nail care Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Witch Hazel Uses for Skin, Hair & More

The AHA! Team — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 08:41:04 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Today, we have hundreds of different beauty products available to us — acne washes, toners, scrubs, etc. — but what did people use thousands of years ago before commercial chemicals existed to help heal their skin? When it comes to natural skin care, one time-honored medicinal plant is witch hazel, which Native Americans relied on for fighting swelling, sores and infections. There may be no plant more beneficial to your skin, as research showcases the many advantages witch hazel provides. What is witch hazel good for? Thanks to its astringent properties, it’s one of the most effective natural acne treatments known to man — and it’s even been shown to help protect against skin cancer. Other benefits include naturally reducing blisters, insect bites, poison ivy, inflammation, hemorrhoids, toothaches and much more. So if you’re looking for cleaner, healthier skin with the help from a natural product, look no further than witch hazel. What Is Witch Hazel? The witch hazel plant (which has the species name Hamamelis virginiana) is a type of plant native to North America and a member of the Hamamelidaceae plant family. Sometimes also called winterbloom, the bark and leaves of the witch hazel plant are used to make a skin-healing astringent. Does witch hazel kill germs? Yes, this multi-purpose product has many uses, including killing bacteria that can live within skin’s pores. The most popular use is for skin care, since its strong antioxidant and astringent properties can keep acne, wrinkles and more at bay. It can also help stop cellular damage that can lead to skin cancer, while preventing signs of aging and speeding up healing. When it comes to the products that you apply directly to your skin, you always want to treat the surface of your body how you would the inside: Avoid as many chemicals and toxins as possible. Witch hazel offers benefits over other beauty products because it’s completely natural and free of environmental pollutants, irritating ingredients, fake fragrances and other contaminants. How Witch Hazel Works How can witch hazel do so much? High levels of healing active ingredients reduce inflammation, cellular damage and swelling, while also soothing wounds. The bark, twigs and leaves of the plant are used to extract active constituents called polyphenols and tannins. They’re then added to either alcohol or water to make a concentrated product called witch hazel water, Hamamelis water or distilled witch hazel extract. Tannins are responsible for making witch hazel extract a natural astringent, since they remove excess oil from skin. This is the reason why witch hazel is one of the most popular natural acne treatments worldwide and is used in dozens of over-the-counter treatment gels, washes and lotions. Studies also show that tannins from witch hazel can be used to make plant-based antivirals, such as to fight the flu and other illnesses. In addition to tannins, witch hazel is high in compounds called “gallate esters,” which include proanthocyanidins that have antiviral effects, hydrolyzable tannins (galloylated sugars) and methyl gallate. Witch hazel extract is considered to be polyphenolic and has been shown to help inhibit cell proliferation in cancerous human cells. Studies show that it is capable of stopping mutated cell cycles and inducing apoptosis (death of dangerous cells). Because witch hazel is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it’s effective as a “free radical scavenger.” This means it helps protect against DNA damage and tumor growth. Oxidative stress and free radical damage build up over time from exposure to things like UV light, pollution, a poor diet, stress and so on. Plants like witch hazel that are high in polyphenols are the same kind used to create anti-aging nutritional supplements that slow down disease development by protecting cells. Uses Witch hazel has been used for centuries to naturally help treat and prevent: acne skin sores bruises redness and swelling ingrown hairs psoriasis or eczema oily skin excess sweating varicose veins cracked or blistered skin insect bites poison ivy irritated scalp sunburn and melanoma razor burn (such as in a DIY aftershave) mucous membrane inflammation hemorrhoids allergic reactions Recent studies even show that the tannins found in witch hazel may exert a protective action against colon cancer cells. The skin is our largest and most vulnerable organ, so it could use all the support it can get. Skin is our natural barrier to the outside world and provides us with protection against UV radiation, chemicals in our food supply, bacteria and other germs, and environmental pollutants. All of the “stress” that our bodies deal with every day, both internally and externally, show up on our skin in the form of aging, puffiness, infections, inflammation and sensitivities. That’s why we rely on eating and using natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatories to help curb inflamed and diseased cells. Herbal plant therapies for skin disorders have been used for thousands of years, and today many traditional herbs are being reintroduced, studied extensively and experiencing a resurgence in popularity since many chemical treatments don’t always work or have harsh side effects. Benefits 1. Reduces Acne What does witch hazel do for acne? As a natural home remedy for acne, applying witch hazel to acne-prone skin can help slow down bacteria growth and decrease inflammation, redness, oiliness and bleeding. Can you clean your face with witch hazel? Yes, since it’s a natural cleanser, it’s capable of reducing bacteria growth on the skin and speeds up the time needed to heal infections or scabs. Another benefit for sensitive skin is that it reduces the look of pores (although no product can actually shrink pores) and helps stop excess oil production, sweating, and development of blackheads or whiteheads, which can contribute to breakouts and tempt you to pick at your skin. You can skip irritating acne products and turn to witch hazel to lower the severity of blemishes forming under the skin and prevent blackheads caused by dried sebum buildup in pores. How long does witch hazel take to clear acne? It depends on how severe someone’s acne is. It may take effect in just several days or take several weeks. Does witch hazel get rid of acne scars? It can help, due to its anti inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Applying some can help stop swelling and redness if you already picked at your acne. It can also curb signs of past irritations and deal with skin infections that may result from picking. 2. Fights Signs of Aging and Damage from Sun Exposure What does witch hazel do to your face? Does witch hazel fade dark spots? Can it tighten skin? If you’re looking for a natural way to firm up your skin and slow down signs of aging like scars, redness, discoloration, dryness and puffiness around the eyes, then look no further than witch hazel. It tightens skin and is protective against skin cancer, melanoma and other damage caused by UV light because of its protective polyphenols and tannin antioxidants. These inhibit the proliferation of melanoma cells and help protect healthy skin cells into older age. Use it to keep your skin free from irritating chemical products that can alter oil production and increase dryness. Witch hazel has been shown to help protect collagen and skin elasticity just as well as many commercial beauty products. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it a great way to preserve skin’s elasticity, saving your complexion and helping you deal with the effects of environmental stress on your skin. And because using witch hazel for your pores helps them look smaller, this can make your skin appear more even. 3. Treats Insect Bites Many bug repellents, DIY bug sprays and commercial products used for treating insect bites contain witch hazel. Wondering how to get rid of mosquito bites? People turn to witch hazel to reduce the effects of bug bites, such as pain and swelling from stings, allergies and irritations. Certain studies have found that applying witch hazel cream to skin irritations can curb symptoms just as well as synthetic chemical creams, including dexpanthenol, which is often used to fight skin irritations in children. It can also be used to help speed up healing scabs or minor cuts because witch hazel extract contains isopropyl alcohol, which is another natural disinfecting ingredient that kills bacteria and helps prevent infections. 4. Cleanses Hair and Protect the Scalp To get rid of greasy hair, use witch hazel on your hair to help reduce oil buildup. This leaves your hair shinier, healthier and more volumized. It’s also great for removing hair odors, helping with an irritated scalp, or speeding up healing from any bites or acne at the base of the neck when you’re prone to sweating. One study conducted by the Center for Dermatology and Disease in Zurich, Switzerland, found that shampoo containing witch hazel extract helped soothe patients’ irritated scalps, redness, itching and inflammation. After testing the effects of witch hazel on 1,373 patients, a percentage of patients reported improvement in symptoms and better tolerance of other hair products. 5. Prevents Ingrown Hairs and Rashes After shaving, you can apply witch hazel to any part of the body to slow bleeding from nicks or cuts, prevent bacteria growth and infections within hair follicles, soothe razor burn, and prevent ingrown hairs from forming. Some people also like to use the toner along with other healing essential oils on skin after waxing to reduce pain, swelling and bleeding. 6. Stops Ear Infections from Developing Since witch hazel is an effective antibacterial, and “swimmer’s ear” or other ear infections are usually caused by bacterial infections, it’s a natural way to treat irritations within the ear canal. Witch hazel helps clear up bacteria overgrowth and infections within the ear; dry up oil, pus and excess sweat; break up wax; and even remove odor. To clean the outside of the ears, apply several drops to a swab and rub around the inside of the ears. 7. Soothes a Sore Throat Some people like sipping on witch hazel tea (not witch hazel water or a drink made with extract, which contains isopropyl alcohol) to soothe an irritated, infected or sore throat. The natural astringent properties make it beneficial for fighting illnesses that affect the throat, while its soothing properties lower pain and discomfort caused by coughs, strep throat, sore throat, sinus infections, tonsillitis or other throat problems. 8. Stops Pet Odor and Bug Bites Witch hazel can stop excess bacteria from forming on the surface of your pet’s skin, including in wounds or bites, which can lead to odor. It is non-irritating to pets, helps prevent them from getting bug bites by repelling mosquitoes and other insects, can slow down itching or bleeding, and helps cleanse their skin. 9. Treats Hemorrhoids Witch hazel also performs as a hemorrhoids home remedy. You can apply witch hazel water to the skin to help lower pain and inflammation caused by uncomfortable hemorrhoids. It’s useful for relieving itching, irritation, bleeding and burning from hemorrhoids as well. 10. Protects Your Mouth, Lips and Gums If you have blisters on your lips, inner cheeks or gums, turn to witch hazel to speed healing and get rid of pain and swelling. It’s safe to apply the extract to the inside of your mouth to slow down bleeding, blisters, sores, bad breath odors and infections of the gums, especially when combined with other healing oils like coconut oil or peppermint oil. Witch hazel also helps relieve pain from toothaches or teething in infants, prevent infection after oral surgery, and fight bleeding and inflammation from mouth sores. How to Use Look for witch hazel in pharmacies, health food stores, stores that sell beauty products or online. Extract derived from the witch hazel plant can be used topically (on the surface of the skin) or taken internally just like medicine. Depending on how you use witch hazel, it can help stop manage skin conditions like acne and skin redness or other types of issues like diarrhea, colds, mucus colitis, vomiting, coughing, the flu and more. The most...

The post Witch Hazel Uses for Skin, Hair & More appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Fingernail Health Clues to Internal Health. What Do Yours Say?

The AHA! Team — Mon, 13 May 2024 08:03:35 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Is it possible that your fingernails hold the secrets to your health? Can they show you nutrition deficiencies, underlying systemic issues, injuries, or toxic loads from medications? Amazingly, they hold clues into the mysteries that make up your overall health. While your fingernail health is not a stand-alone diagnostic tool, it can help you recognize potential issues that can be further investigated. What do your nails say about your overall health? Find out today! What Fingernail Health Says About Your Overall Health 1. Soft or Weak Nails Soft or weak nails often bend before snapping. Like brittle nails, soft nails may be a fingernail health sign that points to overexposure to moisture or chemicals like detergent, cleaning fluids, nail treatments, and nail polish remover. However, weak nail may also be associated with a deficiency in B vitamins, calcium, iron, or fatty acids. Other signs of vitamin B deficiency include pins and needles tingling in hands and/or feet, fatigue, pale skin, fast heart rate, mouth pain or swelling, red smooth tongue, and/or depressed moods or mental health changes (1, 2, 3). How can you improve fingernail health when they are soft and weak? Reduce the amount of chemical exposure to your nails. Give your nails a break from polish and/or remover. If other sign point to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, try to increase your intake. 2. Pitted Nails When you look at your nails, do you see evidence of pitting? Nail pits are small round depressions or notches appear in the nails. Nail pitting is common in those with skin conditions including psoriasis and eczema. It can coexist with psoriatic arthritis, or may be related to alopecia areata — an autoimmune disease that causes hair loss (4). How can you improve fingernail health if you see nail pitting? If you see nail pitting, it’s worthwhile to talk to your medical provider. Often, this is associated with inflammation or disorders of other connective tissue including skin and joints. You may talk about ways to decrease overall inflammation while supporting connective tissue health. 3. Peeling Fingernails Peeling fingernails can be tricky. It is often due to external trauma. However, it can also be caused by having a low iron status internally. So, which is it for you? One way to figure it out is to look at your toenails. If they are peeling as well, it’s more likely to be an internal, possibly iron, issue. Other iron deficiency symptoms include unexplained fatigue, dark undereye circles, spooned nails (see below), heavy, rather than springy, legs when you walk or run, or newly formed paleness. Iron-deficiency can be assessed and diagnosed with laboratory tests including serum ferritin (5). How can you improve fingernail health when they are peeling? If caused by external trauma, refrain from using your fingernails as a tool, pressing into the nail too firmly, or using acrylic polish on nails. If caused by iron deficiency, talk to your medical provider about testing serum ferritin levels and/or adding iron-rich foods or supplements. 4. Brittle Nails If your fingernails are rough or splitting, you may have what’s called onychoschizia. It’s actually quite common. Typically, it does NOT point to an internal health problem, but a drying out due to repeatedly wetting and drying your hands and nails, such as when washing hands, doing dishes, etc. How can you improve fingernail health when they are brittle? Try using hydrating lotions on your hands and nails to protect them from wetting and drying. Consider wearing gloves while washing dishes or doing other water-heavy tasks. 5. Fingernail Ridges Do you have thin vertical ridges that run from the tip of your fingernail down to your cuticle? If so, don’t fret, these are usually not a cause for concern or an indication of a health issue. If you have horizontal ridges, it may or may not be an indication of a health condition or a side-affect of treatment. For example, this horizontal grooves, call Beau’s lines, are often caused by chemotherapy and show up across all 20 nails in accordance delivery of the medication. In addition, Beau’s lines have been associated with systemic issues such as measles, mumps, malaria, typhoid fever, scarlet fever and hand-foot-mouth disease – in these cases people are typically diagnosed with the issue and then notice the ridges (6). How can you improve fingernail health when you notice ridges? If you notice vertical ridges, you can ignore them or gently buff the surface of your nail with a fingernail buffer to smooth them. If you notice horizontal lines, you may attribute it to a known medication or medical issue, or you can see a healthcare professional to find the underlying cause. 6. Thick Yellow Nails Yellow nails are actually relatively common. They can be caused by an infection or a reaction to a product, such as nail polish. Yellow, thick nails are a different issue. If you notice your fingernails or toe nail are thick, peeling, and discolored, it could be a nail fungal infection, known as Onychomycosis (7). In rare cases, yellow nails can indicate a thyroid condition, skin conditions, or blood sugar abnormalities. How can you improve fingernail health when they are yellowing and/or thick? Suspect a nail product as the culprit? Discontinue use and monitor changes. If not thickening, but also not due to a product, talk to your medical professional about potential causes. If your nails are thickening and yellowing, talk to your medical professional about possible fungal infection and treatment. 7. Black Lines on Nails Black lines on nails are also called a splinter hemorrhage. These black lines, which can appear brown or dark red, may look like splinters, and there may be more than one. Typically, these black lines are caused by trauma to the nail. As the nail grows out, they should disappear if due to injury. When they don’t and in rare cases, the lines could be a sign of an underlying issue, including skin, heart, or nail cell issues (8). How can you improve fingernail health if you see black lines on them? If form trauma, give it time. The lines should disappear as your nail grows out. If there’s no change over a few weeks, talk to your healthcare professional and monitor any other symptoms, such as inflamed skin, night sweats, or bleeding in the nail. 8. Nails with White Spots If you see scattered white spots on your nails, it can be a sign of zinc deficiency. It may also be an allergic reaction to a product, fungal infection (see thick yellow nails), or injury to the nail. Other signs of zinc deficiency include unexplained weight loss, wounds that won’t heal, lack of alertness, decreased sense of smell and taste, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and/or open sores on the skin. How can you improve fingernail health if you see white spots? First, give your nails a break from polish or other products and allow the nail to grow. If the spots remain or reappear, or you have other signs of low zinc status, talk your healthcare professional about possible zinc deficiency and supplementation. 9. Spooned Nails Spoon nails are soft nails turned up around the edges, creating “spoons.” This condition also is called koilonychia and are often are a symptom of iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia can be caused by inadequate iron intake or absorption, bleeding, gastrointestinal disorders, and more. As mentioned above, other iron deficiency symptoms include unexplained fatigue, dark undereye circles, peeling nails (see above), heavy, rather than springy, legs when you walk or run, or newly formed paleness. Iron-deficiency can be assessed and diagnosed with laboratory tests including serum ferritin (9). How can you improve spooned fingernail health? Since this is often caused by iron deficiency, talk to your medical provider about testing serum ferritin levels and/or adding iron-rich foods or supplements. General Recommendations to Take Care of Fingernail Health Fingernails are an epithelial skin appendage. They are made of a hardened nail plate surrounded by specialized epithelial surfaces. The nail plate (the portion of the nail you see on top) is formed of keratinised epithelial cells. Fingernails are incredibly dynamic and grows distally at a rate of over 3 millimeters per month! As described above, fingernails can display signs of connective tissue health, nutrient deficiencies, and systemic issues. It stands to reason then, to support connective tissue health and adequate nutrient intake. From there, if your fingernails still show abnormalities, you may find evidence of other underlying or systemic conditions. To take care of fingernail health in terms of connective tissue support, reduce inflammation, and adequate nutrient intake, consider adding: Collagen Powder (supports connective tissue) A Food-Based Multivitamin/Multimineral Anti-Inflammatory Foods and Supplements Strategies to Increase Needed Minerals and Glutathione In addition, consider giving your nails regular breaks from harsh polishes, glues, and other chemical agents that may harm them. Bottom Line Your fingernail health may hold clues to your internal health. While they are not a stand-alone diagnostic tool, they can be the first indication of an issue. Take care of your fingernails and monitor any signs or symptoms of abnormalities. What are your fingernails telling you? To read the original article click here.

The post Fingernail Health Clues to Internal Health. What Do Yours Say? appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

DIY Cuticle Cream with Lavender & Myrrh

AHA Publisher — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 08:00:45 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN – Getting a manicure is a great way to keep your fingernails in shape, but have you thought about your cuticles and why they are important? Cuticles keep dirt and bacteria out of the body. If the cuticle does not exist or has been cut away, it leaves the body vulnerable to infection and nail fungus because dirt and bacteria can get underneath the skin in that area. So the cuticle actually protects you! What is the best way to care for your cuticles? The right combination of vitamins and minerals, in a cuticle cream or cuticle butter, provides nutrients to the cuticle. Cutting the cuticles will only lead to problems such as ridges and white spots on the nails, in addition to a possible entryway for bacteria. The cuticles are intended to protect while being soft. By using essential oils combined with a few other amazing ingredients, you can make your own DIY cuticle butter that moisturizes and softens the cuticles, literally at your fingertips! And this combined with my DIY moisturizer for dry skin can offer amazing results for soft, attractive hands. How to Make Cuticle Cream To make your own cuticle cream, start by filling about one-third of a small saucepan with water. Bring the water to a boil. Now, combine the shea butter, beeswax and coconut oil into a mason jar or heat safe glass container, and place it in the pan. As these ingredients melt, blend them together with a spoon or whisk. Shea butter is a favorite of mine because it is loaded with stearic and oleic acids as well as vitamin E and vitamin A. It boosts collagen, too, which is a major benefit to the skin and its youthful appearance. Beeswax falls right in line with shea butter, adding amazing moisturizing benefits because it’s also rich in vitamin A. As an emollient, it softens and hydrates the skin while maintaining healthy cellular structure. And, of course, coconut oil adds benefits to this easy-to-make cuticle saver by offering antibacterial and moisturizing properties. It also contains lots of antioxidants. Now, remove from heat and allow it to cool. Add the vitamin E, lavender, lemon and myrrh essential oils. We know vitamin E is great for the health of your skin. Even though vitamin E is found in the shea butter and beeswax, adding a little more can provide some added benefits. Vitamin E helps strengthen the cuticles. Plus, it adds moisture and elasticity, which is helpful for keeping them soft. Additionally, it is a natural anti-aging nutrient that reduces inflammation. What’s better is when you combine vitamin E with vitamin C found in lemon essential oil, it gains the ability to fight even more inflammation. Lavender essential oil is not only relaxing, but it is also a very healing ingredient for the skin due to its antimicrobial and antioxidant characteristics. And myrrh is favored among essential oils for healthy skin and cuticles because it is great at preventing fungal infection. Tea tree essential oil is another great option to prevent and/or heal nail fungus. Once you have blended all of the ingredients well, transfer to a small container or jar and let the mixture solidify … into a butter or dense cream. To use, make sure to wash your hands well before dipping into the container. Or, use a wooden stick, spoon or knife to scoop out the cream so that you do not contaminate it with bacteria since we do not add preservatives. Place in the palm on your hand to use your natural body heat to begin softening the cuticle balm. Using your finger, massage a small amount onto and around the cuticle area. Allow it to sit for 10–15 minutes. Or simply massage it in, using it as a moisturizer for the entire hand. You can apply the cuticle cream daily. This recipe will last several months, so you can store it in your bathroom cabinet. DIY Cuticle Cream Recipe By using essential oils combined with a few other amazing ingredients, you can make your own DIY cuticle butter that moisturizes and softens the cuticles. INGREDIENTS 1 tablespoon organic beeswax 1 ½ tablespoons organic raw shea butter ½ teaspoon organic coconut oil 3 drops vitamin E oil 3 drops lemon essential oil 8 drops lavender essential oil 3 drops of myrrh essential oil 3 drops tea tree essential oil (optional) INSTRUCTIONS Fill about one-third of a small saucepan with water. Bring the water to a boil. Combine the shea butter, beeswax and coconut oil into a mason jar or heat-safe glass container. Place the jar in the pan. Blend ingredients together with a spoon. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Add the vitamin E, lavender, lemon and myrrh essential oils. Mix well. Transfer to a small container or jar and let it cool to room temperature. NOTES To use, use a small wooden stick or a spoon and place a small amount on your palm to help soften the balm. Take a finger and massage a small amount of the cream onto and around the cuticle area. Allow it to sit for 10–15 minutes. To read the original article click here.

The post DIY Cuticle Cream with Lavender & Myrrh appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.