Taking care of your teeth is a constant endeavor that requires thoroughly following an oral hygiene routine. However, even after brushing, flossing, and using an expensive mouthwash, you might notice your teeth don’t appear as white as you would want them to be. In such a situation, besides sticking to daily oral hygiene practices, trying a few DIY remedies can help. The techniques listed here can gradually restore your pearly white smile.
Coconut oil pulling
Oil pulling is among the oldest techniques for teeth whitening that offers long-lasting results. To try this remedy, just swish a decent amount of coconut oil vigorously inside your mouth for a few minutes. Experts suggest using pure coconut oil for a thorough cleanse. This is because coconut oil is naturally rich in properties that help remove stains from the teeth’s surface and neutralize bacteria that increase the risk of cavities. It’s a simple, cost-effective home remedy that has no side effects. However, you must practice it regularly for the best results.
Homemade paste
Use baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to create a DIY paste. When mixed, these ingredients form a potent effervescent paste that helps remove plaque, stains, and bacteria buildup that affects healthy teeth and their shine. Combining a tablespoon of baking soda with two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide should give you the desired consistency. This remedy is safe to use daily and is suggested by many dentists as a powerful solution for teeth whitening. Alternatively, you can purchase commercially available toothpaste that contains both active ingredients.
Toothpaste for whitening the enamel
Many toothpaste and whitening gels available in the market can help you get pearly white teeth from the comforts of your home. A few examples are:
You can alternatively consider direct application gels for quicker results. GLO Science, Opalescence, Plus White, and Bleach Pro are the top brands. Most gels come in easy applicator syringes to achieve the best results at home.
Apple cider vinegar rinse
Raw apple cider is powerful and shouldn’t be applied directly to your pearly whites. Instead, you can create a diluted homemade mouthwash by mixing two teaspoons of vinegar with at least six ounces of water. Use this solution instead of commercial mouthwashes to remove stains naturally, whiten the enamel, and prevent bacteria buildup. ACV’s natural bleaching effects help keep the top layer of the molars clean and white longer. But note that experts suggest using this mouthwash with caution and for a limited time only, as overuse can weaken the enamel.
Fruit whitening
The peels of certain fruits have healthy teeth whitening properties with no side effects whatsoever. Citrus-rich fruits like oranges and lemons are popular options for natural teeth whitening. Take the peel of a fresh fruit and rub it across your molars gently. Do this for a few minutes, then rinse the mouth thoroughly so no food particles are left behind. The repetitive actions, combined with the peel’s active d-limonene compounds, help remove a decent layer of stains. However, don’t overuse this remedy, as the citric acids in the fruit are pretty abrasive. Though it isn’t the most widely recommended home remedy, experts suggest the technique is somewhat effective and easy to practice. Banana peels are also an excellent alternative instead of orange and lemon peels.
Following a teeth-friendly meal plan
Changes in daily nutrition can also help maintain those pearly whites without extra effort. For example, pineapple is rich in bromelain, an active ingredient that helps remove stains from the enamel. Chewing on crunchy fruits and vegetables triggers saliva production, which is vital because saliva naturally helps keeps the teeth clean and healthy. It prevents plaque and bacteria buildup that erodes the enamel and exposes the teeth to foods and beverages that stain the molars. While eating these, avoid foods and beverages that leave stains. Flavored sodas, sugary candies, and caffeinated beverages stain healthy teeth and expose the enamel to bacterial infections.
Understand that these remedies are just suggestions and may not be suitable for all teeth problems. So, consult with a dentist to assess the viability and effectiveness of any remedy before trying it out at home. Preventive care and regular oral hygiene is the best way to ensure clean white teeth.
Here are a few simple tips to keep the teeth naturally healthy and white:
Those facing oral health problems may require a more comprehensive and well-planned care routine. In such situations, it’s advisable to avoid experimenting and consult an expert to determine the most suitable home and natural remedies.
Bags under eyes, also known as puffiness of eyes, are common with aging and especially, among older people. With aging, the muscles supporting the eyelids start weakening and fat supporting the eyes move into lower eyelids. This causes the eyes to appear puffy. There is also a possibility of fluids accumulating below the eyes and adding to the swelling.
Eye puffiness is not a serious medical condition but it makes you look older. Home remedies such as applying cucumber, tea bags, etc. on the eyes can help to treat eye puffiness. In case of severe and persistent symptoms, it is good to consult a doctor.
Signs and symptoms
Common symptoms of bags under eyes include:
In case of persistent symptoms, it is necessary to consult the doctor. These symptoms include the following:
What causes the bags under your eyes?
How to treat under eye bags?
Home remedies
The various home treatment methods to cure eye puffiness are as described below:
Hydration
Drinking plenty of water keeps your body well hydrated and thus helps in reducing eye puffiness. Water also helps to flush out harmful toxins from the body. It is recommended to drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water every day for staying well hydrated.
Cucumber
Cold cucumbers have inflammatory properties that will tighten the skin and help in reducing eye puffiness. It also benefits to get rid of dark circles and will provide a refreshing feeling to the eyes. You can take two fresh slices of refrigerated cucumber and place them on your eyes for few minutes till the slices become warm. Repeat the process several times a day to get better results.
Potato
Potatoes also possess anti-inflammatory properties which provide a good remedy for treating eye bags. It is also beneficial in getting rid of dark circles. Refrigerate a washed, raw potato for few minutes and cut it into two slices. Place them on your eyes for 15–20 minutes. Repeat this procedure several times until the puffiness reduces.
Egg whites
The skin tightening properties of egg whites play a great role in treating eye puffiness and tightening the skin around eyes. Besides, it also helps to prevent wrinkles. Break 2–3 eggs and take the egg whites in a container. Whip the egg whites thoroughly. Apply it on the affected area using a clean brush or soft cloth. Leave it for few minutes and allow it to dry. Finally, clean it with cold water. Repeat the process daily.
Tea bags
Tea bags, whether green tea bags or chamomile tea bags, can help to reduce swelling under the eyes due to their anti-irritant properties. Their herbal properties are also helpful in reducing inflammation and redness. Take two chilled tea bags and place them on your eyes. Relax for a few minutes and you will notice quick results.
Cold spoons
Even though it sounds surprising, but ice-chilled spoons prove to be very effective in reducing puffiness of eyes. They help to tighten the skin surrounding eyes and relax the blood vessels. Refrigerate 4 or 6 metal spoons for some minutes. Place a spoon over each eye by holding its rounded portion against the eyes and leave them as it is until they become warm. Repeat the process again by replacing the warm spoons with the cold ones.
Bags under eyes creams
Besides the above-mentioned home remedies, there are also many eye products available in the market to treat puffiness of eyes. The below list consists of the top 10 bags under eyes creams available to treat puffiness of eyes:
You can choose from these top 10 bags under eyes creams to get effective and quick results. However, it would be better to consult your doctor before choosing one of these bags under eyes creams so that you would have a better idea of which cream would suit you better.
How to prevent your eyes from puffiness?
You can use any of the above-mentioned home remedies or bags under eyes creams to get effective results and get rid of the bags under your eyes.
The most effective eczema treatment is to remove the allergen that is causing the allergic reactions. These allergies develop rashes and itchiness causing high levels of discomfort. The home remedies for eczema treatment may vary from simple to hard levels. Changing laundry detergents and fabric softeners are easy ways to reduce eczema.
Eczema is a dermatological term used to identify certain medical conditions. It is more prominent in infants and children rather than adults. The main areas affected are limbs, inner curves of elbows, knees, and face. The swelling is red, thick, and dry. The blisters are vulnerable and bursts open with a slight rub. It takes around a week or so to heal. The main irritation is due to excessive itching that can bruise the skin.
Causes of eczema
The exact cause of eczema is yet to be analyzed. A potent cause could be the overactive response of the immune system to allergens. The allergens can be identified as one of those listed below.
• Soaps and detergents
• Certain fabric or cloth
• Animal Dander
• Exposure to extreme hot or cold conditions
Another important factor that may flare up eczema is stress.
Eczema treatment
There are a number of eczema treatment options available and a few of them are mentioned below.
Vegetable shortening
Vegetable shortening is a thick and greasy kitchen staple. It is useful in healing dry and patchy scars. Therefore, it is helpful in eczema treatment. Apply the shortening to the affected areas and cover with a plastic wrap. Seal the mouth with a surgical tape. Leave the moisturizer to seep in for 2 to 4 hours. Repeat this process daily until the scars heal.
Ice-cold milk wash
Ice-cold milk soak wash is yielding during eczema treatment as it cools the blisters. Soak a washcloth in ice-cold milk and apply on the itchy perimeters. This will have a cooling and healing effect on the rashes. Repeat the process several times a day to ease the discomfort.
Chamomile
Chamomile has natural soothing properties that act as a great eczema treatment. You can consume chamomile tea as it relaxes your nerves and aids in the healing. You may also take a chamomile bath to soothe your scars. Boil water and let it cool slightly. Add 4 to 5 tea bags of chamomile and allow it to soak in the water. You may also use chamomile leaves. Strain the leaves in a tea strainer and mix the tea in your bath water. Blend the tea in the water and soak yourself in it. You may sip along with some extra tea for added relaxation.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a natural spice that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is known to reduce inflammation and itchy skin. Thus, it can be considered as an option for eczema treatment. The curcumin antioxidant present in turmeric has properties to neutralize free radicals. Turmeric can be eaten raw or added as a spice to rice, pasta, and vegetables.
Probiotics
Probiotics introduce healthy bacteria and reduce eczema inflammation. Probiotics are another option available for eczema treatment. Eczema is often hereditary, so the transfer can be stopped by administering probiotics. Probiotics are taken by pregnant mothers before 2 to 4 weeks of delivery. Probiotics are even added to infant food. It has been observed that the babies who had probiotic food had fewer chances of suffering from eczema. Improving balance of gut bacteria is a part of eczema treatment.
Aloe vera
Aloe Vera is a natural herb that is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It has shown a positive result in psoriasis and eczema treatment. The aloe vera gel has cooling components that soothe the skin instantly. Thus, you feel relieved. Aloe vera plant can be grown in a pot so it is advised to keep one at home. You can extract the gel from the leaves. Natural aloe vera gel is available in all leading drugstores also.
Hempseed oil
Hempseed oil is a proven cure for eczema, psoriasis, and other skin diseases. It is rich in fatty acids like omega 3 and omega 6. The fatty acids trigger the natural immune system and fasten the healing procedure. Consumption of the hemp seed oil improves blood vessels and cures from within. Applying hemp seed oil helps to soothe the itchy and dry skin. So, it has the power to heal inside out and a resultant eczema treatment.
Essential proteins for eczema treatment
• Fatty acids like omega 3 are said to relieve inflammations and allergies. Nuts and fish are rich in omega 3 fatty acids. Consumption of fatty acids is helpful as an eczema treatment.
• Vitamin A and E are useful in reducing dry itchy skin. They also reduce eczema to spread or flare-up.
• Zinc is another element that has great healing powers. It is highly recommended for eczema treatment as it boosts the function of fatty acids. Thus, it accelerates the healing process.