‘Health and Beauty’
Tea is a widely consumed beverage across the world. It is an integral part of everyday societal life. Not only is tea a nature’s wonder herb, but a stimulant, too. Of late, this herb has been receiving a lot of attention from the media. Tea has existed since centuries in countries like China, Japan, India and Sri Lanka. Its potentiality in promoting health has received world-wide attention.People across the globe are turning to this ancient herb to re-discover its magical benefits. This herb contains protective, anti-oxidant and revitalizing properties. Today it is cultivated across the world especially in tropical and subtropical regions Latin name – Camellia sinensis The degree of processing of this plant determines whether the tea would be green, black or red variety.
But the most popular varieties as are: a) Black Tea The major constituents of tea that contributes in establishing its distinctive identity as a beverage include caffeine, Poly-phenols and essential oil, theanine (an amino acid unique to tea), vitamins, minerals, and methyl-xanthines. Pantothenic acid and riboflavin are active principles present in its leaves. Kaempferol and Quercetin are active principles present in the fresh leaves and green tea. It contains fluoride essential for strong teeth. and contains half the amount of caffeine found in an equally-sized cup of coffee. It is devoid of calories – which is Good News for Health Conscious individuals!!! Recent research has depicted anti-oxidant properties (i.e. cancer fighting properties) in the herb-especially Green Tea. Extensive clinical research studies have been conducted to establish its efficacy. Benefits of Drinking Herbal Tea:
Today, as part of this series, we present a recipe on how to prepare Herbal Tea from Chamomile herb which has been described below: Chamomile Herbal Tea Ingredients Use 1 teaspoon of the mixture per cup of hot water. Steep this mixture 10 minutes and strain. Caution: Never give an infant or young child a medicinal tea with peppermint in it. The menthol in the peppermint could have a reverse reaction. Uses:
Dr Sameer Sippy TAGS:anti oxdidant, beverage, Camellia sinensis, Chamomile Tea, Green Tea, Herbal Tea, Shyamparni Tea
Although a smooth skin remains the glowing aspiration of all women, it becomes an unreal goal with age. This is when antiaging creams steps in. But how safe are these ‘harbingers of youth’? It seems that the users of these products have more to fear than just aging. It has been recently reported in the media that several prominent brands of anti ageing creams contain the active ingredient alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs). According to Dr Sam Epstein, chairman of the US Cancer Prevention Coalition, these are “probably the most dangerous cosmetic products on the market”. Many of these age- controlling products, that claim to erase fine lines and diminsh wrinkles, actually work by peeling away the top -most layer of the skin, thereby making it vulnerable to damage through sun exposure and enviornmental toxins.It is exactly for this reason that many companies that sell products with AHA warn consumers that it is mandatory for them to use a sunscreen. But obviously, it is not enough! The US Food and Drug Administration has cautioned consumers that AHAs “could destroy the upper layers of skin, causing severe burns, swelling and pain”. Apparently, AHA is not the only culprit. Another harmful product, limonene, a known carcinogen also finds its way into several anti -aging creams. What is it that prompts these companies to churn out these creams in tons? I believe it is our obsession — with youth and anything young. We started living out of harmony with nature, and the consequence was telling.That is when the ‘cosmetic rasputins’ stepped in with their bottled remedies. I have just named a few harmful products but it is anyones guess that there are many many more . It is ok for the countries where paranoia and regulations control the sale and recall of such products.What about ‘lesser’ countries? Do we allow ourselves to be enthralled by porcelain models and blissfully continue to use these creams ? There are so many factors that promote aging. Poor nutrition, lack of exercise and stress are just a few.It goes without saying that diseases and familial predisposition are also among the factors that enhance ageing. Therefore, it is important to understand what is wrong in the first place and analyse thoroughly before succumbing to charlatans. The need for the hour is the ‘back to nature’ approach .Make sure you put the right things into your system to support it for life — this includes sensible healthy foods and clean water. Regular exercising is mandatory for a youthful and a disease-free state.Eliminate stress .You can choose your own methods to de stress—there are plenty around.All these methods will reduce the production and action of free radicals which damage cells. Traditional practices have come up with their own antiaging products and beauty -enhancing creams that use only natural ingredients. Ayurvedic products are one of them. .It would be worth while to give them a try. Aging is unstoppable. The challenge is to age gracefully and not cut a sorry figure .If the above tips are carefully followed you will be forced to smile at the youthful ‘stranger’ you see in the mirror. What’s stopping you? |
|
We are as old as we look or, rather, our skin looks .