorption and prevent the jelly from rubbing off on your sheets. Your skin will be supple and moist in the morning.

2)Use avocado. 
Mash up one half of a fresh, ripe avocado, then add in a quarter cup of organic honey. Include a teaspoon of milk or yogurt, if desired. Smear this creamy skincare recipe on your face and neck. Finally, wash it off with cool water after 10 minutes for super-nourished skin.

3)Use banana. 
Banana can rejuvenate dry skin, making it soft and supple. Mash up half of a banana in a bowl and spread it onto your face and neck. After 5 to 10 minutes, you may rinse it off with lukewarm water. To increase the effectiveness of this facial mask, you can add a teaspoon of honey to the banana.

4)Use milk. 
Milk has been used as a hydrating beauty balm for a very long time - in fact, Queen Cleopatra used to bathe in it! If this seems a little extreme, try washing your face with milk to hydrate the skin and reduce blemishes. The best way to do this is by pouring a little whole fat milk into a cup, dipping a soft washcloth into it, then massaging the milk into your skin. The lactic acid gently cleanses the skin, while the high fat content is good for moisturization.

5)Use mayonnaise. 
Mayonnaise is considered excellent for dry skin. Apply a mixture of two tablespoons of mayonnaise, a tablespoon of lemon juice, and half a teaspoon of honey directly to your face and leave for about ten minutes. For best results, use this mayonnaise mask once a week.

6)Make a sugar scrub. 
You can make your own sugar scrub for exfoliating and hydrating dry skin using just half a cup of brown or white sugar and a splash of olive oil. If you like, you can also add a drop or two of a fragrant essential oil such as mint or vanilla extract, or a teaspoon of softening honey.

7)Use aloe vera. 
Aloe helps to rehydrate the skin and also naturally reduces redness and inflammation. To use, break off a leaf from an aloe vera plant and rub the clear, sticky sap all over your face. Leave it on for 15 minutes, then rinse off. For best results, apply an aloe mask once or twice a week. You can easily get an aloe vera plant at a nursery or home improvement store.

8)Use oils. 
Natural oils such as olive oil, almond oil and coconut oil are all fantastic home remedies for dry and flaking skin. Simply apply a thin layer of the oil of your choice onto your skin, morning and night, for softer, smoother skin.

9)Use an ice cube. 
Try rubbing an ice cube all over your face, this makes your blood circulate round your face more, and brings moisture to the surface. Great for getting rid of dry skin and having a glowing face!

10)Use glycerine. 
Take few drops of glycerine and apply it all around your face and neck. Leave it on your face for 20 minutes, then wash it off with lukewarm water. You'll get a glowing and supple face.

Tips:
*Don't rub your dry skin as it might leave a bright red mark and irritation, no-one wants that!!
*Don't use sugar scrub. The sugar is actually quite sharp when looked at through a microscope. It will scrape your skin leaving it red and damaged. The dry skin may even stay.
*If you don't get favorable results with the above steps, consult a cosmetologist/dermatologist.
*Get eczema moisturizer and soap from your local GP and use it every day as part of your daily routine. Creams like Dermol and Diprobase are recommended.
*Wear cotton gloves and socks most of the time, it can help protect it.
*Drinking juice can help relieve eczema.
*Try oil cleansing method.

How to Make Fabric Softener At Home ?

If you want a more ecological or more economical alternative to commercial fabric softeners, you can make your own at home. Here are a few simple methods you can use.

*Vinegar:

1)Combine 1 gallon (3.8 L) vinegar with 25 to 30 drops essential oil. 
Stir the essential oil directly into the container of white distilled vinegar for a minute or so to ensure that the two liquids combine well.

*Note that the essential oil is not necessary. The vinegar is the component responsible for softening clothes. It strips away residue on your clothes that would otherwise make them stiff, and it has properties that can break down some of the minerals found in hard water supplies.
*If you do decide to use essential oils, you can use any scents you want.

2)Add 1/4 cup (60 ml) to your rinse cycle. 
For a normal load, fill a fabric softener ball with 1/4 cup (60 ml) of the fabric softener solution or add the same amount directly to the washer just before the rinse cycle begins.

*Do not add the fabric softener to the machine before its primary wash cycle.
*Pour the rest of the fabric softener into a storage container. Make sure that this fabric softener is labeled so that you do not accidentally use it for another purpose. Shake or stir well to before each use to make sure that the essential oil and vinegar have not separated as it sat.

3)Continue through a standard rinse cycle. 
You do not need to do anything special from this point on. Let your rinse cycle finish up as it normally would.

*Vinegar and Baking Soda:

1)Combine baking soda and hot water. 
Stir 1 cup (250 ml) baking soda into 2 cups (500 ml) hot water until well combined. Combine the two ingredients in a large bucket or other container.

*Note that the baking soda will not dissolve, but it should be completely soaked.
*This homemade fabric softener is often praised by people who have hard water.
*Baking soda regulates the pH level in your rinse water, preventing it from becoming too acidic or too alkaline. It also cancels out mineral deposits, like those found in hard water. These mineral deposits are often responsible for making clothes stiff.

2)Slowly add the vinegar. 
Slowly add 1 cup (250 ml) white distilled vinegar to the mixture. Stir gently until the baking soda is dissolved.

*The vinegar will react with the baking soda, causing a fizzy chemical reaction. Do not pour the vinegar too quickly or you will end up with a mess.
*Vinegar strips soap and residue from clothing and also helps to soften hard water.
*Some believe that the vinegar and baking soda cancel each other out, making them ineffective. The salt that is produced from the chemical reaction acts as a buffer in the rinse cycle, however. Moreover, many of the elements that help soften clothes remain in the solution even after the reaction occurs.

3)Scent the fabric softener, if desired. 
If you want to make scented fabric softener, then you need to add essential oil or scent booster to the ingredients. Stir either option directly into the fabric softener solution.

*If using essential oils, 25 to 30 drops should be sufficient.
*If using scent booster, add 1/4 to 1/2 cup (60 to 125 ml) of the crystals to your water and stir until dissolved.
*Scent booster is usually found in the laundry aisle. It is not a natural product, so it may not be preferable from an ecological sense, but it will lend your fabric softener a pleasant scent and may save you money in the long run.

4)Pour 1/4 cup (60 ml) into your washing machine during the rinse cycle. 
For a normal load, fill a fabric softener ball with 1/4 cup (60 ml) of the fabric softener solution or add the same amount directly to the washer just before the rinse cycle begins.

*Do not add the fabric softener to the machine before its primary wash cycle.
*Pour the rest of the fabric softener into a storage container. Shake or stir well to combine before each use.

5)Run the rinse cycle as usual. 
You do not need to do anything special from this point on. Let your rinse cycle finish up as it normally would.

*Conditioner:

1)Combine vinegar, hair conditioner, and hot water.
In a large bucket or other container, stir together 3 cups (750 ml) white distilled vinegar, 2 cups (500 ml) hair conditioner, and 6 cups (1500 ml) hot water until evenly combined.

*You can use any hair conditioner you want for this method. To make it more cost effective, choose a cheap brand.
*Since there are many varieties and scents of conditioner available on the market, your scent options are nearly endless.
*Note that this is not an "all natural" solution, but it is quite effective. The vinegar strips aways stiffening residue and the conditioner softens fibers.

2)Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup (60 to 125 ml) to your washing machine just before the rinse cycle. 
For a normal load, fill a fabric softener ball with 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup (60 ml to 125 ml) of the fabric softener solution or add the same amount directly to the washer just before the rinse cycle begins.

*Do not add the fabric softener to the machine before its primary wash cycle.
*Pour the rest of the fabric softener into a storage container. Shake or stir well to combine before each use.

3)Run the rinse cycle as usual. 
You do not need to do anything special from this point on. Let your rinse cycle finish up as it normally would.

*Fabric Softener Sheets:

1)Cut cotton cloth into small squares. 
Cut clean cotton cloth into squares that are roughly 5 inches (12.7 cm) along each side.

*Cotton works well because it is a natural fiber and relatively breathable. Avoid fabrics with fibers that are spaced too tightly together. Also avoid synthetic fabrics.
*You can use a rag or old piece of cloth for this, but make sure that the material you use is clean.

2)Spray each square with white vinegar. 
Fill a small spray bottle with undiluted distilled white vinegar. Spray both sides of each square until moist to the touch.

*Let dry slightly. The cloth can be moist, but it should not be dripping wet by the time you add it to the dryer.
*The vinegar is the only element in this fabric softener formula that lends itself to actually softening your clothes. It may not be as strong as a liquid fabric softener using vinegar, but some of the effects should still remain.

3)Add a few drops of essential oil onto one square. 
Drop 3 to 5 drops of your favorite essential oil onto a cloth square. Spread the drops out so that they seep into the fibers of the entire square.

*The essential oil will give your clothes a pleasant yet mild fragrance. You can technically use this method without the use of essential oils, but since the softening effects are less powerful than a liquid fabric softener alternative, it would make more sense to take advantage of the deodorizing and re-scenting abilities of this method.

4)Throw the scented fabric into your dryer. 
Place the scented fabric softener sheet directly into your dryer as you prepare to dry a load of clothes. Run a standard drying cycle. You do not need to do anything special from this point on.

*Each dryer sheet can be used for two or three loads, but you may need to refresh the scent by adding 3 drops or more of the essential oil before use. Refresh the softening properties by giving the sheet another quick spray of vinegar.

*Fabric Softener Crystals:

1)Mix coarse salt and essential oil.
Add 20 to 30 drops of your favorite essential oil to 2 cups (500 ml) of Epsom salt or coarse sea salt in a medium bowl or container.

*Stir well until all of the essential oil has been spread over and absorbed by the salt.
*You can use any scent of essential oil you want to use. If desired, you can even combine scents to create your own unique fragrance.

2)Stir in baking soda. 
Mix 1/2 cup (125 ml) of baking soda into the scented salts until evenly distributed.

*Alternatively, you could leave the baking soda out altogether and add it to your machine separately during the wash.

3)Add 2 to 3 Tbsp (30 to 45 ml) to the rinse cycle.
 Before your washing machine enters a rinse cycle, add the scented crystals directly to the water in your machine.

*Only use 2 to 3 Tbsp (30 to 45 ml) of the fabric softener crystals.
*If you did not add baking soda to the crystals, you can add up to 1/2 cup (125 ml) of baking soda in conjunction with this fabric softener per normal load of laundry.
*Do not add the fabric softener crystals to the start of the washing cycle, before the washing part actually takes place. Only add it to the washing machine during the rinse cycle.

4)Run the rinse cycle as usual. 
You do not need to do anything special from this point on. Let your rinse cycle finish up as it normally would.

Warnings:
Never mix vinegar and chlorine bleach. Doing so produces a dangerous gas.
Do not use apple cider vinegar or another tinted vinegar for any of these recipes. Tinted vinegars will stain or darken your clothes.

HOW TO MAKE SAMOSAS LIKE A CHEF?

Samosas are a little different from your standard vegetable samosa. They have a delightful aroma, a taste and the added delicious experience of crispness from the frying. Give these samosas a try and you may just find they become a firm family favorite.

When it comes to Asian appetizers, samosas seem to be at the top of everyone's list. Eating these crispy, golden triangular-shaped patties is no doubt a treat. Making them, however, can be a challenge for home cooks. That is, until today. We've got here the ultimate guide for how to make samosas like a native chef.

Samosas hail from Asian and there are countless ways to prepare them some people favor meat or chicken fillings but the most popular samosas, by far, are the ones with a potato and green pea filling . In aasia, you'll find samosas being sold on street corners, at roadside shacks or fancy restaurants, and prepared for family gatherings where they are commonly enjoyed with a nice cup of masala chai.

The Basics

Before learning how to make samosas it is imperative to make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. The traditional recipe calls for white flour - not whole-wheat, spelt or buckwheat four. That's because white flour yields a soft pliable dough that results in flaky samosas. Who wouldn't want to bite into that? You can, of course, use a mix of whole-wheat and white flour but it won't yield the ultimate tender crust.

You'll also need to have a few spices on hand, such as turmeric, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, cumin seeds and garam masala (that’s just covering the basics!). Can you do without one or two of those? Sure, but if your aim to is get that authentic Indian flavor you're better off taking a trip to the nearest spice shop.

Plan of Action

Most chefs will agree that the best plan of action is to divide the work in two sections. A great tip is to make the filling the day before you intend to serve the samosas so making them will be a breeze. Time doesn't always allow for that so you can always make the filling while the samosa dough is resting (ideally, you'd boil the potatoes ahead of time).

Once you learn how to make samosas, you'll see that it's not as complicated as you thought. The biggest challenge in the entire process is mastering the triangular shape. Below is a step-by-step guide that will help you learn to fold samosas once and for all. It's fair to point out there are many other ways to fold samosas but the method below is the traditional one used in the region of Punjab.

Potato Samosa Recipe
makes 8 samosas

For the dough:

1/2 cup all purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds), optional
1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup minus 2 tablespoon lukewarm water

Filling:

3 large boiled potatoes, peeled and chopped into very small cubes
1 small onion, chopped finely
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
2 chopped green chilies (more if you like it spicy - I like to double the amount)
1 teaspoon coriander seeds, freshly ground
1/4 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon amchur (mango powder), or the juice of one fresh lemon
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup green peas (frozen)
10 sprigs of cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons vegetable oil for sautéing

For paste to seal pastries:

2 tablespoons of water + 1 tablespoon white flour

Preparation: 

1. Use a medium bowl to prepare the dough. Begin by mixing the flour, salt and oil with your hands, rubbing together thoroughly so the oil gets incorporated into every bit of the flour (this will yield a flaky dough). Slowly add the water until you form a ball of dough, adding more water if needed. Knead the dough for about 2 minutes until smooth. Wrap it in plastic and set it aside for 20 min.

2. For the filling, heat the vegetable oil in a sauté pan. When warm, add the cumin seeds and onions. Cook until translucent, then add the chilies, turmeric and peas. When the peas are cooked through add the potatoes, garam masala and mango powder (if using). Cook until warmed through and ingredients are mixed together. Turn off heat. Adjust the salt and add cilantro. If using fresh lemon juice, add it now and mix throughly.

To assemble samosas:

1. Divide the dough into four small balls. Roll each ball into a circle about 5 inches wide. Cut each circle in half. Each half moon will yield one samosa. You should end up with 8 half moons.

2. For each half moon: dip your finger in the flour/water paste and run along the edges. Roll into triangular shape as pictured above, making sure to seal the edges tightly. Set aside on a floured surface. Work quickly to prevent the samosas from drying out.

3. Dust off any excess flour and deep fry samosas until golden. Serve with chutney, yogurt sauce or ketchup.

Chef's tip:

 For the ultimate crispy flaky samosa, fry them twice: once at 350F and the second time around at 375F. If you plan on freezing samosas, fry them just once. Let cool and freeze.

How to Be Talented?

Talent tends to refer to that inborn skill that everyone seems to be born with. It's true that having a talent can help you in life, and that it's good to try and identify and practice that skill. However, try and avoid placing too much importance on finding a talent. Plenty of people go through life perfectly happy, and perfectly able to learn skills, without having one specific and specialized talent.

*Discovering Your Talent:

1)Revisit your childhood. 
A good way to figure out where your talents lie is to go back to your childhood and think about what it was you wanted to do as a kid. This is often the time when you had plans that weren't limited by what people tend to think of as "reality."

*Fear of failure is one of the things that tends to hold you back from achieving or finding your talent. By returning to childhood, you're taking yourself out of that fear of failure or limitations mindset.
*Consider what it was you wanted to do when you were a child, and consider the things that you loved to do as a child. This doesn't mean that you get to raise dragons (sorry), or anything like that, but it can set you on a path towards your talent. For example, you might not be able to raise dragons but you might turn that desire towards writing stories, or leading a dragon camp at your local library.

2)Consider what it is you do when you lose track of time. 
One of the chief things you can do is focus on what you love to do so much that you have a tendency to forget everything else for awhile. Remember, not all talents are going to be super obvious. You might have to delve a bit deeper into the things you enjoy to discover what makes you tick.

*For example, if what you really love is playing video games, that can absolutely be a talent. While you might not be able to play them as your job, you can still find ways to use that talent.
*Consider questions like: What is it you fantasize about doing when you're bored at work or school? If you were given unlimited funds, what would you do with that? If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? If you didn't have to work, how would you occupy your day? Answering these and similar questions can help you uncover what you're good at and what inspires you.

3)Ask others. 
Sometimes, when you're having difficulty seeing clearly, it's good to get an outside opinion. Your friends and family members know you well and they should be able to offer you some insights into the areas where they think you're talented.

*Sometimes the areas you wish to have talent, aren't necessarily where others see you as having talent. That's okay! Just because you don't have an inborn talent at something, doesn't mean you can't be good at it and just because you have a talent at something doesn't mean that you need to pursue that in your life.
*For example: your family and friends might point to your talent as lying in the area of math, especially accounting and figures, but your true passions lie in rock-climbing. Instead of thinking you should throw in the towel on rock-climbing, consider using your math abilities to help you fund your rock-climbing passion.

4)Try new things. 
Especially if you're not sure what your talents might be, you should get out and try new things. This way you're more likely to hit on what it is that you're really good and that really makes you tick.

*Observe and enjoy the talents of other people. In your quest for you own talent you should look into the talents of other people. Think about the people that you know who are talents (maybe your father is an amazing cook, maybe your mom has an amazing ability to listen) and enjoy their talents.
*Go out in your community. Take classes offered at your local university; attend lectures or author meets at your local library or bookstore; try out cooking, rock-climbing, or mentoring at the local school.

5)Create space. 
While it is good to get the opinions of others, sometimes you need to give yourself time and space to figure things out for yourself. You don't want to be completely driven by other people's opinions.

*A lot of people find their talent through a moment that changes their life, that isn't scripted, or expected. It can happen that a brilliant musician attends a certain performance, which ignites a love of music in them. So, when confronted with something that might trigger that change in you, sit quietly and absorb the experience.
*Go solo. Do things by yourself, especially new things. This will give you time to figure out whether you have a talent for something without feeling like you have to perform one way or another in front of people.

*Developing Your Talent:

1)Practice. 
While talent can be important when it comes to doing things well, the real determinate is practice. It doesn't matter how talented you are. If you don't practice, you're simply not going to be as good at something, as you could have been. In fact, in many cases, people who are naturally talented at something, so worse in the long run, because they feel like they don't have to practice.

*Set aside specific time each day that's devoted to practicing your talent. For example, if writing is your talent, set aside a half hour before work every morning to get up and write. If your talent is basketball, get out there and practice on the court.
*Focus on the areas that you're less talented in. Even if you have a talent, it doesn't mean that you're going to be talented at every aspect of something. For example, you might have a talent for capturing dialogue, but struggle to create a coherent plot.

2)Kick negativity to the curb. 
Talented or not, negative thinking can stop up your abilities quicker than anything else. The more you combat your negative thinking, the easier it will be to discover and develop your talent, because you won't be constantly second guessing yourself.

*Identify your thought patterns. The first step towards combating negativity is to notice when you're doing, and what you're doing. Perhaps you only allow the bad things into your mind (this is called filtering), or you tend to catastrophize everything. Notice how you think about yourself, about situations, and about your talent (do you for instance place undue importance on your talent?).
*Check in with your thinking every day. You have to be vigilant about your own thinking before you can work towards changing it. When you catch yourself catastrophizing ("I'm a failure because I keep forgetting to turn in my library books"), stop and identify the thought as what it is.
*Practice positive or neutral self-talk. The trick is to replace your negative thinking with positive or neutral thinking. So for example, when you start to think that you're a failure because you're having difficulty with a piano piece, turn that thought around and think "This is a challenging piece and I may have to practice harder to perform it to the standard that I would like." With a thought like that you're no longer casting value judgments on yourself.


3)Be kind to yourself and to others. 
People have a bad tendency of linking themselves to their talent and when that fails (and it does occasionally) they feel like they're a failure. To keep your sanity and your happiness, be kind to yourself about your abilities.

*Your talents are going to make you the best at everything at every time. By being kind to yourself and not having how well you, or your talent does, determine your well-being, you'll be more likely to feel happier.
*You can use your talents in the service of kindness. This can help you feel fulfilled, as rather than focusing on what your talent can do for you, you're using your talent for other people. For example, If you're a writer, you could write a story for a sick friend to help cheer them up.

4)Challenge yourself. 
Quite often talented people will hit a wall in terms of growth. Their talent has carried them as far as it can and they don't feel the need to keep developing it and growing. Remaining always in your comfort zone is a sure way to stagnate in your area of talent.

*Challenging yourself is a good way to stay humble, as well. There's nothing wrong with being proud about your accomplishments, but bragging or believing you can do no wrong is a surefire way to irritate those around you, or to lead to you taking a fall.
*Challenge yourself by going above and beyond what you've already done. Learned Spanish fluently? Work to translate a favorite book into Spanish, or start on a new language, something more difficult, like Arabic or Chinese.
*Whenever you feel like you've plateaued or conquered some aspect of your talent, take it to a new level.

5)Do other things. 
Being focused on your talent (whether it's getting a PHd in New Testament studies, or composing music) is incredibly important for improvement. However, you should make sure that you do other things, outside of your talent, so that you're not focusing all your energies on that one thing.

*Do things that don't have anything to do with your talent, things that you're really bad at, or simply things that you find fun. This way you won't be limiting yourself and you'll have a wide range of experiences to draw on. For example: if your talent lies in math, try branching out and doing art, or going to the gym and trying out yoga.
*Avoid basing your self worth on your talent and avoid basing your whole life on your talent. You can be motivated and focused without letting your talent take over your life.

*Using Your Talent:

1)Find unusual outlets for your talent. 
There are great ways to use your talents that are unexpected, especially in terms of jobs that might come about because of your talents. This could be a job that you found, or a job you created based on what you saw was needed.

*For example, just because you're a trained singer, doesn't mean that you need to go into professional opera singing. You could use your musical abilities to start a singing camp for kids, or to help ease the seriously ill.
*Look around to see what's needed in terms of your talents. If you identify a missing need you could start up your own job. For example: if your talent is getting to know people, you could start up a business dedicating to connecting people with one another in your community.

2)Find a way to incorporate your talent into your job. 
You don't necessarily have to have a job that is all about your talent. There's no reason for you not to try and incorporate it into your job, however. In fact, using your talent at work is a great way to increase your enthusiasm for your job.

*For example, if you love do artwork and you work at a coffee shop, consider decorating the specials blackboard, or turning your passion for art into learning latte art.
*Stop and consider how your talent might benefit your workplace. What is it you have to offer that might provide a creative or unusual solution to a problem?

3)Do something with your talent outside of work. 
If you can't think of a way to apply your talents to your job (and there's usually at least one way), find avenues to pursue it on your own time. There are lots of ways that you can enjoy your talent and have other people enjoy your talent, as well.

*Consider creating a video or blogging series about your talent. For example, you might use your language skills to help others learn Arabic.
*Find other people who are talented in the same manner and work with them, either online or in person. This is another great way to stay humble about your skills, but it can also be fun. These people will share your passions and help speed you along to better work.

4)Do something for your community. 
Turn that talent into a way to build community and to help other people. Think about all the people who have helped you on your road to success and try to do the same for others.

*Tutor low-income kids in your community in math skills, if math is your specialty. Participate in or create a local theater camp if acting is your talent. Offer to teach families in your city about gardening, or about fixing things, and so on and so on. You can find a million ways to give back.
*Be a mentor to someone in your field. If you've already gotten that professorship, for example, offer to mentor an up and coming graduate student in your field and help them identify their talents!

Tips:
*Never stop learning or exploring because you find it too difficult. If you let that get in the way, you will never move forward.
*Remember, what seemed hard to learn in the beginning, seems easy after having been learned.

10 Best Fruits For Diabetics Persons.

According to the American Diabetes Association, 25.8 million Americans have diabetes and by 2020 half of all Americans will suffer from this disease.

Diabetes causes high blood sugar (glucose) levels due to lack of insulin production or function. It is mainly classified as either Type 1, in which the body fails to produce insulin, or Type 2, in which the body is not able to properly use the insulin it produces.

It is essential to control diabetes because it can lead to a host of health complications including kidney failure, nerve damage, blindness, heart attacks, strokes, poor blood circulation, hearing loss and many more.

A healthy lifestyle that includes a proper diet, exercise, proper sleep, less stress and so on plays a major role in controlling blood glucose levels. A diabetes diet plan should include foods that are high in nutrients, low in fat, moderate in calories and few sugary foods.

As fruits are generally sweet, people often think that a diabetic person should avoid eating them. But there are several fruits that are particularly effective at managing blood sugar. Packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytonutrients, fruits are a healthy addition to any diet.

Some fruits are better than others for diabetics. Moreover, diabetics also need to consider factors like glycemic index and glycemic load as they offer information on how different foods affect blood sugar and insulin levels.

Low glycemic index foods are believed to have a beneficial effect on blood glucose control as they do not significantly impact blood sugar levels. Usually, foods with a glycemic index score of 55 and below are classified as low glycemic index foods. Those with a glycemic index score of 70 and above are considered high glycemic index foods.

1. Apples
The crunchy, juicy and sweet apples may offer protection against diabetes. Apples are high in soluble fiber, vitamin C and antioxidants. They also contain pectin that helps detoxify the body and remove harmful waste products as well as lowers the insulin requirements of diabetics by up to 35%.

Plus, apples help prevent heart attacks, reduce the risk of cancer and ward off eye diseases among diabetic people.

Suggested serving size: One small to medium-sized apple daily is recommended.

2. Cherries
Cherries have one of the lowest ratings of any fruit on the glycemic index at 22. Cherries contain antioxidants, beta-carotene, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, iron, fiber and folate.

Plus, cherries contain anthocyanins that are known to help lower blood sugar by increasing insulin production by up to 50 percent. They also help fight heart disease, cancer and other diseases that are common among diabetic people.

Suggested serving size: Cherries can be eaten fresh, canned, frozen or dried. One-half cup of cherries a day is a good option.

3. Black Plums
Black plums, also known as Jambul or Jamun, can help a lot in controlling blood sugar. Researchers from the Father Muller Medical College in India looked at the effects of black plums in the treatment of diabetes. The presence of anthocyanins, ellagic acid and hydrolysable tannins in black plums makes this fruit extremely beneficial for diabetic people.

The fruit helps control the conversion of carbohydrates into blood sugar. The excessive thirst and frequent urination problems common among diabetic people can also be controlled by this fruit. Along with the fruit, the leaves, berry and seeds of the black plum tree can be used to control blood sugar level.

Suggested serving size: One-half cup of black plums daily is recommended, when the fruit is available in the market. You can also make a powder of dried seeds and eat one teaspoon of the powder with water twice a day.

4. Guava
Guava has a high concentration of lycopene, a high amount of dietary fiber and a good amount of vitamin C and potassium. All these nutrients are helpful in maintaining the blood sugar level.

Those who are at a risk of developing diabetes can help prevent it by drinking guava leaf tea. Dry the guava leaves and crush them. Boil one tablespoon of crushed guava leaves in hot water. Let it steep for five minutes, and then strain it. Drink this tea once daily.

Suggested serving size: Eat one whole or sliced guava without the peel daily. Alternatively, you can drink a small glass of guava juice.

5. Grapefruit
Grapefruit is one of the American Diabetes Association’s recommended superfoods for diabetes. It is high in soluble fiber and vitamin C, and has a low glycemic index at 25.

Plus, grapefruit contains the flavonoid known as naringenin that increases the body’s sensitivity to insulin and also helps you maintain a healthy weight, which is an important factor in preventing and controlling diabetes.

Suggested serving size: Half of a large grapefruit (about three-quarters of a cup) daily will help manage your blood sugar level. Eating the fruit, rather than drinking the juice, provides the most benefits related to diabetes.

6. Avocado
Because of its high fiber and healthy monounsaturated fat content, avocado helps steady blood sugar. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, monounsaturated fats also improve heart health. Diabetic people are at an increased risk for heart disease and stroke. Plus, avocado contains a good amount of potassium, a mineral that helps prevent diabetic neuropathy.

Suggested serving size: One medium-sized avocado daily is good for diabetics. You can include avocados in salads and sandwiches, or make a salad dressing by pureeing it with a little lemon juice, garlic and olive oil.

7. Strawberries
Strawberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins and fiber that can help control your blood sugar level. In fact, the antioxidants in strawberries help lower the risk of heart disease by reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol, maintaining or improving HDL (good) cholesterol, and lowering blood pressure.

Plus, strawberries are low in carbohydrates and have a low glycemic index at 40. When you eat strawberries, they help you to feel full for longer, keep your blood sugar level steady and increase your energy level.
Suggested serving size: Three-quarters of a cup of strawberries daily is considered good for diabetic people.

You can add fresh strawberries to cereals or salads, eat them as a healthy snack and use them to make low-sugar desserts.

8. Oranges
Oranges are one of the healthiest fruits that can be included in a regular diet for diabetes. Oranges are not very high in natural sugar and contain high amounts of fiber, vitamin C and other minerals like thiamin that help manage blood sugar levels.

Plus, oranges are also categorized as a low glycemic index food that helps to slowly release glucose into the blood. Also, oranges can help control or reduce weight, one of the risk factors for diabetes.

Suggested serving size: One small orange in your diet daily can help keep your diabetes and blood sugar level under control. Drinking orange juice does not provide the same benefit, as its lacks the fiber content.

9. Pears
Pears are rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, C and E as well as fiber, which help regulate blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, boost the immune system and improve digestive health. Plus, pears are low in carbohydrates and calories, and have a rating of 38 on the glycemic index.

Pears are particularly beneficial for people who have Type 2 diabetes because they help improve insulin sensitivity.
Suggested serving size: When craving something sweet, diabetics can eat a small or medium-sized pear. You can enjoy a pear for dessert or as a sweet snack.

10. Kiwi
A positive correlation has been found between kiwi consumption and lowering blood sugar levels. Kiwi contains vitamin C, E and A, flavonoids, potassium and high amounts of beta-carotene that offer protection from free radicals and improve overall health.

Plus, kiwi is high in fiber and low in carbohydrates, which aids in controlling blood sugar levels and lowering cholesterol.

Suggested serving size: Eating one kiwi daily will help control blood glucose levels and provide a healthy alternative to snacks high in fat or sugar.

Eat these fruits in moderation to manage your blood sugar level as well as satisfy your sweet tooth!

How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather?

It's really cold this winter, especially if you live in North America, which includes Canada, where the temperatures have been reaching -12C on a regular basis. It's colder than usual and, whilst we are used to this type of weather, we have been caught out on occasions, even having to sleep in our cars because the snow plows couldn't get to us. Living and working in these sub zero climates can and has been taking a toll. By employing a few tricks, however, you can stay warm despite the cold weather.

Staying Warm Outside

1.Wear an under-layer.
This is an easy to stay warmer without having to do much. An under-layer is a layer of clothing which goes under your normal clothing. This under-layer can take many forms, but each can help you stay warm without adding a lot of bulk or extra steps.

*Common under-layer items include stockings, leggings, an thermal shirt, and long underwear.
*It’s important to keep in mind that having this under-layer can become uncomfortable if you are in a warm room. You may want to try other options if you know this will be the case.

2.Wear a waterproof layer. 
When you know there will be chances to get wet, it’s important to have a waterproof layer to stay warm. If the water penetrates through your clothing, your clothing will only make you colder. Examples of watery conditions you might encounter include rain, snow, and spray (such as if you will be out on a boat or if there are lots of puddles on the ground).

*You can throw a rain jacket on under a warm but less waterproof coat, for example. When you buy coats, look for materials that are very waterproof and warm, such as neoprene.

3.Wear a heat-retaining layer.
Aside from just keeping dry, you want to look for clothing made out of materials that are very insulating. You’ve probably heard about fleece but this fabric is not for everyone. Find out what other options are available to you and then go on a shopping trip.

*Wear wool, if you can. This is one of the best insulating materials, even though it can be expensive. You can also use wool clothes, instead of just wool coats, to cut down on how much you need to wear total. Many inexpensive wool items can be found at vintage stores.
*Other warm materials include down, lined leather, fur, and neoprene.

4.Protect your extremities. 
It’s not true that you lose X percentage of heat from your head or your feet or whatever.[1]However, it is true that leaving these areas uncovered can make it tough for you to stay warm.[2] When you’re outside, try to keep your head, hands, and feet covered with a scarf, hat, gloves, and thick socks and boots. It may not make you look like the pinnacle of fashion, but you will be warm.

*It is very important for all of these items to be waterproof, since these are the areas where you are most likely to notice wetness and added cold. For example, use lined leather gloves if you can.

5.Protect yourself from the elements.
When you're forced to go outside, stay as far away as you can from things like rain, snow, puddles, ice, and wind. These things getting too close is what makes you feel cold; your clothing and body can usually handle the air temperature okay. Move quickly between buildings, use a car when you can, and when you must be outside, try to walk under a shelter.

6.Bring warming materials. 
You can carry around little heat sources with you, if you find yourself struggling to stay warm. Small items, like reusable hand warmers, can be put in a pocket to get the job done when gloves just aren’t enough. Other items, like travel mugs full of soup, can be used to warm you from the inside out.

*You can even make your own hand warmers if you can’t find anywhere to buy them for a good price. There are many websites with instructions and all are easy to make with the right ingredients.

7.Wear clothing that is the right size. 
We know you want to look hot, but there’s a reason why Eskimos wear those big coats and loose pants. When your clothing fits tightly, it can’t keep you warm or comfortable. Instead, if you want to stay warm, make sure the clothes that you’re wearing fit loosely. This creates a protective layer of warm air between your skin and the environment on the other side of that fabric.

8.Move around to create heat.
If your clothes themselves can’t keep you warm, let your body create heat. Moving around will burn energy in your body, which gets expressed as heat. Try exercising or at least try not to stand still.

*Jumping jacks are a good option if you're inside. However, when you're outside movement like that can be dangerous because of slippery ground conditions. A better way to get active when you're outside is to do small lunges, which create less chances for slipping.

Staying Warm Inside

1.Layer your clothing so you can adjust for different environments. 
The most basic thing you can do to stay warm both inside and outside is to layer your clothing. Ask anyone who has lived in some of the colder parts of the world, like Alaska and Norway, and they’ll all tell you: wear layers. This lets you have one outfit for the day that adjusts easily for snowy weather outside, as well as switching over naturally to your toasty warm office.

*An example outfit would include stockings, jeans, a long sleeve shirt, a button up shirt, a sweater, and a coat. With all of these things on, or a combination of these things on, you can easily adjust to a roaring hot classroom, a icy office, a neutral grocery store, and the freezing temperatures outside without any problem at all.

2.Insulate your home. 
Make sure your home is as insulated as it can be. You might want to switch out the insulation in your walls or ceiling. You can also do more basic things, like putting up thick curtains and blankets over windows.

*Cellular shades are actually pretty effective at keeping cold air from escaping a window and they're often cheaper than other curtain options.
*You can also further insulate windows and any glass on doors with insulating film, a plastic material that is clear and adhered to all of the glass.

3.Close off unused rooms and focus on heating a central room. 
It is often easier and cheaper to focus on keeping one room warm than on keeping an entire apartment or house warm. Figure out a single room that your family can stick to during waking hours and seal it off from the rest of the house. Close doors and keep them covered in blankets. Centralize your heaters and other methods of warming the room. This saves you from having to put a lot of effort into keep rooms warm that you won't use very often.

4.Seal gaps that let in cold air. 
You'll want to keep an eye out for holes and gaps that let cold air into your home or between rooms that have different levels of insulation. The most common example is the gap under doors, but you may also find some windows let in a draft or that rooms above a basement have cold air coming up through the floor.

*Rolled up blankets and carpets can easily be used to plug these gaps.

5.Prepare your bed. 
You'll probably want your bed to be at least a little warm before you crawl in to go to sleep. Those icy sheets are no-one's friend. There are lots of ways that you can get your bed ready before it's time to sleep. Try:

*A hot water bottle, placed under the blanket at the lower center of the bed, or run your blanket through the dryer for 10-20 minutes on med or high heat.

6.Bake cookies. Bake anything really. 
Your oven, when it's turned on and heated up to the usual baking temperature of around 365 degrees, can work really well to make the room that it's in nice and warm. Make the kitchen your weekend base of operations and hang out while cookies or a dinner roast is prepared.

*Doing your laundry can similarly heat up nearby rooms. Make your chores count and be quick to do your laundry on really cold days. You can wear items fresh out of the dryer to get even warmer.

7.Drink something hot.
Whether it's a hot cup of lemon tea or a Mexican coffee, drinking a hot liquid can boost how warm you feel from the inside out. Turn the kettle on and then break out the mugs because you're about to get nice and warm.

*You might think or have been told that adding alcohol to a hot drink will make you feel warmer, but that's not really the best advice. Alcohol actually lowers your body temperature, even though it gives you that "burning" feeling. If it's dangerously cold in your home, you should avoid alcohol.

8.Take a hot shower or bath.
A hot shower or bath can be just enough to get your body back to a reasonable level of warmth. Find yourself just getting cold again after five minutes? Make sure you're bundling up as soon as you get out, with warm house clothes, a robe, and house shoes. This will help your body retain the heat of the bath.

Tips:
*If you are going to be outside for a long time, use hand warmers inside your gloves or mittens (they work best with mittens, since you can wrap your entire hand around them.) They are very inexpensive, and they sell them at any sporting good store, or department store that has a sporting goods department.
*If it is snowing or raining, be certain that your shoes are water resistant. If your feet are cold and wet, it won't matter how well the rest of you is bundled up... you will still be miserable!
*Wear one or more pairs of gloves.
*Your breath is your own little heater. Zip or button your coat up all the way and breathe in and out. It gives off some warmth. Be aware though that your breath is also moist and may soak fabrics. In extreme cold try a balaclava that allows moisture to escape but keeps the wind off your face.
*Boots are indispensable in the winter. Try to get at least two pairs: a pair of waterproof snow boots for the wet days, and a pair of warm, stylish boots for the dry, yet cold, days.
*For extra protection try wearing thinner gloves underneath mittens, so when you need to do something precise with your fingers, they don't freeze.
*It is important to dress warm. You should wear layers on your upper half, like a t-shirt, sweater, jacket and scarf. A pair of fleece lined jeans are really nice for the lower half you don't have to wear long underwear. There are only a few companies making them. The most stylish ones are called Winter Blues Jeans. Also make sure you wear hat since a lot of heat loss occurs from the top of the head.
*If you go to school and your feet are cold: wear tights, or boys two pairs of socks.
*If you attend school, try to overdress. That way you will always have enough clothing. It's a bad idea to be stuck freezing at school, because there's no way you can get extra clothing.
*Always have an indoor, heated place that you can get to. You don't want to be stuck outside if the weather becomes extreme.

Are suffering for Bone Spurs?Try Home Remedies.

Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, are tiny bony outgrowths that form along joint margins. Bone spurs normally happen on the back of the spine as a person ages. However, they can also appear on the feet, either along toes or the heel, as well as on the hands.

The main cause of bone spurs is the wear-and-tear damage associated with osteoarthritis. It can result from any sequential and consequential changes in bone formation, which can be due to degeneration and mechanical instability.


It can also be caused by inflammatory conditions like plantar fasciitis, tendonitis and diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis, also known as DISH.

In addition, being overweight, applying continuous pressure and excessive use of joints during exercise or while playing sports can cause this problem.

Most bone spurs cause no signs or symptoms and go undetected for years. When they do cause symptoms, they may include sharp pain, restricted movement along the affected area, swelling, inflammation and numbness.

Most symptoms depend on where the bone spurs are located. For instance, a bone spur on the knee may cause pain and difficulty bending your leg.

When it affects the spine, it can cause pain and loss of motion. When it pinches the nerves or the spinal cord, it may also cause weakness or numbness in the arms or legs. A heel spur can even lead to calluses and corns on the foot due to pressure.

As bone spurs can become very painful, it is important to deal with them promptly. You can treat the condition naturally with simple lifestyle changes and easy home remedies.

Causes of heel pain:
Some of the many causes of heel pain can include:
Abnormal walking style (gait), such as rolling the feet inwards
Obesity
Ill-fitting shoes
Standing, running or jumping on hard surfaces
Injury to the heel, such as stress fractures
Bursitis (inflammation of a bursa – bursae are small sacs that contain fluid to lubricate moving parts, such as joints and muscles)
Neuroma (nerve enlargement)
Certain disorders, including diabetes and arthritis.
Complications of heel pain

Complications of heel pain can include:
Plantar fasciitis
Heel spur.
Plantar fasciitis

The plantar fascia is a band of connective tissue that runs along the sole from the heel to the ball of the foot. One of its main roles is to keep the bones and joints in position. Bruising or overstretching this ligament can cause inflammation and heel pain. A common cause is flat feet, because the ligament is forced to overstretch as the foot spreads out and the arch flattens. The pain may be worse first thing in the morning or after rest.

In many cases, plantar fasciitis is associated with heel spur. The plantar fascia tears and bleeds at the heel and, over time, these injuries calcify and form a bony growth.

Heel spur:
An abnormal walking style, such as rolling the feet inwards, can place extra strain on the plantar fascia. Chronic inflammation may develop and, over time, lead to a bony growth or spur. The spur can only be seen on x-ray, but its presence is often flagged by a tender patch at the heel on the sole of the foot.

You may have heel spurs without realising it - it is estimated that about one in 10 Australians have heel spurs without any symptoms. The spur itself does not cause the pain, but pain may be associated with inflammation in the area.

Sever’s disease:
Sever’s disease is the most common cause of heel pain in children aged eight to 16. Sever’s disease results from stress placed on the growth plate of the heel bone. An excessive amount of running or jumping causes inflammation to the growth plate, which results in pain. Rest, ice, stretching of the calf muscle and heel lifts are usually prescribed.

Prevention of heel pain:

You can reduce the risk of heel pain in many ways, including:

Wear shoes that fit you properly with a firm fastening, such as laces.

Choose shoes with shock-absorbent soles and supportive heels.

Repair or throw out any shoes that have worn heels.

Always warm up and cool down when exercising or playing sport – include plenty of slow, sustained stretches.

If necessary, your podiatrist will show you how to tape or strap your feet to help support the muscles and ligaments.

Shoe inserts (orthoses) professionally fitted by your podiatrist can help support your feet in the long term.

Things to remember:

The heel is a padded cushion of fatty tissue that holds its shape despite the pressure of body weight and movement.

Common causes of heel pain include obesity, ill-fitting shoes, running and jumping on hard surfaces, abnormal walking style, injuries and certain diseases.

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the ligament that runs the length of the foot, commonly caused by overstretching. It results in pain under the heel, particularly after rest.

A heel spur is a bony growth that is not usually painful to the touch.

Sever’s disease is caused by stress on the growth plate in the heel bone.

Here are the top 10 home remedies for bone spurs.

1. Cold Compress

Regular use of a cold compress will help reduce symptoms like pain, swelling and inflammation due to a bone spur. It will also help relax the muscles in the affected area.

Put a few ice cubes in a thin towel and tie it securely.

Apply the ice pack over the affected area and press gently.

Do this for 5 to 10 minutes.

Repeat this remedy as needed.

Note: Do not apply ice directly on the skin as it may cause frostbite.

2. Ginger

Ginger is another excellent home remedy for bone spurs. Being a natural anti-inflammatory, it can help reduce pain, swelling as well as inflammation. Moreover, it helps improve blood circulation.

Drink ginger tea up to 3 times a day. To make the tea, boil 1 tablespoon of thinly sliced ginger in 2 cups of water for 10 minutes. Strain, add honey and drink it.

Also, massage the affected area with ginger oil a few times daily.

Alternatively, you can take a dose of two 500-milligram ginger tablets, 3 times a day, for extended relief and treatment. Consult your doctor first.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is also a good home remedy for bone spurs. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce pain and inflammation. It also helps rebalance the pH levels and prevent bone spurs.

Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in 1 glass of water. Drink it twice a day for best results.

You can also put a paper towel soaked in apple cider vinegar over the affected area. Leave it on for a few hours. Do this a couple of times daily.

Follow these remedies until the pain and inflammation are gone.

4. Turmeric

Turmeric is also beneficial for alleviating symptoms associated with bone spurs. Curcumin, the yellow pigment in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and pain.

Add 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder to 1 cup of milk and heat it over low flame. Drink this twice a day for quick recovery.

Alternatively, you can take a turmeric supplement of 400 to 600 mg, 3 times a day, but only after consulting your doctor.

5. Flaxseed

Flaxseed contains alpha-linolenic acid, a form of omega-3 fatty acid that can help reduce pain and inflammation.

Soak a clean cloth in warm flaxseed oil, then tie it on the affected area. Put a heating pad over the cloth to keep the area warm. Use this treatment once daily.

Another option is to tie 1 cup of flaxseeds securely in a piece of cloth. Warm it in the microwave for a few seconds. Place it over the affected area and apply pressure for a few minutes. Repeat as needed. You can reuse the same flaxseed hot pack a few times.

Also, include flaxseeds in your diet on a regular basis.

6. Chamomile

Chamomile can help bring great relief from the discomforts associated with bone spurs. It has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that help reduce inflammation and pain.

Add 1 tablespoon of dried or fresh chamomile flowers to a cup of hot water. Cover and steep for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool. Use this water to wash the affected area.

You can also drink 2 to 3 cups of chamomile tea daily. To make this herbal tea, steep 2 teaspoons of chamomile in a cup of water for 5 minutes and then strain it. You can also add a little honey to sweeten it.

7. Epsom Salt

If the pain and inflammation become severe, you can try an Epsom salt bath. The magnesium sulfate crystals will help reduce pain, swelling and inflammation.

Mix 2 cups of Epsom salt in a bathtub of warm water.

Soak in it for 20 to 30 minutes.

Repeat 2 or 3 times a week.

Note: This remedy is not recommended for those who have kidney problems or diabetes.

8. Borax

Another useful treatment for bone spurs, especially in the heel, is borax. It has the important minerals necessary for bone health and can reduce the intensity of pain and inflammation.

Add ½ teaspoon of borax to 4 cups of cold, chlorinated water.

Stir well, until the borax dissolves thoroughly.

Soak your feet in it for 20 to 30 minutes.

Do this daily before bedtime for a couple of weeks.

9. Mild Exercises

Simple and mild exercises done on a regular basis will help reduce the symptoms of bone spurs and improve mobility.

Do simple stretching exercises for 30 minutes, 5 times a week, especially in the morning.

Try some low-impact maintenance exercises that strengthen the core and stretch the muscles of the legs and arms. Do these exercises 5 times a week.

Walking on a soft surface with cushioned, supportive shoes for 30 minutes daily is also beneficial.

Go swimming or bicycling occasionally to stay fit.

To learn more about different types of exercises that are best for your condition, consult your doctor.

10. Dietary Changes

When treating bone spurs, keep a close eye on your diet. Eat more healthy foods, especially those containing omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, calcium and vitamins D, E and K.

Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E help reduce inflammation caused by bone spurs. Vitamin D and K help keep your bones strong and prevent abnormal bone and cartilage mineralization. Magnesium and calcium help relieve pain from bone spurs.

Note: If taking any nutritional supplements, always consult your doctor first.

Additional Tips

*Use warm olive or coconut oil to massage the affected area in a circular motion for 10 minutes twice daily. You can also consider deep tissue massage done by a therapist to help dissolve calcification.

*Lose extra weight to reduce pressure on the affected region, especially the feet.

*For treating heel spurs, take a relaxing foot bath by alternating cold and hot water for a few minutes.

*Before beginning any physical activity, always do some simple warm-up exercises to decrease discomfort afterward.

*Keep your feet slightly elevated to prevent swelling and inflammation due to heel spurs.

*Use well-fitted heel pad shoe inserts to prevent more damage to your feet. Always wear well-fitting shoes and proper shoes for each activity.

*Avoid foods with hydrogenated fats, soft drinks, junk foods and processed foods as they upset the body’s mineral balance.

*Use an over-the-counter cream or lotion that contains capsaicin to relieve pain and inflammation.

*Reduce stress as it contributes to more pain in the affected areas.

*Yoga and meditation are also helpful in reducing pain and inflammation caused by bone spurs.

*Acupuncture can also relieve the pain.

*If bone spurs cause extreme pain, rest and avoid any sort of physical activity as it may increase the inflammation as well as pain.

*Maintain a good posture to prevent and offer relief from bone spurs.

If You Want Best Treatments Of Hair Loss??

Hair is important for our looks. Why else would anyone spend so much of time, efforts and money to find that most suitable hairstyle for one’s face? Your hair gives you a distinct personality. So if you are worried about hair loss that you have noticed recently, there is nothing unnatural here. Even if you are losing only the normal amount of hair but want to have thicker hair, you may do so through various remedies for hair growth.

So here we go and give you 6 (plus one super tip) hair growth remedies with which you can have a good volume of hair without spending a whole lot of money for clinical treatments!

1.Onion juice with honey:
Onion juice is one of the best home remedies for thinning hair and hair loss. Its sulfur content improves blood circulation, stimulates hair follicles and promotes hair regrowth.

Sulfur is considered one of the primary building blocks of hair. It is required for healthy collagen and keratin. Many amino acids, the building blocks of protein, have a sulfur component, and keratin proteins have large amounts of sulfur-containing amino acids.

Studies have also found onions to be useful for treating hair loss. Plus, onions can help control issues like dandruff and scalp infections as well as reverse premature graying.

A small study published in the Journal of Dermatology in 2002 found that participants suffering from alopecia areata who applied onion juice to their scalp twice daily for 2 months had a significantly higher rate of hair regrowth than those in the control group who used tap water. The results were better among males than females.

The following recipe will also promote smooth and shiny hair due to the addition of honey. Honey is loaded with antioxidants and attracts moisture.

How to make an onion juice and honey treatment for hair loss
Things you will need:

*1 onion
*Honey
*A knife
*A blender
*A strainer
*A bowl
*A mixing spoon
*Measuring spoons
*An essential oil of your choice (optional)

Steps:
1. Peel, chop and blend an onion.
2. Put the blended pulp in a strainer. Using a spoon, press the pulp to extract the juice.
onion hair loss treatment-step2
3. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of honey to the onion juice.
onion hair loss treatment-step3
4. Optionally, add a few drops of an essential oil, such as lavender oil.
Your homemade onion juice and honey treatment is ready now.

How to use:
Massage your bald patches or entire scalp with this mixture.
Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave it on overnight, or at least for 30 minutes.
Rinse your hair the next morning.
Follow this hair loss treatment daily for a few months or until you are satisfied with the results.
Tips
Instead of blending the onion, you can grate it and then extract the juice. For squeezing, you can use cheesecloth instead of a strainer. You can also use a juicer.
To avoid tearing while cutting the onion, chill it in the freezer for about 15 minutes and then chop it.
If you want to add a fragrant essential oil, use rosemary, lavender, peppermint or other similar oils that promote hair growth.
You can also add some lemon juice or rose water to mask the onion smell.

If you can’t stand the smell, at least do not wash off with clean water for an hour. After that shampoo and rinse hair with clean water.
Onion not only helps in re growth of hair but also lends your hair with a fabulous sheen.

2. Potato Juice yet another vegetable that helps your hair grow:
No, we are not in a vegetable juice shop nor are we cooking food in your kitchen but these vegetables really do wonder when it comes to hair growth. Along with onions, you can also use potatoes to grow your hair. In fact, potato juice can even cure thinning of hair due to ‘alopecia.’ Potatoes are rich in certain vitamins like vitamins A, B and C.

When your body lacks this vitamins, your hair gets dry and brittle. So, you must have those foods that are rich in these vitamins. Using potato juice on hair directly too is beneficial. Just grate 3-4 potatoes and squeeze out the juice from it. Massage your scalp with this juice for at least 15 minutes. Rinse off with water. If your hair is very dry, instead of using just the potato juice, you can use this potato hair mask.

You will need:
Potatoes – 3
Egg yolk- from one egg
Honey – 1 tablespoon
Directions:

Grate and squeeze out the juice from potatoes.
Add egg yolk and honey to this juice.
Mix well to get the potato hair mask.
Apply on your scalp and leave for at least half and hour.
Wash off with mild shampoo and water.
The egg yolk and honey add a good amount of moisture to potato juice which is beneficial for your dry hair. This hair mask helps in growing hair faster.

3. Eggs give extra protein to grow extra hair:
Hair is primarily made up of protein. What’s the better way to grow hair than to provide it with extra protein,in fact, one of the best proteins- the egg white. What you need to do is take one or two eggs and massage your scalp with the liquids in it. Let it sit there for an hour, preferably covered with a shower cap. Then wash it off with a mild shampoo and water. You may even make an egg mask for your hair to give it extra shine and strength.
For egg hair mask, you will need:
Egg white – from 1-2 eggs
Olive oil- 1 tsp
Honey- 1tsp

Directions:
Mix egg white, olive oil and honey well to make the egg hair mask.
Apply this mask on your scalp. Cover your hair too.
Let it sit there for about 15-20 minutes.
Wash off with mild shampoo and water.

4. Rinse Hair with Apple Cider Vinegar:
Apple cider vinegar has many benefits for your hair. It stimulates the hair follicles and help them grow faster. It also cleanses scalp apart from maintaining the pH balance of hair which accelerates their growth. You just have to use this vinegar as an after-wash rinse. Add apple cider vinegar with water and use it as a final rinse for your hair each time you shampoo your hair. Although it has a mild smell that doesn’t bother anyone too much yet if you want your hair smell good even when they grow with apple cider vinegar, just add a couple of drops of some essential oil (such as lavender oil) to your mixture of water and vinegar.

5. Use Fenugreek- the age old remedy for hair growth:
Fenugreek has been used to treat hair fall since ages in many parts of the world. Even you can use this spice for growing hair.
You will need:
Fenugreek seeds – 2-3 tablespoons
A large pan filled with water

Directions:
Soak the fenugreek seeds in the water for 24 hours.
Strain and use the water to rinse hair.
Do not immediately was hair with normal water. Let this water be there for at least 3 hours
After 3 hours, wash your hair with lukewarm water (never use hot water on your hair)
Repeat this daily for at a month to see your hair gaining strength and volume.

6.Fenugreek can also be used to make a superb hair mask for growing hair faster.
For Fenugreek hair mask, you will need:
Fenugreek seeds paste- 1 tsp
Coconut milk – ¼ cup or more if you have longer hair
Directions:
Mix fenugreek seeds paste and coconut milk well.
Apply to your scalp and hair.
Leave for half an hour.
Now wash off with a mild shampoo and water.

7. Ayurvedic Herbs -Amla Shikakai Reetha- for long and strong hair:
Indian gooseberry (amla) is well recognized as the powerhouse of vitamin C and antioxidants. Thus it helps in production of collagen and also fights off free radicals promoting hair growth and even improving pigmentation of your hair. You can simply mix 2 teaspoons each of amla powder and lime juice and rub this on your scalp. After some time, rinse with warm water. This will help your hair grow. There is, however, another herbal remedy using amla which can promote faster hair growth by making your hair long, strong and shiny. For this you’ll have to make a shampoo at home using amla, shikakai and reetha.

To make amla, shikakai, reetha shampoo, you will need:
Amla or Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis) – 100 gm
Shikakai (Fruit of Acacia concinna shrub) – 100 gm
Reetha or soapnut (Sapindus Mukorossi) – 100 gm
Water – 2 liters

Directions:
Soak all the three herbs- amla, shikakai and reetha – in water overnight.
In the morning, boil the mixture till the time water reduces to half.
Let it cool.
Once the mixture cools, with the help of hands mash the boiled herbs to pulp in the water itself.
Now strain and collect the homemade shampoo in another utensil.
Wash your hair with this shampoo.
Do not try to rub the herbal liquid as you do when using regular shampoos. This will entangle your hair leading to breakage as your hair goes rough as soon as it comes in contact with this herbal shampoo.
The right way to use Amla-Shikakai-Reetha shampoo is to apply it over all of your wet hair and let the hair soak in it for about 5 minutes.
After 5 minutes, rinse with water and apply some conditioner.
Take care to not let the concoction enter your eyes.
This homemade shampoo will remove all the oil and dirt from your scalp and hair giving you healthier shiny hair with lots of volume. Use this amla herbs mix whenever you shampoo your hair for about 2 months. You will love the pace at which your hair grows.

The Super Tip for Hair Growth
Apart from using one or many of the above remedies for hair growth,
*you should always do one thing regularly.
*Massage your hair with some nutritious oil at least once a week.
*Warm a little olive oil, coconut oil or almond oil and gently massage rubbing this oil on to your scalp in circular motions.
*This is done best when you leave the oil overnight in your hair.
*However, you cannot or do not wish to do so, dip a towel in hot water, squeeze the extra water from it and wrap the towel around your oiled hair.
*Leave it like this for sometime and then wash off your hair with mild shampoo and conditioner. *Warm towel treatment helps the massaged oil reach deep hair follicles, which in turn makes your hair strong, thick and healthy.