Fall and winter, besides being associated with the holidays, are considered cold and flu season. At the moment, though, the United States (U.S.) is in the middle of another COVID-19 summer surge. Surveillance data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that high levels of the virus have been detected across most of the country. With the exception of 19 states, COVID-19 cases are very high, especially in the western part so the U.S.

Although it is inconvenient, it is very normal for COVID cases to spike during the summer. In fact, it has happened every summer since COVID-19 arrived on the scene. Why do cases increase, though? Below, we will explain why it tends to happen during the summer months and how you can protect yourself from the virus.

What Is A Summer Surge?

A COVID summer surge is defined by an unexpected increase in the number of COVID cases during the summer months, according to infectious disease specialists. Other than allergies, mild infectious illnesses like the cold and flu are common during fall and winter. That said, viruses can surge any time of the year. A COVID surge in the summer is common because people travel more and gather in large groups indoors and outdoors. 

The virus continues to evolve and stays ahead of the immune system. The immune system recognizes the infection of past variants as new ones appear, which can lead to an increase in new infections. And over the years, health experts have observed a big surge in COVID-19 cases at the beginning of summer. 

What Is Causing The Current Surge?

There isn’t just one cause that health experts can blame for the increase in COVID cases. The first of many causes is that people do not have immunity to the new variants. Immunity to prior COVID infection is short-lived. In fact, immunity can wane after just three months. That means that you need a new strategy if you plan to rely on your immunity to protect against COVID-19 infection. Perhaps that looks like getting a COVID booster vaccine, which is given out similarly to the flu vaccine nowadays. 

The COVID-19 FLiRT variants are largely driving this summer surge, though. These variants are more adept at evading the immune system. The weather may also factor into the equation. Some health experts explain that the emerging variants potentially thrive more in the heat than they do in the cold. That could cause an increase in COVID cases in the summer, as opposed to late fall and early winter. Additionally, the extreme heat, which is present across the country, drives people to gather indoors. 

Is it possible that the 2024 Summer Olympic Games will cause an uptick in COVID-19 cases? It’s always possible because large gatherings, be they indoor or outdoor, are the perfect environment for the virus to spread easily. That is true for people having guests over to their houses to watch the Olympics, or for attendees watching the games in person. In fact, there is already evidence of some olympic athletes testing positive since the start of the Summer Games. 

Will The COVID Surge Continue?

Health experts anticipate that the surge will continue as summer comes to a close. As long as people gather indoors and travel, transmission remains a worry. That said, infectious disease specialists are hopeful that another surge will not hit until late fall, or even early winter when people travel to see family for the holidays. If people take precautions, though, there is a chance that another spike in cases will not occur. It’s also possible that another surge will not be as big as the summer surge. 

How Do You Protect Yourself During Surges?

In order to prepare for a surge and reduce your risk of infection during summer, health experts encourage the following:

• Test regularly for COVID-19, especially if you live with high-risk individuals
• Open your windows if you have a large gathering
• Practice good hygiene by washing hands regularly and using hand sanitizer
• Wear a mask in crowded indoor spaces, especially if you have a loved one who is immunocompromised 
• Use a HEPA air filtration system to reduce the risk of transmission
• Stay up-to-date on boosters and vaccinations

SHARE:

The post Why Do Covid-19 Number Surge During Summer Months? appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Everyone experiences dry eyes every now and again. More often than not, dry eyes are an occasional annoyance, not a regular symptom of allergies or a more serious eye condition. Dry eye syndrome, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, can cause daily discomfort. People with chronic dry eyes can experience blurry vision, daily discomfort, or the sensation of something being in the eye. 

Whether you have dry eye syndrome, allergies, or occasional dryness, there are various home remedies that may help soothe your symptoms. You can experiment with the remedies in this article (detailed below) to see which one offers the most relief. If things do not improve, you may need to consult a medical professional to address the root cause of your dry eyes. If you haven’t reached that point, consider the following home remedies. 

Apply A Warm Compress

According to a 2023 review, applying a warm compress to the eyes works to increase moisture and encourage tear production. In order to get the most out of your warm compress, follow these instructions:

• Moisten a washcloth or small hand towel with warm water that isn’t too hot to the touch. Wring out excess water and fold it in half, or fold it so that it will cover both eyes. 
• Sit back or lie down to help the washcloth stay in place. Close your eyes and apply the warm cloth over both eyes. 
• Let the warm cloth sit on your eyes for five to 10 minutes, or until it loses its warmth. 

Increase Your Fluid Intake

It stands to reason that if you are dehydrated, the body doesn’t have the available fluid to produce sufficient tears. Increase your water intake to help increase moisture in the eyes. A great rule of thumb for optimal hydration is to drink half your body weight in ounces of water per day. If you weigh 150 pounds and divide that by two to get 75, you should drink 75 ounces of water per day. You can also click here for tips to improve hydration habits. 

Focus On Sleep

Closing your eyes will not solve your dry eyes problem, but getting quality shut-eye just might. Sleep experts note that poor sleep can worsen dry eye symptoms because insufficient sleep lowers tear production. Healthy sleep hygiene may help fix the issue. Aim to get seven to nine hours of sleep per night and do your best to go to bed and wake up at the same times daily. 

Focus On Potassium-Rich Foods

If you include more potassium in your diet, you may improve your dry eyes. According to health experts, potassium is one of the three components of the tear film. The tear film is a thin layer that protects eyes from damage. Because potassium plays an integral role in maintaining healthy tear film, adding more potassium-rich foods to your diet may help you avoid dry eyes. Sweet potatoes, bananas, beets, white beans, spinach, and avocados are great potassium-rich foods. 

Consume More Omega-3s

Omega-3 fatty acids may help improve the function of the oil glands in the eyelids. The meibomian glands, as they are known, in the eyelids produce an oily layer. By including more omega-3 fatty acids in your diet, you may aid this oil production and avoid dry eyes. While omega-3s are readily available in tuna, mackerel, cod liver oil, sardines, salmon, and trout, you can also find them in vegetarian sources, such as broccoli, spinach, flaxseeds, chia seeds, kale, and cauliflower. 

Use A Humidifier

Both heating systems and air conditioning can cause eyes to dry out, which results in dry eye symptoms. In order to slow dehydration, try to use a humidifier to add moisture into the air. If you don’t have a humidifier, you can click here to learn how to naturally humidify a space. 

Take Eye Breaks

If you are engaged in a task that will take a long time to complete, make sure to take eye breaks, especially if you are looking at a computer screen. In fact, it can be beneficial to take a couple eye breaks per hour if you look at screens all day. To do an eye break, close your eyes for a couple minutes, or blink 10 times slowly. That can help you spread your tears more evenly across the eyes.

SHARE:

The post Simple Home Remedies For Dry Eyes appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Pregnancy affects everyone differently, and the same applies to postpartum life. Just as both of these stages in life can be intense, emotional, or easy, so can breastfeeding, especially in the first few days after giving birth. Breastfeeding is worth it and being able to nourish your baby with your own body is nothing short of miraculous. Making sure the baby has a good latch from the beginning can help mitigate the pain. That said, breastfeeding is not a completely painless process, despite what you read. 

Go on any baby registry or talk to any mom or mom-to-be, and they will tell you that nipple cream is a must-have item. When you are in the trenches of learning to breastfeed, nipples can become irritated and sore. Some lactation experts recommend lanolin cream, but that doesn’t work if you are allergic to lanolin. 

What Is Lanolin?

Lanolin is the oil that is extracted from sheep’s wool. It undergoes a process to create finished lanolin, which is only problematic if you have a wool allergy. You also have to worry about potential pesticide residue found in wool. This can build up in fatty tissue or in breast milk if you apply it to your nipples. 

The reason for that is because a lot of sheep are sprayed with pesticides, which treat mites and various pests. Additionally, most sheep consume non-organic and GMO feed, traces of which are sometimes found in wool. Organic lanolin from healthy sheep exists, but it is hard to find. There are conflicting opinions and sources about the safety of lanolin, though. If you want to avoid the risk and be a little more careful with your little one’s first food, you may want a natural nipple cream.

Natural Nipple Cream

If you want to have an easier time with those first few days or weeks of nursing, you are going to need a soothing nipple cream. Because there are various natural nipple creams on the market, there is no need to make a DIY version. If you want to make your own because you want the assurance of knowing exactly what goes into the cream, this article provides an excellent DIY version. 

The baby may ingest some of the cream while nursing, so the goal is to use all-natural, safe ingredients for newborns. The ingredients in this cream have a low chance of allergic reaction. You’ll notice that it doesn’t contain almond oil, beeswax, or coconut oil, despite how beneficial those ingredients are to the skin. This is because they have a small chance of allergic reaction. This recipe is also free of essential oils for similar reasons, and because of their intensity. 

The Consistency

This nipple cream has a consistency that is more akin to a soft salve, but it is incredibly easy to apply. Should you desire a firmer cream, increase the amount of cocoa butter to one-third cup or more. You can also add some beeswax to thicken it, but there is a small chance that the baby could have an allergic reaction. Some evidence indicates that pesticides in inorganic beeswax may cause beeswax allergies. 

DIY Nipple Cream

Ingredients For Infused Oil:

• 1 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup chamomile flowers
• 1/4 cup calendula flowers
• 2 tablespoons marshmallow root
• Ingredients For Nipple Cream:
• 1/4 cup infused oil
• 1/4 cup cocoa butter

Instructions:

• You can make the infused oil one of three ways. The easiest way (provided you have time) is the solar method. 
• Add all of the ingredients to a pint-size mason jar, place in the sun, and shake daily for two to four weeks. Once the infusion is complete, use a metal strainer lined with a cheesecloth to strain the herbs. 
• The quicker method is to fill a small saucepan with an inch or two of water and place it over low heat. Add all of the ingredients to a mason jar and place the jar in the saucepan.
• Allow the ingredients to melt and stir every so often once melted. Make sure to replenish the water if it evaporates too much. 
• Once the infusion is complete, use a metal strainer lined with cheesecloth to strain out the herbs. 
• Once you have the infused oil, you can make the nipple cream. Add 1/4 cup of the infused oil and cocoa butter to a heat-safe glass jar and fill a small saucepan with an inch or two of water. Place the saucepan over low heat and place the glass jar in the saucepan. 
• Stir the oil and cocoa butter until melted. Remove from heat and pour the mixture into a heat-safe glass jar or tin. Allow to cool at room temperature and then use when needed. 
• Keep the balm in a cool, dry place.

SHARE:

The post DIY Nipple Cream For Breastfeeding appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

If you deal with seasonal allergies, you understand that they can be quite annoying. You sneeze uncontrollably, develop itchy eyes, experience congestion for hours, and the sinus pressure can become quite annoying. Symptoms may result from hay fever, seasonal allergies, or allergic rhinitis. If you are like most people who deal with allergies, you probably use numerous over-the-counter (OTC) medications to combat the symptoms. Some of those medications, however, can have a long list of their own side effects.

If you are ready to leave the OTC medications behind and experiment with natural solutions, you may be in luck. Some evidence indicates that natural solutions may relieve or reduce the severity of symptoms. If you have an understanding of the way antihistamines work, you can determine whether natural antihistamines will help with seasonal allergies.

How Do Antihistamines Work?

An allergic reaction is the immune system’s response to an otherwise harmless substance. That substance can be pollen, animal dander, dust, or mildew. Such a substance comes in contact with the cellist the mucous membranes in the nose, mouth, throat, or lungs. If you have allergies, the immune system releases histamine, a chemical that causes sneezing, itching, and other allergy symptoms. 

Antihistamines work to block histamine activity in order to stop the allergic reaction. According to research, many vitamins, minerals, and plants can block the effects of histamine. Continue reading to learn more about these natural antihistamines. 

Probiotics

Probiotics are microorganisms that can help improve your gut microbiome. They feed the healthy bacteria in the gut, which can help improve immune function. A 2021 review found that probiotics may help reduce and even prevent allergy symptoms. The same review suggests that probiotics may help alleviate symptoms of asthma and atopic dermatitis. Some great probiotics to consume include:

• Sauerkraut
• Kombucha
• Tempeh
• Kimchi
• Natto

Quercetin

You can find this natural antioxidant in grapefruit, okra, onions, apples, and other produce items. It is also available in supplement form, which is where you may have seen it. It is one of the most abundant antioxidants in the diet and helps to reduce inflammation, blood pressure, and the severity of allergy symptoms. A 2022 study found that quercetin may act as an antihistamine, working to reduce allergy symptoms. 

Bromelain

Commonly found in pineapples, bromelain is a compound that causes the body to make substances that fight swelling and pain. Studies have shown that bromelain is effective at reducing inflammation from sprains, tendinitis, and other muscle injuries. Regarding allergies, bromelain may help relieve respiratory symptoms associated with allergic reactions. A 2023 analysis found that bromelain proved effective against sinusitis.

Stinging Nettle

This flowering plant originated in Asian and Western Northern Africa. There is both some positive and neutral evidence surrounding stinging nettle as an effective antihistamine. One study from 2009 found that stinging nettle helped reduce allergy symptoms. A 2017 study, however, found nettle to act similarly to a placebo pill. More research is necessary to understand whether this plant is an effective antihistamine. 

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is readily available in myriad plant-based foods. Some of the best sources include bell peppers, kiwis, guavas, citrus fruits, leafy greens, and berries. A 2023 review found that vitamin C helped improve symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing and itching.

Butterbur Bonus

As a bonus natural antihistamine option, we bring you butterbur. This marsh plant, which belongs to the daisy family, may be effective at reducing the intensity and frequency of migraine attacks. A 2023 study reported that it may be a safe and effective natural treatment for people with seasonal allergic rhinitis.

SHARE:

The post 5 Natural Antihistamines To Help With Allergies appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

As you prepare to soak up the sun during the upcoming summer season, make sure that you protect your skin from the sun’s rays. You’ve likely seen more sunscreen sprays and lotions available with summer on the horizon. Maybe you looked at a few, but didn’t think it was close enough to summer to splurge on sunscreen. Did you know that traditional sunscreen may pose a threat to your skin and the environment? Natural sunscreen is not only effective, but also great for your skin and environmentally friendly. 

Natural sunscreens use mineral-based ingredients like titanium oxide or zinc oxide to block the sun’s rays. These types of sunscreens contain ingredients that are gentler on the skin. They also provide more moisture without irritating the skin, which means you are less likely to experience a reaction. Chemical-based ingredients, on the other hand, absorb UV rays instead of blocking them. These ingredients have been known to cause skin allergies or irritation in young and sensitive skin. 

Natural sunscreen also provides broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. That means that they have higher sun protection factor (SPF), so you can soak up the sun for longer without needing to reapply every hour. You still have to reapply natural sunscreen for optimum skin safety, though. Let’s take a closer look at some of this recipe’s ingredients below.

Zinc Oxide

This is the mineral of choice when it comes to blocking UVA and UVB sun rays. One study found zinc oxide to be effective against a broad range of solar spectrum in experimental models and outdoor settings. It is the only active ingredient in sunscreen that is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for infants under six months. Most commercial sunscreens that don’t leave a white residue use nano-sized zinc oxide. Unfortunately, one study found that nano-sized zinc oxide absorbs easily into the skin and can cause unknown problems. Nanoparticles of both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide may cause potential photocarcinogenecity, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity. 

Carrier Oils

Not only do carrier oils work to condition the skin and help improve moisture content, but some of them also provide SPF qualities. Great choices include coconut oil, carrot seed oil, mango and cocoa butters, and avocado oil. The SPF value of avocado oil, coconut oil, and olive oil sit around 8, while almond oil sits around 5. Most nonvolatile oils sit between an SPF value of 2 and 8. That means that olive oil and coconut oil have the best SPF values, which is helpful when it comes to selecting carrier oils in the formulation of sunscreens. For this recipe, you will only need coconut oil and shea butter, both of which offer sufficient SPF value.

Natural Sunscreen Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 cup shea butter
• 2 tablespoons beeswax pastilles 
• 2 tablespoons of zinc oxide powder (non nano!)
• 1 tsp cocoa powder (this will vary according to skin tone, but test on your skin at time of blending to adjust if necessary)

Instructions:

• Place a small saucepan filled with a few inches of water over medium low heat. 
• Add the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax pastilles to a heat-safe glass jar and place it in the saucepan on the stove. Leave the jar in the saucepan, stirring occasionally until completely melted. 
• Remove the saucepan from the stove and add the zinc oxide powder and cocoa powder to the jar. Stir to combine, ensuring that there are no powder lumps (30 seconds of stirring should suffice).
• Pour the sunscreen mixture into a glass storage container and allow it to cool at room temperature. Cover when cooled. 
• The sunscreen will maintain firmness as long as you keep it out of direct sunlight and not outside in temperatures that exceed 90º Fahrenheit.

SHARE:

The post Natural Sunscreen That Isn’t Pasty White appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

When you find something that you like, especially a smoothie, it can be hard not to stick to it. That’s how we feel about green smoothies, anyway. Most people struggle to find a green smoothie that they actually enjoy. A green smoothie that is too bitter or tastes like fresh cut grass doesn’t entice your taste buds to return to that flavor. Mix the right fruits with the right greens, though, and you’ll set yourself up for success.

The great thing about this detox smoothie is that it contains many beneficial ingredients that support the body in myriad ways. So as not to bore you, we are going to focus on two standout ingredients that aid the body’s natural detoxification processes: grapefruit and pineapple. Both of these ingredients aid the body in the following ways:

Grapefruit: This citrus fruit exhibits antiseptic properties and acts as a digestive tonic. Many studies have found grapefruit to be highly beneficial for the lymphatic system, as it boosts lymph gland activity. That can help remove lymphatic waste and prevent circulatory issues, allergies, fluid retention, breakouts, and even cellulite.

Pineapple: Pineapple is a great ingredient for your detox smoothie, particularly because it aids digestion and is full of nutrients. One cup of pineapple contains almost 75% of your recommended daily intake of manganese. Pineapples are naturally rich in carotenes, flavonoids, and polyphenols, all of which work to neutralize free radicals and aid the removal of toxins from the liver and bloodstream.

SHARE:

The post Pineapple Grapefruit Detox Smoothie appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

A lot of people welcome the warm weather of spring, while others dread the pollen that also arrives. From one morning to the next, people wake up sneezing, develop runny noses, and have itchy eyes. To avoid these miserable allergy symptoms, many people reach for the allergy medication bottle. There is nothing wrong with allergy medication, but some people may prefer to experiment with natural remedies that don’t cause the same unwanted side effects that accompany certain medications. 

If the immune system reacts to something, which may not bother other people, that indicates an allergic reaction. The most common culprits of allergic reactions include:

• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Insect stings
• Food
• Medications
• Pet dander
• Mold spores

Although everyone many not experience the same allergy symptoms, the most common ones are:

• Sneezing
• Itching
• Rashes
• Swelling
• Asthma
• Runny nose
• Dry eyes

Natural Remedies For Allergies

The best natural remedy for allergies, well, is to avoid allergens at all costs, but this isn’t always possible. Allergens, especially pollen, are difficult to avoid during the spring. If your symptoms to certain allergens are relatively mild, you may be able to fight them off with natural remedies. Experiment with the following remedies to see if they help your spring allergies. 

Clear The Air

Dust, dander, and pollen particles can trigger allergy symptoms, and filtering indoor air may help eliminate them from your home. Your best bet is to look for a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter because it can remove 99.97% of problematic airborne particles. Putting a HEPA filter in your bedroom can make a huge difference, especially if you have allergy attacks at night or early morning. Air conditioning may also help because it removes moisture from indoor air, which eliminates mildew growth. 

Saline Nasal Rinse

According to a 2012 review of studies, saline nasal irrigation benefitted both children and adults with allergic rhinitis, or hay fever. Flushing the sinuses out with a neti pot or squeeze bottle can help wash away pollen, or other allergens, that may cause allergy symptoms. Studies show that a good saline nasal rinse can provide relief from both allergy symptoms and symptoms of the common cold. 

Vitamins And Supplements

A healthy diet helps encourage optimal immune response, but some people require supplementation to meet daily nutritional requirements. That is where dietary supplements, such as vitamins, minerals, and herbs, come into play. These supplements may help limit inflammation that accompanies allergic reactions. According to health experts, the following supplements may encourage better immune function:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin D
• Quercetin
• Stinging nettle (a natural antihistamine)
• Omega-3 fatty acids

Acupuncture

Are you surprised to see acupuncture on this list? Don’t be! Historically, the practice of ancient needling boosted immune function and combatted hay fever. Additionally, a fair amount of research indicates the efficacy of acupuncture for treating symptoms of allergies and sinus disorders. In fact, a 2015 review of studies concluded that acupuncture demonstrated positive results for people with seasonal allergies. 

Use Essential Oils

If you have sinus issues, adding essential oils to a diffuser may help you breathe better, or at least limit the intensity of allergy symptoms. Many people benefit from using eucalyptus oil because it has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Others find frankincense essential oil to provide protection against some allergy symptoms. One study found that frankincense essential oil helped fight against perennial allergic rhinitis. A 1998 study found that inhaling the aroma of peppermint essential oil had enough anti-inflammatory effects to reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma.

SHARE:

The post Fight Spring Allergies With These Natural Remedies appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

From jojoba and argan to coconut and beyond, many oils reportedly improve the skin’s appearance. Which ones are the most effective for improving the overall health and integrity of your skin, though? Whether you want to moisturize, protect, cleanse, or reduce fine lines, face oils may be exactly what your skin has been missing. 

First off, you must understand that each oil is unique and offers its own set of benefits. Additionally, one oil that works for one person may not work for another person. The unique biology of the skin may agree with oils in different ways. What is for certain is that many oils have been researched and reviewed by scientists and beauty experts. In this article, we’ll take a look at five different face oils and how they contribute to flawless-looking skin. 

Grapeseed Oil

Rich in high amounts of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, grapeseed oil works to increase the skin’s moisture levels. It also makes the skin more supple and less prone to cracking, which reduces the risk of wrinkles or fine lines. According to beauty experts, grapeseed oil is one of the best natural oils for facial skin, primarily because it contains proanthocyanidin. This antioxidant helps to even out skin tone and enhances the skin’s ability to bounce back. One study found that oral consumption of grapeseed oil reduced the appearance of melasma, which is characterized by blue-gray or brown patches on the face. 

Olive Oil

It shouldn’t be a surprise that olive oil, although a staple in many kitchens, made the list of beneficial face oils. Olive oil results from a process of pressing olive fruits to extract their oil. It contains vitamins A, D, E, and K, in addition to antioxidants and squalane. Research suggests that olive oil helps to fight free radical damage, slow skin aging, and hydrate dry skin. One animal study involving mice found that olive oil application to their skin yielded lower rates of tumors caused by ultraviolet rays. If you have sensitive skin, however, steer clear of olive oil because it may cause allergies. 

Marula Oil

If you are chasing the fountain of youth and yearn for beautifully radiant skin, marula oil offers impressive anti-aging benefits. Made from the marula trees in South Africa, marula oil can help smooth fine lines and may reduce the appearance of wrinkles. If you have dry facial skin, apply this oil to your face to leave it feeling soft and refreshed. Because marula oil has a high oleic acid content, it helps restore moisture in skin that is on the drier end of the moisture spectrum. The skin quickly absorbs this oil, so you can apply other products after without worrying about a greasy residue. 

Rosehip Oil

Beauty experts consider rosehip oil as one of the top anti-aging oils on the market. It is gentle enough for sensitive skin and is a dry oil, meaning it is fast-absorbing so as not to leave your skin greasy. Instead, applying rosehip oil can help contribute to smoother, softer, and more supple skin. Research shows that rosehip oil encourages cell turnover, so it acts as a natural exfoliant. It is a rich source of vitamin E and essential acids, which work to keep your skin soft and healthy. Rosehip oil may also be effective for eliminating hyperpigmentation, which is usually difficult to get rid of. 

Argan Oil

Harvested from the kernels of the argan tree in Morocco, argan oil is rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamin E, making it an excellent face oil. It helps to protect the skin and absorbs quickly, so you can use it with other skin care products. One of the attracting factors to argan oil is that it is great for all skin types, from very dry to very oily. It may help get rid of acne because it helps reduce inflammation and stays out of your pores. Lastly, argan oil’s antioxidants may help repair the skin and fight the signs of aging.

SHARE:

The post 5 Face Oils For Flawless-Looking Skin appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Ear pain, medically known as otalgia, results from myriad reasons. It can develop because of a problem that directly affects the ear, or it happens in conjunction with another issue. This is what medical experts call “referred pain.” Ear pain can be minor or severe, and occasionally a sign of infection or underlying health issue. 

Health experts recommend that you never ignore ear pain. Figuring out the cause can help you address it with the appropriate treatment. The sooner you treat your ear pain, the sooner that dull or sharp burning sensation in one or both ears can go away. Read on to learn about seven common causes of ear pain.

Sinus Infection

A sinus infection occurs when the sinuses, which are air-filled pockets located behind the forehead and eyebrows, become inflamed. Bacteria can cause sinuses to become inflamed, but so can viruses and fungi. Fluid accumulation in the sinuses is the most common symptom of a sinus infection. This inflammation can block or inflame the Eustachian tube, which can lead to ear pain. Sinus infection may also cause headache, facial pain, runny nose, and congestion.

Ear Infection

Ear infections are most common among children, but anyone at any age can experience them. In children, the Eustachian tube clogs easily, but it should drain fluid made in the middle ear. If blockages occur, fluid builds up and a bacterial or viral infection in the middle ear can develop. Besides general ear pain, ear infection can cause congestion, ear drainage, fever, and other symptoms. Although mild ear infections tend to clear up on their own with home remedies, certain infections require antibiotic treatment. 

Wax Buildup

Believe it or not, the body produces earwax to help keep the ears clean and protected from debris. Too much earwax can lead to buildup that partially or fully blocks the ear canal, which can cause ear pain. In most cases, you can resolve wax buildup at home or with expert-backed methods to flush out excess wax. If you have too much wax or you have difficulty removing it on your own, consult your healthcare provider for more help.

The Common Cold

The common cold can affect the way the Eustachian tube functions. This tube links the back of the nose to the middle ear and it protects, ventilates, and drains the middle ear. If something prevents this tube from doing its job, that is classified as Eustachian tube dysfunction. This typically happens when the tube’s lining becomes inflamed, which can result from the common cold. Besides ear pain that results from a cold, Eustachian tube dysfunction can make your ear feel full, causing you to not hear as well or hear popping sounds.

Allergies

Exposure to dust, pollen, mold, or other allergens can irritate the sinuses, which causes sneezing, runny nose, or itchy eyes. In some cases, fluid may build up in the sinuses and cause inflammation of the Eustachian tube. As you know by now, swelling of the Eustachian tube can lead to ear pressure and general ear pain.

Swimmer’s Ear

Despite the name, this condition doesn’t always result from swimming or water activities. It refers to an infection, irritation, or inflammation of the outer ear and ear canal. More often than not, it’s caused by bacteria from unclean water that gets into the ear. Swimmer’s ear can cause discharge to leak from the ear, but it also can cause ear pain, itchiness, and swelling. Because the infection can spread to other parts of the ear and worsen, contact a healthcare provider to examine this issue as soon as possible. 

Air Pressure Changes

If you drive in mountainous areas, dive underwater, or fly in a plane, you know that your ears pop. Pressure inside the ear is different from the pressure outside, so the ear has to adjust, but it doesn’t always pop the way you’d hope. This is why many people recommend yawning, chewing gum, or swallowing to stabilize the pressure and resolve the pain. If these things do not resolve the issue for several hours, you may need to see a healthcare provider, especially if you develop a fever, ear drainage, or severe ear pain. Untreated cases of ear barotrauma can damage the eardrum and cause hearing loss.

SHARE:

The post 7 Reasons Why Your Ear Hurts appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Depending on where you live, snowfall is well underway. Perhaps you are living your best life in the sunshine with beautiful holiday decorations that replicate a wintery vibe. No matter where you live or how much you decorate, you can take your holidays to the next level with some diffuser blends. Diffusing essential oils that are specific to the holiday season can enhance the spirit of holiday gatherings and activities. Have the room smell like a fresh Christmas tree lot while wrapping presents, for example!

Essential oils that remind you of the holidays typically have woody, citrusy, spicy, and refreshing aromas. Using oils that give off these scents can blend synergistically to your environment, enriching your holiday experience. Additionally, you may find that they brighten your space, elevate your mood, and comfort your soul. Continue reading to learn about some amazing essential oil blends for the holidays. 

Safety First

Using essential oils for parties and entertaining is great, but there are a few safety rules to take note of prior to using them. Keep the following in mind, particularly when it comes to diffusing essential oils in public gatherings:

• Inhaling essential oils can be harmful for certain groups and animals. Some of these groups include babies (especially six months or younger), children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, pets, and people with allergies or hypertension. 
• If your guest list includes anyone from the previously mentioned groups, it’s better not to diffuse essential oils at your event. 
• If you are diffusing essential oils, make sure that they are 100% pure varieties. You don’t want to skimp on essential oils because they may contain artificial fragrances, which can harm your health. 
• If you use an electric diffuser, only run the diffuser for little increments of time. Consider diffusing an hour before people arrive and then plug it in again after a couple hours. That will keep the aroma subtle and not overpowering. 
• Don’t diffuse in the kitchen or around food, snacks, and drinks. 

Choosing The Right Essential Oils For The Holidays

Pairing essential oils to put in a diffuser is not specific to the holiday season. This is a year-round practice that you can do, but certain essential oils evoke a festive, merry atmosphere. Pine, cedarwood, spruce, fir, cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg essential oils have different aromas reminiscent of different parts of the holiday season. Spruce and fir essential oils give off woody aromas, while clove and nutmeg essential oils give off aromas that smell like snickerdoodle or gingerbread cookies.

Citrus essential oils are also very popular to use during the holidays because citrus fruits are in season. Sweet orange and lemon essential oils offer a festive, bright balance to diffuser blends. You can also incorporate the cool, frosty scents of peppermint and eucalyptus essential oils. Last, but most certainly not least, you have the two holiday classics: frankincense and myrrh essential oils. Learn how to use all of these in the following diffuser blends. 

Candy Cane Celebration

A scrumptious blend of winter wonderland is exactly what this blend is! Think of powdery snow and the smell of the classic holiday candy. 

Ingredients:

• 2 drops wintergreen essential oil
• 3 drops peppermint essential oil
• 2 drops cinnamon essential oil

Winter Spice Blend

Do the scents of these essential oils embody the holiday season? That’s up to you to decide! This blend enriches your space whether you put up decorations or not. It truly is the perfect blend for sipping cocoa with loved ones, decorating the tree with kids, or doing any holiday activity at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 drop ginger essential oil
• 1 drop silver fir essential oil
• 3 drops bergamot essential oil
• 1 drop cassia essential oil

Cleansing Holiday Blend

Highlighted by the sweetness of patchouli essential oil, this blend exhibits floral and woody notes. It has a light, pleasant, and cleansing aroma that refreshes your space during the holidays. 

Ingredients:

• 4 drops patchouli essential oil
• 3 drops lavender essential oil
• 1 drop cinnamon bark essential oil

Wiseman’s Blend

Get into the classic Christmas spirit with this warming blending of frankincense and myrrh essential oils. Consider adding two drops of sweet orange essential oil to this blend in order to add a bright citrusy note. 

Ingredients:

• 3 drops frankincense essential oil
• 3 drops myrrh essential oil

Spiced Cider Blend

A warm, apple-infused drink with the perfect amount of sugar and spice is perfect for the holiday season. If you love the aroma of spiced cider but don’t enjoy the flavor, this is the blend for you. It has the quintessential cider notes because it calls for ginger, sweet orange, and cinnamon essential oils.

Ingredients:

• 3 drops ginger essential oil
• 3 drops sweet orange essential oil
• 1 drop cinnamon essential oil

Gingerbread House Blend

Would the holidays be complete without a trademark gingerbread house? Instead of making a mess with gingerbread, icing, and candy, diffuse this blend of earthy aromas to indulge your senses.

Ingredients:

• 2 drops ginger essential oil
• 1 drop clove essential oil
• 1 drop cardamom essential oil
• 2 drops cinnamon essential oil

SHARE:

The post The Best Essential Oil Diffuser Blends For The Holidays appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.