Castor oil: properties, benefits, uses and contraindications

From the seeds of the castor oil plant (Ricinus communis), you get castor oil become infamous during the Fascist era and is back in the limelight thanks to its properties and its benefits.

Strengthens, feeds, glossy ... these are just some of its valuable qualities, which we discuss below some information on the plant.
The castor oil origins

The castor plant originates from tropical Africa according to some sources, while others show originates from India where it is known as Palma Christi, definitely has spread throughout the tropical climate but also in temperate because they are the places where this plant finds its favorable habitat to develop. It is a herbaceous plant or arborescent, therefore, annual or perennial (depends on the place in which it grows and the climate in particular). Its height is 3 to 10 meters, the leaves are palmate and toothed, green or reddish.

The flowers grow in summer, in bunches: the male flowers are at the base and apex are willing female ones. The fruits are thorny, and when they are ripe open releasing the dark red seeds. The oil that is extracted has a straw color, is viscous and dense tastes and an unattractive odor.

The castor plant is a well-known since the time of the Egyptians, it is not known with certainty if the oil was used for medicinal purposes or simply as a condiment in the kitchen. Among the non-edible uses we know for sure that was used as a lubricant, this due to the fact that even at low temperatures never freezes but remains viscous.

It can be bought in pharmacies or herbal medicine.
The castor oil consistency

Although it is not definitely inviting, the castor oil has excellent properties given by the following characteristics.

What contains castor oil:

•     myristic

•     palmitic acid

•     ricinoleic acid

•     oleic acid

•     linoleic acid

•     α-linolenic acid

•     stearic acid

•     hydroxystearic acid 9,10

•     arachidic acid

•     gadoleico acid

Features at a glance:

•     It is a good lubricant

•     low flammability

•     antioxidant

•     not dry

•     low melting point

•     mainly used for the production of surfactants and emulsifiers

Castor oil: properties and benefits

The main properties of castor oil is its being laxative, by always using it in order to facilitate the evacuation of the bowel, so it is a good remedy against constipation.

It has indeed also of fungal infections is great for fighting bacterial skin infections and attacks.

And 'anti-inflammatory, so it is recommended to those suffering from arthritis.

It has emollient and is great against dry hair, weak lashes and dehydrated skin, not only is excellent for strengthening nails as it is rich in:

•      elastin

•      collagen

It stimulates the production of keratin and thus heals and strengthens.

A lesser known properties is that of strengthening the immune system.

Obviously we know that helps against colitis problems, but it is also an interesting remedy for corns of the feet because it softens them.

With all the beneficial components which could not but be an excellent antioxidant in cosmetics and in fact it also takes advantage just because of his properties.

It improves lymphatic circulation, yes, through the massage with this oil stimulates the lymphatic movement.

Castor oil: all uses

Discover how to use the life of every day, so in practical terms, the castor oil.

•     Colitis? It takes a cloth soaked in castor oil and relies on the painful or you do the massage.

•     Calli? Just soak the castor oil  a cotton and apply it on the corn until it is softened. To take firm cotton wool worn socks or stop it with a plaster.

•     Arthritis? The oil is heated in a water bath (not hot lukewarm It must have) then add the cotton ball and massaging on the painful area. Then cover the area with a warm cloth and leave 30 minutes. If the area is inflamed this method is not applicable.

•     weak eyelashes? If you have an empty mascara applicator at home, just clean it thoroughly and then pour in the castor oil, then apply it on their own lashes as the mascara. Alternatively dab the castor oil on the lashes with batting. Before making this wash and remove make-up her face carefully.

•     Dark circles? Before going to bed massage some oil drop on the eye and in the morning go teaspoon iced!

•     dry skin, dry, that scale? After showering a massage with castor oil, let it absorb and then apply a normal moisturizer.

•     brittle nails? What we need is a pack of: castor oil, sweet almond oil and one drop of tea tree oil.

•     Contractures? It massages on castor oil patch, helps to relax the muscles.

•     Itching and dandruff? Before shampooing massage on the skin a few drops of castor oil.

Castor oil is also an excellent remedy:

•     stye

•     eczema

•     herpes

•     sunburn

•     wounds

•     dandruff

•     insect bites

Castor oil: contraindications and side effects

CAUTION: it is time to talk about contraindications.

The seed of the castor can not be consumed as it is because it is POISONOUS. Contains ricin, if we assume the symptoms of poisoning are:

•     diarrhea

•     vomit

•     convulsions

•     embolism

•     arrhythmia

Ingesting even a few seeds can be lethal.

Castor oil should not be consumed in large quantities: up to 1 teaspoon for the laxative effect. It may give rise to allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Do not ingest if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

It is also not recommended for use in people who suffer from:

•     ulcers

•     hemorrhoids

•     prolapse

•     Irritable bowel syndrome

SAFFRON:Benefits,Side Effects,Medicinal properties,Health Benefits

Among the more spice notes there is no doubt saffron, but mainly is known mostly as a seasoning for dishes and not as a natural remedy.


I admit that even we did not know at the saffron property fund, but after I documented, I learned that if they can do different uses and that in any case, even in the kitchen, its significance is not only that of seasoning. About some of the properties of saffron and which brings benefits to our health.

Saffron: features and curiosities

Saffron, is derived from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus, a perennial plant of the Iridaceae family departs from the bulb stem topped by the purple flower with the stigmas red / yellow  that they are collected by hand, dried and ground (which is why it is the most expensive spice in the world). There are several "domestic" varieties and "wild" all belonging to the genus Crocus.


In ancient times, saffron was known not only as a flavoring but it was also used to dye the fabrics, to prepare oils and fragrances.

How to grow saffron in pots?

You must buy the bulbs, then you can plant in pots or in the garden in autumn. Warning: saffron requires little water, no stagnation, but a lot of light. The collection of the stigmas must take place on the first day of flowering with the help of tweezers, the stigmas must be put out to dry on the paper, and then should be stored in a glass jar. For a good yield must be at least 40 bulbs that bloom.

Saffron: properties and health benefits


So saffron is not only good in the kitchen, but also has other qualities, beneficial properties specifically.


Here they are:

•         tonic, especially in relation to the heart;

•         aphrodisiac properties, if the drops libido is not bad cook some good dish with this spice;

•         antioxidant properties, counteract the effects of free radicals;

•         antidepressant properties, yes indeed there are some supplements, but personally I have to say that the tea has a good effect against anxiety and mood swings (also seems to be a good remedy for insomnia);

•         It stimulates the intellectual faculties;

•         attenuates respiratory afflictions;

•         is a good remedy to treat stomach ulcers;

•         It protects the bones and prevents osteoporosis;

•         antispasmodic properties;

•         emmenagogue properties, or promotes regularity of the menstrual cycle;

•         fights intestinal fermentation;

•         is an excellent anti-stress;

•         ipocolesterolemiche properties, in fact is shown to lower the levels of bad cholesterol in the blood;

•         anticancer properties, are still being researched, but the results are positive;

•         useful against against Hepatobiliary disease;

•         contrasts macular degeneration caused advancement age;

•         It keeps the skin young by delaying cell aging and also helps to maintain this strong and healthy hair;

•         It stimulates the metabolism helping you get rid of fat and is therefore an ally in slimming diets.

And 'also useful against sickness and to improve digestion. It does not exclude the possible benefits of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.


These are the active ingredients of saffron:

•         minerals (calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, iron, magnesium and manganese);

•         vitamins (A, B, B2, B3, B6, and C);

•         carotenoids (lycopene and zeaxanthin, crocin and crocetin);

•         thiamine, riboflavin and niacin;

•         Essential oils (geraniol, limonene, cineol, pinene and linalool);

of saffron tea recipe


    2 sachets of saffron (alternatively 2 grams of stigmas but it is very expensive);

    hot water.


Put the saffron in hot water, cover and let stand about ten minutes. Drink between meals.


This herbal tea is excellent against:

•         anxiety

•         dyspepsia

•         menstrual cramps

•         stomach pain

•         swelling

Recipe of herbal tea with saffron for anxiety and insomnia

•         2 grams of saffron threads

•         6 grams of passionflower

•         3 grams of lemon balm

•         6 grams of valerian

Soak all in hot water, covered, for about ten minutes. Strain and drink before going to sleep. Great chilled out and relaxed, against anxiety, insomnia and depression.


When you consider that the yellow is associated with good mood and well-being is not hard to imagine that saffron is a good natural remedy for stress and sadness.

We see another very quick remedy:

•         2 teaspoons honey

•         1 sachet of saffron

Mix and taste, very good instead of chocolates at times when you feel down.


In addition to the infusions it would be good to put the saffron even in what we eat, apart from risotto, pasta, omelettes, meat and sauces. Caution: Always add it at the end of cooking so as not altering the taste and nutritional properties.


In cosmetics saffron can be used for masks to be applied on red or fair hair is great as a dye but also rich in beneficial properties as we have seen.

Recipe nourishing hair mask

•         an avocado

•         one egg yolk

•         3 sachets of saffron

•         4 tablespoons of henna neutral

•         3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

•         2 tablespoons honey

Blend the avocado pulp and add it to the rest of the ingredients. Hold on for two hours and rinse with normal shampoo.

Saffron: contraindications and side effects


There is to say that the saffron in addition to good qualities also has several defects.


CAUTION: high dose (5 grams is a high dose) proves toxic and 20 cause death. It 's really important not to abuse it anyway since cause: headache, nausea, dizziness, confusion and bleeding. If you drink the tea, no more than 3-4 cups daily.


Very recommended for pregnant women (saffron is abortifacient) but also in nursing.

How to eliminate the mosquitoes naturally

How to eliminate mosquitoes in a natural way? It looks like a nice firm but is required especially with the approach of summer.

Sprays, coils, pads and bracelets prevent us of being points? Sometimes not, so you have to think of something to keep them away seriously, why some mosquitoes are carriers of diseases.

Unlike roaches and ants, mosquitoes are not always easily identifiable, buzzing in our ears, but a second later disappeared. Necessary to keep them as much as possible away from our home or garden. Before facing the enemy, you have to know a little 'more.
Mosquitoes: types, characteristics and diseases

The mosquito by Diptera, feeds on blood and is therefore a bug phlebotomist (such as horseflies). The moment stings its prey emits a droplet of liquid irritant that promotes the flow of blood and prevents the clot. How well we know are only females in procuring the blood they need to mature the eggs.
What is the attack technique of mosquitoes?

The annoying insects use smell to identify prey are attracted to carbon dioxide and sweat (drinking a can of beer increases the chance of being bitten, you know?) And prefer the blood group 0, already 50 meters perceive your smell, 10 meters display the throes of one meter are preparing for landing capturing the prey temperature.
But because some are bitten by mosquitoes and others not?

According to a study some people produce olfactory components unpleasant to mosquitoes.

Because sometimes repellents do not work?

Mosquitoes have adapted to repellents becoming more resistant, or rather the most resistant survive and reproduce.

types of mosquitoes:

     Anopheles carrying malaria;
     Aedes mosquito that is the tiger;
     Aedes mosquito koreicus Korean;
     Culex pipiens.

They can carry diseases such as:

     zika
     malaria
     yellow fever
     dengue
     encephalitis
     West Nile virus
     leishmaniasis
     chikungunya

Why do they always say not to leave water in the sub vessels?

Because water is the means by which they reproduce. stagnant water, no mosquitoes.

In summary, the mosquitoes are attracted to:

    carbon dioxide;
    sweat;
    high temperature;
    high cholesterol;
    blood group 0;
    organism in which alcohol is in the circle;
    lactic acid;
    dark clothes.

What does not attract mosquitoes?
    It smells like mint, garlic, onion, red pepper and jasmine;
    light colors (green, yellow, white, light blue).

How do they differ carrying mosquitoes virus from non-infected?

The virus makes them more voracious that need frequent meals and their sense of smell increases.
How to eliminate the mosquitoes naturally

Having made the acquaintance of the little pesky insects is time to talk about how to remove them. See techniques, ideas and tricks.

A help from nature there always comes, that's who eats mosquitoes:

    bats;
    spiders;
    lizards;
    geckos;
    birds;
    frogs;
    fish.

Not all mosquitoes are a silver lining: the Toxorhynchites are cannibals, feeding their fellow men and their eggs.

The idea: to build a bat box to be placed in the garden, to accommodate the bats. Do not destroy nests of swallows that feed on mosquitoes!
natural remedies to eliminate mosquitoes

• essential oils: lavender, lemon, peppermint, citronella, neem oil, pine, bergamot, andiroba, cinnamon, black pepper, coriander, coconut, patchouli, rosemary, thyme, eucalyptus, tea tree and geranium are the best;

• plants: mint, jasmine, basil, rue, coriander, Catambra, wild rosemary and geranium keep mosquitoes away;

• vinegar: very unpleasant to mosquitoes;

• candles: citronella, lavender and geranium (you can easily do at home with essential oils);

• repellents DIY: rubbing the body with mint and basil or essence of jasmine or mix ½ drops of essential oil in a tablespoon of sweet almond oil, or you can create a spray with a spray bottle filled with water and a few drops of essential oil or a cold infusion of lemon balm;

• mosquito: I would say that are indispensable;

• lemon: in stoves instead put the pads, put the lemon peel;

• onion: onion repels mosquitoes in the room;
•  incense: neem and citronella.

Trap catches mosquitoes DIY

needed:

    1 g of yeast
    4 tablespoons sugar
    200 ml of water
    bottle of 2 liter plastic
    black cardboard
    Black insulating tape

Method:

    Boil the water and add the sugar.
    Halve the bottle and insert the upper part in that below (by way of funnel) fix the two parts with the duct tape.
    Coat the outside with black cardboard.
    Pour hot water with sugar and baking powder into the bottle which shall not be mixed.
    Place the bottle in a dark and humid place.

When the bottle is filled with mosquitoes just empty it and redo the trap.
Tips to ward off mosquitoes

    choose LED lamps, possibly yellow;
    put a copper coin in the backwater areas;
    repairing the rips of mosquito nets;
    do not use coils, plates and insecticides are harmful to humans, animals and pollute the environment;
    limit the consumption of red meat, raises body temperature and contains putrescine that oozes from the skin by attracting mosquitoes.

And you, who are using the method to eliminate the mosquitoes naturally?

10 foods do not put in the refrigerator

 

Let's see what are the 10 foods do not put in the fridge. It may happen that we make mistakes and we are convinced that they must keep in the refrigerator a few foods, which, however, would be better to keep away from the cold. The appeal to the refrigerator not always does well to foods that we consume: we think we preserve them better, but in fact we make them less suitable to our power. We pay attention, we become aware of what are the best practices for the conservation of the most common foods. It is said that the refrigerator will always be the right solution.

1. Onion 

The onion should not be put in the refrigerator, because the cold can make the springs and can make it grow mold. Best to put it in a dry place and protected from light. The only exception can be done to the one cut in half, which can be positioned in the vegetable drawer. Wrap it in plastic wrap and do not run too long.

2. Saffron

Also for saffron ideally a dry place. Store it in the refrigerator means not keep the scent. It would be better to put it in the pantry in a hermetic package.

3. bread

The bread should never be put in the fridge, because the cold favors the drying. It can freeze in the freezer, but should be wrapped well, so that it maintains its consistency.

4. banana

It 'best to keep bananas in the fruit basket, out of the refrigerator. The cold does not blacken and allows these fruits to ripen properly.

5. Honey

The honey, by the numerous therapeutic properties, may be subject to alterations in time. Let him in the pantry, so that moisture can adversely, causing them to lose all his benefits.


6. olive oil


The olive oil should not be put in the refrigerator, although it is recommended to keep it in a cool, dark place.


7. Tomato


The cold of the refrigerator prevents the tomato, which has so many useful properties in food, to ripen. We should keep it in a bowl away from the cold, because otherwise would risk losing all its characteristic flavor.


8. Potatoes


The potatoes should be left in a dry, cool place. They do not have to stand the heat, because otherwise germinate, and even in the refrigerator, because they take on a greenish color.


9. coffee


The coffee you should not put in the fridge, because otherwise it would end up absorbing all the smells of the foods we are with it. It would lose all its typical aroma.


10. Basil


Even the basil in the refrigerator tends to absorb all the smells of other foods. Also with the cold it tends to dry more quickly. You should keep in the kitchen, inside a cup of fresh water.

 

Pesticides: how to eliminate them from fruits and vegetables

How to remove pesticides from fruits and vegetables? For a healthy diet, it is important to follow a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables; foods with a thousand beneficial properties. Nowadays, however, even this kind of food can hide Hazards: pesticides are, in fact, unfortunately, widely used in the cultivation and are highly detrimental to the health of our body. If you do not opt for organic products - and, even then, it should still follow some small tricks - we have to have more care to clean vegetables and fruit. As? Here are some helpful tips to properly wash fruits and vegetables and remove, as well, the residues of harmful substances.

1. Water and salt

Water is the first ally for the thorough washing of food is of good hygiene, in fact, wash thoroughly with water - preferably with the addition of salt, from the many uses - fruits and vegetables before eating or cooking. The simple washing carried out with cold water helps to remove about 80% of pesticides. Alternatively, you can dip the food in boiling water.

2. Water and soda

The baking soda is great for your health to be added to the water to proceed with the washing of vegetables, removing dirt: you'll have to do is use a tablespoon of baking soda to a quart of water and allow to soak it all in 15 minutes approximately. In addition, you can create a compound - with a tablespoon of baking soda and a teaspoon of water - to rub, with the help of a toothbrush on foods to clean and disinfect.

3. Water and vinegar

Vinegar is a great ally in the house and it is also in this case: washed fruit and vegetables, immersing them - for about 30 minutes - in a bowl containing one part vinegar and two parts of water. Next, rub with a brush and rinse under cold water.
 
4. Water, baking soda and lemon 

 Another alternative? You can prepare a solution prepared with a tablespoon of lemon juice, two tablespoons of baking soda and a cup of water. You can mix the ingredients of the recipe yourself in a bowl, where immerse food to clean, scrub, rinse and dry.

5. Remove the peel

Finally, remember to always remove the peel when possible, especially if you are not sure of the provenance of the food. Obviously, for the preparation of recipes that include the peel of some fruit, proceed with the purchase of organic products and more secure, however, not neglecting the cleaning.

natural antioxidants: 9 foods that are richer

Often, we hear of natural antioxidants and the foods that are rich: these substances - present in many foods - are, in fact, extremely beneficial for the body, as they help our bodies in the battle against free radicals and, among other things, in the prevention, helping to keep the healthy tissues. Antioxidants - in particular, flavonoids and polyphenols - are, then, able to improve the circulation, with benefits for the heart and blood vessels; in addition to having the ability to protect the health of the eyes and, therefore, the view. We find some of the richest source of natural antioxidants.


1. Green tea

One of the foods mentioned, when it comes to antioxidants, is green tea: this precious drink - good to drink hot or cold - contains, in fact, flavonoids, tannins and polyphenols. A benefit of green tea consumption are the bones, hair, skin, and the immune system, which is strengthened. Green tea helps, then, digestion and reduces the absorption of sugars.

2. Avocado

 The avocado is a fruit rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and E. The oil extracted avocado helps delay the aging of tissues: Some studies have in fact shown that the avocado oil is a blessing to health and, even, in the treatment of degenerative diseases.

3.Soursop

Graviola (Soursop)is a tropical fruit that aids in digestion and provides significant anticancer properties, as well as antibacterial. The benefits that this fruit offers mainly concern cancer prevention: graviola is, in fact, rich in antioxidants that can fight cancer cells.

4. Blueberries

From the list, there are cranberries that boast excellent antioxidant properties and are rich in substances beneficial to the organism: blueberries contain, in fact, flavonoid that help in the prevention of cancer and cardiovascular diseases, metabolic and degenerative.

5. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene: this substance is, in fact, a powerful antioxidant, which helps to prevent the occurrence of stroke. Lycopene, then, is a great ally in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Eat tomatoes facilitates the maintenance of low cholesterol and reduces the pressure.

6. Kiwi
The kiwi fruit is rich in antioxidants, including polyphenols: these are able to protect the body from aging and degenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

7. Chocolate

For our well-being, it is also important to consume chocolate: cocoa has, in fact, a high antioxidant power, because it is a food rich in flavonoids which enhances mood and regulates blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Remember to consume the chocolate with greater presence of cocoa and no refined sugars, maybe the extra-dark bitter chocolate. Boater, then, cocoa from organic farming.

8.Pomegranate

Pomegranate contains high amount of antioxidants, including flavonoids that protect the arteries and the heart, and have anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective. In addition, the pomegranate contains ellagic acid, good for combat free radicals.

9. Carrots

Carrots contain vitamin C, beta-carotene and are also rich in antioxidants. Some studies have shown that eating carrots will serve to prevent premature death by stretching, in fact, the life of those who eat these vegetables.

10 natural salt substitutes

There are natural salt substitutes, which allow you to avoid the consumption of this product is often harmful to those with certain medical conditions: those who suffer, for example, high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism or fluid retention should be especially careful and should refrain from using salt in the kitchen. Fortunately, there are several alternatives and healthier salt you can use; although the latter is not harmful in itself, if consumed within a certain dosage. We discover 10 natural salt substitutes.

1.miso 

To replace the salt in the kitchen, you can resort to the miso. This ingredient is, however, also not recommended for those suffering from high blood pressure, as it contains a bit 'of sea salt, as well as corn and soybeans.

2. Soy sauce

The soy sauce is another great alternative to table salt is not recommended for people suffering from thyroid problems and hypertension, but tasty and delicious, is rich in salt.

3. Essential oils

Essential oils are excellent allies even when it comes to power: they can, in fact, be of good substitutes for salt.

4. Herbs

Herbs are a great way to replace salt at the table: they are, in fact, good for health and are able to give flavor to various dishes in a natural way.

5. Lemon

What's better than lemon juice to flavor certain dishes? Lemon is a natural and healthy, which can be used to flavor many dishes.

6. Vinegar

What, then, of the vinegar? In addition to lemon, vinegar also an ideal replacement and seasoning can be considered for the salt and oil. You could try also apple vinegar: excellent remedy for salads.

7.turmeric

Among the spices beneficial to health, there is turmeric which boasts several beneficial properties: this ingredient is, in fact, good for the health of the organism and to dress the most varied dishes.

8. black salt of Hawaii

To stay on the subject of salt, black salt of Hawaii is another alternative to the classic sea salt: the black salt of Hawaii is, in fact, less risky for those suffering from high blood pressure and is known for its detoxifying properties.

9.The Himalayan pink salt 

The Himalayan pink salt - unlike the black salt of Hawaii, mentioned earlier - is not, however, recommended for people suffering from thyroid disorders, high blood pressure or water retention. If, however, look for simple alternatives to salt, it might come in handy.

10.Gomashio

Finally, here is the Gomashio: is a Japanese condiment made from toasted sesame seeds, but - just like miso and soy sauce - is rich in salt and, therefore, recommended to those who have to avoid this ingredient because of health problems.

How to replace sugar: alternatives and tips

How to replace sugar? We see the alternatives and tips for healthier eating. Many are the side effects linked to white sugar refining. The latter causes the gut gas production, abdominal distension, abnormal bacterial flora, with the manifestation of specific disorders, constipation, diarrhea and colitis. The sugar also acts on the nervous system and on the metabolism, providing pacing spikes and relapses, with consequent situations of irritability and desire to ingestion of another sugar, producing real forms of dependence. All this does is affect the production of hormones, causing a general weakening and damaging the immune system. Let's find out how to fix it.

What to eat

And 'possible to detox from sugar in a short time, following a few basic rules. The best way to stop the dependence on white sugar is to give an immediate stop to all products containing it, while also preventing liquid sugar, contained mainly in fruit juices and sparkling drinks. It 'good to remember that proteins help to re balance the levels of sugar and insulin in the blood, so we can include in our diet eggs, fish, chicken, nuts or seeds. We do not neglect the carbohydrates found in many vegetables, especially the green ones and those rich in starch, such as potatoes, squash or beets. We always keep on hand for snacks and a bit 'of dried fruits, for "emergencies".

Keep away stress

We try to release stress, because it is cortisol, the stress hormone, to cause health effects, including increased appetite, making us feel the desire to ingest the sugars. Also let's focus on sleep, sleeping regularly and resting well, because when we sleep little our body requires the consumption of foods that can give an energy carrier, just like those containing sugar.

Maple syrup

Maple syrup is made by boiling maple sap from sugar maple and black. Can be used as a natural sweetener, it purifies the body and possesses a high content of vitamins. It is not suitable for diabetics.

Agave syrup

The agave syrup is the result obtained from the root juice of the agave plant, which is concentrated to obtain a syrup. It plays mineralizing action, because it contains plenty of calcium, magnesium, potassium and iron. Its low glycemic index makes it useful for those who want to lose weight.

Stevia

Stevia is a plant native to South America and has a much higher sweetening power than sugar. We may use the fresh leaves, but also the powder obtained by grinding the dehydrated leaves. A fresh leaf or half a teaspoon of powder correspond to a teaspoon of sugar.

Dates

Dates are excellent to be used as sweeteners in smoothies and baked goods, including desserts. They contain an abundance of minerals, such as potassium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and calcium, and are rich in vitamin B.

Molasses

Molasses is a natural sweetener that, through a fermentation process, is extracted from fruits, vegetables or grains such as rice, barley and corn. And 'rich in B vitamins and minerals. And 'more digestible and nutritious than the refined sugar.

Mashed bananas

The mashed bananas can replace refined sugar in the preparation of desserts. This fruit is very sweet, so if we use it in cakes and pies, you do not need to add other ingredients to give more flavor. As an alternative to bananas, we can use chopped prunes, especially to prepare the biscuits.

raw cane sugar

It 'a grainy, brown sugar, which is much more easily dissolved than that of cane that often we usually use. After the harvest is solidified into pats and has an aftertaste similar to that left by the licorice, which does not always make it suitable to the preparation of cakes or sweeten coffee.

3 natural remedies to whiten teeth

Brush with baking soda

Sodium bicarbonate is the most effective remedy to whiten teeth, in fact the main ingredient of most toothpaste on the market is just baking soda. Brushing with pure sodium bicarbonate is obtained an effective whitening effect, especially thanks to the micro-granules which comprises baking soda.

How to use: You can use baking soda every day to brush your teeth. Put some 'on the toothbrush instead of toothpaste. Brush your teeth gently to avoid hurting the gums. The first results are visible from the first wash. You can buy a soda at any drugstore or supermarket.

Lemon whitens and removes stains

Among the natural remedies to whiten teeth we find lemon. Due to its acidity, lemon bleaching yellowed and stained teeth. It 'also very useful to dissolve the tartar and freshen breath. It is also anti-bacterial, and because the high concentration of vitamin C strengthens the gums.

How to use it: To exploit the potential of the lemon it is enough to brush your teeth with a little 'of freshly squeezed lemon juice. gently brush before rinsing. Run this wash 2 times a week.

If you want to do a complete whitening care mixes 75 g of baking soda with lemon juice and use this mixture to brush your teeth. Run this process every morning for a week (baking soda reduces the acidity of the lemon juice).

Charcoal

The charcoal is the product of the carbonisation of some types of timber. In many countries it is used for oral hygiene care. This remedy is completely free of health risks.

How to use: You can use charcoal powder: pour a little 'dust on the brush and brushing teeth. Do not add toothpaste which might excessively increase the abrasive action; at most, you can mix the charcoal with few drops of water or lemon juice to form a paste easy to use. The charcoal dust is found in all pharmacies.