Science shows these herbal power-healers can help ease pain, prevent Alzheimer's, and ward off cancer and heart disease
"Herbs and other natural remedies can be as effective as traditional treatments, often without the same negative side effects," says Roberta Lee, MD, medical director of the Continuum Center for Health and Healing at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City. Here are 10 superhealers you'll want to add to the all-natural section of your medicine cabinet—and even to your favorite recipes. Folding one or two of them into your cooking every day can yield big benefits. Turmeric: Ease arthritis A heaping helping of curry could relieve your pain. That's because turmeric, a spice used in curry, contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory that works similarly to Cox-2 inhibitors, drugs that reduce the Cox-2 enzyme that causes the pain and swelling of arthritis, says Lee. It might also: Prevent colon cancer and Alzheimer's disease.According to a small clinical trial conducted by the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, curcumin can help shrink precancerous lesions known as colon polyps, when taken with a small amount of quercetin, a powerful antioxidant found in onions, apples, and cabbage. The average number of polyps dropped more than 60% and those that remained shrank by more than 50%. In a 2006 study published in theJournal of Alzheimer's Disease, researchers at UCLA also found that curcumin helps clear the brain of the plaques that are characteristic of the disease. Maximize the benefits: For general health, Lee recommends adding the spice to your cooking whenever possible. For a therapeutic dose, James A. Duke, PhD, author of The Green Pharmacy, suggests 400 mg of curcumin extract three times daily, right in line with what subjects in the colon polyp study took (480 mg of curcumin and 20 mg of quercetin, three times a day). Cinnamon: Lower blood sugar In a recent German study of type 2 diabetics, taking cinnamon extract daily successfully reduced blood sugar by about 10%. It might also: Lower cholesterol. Cinnamon packs a one-two punch for people with type 2 diabetes by reducing related heart risks. In another study of diabetics, it slashed cholesterol by 13% and triglycerides by 23%. Maximize the benefits: To tame blood sugar, study subjects took 1 g capsules of standardized cinnamon extract daily, while those in the cholesterol study took 1 to 6 g. But keep in mind that a large amount of the actual spice can be dangerous, so stick with a water-soluble extract. Terry Graedon, PhD, coauthor with her husband, Joe, of Best Choices from the People's Pharmacy, recommends the brand Cinnulin PF. Rosemary: Avoid carcinogens Frying, broiling, or grilling meats at high temperatures creates HCAs (heterocyclic amines), potent carcinogens implicated in several cancers. But HCA levels are significantly reduced when rosemary extract (a common powder) is mixed into beef before cooking, say Kansas State University researchers. "Rosemary contains carnosol and rosemarinic acid, two powerful antioxidants that destroy the HCAs," explains lead researcher J. Scott Smith, PhD. It might also: Stop tumors. Rosemary extract helps prevent carcinogens that enter the body from binding with DNA, the first step in tumor formation, according to several animal studies. When researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign fed rosemary extract to rats exposed to dimethylbenzanthracene, a carcinogen that causes breast cancer, both DNA damage and tumors decreased. "Human research needs to be done," says study author Keith W. Singletary, PhD. "But rosemary has shown a lot of cancer-protective potential." Maximize the benefits: To reduce HCAs, Smith recommends marinating foods in any supermarket spice mix that contains rosemary as well as one or more of the spices thyme, oregano, basil, garlic, onion, or parsley. Ginger: Avert nausea Ginger can prevent stomach upset from many sources, including pregnancy, motion sickness, and chemotherapy. "This is one of Mom's remedies that really works," says Suzanna M. Zick, ND, MPH, a research investigator at the University of Michigan. A powerful antioxidant, ginger works by blocking the effects of serotonin, a chemical produced by both the brain and stomach when you're nauseated, and by stopping the production of free radicals, another cause of upset in your stomach. In one study of cruise ship passengers traveling on rough seas, 500 mg of ginger every 4 hours was as effective as Dramamine, the commonly used OTC motion-sickness medication. In another study, where subjects took 940 mg, it was even more effective than the drug. MORE: The Smoothie Cure For Gas And Bloating It might also: Decrease your blood pressure, arthritis pain, and cancer risk. Ginger helps regulate blood flow, which may lower blood pressure, says Zick, and its anti-inflammatory properties might help ease arthritis. Ginger extract had a significant effect on reducing pain in all 124 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, in a study conducted at the Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center and the University of Miami. Those same anti-inflammatory powers help powdered ginger kill ovarian cancer cells as well as—or better than—traditional chemotherapy, at least in the test tube, found a study by the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center. Although further testing is needed, Zick and the study's authors are excited about its prospects: "Our preliminary results indicate that ginger may have significant therapeutic benefit forovarian cancer patients." Maximize the benefits: For nausea, ginger is best taken before symptoms start, at least 30 minutes before departure, say the Graedons. They recommend capsules containing 500 to 1,000 mg of dried ginger every four hours, up to a maximum of 4g daily. Holy Basil: Combat stress Several animal studies back holy basil, a special variety of the plant you use in your pesto sauce, as effective at reducing stress by increasing adrenaline and noradrenaline and decreasing serotonin. This is no surprise to Pratima Nangia-Makker, PhD, a researcher at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit, whose mother and grandmother relied on a tea made from the leaves of holy basil to relieve indigestion and headaches. It might also: Inhibit breast cancer. First in test tubes and then in mice, a tea made of holy basil shrunk tumors, reduced their blood supply, and stopped their spread, found Nangia-Makker, who plans to study the effects in humans. Maximize the benefits: For stress relief, try holy basil extract from New Chapter or Om Organics, widely available in health food stores. To aid in breast cancer treatment, Nangia-Makker advises drinking this tea daily: Pour 2 cups boiling water over 10 to 15 fresh holy basil leaves (other varieties of basil won't work) and steep 5 minutes. Remove the leaves before consuming. If you are being treated for breast cancer, be sure to check with your doctor. You're unlikely to find the plants at your local nursery, but you can order them and organic holy basil seeds fromHorizon Herbs. St. John's Wort: Soothe your worries You probably know that research has confirmed this herb's power to relieve mild to moderate depression and anxiety as effectively as many drugs—without a lot of the side effects. It might also: Help you snooze more soundly. St. John's wort not only contains melatonin, the hormone that regulates our sleep-wake cycles, but it also increases the body's own melatonin, improving sleep, says a report from the Surgeon General. (These 20 ways to sleep better every night can also help.) Maximize the benefits: For both mood and sleep problems, author Duke recommends a supplement containing at least 0.3% hypericin (the active phytochemical) per capsule or 300 mg of the extract to be taken three times daily. Warning: St. John's wort has been shown to interact with several prescription medications, so be sure to check with your doctor before taking it. Garlic: Lower cancer risk High consumption of garlic lowered rates of ovarian, colorectal, and other cancers, says a research review in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. A Japanese clinical trial also found that after a year of taking aged garlic extract supplements, people with a history of colon polyps saw a reduction in the size and number of the precancerous growths detected by their doctors. It might also: Provide cardiovascular benefits. Garlic contains more than 70 active phytochemicals, including allicin, which many studies have shown decreases high blood pressure by as much as 30 points. Garlic may help prevent strokes as well by slowing arterial blockages, according to a yearlong clinical study at UCLA. In addition, patients' levels of homocysteine, a chemical that leads to plaque buildup, dropped by 12%. Maximize the benefits: Crushed fresh garlic offers the best cardiovascular and cancer-fighting benefits, says Duke. But you'll need to down up to five cloves each day. Try Kyolic aged garlic extract capsules (1,000 mg), the product used in many of the studies. Ashwagandha(Withania somnifera)
Uses: Rejuvenating tonic, anti-inflammatory, reduces anxiety, boosts immune health Preparation and doses: Tea: Simmer 1 tsp dried and sliced root in 1 cup water or milk for 10 minutes. Strain. Drink 1 or 2 times per day. Standardized Extract (2–5% withanolides): Take 500 mg 2 or 3 times per day. Concerns: Can cause milk sedation; potential to stimulate thyroid hormones Black Cohosh 3/26 STEVEN FOSTER Black Cohosh(Actaea racemosa) Uses: Relieves menstrual cramps and arthritic pain; commonly used to ease menopausal symptoms Preparation and doses: Tincture: Take 1–2 ml 3 times per day. Standardized extract: Take 20–80 mg 2 times per day. Concerns: Very rare case reports of liver damage (likely due to misidentified herb); purchase only from reputable supplier Calendula 4/26 STEVEN FOSTER Calendula(Calendula officinalis) Uses: Calendula has long been used to relieve inflammation of the mouth, throat, and stomach; popular as a topical cream or ointment to relieve rashes and irritation and to help heal wounds. Preparation and doses: Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 2 tsp petals. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain. Use as needed as a mouthwash, gargle, or tea. Ointment: Apply to skin 2 or 3 times per day as needed. Concerns: None known Catnip 5/26 STEVEN FOSTER Catnip(Nepeta cataria) Uses: Soothes an upset stomach; reduced anxiety and tension Preparation and doses: Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 4 or 5 fresh or 1 tsp dried leaves. Steep for 5 minutes. Strain and sweeten, if desired. Drink 1 or 2 times per day. Concerns: None known Chasteberry 6/26 STEVEN FOSTER Chasteberry(Vitex agnus-castus) Uses: Premiere herb for relieving PMS symptoms Preparation and doses: Capsules: Take 250–500 mg dried fruit once per day. Tincture: Take 2–3 ml each morning. Concerns: None known Cranberry 7/26 STEVEN FOSTER Cranberry(Vaccinium macrocarpon) Uses: Well-established treatment for reducing the risk of bladder infection; could also be beneficial for chronic prostatitis Preparation and doses: Juice: Drink ½-¾ cup twice per day. Capsules: Take 300–500 mg concentrated juice extract 2 times per day. Concerns: None known Echinacea 8/26 STEVEN FOSTER Echinacea(Echinacea spp.) Uses: Antiviral and immune-enhancing properties; popular for relieving colds and upper respiratory infections (approved in Europe for these uses) Preparation and doses: Tea: Simmer 1 tsp dried and sliced root in 1 cup water for 10 minutes. Strain. Drink 1-3 cups per day. Tincture: Take 5 ml 3-6 times per day at onset of cold symptoms. Concerns: Rare allergic reactions More from Prevention: 16 Doctor-Approved Home Remedies Elderberry 9/26 STEVEN FOSTER Elderberry(Sambucus nigra, S. canadensis) Uses: Elderberry flowers have been valued as a remedy for colds and fever for centuries; fruit extracts have been shown to have significant antiviral activity, especially against the flu. Preparation and doses: Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1–2 tsp flowers. Steep for 10 minutes. Sweeten if desired and drink hot 2-3 times per day. Berry extracts: Use as directed. Concerns: None known Garlic 10/26 STEVEN FOSTER Garlic(Allium sativum) Uses: Potent antimicrobial; often used to combat colds, ease sinus congestion, and stave off traveler's diarrhea. Studies show that regular use can help gently lower blood pressure. Preparation and doses: Eat: Eat 1–2 cloves fresh daily. Capsules: Take 4–8 mg allicin per day; enteric-coated products may be superior if specifically treating diarrhea. Concerns: May interact with warfarin Ginger 11/26 STEVEN FOSTER Ginger(Zingiber officinale) Uses: Premiere remedy for easing nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach; fresh teas relieve cold and flu symptoms. Preparation and doses: Tea: Steep ¼–½ tsp dried ginger or simmer 1 tsp fresh ginger root in 1 cup hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and sweeten, if desired. Drink 1–2 cups per day. Capsules: Take 250–500 mg 2 times per day. Concerns: Very safe in small amounts; heartburn and stomach upset can occur with high doses. Pregnant women should not take more than 1,500 mg per day of dried ginger. Ginseng 12/26 STEVEN FOSTER Ginseng(Panax quinquefolius; P. ginseng) Uses: Helps relieve and prevent mental and physical fatigue; shown to reduce the frequency and severity of colds; possibly beneficial for erectile dysfunction Preparation and doses: Tea: Simmer 1 tsp dried and sliced root in 1 cup water for 10 minutes. Strain. Drink 1–2 cups per day. Standardized extract (4–7% ginsenosides): 100–400 mg per day Concerns: Purchase from a reputable manufacturer, as ginseng has often been adulterated in the past. Hibiscus 13/26 STEVEN FOSTER Hibiscus(Hibiscus sabdariffa) Uses: Lowers blood pressure and has mild diuretic activity; traditionally used to ease sore throats and colds Preparation and doses: Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1–2 tsp dried flowers. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain and sweeten, if desired. Drink 2 cups per day. Capsules: Take 1,000 mg 2 times per day. Concerns: Talk to your health-care provider if you have high blood pressure. Hops 14/26 STEVEN FOSTER Hops(Humulus lupulus) Uses: Excellent sleeping aid; smaller, daytime doses used to ease tension, restlessness, and anxiety; might help reduce hot flashes during menopause Preparation and doses: Capsules: Take 200–300 mg 1-3 times per day. Tincture: Take 2–4 ml before bed. Concerns: Can cause sedation More from Prevention: 14 Natural Remedies For Hot Flashes Horse Chestnut 15/26 STEVEN FOSTER Horse Chestnut(Aesculus hippocastanum) Uses: Seed extracts shown to be highly effective for treatment of varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency (blood pools in lower leg veins after standing or sitting); topical gels can reduce swelling and tenderness due to injury. Preparation and doses: Seed extract (containing 100–150 mg aescin/escin): Take 600 mg per day in divided doses. Concerns: Unprocessed horse chestnut seeds can be toxic; use only appropriately prepared seed extracts. Kava 16/26 STEVEN FOSTER Kava(Piper methysticum) Uses: Clinical trials have shown kava to be highly effective for relieving anxiety. Also has significant muscle-relaxing effects. Preparation and doses: Tea: Simmer 1 tsp dried and sliced root in 1 cup water for 10 minutes. Strain. Drink 1–2 cups per day. Extract of root: Take 100–200 mg 2 or 3 times per day. (Do not exceed 210 mg per day of kavalactones.) Concerns: Rare cases of liver toxicity; do not use if you have liver disease, frequently drink alcohol, or are taking acetaminophen or prescription medications. Lemon Balm 17/26 STEVEN FOSTER Lemon Balm(Melissa officinalis) Uses: Gentle calmative; eases tension, digestive upset, and colic; topical creams used for fever blisters Preparation and doses: Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 5 or 6 fresh or 1 tsp dried leaves. Steep for 5 minutes. Strain and sweeten, if desired. Drink several times per day. Concerns: None; suitable for all ages Licorice 18/26 STEVEN FOSTER Licorice(Glycyrrhiza glabra) Uses: Excellent anti-inflammatory; soothes mucous membranes; useful for sore throats and coughs; protects and heals gastrointestinal tract Preparation and doses: Tea: Simmer 1 tsp dried and sliced root in 1 cup water for 10 minutes. Strain. Drink 2 or 3 times per day for up to 7 days. Capsules: Take up to 3,000 mg per day for 7 days. Do not exceed 500 mg per day if taking for longer than 7 days. Concerns: Do not use high doses for longer than 1 week as it elevates blood pressure and causes potassium loss. (DGL, a special preparation commonly used for heartburn, is safe for prolonged use.) Marshmallow 19/26 STEVEN FOSTER Marshmallow(Althaea officinalis) Uses: Root and leaf are rich in mucilage, a substance that coats the lining of the mouth and throat, as well as the tissue that lines the gastrointestinal tract. Used for sore throat, heartburn, and minor GI inflammation. Preparation and doses: Tea: Pour 1 cup hot water over 1 tsp dried and sliced root or 2 tsp leaf. Steep for 2 hours. Strain and drink as desired. Concerns: Take other drugs 1 hour prior to or several hours after consuming marshmallow, as it could slow absorption of oral medications. Milk Thistle 20/26 STEVEN FOSTER Milk Thistle(Silybum marianum) Uses: Protects the liver from damage caused by environmental toxins, medications, and alcohol. Recent studies suggest it protects the kidneys similarly. Preparation and doses: Extract (guaranteed minimum of 70% silymarin): Take 400–700 mg per day in divided doses. Concerns: None known Mullein 21/26 VICKI MATTERN Mullein(Verbascum thapsus) Uses: Leaves commonly used to relieve cough, sore throat, and chest congestion; steeped in oil, the flowers relieve earache. Preparation and doses: Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1–2 tsp leaves. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain, sweeten, and drink as desired. Ear oil: Use as directed. Concerns: None known Nettle 22/26 MICHAEL BALICK Nettle(Urtica dioica) Uses: Fresh, freeze-dried leaves relieved seasonal allergy symptoms in one human trial. Research supports use of the root for easing symptoms of enlarged prostate. Tea widely recommended for its nutritive value. Preparation and doses: Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 2 tsp leaves. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain. Sweeten if desired. Drink 1–3 cups per day. Freeze-dried nettle capsules: Take 300–500 mg 2 times per day. Nettle root: Take 250–400 mg 2 or 3 times per day. Concerns: Wear gloves when handling fresh nettles to avoid stinging and irritation (sting is lost with cooking or drying); very safe herb. Sage 23/26 STEVEN FOSTER Sage(Salvia officinalis) Uses: Excellent for sore throat, cough, and colds; recognized in Germany as a treatment for excessive sweating; studies show it can help reduce menopausal hot flashes and night sweats. Preparation and doses: Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 tsp leaves. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain. Drink, or use as a sore throat gargle. Capsules: Take 500 mg dried leaf 2 times per day. Concerns: Do not use therapeutic doses during pregnancy; do not use sage essential oil internally. Slippery Elm 24/26 STEVEN FOSTER Slippery Elm(Ulmus rubra) Uses: FDA-approved as a safe, nonprescription remedy for minor throat irritation; also very useful for relieving cough and occasional heartburn. Preparation and doses: Lozenges: Take as directed. Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1–2 tsp powdered bark. Steep for 5 minutes. Drink 2 or 3 times per day. Concerns: Take other drugs 1 hour before or several hours after consuming, as it could slow absorption of oral medications. St. John's Wort 25/26 STEVEN FOSTER St. John's Wort(Hypericum perforatum) Uses: More than 40 studies have confirmed its effectiveness for relieving mild to moderate depression; may also relieve PMS symptoms and menopausal hot flashes, especially when combined with black cohosh. Preparation and doses: Standardized extract (standardized to 0.3% hypericin and/or 3–5% hyperforin): Take 300–600 mg 3 times per day. Concerns: Talk to your physician or pharmacist before using if you are taking prescription medications; the chance for herb-drug interaction is high. Thyme 26/26 STEVEN FOSTER Thyme(Thymus vulgaris) Uses: Highly regarded for relieving coughs, colds, and congestion; rich in volatile oils that have significant antimicrobial and antispasmodic activity Preparation and doses: Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 Tbsp fresh or 1 tsp dried leaves. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain and sweeten, if desired. Drink ⅓ cup 3 times per day. Concerns: None known BasilISTOCK/BENSTEVENS
This medicinal herb can help with flatulence, lack of appetite, cuts, and scrapes. Harvest the young leaves of this annual plant as needed. ChamomileISTOCK/ODYPHOTO Use the flower heads of this medicinal herb for infusions and salves to relieve indigestion and colic, anxiety and tension, and skin inflammations and irritations.EchinaceaISTOCK/GABRIELA SCHAUFELBERGER If you suffer from a cold or the flu, try this medicinal herb to ease the severity of your symptoms. It also helps provide relief to your immune system.CONTENT CONTINUES BELOW AD FeverfewISTOCK/PETER KOVACS Use the leaves and flowers of this medicinal herb for teas; chew leaves to ease headache pain(including migraines). It's also been shown to provide relief for arthritis, and skin conditions.Johnny-jump-upISTOCK/KEAWKYO With anti-inflammatory properties, this medicinal herb is good for eczema and skin blemishes as well as to help loosen phlegm.LavenderISTOCK/JASON DEINES Even smelling this medicinal herb has been shown to calm and relax. It also eases pain, and when applied to cuts and bruises functions as an antiseptic.CONTENT CONTINUES BELOW AD Lemon BalmISTOCK/ANCHY A relative of mint, lemon balm is a versatile medicinal herb that helps relieve anxiety, insomnia, wounds, herpes, insect bites, flatulence, and an upset stomach. It also speeds the healing of cold sores.MarigoldISTOCK/SKHOWARD Good for sunburn, acne, and blemishes, this medicinal herb also soothes ulcers and digestive problems.ParsleyISTOCK/ALESSANDRO DI NOIA Don't think of it as decorative on your plate; this medicinal herb is loaded with nutrients as well as healing powers to help with flatulence and bad breath.CONTENT CONTINUES BELOW AD PeppermintISTOCK/SILVIAJANSEN If you have digestion or gas, sipping tea made of this medicinal herb might provide relief. It's also been shown to help soothe headaches.RosemaryISTOCK/MMEEMIL This medicinal herb helps memory and concentration, improves mood—and sweetens breath.SageISTOCK/YULIYA PAPKOVA Sage's genus name, Salvia, means "to heal," reflecting its early use as a medicinal, not culinary, herb. It can help provide relief for mouth and throat inflammations.CONTENT CONTINUES BELOW AD ThymeISTOCK/RAMI HALIM The active principle in thyme, thymol, is a strong antiseptic. If you suffer from coughs, congestion, indigestion, or gas, consider using this medicinal herb.St. John's WortISTOCK/JASON DEINES Talk to your doctor if you suffer from mild to moderate depression; she may suggest St. John's Wort. The glossy leaves and yellow flowers are this medicinal herb's active parts. 1. Be healthier
2. Increase your chances of living longer 3. Feel better about yourself 4. Reduce the chance of becoming depressed 5. Sleep better at night 6. Look good 7. Be in shape 8. Get around better 9. Have stronger muscles and bones 10. Achieve or maintain a healthy weight 11. Be with friends or meet new people 12. Have fun In the world of Ayurveda, neem is a popular medicinal herb that’s been part of traditional remedies that date back almost 5000 years. Also known as Azadirachta Indica in English or ‘Neemba’ in Sanskrit, the neem tree is a really good example of how nature holds both the problem and the cure. It’s home to more than 130 different biologically active compounds! No wonder it’s such an effective anti-viral and anti-bacterial, along with being a powerful immuno-stimulant.
Neem Leaves Murli Manohar, author of the book 'Ayurveda For All: Effective Ayurvedic Self Cure for Common and Chronic Ailments' suggests that the primary purpose of neem leaves is the treatment of vaata disorders or neuromuscular pains. Then come the other benefits: purify the blood, prevent damage caused by free radicals in the body, remove toxins, treat insect bites and ulcers. Neem leaves have anti-bacterial properties which is why it works wonders on infections, burns and any kind of skin problems. It destroys the bacteria that causes infections, stimulates the immune system and encourages rapid healing. Here are some excellent ways in which we can use neem leaves: 1. Wound healer: Make a paste out of the neem leaves and dab it on your wounds or insect bites a few times a day till it heals. 2. Goodbye dandruff: Boil a bunch of neem leaves till the water turns green, allow it to cool. After washing your hair with shampoo, cleanse it with this water. 3. Eye Trouble: Boil some neem leaves, let the water cool completely and then use it to wash your eyes. This will help any kind of irritation, tiredness or redness. 4. Treat that zit: Grind a few neem leaves, make a paste and apply it daily till the acne dries out. The paste also helps any kind of eruptions, dark spots and chronic ulcers. 5. Ear ailments: Blend some neem leaves and add some honey to it. Use a few drops of this mix to treat any ear boils. 6. Other skin disorders: Turmeric combined with a paste of neem leaves can also be used for itching, eczema, ring worms and some mild skin diseases. 7. Boost immunity: Crush some neem leaves and take them with a glass of water to increase your immunity. Good health: Health concerns both physical and emotional well-being. Physical healthBeing physically healthy means that your body is functioning as it should, without pain, discomfort, or lack of capabilities. Causes of ill health include injuries, disease, diet, stress and genetics. Also, poor cleanliness habits can result in illness or skin ailments. Emotional health: Being emotionally or mentally healthy means that your mind and emotions are functioning as they should, without anxiety, depression or other malfunctions. Causes of mental ill health include physical disease, stress, genetics and mental abuse. Sasha felt she was being constantly and unfairly criticized by her teacher. This affected her emotional well-being, such that she hated to go to school. Also, sometimes depression is caused by chemical changes in your body. Importance and benefits of good health: Having good health is important and beneficial to you. Good health is necessary to effectively do your schoolwork. You can't do well if you don't feel well. Physical healthBeing physically healthy is of prime importance in life. Being ill or not feeling well can drastically affect your ability to work or play. Obviously, if you feel physically healthy, you can be more productive, as well as happier in school. You want to exhibit vitality when you are in class in with your friends. You must look and be healthy. Mental healthEmotional well-being is also important. Suffering stress, depression, anxiety or other mental or emotional ailments is not fun. You would like your whole life to be happy and satisfying. It is important to be emotionally healthy in order to study effectively. In lifeSchool is only one part of your life. You want to be able to enjoy all aspects of your life and to live a long, productive and enjoyable life. Being healthy will also allow you to gain knowledge and skills, do excellent work, be valuable to others, and be honorable to those with whom you deal. Maintaining your healthYou should take care of yourself in order to maintain your physical and mental health. Physical health: Physical health starts with a good diet and includes sufficient exercise, as well a generally taking care of your health. Exercise is goodExercise is important not only for your health, but it also increases your energy and vitality. Exercise gives the type of subtle muscle tone that looks good to your fellow classmates. An out-of-shape student does not have the same credibility or appeal as one who looks fit. Drugs are not goodAlthough there is often peer pressure to smoke, drink alcohol, or even take drugs, realize that they can be harmful, especially if you are prone to addiction. Learn to deal with problemsYou should also know how to deal with illness or injury by appropriate health care. Mental health: Maintaining mental or emotional health is not as specific as maintaining physical health. Positive reinforcement is goodPositive reinforcement is a way to keep the right mental attitude, as opposed to thinking of things in negative terms. Try to be upbeat and acknowledge your achievements. Cope with stressYou also want to avoid situations that cause excess stress, or if you are in such situations, to cope with it. Giving a presentation in front of the class can be stressful, but excess worry is counterproductive. Good preparation and positive visualization can reduce the stress. Also, remember the adage: "Don't sweat the small stuff. Everything is small stuff." Overreaction to criticismOverreaction to criticism from teachers, parents or other kids can cause your stomach to churn. It is good to take such criticisms in stride, consider the source of the criticism, and try to appropriately improve. Try to avoid negative situationsYou should be aware of these problems and try to avoid negative situations. If you can't bear the negative atmosphere around you, seek to move on to a healthier emotional environment. Why is Physical Activity & Fitness Important?Would you like to:
Physical activity also keeps you in shape so you can enjoy leisure activities and safely perform work and home chores. It offers great mental and social benefits as well. The Lancet released a series of studies that attribute positive outcomes to physical activity, including “a sense of purpose and value, a better quality of life, improved sleep, and reduced stress, as well as stronger relationships and social connectedness.” On the other hand, lack of physical activity is associated with increased risks of:
A Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) in New Delhi has awarded over Rs. 39 lakh to the kin of a man who was killed in a road mishap while travelling on a bike through Greater Noida in 2014. "The kin of the deceased were able to prove that he suffered fatal injuries due to the rash and negligent driving of the respondent number 1 (truck driver)," MACT presiding officer Madhu Jain said. The wife, two kids and the mother of the Uttar Pradesh resident Jitendra Kumar were awarded Rs. 39,07,000 by the MACT after considering the loss of estate, consortium, dependency, future prospects, love and affection and number of dependents. The Tribunal directed Oriental Insurance Company Limited, insurer of the offending vehicle, to pay the amount to the 32-year-old victim's family. According to the petition filed by Kumar's wife, Deepa, the mishap occurred on February 18, 2014, when the bike that Mr Kumar was riding was knocked down by a negligently-driven truck near G B Nagar in Greater Noida. The driver and the owner of the truck rejected the claim of the petitioners and contended that the case against them was false, frivolous, vexatious and malafide, but they had not produced any evidence to support their claim. The next time you feel precise gear shifts on future Ducati motorcycles, remember those components would have been made by Indian motorcycle maker Hero Motors. In a statement, the two-wheeler giant has announced that its transmission division has bagged the business of making gears for Italian bike maker Ducati, thereby consolidating the company's standing globally in the world of motorcycle/component manufacturing business. Mr Pankaj Munjal, CMD, Hero Group said, "This definitely is a big leap for us and we are quite excited about this new development. With this win we are not only forging a strong relationship with a global two wheeler leader but also reaffirming Hero's proficiency and expertise in specialized manufacturing We look forward to a long term association with our patrons."Highlights Obesity can prevent sexual intimacy and may ruin your social life India is home to the third-highest number of obese and overweight people Obesity is often associated with laziness and a sedentary lifestyle
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