"HENNA" & its Medical Benefits

Posted by jutawan akhrat Thursday, October 29, 2009 1 comments

HENNA

Henna plant (scientifically known as Lawsonia Inermis) is well known for long time in the Arab and Muslims world, extensively grown in India and Sudan and used mainly for cosmetic purposes.

Over the last many years I have used Henna as medicine after I read the Hadith about it that the Prophet (PUH) ordered any one who has been pricked by a thorn or has an ulcer on his leg to put Henna on it.

After many years of experience I came to call it the Magic Plant

And in the following paragraphs I will explain why:

1-It has a great healing effect, it contain many healing substances like Tannine and other Glue like substances.

2-It has anti microbial effect especially anti-viral effect.

HENNA USES

1. BURNS

Henna when applied to a burn area first or second degree it gives very good results;

-Decrease pain.

-Decrease fluid loss from the burn site, this is important if the burn area is large.

-It look to have anti-microbial effect, it decrease infection.

-Stick to the burned site until healing is complete.

-Easy to apply to the burned site as paste or powdered.

-Cheap and available.

2-HEALING PROPERTIES

Henna promote wound healing especially chronic wounds and ulcers, I have used it on nuropathic ulcers of the foot and proved to be very effective. The main factor that promotes healing is not known but I think it has this effect by its nourishing effect on the wound and its anti-microbial properties. If the wound is infected antibiotic cover usually needed.

3-ANTI-HAEMOORAGIC

I used henna for treatment of Epistaxis, and it prove very effective, and give a long lasting cure. And dose not need to be applied more than once most of the times, the powdered stick to the bleeding area until it healed, it work better than cauterization , which is most of the times need to be repeated and still can not guarantee that recurrence of the bleed is not going to occurs.

ANTERIOR NOSE BLEED (from little area): treated by applying the powdered to bleeding spot ,using a ready made ear cleaning stick with its cotton covered end ,and pack the powder to the site of the bleeder ,that will stop the bleeding , rarely it need to be repeated again and that is really Magic way of treatment for epistaxis.

POSTERIOR NOSE BLEED: Which is very difficult to treat as every ENT doctor knows, with this Henna powder just ask the patient to sniff the powder through the anterior nostril to make it reach the back of the nose or posterior nostril and by this action the powder will stick to the bleeding area and the bleeding will stop, no more we need to use posterior nose pack which is a nightmare for the patient and the doctor at the same time.

The only side effect of Henna here is , it causes the patient to sneeze a little.

The anti-bleeding effect of Henna could be used at other sights like bleeding duodenal ulcer or esophageal varices . This needs to be tried as far as there are no side effect known.

This anti-bleeding effect may be due to its coagulation like effect or its locally burning effect.

4-ANTI-VIRAL

Henna definitely has an anti-viral effect, that became clear by its action on;

1-warts; we have tried it many times especially on these warts which are resistant to cryo (Nitrogen liquid) treatment and prove effective, one giant wart measuring 1.5x1.5cm on a child thumb which was resistant to all forms of treatment, at last the child referred to the plastic surgeon for operation, we tried Henna on it, applied every other day over night and in few weeks it disappeared completely . The Dermatologist nurse has a wart on her finger for more than two years which was resistant to liquid nitrogen treatment , we asked her to use henna and got cured.

We found it very useful especially on multiple wars.

On warts Henna applied as paste.

2-Herpes Simplex:

This the second proven and successful effect of Henna on viral infections. We applied it as powdered to herpes site, we noticed:

-It dried the vesicles at the site early.

-Prevent ulceration and crust formation.

-Prevent secondary infection.

Henna applied on herpes as powdered.

This anti-viral effect of Henna is very promising , and should be explored further, It could used as treatment for AIDS . It is natural ,cheap, and it look to have no side effect even when taken by oral route.

We have prepared Henna in capsules now at home and used it as a prophylaxis against Flu during last Haj and we think it helped, As we did not get the infection while most people got Haj Flu which is usually a severe one. But this too early to be sure about and need more trails.

5-OTHER USES OF HENNA:

Henna can be used as a prophylaxis especially to protect diabetic patients feet, I routinely now advise my diabetic patients to use henna at least once a month because:

5. It help to heals fissures and cracks in the foot and reduce foot infection.
6. It improve the skin texture, which look healthier and softer.
7. It may delay the nuropathic effect of diabetes, In fact it may reverse the early ones, This need more time to prove.

Henna could be used in the following areas:

1-Back pain
2-Ulcerative colitis as enema.
3-Bleeding duodenal ulcers.

This is our experience with Henna over the last six years or more, the most promising is its anti-viral effect which could prove a breakthrough in modern medicine as a treatment for HIV patients.

MY ALLAH HELP US TO PRESENT THIS GIFT TO WORLD WHICH the prophet MOHAMMAD(pbuh) TOLD US FOURTEEN HUNDREDS YEARS AGO.

Wassalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatu Allah Wa Barakatoh

DR. HUSSAIN AL RASHIDY.

Henna |

Zaitoon (Olive) is Cure for Seventy Diseases

Posted by jutawan akhrat Wednesday, October 28, 2009 0 comments

Dr. M.Laiq Ali Khan

Zaitoon (Olive) the sign of peace and friendship in this world has its description in Holy Qur’an Allah Taala says

By the fig and olive
And the mount of Sinai
And the city of security
We have indeed created man in the best of moulds
Then do we abase him (to be) the lowest of low
Except such as believe and do righteous deeds for they shall have a reward unfailing
What then, can after this, make you deny the last judgement
Is not Allah the wisest of judges” (The Fig, Surah 95)

The plant of olive goes upto the height of 3 metres, leaves are bright green and very attractive and the fruits are of bright bluish or violet colour, possesses a metallic taste. It is known from old ages. During the excavation of ancient Egyptian graves, vessels full of olive oil were found with other articles. According to the scholars of Hadith, on subsidence of Toofan-E-Nooh, when water level came down, the first thing on the earth that was seen, was the olive plant.

The plant is extensively found in Asia minor, Palestine, Roman territory, Greece, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, Italy, North Africa, Algeria, Tunisia, California in America, Mexico, Peru and South zone of Australia. Usually it is imported from Spain, Italy, France, Turkey and Greece. Though olive fruits are very nutritious it is not usually eaten due to its metallic taste. Rather pickles of its fruits are largely consumed in Europe. The fruits preserved in vinegar is imported from Greece and liked very much in Europe and in Arabian countries.

Olive oil is a good preservative for other eatables too. Sardine and other fishes are tinned and preserved in olive oil. The smoke-less burning of olive oil is a peculiar feature, which produces a bright light. Holy Qur’an stresses the importance of Zaitoon on several occasions: (141-M-AlInaam-6), (99-K-AlInaam-6), (11-K-AlNahl-16), (AlNoor-35), (Moominoon).

Hazrat Sayyed Al-Ansari narrates that the Prophet (Pbuh) said “Eat the olive oil and massage it over your bodies since it is a holy (mubarak) tree.” (Tirmizi, Ibn Maja)

Hazrat Alqama Bin Amir narrates that Prophet (Pbuh) said, “ There is olive oil for you, eat it, massage over your body, since it is effective in Heamorrhoids (Piles).” (Ibn Al-Jozi, Zanbi)

Hazrat Aqba Bin Amir narrates that the Prophet (Pbuh) stated, “You have the olive oil from this Holy (mubarak) tree, treat yourself with this, since it cures the Anal fissure (Basoor).” Khalid Bin Saad narrates “I came to Madinah with Ghalib Bin Al Jabr. Ghalib became ill during the journey. Ibn Abi Ateeq came to see him and told a narration from Hazrat Aisha that the Prophet (Pbuh) told about the cure in Kalonji. We crushed a few seeds of Kalonji and mixed it with olive oil and dropped in both nostrils, after which Ghalib became healthy.” (Ibn Maja, Bukhari)

Hazrath Abu Hurairah (t) narrates that the Prophet (Pbuh) stated, “ Eat the olive oil and apply it (locally), since there is cure for seventy diseases in it, one of them is Leprosy.” (Abu Naim)

Hazrat Zaid Bin Arqam narrates “ We have been directed by the Prophet (Pbuh) that we should treat the Pleurisy with Qust-e-Behri (Qust Sheerin) and olive oil.” (Tirmizi, sanadeAhmed, Ibn Maja)

Olive oil has a place in Govt Pharmacopoca of USA and Britain (British Pharmacopoca). Both of these countries have given prime importance to olive oil for the treatment of various ailments and have fixed standard parameters to evaluate its purity.

It contains Palmatic Acid, Oleic Acid, Linoleic Acid, Steanic Acid, Myristic Acid and Glycerides. It is not dissolved in water but in Alcohol, Ether, Chloroform and Liquid Paraffin.

The adulterant very often used in the olive are of the seeds of Tea Plant, Arachis oil in the market samples of olive oil. Sometimes Machine Gun oil and refined Mobile oil are also found.

Olive oil is extracted from the ripened fruits. The unripe and over ripe fruits contain less amount of the oil. The fruits are processed three times. Successively, the first round oil is the best in quality, golden in colour, with a light fragrance and known as virgin oil. Some varieties of olive oil remained unchanged in its effectiveness for years together. It contains therapeutic potential even if it is a thousand years old. Despite the prime importance and holiness given by Qur’an and Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) no work has been done to find out its efficacy for the ailments other than the Haemorrhoids, Anal fissure, Skin diseases, pleurisy and leprosy, which are already described by the Prophet (Pbuh) , whereas the Prophet (Pbuh) himself says us that it contains cure for seventy diseases.

According to Ibn Al-Qayyim the red coloured oil is better than blackish one. It is an exhilarant, glows up the facial complexion, provides prevention against poisons, regulates the digestive process, expels the intestinal parasites, makes the hair lustrous and minimises the ageing problems. The massage of olive oil with common salt over the gums is a remedy for several diseases of gums and teeth. The local application of olive oil or the water extracted from the crushed olive oil leaves is effective on boils, rashes and itching. The chronic ulcers and boils, which show difficult healing condition, are healed up with the use of olive oil locally.

According to Zahbi it strengthens the hairs and body, hence could be used as a good tonic in old age problems and to delay the ageing process. It is also useful in sexual weakness. Combination of normal saline with olive oil is highly effective in burns cases.

The decotion of olive leaves in water is effective against mouth and lips ulcers and allergic dermatitis also. The concentrated aquous extract of olive leaves and fruits is very effective against dental cavities and application of this solution shows very good effects on Leukoplaquea in mouth. This solution is applied with vinegar on Alopecia, grows the hair and removes the Alopecia. It is also stated that the local application of this extract removes the scars of small pox and boils. The powder of seeds mixed with butter is effective in brittle nails. The pickles prepared from olive fruits is a good appetizer and removes constipation. The smashed leaves are applied locally to check excessive perspiration. The water extracted from the leaves with honey is used as Ear drops and effective in various Ear ailments. The oil procured by burning of olive wood is effective against all fungal infection viz, Ringworm, T.versicolor etc. in addition to Eczema, Psoriasis, Dandruff and Alopecia. The local application of olive oil on scalp is highly effective against dandruff. It grows the hairs and checks, the loss of hair. The application of olive oil in eyes relieves the inflammation.

The massage of olive oil over the body tones up the muscles and organs, it relieves muscular pains. Some physicians also advocate the massage of olive oil for epilepsy. It relieves the Sciatic and arthritis. The ointment prepared from olive oil are very good healing agents. It heals the sinus and fistula very quickly. 25ml of olive oil mixed with 250ml of barley water, if taken internally, is highly effective against chronic constipation. It is good Diuretic, hence is used in Ascites. It also removes the kidney stones.

A conventional regimen is also available comprising of olive oil and other herbal drugs having potential against the Gall bladder stones. It is stated that this regimen dissolves and expels the Gall bladder stone.

In view of the researchs carried out in USA and England, it is concluded that it is a good nourishing diet during the ailments of kidney, where nitrogen containing food/proteins in take is contra indicated. Since, the Prophet (Pbuh) stated that it is a good remedy for Anal fissure, hence for the same complaint patients were advised to take two spoonful of olive oil at bedtime and an ointment was applied on fissure locally at retiring and in morning, prepared from 8 spoonfuls of olive oil and 2 spoonfuls of ground henna leaves. This showed very good effects against the problem. It is a good tonic for hair and maintains the lustre. Its combination with other prescribed drugs of Tibb-al-Nabwi is a good remedy for Psoriasis and Eczema. The impressions of several doctors practising in middle east and North Africa reveal that no case was detected of Gastro Intestinal Carcinoma, among those who were used to consuming olive oil. Japanese doctors also endorse this fact and have the opinion that olive oil prevents the incidence of Carcinoma in G.I.T.

The Prophet (Pbuh) stated that it is a good remedy for intestinal inflammations. Therefore it was used in the cases of G.I.T ulcers and found very much effective. It is also observed that no remedy equates the benefits of olive oil in hyper acidity and gas troubles.

The Prophet (Pbuh) recommended the use of olive oil in Pleurisy. Keeping this in view olive oil was administered in various diseases of Respiratory tract and it was observed that the regular users of olive oil were least affected with common cold and coryzha and pneumonia.

The clinical experiences of well qualified and highly established doctors in the profession who take a keen insight in Prophet’s medicine reveal that olive oil is a good supportive treatment in Tubercular infection of either sites. According to a narration of Kahlid Bin Saad in Ibn Maja, one spoonful of Kalonji was pulverised and mixed with 12 spoonful of olive oil. This suggestion was dropped into the nostrils morning and evening for the cases of chronic cold and epistaxis. The results were found highly positive.

Olive oil |

The Benefits of Ginger

Posted by jutawan akhrat Monday, October 26, 2009 1 comments

HISTORY OF GINGER

Ginger is botanically known as Zingiber officinale, and is one the of the world’s favorite spices. We use ginger all the time. Almost everybody remembers being told as a young child, the story of the Gingerbread Man, or the stories of Hansel and Gretel and the witch with her house made of candy and gingerbread. Ginger snap cookies and gingerbread are in many homes, a favorite treat not only for children but also for parents. To many, the smell of ginger brings to mind wonderful memories involving baking and loved ones gathering together at Thanksgiving or Christmas time accompanied by these aromatic and spicy ginger cookies. Many people use ginger regularly in their everyday cooking. Could there be more than just the possibilities of cooking amazing flavored dishes and casseroles that we can learn from our dear friend ginger? She is an amazing plant with a fantastic amount of herbal and healing qualities that can be beneficial in all of our lives. It is amazing how the root of a plant could hold such a vast amount of treasures in the form of medicinal qualities, when used as a whole herb. We definitely need to take a closer look at ginger.

Let us begin at the place where ginger may have received her start. No one really knows the exact origin of Ginger, but some say that it was most likely discovered in the tropics of Southeast Asia. Perhaps if we look closer at the botanical name, we can find its origin. Some botanists argue that its Sanskrit name indicates

India

as the site of origin¹. Confirming this hypothesis, however, is next to impossible because of the secretive trade and wide cultivation which have left no documents or its origin or existence in the wild state.

Ginger was given its official botanical name, Zingiber officinale, by the famous eighteenth-century Swedish botanist, Linnaeus. Linnaeus derived the genus title Zingiber from its Indian Sanskrit name singabera which means shaped like a horn.² In Dr. Christopher’s newsletter about ginger, he writes that the name ginger is from the Arabic word Zindschebil, meaning root of Zindschi, or India. The specific name refers to ingredients of preparations made in druggist’s shops. It is called Jamaica Ginger because the most used medicinal root comes from Jamaica, and as a side note, some people claim that this is the root that has the best flavor.³

From early written records very lucrative ginger trade routes were guarded with secrecy and intrigue by those who occupied these routes. Early Arab traders protected their passages and personal supplies of ginger from the Greeks and Romans by actually fabricating a fabled land inhabited by a primitive and ruthless people they called the Troglodytes. Interestingly, the Arabs secretive business engagements probably had more than economics at their roots. In the holiest text of Islam, the Koran, ginger is regarded as a spiritual and heavenly beverage.

The most ancient literature of all the great civilizations of the Middle East, Asia, and Europe contains testimonials to both the medicinal and economic importance of ginger. From five-thousand-year-old Greek literature to 200 B.C. Chinese records, ancient historians equated the ownership of ginger or its trade routes with prosperity. A Chinese historian wrote how thousands of acres were planted only in ginger and bringing immense wealth.⁴ Marco Polo wrote of its discovery in China. Malabar and parts of India, particularly Bengal, are also famed for ginger’s birthplace. Francisco do Mendoza transplanted it from the East Indies into Spain where they cultivated it intensively. Well into the Middle Ages, ginger sustained its economic and cultural significance. This is affirmed by records of transactions in

England

where just one pound was considered worth 1 shilling and 7 pence, approximately equivalent to the price of a sheep.⁵Ginger actually became synonymous with the word spice. For hundreds of years it graced only the dinner tables of the upper class or royalty.

For thousands of years, trade in spices like ginger became the measure of an empire’s wealth and power. Fortunately for ginger, its worldwide cultivation was insured by the economics of the spice trade and its stimulus to colonialism. The Spanish people, who were particularly aggressive explorers and colonialist, were one of the key nations responsible for taking ginger around the globe and encouraging its cultivation in the New World.

It was so valued in Spain that in 1547, they exported 22,053 hundred-weight of it.⁶ The ginger plant was also found growing wild in the Pacific Islands, where the roots were of great importance as a trade item far back into history. It was used as a spice by the Greeks and Romans. From the 11^th -13^th century, it was a common item of commerce from the Orient and the East.

Questions
I wants to know about my sexual life disorder

Really speaking when I’m intercourse with my wife
I was facing some erectile dysfunction I hope. Because when I having foreplay with my wife my penis will be erectile properly. but when I stated to vaginal intercourse it will get reduce (my penis) fitness. In this cause as per Islamic way which are the treatment (medication) follow to said our Allah's Apostle

Answers
Eat Ginger/Garlic/Olives/honey much. You will get more sexual boost. It may also be possible that you do too much foreplay and take time to insert into the vagina because of which you lose the temper.

However, the following will surely help you out.

Bukhari Volumn 006, Book 061, Hadith Number 535.
-----------------------------------------
Narated By 'Aisha : Whenever Allah's Apostle became sick, he would recite Mu'awwidhat (Surat Al-Falaq and Surat An-Nas) and then blow his breath over his body. When he became seriously ill, I used to recite (these two Suras) and rub his hands over his body hoping for its blessings.

Bukhari Volumn 006, Book 061, Hadith Number 530.
-----------------------------------------
Narated By Abu Mas'ud : The Prophet said, "If somebody recited the last two Verses of Surat Al-Baqara at night, that will be sufficient for him."

Bukhari Volumn 006, Book 061, Hadith Number 529.
-----------------------------------------
Narated By Abu Said Al-Khudri : While we were on one of our journeys, we dismounted at a place where a slave girl came and said, "The chief of this tribe has been stung by a scorpion and our men are not present; is there anybody among you who can treat him (by reciting something)?" Then one of our men went along with her though we did not think that he knew any such treatment. But he treated the chief by reciting something, and the sick man recovered whereupon he gave him thirty sheep and gave us milk to drink (as a reward). When he returned, we asked our friend, "Did you know how to treat with the recitation of something?" He said, "No, but I treated him only with the recitation of the Mother of the Book (i.e., Al-Fatiha)." We said, "Do not say anything (about it) till we reach or ask the Prophet so when we reached Medina, we mentioned that to the Prophet (in order to know whether the sheep which we had taken were lawful to take or not). The Prophet said, "How did he come to know that it (Al-Fatiha) could be used for treatment? Distribute your reward and assign for me one share thereof as well."

What are the Health Benefits Of Ginger?

There is a wide range of benefits of ginger such as nausea, digestive problems, circulation and arthritis. Nausea caused during pregnancy or by travelling is one of the benefits of ginger root. Ginger is also known to have the ability to calm an upset stomach and to promote the flow of bile. Stomach cramps can be eased and circulation can also be improved. Ginger supports a healthy cardiovascular system by making platelets less sticky which in turn reduces circulatory problems.

Ginger oil used for massage can help relieve painful arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger is often included in many herbal decongestants and can help to minimise the symptoms of respiratory conditions, colds and allergies.

With all the benefits of ginger and continuing research, the ginger root is fast becoming a very popular medicinal herb.

How to Use Ginger

Ginger can be freshly grated and used in cooking. It is also available as a supplement which can be taken on a daily bases.

Gated ginger root mixed with diluted lime juice can help to soothe the digestive tract and reduce flatulence. It can be made into oil and used to massage areas of localised chronic pain. It can also be taken in an extract form to reduce inflammation.

When choosing a ginger supplement it is essential to choose ones that contain ginger's pungent compounds. These are gingerols and shogaols and are the ginger plant's active ingredients.

Ginger can be used in extract pill form and the dosage for this is 100 to 200mg up to three times a day. Fresh powdered ginger should be taken three times a day ½ to ¾ of a teaspoon. Fresh ginger root can be eaten every four hours but no more than three times a day and should be approximately ½ inch and peeled. Ginger tea which now comes prepackaged can be taken several times a day. Crystallised ginger can be taken twice a day.

With such a wide range ginger products available and with the ever increasing benefits of ginger being discovered ginger or a product of ginger is something that everyone should have in their homes.

Ginger |

10 Health Benefits of Ginger

Posted by jutawan akhrat Sunday, October 25, 2009 0 comments

Ginger has been used as a natural remedy for many ailments for centuries. Now, science is catching up and researchers around the world are finding that ginger works wonders in the treatment of everything from cancer to migraines. Here are ten health benefits of this powerful herb:

Ovarian Cancer Treatment
Ginger may be powerful weapon in the treatment of ovarian cancer. A study conducted at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that ginger powder induces cell death in all ovarian cancer cells to which it was applied.

Colon Cancer Prevention
A study at the University of Minnesota found that ginger may slow the growth of colorectal cancer cells.

Morning Sickness
A review of several studies has concluded that ginger is just as effective as vitamin B6 in the treatment of morning sickness.

Motion Sickness Remedy
Ginger has been shown to be an effective remedy for the nausea associated with motion sickness.

Reduces Pain and Inflammation
One study showed that ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and is a powerful natural painkiller.

Heartburn Relief
Ginger has long been used as a natural heartburn remedy. It is most often taken in the form of tea for this purpose.

Cold and Flu Prevention and Treatment
Ginger has long been used as a natural treatment for colds and the flu. Many people also find ginger to be helpful in the case of stomach flus or food poisoning, which is not surprising given the positive effects ginger has upon the digestive tract.

Migraine Relief
Research has shown that ginger may provide migraine relief due to its ability to stop prostaglandins from causing pain and inflammation in blood vessels.

Menstrual Cramp Relief
In Chinese medicine, ginger tea with brown sugar is used in the treatment of menstrual cramps.

Prevention of Diabetic Nephropathy
A study done on diabetic rats found that those rats given ginger had a reduced incidence of diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage).

source: http://www.healthdiaries.com

Ginger |

Cleanliness, Purification and Ablution

Posted by jutawan akhrat Friday, October 23, 2009 0 comments

1 . Body Cleanliness: Islam recommends bathing for' twenty three reasons. Seven of them are compulsory and sixteen are preferable.
2. Hands Cleanliness: Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) Says 'Wash thy hands before and after eating", Readds "Wash thy hands after awakening. No one knows where his hands lay during his sleep."
3. Islam recommends clothing cleanliness and elegance "Ameliorate thy clothing and thy mount".
4. Food and drink cleanliness: Orders for protecting food from dust and insects, the prophet says "Cover thy vessels and drinks"
5. Residence cleanliness: "Clean thy courtyards and thy residence" as well as street cleanliness "It is charitable to remove harms from the road."
6. Cleanliness of water sources such as wells, rivers and shores. Therefore, urinating and defecating are forbidden in any of them---"Avoid three evils; defecation in water sources, shades and in the road.
If these instructions are followed accurately in the twentieth century, we can put an end to all gastrointestinal infections and exterminate harmful insects such as flys, cockroaches and others.

Ablution, Cleanliness, Purification |

The Rules in Using Siwaak (Natural Root Toothbrush)

Posted by jutawan akhrat Wednesday, October 21, 2009 0 comments

Times when use of Siwaak/Miswak/Miswaak is recommended

Siwaak/Miswak/Miswaak is recommended at all times of night and day, because of the general sense of the hadeeth quoted above from ‘Aa'ishah, “Siwaak cleanses the mouth and pleases the Lord.” The scholars have also mentioned situations where use of the siwaak/miswak/miswaak is even more strongly encouraged. These include:

• When making wudoo' and at times of prayer. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:
“Were it not for the fact that I did not want to make things too hard for my ummah, I would have commanded them to use the siwaak at every time of prayer.” According to another report he said: “…at every time of making wudoo'” – as already stated above.
• When entering one's home to be with one's family. ‘Aa'ishah was asked what the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) did when he first came home. She said,
“When he entered his house, the first thing he would do was to use the siwaak.” (Reported by Muslim, 1/220).
• When getting up from sleep. Hudhayfah ibn al-Yamaan (may Allaah be pleased with him) reported that when the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) got up during the night, he would clean his mouth thoroughly with the siwaak. (Reported by al-Bukhaari, 1/98 and Muslim, 1/220)
• When the smell of one's mouth changes, whether this is because of eating food with a strong odour, or because of not eating or drinking for a long time, etc. Siwaak is cleansing for the mouth, which means that it should definitely be used when the mouth needs cleaning.
• When going to the mosque. Using siwaak is part of the adornment which we are commanded to wear for every prayer, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“O Children of Aadam! Take your adornment while praying…'” [al-A'raaf 7:31].
• It is also important because the angels are present in the mosque, and one is going to meet with other worshippers there.
• When reading Qur'aan and joining gatherings in which Allaah is remembered (dhikr), because the angels are present on such occasions.

What should be used for siwaak/miswak (cleaning the mouth)
The scholars are agreed that the best thing for cleaning the mouth is the twigs of the araak tree, because of its good smell, and because it has brush-like fibres which are effective for cleaning food particles etc. from between the teeth, and because of the hadeeth of ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Mas'ood (may Allaah be pleased with him) who said:
“I used to gather siwaak sticks from the araak tree for the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him).” (Reported by Ahmad, 3991; its isnaad is hasan, see al-Irwa' 1/104).

If araak twigs are not available, the scholars recommended using palm-leaf stalks, or twigs of the olive tree. The ahaadeeth that have been narrated concerning this, however, are not saheeh.
The correct view is that any kind of sticks that are cleansing and not harmful may be used instead of siwaak, if it is not available, to clean the mouth and remove dirt from the teeth. This includes modern toothbrushes which are known to be beneficial in this regard.

Things that may not be used for siwaak
The scholars have stated that it is forbidden to use poisonous sticks, things that are not taahir (pure, clean), and anything that may cause bleeding, illness or any other harm.
Attributes of siwaak
The fuqaha' have described the siwaak as a stick of medium length and thickness, no thicker than one's little finger, and free of knots. It should not be so wet that it will twist, because then it will not remove dirt, nor should it be so dry that it will hurt the mouth or crack during use. No doubt this is describing the ideal, otherwise the reports do not specify any particular type of siwaak. It is permissible to use any kind of siwaak that will do the job.

How to clean the mouth with siwaak

The scholars have differed as to whether siwaak should be done with the right hand or the left hand. One group – the majority – think that it is better to use the right hand, because of the general meaning of the hadeeth narrated by ‘Aa'ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her), who said:
“The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) liked to start with the right when putting on his shoes, dismounting (from his camel), when cleaning himself, and in all things.” (Agreed upon).
(They also say that) siwaak is an act of worship and drawing closer to Allaah, so it should not be done with the left hand.
Other scholars say that it is better to use the left hand for siwaak, because it comes under the heading of removing dirt. This is the well-known opinion of Imaam Ahmad's madhhab, and it is the view favoured by Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah, may Allaah have mercy on him.
Some scholars have said that when a person is using siwaak with the intention of following the sunnah, he should use his right hand, and if he is doing it to remove dirt, he should use his left hand. The fact of the matter is that this issue is open, as there is no definitive daleel or report, and every opinion has a valid point.
The fuqaha' suggested that when using siwaak, a person should start on the right, and use a side-to-side motion rather than up-and-down, as the latter may harm the gums. Among the etiquette of using siwaak, they mentioned the following:
• That a person should not use the siwaak in front of others or in public, because this is impolite.
• That the siwaak should be washed after use, to get rid of any dirt that may be on it. ‘Aa'ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) said:
“The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to use siwaak, then he would give it to me to wash it. I would use it first, then wash it and give it back to him.” (Reported by Abu Dawood, 1/45).
• The siwaak should be kept in a clean place.

Using one's fingers to clean one's mouth

The scholars differ as to whether it is acceptable to use one's fingers to clean one's mouth when there is nothing else available. The correct view is that using the fingers cannot be considered as a substitute for the sunnah action, because there is no basis in Islam for doing so, and this method does not clean the mouth as a siwaak or similar instrument does. Modern methods of cleaning the teeth, like toothbrushes and so on, that remove dirt and make the mouth smell good, are acceptable.

There is nothing wrong with using siwaak that is flavoured with mint, lemon and so on, so long as they do not cause any harm. But a person who is fasting should avoid using any flavoured siwaak, and should only use natural siwaak when he is fasting.

Siwaak, Toothbrush |

Benefits of Lemon

Posted by jutawan akhrat Tuesday, October 20, 2009 1 comments

Lemon is one of those super foods with a myriad health and cosmetic benefits. There are a few persons for whom it is an allergen, so make sure you are not allergic to this natural product, before you start enjoying the many benefits.

1. Lemon being a citrus fruit, fights against infection.

It helps in production of WBC's and antibodies in blood which attacks the invading microorganism and prevents infection.

2. Lemon is an antioxidant which deactivates the free radicals preventing many dangerous diseases like stroke, cardiovascular diseases and cancers.

3. Lemon lowers blood pressure and increases the levels of HDL (good cholesterol).

4. Lemon is found to be anti-carcinogenic which lower the rates of colon, prostate, and breast cancer.

They prevent faulty metabolism in the cell, which can predispose a cell to becoming carcinogenic. Also blocks the formation of nitrosamines in the gut.

5. Lemon juice is said to give a glow to the skin.

6. A few drops of lemon juice in hot water are believed to clear the digestive system and purify liver as well.

7. The skin of lemon dried under the sun and then ground to make powder can be applied to the hair for a few minutes before bath which relieves head ache and cools the body.

8. Applying lemon juice to acne dries the existing ones and prevents from getting more.

9. Lemon juice acts as a natural hair lightner and skin bleach which reduces the pigment melanin and prevents the risk of chemical allergic reactions which is common with hair dyes and bleaches.

10. Lemon juice is given to relieve gingivitis, stomatitis, and inflammation of the tongue.

11. Lemon juice is given to prevent common cold.

12. Lemon juice is given to prevent or treat urinary tract infection and gonorrhea.

13. Lemon juice is applied to the sites of bites and stings of certain insects to relieve its poison and pain.

14. Lemon juice relieves colic pain and gastric problems.

15. Lemon juice soothes the dry skin when applied with little glycerin.

16. Lemon juice used for marinating seafood or meat kills bacteria and other organisms present in them, thereby prevents many gastro-intestinal tract infections.

17. Lemon juice with a pinch of salt (warm) every morning lowers cholesterol levels and brings down your weight.

18. Lemon juice is the best drink to prevent dehydration and shock in case of diarrhea.

19. Lemon juice can also be used as a mouthwash.

It removes plaque, whitens the teeth and strengthens the enamel.

20. A table spoon on thick lemon syrup everyday relieves asthma.

21. Lemon juice relieves chilblains and itchy skin.

22. Gargling lemon juice relieves throat infection and also used as a treatment for diphtheria.

23. Lemon juice is an excellent treatment for dandruff and greasy hair.

24. Lemon applied over the face removes wrinkles and keeps you young.

25. Lemon juice helps to prevent and cure osteoarthritis.

Lemon |

What Is Islamic Medicine?

Posted by jutawan akhrat Monday, October 19, 2009 0 comments

The name "Islamic Medicine " is in use again.. denoting more than historic connotations. A movement of "Islamic Medicine" has erupted in Kuwait, which until the time of writing has held two international conferences on Islamic Medicine and is itself being legally transformed into the "international Organization of Islamic Medicine". Private money has been donated to establish its headquarters (Centre of Islamic Medicine) in Kuwait, and widespread international response arose to affiliate to or link up with the Organization.

In the books on HIstory of Medicine, "Islamic Medicine" refers to the progress of medical knowledge that took place during the Islamic era of human civilization. During that period that started from the late seventh century almost to the seventeenth, Islamic civilization was "the" civilization. If human progress is likened to a a chain, then Islamic civilization on the one hand and the Renaissance and contemporary civilization on the other are adjacent rings. Without its timely appearance that link could have never materialized, and humanity might have had to start all over again in more than one field of knowledge. The Islamic era was a bridge over the gap that has come later to be called the European dark ages.

The early times of Christianity, the times of martyrdom and persecution and the need to live as an underground fraternity, were drastically terminated when Experor Constantine embraced Christianity and Christianity become the official state reiligion. The oppressed on one day became the masters of the next, and the change was followed with an aftermath of strong emotionalism. During the process the power of the Church grew so much that it dominated all aspects of life. Although tending the poor and the sick and the rise of monastic medicine constituted Christian traditions (following the example of Jesus who aroused the dead, healed the sick and touched the lepers), Medicine as a whole soon became a religious affair and therefore taken into the monopoly of the Church. Religious furvor and church authority confined medical practice to the realm of faith-healing, the use of incantations and hand laying and visiting the shrines of patron saints to whom some sort of medical specialization was accorded, depending on the site in their body which had received torture or fatal injury at their martyrdom. Because St. Agatha had her breasts cut with iron tongs she was declared patron saint for women with breast cancer, and because St. Erasmus used to be tortured by putting a bowl containing burning coal on his head, he became patron saint and healer of headache. In this atmosphere not only did quacks abound and flourish, but scientific progress was impossible. Medicine was branded as a godless science because it did not follow in the ways of God.. and whereas a pinch of dust from the shrine of a saint would be good treatment for a number of diseases, seeking the help of a doctor would amount to heresy. In the same spirit older books containing all fruits of Greek civilization were sought and burnt, apart from the little that was smuggled an dhidden by the few monks who were aware of the tragedy. A rare exception was the writings of Galen, because he had expressed the view that the body was the vessel containing the spirit.. and when the body died the spirit did not. This view coincided with Christian teaching, and this lead to the overprotection by the Church of all Galenic teachings which nobody dared to challenge for one thousand years.

Such was the prevailing climate in Europe when Islam started and its holy book - the Quran started with the word: "Read!". What followed is history a glimse of which will be further revealed in the next chapter of this book.

To revisit and rewrite History is good in several ways. To Muslims to read their history is like connecting a tree to its roots. Without this process a tree is merely a log of wood but no shade or fruit or fragrance or indeed life. It seems that for centuries Muslims were denied access to their past, thanks to both despotism and colonialism. Orientalists were on the whole more interested in their political, intellectual and psychological warring against Islam than in seeking the truth and revealing it intact. It is only recently that the human race became sober to the fact that the only opts it faces are peace or annihilation, and that peace cannot be founded on lies. The Western gender role of superman is thinning out .. and the notion is dying of "We, versus the others".. "We" representing all that is good in the past, present and future, and "them" the straight opposite. In one generation the pride over being colonialist has given way to a feeling of shame of the near past. Even the scourge of the "Crusades" that has lurked over the West and brainwashed it for so many centuries is not as taken for granted as it has always been. Many more people today than St. Francis of Assissi in his day are beginning to realize that Christianity was one thing and the Crusades were another. Many western writers are now appaled at the atrocities committed by troops who related themselves to Christ. .and the emerging knowledge of the fact that the "crusades" were colonialist and not religious wars is already alleviating old prejudices and bitterness. Even the Catholic Church has declared that information about Islam has to be reviewed and corrected. . and called for an Islamic-Christian dialogue.

It is no wonder that time is opportune to review history..including History of Medicine.
"Islamic Medicine", however, is not a matter of History only. It is also a matter of Medicine! Islamic Medicine is a medicine with a faith. It cannot disengage itself from the teachings of Islam especially those that relate in one way or another to matters directly bearing on health and illness, personal hygiene, communal hygiene, nutrition, physical fitness, sex life, aspects of reproduction, menstruation, pregnancy, lactation, infectious disease and so on. Islam is an all encompassing code of behaviour and many of its relgious "do's" and "dont's" have to be observed by the Muslim physician treating Muslim patients.

Given our current medical curricula and text books, there is a feeling that something is missing in the preparation of our medical student to be the Muslim doctor if only to Satisfy a need of the society.

On the applied side, there is concerted effort to look up the items of the pharmacopoea contained in the writings of authorities of the Islamic era and restudy them by means of modern scientific methodology and equipment. Studies are already underway, and more than one funding agency have expressed their support. There seems to be good potential in that direction. .spurred probably by known high iatrogenicity of synthetic drugs, and by the need to probe other ways to tackle hitherto obstinate illnesses such as cancer .

Last but not least, reference should be made to the train of new achievements in scientific discovery and biomedical technology. Vast strides have been made and more will follow at an accelerating pace. The test-tube babies technology has brought into reality situations never known to mankind before, and not covered by time honoured rules of maternity, paternity and inheritance. Breaking the genetic code was followed by the technology of recombinant DNA and genetic engineering with all its welcome and unwelcome potentialities. Organ banks, embryo banks and banks of frozen cadavres in safe deposit awaiting later thawing are no more science fiction. Choic of fetal sex, cloning, gene manipulation and pharmacologic control over personality are with us or knocking at our door .

With all these scientific spoils old codes of behaviour are supplanted by new. .and old ideologies are clearing their way to modern ones. As far as Muslims are concerned, new situations have arisen that do not lend themselves easily to the four sources of jurisprudence: the Quran, the Prophet's traditions, analogy and consensus. New Islamic rulings have to be formulated. Since knowledge has indeed advanced beyond the comprehension of the specialist jurist all by himself, a joint effort is mandatory on the part of Muslim jurists and scientists all alike. Modern times emphasize the need for an Islamic Code of Medical Ethics. .or else the profession -and ineed all humanity -will drift into deep waters under the sole mercy of solid, cold and achievement- oriented academic progress alone.

Medicine |

Modern Stress And Its Cure From Qur'an

Posted by jutawan akhrat Saturday, October 17, 2009 0 comments

Stress is the most common aliment of modern age. It has been implicated in the causation of peptic ulcer disease, coronary heart disease, depression, auto immune disease, hypertension, diabetes and even cancer. In milder form it manifests in form of unrest, violence, at work, school and home. Common medical problems like tension headache, insomnia, and obesity are also attributed to unusual stress. None of us are free from stress but some deal with it better than others.

Stress results from the following factors:

a. Fear of the unknown and trying to see through and control the destiny.
b. Losses in our life of people and things dear to us and our inability to recover those losses.
c. Inner conflict between our heart and mind between what is known to be the truth and our failure to accept it as truth. Acceptance of truth may require changing our habits and way of life which we may adhere to for some reason like pleasure, joys, taste, pride in race or heritage etc.
Let us examine how Quran deals with such situations.

Our losses are a trial for us:
"Be sure we will test you with something of fear and hunger, some loss in goods or lives, but give glad tidings to those who are steadfast, who say when afflicted with calamity: To God we belong and to him is our return. They are those on who (DESCEND) blessings from God and mercy and they are the once that receive guidance. 2:155

Thus in Islam, we do not have concept of the ownership of goods and life. Everything belongs to God and returns to him. So if we don't own that thing why mourn our loss?

a. Our destiny is predetermined. We do not have control on that part. What we have control over is a limited free will, that is our actions, our choice to do good or bad, to believe in God or not to believe in Him, but we have no control over tomorrow's event not related to our actions i.e. whether my wife will have a son or daughter, whether his/her eyes will be brown or black, or whether I will have an accident or not tomorrow. WorTying over such things is of no use.

b. Rejection of faith in Quran is called a disease. This denial of truth is due to arrogance.

"In their heart there is a disease and God has increased their disease and grievous is their penalty because they lie to themselves." 2:10

Therefore after lying to ourselves, we set up an inner conflict - between heart and mind. In order to contain that conflict the mind sends signals to glands for secretion of harmones like adrenaline which leads to rapid heart rate, perspiration, tremor, the basis of lie detector test.

This lying conflict could be due to "SMALL" crimes like theft or adultery, or big crimes like rejection of God.

3 stages of spiritual development of soul age

a. Nafsul Ammara: -The Passionate soul "I do not absolve myself Lo the (human) soul is prone to evil, save that whenever my Lord has mercy. Lo, Lord is forgiving; merciful." 12:53 (Surah Yusuf)

This soul inclines toward sensual Pleasure, passion and self gratification , anger, envy, greed, and conceit. Its concerns are pleasure of body, gratification of physical appetite, and ego.

Hadith "your most-ardent-enemy is your evil self which resides within your body" (Bukhaii).

If this evil soul is not checked wiR lead to unusual stress and its resultant effects.

- b. Nafsul Lawanunah (The Reproaching Soul). "Nay, I swear by the reproaching soul" 75:1

This soul is conscious or aware of Evil, resists it, asks for God's grace, and pardon, repents and tries to ammend and hopes to achieve salvation.

"And (There are) others who have acknowledged their faults. They mix a righteous action with another that was bad. It may be that Allah will relent toward them. Lo! Allah is relenting, merciful." 9:102

Hadith "These are two impulses within us. One spirit which calls towards good and confirms the truth. He who feels this impulse should know that it comes from Allah. Another impulse comes from our enemy (Devil) which leads to doubt and holds untruth and encourages evil. He who feels this should seek refuge in Allah from the accursed devil."

This soul warns people of their vain desire, guides and opens the door to virtute and righteousness. It is a positive step in spiritual growth.

c. The satisfied soul (Nafsul Mutmainnah). "O (you) soul in (complete) rest and satisfaction. Come back to your Lord, will pleased (yourself) and will pleasing unto him. Enter you then among my devotees, enter you in my heaven." 89:27-30

This is the highest state of spiritual development. satisfied soul is the state of bliss, content and peace. The soul is at peace because it knows that inspite of its failures in this world, It will return to God. Purified of tension, it emerges from the struggle with obstacles blocking the peace of mind and heart.

What should we do in panic and despair? In panic non-believers behave differently than believers. They have no one to return to, to ask for mercy and forgiveness, their life is this life, which they cannot control, thus get more depressed and increase in their state of wrong doing. Then we will see that if they are used to casual drinking will start drinking more and become alcoholic, or a barbital criminal.
On the other hand a believer should do the following:
a. Increase dhikr (Remembrance of God)
"who have believed and whose heart have Rest in the remembrance of God. Verify in the remembrance of God, do hearts find rest." 13:28

b. Increase their prayer.
"O you who believe, seek help with steadfastness and prayer. For God is with those who are steadfast." 2:153

c. Ask forgiveness
"And I have said: seek forgiveness from your Lord. Lo He was ever forgiving." 71:10

In addition to above we are also asked to continue to struggle to up-grade ourselves.
" surely God does not change the condition in which a people are in until they change that which is in themselves." 13:11

In summary, I conclude that stress results from lack of inner peace due to conflicts within us and leads to external disturbances in our behavior and health. Inner peace can only be achieved by believing in God, the All Mighty, and remembering him frequently and asking for his help and forgiveness in times of difficulties.

Cure, Stress |

Benefit of Apples

Posted by jutawan akhrat Thursday, October 15, 2009 0 comments

Apples are good for you. Not only are they delicious, they contain certain substances that would help to maintain healthy bodies. Apples are a rich source of dietary fibre. The typical nutrients found in a typical apple can be summarised in the figure below.

Moreover, apples are rich sources of phytochemicals (compounds found in plants, fruits, and vegetables that can act as anti-oxidants). Apples and apple juices are the best source for mineral boron which helps to promote bone growth. In addition, the high fibre content helps in slow release of sugars into the body, thereby helps to maintain a steady blood sugar level.
APPLES & HEALTH

There are many benefits from eating apples. "A apple a day keeps the doctor away" has an increasing number of supportive scientific evidences for its claim. It has been found that eating apples helps to reduce blood cholesterol, improve bowel function, reduce risk of stroke, prostate cancer, Type II diabetes and asthma. This is due to the fibre and phytonutrients present in the apples.

Recent researches have shown that eating apples are linked to reducing cancer risk in several studies. Some examples are :

* Quercetin, a flavonoid abundant in apples has been found to help prevent the growth of prostate cancer cells
* Phytonutrients in the skin of apples inhibited the growth of colon cancer cells by 43%
* Food containing flavonoids like those in apples may reduce risk of lung cancer as much as 50%
* Dietary phenolics such as flavonoids (found in apples) have inhibitory effects on the developments of carcinogenic substances in the bladder, thereby reducing risk of bladder cancer, especially in smokers

Moreover, eating apples could improve lung function and reduce the risk of respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) due to antioxidants present in apples that would counter the oxygen's damaging effects on the body as well as the flavonoids such as catechins (present in apples and tea).

In addition, studies have shown that a diet rich in apples could help to lower the blood cholesterol level. Pectin, a soluble fibre found in apples has been thought to play a significant role in this. In fact, apple juice has been found to inhibit the oxidation of a harm form of cholesterol (LDL, or low-density lipoprotein).

Besides therapeutic benefits, apples are also found to play a role in inhibiting ageing-related problems, preventing wrinkles and promoting hair growth (due to compound named procyanidin B-2).

For those weight-watchers, this is good new as pples are delicious source of dietary fibre and helps to aid digestion and promote weight loss.

Apples |

Why You Should Start Drinking Green Tea?

Posted by jutawan akhrat Tuesday, October 13, 2009 0 comments

25 Reasons Why You Should Start Drinking Green Tea Now.

Green tea has increasingly become a very popular drink worldwide because of its immensely powerful health benefits.
It is extraordinarily amazing what green tea can do for your health.
And if you're not drinking 3 to 4 cups of green tea today, you're definitely NOT doing your health a big favor.

Here Are The 25 Reasons Why You Should Start Drinking Green Tea Right Now:

1. Green Tea and Cancer

Green tea helps reduce the risk of cancer.
The antioxidant in green tea is 100 times more effective than vitamin C and 25 times better than vitamin E.
This helps your body at protecting cells from damage believed to be linked to cancer.

2. Green Tea and Heart Disease

Green tea helps prevent heart disease and stroke by lowering the level of cholesterol.
Even after the heart attack, it prevents cell deaths and speeds up the recovery of heart cells.

3. Green Tea and Anti-Aging

Green tea contains antioxidant known as polyphenols which fight against free radicals.
What this means it helps you fight against aging and promotes longevity.

4. Green Tea and Weight Loss

Green tea helps with your body weight loss. Green tea burns fat and boosts your metabolism rate naturally.
It can help you burn up to 70 calories in just one day.
That translates to 7 pounds in one year.

5. Green Tea and Skin

Antioxidant in green tea protects the skin from the harmful effects of free radicals, which cause wrinkling and skin aging.
Green tea also helps fight against skin cancer.

6. Green Tea and Arthritis

Green tea can help prevent and reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
Green tea has benefit for your health as it protects the cartilage by blocking the enzyme that destroys cartilage.

7. Green Tea and Bones

The very key to this is high fluoride content found in green tea.
It helps keep your bones strong.
If you drink green tea every day, this will help you preserve your bone density.

8. Green Tea and Cholesterol

Green tea can help lower cholesterol level.
It also improves the ratio of good cholesterol to bad cholesterol, by reducing bad cholesterol level.

9. Green Tea and Obesity

Green tea prevents obesity by stopping the movement of glucose in fat cells.
If you are on a healthy diet, exercise regularly and drink green tea, it is unlikely you'll be obese.

10. Green Tea and Diabetes

Green tea improves lipid and glucose metabolisms, prevents sharp increases in blood sugar level, and balances your metabolism rate.

11. Green Tea and Alzheimer's

Green tea helps boost your memory.
And although there's no cure for Alzheimer's, it helps slow the process of reduced acetylcholine in the brain, which leads to Alzheimer's.

12. Green Tea and Parkinson's

Antioxidants in green tea helps prevent against cell damage in the brain, which could cause Parkinson's. People drinking green tea also are less likely to progress with Parkinson's.

13. Green Tea and Liver Disease

Green tea helps prevent transplant failure in people with liver failure. Researches showed that green tea destroys harmful free radicals in fatty livers.

14. Green Tea and High Blood Pressure

Green tea helps prevent high blood pressure.
Drinking green tea helps keep your blood pressure down by repressing angiotensin, which leads to high blood pressure.

15. Green Tea and Food Poisoning

Catechin found in green tea can kill bacteria which causes food poisoning and kills the toxins produced by those bacteria.

16. Green Tea and Blood Sugar

Blood sugar tends to increase with age, but polyphenols and polysaccharides in green tea help lower your blood sugar level.

17. Green Tea and Immunity

Polyphenols and flavenoids found in green tea help boost your immune system, making your health stronger in fighting against infections.

18. Green Tea and Cold and Flu

Green tea prevents you from getting a cold or flu.
Vitamin C in green tea helps you treat the flu and the common cold.

19. Green Tea and Asthma

Theophylline in green tea relaxes the muscles which support the bronchial tubes, reducing the severity of asthma.

20. Green Tea and Ear Infection

Green tea helps with ear infection problem.
For natural ear cleaning, soak a cotton ball in green tea and clean the infected ear.

21. Green Tea and Herpes

Green tea increases the effectiveness of topical interferon treatment of herpes.
First green tea compress is applied, and then let the skin dry before the interferon treatment.

22. Green Tea and Tooth Decay

Green tea destroys bacteria and viruses that cause many dental diseases.
It also slows the growth of bacteria which leads to bad breath.

23. Green Tea and Stress

L-theanine, which is a kind of amino acids in green tea, can help relieve stress and anxiety.

24. Green Tea and Allergies

EGCG found in green tea relieves allergies.
So, if you have allergies, you should really consider drinking green tea.

25. Green Tea and HIV

Scientists in Japan have found that EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate) in green tea can stop HIV from binding to healthy immune cells.
What this means is that green tea can help stop the HIV virus from spreading.

Green tea |

Health Benefits of Green Tea

Posted by jutawan akhrat Monday, October 12, 2009 1 comments

One little leaf of green tea offers huge health benefits, especially when you consider its size. Multiple studies have shown that there are many health benefits that green tea offers. Most studies base their findings on the typical Asian consumption of green tea of three cups a day.

Also, it should be mentioned that in Asia, traditionally the same tea leaves are reused. Some herbalists and nutritionists believe that this aids in rehydrating the body, as green tea can have a slightly dehydrating effect.

Health Benefits

According to Mateljan, studies have shown that green tea may be beneficial in a number of conditions such as:

· Multiple sclerosis
· Cancer
· Alzheimer’s disease
· Parkinson’s diseases
· Rheumatoid arthritis
· Cardiovascular diseases
· Impaired immune function.

It has also shown protective qualities against:

· Heart diseases
· Heart attacks
· Cancer (esophageal, prostrate, breast, lung, colon, ovarian)
· Tooth decay
· Hypertension
· Brain tumors in children
· Gallstones
· Kidney disease
· Osteoporosis

Other benefits include that it:

· Reduces the level of cholesterol in the blood
· Improves the ratio of good cholesterol to bad cholesterol.
· Raises metabolism and increases fat oxidation (weight loss)
· Thins blood and prevents clotting
· Assists in recovery after a heart attack
· Helps minimize brain damage after a stroke
· Improves the effectiveness of cancer drugs while reducing their side effects
· Improves insulin sensitivity in adult onset diabetes (Type II)
· Builds bones
· Protects liver from harmful substances
· Increases exercise endurance

Amazingly, a 2006 Japanese study found that women who consumed 3 to 5 cups of green tea a day enjoyed a 23% lowered risk of dying from any cause, while men enjoyed a 12% lowered risk. (Kuriyama et al)

Why It Works

Research shows that much of the health benefits found in green tea can be traced to its high levels of epigallocatechin-3-gallate EGCG and flavonoids. The flavonoids alone account for 30% of the dry weight of green tea.

Both flavonoids and EGCG are anti-oxidants and they promote health by scavenging for free radicals before they can cause damage to the body. EGCG is believed to be responsible for green tea’s cancer preventing abilities. One cup of green tea provides 20-35 mg of EGCG. (Mateljan)

Is Green Tea for Every One?

Green tea contains caffeine, although less then coffee. The gunpowder varieties of green tea are high in caffeine, so if you are sensitive to caffeine, be sure to select a green tea with the least amount of caffeine. You can also brew the tea for less time.

There are some conditions and situations in which you would not want to drink green tea. The tannins found in green tea (which make it taste bitter) can decrease the absorption of certain drugs, causing them to be less effective.

The caffeine in green tea can also cause an increase in absorption of certain drugs, causing the dose amount to be increased. Therefore, green tea can prove to be dangerous if you are taking drugs containing ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or theophylline.

Women who drink large amounts of green tea right before or during pregnancy increase the risk of their baby being born with spina bifida or other neural tube disorders associated with folic acid deficiency, due to green tea’s ability to decrease folic acid levels. Also, if you are anemic or prone to iron deficiency, you should limit your intake of green tea to one cup a day due to green tea’s ability to interfere with iron absorption.

How to Select the Best Green Tea

China boasts the largest variety of green teas ranging from the Gunpowder variety to the award winning Pan Long Yin Hao, for its complex brew of multiple flavors.

There are various types of green tea. The most notable differences are the teas from Japan, China and India. The world’s first organic green tea was produced in India. There is no clear agreement as to which green tea is the best. The different varieties found in these three countries are like all foods and are enjoyed for many factors.

The teas from India, most notably from Darjeeling, are noted for its robust flavor, while still being light. The best Chinese tea is thought to be harvested during the early spring. China boasts the largest variety of green teas ranging from the Gunpowder variety to the award winning Pan Long Yin Hao, for its complex brew of multiple flavors.

In Japan, the best teas are those coming from Shizuoka and Uji. Sencha is the most common green tea in Japan and is high in vitamin C and has is slightly bitter and astringent (drying) in taste.

I prefer my green tea to be less astringent, with a light and sweet taste. I also prefer organic green tea, especially when it is grown in China. This criteria means I usually go with an Indian Darjeeling tea. The nutritional content of the green tea will vary according to growing conditions.

There are also alcohol-free extracts as well as supplements available for those who are interested in a standardized form of green tea, usually used for medicinal purposes to treat a particular disease. However, a nicely brewed cup of green tea is the best form of prevention.

How to Brew a Cup of Green Tea

I prefer loose leaf tea to bagged green tea as I can control the amount of tea I use. If you want to brew a small cup of tea, say 5 ounces, you would use 3 grams of loose leaf tea and for a larger cup of 8 oz, use 4 grams of loose leaf tea. However, a cup of green tea begins with water.

Avoid using tap or distilled water. Instead use a spring or filtered water. You never want to use boiling water to pour over your green tea. Allow it to just come to a boil (when bubbles begin to form at the bottom of the kettle or pan). Let the tea seep for 30 seconds to one minute. Darjeeling and Nilgiri teas may take up to a few minutes to brew while Chinese Dragonwell can take up to seven minutes to infuse.

The most important thing to remember is to select a tea that you enjoy and remember green tea is not a replacement for water.

Green tea |

Why Vegetables and Fruit Help Prevent Cancer

Posted by jutawan akhrat Saturday, October 10, 2009 0 comments

Much has been made of the health effects of vegetarian diets. Various studies have confirmed that vegetarians enjoy more robust health, especially when it comes to cancer prevention. Researchers have cited many reasons why and I will share with you their diet recommendations as well as their cautioning against being strict vegetarians.

What is a Vegetarian?

One thing that is seldom discussed is what a vegetarian is. This becomes important when understanding what research says. There may be a popular idea out there that envisions a vegetarian as someone who only eats vegetables. This is not always the case.

There are laco-vegetarians who consume dairy products, ovo-vegetarians who eat eggs and a combination of the two. Then there are strict vegetarians and vegans who only consume raw foods. There is also a large class of people who call themselves vegetarians, but consume very little vegetables, they mostly eat refined carbohydrates and survive off pasta and rice. This last group would not enjoy any health benefits of being vegetarians.

"As Muslims we must also be careful not to make what Allah made halal into something haram."

Many of the health benefits stem from an overall healthy lifestyle. Michael Pollen in his book, An Omnivore's Dilemma, points out that when it comes to diet, vegetarians are ahead of most of us because they are conscious of what they are putting into their mouths. They ask if what they are eating is healthy before they buy it. Much of the research supports Pollen's statement.

Vegetarians must consume supplements in order to avoid vitamin deficiency and the complications associated with such deficiencies. Vitamin B-12 and the long chain Omega-3 fatty acids being the most notable deficiencies, the best source being found in meat. Studies also indicate that when a vegetarian does become ill, say with cancer, their survival rate is much lower than an omnivore’s (eats meat and vegetables). It was found that lacto-vegetarians enjoy better health than vegans (Weaver). Also, as Muslims we must also be careful not to make what Allah made halal into something haram.

Fiber, Phytonutrients and Cancer

People do not eat enough vegetables, period. What these studies reveal is not so much that everyone should be the vegetarian lifestyle, but that we all should be consuming more fruits and vegetables. India, which is known for its vegetarian lifestyle is not cancer free and amazingly it has some of highest rates of heart disease in the world. (Sinha, et al.)

When it comes to cancer, it is fiber and the phytonutrients (plant nutrients) that offer up prevention against this disease. Vegetarians eat more vegetables, so they experience more of the benefits than other populations. Traditional societies in Africa once upon a time consumed up to 65 grams of fiber a day and were free of many diseases. Today, as a nutritionist, I am happy if I can get someone to consume 25-35 grams a day. Fiber helps clean out the body by binding to toxins and waste products on their way out of the body. This can be of great assistance in removing excess hormones, environmental contaminants, and metabolic waste.

Phytonutrients found in fruits and vegetables are some of the most potent anti-cancer substances (two of which are not readily available in vegetables, supporting the omnivore diet.)
Nutrients that offer the greatest protection are (Divisi et al.):

· Selenium
· Folic acid
· Vitamin B12 (found in meat)
· Vitamin D (found in meat)
· Chlorophyll
· Antioxidants
· Carotenes (a-carotene, B-carotene, lycopene, lutine, cryptoxanthin)

As we go through our daily lives, we are exposed to carcinogenic (cancer-causing) substance and mutagens (substances that can alter cells) all the time. The more fruits and vegetables we eat gives our bodies ways to stop those effects. The more of these nutrients we have in our bodies, the more "damage" we can sustain. Just breathing causes oxidation. Today our food supply is awash with rancid oils that are so damaging to cells and are carcinogenic.

Antioxidants are found abundantly in dark berries, red grapes, deep sea fatty fish, and dark leafy greens. The best sources of vitamin D are cold water fish, cod liver oil, butter and egg yolks. The best form of B-12 is found in liver and other organ meats, while seaweed is a rich source of chlorophyll. The carotenes are found in brightly colored vegetables (yellow and orange). Beans, green leafy vegetables like spinach, collards and kale are rich sources of folic acid. Wheat germ, Brazil nuts and red Swiss chard are good sources of selenium.

I want to mention soy here. There have been various studies claiming that soy prevents cancer, however, according to a 2004 study shows that the health benefits seem only to apply to the traditional Japanese condiments or fermented soy products. Tofu and soy milk, due to the processing they undergo, are not healthful foods. (Allred, et al.)

A study conducted in 2003 found that eating fruit in childhood had a long term protective effect against cancer – so moms, put out a big bowl of fruit for the children. (Maynard, et al.)

Overdoing It

There are some foods, when eaten in excess, were found to contribute to cancer (Key, et al). These foods are:

· Preserved meat
· High amounts of saturated fats
· High amounts of red meat
· High amounts of Omega 6 oils
· Dry/salt preserved fish
· Very hot drinks

Preserved meats, like sandwich meat, contain many substances that are toxins. If prepared at home, this is not an issue. Studies do not specify what types of saturated fats were used in the study and indicate that there is no "definitive connection" between fat intake and cancer. Rancid fats and damaged fats like corn, canola, hydrogenated oils and heated olive oil contribute to cancer.

People eat too much meat. Eating meat at every meal and every day is not moderation. Study after study has shown that over consuming meat is hazardous to one's health, especially when that meat is full of antibiotics and pumped full with growth hormones.

Personally, I eat meat 1-2 times a week, if that much. Interestingly, researchers also found that drinking very hot beverages is associated with a high risk of cancer of the esophagus which is very prevalent in India.

Should I Use Dietary Supplements?

The question inevitably comes up as to whether or not dietary supplementation is worth the money and the effort. Most supplements are going to differ from person to person, but taking a good multivitamin as well as an antioxidant are all steps anyone can take after asking his or her doctor to prevent any disease.

A 2006 study found that probiotics and digestive enzymes are well worth taking as a dietary measure to prevent cancer (Divisi, et al.). In the world that we live in dietary supplementation are a good preventative and health building measure.

Genetics vs. environment and nature vs. nurture are the wild cards in cancer prevention. Some people are more susceptible to cancer than others. Then there are the environmental contaminants that are mutagens and carcinogens that can cause cancer in people with no known genetic propensity for cancer.

In either case, supplementation of antioxidants and a good multivitamin can help in eliminating both wild cards. More importantly, remember to eat at least 4 servings of fruits and 6 servings of vegetables a day.

For further information, The World's Healthiest Foods (www.whfoods.com) is a good source for information on the best foods to eat to prevent disease.

Fruits, Vegetables |

Food and Our Body

Posted by jutawan akhrat Thursday, October 8, 2009 0 comments

WALNUT – BRAIN

THE gnarled folds of a walnut mimic the appearance of a
human brain - and provide a clue to the benefits.

Walnuts are the only nuts which contain significant
amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.

They may also help head off dementia. An American study
found that walnut
extract broke down the protein-based plaques associated
with Alzheimer’ disease.

Researchers at Tufts University in Boston found walnuts
reversed some signs of brain ageing in rats.

TOMATO – HEART

A TOMATO is red and usually has four chambers, just
like our heart.

Tomatoes are also a great source of lycopene, a plant
chemical that reduces
the risk of heart disease and several cancers.

The Women’s Health Study — an American research
programme which tracks the
health of 40,000 women — found women with the highest
blood levels of
lycopene had 30 per cent less heart disease than women
who had very little lycopene.

Lab experiments have also shown that lycopene helps
counter the effect of
unhealthy LDL cholesterol.

One Canadian study, published in the journal
Experimental Biology and
>Medicine, said there was “convincing evidence’ that
lycopene prevented coronary heart diseas

GRAPES – LUNGS

OUR lungs are made up of branches of ever-smaller
airways that finish up
with tiny bunches of tissue called alveoli.

These structures, which resemble bunches of grapes,
allow oxygen to pass
from the lungs to the blood stream
One reason that very premature babies struggle to survive is that these
alveoli do not begin to form until week 23 or 24 of pregnancy.

A diet high in fresh fruit, such as grapes, has been
shown to reduce the risk of lung cancer and emphysema.

Grape seeds also contain a chemical called
proanthocyanidin, which appears
to reduce the severity of asthma triggered by allergy.

BEANSPROUTS – SPERM

The stir-fry favorite bears an uncanny resemblance to
the images we see of
‘swimming’ sperm trying to fertilize an egg. And
research from the US
suggests they could play an important part in boosting
male fertility.

A study at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio showed that to
make healthy sperm
in large quantities, the body needs a good supply of
vitamin C, a powerful
antioxidant that protects cells against damage by
harmful molecules called
free radicals.

Just half a cup of bean sprouts provides 16 per cent of
the recommended
daily allowance of vitamin C for a man.

It’s not just dad but baby too who could benefit.

Bean sprouts are packed with folate, a vitamin that
prevents neural tube defects, where the baby is born with a damaged brain or spine.

GINGER – STOMACH

Root ginger, commonly sold in supermarkets, often looks
just like the stomach.

So it’s interesting that one of its biggest benefits is aiding digestion.

The Chinese have been using it for over 2,000 years to calm the stomach and
cure nausea, while it is also a popular remedy for motion sickness.

But the benefits could go much further.

Tests on mice at the University of Minnesota found injecting the chemical
that gives ginger its flavor slowed down the growth rate of bowel tumours.

CHEESE – BONES

A nice ‘holey’ cheese, like Emmenthal, is not just
good for your bones, it
even resembles their internal structure.

And like most cheeses, it is a rich source of calcium, a vital ingredient
for strong bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis later in life.

Together with another mineral called phosphate, it provides the main
strength in bones but also helps to ‘power’ muscles.

Getting enough calcium in the diet during childhood is crucial for strong bones.

A study at Columbia University in New York showed teens
who increased calcium intake from 800mg a day to 1200mg – equal to an extra two slices of
cheddar - boosted their bone density by six per cent.

BROCCOLI – CANCER

Close-up, the tiny green tips on a broccoli head look like
hundreds of cancer cells.

Now scientists know this disease-busting veg can play a
crucial role in preventing the disease.

Last year, a team of researchers at the US National Cancer
Institute found just a weekly serving of broccoli was enough to reduce the risk
of prostate cancer by 45 per cent.

In Britain , prostate cancer kills one man every hour.

BANANA (SMILE) – DEPRESSION

Cheer yourself up and put a smile on your face by eating a banana.

The popular fruit contains a protein called tryptophan.

Once it has been digested, tryptophan then gets
converted in a chemical nurotransmitter called serotonin.

This is one of the most important mood-regulating
chemicals in the brain and most anti-depressant drugs work by adjusting levels
of serotonin production.

Higher levels are associated with better moods.

MUSHROOM – EAR

Slice a mushroom in half and it resembles the shape of
the human ear.

And guess what? Adding it to your cooking could
actually improve your hearing.

That’s because mushrooms are one of the few foods in
our diet that contain vitamin D.

This particular vitamin is important for healthy bones, even the tiny ones
in the ear that transmit sound to the brain.

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