9 Health Benefits of Smiling

 Introduction

If you talk of frowning I'm very good at it frowning is common and easy  especially when you are offended,   when your  spectations are not met, during  sickness and illhealth can also bring about frowning your face,  Not seeing your loved ones can also cause you to frown.   So many other things makes people to frown.  Frowning is the exact opposite of smiling and most importantly different things causes people to frown,  what makes you frown  may not also make another person to frown.  For  some people dirt  environment can cause them to frown their face, while some others may not really mind even if the environment is quite dirty and unkept. some  will tell you that  it is their nature but I do not agree with this later school of thought because I used to think so myself until I discovered that it is better to smile than to frown and that either of them is a choice you can make.  Whichever way you choose, over the years  smiling  has shown far more benefits than frowning.  

 Here are  9  top health benefits of smiling amongst people of all ages.

1. Smiling is Free:  

It is getting more and more clearer to observe  that most of the best things in life are free,  smiling is one of such things you will rather like to meet a smiling face than one that is frowning and interestingly for us this prized and healthy  gift is absolutely free.  Have you noticed but that the young and small babies even as soon as they were born after crying the next thing is to smile as soon as they begin to see things around them they begin to smile, by those smiles, I think they love what they are seeing and returning in appreciation to God with a smile, by that smile also,  by babies,  it seems to me that smiling is also a gift, by the way, who though them to smile, Nobody, so it is  freely given to everyone of us so you can feel free to smile as much as you like because it has many health benefits in addition to the benefits, you don't have to pay for it you can take as much as you desire and the quantity you take of the smile has no way to reduce my own smiling so why not go ahead and just smile because it affects your health positively in a lot of ways.  No matter how tough situation may be, find time to smile because it is easy,  it is effortless and above all people of all ages can smile.  Being effortless, the sick, the blind, the deaf, the dumb can smile.  This further confirms it is a gift and requires no effort.  There is no age that you cannot smile, the children,  the babies, young people,  the old people all have that benefits of smiling freely.   The only time we stop smiling is when we stop breathing it's only a dead man that does not smile and so smiling is for the living, Go  ahead and continue to smile and enjoy all the benefits.

2.  It is an injunction by our Creator:

 In the book of Proverbs 17:22, it  says " A joyful heart is good medicine but a broken spirit dries the bones" It  is an injunction by our creator meaning that it is better to smile than to frown because you does  good like medicine this is a confirmation that smiling helps to boost our healing and boost our immunity as well.  For this reason let us continue to smile more  moreso that we do not have to pay for it.  it's absolutely free even with all these benefits.

3.  It reduces wrinkles and aging:  

Smiling helps to reduce wrinkles and aging if you want to age fasr then  you have to stop smiling that is the fastest way in my opinion to age and speed up  the aging process when we smile the muscles of the face relaxes and then it helps us to improve  blood   flow around the face and that is one way it can contribute to reducing signs of aging when you see people that smile a lot,  it is difficult to observe each year you see them they keep looking the same way and always smiling and of course you always  hear good report concerning them maybe this maybe also due to the fortune that is often brought about  or attracted by the smiling.

4.  It   Attracts favour:

As already noted it sometimes  attract fortune,   people who smile all the time attract favour to themselves they attract people they are positive people and everyone wants to relate with people who are positive and so when you smile, it makes you to give out an aura of peace joy,  and favour, when you ask people things while  smiling they have more a tendency to grant it to you than when you do it with a face that is frowning especially if you are expecting that favour from someone that is senior to you either  in office, in rank spiritually or even your parents,  it pays  to smile especially when you are asking for something or a favour even if there are good reasons to frown,  endeavour not to frown especially when asking for a favour. try to smile and you will notice that this smiling face  appears to be contagious and will affect those around you and then makes the environment to be peaceful and everybody will be happy including yourself.

5.  Reduces pains and inflammations:

 This may not sound like a scientific point and may also require further research to prove it, but when you frown, research has sgown that more muscles are involved in frowning than in smiling and I think this will also contribute to pains and if one  is already experiencing inflammations, it may increase.  this is a negative side and for this reason it is always better to smile.

6.  It aids digestion:  

This may also not sound scientific but when you smile the entire body is relaxed and you know the digestive tract is also more relaxed when we are not under tension and  smiling.   when we are happy and relaxed, digestion will be easier.   When you frown all the time showing a negative outlook to life we may have a tendency to have more boots of constipation and indigestion though  this will also requirenot more studies and research,  but smiling makes entire body relaxed and a relax body makes for easy digestion, and is  another positive benefits.

7.  Helps relieve stress 

Frowning our face  will at all times nay  increase our stress level  if you are already stressed because of the muscles that are needed for us to frown it is easier to smile so let us endeavour to smile more even if sickness, disease, lack,  pains and all kinds of situations surround us and make us to feel like frowning  is the only option let us be deliberate about smiling and reap these benefits and even more. 

8.  May help you live longer:

 You will have  observed that people who Smile more tend to live longer. This may sound funny especially when you consider the fact it is God alone that determines how long we will live here on earth,  but since he has advised in his holy book that we should always smile and that it will do good like medicine it also  means that it will help us to live longer if it is doing us good just as medicine does as already stated above, and so it is an obedient to His word and obedience to his injunction will surely be rewarded with longevity as promised already.   When you obey God you also have a promise already of living longer.

9.  Smiling is a Means of Communication: 

 A smiling face may communicate affirmation or otherwise but in most cases, it is a positive signal when you receive a smile from anyone even when God smiles on you, things begins to move around positively for you.  When your dad or mum smiles,it's a good sign.  So even when you choose not to speak, our face through smiles can communicate the message in our heart.

Summary: 

 Here is a question for us to answer,  can our smile be too much? If  you ask me I will say yes that there is time for everything,  time to smile and time also to ... Consider   yourself  smiling at an event when everyone are in tears,  At a time when situation or there is a course for usto cry, it will definitely be improper to start smiling.  Such  smiles can send wrong signal about us,  which can make us to Be misunderstood and so we must endeavour to know as much as we encourage us to smile we should note those few times when smiling will send a wrong signal or  wrong message about us and avoid smiling at those times but most of the time you should try to smile more than frown because it affects our health positively in a lot of ways.

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Introduction 

Negro pepper popularly called Uda by the Eastern part of Nigeria, kimba by the Hausas of  Northern Nigeris, Arinje by by the Yorubas of South Western Nigeria, is known and used widely due to its ability to help  resolve  a wide range of health problems.   Negro pepper has been used for several years before more scientific studies began to reveal more of its benefits and uses.  We saw our parents use it when nursing or preparing meals for a newly nursing mother, the reason for this we didn't know then, but they used it in making porridge  and hot soupsand other  foods for a nursing mother but now we know that in addition to reducing risk of infection in the nursing mother, it also helps  to increase milk production this simply means that before the science came  our parents knew the benefits of some of these spices.  Negro pepper may not be popular in some regions but where ever you find it, as  much as possible if you can lay your hands on this spices,  it's advised you get it because it has numerous health benefits I do use it from time to time in my soups especially when I need to aid digestion, during cold weather or suspect malaria and similar things like that.  so I thought to share with us and to remind us of the numerous health benefits of this Spice and why we should be including it in our  meals especially older adults. 

 Here are some of the numerous health benefits of Negro Pepper.

Aids digestion:

 Adding spices like Negro pepper as a   digestive  aid is a smart way to support our liver function and boost our overall health.   You can grind the dried  Negro pepper bud which is usually dark in colour after drying.   Add to your soups and other meals  while cooking common foods  that you love to eat to support digestion and reduce things like gas.

Reduces inflammations:

 Several studies have shown that this spice contains a lot of anti-inflammatory properties naturally occurring in it and helps to reduce inflammation generally in the body you can still add it to your meals or can make tea out of it or even chew a little of it raw, its okay once in a while in order to boost your health and reduce inflammations

Good for arthritis and similar pains:

Those who are going through all kinds of pains like arthritis, rheumatoid pains   can also enjoy this spice freely in their meals as a way to reduce pains because it has pain reducing properties naturally in it and general body pains also sometimes when we undertake some activities so in such case you can include it after a strenuous exercise or work to help you to relax and reduce inflammation that may arise as a result of the activity.

Good source of some essential nutrients

 Negro pepper makes a very good source of low calorie vitamins and minerals in the diet most of us think that the spices are not source of some of the B vitamins we are looking for they are and Negro pepper, other nutrients said to be in this pepper are vitamins A, E, C, these are the top antioxidants fir disease fighting. Fat and carbs are not  significant in spices like negro pepper and most spices. So also are proteins but trace minerals vitamins they are good sources and  other antioxidants for helping to ward  of free radicals and reduce risk of certain things like cancer. 

Helps improve blood circulation :  

It makes a good addition for older people to include this  spice as it tends  to improve blood circulation and provide some form of heat in the body because our body is expected to be warm all the time and if we   maintain a warm temperature internally most of the time our blood circulation will be improved they'll be no sign of coldness and then when there is no coldness most diseases also may not be able to thrive in hot environment and this food is one of such spices that help to provide the needed heat especially during cold weather,  you can take it to improve blood circulation and reduce feelings like numbness in the hands and feet or other parts of the body. Sometimes around the neck area.

Provides Respiratory Support 

This spice also provides a lot of respiratory support especially for those who are experiencing issues like asthma coughing and other respiratory problems.  They  can make it out of the this spice and then take by  shipping it or added to their meals regularly in order to strengthen the respiratory tract and kill off some yeast and bacterias that may feed the infection or cause a trigger in the respiratory tract.

Contains antibacterial properties

If you suffer  frequent bacterial infections like typhoid and other infections.  it will be good to include this slixevregularly in your diet because of its antibacterial properties to reduce the bacterial load generally in the body and reduce frequency of infections as well it's also used to kill off unhealthy gut bacterias by starving them of food.  Uncontrolled yeast activity also supports the growth of other organisms alongside with it in order to suppress the immune system so this will act as an immune booster when we add it to reduce overall yeast activity and then bacterial activity as well.

It's great for strengthening the immune system. 

Due to the high antioxidants in this Spice it's great for strengthen immune system because most diseases starts with inflammations and it's important to include foods like this spices Negro pepper to help reduce or  help to fight oxidative damage and then strengthen our immune system generally

Good for managing Diabetes

 It's also good for managing diabetes pre-diabetics can also take advantage and include it in their diet to aid digestion and then to support liver health. It may delay or prevent the onset of diabetes in prediabetics.  It supports detoxification and we know that role of toxic overload to our well being especially for diabetics even any health condition.  he makes a very good detox generally and when toxins are dealt with our immune system are strengthened and this is a plus for  those fighting diabetes and other health problems.

Supports liver health

Being a digestive aid, it  supports to the liver to function and do its work very well so this is one of the liver supporting foods which we should include moderately in our diet as it may help reduce inflammations around the liver and in this case ward off fatty liver disease too.  Those with existing fatty liver can include antioxidant rich spices like negro  pepper  moderately to support the liver and kidney, in detoxing  the body generally. 

Supports Heart health

 Some studies have also shown that it contains some hearth  supporting nutrients that reduce the inflammation around the heart so it will reduce cases or incidence of heart attack or heart failure to strengthen the heart valves by reducing also the activity of bacterias,  improving  and supporting metabolism and several other activities generally and in this way support the overall functioning of the heart.

May Reduce Frequency of infections:

Those who experience frequent infections things like typhoid,  frequent malaria attacks should do well to include Negro pepper in their diet in other  to strengthen their immunity against infections.

Several other health conditions will benefit from this spice if taken in moderation such as malaria, constipation,  fever,  cough,  tooth ache sore throat,   these inflammations are sometimes triggered by bacterial activities, coldness in the body for blood circulation,  slow rate of metabolism and so many other activities that affects our overall immunity but the inclusion  of Negro pepper boost the activities generally to support health in a lot of ways but we must take it in moderation

Ways to take it

It is best grounded and used as a Spice in soups and stews in moderation

It can  also be used as an infusion using freshly boiled water and about one dried bud.

It can also be chewed raw occasionally like alligator pepper but in moderation

Caution:

It acts as a blood thinner.  and in this case, pregnant women or expecting to  take in should be cautious with this Spice and other blood thinners to avoid miscarriage.

Those on blood thinning medication should also consult with their doctor before consuming alligator pepper.

Some studies are also suggesting that men should consume in moderation to avoid interference with fertility, though more studies may be needed on this.

Summary:

With all the benefits and even more, it is still important to avoid consuming large quantities at a time as it will definitely result in unpleasant side effects, including anxiety feeling, low energy, and other negative effects on our immune system instead of working in our favour.  Moderation remains our rule.

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10 Nutritional and Life Lessons from My Pet Gigi

Yes, Pets are friends to many, interestingly, more and more people are beginning to find interest  in Pets especially dogs, for various reasons especially Security.  There could be many reasons and benefits why you should reconsider your decision in not wanting a pet or puppy around you.  If there is anybody that hated them most, I was one.  Today however, that has changed.  I am a pet lover, infact, I consider them one of man's best friends.  My pet Gigi 3 months ago gave birth to a puppy we call him Bofi.  After her delivery, have continued to learn life lessons every day from these pets both from the puppy, her mother and the way they both live their lives especially Gigi

1.  Would Never Eat anything, she Meets Dead.

It is most interesting to observe that Gigi would never eat a dead animal, though she appears excited if she happens to do the killing herself, but she is never interested in dead things.  I learned and concluded this when we moved to a Suburb in the city and on an occasion I happen to kill a lizard and brought it to her with hope would eat as I learned that they a scavengers by nature.  She showed no interest even when hungry.  It then occurred to me also that the bible admonished us to stay away from dead animals and should not eat such.  Despite this warning, many are not deterred, they still eat such dead animals either due to poverty or other reasons known to them.  Even some foods we eat  are dead after much cooking and warming with no life them.   These beings, Gigi in particular will not feed on such.   

2. Would Always Desire a Walk after any heavy Meal

 Why would a healthy fellow go straight to bed immediately after dinner or some heavy meal, of course some of us are  guilty of this on the excuse that we are tired.  We never bother to go for a walk or exercise to aid digestion, yet these beings, these pets, these lower creatures are careful to observe this nutrition and wellness rule.  Gigi would always bark a kind of bark indicating, she wants to go for a walk after a main meal.  This is a lesson I think we should learn and in fact observe.  

3.  Goes on low Carbs. always

As earlier observed in my previous posts on my pet.  She would alway prefer more protein, less carb.  Why, the reason is obvious.  Proteins are for body building, they are needed to repair tissues.  Surprisingly, humans
are not wiser in this regard.  Some are ready to consume carbs throughout the day in different forms, they do not mind the content of what they are consuming, yet these lower beings appear to be wiser, I think we should learn from them, I have gained a lot from Gigi in this regard.  Consider your daily intake of food and as much as possible let your protein be more especially if you are not burning the carbs as much.  

 

4.  She will always consider her puppy first when it comes  to food .

As a young mother, Gigi is so passionate about her puppy, whenever it comes to food, she quickly allows her puppy to go first.  I began to wonder, how is she so passionate about her puppy and some humans are a bit careless about such precious gifts.  We have heard of some ignorant young girls abandoning their babies or even exchange them for money.   Yet, Gigi is so caring, never selfish and would always consider her puppy first.  Well are your puppies being treated like that?  May be this one is just different, but I definitely love this character of Gigi about life and I think we should learn from it, especially the women folk

5.  She is Quite hostile to strangers

I am actually beginning to reason that being friendly to strangers may not be fashionable any more.  I should be more confident with familiar faces. " It is better to walk with the Devil you Know than the Angel you Do not know", goes a popular maxim .  But what is there in being friendly  with someone unknown to you.  Methinks, there is something here for us as well.  Never be in a haste to befriend strangers.  Study them and their motives first before you give them your heart or else they will betray you.  That is a message and lesson learned from Gigi.  Let us learn from it.
 
6.  She Learns Mostly by Watching you.

I remember the bible enjoins us to do more of listening than talking, yet we do not take heed to this instruction.  We talk more and listen less.   But come to consider the life of this lower being, they watch more, pay more attention and most times learn by so doing.  She is so eager watching you and ones she watches you do a particular thing with her for at least 4 times, she takes it over and would never be reminded about it, rather she will be the one to remind you.  This is one of the best traits I love in Gigi, and how I wish that all human behave that way.  Despite scoldings several times, we make the same mistake and most times would deliberating not want to change.  We talk more instead of listening or watching like Gigi.

7.  Whatever her Nose detests, Her mouth rejects

Gigi will always sniff whatever comes her way, if her nose would not take it, then, her mouth would neither taste it.  With humans in most cases, the story is different.  when pressed by hunger, we would not bother how it smells but go ahead to eat, only to start running to the doctors few minutes later.  If only you listen well to your instinct, your nose and other organs meant to notify you of danger, perhaps many may be averted.  However, pets appears Wiser in this regard.  Let us learn from them.  They seem to me to be obedient to their creator more than humans.

8.  Gigi is Very Loyal to me and feels Confident also by my Presence

 If you will be very sincere if you are a dog owner, you will confess that your pet appears excited with your presence at  times than your own children, your spouse, your parents, or your best of friends out there.  These are the ones that reveals your secrets.  No  wonder the bible says, a man's enemies are members of his household.  It is no longer news, when you consider various testimonies of faithfulness shown by pets to their owners even in death surpassing  that shown by humans.  Are you loyal to your Maker?  Are you confident in His Presence, Are you loyal to your spouse, parent, employer etc.  Let us learn from them.  Loyalty is a virtue.

9.  She prefers Natural Foods as against Processed Foods.

 Do you prefer natural foods or highly processed foods?   She prefers fermented Garri to bread, she prefers rice to noddles, she prefers beef to other processed foods.  She seem to have added force to my belief that unprocessed foods are best for us.

10.  She and her puppy would always prefer to stay under my seat or a shade.

Why is Gigi and her puppy always preferring under seats and sheds, well the reason is unknown to me, however, I may think it has to do with protection and security consciousness,  I consider this as a lesson also. We should  be security conscious at all times.

The points stated are peculiar to my pet Gigi.  Gigi is a German Shepherd, yours may be different.  I have chosen to share this here because they are interesting lessons about life which may be overlooked by many including pet owners.  You may wish to share your own experience or lessons if any from your pet, it may benefit us as well.

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12 Health Benefits of Neem leaves tea

 

Introduction

Neem leaves is one of the top teas  that helps to support health and boost immunity generally a lot of people are not friendly with bitter foods but bitter foods are actually good for us especially for our liver health and general body immunity.  Neem Tea  popularly known as dogoyaro has been used for many years in  managing a lot of ailments including fever although many people are not using the remedy for various reasons, may be because it is a herbal remedy or does not actually eliminate or manage severe cases of malaria.  In  chronic cases of malaria you will not have to depend completely on Neem leaves tea  but for healthy individuals it can effectively prevent diseases at the earliest age and boost immunity in order to avoid disease and that is the purpose of this article I have actually used the Neem leaf tea  at some points  and found out that it  is one of the immune boosting teas we should consume occasionally especially as it is naturally caffeine free.

  Here are some of the top health benefits of Neem leaves especially when taken as tea.

1.  Aids Digestion:  

Most bitter foods support the production of digestive juice by the our stomach and Neem leaves is one of such teas.   The tea aids digestion and that is exactly why occasionally taking Neem leaf tea will reduce cases of constipation, bloating and other gut related issues.  If you suspect that your digestive system is  slowing  down, you can also prepare the tea to support your digestion.

2.  Oral Health:  

The tea also helps to destroy bacteria that cause oral problems, gum disease and bad breath,  if  you are suspecting or having oral problems,  you can easily prepare  it as tea and take,   without adding any milk you don't need to add milk anytime you're taking it to help to destroy germs that cause oral  problems.

3.  Reduces Diabetes Symptoms: 

 It is great for lowering blood sugar,, being a bitter food and we know that all bitter foods are good for blood sugar and therefore they are good for diabetes and pre-diabetic can take it before meal or even after meal in order  to help regulate blood sugar and reduce or prevent diabetes.

4.  Purifies Blood :  

It is also a great tea when you suspect that the blood is too thick or too toxic you can take the tea to help clear the blood of toxins it also helps to improve colon health by the bowel  movement.  I  have also personally observed it if you are experiencing Chronic constipation you can take it and it can help to reduce constipation  and clear the body of some toxic substance and materials from the body.

5.  Intestinal worms:

It   is also good for reducing and killing off up some intestinal worms and parasites because it has antibacterial properties, antimicrobial properties and even antifungal  properties so if you suspect that there are bacterias, parasites and or  overgrowth of yeast and fungus drinking this tea can help to reduce their number and discourage their multiplying in   number and then kill off some of the yeast  as it does not even provide food for them due to its bitterness because they all thrive and feed on sugar.

6.  Support Liver Health: 

 Our liver is the main organ responsible for metabolising fat and a lot of other activities including production of bile and several other  jobs  it  does a lot and so sometimes when there is too much unhealthy fats or else in the diet and other factors including stress it is necessary to include bitter teas like meem tea as it will help to destroy some bacteria in the liver and also reduce inflammation generally and then help to burn off  some of the fats or support the  liver to burn off some of the fats.

7.  Supports Eyes Health:

 Neem Leaves has a lot of antioxidants that can help to support the eyes as a matter of fact,  consuming the tea will improve our eyes  health reduce much pressure on the eyes as it also helps to reduce insomnia most times resulting from stress which usually  affect the eyes  if you take the tea during the times of insomnia you will notice an improvement in your sleep. 

8.  Strengthens Teeth and Gums:

Neem tea also supports  oral health, as it  is also able to strengthen teeth and gums preventing gum disease and such other inflammations orally.

9.  Reduce Gastro Intestinal Problems:

Being  a bitter food makes it a great support for those who are having gastrointestinal problem, low stomach acid and bacterial infections it helps in reducing a host of problems relating to the gut health and therefore help to support gut health in a lot of ways

10.  Boosts Immunity 

This is one of the top teas to embrace if you are suspecting low immunity.  Feelings  like coldness or fever symptomsare sings of low immunity,  blood thickness, weaknes,  pains.   Some of the hidden pains and inflammations at that early stage could be dealt with by consuming this tea, to ward off a lot of these symptoms and strengthen your immunity.   It  is best to take this as a preventive measure to strengthen immunity rather than as a cure.  When the  disease or sickness is already on ground or has brought you down, tye tea alone  may not be able to tackle it.  Best  to resolve it but when you suspect symptoms early symptoms is good to start taking the tea  to Ward it off it is very effective at this stage.

11.  Malaria and Fever:

 Early stage of malaria, or fever will benefit by taking the neem tea and consuming other immune boosters to ward if off.  It works well at this stage.

12.  Wounds, Ulcers

Managing things like acne, wounds,  athletics foot and similar conditions,  if you are experiencing any of these, consuming neem teamay speed up your healing or help bring some relief as I have also personally witnessed it,  if you are experiencing itching or skin problems acne or other   skin problems, that has to do with the skin,  Neem tea  is very very good in helping to address them, assist also in reducing  sugar in the body  generally as  most of these diseases feed on sugar.

How to Take Neem Tea

 Get the fresh leaves and boil about 20 leaves in a pot till it shows light green colour

  take in a glass cup after sieving.

You can also get the dried ground leaves in  powder form, I usually find it more convenient to get this as it  is easy to stock it and have it at home so anytime you want to take it you just put a pinch of it in a cup or half teaspoon in a cup, add freshly boiled water brew it and then it's ready for drinking or you can also just get the one that are in tea bags and use one tea bag in a cup of boiled water.  No milk or sugar required or any sweetener. 

Summary:

It is also important to state that there are some side effects even though it's a natural drink.   Those who are pregnant women also should be careful especially during the first trimester they should also not take ir or seek their doctors advice.  Do not take for too long a few days is okay and if symptoms persists after 3 days, better to see a doctor or seek other solutions.  

Photo:  Adobe Stock images

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Natural Alternatives to antibiotics

Introduction

Truly speaking, antibiotics are necessary in very few occasions and instances compared to the frequency of their usage. With that said, due to their ability to target bacteria, they are sometimes used for ailments requiring no antibiotics which can lead to antibiotic resistance.

 Antibiotic resistance “occurs when bacteria change in response to the use of these medicines,” meaning these medicines may stop working for you the more you take them. Therefore, it’s more important than ever to limit your intake of antibiotics turns out mother nature has provided some pretty damn good alternatives in the foods we eat such as vitamin C 

 1. Vitamin C If you’re familiar with an immune-boosting, plant-based diet Vitamin C is “a water-soluble nutrient found in some foods,” which “acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals.” While initial findings were published by Nobel Prize winner Linus Pauling, the healing effects of vitamin C have since been substantiated by numerous studies. One such study conducted in 2017 showed “that vitamin C given intravenously (1.5 grams every 6 hours) in a cocktail with thiamine and hydrocortisone reduced one hospital’s death rate from sepsis, a life-threatening blood infection, from 40.4 percent to 8.5 percent.” On top of that, five clinical trials “have shown that taking vitamin C can halve the number of colds in physically active people, and three have shown it to prevent pneumonia.

” Most Common Natural antibiotics that kills bacterias and viruses 

 2. Manuka honey:

 Study says that Honey was among the first broad spectrum antibiotics used before the pharmacuetical antibiotics. Manuka honey is one of nature’s richest antimicrobial sources, and it has recently received even more attention because of its potential antibacterial activity. Clinical studies have shown that Manuka honey can effectively inhibit multiple drug-resistant pathogens, indicating it has a broad spectrum of antibacterial capabilities unlike most antimicrobial agents. In addition, studies have shown that Manuka honey can disperse and kill bacteria that are living in biofilms, or communities of cells that are usually enclosed. This means Manuka honey can be used to prevent the growth of bacteria in wounds, mucosal surfaces and implanted devices.

 3. Garlic:

Chemical compounds in garlic, including allicin, have been proven to display antimicrobial activity and work to kill pathogens that are responsible for both common and rare infections. Garlic has been used for centuries to combat infectious diseases, and its antibacterial effects were first described in the mid-1800s. Garlic’s antimicrobial properties are strongest when it’s raw. I recommend chopping or crushing a raw garlic clove and letting it sit for about 10 minutes before eating it, in order to release the enzymes that are converted into allicin. Start by eating about one clove of garlic every day to prevent bacterial infections. You can also find raw garlic in powder, oil, extract and tablet forms. Garlic While most of us know this wonderful aromatic culinary ingredient for its delicious flavor and pungent smell, garlic happens to be one of the most powerful natural healing agents. In fact, garlic has been used to cure ailments, specifically infections, for thousands of years with documented uses in ancient civilizations including the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians. How does garlic accomplish this? Garlic has two active ingredients — allicin and ajoene — which have “been shown to powerfully combat infection-causing bacteria, fungi, and viruses.” These medicinal properties act “as an anti-inflammatory, providing anti-bacterial protection, and even fighting fungal infections with anti-fungal properties.” On top of its ailment-fighting agents, garlic has been used to detox the body of heavy metals, reduce blood pressure, improve cholesterol, enhance athletic performance, and improve bone health, all while infusing “the body with antioxidants that may reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s.” To get the most of these medicinal properties, it’s recommended to swallow one clove daily — skin removed, crushed, and chased with a beverage— to prevent infection.

 4. Onions: Onions—a food often thrown into soups, stews and stir fries—contain powerful flavonoids that have antibiotic effects, and, like garlic, they contain therapeutic sulfur compounds called cysteine sulphoxides. One effective, available and affordable natural antibiotic which we often overlook is onions. There are a out five varieties of o ions, but the purple onions which is usually hotter than the white and others is the one I usually use for various remedies at home. I have successfully used fresh onions to send pains away instantly Have used and still using it to clear dandruff and keep it off. It used internal for all respiratory problems Works great for cold When combined with garlic, deals with tumors including fibroid. Before now, I used to underate onions, in fact, in my rating, it is equal or more than garlic. Never let a day pass without fresh onions in your kitchen. It can handle most emergencies even. The difference I have observed using onions as home remedy is that it seem to work faster than garlic. Have you tried it on tooth ache. Crush and apply immediately, it is best then, after few minutes, the is grossly reduced. That is my experience

5. Neem leaves.

 Neem leaf is used for leprosy, eye disorders, bloody nose, intestinal worms, stomach upset, loss of appetite, skin ulcers, diseases of the heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular disease), fever, diabetes, gum disease (gingivitis), and liver problems. The leaf is also used for birth control and to cause abortions. Neem leaves could be dried and grounded to be taken as tea on empty stomach in the morning. It helps strenghten immune system and reduce bacteria load.often made worse by sugar. 

6 Ginger 

The antimicrobial effects of ginger have been exploited by natural medicine practitioners for a long time. However, it was only recently that the exact components in ginger which gives it these magical effects were recognized. Ginger is filled with compounds such as gingerdiol, gingerol, terpenoids, shogaol, zerumbone and zingerone along with flavonoids which gives it excellent antimicrobial properties with the ability to act against the formation of biofilms. H.Pylori bacteria which thrives in acidic stomachs can be reduced by consuming ginger which can normalize the acid production in your stomach. 

 7. Cinnamon Cinnamon has excellent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties which are used widely by alternative medicine practitioners around the world. Cinnamon is rich in cinnamaldehyde along with compounds such as eugenol which are highly effective in treating conditions that are caused due to bacteria and virus. Cinnamon is very helpful in treating stomach conditions such as ulcers. The use of cinnamon is highly helpful in treating skin conditions caused due to fungal activities such as candidiasis. Use of cinnamon also needs to be regulated to some extent as it can have certain interactions with drugs, so if you are under medications it is advisable that you consult with your doctor before implementing cinnamon into your diet. Cinnamon is also great for those aiming to prevent diabetes, high blood pressure and other degenerating diseases. Use of cinnamon also needs to be regulated to some extent as it can have certain interactions with drugs, so if you are under medications it is advisable that you consult with your doctor before implementing cinnamon into your diet. 

 8. Lemon Grass Lemongrass is a well-known ingredient around the world. The unique aroma of lemongrass makes it highly used in dishwashing soaps and other hygienic products. Yet another reason behind this is the fact lemongrass has excellent antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Citral alpha and citral beta compounds found in lemongrass are responsible for the capability it has in blocking broad spectrum bacterias in the format of lemongrass oil. Lemongrass oil is highly helpful in dealing with staph and salmonella bacterias and also e-coli without causing much side effects, unlike antibiotics which have many side effects. In a test conducted on guinea pigs, lemongrass extract application was beneficial in reducing the effects of ringworm infection on the skin. Lemongrass oil is also effective against candidiasis as it can inhibit the primary functions of the fungs. One other brilliant benefit of this natural antibiotic is that it can stop the replication of the HIV virus by reducing the function of HIV-1 TAT protein. 

 9. Rosemary: Rosemary is a very common herb that is used in the preparation of many food products around the world. Rosemary has excellent antiviral, antibacterial and anti-fungal properties which makes it highly beneficial for human consumption. Rosemary is rich in compounds like alpha-pinene, camphene, alpha-terpinol, 1 and 8 cineole and borneol. These compounds are highly effective in treating conditions such as viral infections and cancer. The antioxidizing character of this herb will help in making the consumption help in fighting the external forces of oxidation that can be harmful to your body. Rosemary is a very effective natural antibiotic without side-effects in treating conditions such as salmonella infections and staph infections, its got excellent effects in fighting quorum sensing bacterias. Rosemary is also famous for its antiviral capabilities in fighting HIV-R virus. Consuming rosemary can both make your food and life healthy and enjoyable. 

 10. Apple Cider Vinegar Though ACV is a more recent addition, but gaining popularity fast. Raw Apple Cider Vinegar, or ACV. With antibiotic and antiseptic properties, ACV can help in weight management and lowering cholesterol and cancer risk. ACV can also be used as a chemical-free astringent if you need to topically disinfect or sterilize a wound. 

 11. Cloves Clove has been used for thousands of years in India and China not only as a spice and condiment but also as a medicine for many ailments High in Antioxidants. May Protect Against Cancer. Can Kill Off Bacteria. May Improve Liver Health. May Help Regulate Blood Sugar. May Promote Bone Health. May Reduce Stomach Ulcers Clove Uses Clove has been used for thousands of years in India and China not only as a spice and condiment but also as a medicine for many ailments. Ayurvedic medicine used cloves for tooth decay and halitosis (bad breath). In Chinese medicine, clove was considered to possess aphrodisiac properties. Ground cloves are traditionally applied to minor cuts for healing purposes. Clove tea is a popular warm beverage to relieve congestion, I usually add cloves when preparing my zobo for better effects Clove oil is thought to help relieve headaches, flatulence, as well as reduce stretch marks. It is also popularly used as a bug and insect repellant. Just add a few drops to water and see them vanish As for the content of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, clove has proteins 6%, lipids 20%, and carbohydrates about 27%. Approximately 30% of the spice is a fiber. Clove properties: bactericidal; anthelmintic (anthelmintic); antifungal (fungicidal); pain medication; antispasmodic; wound healing; carminative (with flatulence); anticarcinogenic. It’s chock-full of manganese. As a spice, you might not think clove has much to offer in the way of nutrients, but it is actually packed with the essential bone-building nutrient manganese Antibacterial Properties Cloves are touted by many for their antibacterial properties against a number of human pathogens. The extracts of cloves were potent enough to kill those pathogens. Clove extracts are also effective against the specific bacteria that spread cholera. Manganese is a mineral that, along with calcium, is key for bone formation and density. Women are particularly in need of this mineral especially during menopausal yrs. Women over 50yrs should find a way to include cloves either as a spice in food, tea or in zobo More on Natural antibiotics 

 12. Oregano oil:  Oregano oil is one of the most powerful antibacterial essential oils because it contains carvacrol and thymol, two antibacterial and antifungal compounds To use oregano oil as a natural antibiotic, you can mix it with water or coconut oil. 

 13. Thyme: Thyme is a well-known spice mostly used in the Meditteranean cuisine. The antimicrobial qualities of this spice are very high. It can be easily be inculcated in various dishes and can provide multiple benefits to your body. Thyme can be extracted of its oil and this oil is very effective to treat diseases to side effects. Thyme extracts are also very effective in treating conditions that are caused due to the effects of herpes viruses. 

 14.   Tumeric:  The anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin make turmeric very effective in treating conditions caused due to stomach inflammations. Turmeric can also function well with antibiotics reducing the harmful effects of the latter, studies have shown that when turmeric is used along with antibiotics it can reduce the inflammatory effects on the lungs. Turmeric is also famous for its effects against the highly volatile HIV virus and also for its ability to stop the replication of the hepatitis C virus. ITs benefits comes out fully when combined with either ginger or black peppers. Some Essential oils with antibacterial properties What are essential oils According to www.ncbi.nim.nih.gov "Essential oils are complex volatile compounds, synthesized naturally in different plant parts during the process of secondary metabolism. Essential oils have great potential in the field of biomedicine as they effectively destroy several bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens."The presence of different types of aldehydes, phenolics, terpenes, and other antimicrobial compounds means that the essential oils are effective against a diverse range of pathogens. Most common essential oils with antibacterial properties 1. Peppermint Essential Oil 2. Tea Tree Essential Oil 3. Lavender Essential Oil 4.Eucalyptus Essential Oil 5. Oregano Essential Oil 6. Rose Essential Oil 7. Orange Essential Oil 8. Lemongrass Essential Oil 9. Geranium Essential Oil 10. Citronella Essential Oil 11. Neem essential oil 12. Lemon Essential oil And various others you can find out yourself. I have been using most of the essential oils stated above, and found then as an essential item in the list of things that helps us age gracefully, as they are usually not ingested It is best to start gradually because they are highly concentrated. Good for me that I now make most of the essential oils I use. We shall converge again later in the year to learn how to make our own. It is easy and cheap. In a world where we discover new bacteria and other potential hazards almost on a daily basis, and where traditionally prescribed antibiotics are failing, it is helpful to understand how antibacterial essential oils can play a part as antibacterial agents 

 My own tips on Avoiding frequent infections 

 1. Observe water therapy daily

 2. Include garlic regularly to your diet, besides that, occasionally chew garlic and honey if you suspect infection. Chew at least 2 purple cloves with honey on empty stomach for 6 days or more Staying away from bouillon cubes and other artificial taste enhancers. 

 3.include occasional bitters to help cool the liver and reduce sugar

 4. I include at least 2 or more uncooked food daily to reserve digestive enzyme.

 5. Rest when tired, too much stress weakens immunity and gives bacteria more strength over us 

 6. Use spices to enhance taste. Such as sea salt, black peppers, Cinnamon, ginger, garlic, cayenne etc. Stay away from bouillon cubes and other artificial taste enhancers. 

 7 Be conscious of sugar and carbs. Do not overdo it.

 8. As much as possible I avoid late meals. These habits are immune suppressors.

 9. Include more fluids Conclusion. There are several other spices, fruits and vegetables with antibacterial properties too. Examples are green vegetables like moringa leaves, pumpkin leaves, Saint leaves etc, there are also several seeds like black seeds, moringa seeds, fennel seeds, avocado and pawpaw seeds that have strong antibacterial properties, We also have teas like green tea, guava leaf tea, pawpaw leaf tea, mint, avocado leaf tea, and other infusions with similar properties. We must not forget peppers like black pepper, cayenne pepper, remember bitters like bitterleaf, bitter cola and other bitter foods with antibacterial properties to help fight bacterial and infections naturally. however, the ones mentioned are the most common and popular ones in our region. 

Summary:  

 Other regions of the world also have foods that fights disease far more than antibiotics. The fact remains that moderation is our rule. What of Oils? We must not forget these two common oils with best antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial and and antiviral properties: They are: Cold pressed coconut oil and Cold pressed olive Summary It is worthy to note that, the various natural antibiotics if used in moderation regularly is capable of keeping you and your family infection free all year round. However, excessive use of any of them may also present undesirable effect though not as destructive as pharmaceutical antibiotics.

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