Headache is the symptom of pain in the face, head, or neck. It can occur as a migraine, tension-type headache, or cluster headache. Frequent headaches can affect relationships and employment. There is also an increased risk of depression in those with severe headaches.Headaches can occur as a result of many conditions. There are a number of different classification systems for headaches. The most well-recognized is that of the International Headache Society. Causes of headaches may include dehydration, ...

headache

What-we-shouldknow-about-lemon-balm

What we shouldknow about lemon balm

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Melissa officinalis is a lemon-scented herb that comes from the same family as mint (Mentha). The herb is found in Europe, North Africa and West Asia, but is grown all over the world. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/14848" target="_blank" data-ref="Melissa" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a> Melissa officinalis L. contains a large number of compounds, such as flavonoids (quercetin, ramnocitrine, luteolin), polyphenol compounds (rosemary acid, caffeic acid and protocatechuic acid), monoterpene aldehyde, monoterpene glycosides, triterpenes (ursolic and oleanolic acids), sesquiterpens and essential oils.

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Lemon balm is traditionally used to improve mood and cognitive function, but the potential benefits extend to antiviral and antioxidant activity; antifungal effect and others that we will explore in the next paragraph.

The-health-benefits-of-lemon-balm

The health benefits of lemon balm

May-help-relieve-stress

May help relieve stress 

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Lemon Balm is said to soothe stress symptoms, helps to relax and boosts mood. There are a small number of studies in which it is reported that taking Lemon Balm relieves negative effects on mood from psychological stress, helps to relax and normalize the condition. &nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15272110/" target="_blank" data-ref="Attenuation of laboratory-induced stress in humans after acute administration of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm) - PubMed" rel="noopener">[Ref. 1]</a> More research is needed to explore these findings thoroughly.

May-help-the-body's-antioxidant-defences

May help the body's antioxidant defences 

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Lemon Balm extract has the ability to remove both synthetic and natural free radicals. This is of great importance as it shows that the extract may have the potential to prevent oxidative damage in vivo by preventing free radical-mediated oxidative stress.

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May-help-reduce-anxiety

May help reduce anxiety 

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Lemon balm can also be used to reduce symptoms of anxiety, such as nervousness. A study published in 2014 looked at the mood and cognitive effects of lemon balm-containing foods. The supplement is mixed in drink and in yogurt along with natural or artificial sweeteners. Participants in both groups reported positive effects on various aspects of mood, <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/6/11/4805" target="_blank" data-ref="Anti-Stress Effects of Lemon Balm-Containing Foods" rel="noopener">including decreased levels of anxiety.</a>&nbsp; [ref. 3]&nbsp;

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Although these results sound promising, more research is needed to really determine the efficacy of lemon balm to address anxiety.

May-support-cognitive-function

May support cognitive function

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The same 2014 study, "Anti-Stress Effects of Lemon Balm-Containing Foods," looked at the effects of lemon balm-containing foods on improving cognitive function. Participants were asked to perform cognitive tasks including memory evaluation, mathematics and concentration. The results of these computerized tasks suggested that participants who took Lemon Balm performed better than those who did not.

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Although these participants experienced increased levels of alertness and performance, it is still possible that fatigue may occur over time. Further research is also needed in this aspect.

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<h3>May Help Relieve Insomnia and Other Sleep Disorders</h3>Combining Lemon Balm with Valerian can help alleviate anxiety and sleep disorders such as insomnia. Researchers in a 2006 study found that children who took a combined dose had a 70 to 80 percent improvement in symptoms.&nbsp;

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Both researchers and parents consider lemon balm to be a good or very good treatment. However, one study is not enough to make general conclusions.&nbsp;

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Another scientific publication, "Pilot Trial of Melissa officinalis L. leaf extract in the treatment of volunteers suffering from mild-to-moderate anxiety disorders and sleep disturbances" looked at the impact of uterine disorders on volunteers suffering from mild to moderate anxiety disorders and sleep disorders. [&nbsp;<a href="https://content.iospress.com:443/articles/mediterranean-journal-of-nutrition-and-metabolism/mnm4-3-09" target="_blank" data-ref="Pilot trial of Melissa officinalis L. leaf extract in the treatment of volunteers suffering from mild-to-moderate anxiety disorders and sleep disturbances - IOS Press" rel="noopener">[ref. 4]</a>&nbsp;] The results in almost 95% of subjects (19/20) who responded to treatment were:&nbsp;

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">70% (14/20) achieved complete remission for anxiety;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">85% (17/20) for insomnia;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">70% (14/20) for both.&nbsp;</li></ul>This study demonstrates for the first time that regular administration of Melissa officinalis L. alleviates stress-related effects. It is extremely important that further studies include a placebo and examine physiological markers of stress.

May-help-treat-herpes

May help treat herpes 

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Lemon Balm can be applied topically at the first signs of herpes. Participants in various studies applied either Lemon Balm or placebo cream to the affected area several times a day. The researchers found that participants who used lemon balm cream had fewer symptoms and were treated faster than those who did not. Further studies are needed to clarify these actions.

May-help-alleviate-indigestion

May help alleviate indigestion

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If you experience frequent abdominal pain and discomfort, lemon balm can have a positive effect on digestion. A small study from 2010 evaluated the effects of a cold lemon balm-containing dessert on functional dyspepsia. Participants consumed sorbet, with or without the herb, after eating. Although both types of desserts reduce symptoms and their intensity, the lemon balm-containing dessert enhances this effect. More research is needed to clarify the beneficial effect on digestion.&nbsp; <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20385075/" target="_blank" data-ref="Effectiveness of a " rel="noopener">[ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;

May-help-prevent-nausea

May help prevent nausea

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Given its potential impact on the digestive system, lemon balm can also help relieve feelings of nausea.

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A 2005 scientific review evaluating the results of several studies on Lemon Balm found that the herb was useful in treating gastrointestinal symptoms.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/7144806_Lemon_balm_Melissa_officinalis_L_an_evidence-based_systematic_review_by_the_Natural_Standard_Research_Collaboration" target="_blank" data-ref="Please Wait... | Cloudflare" rel="noopener">[ref. 6]</a>&nbsp;

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Many of the studies looked at lemon balm used alongside other herbs. Further research is needed to determine the efficacy of Lemon Balm when used alone.

May-help-reduce-menstrual-cramps

May help reduce menstrual cramps

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There is also research that suggests that Lemon Balm can be used to relieve menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

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A 2015 study examined the effect of lemon balm on reducing the intensity of cramps in 100 high school girls. The girls took either lemon balm essence or placebo for three consecutive menstrual cycles. The intensity of PMS symptoms was analysed before and one, two and three months after the trial. The group taking Lemon Balm reported a significant reduction in symptoms. [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4557408/" target="_blank" data-ref="Effect of Melissa officinalis Capsule on the Intensity of Premenstrual Syndrome Symptoms in High School Girl Students" rel="noopener">[ref. 7]</a>&nbsp;]

May-help-relieve-headaches

May help relieve headaches 

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Lemon balm can also be useful in the treatment of headaches, especially if it occurs as a result of stress. Its relaxing properties can help you relax, relieve tension and stress. In addition, taking the herb can help relax tight blood vessels, which can contribute to headaches.

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Lemon Balm essential oil is popular in aromatherapy and is used in many countries around the world. Lemon Balm oil can help relieve stress and anxiety. It is safe for short-term use, but should not be used for more than six weeks. In the form of a dietary supplement it can also be taken to support the digestive system, for improved antioxidant protection and cognitive function.

Benefits of Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) for stress, anxiety and other conditions

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Benefits of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) for stress, anxiety and o

Бетина Цветкова

A-few-words-about-Lovage

A few words about Lovage

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Lovage (Levisticum officinale Koch.) is a well-known aromatic plant that is often used to make dishes, flavors and medical preparations. Levisticum officinale, has a distinct earthy taste, similar to celery, but with scents of spices. This perennial herb has many uses &ndash; leaves, roots and seeds are edible &ndash; and can be used as an ingredient in soups, sauces and stews, as an accompaniment to fish dishes and to improve the taste of pickles. [ <a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/16222" target="_blank" data-ref="Levisticum officinale" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a> ]&nbsp;

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Above-ground parts are typically used as food, and in the past the roots were used in folk medicine because of their diuretic and antispasmodic properties. Therefore, the exploitation of this undervalued part of the plant can be a source of valuable bioactive compounds for the food and/or pharmaceutical industry, as well as for any fan of natural remedies. [ <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9276/9/7/81" target="_blank" data-ref="Lovage (Levisticum officinale W.D.J. Koch) Roots: A Source of Bioactive Compounds towards a Circular Economy" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;]

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Health-benefits-provided-by-Lovage

Health benefits provided by Lovage

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In <a href="../../p/%D0%9D%D0%B0%D0%B9-%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%B6%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%B5-%D0%B7%D0%B4%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%B2%D0%BD%D0%B8-%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B7%D0%B8-%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%BE-%D0%94%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%B8%D0%BB-Levisticum-officinale" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the first part of</a> the topic we explored the beneficial effect of lovage on the digestive system, for relieving arthritic pain, calming symptoms associated with colitis and others. We continue with a review of other studied positive effects in humans and animals provided by the perennial herb Levisticum officinale.

Antibacterial-effects

Antibacterial effects 

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Research shows that lovage has a significant effect on various microbes and foreign agents that can cause disease in the body. Although research is still ongoing, studies have found positive links between taking lovage and reducing E. coli, Salmonella and other dangerous infections. [ <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00345-002-0293-0?error=cookies_not_supported&amp;code=079ede9c-f6c1-4354-83ed-7e75d52b8e10" target="_blank" data-ref="Botanical medicines for the urinary tract - World Journal of Urology" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;]

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Antiallergic-action

Antiallergic action

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Many of the health benefits of lovage are associated with its anti-inflammatory and soothing nature, and the same applies to countering the effects of allergens. In addition, there are significant amounts of quercetin in the plant, which is a natural inhibitor of histamines. It can reduce the allergic reaction of your body, which is expressed with itching in the eyes, runny nose and other symptoms. [ <a href="https://www.hindawi.com/journals/tswj/2001/731956/" target="_blank" data-ref="Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Compounds Isolated from Plants" rel="noopener">[ref. 4]</a>&nbsp;]

Support-for-healthy-joints

Support for healthy joints

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Regular use of lovage can help maintain healthy joints. This is a great benefit for elderly people who usually have joint health problems.

Support-for-the-pulmonary-system

Support for the pulmonary system

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Levisticum officinale can help support lung function. This also means&nbsp; improved function of other organs and systems that directly depend on the lungs.

Reduces-inflammation-&-relieves-pain

Reduces inflammation & relieves pain

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Levisticum officinale has mild painkiller effect and can help relieve joint pain, abdominal cramps, possibly headaches and other types of pain. Research has shown that angelic acid is responsible for the mild analgesic properties of lovage, but other volatile compounds in its composition and even nutrients (such as magnesium with its antispasmodic effects) contribute to its analgesic benefits. &nbsp; <a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Antioxidative_and_Potentially_Anti_inflammatory_Activity_of_Phenolics_from_Lovage_Leaves_Levisticum_officinale_Koch_Elicited_with_Jasmonic_Acid_and_Yeast_Extract_30979087" target="_blank" data-ref="Antioxidative and Potentially Anti-inflammatory Activity of Phenolics from Lovage Leaves Levisticum officinale Koch Elicited with Jasmonic Acid and Yeast Extract. | Билкови и природни лекарства" rel="noopener">[Ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Helping-to-urinate-and-support-the-kidneys

Helping to urinate and support the kidneys

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Levisticum officinale is an aquaretic or a type of diuretic that intensifies urination without leading to the loss of electrolytes. Increased urination clears the urinary system and calcified kidney stones, which perhaps helps prevent the formation of kidney stones.

Fights-harmful-microorganisms

Fights harmful microorganisms

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Most plants produce natural chemicals to combat harmful organisms. While some plant chemicals - such as resveratrol - work independently, researchers have found that chemical compounds in lovage work together to create a very powerful effect against harmful organisms. Scientists have found that the extract of this plant is among the most potent, acting against gram-negative bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, H. pylori and H. influenza. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7346211/" target="_blank" data-ref="In vitro Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-metabolic Syndrome, Antimicrobial, and Anticancer Effect of Phenolic Acids Isolated from Fresh Lovage Leaves [Levisticum officinale Koch] Elicited with Jasmonic Acid and Yeast Extract" rel="noopener">[Ref. 6]</a>&nbsp;

Traditional-uses-of-Lovage

Traditional uses of Lovage

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tea from lovage can be applied to wounds as an antiseptic or drunk to stimulate digestion.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lovage is a warming and restorative herb for the digestive and respiratory system.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Roots, leaves and fruits are antispasmodic, aromatic, diuretic, slightly expectorant and stimulating urination.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lovage is used internally in the treatment of stomach disorders, especially in colic and flatulence in children, kidney stones, cystitis, painful menstruation.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Essential oil from seeds is used by aromatherapists to remove freckles and spots on the face.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lovage is used in urinary tract infections, kidney and bladder stones.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Traditionally used to reduce flatulence and as a natural remedy for abdominal pain caused by meteorism.</li></ul>

Culinary-applications-of-Lovage

Culinary applications of Lovage

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Leaves can be used in salads, for making soup or for seasoning broths.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Roots can be consumed as a vegetable or grated for use in salads.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Seeds can be used as a spice, similar to fennel seeds.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Leaves and stems can be consumed raw or boiled.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">It is used as a spicy aroma in salads, soups, stews, etc., giving a aroma close to that of celery.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The seeds have a strong taste of yeast and are used as a flavoring in sweets, soups, salads and others.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lovage is used with oregano and garlic for tomato sauces in Italy, and people in the Netherlands use it as an ingredient in asparagus dishes.</li></ul>

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Before-consuming-or-using-Lovage

Before consuming or using Lovage

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">It is claimed that the plant contains the suspected psychotropic substance myristicin.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The volatile oil is an irritant.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">It is contraindicated in inflammation of the kidneys or urinary tract.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lovage can be harmful to women, and it is recommended that women who are pregnant or suffer from menstrual disorders avoid this herb.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lovage can also cause photodermatitis, a skin allergy that occurs after eating the herb and exposure to sunlight.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">People with kidney problems should restrain from consuming or using lovage or its derivatives.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">People with allergic conditions should avoid consuming lovage.&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Excessive consumption of the herbal plant can lead to diarrhea.&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Excessive use (repeatedly above the recommended dose) may cause kidney damage.</li></ul>

Recipe-for-soup-with-lovage

Recipe for soup with lovage

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If you don't have contraindications or allergies diagnosed, then you can enjoy lovage in a delicious warm soup according to our recipe.

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Necessary products:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">20 grams cow's butter from pasture animals</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">1 onion, finely chopped</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">A few young stems of lovage, chopped</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">1 small handful of lovage leaves, grated</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">700 millilitres of homemade bone broth or chicken or vegetable broth</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">2 small lettuces, finely chopped</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">100 grams of peas</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Himalayan salt and freshly ground black pepper</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">A few teaspoons cr&egrave;me fraiche or raw yogurt</li></ul>Instructions for preparation:

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<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Heat the butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Add the onion, thyme and a pinch of salt and stew until the onions are soft and transparent, about 10 minutes.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Add the stalks and stew for a few minutes.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pour in the broth and simmer for 10 minutes.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Add the rest of the vegetables (but set aside a few leaves of lovage for dressing) and simmer for five minutes.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Season and serve with a little yogurt or cr&egrave;me fraiche and lovage leaves.</li></ol>

A unique medicinal herb, the lovage can be consumed as a fresh vegetable or used in cooking to improve taste and add nutrients to food. Its health benefits include improved urinary health, antibacterial properties, antiallergic and anti-inflammatory effect. Unless there is a reason to&nbsp; avoid it, Levisticum officinale can be a very fresh and aromatic way for diversifying your culinary masterpieces, providing great health benefits.

Top health benefits of Levisticum officinale (Part 2)

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Top health benefits of the plant Lovage (Levisticum of

General-information-on-birch-trees-and-leaves

General information on birch trees and leaves

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"Birch leaf" is the common name for the leaves of the betula pendula roth tree or Betula pubescens Ehrh. &nbsp;<a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-642-61535-1_16?error=cookies_not_supported&amp;code=1dc7934c-8d6d-41fc-9b96-1b33046d2d07" target="_blank" data-ref="Birch ( Betula spp.)" rel="noopener">[Ref. 1]</a>&nbsp; The genus Betula, colloquially known as birches, is composed of about 120 different species of small to medium-sized deciduous trees and shrubs with thin leaves.

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Throughout history, birch bark has been used in the practices of traditional medicine by the indigenous peoples of North America to treat superficial wounds by applying the bark directly to the skin. The birch leaf, in turn, was used as a mild diuretic for the dew of the urinary tract, especially in inflammations and cases of blockage of the kidneys. It is also used as an aid in the treatment of bacterial infections and spasmodic urinary tract disorders.

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Ayurvedic-health-benefits-of-birch-leaves

Ayurvedic health benefits of birch leaves

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In The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine, phytotherapist David Hoffman writes: "Birch leaves are an effective remedy for cystitis and other urinary system infections and help remove excess water from the body. &nbsp;<a href="https://books.google.de/books?id=e10oDwAAQBAJ&amp;newbks=0&amp;hl=en&amp;redir_esc=y" target="_blank" data-ref="Medical Herbalism" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;Perhaps because of this purifying and diuretic activity, the plant has been used to treat gout, rheumatism and mild arthritic pain. With urinary tract infections, tea can be prepared, with several leaves boiled in a glass of water for 5-10 minutes. Tea is consumed unsweetened.

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Some of the other areas of application for which there is evidence that birches and their components have a beneficial effect are:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Blood purifier: Use a tablespoon of inner birch bark with one glass of boiling water. Take one glass a day.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Analgesic: Birch essential oil can be applied externally to relieve headaches, menstrual cramps, abdominal cramps, gout, rheumatism and other pains.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Wounds: Boil the bark in a little water and use the liquid for wound cleaning.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Baldness: The decoction of leaves can be used as a means of rinsing hair.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Arthritis: Prepare for the decoction 1 teaspoon birch bark and 1 teaspoon dandelion root (Radix Taraxaci). Add 1 slice of grated ginger root (Zingiber officinale). Keep it low. Turn off the heat when it boils. Drink half a cup when it cools down. Do not use this medicine if you are sensitive to analgesics.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Septicaemia: Take an equal amount of nettle root (Urtica dioica L.), horseradish leaves (Equisetum arvense L.), birch leaves, dandelion leaves. Prepare a potion. Take one glass once a day.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Kidney stones: Boil one tablespoon of birch leaves in half a glass of water for 10 minutes. Leave to stand for 2 hours. Add half a tablespoon of baking soda. Take one glass a day.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Gallstones: Take dandelion root, milk thistle (Silybum marianum), birch leaves and nettle leaves in equal quantities. Make tea by boiling all these herbs together and drinking regularly to prevent kidney and bile stones.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Possible-side-effects-when-using-birch-leaves

Possible side effects when using birch leaves

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People who are allergic to wild carrots, wormwood, celery and other spices may react to birch pollen. This pollen can also cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to other plants such as apples, soybeans, hazelnuts and peanuts.

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Side effects reported with birch leaf medicines include:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Diarrhea.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">A feeling of discomfort similar to getting sick.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Allergic reactions such as itching, rash and stuffy and runny nose. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC7126499/" target="_blank" data-ref="Medicinal plants of the genus Betula&mdash;Traditional uses and a phytochemical&ndash;pharmacological review" rel="noopener">[Ref. 2]</a>&nbsp; </li></ul>Birch leaves should not be used in patients with a decreased renal or cardiac function. Pregnant and lactating mothers should avoid the use of birch leaves. It should also be taken into account that birch leaves can lead to an increase in the amount of salt in the body, which in turn worsens problems with high blood pressure. Therefore, if you have any of these conditions, ask your doctor for advice before taking tea, using in culinary or other things invlonving birch leaves.

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Birch leaves are traditionally used as a herbal treatment and as an antiseptic for the urinary tract, to relieve arthritic pains and due to their antimicrobial action. Birch leaves can be boiled in tea and taken internally for various health problems, but there are some contraindications, for example, in people with hypertension, pregnant and nursing mothers.

Birch leaves - health benefits, usage and side effects

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Birch leaves - healing properties, use and side effects

Natural-remedies-for-relieving-a-stuffy-nose

Natural remedies for relieving a stuffy nose 

Add-moisture-to-the-air

Add moisture to the air

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Using a humidifier or diffuser with essential oils in your home or office is a simple and effective way to reduce nasal congestion. Inhalation of moist air helps to soothe irritated nasal tissues, reduces inflammation of the sinuses and dilutes accumulated mucus. Conversely - dry air hinders the self-cleaning of the nostrils and contributes to the retention of potential irritants and allergens.

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Some electrical devices such as humidifiers for warm and cool fog, are equally effective for increasing the level of humidity and relieving nasal congestion. We recommend using only appliances from certified manufacturers, with a warranty and clear instructions for use and origin. Whatever type of appliance you choose, be sure to change the water daily and clean the appliance according to the manufacturer's instructions to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.

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Try nasal irrigation

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Rinsing nasal passages using a device such as Neti pot can help release accumulated mucus and eliminate irritants, allergens and microbes. Although it may seem like an unpleasant procedure, it can bring great relief when properly done. Neti pot is safe to use with sterile or distilled water. Never use tap water unless you have boiled and cooled it.

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If you do not want to undergo such a procedure, nasal spray with saline and injection into the nose can also help soothe dry nasal passages. There are also herbal nasal unclogging sprays, which usually include eucalyptus, propolis, lavender (Lavandula spica L.), geranium (Geranium L.), mint ((Mentha)) and others.

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Take a hot shower

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Have you ever noticed that when you have caught a cold, a hot shower can help relieve a stuffy nose? The reason is that inhaling steam reduces pain in the sinuses and pressure, helping the outflow of mucus. Inhaling steam over a pot of boiling water is also another option, but be careful not to get too close to the water.

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Apply a warm compress

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If you have headaches or pain in the sinuses as a result of nasal congestion, try to relieve the condition with a warm compress directly on the nose and forehead. This can help relieve nasal inflammation and pressure and relieve discomfort.

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Use of decongestants 

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Decongestants cause narrowing of small blood vessels in the nose. This reduces swelling in the mucus membrane of the nose and reduces the feeling of blockage. Natural remedies that can support these processes are vitamin C, ginger, eucalyptus and others.

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Increase fluid intake

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This rule applies to almost every condition which could make us sick. Although it will not provide immediate relief, drinking plenty of soft fluids and maintaining good hydration will help dilute mucus in the nasal passages, making it easier to leak through the sinuses. This also means more recent blockage relief. It does not matter whether they are hot or cold drinks, it is important that the amount is more than the minimum according to age, gender and weight.

Herbs are also a remedies (albeit of natural origin) and you should treat them as such. Watch out for the correct dosage as well as contraindications, and consult your GP or allergist before taking them for nasal congestion or any other health problem.